Oppo A58 4G goes official in Australia for under $300

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Oct 5, 2023

Oppo launched the A58 smartphone in Indonesia in July and has since released it in multiple countries including India. The A58 is now available in Australia, so let’s take a closer look at its features and price.

Specifications

To start off, the A58 comes in a beautiful design with smooth, rounded edges and a glossy back finish. Oppo offers two color options for the device—Glowing Black and Dazzling Green—each of which offers a unique texture to match your style.

But unlike most premium or mid-range phones these days, the Oppo A58 is a 4G smartphone powered by an octa-core MediaTek Helio G85 processor. It has 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB with a microSD card.

On the front, the A58 has a 6.72-inch FHD display with a resolution of 2,400 x 1080p, a touch sampling rate of 180Hz, and a peak brightness of 680 nits. The device also has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for security.

As for the cameras, you’ll find a dual rear camera setup consisting of a 50MP main camera and a 2MP companion camera. The main camera supports 1080p video recording at 30fps. For selfies and video calls, there’s an 8MP camera in the front notch.

Likewise, the device is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, which is more than enough to power you through a full day of use on a single charge. It also supports 33W fast charging, so you can quickly top up your battery when needed.

Pricing and Availability

OPPO A58 is available in Australia for $299 AUD from retailers such as The Good Guys, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Big W, Officeworks, and the Oppo online store.

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Samsung Galaxy Watch Gets New “Sleep Apnea” Feature

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Oct 5, 2023

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch is already a popular device for tracking health and fitness, and the company is now adding another useful feature to it: sleep apnea detection. This feature will be available in Korea via the Samsung Health Monitor app starting early next year.

For those unaware, sleep apnea is a common yet serious medical condition that causes people to stop breathing while they sleep. It can lead to a number of health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. However, many people with sleep apnea might be unaware of their condition.

Samsung’s new sleep apnea feature will help people identify their symptoms early on. To use the feature, users will need to track their sleep twice within 10 days, each time for more than four hours. The watch will then provide them with an estimate of their Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), which is a measure of the severity of sleep apnea.

If a user has a high AHI score, the watch will recommend that they see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment. Samsung’s new sleep apnea feature is a valuable addition to the Galaxy Watch series and could help millions of people identify and manage their condition.

The new sleep apnea feature joins blood pressure monitoring, electrocardiogram (ECG) detection, and irregular heart rhythm notification as the latest additions to the Samsung Health Monitor app.

That said, Samsung notes that the new sleep apnea feature is only a pre-diagnosis tool and cannot replace diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. However, it can certainly be a useful tool for people who are concerned about their sleep health.

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Google Pixel Fall feature drop is here with new camera interface, seamless app steaming & more

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 5, 2023

Google just released new Pixel 8 smartphones with better hardware and new software features. They also announced Android 14. Now, they’re updating Pixel phones, including the Pixel Fold and Pixel tablet, with cool new features for the fall. Here’s what’s coming:

For Pixel Phones: Explore the Enhanced Camera Experience

Pixel phones are getting an improved camera interface with Android 14. This interface simplifies access to Pixel’s camera features, including Night Sight and Slow Motion. Now, you can effortlessly switch between your favorite photo and video modes and discover new ones.

Personalize Your Pixel

Android 14 on Pixel phones allows you to customize your lock screen with new clock and wallpaper collections. You can also tweak the lock screen quick actions, notification display, and Smartspace information. Additionally, there are new monochromatic themes for a minimalist look.

Seamless Translation on Pixel Fold

Pixel Fold introduces the Dual Screen interpreter mode, perfect for multilingual conversations. It uses both inner and outer screens to translate live conversations, eliminating the need to huddle around one screen.

Edit RAW Images with Ease

Editing RAW images on Pixel 6 and newer phones and Pixel Tablets is now simpler. You can choose to open RAW images directly in your preferred RAW editor from the Photos editor.

Confidence in Charging

For Pixel 6 and newer phones and Pixel Tablets, you’ll receive notifications if your power adapter or USB cable is charging your device slowly or not at all.

Battery Saver Upgrade

Battery Saver gets a redesign, making it easier to extend your battery life. You can see what’s affecting your battery and select essential apps to run in Extreme Battery Saver mode. Automatic notifications at 10% and 20% battery levels keep you informed.

Stream Apps Seamlessly

App streaming is now available on ChromeOS for Pixel devices. You can start using an app on your Pixel and seamlessly switch to your Chromebook.

For Pixel Tablet: Enhanced Navigation for Kids

Google Kids Space on the Pixel Tablet features a streamlined navigation bar for easier exploration, app switching, and returning to the home screen.

Stay Informed with Voice Commands

In Hub Mode, Pixel Tablet users can simply say “Hey Google” to play their favorite podcasts or access the latest news.

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Apple finally addresses iPhone 15 Pro overheating issue with new iOS 17 update

By

Sean

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Oct 5, 2023

The much awaited iPhone 15 Pro series recently launched. But Apple fans were disappointed when they realized that their new iPhone 15 Pros faced overheating issues. The company officially acknowledged this issue and now, it is rolling out an update that should address the issue.

Apple iPhone 15 Overheating Fixed?

For those unaware, the Cupertino based giant faced criticism over the overheating problem on the iPhone 15 lineup. For one user, the overheating got so bad that it ended up burning them. The iPhone 15 Pro lineup’s thermal issues are reportedly due to various different factors. While reports believed that it was related to the new chipset, A17 Pro, and the new titanium build.

Apple claimed that third-party apps like Instagram, Uber, and other optimization issues with iOS 17 were the cause of the overheating. Now, the latest update is rolling out to address this problem. Apple has now released the iOS 17.0.3 patch. As per official notes, it “addresses an issue that may cause iPhone to run warmer than expected.” This update is targeted for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models.

Apart from just addressing the heating problem, Apple also fixed a bug that surfaced last month with the new update. In a statement to MacRumors, Apple has clarified that it was third-party apps that led to the smartphone heating up and the titanium build isn’t a factor. The iPhone maker also added that the A17 Pro chipset does not require any tweaks either.

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Honor X9B may launch soon, surfaced on IMDA

By

Sean

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Oct 5, 2023

Back in December 2022, the Honor X9A smartphone model was launched in China. This device was later released in the global market. Now, it appears that a successor dubbed Honor X9B is planned to arrive soon. So here’s what we know.

Honor X9B Spotted on IMDA

The Chinese tech giant’s X9B model was recently spotted on the IMDA certification. Looking at this online listing, we can see that the smartphone carries the model number ALI-NX1. The certification also confirms that the device will be a 5G enabled device. Apart from its model number and connectivity, finer details regarding the Honor X9B like its specifications and pricing are still unclear.

For those unaware, the Honor X9A was launched with an attractive design and price tag. So, we can expect the successor of this smartphone to also follow a similar design philosophy. The Honor X9A sports a 6.67-inch AMOLED display that offers a Full HD+ resolution, 20:9 aspect ratio, 120Hz refresh rate, and 10-bit color panel. Under the hood, the handset is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC that is paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

The device launched with Android 12 OS out of the box and is powered by a large 5,100mAh battery pack that supports 40W fast charging rates. The rear packs a 64-megapixel triple camera setup, while the front houses a 16-megapixel selfie shooter. So stick around for more, as we will be providing updates when additional information is available regarding this matter.

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Upcoming Deal: LG’s highly rated 4K UHD OLED TV 48-inches will be under Rs 60,000 on Amazon India

By

Staff

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Oct 5, 2023

LG’s highly rated 4K UHD OLED TV 48-inches will soon be available at an incredible discount during the Amazon Great Indian festival sale. This is undoubtedly one of the best OLED TV deals of the season at just Rs. 59,999, offering customers a chance to upgrade their home entertainment experience at a much lower price than the usual Rs. 75,999. Remember, the deal for Prime members starts a day early on October 7.

The LG 4K UHD OLED TV comes with a stunning resolution of 3840×2160, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals that bring movies, TV shows, and gaming to life like never before. With AI 4K Upscaler, even lower resolution content can be upscaled to near 4K quality, ensuring a consistently impressive viewing experience.

In terms of connectivity, this TV offers built-in Wi-Fi, allowing users to easily connect to their favorite streaming services and access a wide range of content. It also includes 3 HDMI ports and 2 USB ports, enabling seamless connectivity to set-top boxes, gaming consoles, and other external devices.

The TV’s audio capabilities are equally impressive, with a 20-watt output, 2.0 Ch Speaker configuration, and Dolby Atmos sound. The AI Sound Pro with Virtual 5.1.2 up-mix takes the audio experience to a whole new level, immersing viewers in a rich and immersive soundstage.

Moreover, this Smart TV is equipped with AI ThinQ and WebOS 22 with user profiles, making it a breeze to navigate and access your favorite apps and content. Built-in Google Assistant and Alexa provide voice control capabilities, while Apple Airplay 2 and Homekit ensure seamless integration with other Apple devices.

If you’re looking to enhance your gaming experience, the LG 4K UHD OLED TV features Game Optimizer and Dashboard, allowing you to optimize settings and keep track of your gaming activities. With its α7 Gen5 AI Processor 4K, ALLM, and 0.1 ms response time, this TV delivers smooth and lag-free gaming.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic deal! Head over to Amazon on October 7 midnight and take advantage of the special offer on the LG 4K UHD OLED TV 48-inches.

LG OLED TV Deal (kicks off October 7)

Google Pixel 8 receives decent repairability scores in teardown video

By

Sean

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Oct 5, 2023

The highly anticipated Google Pixel 8 series was finally announced after months of leaks and rumors. Now, a new teardown video for the Pixel 8 model has surfaced mere hours after its launch. The video offers us a close look at the new flagship device’s internal, so let’s have a look.

Google Pixel 8 Teardown

The teardown for the Search Engine giant’s Pixel 8 was shared by PBKreviews on YouTube. In the video, the smartphone is disassembled in front of the camera. This also offers a tutorial on how to open up the device. We can see the rear camera sensors once the rear panel is removed, along with the graphite film that helps in dissipating heat. Right underneath this layer is the battery pack, which was a bit tricky to remove due to the adhesives.

Although, the Pixel 8’s camera models were relatively easier to remove. PBKreviews even managed to take out the motherboard of the new smartphone. The YouTuber noted that removing the back panel without damaging the device is difficult. He gave the Pixel 8 a repairability score of 7 out of 10. This score isn’t bad since it means that self repairs are possible, however, it isn’t recommended for inexperienced beginners.

Talking about the device itself, the Pixel 8 is equipped with Google’s Tensor G3 chipset, which is paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. It sports a 6.2-inch OLED display that has a Full HD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. The rear features a 50-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses a 10.5-megapixel selfie shooter. The Pixel is powered by a 4,575mAh battery pack.

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Super Deal: Apple M1 Macbook Air is down to its lowest price of Rs. 69,990 on Amazon India [UPDATE: Will be down to Rs. 52999!]

By

Staff

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Oct 5, 2023

UPDATE:

Its probably a good idea to wait for a couple more days because the M1 Air Macbook will go down to the lowest price of just Rs. 52,999 as confirmed by Amazon on its website today.

Original Story:

If you’ve been eyeing the Apple MacBook M1 Air, now is the perfect time to make your move. Amazon India is currently offering this sleek and powerful device at its lowest price ever, just ₹69,990. That’s a significant discount of Rs. 10,000 off the original selling price of Rs. 80,000. But hurry, as this deal is only available for a limited time!

The Apple MacBook M1 Air is the ideal entry-level MacBook for those seeking top-notch performance and portability. Powered by the revolutionary Apple M1 chip with an 8-core CPU, this laptop delivers lightning-fast speeds and energy efficiency. Whether you’re a professional in need of heavy-duty editing or a gaming enthusiast looking for the ultimate gaming experience, the MacBook M1 Air can handle it all with ease.

One of the standout features of the MacBook M1 Air is its all-day battery life, boasting up to 18 hours of usage on a single charge. No need to worry about running out of power during your busiest days. Additionally, the 8GB of unified memory ensures a smooth and responsive user experience, even when multitasking or working with large graphic files.

Not only does the MacBook M1 Air offer impressive performance, but it also showcases a stunning 13.3-inch Retina display, making every visual experience a treat for the eyes.

The Apple MacBook M1 Air at its current discounted price is a steal. So, if you’ve been contemplating switching to the Mac ecosystem or are simply in need of a reliable and powerful laptop, there’s no better time to take the plunge.

Check out Macbook M1 Deal on Amazon India

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

Google launches Pixel Buds Pro in new Blue & Porcelain colors

By

Sean

-

Oct 5, 2023

Google has just launched the Pixel Buds Pro in two new color options. The company’s flagship truly wireless earbuds are now available in Blue and Porcelain color variants, joining the four existing options. So let’s have a look.

Google Pixel Buds Pro New Colors

For those unaware, the Pixel Buds Pro were launched in three color options. This includes Coral, Fog, Lemongrass, and Charcoal. Now, the Search Engine giant is adding the Porcelain and Blue models. In other words, the Pixel Buds Pro can be bought in six colors in total. Apart from the new hues, the two new additions are basically the same as the existing Buds Pros. This means that they still cost the same and offer the same specifications as well.

Notably, we had reported on a leak that hinted at the earbuds arriving in these colors back in September. Furthermore, the announcement arrived after the Pixel 8 lineup and Pixel Watch 2 were announced and these still cost 199 US Dollars (Amazon). Talking about the hearables, the Pixel Buds Pro offers active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency mode along with hands-free Google Assistant and multi-point connection for seamless connection between different devices.

In terms of battery life, the TWS earbuds can last for up to 31 hours when paired with the charging case. It houses 11mm drivers and a 6-core audio chip that runs on Google’s proprietary algorithms for an improved audio experience. Other notable features include IPX4 water-resistant build (IPX2 water-resistant for the charging case), Qi wireless charging, and Bluetooth 5.0.

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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.

Introducing Ulefone Armor X12: Affordable rugged phone for your everyday adventures

By

Joane

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Oct 5, 2023

Experience unparalleled durability and simplicity with the Ulefone Armor X12. This rugged smartphone combines practicality and style, featuring a sleek x-racing design and robust construction. With reliable performance, efficient Android 13 Go Edition, and practical features tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, the Armor X12 is your ideal companion for everyday adventures.

Stylish and Sturdy Design: The Armor X12 inherits the sleek x-racing flag design from its predecessor, the Armor X12 Pro. This design choice isn’t just aesthetic; it symbolizes high performance and speed. Available in three distinct colors, the Armor X12 offers a touch of personalization. The rugged phone is IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certified. This means it can withstand dust, accidental drops, water immersion, extreme temperatures, and high humidity, making it an ideal companion for your everyday adventures.

Efficient Operating System: Running on Android 13 Go Edition, the Armor X12 ensures a smooth and efficient user experience. This optimized version of Android maintains a clutter-free interface, ensuring seamless navigation and app usage without unnecessary bloatware.

Performance and Ample Storage: Under the hood, the Armor X12 boasts a MediaTek Helio A22 processor paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, expandable up to 256GB. These specifications may seem modest, but they ensure consistent performance for your everyday tasks and applications.

Capture Life’s Moments: For photography enthusiasts, the Armor X12 is equipped with a 13MP main camera and an 8MP front camera. While it may not boast extravagant features, these cameras provide standard photography quality, allowing you to capture your moments with clarity and simplicity.

Enduring Battery Life: Powered by a robust 4860mAh battery, the Armor X12 guarantees impressive endurance. It offers up to 264 hours of standby time, 20 hours of calling time, and 8 hours of video playback on a single charge. Stay connected, entertained, and productive throughout your day without constantly worrying about recharging.

Practical Features for Outdoors: Tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, the Armor X12 comes with a range of useful tools. The toolkit and gloves mode enhance usability in rugged environments, ensuring the phone remains functional even in challenging conditions.

Additionally, it supports NFC functionality, enabling convenient mobile payments and the use of public transportation payment systems. The phone’s navigation capabilities, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou, ensure reliable navigation in any outdoor setting.

Ulefone Armor X12 isn’t just a smartphone; it’s a practical companion for individuals seeking reliability, durability, and simplicity. Whether you’re navigating the urban jungle or exploring the great outdoors, the Armor X12 is your trustworthy partner. For more information head to the official Ulefone website.

Palmshell reveals NeXT H2 microserver with AMD Ryzen R1505G CPU and Wi-Fi 6E support

By

Chetan

-

Oct 5, 2023

Palm Computer, a certified Chinese tech manufacturer, has recently announced its latest micro server. This micro server is called the Palmshell NeXT H2, which comes with a compact mini-pc design. The NeXT H2 is an ideal option for those in need of high-speed network services or who require a microserver. Those wondering what this microserver has to offer can check the specifications of NeXT H2 provided below.

Palmshell NeXT H2-2 — Image via Palmshell

Palmshell NeXT H2-1 — Image via Palmshell

Palmshell NeXT H2 Specifications

The NeXT H2 comes in 4 different variants: SBC (Developers version), Barebone, 8+256, and 16+512. It has an AMD Ryzen Embedded R1505G, 2C4T 3.3GHz CPU accompanied by AMD Radeon Vega 3 GPU. The NeXT H2 includes 8GB RAM and 16GB RAM in the 8+256 and 16+512 variants, respectively. At the same time, RAM does not come included in the SBC and Barebone variants of the device. For those wondering about the heat issue, the Palmshell has got it covered. It boasts a custom copper heatsink with a 3000 RPM PWM speed control fan, TDP 25W.

In terms of connectivity, the Palmshell NeXT H2 supports Wi-Fi 6E and BT 5.2. It arrives with 2 x HDMI 2.0 slots (supports up to 4K resolution), 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 2, and 2 x USB 2.0. Regarding storage, the H2 has 2 x SATA connectors and 1 x MicroSD connector. It is worth mentioning that the 8+256 and 16+512 variants will come with 256GB and 512GB SSD included, respectively.

Price and Availability

The Palmshell NeXT H2 is currently available to pre-order with a starting price of $199.00. However, we expect the company to start the official sale soon. So stay tuned.

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Samsung releases October 2023 security update to Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5

By

Chetan

-

Oct 5, 2023

Earlier, we reported that Samsung has started rolling out One UI 6.0 beta 4 for the Galaxy S23 series. This Android 14-based OS included various UI improvements and fixes. But what really caught our attention was that beta 4 arrived with the October security patch. Now, according to a recent report that has surfaced online, Samsung has started releasing the October security update 2023. Read on to learn more about the update.

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 and the Galaxy Z Fold 5 have started receiving the October security patch. The update arrives with the build versions F731USQS1AWI3 and F946USQS1AWI3 for Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5, respectively. It is worth noting that these security updates are majorly focused on security that helps keep the device stable and safe. In terms of the security update, the latest patch fixes over two critical vulnerabilities, a dozen high-risk faults, and 12 SVE (Samsung Vulnerabilities and Exposures).

Furthermore, the patch is currently available in the US for the carrier-locked versions of these smartphones. However, we expect the company to release the patch globally in the future. Those who are eligible for the update can head over to Settings > Software update > Download and Install to upgrade the device to the latest version.

In related news, Samsung has recently announced the prices and availability of Galaxy Buds FE, Galaxy Tab S9 FE, and S9+ FE in India. Those who wish to know more about this can check out Samsung announces India Prices and Availability of Galaxy Buds FE, Tab S9 FE and S9+ FE story here.

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Ducati Unveils the Powerstage RR Limited Edition Electric Bike – and it costs over $12,000

By

Anubhav

-

Oct 5, 2023

The e-bike market is quickly evolving, and Ducati, a name more synonymous with performance motorcycles, is not being left behind. Building on its already impressive lineup, the Italian brand’s Scrambler Ducati division has rolled out its crown jewel: the Powerstage RR Limited Edition, an e-enduro bike that’s all about pushing the envelope.

The bike has a full carbon fibre frame, with extra carbon layers

Unveiled at the Bike Festival in Misano, the Powerstage RR Limited Edition takes what was already great about the Powerstage RR and cranks it up a notch. What sets this bike apart is the use of high-end components, notably its full carbon fiber frame, making it Ducati’s first electric enduro bike to boast such a feature. The frame isn’t just for show; areas prone to high stress are reinforced with extra carbon layers, ensuring durability.

When it comes to performance, Ducati has partnered with Shimano to use their EP801 system, boasting an impressive torque rating of 85 Newton-meters and a max power output of 500 watts. In simple terms, this bike will amplify your pedaling power by up to 400 percent, meaning uphill rides are much easier. The unique “mullet setup” of its wheels—a 29-inch front and 27.5-inch rear—provides a balanced blend of agility and obstacle-overcoming prowess.

Now, luxury comes with a price tag, and this e-enduro is no exception. Priced at a steep 11,990 Euros, it’s even more expensive than Ducati’s own current-gen Monster motorcycle. The bike comes in a color scheme inspired by Ducati’s GP23 race bike, adding that extra flair for the limited 230-unit run. While the e-bike market is crowded with options, Ducati’s Powerstage RR Limited Edition is a high-rolling entry that positions the brand as a serious player in the growing segment.

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Ubco’s New 2×2 Hunt Edition Electric Bike has a Waterproof Center Carry-All

By

Anubhav

-

Oct 5, 2023

Electric bikes have always promised us the future—quieter, cleaner, and more efficient. But New Zealand-based company Ubco is taking the electric bike scene up a notch by launching its specialized 2×2 Hunt Edition. Designed in collaboration with sports legends like hunter Shane Dorian, this bike promises an unbeatable blend of utility and excitement for outdoor enthusiasts.

The quiet bike is built for the outdoors, especially not to disturb animal life

The Hunt Edition is not your average two-wheeler; it’s designed for both adventure seekers and practical users. Silence is its secret weapon. The electric motor ensures that you can explore trails and parks where gas-powered bikes are often restricted. Not to mention, it minimizes the disturbance to wildlife and poses less of a fire risk—making it a responsible choice for explorers.

Shane Dorian, directly involved in the bike’s design, boasts about its capabilities, “The 75-mile range and all-wheel-drive features make this bike a hunter’s dream.” It’s not just for hunting; with a whopping 335-pound weight capacity, the bike is versatile enough for extended trips off the grid.

So what sets this bike apart from the pack? It comes decked out with features that scream ‘adventure-ready’. From a Peak Design Phone Mount to a waterproof center carry-all, this bike wants to ensure your outdoor experience is as smooth as possible. For the tech-savvy, the bike even offers a free three-month OnX Hunt Elite membership, a GPS app designed to make your outdoor adventures seamless.

Phil Harrison, Ubco’s SVP of Marketing and Corporate Development, summed it up best. “The bike bridges the gap between utility and recreation, offering a sustainable and ethical option for those interested in sourcing their own food.” Retailing at $6,499, the Ubco 2×2 Hunt Edition is now available for test rides and purchase, offering various financing options.

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Meta Faces Obstacles with Metaverse, Plans to Lay Off Employees from Chip Division

By

Anubhav

-

Oct 5, 2023

Meta, the birthplace of Metaverse, is hitting some bumps in the road to its vision. The company plans to lay off employees from its Reality Labs division, which focuses on creating custom silicon for AR/VR devices, according to inside sources. This news comes amid concerns about Meta’s ability to develop competitive custom silicon and places question marks over its collaboration with external providers like Qualcomm.

The custom silicon unit of Meta has around 600 employees

Employees got wind of the layoffs via Meta’s internal discussion forum, Workplace, which indicated that they would be notified of their status by Wednesday morning. While a Meta spokesperson stayed mum on the issue, the move could potentially hinder CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s goal to redefine how we interact with technology through augmented and virtual reality. The custom silicon unit, known as Facebook Agile Silicon Team (FAST), employs roughly 600 people and aims to make Meta’s devices stand out in the growing AR/VR market.

The layoff news may be a sign of larger issues at Meta Platforms. The company has already cut around 21,000 jobs since last November, primarily to appease investors worried about slowed revenue growth and high operating costs. This layoff could be another cost-cutting move, especially as Reality Labs has been bleeding money. It also poses questions about Meta’s commitment to internal innovation, particularly as the company has turned to external chip maker Qualcomm for its currently marketed devices.

Despite these setbacks, Meta is not taking its foot off the pedal in its drive toward a metaverse. The company is still working on new products like less bulky AR glasses and smart watches, expected to be finalized next year, albeit not for mass consumer release initially.

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Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 electric bikes launched for the US market starting at $7,299

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Oct 5, 2023

Renowned Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Kawasaki has launched the Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 electric bikes in the US. The models had earlier appeared in certification documents revealing some details. Both models are equivalent to 150cc gasoline-powered motorbikes, having similar designs to the Ninja 400 and Z400 ICE motorbikes.

In terms of the specs, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 are both equipped with an air-cooled, interior permanent magnet synchronous motor with 9kW maximum output. The continuous output of the electric motor is 6kW with a torque of 29Nm. The Kawasaki Ninja electric models have a top speed of 62mph but fall to 54mph after 15 seconds. The boost from its standard top speed of 54mph is due to the E-boost feature in the new e-bikes. The E-boost ensures a stronger acceleration when needed and comes in handy during urban rides.

The new Kawasaki e-bikes have a 4.3-inch TFT instrument cluster with different layouts. There are two power modes namely road and eco, as well as a walk mode. The walk mode allows you to move the bike while parking either forward or backward. This is achieved by twisting the throttle right (forward) or left (backward). The forward and backward movements have maximum speeds of 3mph and 2mph respectively.

Two Li-ion battery packs are featured in the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 and they offer a combined range of 44 miles on a full charge. The batteries are swappable which means you can extend the range. Each battery can be fully charged in 3.7 hours, going from 20-80% in 1.6 hours. The models have a steel trellis chassis, 41mm telescopic forks, and mono-shock, as well as 17-inch wheels. The Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 both weigh under 140kg, with the Ninja e-1 slightly heavier. Both models are substantially lighter than their ICE counterparts, it should be noted.

In terms of pricing, the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 e-bike carries an MSRP of $7,599, while the Z e-1 is priced at $7,299. There is no word on when the e-bikes will be available on direct sales but Kawasaki Motors USA is currently taking orders through November 30, 2023.

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Economy Minister Denies Taiwan Firms Supplies Tech to Huawei

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Oct 5, 2023

Recently, Huawei has been making waves in the smartphone market. After a long wait, the company has won over users with its Mate 60 series. However, Huawei is also at the center of controversies. As you may know, since 2019, Huawei has been under US sanctions, making it difficult for them to access many modern technologies.

Due to this, authorities were surprised by the technologies used in the Mate 60 series and accused Huawei of bypassing the embargo. Moreover, Taiwanese tech firms were blamed for this. Now, Taiwanese firms are denying supplying key technologies to Huawei Here are the details…

Taiwan Stands Firm: No Key Technologies Shared with Huawei, Says Economy Minister

Taiwanese economics minister Wang Mei-hua has denied that four Taiwanese companies are supplying key technologies to Huawei. Wang’s comments came after a Bloomberg report alleged that the four companies, Topco Scientific, L&K Engineering, United Integrated Services, Cica-Huntek Chemical Technology, were helping Huawei build “infrastructure for an under-the-radar network of chip plants.”

She also said that Taiwan’s law bars local companies from providing key technologies to China, while investing in the Chinese market. She said that to her knowledge, the four companies named in the Bloomberg report were not supplying any key technologies or equipment to Huawei.

Topco Scientific, L&K Engineering, and United Integrated Services have also denied the allegations, saying that they were only involved in construction work on a facility in Shenzhen. The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) said that it would investigate whether any rules had been broken in the cooperation between the three companies and Huawei.

It is unclear whether the Taiwanese companies named in the report will face any consequences for their alleged cooperation with Huawei. However, the allegations have highlighted the challenges that Taiwan faces in balancing its economic ties with China with its security concerns.

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Roborock Q5 Pro and Q8 Max series robot vacuums go on sale

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Oct 4, 2023

The Roborock Q5 Pro and Roborock Q8 Max series robot vacuums have been launched. The models include the Q5 Pro, Q5 Pro+, Q8 Max, and Q8 Max+ robot vacuum and mop. The new robot vacuums are available in the global market via Amazon. Roborock unveiled the Q5 Pro and Q8 Max models earlier this year.

The Roborock Q5 Pro and Q8 Max models offer up to 5,500 Pa suction power and a 5,200mAh battery. The new models can cover areas up to 350 square meters in size. The Reactive Tech Obstacle Avoidance is the major difference between the Q5 Pro and the Q8 Max. The obstacle avoidance feature is very effective at preventing the robot from colliding with furniture, pets, people, and other obstacles.

The Roborock Q5 Pro+ and Q8 Max+ robot vacuums also feature intelligent docking stations. The docking stations can automatically wash and dry the mop, and empty and refill the water tank and dustbin. This new functionality expands the versatility of the new lineup of Roborock robot vacuums and mops.

Roborock is offering extensive discounts on the new Q5 Pro and Q8 Max models. Customers can get up to $220 in discounts for the devices. The Roborock Q5 Pro is priced at $319.99 while the Q5 Pro+ costs $499.99. The launch prices of the two models are $110 and $200 lower than their original prices respectively. The Roborock Q8 Max retails at $449.99 while the Q8 Max+ costs $599.99.

Roborock has not provided the length of the promo period for the new robot vacuum and mop. You can check out retailers like Amazon to avail the products at discounted prices (via in store coupons).

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Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active smartwatch with a 1.47-inch rectangular display unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Oct 4, 2023

Xiaomi has unveiled the Smart Band 8 Active smartwatch. The new Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active is essentially a rebranded Redmi Smart Band 2. It comes on the heels of the launch of the Smart Band 8. The new Smart Band 8 Active is available globally on order. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 was earlier unveiled in China five months ago.

The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active has a 1.47-inch display and offers up to 14 days of battery life. The Smart Band 8 Active is different from the Smart Band 8 Pro which was launched in China about two months ago. The Smart Band 8 Pro could enter the global market in 2024. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active has a resolution of 172 x 320 pixels with a 247 PPI pixel density and 450 nits of peak brightness. There are 100+ watch faces pre-installed in the Smart Band 8 Active.

The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active has a 210mAh battery and the band comes with several health monitoring features. It has more than 50 preinstalled fitness modes but it lacks GPS location data integration.

The Smart Band 8 Active comes in five watch band colors but only its black and pink options are currently available. The black band version is available in the UK while the pink version could be gotten from AliExpress.

The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active is currently available in the UK, Germany, and the global market via AliExpress. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active is priced at £19.99/ €24.99 / $15.90 in the UK, EU and on AliExpress.

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Nintendo’s Wii U and 3DS online services will shut down in April

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Oct 4, 2023

Today, handheld gaming consoles are more popular than ever. This technology began going mainstream in 2016 with the Nintendo Switch, and today it is followed by products like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. In fact, Nintendo is even working on the Switch 2. However, did you know that the Switch, which ignited all this frenzy, wasn’t the first modern handheld by its developer?

The Japanese manufacturer has been part of the market for a long time with consoles like the 3DS and Wii U. Especially the 3DS, which was a massive success with user numbers in the millions. Yet, despite all this, Nintendo announced that the online services for the Wii U and 3DS will shut down in April. Here are the details…

Nintendo’s Wii U and 3DS online services will shut down in April

Nintendo has announced that it will be shutting down online services for the Wii U and 3DS in early April 2024. This includes all multiplayer features, internet rankings, and data distribution. Nintendo has not yet announced a specific shutdown date, but it has said that players will be able to download patches and redownload games purchased from the eShop “for the foreseeable future.” From April 2024 onwards, players will no longer be able to access:

Online multiplayer capabilities
Internet rankings
Data distribution mechanisms
StreetPass Mii Plaza features that demand online communication
The Pokémon Bank (excluding the transfer feature to Pokémon Home)

Nevertheless, not all online features will vanish. Gamers will still have the privilege to:

Play games offline
Utilize StreetPass (barring the online-required StreetPass Mii Plaza features)
Use SpotPass
Download software updates and DLCs
Purchase digital games and downloadable content (DLC) via the eShop

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