iPhone 15, 15 Plus Survive Durability Test Unlike The Stronger Pro Max With Titanium Build

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Sep 28, 2023

It turns out Apple’s strongest and the most expensive iPhone 15 Pro Max isn’t really the strongest as it surprisingly failed a durability test. It brought back memories of the iPhone 6 Plus’s #BendGate scandal. The phone is made up of titanium which is touted to be stronger than stainless steel. Now, the verdict of the non-pro iPhone 15 and 15 Plus is out, thanks to popular YouTuber JerryRigEverything who also tested the Pro Max. For those unaware, this year’s non-pro models offer significant upgrades compared to their predecessors making them worth the upgrade over previous generation iPhones too.

iPhone 15, 15 Plus survive durability test

As usual, the durability test starts with the scratch test on the iPhone 15. Apple equips the phone with a Ceramic Shield that is a little more scratch-resistant than Gorilla Glass on Android devices. If you take a closer look, the scratch marks don’t appear more pronounced as in other phones, but the iPhone 15 still scratches at level 6 with deeper grooves at level 7 on the Mohs hardness scale.

The iPhone 15 features an anodized aluminium frame and it scratches easily in the scrape test. The YouTuber adds that the colors on the non-pro model look washed out and ‘like a 4 year old ran out of food colouring’. In the fire test, the smartphone withstands flames for nearly 10 seconds until a white spot shows up on the screen.

In the ultimate durability test, the iPhone 15 holds its ground when it is bent from both the sides with ample amount of pressure. The iPhone 15 Plus also survives the bend test. This begs the question of whether stainless steel is stronger than titanium on the iPhone 15 Pro Max as Apple advertises or could it be a manufacturing defect on the Pro Max since the Pro variant also survived it?

Apple is yet to acknowledge the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s two notable issues – overheating and a weaker titanium build. Only time will tell.

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Meta launches new mixed-reality headset ‘Quest 3’ starting at $499.99

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 28, 2023

Announced back in June, Meta has finally launched its new headset, the Quest 3, the successor to the Quest 2. But unlike its predecessor, the Quest 3 is a mixed-reality headset like the Apple Vision Pro. Mixed reality (MR) is a new technology that combines virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Meta calls the Quest 3 the “world’s first mass-market mixed reality headset,” and the company has made a number of improvements to make it worthy of that title. Let’s take a closer look.

Meta Quest 3 Specifications

To begin with, the Quest 3 has two new full-color cameras on the front of the headset that deliver vastly improved passthrough video. This means you can now see your real-world surroundings much more clearly, which is excellent for mixed-reality experiences and finding your way around your playspace.

meta quest 3 mixed reality headset Release date features price

However, the Quest 3 does not yet fully support augmented reality. Instead, you can double-tap the side of the headset to switch between a fully immersive VR mode or a mixed reality experience, which Meta calls a blended environment.

Meta has also focused on improving the lenses in the Quest 3, which now use pancake optics for sharper, higher-resolution images. This also makes for a slimmer optic profile compared to the Quest 2, which we suppose, will make the headset more comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Likewise, the Quest 3 has a new 4K+ Infinite Display (two displays with 2064 × 2208 resolution per eye), which Meta says offers a 30% improvement in visual resolution over the Quest 2. It is also powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset and packs 8GB of RAM. Meta says the SoC offers doubles the graphics performance over the Quest 2.

In addition to these major improvements, the Quest 3 also has a number of other smaller changes, such as a 40 percent louder audio range than the Quest 2, a more balanced weight distribution, and a new Lens Distance Adjustment Wheel for more precise IPD (interpupillary distance) fine-tuning.

The Quest 3 is also getting new Touch Plus controllers. The new controllers do away with the large tracking ring in favor of infrared sensors that track your position. They also have improved haptics, so you should be able to get more visceral vibrations as you play games.

Meta Quest 3 Price and Availability

The Meta Quest 3 starts at $499.99 for the 128GB version and $649.99 for the 512GB version. Both are available for pre-order now on the official Meta Quest website, and shipping is expected to start on October 10.

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Google brings Earthquake Alert System Support for Android in India

By

Simranpal Singh

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Sep 28, 2023

It’s been more than a couple of years since Google introduced the Android Earthquake Alerts System globally. It is available for several countries around the globe, and India is the latest to join the Earthquake Alerts System. On several occasions, the system has remained useful and enabled the users to reach safe spots before the earthquake actually hit the remaining parts.

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The Search giant has partnered with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Seismology Center (NSC) for the system to work in the country where high tectonic activity is observed across some parts every year. It is a significant move that will surely help Android users to get prepared before the major jolts hit the Indian Peninsula or the areas adjacent to the Himalayas.

Talking about the feature, Google said in a blogspot “We’ve developed the Android Earthquake Alerts System, which uses sensors in Android smartphones to detect and estimate earthquakes. This is already deployed in many countries to provide people with an early warning when earthquake shaking begins.”

Different Modes

There will be two different alerts depending on the severity of the Earthquake. The quakes which will have seismic activity of 3-4, then will be categorized into “Be Aware” alerts. It will simply show an alert on your display but won’t ring if Do Not Disturb Mode or Silent is activated. The Quakes have more than 4.5 magnitude will bypass the device’s system settings including Do Not Disturb, and will play loud noise. Some safety measures will also be part of the alert.

How to Enable Earthquake Alert System

The feature will be available to all Android users running Android 5+ on their respective devices in the coming few weeks. In order to benefit from the feature, the user must have an active internet connection and location must be active on the device. The users should also activate the Android Earthquake Alerts toggle to get the notification. To do so the users can head over to Settings > Safety & emergency Earthquake alerts. Or, they can visit Settings > Location > Advanced > Earthquake alerts to get the same set of settings.

The alerts may reach the device many seconds earlier than the actual shaking.

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Samsung Galaxy F13, Galaxy M13, & Galaxy M04 price dropped in India

By

Sean

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Sep 28, 2023

Samsung has decided to drop the price tag of some of its Galaxy M and Galaxy F series of mid range smartphones in India. The devices that are seeing the pricing update are the Galaxy F13, Galaxy F04, Galaxy M13, and Galaxy M04. So here’s everything you need to know.

Samsung Galaxy F13, Galaxy M13, & Galaxy M04 New Pricing

For those unaware, the Galaxy M04 and Galaxy F04 are entry level handsets, while the Galaxy M13 and Galaxy F13 are a pair of mid range smartphones. The Galaxy M04 and Galaxy F04 were originally launched for 8,499 INR and 7,499 INR, but now, the South Korean tech giant has dropped the pricing down to 6,499 INR for both devices. The special pricing drop is reflected on Samsung’s official website, Amazon (Galaxy M04), Flipkart (Galaxy F04), and authorized retail stores.

On the other hand, the Galaxy M13 and Galaxy F13 were slightly more expensive at launch. However, the special offer is bringing the price down to 9,199 INR. This deal arrives just ahead of the festive season. Similar to the other two devices, the Galaxy M13’s new pricing can be found on Amazon, and the Galaxy F13’s new price tag will listed on Flipkart.

Talking about some of the key specs of the four smartphones, the Galaxy M13 is powered by a massive 6,000mAh battery pack. The Galaxy F13 also houses a similar battery pack but with a Full HD display. Meanwhile, the Galaxy M04 and Galaxy F04 arrive with 4GB of RAM.

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Moto Edge 40 Neo with Dimensity 7030 & 6.55″ pOLED display on sale in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Sep 28, 2023

Last week, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo was launched in India after its global debut earlier this month. Starting today, Indian customers can get their hands on the Edge 40 Neo.

Moto Edge 40 Neo price & availability

The Moto Edge 40 Neo is available in India at an initial price of Rs 23,999 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant. There’s also a 12GB RAM and 256GB storage configuration priced at Rs 25,999. During the festive season, Motorola is offering a generous Rs 3,000 discount on both variants, reducing the 8GB model to Rs 20,999 and the 12GB model to Rs 22,999.

In addition to the festive discount, customers can enjoy an extra Rs 1,000 off when using ICICI Bank Credit Cards or Kotak Bank Credit Cards for the purchase. The Moto Edge 40 Neo is exclusively available on Flipkart, with sales starting at 7:00 PM today, September 28. It’s an excellent opportunity to grab this smartphone at a discounted price:

Moto Edge 40 Neo 8GB + 128GB: Introductory Price – Rs 20,999 (with Rs 1,000 Bank Offer)
Moto Edge 40 Neo 12GB + 256GB: Introductory Price – Rs 22,999 (with Rs 1,000 Bank Offer)

Moto Edge 40 Neo specs

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo features a 6.55-inch pOLED display with curved edges, offering Full HD+ resolution and a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. It’s quite bright with 1,300 nits of peak brightness and supports HDR10+ for better visuals. The phone’s fingerprint scanner is integrated into the screen.

Under the hood, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo runs on a Dimensity 7030 processor, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It’s powered by a 5,000mAh battery that supports fast charging at 68W through a USB-C port. The phone runs on Android 13 out of the box.

In terms of cameras, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo comes with a 50MP main camera that includes optical image stabilization (OIS) for stable videos. There’s also a 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens that can be used for wide shots and close-up macros. For selfies, there’s a 32MP front-facing camera.

The smartphone features stereo speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio quality. Additionally, it’s also resistant to dust and water with its IP68 certification.

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Hisense U8KL 4K MiniLED TV with 144Hz refresh rate & millimeter-wave radar technology launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Sep 28, 2023

Along with the E7 4K MiniLED TV series, Hisense has also unveiled a Hisense U8KL MiniLED TV in China as well. The TV includes a bunch of smart features including millimeter-wave radar, energy-saving functions, etc.

Hisense U8KL MiniLED TV specs

The Hisense U8KL MiniLED TV boasts a 4K display with a wide DCI-P3 color range. The screen has a 16:9 aspect ratio and a remarkable 97% screen-to-body ratio, offering a captivating viewing experience from a wide 178° angle. In addition to all this, the TV also has a smooth 144Hz refresh rate, making is perfect for gaming.

Depending on the size you choose (65″, 75″, or 85″), the TV offers a substantial number of backlight zones, ranging from 1600 to 2400, along with impressive brightness levels, going up to 3300 nits.

Under the hood, the TV is powered by a Quad-core A73 CPU, ensuring speedy performance. It also incorporates the Xensiv X image quality chip for enhanced visuals and supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for immersive audiovisual experiences.

Coming to one of its key features, the TV includes millimeter-wave radar technology, enabling the TV to sense where the viewer is sitting and automatically adjust audiovisual settings accordingly. Moreover, it can track workout intensity and calories burned during fitness shows.

Additional features include a 77W Waterfall sound system, 4GB of memory, 128GB of storage, and support for the Hisense Voice assistant. It also offers connectivity options like dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and supports the Matter universal home protocol. The TV is equipped with various I/O ports, including USB 3.0 and HDMI 2.1, and can be easily wall-mounted using VESA compatibility.

Pricing & availability

The Hisense TV U8KL series includes three models: the 65-inch (65U8KL) priced at 8999 yuan (~$1,230), the 75-inch (75U8KL) priced at 12499 yuan (~$1,709), and the 85-inch (85U8KL) priced at 17499 yuan (~$2,392).

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE+ full specifications, variants, price leaked before October launch

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 28, 2023

In 2021, Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab S7 FE (Fan Edition) tablet. Recent reports have revealed that the brand is gearing up to launch new “Fan Edition” tablets, marking their return to this category after two years. In a new report, Winfuture.de has leaked almost everything about the upcoming Galaxy Tab S9 FE and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus tablets. Continue reading ahead to learn everything about these devices.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE+ specifications (rumored)

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is expected to feature a 10.9-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2304 x 1440 pixels, while the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus will be a larger model housing a 12.4-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. Interestingly, it’s expected that only the larger Plus model will support the S-Pen stylus.

Under the hood, the Tab S9 FE series will be powered by an Exynos 1380 SoC. The vanilla variant is said to arrive in two versions: 6GB RAM+ 128GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ will arrive with options like 8GB RAM + 128GB storage and 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. The Tab S9 FE series will have a microSD card slot for additional storage.

In terms of cameras, it is expected that both models will have an 8-megapixel main camera and a 12-megapixel front camera. The Plus model is expected to feature an additional 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera on the back. The series is expected to run on One UI 5.1-based Android 13.

There will be an 8,000mAh battery powering the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and 10090mAh for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus, promising up to 45 hours of usage. On the connectivity front, both tablets are expected to offer features like Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6, 5G (optional), and NFC. Both models will also come with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE+ price (rumoured)

In Europe, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE will start at 529 euros (~$555), whereas the Tab S9 FE+ will begin at 699 euros (~$735). Both models are expected to come in colours like gray, mint, silver, and lavender, although the availability of the latter color may vary. The 5G variants of all the variants of the Tab S9 FE series will carry an additional charge of 100 euros.

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Huawei Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design: Buyers queue up early morning as it hits shelves at 11,999 Yuan (~$1,642)

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 28, 2023

A couple of Huawei products are now on sale, including the MatePad Pro 13.2, the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design, and the Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design. The Mate 60 series has garnered an impressive market reception, especially considering that they are the brand’s first 5G-ready phones released in China since the US sanctions. The Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design, the most premium model in the series, is also enjoying a fantastic response on its debut sales day.

According to a MyDrivers report, a large crowd gathered at Huawei’s official flagship store in China, with people queuing up early in the morning to buy the Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design. This scene is reminiscent of the buzz and anticipation seen during the release of recent iPhones in China.

In terms of specifications, the Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design offers the same specs as the Huawei Mate 60 Pro+. However, there are visual changes in the Ultimate Design model, as it features a ceramic back and an octagon-shaped camera module.

The Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design is offered in two variants: 16 GB RAM +512 GB storage priced at 11,999 Yuan (~$1,642) and 16 GB + 1 TB priced at 12,999 Yuan (~$1,778). There is a purchase limit of one device per person. It comes in red and black color options.

The company is offering Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design buyers a complimentary one-year Huawei card membership, providing benefits such as VIP airport and train station lounge access, flight delay insurance, legal consultations, and even equestrian lessons. Additionally, exclusive Star Diamond protective cases in black and red are available for the Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design users.

Huawei Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design

The Huawei Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design has a large 6.82-inch OLED LTPO 120Hz screen with support for 1.5K resolution. It features a 13-megapixel front camera and a 3D depth camera for facial recognition. On the back, it features a 48-megapixel primary camera with variable aperture, a 40-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and a 48-megapixel telemacro camera. Running on Harmony OS 4.0, it ships with Kirin 9000s, LPDDR5 RAM, and UFS 3.1 storage.

The Mate 60 Pro+ packs a 5000mAh battery with 88W wired, 50W wireless charging, and 20W wireless reverse charging. Additional features include an NM card slot, dual SIM, Wi-Fi 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2, dual-frequency GPS, NFC, IR blaster, in-screen fingerprint scanner, two-way satellite communication, IP68 rating, and Kunlun Glass 2 protection.

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Motorola reveals new ‘Sky Blue’ color variant for Moto E13 launching today

By

Chetan

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Sep 28, 2023

Motorola released various new mid-range smartphones in global markets. One of them is the Moto E13 with 8GB RAM and a 5,000mAh battery. The company released the Moto E13 on the market earlier this year with a starting price of Rs. 6,999 with 2GB RAM and 64GB storage.

The Moto E13 impressed everyone with its sleek design and appealing color options. Now, according to a recent post on X, Motorola is releasing a new color variant for the Moto E13, launching today. Let’s go ahead and take a look at the post.

As per the post by Motorola India, the new variant of Moto E13 is called ‘Sky Blue.’ For those unaware, this smartphone originally came out with three color options: Green (Aurora Green), Black (Cosmic Black), and White (Creamy White). It is worth mentioning that the Sky Blue variant will be available for purchase on Flipkart and Motorola India’s official website. Those wondering what the hype is all about can check out the specifications of the Moto E13 below.

Motorola Moto E13 Specifications

The Moto E13 arrives with a 6.5-inch display that offers an HD+ resolution. Under the hood, the device is powered by Unisoc T606 octa-core SoC and three available RAM options: 2GB, 4GB, and 8 GB. It is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery unit that supports 10W charging, accompanied by two storage variants, 64GB and 128GB. The storage can be extended up to 1TB via microSD card.

In related news, Motorola has recently introduced the Motorola Edge 40 Neo. The device comes with an impressive curved display and a compact form factor. Those who wish to know more about this can check out our Motorola Edge 40 Neo unboxing and first impressions story here.

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Lenovo Tab M11 leak reveals its design renders and complete specifications

By

Anurag

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Sep 28, 2023

Lenovo seems ready to launch a new tablet in the global market. Earlier this year, the company unveiled the Tab M10 5G in India and other regions with a 10.61-inch LCD and a Snapdragon 695 SoC under the hood. Now, the company could soon unveil the Tab M11 as a new report has shared its complete specifications along with high-res renders. Here are the details.

Lenovo Tab M11 is a boring upgrade?

Windows Report has revealed most details about the upcoming Lenovo Tab M11, noting that “it’s not a major improvement over its predecessor, at all.” The said predecessor in this case is the Tab M10 launched 3 years back and not the 5G version we mentioned above. In any case, the tablet brings a new design with a single camera sensor on a large rectangular module. You get Dolby Atmos branding on the back as well as the Lenovo logo.

As per the report, the device only weighs around 466 g and it has a height of 166 mm. Lenovo Tab M11 is said to carry an 11-inch LCD screen, offering a resolution of 1920×1200. Its battery is supposed to last up to 10 hours playing videos and it charges through a 5V/2A Charging Adapter. The tablet will apparently be offered in two colors—Luna Grey and Seafoam Green.

On the software front, the slate will run Android 13 and will get two major OS upgrades (till Android 15). Lenovo is also reported to offer 5 years of security updates to the tablet, until January 2028. Under the hood, it could be powered by the MediaTek G88 Octa-Core processor with 4/8/12 GB of RAM and 128GB of storage (expandable up to 1TB with a MicroSD card). Lenovo will also release accessories like a Pen and a Folio case for the tablet but you’ll likely have to purchase them separately.

Judging by the specs, the Tab M11 is likely a budget tablet like its predecessors. For comparison, the 2020 Tab M10 costs around $180 and the Tab M10 5G carries a price tag of around $419 in Europe.

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Get 20% OFF on PatioMage Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair (Coupon)

By

Joane

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Sep 28, 2023

When you are looking for office furniture, comfort, and ergonomics are of great importance. The PatioMage Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair is one such meticulously designed seating solution that prioritizes your well-being during long hours of work or study. For a limited period, you can get a 20% discount on this office chair by using the coupon code: 20T030926 only on Amazon.com. This coupon is valid till 25th Oct. 23:59 PDT.

WHERE TO BUY

PatioMage Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair at 20% Discount @Amazon

So let’s delve into the features and benefits of this chair, highlighting its ergonomic design and high-quality materials.

Ergonomic Excellence: PatioMage is on a mission to craft the ultimate ergonomic mesh office chair, and they’ve succeeded in creating a product that caters to the intricate contours of the human spine. The chair’s ergonomic design is rooted in an understanding of the four key curvatures of the human spine, making it easier for users to customize their seating experience. You have the flexibility to adjust the headrest, lumbar support, armrests, seat depth, height, and even a footrest, ensuring a comfortable and productive day at the office.

Adjustable Seat Depth: One standout feature of the PatioMage chair is its adjustable seat depth technology. With a range of 60mm, you can effortlessly find the perfect sitting position tailored to your height and thigh length. This dynamic feature provides comprehensive leg support, reducing undue pressure on your lower limbs and promoting comfort even during extended periods of sitting.

Adaptive Lumbar Support: For those who spend hours upon hours seated, the PatioMage chair offers a solution to alleviate spinal discomfort. The chair’s split back design incorporates lift and rotate lumbar support, specifically engineered to cradle and adapt to the natural curvature of your waist. By rotating 10 degrees, this support system relieves the strain on your spine, catering to the needs of individuals who find themselves seated for more than 10 hours each day.

3D Adjustable Armrests: Customization is key when it comes to the PatioMage Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair. The 3D adjustable armrests can be fine-tuned in multiple directions – up and down, forward and backward, left and right. These armrests are thoughtfully designed with skin-friendly and PU soft materials, providing optimal support for your arms throughout the day.

High-Quality Materials: Durability and comfort are assured with this chair’s construction. The high-elastic special soft mesh used in its design not only ensures breathability but also guarantees strength and resilience, making it a suitable choice for extended seating sessions. The incorporation of steel plate material in the footrest enhances both safety and overall comfort.

Versatile Tilt and Weight Capacity: PatioMage understands that everyone has unique preferences when it comes to seating angles. The chair offers a maximum tilt of 135°, allowing you to find the perfect angle for your office work or a quick nap. Additionally, the chair boasts an impressive weight capacity, supporting users up to 440lbs, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of individuals.

PatioMage Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair is a practical and functional addition to any home or office space. Its ergonomic design, customizable features, and use of high-quality materials all contribute to a product that prioritizes user comfort and well-being. Whether you’re tackling a demanding workday or engrossed in a study marathon, this chair is designed to enhance your productivity while ensuring you remain comfortable throughout your endeavors.

Patiomage Ergo 3D office chair review:

Samsung pushes One UI 6 beta 5 for Galaxy S23 series in UK

By

Chetan

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Sep 28, 2023

According to a recent post on X (Formally known as Twitter), Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series has started receiving One UI 6.0 Beta 5 in the UK.

For those unaware, earlier this week, Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra received One UI 6 beta 4 with various UI improvements and bug fixes. However, beta 4 did include some known issues that the company provided in its change log. Let’s go ahead and take a look at the post.

As per the post, the beta patch is released in the UK with the build version ending in ZWIK and a size of 750MB. The company is constantly taking feedback with these beta releases and trying to improve the user experience. With this latest release, Samsung has fixed a few known issues found in the previous beta version. Those wondering about the bugs that the company has addressed can check the full list provided below.

Bugs that have been fixed

Fixed the problem of not being able to record during a call
Fixed no touch at the bottom of the screen or ghost touch issue
Fixed the issues of getting stuck after entering the camera, forced termination, and not being able to take pictures
Fixed the problem of not being able to use Motion Photo
Fixed infinite rebooting problem when entering Maintenance Mode
Many other improvements

It is worth noting that the latest beta update is currently available only in the UK. However, we expect the company to release it for other regions in the future. Those who are eligible and have applied for the beta program can download the update by heading over to Settings > Software update > Download and Install.

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Truke enters home audio segment, launches InfinityBox, Thunderbar priced at Rs 1,499 and Rs 4,499

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 28, 2023

Truke, a brand mainly known for hearable devices such as TWS earbuds and neckbands, has now entered the home audio segment by announcing two Bluetooth-enabled speakers: the InfinityBox and Thunderbar. Like its TWS earbuds, the new soundbars have affordable price tags. Here is a look at the key features of both products.

InfinityBox

Designed to elevate any occasion, from casual hangouts to lively gatherings, the InfinityBox promises a 50W sound output. It is equipped with dual 78mm speakers and dual passive radiators. The heart-thumping bass resonates throughout your space, adding depth to your music. To add to the party vibes, dynamic RGB lighting syncs with the music that is being played.

The InfinityBox promises up to 12 hours of continuous playback. It features a USB-C port for charging. Users can pair two InfinityBox units for a stereo sound experience. It is equipped with multiple playback options, such as Bluetooth, AUX, TF/USB, and FM radio. In addition, it offers on-device controls for easy music management.

Thunderbar

Truke’s Thunderbar offers 16W sound output thanks to its dual 52mm speaker drivers, producing rich bass. It comes with support for customizable RGB lighting, and it features a built-in device holder for mobile devices and tablets.

The soundbar offers a battery life of up to 6 hours. It provides diverse playback options, from Bluetooth to AUX, TF/USB, and FM radio. Plus, the device has on-speaker controls for adjusting volume, changing tracks, and managing calls.

InfinityBox, Thunderbar price in India

The InfinityBox and Thunderbar are priced at Rs 4,499 (~$54) and Rs 1,499 (~$18), respectively. Both devices will be sold through Amazon.

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Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 goes on sale, offers 144Hz OLED display, Kirin 9000s, 10,100mAh battery, and more

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Sep 28, 2023

On Sept. 25, Huawei announced multiple products, including the MatePad Pro 13.2 flagship tablet. As announced at the launch, the tablet is up for purchase starting today in China. Here is a look at the price and specifications of the device.

Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 price

The Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 comes in the following RAM and storage combinations: 12GB + 256GB, 12GB + 512GB, 12GB + 1TB, and 16GB + 1TB. These variants are priced at 5,199 Yuan (~$770), 5,699 Yuan (~$844), 6,699 Yuan (~$992), and 6,699 Yuan (~$957). In addition, there is a 16 GB + 1 TB variant with a keyboard and stylus set priced at 8,299 Yuan (~$1,135). The tablet can be purchased in shades such as black, white, and green.

Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 specifications

The Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 features a 13.2-inch OLED display that is surrounded by an ultra-narrow 3.4mm bezel. This allows the tablet to offer an exceptional screen-to-body ratio of 94 percent. The OLED panel supports a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels, a 144Hz refresh rate, a 3:2 aspect ratio, and HDR. In terms of design, the MatePad Pro 13.2′ is incredibly thin and light, weighing just 580g and measuring a mere 5.5mm in thickness.

The MatePad Pro 13.2 is powered by the Kirin 9000s chipset and a large 10,100mAh battery that supports 88W supercharging. The tablet comes with up to 16 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 3.1 storage. The tablet runs on Harmony OS 4.0 and comes equipped with six speakers.

The MatePad Pro 13.2 is equipped with Huawei’s StarLight technology and is compatible with the new Huawei M-Pencil (3rd generation) stylus, offering 10,000 levels of pressure sensitivity for precise and professional writing and drawing experiences. In addition, the MatePad Pro 13.2 has a 16-megapixel front camera and a 3D ToF sensor on the front, and a 13-megapixel (main) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) dual-camera system on the back.

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U.S. Financial Firms Seek Clearer Guidelines on Investing in Chinese Tech Sectors

By

Anubhav

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Sep 28, 2023

As the clock ticks towards the September 28 deadline for input on new U.S. regulations concerning investments in certain Chinese technology sectors, financial firms are sounding the alarm. The rules, set to be implemented next year, aim to prevent U.S. capital from bolstering China’s military and sensitive tech sectors like semiconductors, AI, and quantum technologies. However, industry experts are calling for more clarity as they navigate a sea of uncertainty.

The lack of clarity may hamper U.S.-China economic activities even further, experts say

President Joe Biden issued an executive order last month to tighten control over such investments, transferring the responsibility of compliance mainly to investors. “It puts a fair amount of burden on an investor,” noted a former Treasury official. Unlike earlier systems which involved case-by-case reviews, the new regulations demand that investors figure out the applicable investments themselves, leading to concerns about rising compliance costs and legal risks.

The proposed rule is affecting not just venture capital and private equity firms but could also extend to banks, hedge funds, and even index-tracking funds. Timothy Keeler, a partner at law firm Mayer Brown, highlighted, “It could apply to companies that are outside of China but are subsidiaries of Chinese companies or controlled by a Chinese person.”

Moreover, the vague language in the proposal is raising eyebrows. Financial industry executives question how the rules would apply to “U.S. persons,” the specific Chinese entities in focus, and the nature of exemptions for publicly traded securities. “At what level does ‘directing’ kick in?” questioned Jen Fernandez, a partner at law firm Sidley Austin, illustrating the level of ambiguity clouding the directives.

As the financial sector grapples with these issues, there’s also a broader concern that the lack of clarity may stymie U.S.-China economic activities even further. U.S. acquisitions of Chinese companies have already dipped by nearly 60% this year compared to the same period last year.

While firms agree on the need to protect U.S. national security, they fear that the uncertainty surrounding the rules may inadvertently lead to “de-risking,” or avoiding investments in covered sectors altogether. Amidst political sensitivities and economic ramifications, the clamor for a clearer rulebook is growing louder as the input deadline nears.

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China hasn’t Included Apple in its Registered App Store List for Some Reason

By

Anubhav

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Sep 28, 2023

In a move that has left the global tech community puzzled, Apple finds itself excluded from China’s first official list of 26 registered mobile app stores. The list, unveiled by China’s Cyberspace Administration (CAC), features local giants like Alipay and Lenovo, but the absence of Apple is raising eyebrows and sparking concerns over the business environment for international tech companies in China.

This move might be a signal to other companies in the tech space

The new CAC regulation, introduced last year, mandates app stores to submit business details for “registration” and actively police apps on their platforms. While this is seen as a bid to tighten control over the digital landscape, it also exposes a growing trend—China’s apparent aim to sideline global tech players and promote local alternatives.

Interestingly, this comes at a time when the number of apps in China is dwindling. According to recent statistics, there was a 25% drop in the total number of apps available in the country, from 3.5 million in 2020 to just 2.6 million in 2022. Industry insiders associate this decline with Beijing’s expanding regulatory net that seems to be throttling not just international players but also stifling local innovation.

Independent developers in China, who often look up to global players like Apple for inspiration, have expressed their concerns. The new rules make it challenging for local developers to launch apps quickly, a hurdle that runs counter to the fast-paced nature of tech innovation.

China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has warned of unspecified “punishments” for non-compliance within a window stretching from September to March next year. While it remains uncertain what penalties could be levied, the climate seems increasingly frosty for companies that don’t toe the line.

Apple has yet to comment on the situation, but its omission from China’s official list is more than just an oversight. It could very well be an indicator of the challenges global tech companies face in navigating an increasingly restricted and complex Chinese digital landscape. For businesses and consumers alike, the situation confirms the notion that in China’s burgeoning digital economy, playing by Beijing’s rules is not just encouraged, it’s enforced.

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Bo M electric scooter touted as the world’s most sophisticated micro-mobility vehicle showcased

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Sep 28, 2023

The Bo M electric scooter has been unveiled and claimed to be the world’s most sophisticated e-scooter. The new micromobility vehicle comes in a sleek design and is set to go into production shortly.

The new micromobility vehicle is designed by UK company, Bo and it officially announced that the M e-scooter is moving into production. The Bo M e-scooter is designed primarily for city commutes and is as sleek as it can be. The company says the scooter will offer the smoothest and most stable ride of any e-scooter in its class. An earlier version of the e-scooter was on display at the 2022 Micromobility America event but the updated version comes with higher specs.

Bo co-founder and CEO Oscar Morgan says that moving into production for the M e-scooter is a momentous moment for the company. He praised the entire Bo team that worked tirelessly to create a product that will consistently delight riders. Some revolutionary features in the new scooter include the Monocurve chassis with integrated Lock and Load hooks. The vehicle also comes with safety enhancements such as Safesteer which provides stability in any terrain. The Bo M is a visually exciting scooter and is scheduled to roll out the first units within the last quarter of 2023.

The Bo M has a 1,200W hub motor which is an improvement of 200W from its planned 1,000W capacity. The width of the scooter has been increased for improved ergonomics and battery capacity, according to the company.

The Bo M comes with a 655Wh battery that delivers a range of 50km on a single charge. The scooter has a top speed of 35km/h which is decent enough for everyday urban commutes on the bike lane. The Bo M e-scooter can be ordered for £1,995 (~$2,430). The first units will be out by November 2023 but deliveries could extend to February 2024.

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AOC AGON CG27G2S/BK gaming monitor launched packing a curved display and 165Hz refresh rate

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Sep 28, 2023

The AOC AGON CG27G2S/BK gaming monitor has been unveiled. The monitor comes in a curved, 27-inch display with a 165Hz refresh rate. It has a 1500R curvature and 4ms response time. The new AOC AGON gaming monitor is based on a VA panel and comes with anti-glare finishing to reduce reflection.

The AOC AGON has Adaptive Sync support and a 2,560 x 1,440-pixel native resolution. This translates to a pixel density of 109ppi and a 16:9 aspect ratio. The new gaming monitor has a contrast ratio of 3,000:1, 90% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, and 250 nits of peak brightness. It boasts of Flicker-Free technology and a Low Blue Light mode to prevent eye strain.

The AOC AGON CG27G2S/BK monitor has two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4 interface, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The monitor does not have a built-in speaker and will need an external audio connection. The monitor has an adjustable stand that can be tilted or swiveled. The height can be adjusted up to 130mm to cater for different scenarios.

The AOC AGON CG27G2S/BK gaming monitor is available in the United Kingdom and the Eurozone. It is priced at £219.99 (~$267) in the UK and €249 (~$262) in the rest of Europe. More details about the new AOC AGON gaming monitor can be found on the company’s website. There are no official details yet on the availability of the AOC AGON CG27G2S/BK in the US and other global markets at this time.

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PC Monitor Shipments Fall in Q2 2023, but Hybrid Work and Gaming Trends Offer Hope for the Future

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Sep 27, 2023

Smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives. Nowadays, we handle almost all our tasks with these 5 to 7-inch devices and don’t feel the need for any other product. With each passing day, new features and improved performance only make this more prevalent. While this is great for the smartphone market, it’s not necessarily good news for other markets. A recent report published by IDC highlighted a dramatic decline in the global monitor market for Q2 2023. Here are the details…

PC Monitor Market Facing Headwinds in the Short Term, but Long-Term Outlook Remains Positive

IDC, a leading authority on market research that gauges the pulse of both consumers and producers, has released a new report on the global monitor market. According to this report, the market saw a 17.1% decline in Q2 2023 compared to the same period last year. Notably, this decline was not limited to a specific region or country but was observed in shipments worldwide.

There are several reasons for this downturn, with the most significant being Covid-19. As you may know, the lockdowns brought about by the pandemic disrupted economic forecasts, leading to a major spending shift. People stuck at home started picking up new hobbies to entertain themselves and bought everything they could afford. Yes, this includes monitors. This trend lasted for about two years, and everything returned to normal by the end of 2022. Unfortunately, the subsequent period began to reflect negatively on the charts.

However, the future still looks promising for the global monitor market, especially in Q4 2023. As we all know, one of the impacts of the pandemic has been the widespread adoption of remote work. For instance, I’m also working from home using my computer, without going to any physical office location. The rise of hybrid and work-from-home models is driving demand for monitors, as employees are now requiring multiple screens to accommodate both their home and office tasks.

I experienced this in my own situation as well. Additionally, the gaming sector is another significant driver for monitor demand. Gamers are on the hunt for high-performance displays with features like high refresh rates and low input lag. Let’s not forget the growing popularity and demand for 4K and 8K panels. All these factors combined indicate an upward trend.

IDC predicts that the global monitor market will stabilize beyond 2025. The platform also expects that new monitor models that offer enhanced value propositions, such as faster panels, an increase in mini-LED monitors, and continued growth in the gaming segment, will be introduced in 2024. These developments should increase reasons for consumers and businesses to consider upgrading their displays, contributing to the continued evolution of the monitor market.The top five PC monitor vendors in terms of market share in Q2 2023 were Samsung, Dell, HP, Asus, and Lenovo.

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BOE’s Patent Prowess Grows, Surpassing LG and Closing In on Samsung

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Sep 27, 2023

If you are an avid follower of Gizmochina, I’m sure you’ve heard the name BOE many times before. This company, which specializes in the development and production of display panels, collaborates with many manufacturers, including Apple. Who knows, maybe even the device you’re reading this on was produced by them. Considering BOE is ranked first in the world by shipments of LCD panels for smartphones, tablets, notebooks, monitors, and TVs, this possibility is quite high. Furthermore, the number of display patents BOE holds in the USA further confirms their success. Here are the details…

BOE Surpasses LG to Become Second Largest Display Patent Holder in US

We know that BOE is already a significant player in the global display market. They produce screens for a wide range of products, from entry-level to flagship devices. However, this success is no accident. According to a South Korean lawyer, BOE ranks second in the number of display panel patents registered in the US, only behind Samsung Display. This is an impressive feat, especially considering the US is a major market for display panels.

BOE’s patent portfolio includes patents on a wide range of display technologies, such as OLED displays, LCD displays, and touch displays. The company has also been granted patents for its display manufacturing processes. The companies strong patent portfolio gives it a competitive advantage in the US market. It also allows the company to license its patents to other companies, which generates additional revenue.

However, it is important to note that BOE’s patents have been challenged by other companies, such as Samsung Display. In 2020, 2021, and 2022, BOE had 280, 300, and 337 patents rejected by the US Patent and Trademark Office due to Samsung Display’s existing patents. Of course, encountering issues with new technologies is common. Even Apple sometimes faces patent lawsuits. It doesn’t seem like these challenges will stop BOE.

In fact, experts suggest that if the number of patent applications continues to increase at this rate, BOE might surpass Samsung Display in a short time. If this happens, the South Korean manufacturer would lose its leadership position to a Chinese company. Nonetheless, all we can do is wait and see how things unfold.