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Germany considers ban on Huawei and ZTE from 5G Networks amid growing security concerns

Germany is deliberating a significant policy shift that could lead to a ban on Chinese telecommunications giants Huawei and ZTE from its 5G networks. The country’s Interior Ministry has proposed stringent measures requiring local telecom operators to remove critical components supplied by Chinese manufacturers, including Huawei and ZTE Corporation, by 2026. This move follows similar decisions by several European nations, including the UK, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, to exclude Huawei from their 5G infrastructures due to mounting security apprehensions.

The proposal marks a noteworthy departure for Germany, which resisted pressure from the United States four years ago to ban Huawei. The Interior Ministry’s proposition is a response to the growing international consensus on limiting Chinese involvement in critical telecommunications infrastructure. Germany’s reconsideration stems from concerns about the potential security risks posed by these Chinese technology companies.

The development comes in the wake of a broader European trend toward scrutinizing and restricting the use of Chinese equipment in telecommunications networks. France had already taken steps in 2020, informing telecom operators that licenses for Huawei 5G equipment would not be renewed upon expiration, thereby effectively phasing out Huawei from mobile networks. In 2021, Denmark implemented legislation allowing the screening of foreign investments, aiming to safeguard national security, particularly in response to Huawei’s bid to build the country’s 5G network.

Additionally, countries like Estonia and Lithuania have outright banned Chinese vendors for telecom equipment. In Romania, a U.S.-backed bill was approved in 2021, preventing China and Huawei from participating in the development of the nation’s 5G network. Portugal’s telecom watchdog also recently resolved to bar Huawei’s equipment from the country’s 5G mobile networks, signaling a united European stance on 5G security.

Huawei expressed its opposition to the complete politicization of cybersecurity evaluations. The company cautioned that implementing a ban would lead to increased expenses for telecom operators in Germany, ultimately burdening consumers with higher costs.

Carsten Senz, Vice-President of Corporate Communications at Huawei Germany, defended the company’s technology in a recent radio interview. He highlighted the long-standing use of Huawei’s technology by German consumers without encountering security issues. However, with Germany contemplating stringent measures, the situation for Huawei and ZTE in Europe’s largest economy appears increasingly precarious.

As Germany weighs its decision, the global conversation surrounding the role of Chinese tech companies in critical infrastructure continues, shaping the future landscape of 5G technology in Europe.

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Assassin’s Creed Mirage Giveaway: MSI is Giving Away Free Copies to Customers

MSI is offering a free copy of Assassin’s Creed Mirage to customers who purchase select MSI gaming laptops, monitors, or routers. The promotion is available in select regions and runs from September 27 to November 10, 2023.

The promotion comes just weeks before the game’s launch on October 5. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience the latest game in the series, especially if you were already planning on picking up a new high-powered gaming laptop, gaming monitor, or other MSI hardware.

To be eligible for the promotion, customers must purchase an eligible MSI product from a participating MSI partner and register their product on MSI’s website. Eligible products include gaming laptops with NVIDIA RTX 4070, 4080, or 4090 GPUs, select 27-inch QHD or above monitors, and RadiX AXE6600 and RadiX AX6600 routers. 

You can find a complete list of eligible products below:

Once customers have registered their product, they must submit a clear image of their MSI hardware with its serial number, along with a receipt or purchase invoice that contains the model name. Customers can then redeem their game key via Ubisoft Connect from October 5, 2023, to April 6, 2024.

MSI has a limited supply of Assassin’s Creed Mirage codes, so customers are encouraged to act quickly. This promotion is a great opportunity for gamers who are planning to upgrade their gaming hardware. With the purchase of an eligible MSI product, customers can get a free copy of one of the most anticipated games of the year.

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Möve’s Voyager V10 is More than Just a Commute Solution with Up to 90 Miles of Range

If you think e-bikes are just a fad, you’re missing the forest for the trees. Take Möve’s Voyager V10, a premium commuter e-bike designed for daily riders, as a case in point. German-based Möve, which has been crafting bikes since 1897, is taking a slice of the growing e-bike market, focusing on everyday usability with this latest model.

The bike puts out 40 Newton-Meters of Torque and 600 watts of power

So what’s so special about this ride?

Firstly, the Voyager V10 is rigged with a rear hub motor from Neodrives, boasting an impressive 40 Newton-meters of torque and a peak power of 600 watts. In layman’s terms, it’s built to tackle city commutes with ease. Notably, the motor promises to be a quiet operator, so you won’t be that annoying buzzing nuisance on the road.

Möve promises up to 90 miles of range on a full charge, which can be juiced up in just two hours. But what really stands out are the bike’s two regenerative modes. These modes actually recoup battery life while you ride downhill, making the most of gravity’s pull. So those long, scenic descents can actually add miles to your ride.

Another jaw-dropper is its internal Pinion C1.122 gearing system. This smart tech adapts the gear ratio as you pedal, maintaining an optimal balance with the electric motor. It’s like having a co-pilot that adjusts gears while you focus on the road.

Safety isn’t sidelined. The bike comes with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and a RockShox Paragon Gold fork that softens the bumps on rough roads. Oh, and it doesn’t skimp on lighting either, boasting front and rear Supernova lights. With a price tag of around $6,706, it’s not cheap, but given its features, it’s a solid investment in the future of commuting.

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Netflix Marks the End of an Era as It Ships Out its Final DVDs

Netflix, the streaming giant that has fundamentally changed the way we consume entertainment, is officially shutting down its DVD rental service today, September 29, 2023. This move symbolizes more than just the end of a service; it marks the conclusion of a transformative chapter in the world of home entertainment.

Netflix has sent out 5.2 billion red envelopes to over 40 million consumers

While the company’s announcement came earlier this year, stating that dwindling demand for physical rentals made it difficult to maintain service quality, today’s closure signifies Netflix’s full transition into a digital-first entertainment provider. A journey that began in 1998, with the shipping of its first DVD—Beetlejuice—reaches its finale today. Since then, Netflix has sent out an astonishing 5.2 billion red envelopes to over 40 million customers.

Netflix

Although the advent of streaming in 2007 swiftly overshadowed DVD rentals, becoming the company’s dominant service by 2009, it’s crucial to remember that it was the DVD business that set the stage. Not only did it introduce on-demand entertainment to millions, but it also provided Netflix with the revenue and customer base needed to invest in the digital future we now take for granted. With over 238 million subscribers today, Netflix has become synonymous with streaming, but its roots in the DVD world were essential to its growth.

The decline in DVD popularity isn’t just a Netflix issue. Global sales for DVDs dropped by 19% from 2021 to 2022, and even Disney stopped DVD and Blu-ray production in Australia. However, Netflix is making this transition a bit sweeter for their remaining DVD aficionados. Subscribers can keep any rentals they currently have and even order up to 10 more movies to help the company clear out its remaining stock.

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Apple Makes A Resolute Move towards AI, Securing UK Tech Jobs in the Process

As the world moves more towards Artificial Intelligence (AI), Apple isn’t staying on the sidelines anymore. Contrary to its previously quiet stance, the company’s CEO, Tim Cook, recently emphasized Apple’s all-in commitment to AI during a UK press interaction.

Apple is trying to strengthen its AI staff force in the UK

What catches the eye, however, is the tech giant’s decision to bolster its AI staff in the UK. Cook highlighted that this move is not just about staying ahead in the AI game but also signifies Apple’s confidence in the UK’s tech sector. According to the CEO, Apple’s continuous investment in the UK has already contributed to the creation of approximately 550,000 jobs.

Apple

“[We’re hiring in that area, yes, and so I do expect [recruitment] to increase,” Cook announced, pointing out AI’s current role in Apple products, from Fall Detection on the Apple Watch to predictive typing on the iPhone. He even hinted at an upcoming ChatGPT-like service.

Why does this matter? As competitors like Google, Microsoft, and Meta flaunt their AI milestones, Apple’s strategic moves in the UK indicate the company’s broader vision. It’s not just about innovating for its own product ecosystem but also about contributing to global tech talent and job growth.

Moreover, Apple’s commitment confirms the tech titan’s view of the UK as a “vibrant” player in the global tech economy, despite the geopolitical uncertainties that often plague business decisions. In doing so, Apple’s latest actions serve as an endorsement for the UK’s tech prowess, potentially inviting more global companies to invest in the area.

With AI spreading its roots in every digital interaction we have, Apple’s resolute steps into the AI arena underline the technology’s enduring influence and the potential for job growth in tech hubs beyond Silicon Valley. This certainly proves that Apple is not just a spectator but a game-changer, planning to make waves in the fast-evolving AI landscape.

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OnePlus Pad Go RAM, Storage, Connectivity Details Teased Ahead Of Launch

OnePlus is gearing up to launch its second tablet in India next week. The brand has been teasing its key specifications and features. The OnePlus Pad Go is expected to be an affordable offering that will compete against the likes of the other tablets offered by brands like Xiaomi, Realme, Motorola, Lenovo, and more. Now, ahead of the launch, OnePlus has revealed new details of the Pad Go. 

OnePlus Pad Go more details teased

As per the OnePlus Pad Go microsite, the tablet will feature 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage. It remains to be seen if the brand will announce more configurations of the device. The upcoming tablet will come with versatile LTE connectivity and 5G cellular data sharing for faster internet on the go. This also suggests that the device will be offered in a Wi-Fi-only option. Another teaser reveals that the OnePlus Pad Go will feature a TUV-certified display with low blue light technology and intelligent brightness to reduce eye strain.  

As per previous teasers, the OnePlus Pad Go is confirmed to feature an 11.35-inch display bearing a screen resolution of 2.4K pixels and a 7:5 aspect ratio. It has a dual-tone finish back panel design with a circular camera module. The tablet is confirmed to be equipped with quad speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos. It will be available for purchase from Amazon, Flipkart, and the brand’s official website. 

As per a leak, the OnePlus Pad Go will reportedly be powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 processor. It is expected to be backed by an 8,000mAh battery unit. The tablet is tipped to feature 8MP front and rear cameras. 

We should learn the rest of the details of the OnePlus Pad Go next week.

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French competition authority raids Nvidia offices amid antitrust concerns

In a significant development, the French competition authority conducted a raid at the local offices of Nvidia, the global leader in AI and computer graphics chips. This action, reported by Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal, stems from suspicions that Nvidia has been involved in anti-competitive practices within the graphics cards sector. While the authorities did not explicitly name Nvidia in their official statement, insider sources confirmed Nvidia’s involvement.

The raid follows a broader investigation initiated by French regulators earlier this year into the cloud-computing sector. Authorities expressed concerns that companies in this domain might exploit their substantial computing power to sideline smaller competitors, sparking an intensified scrutiny of industry giants. Nvidia, renowned for its dominance in gaming graphics cards and cloud-computing chips, found itself under the regulatory microscope.

Nvidia’s market influence has surged, especially since the release of the generative AI application ChatGPT last year, resulting in a staggering 80% market share. This success, coupled with its expansion into AI hardware, prompted French regulators to delve into Nvidia’s activities, suspecting potential misuse of market position. The French competition authority’s action signifies the country’s robust stance against anti-competitive practices, aligning with recent moves against other major tech companies.

Notably, Nvidia, while recognized primarily for its gaming graphics cards, also plays a pivotal role in the cloud-computing arena. Partnering with industry giants such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, Nvidia’s chips power extensive data centers and government infrastructures. The company’s foray into leveraging AI hardware for additional revenue streams has added complexity to the investigation.

As of now, Nvidia has refrained from commenting on the situation. The French competition authority, likewise, has not provided further details about the specific nature of the alleged anti-competitive practices. This event marks a significant development in France’s proactive approach to regulating technology companies in recent months.

For now, the tech industry and investors alike await further updates as the investigation unfolds, with Nvidia’s future business strategies potentially hinging on the outcome of these inquiries.

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Huawei MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte Edition listed on UAE’s TDRA certification website

Earlier this month, the Huawei MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte edition made its debut in Europe with its UK launch. The brand plans to launch the tablet in Asian regions as well, starting with Malaysia. As per the official announcement, the tablet will debut in Malaysia on October 5 along with the Watch GT 4. Ahead of its launch, it has emerged on the TDRA certification website.

Huawei MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte edition

The tablet has been sighted with model number DBR-W19 on UAE’s TDRA certification database. Although no specs have been confirmed, the listing has essentially greenlit a future launch in the UAE. Keep reading to learn more about the Huawei MatePad 11 PaperMatte Edition.

Huawei MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte edition TDRA

Huawei MatePad 11 PaperMatte Edition specs

The Huawei MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte edition comes equipped with a vibrant 11-inch display featuring a resolution of 2560 × 1600 pixels. The display, known as the HUAWEI PaperMatte Display, has a nano-etched screen coating that provides a paper-like feel, reduced glare, and less eye strain. It offers a smooth experience with a TFT LCD (IPS) panel and supports a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz for fluid visuals.

Huawei MatePad 11.5 PaperMatte edition

Under the hood, it houses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 SoC, paired with HarmonyOS 3.1 for a seamless user experience. The tablet offers a comfortable 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of ROM for storage needs.

The camera setup includes a 13 MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture and autofocus, while the front features an 8 MP camera with an f/2.0 aperture and fixed focal length. Powering the device is a substantial 7250 mAh battery, supporting both standard and quick charging for convenience. In terms of connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi with MIMO 2 × 2 and Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless connections.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Leaked Renders Reveal Familiar Design, Reduced Screen Bezel, And More

Earlier today, we got treated to the leaked renders of the Samsung Galaxy S24. This time around, we get a first look at the Galaxy S24 Ultra courtesy of reliable tipster Onleaks. The high-quality leaked render reveals the smartphone’s design from all angles. We are still months away from Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S-series launch but rumors and leaks about the upcoming S24 series have been pretty much circulating on the web. As per a recent report, the South Korean brand may launch the Galaxy S24 series in January instead of February next year. 

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra leaked renders

Right off the bat, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has a familiar design as its predecessor. It features a flat frame and three vertically stacked camera sensors along with an additional sensor and LED flash unit beside it. There is also a fifth component above the flash unit. The smartphone is said to be slightly shorter but wider than its predecessor measuring 162.3 x 79 x 8.7mm in terms of dimensions. Samsung will reportedly use a titanium frame similar to iPhone 15 Pro models that should make the S24 Ultra 1 gram lighter weighing 233 grams. 

The power and volume rocker buttons are located on the right side of the Galaxy S24 Ultra whereas the bottom port accommodates a USB-C port, a speaker grille, and an S-Pen slot. There is also an Ultrawide-band antenna on the right edge of the device.

Coming to the front fascia, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra will retain the same 6.8-inch centre-aligned punch-hole display. From the leaked render images, it looks evident that Samsung has reduced the size of the bezel. This has resulted in to the narrowest bezel on all sides of the smartphone. The device is expected to feature a WQHD+ resolution. 

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Google Pixel 8 Roundup: Design, Specs, Price, & More

Google is set to launch its flagship Pixel 8 series of smartphones next week. Now, here’s a complete roundup of everything you need to know about the base Pixel 8 model. So let’s have a look at the specs, pricing, design, and more.

Google Pixel 8: Design & Display

The Search Engine giant isn’t bringing any radical changes to the 2023 Pixel lineup. So the Pixel 8 retains a recognizable form factor and a visor-like camera module. However, there are some updates to the existing formula. The device would likely keep to its matte aluminium and glossy glass finish. The Pixel 8 will reportedly feature more rounded corners and an overall smaller footprint. It is believed to measure 150.5mm x 70.8mm x 8.9mm in dimensions, compared to the Pixel 7’s 155.6mm x 73.2mm x 8.7mm.

Google Pixel 8

The smaller size also means that the display on the next-gen Pixel phone is slightly smaller than its predecessor. The Google Pixel is expected to sport a 6.17-inch OLED display that offers Full HD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR support, and up to 1,400 nits of peak brightness. The front also houses a center aligned punch hole cutout for the selfie camera.

Specifications

Under the hood, the Pixel 8 lineup will be equipped with the new Tensor G3 SoC. The chipset is rumored to be a processor built on the unannounced Samsung Exynos 2300. The upcoming Tensor G3 is based on Samsung’s advanced 3nm process node, which should offer improved power efficiency and performance. The processor will reportedly be paired with the same storage configuration options as last year.

Google Pixel 8

Meaning, we can expect to find a 128GB or 256GB storage option. Apart from this, the device will likely introduce an upgraded ultrasonic fingerprint sensor and Android 14 OS out of the box. A 4,485mAh battery pack may power the Pixel 8, which supports 24W fast charging.

Camera

The Google Pixel series is known for its outstanding cameras. So many have high expectations for the image sensors on the new Pixel 8. Based on recent reports, the base model will feature a 50-megapixel ISOCELL GN2 primary camera from Samsung. This will be complimented with a 12-megapixel INX386 ultra wide angle lens. It is expected to feature an upgraded ToF (Time of Flight) sensor as well.

Google Pixel 8 Renders

On the other hand, the front is rumored to house an 11-megapixel camera for selfies and video games. The camera would offer a series of useful features from the Camera app. This includes Staggered HDR, Face Unblur, Photo Unblur, up to 8K resolution recording, Night Sight, Super Res Zoom, Video Unblur, Audio Magic Eraser, and much more.

Launch Date, Colors, and Pricing

The company will host the Made by Google launch event on 4th October 2023. The Pixel 8 model is expected to launch in multiple color variants, including Hazel, Rose, and Obsidian. Unlike the Pro versions, the base Pixel phones were popular for their $600 price tag. But it seems like the brand won’t be maintaining this pricing this year. The vanilla model is expected to see a 100 US Dollar price hike over last year’s Pixel 7, so it might cost around 700 US Dollars.

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Google Pixel gains ground in Japan as Apple sales stall

Google Pixel phones are still a relatively small player in the smartphone market overall, but they are growing in popularity, especially in Japan. A new report from Bloomberg, citing data from Counterpoint Research, shows that Google Pixel phones now make up 12% of the smartphone market in Japan, up from just 2% in Q2 2021. During the same time period, Apple’s iPhone market share dropped from 58% to 46%.

This is a significant shift, as Apple’s iPhones have long been dominant in the Japanese smartphone market. However, Pixel phones are likely gaining popularity in Japan for their competitive pricing, strong camera performance, and deep integration with Google services.

Another factor contributing to Pixel’s success in Japan is the weak yen. This makes them a good deal for people outside of Japan who want to buy a Pixel phone. The Pixel is only sold in a few countries, and the yen’s fall to its lowest level in over 3 decades has made Japan the cheapest place to buy one.

Google Pixel phones gain market share in Japan

Google is also benefiting from the decline of other Android brands in Japan. For example, Sharp saw its market share jump from 8% to 11%, and Sony went from 5% to 6%. However, Samsung held its line at 6%, while Oppo actually slipped from 6% to 5%.

That said, Apple’s latest iPhone 15 series may boost its market share, despite the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s $100 price increase due to the removal of a smaller storage tier. Google is set to launch its latest Pixel devices at an event next Wednesday.

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Vivo Y200 launching soon: specs & design revealed via training material leak

Earlier today, Vivo started selling the T2 Pro smartphone in India featuring a curved AMOLED display, a Dimensity 7200 chip, and a 64MP dual camera system. The brand is apparently planning to launch another smartphone soon called the Vivo Y200. The specs and design of this upcoming device have recently surfaced via leaked training material.

Vivo Y200 leaked specs & desing

The report comes from TheTechOultlook, leaking all the key specs of the upcoming Vivo Y200. As per the report, the phone will feature a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED Ultra Vision display, offering a smooth experience with its 120Hz refresh rate and precise color control with 38 color temperature levels. It will also feature a 2D glass rear panel for an elegant look and an in-display fingerprint scanner for added security.

On the camera front, it will sport a 64MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and a 2MP bokeh camera on the rear, while the front will house a 16MP camera for selfies.

The upcoming Vivo Y200 smartphone is set to bring several notable features and specifications. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset and run on the Funtouch OS 13, which is based on Android 13. The device will have a substantial 16GB of RAM, comprising 8GB of inbuilt RAM and an additional 8GB of Extended Virtual RAM, along with 128GB of storage.

In terms of battery life, the Vivo Y200 will come equipped with a 4800mAh battery and support 44W fast charging for quick power top-ups. The device will have a slim profile, measuring 7.69mm in thickness and weighing just 190 grams. Currently, there is no information about the pricing and the launch date of this smartphone. However, the report suggests that the launch will happen

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Amazfit T-Rex Ultra To Launch In India Soon

Amazfit is gearing up to launch a new smartwatch in India. The brand recently announced the Cheetah smartwatches in the country. The upcoming offering is confirmed to be the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra. It is listed on the e-commerce platform Amazon with a ‘Notify Me’ button hinting at an imminent launch in the coming days. The device had debuted in the global markets earlier in March this year. 

Amazfit T-Rex Ultra to launch in India soon

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra is a rugged smartwatch and is touted to be for adventure enthusiasts. The device boasts a 316L stainless steel unibody with adjustable lugs and four physical buttons. It is water-resistant up to 30 meters and is also said to have mud-resistant hardware. The smartwatch has EN13319 and ISO6245 certifications for skydiving, offroad motorbiking, and alpine skiing. It features an AMOLED display with 1,000 nits peak brightness. 

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra is equipped with a heart-rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, and stress tracker. It is capable of measuring all three parameters in one tap. It packs support for a plethora of sports modes with auto-detection for 25 workouts. 

The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra has a compass, air pressure, altitude sensor, and altitude SpO2 reminders. It shows updates about sun, moon, and tide patterns along with storm warning alerts and freediving water temperature. The wearable device is claimed to offer a battery life of 20 days under typical usage, 9 days under heavy usage, and 80 hours with endurance GPS mode. 

We should learn the India pricing and availability of the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra in the coming days.

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Beyerdynamic MMX 200 is the brand’s first wireless gaming headphones

Beyerdynamic has just released its first-ever pair of wireless gaming headphones. While the company is no stranger to gaming headsets, the new Beyerdynamic MMX 200 gaming headset is a shift away from Beyerdynamic’s usual wired gaming headsets.

Beyerdynamic MMX 200 Specs

Apart from just doing away from wires, the Beyerdynamic MMX 200 features notable specs and features. For those unaware, the brand is best known for its wired gaming headsets that are often seen in major esports events. But now, the latest launch brings the same competitive advantages, without the frustrations of wires. The MMX 200 series headsets feature 40mm high-performance drivers, which the brand promises will offer an “ultimate gaming experience.”

Beyerdynamic MMX 200

But for gamers, the audio experience is only just one part of what players need. With communication being key, gaming headsets like the MMX 200 also need to feature a built-in microphone. Beyerdynamic’s first wireless model features a detachable boom mic that has an integrated 9mm condenser capsule. Claims regarding the audio quality of these microphones are also tall. Apparently, these will have your friends ask you whether you’re using a podcast studio microphone.

The gaming headsets run on Bluetooth 5.3 and promise to offer 35 hours to 50 hours of battery life. Notably, all of the components like the memory foam padding on the earpads are also designed for self-repair. So you can easily replace these parts. Despite being targeted for gamers, these headsets don’t offer gimmicks like RGB lighting. The MMX 200 headphones are available for a price tag of 250 US Dollars on Amazon.

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Samsung Launches 15 Pop-Up Stores In India For Customers To Experience The Fifth-Generation Foldables

Samsung launched the fifth-generation Galaxy Z foldables globally in July this year. Alongside, the South Korean brand also announced the Galaxy Tab S9 series and Watch 6 series. All devices are already available for purchase across the world. Now, Samsung has announced that it is opening 15 pop-up stores in India. Notably, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 are made at the company’s factory in Noida. Both phones also registered record pre-bookings in the country.

Samsung opens 15 pop-up stores in India

With the opening of 15 pop-up stores, Samsung aims to create awareness about the Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5, Watch 6 series, and the Galaxy Tab S9 lineup. For now, five stores have been established in Mumbai (Oberoi Mall and Central Atrium), Delhi-NCR (Ambience Mall), Bangalore (Orion Mall), and Hyderabad (GVK One Mall). With the upcoming festive season, the brand is planning take the pop-up stores to smaller cities. There is a growing demand for foldable phones and pop-up stores are said to reach out a wider audience that lets people experience the technology. 

Visitors get to experience Samsung’s foldable phones as well as learn how they fit in to the Galaxy ecosystem. They can also take part in live demo sessions, win prizes, and learn tips and tricks about the devices. Alongside the fifth-generation Galaxy Z  foldable phones and Watch 6 series, Samsung is also making the Buds 2 Pro and Galaxy Book 3 Pro 360 available. 

Customers who purchase Samsung products at the aforementioned pop-up stores will be eligible to receive special offers and goodies. They can also get exclusive stuff like the Galaxy Z Flip 5 limited edition and NFC-enabled SMAPP cards. 

The Samsung Pop-Up stores will open from September 22 to October 2 from 11 am to 10 pm. 

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Samsung Galaxy F34 Orchid Violet color variant launches in India

Samsung introduced a new color variant for the Galaxy F34 5G in India. Along with the already available colors of Electric Black and Mystic Green, the users would be delighted to pick the new Orchid Violet color of the Galaxy F34 5G smartphone. The new color will retail on Flipkart Big Billion Days 2023. On the occasion the company says, “The addition of the new orchid violet colour will give more choice to consumers looking to buy Galaxy F34 5G this festive season.”

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

Samsung Galaxy F54 5G Specifications

Apart from the new color, all other specifications of the smartphone remain the same. Samsung Galaxy F34 5G comes with a 6.5-inch Full HD+ 120Hz Super AMOLED display. It is protected with Gorilla Glass 5. Further, it bundles Exynos 1280 SoC with 6/8GB RAM and a 128 GB internal storage variant. The 5G smartphone supports all the 5G bands in India and runs on Android 13-based OneUI 5.1.

The OneUI 6.0 Beta support for the device is available in some countries. We expect a stable OneUI 6.0 rollout in the coming few months for the device across all the countries.

Samsung Galaxy F34 5G smartphone with 6GB+128GB storage configuration currently retails for INR 19,999. We expect some special discounts on the upcoming Big Billion Days Sale for the device which is scheduled to start from October 8.

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Google Pixel Watch 2 leaked renders reveal sleek design and four color options

Google will hold its Made by Google event in New York next week, where it will unveil the new Pixel Watch 2 smartwatch. Just ahead of the launch, WinFuture has revealed some flashy render images of the device, giving us a better look at its design and colors.

The Pixel Watch 2 is rumored to feature a sleek, round design with a metal frame as its predecessor. Now, WinFuture has revealed that it will come in four main colors: blue, black, gray, and white. The exact names of these colors will be announced next week.

Earlier this week, the smartwatch appeared in a leaked promo video, which revealed several new features. The watch will be equipped with Fitbit’s multi-path heart rate sensor for accurate heart rate measurement, even during vigorous exercise. 

It will also feature a skin temperature sensor and a cEDA (electrodermal activity) sensor. The latter will be used to detect stress in the user’s body and prompt them to log their current mood and give suggestions.

In addition to these new health-tracking features, the watch will also have a Safety Check feature that will attempt to verify that the user is okay. If the user does not respond, their emergency contacts will be notified of their location.

Likewise, the Pixel Watch 2 is also expected to receive a number of internal upgrades, including a new Qualcomm W5+ Gen 1 chip, which could significantly improve battery life. Other rumored upgrades include a faster refresh rate display and a new stress monitor.

Google will stream its Made by Google event live on YouTube on October 4 at 10 a.m. ET. In addition to the Pixel Watch 2, the company is also expected to announce the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones.

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Noise Air Buds Pro SE with 30dB ANC launched in India for ₹1,699

After launching the Noise Air Buds 3 series earbuds earlier this month, the brand has now debuted the Noise Air Buds Pro SE Edition in the market. The Air Buds Pro SE features active noise cancellation and a metallic build which makes it stand out from other earbuds at its price point.

Noise Air Buds Pro SE

Noise Air Buds Pro SE Edition

The Noise Air Buds Pro SE comes with a sleek metallic finish design. When it comes to audio, they pack a punch with a 13mm driver, which delivers powerful and immersive sound. You can enjoy your music or content without disruptions thanks to the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology that blocks out up to 30dB of ambient noise. Plus, these buds feature Quad Mic ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) technology, ensuring your calls are clear and crisp, even in noisy environments.

In terms of connectivity, these buds are equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, providing a stable and reliable wireless connection. When it comes to battery life, the buds offer an impressive 40 hours of playtime on a single charge, and if you’re in a hurry, the Instacharge technology gives you 180 minutes of playtime with just a 10-minute charge. Another added convenience is the USB Type-C port, which makes charging a breeze. The IPX5 water resistance protects the buds from sweat and rain.

Pricing & availabiltiy

Starting today, the Noise Air Buds Pro SE is available for purchase. You can find them for the attractive price of only ₹1,699 on both Flipkart and gonoise.com.

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Raspberry Pi 5 arrives with an improved CPU & GPU, starts from just $60

The Raspberry Foundation has officially announced the next-generation model of its popular Raspberry Pi series of single-board computers. The latest entry is dubbed Raspberry Pi 5, which features some notable upgrades over its predecessor.

Raspberry Pi 5 Specs

It is the direct successor to the Raspberry Pi 4, which launched back in 2019. Raspberry Pi 5 arrives with an upgraded 64-bit ARM Cortex-A76 processor, which features four cores and a clock speed of 2.4GHz. Thanks to this, the fifth iteration is around 2 to 3 times more powerful than the previous generation model. The new launch also comes with improved graphics as well, with an 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU.

Raspberry Pi 5

Notably, the Raspberry Pi 5 arrives with an in-house silicon dubbed “Southbridge”, which adds I/O Peripheral functionalities. The new and improved CPU is paired with LPDDR4X RAM (available with either 4GB or 8GB options). For connectivity, the device supports Bluetooth 5.0/BLE, 2 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, PCIe 2.0 interface, 5V/5A DC power via USB-C, and Raspberry Pi standard 40-pin header.

Raspberry Pi 5 Pricing and Availability

The Raspberry Pi 5 has a higher starting price tag compared to the Pi 4 model. It now costs 60 US Dollars for the base 4GB model, while the 8GB variant costs 80 US Dollars. Apart from the miniature PC, buyers can also opt for a bunch of different accessories that include a case, an active cooler, a 27W USB-C Power Supply, and more. The Raspberry Foundation has begun taking pre-orders for the Pi 5 as of today (29th September 2023), with shipments expected to kick off by the end of October 2023.

Where to buy Raspberry Pi 5

The Raspberry Pi 5 is now available on Geekwills.

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Fitbit Charge 6 announced with more accurate heart-rate tracking, first-party apps

Fitbit has announced the Charge 6, its latest fitness tracker with a focus on more accurate heart rate tracking, Google services, and a longer battery life. Here are the details.

Fitbit Charge 6 Specifications

The Charge 6 looks almost similar to its predecessor, but it has a small haptic button on the left edge that provides vibration feedback when pressed. This button can be used to go back to the clock face or wake the screen, without having to rely on taps and swipes.

The tracker is made from 100% recycled aluminum and is available in three color combinations: Black with Obsidian, Silver with Porcelain, and Champagne Gold with Coral. It also has a Gorilla Glass screen protector and is water resistant to 50 meters.

As for the health and wellness feature, the most notable upgrade is its heart rate tracking. The tracker now uses the same heart rate tracking technology as the Pixel Watch. This results in 60% more accurate readings during vigorous activities like HIIT. Additionally, the Charge 6 also supports real-time heart rate streaming to gym equipment from brands like NordicTrack, Peloton, Concept2, and Tonal.

Additionally, the Charge 6 includes 20 new exercise modes, bringing the total to 40. New modes include strength training, skiing, and kayaking. The tracker also features an EDA (electrodermal activity) scan app that can detect changes in your skin’s sweat level, which can be a way to measure your body’s stress level.

Besides this, all of the core Fitbit features are still present on the Charge 6, such as step tracking, sleep tracking, and automatic workout recognition.

The Charge 6 also includes a number of Google services, such as YouTube Music (Premium subscription required), Google Maps, and Google Wallet. Despite all of these new features, the Charge 6 still gets a 7-day battery life (when the always-on display is turned off). It also uses the same magnetic charger as the Charge 5.

Price and Availability

The Fitbit Charge 6 is now available for pre-order for $159.95 from Amazon, and it will launch on October 12 in 30 countries. That price also includes six months of Fitbit Premium for free.

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