Samsung has just announced its latest portable smart projector. The company’s new Freestyle Gen 2 is the successor to the original Freestyle portable projector that launched earlier this year. Now, the latest model brings various improvements to let you turn any wall or ceiling into a large screen for entertainment.
Samsung Freestyle Gen 2 Specs
Samsung launched the Gen 2 Freestyle projector along with the Gaming Hub. This basically means that you can now play your favorite titles from Xbox and other partner brands without needing a console. Being a portable projector, buyers can also pair it with an external battery case, which is sold separately. This will let you use the projector on the go. The Freestyle Gen 2 arrives with support for more than 3,000 games from streaming partners like Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox.
It also supports popular streaming platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Twitch. Meaning, users can also access other features while gaming. The projector outputs content in 30 to 100-inch sizes at Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080p), supports HDR10+, Crystal Picture Engine, and more. For audio, it houses a 5W speaker that offers 360-degree sound. Connectivity options include wireless options like Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2. It also runs on Tizen OS with Samsung TV Plus and supports Amazon Alexa voice assistant.
Samsung Freestyle Gen 2 Pricing & Availability
The Freestyle Gen 2 with Gaming Hub has been launched for a price tag of 799.99 US Dollars. It is available for pre-order on the company’s official website and at select retailers like Amazon as well. Notably, buyers that pre-order the device by August 30 from the company’s official website will get a free IP55 water and dust-resistant case worth 59.99 US dollars.
Samsung has finally begun the sale of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 in India. The company’s new devices are its latest ‘Made in India’ foldable phones that have gone on sale today (18th August 2023). So let’s have a look at their pricing and availability.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the South Korean tech giant’s top-end flagship foldable model, which has been quite popular in the Indian market. In just 28 hours, the company saw over 100,000 consumers pre-booking the device. It will be available in multiple color options, namely Icy Blue, Cream, and Phantom Black. This model has a starting price tag of 1,54,999 INR for the base 12GB + 256GB variant. On the other hand, the 12GB + 512GB configuration costs 1,64,999 INR, while the top 12GB + 1TB costs an exorbitant 1,84,999 INR (the 1TB model is only available in the Icy Blue variant).
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
Moving forward, Samsung’s new clamshell folding Galaxy Z Flip 5 has also gone on sale in India. Unlike the larger Fold model, this variant saw a major change in design thanks to a taller cover display. It arrives in four color options, which include Mint, Cream, Graphite, and Lavender. The base 8GB + 256GB model has a price tag of 99,999 INR. On the other hand, the 8GB + 512GB model will cost 1,09,999 INR.
Availability
Samsung will be selling the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 through online and offline channels. The foldable phones can be bought from retail outlets near you alongside the brand’s official website, Amazon, and even Flipkart.
Flagship smartphones are pricey. You’ll have to pay a hefty price upfront or in monthly installments, even if you trade in a recent device. Of course, you get a lot of bang for your buck from premium camera systems with multiple lenses, to top-of-the-line processors and a few extras too, like styluses or folding displays, and the longest software update support available. However, due to all of these features and the upcoming new features, flagship phone prices are expected to rise in the near future.
According to tipster Yogesh Brar, the prices of major flagship smartphones are expected to rise in the near future. The Google Pixel 8 series, the iPhone 15 series, the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, and the Xiaomi 14 series are all said to be affected, with price increases of up to $200 depending on the variant.
The rumored price hike for flagship phones is not surprising, given the current market conditions and rising costs. The upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip is expected to be more expensive than its predecessor, which will likely lead to higher prices for Snapdragon-powered flagship smartphones.
In addition, the iPhone 15 series is expected to feature a number of new and expensive components, such as a new A17 Bionic chip, a titanium frame, and a periscope lens. Apple has been able to keep the starting prices of its iPhones in the US relatively affordable in recent years, but it may be forced to raise prices this year due to inflation.
The Pixel 8 series is also expected to see a price increase, likely due to the new Tensor G3 chip, improved refresh rates, and a new camera sensor. Samsung will offer Exynos 2400 variants of its upcoming flagships in some markets, which could balance out the expenses. However, it will still offer Snapdragon variants in other markets, such as the US, so the prices for these variants are still expected to be higher than its predecessors.
All in all, it seems that the price of upcoming flagship smartphones is likely to rise. Consumers should be prepared to pay more for their next flagship smartphone.
Buying a new phone that costs a fortune doesn’t make sense for some people if they can get a cheaper refurbished one. However, it’s easier said than done to find a secondhand phone that’s still in good condition. Sure, there are platforms like Amazon and Cashify that can help you with your search, but the options are often limited. Luckily, a new venture from ReFit Global wants to help you out with a diverse selection of smartphones from renowned brands like Apple, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo.
ReFit Global, a re-commerce marketplace based in Delhi, is entering the direct-to-consumer (D2C) market. The company will continue to offer its offline B2B services, but it is also launching a new D2C platform, which will offer a wide variety of smartphones. This will include phones from top brands like Apple, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo. In addition, you can also expect to find a range of other electronic products, such as TVs, laptops, and appliances.
ReFit is a well-established player in the re-commerce industry. Since its inception in 2019, the company’s revenue has doubled, reaching 200 crore (~$27 million) in 2022. It is projected to achieve double-digit margins in the upcoming fiscal year. To date, ReFit has refurbished and sold approximately 1.5 million phones through its network of over 50,000 retailers. The company has seen impressive year-over-year growth of 100%, thanks to its strong retail and distribution presence.
For its new D2C venture, ReFit Global has partnered with Flipkart, their largest liquidator, followed by Amazon and other partners.
Commenting on the announcement, the company’s Co-founder and COO Avneet Singh said, “ReFit Global’s trailblazing move into the digital space signals a paradigm shift, setting new standards in the Refurbished Industry. When we embarked on our journey with ReFit Global, the refurbished phone market lacked structure and was still in its nascent stages. However, we recognized the immense potential for growth and collaborated with our retail partners to establish a network built on trust. Through our website, we aim to cultivate the same level of trust with our valued customers.”
Vivo is reportedly working on the Vivo X100 lineup, which includes at least three models, such as the Vivo X100, X100 Pro, and X100 Pro+. The starting two models, such as the X100 and X100 Pro, are likely to feature the Dimensity 9300 chipset, whereas the Pro+ edition is said to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. A Chinese tipster has leaked the specs of an upcoming Vivo flagship with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 onboard. It appears that he may have spilled the beans on the key specifications of the Vivo X100 Pro+.
Vivo X100 Pro+ specifications (rumored)
Vivo X100 Pro+ mock render
The Vivo X100 Pro+ is said to be equipped with a 6.78-inch OLED panel that supports a 120Hz refresh rate. While the tipster has not mentioned it, it appears that the X100 Pro+ will have a curved-edge display panel that offers a QHD+ resolution. However, the leaker is uncertain whether it will utilize Samsung’s E7 or BOE’s Q9+ panel. The display will be integrated with an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor.
The X100 Pro+ will come preinstalled with Android 14 with a layer of OriginOS 4.0 on top. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered device is expected to ship with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. Since it will be the most powerful phone in the lineup, it is very likely that its highest variant will offer 16 GB or 24 GB of RAM along with 1 TB of storage.
The leaker did not mention the front camera of the Vivo X100 Pro+. The rear camera setup of the device will be headlined by a Sony IMX989 50-megapixel main camera with a variable aperture. It will be coupled with an IMX598 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, an IMX758 50-megapixel portrait lens, and a 200-megapixel telephoto camera, which appears to be a periscope zoom camera as per other reports.
A previous leak claimed that the X100 Pro+ would be equipped with a custom-made periscope zoom camera jointly developed by Samsung and Vivo. This camera is said to be a modified version of the Samsung HP3 lens, which is said to offer up to 10x optical zoom.
At present, there is no information available about the battery or charging speed of the Vivo X100 Pro+. Like the predecessor model, the X100 Pro+ will come equipped with an IP68-rated dust and water-resistant chassis.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely believed to be the future, for better or worse. The omnipotent technology has the potential to make our lives easier, so much so that some of us may no longer need to work (although that’s not exactly a good thing). You’ve probably seen news of companies integrating AI into all sorts of things, from e-bikes to self-driving cars. And Lenovo CEO predicts we’ll soon be seeing AI phones and computers.
Lenovo to invest large sums on AI
Lenovo’s CEO Yang Yuanqing said the development of artificial intelligence, especially the rapid growth of artificial intelligence chips, will promote the upgrade of intelligent devices. He believes that there will not be much impact this year, but it will have a revolutionary impact next year. This will promote the upgrade and replacement of computers, and he expects to see AI phones and computers next year.
This comes after Lenovo Group yesterday announced its first-quarter earnings for the 2023/24 fiscal year, which ended on June 30, 2023. Revenue for the quarter stood up at 903 billion Yuan, and net profit was 13.3 billion Yuan.
In a letter to employees following the release of the earnings report, Yang Yuanqing announced that the company will invest an additional 70 billion yuan over the next three years to accelerate the deployment of artificial intelligence technologies and applications around the world.
It appears Lenovo is looking to move beyond its traditional PC business and become a more diversified technology provider. AI could be the key technology that will help the Chinese company to achieve this goal.
Lenovo seems to be a little late in joining the AI bandwagon. Other major technology companies, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, are already making significant investments and progress in this area.
Motorola has a new smartphone in the pipeline called the Moto G54 5G. Like its predecessor, the G53 5G, the G54 5G will also likely be a lower mid-range model. After its recent sighting on the FCC database, it has now emerged on the TDRA website.
Greenlit for launch in the UAE
The Moto G54 5G with model number XT2343-2 has visited the TDRA database. Although the certification does not reveal any specification details, it gives it the go-ahead for a future launch in the UAE. That being said, the specs of the device leaked at the beginning of the month, so let’s check it out for more details.
Moto G54 5S specs (rumored)
The Moto G54 5G smartphone is expected to come with a 6.5-inch screen with FHD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. The back panel will have a squarish camera module and the right side will have a power button that doubles up as a fingerprint scanner. The main camera is expected to be 50MP OIS-enabled and there will be a secondary sensor whose details are unknown. The front-facing selfie snapper is expected to be 16MP.
The device will have up to 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage expandable up to 1TB via microSD card slot. It will be powered by a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for fast charging (exact speed unknown). The smartphone will feature stereo speakers with support for Dolby Atmos and Moto Spatial Sound. It will run on Android 13 out of the box and will be available in Ambrosia, Ballad Blue, Coronet Blue, and Outer Space colors.
KTC, a China-based display manufacturer has just launched its 32-inch 4K Mini LED monitor gaming monitor in the US. The monitor has a lot going for it like the fact that it incorporates both Mini LED and Quantum dot technology at a reasonable price. Let’s take a look at the details.
KTC M32P10S gaming monitor specs
The KTC M32P10S monitor presents a wide and immersive view with its 31.5-inch Fast IPS display. The 4K resolution of 3840×2160 pixels ensures sharp visuals. Notably, the monitor has a Mini LED backlight with an impressive 1152 local dimming zones and a total of 4608 LEDs, contributing to excellent contrast and black levels for a lifelike picture.
Gamers will appreciate the 144Hz refresh rate, along with support for AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility, ensuring smooth gameplay without tearing. The monitor also features Quantum Dot technology, which enhances color accuracy and richness. It covers a broad range of color spaces, including 100% of sRGB, 99% of Adobe RGB, and 98% of the DCI-P3 color space.
With a typical brightness of 600 nits and a peak brightness of 1000 nits, the monitor is certified as VESA DisplayHDR 1000, promising impressive HDR content. The stand is designed for comfort, offering up to 90 mm of height adjustment, swivel rotation of +/-45 degrees, and a tilt range of -5 to 20 degrees.
In terms of connections, the monitor provides 2 USB 3.0 Type-A ports, 1 USB 3.0 Type-B port, and 1 USB Type-C port with 45W power delivery. Additionally, there are 2 HDMI 2.1 inputs, 1 DisplayPort 1.4 input, and a headphone jack for audio output.
Pricing & availability
In the United States, you can find the KTC M32P10 on Amazon, priced at $1,300. Additionally, there’s an option to activate a $300 voucher. Unfortunately, details regarding other markets are currently unavailable.
In a world where urban spaces are getting increasingly crowded, the Mihogo Mini is redefining the personal mobility landscape with its compact and efficient design. Making its debut through a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, this electric bike has captivated the e-bike riders with its small size and innovative features.
The bike can support a weight of up to 200 kilograms, which is impressive for its size
Weighing just 19 kilograms, the Mihogo Mini can be folded into the size of a suitcase in mere seconds. This portability allows riders to stow it away effortlessly, even in the smallest of cars. However, don’t let its small stature fool you. With a 350-watt motor, it zooms at speeds up to 35 kilometers per hour and boasts a range of 100 kilometers on a single charge.
But what sets the Mihogo Mini apart is the unique design that maximizes its usability. From a child seat to luggage racks, the e-bike can be customized with various accessories, carrying up to 200 kilograms. It even features a 2.4-inch display that offers riders essential information and ensures durability with an IP65 dust and waterproof rating.
The Mihogo Mini’s crowdfunding campaign has already raised over $43,573 USD, offering early bird discounts that make it even more appealing. However, potential backers must tread with caution, as is the norm with any Indiegogo campaign.
The bike is a great blend of convenience and innovation and it symbolizes the future of urban mobility, catering to the needs of today’s fast-paced lifestyle. It’s more than just an e-bike; it’s a statement that compact can indeed be powerful, efficient, and surprisingly versatile.
Elon Musk‘s X is stepping up the game in the fight against identity fraud. In the wake of ongoing impersonation issues, the company is now developing a new ID verification feature. As revealed by app researcher Nima Owji, the feature will require users to provide a copy of their government-issued ID and a selfie for verification.
Only time will tell if Elon Musk succeeds in this endeavor or it has a different outcome
The new feature marks a collaboration with third-party company Au10tix, known for providing identity intelligence services to giants like Google and PayPal. The information shared will be kept by both X and Au10tix, with biometric data stored for up to 30 days.
While this represents a significant move in combating impersonation on the platform, it’s not without challenges. The current verification system, offering verified status through X Premium subscriptions, has had its share of loopholes and exploited by scammers. Whether this new initiative will completely root out the problems remains an open question.
The alliance with Au10tix, and the specific methods X is employing, demonstrates a determined effort to enhance user security. It promises a swifter verification process, and possibly a more authentic online environment, but only time will tell if it achieves its full potential.
The unresponsiveness from X and Au10tix for comments adds an element of mystery to this feature, keeping users and analysts intrigued about what this could mean for the future of online security and community trust within the platform.
Hyundai Motor Company is driving the path of change, with July 2023 figures showcasing its robust growth in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. With a 1.2 percent increase in global vehicle sales compared to the previous year, and a notable 24 percent rise in all-electric car volume, Hyundai is demonstrating its dedication to eco-friendly mobility.
The company’s sales increase is way more than last year, 5.8 percent to be precise
The South Korean automaker’s emphasis on Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) is apparent. Wholesale shipments of these green options reached 23,769 units, making up 7.1 percent of the total sales. This figure represents a significant increase from 5.8 percent a year ago.
The Hyundai brand, a driving force behind the company’s plug-in car sales, noted a 28 percent year-over-year boost in wholesale shipments. Notably, two models, Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, based on the innovative E-GMP platform, constitute close to two-thirds of Hyundai’s entire BEV volume.
Genesis, the luxury sub-brand, is also making strides despite a third consecutive year-over-year decrease in all-electric cars. Their year-to-date volume is still up 21 percent, showing promise in this burgeoning market.
The introduction of the all-new, sporty Hyundai Ioniq 5 N hints at Hyundai’s forward-thinking attitude. Although only 10 units were exported from South Korea, it marks a significant step in diversifying the company’s electric portfolio.
However, not everything is accelerating. The hydrogen fuel cell model, Hyundai NEXO, dropped by 38 percent, reflecting the challenges faced in the still-evolving fuel cell market.
In December 2022, I reviewed the Infinix Hot 20 5G and now I am here reviewing its successor, the Infinix Hot 30 5G. The Hot 30 5G is yet again an exciting device for people who are looking forward to purchasing a 5G smartphone priced between Rs 10,000 (~$120) and Rs 15,000 (~$180).
The Hot 30 5G faces competition from the likes of Vivo T2x, Samsung Galaxy F14, Galaxy M14, Tecno Spark 10 5G, and Redmi 12 5G. There may be a few more in the same price range, but I haven’t mentioned them mainly because those devices haven’t launched in 2023. Here is a look at what is in store for people who purchase the Hot 30 5G.
Infinix Hot 30 5G review: What’s in the box?
Infinix Hot 30 5G
Here is a list of items that are included in the retail package of the Infinix Hot 30 5G:
Infinix Hot 30 5G handset
18W charger
Plastic case
SIM ejector tool
USB-C to USB-A cable
User guide
Warranty card
Design and Display
Dimensions
Display
Size – 168.51 x 76.51 x 9.19 mm
6.78-inch LTPS IPS LCD display
Widevine L1
Weight – 215 grams
1080 x 2460 pixels (FHD+)
NEG glass protection
IP53 rating
20.5:9 aspect ratio
120Hz refresh rate
240Hz touch sampling rate
Up to 580 nits of brightness
DCI-P3 color gamut
Undoubtedly, the Infinix Hot 30 5G stands out as one of the most attractive devices among its competitors. It holds the distinction of being the sole phone in its price segment, launched this year, to sport a punch-hole display. While the device’s chin is slightly thicker, such a feature is unsurprising given its affordable price point.
The plastic frame of the Hot 30 5G boasts a glossy allure, featuring a SIM card slot on the left-hand side, a speaker grille at the top, a volume rocker and a power key integrated with a fingerprint scanner, and on the bottom, a 3.5mm audio jack, a microphone, a USB-C port, and another speaker grille. The device lacks a secondary microphone. It comes with an IP53-rating for splash resistance.
As evident, Infinix provided me with the Aurora Blue variant of the device for this review. The Hot 30 5G’s polycarbonate rear panel boasts a matte finish, which does not attract fingerprint marks at all. There are two equal-sized camera rings and a quad-LED flash positioned at the top-left corner of the phone’s back. The camera island, where the dual cameras and LED flash are placed, features an eye-catching glittery design, exuding a reflective allure.
Weighing in at 215 grams, the phone carries a slight heft. What might account for this? It’s likely attributed to its sizable 6,000mAh battery and the expansive 6.78-inch screen it accommodates. After all, Infinix has consistently delivered larger displays and batteries within its Hot-series smartphones.
Moving on to the display, the Infinix Hot 30 5G packs a 6.78-inch IPS LCD panel that offers a Full HD+ resolution of 2460 x 1080 pixels, a 20.5:9 aspect ratio, and up to 580 nits of brightness. The display is usable outside. I noticed a slight blue tint on the screen, but switching to warm color profiles got me covered. When it comes to refresh rate, the device offers options, such as auto-switch, 60Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz. The Hot 30 5G comes with support for Widevine L1, which can stream HD content from OTT platforms.
Turning our attention to the speakers, the phone delivers stereo output via its dual-speaker system. However, the sound doesn’t seem to be evenly balanced; rather, it leans towards a 60:40 bottom-to-top ratio in terms of sound distribution. Nonetheless, in most instances, users may not discern this disparity while watching a movie or playing a game, as the device generally produces an impressive audio output.
Performance and Software
MediaTek Dimensity 6080
6,000mAh battery
4GB / 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM
18W charging
128GB / 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage
Android 13 OS, XOS 13
8GB of virtual RAM
The Dimensity 6080, the powerhouse driving the Infinix Hot 30 5G, is essentially a rebranded iteration of the Dimensity 810 chipset. It is complemented by up to 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM, with an additional 8GB of virtual RAM, and up to 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage.
The Infinix Hot 30 5G isn’t targeted solely at gamers; instead, it is an affordable 5G phone designed to serve as your daily driver while offering some level of gaming. I tested games like Call of Duty Mobile on “High” settings and played Shadow Fight without encountering significant issues. While gaming, the device warms up slightly, but during regular use, it maintains a cool temperature, ensuring overall comfort.
The Hot 30 5G is equipped with a sizable 6,000mAh battery, which I believe can provide up to 1.5 days of usage. The phone’s retail package includes an 18W charger, which takes well over 2 hours to fully charge the device.
In terms of the software experience, the Infinix Hot 30 5G comes preloaded with XOS 13-based Android 13. While it offers numerous features such as Split Screen, Peek Proof, Kids Mode, and Hi Trnslat, there are several preinstalled apps that you may find unnecessary. Similar to many other brands in this price segment, the device does come with a certain amount of bloatware. Here is a look at how the device performed on AnTuTu (3D Bench Lite), Geekbench, and CPU Throttle.’
AnTuTuGeekbenchCPU Throttle
Photography and Other Features
Rear Camera
Other features
50MP Hynix HI5021Q
Side-mounted fingerprint scanner
3.5mm audio jack
AI lens
Face unlock
MicroSD card slot
Quad LED flash
Wi-Fi 802.11n
NFC
Bluetooth 5.2
5G (n1/n3/n5/n8/n28 /n38/n40/n41/n77/n78)
Front Camera
GPS
8MP OmniVision OV8856FF
USB-C
Dual-LED flash
Dual stereo speakers with DTS Sound
The Infinix Hot 30 5G offers various photography modes, including Film, Video, AI Cam (the default mode for still photos), Beauty, Portrait, and Super Night Mode. The primary camera of the Hot 30 5G performs well under sufficient lighting conditions and can even capture decent shots in low-light environments. The provided images demonstrate that the Super Night mode effectively prevents light bleeding from light sources.
As a user who routinely tests various smartphones, I use gridlines and the horizontal level feature when taking shots. I observed a minor issue with the accuracy of the horizontal line, which serves as a visual indicator. This slight inaccuracy affected images where maintaining a straight horizon is crucial for achieving visual balance. However, this concern is relatively minor in the grand scheme of things. The Hot 30 5G can shoot up to 2K videos at 30 fps. Features like Bokeh Effect and AI filters are available while shooting. There is no support for video stabilization on the device.
2x zoom2x zoom2x zoom2x zoomSelfie potraitSelfie Potrait Super Night modeSuper Night modeSuper Night modeSuper Night mode
Regarding the front camera performance, the Infinix Hot 30 5G is capable of producing impressive selfies under well-lit conditions. However, selfies taken in dimmer lighting conditions exhibit a noticeable increase in image noise. While its ability to capture portrait shots is of moderate quality, it still delivers satisfactory results. In conclusion, the Hot 30 5G manages to meet expectations in the camera department, especially when considering its price point.
It is worth mentioning that I did not encounter any issues while using features like the fingerprint scanner and face unlock. The device is also equipped with a microSD card slot and NFC, which can be used for contactless payments.
Verdict
Infinix Hot 30 5G
The Infinix Hot 30 5G stands out as the only 5G-ready phone in its price segment, offering a remarkable combination of a 120Hz display, an impressive 6,000mAh battery, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. While the Hot 30 5G’s Dimensity 6080 may be overshadowed by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 found in the Redmi 12 5G – a 4nm chip – the Hot 30 possesses distinct advantages in areas such as its higher refresh rate screen, audio quality, and extended battery life. Consequently, the Hot 30 5G becomes an irresistible contender when seeking a versatile and affordable 5G phone.
Variants, Price and Availability
In India, the Infinix Hot 30 5G is available through Flipkart in options, such as:
Disclaimer: All of the opinions in this Infinix Hot 30 5G review are mine and based on my own experiences. There has been no editorial input from Infinix.
Microsoft‘s recent announcement about closing the Xbox 360 store on July 29, 2024, has surely caught the attention of the gaming community. While this decision might appear to be a blow to game preservation, especially for digital-only games, it could also be seen as a step towards embracing the newer technology.
It’s a big relief that Microsoft’s Xbox One and Series X/S have backward compatibility
For 18 long years, Xbox 360 has been a part of many gamers’ lives, and closing the store may feel like the end of an era. However, it’s essential to note that the Xbox One and Series X/S storefronts will still support any original Xbox or Xbox 360 games and DLC that are backwards compatible. Additionally, enhancements like FPS Boost, Auto HDR, and quicker loading times on Series X/S prove that Microsoft is keeping the legacy alive, albeit in a modernized form.
While the Movies & TV app will also be discontinued on the console, all purchased content will be accessible on Windows 10 and 11 devices, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. This demonstrates a transition, rather than a complete termination, encouraging users to adopt newer platforms without losing their treasured content.
Contrarily, Sony’s decision to keep the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita stores open, following fans’ protests, raises questions about the right balance between preservation and innovation. What may appear as resistance to change could also be seen as an homage to the history of gaming.
Acura is the luxury vehicle division of Japanese automaker Honda. Established in 1986, Acura became the first Japanese automotive luxury brand. Over the years, Acura has become synonymous with precision and quality. Honda’s introduction of the Acura ZDX in 2024 marks a notable shift in the electric vehicle landscape, positioning itself as a fierce competitor among established giants like Tesla and Ford. With an expected range of 325 miles for the base model and a starting price of around $60,000, the Acura ZDX offers a compelling alternative in the luxury electric SUV segment.
The car also features a Premium Bang & Olufsen audio system for entertainment
What makes the ZDX stand out is its combination of performance and features. While offering ranges comparable to the Tesla Model X and Ford’s Mustang Mach-E, the Acura ZDX ensures an engaging driving experience with configurations boasting up to 500 horsepower. The innovative integration of Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system elevates the in-car experience.
Safety hasn’t been overlooked either, with features like rear pedestrian alert and hands-free cruise driver assistance in the Type S variant. This latter feature hints at Honda’s vision of a more autonomous driving future.
Honda’s ambition extends beyond the vehicle itself, with plans to expand the charging infrastructure across North America. By aiming to add 30,000 stations, in conjunction with other automakers, Honda looks to eliminate the range anxiety commonly associated with electric vehicles. Their 10-minute top-up feature further adds to the convenience.
With the Acura ZDX, Honda is not merely entering the electric vehicle market but is reshaping it, with a balanced offering that caters to performance enthusiasts and tech-savvy drivers alike. Its early 2024 delivery, exclusively online sales, and competitive pricing reflect a bold move that underscores Honda’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Tech enthusiasts, mark your calendars! In the fall season, Microsoft is gearing up with major players to announce their event dates.
September 21 is almost a month away, and Microsoft will be adding final touches
The company will kick off the buzz with a “special event” on September 21st in New York City. Though the specifics are under wraps, it’s anticipated that this could be Microsoft’s grand fall hardware showcase. From past experience, this is when the tech giant unveils its latest Surface devices and other innovations. A change is seen this year as the company moves back to a late September slot, a shift from last year’s October date. Expect insights into Microsoft’s AI progress and possibly some hints at new Windows 11 features.
But Microsoft’s show isn’t the only event to watch for this season. Apple’s annual iPhone reveal is anticipated in early to mid-September, with whispers around potential USB-C charging ports. Google is also expected to unveil its new Pixel devices soon, but a concrete date remains out of the question.
Amazon is joining the September rush, holding a hardware event on the 20th, just a day before Microsoft’s. Tech fans can also look forward to Meta Connect on September 27th, where details about the Meta Quest 3 will likely be shared.
This fall’s tech event calendar is shaping up to be an exciting one, brimming with potential surprises and innovations. As the dates approach, the excitement builds up for what promises to be a significant season for tech advancements. Whether you’re a gadget lover or a professional tracking the latest trends, this fall will be a tech lover’s paradise. Are you excited? Let us know in the comments below!
CATL has unveiled a new battery with an impressive charging capability. The new battery can add up to 400km of range in just 10 minutes of charging. The fast charging technology of the new CATL battery has far-reaching positive implications for the market. The battery is called the Shenxing or god-like movement. CATL topped the global EV battery market in the first quarter of 2023 with a 35% market share.
CATL is a Chinese battery manufacturing powerhouse and a major Tesla supplier. The new battery is designed to solve electric vehicles’ charging and range limitations. The new Shenxing battery was launched by CATL’s e-car division during an event on August 16, 2023. Mass production of the CATL Shenxing will begin at the end of this year. The earliest shipping of the new battery will begin in early 2024.
The Shenxing is being propped as the world’s first 4C superfast charging Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery. The LFP technology was widely adopted by Tesla for its shorter-range cars in 2021. LFP batteries are known for their affordability and chemical stability. They however have a lower energy density than other types of EV batteries.
Fast charging technology for LFP batteries can help to deliver a higher range. The Shenxing is therefore being awaited with high expectations. It is unclear what would be the maximum range of the new battery but we expect it to be substantial. There are no pricing details yet for the upcoming CATL Shenxing battery.
TCL‘s China Star Optoelectronics Technology (TCL CSOT) has unveiled a new 23.8-inch, high-reflection e-paper in China. CSOT is the display manufacturing arm of TCL and the new e-paper has a high refresh rate, high contrast rate, and high white reverse. The model is the world’s first production of large-size e-paper backplanes with 8.5-generation architecture.
TCL had previously launched 25.3-inch electronic paper models. TCL CSOT has not announced the release details and pricing information of the electronic paper. It however seems that the large-screen electronic paper product could be used for electronic signage. Back in 2021, TCL CSOT announced a partnership with Yuantai Technology for the manufacture of electronic paper TFT backplanes. The TCL CSOT-Yuantai joint collaboration also involved the market promotion of electronic paper billboards.
TCL CSOT will adopt the 8.5-generation TFT panel production line to manufacture the e-paper TFT backplanes. Currently, TCL CSOT is the world’s largest manufacturer of e-paper TFT backplanes. There is a growing demand for e-paper displays and TCL CSOT says it attached great importance to the layout of the new display. E-paper has several impressive advantages including outdoor, medical care, education, and other applications.
Pricing and availability information for the new TCL CSOT 23.8-inch e-paper display is lacking at this time. The high refresh, high white reflection, and high contrast rates are great selling points for the new 23.8 electronic paper product.
The URBAN Fusion smartwatch has been introduced in the Indian market. The new URBAN Fusion has a 1.46-inch Super AMOLED panel and supports Bluetooth calling.
The release of the Fusion is coming on the heels of the launch of the URBAN Luxury Edition lineup earlier this month. The URBAN Fusion comes with a durable alloy body, an elegant sound dial, and a breathable silicone trap. The 1.46-inch Super AMOLED Display delivers up to 1,000 nits of brightness and 60Hz refresh rate. The smartwatch also features an Always-on-display.
The URBAN Fusion comes with great functionality combined with premium features. URBAN says it will continue to project India’s achievements on the global stage. It will also continue to share its globally successful products on the local market for fellow Indians.
URBAN says that the Fusion comes with a Quad Sensor setup – an industry first. It has Heart Rate, Blood Pressure, Blood Oxygen (SpO2), and sleep monitoring sensors. It has a noise-isolating microphone system and supports Bluetooth calling. There are over 100 Sports modes on the URBAN Fusion.
The URBAN Fusion can be customized via its watch face and more than 100 watch faces are available. You can also make your watch face. Basic accessories available in Urban Fusion include a calculator, alarms, and notifications.
The Fusion’s alloy body is shatterproof and very durable. Urban is offering the Fusion for a limited offer of Rs. 3,999 in India. Two color options namely Flame Orange and Corporate Black are available for the smartwatch. It can be purchased directly from the official URBAN website as well as retail platforms across the subcontinent.
The CrossBeats Groov Buds have been released in India. The new CrossBeats product comes with Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and a total playback time of up to 55 hours. The earbuds are also very light, each bud weighing about 4g.
The launch of the Groov Buds come a couple of months after the unveiling of the CrossBeats Ignite Stellr in India. The Groov Buds come with 13mm graphene drivers for an enhanced audio output. The gadget also features the SnapCharge technology that allows them to charge quickly via USB-C. The earbuds are equipped with four mics with ClearComm technology for Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC). Ergonomically, the earbuds fit snugly in the ears and can be used comfortably for extended periods. In addition, they have Hi-Response sensors and support Qualcomm aptX adaptive audio.
The CrossBeats Groov Buds can be used for gaming due to their extremely low-latency gaming mode and 40ms delay. Multi-Touch Controls using Feather Touchpads are also present on the earbuds. The Groov Buds are rated IPX5 and can withstand water and sweat on them. The Groov Buds are equipped with 43mAh batteries on each bud, together with its 380mAh case. The earbuds support hands-free calling and Voice Assistants.
The CrossBeats Groov Buds are priced in India for Rs. 1,499 (~$18). They are available in a single colorway of black and can be purchased from retail platforms across the subcontinent. The CrossBeats Groov Buds can also be purchased directly from the company’s website. There are no global availability and pricing information for the Groov Buds at this time.
Work on autonomous driving technology is moving fast. Many companies, including Tesla, BYD, and Xpeng, are working hard day and night on self-driving cars. Luckily, these efforts are paying off, and now some cars even have test versions of this technology available. One such company is Cruise, owned by General Motors. In fact, they’ve been testing their self-driving cars for a while. However, a self-driving Cruise car got stuck in wet concrete in San Francisco. Here are the details…
General Motors Cruise Car Makes Silly Mistake, Drives into Wet Concrete
GM Cruise is a self-driving car company that is majority-owned by General Motors. The company is developing a fleet of fully autonomous vehicles that it plans to deploy as robotaxis. Cruise has been testing its vehicles in San Francisco since 2016, and it has also received permits to test in Phoenix and Austin. The company was doing well with all its tests until now. Cruise personnel quickly acted to get the car out of the concrete. They were able to extract the car and take it back.
Recently, a GM Cruise self-driving car made a silly mistake. It drove into wet concrete on a street in San Francisco named Golden Gate Avenue. It’s like the car stepped in wet cement! Thankfully, there were no passengers, so everyone was safe. Just a week ago, state of California said it’s okay for companies like Cruise to have their driverless vehicles on the roads any time of day.
This was a big win for the company. But, there are some people, like police and neighbors, who are worried about these cars causing trouble. Moreover, after the last event, the number of worried people increased. In fact, right after getting the green light, ten Cruise cars caused a mini-traffic jam on Vallejo Street. Cruise said it happened because of a phone signal problem. Of course, these misfortunes won’t stop progress, and one day autonomous driving technology will be widely used.
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