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This Free-to-Use AI Model can Generate Audio Samples based on Text Prompts

AI now has the capability to generate music samples from text prompts using neural networks. It’s actually great for producing compositions based on provided descriptions like mood or style. These AI models can be used to generate video game soundtracks, or simply to break creative block while relying on quality data and ongoing AI advancements. The innovative tech team Samplab has unveiled TextToSample, a VST3 (Virtual Studio Technology) plugin that allows users to convert text prompts into generated audio samples. The tool, available for free, runs both independently and within a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), and could be the answer to generating a unique “melody” straight from your thoughts. Imagine the possibilities.

The plugin does use a lot of resources while generating even a medium-sized clip

Drawing upon the potential of Meta‘s open-source MusicGen, an AI-based sound generation suite, TextToSample was developed using the data fed by this advanced algorithm. Adding to its capabilities, the plugin can accept uploaded sounds, analyze them, and generate related audio samples, besides processing text instructions.

TexttoSample

Sporting a very minimalist interface, TextToSample does, however, come with a few challenges. The responses are not always accurate, and you have to grapple and wrestle back and forth with multiple prompts to actually get where you need to be. So, perfection may not be immediate, but there’s a chance you can get there.

Despite these limitations, TextToSample can be a lot of fun. It’s a great example of generative AI‘s capabilities, especially with regard to music production in 2023, although it’s not without its share of bugs. Some users experienced unwanted additions, such as drums when they specifically opted out of percussion. I personally used the application, and it used up a huge amount of resources to generate a 10-second audio clip that was of mediocre quality at best, slowing my machine down in the process.

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8BitDo’s Latest Nintendo-style Mechanical Keyboard Features Two Giant Buttons, & They Work!

Mechanical keyboards are becoming less of a necessity and more of a hobby these days. People spend thousands of dollars towards building keyboards. 8BitDo, a company that makes custom novelty products, unveiled a brand-new mechanical keyboard inspired by the iconic NES and Famicom consoles from Nintendo’s 1980s lineup. The Retro Mechanical Keyboard, priced at $100, will provide a blend of nostalgic aesthetics and functionality, with wired and wireless capabilities and custom key mapping, all with two mammoth, tactile red buttons. Yes, they’re massive.

Customers can even purchase additional sets of the giant mashable buttons for $20 each

This peripheral will be offered in two distinct styles: the “N Edition” takes cues from the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), and the “Fami Edition” is a nod towards the Nintendo Famicom. The colorways for both editions are uncannily similar to their classic console counterparts; the NES-inspired variant boasts a sleek white / dark gray / black scheme, while the Famicom edition charms with a white / crimson combination.

Keyboard

8BitDo took the retro feel a step further with the Fami Edition, incorporating Japanese characters alongside English ones on every alphanumerical key. This version also features vintage-style dials and power indicators. The keyboard uses Kailh Box White Switches V2 and Gatreon Green Switches for its Super Buttons, which are user-replaceable thanks to a hot-swappable PCB. The Super Buttons, including the two hefty ones packaged with the keyboard, can be customized using 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software and connect directly to the keyboard via a 3.5mm jack. If you find yourself needing more, additional sets can be purchased at $20 each.

Sporting 87 keys, this keyboard supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and USB wired modes. It’s compatible with Windows, Android, and despite not being officially listed, 8BitDo has confirmed its compatibility with macOS. With a 2,000mAh battery, the keyboard offers approximately 200 hours of use after a mere four-hour charge. The keyboard can be pre-ordered on Amazon or directly from 8BitDo for $100, with shipping expected to begin on August 10th.

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Apple iPhone 15 Pro to reportedly have Titanium frame and thinner bezels

There have been many rumors about the upcoming iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro series models, and the new report from Mark Gurman of Bloomberg pretty much confirms some of the rumors for the devices.

According to the latest report, the Apple iPhone 15 Pro models will come with a Titanium frame for smartphones, while the bezels around the display will be thinner.

Apple iPhone 15

The report reveals that instead of the stainless steel frame, the new Pro models of the iPhone will come with titanium frame. Also, thanks to the new display technology, the bezels around the screen will be thinner, shrinking the size of the black border by about one third.

Earlier, it was reported that the company will swap out the mute button on the smartphones for a customizable button and the company’s proprietary Lighthing port will be replaced by the USB-C port.

While the features for the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro series models are appealing, the users will be paying a higher price. Some of the analysts are expecting up to $200 price hike for the Pro Max model. To know for sure, we will have to wait for the official launch in the coming month.

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Tesla Cybertruck might be One of the Lightest Electric Pickup Trucks in the Market

A lot of people have been talking about the upcoming Tesla Cybertruck more than any other vehicle in history, perhaps. It may very well become the poster child of this decade’s automotive revolution. Of course, this is a hot topic, but as news keeps surfacing, this prospect just fades in and out of existence among industry insiders, car enthusiasts, and drone operators. Limited official information fuels this speculation while all eyes are on Tesla’s latest electric marvel. In a recent episode of Munro Live, Sandy Munro and Cory Steuben dissected the potential of the Tesla Cybertruck. Using images, spy shots, and drawing parallels from their previous Model 3 and Model Y teardowns, they predict the Cybertruck may be lighter than its rivals, the Rivian R1T and the Hummer EV.

This weight is mostly because of the way Cybertruck’s framework has been designed

The duo attributed this weight advantage to the Cybertruck’s use of multiple giga castings, including a single-piece front underbody and two more castings at the side and rear. This feature, they believe, could help the vehicle shed some weight compared to its peers. The unibody construction of the Cybertruck, compared to the ladder frame chassis used by the Hummer and the Rivian, could also contribute to its lighter weight. “This structure, coupled with the efficient battery pack, eliminates the need for a traditional frame,” noted Steuben.

Cybertruck

For tax purposes, Steuben stated the Cybertruck might not weigh less than 6,000 pounds. Given that the Rivian R1T has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 8,532 pounds, and the Hummer reportedly exceeds 9,000 pounds, this seems plausible. However, it’s worth noting that classifications can vary, with the EPA labeling the Rivian as a heavy-duty truck. Munro and Steuben’s speculations extend to the Cybertruck’s structural strength too. Based on analysis of the “body in black” image, the vehicle’s A and B pillars appear incredibly robust, suggesting the use of ultra-high-strength steel, such as boron or hot stamped steel, to meet safety standards. “This thing is going to be bulletproof,” predicted Munro, shedding light on the vehicle’s anticipated strength and safety.

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This One-of-a-kind Electric Bike comes with a Trailer fitted with Solar Panels

Since electric bikes are not looking to stop riding the popularity train, it might be worth considering a setup where a camper can be attached to the electric bike. While it is technically possible, several considerations may limit feasibility and safety. The power and battery capacity of e-bikes are designed for human transport, so towing a camper could significantly reduce the bike’s range and strain its components. Stability issues could also arise due to the additional weight, possibly increasing the risk of accidents. Legal restrictions on towing with e-bikes could be encountered in many jurisdictions, and the small size of a camper towable by an e-bike might not provide comfortable accommodation. What if we told you that as of late, it already exists? The Hupi trailer intends to step-up the bike camping experience by providing the comfort of a towable home.

This might turn out to an electric bike trend that can become more mainstream in the EV industry

Resembling a compact mobile home, the Hupi trailer might appear more suited to being towed by a vehicle than an e-bike. However, modern e-bikes, particularly robust cargo bikes, can handle such loads owing to their powerful motors. Designed by Finnish creator Urpo “Upi” Merranmaa, the Hupi trailer balances being lightweight and compact while offering functionality. Weighing just 70 kilograms, the Hupi trailer can be easily pulled by hand and attaches to a variety of e-bikes using a universal hitch solution. Inside, the intelligent design utilizes every inch of limited space. Despite not being tall enough to stand in, it provides an integrated wall desk for work or relaxation and a foldable bed for rest.

Moreover, the Hupi trailer can be customized with additional features for extended trips. With the option to include a 250-watt roof-mounted solar panel and an onboard battery, it can supply power for gadgets and recharge the e-bike. Other possible amenities include a propane stove, portable grill, skylight, and even a television, making it ideal for truly off-grid adventures. The Hupi trailer is priced at 5,990 Euros (approximately $6,700 USD), and to be honest, this innovative solution might be a great companion to your love for the outdoors.

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Another Extremely Rare Piece of Apple Memorabilia is going up for Auction Soon

A collection of rare Apple items, including the second check the company ever wrote, signed by co-founders Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, is heading to the auction block, following the record-breaking sale of a sealed 4GB original iPhone, which sold for almost $200,000. This new auction, organized by RR Auction, offers over 50 unique items, affording enthusiasts an intimate look into the nascent days of one of the world’s most iconic tech companies.

The collection includes the second check ever written by Apple Inc.

The second check that Apple issued, bearing the signatures of both Jobs and Wozniak, has the potential to fetch over $50,000. Dated March 19, 1976, the check was written for $116.97 to Ramlor, Inc., a Palo Alto-area manufacturer of printed circuit boards. This document harks back to the time when Apple was crafting its debut product, the Apple-1, and predates the company’s official inception by about two weeks.

Apple

Notably, this check is labeled “No. 2,” and was written around the time Apple was still operating out of the Jobs family garage. The check also bears significance as it predates the official formation of Apple Computer, Inc., which didn’t happen until April 1, 1976. On that date, Jobs, Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne formalized the partnership, distributing 45% of the company each to Jobs and Wozniak, with the remaining 10% going to Wayne.

Given its date and payee, the check likely covered costs associated with the circuit boards for the initial batch of Apple-1 Computers. These units were initially envisioned as kit-based products, for hobbyists to assemble. However, the project’s scope widened after a meeting with Paul Terrell, owner of The Byte Shop in Mountain View, one of the first-ever personal computer stores. This latest auction offers an extra rare opportunity to acquire extremely rare pieces of Apple’s early history, signifying the tech giant’s humble beginnings before it transformed into a worldwide phenomenon.

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Upcoming Smartphones in August 2023: Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo, Infinix, and more

Smartphone launches will continue to happen in August, just like in July. A number of brands have confirmed to unveil interesting phones in the next few days.

Some of the companies have already revealed the dates for their new releases. While others have merely assured that they will be taking wraps off their latest devices.

We will be witnessing the launch of handsets across various categories. Even three foldables are expected from three different brands, namely Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Oppo.

The former two are also set to introduce affordable premium smartphones alongside Realme and Vivo. Further, Infinix and Tecno have planned to unveil handsets inspired by the Nothing Phone series.

With that out of the way, let’s take a look at the devices that are anticipated to go official in the coming days.

Upcoming Smartphones in August 2023

1. Redmi 12 5G

Redmi Note 12R

The Redmi 12 5G is scheduled to launch in India on August 1. It will be making its global debut in the country alongside the Redmi 12, which is already official in multiple markets.

The Redmi 12 5G for international markets is a rebranded Redmi Note 12R sold in China. Thus, everything about it is already known.

The phone will come with a 6.79-inch FHD+ 90Hz display (LCD), a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip, a glass panel, a 50MP primary camera, a 5,000mAh battery, and 18W charging support.

2. Motorola Moto G14

Moto G14

Motorola has confirmed to debut the Moto G14 in India on August 1. As the name suggests, it is a budget 4G smartphone from the brand.

The device will arrive with a 6.5-inch FHD+ punch-hole display (LCD), a Unisoc T616 chipset, Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers, a 50MP main camera, a 5,000mAh battery, and 20W fast charging support.

It will be IP52-rated for splash resistance and will be sold in black and blue color options.

3. Infinix GT 10 Pro

The Infinix GT 10 Pro will be announced on August 3 in India. The handset will sport a design inspired by the Nothing Phone series.

The product will be built around a 6.67-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display on the front and a transparent panel on the back with LED lights. It will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8050 SoC paired with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage.

It will be equipped with a 108MP primary camera and a 32MP selfie camera. Finally, it will draw energy from a 5,000mAh battery and carry support for 45W fast wired charging.

4. Tecno Pova 5 Pro

Tecno Pova 5 seris Arc inerface

The Tecno Pova 5 Pro is somewhat similar to the Inifinix GT 10 Pro in terms of design with its LED lights. However, it does not have a launch date yet though it is expected to debut in India first.

Also, we don’t have any info on its features as of writing this article. All we know is that it will come with five LED light effects, namely Soft, Racing, Dreamy, Breath, and Party.

The device will be accompanied by vanilla Tecno Pova 5, which is already official in some global markets.

5. Xiaomi Mix Fold 3

Xiaomi MIX Fold 3

The Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 is confirmed to launch in China in August. The company has officially revealed that it will flaunt a Leica-tuned quad-camera system.

Thanks to leaks, we know a few things about Xiamo’s next-gen foldable phone. The handset will sport an 8.02-inch QHD+ 120Hz  main foldable display with a camera underneath it and a 6.56-inch FHD+ 120Hz cover screen.

It will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. It will be backed by a 4,800mAh battery with support for 67W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.

Last but not least, the quad-camera setup is tipped to include a Sony IMX800 primary camera, an ultra-wide unit, a 3.2x telephoto snapper, and a 5x periscope shooter.

6. Redmi K60 Ultra

Redmi K60 Ultra design-

The Redmi K60 Ultra is expected to go official alongside the Xiaomi Mix Fold 3. Thus, we don’t have an exact launch date as of writing this article.

As per leaks, this product will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9200 Plus chipset paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. It will be fitted with a 6.7-inch 1.5K 144Hz OLED display.

Last but not least, the smartphone is expected to be backed by either a  5,000mAh or a 5,500mAh battery with support for 120W wired charging.

7. Oppo Find N3 and OnePlus Open

OnePlus Open CAD render

The Oppo Find N3 and the OnePlus Open are anticipated to launch in August. Both devices are expected to be one and the same meant for different markets.

These foldables are said to arrive with an 8-inch 2K 120Hz main foldable display and a 6.5-inch 120Hz external screen. They will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.

They will house a triple camera system on the rear comprising a 50MP Sony IMX890 primary sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide unit, and a 32MP periscope shooter. Finally, they will be backed by a 4,805mAh battery with support for 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.

8. Oppo A2

OPPO PJG110 TENAA

The Oppo A2 is expected to launch in China in August. It will be the successor of the Oppo A1 from earlier this year with a different design and upgraded specs.

The handset is tipped to sport a 6.7-inch curved display with an FHD+ resolution and 2160Hz PWM dimming. It will come with a new primary camera and a larger battery. Unfortunately, the exact camera specs and battery capacity are not known.

In terms of look, it will resemble the Huawei Mate 50 series with its giant rear circular camera island.

9. OnePlus Ace 2 Pro

Oneplus Ace 2 Pro Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

The OnePlus Ace 2 Pro has been confirmed to release in China in August. It will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC paired with an industry-first aerospace-grade 3D cooling system with a total area of 9,140 sq. mm.

The phone will be fitted with a 6.7-inch 1.5K 120Hz OLED display. It will feature a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and a 32MP telephoto camera.

It will also come with an alert slider and an IR blaster. Lastly, it will draw energy from a 5,500mAh battery and support 150W wired charging.

10. Realme GT 5

Realme GT 5 name spotted at ChinaJoy 2023 Realme booth

The Realme GT 5 is anticipated to release in August. It will come equipped with a 50MP Sony IMX890 primary camera, an 8MP ultra-wide unit shooter, and a 2MP macro snapper.

Under the hood, the device will house a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. On the front, it will flaunt a 6.74-inch 1.5K 144Hz OLED display.

The handset will be available in 240W and 150W fast-wired charging variants with  4,600mAh and  5,200mAh batteries, respectively.

11. Vivo V29 Series

Vivo V29 Pro teaser

The Vivo V29 series is expected to launch in multiple global markets in August. The lineup will include at least two models, namely Vivo V29 and Vivo V29 Pro.

The Vivo V29 will come with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G Plus chipset, a 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz OLED display, a 64MP rear camera, and a 50MP selfie camera with autofocus. It will be backed by a 4,505mAh battery with support for 80W charging.

On the other hand, the Vivo V29 Pro will retain the same display, selfie camera, and charging speed. However, it will arrive with a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC, a 50MP rear camera, and a 4,600mAh battery.

12. Samsung Galaxy F34 5G

Samsung Galaxy F34 5G image

Samsung has confirmed to release the Galaxy F34 5G in India soon. The smartphone is likely a rebranded version of Galaxy M34 5G.

Officially, the brand has revealed some features of the product. It will sport a 6.4-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with 1000 nits peak brightness level and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.

It will arrive with an OIS-assisted 50MP main camera. Finally, it will be fueled by a 6,000mAh battery with 25W charging support.

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Rumored PlayStation Earbuds with noise cancellation and USB adapter spotted at FCC. Launch soon?

A new FCC listing could indicate that the PlayStation Earbuds with noise cancellation could be unveiled soon. This comes on the heels of earlier hints that Sony may be considering making wireless earbuds for the PlayStation 5 console. Further details have now been sighted with the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) giving the Sony USB Transceiver approval for launch.

Sony Playstation Earbuds

The registration of the new pair of wireless earbuds with the FCC, together with the USB Transceiver comes on the heels of Sony’s recent audio flagship launch. The new earbuds are however rumored to be specifically designed for the PS5. The new Sony wireless earbuds will feature noise cancellation and are described as a wireless noise-canceling gaming headset.

As per the FCC database, the earbuds’ model number is YY2977 while that of the USB transceiver is YY2980. It is noted that the PlayStation 5 does not support Bluetooth connectivity. Hence the USB transceiver is a perfect accessory for achieving wireless connectivity for the earbuds. The earbuds will be of the standard hinged-box design and will not have a case as previously rumored. It is also rumored that the new Sony gaming headset will come with PlayStation or INZONE branding.

The FCC listing of the upcoming PS5 earbuds and its accompanying USB transceiver indicates an imminent launch. However, Sony has not released any official statement on the products. The pricing and release optics of the new Sony accessories may be rolled out shortly.

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India’s foldable smartphones in ultra-premium segment could see 4x growth by 2025

According to a recent report by Counterpoint Research, the foldable smartphone market share in India’s ultra-premium segment, priced above Rs. 45,000, is expected to grow more than four times to 35% by the end of 2025. Currently, foldables constitute about 8% of ultra-premium Android smartphone shipments as of June 2023.

The research firm highlights that the adoption of foldable smartphones has been relatively slow, accounting for only about 1% of the overall mobile market in India.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Flip5

Flip/Clamshell smartphones are very popular in India

However, flip smartphones are highly popular in India, especially among financially empowered female users. In the first half of 2023, flip phones accounted for an overwhelming 82% of the total foldable device shipments in the country.

The localization of manufacturing has also played a crucial role in fostering market growth. Flagship devices like Samsung’s Z Fold5 and Flip5, produced in India, have exemplified the trend of localized manufacturing, contributing to the increasing popularity of foldable smartphones in the country.

The entry of more smartphone manufacturers into the foldable phone market is expected to further boost the sector, making it more dynamic and competitive. Research firm Techarc estimates that India is poised to sell 635,000 foldable smartphones this year.

Globally, the shipments of foldable smartphones witnessed an impressive growth rate of about 64% in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year, with China leading the way at 117%. However, in terms of growth rate, India took the top spot with an astonishing growth rate of 967%, followed by the MEA market with 197%, and North America with 43%.

Samsung, a major player in the foldable market, has ambitious plans for the future. The company aims to have foldable phones constitute over 20% of its total Galaxy smartphone sales globally by 2023. They are planning to sell up to 100 million foldable phones annually worldwide in the coming years, with the goal of having half of its smartphone sales come from foldable models by 2025.

The soaring demand for foldable smartphones in India indicates a significant shift in consumer preferences, with users increasingly opting for innovative and feature-rich devices. As the market continues to evolve and more players enter the fray, it remains to be seen how the landscape will shape up, presenting exciting opportunities for both manufacturers and consumers alike.

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BenQ GV31 portable ceiling projector with Full HD resolution goes official

BenQ has unveiled the GV31 portable ceiling projector. The BenQ GV31 comes from a rich line of innovative and powerful digital lifestyle products by BenQ. BenQ says the GV31 elevates home entertainment to new heights with Full HD 1080p ceiling projection.

BenQ GV31 portable ceiling projector

According to BenQ’s CEO Conway Lee, the new projector combines unique ceiling projection capability, certified Android TV, and true enthusiast-level audiovisual performance. The GV31 is propped as capable of revolutionalizing the way users enjoy their favorite content at home. The lineup of BenQ ceiling projectors provide high audiovisual quality and the GV31 is not left out in this regard. The projector offers CinematicColor expertise and it is an upgrade from the GV30.

BenQ GV31 portable ceiling projector

The BenQ GV31 projector adopts a rotating angle projection design, autofocus, auto vertical keystone, and lots more for maximum viewing comfort at home. The projector provides up to 16W 270-degree 2.1 channel sound output with extended bass. The projector can also be used as a wireless Bluetooth speaker. It has a battery life of 3 hours of video playback or 6 hours of audio.

The BenQ GV31 ceiling projector delivers life-sized visuals combined with an emphatic audio delivery. The projector delivers an immersive user experience when streaming content, watching videos, or listening to your favorite music. The projector can also be used for gaming, providing endless enjoyment at home.

BenQ GV31 portable ceiling projector

The BenQ GV31 has USB-C connectivity for transmitting content, as well as DisplayPort output (DP Alt Mode) and Power Delivery (PD) inputs and outputs. You can project content in a variety of angles and the projector can be placed either on the ceiling or any suitable corner in the room. The BenQ GV31 projector pricing and release details are lacking at this time. To recall, the GV30 model usually retails at around $549.

More details about the projector can be viewed on the BenQ website.

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Xpeng Vice President Claims Superiority Over Tesla in China: “They will Always be Surpassed by Xpeng”

The competition in the electric vehicle market continues at full speed. Manufacturers like BYD, Tesla, and Xpeng are fiercely racing against each other to get ahead and grab a larger market share. However, it’s not enough just to manufacture a good car to stand out in this race. They need to support it with modern technologies and attract interest.

For example, BYD is working on a model that can go on water. One of these additional factors is autonomous driving technology. Most of us think of Tesla models when this technology comes up. However, the head of autonomous-driving tech at Xpeng has claimed that their self-driving technology will always be better than Tesla’s. Here are the details…

Xpeng Confident in Autonomous Driving Dominance Over Tesla in China

The presence of Chinese manufacturers in the automobile industry is becoming stronger day by day. For instance, BYD has been holding the title of the world’s top-selling electric vehicle manufacturer for a while now, a title that once belonged to Tesla. Now, Elon Musk’s company is facing another tuff competition from Xpeng.

Xpeng vs Tesla autonomous driving

In 2022 the company introduced a autonomous-driving system, called XNGP, and it has been implemented in models such as the Xpeng P5 and Xpeng G9. This technology is already being allowed to use in some big cities like Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing, and it’s receiving a lot of praise. It’s nearly as good as a human driver, about 90% as good, to be precise.

Moreover, Xpeng’s founder, He Xiaopeng, has made a big promise: Xpeng will be the first to launch fully autonomous-driving vehicles in China in 2023. They plan to have their cars driving on their own in more than 50 cities across the country. Recently, Xpeng’s Vice President of Autonomous-Driving Cars, Wu Xinzhou, talked about their technology.

Wu said that making a vehicle that can drive itself is not a marketing trick. It’s a serious project that needs a lot of hard work. You can’t do it quickly, and it takes a strong team and lots of testing. When asked about Tesla’s FSD coming to China and competing with Chinese vehicle manufacturers, Wu was confident. He said, “Even if Tesla comes now, we’ll be better. Our autonomous-driving cars work better in China than theirs would.”

“We’re not worried about Tesla. I don’t think they’ll be ready soon. I guess they need at least a year. And even when they’re ready, that’s fine, we’re ready to compete. We’ve always wanted to compete fairly with Tesla.” Wu went on to say, “I believe Tesla will never be better than Xpeng, because our work is more efficient and our engineers work harder.” Xpeng’s city NGP is already used in many cities, and people love it. It works well in difficult situations like heavy traffic, changing lanes on busy roads, and passing other cars.

Right now, Tesla’s FSD hasn’t come to China, and it hasn’t started big tests in local conditions. But when it does, it’ll be interesting to see who wins: Xpeng’s NGP, Huawei’s ADS, or Tesla’s FSD.

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DJI’s new action camera, possibly the DJI Osmo Action 4 set to launch on August 2

DJI has officially announced the imminent launch of a new product with the slogan “Show Your True Colors.” Leaks suggest that this exciting release is likely to be the DJI Osmo Action 4 action camera and it will be launched on August 2.

DJI Osmo Action 4 event teaser

DJI Osmo Action 4 specifications and images (leaked)

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is rumored to boast impressive specifications, including a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor complemented by a 155° f/2.8 wide-angle lens. The camera is expected to support 4K@12fps and 4K@120fps slow-motion shooting, promising stunning visual quality for dynamic shots. Moreover, with the addition of 10-bit & D-Log M capabilities, users can expect greater control over color grading during post-processing. The device will also be waterproof up to 18m.

Comparing it to its predecessor, the DJI Osmo Action 3, released in September 2022 with a starting price of $329 features a 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor capable of shooting 4K/120fps videos and 12-megapixel photos. It also supports D-Cinelike color mode, time-lapse photography, and digital zoom.

Quadro_News has leaked some DJI Osmo Action 4 camera images and according to the user, the camera will be available in standard and adventure packs. The starting price is €429, while the Adventure pack, priced at €529, includes the camera, extension rod, three batteries, and a battery case.

Just last week, DJI launched its latest Air series drone DJI Air 3 with dual 4K cameras, offering impressive photo and video capabilities. It has a wide-angle and medium telephoto lens, 4K@100fps and 4K@60fps shooting, 10-bit color modes, and intelligent flight features. The drone includes an omnidirectional vision sensing system, a 20 km image transmission range, and 46 minutes of flight time. Despite being 720g, it has higher wind resistance and an improved charging hub for multiple batteries.

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Anker Prime 130W & 200W power banks with magnetic base and up to 20,000mAh battery launched

Anker has unveiled two magnetic base charging docks with 130W and 200W charging speeds respectively. The two models have battery capacities of 12,000mAh and 20,000mAh respectively. Thanks to their POGO PIN magnetic charging bases, the devices support wireless charging. The other interfaces present in the gadgets are USB-A and USB-C, with each interface adopting an independent DC circuit.

Anker Prime 200W

The new Anker Charging Stations adopt the glue-filling process to effectively control the charging heat. This provides improved safety and stability for both gadgets. The models also use AI temperature control technology 2.0 for over-voltage, short circuit, and over-temperature protection. The power bank features a TFT digital display screen which is customizable to suit individual needs. The digital display can show the remaining power, estimated charging time, battery health, and battery temperature, among others.

Anker Prime 130W 10000mAh power bank

The new Anker power banks adopt the PowerIQ 3.0 compatible technology that makes it compatible with many smartphone brands and other devices. In terms of comparison, the 20,000mAh model delivers a maximum total output of 200W while the lower model gives a total output of 130W.

Anker Prime 200W power bank

The 130W/ 12,000mAh power bank features only two USB-C ports but the higher model comes with an additional USB-A port. The smaller model weighs 360g while the other weighs 535g.

Anker Prime 200W power bank

The two new Anker power banks are now available on the shelves in China. The starting price for the products is 449 yuan (~$63). The two new charging gadgets can be purchased from retail platforms like JD.com. There are no global availability details yet for the two products.

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Burning EV Carrier Safely Towed to Temporary Location off Dutch Coast

To salvage a burning EV freighter ship near a sensitive ecological area off the Dutch coast, salvage specialists have towed the vessel to a safer location away from shipping lanes. The stricken ship, en route from Germany to Egypt, caught fire on July 26, prompting urgent action to prevent a potential environmental disaster.

The Dutch public works and water management ministry, Rijkswaterstaat, confirmed that the freighter has been relocated to a spot north of the Dutch islands of Ameland and Schiermonnikoog. This temporary location, far from busy shipping routes, ensures a safer environment during ongoing salvage efforts.

Authorities had expressed concerns over the ship’s proximity to the Wadden Sea nature reserve, one of Europe’s vital intertidal zones supporting rich biodiversity. The relocation to a less-sensitive area was deemed essential to minimize the impact on the delicate ecosystem.

The intricate towing operation began on Sunday and concluded successfully on Monday, bringing relief to both environmentalists and maritime stakeholders. The challenging task involved strategic planning and execution by skilled salvage experts.

A spokesperson from Rijkswaterstaat informed the press that the ship would be further relocated, aiming for a more sheltered position, thereby reducing exposure to adverse weather conditions. The present location serves as an intermediate step in the arduous salvage process. While the situation is now under control, authorities remain vigilant to prevent any potential oil spills or further environmental hazards. An investigation into the cause of the blaze is likely to be conducted once the vessel is secured and made safe for inspection.

The collaborative efforts of Dutch authorities, salvage teams, and maritime professionals have demonstrated their commitment to mitigating environmental risks and preserving the fragile ecosystem of the Wadden Sea. As the salvage operation progresses, experts continue to work diligently to ensure the safe removal of the car carrier from the region.

Local authorities and environmental groups are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the minimal impact on the region’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. As salvage operations continue, the global maritime community remains hopeful for a successful resolution and avert any potential environmental catastrophe.

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JMGO N1 Air three-color laser pan-tilt projector unveiled in China for 3,099 yuan ($434)

The JMGO N1 Air projector has been unveiled in China. The new projector is a three-color laser pan-tilt projector equipped with a MALC three-color laser light engine same as the one used in the MT9 series. The MALC light engine has a 110% BT 700CVIA lumen brightness, known as “0 harmful blue light”.

JMGO N1 Air

The projector features a 370cc large sound chamber and a double-sided sound design. This delivers Dynaudio HiFi sound quality. It produces 55Hz bass, double-sided speakers, and surround sound. The engine was jointly designed by JMGO and Frog, and it brings a powerful game engine to the table with four major spaces. There are three viewing modes on the projector and an HDMI 2.1 interface.

JMGO N1 Air

The JMGO N1 Air has built-in 3+32GB storage and a low noise operation below 26dB. Other features of the projector include wind noise, global MEMC, and speckle dissipation. These features provide almond white and ice salt blue colors. The projector can be tilted to suit individual conditions and can also be panned.

JMGO N1 Air projector

The JMGO N1 Air three-color laser pan-tilt projector is offered at an introductory price of 3,099 yuan (~$). It is available in retail outlets like JD.com. There are a few details still lacking for the projector like its laser light source expected lifespan. More details about the new JMGO N1 Air projector can be viewed on the official website of the brand.

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Xiaomi Pad 6 Max is nothing but Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro with a larger display, says tipster

Xiaomi is apparently working on a third tablet, the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max, and traces of the same have been spotted on Bluetooth SIG and 3C certification sites. While we don’t know anything about the new slate yet, except that it will support 67W charging, a tipster claims it will just be a bigger version of the Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro. That tablet is limited to China with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset. Here are the details.

In a new and not very surprising development, a tipster claims that the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max is essentially the Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro (review) with a larger display. The rear camera module is said to be similar to the Pad 6 series, and the specifications are the same as the Pad 6 Pro, with the exception of the screen size. The Max model has a 14-inch display, while the Pad 6 Pro has an 11-inch display.

Xiaomi pad 6 Pro
Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro

This makes it a good option for those who want a large tablet for productivity or entertainment. However, we are not sure if this model will make it out of China. Currently, only the Xiaomi Pad 6 (review) is available for purchase in the global market while the Pad 6 Pro is limited to Chinese customers.

Considering Xiaomi Pad 6 Max will get the same specifications as the Pad 6 Pro, we can expect it to be powered by the Snapdragon 8+ gen 1 SoC, paired with up to 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and up to 512 GB of built-in storage. It might also get an LCD panel that offers a 2.8K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate.

The Pro model has an 8,600mAh battery with 67W charging support. However, the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max might get a bigger battery since it’s much larger.

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JioBook (2023) laptop launched in India with 8 Hours Battery, embedded Jio SIM card

India’s biggest telecom service provider, Jio, has launched a new laptop in the country. The new JioBook (2023) is an affordable laptop with specifications suitable enough for schoolgoers. You get an octa-core MediaTek MT 8788 processor under the plastic body of the machine. The JioBook 4G comes with an embedded Jio SIM card, dual-band Wi-Fi, and an HDMI mini port. There’s a decent 5,000mAh battery on the laptop that should last you up to 8 hours.

JioBook (2023) Specifications

The new JioBook comes as a budget laptop, which is evident by its plastic build and the price, of course. You can get the laptop in a blue shade, similar to what you see on the brand’s logo.  It features an 11.6-inch HD display with a 768 X 1,366 pixels resolution. Notably, the laptop comes with an inbuilt 4G SIM card, which should let you make calls and access the internet.

JioBook (2023)

It runs on an octa-core MediaTek MT8788 processor, which should be an upgrade over the last year’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC. The chipset comes paired with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 64GB inbuilt storage. Similar to a smartphone, you can expand this laptop’s storage up to 256GB via a microSD card.

JioBook (2023) comes with a slew of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, an HDMI mini port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. There are dual stereo speakers and a 2MP web camera. It is fueled by a 5,000mAh battery, which Jio claims lasts up to eight hours on a single charge.

JioBook (2023) Price and Availability

The JioBook (2023) is available for purchase in India at Rs. 16,499. Jio offers the laptop in a single blue color option. It is up for pre-order on Amazon and Reliance Digital, with the sale starting on August 5th.

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Huawei Watch Fit Special Edition headed to the UK on August 3

Earlier this month, Huawei launched the Watch Fit Special Edition in the global market but made it available for purchase only in Brazil. Now, the smartwatch is headed to the United Kingdom on August 3. It brings a large 1.64-inch AMOLED display, support for Always-on Display (AOD), and a built-in GPS. The watch also offers up to 9 days of battery and over 100 workout modes. Here’s what you need to know.

Huawei Watch Fit Special Edition

Huawei UK is set to launch the Watch Fit Special Edition in the country on August 3rd, introducing an exciting new addition to their lineup. To encourage early adopters, the company is offering an exclusive £10 early bird coupon for those who purchase the Huawei Watch Fit Special Edition. The coupon can be redeemed during the final checkout process.

huawei-watch-fit-UK

The UK pricing of the Huawei Watch Fit Special Edition is not known yet. To give you an idea, it is currently up for purchase in Brazil with a price tag of 499 Brazilian Real ($104).

The Huawei smartwatch debuts with a lightweight build, with the dial weighing just 21 g. It comes with a 1.64-inch HD AMOLED display that offers a 70% screen-to-body ratio and 456×280 pixels resolution. The screen also gets 326PPI and shows 16.7 million colors.

The watch lets you choose from over 10,000 already available watch faces that also work with the AOD functionality. The Watch Fit Special Edition comes with HUAWEI TruSeen 5.0 AI algorithm that tracks heart rate around the clock. It increases accuracy by 10% and sleep tracking by 10%.

Huawei Watch Fit Special Edition has over 100 workout modes. It can last 9 days of light usage and 6 days of typical usage. Huawei claims a 5 minutes charge will give you more than a day’s battery.

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BYD SongL to Hit Market in Q4: Spy Shots Reveal Attractive Design and Some Features

In today’s world, keeping secrets is harder than ever. This is especially true if what you’re trying to hide is a new electric vehicle from BYD, which weighs two tons and is produced with the help of hundreds of people. The BYD SongL was first displayed at the Shanghai Auto Show. Now, secret photos of the mass-production model have been leaked on the internet. Here are the details…

Spy Shots of BYD SongL Mass-Production Model Unveiled

New Spy photos of the BYD SongL have been leaked, offering us a more detailed view of the soon to be released electric SUV. As we mentioned above, this vehicle isn’t exactly new for us. BYD initially presented this model as a concept car at the Shanghai Auto Show in 2021, and now it’s anticipated to be available for sale towards the end of this year. It seems like the company will retain the concept car’s overall design, but with some minor changes.

The front end is similar to the Song PLUS DM-i, with a glossy black grille and LED headlights. The side profile is the most attractive part of the vehicle, with a sloping roofline and a muscular rear haunches. The rear end features through-type LED taillights and an electric spoiler. The SongL is built on the e-platform 3.0, which is BYD’s latest electric vehicle platform.

It is expected to be equipped with CTB battery body integration technology, intelligent electric four-wheel drive, and Yunche systems. The BYD SongL is also expected to be priced around 200,000 yuan (US$31,000). The SongL is positioned as a Class B Hunting SUV, and it is expected to compete with cars like the Tesla Model Y and the Volkswagen ID.4. It will be interesting to see how the SongL performs when it goes on sale later this year.

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Lenovo ThinkBook 14+ with Ryzen 7 7840H is up for pre-order

Lenovo launched the Legion R9000X, Xiaoxin Pro 2023, among other new laptops in China last week. The company also unveiled the new ThinkBook 14+ with Ryzen7 7840H processor, which is now up for pre-order in the country. This laptop is offered with 1TB SSD and up to 32GB of RAM. Let’s take a closer look at its price and specifications.

Lenovo ThinkBook 14+ Pre-orders

Lenovo ThinkBook 14+ starts in China at 5299 Yuan ($741) for the 16GB RAM + 1TB SSD option. The higher-end 32GB RAM version with the same storage costs 5799 Yuan ($811). The pre-sale of the new notebook will start tonight, and it will officially go on sale on August 8.

The 2023 Lenovo ThinkBook 14 + Ryzen Edition comes equipped with a 2.8K display that offers a 90Hz refresh rate, 100% sRGB color gamut, DC dimming, and a screen-to-body ratio of 90%. The laptop also gets an FHD 1080p camera that supports IP viewing and face recognition.

Lenovo ThinkBook 14+

The laptop has a large-capacity 62Whr battery that can be fully charged to 65% in 30 minutes. It has two M.2 2280 hard drives, and its motherboard can be configured with 16GB or 32GB of LPDDR5 memory. The graphics card is an AMD Radeon 780M integrated graphics, and the laptop has a variety of ports, including USB 4.0, hidden USB 2.0, HDMI, RJ45, and a Micro SD card reader.

As mentioned, Lenovo also launched the new Legion R9000X gaming laptop past weekend. It brings the same AMD Ryzen 7 7840H processor, boasting an impressive 165Hz refresh rate display and a particularly extreme 140W charging support. The laptop gets 16GB DDR5-5600 RAM and a standard 1TB SSD and starts at 10,999 Yuan ($1,538) for the R7 7840H + RTX 4060 configuration.

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