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Lenovo Tab M10 5G launched in India with a tall 10.61″ display & Snapdragon 695

The Lenovo Tab M10 5G has been announced in the Indian market. This new model expands the company’s tablet portfolio in the region, so here are the specifications, features, and pricing details.

Lenovo Tab M10 5G Specifications

The company’s new Tab M10 5G sports a 10.61-inch LCD panel that promises to offer an immersive cinematic experience. It features a 2000 x 1200 pixel resolution and supports up to 400 nits of peak brightness. The panel has a TÜV eye care certification, which ensures that users have a comfortable reading experience by minimizing blue light and flicker. Lenovo’s Tab M10 5G weighs just 490 grams and is powered by a massive 7,700mAh battery pack that offers up to 12 hours of video streaming.

Lenovo

Under the hood, the new tablet is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC that is paired with up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The front houses an 8-megapixel selfie camera, while the rear features a 13-megapixel sensor. Other notable features include dual speakers optimized with Dolby Atmos, nano SIM and an SD card slot for memory expansion.

The Lenovo Tab M10 5G is available in two storage configurations, namely 4GB + 128GB and 6GB + 128GB variants. It has a starting price tag of 24,999 INR in the country, but users can avail special launch offers on Amazon India and Flipkart. The sales are set to kick off tomorrow (15th July 2023) and will also be sold via the company’s official website and the Lenovo Exclusive Stores as well.

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Infinix Hot 30 5G launched in India with 6.78″ FHD+ 120Hz display, Dimensity 6020 SoC & 50MP dual camera setup

Infinix has successfully launched the Hot 30 5G smartphone in India as planned. This device specifically targets mid-range consumers, offering an affordable starting price below Rs. 12,499. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 SoC, providing reliable performance for its users. Let’s take a look at its specs and features in detail.

Infinix

Infinix Hot 30 5G specs

The device boasts a large 6.78-inch Full HD+ LCD display with a resolution of 2460 × 1080 pixels. It delivers vibrant visuals with up to 580 nits peak brightness, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 240Hz touch sampling rate.

Powering the Infinix Hot 30 5G is the Octa-Core MediaTek Dimensity 6020 7nm processor, which combines dual 2.2GHz Cortex-A76 cores and hexa 2GHz Cortex-A55 cores, along with the Mali-G57 MC2 GPU for smooth graphics performance. The smartphone comes in 4GB or 8GB RAM variants with 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via a microSD card. It runs on XOS 13 based on Android 13.

Infinix

In the camera department, the Infinix Hot 30 5G features a 50MP primary camera with an f/1.6 aperture, quad-LED flash, and AI lens for capturing high-quality photos. For selfies and video calls, it offers an 8MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture and dual LED flash. The device includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking, along with a 3.5mm audio jack and stereo speakers for an enhanced audio experience. With an IP53 rating, it provides dust and water resistance.

In terms of connectivity, the Hot 30 5G supports 5G SA/NSA networks with multiple bands including n1, n3, n5, n8, n28, n38, n40, n41, n77, and n78. It also offers dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac (2.4GHz + 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.1, and GPS/GLONASS/QZSS. The smartphone is equipped with a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. It houses a 5000mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging, ensuring extended usage and quick charging capabilities.

Pricing & availability

The Infinix Hot 30 5G is priced at Rs. 12,499 for the 4GB + 128GB model and Rs. 13,499 for the 8GB + 128GB model. It is available in Knight Black and Aurora Blue colors. Starting from July 18th, customers can purchase the smartphone from Flipkart. Additionally, there is an attractive offer of Rs. 1000 instant discount available when using Axis Bank Credit, Debit cards, and EMI options.

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Tecno Pova Neo 3 design & 7000mAh battery capacity officially revealed

Tecno is gearing up to launch the Pova Neo 3 smartphone in the coming days. The release is anticipated to be a global one, as the device has already appeared on various databases such as FCC and Google Play Console. Recently, the brand officially provided a glimpse of the smartphone’s appearance and revealed its battery capacity.

Tecno

As per the official Tecno Twitter handle, the upcoming Tecno Pova Neo 3 is set to impress with its massive 7000mAh battery. This battery capacity aligns with previous leaks. So let’s look at what other features the Pova Neo 3 will have onboard.

Tecno Pova Neo 3 specs (rumored)

Rumors suggest that the Tecno Pova Neo 3 will boast a generous 6.82-inch Asahi Glass LCD display with a resolution of 1640 x 720 pixels. This display is rumored to feature a respectable 90Hz refresh rate.

Tecno

Under the hood, the smartphone is expected to be equipped with a MediaTek chipset, potentially the Helio G85. The processor is likely to be paired with either 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. Additionally, the device is said to support expandable storage via a microSD card of up to 256GB. Out of the box, it is expected to run on Android 13-based HiOS 7.6.

In terms of cameras, the Pova Neo 3 is rumored to sport a dual rear camera setup consisting of a 16MP primary sensor and a 2MP secondary sensor. For selfies and video calls, an 8MP sensor is expected on the front.

The 7000mAh battery will get 18W fast charging. In terms of dimensions, it is reported to measure approximately 170.67mm x 77.6mm x 9.3mm and weigh around 201 grams.

The Tecno Pova Neo 3 is also rumored to come with various sensors including proximity, light, accelerometer, Hall, gyroscope, compass, as well as face recognition and a fingerprint scanner for enhanced security. Notable connectivity features mentioned include VoLTE, VoWiFi, and NFC support. The device is rumored to launch later in July.

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boAt Wave Call 2 smartwatch with 1.83″ display, 5-day battery life & Bluetooth calling launched

boAt has been quite busy this month launching multiple new devices in the Indian market. The brand recently debuted the Airdopes Max and Airdopes 141 Neo earbuds, along with the Storm Call 2 and the Wave Fury smartwatches. Now, the brand added another smartwatch to the lineup called the boAt Wave Call 2.

boAt

boAt Storm Call 2 specs & features

The boAt Storm Call 2 smartwatch features a large 1.83-inch HD display with a resolution of 240 x 284 pixels. The screen is elegantly designed with a 2.5D curved glass, adding a touch of style to its appearance. It supports Bluetooth version 5.2, ensuring fast and stable connectivity with compatible devices.

With over 1000 customizable watch faces available through the Crest App, you can personalize the look of your smartwatch to match your style and preferences. The watch also supports Bluetooth calling, allowing you to make and receive calls directly from your wrist when connected to a compatible smartphone.

boAt

Powered by the Cres+ OS operating system, the smartwatch offers a user-friendly interface and smooth performance. It includes a convenient Quick Dial Pad, enabling you to save up to 10 contacts directly on the watch for easy access.

For fitness enthusiasts, the smartwatch offers an extensive range of sports modes, with over 700 options to choose from. Whether you’re running, cycling, or practicing yoga, you can track your activities and monitor your progress with precision.

The smartwatch is designed to withstand the elements, with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. In terms of health monitoring, the smartwatch provides valuable insights into your well-being. It can measure your heart rate, blood oxygen saturation levels (SpO2), and serve as a daily activity tracker to help you stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. It also includes a sedentary reminder to encourage you to take regular breaks from sitting.

Beyond fitness and health, the smartwatch offers a range of additional features. You can use it to control your smartphone’s camera remotely, stay updated with live cricket scores, manage your music playback, check the weather forecast, set alarms and countdowns, utilize a stopwatch, activate a Do Not Disturb (DND) mode, and even locate your misplaced phone.

When it comes to battery life, the smartwatch offers impressive longevity. It can last up to 5 days on a single charge, providing extended usage without needing frequent recharging. However, if you frequently use Bluetooth calling, the battery life reduces to around 2 days.

Pricing & availability

Starting from July 15th at 12 A.M., the boAt Wave Call 2 smartwatch will be accessible for purchase on both the boAt website and Amazon.in. It will be offered at an introductory price of Rs. 1,299. The smartwatch is available in a variety of appealing colors, namely Orchid Haze, Active Black, Cool Grey, Cherry Blossom, and Silver Metal with a metallic strap.

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Alleged Samsung XR headset’s battery bags certifications in South Korea, India, China

Samsung has announced its next major launch event is scheduled for July 26. The highly anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event will introduce a range of exciting products, including the Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5, Tab S9 series, and Watch S6 series. Additionally, there are reports suggesting that Samsung might also unveil an XR headset during the same event. While the XR device has not been officially confirmed, Samsung has already provided teasers for the other upcoming devices that will be showcased at Galaxy Unpacked. Adding to the speculation, a new report from GoAndroid reveals that the battery of Samsung’s XR headset has received various certifications, indicating a potential launch later this month.

Samsung XR headset’s battery receives multiple certifications

Samsung XR headset battery 1
EB-BI610ABY battery bags SafetyKorea certification

The publication has spotted a battery having the EB-BI610ABY model number in the database of the SafetyKorea certification platform. This battery seems to be a successor to the older EB-BI120ABY battery, which was speculated to power unannounced Samsung AR Glasses with mode number SM-I120. Therefore, it is likely that the EB-BI610ABY battery will be used to power Samsung’s upcoming XR headset.

Samsung XR battery BIS
EB-BI610ABY battery BIS certified

The EB-BI610ABY battery has also received approval from India’s BIS and China’s CQC certification platforms. This suggests that the XR headset may be launched not only in South Korea but also in India and China.

Samsung Galaxy XR battery
EB-BI610ABY battery image from SafetyKorea

A report that surfaced earlier this week claimed that Samsung had postponed the launch of its first XR headset by approximately three to six months. Thus, there is a possibility that the company will confirm its existence at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event and subsequently launch it a few months later.

Samsung’s XR headset is expected to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro, a mixed reality (MR) headset, although specific technical specifications have not yet been revealed. Reports have mentioned collaborations between the South Korean company and Qualcomm and Google for the development of this product.

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Vivo X100 Pro+ tipped to feature custom-made 200MP periscope camera with 10x zoom

Vivo’s highly anticipated Vivo X100 series, focused on photography, is set to make its debut as early as November this year. The series is rumored to consist of three models: the Vivo X100, X100 Pro, and X100 Pro+. Among them, the X100 Pro+ is expected to feature a groundbreaking 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera, which has attracted significant attention. New information regarding this camera has recently emerged on Weibo, indicating that it will be a custom-made sensor.

Vivo X100 Pro+ 200MP periscope camera details

Vivo X100 Pro+ mock render

In a recent Weibo post, reputable tipster Digital Chat Station stated that the 200-megapixel periscope camera on the Vivo X100 Pro+ has undergone meticulous customization, surpassing the optical performance of renowned Sony sensors like the IMX890 and IMX866 models. Another source suggested that the camera sensor is tentatively named the Samsung HPV, resulting from a collaboration between Vivo and Samsung.

This lightweight camera sensor, believed to be based on the Samsung HP3, is expected to boast a generous 1/1.4-inch size and provide native 3x or 5x optical zoom capabilities. Both tipsters have claimed that advanced AI algorithms will enable users to enjoy an impressive 10x optical zoom experience.

Reports have claimed that the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro will both come equipped with the upcoming Dimensity 9300 chipset, which is yet to debut. The new flagship Dimensity chip may debut in October or November this year.

The Vivo X100 Pro+ is expected to feature the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Last year, the X90 Pro+ debuted alongside the X90 and X90 Pro. However, one of the recent reports claimed that the X100 Pro+ may debut in the first quarter of 2024. Vivo did not release the X90 Pro+ in markets outside of China. Hence, it is unclear whether the X100 Pro+ will debut globally.

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Alleged Redmi K70 Pro’s key specifications emerge to reveal chipset, battery, charging speed

Xiaomi is expected to announce the Xiaomi 14 series of flagship phones in November this year in China. Rumors are rife that its sub-brand will also announce the Redmi K70 series of affordable flagships before the end of this year. In a new Weibo post, tipster Digital Chat Station seemingly leaked the key specifications of the alleged Redmi K70 Pro.

Redmi K70 Pro key specifications (rumored)

Redmi K60 Pro
Redmi K60 Pro

According to DCS’ Weibo post, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset will power the Redmi K70 Pro. This is in line with previous leaks that have claimed that the Redmi K70 and K70 Pro will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, respectively.

The tipster further said that the device will be equipped with a 5,120mAh battery that supports 120W fast charging. He also added that the entire series will have a 2K resolution display.

Apart from the K70 and K70 Pro, the lineup also includes the Redmi K70e as a successor to last year’s Redmi K60e, which came with the Dimensity 8200 chip. In all likelihood, the K70e could be equipped with the forthcoming Dimensity 8300 chipset. The K70 series is rumored to arrive with a leather-textured rear panel and telephoto cameras.

Reports have revealed that the Redmi K70e, K70, and K70 Pro have respective model numbers, such as 23117RK66C, 2311DRK48C, and 23113RKC6C. It appears that the Redmi K70e may remain exclusive to the Chinese market. However, the K70 and K70 Pro are expected to launch as the Poco F6 and Poco F6 Pro in global markets, including India.

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OnePlus Open is set to launch on August 29, claims report

A recent report by SmartPrix revealed that the OnePlus’ upcoming foldable phone will be called the OnePlus Open when it debuts in the market. There have been reports that the foldable phone will go official in the first half of August. However, a new report by the same publication reveals that the OnePlus Open will be announced by the end of August.

OnePlus Open launch date (rumored)

OnePlus Open CAD render
OnePlus Open CAD render

The OnePlus Open may make its official debut on August 29, according to information that the publication has received. Max Jambor, a dependable tipper, has also supported this claim.

Rumors have it that the OnePlus Open will be sold as an Oppo device in the Chinese market. To be precise, it is likely to be called the Oppo Find N3 in China. Now that the OnePlus Open is tipped to launch by August’s end, it appears that the Find N3 may debut a few days before the OnePlus foldable.

OnePlus Open specifications (rumored)

The OnePlus Open rumors have revealed that it will feature a 6.3-inch AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz cover screen, as well as a 7.8-inch foldable AMOLED display that offers Quad HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. As for the camera setup, the OnePlus Open is rumored to sport a primary 48-megapixel camera sensor along with an ultra-wide snapper, as well as a 64-megapixel telephoto camera.

The OnePlus Open is said to have a 20-megapixel internal camera and a 32-megapixel front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. Under the hood, the device is likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor clocked at 3.36GHz, coupled with 16 GB of RAM. It is expected to house a 4,805mAh battery with support for 67W fast charging and 50W wireless charging.

The OnePlus foldable phone is anticipated to run on Android 13, specifically the OxygenOS Fold variant, potentially based on OxygenOS 13.1.1. In terms of security, a side-facing fingerprint scanner is expected to be included. The device may come with up to 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage.

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Former Twitter Executives are Seeking Legal Fees from Twitter Amounting $1.6 Million

In recent news, a group of former Twitter executives has filed a court document claiming that the social media giant owes them over $1.6 million in legal fees. Led by former CEO Parag Agrawal, the executives are demanding that Twitter promptly pay the outstanding amount. The lawsuit, filed in April of this year, alleges that Twitter owes them more than $1 million in legal fees, primarily related to Department of Justice investigations and shareholder lawsuits, and an additional $500,000 in other assets. The legal fees were incurred during their tenure at Twitter and resulted from various lawsuits and government investigations the company faced. The former executives argue that Twitter’s refusal to fulfill its payment obligations violates the company’s own rules and regulations.

Twitter’s current CEO, Linda Yaccarino has her work cut out for her

Lawyers representing the ex-executives stated in a court filing that they have been attempting to obtain payment from Twitter for the past year, but the company has provided various reasons for stalling the process. Consequently, Agrawal, along with former Chief Legal Officer Vijaya Gadde and former Chief Financial Officer Ned Segal, are seeking an order from Delaware Chancery Chief Judge Kathaleen St. J. McCormick to compel Twitter to pay the outstanding costs without the need for a trial.

Twitter

Twitter is currently confronted with multiple lawsuits accusing the company, under the leadership of CEO Elon Musk, of failing to fulfill financial obligations to former employees, suppliers, and landlords. Furthermore, Musk’s X Company, Twitter’s parent company, has recently sued law firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, seeking the recovery of $90 million in legal fees. The former Twitter executives had engaged the law firm to facilitate Musk’s attempted $44 billion acquisition of the social media platform. Twitter’s current CEO, Linda Yaccarino, aims to recover the legal fees on the grounds that the lawsuit is based on false statements made to Twitter.

Although Twitter has reportedly paid approximately $600,000 of the owed amount, the company has withheld $115,842 in attorney fees and over $500,000 in other legal-related costs. In addition to the legal fee dispute, Twitter is facing investor lawsuits alleging that Musk’s actions caused instability in the company’s stock price during his attempted acquisition of Twitter. Several former employees have also filed lawsuits, claiming that Twitter failed to honor their equity commitments following their termination.

As the legal battle ensues, the outcome will determine whether Twitter will be compelled to fulfil its payment obligations to the former executives and resolve the ongoing disputes related to financial commitments. The company just started paying their creators their shares of ad-revenue, so it might not be looking to incur any new losses right now.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus CAD renders emerge months before official launch

Samsung will unveil the Galaxy Tab S9 series of flagship tablets later this month. The company is also said to be working on more affordable Fan Edition-branded tablets, such as the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus. Last month, display analyst Ross Young revealed the color variants of both tablets. Both devices have also appeared on Geekbench with some of their key specifications. Now, publication WolfofTablet has teamed up with popular tipster OnLeaks to leak the renders of the Plus variant. Here is a look at the images shared by the publication.

Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus design

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus’ CAD renders show that the tablet is equipped with thin bezels on the front. Its power button is integrated with a fingerprint scanner, and its back panel has a dual-camera system. The rear shell has a groove on the back where users can place the S-Pen for charging. For audiophiles, the tablet is fitted with a dual speaker system.

The report has only revealed the design of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ and has no fresh information about its specifications. However, it does reveal that the device measures 285.4 x 185.4 x 6.54mm.

Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ specifications (rumored)

The above-mentioned dimensions suggest that the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ could be equipped with a 12.4-inch display. On Geekbench, the tablet was spotted with the model number SM-X616B. The listing revealed that the tablet will arrive with an Exynos 1380 chipset, 8 GB of RAM, and run on Android 13 OS. It is expected to arrive in multiple color options, such as grey, light green, light pink, and silver.  Rumors are rife that the Galaxy Tab S9 Fan Edition series may go official in September or October of this year.

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Triumph TR25 is a Stylish Electric Concept Car Blending Heritage and Innovation

Triumph Motor Company, a name that hasn’t been associated with car production for nearly four decades, has made a remarkable return with an awe-inspiring design concept known as the Triumph TR25. Unveiled by the esteemed Makkina design house, this electric vehicle concept pays homage to the record-breaking Triumph TR2 MCV575 “Jabbeke” from 1953. The TR25 draws design inspiration from the TR2, incorporating several styling elements reminiscent of its iconic predecessor. Notably, the headlights feature a prominent “25” in the center, symbolizing Makkina’s 25th anniversary. While the concept retains the minimalist exterior, it possesses a more modern aesthetic with short overhangs, large wheels, and sharp creases over the fenders.

The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds

At the rear, sleek vertical taillights take centre stage, gracefully framing the Triumph word mark. The clean and straightforward design ethos extends to the driver-focused single-seat cabin. However, for those seeking to share the experience, an optional flip-out jump seat is available for a passenger.

Triumph TR25

Makkina has adopted a minimalist approach to the cabin, featuring a simple binnacle behind the steering wheel that displays key information like battery range, road speed, and charge level. The spoked steering wheel pays homage to the “Jabbeke” while incorporating modern technology, including a self-centring dial that provides vital vehicle information and access to the navigation system.

Underneath its captivating exterior, the TR25 utilizes the BMW i3s platform, with BMW having acquired the trademark for the Triumph Motor Company and collaborating with Makkina on this project. While specific powertrain details for the design concept were not disclosed, the BMW i3s boasts an AC electric motor delivering 181 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 6.8 seconds and offers an EPA-rated range of up to 153 miles on a single charge.

Although BMW bid farewell to the i3 at the end of 2022 after selling 250,000 units over nine years, the Triumph TR2 MVC575 “Jabbeke” continues to hold its historical significance. This legendary vehicle set the land speed record for production cars under 2.0 liters in May 1953, equipped with streamlined enhancements such as an under shield, rear wing splats, and a metal cockpit cover. Today, the original TR2 “Jabbeke” proudly resides in the esteemed British Motor Museum.

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Polestar 3 Electric SUV & 5 Prototype Introduced at the Goodwood Festival

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is once again playing host to a showcase of automotive achievements, and Polestar has brought its electric lineup to the event. Among the stars of the show are two future models that are set to revolutionize the electric vehicle market. Making their dynamic debut at the festival are the Polestar 3 electric SUV and the latest iteration of the Polestar 5 prototype. Enthusiasts and onlookers will have the opportunity to witness these cutting-edge vehicles in action as they make their way up the famous Goodwood Hill, not once but twice each day.

The Polestar 2 and the Polestar 3 are only available online as of now

While the Polestar 3 and the Polestar 2 BST edition 230 have already been unveiled, the Polestar 5 flagship remains shrouded in mystery. Fully camouflaged, this latest verification prototype is teasing onlookers, hinting at the exceptional design and performance that the production version, set to launch in 2024, will deliver. Official photos released by the company offer a glimpse into the electric four-door GT prototype. The images reveal an aggressively sculpted body with sleek details such as flush door handles and a body panel in place of the traditional rear window. These elements showcase the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that electric cars are known for.

Polestar 5

Thomas Ingenlath, CEO, expressed his excitement about showcasing the prototypes at the festival. The Polestar 5, slated for an official launch in 2024, promises a thrilling driving experience with up to 871 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque from its dual-motor AWD powertrain. Its impressive range of 600 kilometers makes it an enticing choice for those seeking both power and efficiency.

At the main Polestar stand, visitors can explore the Polestar 3, the updated Polestar 2 with rear-wheel drive, and the striking Polestar electric roadster concept. The latter is expected to transform into the production model known as the Polestar 6 by 2026.

While the 2024 Polestar 2 and the limited-production BST edition 230 are available for online purchase, the Polestar 3 will soon be available for order online and will also make its way to all markets. Deliveries of the Polestar 3 electric vehicles are anticipated to begin in the second quarter of 2024.

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Microsoft says Goodbye to Calibri and Hello to Aptos, its New Office Default Font

In a recent blog post, Microsoft announced the end of an era for their beloved Calibri font, which has been the default font for Microsoft Office for the past 15 years. As technology has evolved and higher resolution screens have become the norm, Microsoft recognized the need for a new font that would embody sharpness, uniformity, and excellence in display type. And thus began the search for the perfect successor to Calibri.

Aptos strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and relatability

Microsoft commissioned five new fonts: Bierstadt, Grandview, Seaford, Skeena, and Tenorite, with the hope that one of them would become the new default font for Microsoft 365. After listening to user feedback, Microsoft chose Bierstadt as the font that resonated most with users. However, there was a change, and Bierstadt has now been renamed Aptos.

Microsoft

Aptos was created by Steve Matteson, a renowned type designer known for his work on the original Windows TrueType core fonts and Segoe. Steve drew inspiration from the landscape and climate of Aptos, an unincorporated town in Santa Cruz, California. The font reflects the versatility of its namesake, evoking the outdoors and the timeless appeal of pencil and paper.

Aptos, a sans serif font with elements of mid-20th-century Swiss typography, features clean-cut stem ends and subtle circular squares within the letters’ contours, enhancing legibility at small sizes. With different font weights and distinctive characteristics such as a lowercase “l” with a tail and circular dots for the heads of “i” and “j,” Aptos strikes a balance between professionalism and relatability.

Steve aimed to imbue the font with a touch of warmth and humanity, making it more engaging and trustworthy for readers. His design process starts with pencil and paper to preserve the handmade craftsmanship before digitization, ensuring that no nuances are lost in the transition from analog to digital.

While Aptos will now be the default font across Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel for millions of users, Microsoft acknowledges that fonts are personal choices. Therefore, they provide options like Times New Roman, Arial, and the other font contenders—Grandview, Seaford, Skeena, and Tenorite—for users to choose from. The new font is part of Microsoft’s broader wave of features aimed at making Microsoft 365 more expressive and inclusive.

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Twitter Launches Ad-Revenue Sharing Program for Creators

Twitter‘s reputation isn’t the best right now, and the company’s past decisions might have something to do with it. However, Elon Musk seems like he wants to get back into the good books of his user base. The company has officially rolled out its ad-revenue-sharing program for creators, with reports suggesting that eligible Blue subscribers have already started receiving payments. The initiative was initially announced by Elon Musk in February, but details on its workings were scarce at the time. However, high-profile users have recently reported receiving notifications about incoming deposits, with one user claiming to be set to receive over $24,000 and other users sharing their screenshots as well. Payouts are based on ads in replies to eligible users’ content.

The creators have to have at least 5 million impressions for each of the past 3 months to be eligible

The program aims to incentivize creators who generate popular content that drives ads, offering rewards to accounts that contribute to Twitter’s revenue generation and help drive new Blue subscriptions. According to a Twitter help article, creators can now earn a share of ad revenue starting from replies to their posts, as part of Twitter’s efforts to enable people to earn a living directly on the platform. Musk emphasized that payouts would be cumulative since he first promised them in February.

Twitter

However, meeting the requirements to receive transfers from the Musk-owned social media company is no easy feat. To be eligible for the revenue-sharing system, users must be Twitter Blue or Verified Organizations subscribers and have garnered at least five million post impressions in each of the past three months. They also need to pass a human review and comply with Twitter’s Creator Subscriptions policies. Eligible users will be paid via a Stripe account. Twitter will soon introduce an application process accessible through the Monetization section in account settings.

The introduction of this program aims to make Twitter a more attractive platform for content creators. Interestingly, it comes shortly after Meta‘s launch of its Twitter competitor, Threads, which quickly gained significant traction, amassing over 100 million users within its first five days. This figure surpasses the previous records held by ChatGPT and TikTok.

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By 2027, Apple iPhones will have Replaceable Batteries, EU Council Rules

The European Union (EU) Council has approved new regulations mandating replaceable phone batteries. This decision follows the EU Parliament’s endorsement and aims to empower users by enabling easy battery replacements without specialized tools or knowledge. Once signed off by both the Parliament and Council, the rules will come into effect within 20 days of publication in the EU’s Official Journal. By 2027, all phones sold in EU member countries must have replaceable batteries.

Surprisingly, Apple may actually benefit from this new decision in the long run

Apple and other companies may find it challenging and costly to maintain permanent batteries only in EU countries. Apple had already introduced USB-C ports in response to an EU ruling, signaling its adaptability to regional regulations. The introduction of replaceable batteries offers convenience to consumers, allowing them to swap drained batteries for fully charged ones. Manufacturers have until 2027 to incorporate this feature.

iPhone

The regulations also promote sustainability by fostering a circular economy through battery recycling and repurposing. They cover various battery types beyond smartphones, such as electric vehicle batteries and batteries for light means of transport.

For Apple, this shift may bring unexpected advantages, including new revenue streams from selling replacement and extended batteries. It also aligns with their vision of a port-less iPhone, as users could easily swap in a fully charged battery. The EU’s move toward replaceable batteries will reshape the mobile phone industry. It may prompt global manufacturers to reassess their design strategies to meet evolving consumer demands. Ultimately, the regulations highlight the EU’s commitment to sustainability and consumer empowerment.

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LG Signature OLED TV M3 97-inch wireless TV launched in South Korea for 43.9m Won ($34,660)

South Korean tech giant LG first showcased its latest Signature OLED TV at CES 2023 in January. Almost 7 months after, the company has now launched the Signature OLED TV M3 in its home market of South Korea.

LG Signature OLED TV

The smart TV features a massive 97-inch display. One of its key features is LG’s proprietary Zero Connect technology, which allows for wireless transmission of video and audio signals in real-time at up to 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.

The TV’s design is modular, with the Zero Connect box separated from the main screen. This setup not only eliminates cable clutter but also ensures that the display remains flat despite its large size. The Zero Connect box acts as a hub for connecting various devices such as gaming consoles, cable/satellite set-top boxes, and gaming systems. It offers multiple HDMI connections to facilitate easy connectivity. Moreover, the TV supports wireless connectivity, making it convenient to connect compatible soundbars for enhanced audio performance.

LG Signature OLED TV

The M3 and its Zero Connect box provide users with design flexibility and simplify the installation process by eliminating tangled connections. The absence of visible cords contributes to the TV’s minimalist One Wall Design, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

LG’s wireless transmission technology utilizes advanced algorithms to ensure reliable video and audio streaming to the OLED screen. The system can select the optimal transmission path instantly, taking into account changes in the environment, such as the movement of people or animals in the room, to minimize errors or disruptions.

LG Signature OLED TV

To optimize signal strength, the antenna on the Zero Connect box can be rotated or changed to align with the TV’s placement. Additionally, the box incorporates voice recognition, allowing users to activate and control the M3 and connected devices using voice commands, adding to the overall convenience and accessibility of the TV.

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Meizu PANDAER Air TWS Bluetooth Earbuds with ENC, up to 25 hours battery launched

Meizu has launched a new true wireless headset known as Meizu PANDAER Air. As the name implies, the earbuds are literally light on your pockets as it weighs just 35g cumulatively. It is also light on the price aspect as it starts at 149 yuan ($20). It is presently available in China via Jingdong.

Meizu PANDAER Air TWS Bluetooth Earbuds

The Meizu Pandaer Air earphones have a unique design resembling a pebble, with a gray “micro-sand texture” on the surface and an orange color scheme inside, creating a contrasting visual effect.

One of the notable features of the PANDAER Air is its sound quality. It is equipped with a 13mm large dynamic coil made of “PEEK+wool paper” material. This design enables the earphones to have a good mid-frequency response capability, effectively reducing excess vibration and enhancing mid-bass sound performance. Overall, this provides a soft and pure listening experience.

Meizu PANDAER Air TWS Bluetooth Earbuds

In terms of battery life, the PANDAER Air supports up to 25 hours of music playback when the charging case is used. Each of the earbuds can last up to 7 hours of usage.

Meizu PANDAER Air TWS Bluetooth Earbuds

In addition to sound quality and battery life, the PANDAER Air also offers various features. It supports functions such as the Flyme instant pop-up window, which allows for quick pairing with compatible devices. It also includes ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) for improved call quality by reducing background noise. The earphones utilize Bluetooth 5.3 for a stable and efficient wireless connection. Lastly, the PANDAER Air features touch controls, allowing users to easily manage their audio playback and other functions by tapping on the earphones.

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Google Calendar’s scheduling feature is rolling out to all Gmail users

Google has announced new scheduling features for Gmail, integrating Google Calendar functions directly into the platform. The objective is to simplify and improve the process of scheduling events and sharing users’ availability.

Gmail
Illustration: Soumyakanti Ray

Google Streamlines Scheduling: New Features in Gmail

The latest features can be accessed via a new calendar icon located at the bottom of the email conversation view. Here, users are provided with two options – “Create an event” and “Offer times you’re free.”

Google-Calendar-Gmail-schedule-tool

By choosing “Create an event,” a Google Calendar event is generated immediately, using the email’s subject line as the event title and the recipients as participants. Furthermore, an event summary is added to the email’s body for easy sharing. Prior to this update, users could only access this feature via Gmail’s three-dot menu.

The second feature, “Offer times you’re free,” gives users the ability to share their available times. By selecting time slots on their sidebar calendar, users can conveniently share these with email recipients. This functionality aims to eliminate the often time-consuming back-and-forth communication during 1:1 meetings scheduling. However, for emails that include multiple recipients, the invite will only be sent to the first person who confirms the suggested time.

Google-Calendar-Gmail-schedule-tool

The new features are now accessible to all Google Workspace clients as well as personal Google account holders. Although these tools were initially exclusive to premium Workspace subscribers, Google has broadened access to include personal account users. The roll-out of these tools has started with the Rapid Release domains and is anticipated to be available in the Scheduled Release domains by July’s end. Alongside these enhancements, Google recently introduced Google Calendar’s improved working location feature which marks another step towards more efficient productivity and streamlined work processes.

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(Source, Via)

Google unveils NotebookLM AI, a virtual assistant for taking notes

Google has unveiled the experimental AI note-taking assistant, the NotebookLM. The NotebookLM helps to summarize documents, answer questions, and generate ideas, among several other functionalities. The AI-driven initiative had previously been mentioned by Google as Project Tailwind during the 2023 Google I/O event.

Google AI

The Google NotebookLM is being introduced by Google Labs and is offered as a novel approach to note-taking software. The NotebookLM has a robust language model at the heart of its functionality. It provides a quick, smart, and innovative way of poring over tons of text and rapidly extracting the key points in a summarized version. It will be useful for students, academics, knowledge professionals, and more.

The new Google NotebookLM tool assists users to make connections from loads of materials quickly. It harnesses the potential of language models alongside user content to deliver swift and telling insights.

The NotebookLM is like a virtual research assistant that is capable of summarizing facts, exploring and developing complex ideas, and brainstorming new connections. Unlike traditional AI solutions, NotebookLM allows users to ground the AI in their notes and sources. This helps to train the AI to be knowledgeable with the relevant information for the user. This can be incorporated into Google Docs while other formats are coming.

The NotebookLM was developed by a small team at Google Labs. It comes with sufficient privacy levers that enable the tool to operate independently based on the sources available. The tool is still under development and Google hopes to gather feedback for its improvement. Google has already opened a waitlist of early adopters.

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Samsung unveils 98-inch 8K Neo QLED TV with 120W speakers in South Korea

The latest Samsung premium 8K Neo QLED TV has been launched in South Korea. The Samsung 98-inch 8K Neo QLED TV comes with 120W speakers and is priced at KRW 49.9 million ($39,000). The TV offers several exciting features and its sales commenced on July 13. The TV comes with an infinite slim design with metal adorning the bezels and rear of the TV.

Samsung 98-inch 8K Neo QLED TV

The Samsung 8K Neo QLED TV has model number QNC990 and it joins other Samsung premium offerings with 98-inch models with QLED and Neo QLED 4K. As seen from its name, the QNC990 model comes with 8K resolution and a Mini LED panel. Some of the display modes supported include HDR10, HDR10+, HDR10+ Adaptive, HDR10+ Gaming, and HLG. It also offers hundreds of local dimming zones to deliver maximum brightness. The Samsung 98-inch 8K Neo QLED TV has a 144Hz variable refresh rate and supports AMD Freesync Premium Pro.

The viewing experience of the QNC990 is further enhanced with an anti-glare coating that significantly reduces glare and reflection from light sources. The TV is Pantone-validated for optimal and accurate color production. The color output of the Samsung 8K Neo QLED TV can be further enhanced via calibration using the SmartThings smartphone app.

The Samsung 8K Neo QLED TV has a 6.4.4-channel speaker system with 120W output. The TV is also compatible with Dolby Atmos Wireless, Q-Symphony 3.0, Object Tracking Sound, Active Voice Amplifier, and Adaptive Sound+. The TV adopts the Neo Quantum Processor 8K chip and runs on Tizen 7.0 operating system.

Samsung 98-inch 8K Neo QLED TV

There are lots of features that can be accessible from the TV. You can use a raft of audio and video streaming apps on the TV together with other features like Samsung TV Plus, Samsung Health, Game Bar 3.0, and more.

You can connect to the TV via several options. These include HDMI, USB, an optical out port, and an RF port. The TV also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. The speakers are located at the rear and edges of the TV. The TV is compatible with Philips Hue smart lighting and it has a One Connect Box for easy setup. There are no indications yet on the global availability and pricing of the new Samsung 98-inch 8K Neo QLED TV.

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