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Honor X50 launch date confirmed, design revealed; Read’s what known so far

Honor has officially announced that the Honor X50 will be unveiled in China on July 5 at 7:30pm (local time). Along with the announcement, the company has released a poster showcasing the rear design of the smartphone. Considering the previous approval of the Honor ALI-AN00 model by China’s TENAA authority in May, it strongly suggests that the Honor X50 is likely to be the same device.

The below poster gives a first look at the rear design of the Honor X50, which will arrive as the successor to last year’s Honor X40. Like the predecessor model, the X50 has a round camera island housing two cameras and an LED flash.

Honor X50 launching on July 5
Honor X50 launching on July 5

Honor has imprinted the “Matrix AI Vision Camera” at the centre of the Honor X50’s camera island. The camera module rim confirms that the device is equipped with a 108-megapixel primary camera with a 1/1.67 sensor size and an f/1.75 aperture. Apart from getting spotted at TENAA, the X50 has also been spotted at the 3C certification with a 35W charger. Here is a look at the specifications of the device that have emerged through its TENAA certification.

Honor X50 specifications (rumored)

As per the TENAA listing, the Honor X50 will feature a 6.78-inch flat AMOLED display that offers a Full HD+ resolution of 2652 x 1200 pixels and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. It is said to be equipped with the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, up to 16 GB of RAM, and up to 512 GB of storage. It will have a 5,700mAh battery, an 8-megapixel front camera, and a 108-megapixel + 2-megapixel dual-camera setup on the back. It will run on the Magic UI-based Android 13.

In related news, Honor is said to be working on the Honor Magic V2 foldable phone and the Honor Pad V8 Pro tablet. As per a recent report, both devices will launch in August this year.

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Android easier to use than iOS? A new study sheds light

A new report from GreenSmartphones has revealed that Android users encounter fewer usability issues than their iOS counterparts, suggesting Android may be a more intuitive operating system. The report analyzed search engine data, tracking the number of times users of both systems searched for help with basic operations such as screen recording, screenshots, and location sharing.

Android

Debunking Myths: Android vs. iOS in Common Operations

The findings indicated that iPhone users in the United States searched for assistance with these basic functions approximately 358,000 times per month, a staggering 58% more often than Android users. In particular, the largest discrepancy was seen in searches for “how to erase all content and settings,” with iOS users searching six times more frequently than Android users.

The survey compared 12 common operations, and Android outperformed iOS in ten out of these twelve areas, with fewer users needing to look up instructions. Android only fell behind iOS in taking screenshots and scanning QR codes, where iOS appeared more intuitive to users.

Android vs iOS usability

On average, there were 226,000 monthly searches made by Android users for help with basic tasks compared to 358,000 for iOS users, a difference of 58.41%. This is despite the nearly equivalent user base size for both operating systems in the U.S.

Although the longstanding debate over the superiority between Android and iOS continues, with arguments for Android’s flexibility and customization against iOS’s speed and long-term security, this study suggests that Android may be easier for the average user to operate.

The research was based on analyzing Google search volume in the United States over the previous 12 months and used the same keyword format for both operating systems to maintain consistency.

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Pre-orders for OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro Mechanical Keyboard in India set to begin in July

OnePlus unveiled the Keyboard 81 Pro customizable mechanical keyboard back in February. Now, more than four months after its initial unveiling, the mechanical keyboard is getting ready to go hit store shelves as pre-orders are scheduled to commence next month.

OnePlus

The eagerly awaited mechanical keyboard is soon to be launched in India, as indicated on the official website. Additionally, it has been announced that pre-orders for the keyboard will commence in July. Let’s look at what’s known about the keyboard so far.

OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro specs

The OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro represents the brand’s inaugural mechanical keyboard offering. It boasts a distinctive design with patented thermoplastic elastomer marble-mallow keycaps, delivering a comfortable and springy typing experience.

OnePlus

Featuring an aluminum body, the keyboard is lightweight and incorporates a gasket for an enhanced typing feel and satisfying sound. Notable features include a built-in holder, hot-swappable switches, and open-source firmware. OnePlus collaborated with Keychron to ensure compatibility with various operating systems, including macOS, Windows, and Linux.

The keyboard supports both Bluetooth and wired connectivity, with a toggle key resembling an Alert Slider enabling easy switching between the two modes. Bluetooth 5.1 provides a wireless range of up to 10 meters, while a 4,000mAh battery powers the device, offering up to 100 hours of usage at the lowest brightness setting. Charging and wired connection are facilitated through a USB Type-C port, with a full battery recharge time of approximately 5 hours.

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Apple Vision Pro Lets Others Try the Headset Without Accessing Your Data with The Guest Mode

The Apple Vision Pro is still over a year away from release, but it’s already making headlines. Most recently, we mention that it’s Visual Search feature, which promises to change the way we interact with the real world. Now we’ve learned that it will also have a Guest Mode that lets you share the headset with friends. Here are the details…

Apple Vision Pro’s $3,500 Headset Just Got More Affordable with The Guest Mode

The Vision Pro is one of the most expensive Apple products in recent years. It will cost $3,500 when it releases in 2024. That’s a lot of money, so you might be considering co-owning it with someone or borrowing it from a friend. Or, you might be worried about people being able to see your private information if you let them try your headset. Fortunately, Apple has thought of all of these concerns. The Vision Pro will have a “Guest Mode” that allows you to share the headset with others without giving them access to your personal data.

As you may know, the Apple Vision Pro was introduced with eye recognition technology, a feature we’ve seen before in the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. The company has dubbed this technology Optic ID, which identifies the iris of the user to determine if the device is being used by the owner. Apple has developed a connected Guest Mode feature for this, which allows other people to use an Apple Vision Pro without accessing your personal files.

Guest Mode will be enabled by default, but owners will be able to disable it if they want to keep their data private. When Guest Mode is enabled, other people will be able to use the headset to access the web, watch videos, and use other apps. However, they will not be able to access the owner’s photos, messages, or other personal data.

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OnePlus Nord Buds 2r pricing & specs tipped ahead of July 5 launch

OnePlus has finally revealed that the Nord Buds 2r earphones will be launching on July 5 In India. Along with this revelation, the brand has also showcased what the earbuds will look like. Now, leaks from multiple sources have revealed the pricing and specs of this upcoming pair of earbuds.

Starting with the pricing, Pricebaba has revealed that the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r will have a box price of Rs 2,299. We know that electronics like smartphones and accessories usually carry a higher box price compared to their selling price, so we can expect the Nord Buds 2r to debut with a reduced price tag.

Tipster Mukul Sharma recently shared additional specifications of the OnePlus Buds 2r on Twitter, excluding pricing details. According to the leaked information, the upcoming OnePlus Nord Buds 2r will feature 12.4mm drivers, enhancing audio quality. Users can expect three equalizer profiles to personalize their listening experience. In terms of durability, the earbuds are expected to have an IP55 rating, indicating resistance against water and dust. Notably, the Buds 2r is rumored to offer an impressive playback time of 38 hours when used with the accompanying charging case.

Compared to this, the existing Nord Buds 2 offer a 12.4mm dual dynamic titanium driver, 25db active noise canceling, 36 hours of battery, and IP55 sweat and dust resistance. So ultimately, it looks like the Nord Buds 2r could very well be a Nord Buds 2 lacking active noise cancellation.

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Eternal City, The World’s First DIY Space-Themed Charging Station Launched on Kickstarter

As the Gizmochina family, our main goal is to bring you the latest tech news as quickly as possible. We also cover a variety of topics, including interesting Kickstarter projects. For example, we recently wrote about the Feiyu Pocket 3 gimbal camera. We’re now also excited to share the world’s first DIY space-themed charging station that’s on Kickstarter. Here are the details…

How the Eternal City Can Help You Save Space and Stay Organized

Kickstarter is a platform for people to fund creative projects. One company that uses Kickstarter is AOHi, a tech company that makes charging solutions. Their latest project is the Eternal City, a DIY space-themed charging station. The Eternal City is a modular charging dock that you can customize to fit your needs. It comes with different components, like wireless charging pads, USB ports, and a power bank. You can use these components to create a charging station that’s perfect for your home, office, or car.

Eternal City DIY space-themed charging station

The Eternal City allows you to charge all of your devices in one place. This is a great way to save space and keep your devices organized. The modular design of the dock means that you can customize it to fit your needs. You can add or remove components as needed.

Feature-4-2.gif

The Eternal City is compatible with all Qi-enabled devices, can charge up to 4 devices simultaneously, has a power bank with a capacity of 10,000mAh, is available in two colors, and is currently live on Kickstarter with a pledge of $41. Click here for more information about the Eternal City.

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Beyond Pro Max: The World’s Largest iPhone That Really Works

As someone who has switched from the iPhone 12 Mini to the iPhone 14 Pro Max, I can say that using a large screen phone is a wonderful thing. Social media, messaging, and watching things are all much more enjoyable on a larger screen, and the battery life is also much longer. But is the 6.1-inch Pro Max the biggest iPhone you can own? A YouTuber recently created what he calls the “world’s largest iPhone,” and this 6+ foot smartphone actually works. Here are the details…

The World’s Largest, Fully Functional iPhone

One of YouTube’s most popular channels lately, Matthew Beem, often engages his viewers with fun content. His videos have reached significant viewing numbers, and his latest video is no exception. In his video titled “I Built the World’s Largest iPhone,” Beem actually managed to create the world’s biggest iPhone.

world's largest iPhone

Matthew Beem’s iPhone creation is about two meters tall and is fully operational. However, it is not a real iPhone. It is a combination of different devices. The display is made of touch panels that are used for TVs. The TV is connected to a Mac mini, which allows it to run all of the same apps and functions as an iPhone, but on a much larger scale.

Yet almost everything works. The YouTuber showcases the device being used to do everything from clicking selfies to setting timers to making purchases via Apple Pay. He even takes it on a trip around New York City, where he uses it to navigate Central Park, ride the subway, and visit the MKBHD studio. You can watch everything you wonder in the video below.

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Apple Re-Engages with Indian Authorities to Launch Apple Pay in India

Imagine a world where you can pay for everything with your phone. No more carrying cash or a wallet. Just tap your phone to pay at the store, restaurant, or even the street food vendor. This world already exists in many North American and Western European countries, thanks to companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung. Their payment systems, like Apple Pay, are used by millions of people every day. Apple is now looking to bring Apple Pay to India. Here are the details….

Apple’s Long-Awaited Entry into the Indian Digital Payments Market

Establishing a payment system is a complicated process, as each country has its own legal requirements. As a result, companies must go through a lengthy legal process before they can start operating in a new country. Apple is no stranger to this process, as it has had to go through it in every country where it has launched its payment system. The company is now restarting talks with Indian authorities about launching Apple Pay in the country.

Apple Pay

We say “restarts” because this isn’t the first rodeo for the company. Apple has been trying to launch Apple Pay in India for a while now. In 2017, the company had discussions with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI a special division of India’s central bank) about bringing Apple Pay to the country. However, those talks fell through due to disagreements about fees and other conditions. Now, Apple is restarting talks with the NPCI about launching Apple Pay in India.

Apple CEO Tim Cook met with bankers in India recently to discuss plans for a localized version of Apple Pay that would be compatible with UPI, a popular payments system in India. UPI is governed by NPCI. Apple Pay would allow iPhone users in India to scan QR codes and make UPI payments directly, without needing a separate payment app. This would be a convenient way for Apple users to make payments in India.

However, Apple’s job will not be easy. Mobile payment methods are currently dominated by other players such as PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm. Yet, as of 2023, it is estimated that about 10-12 million people in the country use iPhones. These individuals would likely choose to use Apple’s own system if given the option. So, the company is already competition-ready, even though nothing has been finalized yet. Still, only time will tell whether Apple Pay will be successful in India.

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Pre-Orders for the Kia EV6 GT Kick Off in China: Capable of Charging in 18 Minutes and Priced at 339,900 Yuan

The popularity of electric vehicles is growing rapidly, and EV manufacturers like Tesla and BYD are seeing huge profits. This is forcing traditional car companies that have been making gasoline-powered cars for years to change. Kia is one of these companies. Most recently, they have announced that their first pure electric vehicle in China, the EV6, will begin blind pre-orders on June 28. The EV6 will officially enter the Chinese market in August. Here are the details…

The Kia EV6 GT: Fast Charging, Stylish Design, and Eco-Friendly Materials

The EV6 GT is Kia China’s first high-performance electric vehicle. It is a pure electric fastback that is designed to compete with other high-end performance cars. The vehicle is designed with Kia’s new “Opposites United” design concept, which combines contrasting shapes, structures, and colors. This makes the EV6 GT a unique and futuristic electric vehicle. To emphasize its high-performance, the EV6 GT has sporty design elements, such as exclusive 21-inch wheels, fluorescent brake calipers, and a rear diffuser.

Kia EV6 GT

The interior of the EV6 GT is made with a variety of recyclable and eco-friendly materials, such as flaxseed extracts. This creates a green and healthy atmosphere inside the car. The EV6 GT’s body also has a long wheelbase of 2,900 mm, thanks to Kia’s dedicated E-GMP platform for electric vehicles. This provides passengers with a spacious and comfortable interior.

Kia EV6 GT

The EV6 GT is also a high-performance electric car with an upgraded dual-motor setup that produces 740N·m of torque and a top speed of 260 km/h. It also has an electronic control suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential, which provide stable driving quality and agile handling capabilities. The EV6 GT supports an 800V fast charging system, which can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.

Kia EV6 GT

The EV6 GT is priced at 339,900 Yuan (around $47,400) in China. It is a high-performance electric car with impressive performance, stylish design, and eco-friendly materials. It is sure to be a hit with Chinese consumers.

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WhatsApp is working on pin and auto-unpin message feature

WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is set to introduce a new feature that allows users to pin messages within their chats and groups. The update, version 2.23.13.11, currently available through the Google Play Beta Program, brings this functionality.

WhatsApp

Customizing Pinned Messages: Choose Your Duration

With the new pinning feature, users will be able to highlight specific messages, making them easily accessible for future reference. The pinned messages will remain at the top of the conversation, ensuring important information or announcements are not overlooked amidst other messages.

What sets this feature apart is the ability to choose the duration for which a message will remain pinned. Users will have the option to select from three different time periods: 24 hours, 7 days, and 30 days. This flexibility allows individuals to tailor the pinning duration based on their needs and preferences.

WhatsApp pin message duration

Additionally, WhatsApp is incorporating an auto-unpinning mechanism, enabling users to unpin a message at any time, even before the chosen duration expires. This level of control empowers users to manage their pinned messages effectively.

The introduction of pinned messages serves to maintain organized and up-to-date conversations. By keeping important information prominently displayed, WhatsApp aims to improve the accessibility and visibility of crucial content within chats and groups.

WhatsApp is actively developing this feature and plans to release it to beta testers in an upcoming update. Stay tuned for more information on this exciting addition to the app.

WhatsApp is also working on some beta updates that include fixes for the bottom navigation bar issue, introducing swipe navigation, and enhancing the media picker experience on Android. Additionally, a high-quality photo-sharing option is being introduced to enhance the overall user experience.

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Realme 11 Pro 5G gets bug fixes, camera improvements & faster fingerprint unlocking with new update

The Realme 11 Pro series has gained significant popularity as a mid-range smartphone, achieving remarkable sales within days of its launch. The device’s premium design has captured the attention of customers. In order to ensure an equally premium software experience, Realme has commenced the rollout of an update for the Realme 11 Pro 5G, aimed at refining its performance and user experience.

Realme has released a new update, labeled UI version RMX3771_13.1.0.523(EX01), for the Realme 11 Pro 5G, focusing on enhancing the overall software experience. The update addresses various bugs and glitches, improving system stability. One significant improvement is the resolution of the freeze problem experienced in YouTube’s 4K videos on the previous version. Additionally, Realme has optimized the fingerprint unlocking speed and success rate, enhancing the device’s security features. The update also includes efforts to minimize standby power consumption, further optimizing the battery life of the Realme 11 Pro.

The update addresses specific issues as well. Previously, some devices encountered repeated pop-up windows when entering drawer mode, but this problem has been resolved in the new update. Furthermore, the low probability display abnormality observed in the incoming call interface has also been rectified.

Realme has also focused on camera enhancements in this update. It optimizes the clarity and color reproduction of certain scenes, aiming to deliver an improved photography experience for users. To know about other changes, you can check out the complete changelog below.

Realme RMX3771_13.1.0.523(EX01) update changelog

【System】

● Optimizes system fluency

● Optimizes system stability

● Optimizes youtube 4K video freeze problem

● Optimizes fingerprint unlocking speed and unlocking success rate

● Optimizes standby power consumption

● Fixes the problem of repeated pop-up windows when entering the drawer mode

● Fixes the low probability display abnormality of the incoming call interface

● Fixes some other known issues

【Camera】

● Optimizes the clarity of some scenes

● Optimizes the color of some scenes

● Fixes some other known issues

【Network】

● Optimizes calls, signal, and data instability issues

You can expect this update to arrive on your Realme 11 Pro 5G devices in the coming days.

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Samsung Galaxy S23 getting massive June 2023 update in Europe

Samsung’s flagship phone, the Galaxy S23 series, is receiving a substantial camera update in various markets, with Europe being the latest region to receive the firmware. Initially introduced in select countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines last week, the update with firmware version S91xBXXU2AWF1 is now rolling out to Galaxy S23 users in Europe.

Galaxy S23 Ultra

What’s new in this update?

This update, weighing approximately 2.2GB, primarily focuses on enhancing the camera capabilities and overall user experience. Some notable improvements include a 2X zoom option for portrait mode, autofocus issue fix, enhanced Night mode processing, smoother transition animations within the One UI, and subtle enhancements to haptic feedback.

Additionally, the update addresses HDR issues that were observed in certain lighting conditions while using the Camera app on the Galaxy S23 series. Furthermore, it appears that the update also resolves the “banana blur” issue, which caused blurry patches around the camera’s focal point.

Interestingly, reports suggest that Samsung is simultaneously working on a different firmware version specifically for China and South Korea, which is expected to offer further optimizations. However, it remains uncertain if this newer update will be released in Europe or other regions.

Regardless of the user’s location, Galaxy S23, S23+, or S23 Ultra owners can check for the availability of the AWF1 update by navigating to the Settings app on their devices, selecting “Software update,” and tapping on “Download and install.”

The Samsung Galaxy S23 series is a powerful lineup of smartphones, featuring top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processors and Android 13 with custom One UI 5.1. The S23 Ultra comes with an impressive 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display, up to 12GB RAM, up to 1TB of internal storage, and a 200-megapixel rear camera. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus sport high-resolution FHD+ displays, up to 8GB RAM, and up to 512GB storage, along with 50-megapixel primary rear cameras. All models offer fast charging, with the Ultra model featuring a 5000mAh battery, the Plus model a 4700mAh battery, and the standard S23 a 3900mAh battery.

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Galaxy S24 codename revealed ahead of next year’s debut

Samsung’s highly anticipated Galaxy S24 series is already generating buzz in the tech world. According to a recent report, the internal codename for the flagship lineup has been revealed as “Muse.” The series is expected to consist of three models: the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra. Codenamed “Muse1,” “Muse2,” and “Muse3” respectively, these devices promise to offer top-of-the-line features and specifications.

Galaxy S23 series
Galaxy S23 series

Samsung has a history of using intriguing codenames for their high-end smartphones. Previously, the Galaxy S20 series was internally referred to as ‘Hubble,’ while the Galaxy S21 series carried the codename ‘Unbound,’ and the Galaxy S22 series was codenamed ‘Rainbow.’ The recently released Galaxy S23 series was known as ‘Diamond.’

Galaxy S24+ to Join Galaxy S24 Lineup

Contrary to earlier rumors suggesting the cancellation of the Galaxy S24+, it appears that Samsung will continue the tradition of releasing a ‘Plus’ model alongside the other variants. While specific details about the Galaxy S24 and its specifications are scarce at this time, one confirmed feature of the Galaxy S24 Ultra is the inclusion of a telephoto camera with an impressive 5x optical zoom capability.

The Galaxy S24 series is expected to be powered by the highly anticipated Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which is set to be unveiled at the Qualcomm Snapdragon Tech Summit on October 24, 2023, in Maui, Hawaii.

As the official launch approaches, more information regarding the design and specifications of the Galaxy S24 series is expected to be unveiled in the first few weeks of 2024. Samsung enthusiasts and tech enthusiasts alike eagerly await further insights into the highly-anticipated flagship lineup.

In addition to the Galaxy S24 series, Samsung is also preparing to unveil their latest foldable devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5, alongside the Galaxy Tab S9 series at the upcoming Unpacked Event scheduled to take place next month in South Korea.

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Two OnePlus Nord Phones Teased To Launch Soon In India, Likely To Debut Alongside Nord Buds 2r On July 5

OnePlus has started teasing the arrival of its upcoming Nord-branded devices in India. The company has put up a dedicated microsite on its official website. Additionally, Amazon has also put up a landing page of the Nord 3 5G smartphone and Buds 2r confirming their availability on the e-commerce platform. Yesterday, the Chinese brand announced the launch date of the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r in India. 

Three OnePlus Nord devices teased to launch soon in India

The microsite on the official OnePlus website reveals three forthcoming Nord-branded devices including two new phones and one TWS earphone. The name of the upcoming smartphones has not been explicitly revealed. They are listed as New Nord #1 and New Nord #2. OnePlus is also yet to reveal the launch date of the upcoming Nord phones, however, reports suggest that both devices may go official alongside the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r which is set to debut in India on July 5. 

As per past reports, the new Nord phones are expected to be the Nord 3 5G and Nord CE 3. They will arrive as the successors to the last year’s Nord 2 and Nord CE 2. The microsite confirms that the New Nord #1 (aka the Nord 3 5G) will feature the brand’s iconic alert slider. We could spot a center-aligned punch-hole cutout display and the smartphone in the Green color option. The microsite does not reveal any information about the New Nord #2 (aka Nord CE 3). The brand has confirmed that it will reveal more details about the upcoming Nord devices in the coming days leading up to the launch event. 

As for the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r, they are confirmed to come in Deep Grey and Triple Blue colors. They will retain the same semi-in-ear design as the Nord Buds 2 with a stem and silicon ear tips. 

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Fossil Brings Google Assistant to Gen 6 Smartwatches Running Wear OS 3

Fossil is no newcomer to wearables. The company has been involved with smartwatches since the early 2000s, and it has garnered a fair amount of praise for its products worldwide. Back when the Wear OS 3 update was released, Google Assistant mysteriously disappeared from many smartwatches, including Fossil smartwatches. Only the Pixel Watch and Samsung’s newer Galaxy Watches had support for the feature. However, Fossil is now stepping in, ensuring that users no longer have to switch brands just to have the convenience of talking to Google on their wrist.

Fossil has also included support for Amazon’s Alexa Voice Assistant

This month, Fossil is rolling out an update that adds Google Assistant to its Gen 6 smartwatches running Wear OS 3. This update extends to not only Fossil’s own models but also to counterparts from Diesel, Michael Kors, and Skagen. There is a small catch, though – the smartwatch needs to be paired with a phone running standard Android with Google apps.

Fossil

If you’re already familiar with using Google or Samsung smartwatches, the functionality of the Assistant on Fossil’s Gen 6 watches will feel quite similar. You can activate the AI helper by saying “hey Google,” holding a button, or tapping a watch face complication. This feature allows you to answer texts, control music, and perform various tasks that typically require your phone. Notably, unlike many other alternatives, Fossil’s implementation also includes support for Amazon‘s Alexa, offering users flexibility in choosing their preferred ecosystem for voice commands.

While this update is undoubtedly good news for Fossil smartwatch owners, it may not be as helpful for those using Wear OS 3 watches from other brands, such as Mobvoi or Montblanc. However, given Fossil’s reputation as one of the leading names in Google-powered smartwatches, this support significantly expands the number of wearable owners who can now enjoy the benefits of Google Assistant without the need for a tiny smartphone screen.

While details about the release date and features of the anticipated Gen 7 remain unknown, it’s expected to be a substantial upgrade whenever it arrives. Consequently, it’s advisable not to rush into buying the Gen 6 solely because of the Assistant update. Instead, the update primarily caters to existing Gen 6 owners who experienced a loss of functionality last year because of the update.

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YouTube Tightens Guidelines around Fan Accounts to Combat Impersonation

Social media is largely centred around fan accounts for celebrities and idols, but one might argue that they are a bad idea for impersonation purposes because they blur the line between genuine representation and impersonation, leading to potential misunderstandings and harm. While fan accounts are created to show support and admiration for a public figure, they often mimic their style, content, and even usernames, which can mislead others into believing they are interacting with the actual person. This can result in misinformation, false expectations, and breaches of privacy, causing confusion and distress for both the public figure and their followers. Tech giant YouTube seems to align with the same policy since in a recent announcement, the company has stated that it will be more strict with fan accounts for the same reasons.

Simply adding “Fan Account” to the Channel name/description won’t be enough

Starting from August 21st, those who run fan accounts on YouTube will be required to clearly indicate that their channels are not affiliated with the original artist, creator, or brand. Merely adding “fan account” to the channel description will no longer suffice. These new guidelines are part of YouTube’s broader changes to combat impersonation on the platform. Channels that falsely claim to be fan accounts while copying another channel’s content or closely resembling them with slight name modifications will be prohibited. Additionally, users will not be allowed to pretend to be another person when leaving comments on videos or impersonating existing channels.

YouTube

By enforcing these guidelines, YouTube aims to crack down on impersonators and safeguard its viewers. The platform hopes that these measures will prevent viewers from being misled by channels they interact with, ensuring clarity and transparency. Furthermore, creators will be protected from having their names and likeness misused for malicious purposes.

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Here is how Apple iPhone 15’s A17 Bionic Chip will be Modified to Cut Costs in 2024

Apple is gearing up to unveil the iPhone 15 lineup later this year. Various leaks have been shrouding the device’s launch, but in this latest leak, it has been reported that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 will have different versions of the A17 Bionic chipset. What sets the iPhone 15 Pro apart from its successors is its utilization of the N3B process, TSMC‘s latest manufacturing technology. However, Apple has an even more advanced plan for the following year’s models, which will harness the enhanced N3E process. This strategic shift ensures that future iPhones deliver even greater efficiency and optimization.

N3E Process is more energy-focused, while the N3B is more performance-oriented

Compared to previous iterations like the A14, A15, and A16 chips built on the 5nm process, the A17 Bionic represents a significant leap forward with its 3nm manufacturing process. This technology will bring a lot of enhancements, greatly improving the user experience. The A17 Bionic-powered iPhone 15 Pro series will lead the way, incorporating the N3B process, while the future models will fully embrace the N3E process. TSMC has shed light on these nodes, revealing that the N3E process places a greater emphasis on power consumption control rather than pure performance. It represents a slightly more cost-effective alternative to the N3B process.

A17

The N3E node boasts a high-density SRAM bit cell size identical to the previous N5 node, maintaining a compact 0.021 µm² size. In contrast, the N3B process achieves even greater SRAM scaling with a reduced cell size of 0.0199 µm², offering a 5% decrease compared to its predecessor. Additionally, the N3E process achieves a commendable memory density of approximately 31.8 Mib/mm².

Apple’s adoption of the 3nm process highlights its commitment to pushing technological boundaries and delivering exceptional user experiences. As we approach the launch dates of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, users can anticipate class leading performance and energy efficiency from the new generation devices.

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Qualcomm Unveils Two New Modem Satellite Connection Chips

Qualcomm, a leading semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company, has recently announced the launch of two modem chips, namely 212S and 9205S. These chips are launched so as to cater to the growing demands of the enterprise Internet of Things (IoT) sector as well as the satellite industry, which is expected to boom over the next decade. Offering hybrid connectivity and boasting ultra-low power consumption, the chips aren’t your regular Qualcomm chips. They comply with the 3GPP Release 17 standard, making them ideal for ground synchronous orbit (GEO/GSO) satellite communication. Additionally, they also support global positioning capabilities (GPS).

The 212S is perfect for long-distance fixed-location applications

The 9205S chip, which has already hit the market, is advertised to provide seamless connectivity between IoT devices and both cellular and satellite networks. This integration enables precise positioning data through the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). As a result, the chip will find applications in various industries, such as tracking shipping containers, monitoring agricultural equipment and livestock, and managing global fleets and freight in supply chain operations.

Qualcomm

On the other hand, the 212S chip, set to be released later this year, is fabricated for long-distance, fixed-location applications. As per Qualcomm, the chip excels at optimizing battery to extend device lifespan and performs tasks such as collecting telemetry data from water and fuel tanks, meters, and other infrastructure equipment. Moreover, it is well-suited for public grid monitoring, early fire detection reporting etc.

Both chips leverage the Qualcomm Aware platform, which offers real-time asset tracking and device management services in remote areas. In collaboration with NTN service provider Skylo, the Qualcomm Aware platform promises optimized integration for these chips, enhancing their functionality and performance.

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TOM Folding e-Scooter with an ingenuous folding mechanism, inspired by the classic Honda Motocompo announced

Italian company To-Move has announced the TOM folding electric scooter with a very compact design. The TOM e-scooter is inspired by the Honda Motocompo in compactness. However, the TOM is a fully electric scooter and more compact than the iconic Honda model of the 1980s. It has a folding mechanism that accomplishes folding in a jiffy.

TOM folding electric scooter

The TOM, according to To-Move, can be folded within 7 seconds. The entire front end of the scooter folds in on the EV’s frame and the compact folded package is 94cm long. The folded e-scooter can fit snugly in a variety of small spaces in a car or the office. The TOM weighs about 20kg and comes in a green, minimalist design. It features bamboo bodywork on the sides and an overall streamlined design. The e-scooter comes with tiny wheels and is suited for riding on pavement.

TOM folding electric scooter

The TOM has a 750Wh battery pack that provides up to 48km on a full charge. It has a rear-mounted 500W motor that gives the scooter a top speed of 45km/h. The e-scooter supports Bluetooth pairing and its companion mobile app allows for customizing various settings. You can also use your smartphone as a navigational tool and mobile dashboard.

TOM folding electric scooter

The TOM has been mounted on a Kickstarter campaign. The starting price of the e-scooter is €1,589 (~$1,745). The ultra-compact nature of the TOM, coupled with its stability, as compared with kick scooters are key selling points for the model.

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Devialet Mania smart speaker Sandstorm and Sunset Rose Editions launched in India

Two new exclusive color variants of the Devialet Mania smart speaker have been unveiled in India. The Devialet Mania Sandstorm and Sunset Rose Editions both complement the effervescent stereo sound of the Mania. The color options were carefully chosen to create an illuminating view atop the luxurious output of the speaker.

Devialet Mania smart speaker

The Devialet Mania outputs adaptive 360-degree adaptive sound. The unveiling of the new color variants of the smart speaker follows the launch of the Devialet Dione 5.1.2 soundbar in 2022. The Sandstorm edition reflects the untamed beauty of mineral landscapes, while the Sunset Rose captures the energy transitions of the sky at sunset. Both colors add to the dazzling output of the smart speaker for an immersive audio experience.

The two new color variants of the Devialet Mania maintain the cutting-edge tech on display in the speaker. They feature Active Stereo Calibration (ASC) and come with four mics. The speaker adapts its audio rendering to the surroundings using embedded intelligence and the mics. When positioned near a wall, the rear speakers reinforce the front speakers. This delivers a wide and powerful soundstage when the speaker is operational. The Devialet Mania produces stereo sound within a range of 30Hz and 20,000Hz. The speaker comes with a battery that can last for up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge.

Devialet Mania smart speaker

The speaker comes with the optional Devialet Mania Cocoon custom-designed sleeve. The Cocoon helps to protect the speaker while on the go. It has a woven logo shoulder strap and a rubber handle for easy movement. Devialet is providing musical playlists to reflect the poetry of the two colors and the playlists will be available on streaming services to download. The Devialet Mania Sandstorm and Sunset Rose Edition speakers are available in India for Rs. 102,000 (~$1,244).

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