Qualcomm and Sony will be extending their existing partnership. The former announced that the collaboration will continue to offer its popular Snapdragon chipsets for the latter’s upcoming smartphone lineup.
Qualcomm Snapdragon will power next gen Sony mid to top end phones
Thanks to the continued partnership, next gen Sony smartphones ranging from the mid range and flagship models will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon platform. Furthermore, the deal isn’t exclusive to a simple chip order as both firms will also work together in innovation in mobile technology. In other words, they aim to improve the overall user experience and push industry standards with new technology. Notably, this announcement also arrives a a report from earlier this month, which confirmed that Huawei is not getting Qualcomm’s 5G chips.
The joint collaboration also confirms the close integration of Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets in future Sony smartphones. Meaning, we can expect great optimization to push performance and consistent user experience. According to O.H. Kwon, Senior VP of Qualcomm CDMA Technologies and President of Asia Pacific region, “We’re thrilled to continue working with our longstanding partner Sony to deliver the next generation of premium mobile technologies to consumers. This collaboration is an exciting opportunity for us to deliver innovative user experiences to help meet the demands of consumers globally.”
Sony head of mobile communication, Tsutomu Hamaguchi, also added that “Xperia 1 V which is Sony’s latest flagship smartphone powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform has been very well received by customers. We look forward to continuing our work with Qualcomm Technologies to deliver premium and compelling experiences on future smartphones powered by Snapdragon processors.”
OnePlus is set to launch a new audio device under its Nord branding. The company has announced that it will launch the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r in the country on July 5. It is expected to be a toned-down and cheaper version of the Nord Buds 2 that debuted in April this year. Read on to know what it know so far about the upcoming offering.
OnePlus Nord Buds 2r to launch in India
Both Amazon and Flipkart have put up a microsite of the OnePlus Nord Buds 2r confirming its availability on the e-commerce platforms. It reveals that the upcoming offering will be available in Blue and Black color options. The TWS earphones will have the same semi-in-ear design like the Nord Buds 2 with a stem and angled silicon ear tips. More details about the Nord Buds 2r will be revealed on the microsite in the coming days leading up to the launch event.
OnePlus launched the flagship Buds 2 Pro TWS earphones earlier this year along with its toned-down version called Buds 2r. Now the company seems to be doing the same to the Nord Buds 2. It’s likely that the upcoming Nord Buds 2r could lack ANC support or some other feature of the Nord Buds 2. The TWS earphones are also expected to be priced under Rs 2,000 compared to the Rs 3,000 price tag of the Nord Buds 2.
OnePlus has already teased the global launch of the Nord 3 smartphone in July. However, there is no exact launch date and the brand is yet to start teasing the device. It remains to be seen whether the smartphone will also debut alongside the Nord 2r TWS earphones.
HP has just expanded its gaming product portfolio with a couple of new Omen and Victus series of gaming laptops along with other gaming peripherals and accessories in the Indian market. The new notebooks arrive with the latest 13th Gen Intel series processor and Nvidia’s new RTX 4000 series of graphics cards as well. So here are all the details.
HP Omen 16
The new 2023 Omen 16 model sports a 16 inch FHD display that offers a 165Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time, which is great for gamers. Under the hood, the new gaming notebook is equipped with the 13th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU that can be paired with up to NVIDIA RTX 4050 graphics cards. This processor is also offered with up to 32GB of DDR5 5600MHz RAM as well.
It offers an FHD webcam on the front, which even offers a manual shutter for better privacy. To handle these beefy specs, the Omen 16 is built with an improved cooling system that features a new square venting design for improved airflow. Overall, this makes it perfect for not only gamers but for professionals that require extra horsepower on the go.
Omen Transcend 16
The second entry in the Omen family is the new Omen Transcend 16 model. It is a high end gaming laptop that is equipped with the powerful i9-13900HX processor and an Nvidia RTX 4070 GPU. With this, you can expect to run new AAA titles with ease and run competitive tiles at high frame rates. Despite such high end specs, the gaming laptop only weighs 2.1 kilograms thanks to its magnesium build and measures just 19.9mm in thickness.
This makes it the brand’s thinnest and lightest gaming laptop. It ofers HDR 1000 support and a 16:10 aspect ratio on its 16 inch WQXGA 240Hz display. Under the hood, a large 97Wh battery pack powers the device. Similar to the Omen 16, this model also has an overhauled cooling mechanism with improved airflow for better thermal management. Other notable features include, OMEN Dynamic Power from the OMEN Gaming Hub, which optimized CPU and GPU performance.
Victus 16
Alongside the new Omen lineup, HP announced the 2023 Victus 16 gaming laptop as well. This is a high end model as well with a powerful 13th Gen Intel Core i7 running this model. The CPU is paired with a capable RTX 4060 graphics card. It also features OMED Dynamic Power, which helps in balancing performance output based on the realtime workloads of the user.
The Victus 16 features the OMEN Tempest Cooling system as well, which helps keep thermals in check. It sports a 16 inch FHD display that also offers 165Hz refresh rate. Other notable features include, 2.29 kilograms in weight, bright colors with mica silver and performance blue, and dual speakers powered by B&O.
HyperX Cloud II Core Wireless Gaming Headphones
HP also announced a new gaming headset to expand its gaming peripheral range in the market. The new hearable in question is the HyperX Cloud II Core Wireless gaming headphones. It arrives as a collaboration between HyperX and OMEN. To ensure that there is no noticeable delay when gaming, the headphones houses a new audio pairing system that offers ultra low latency.
This feature can be found in the Omen Transcend 16 and Omen 16 gaming laptops that were recently launched. The process for quick pairing is simple and makes sure you can jump into your favorite games without a hassle. The headphones connect via 2.4GHz wireless network and can run for up to 30 hours on a single full charge. It offers DTS Headphone”X Spatial Audio, HyperX Comfort design, and a durable aluminum frame.
HyperX 27 inch QHD Gaming Monitor
Apart from new gaming notebooks and peripherals, the company unveiled a new gaming monitor in the Indian market. It is the new HyperX QHD gaming monitor, which has a 27 inch screen size. This display offers 2K resolution and supports VESA Display HDR 400. Being a gaming monitor, it offers high 165Hz refresh rate and a quick response time of just 1ms.
Thanks to this, you shouldn’t see any noticeable lag between your input and gameplay on screen. Notably, the monitor features an adjustable tilt and height along wth an egonomic mounted arm, which helps saves space on your desktop table setup. Other notable features include, HP Eye Ease Eyesafe, AMD FreeSync Premium, DisplayPort, and HDMI port.
Pricing & Availability
The top end Omen Transcend 16 gaming laptop has a starting price tag of 159,999 INR. Meanwhile, the Omen 16 arrives for 104,999 INR and the Victus 16 model is available for just 59,999 INR as an entry level gaming laptop. The HyperX Cloud II Core wireles gaming headphones will be sold for 9,190 INR, while the 27 inch HyperX QHD Gaming monitor will go for 30,999 INR. For those interested, you can check out the new HP Omen laptops from the company’s official website or other retail partners.
Fire-Boltt has unveiled a duo of fresh smartwatches today. The first one is the Fire-Boltt Apollo 2 smartwatch, showcasing a 1.43-inch AMOLED screen and the convenience of Bluetooth calling. Additionally, the brand has introduced another smartwatch in the Indian market named the Fire-Boltt Ninja Call Pro Max. This variant boasts a larger-sized LCD display and provides the benefit of IP67 water and dust resistance.
Fire-Boltt Ninja Call Pro Max specs
The Ninja Call Pro Max boasts a rectangular-dial design with a spacious 2.01-inch LCD screen. The watch comes with a crown button that helps with UI navigation.
Similar to numerous smartwatches available today, the Ninja Call Pro Max incorporates the widely used Bluetooth calling functionality, complete with a built-in microphone and speaker. These features also facilitate seamless integration with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri on your mobile device.
Furthermore, the Ninja Call Pro Max provides a range of wellness features through the Fire-Boltt Health Suite. Users can take advantage of essential health monitoring capabilities such as real-time heart rate tracking, SpO2 measurement, sleep monitoring, and guided breathing training. Additionally, the watch caters to fitness enthusiasts by offering an extensive selection of over 120 sports modes, enabling users to effectively track and analyze their activities.
The Fire-Boltt Ninja Call Pro Max offers decent protection against dusty environments as well as sudden downpours with its IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. Additionally, the smartwatch includes features like smart notifications, sedentary reminders, Find My Phone, weather updates, music control, camera control, timers, stopwatches, and alarms.
With a battery life of up to 7 days and a standby battery life of up to 15 days, the Fire-Boltt Ninja Call Pro Max is designed to meet users’ demands. Its long-lasting power ensures uninterrupted usage throughout the day.
Price & availability
Fire-Boltt Ninja Call Pro Max smartwatch will cost Rs. 1,599, and it will be available to purchase from June 25. The brand has confirmed its availability on Amazon and Fire-Boltt’s website. It will be available in five color options: black, blue, pink, grey, and golden black.
Meta Platforms announced its intention to block access to news content on Facebook and Instagram for all users in Canada, in response to a newly approved legislation that requires internet giants to pay news publishers.
The company made this announcement on Thursday, shortly after the Canadian Senate upper chamber approved the legislation, known as the Online News Act, which has now received royal assent from the governor-general making it an official Act.
Once the Online News Act becomes law, Meta Platforms will implement measures to restrict the availability of news articles and related content on their popular social media platforms in Canada. The move follows a global trend of tech companies grappling with regulations aimed at ensuring fair compensation for news publishers for their content.
On Thursday, the Canadian Senate approved the Online News Act, establishing guidelines that compel platforms like Meta (formerly known as Facebook) and Google to engage in commercial negotiations and financially compensate news organizations for their content.
Meta has voiced its concerns about the legislation, criticizing it as “fundamentally flawed” and disregarding the operational realities of their platforms. In response, the company announced on Thursday its decision to terminate access to news on Facebook and Instagram for all Canadian users, preempting the bill’s official implementation. The decision to limit news access is likely to impact millions of users in Canada who rely on Facebook and Instagram as sources of news.
With Meta’s announcement, the focus now shifts to how news publishers, users, and other stakeholders will navigate this altered landscape of social media news consumption in Canada. Already Meta Platforms Inc and Google have been conducting trials to restrict news access in Canada in anticipation of the parliament-approved legislation, which requires major platforms to compensate news publishers for content posted on their platforms. This move comes after a similar law in Australia prompted Facebook to block users from sharing or viewing news in 2021.
What is Canada’s Online News Act?
The Online News Act is a new legislation that aims to ensure fair bargaining between the largest digital platforms and Canadian news businesses for the use of news content on their services.
The Online News Act establishes a more level playing field between news businesses and digital platforms, promoting fairness and sustainability in the news industry. It adopts a market-based approach, encouraging voluntary commercial agreements while preserving the independence of the press through crucial safeguards.
With millions of Canadians relying on online platforms for news consumption, these platforms have become the gatekeepers of the digital news marketplace and hence need to compensate the actual news agencies. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) will be responsible for overseeing the Act, facilitating negotiations and arbitration processes between platforms and news businesses. Additionally, the CRTC will develop a code of conduct to ensure fairness and transparency during bargaining.
US tech firms argue that the legislation in Canada is economically unfeasible. Google has suggested amendments to address concerns, while Canada’s government has resisted making changes. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Meta and Google of employing “bullying tactics.” Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, the bill’s initiator, stated that the government will initiate regulatory and implementation procedures following the law’s enforcement.
After a week of no major smartphone launches, we may once again see new releases in the next few days. A couple of brands have confirmed to launch new handsets.
The companies that have confirmed to debut new phones are Vivo and Asus. These products will fall under the premium segment.
As far as availability is concerned, Asus will be announcing its device for multiple global markets. On the other hand, Vivo’s release will be limited to China.
With that out of the way, let’s take a look at the handsets that will go official in the coming days.
The Vivo X90s is set to launch in China on June 26 at 2:30 PM GMT+8. As per the teasers and leaks, the phone is a variant of the existing Vivo X90.
The only major difference will be the chipset. The X90s will be powered by a Dimesity 9200 Plus SoC instead of a Dimensity 9200. Thus, it will come with upgraded performance and WiFi 7.
Other features will likely remain the same, such as a 6.78-inch 120Hz curved display, a 50MP (wide) + 12MP (ultrawide) + 12MP (2x telephoto) triple camera system, dual stereo speakers, 120W fast wired charging support, and more.
2. Asus Zenfone 10
ASUS Zenfone 10
The Asus Zenfone 10 is scheduled to go official on June 29 at 9 PM GMT+8. It is the company’s third-gen small-screen premium smartphone.
According to leaks, the device will arrive with a 5.9-inch 120Hz OLED display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, a 200MP primary camera, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It is said to be backed by a 5,000mAh battery with support for 67W wired charging support.
The IP68-rated phone with a metal frame and plastic back is tipped to start at $749. It will be available in red, black, grey, green, and while color options.
YouTube encountered a service disruption on the evening of June 22, 2023, affecting a significant number of users worldwide. The outage commenced at approximately 8:00 p.m. ET and persisted for approximately one hour, resulting in the temporary unavailability of video playback, live streaming, and other functionalities offered by YouTube.
According to Downdetector, a website that monitors online service interruptions, over 13,000 incidents were reported by individuals experiencing difficulties with YouTube during this period. The impact of the outage was felt across various regions, encompassing the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Although YouTube has refrained from providing an official statement regarding the cause of the disruption, preliminary indications suggest that it was likely due to technical complications. The company has assured its users that investigations are underway to identify the root cause and implement necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As of Friday, June 23, 2023, the majority of YouTube’s services have been restored for users. However, it is important to note that a small portion of users may still encounter residual issues. For those encountering difficulties accessing YouTube, attempting to restart their devices or clearing their browser’s cache might prove helpful in resolving the problem.
Fire-Boltt has announced the successor to the original Apollo smartwatch, with the new Apollo 2 model. The company’s latest smart wearable arrives with some notable specs and features, so here are all the details.
Fire-Boltt Apollo 2 smartwatch specifications
The company’s latest Apollo 2 model sports a 1.43 inch AMOLED display that offers 466 x 466 pixel resolution. This screen is a circular panel that is housed in a metallic body while the straps are made with silicon. Apart from the display, another highlight aspect of the new smartwatch is its support for Bluetooth calling, which is thanks to its built in microphone and speaker. The new launch also arrives mere days after the brand announced the new Artillery smartwatch that features a rugged design.
Furthermore, the Fire-Boltt Apollo 2 is equipped with various health related sensors that allows the wearable device to monitor sleep, track your heart rate and SpO2 blood oxygen levels, and even map female menstrual cycles as well. The smartwatch arrives with support for more than 110 sports modes and even offers IP67 water and dust resistance. Other notable features include customizable watch faces, AI voice assistant, smart notifications, built in games, 7 days of battery life, and more.
The Fire-Boltt Apollo 2 smartwatch model will be available for purchase in multiple color options. This device is currently on sale on Flipkart.com for an introductory price tag of 2,499 INR. One can even purchase this device from the brand’s official website as well.
In a significant development, ASML Holding is set to encounter additional export restrictions concerning the shipment of advanced deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography systems to China. The Dutch government is preparing to announce a fresh set of export controls that will impose limitations on ASML’s chipmaking machines being sent to China. Under the forthcoming measures, ASML will be required to obtain export licenses for the aforementioned systems.
These stringent regulations, expected to be unveiled next week, signify a notable shift in trade dynamics and may have far-reaching implications for the semiconductor industry. ASML, a prominent player in the chipmaking sector, will likely face challenges and adjustments to comply with the new regulations as it navigates the intricate landscape of global trade. The move reflects heightened scrutiny on technology transfers and underscores the increasing complexities surrounding international trade relations in the tech sector.
Source: ASML EUV cleanroom
ASML, the largest technology firm in Europe based on market capitalization, made significant sales in China, accounting for 14% of its total sales in 2022. Over the past decade, ASML has successfully sold chip lithography equipment worth more than 8 billion euros ($8.46 billion) to Chinese buyers. When companies purchase ASML machines, they also enter into service agreements to ensure ongoing maintenance. The “installed base” segment, comprising these service agreements, contributed approximately 25% to ASML’s global revenue in 2022.
ASML’s machines, valued at tens of millions of euros each, play a crucial role in the chip manufacturing process, enabling the creation of circuits. These machines require unique components and regular maintenance to ensure their operational efficiency and effectiveness in producing high-quality chips. The combination of substantial sales in China and the importance of continuous maintenance agreements highlight the significance of the Chinese market and the vital role ASML’s equipment plays in the semiconductor industry.
The US administration, under President Joe Biden, has been urging the Netherlands and other nations to aid in limiting China’s progress in developing its chip industry, bolstering its military capabilities, and advancing technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. To this end, the US has implemented significant export restrictions on advanced semiconductors and chip-making technologies destined for Chinese companies. In January, Dutch and Japanese officials tentatively agreed to support the US initiative, leveraging their expertise as the world’s leading sources of machinery for producing advanced semiconductors.
What is the primary focus of ASML’s operations?
ASML is a leading innovator in the semiconductor industry, offering comprehensive solutions for chipmakers to achieve high-volume production of patterns on silicon through lithography. With a holistic lithography product portfolio, ASML drives the affordable scaling that fuels the semiconductor industry. Their lithography systems encompass both EUV (Extreme Ultraviolet) and DUV (Deep Ultraviolet) systems, delivering advanced capabilities for precise chip manufacturing. ASML also provides refurbished systems, ensuring cost-effective options for customers. Their metrology and inspection systems offer speed and accuracy, catering to every stage of the manufacturing process from research and development to mass production. Additionally, ASML’s computational lithography expertise further enhances its offerings, enabling efficient and optimized chip production. With its comprehensive range of hardware, software, and services, ASML remains at the forefront of global innovation, supporting the semiconductor industry’s evolving needs.
At CES 2023, Lenovo unveiled the Yoga Book 9i dual-display laptop. The device later arrived in China. Now, the brand has launched the laptop in the US as well as in the EU.
Lenovo Yoga Book 9i
The Yoga Book 9i laptop has a starting price of $2,000 in the North American market, while EU customers will have to pay €2,499. The laptops are available in a single i7-1355U model, with the i5-1335U processor likely being discontinued. The base configuration priced at $2,000 includes 16 GB of LPDDR5X-6400 RAM and a 512 GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, with an option to upgrade to a 1 TB SSD for an additional $100.
Lenovo Yoga Book 9i
The Yoga Book 9i showcases a remarkable 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED display, boasting a resolution of 2880 x 1800. This dual-screen configuration offers versatility and functionality, with the lower screen capable of simulating a keyboard and trackpad. The package also includes a wireless keyboard and stand, allowing users to customize the dual-display setup to suit their specific needs. With the ability to rotate the screens in any orientation, be it up, down, left, or right, users can adapt the device to their desired viewing and interaction style.
The Yoga Book 9i’s dual 13-inch OLED screens, known as the B and C sides, offer an exceptional visual experience. With a display refresh rate of 60Hz and a wide color gamut covering 100% of DCI-P3, these screens deliver stunning visuals with impressive color accuracy. Moreover, the device is certified as eyesafe for blue light, prioritizing user comfort during extended usage. The Yoga Book 9i’s versatility is further amplified by its ability to rotate 360 degrees, enabling users to find their preferred viewing angle effortlessly. Additionally, the inclusion of the Bowers & Wilkins sound system ensures a rich audio experience.
With a sleek 16mm thickness and a lightweight design weighing just 1.38kg, the Yoga Book 9i offers portability without compromising performance.
Redmi, the sub-brand of Xiaomi, is currently developing its second tablet, known as the Pad 2. Recently, a leak provided crucial information about the upcoming Pad 2 tablet. In a recent development, details regarding its configurations have surfaced on the FCC certification database.
Image via MysmartpriceImage via MysmartpriceImage via Mysmartprice
The upcoming Redmi Pad 2, anticipated to launch in China later this year, has made an appearance on the FCC with the model number 23073RPBFL. According to the listing, the tablet will be available in three storage configurations. The entry-level model will offer 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Additionally, Xiaomi has included a variant with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Furthermore, there will be an option with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The tablet has also been confirmed to support Wi-Fi on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. The Redmi Pad 2 is expected to come preloaded with MIUI 14, based on Android 13, as indicated by the recent FCC listing. Additionally, the listing provides confirmation that Redmi plans to launch the Pad 2 globally in the future.
Redmi Pad 2 specs (rumored)
According to previous reports, the Redmi Pad 2 is expected to feature a 2K resolution display, most likely utilizing an IPS LCD panel to keep costs affordable. The display size is anticipated to fall within the range of 10 to 11 inches, with some sources suggesting a diagonal measurement of 10.95 inches. Additionally, there are rumors of the tablet supporting a 90Hz refresh rate, enhancing the overall visual experience.
Underneath the device, it is speculated that the Redmi Pad 2 will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 SoC, delivering reliable performance. To keep the tablet running for extended periods, it is rumored to be equipped with a sizable 8,000mAh battery.
In terms of cameras, the Pad 2 is expected to feature a single camera sensor on the back, potentially an 8MP lens, for capturing everyday moments. For selfies and video calls, a 5MP front camera is likely to be included, ensuring adequate quality for self-portraits and online communication.
In a tragedy that has definitely saddened hearts across the globe, a multinational search for the deep-sea submersible Titan, carrying five individuals on an expedition to explore the wreckage of the Titanic, has come to a devastating end. The U.S. Coast Guard announced that the submersible was found in pieces, indicating a “catastrophic implosion” that claimed the lives of everyone on board.
A $30 Logitech Gamepad was used to steer the Deep-sea submarine
After days of searching, a robotic diving vehicle deployed from a Canadian ship made the grim discovery on the seabed, approximately 1,600 feet (488 meters) from the bow of the Titanic. The debris field, located 2 1/2 miles (4 km) beneath the surface in a remote area of the North Atlantic, contained major fragments of the 22-foot (6.7-meter) Titan, including its tail cone and sections of the pressure hull. The Titan, operated by OceanGate Expeditions, had gone missing when it lost contact with its surface support ship during what should have been a routine two-hour dive to the iconic shipwreck. Among the victims of the tragic incident were Stockton Rush, the founder and CEO of OceanGate, and four other individuals known for their spirit of adventure and passion for ocean exploration.
Hamish Harding, a British billionaire and explorer, along with Shahzada Dawood, a Pakistani-born businessman, his British citizen son Suleman, and French oceanographer Paul-Henri Nargeolet, all perished in the implosion. Nargeolet, renowned for his expertise on the Titanic, had visited the wreckage numerous times. OceanGate expressed deep sorrow for the loss and extended condolences to the families of the victims. The company emphasized the explorers’ shared spirit of adventure and commitment to ocean conservation.
The search efforts involved teams and support personnel from the United States, Canada, France, and Britain, who scanned thousands of square miles of open seas using planes and ships. Despite the extensive operation, the tragic fate of the Titan and its crew was ultimately sealed in the depths of the ocean. The incident serves as a solemn reminder of the inherent risks of deep-sea exploration. Let’s see where the investigation leads to, since a recent story uncovered that a 30$ Logitech Gamepad was used to steer the submarine.
In a bid to improve the user experience across its product lineup, Apple has recently been granted a patent by the United States Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO). The patent numbered US 20230195237 A1, showcases Apple’s attempt at enhancing interactive experiences through gesture navigation user interfaces. Addressing the limitations of existing interfaces, the tech giant aims to streamline user interactions, reduce cognitive load, and optimize battery life across its diverse range of devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac.
Fewer taps and swipes will directly translate to better power management on the device
Apple’s innovative patent challenges the current state of gesture navigation by highlighting the complexities present in current devices. According to the patent description quoted by IT Home, Apple believes that many existing gesture interfaces are cumbersome, requiring multiple clicks that waste user time and adversely impact battery life on mobile devices.
The patent proposes a unique approach that integrates screen generation components and optical sensors to deliver faster and more efficient gesture navigation methods. By supplementing or replacing conventional gesture navigation interfaces, Apple aims to provide users with an intuitive and seamless interaction experience. The ultimate goal is to reduce the cognitive load on users, resulting in a more efficient human-machine interface. This gesture navigation approach not only aims to enhance the user experience but also has significant implications for battery-powered devices. By implementing these methods and interfaces, Apple expects to achieve power savings, ultimately extending battery life on its devices.
The patent’s impact is far-reaching, potentially transforming the way users interact with their iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and Macs. As Apple continues to innovate and refine its user interfaces, customers can expect an even more intuitive and streamlined interface across their favourite devices.
It seems like everyone has been talking about nothing but generative AI for the past few years. In a promising piece of news for generative AI, the latest data released by the job search website Indeed indicates that the United States experienced a 20% month-on-month increase in the number of jobs related to generative AI in May this year. This surge indicates that an increasing number of American companies are eager to embrace and leverage this technology to drive their business growth.
The number of AI-related job postings doubled in the last two years
The data from May reveals that there are now 204 generative AI-related jobs for every million job postings in the United States, which is more than double the figure recorded in 2021. This exponential growth signifies a significant shift in the demand for talent with expertise in generative AI.
Among the various artificial intelligence positions posted on Indeed, data scientist roles make up 5% of the total. Additionally, positions such as software engineers, machine learning engineers, and data engineers are also highly sought-after by companies looking to capitalize on the potential of generative AI.
Nick Bunker, the Director of Economic Research at Indeed, provided his perspective on this trend, stating, “After the global explosion of ChatGPT, job seekers’ interest in artificial intelligence-related jobs has increased significantly.” The rise of generative AI models like ChatGPT has undoubtedly sparked a surge in curiosity and interest among job seekers in pursuing careers in the field of artificial intelligence. However, despite the growing interest from job seekers, Indeed reports that overall tech job opportunities in the United States have decreased by 43.6% compared to June of the previous year. The rapid increase in the number of available AI jobs has not kept pace with the rising demand from job seekers, suggesting a potential skills gap in the market.
As American companies recognize the transformative potential of generative AI, the need for skilled professionals in this field will continue to grow. Bridging the skills gap and fostering a talent pool capable of meeting the demand for generative AI expertise will be crucial, to say the least.
How does NFC work? Near Field Communication (NFC) technology allows two electronic devices to communicate wirelessly when they are in close proximity, typically within a few centimetres. NFC works by using electromagnetic radio fields to enable the exchange of data between devices. It operates on the principle of magnetic induction, where one device generates a radio frequency field, and the other device, equipped with an NFC chip, detects and responds to that field. Those few centimetres of distance between the devices will no longer inhibit the small range of NFC technology. The NFC Forum, a collaborative group founded by industry giants Sony, NXP Semiconductors, and Nokia, has recently unveiled a roadmap that promises to reshape the landscape of NFC technology by 2028.
The mission is to expand the range of NFC by four to six times
Comprised of representatives from tech powerhouses like Apple and Google, the NFC Forum has outlined five primary initiatives to propel the technology forward within the next two to five years. At the forefront of these ambitions is the mission to extend the range of the connections, which currently operates within a small distance. The goal is to expand this range by four to six times, rendering contactless payments genuinely contactless. This significant stride would not only enhance convenience but also expedite transactions, relieving users of the need for meticulous antenna alignment.
Expanding the range of NFC connections represents just one part of the NFC Forum’s plan. Another important milestone would be the advancement of wireless charging capabilities over NFC. The group aims to elevate the wireless power and charging capacity from the current 1W to an impressive 3W. Such an upgrade would unlock wireless power possibilities for smaller devices and pave the way for innovative applications that were previously not viable.
In addition to these advancements, the Forum envisions enabling multiple-purpose taps, which would empower users to perform multiple actions with a single tap. This streamlined functionality would not only enhance user experience but also open doors for new and exciting applications. As thrilling as these prospects are, it is important to manage our expectations. While the NFC Forum’s roadmap promises an interesting future, these advancements will take time to come to reality and find their way into everyday devices.
Vivo’s next flagship phone for the Chinese market, the Vivo X90s, is scheduled to debut on June 26. The brand is now conducting reservations over the phone through its channels, such as its own online store, Suning, and Jingdong Mall. The listing available on JD.com has revealed the configurations and color variants of the X90s.
Vivo X90s variants, color options
Vivo X90s variants
As can be seen in the above screenshot, the Vivo X90s will arrive in three LPDDR5x + UFS 4.0 storage combinations in the Chinese market, such as 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, and 12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage. The Dimensity 9200-powered Vivo X90, which debuted last year in November, was also made available with 128 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. With X90s, it appears that the company intends to launch it only in UFS 4.0 variants.
Like the X90, the X90s will come in black, red, and white shades. However, instead of blue, the company will make the X90s in a cyan variant. At present, there is no information on the price of the device. According to reports, the X90s will feature the all-new Dimensity 9200 Plus chipset and support Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. Its other specifications are said to be identical to those of the X90.
Vivo X90s color variants
The Vivo X90s is expected to feature a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with curved edges. It will offer a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. The phone will come preinstalled with Android 13 OS, which will have a layer of OriginOS 3.0 on top. To keep the lights on, it will have a 4,810mAh battery with 120W fast charging support. For photography, it will feature a 32-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel (main, with OIS) + 12-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 12-megapixel (telephoto) triple camera system on the back.
Everyone knows Razer. It’s one of the most gaming-synonymous brands that exist out there, and it is renowned for its cutting-edge gaming products. The Company is now expanding its horizons with the introduction of Razer Skins. This new lineup of decorative skins allows gamers to breathe new life into their devices, including the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S and X, Steam Deck, and more. By combining style and protection, the company wants to make a space for itself in this niche.
The skins also offer light protection against scratches during regular use
While high-quality skins have been popular for some time, with Dbrand (and its impressive marketing) leading the pack, Razer Skins aims to provide a superior experience. Produced in the United States, these skins are crafted using 3M’s high-quality vinyl materials, ensuring a perfect fit and exceptional durability. As per the company, applying the skins is a breeze, requiring nothing more than a careful pair of hands and eyes, although a blow-dryer can come in handy for near-perfect installation.
Beyond aesthetics, Razer Skins also offer an added layer of protection, safeguarding devices against light scratches and scuffs. And when the time comes to switch to a new skin or remove it altogether, the tech brand claims that the skins leave no residue behind. Furthermore, as new gaming consoles and devices enter the market, Razer Skins could potentially adapt and evolve to offer personalized designs and protection for these devices
Available for purchase on the company’s website, in physical Razer stores, and with select retailers, Razer Skins will be initially offered for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S and X, and Steam Deck. The product lineup doesn’t stop there, though. Razer also caters to owners of Razer Blade laptops, MacBooks, Razer Edge, and Razer Kishi V2. Furthermore, the company has plans to expand its skins to cover even more products, including the popular Nintendo Switch, in the near future.
Nubia has announced its mid-range gaming phone, the Nubia Neo 5G, in Thailand. What’s interesting about the device is that it is not powered by a Qualcomm or MediaTek chipset. Instead, it features a new Unisoc chip. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the device.
Nubia Neo 5G specifications and features
Nubia Neo 5G
The Nubia Neo 5G features a 6.6-inch ISP LCD panel with a waterdrop notch. The screen produces an FHD+ resolution of 2408 x 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the gaming phone features the 6nm Unisoc T820 chipset that clocks at up to 2.7GHz. The SoC is paired with 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 8 GB of virtual RAM.
Nubia’s mid-range gaming phone packs a 4,500mAh battery with 22.5W fast charging. It offers 256 GB of UFS 2.2 storage and a microSD card slot for additional storage. The device comes preloaded with Android 13 OS.
Nubia Neo 5G
The Nubia Neo 5G has an 8-megapixel front-facing camera, and it is fitted with a 50-megapixel (primary) + 2-megapixel dual-camera system on the back. The other features available on the Nubia Neo 5G include dual SIM, 5G, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, NFC, a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, a multi-layer heat dissipation unit, face unlock, and a side-facing fingerprint scanner. Lastly, the device measures 163.7 x 75.0 x 7.98mm.
Nubia Neo 5G price and availability
ZTE’s online stores on Lazada and Shopee are now receiving pre-orders for the Nubia Neo 5G. The device is priced at THB 6,999 (~$199) and comes in two shades: Phantom Black and War-damaged Yellow.
Gmail is one of Google’s biggest assets. The company has introduced various updates to its Gmail app for Android. This time, a new update is finally bringing dynamic theming to the app icon in email notifications. With the release of Android 12 and its revolutionary UI design called Material You in the year 2021, Google introduced dynamic theming, allowing UI elements to borrow colours from the active wallpaper for a more layered, connected experience. While many apps have adopted this feature, the app icon in Gmail’s notification shade remained without a theme, looking out of place. However, with the latest version of the Gmail app (2023.05.28.54044.3362), this issue has been addressed.
Users can download the APK file and sideload it if they want the update earlier
Google is known for being an early update provider to its own first-party apps, which makes sense. Gmail has been no exception. The app embraced Material You in September and introduced dynamic color for its widgets shortly after. However, the app icon in the notification shade retained its traditional red colour for unread emails. It is important to note that this is different from the status bar icon. This is the Gmail icon that accompanies the email notification in your status bar when you pull it down.
The new update now allows the Gmail app icon in email notifications to dynamically match the accent colours of the Quick Settings toggled on. These accent colours are derived from the user’s active wallpaper, resulting in a more harmonious visual experience across the Android system.
To get this update, users can choose to sideload the APK file from APKMirror since the exact timing of its availability on the Google Play Store is uncertain. By manually installing the updated APK, users can enjoy the new dynamic theming feature for the Gmail app without having to wait for it to be pushed as an update or auto-update.
This development showcases Google’s commitment to fixing even the tiniest flaws in the UI, contributing to a better user experience and staying true to Material You. With the Gmail app now blending in with the colour scheme, users can now enjoy an aesthetically appealing notification experience on their Android devices.
Realme GT 3 has gone official in Russia. The flagship phone is now listed on Realme Russia’s website and is available for purchase through multiple retailers, such as DNS, Mvideo, Ozon, Wildberries, and Yandex Market. As it is already known, the GT 3 is a rebranded version of China’s Realme GT Neo 5 240W. In the home market, the GT Neo 5 comes in purple, white, and black shades. However, the GT 3 is available in white and black colours in the Russian market.
Realme GT 3 price in Russia
Realme GT 3
In Russia, the Realme GT 3 is priced at RUB 69,990 (~$865). Realme is offering its flagship phone in a single configuration of 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage in the country. Here is a look at the specifications of the device.
Realme GT 3 specifications
The Realme GT 3 has a 6.74-inch OLED panel that offers a 2772 x 1240 pixels resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, 10-bit colors, a contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1, and a 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut. It is equipped with an under-screen fingerprint sensor and offers a screen-to-body ratio of 93.69 percent.
On the front, the Realme GT 3 has a 16-megapixel Samsung S5K3P9SP04 selfie camera. The back panel of the device features a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS support. It is paired with an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 2-megapixel microscope camera. The phone boots to Realme UI 4.0-based Android 13.
Under the hood, the GT 3 features the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset and 16GB of LPDDR4x RAM. It offers 1 TB of UFS 3.1 storage and packs a 4,600mAh battery. According to the brand, the in-box charger can fully charge the GT 3 in just 9.5 minutes. Last but not least, the device features a C-shaped LED flash unit on the back that can glow in different colors for notifications, charging, and more.
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