Advertisement

TikTok is Under Scrutiny again in the US for Fraudulent Data Practices & Privacy Issues

TikTok, the popular social media platform, is once again under the microscope as Senators Richard Blumenthal and Marsha Blackburn accuse the company of misleading Congress regarding the storage and sharing of user data. In a letter dated June 6th, the lawmakers demand answers to a series of questions related to TikTok’s data practices, highlighting concerns about the storage of sensitive information and the involvement of China-based servers. The allegations raise questions about user privacy, national security, and the company’s transparency.

The Senators have compiled a list of 14 questions that TikTok needs to answer by June 16th

Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn expressed their concern about TikTok’s repeated misleading or inaccurate responses regarding user safety and national security. They referenced a New York Times report claiming that user data, including driver’s licenses and child sexual abuse materials, was shared within TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, through an internal messaging platform called Lark. The report further states that the entirety of user data on Lark was accessible to ByteDance employees, including those based in China.

TikTok

Forbes also published an article accusing TikTok of storing the financial information of U.S. TikTok creators, including tax information and social security numbers, in China. The Senators point out that TikTok’s CEO and employees had previously testified that user data is stored in the United States and Singapore. However, the revelations from the Times report suggest otherwise, leading to concerns about the accuracy of previous statements made by TikTok representatives.

The Senators presented a list of 14 questions that they demanded TikTok to answer by June 16th. These questions cover a wide range of topics, such as the storage of user data on Chinese servers, access granted to China-based employees, clarification on previous testimonies, the involvement of TikTok in other ByteDance products, and measures taken to investigate data sharing with Chinese authorities.

The allegations against TikTok emphasize the importance of accountability in the handling of user data. Users entrust platforms with so much of their personal information these days, including debit/credit card numbers and most of all, passwords, and it is crucial for companies to be very transparent about their data practices. As the congressional inquiry unfolds, it remains to be seen how TikTok will respond to the Senators’ demands for clarification and whether additional measures will be taken to address concerns surrounding user privacy and national security. Stay tuned to Gizmochina as we cover future milestones in this story.

RELATED:

(Via)

Forza Motorsport Announced for October 10th Launch, will Feature 100 New Cars

Forza is a critically acclaimed racing game series that has been a fan favourite for gamers and racing enthusiasts alike with its immersive gameplay and stunning graphics. Developed by Turn 10 Studios and published by Microsoft, Forza offers a wide range of exhilarating experiences, from high-speed street racing to intense off-road adventures. The series, with games like Forza Horizon 5, boasts an impressive roster of detailed and down-to-the-last-detail cars and accurately recreated tracks from around the world. With a strong emphasis on realism, players can fine-tune their vehicles to perfection, ensuring every aspect of their racing experience is finely tailored to their liking. Whether you’re a casual player looking for an adrenaline rush or a hardcore racing enthusiast seeking a true-to-life simulation, Forza delivers an unparalleled racing experience that keeps players coming back for more. With its latest unveil of the Forza Motorsport game, the game’s fans are in for another slew of surprises.

Forza Motorsport will feature 500 cars, 100 more than the previous game

At the Summer Game Fest, Microsoft revealed that the highly anticipated Forza Motorsport will finally hit the shelves on October 10th. This eagerly awaited instalment had initially been slated for a spring release but was pushed back to later in 2023. However, fans can now breathe a sigh of relief as the launch date draws near. The game aims to leverage the cutting-edge capabilities of the latest Xbox and PC hardware, promising gamers the most immersive experience in the franchise’s history. With stunning visuals and enhanced gameplay mechanics, players can expect to be transported into a world of high-octane racing like never before. The game’s lineup will feature an impressive roster of over 500 cars, including a staggering addition of 100 new vehicles over the previous game. Forza Motorsport will undoubtedly cater to every racing enthusiast’s preferences.

Forza

The game will be available on various platforms, including Xbox Series X/S, Xbox Game Pass, and PC via the Microsoft Store and Steam. This multi-platform release ensures that players can access Forza Motorsport regardless of their preferred gaming setup. Additionally, the inclusion of Xbox Game Pass provides an accessible and affordable option for gamers to dive into the action-packed world.

RELATED:

(Via)

Xiaomi Pad 5 price slashed in India ahead of Pad 6 launch

The upcoming Xiaomi Pad 6 Android tablet is set to be launched in India on June 13, offering several improvements over its predecessor, notably the addition of the powerful Snapdragon 870 chipset. Prior to the tablet’s release, Xiaomi has reduced the prices of the Pad 5 in India.

Xiaomi Pad 5

The Xiaomi Pad 5 is available in two options: 128GB and 256GB, priced at Rs 26,999 and Rs 28,999 respectively. The 128GB variant has been reduced by Rs 1,000, while the 256GB version has seen a price drop of Rs 500. Customers can now purchase the 128GB model for Rs 25,999 and the 256GB variant for Rs 28,499 after the price adjustment.

The tablet is offered in the Cosmic Grey color option. Additionally, Xiaomi is offering an instant discount of Rs 2,000 on purchases made with an ICICI bank credit card.

Xiaomi Pad 5 specs

The Xiaomi Pad 5 boasts a 10.95-inch LCD display with a WQHD+ resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, delivering a sharp 275 PPI. It offers a high refresh rate of up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth visuals. The tablet supports stylus input through the Xiaomi Smart Pen, and its 10-bit panel supports the DCI-P3 color gamut and Dolby Vision HDR standard. With a 16:10 aspect ratio and a peak brightness of 650 nits, the display provides an immersive viewing experience.

Under the hood, the tablet is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 SoC, ensuring smooth performance. It comes with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, providing ample memory and fast data access. The device runs on MIUI 13, based on Android 11, with the customized MIUI for Pad interface, delivering a user-friendly experience.

The Xiaomi Pad 5 houses a large 8,720mAh battery, which supports fast charging at 33W (a 22.5W charger is included in the package), ensuring quick and convenient recharging.

In terms of camera capabilities, the tablet is equipped with a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front-facing camera, allowing users to capture memorable moments. The tablet also features quad speakers that support Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and Hi-Res Audio Wireless, providing an immersive audio experience.

The tablet offers dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, and a USB 2.0 Type-C port. It also includes a pogo pin connector for the official keyboard accessory, expanding the productivity options for users.

RELATED:

*Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

iQOO Neo 7 Pro orange variant teased again, reveals leather finish

iQOO recently confirmed that it will unveil the IQOO Neo 7 Pro on July 4 in India. Ahead of the launch, the brand is busy teasing the design of the phone. Some of its recent teasers have hinted that the Neo 7 Pro may arrive in an orange color option. Over the weekend, the brand released a new teaser to give a glimpse of the orange edition of the device.

The Neo 7 Pro’s orange variant appears to feature a leather finish, and there are speculations about the availability of a black variant as well. However, it is currently unclear whether the black variant will also have a leather texture. These color variants are likely to be called Pop Orange and Interstellar Black.

iQOO neo 7 Pro orange variant teased
iQOO Neo 7 Pro orange variant teased

Speculations are rife that the iQOO Neo 7 Pro will be priced at around Rs 35,000 (~$424) in India. Like other iQOO phones, it will be sold through Amazon. As far as specs are concerned, it could be a rebranded version of the iQOO Neo 7 Racing Edition, which has been available in China for several months now.

iQOO Neo 7 Pro specifications

According to reports, the iQOO Neo 7 Pro will have a 6.78-inch AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz punch-hole display and will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset. The highest variant of the device may ship with 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. It may arrive with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 120W fast charging.

The Neo 7 Pro’s rear camera setup may comprise a 50-megapixel primary camera with OIS support, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera. On the front, the device is likely to feature a 16-megapixel camera. It may run on Android 13 OS and FunTouch OS 13. For security, it may feature an in-screen fingerprint sensor.

RELATED:

DERE R16 PRO Laptop: 16-inch 2.5K Full HD Display and Intel N95 Processor at Unbeatable Price

DERE R16 PRO Laptop, a powerful and versatile device that combines performance and portability in one sleek package. With its impressive features and sleek design, it’s the perfect choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish laptop for work or play.

WHERE TO BUY
DERE R16 PRO Laptop at $214 @AliExpress (Coupon: A9BQT8WSIYXN)

DERE R16 PRO, boasts a stunning 16″ IPS Ultra HD 2.5K resolution screen, which delivers a mesmerizing display with unrivaled clarity and detail. With a remarkable 100% sRGB color gamut, it guarantees true-to-life colors and deep color reproduction that brings your content to life like never before. Whether you’re editing photos, designing graphics, or simply enjoying multimedia content, the DERE R16 PRO ensures an immersive visual experience that surpasses expectations. 

The laptop is equipped with the cutting-edge Intel 12th generation Alder Lake N95 processor. With clock speeds of up to 3.4GHz, 4 cores, and 4 threads, this processor delivers a powerful performance that effortlessly handles office tasks with ease. Whether you’re crunching numbers, creating presentations, or managing complex spreadsheets, the DERE R16 PRO ensures smooth and efficient multitasking without compromising on speed.

To complement its exceptional processing capabilities, this laptop comes with 12GB LPDDR5 memory and a spacious 512GB internal storage. This combination allows you to seamlessly run multiple software applications simultaneously, eliminating any potential bottlenecks and ensuring a stress-free computing experience. Whether you’re running resource-intensive software or storing large files, the laptop’s impressive memory and storage capacity ensure swift and efficient operations.

The DERE R16 PRO features a high-capacity 5000mAh battery, providing an ultra-long standby time and extended battery life. Furthermore, its 180° opening and closing design effortlessly adapts to your preferred viewing angle, meeting your requirements for a wide range of usage scenarios.

Designed with user convenience in mind, this laptop features a backlit keyboard that allows for easy typing even in low-light environments. Additionally, it incorporates fingerprint recognition technology and a camera shutter ensuring secure and hassle-free access to your device. No matter what you desire in a laptop, the DERE R16 PRO has it all. 

Deal: 

During the promotional launch, the Dere R16 PRO Laptop is available at a discounted price starting from $214, and customers can enjoy even more savings by using the discount coupon code: A9BQT8WSIYXN. Additionally, the first 100 purchasers will receive complimentary gifts such as power banks or laptop cases. Please take note that the sale begins on June 12 and concludes on June 18 at 23:59 PT.

For more information on such exciting deals and offers, check out our deals hub.

ChatGPT User Base is not that High, Survey States

ChatGPT has been an extraordinary breakthrough in the field of conversational artificial intelligence since its launch. With its language generation capabilities and ability to understand and respond to a wide range of topics, ChatGPT has revolutionized the way people interact with AI. It has become an indispensable tool for various applications, from providing information and answering questions to offering creative writing suggestions and engaging in natural, human-like conversations. Since its launch, ChatGPT has continued to evolve and improve, making strides towards more coherent, context-aware responses and establishing itself as a formidable force in the field of AI-powered conversations. However, an interesting statistic has surfaced that somewhat argues the impact ChatGPT continues to have on the AI world.

Only 19% of Sampled people had used ChatGPT, Less than 10% had used Bard

The recent survey conducted in April, which gathered insights from 2,000 individuals, sheds light on the current landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and chatbot usage. Surprisingly, the study reveals that only 19 percent of people who responded had utilized the ChatGPT chatbot, while a mere 9 percent had engaged with Google’s Bard chatbot. Furthermore, a significant majority of those who hadn’t used chatbots expressed their reluctance to adopt these tools within the next six months, indicating that the supposed “brainwash” of the public is a mere hoax.

ChatGPT

Experts and analysts from Morgan Stanley emphasize that it is crucial for investors to recognize the nascent stage of chatbot technology. Presently, chatbots are primarily being used for acquiring knowledge on new subjects, and they are not effectively making users money. For instance, when it comes to online shopping, comparing prices, and making purchases, the number of users employing chatbots remains alarmingly low. However, these particular sectors hold the potential to drive advertising revenue for companies in the future.

AI’s influence on e-commerce and travel sectors presents opportunities for revenue growth. Businesses can leverage AI to deliver more accurate and personalized search and recommendation services. According to the survey, 56 percent of respondents stated that they would initially resort to Google Search, YouTube, or Bard while shopping online. A lot of things will have to change if ChatGPT has to derail Google from the throne of Search Engines. Meanwhile, it will be interesting how ChatGPT will evolve in the near-future to drive those usage statistics up.

RELATED:

(Via)

AT&T Switches to Google’s Jibe for RCS Messaging Perks

RCS (Rich Communication Services) technology is an advanced messaging protocol designed to enhance the functionality and user experience of traditional SMS messaging. It allows users to send messages with features such as read receipts, typing indicators, high-resolution media sharing, and group chats. RCS also supports features like video calling, file sharing, and location sharing, bringing it closer to the capabilities of other popular messaging apps. Unlike SMS, RCS operates over data networks and requires support from both the mobile device and the carrier. It aims to provide a richer and more interactive messaging experience for users across different devices and networks. Google and Apple have previously clashed regarding using RCS as a standard for smartphone messaging, with Apple choosing to remain out of this. As per the latest news, popular US telecom operator, AT&T has started utilizing Google‘s Jibe platform for RCS-powered messaging.

Google acquired Jibe Mobile in the year 2015

While all mobile carriers support RCS, some, like AT&T, have relied on their own backend systems instead of Google’s Jibe platform. However, a lot of customers will be extremely happy as AT&T has recently announced its transition to the Jibe platform, aligning with other carriers and promising a superior RCS messaging experience for its customers. This transition brings a lot of perks, as users had previously criticized AT&T’s servers for a subpar RCS messaging experience. Shifting their users to Google’s tried-and-tested solution is expected to improve performance and reliability across the board. Moreover, AT&T’s default messaging system will now harness the power of the Jibe platform, ensuring that users can enjoy the “latest RCS features instantly,” as highlighted by Google SVP Hiroshi Lockheimer in the tweet.

AT&T

Google has been working diligently to enhance RCS since acquiring Jibe Mobile in 2015. Along the way, they encountered obstacles, including resistance from carriers. However, it seems that all parties (well, most of them) have finally aligned their interests. Users can verify if their Messages app is utilizing Jibe by navigating to the app’s Settings, tapping RCS chats and scrolling to the bottom of the page.

RELATED:

(Via)

Realme GT Neo 5 Pro specifications tipped, here’s what’s revealed so far

While all the prominent smartphone brands in China have introduced flagship devices equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, Realme stands out as the sole exception. However, reports indicate that Realme is working on its next flagship offering, referred to as the Realme GT Neo 5 Pro. Notably, popular tipster Digital Chat Station shared crucial details regarding the specifications of the upcoming Realme flagship in a recent Weibo post.

Realme GT Neo 5 Pro specifications (rumoured)

Realme GT Neo 5
Realme GT Neo 5

According to the renowned tipster, the upcoming Realme GT Neo 5 Pro is expected to feature a flat OLED panel with minimal bezels. The screen is rumored to offer an impressive 1.5K resolution along with a high refresh rate of 144Hz and 2160Hz PWM dimming. Interestingly, it seems that Realme will utilize the same 6.74-inch OLED panel sourced from the Tianma brand that was previously seen on the Realme GT Neo 5 and GT Neo 5 SE smartphones released earlier this year.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and 16 GB of LPDDR4x RAM will be present under the hood of the Realme GT Neo 5 Pro. There is no information about the battery size of the device. However, it is expected to support 100W charging.

Some other reports have claimed that the GT Neo 5 Pro’s back panel will have an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 primary camera. The details of the remaining cameras on the Pro model have not surfaced yet. According to DCS, the Realme GT Neo 5 Pro’s main camera will be bolstered by a new fusion algorithm, likely resulting in improved shot quality. The device is expected to run on the Realme UI 4.0-based Android 13.

RELATED:

(source)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra camera specifications emerge, minimal changes expected

Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S24, the Galaxy S24 Plus, and the Galaxy S24 Ultra in the first quarter of 2024. The Galaxy S23 Ultra debuted as the company’s first phone featuring a 200-megapixel camera. It also came with a new selfie camera. Will there be a significant upgrade in the camera department of the Galaxy S24 Ultra? Citing Korean media as the source, tipster Ice Universe has revealed the rear camera specifications of the Ultra model.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra camera specifications (rumored)

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The tipster revealed that the Galaxy S24 Ultra will have a 200-megapixel Samsung HP2 primary camera. It will be accompanied by a 12-megapixel Sony IMX564 ultra-wide lens and a 10-megapixel Sony IMX754 telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. These cameras are also available in the rear camera setup of the Galaxy S23 Ultra.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s camera module will also include a slightly modified version of the 10-megapixel IMX754+ periscope telephoto camera with 10x optical zoom. So, this will probably be the only hard-level upgrade the S24 Ultra will offer. The significant improvements in the camera performance of the S24 Ultra are expected to primarily stem from advancements in software and processing capabilities.

An LED flash and a laser autofocus unit will also be present with the rear cameras. The new leak has no information about the selfie camera on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. It is likely to retain the 12-megapixel selfie snapper, which was made available for the first time on the Galaxy S23 Ultra. At present, there is no word on the camera specifications of the Galaxy S24 and the Galaxy S24 Plus.

Qualcomm is expected to announce the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset in October of this year. An overclocked version of the chip dubbed the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, may power the Galaxy S24 series. While markets like Asia and North America are expected to receive the Snapdragon version of the S24 lineup, Samsung may release the Exynos 2400 variants in Europe.

RELATED:

(source)

Nothing Phone (2) bags TDRA certification before rumored launch in July

Nothing Phone (2) is expected to launch in July. As the launch date draws closer, the phone is anticipated to make its presence known in various certification platforms’ databases. Recently, the smartphone has obtained certification from the UAE’s TDRA certification platform.

Nothing Phone (2) TDRA
Nothing Phone (2) TDRA listing

The TDRA certification does not reveal anything new about the Phone (2). As can be seen in the screengrab, it reiterates that the device has the “A065” model number. To recall, the original Nothing Phone (1) has the A063 model number.

Nothing Phone (2): What’s known so far

Gradually, Nothing is disclosing the specifications of the upcoming Nothing Phone (2). The company has officially announced that the device will boast a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen. Speculation suggests that this display might support an FHD+ resolution along with a refresh rate of 120Hz.

Another confirmed detail is that the Nothing Phone (2) will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset. Previous sightings on Geekbench revealed that the device will come equipped with 12 GB of RAM and will operate on Android 13.

Nohing Phone 2 render
Nohing Phone 2 render

For a streamlined and minimalist user experience, the phone will feature Nothing OS 2.0, which will be overlaid on top of the Android operating system. Nothing has committed to providing three major Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates for the Phone (2).

The Nothing Phone (2) will be equipped with a 4,700mAh battery, as confirmed by the brand. However, information about the fast charging capabilities remains undisclosed. Additionally, specific details regarding the camera setup of the Nothing Phone (2) are yet to be revealed. The device is made of sustainable materials and has an aluminium frame.

In related news, a recent leak revealed the design of the Phone (2) through CAD renders. However, shortly after the images surfaced, Nothing founder and CEO, Carl Pei, took to Twitter and referred to them as “fake.” This tweet strongly suggests that the leaked images do not accurately represent the actual design of the Phone (2).

RELATED:

Nothing Phone (2) bags TDRA certification before rumored launch in July

Nothing Phone (2) is expected to launch in July. As the launch date draws closer, the phone is anticipated to make its presence known in various certification platforms’ databases. Recently, the smartphone has obtained certification from the UAE’s TDRA certification platform.

The TDRA certification does not reveal anything new about the Phone (2). As can be seen in the screengrab, it reiterates that the device has the “A065” model number. To recall, the original Nothing Phone (1) has the A063 model number.

Nothing Phone (2): What’s known so far

Gradually, Nothing is disclosing the specifications of the upcoming Nothing Phone (2). The company has officially announced that the device will boast a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen. Speculation suggests that this display might support an FHD+ resolution along with a refresh rate of 120Hz.

Another confirmed detail is that the Nothing Phone (2) will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset. Previous sightings on Geekbench revealed that the device will come equipped with 12 GB of RAM and will operate on Android 13.

For a streamlined and minimalist user experience, the phone will feature Nothing OS 2.0, which will be overlaid on top of the Android operating system. Nothing has committed to providing three major Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates for the Phone (2).

The Nothing Phone (2) will be equipped with a 4,700mAh battery, as confirmed by the brand. However, information about the fast charging capabilities remains undisclosed. Additionally, specific details regarding the camera setup of the Nothing Phone (2) are yet to be revealed. The device is made out from sustainable materials and has an aluminium frame.

In related news, a recent leak revealed the design of the Phone (2) through CAD renders. However, shortly after the images surfaced, Nothing founder and CEO, Carl Pei, took to Twitter and referred to them as “fake.” This tweet strongly suggests that the leaked images do not accurately represent the actual design of the Phone (2).

RELATED:

iPhone Subreddit Goes Dark in Protest of Unreasonable Reddit API Costs

The internet is still feeling the effects of the paid API implementation that was introduced after Twitter was purchased by Elon Musk. Reddit also recently made a similar decision, announcing its new API costs for developers. These changes are having a negative impact on third-party apps. In protest of Reddit’s new API costs, the iPhone subreddit, one of the most popular Apple-related communities on the internet, is going dark indefinitely. This means that the subreddit will be closed to new posts and comments. Here are the details…

Reddit API Costs Lead to iPhone Subreddit Blackout

The iPhone subreddit, one of the most popular Apple-related communities on the internet, is going dark indefinitely in protest of Reddit’s new API costs. The change, which was announced in May, would require third-party developers to pay $20 million per year to continue using Reddit’s API. This has led to the closure of several popular apps, including Apollo.

The mods of the iPhone subreddit announced the decision to go dark in a post on the subreddit. In the post, they explained that they felt the new API costs were “unreasonable” and that they would not be able to continue operating the subreddit under the new terms.

Hi everyone,

We apologise for the back and forth messaging here, but we just wanted to update our community on our intentions to make r/iPhone private (from restricted) in the next 24 hours. This follows on from our most recent announcement made a couple hours ago where we took the subreddit restricted (meaning, the subreddit would still be visible but no new posts would come through). Please read that post too, for the full context on the situation.

This was not an easy decision to make, given a variety of factors, but it’s one we feel comfortable making. Anything that was posted before the restricted mode came into effect earlier today will essentially be the final front page of our community before we privatise the subreddit entirely. In the (somewhat unlikely) scenario that Reddit’s leadership has a change of direction that sees the reversal the recent API policy change, we will reopen the subreddit, but until this happens, r/iPhone will be unavailable for use in any capacity whatsoever. Many other subreddits are doing the same, and we support them for taking a stand.

It remains to be seen how Reddit will respond to the protests. The company has not yet commented on the issue.

RELATED:

(via)

Will Apple’s “Vision Pro” Require a Name Change in China? Huawei Registered the Same Trademark Four Years Ago

If you own a global company, you have to be careful about the names of your products. In different countries, the same name can have different meanings or be trademarked by other companies. This can lead to copyright and competition lawsuits. Fortunately, we do not own such a company and therefore we don’t have these types of problems, but Apple does. Most recently, the company faced the risk of having to change the name of its new mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, in China. This is because Huawei registered the same trademark four years ago. Here are the details…

Huawei Trademark Could Force Apple to Rebrand Vision Pro Headset in China

Apple recently announced its first Mixed Reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro, which is set to debut in the United States early next year. However, a recent search of the China Trademark Network reveals that as early as May 16, 2019, Huawei had successfully registered the Vision Pro trademark, a clear four years ahead of Apple’s product announcement.

It is understood that the registered number of the Vision Pro trademark is 38242888, and it falls under the international class 9. The trademark’s exclusive rights period is from November 28, 2021, to November 27, 2031, with approved usage for products and services including LCD TVs, head-mounted virtual reality devices, radio equipment, and more.

This suggests that Apple may not be able to use the name “Vision Pro” for its product within China and may have to consider a rebrand when launching the Apple Vision Pro in the country. It is worth noting that Huawei’s registration of the Vision Pro trademark is not directly related to Apple. Huawei has two product lines related to the term “Vision”. These include Huawei’s first smart viewing glasses, Vision Glass, and the Huawei Vision Smart Screen series. The Vision Pro trademark may have been registered in anticipation of future additions to the Vision Smart Screen series.

Possible scenarios for Apple

There are a few possible scenarios that could play out for Apple in this situation. One possibility is that Apple will simply rebrand its headset for the Chinese market. This would likely be the simplest and most straightforward solution, and it would allow Apple to avoid any potential legal issues. Another possibility is that Apple will try to negotiate with Huawei to use the Vision Pro trademark in China. This could be a more complex and time-consuming process, but it could potentially allow Apple to keep the name that it has already chosen for its headset.

Finally, it is also possible that Apple will simply decide not to launch its headset in China at all. This would be a significant loss for Apple, as the Chinese market is one of the largest and most important in the world. However, it would also avoid any potential legal problems.

RELATED:

(source)

Apple’s New Toolkit Makes it Faster and Easier to Port Games to Mac

Apple’s WWDC 2023 event last week was a big deal in the tech world. The company announced a number of new products and features, including its new mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro. But one of the biggest surprises was the announcement of game support for Mac. This is a big deal for Mac users, who have long complained about the lack of good games on the platform. Apple has finally addressed this issue by releasing a tool to help developers port Windows games to Mac. Here are the details…

Apple Releases Tool to Help Developers Port Windows Games to Mac

Apple has made good on its promise to Mac users who want to play games on their devices. The company has released a new toolkit that makes it easier for game developers to port Windows games to Mac. The toolkit, called the Game Porting Toolkit, provides an emulation environment that allows developers to run their existing Windows games on macOS without making any changes to the code.

This means that developers can quickly test how their games will perform on Mac before they commit to porting them. The Game Porting Toolkit is currently available in beta on the Apple Developer website. Apple wants to make it easy for game developers to bring their games to Mac. To do this, the toolkit includes a new Metal shader converter that can automatically convert Windows game shaders and graphics code to work on Macs with Apple silicon.

This can significantly reduce the time it takes to port a game to Mac, from months to just a few days. Developers interested in porting Windows games to macOS can find more information on Apple’s website. The release of the Game Porting Toolkit is a welcome move for game developers who have been looking for a way to bring their games to the Mac.

RELATED:

(via)

Hilo One unveiled as the world’s most intelligent standing e-scooter

British startup Hilo has launched what it claims is the world’s most intelligent e-scooter. The Hilo One is a standing e-scooter with lots of tech features that guarantee improved safety on the spin. British startup Hilo was co-founded by former Aston Martin CEO, Andy Palmer.

Hilo One e-scooter

The Hilo One features a similar collision warning system as used in cars. It uses computer vision AI to alert the rider of impending dangers. This is achieved through visual, audible, and sensory feedback in the scooter’s handlebars. Palmer has also been previously Nissan’s COO and has helped to drive the adoption of EV technology in the UK. Palmer says the Hilo One addresses the major safety challenges of e-scooters squarely.

Hilo One e-scooter

The Hilo One was showcased at the Micromobility Conference in Amsterdam and it reflects a sleek and innovative e-scooter. The Hilo One has a regulatory speed limit of 25km/h thanks to its twin 350W motors and a riding range of 40km. It can either be charged at home or through an accompanying in-car charger. The Hilo One is also compatible with Android Auto and allows for navigation and range information sharing between it and a car.

Hilo One e-scooter

The Hilo One has a 31cm front wheel which helps to easily navigate bumpy roads and ensure robust handling while on the ride. Its full perimeter lighting fully illuminates the e-scooter for enhanced night visibility. The lights will flash when other commuters get dangerously close. The Hilo One’s onboard computer is also configured to recognize Unit 1 helmet use. Its built-in control unit also integrates with an EV and can share information on charging stations and navigation bidirectionally.

The Hilo One is a foldable e-scooter with lots of awesome features

The Hilo One standing e-scooter has a price tag of €2,000 (~$2,150). Hilo has started accepting orders for the Hilo One but deliveries will be made in 2024. The Hilo One could subsequently make its entry into other markets.

RELATED:

(via)

Lucid Takes Aim at China’s EV Market with Plans to Sell Imported Cars and Locally Manufactured Vehicles

The global electric vehicle market is growing rapidly, which is creating new opportunities for manufacturers all over the world. For example, Tesla recently announced that it will enter the Turkey market. Now, Lucid, a U.S. luxury electric vehicle manufacturer, is preparing to enter the world’s largest auto market, China. Lucid plans to sell imported cars in China, and it is also considering local production in the country. Here are the details…

The Chinese EV Market: Why It’s So Important for Lucid

While we often talk about affordable electric vehicles, there are also many premium brands on the market. In China, BYD’s F brand is one example. In the United States, Lucid is another. This luxury EV maker is now preparing to enter the world’s largest auto market: China. Lucid’s head of China operations, Zhu Jiang, confirmed the company’s plans on Thursday. He said that Lucid is “preparing to enter the Chinese market” and that the company is “considering local production in China.”

Lucid electric vehicle

In addition to selling its cars in China, Lucid is also planning to manufacture them there. This will help the company reduce production costs and eliminate the need to ship cars from the United States. These are both positive developments for Lucid, which has been struggling financially lately. The company recently lowered its production forecast for 2023 and reported lower-than-expected revenue. CEO Peter Rawlinson cited rising interest rates as a challenge to the market.

Lucid is planning to raise $3 billion through a stock offering to resolve its financial issues. This will help the company, but it will still face stiff competition in China. China is the world’s largest EV market, and it is already home to several major EV brands, such as BYD, Nio, and Xpeng. Tesla is also a major player in the Chinese market.

Lucid will need to offer a competitive product and price if it wants to succeed in China. The company will also need to build a strong brand and establish a strong dealer network. The ultimate winner in the Chinese EV market will be the manufacturer that can offer the best product, price, and customer experience.

RELATED:

(via)

WhatsApp is working on a new floating action button design

WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, has recently started rolling out a series of updates that indicate a comprehensive redesign of its application. The first clue came with the release of WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.10.6, which introduced a redesigned interface featuring a bottom navigation bar. This change suggests that WhatsApp is committed to revamping the entire app in small, incremental steps.

WhatsApp designed
Illustration: Soumyakanti

Further confirmation of the redesign was found in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.12.3 update. This update showcased a new style for toggles, aligning with the Material Design 3 guidelines. It seems that WhatsApp is dedicated to following these guidelines in its redesign efforts, paying attention to even the smallest details.

In the most recent WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.12.15 update, another significant change was discovered. WhatsApp plans to revamp the floating action button, which allows users to quickly initiate new chats. The new floating action button will feature a square shape with slightly rounded edges, consistent with the Material Design 3 guidelines. This redesign will not only apply to the floating action button but also to buttons within the calls and status tabs.

Whatsapp redesigned floating button

The redesign of the floating action buttons is currently under development and will be released to beta testers in a future update of the app. This update addresses a long-standing user request for a refreshed interface, demonstrating that WhatsApp has taken user feedback into account.

In addition to the interface redesign, WhatsApp is working on several other exciting features. The app’s beta version introduces a high-quality photo-sharing option, allowing users to share HD photos without losing any quality. The latest beta update also brings a redesigned emoji keyboard, enhancing the visual experience of expressing emotions through emojis.

Furthermore, WhatsApp is actively developing a screen-sharing feature for Android phones. This feature will enable users to share their screens with others during conversations, enhancing collaboration and support possibilities.

RELATED:

(Source)

Samsung W24 & W24 Flip luxury foldable smartphones visit 3C certification website

For the past few years around the month of October, Samsung has launched its W series foldable smartphones in China. And it looks like this year won’t be any different as the Samsung W24 series smartphones have already cleared China’s 3C certification.

Samsung

The Chinese 3C authority has granted approval for two upcoming Samsung smartphones, namely the SM-W9024 and SM-W7024. According to the listing, Samsung will provide an EP-TA800 charger that supports 11V / 2.25A charging for both devices. This indicates that both models are anticipated to offer 25W charging capabilities. We will likely witness the launch of the Samsung W24 and Samsung W24 Flip, which could correspond to the SM-W9024 and SM-W7024 models respectively, around October.

Samsung
Samsung W23 5G and Samsung W23 Flip

These devices are set to be premium rebranded versions of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5, respectively. Typically, Samsung collaborates with China Telecom for the launch of these phones. Like previous W-series models, such as the Galaxy W23, the W24, and W24 Flip will be sold with the aim of raising funds for charitable purposes. The pricing and detailed specifications of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 are still undisclosed since they are yet to be officially released.

In related news, Samsung has recently revealed its plans to hold the launch events for the highly anticipated Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 smartphones. The Korean launch event is scheduled to take place in the last week of July. However, it’s worth noting that the launch events for the US and Canada markets are slated for August 11.

RELATED:

(via)

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE gets battery certification, launch imminent?

Samsung may be nearing an announcement of the release of the Galaxy S23 FE. The Galaxy S23 FE has gotten its battery certification from Safety Korea. The battery model that was certified bears the model number EB-BS711ABY which aligns with the SM-S711 identifier for the Galaxy S23 FE earlier seen.

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE’s battery cell is manufactured by Amperex although its capacity was not stated in the certification listing. If previous rumors are to be countenanced, then we expect a 4,500mAh battery for the smartphone with support for 25W charging. The power efficiency of the smartphone’s processor and the background applications are important variables in battery efficiency.

The Galaxy S23 is also rumored to be equipped with the Exynos 2200 chipset globally and 6/8GB RAM or 128/256GB storage configurations. The choice of Samsung Exynos 2200 chipset for the Galaxy S23 FE could raise concerns about performance and battery life. There have been several issues mentioned about the Exynos chipsets. The smartphone will likely feature a 50MP main camera and an overall decent camera setup.

The upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5 flagships will be unveiled in the last week of July. However, it is expected that the Galaxy S23 FE will be launched before the new Samsung foldable. It is therefore expected that Samsung will release the official details of the Galaxy S23 FE before the end of July 2023. Pricing information for the Galaxy S23 FE will be provided as its launch draws nearer.

RELATED:

(source)

GoChess with a fully robotic smart board and self-moving pieces announced

The GoChess smart board has been announced on Kickstarter and it brings magic and technology to the age-old classical game. It features a fully robotic smart board with self-moving chess pieces and color-coded coaching lights. The GoChess also has a companion app that offers online connectivity and more resources to enjoy the beautiful game to the fullest.

GoChess

The GoChess is manufactured by Particula and the Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign was launched late last month. GoChess promises to revolutionize the way the game of chess is played and learned. It is arguably the most advanced and powerful chessboard ever created. It offers loads of analytical resources via AI and other sources.

One of the major problems of learning and improving chess is the difficulty in getting relevant learning resources. In addition, online chess playing can be time-consuming to set up the game and get opponents. The GoChess seeks to fill this void with its excellent resources and functionality. It is an all-in-one solution that combines the fully robotic board, color-coded coaching lights, self-moving pieces, AI support, and a seamless connection to the online chess community.

GoChess

Particula says GoChess offers the full complement of the transformative power of gameplay in chess. It says the GoChess is more than a chessboard and introduces a new way for players at all levels to improve their game. It blends cutting-edge technology with timeless gameplay using AI. The GoChess smart chessboard has a Bluetooth (BLE) rechargeable battery while its multiple magnetic sensors help track the movement of the pieces. The lighting system of the GoChess is also colorful and user-configurable.

Using the GoChess proprietary mobile app, you can play online, offline, or with an AI. You can connect to famous chess platforms like chess.com and Lichess.com. It offers a simple design with three versions including the GoChess Lite and the original model.

GoChess

Particula has an impressive Kickstarter footprint and expects the GoChess to also be successful. The GoChess is Particula’s third campaign, attracting more than 300,000 customers and $1.3 million in funding. The GoChess pricing starts from $199 until the campaign ends on July 13. At the last check, over $1.25 million in pledges have been garnered by the GoChess.

RELATED:

Sony Xperia Pro-I II renders leak, could feature two 1″ sensors on the back

Sony has recently introduced the Xperia 1 V smartphone to the global market, serving as the successor to the flagship Xperia 1 IV. This new device showcases the latest Exmor T stacked sensors for enhanced camera capabilities. Furthermore, it appears that Sony is also gearing up for the launch of the anticipated successor to the Xperia Pro-I, expected to be named the Xperia Pro-I II.

Xperia

Recently, Sumahodigest leaked renders of the highly anticipated Sony Xperia Pro-I II. The leaked images reveal the presence of two prominent cameras, sparking speculation that the device might be equipped with two 1.0″ Type sensors. In comparison, its predecessor featured a single sensor for the main shooter.

Xperia

Adding to the excitement, there are rumors circulating that Sony is planning to release a future smartphone equipped with a “double-layer transistor stacked pixel sensor” that will surpass the size of the already impressive 1.0″ Type sensor. This is the same technology Sony recently debuted on the Xperia 1 V smartphone, naming it the Exmor T stacked sensor.

Xperia

Sony has implemented a unique approach by separating the photodiode and transistor, placing them on separate layers that are stacked together. This innovative design enables independent adjustments to the size of each component, leading to substantial improvements in light capture and reduced noise levels. Sony claims that the new camera sensor can deliver twice the performance in low-light conditions compared to its predecessor.

While it remains uncertain whether this advanced sensor will be featured in the upcoming Xperia Pro-I II, the possibility has piqued curiosity among enthusiasts.

RELATED:

(Source)