Spotify CEO Teases a “Your Offline Mix” Playlist Feature

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Jun 10, 2023

In a recent tweet, the CEO of Spotify, the world’s leading music streaming platform, unveiled an exciting new feature called “Your Offline Mix.” This innovative addition aims to revolutionize how users enjoy music, especially focusing towards those moments when internet access might be limited. With this groundbreaking feature, Spotify is taking a bold step forward, ensuring that users can have an uninterrupted musical experience regardless of their online connectivity.

You can expect “Your Offline Mix” to be available anytime, regardless of Internet Connectivity

“Your Offline Mix” is a specially curated playlist that combines the best of both worlds: personalization and offline accessibility. Spotify’s algorithms come into play as it analyzes users’ listening habits, musical preferences, and favorite genres to craft a unique compilation tailored to their tastes. Whether you’re on a plane, underground in a subway, or simply in an area with poor connectivity, this feature will seemingly provide a seamless listening experience.

This feature will also hold meaning for individuals in remote areas or regions with limited internet connectivity. Whether it’s during long journeys, outdoor adventures, or simply a desire to disconnect from the digital world, “Your Offline Mix” is made for users who want to enjoy their favorite music regardless of their location. It fosters a sense of freedom and flexibility, as listeners can indulge in their favorite tracks without being tethered to, and chased by an internet connection.

Cross-Device Synchronization would be a cool feature that could accompany “Your Offline Mix” in the future, where users don’t necessarily need to manually download their Offline Mix, instead, their Offline Mix Playlists automatically sync between their laptops, phones etc. The possibilities are endless. More information regarding “Your Offline Mix” should be available fairly soon, so stay tuned for more news from Spotify.

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Foxconn & Samsung Factories in Vietnam Hit by Power Outages

By

Anubhav

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Jun 10, 2023

Usually, factories do not necessarily require their own power plants, but they do need a reliable power supply. Most factories connect to the local electrical grid provided by utility companies, paying for the electricity consumed based on their usage. However, some factories, particularly those in remote areas or with high energy demands, may choose to have their own power generation systems, such as diesel or gas generators, solar panels, wind turbines, or combined heat and power (CHP) plants. Having dedicated power plants allows them to ensure a stable energy supply, especially when the grid is unreliable or insufficient. The decision depends on factors like cost-effectiveness, resource availability, grid reliability, and environmental considerations. It seems like Foxconn may look into investing in a power plant for their factory in Vietnam, since it has been running into some power troubles lately.

The companies were contacted by the Govt. which asked them to lower Energy Usage

In a recent report by the Wall Street Journal, Vietnam has been grappling with an energy crisis due to several factors, including extreme heat, surging electricity consumption, and dwindling water levels in hydropower stations. As a result, the country has implemented a rolling blackout plan, adversely impacting the production capacity of major factories belonging to industry giants such as Samsung, Foxconn, Canon, and Luxshare.

The affected factories primarily reside in the northern Vietnamese provinces of Bac Ninh and Bac Giang. Since the morning of June 5, power outages have been experienced in at least five industrial areas, causing disruptions to operations. Foxconn, with its factories located in Bac Ninh and Bac Giang, along with Samsung Electronics, Goertek, and AAC Technologies, has received requests from the Vietnam Electricity Company to change their operational schedules or reduce electricity usage during peak hours.

Despite the challenges posed by the power cuts, sources indicate that Foxconn has managed to maintain normal operations. In a positive move to mitigate future energy-related issues, Foxconn has announced plans to construct its own power plant in 2024, which would provide the company with greater control over its energy supply and reinforce its operations.

The energy crisis in Vietnam serves as a reminder of the critical importance of a reliable power supply for industrial production. It highlights the vulnerability of factories reliant on external power grids and the potential benefits of establishing dedicated power generation systems. As companies navigate these challenges, they are compelled to explore sustainable solutions to ensure uninterrupted operations in a not-so-distant energy-deficient future.

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Toyota Unveils Hydrogen-Powered Concept Car, Fueling Excitement for Future Le Mans Races

By

Anubhav

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Jun 10, 2023

Hydrogen cars offer several advantages over EVs, such as faster refuelling times, typically comparable to refuelling a conventional gasoline vehicle, and longer driving ranges due to the higher energy density of hydrogen. Additionally, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles provide a similar driving experience to traditional internal combustion engines, making them more familiar to consumers. However, hydrogen cars face challenges including the limited availability of hydrogen fueling infrastructure, higher production and storage costs, and the need for energy-intensive hydrogen production. As the automotive industry strives to reduce emissions, Toyota has unveiled its latest innovation on the eve of the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Toyota GR H2 Racing concept, a hydrogen-fueled Le Mans prototype race car, hints at the possibilities of a hydrogen-powered future on the racetrack. Let’s explore this concept and its potential impact on the racing world.

Toyota is collaborating with Yamaha to design a V8 Hydrogen Engine

Since 2021, Toyota has been competing in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series with a Corolla-based race car featuring a hydrogen engine. Although burning hydrogen produces zero CO2 emissions, addressing nitrogen oxide emissions remains a challenge. Toyota plans to tackle this issue by employing urea-based selective catalytic reduction technology, similar to what is used in modern diesel engines. Furthermore, the limited availability of hydrogen fueling stations poses a huge hurdle, but it seems like the industry is actively working to expand the infrastructure.

While specifics about the engine used in the GR H2 Racing concept were not disclosed, Toyota has been collaborating with Yamaha to develop a V-8 hydrogen engine. Yamaha’s expertise, previously demonstrated in the Lexus LFA supercar‘s V-10 engine, adds further credibility to this bold endeavour.

Toyota emphasizes that the GR H2 Racing concept extends beyond mere styling exercise. The World Endurance Championship, renowned for the iconic Le Mans race, plans to introduce a hydrogen-powered class in 2026. By implementing Balance of Performance rules, the championship aims to ensure fair competition among hydrogen-powered and fuel-cell cars.

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Reddit CEO Talks about API Pricing Plans in Recently Hosted AMA Thread

By

Anubhav

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Jun 10, 2023

Yesterday, Gizmochina posted about a Reddit AMA (Ask me Anything) that was hosted earlier today. Reddit CEO, Steve Huffman participated in the discussion to address the controversy surrounding the company’s recently announced API changes that look similar to Twitter’s API changes introduced only last month. These changes have resulted in several popular third-party Reddit apps announcing their imminent shutdown. While Huffman promised improvements to Reddit’s own app, he remained firm on pricing and other pressing issues, causing further dissatisfaction among the Reddit community. This was sort of expected since the company CEO and others clearly have the power to ignore whatever questions they want.

A clash between Huffman and Selig (Apollo CEO) also came to light during the AMA

Huffman stated that Reddit needs to be a self-sustaining business and can no longer subsidize commercial entities requiring extensive data use. As a result, some apps like Apollo, Reddit is Fun, and Sync have decided to shut down due to the unfavorable pricing structure that doesn’t align with the applications themselves. While Huffman acknowledged some missteps in the API rollout, he very clearly evaded any questions about the company’s relationship with third-party developers, frustrating a lot of redditors.

Numerous developers voiced their frustration online, claiming that Reddit had ignored their attempts to contact the company, despite using the recommended communication channels. Huffman apologized for the oversight and assured developers that the company would respond to their inquiries.

During the AMA, Huffman also accused Christian Selig, the developer of Apollo, of threatening the company. Selig promptly debunked the claim with an audio clip of a phone call with a Reddit representative. Huffman defended the accusation, criticizing Selig’s behavior without providing any form of evidence. The situation further strained the already tense relationship between Reddit and third-party developers.

Huffman did acknowledge the need for improvement in Reddit’s own app, specifically in moderation tools and accessibility features. These areas are frequently cited by Redditors who prefer third-party apps over the native option. Huffman also explained that the restriction on sexually explicit content in third-party apps was due to evolving regulatory and legal concerns.

One significant issue that Huffman did not address was the exorbitant pricing of the API, which developers deemed unaffordable. Additionally, he remained silent on the impending blackout planned by thousands of subreddits in protest of the API changes.

The Reddit AMA concluded with Huffman responding to only 14 questions. All the responses from the Reddit team were heavily downvoted within the AMA thread. This negative reception highlighted the already-apparent dissatisfaction of the community with the company’s handling of the situation.

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Logitech Says Goodbye to Blue Microphones, Yeti and Astro to Live On

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Jun 10, 2023

Logitech is one of the first companies that comes to mind when it comes to computer accessories. The company has a wide range of products that includes keyboards, mouse, headphones, and webcams. In addition to these, Logitech has also made investments in the industry, acquiring companies like Astro and Blue. However, according to recent reports, Logitech is planning to discontinue the Blue microphone brand and will sell the Yeti and Astro products under the Logitech G brand. Here are the details…

Logitech to Discontinue Blue Microphones Brand, Yeti and Astro to Continue Under Logitech G

Blue, a well-respected brand in the audio industry, is being discontinued by Logitech. Instead, the company will sell its Blue products under the Logitech G brand, which is aimed at gamers and streamers. Blue Microphones is known for its high-quality microphones, including the Yeti. However, Logitech believes that it can better serve its customers by consolidating its audio brands under the Logitech G umbrella.

The Yeti microphone will be rebranded as the Logitech Yeti and sold under the Logitech G brand. Other Blue products, like the Snowball microphone and the Blue VO!CE audio processing software, will also be sold under this brand. Logitech has also announced that it will be launching a new Astro product in the near future. This new product will also be sold under the Logitech G brand.

“We are committed to providing our customers with the best possible experience,” said Logitech CEO Bracken Darrell. “By consolidating our audio brands, we can offer a wider range of products and services that are better tailored to the needs of gamers and streamers.”

The discontinuation of the Blue Microphones brand is a surprising move, but it is one that Logitech believes is necessary to better serve its customers. The company is confident that its customers will be happy with the new Logitech G products, which will offer a wider range of features and functionality.

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New Samsung Kiosk with Windows operating system launched in Korea

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 9, 2023

Samsung Electronics has launched a new version of the Samsung Kiosk in its home market in South Korea. The new Samsung Kiosk runs on the Windows operating system and offers an all-in-one service platform. The Samsung Kiosk offers product selection, ordering, and payment. It can be deployed in restaurants, cafes, pharmacies, and a host of other applications.

The Samsung Kiosk was originally released in 2021 and ran on Tizen OS. The range of options for the model has now been expanded with Windows OS support for the refreshed Kiosk. The product has a model name KMC-W and is based on Windows 10 IoT Enterprise. It has a 24-inch touch display and is equipped with the 11th-generation Intel Core processor. The processor offers stability and improved performance while memory/ storage is offered in the form of 256GB SSD and 8GB Mounted memory.

The Samsung Kiosk offers all the essential functions of a kiosk in a single device. Content management and payment can be delivered on the kiosk which also has a receipt printer, QR/ barcode scanner, NFC, and Wi-Fi support. The new Samsung Kiosk comes in three variants namely table type, stand type, and wall-mounted type. It can therefore be used in a wide variety of scenarios and environments.

The new Samsung Kiosk has already garnered international acclaim. It was selected as the best product at Integrated System Europe (ISE) 2023. To put the achievement in perspective, ISE is Europe’s largest display exhibition.

Samsung will supply 1,000 units of the kiosk to Yanolja Cloud, a global travel solutions company. The Samsung Kiosk is expected to have a global presence in a variety of places like hotels, restaurants, and leisure places. Yanolja Cloud says Samsung Kiosks have been supplied to more than 60 of its partners in 35 countries. There are no details yet on the global retail plans and pricing of the new Samsung Kiosk.

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Google Quietly Pushes New YouTube UI That Puts YouTube Shorts onto the Top of Your Subscription Feed

By

Leo Wong De Quan

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Jun 9, 2023

Last month, Google announced that it was killing the under-utilised “YouTube Stories” feature on YouTube and revealed its intention to shift focus onto newer and more popular features like YouTube Shorts and Community posts. And it seems that the focus shift is apparent starting today as Google has quietly pushed out a new user interface change for gradually all users in its latest update to YouTube.

Previously only pushed out to selected YouTube users as beta-testing, the new UI change for all YouTube users puts the YouTube Shorts section on the top of your subscription feed, whereby it is ranked second in priority, right after one of the latest videos from your subscribed channels. The change is applicable and seen as both the desktop site of YouTube, as well as the YouTube application on Android and iOS.

New UI Change on YouTube Android App with Shorts under Subscriptions tab as well. Source: Leo Wong De Quan/Gizmochina

The YouTube Shorts section previously only appeared on the recommendations tab and the dedicated Shorts Tab, but this new UI change means Shorts will also appear in your subscriptions from now on. Touted as a competitor to TikTok and Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts fall into the category of short-form vertical videos that loops back onto themselves. Many users called Shorts addictive and they can sink many hours scrolling for more content.

Although the popularity of YouTube Shorts has grown over time, the same could not be said for YouTube Stories, a feature that is copied from Instagram and Snapchat whereby content creators can post videos that will be automatically deleted in 24 hours. The official discontinuation of the Stories feature has been announced by YouTube, scheduled for June 26. Post this date, creators will no longer have the option to share stories on their respective pages. All stories made before this deadline will persist on the creators’ profiles for the customary seven days. However, come Monday, July 3, the YouTube platform will be devoid of any stories.

The YouTube user interface has gone through several revisions over the past 5 years, from introducing video playback speed configurations to removing the dislike button on videos, the platform has always stirred up conversation about the changes it makes to its website every time. Whether this change is a welcome one or an adverse one in the community remains to be seen and discussed by the Internet, but one thing is for certain, the YouTube you are using today is not the same as it was 5 years ago.

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Epson BrightLink 770Fi Interactive UST Laser Display with 4,100 lumens peak brightness Unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 9, 2023

Epson has announced its BrightLink 770Fi interactive ultra-short throw lamp-free laser display. The BrightLink 770Fi will be showcased at the upcoming InfoComm 2023 event in Florida.

Epson BrightLink 770Fi Interactive UST Laser Display

The interactive digital whiteboard comes with a versatile design. It can function as a whiteboard and a projector. It is also compatible with a wide array of input devices from smartphones, iPads, PCs, and so on. It offers a large, easy-to-read display for captivating interactive classroom sessions.

The Epson BrightLink 770Fi is a digital whiteboard designed for use in classrooms. It supports various software applications including Office 365 and Google Workspace. You can draw, print, send emails, save, and share information with other compatible BrightLink projectors without connecting to a computer. It has a peak brightness of 4,100 lumens from its 3-chip 3LCD design. The light source has an expected life cycle of 20,000 hours and the display has 1080p full HD resolution.

You can use the Epson BrightLink 770Fi to throw color images up to 100 inches and it supports wireless connectivity. You can cast content on the projector from iOS, Android, Mac, PC, and Chromebook devices. The projector offers two aspect ratio options namely 16:9 and 21:9.

Furthermore, you can split the screen into four parts and use dual pens and finger touch controls (optional). The Epson BrightLink 770Fi Interactive Lamp-Free Laser Display is priced at $2,615 in the United States. There are no global availability and pricing details yet for the new Epson digital whiteboard.

The InfoComm 2023 event will also see Epson showcasing several of its other new offerings. These include Epson PowerLite 810E, PowerLite L series, and Epson Pro series of projectors.

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Turns out password sharing was holding Netflix back, sees 102% new sign-ups after crackdown

By

Anurag

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Jun 9, 2023

Netflix recently ended password sharing to boost revenue in a saturated streaming market. Although this move has displeased users, it appears to be benefiting the business. The password crackdown has just begun in the US, yet the company is already witnessing a significant increase in new sign-ups. According to reports, Netflix has gained the highest number of new sign-ups in at least four and a half years since implementing the password-sharing crackdown. Here are the details.

Netflix gains the highest number of new sign-ups in four and a half years

According to the data analytics company Antenna, Netflix saw the number of new subscribers skyrocket in the four days after it put an end to password sharing in the US on May 23. During this period, Netflix experienced a significant surge in daily signups, reaching an average of 73,000, which represents an impressive 102 percent rise compared to its previous 60-day average.

netflix-puts-an-end-to-the-password-sharing

Moreover, on both May 26th and May 27th, the streaming service added a remarkable 100,000 new subscribers. Antenna says these are the four single biggest days for US signups since it began tracking this data in 2019.

Netflix recently announced that it will start charging for account sharing in the United States. The media streaming service requires users to pay an additional $8 per month for each user who doesn’t live in the same household as the primary account holder. However, only the Standard Plan and Premium Plan support adding additional members, while the Basic and Standard Plans with Ads are yet to add support for this feature. Additionally, users in the UK will also need to pay £4.99 more each month for every extra member added to their account.

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Global Launch Sale: Get Massive Discount on the Oukitel OKT3 10.5-inch Tablet on AliExpress

By

Joane

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Jun 9, 2023

If you are searching for a tablet that combines impressive features with a sleek design then look no further than the OUKITEL OKT3. This 10.5-inch tablet is packed with powerful hardware, a stunning display, and a host of features that will take your tablet experience to new heights. Let’s delve into what makes the OUKITEL OKT3 a standout choice in the crowded tablet market.

Price and Availability:

WHERE TO BUY

OUKITEL OKT3 Tablet at $149.99 @AliExpress

The global launch of the OUKITEL OKT3 Tablet is scheduled for June 12, 2023, and it will be exclusively available on AliExpress. This exciting event will offer customers a fantastic opportunity to take advantage of significant discounts on this remarkable tablet. For a limited time during the world premiere sale, the OUKITEL OKT3 Tablet can be purchased for an incredibly low price of $149.99. Please note that this sale starts on June 12 and ends on June 18, 2023.

At the heart of the OUKITEL OKT3 lies the UNISOC T616 Octa-core processor, which gives it lightning-fast performance and smooth multitasking capabilities. With 8GB of RAM, this tablet can handle your most demanding apps and games with ease, allowing you to breeze through tasks effortlessly. Combined with a massive 256GB of internal storage expandable up to 2TB, you’ll never have to worry about running out of space for your files, photos, and media.

OUKITEL OKT3 features a 10.51-inch Full HD+ display. With a resolution of 1200 x 1920 pixels, every image, video, and game comes to life with vibrant colors and sharp details.
To capture memories in HD, the tablet comes with a 16MP rear camera. Whether you’re capturing scenic landscapes or snapping quick shots of your loved ones, this tablet’s camera ensures every photo is Instagram-worthy. Plus, with an 8MP front camera, you can take stunning selfies and enjoy high-quality video calls with friends and family.

With an impressive 8250mAh battery, the OUKITEL OKT3 keeps you powered up throughout the day. Whether you’re working, streaming, or gaming, you can enjoy uninterrupted usage without worrying about running out of battery. The device gives you 750 hours of standby and 5.5 hours of streaming on a single charge.

Stay connected wherever you go with the OUKITEL OKT3’s advanced connectivity options. With Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth HID support, you can easily pair your favorite wireless headphones, speakers, and accessories for a truly immersive audio experience. Additionally, the tablet features GPS+Glonass+Beidou+Galileo navigation systems, ensuring accurate positioning and reliable navigation on your adventures.

The OUKITEL OKT3 combines power and elegance in a slim and lightweight design. With a height of 246.4mm, a width of 161.51mm, and a thickness of just 7.4mm, this tablet is incredibly portable, making it easy to slip into your bag and take it with you wherever you go.

OUKITEL OKT3, with its powerful hardware, stunning display, high-resolution cameras, long-lasting battery, and advanced connectivity options, has everything you need to stay productive, entertained, and connected.

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

Samsung unveils the impressive 98-inch Q80Z TV starting at 39,999 yuan (~$5,611)

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 9, 2023

Samsung has launched its latest flagship television model, the remarkable 98-inch Q80Z TV. Designed to elevate the home entertainment experience, this colossal display promises an unparalleled level of visual brilliance, immersive audio, and advanced features that will transform the way we enjoy our favorite content.

The Samsung Q80Z TV boasts an awe-inspiring 98-inch giant screen which brings content to life with its expansive and immersive display area. This mammoth screen size offers viewers an incredibly immersive viewing experience, transporting them into the heart of their favorite movies, TV shows, and games. The integrated slim design of the Q80Z TV adds a touch of elegance, with its thinnest point measuring an astonishing 1.8cm.

At the core of the Samsung Q80Z TV lies its cutting-edge technology. The panel features a full-array direct-in backlight, ensuring exceptional picture quality and contrast. The color accuracy has been rigorously tested and certified with PANTONE certification, guaranteeing vibrant and true-to-life visuals. From vibrant hues to deep blacks, every scene is beautifully rendered with precision.

The Q80Z TV is powered by Samsung’s latest neuron quantum dot 4K processor, delivering remarkable image processing capabilities. This advanced processor optimizes picture quality by analyzing and enhancing every frame in real time, resulting in stunning clarity, vivid colors, and enhanced details. With the new Tizen operating system, users will enjoy a seamless and intuitive smart TV experience, free from any disruptive advertisements during boot-up.

The Samsung Q80Z TV equally incorporates an exceptional audio system with Dolby Atmos technology at the fore. Additionally, Samsung’s Q Symphony 3.0 technology creates an immersive soundscape by seamlessly synchronizing the TV’s speakers with compatible Samsung soundbars, delivering a truly captivating audio experience.

Samsung Q80Z TV Pricing & Availability

As for the price, the Samsung Q80Z smart TV carries a hefty price tag of 39,999 yuan (~$5,611). To celebrate the launch of the smart TV, the company is offering exciting gifts for those who pre-register on their official website in China.

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Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra users with Wi-Fi issues can upgrade to Xiaomi 12 Pro for free

By

Anurag

-

Jun 9, 2023

Users have been reporting Wi-Fi issues with a number of Xiaomi smartphones in India, and today the company recognized that it is at fault. To make things right, Xiaomi has announced a warranty extension and free upgrades for select devices. The Redmi Note 11 Pro series and Poco X3 Pro will receive a two-year warranty extension. Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra users who are facing Wi-Fi issues will be able to upgrade to the Xiaomi 12 Pro for free. Here are the details.

Or get a Xiaomi 13 Pro by paying Rs. 30,000

Recently, the company revealed on Discord, of all places, that the Redmi Note 10 Pro series and Poco X3 Pro, among other phones, will receive warranty extensions. Now, the company’s India president has issued a video announcing the same, along with a free upgrade to the Xiaomi 12 Pro for MI 11 Ultra users facing Wi-Fi issues. Additionally, Mi 11 Ultra (review) users will have the option to exchange their phones for the latest Xiaomi 13 Pro by paying Rs. 30,000. As a reminder, the latest flagship is priced at Rs. 79,999 in India.

In addition to the aforementioned announcements, Mi 11 Ultra users who have already upgraded their phones to the Xiaomi 12 Pro by paying an upgrade fee will be eligible for a full refund upon contacting the company. It’s important to note that these after-sales services are exclusively applicable to users experiencing Wi-Fi issues on their devices.

Muralikrishnan B, President of Xiaomi India, expressed regret over users not having the expected experience and has vowed to take necessary steps to assure consumers about the brand’s quality.

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MINISFORUM Mercury EM680 mini-PC with AMD Ryzen 7 6800U launched as the brand’s smallest mini-PC

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Jun 9, 2023

MINISFORUM has launched its smallest mini-PC model yet, named the Mercury EM680. The Mercury EM680 is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 6800U processor and comes in three configurations. All three configurations of the Mercury EM680 have the Ryzen 7 6800U processor.

MINISFORUM recently introduced the Mercury EM780 at Computex 2023. The Mercury EM680 adds to the expanding lineup of mini-PCs by the MINISFORUM brand. The Mercury EM680 offers up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM. It is referred to as MINISFORUM’s smallest design yet and measures 80 x 80 x 43mm. The EM680 can easily fit into a pocket due to its very compact design. The Ryzen 7 6800U APU with 8 Zen 3+ CPU cores and Radeon 680M iGPU also packs a decent performance for the EM680.

The chipset was very popular with gaming handheld devices before it was upended by the Ryzen 7 7840U. The Mercury EM680U APU is complemented by PCIe 4.0 SSD in addition to the LPDDR5-6400 RAM. The combination offers great performance for the compact Mercury EM680 mini-PC. However, the longer M.2 2280 option is jettisoned for a soldered RAM in the EM680.

The new MINISFORUM mini-PC has two USB4 ports, HDMI 2.1, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports. It supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. Power supply for the Mercury EM680 is possible via a 65W USBC and does not require a dedicated DC input.

MINISFORUM Mercury EM680 mini-PC Pricing & Availability

The prices of the MINISFORUM Mercury EM680 range between $399 for the 16GB+512GB model and $489 for the 32GB+1TB model. The 32GB+512GB configuration of the mini-PC retails for $449. The Mercury EM680 will revert to its original prices after the pre-order period with up to a $120 increase from the pre-order price. It is unclear whether the mini-PC will be globally available at this time.

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iQOO Neo 8 Pro 16GB RAM + 1TB storage version launched in China for $518

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jun 9, 2023

iQOO recently launched the Neo 8 series smartphones in China. The lineup consists of the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 powered iQOO Neo 8 and the Dimensity 9200+ powered iQOO Neo 8 Pro. Both of these devices were launched with a maximum 16GB RAM + 512GB storage configuration. Now, the brand has launched a 16GB RAM + 1TB storage version for the Pro model.

iQOO’s latest release, the Neo 8 Pro, stands out as a remarkable device by offering a 1TB storage option for the first time in their product lineup. This notable inclusion sets it apart, as no other iQOO device has provided such an expansive storage capacity before.

Alongside a flagship-level processor and an impressive Sony IMX866VCS primary camera, the Neo 8 Pro competes closely with premium smartphones in the market. Surprisingly, this feature-packed smartphone with 1TB storage is available at an affordable price of CNY 3699 ($518). Let’s take a closer look at all the specs of this device.

iQOO Neo 8 Pro specs

The iQOO Neo 8 Pro showcases an impressive 6.78-inch AMOLED display, offering a 1.5K resolution of 2800 x 1260 pixels. With a flat design and a discreet hole-punch cutout at the top center, the screen has a 92.9 percent screen-to-body ratio and an immersive 20:9 aspect ratio. Additionally, the display supports HDR content and can reach up to a smooth 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring fluid visuals and an enhanced viewing experience.

Under the hood, the Neo 8 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ SoC, accompanied by the Immortalis-G715 GPU and the Vivo V1+ Image Signal Processor. This combination delivers robust performance capable of handling demanding tasks and high-performance gaming with ease. To complement its processing power, the device offers a generous 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM for seamless multitasking and comes with storage options ranging from 256GB to an expansive 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, providing ample space for your files, apps, and media.

Keeping the device running throughout the day is a substantial 5000mAh battery, which supports 120W fast charging for quick and convenient power-ups. However, wireless charging is not supported. On the camera front, the Neo 8 Pro features a dual-camera setup at the rear, consisting of a 50MP Sony IMX866V primary camera with an f/1.8 aperture and an 8MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture. For selfies, there is a 16MP front-facing camera with an f/2.45 aperture, ensuring sharp and detailed self-portraits.

The Neo 8 Pro runs on the Android 13-based Origin OS 3.0 in China, providing a user-friendly and customizable software experience. Additional features include an in-display fingerprint scanner for convenient unlocking, dual speakers for immersive audio, and connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless wireless connectivity.

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Xiaomi India in hot water over Rs 5,551.27 crores illegal remittances

By

Anurag

-

Jun 9, 2023

Xiaomi has had troubled relationships with Indian authorities. Last year, the country’s federal financial crime agency had frozen Xiaomi’s assets worth $676 million, accusing the company of making illegal remittances to foreign entities by disguising them as royalty payments. After a few quiet months, the Chinese company has now been issued a show-cause notice for FEMA violation of ₹5,551 crore, news agency ANI reported on Friday quoting officials.

Xiaomi India faces legal action over illegal remittances

According to reports, Xiaomi India, its officials (CFO Sameer Rao and former MD Manu Jain), and three banks (CITI Bank, HSBC Bank, and Deutsche Bank) have received a show-cause notice from the Adjudicating Authority in India under FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act). This notice has been sent based on a complaint filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding illegal remittances made by the company amounting to Rs 5551.27 crores.

“The Competent Authority, appointed under Section 37A of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, has confirmed the said seizure order. The Authority while confirming the seizure held that ED is right in holding that foreign exchange equivalent to Rs 5551.27 crore has been transferred out of India by the Xiaomi India in an unauthorized manner and is held outside India on behalf of the group entity in contravention of Section 4 of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 and the same is liable to be seized in terms of provisions of Section 37A of the FEMA,” said a statement from ED.

The authority notes that the payment of royalty is nothing but a tool for transferring the foreign exchange out of India, which is a blatant violation of the provisions of FEMA.

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Affordable Redmi A27Q 2K IPS Monitor with 75Hz Refresh Rate Unveiled

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jun 9, 2023

After the recent debut of the Redmi G27 and G27Q gaming monitors, the brand has now launched a new affordable monitor geared towards productive and multimedia use. The monitor is called the Redmi A27Q, and it offers 2K resolution with a wide color gamut suitable for creative workloads.

Redmi A27Q monitor specs

Xiaomi Redmi A27Q is a feature-packed monitor designed to enhance your work as well as entertainment. Boasting an IPS screen with a resolution of 2560×1440, this monitor delivers stunning visuals with precise color accuracy. The three micro-edge design and 178° viewing angle ensure an immersive and wide-ranging visual experience.

The A27Q’s HDR 10 support adds depth and richness to your content, making it ideal for creative workflows that require precise color grading. With its 8-bit color depth and support for 100% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3 color gamuts, this monitor ensures vibrant and true-to-life colors, allowing you to bring your creative visions to life.

For smooth and fluid visuals, the A27Q features a 75Hz refresh rate, providing a seamless viewing experience even during fast-paced work or multimedia playback. Additionally, the low blue light mode helps reduce eye strain, allowing you to work comfortably for extended periods.

This monitor offers versatile connectivity options, including a DP1.4 interface, HDMI interface, USB-A interface, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a multi-function USB-C interface. The USB-C interface supports 65W reverse fast charging, enabling you to power your compatible devices conveniently.

The A27Q’s VESA specification wall mounting and adjustable bracket with pitch angle adjustment provide flexible placement options, allowing you to customize your workspace to suit your preferences and optimize your workflow.

The monitor is priced at 869 yuan ($122), making it quite a bargain for the features it provides.

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Powerful and Rugged Oukitel RT5 Tablet with 10-Inch Display and 11000mAh Battery Available on Sale at AliExpress

By

Joane

-

Jun 9, 2023

Oukitel is all set to introduce its newest tablet, the Oukitel RT5, to the global market. This 10.1-inch tablet is designed with rugged features that enable it to withstand and endure extreme and challenging conditions, making it an ideal choice for outdoor use.

Price and Availability:

WHERE TO BUY

Oukitel RT5 Rugged tablet at $199.99 @AliExpress

The Oukitel RT5 Rugged Tablet will be launched globally on June 12, 2023, exclusively on AliExpress. During the world premiere sale, customers will have the opportunity to enjoy massive discounts on this tablet. During the sale period, you can buy Oukitel RT5 Tablet for as low as $199.99. It’s important to note that the sale will commence on June 12 and conclude on June 18, 2023.

The Oukitel RT5 has been specifically designed to withstand rough handling and operate flawlessly even in the harshest conditions. It caters to the diverse needs of individuals across various industries such as construction, engineering, architecture, education, entertainment, inventory management, and emergency services.

While other rugged tablets are available in the market that can endure extreme conditions, they often tend to be bulky and inconvenient to carry. In contrast, the Oukitel RT5 stands out with its compact dimensions of 249 x 168 x 14.5 mm and lightweight build, ensuring easy portability and allowing users to carry it effortlessly wherever they go.

The Oukitel RT5 showcases a 10.1′ FHD+ IPS touchscreen display that is resistant to scratches and offers a remarkable viewing and user experience, enhanced by its 400 nits of brightness. With its IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certifications, this tablet is designed to be waterproof, dustproof, and capable of withstanding shocks, drops, and vibrations. It can endure immersion in water up to a depth of 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, and it is capable of surviving drops from a height of 1.5 meters.

Equipped with the MediaTek 8788 processor, the Oukitel RT5 tablet offers a powerful performance. It is accompanied by 14GB (8GB + 6GB) RAM and 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to an impressive 1TB. The tablet is fueled by a massive 11000mAh battery that gives you 1200hour of standby, 49 hours of calling, 25 hours of music, and 7.5 hours of video.

Running on the Android 13 operating system, the tablet ensures a smooth and efficient user experience. Both on the front and back, you’ll find a 16MP Samsung sensor that helps you to capture stunning photos and selfies in both well-lit and low-light environments.

The Oukitel RT5 boasts an array of captivating features, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou navigation systems. It offers reliable connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 technology.

The tablet also incorporates a Hi-Fi audio function, ensuring immersive audio experiences. With its barcode scanning capability, OTG support, and toolbag compatibility, it proves to be a versatile device.

Additionally, the Oukitel RT5 is equipped with dual SIM card slots, allowing for using two nano SIM cards simultaneously or one nano SIM card alongside a microSD card for expanded storage. Its cellular support ensures constant connectivity, enabling users to stay connected and access data wherever they go.

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

Sony flagship WF-1000XM5 launch imminent, surfaces on Wireless Power Consortium

By

Sean

-

Jun 9, 2023

The Sony WF-1000XM5 launch appears to be just around the corner. We have already covered a leak which revealed some of its key specifications. And now, a certification sighting has further hinted at its imminent release.

Sony WF-1000XM5 to offer 24 hours of battery life

The latest sighting of the Japanese tech giant’s flagship grade truly wireless earbuds was on the Wireless Power Consortium. Previously, the device was even spotted on the FCC certification website and even had its design leaked a couple of months prior. The latest certification has confirmed that the upcoming WF-1000XM5 will feature Qi wireless charging with up to 2W wireless charging support, similar to its predecessor. It even revealed that the device carries the model number Y2963.

Based on previous leaks, the flagship grade earbuds are expected to feature a design similar to the WF-1000XM4 model. However, each earbuds will weigh just 5.9 grams, which is lower than the 7.3 grams of the XM4. Furthermore, a previous report has hinted that the Xm5 will offer up to 24 hours of audio playback when paired with a charging case. Rumors have claimed that just 3 minutes of charging can deliver around 1 hour of playback.

Unfortunately, finer details regarding these earbuds are still unclear. But the Sony WF-1000XM5 is previously believed to launch sometime later this month or possibly even in August 2023. We can expect these earbuds to offer top notch features like multi point connectivity and ANC (Active Noise Cancellation).

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OnePlus Fold may launch in August, while Nord 3 could arrive in June

By

Sean

-

Jun 9, 2023

We already know that OnePlus is gearing up to launch its first ever foldable smartphone and its latest entry in its popular Nord series of mid range devices. And now, it appears that the launch of these models are just around the corner.

OnePlus Fold & Nord 3 launch could be between July-August 2023

The news arrives from known tipster Abhishek Yadav who shared the information on Twitter. In the tweet, he shared an image of the official ‘OnePlus Road Trip Futurebound’ promotional image poster. This poster reads “Re-embark to the best of OnePlus” and shares the period between “Jun 16-Aug 19.” So, the tipster believes that the OnePlus Nord 3 will be launching either on June 16 or soon after this date while the OnePlus Fold model will be arriving sometime before or on August 19.

Unfortunately, this was all the details that were shared by the tipster. But based on what we know so far, the Fold model will likely feature an 8 inch QHD+ foldable OLED primary display along with a 6.5 inch FHD+ OLED secondary panel. It is rumored to be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC as well. On the other hand, the Nord 3 is a mid range smartphone that is believed to feature the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 SoC and sport a tall 6.73 inch 1.5K AMOLED display.

For those unaware, the ‘OnePlus Road Trip Futurebound’ is the company’s latest promotional campaign which will have it kick off a road trip. This on road promotional event will have it enter the Royal Global University in Guwahati, India and OnePlus is expected to unveil the upcoming mid range device during this road trip.

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Hammer Fit+ Smartwatch With A 1.86-inch Display Launched In India

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Jun 9, 2023

Hammer has expanded its range of smartwtches in India. The brand has announced the Hammer Fit+. It packs decent features and competes against other smartwatches offered by brands like Noise, boAt, Fire-Boltt, and more in the market. Read on to know what the device offers out of the box.

Hammer Fit+ specifications and features

The Hammer Fit+ comes with a square dial and metallic unibody. There is a button on the right side and the device is IP67-certified water-resistant. The smartwatch features a 1.85-inch display bearing a resolution of 240 x 286 pixels. There are more than 100 customizable watch faces. It also comes with raise to wake feature.

In terms of fitness, the Hammer Fit+ is equipped with a heart-rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, and a menstrual cycle tracker. The wearable device is capable of tracking more than 100 sports modes.

The Hammer Fit+ comes with a built-in speaker and mic for hands-free calling via Bluetooth connectivity. There is also AI voice assistant onboard. It packs convenient features like notifications, DND, weather alerts, and more. The smartwatch features built-in games and password protection. It is claimed to offer up to 2 days of battery life.

The Hammer Fit+ carries a price tag of Rs 2,399. It is offered in Black color and can be purchased starting June 11th from Amazon.

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