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Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra users report display issues following May 2023 update

Samsung Galaxy S21 series, known for its premium specifications, features, and impressive camera capabilities, has faced some challenges since its release in 2021. Users have raised concerns about the camera features, image quality, and hardware problems with the Galaxy S21+ and Galaxy S21 Ultra models.

Recently, the May 2023 update was rolled out for the Galaxy S21 Ultra, aiming to provide improvements and enhancements. However, one user has now reported a display issue after installing this update.

Users Demand Solutions for Pink Line Display Issue on Galaxy S21 Ultra

The user approached the service center for assistance regarding a pink line issue on the display. To resolve the problem, the user was advised to replace the display, but the replacement cost was quoted at Rs. 31k ($376), a significant amount. Additionally, several users in the comments section of the complaint post stated that around 80% of users are experiencing similar display issues. This indicates a potential software or hardware problem associated with these devices.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra display issue

This is not the first time such complaints have arisen. Previously, Galaxy S21 Ultra users reported the appearance of green vertical lines following a software update. These recurring issues strongly suggest a correlation between the software updates and the occurrence of pink or green lines on the display.

Similar problems were encountered by users of the S20 series in the past. After numerous complaints, Samsung offered free screen replacements to affected users. It is possible that the company will once again prioritize addressing the complaints regarding the Galaxy S21 Ultra and provide a free screen replacement or a suitable solution for these display issues.

Overall, the reported display problems on the Galaxy S21 Ultra after the May 2023 update highlight the need for Samsung to investigate and resolve these issues to ensure a satisfactory user experience.

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Aqara brings a Smarter and Safer Home Access Solution with the Smart Lock U100

Aqara, a leading provider of smart home products, has announced the launch of its latest addition to the smart lock portfolio, the Smart Lock U100. This innovative deadbolt lock is designed to provide homeowners with a secure and convenient home entry solution, revolutionizing traditional deadbolt locks.

By combining advanced security features, convenient access options, and seamless integration with popular smart home platforms, the Smart Lock U100 provides homeowners with a new level of control and peace of mind, making it an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their home security systems.

The Smart Lock U100 offers a range of advanced features that enhance both security and convenience. Homeowners can now enjoy multiple access options, including fingerprints, passwords, and even Apple home key capability, ensuring a personalized and hassle-free entry experience. 

One of the key highlights of the Smart Lock U100 is its seamless integration with popular smart home platforms. The lock is compatible with Matter, Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and more, enabling users to incorporate their home entry system into their existing smart home ecosystem. This integration allows for a unified and connected home experience, where homeowners can effortlessly control their smart lock alongside other compatible devices, such as lights, thermostats, and security systems.

With Smart Lock U100, users can unlock their doors with a simple touch of a finger or by using the Aqara Home app. The lock features a built-in, high-precision fingerprint reader that can recognize up to 50 fingerprints, providing a secure and personalized access experience. Homeowners also have the flexibility to grant and manage access for their families, as well as guests and regular visitors such as dog walkers or babysitters. With the ability to create up to 75 passwords for permanent, recurring, and one-time access, homeowners have full control over who can enter their homes. Additionally, NFC tags are supported, offering a convenient way for everyone to access the home.

To ensure the utmost security, sensitive access data such as fingerprints and passwords are stored locally on the device and fully encrypted with AES encryption. This provides homeowners with an extra layer of peace of mind, knowing that their personal information is well-protected.

Setting up and controlling the Smart Lock U100 is hassle-free. The lock works out-of-the-box with Bluetooth, allowing users to connect it directly to the Aqara Home app without the need for an Aqara hub. This enables users to easily perform device setup, control the lock, and update its firmware directly from the app.

To fully unlock the extensive capabilities of the Smart Lock U100, it is highly recommended to connect it with a Zigbee 3.0 Aqara hub. By pairing the U100 with an Aqara hub, users gain remote control and management functionalities that greatly enhance their home security experience. From anywhere, users can conveniently unlock or lock the U100, configure passwords, monitor real-time activity, and access device logs. This level of control provides peace of mind and enables homeowners to keep a vigilant eye on their homes and loved ones.

The Smart Lock U100 stands out among the competition by offering seamless integration with Apple HomeKit. This integration allows Apple users to unlock the U100 using Siri voice commands or the Apple Home app. Additionally, users can take advantage of the Apple Home key feature, which enables them to unlock the U100 simply by tapping a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch. This convenient feature is especially useful when users have their hands full or when wearing gloves in colder weather. Furthermore, with Apple Home’s guest access codes, users can easily manage and share door access with their guests, enhancing convenience and security for everyone involved.

About Aqara:

Aqara, founded in 2016, is a leading smart home provider with global reach. Their comprehensive range of smart devices, including sensors, switches, cameras, and locks, offers seamless and intuitive experiences. Aqara is an early advocate of the Matter IoT standard and serves over 7 million customers worldwide, with Apple Home-compatible solutions available in Apple Stores globally.

Deal and Availibility:

To commemorate the release of the Smart Lock U100, Aqara is offering a limited-time promotion. Customers can avail a 15% discount on the new device when purchasing from Aqara’s Amazon stores in the US and Canada. To take advantage of this offer, simply apply the promo code USCAU100 at checkout. Hurry, as this exciting deal is valid until June 10th. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your home security with the Smart Lock U100 at a discounted price.

The Smart Lock U100 is available for purchase through Aqara’s Amazon brand stores in the US and Canada, as well as select Aqara retailers in North America, Asia, and Oceania. This widespread availability ensures that homeowners in various regions can enjoy the benefits of this innovative smart lock solution.

HOTWAV Pad 8, 10-inch Tablet: A Blend of Performance, Portability, and Affordability

HOTWAV, an emerging player in the rugged smartphone industry, is set to unveil its latest product the HOTWAV Pad 8 Tablet. The device boasts a perfect blend of lightweight design, high-performance capabilities, exceptional durability, and unmatched reliability. This meticulously crafted device is poised to make a significant impact in the market.

The HOTWAV Pad 8 Tablet offers a multitude of attractive features, and one of its standout qualities is its remarkably lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 460g. With a sleek depth of only 7.7mm, this tablet exudes a slim and slender profile. Its feather-light construction makes it effortlessly portable, catering to the needs of professionals, students, and entertainment enthusiasts alike.

The tablet gives you an immersive visual experience with its expansive 10.4” HD+ 2K Full-View Display. This display showcases vibrant colors, crisp details, and wide viewing angles, bringing every image and video to life with mesmerizing clarity.

Equipped with the SCT606 Octa-Core processor, the HOTWAV Pad 8 Tablet delivers exceptional speed and responsiveness. No matter if you’re streaming videos, engaging in graphics-intensive gaming, or juggling multiple applications simultaneously, this tablet’s powerhouse processor guarantees a seamless performance without any lags or slowdowns. 

HOTWAV Pad 8 Tablet features 8GB RAM and 256GB of internal storage and offers abundant space to accommodate all your files, documents, photos, videos, and apps. Moreover, the flexibility to utilize two nano SIM cards or one nano SIM and one SD card expands the storage options even further, catering to your ever-growing needs.

The tablet features a 5MP front camera and a 13MP rear camera. Whether you’re preserving cherished moments with your loved ones or participating in video conferences, this tablet’s robust cameras guarantee impressive image quality and immersive video calls. 

HOTWAV Pad 8 features a 4G network with which you can enjoy seamless internet browsing and communication with friends and colleagues. It is fueled with a high-capacity 7500mAh battery. With this high-capacity battery at your disposal, you can work, play, and create without any interruptions.

Price and Availability

On June 12, HOTWAV Pad 8 will make its global debut on AliExpress, accompanied by generous discount offers. The first 100 units, will be sold for an astonishing price of $99.99 while the remaining pieces will be available for $139.99. Please note that this offer ends on June 18. 

The brand is also offering a special $10 discount coupon code: 25M5NKYIWK8R. Please note that this coupon is not applicable for the first 100 orders at $99.99.

To add to the excitement, the first 500 units sold will receive a complimentary keyboard absolutely free. So don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a cutting-edge tablet at an unbeatable value. 

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

Huawei’s first AOD Watch expected to launch later this year

Huawei is gearing up to unveil its latest addition to the smartwatch lineup, the AOD Watch. Early testers have had the opportunity to try out this highly anticipated wearable, which features a round dial and a crown on the right side, reminiscent of the popular Watch 3 model.

Huawei AOD Watch

Huawei’s First Always-On Display Smartwatch Incoming

Screenshots from the Huawei Health app have surfaced, confirming the existence of this upcoming smartwatch. The watch face showcases a range of useful widgets, including a calendar, steps counter, battery level, timing, weather, heart rate, alarm, and bedtime reminder. While the bezels are noticeable, they are not overly intrusive, although it is important to note that the current design may still undergo some refinements before the final version is released.

One standout feature of the AOD Watch is its always-on display (AOD), a first for Huawei’s smartwatch series. Although the company has implemented this functionality in previous models like the Watch 3/GT 3, the AOD Watch is expected to introduce a dedicated and enhanced AOD capability.

Always-on displays, or AODs, have gained popularity in smartphones, with even Apple’s iPhones incorporating this feature. AOD allows users to effortlessly access important information such as time and notifications without waking the screen. Huawei aims to optimize the AOD experience with this new smartwatch, ensuring minimal power consumption while delivering superior performance.

In recent months, leaked smartwatch codes have surfaced, including one with the model designation “AOD-H1,” potentially associated with the upcoming Huawei AOD Watch. Although Huawei has yet to officially announce this product, tech enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the company’s expansion of its smart wearables portfolio with at least two more smartwatches expected to be unveiled later this year. According to the report, the smartwatch is expected to launch alongside the Huawei Mate 60 series.

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LG UltraGear 25GR75FG monitor with 360 Hz 24.5″ IPS panel hits store shelves

LG offered a sneak peek in January of the UltraGear 25GR75FG gaming monitor, featuring an impressive refresh rate of 360Hz. The initial plan was for the monitor to debut in Europe, commencing with Germany in April. As we step into June, the eagerly anticipated monitors have finally made their way to Germany, signifying the commencement of their availability in the European region.

LG UltraGear 25GR75FG Gaming Monitor

LG UltraGear 25GR75FG specs

Boasting a 24.5-inch IPS panel, this monitor offers a resolution of 1080p and an exceptional refresh rate of 360 Hz, ensuring smooth and fluid visuals during gameplay.

The UltraGear 25GR75FG also achieves VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification, reaching a peak brightness of 400 nits. However, it is worth noting that this certification indicates an 8-bit color depth rather than 10-bit. Consequently, the monitor’s color space coverage is relatively modest at 97% sRGB.

To enhance gaming performance, LG has incorporated NVIDIA G-SYNC technology into the UltraGear 25GR75FG, effectively minimizing image tearing for a more seamless experience. With its rapid 1 ms response time, latency is kept to a minimum, allowing gamers to stay ahead of the competition.

Connectivity options include a DisplayPort 1.4 connection, which supports 1080p and 360 Hz gaming, while the HDMI 2.0 ports offer a maximum resolution of 1080p and 240 Hz. Users will also appreciate the inclusion of two USB 3.0 Type-A downstream ports, one USB 3.0 Type-A upstream port, and a 3.5 mm jack for convenient peripheral connectivity.

While the UltraGear 25GR75FG prioritizes gaming performance, it does not feature built-in speakers. The availability of the UltraGear 25GR75FG monitor is currently limited to Europe, where it is priced at €649 by LG.

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Samsung starts developing a ChatGPT-like AI for internal use

According to a report, Samsung Electronics has started the full-scale development of its own Large Language Model (LLM) for internal applications, following the recent leak of its internal data. Spearheaded by Samsung Research, the project has received significant investments in terms of workforce and resources. Notably, all available GPU resources have been dedicated to the development of the LLM, an essential component in training such models. Samsung aims to complete the initial version of its LLM within a two-month timeframe.

Credit: Freepik / Illustration by Soumyakanti

Samsung’s AI Solution Aims to Slash Time Required for Software Development

The primary focus of Samsung’s LLM solution will be on document summarization, software development, and language translation. While the company has yet to decide on making the AI solution available to the general public, its internal use is considered a priority. The previous reliance on third-party generative AI solutions, including ChatGPT, led to the unfortunate data leak, prompting Samsung to prohibit the use of such external solutions and embark on the creation of its proprietary AI technology.

Samsung believes that deploying AI solutions based on LLM technology can significantly reduce the time required for software development and semiconductor design. While Samsung explored partnerships with various prominent companies, such as Google, Microsoft, Naver, and OpenAI, the decision was ultimately made at a top-level management meeting, including the presence of Lee Jae-yong, to develop an in-house AI solution.

Numerous South Korean firms, including Kakao, LG, Naver, and SKT, are also developing their own LLM-based generative AI solutions, such as KoGPT, ExaOne, HyperCloverX, and A-Dot. These solutions exhibit human-like drawing and writing capabilities. However, challenges concerning data accuracy and information privacy remain significant obstacles that need to be addressed in the ongoing development process.

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The Porsche Mission X: The Car That Could Usher in a New Era of Electric Sports Vehicles

Porsche is known for its stylish and performance-oriented vehicles. From the iconic 911 to the more recent Taycan, the German manufacturer has a knack for creating vehicles that people love. And now, Porsche is taking things to the next level with its new electric hypercar concept. The company has unveiled an astonishing new concept model, the Mission X. Here are the details…

Porsche Unveils Astonishing New Concept Model!

Porsche has unveiled an astonishing new concept model, the Mission X. The all-electric hypercar is a radical departure from Porsche’s usual design language, but it is clear that the company is serious about its future in electric vehicles. The Mission X is powered by a pair of electric motors that produce a combined output of 1,000 horsepower. This gives the car a top speed of over 200 mph and an acceleration time from 0 to 60 mph of just 2.5 seconds.

The Mission X also features a 900-volt battery pack that provides a range of over 300 miles. In terms of design, the Mission X is unlike anything Porsche has ever produced before. The car features a sleek, aerodynamic body that is dominated by a large panoramic windshield and a pair of gull-wing doors. The interior is equally as impressive, with a minimalist design that focuses on the driver.

Porsche has not yet announced any plans to put the Mission X into production, but it is clear that the company is using the concept car to showcase its future vision for electric vehicles. The Mission X is a bold and ambitious statement from Porsche, and it is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.

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Samsung plans separate North American launch events for Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5

Samsung has announced its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event in Seol, South Korea, where it is expected to unveil the highly anticipated Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5. While the official date for the event is yet to be disclosed, reports suggest that these next-generation foldable phones could be introduced on July 27. However, recent news reveals that Samsung is planning to hold separate launch events for the devices in North America.

Samsung will unveil the next-generation foldables: Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5

According to a report by MySmartPrice, Samsung is scheduled to host dedicated launch events for the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 in Canada and the United States on August 11, 2023. This aligns with Samsung’s usual time frame for unveiling new foldable phones and smartwatches. Although further details about these events are scarce at the moment, it is anticipated that Samsung will showcase a range of innovative devices alongside the foldable phones.

At the event, Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5, as well as other highly anticipated products such as the Galaxy Watch 6, Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, Galaxy Buds 3, Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S9+, and Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. Earlier reports have already hinted at the release of the Galaxy SmartTag object tracker, which is anticipated to be showcased during this event.

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 are expected to feature a new hinge mechanism and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 6 series will largely retain the same features as its predecessors but will be equipped with the Exynos W980 processor. Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is expected to reintroduce the rotating bezels. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Tab S9 series is set to offer 120Hz OLED screens, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, 45W fast charging, and IP67 water and dust resistance across all models.

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Itel S23 With 90Hz Display, 5,000mAh Battery Launched In India

itel has launched a new smartphone in India. It is dubbed the itel S23. The device is a budget offering and falls under the Rs 10,000 price bracket. Read on to know what the itel S23 offers out of the box. 

itel S23 specifications and features

The itel S23 comes with a large 6.6-inch display bearing an HD+ resolution and a waterdrop notch. It features a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth animations. Design-wise, the device has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button. There is a circular camera module on the back panel. The White color variant of the smartphone features a color-changing back panel that changes from White to Pink when exposed to sunlight or UV rays.

On the imaging front, the itel S23 has dual rear cameras. The setup comprises a 50MP primary sensor and an AI lens paired with an LED flash unit. The smartphone features an 8MP front-facing selfie snapper. 

Under the hood, the itel S23 is equipped with a 1.6GHz octa-core 12nm Unisoc T606 processor and a Mali G57 MP1 GPU. It packs 8GB RAM along with 8GB virtual RAM technology and 128GB onboard storage expandable via a microSD card slot. The smartphone draws its power from a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 10W charging. It runs on Android 12 OS out of the box. 

Connectivity options on the itel S23 include 4G VoLTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. 

The itel S23 carries a price tag of Rs 8,799 and is offered in Starry Black and Mystery White colors. It will be available for purchase from Amazon starting June 14. 

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Vivo Closes Its Online Store In Germany As Patent Dispute Ruled In Favor Of Nokia

Earlier in April this year, the district court of Mannheim, Germany ruled a patent case in favor of Nokia against Vivo. However, the Chinese brand was working to resolve the dispute with Nokia on fair terms. The Finnish company had previously won cases against OPPO and OnePlus which resulted in the ban on the sale of the brand’s devices in the country. Now, Vivo has become the third company to be affected by the patent dispute ruled in favor of Nokia. The patent infringement case comes from Nokia, the Finnish equipment supplier, and not HMD Global which owns Nokia’s smartphone business.

Vivo closes its online store in Germany

Vivo has apparently infringed a patent related to WLAN connections in its smartphones. The German courts have ruled this dispute in favor of Nokia. This is the same cause of action that affected OPPO and OnePlus. Vivo could have continued to sell its phones in Germany by working out a licensing agreement with Nokia, but the company decided to opt-out. 

Due to the patent infringement case, Vivo has shut down its website in Germany. This means that customers in the country won’t be able to buy the brand’s products anymore for the foreseeable future. 

Vivo’s Germany website has put a short note on its main page that possibly hints at a goodbye. The translated text reads that Vivo products and information about them are not available on their German website. Existing Vivo users can continue to rely on their customer service and also receive future software updates. 

It’s worth noting that Vivo’s German website does not explicitly mention the reason of its store closure and if the move is temporary or permanent. 

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Spotify CEO Teases a “Your Offline Mix” Playlist Feature

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.

Spotify

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

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.

Foxconn

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

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.

Toyota GR H2 Racing

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

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.

Reddit

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

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

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.

Samsung Kiosk

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.

Samsung Kiosk

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

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.

The new UI change puts the Shorts Section in your Subscription Feed tab on desktop, in addition to already being in your recommendations tab and Shorts Tab. Source: Leo Wong De Quan/Gizmochina
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

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.

Epson BrightLink 770Fi Interactive UST Laser Display

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

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

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.