Microsoft’s bid to acquire video gaming giant Activision Blizzard for about $68.7 billion has been approved by regulators of the European Union. The development comes just weeks after the deal was blocked by the UK regulators.
The approval for the deal to proceed is contingent on Microsoft making concessions on access to cloud gaming. It requires the company to automatically grant a license for Activision Blizzard games to any competing cloud-based gaming service.
The European Union regulators found that Microsoft “would have no incentive to refuse to distribute Activision’s games to Sony” and that “even if Microsoft did decide to withdraw Activision’s games from the PlayStation, this would not significantly harm competition in the consoles market.”
However, it found that the deal could harm competition around the distribution of PC and console games through cloud gaming services. As a remedy, Microsoft will need to offer free licenses to consumers in EU countries that would allow them to stream via “any cloud game streaming services of their choice.” This applies to all current and future Activision Blizzard PC and console games that they have a license for.
Although Microsoft received approval from the EU, the deal remains doubtful because of UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) which was blocked a few weeks back. The Redmond-based tech giant has said that it plans to aggressively appeal the UK decision. Regulators in South Africa, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Chile, Serbia, and Japan have approved the deal, while China, South Korea, New Zealand, and Australia are all still reviewing the deal.
Creality has recently unveiled an enhanced iteration of their renowned Falcon2 22W laser engraver, introducing the impressive Falcon2 40W model to the market. This revolutionary device proudly claims the title of the world’s first laser engraver with an adjustable light beam feature.
Falcon2 40W, not only showcases this cutting-edge advancement, but also stands as the most potent, swift, and feature-laden laser engraver ever manufactured by Creality. With this groundbreaking release, Creality continues to push the boundaries of innovation, providing users with an unprecedented level of versatility, power, and functionality in the field of laser engraving technology.
The Falcon2 40W is a versatile laser engraver that caters to various applications. Whether you’re engaged in DIY home projects, pursuing designer education, customizing jewelry, or creating business signage, the Falcon2 empowers you to bring your ideas to life. With its extensive capabilities, this laser engraver opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to unleash your creativity and realize various projects with precision and finesse.
Key Features:
Adjustable Spot Adjustment:
The Falcon2 40W by Creality introduces a range of groundbreaking features, with one notable innovation being the adjustable spot adjustment. This cutting-edge capability allows users to modify the spot size based on specific engraving and cutting requirements. By offering the flexibility to switch between a large spot for cutting thicker objects and a smaller spot for engraving and cutting finer materials, this feature greatly enhances work efficiency and delivers superior results. With its ability to adapt to various materials and project specifications, the Falcon2 40W sets new standards in precision and versatility, providing users with an exceptional laser engraving experience that yields finer details and higher levels of productivity.
Air Assist:
With a focus on usability and safety, the Falcon2 40W guarantees an exceptional user experience. One of its key features is the integrated air-assist function, which offers both step-less adjustment and automatic airflow size customization through the LightBurn software. This enables the laser engraver to cater to diverse cutting and carving requirements. By effectively clearing away smoke and dust during the engraving process, it ensures a cleaner and smoother surface for cutting, thereby upholding precision and quality even when working with intricate patterns. Furthermore, the air-assist function plays a crucial role in safeguarding the laser head lens by effectively blowing away smoke and dust particles, maintaining optimal performance, and extending the lifespan of the equipment.
Color Engravings:
Harnessing its robust power output, the Falcon2 40W is capable of generating a high-temperature laser beam. When this intense beam interacts with stainless steel, it triggers a physical reaction on the metal surface, resulting in the production of a mesmerizing array of vibrant colors. This unique capability adds a personal touch and a vivid aesthetic to your work, making it truly distinctive and eye-catching. With the Falcon2 40W, you can elevate your creative projects and create captivating designs that stand out with their dynamic and personalized coloration.
High Speed and Offline Preview:
The Creality Falcon2 offers high-speed capabilities of up to 25000mm/min, resulting in a 100% increase in carving efficiency. It supports offline adjustable previews for precise engraving adjustments without a computer connection. The user-friendly interface allows for easy fine-tuning with short and long press functions.
Quick Assembly:
Enjoy a quick and hassle-free assembly process with the Falcon2, requiring three simple steps. With the laser module, pre-assembled frame, and air assist feature, you can swiftly set up the machine and dive into your creative projects immediately.
Triple Monitoring System:
Airflow Monitoring indicates the current airflow volume. It enables you to adjust the airflow based on your engraving needs. Its built-in lens monitoring system will trigger an alarm when the lens is dirty enough, which helps avoid lens breakage and frequent replacement. And the flame monitoring indicator will flash red with an alarm and the machine will stop immediately when a flame is detected.
Bidirectional Limit Switch:
In case, the laser head reaches the boundary, the Falcon2 is equipped with an automatic stop mechanism that halts the machine’s operation, accompanied by an audible alarm from the built-in buzzer. This safety feature ensures the protection of the laser head and prevents any potential damage or mishaps.
Active Stop Function:
The Falcon2 is equipped with an Active Stop function, which immediately stops the machine’s operation in the event of accidental tilting, flipping, or dropping. Simultaneously, the built-in buzzer and indicator will provide alert signals to notify users of the situation. This safety feature ensures the protection of the machine and helps prevent any potential damage or accidents.
Wide compatibility:
The Falcon2 40W is designed to be compatible with a wide range of systems, including both Windows and macOS. It also supports popular software options like LaserGRBL and LightBurn. LaserGRBL is a registered trademark of LaserGRBL Inc., while LIGHTBURN is a registered trademark of LIGHTBURN Inc. This compatibility ensures flexibility and accessibility for users, allowing them to seamlessly integrate the Falcon2 into their preferred operating system and utilize their favored software for laser engraving tasks.
Outstanding Motion Stability:
With its full aluminum alloy structure design, the Falcon2 offers a robust and solid machine construction. This design choice guarantees exceptional stability, even during high-speed operations. The sturdy aluminum alloy framework ensures reliable performance, allowing users to confidently engage in rapid engraving processes without compromising stability or precision.
Integrated Rail and Durable Wheel:
The Falcon2 incorporates an integrated sliding rail system that ensures highly synchronized movement during operation. Complementing this feature, the machine is equipped with U-shaped wear-resistant wheels, which enhance overall stability and smooth motion. Together, these design elements contribute to a seamless and stable engraving experience, allowing for precise and consistent results.
Other interesting features include a security lock design, an emergency stop button, and a laser protective cover.
Price and Availability:
The Falcon2 40W is now available for pre-order on Creality’s online store. An exclusive early bird pre-sale will take place from June 1st to June 8th, 2023.
By placing a deposit of $100 during this period, customers can enjoy a generous discount of $500. Additionally, Creality is currently inviting individuals to become Falcon2 40W experience officers through their website, with the results set to be announced on May 28, 2023.
For more information and further details, please visit here.
Vivo is reportedly working on the Vivo V29 series of smartphones for the Indian market. A new leak by Pricebaba, which cites tipster Paras Guglani as a source, has revealed the key specifications and launch timeframe of the upcoming Vivo V29e 5G. Here is a look at what to expect from the smartphone.
According to the report, the Vivo V29e 5G has the V2304 model number for global markets. Previous reports have revealed that the Vivo V29 series will also include other model numbers, such as Vivo V29 Lite 5G (V2244 model number), Vivo V29 5G, and Vivo V29 Pro 5G.
Vivo V29e 5G specifications (rumoured)
Vivo V27
The report further revealed that the Vivo V29e 5G will be equipped with the Dimensity 7000 series chipset. The device will arrive in 8 GB and 12 GB RAM variants. Both models will offer 256 GB of internal storage.
A 4,600mAh battery that can support 80W fast charging will power the device. The leak also mentions that it will have a 64-megapixel primary camera. The other specifications of the phone are yet to be revealed.
Vivo V29e 5G launch timeframe
According to the report, the Vivo V29e 5G will be announced in June. It will come in three shades, such as black, gold, and blue.
In related news, the Vivo V29 Lite 5G, which has been spotted at Singapore’s IMDA certification and Google Play Console, is expected to feature the Snapdragon 695 chipset. The Vivo V29 Pro is likely to be a rebranded version of the Dimensity 8200-powered Vivo S17 Pro, which is rumored to launch on May 30 in China.
Last week, Poco unveiled the Poco F5 and the Poco F5 Pro flagship smartphones. While both phones are available in the global market, India has only received the Poco F5. The F5 promises stellar gaming performance as it is equipped with the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 chipset. Starting at 12 pm today (May 16), the Poco F5 will be available for purchase through Flipkart in India. Here is a look at the Poco F5’s price, offers, and specifications.
Poco F5 price in India, offers
POCO F5
The Poco F5 comes in two configurations in India, such as 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage and 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. Both are priced at Rs 29,999 (~$365) and Rs 33,999 (~$486), respectively. The device comes in three colors: Carbon Black, Snowstorm White, and Electric Blue.
The Poco F5 comes with two years of warranty. Buyers can either available a Rs 3,000 instant discount on ICICI, HDFC, Axis, and SBI credit / debit card and EMI transactions or Rs 3,000 off on exchange. There is a loyalty bonus, which brings an additional Rs 1,000 off on the exchange of Poco smartphones.
Poco F5 specifications
The Poco F5 has a 6.67-inch OLED FHD+ display that offers a 120Hz refresh rate. It features the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 chipset, 8 GB / 12 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, 7 GB of virtual RAM, and 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. It houses a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging support. For security, it has a side-facing fingerprint scanner.
The F5 will receive two years of Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates. It currently runs on Android 13 OS with MIUI 14 on top. It has a 16-megapixel camera on the front for selfies. The back panel of the device has a 64-megapixel primary camera with OIS support, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro snapper.
In a groundbreaking revelation, the James Webb Space Telescope has achieved yet another major milestone, capturing the first-ever instance of water vapour around a comet in the main asteroid belt. This discovery challenges scientists’ previous assumptions about the distribution of water ice in the solar system and raises intriguing questions about the nature of these celestial bodies. With its powerful near-infrared camera, the Webb telescope is revolutionizing our understanding of comets and paving the way for further exploration.
This discovery proves that Main-belt Comets can preserve Water Ice
For years, researchers speculated that comets would predominantly contain water ice when situated in the Kuiper Belt or the Oort Cloud, regions far enough from the Sun to sustain frozen substances. However, the recent observation of water vapor around a main-belt comet has astounded the scientific community. This breakthrough, made possible by the James Webb Space Telescope, provides concrete evidence that comets in the main asteroid belt can indeed preserve water ice.
While the detection of water vapour is an astounding feat, the absence of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the observed comet, named Read, has presented scientists with a new enigma. Typically, CO2 accounts for around 10 per cent of the potentially vaporized material in comets. Webb’s instruments, however, did not detect any traces of CO2 in Read. Researchers postulate two possibilities: either the CO2 dissipated over billions of years, or Read formed in a unique region of the Solar System where CO2 was absent.
Read, one of the pioneering bodies categorized as a main-belt comet, played a crucial role in establishing this classification. Until now, the study of main belt comets has been limited by the lack of instrumentation capable of examining them in detail. However, the James Webb Space Telescope’s powerful capabilities have finally enabled researchers to delve deeper into the mysteries of these fascinating comets.
While the discovery of Read’s lack of Carbon Dioxide poses intriguing questions, further observations are essential to determine whether this peculiarity is exclusive to Read or common among main-belt comets. In either case, Stefanie Milam, a member of the research team, proposes a sample collection mission to gain deeper insights into comets like Read. Such a mission would prove far more feasible than exploring the distant Kuiper Belt or the Oort Cloud, which are considerably farther from the Sun. The James Webb Telescope also made some groundbreaking discoveries regarding the Fomalhaut Star System recently.
In an era where privacy is extremely valued, WhatsApp continues to strive for innovative ways to ensure the confidentiality of its users’ conversations. With a commitment to staying ahead of the game, WhatsApp recently unveil its latest feature: Chat Lock. This allows users to safeguard their most personal and intimate chats with an extra layer of security.
The Locked Chats are accessible through a Password or Biometric Authentication
The concept is simple yet powerful. By locking a chat, users can discreetly remove it from their main inbox and place it within a dedicated folder. Access to this folder is exclusively granted through the user’s device password or biometric authentication, such as a fingerprint. Furthermore, the contents of locked chats are automatically concealed in notifications, providing users with complete peace of mind.
The Chat Lock feature is specifically designed to cater to individuals who occasionally lend their phones to family members or find themselves in situations where someone else temporarily holds their device. Imagine those instances when a message arrives just as someone else is holding your phone. With Chat Lock, you can trust that your private conversations remain hidden from prying eyes.
Enabling Chat Lock is quite easy. Simply tap on the name of the one-to-one or group chat you wish to secure, and select the lock option. To reveal your locked chats, slowly pull down on your inbox and enter your phone password or utilize your device’s biometric authentication.
WhatsApp’s commitment to user privacy doesn’t end here. In the coming months, the company plans to introduce additional options for Chat Lock. These upcoming enhancements will include the ability to lock chats on companion devices, ensuring a consistent and comprehensive security experience across multiple devices. Furthermore, users will have the freedom to create custom passwords for their chats, allowing for a unique and distinct password separate from their device’s login credentials. The Meta-owned company recently unveiled an ‘Edit Messages’ feature for their beta users as well, indicating that it is looking to significantly overhaul the application for its user base.
Oppo is yet to release an official confirmation on the Reno 10 series launch date for the Chinese market. However, a commercial that has appeared on Youku, China’s leading online video and streaming service platform, has revealed that the Reno 10 Pro will be unveiled at 2:30 pm (local time) on May 24. As per rumors, the lineup will have three models: the Reno 10, the Reno 10 Pro, and the Reno 10 Pro Plus powered by the Snapdragon 778G, Dimensity 8200, and Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipsets, respectively.
The Reno 10 series ad (screengrab below) that has surfaced on Youku seemingly showcases the design and color options of the Reno 10 Pro+. In addition, popular tipster Digital Chat Station has leaked the key specifications of the Reno 10 and Reno 10 Pro in a new Weibo post. Here’s what to expect from both smartphones.
Oppo Reno 10 specifications (rumored)
OPPO Reno 10 series launch date
The Reno 10 will arrive with a 6.74-inch OLED curved-edge screen with an FHD+ resolution of 2412 x 1080 and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will have a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 front-facing camera. On the back, it will feature a 64-megapixel OmniVision OV64B primary camera, an 8-megapixel IMX355 ultra-wide camera, and a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 telephoto camera with 2x zoom.
The Reno 10 is expected to be powered by a Snapdragon 778G processor with 12GB of RAM and have a 4,600mAh battery with 80W fast charging support. The device will weigh 180 grams and measure 7.58mm in thickness.
The Reno 10 Pro will have the Dimensity 8200 SoC with 12 GB or 16 GB of RAM. The device is expected to have a 4,600mAh battery with 100W fast charging support. It will weigh 186 grams and be 7.68mm in thickness.
The Reno 10 and Reno 10 Pro will have an in-display fingerprint sensor, NFC, an IR blaster, and a plastic middle frame. Both devices will come in shades like Brilliant Gold, Colorful Blue, and Moon Sea Black.
Apple’s innovative foray into the wearable technology market took a leap forward with the introduction of AirTags in 2021. These small tracking devices became a hit among Apple enthusiasts, allowing them to easily locate their belongings. Now, Apple is once again pushing boundaries by working on a new type of AirTag called the ‘Wearable Tag,’ according to a recently discovered patent application in Europe.
The Patented Tag would incorporate a variety of Sensors for tracking
The Wearable Tag, as described by Apple in the patent application, is designed to be placed on different parts of a user’s body or clothing and is intended for various health-related functions. The possibilities are vast, ranging from posture monitoring and sun exposure tracking to physical therapy assistance, fall detection, and fitness/activity tracking. The Wearable Tag would incorporate different sensors depending on the specific health-related function it is being used for, ensuring accurate and comprehensive data collection.
The patent application reveals that users would be able to configure and control the Wearable Tag through an electronic device, such as an iPhone. This device would not only determine the location of the tag on the user’s body but also allow users to select their desired health-related function. The Wearable Tag would then gather sensor data and relay it to the electronic device for analysis and feedback.
Apple’s patent illustrations offer a glimpse into the possibilities of the Wearable Tag. One image showcases a system consisting of multiple wearable tags and electronic devices. These tags can be worn on various body parts, such as the wrist, arm, finger, neck, waist, ankle, or other suitable areas, and communicate with devices like iPhones, Apple Watches, and iPads.
The patent further reveals the design of the Wearable Tag itself. It features a housing that can be made of different materials, including plastic, glass, ceramics, metal, fabric, or a combination of these. This versatility allows for a comfortable and customizable user experience.
Apple’s vision for the Wearable Tag extends beyond individual use cases. In one illustration, multiple tags are placed all over a user’s body, enabling full-body motion tracking. This comprehensive tracking capability could find applications in physical therapy, dancing, fitness tracking, sports training, and more.
While the recently published European patent application bears Apple’s name as the applicant, it’s worth noting that the patent itself dates back to 2020 and was filed under the names of Apple‘s engineers to maintain secrecy. Once the patent is granted, Apple’s name will officially appear on the U.S. patent as well.
Apple’s exploration of the Wearable Tag concept signals the company’s commitment to expanding the capabilities of wearable technology beyond simple tracking. By integrating health-related functionalities into their devices, Apple aims to empower users to monitor and improve their well-being in innovative ways. The company also recently collaborated with Google to prevent stalkers from quietly tracking people using AirTags. As always, the true potential of Apple’s inventions will be unveiled once they make their way from patents to actual products.
Google Pixel phone users can finally breathe a sigh of relief as Google has acknowledged and resolved the battery drain and overheating issues plaguing its devices. The problems arose following a recent update to the Google app in the May update, leaving users frustrated and seeking solutions. However, the tech giant has now implemented a server-side fix to address the issue, offering immediate relief to affected users.
Google Pixel batteries have never been their strong selling point
The battery drain and overheating problems that have been affecting many Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 users have been a cause of concern and frustration for a while. Reports flooded online forums, such as Reddit, Google support forums, and Twitter, with numerous users sharing their experiences of facing similar issues. Although Google’s smartphones are renowned for their exceptional cameras, battery life has always been a weak point. Unfortunately, a recent update exacerbated the problem, resulting in increased power consumption and overheating concerns. As users searched for answers, Google’s response remained limited, leaving them in a state of uncertainty.
An alarmed Pixel 6 Pro user contacted Engadget, pointing out the overheating and excessive battery drain they were experiencing. Suspecting the Google app, particularly the update released on May 12th, as the culprit, the user shared screenshots revealing the app’s significant battery consumption in the background. Even rolling back to an older version of the app provided only marginal relief. Some users attempted factory resets and reinstallation of apps, but the issues persisted, leading to worries about potential damage to the device’s battery and CPU.
Users who reached out to Google for assistance encountered limited support, with some reporting unhelpful interactions with the company’s support staff. Rolling back to older versions of the Google app proved ineffective for many, hinting at a more complex underlying cause. Speculations varied, from potential issues with Android System Intelligence to worsened battery life after the May update. Although Google is aware of the problem, they have yet to provide a comprehensive solution or explanation.
Fortunately, Google has now confirmed that a fix is rolling out to address the battery drain and overheating issues caused by a recent backend change in the Google app. This fix, implemented on the server side, does not require any app or system updates. The company assures users that the problem will be resolved immediately, returning affected devices to normal behavior.
Impacted users, particularly those with Pixel 6 or 7 series devices, noticed a significant reduction in battery life, with some claiming their battery life was effectively halved. Google’s acknowledgement and swift action to rectify the issue through a server-side fix should alleviate the frustrations experienced by affected users.
Google Pixel phone users can now breathe a sigh of relief as the battery drain and overheating problems that have plagued their devices are being addressed. Google has implemented a server-side fix to resolve the issue caused by a recent update to the Google app. This fix, which does not require any app or system updates, promises an immediate return to normal device behavior for affected users. With Google’s swift response and resolution, users can once again enjoy their Pixel phones without worrying about excessive power consumption and overheating.
According to a report from last month, Samsung’s next major launch event will be held in the last week of July. Now, a new report that has surfaced in a South Korean publication named Chosun has revealed the launch date of the next Galaxy Unpacked event, which will see the arrival of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and the Galaxy Z Flip 5.
As per the report, the South Korean tech giant will hold a launch event on July 26 to announce its new foldable smartphones. To recall, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and the Z Flip 4 were announced on August 10. Hence, the company reportedly plans to release the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and the Galaxy Z Flip 5 around two weeks earlier than their predecessors.
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event for Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 are likely to be held on July 26
Samsung has been launching its Galaxy Z foldables in August every year. However, it appears that the company’s new strategy is to create a sufficient gap between the launch of the Galaxy Z foldables and Apple’s new iPhones, which usually debut in September every year.
The report also states that Samsung’s Unpacked event for its upcoming foldable phones will be held in Seoul. This will be a big change, as the company has previously held its foldable phone launch events in the US. At present, there is no official confirmation from Samsung on the launch date or venue of its next launch event.
Now that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and the Z Flip 5 are tipped to launch on July 26, it is likely that the company will release an official confirmation of their launch in June. The event is also expected to see the arrival of other products, such as the Galaxy Tab S9 series and the Galaxy Watch 6 lineup. These devices are expected to go on sale by mid-August in different markets.
Telly, a new startup led by the co-founder of Pluto TV, has launched its first TV set in the market, which is available for free under a new unique business model.
The TV comes with a dual-screen setup and a soundbar where the main screen is for watching TV while the smaller screen displays advertisements, news, weather updates, sports scores, and more.
Telly
The main screen of the TV is a 55-inch 4K HDR display, while the smaller screen at the bottom has a 10-inch display. There’s also a built-in premium sound bar for an immersive audio experience. It has three HDMI inputs, two USB ports, and a tuner to watch over-the-air broadcasts.
In the software department, it runs the company’s own TellyOS, which currently doesn’t support third-party applications like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video. But, the company includes a free 4K Android TV dongle, allowing users to access whatever streaming service they want. Apart from that, the TV is also said to be compatible with Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV.
Commenting about it, Pluto TV CEO Ilya Pozin said that the Telly is designed to be a more engaging and informative way to watch TV. The company is aiming to change the way people watch TV.
As of now, the company hasn’t revealed the full specifications of Telly, but the company is estimating that it will retail for around $1,000. Currently, the company is offering this new TV set free of cost for the first 500,000 units. Pre-orders are now open in the United States, and Telly is expected to start shipping in the summer.
While those concerned about privacy may not prefer Telly even after the company offers it for free, it is definitely a unique business model. It will be interesting to see if it manages to make its mark in the highly competitive Smart TV market.
Tesla is working hard to get stronger in the electric vehicle market. The company is already a leader in terms of technology, especially in autonomus-driving cars. But, when it comes to sales, a Chinese BYD is in the lead. But the tide could be turning. In an attempt to truly dominate the market, Tesla has recently engaged in talks with Samsung over potential partnerships. Here are the details…
Samsung Elec, Tesla heads meet to discuss cooperation in high-tech
Recently, Samsung and Tesla met to discuss potential partnerships in the realm of electric vehicles. Both CEOs – Elon Musk of Tesla and Lee Jae-yong of Samsung – were present at this crucial meeting. This interaction might set off a fresh wave of collaborations between the technology and automotive industries.
The focus of the talks between the South Korean tech powerhouse, Samsung, and the electric vehicle pioneer, Tesla, were autonomous driving systems and semiconductor chips. With Samsung’s position as one of the largest semiconductor producers globally, it’s likely that Tesla is aiming to tap into their proficiency in this area. Yet, an official agreement is yet to be announced.
The meeting becomes even more noteworthy given the previous collaboration between Samsung and Tesla. They have partnered before on autonomous driving systems, with Samsung supplying Tesla with its first car camera sensor, the ISOCELL Auto 4AC. Moreover, Samsung is also known for producing cockpit parts and batteries for electric vehicles.
Given this backdrop, the recent discussions may hint at a wider collaboration between Samsung and Tesla. With the electric vehicle industry growing at an unprecedented rate, the merger of Samsung’s technological prowess with Tesla’s leadership in vehicle manufacturing could open the door to an exciting partnership.
Last month, SpaceX embarked on a mission to set a new world record. Now, the company is gearing up to construct the world’s first-ever commercial space station. In partnership with Vast, a Los Angeles-based company, SpaceX is poised to revolutionize space travel and habitation. Here are the details…
SpaceX Aims to Build the World’s First Commercial Space Station
The International Space Station (ISS) is nearing the end of its operational life. Stepping up to this challenge, SpaceX and Vast have publicized their ambitious plan to launch the first-ever commercial space station. By as early as August 2025, SpaceX intends to use its reliable Falcon 9 rocket to launch the station’s primary module, Haven-1, into low Earth orbit.
Soon after the launch of Haven-1, it will be joined by a larger module, named Vast-1. This will be followed by a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft carrying a team of four astronauts. This team is expected to live and work on the main station for about a month before making their return journey to Earth aboard the Crew Dragon capsule.
Tom Ochinero, a SpaceX executive, voiced his enthusiasm for the project. “We’re using a commercial rocket to launch a commercial spacecraft, housing commercial astronauts, to a commercial space station. We’re working hand in hand with Vast on this revolutionary project, which we believe represents the future of low Earth orbit,” he stated.
Vast, established in 2021 as a pioneer in space settlement technologies, plans to sell all four seats on the maiden voyage. The company anticipates a diverse clientele, ranging from individuals affiliated with local and international space agency projects to private investors. However, the pricing details for this venture have yet to be disclosed.
In preparation for the mission, SpaceX will train the four crew members for the Crew Dragon flight aboard Falcon 9, as well as for their subsequent return journey inside the spacecraft. With the decommissioning of the ISS scheduled for 2031, private enterprises like SpaceX are stepping up, planning to launch their own stations to ensure the continuity of human life and work in low Earth orbit.
Lenovo continues to expand its product family. The company, which recently introduced the 2023 series ThinkPad X1 Carbon and Nano laptop models, is now stepping out of its usual product range with a new offering. Lenovo’s YOGA series is set to make waves in the market with the pre-release hype for its upcoming smart projector, the YOGA 5000s. Here are the details…
Lenovo Gears Up to Unveil the YOGA 5000s Smart Projector
Lenovo is building anticipation with its latest smart projector, the YOGA 5000s. Although specifics about the release date, pricing, or complete specifications have not been disclosed yet, the initial information is already generating curiosity. The YOGA 5000s smart projector is poised to impress with its compact design and high brightness levels. Despite being small enough to be comfortably lifted with one hand, it promises a potent mobile home cinema experience.
A notable feature is the projector’s utilization of Lenovo’s custom optics, which ensures peak performance under various lighting conditions, even during a bright day. The YOGA series already has popular models like the Yoga 5000 and Yoga 7000 smart projectors. Given the success of these projectors, the forthcoming YOGA 5000s is expected to be a superior upgrade from the 5000 model.
While specifics about the YOGA 5000s are currently limited, a look at the YOGA 5000 model can give us some idea of what might be expected. The previous model offered 4+64GB of storage, an advertisement-free interface, 1080p high-definition resolution, and support for HDR 10+ and adaptive display. It also featured laser auto-focus, four-axis trapezoidal correction, and a built-in Vifa cinema-grade speaker. With this in mind, the YOGA 5000s is likely to introduce enhanced features and performance.
In summary, Lenovo’s YOGA 5000s smart projector seems to be a compact, high-performing device capable of delivering high-quality projections under a variety of lighting conditions. However, to fully understand its capabilities, we will have to wait for the official launch and the release of its complete specifications.
Honda is making a bold statement in the EV firmament with the announcement of the e:Ny1 electric SUV in Europe. The Honda e:Ny1 has some illuminating design features and comes with a range of 412km (256 miles). Honda says that the e:Ny1 will deliver a fun, dynamic ride with a range that compares with some of the heavy hitters like Tesla and Kia in Europe.
The e:Ny1 EV is Honda’s second electric model in Europe and is a larger alternative to the more compact Honda e. The e:Ny1 is a crossover SUV and Honda expects it to square up against the Kia Niro EV, the Subaru Solterra, and the Volkswagen ID.4, amongst others. It is equipped with a 68.8kWh battery and a 150kW single-motor front-wheel-drive electric drivetrain. Design-wise, the Honda e:Ny1 has a short hood and a long roof that slopes downwards towards the rear. The SUV bears some semblance with an oversized fastback.
The interior of the Honda e:Ny1 is quite spacious and exquisite. The absence of a transmission channel and a low floor arrangement makes the interior of the EV to be spacious. The e:Ny1 has a 15.1-inch vertically-oriented infotainment touchscreen in the center while cruise control and media buttons are on the steering wheel.
Honda enters the fiercely competitive EV market with the e:Ny1 EV
The car can be rapidly charged via DC that delivers up to 70% of charge in 45 minutes. The e:Ny1 will berth in Europe later this year but Honda is yet to release pricing information for the model. Some sources indicate that the estimated price of the Honda e:Ny1 EV is around $38,000.
The Promate Glitz-L 10W portable Bluetooth speaker has been unveiled. The new wireless speaker offers a solid sound output and up to 6 hours of playtime on a single charge. The Glitz-L is designed for outdoor use and it comes on the heels of the earlier release of the MST Hubs. The speaker comes with a sleek and functional cylindrical design.
The Glitz-L has a lightweight unibody design that makes it to be portable. Its soft-touch control panel is conveniently and securely located at the bottom of the speaker. The control panel allows for the seamless operation of the speaker. The speaker also delivers an impressive audio output similar to cinematic experiences. In terms of bass and clarity, the Glitz-L 10W speakers are solid and Bluetooth 5.0 support provides enhanced wireless connectivity. Other connectivity options are AUX, USB, wireless, and MicroSD.
The Promate Glitz-L Bluetooth speaker is equipped with a 1,800mAh battery which offers up to 6 hours of playback. The speaker can be used for streaming audio content and the audio experience can be enhanced by connecting two units via TWS. This results in a more vibrant and illuminating output. Promate continues to pursue its plans to release a raft of top-notch audio products by the year’s end. The company continues to assert its growing presence in the fluid Indian audio accessories market.
The Promate Glitz-L Bluetooth speaker is priced at Rs. 3,099 (~$38) in the Indian subcontinent and is available from Amazon India or directly via the Promate website. The product comes with a two-year replacement warranty and it is available in black, blue, and red colors. Promate says it will continue to focus on innovation for its distinctive product offerings in the Indian market.
iQOO is gearing up to launch its Neo 8 series on May 23, adding a Pro model to the Neo lineup for the first time. Recently, leaked images of the iQOO Neo 8 and Neo 8 Pro emerged online, showcasing their rear panels. Both phones feature a rectangular camera module, with the Neo 8 and Neo 8 Pro sporting labels accordingly. The Neo 8 Pro carries an “OIS” branding, hinting at the possible exclusivity of optical image stabilization to the Pro model. The Neo 8 presents a glossy panel in a green hue, while the Pro model exhibits an orange tone with a leather finish.
Leaked iQOO Neo 8 live images
The iQOO Neo 8 Pro is speculated to pack the Dimensity 9200+ chipset, an octa-core processor built on a 4nm manufacturing process. This device has reportedly achieved the highest AnTuTu score on any Android device, reaching a remarkable 1,363,206 points. The standard Neo 8 is rumored to be powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset. Both phones are anticipated to feature 6.78-inch AMOLED displays with a high refresh rate of 120Hz, and camera setups may include a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. The devices are also rumored to be equipped with 5000mAh batteries.
iQOO Neo 8 series will get self-developed V1+ chip
iQOO has teased that the Neo 8 series will feature its self-developed V1+ chip. This chip, which will be present in both the Neo 8 and Neo 8 Pro, promises visual enhancement, power consumption reduction, and photography improvements. The V1+ chip features a 32MB on-chip high-speed cache and supports three algorithms, capable of reaching a maximum refresh rate of 144Hz. This chip further offers optimizations for night-time video and delivers excellent low-light video capabilities, even in environments with minimal lighting.
The iQOO Neo 8 Pro is confirmed to come with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, positioning it as a high-end flagship device. Its AnTuTu benchmark score has outperformed every other Android phone on the platform, including the ASUS ROG Phone 7 series. More details about the Neo 8 series are anticipated in the coming days, with additional leaks and teasers expected before the official launch in China.
iQOO Neo 8 and 8 Pro are going to debut on May 23 as the latest mid-rangers from the Vivo subsidiary. The handsets are going to bring powerful chipsets, with rumors hinting at the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ on the Pro model and Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 on the standard one. However, the phones are now confirmed to even feature a dedicated imaging chip to share the load. They will get the Vivo V1+ chipset under the hood and support an impressive 144Hz refresh rate.
iQOO Neo 8 series to get Vivo X80 series’ V1+ chip
BBK brands have recently been focusing on developing their own chipsets. Oppo has launched the MariSilicon X chipset with the Find X5 series, while Vivo has introduced its own series of dedicated chipsets, including the latest Vivo V2. However, Oppo has shut down its custom chip unit, meaning that there may not be any further chip releases from the company.
Although the iQOO Neo 8 phones do not feature the latest imaging chip from their parent company, they will certainly benefit from the V1+ chip, which was also featured in the Vivo X80 smartphones. It is claimed that the V1+ can take night shots in situations where there is less than 1 lux of ambient lighting. The chip gets 32MB SRAM and 8GB/s data throughput speed. It improves image brightness by 16% and white balance accuracy by 12%.
Further, the iQOO revealed through a teaser that the Neo 8 and Neo 8 Pro smartphones will support a 144Hz refresh rate. Both smartphones will be released in China on May 23. You may check out their detailed specifications in our post here.
Yamaha has announced two new electric two-wheeler offerings leveraging its power capabilities. The Yamaha Booster Easy e-bike and Yamaha Booster S-pedelec electric moped were developed to meet the rapidly increasing demand for clean sustainable transportation solutions.
Yamaha Booster Easy e-bike
Yamaha is leveraging its capabilities in delivering low-power combustion engine scooters to develop e-bikes and e-mopeds. The Booster Easy e-bike and Booster S-pedelec e-moped are innovations from the Yamaha pool. Yamaha has built a solid reputation for quality and reliability in its decades-long e-bike trajectory. Yamaha says the new Booster models were designed to offer today’s urban dwellers an easy, enjoyable, and affordable means of urban mobility.
The two Yamaha Booster models key into the company’s Switch ON electric vehicle strategy. The lineup of models under this program includes the Moro eMTBs, Wabash gravel e-bike, and CrossCore city e-bike. Some of the models are premium offerings from the Yamaha brand. The Booster Easy and Booster S-pedelec are the spiritual successors to the original Yamaha 50cc and MKB scooters of the 1980s and 1990s in Europe. They share the same features like their predecessors including an aluminum U-frame with an exposed diecast section. They also come with Yamaha’s exclusive fork cover and front fender, as well as 20-inch wheels with 4-inch fat tires. The Yamaha Booster models are equipped with 180mm-diameter disc brakes while power is provided by Yamaha’s latest PW-series drive unit.
Yamaha’s Zero Cadence technology for instant pedal-assist is beneficial to the models’ S2 mid-mount motor. Furthermore, an Automatic Support Mode is delivers additional power when navigating difficult terrain and climbing an incline. The Booster Easy has 25km/h assistance while the Booster S-pedelec can assist up to 45km/h. Both models offer up to 75Nm of torque while the battery can yield up to 120km on a single charge. The Booster S-pedelec is categorized as an electric moped in Europe, requiring a license and insurance cover.
Yamaha Booster S-pedelec electric moped
The fat tires combine with a sturdy suspension fork design helps to make the ride enjoyable. The new Yamaha Booster models have the Supernova headlight and Koso LED tail-light for enhanced visibility when it is dark. There is also a rear carrier as well as optional accessories including baskets, bags, smartphone mount, and side covers. The Booster Easy has a 1.7-inch LCD display with integrated control buttons. The S-pedelec comes with a 2.8-inch color dot-matrix TFT display. The unit can also pair via Bluetooth with a smartphone for running fitness and navigation apps. The S-pedelec e-moped comes with a horn, license holder, and a mirror.
Yamaha Booster Easy e-bike & Booster S-Pedelec e-Moped boost the brand’s EV presence in Europe
Availability of the Yamaha Booster Easy is tied to Europe at this time while the Booster S-pedelec will be available in June. Pricing information and other details will be released later for the two new Yamaha e-mobility offerings.
Luxury audio brand, Bang & Olufsen (B&O) has released the world’s second 97-inch OLED TV. The B&O Beovision Harmony OLED TVs are available in various sizes between 65” and 97”. The highlight of the lineup is the 97-inch model which is the second-ever OLED TV at that size. The first-ever 97-inch OLED TV is the LG G2 OLED TV. The B&O Beovision Harmony lineup of OLED TVs comes with premium prices. The sizes of the TV available are 65”, 77”, 83”, 88” and 97”.
The B&O signature model in the Beovision Harmony series is the 97-inch TV. It comes with a folding/ rotating speaker cover system and features a luxury finish. The TV’s motorized speaker covers are made from expertly-crafted wood and aluminum. The speaker goes beneath the screen when the TV is in use and swivels around when not in use.
The premium LG-made OLED panel is a top-tier OLED screen with deep blacks and rich contrast. The sound system of the TV is also excellent. The speakers feature a 7.1 surround sound and you can connect the Beovision Hrmony OLED TV’s speakers wirelessly.
The Beovision Harmony OLED TVs is available in three colorways. These are Black Anthracite, Gold Tone, and Natural Aluminum. The 97-inch B&O Beovision Harmony OLED TV is priced at $63,075/ £50,650. The smaller models also feature premium prices higher than their LG C3 OLED counterparts.
Bang & Olufsen Beovision Harmony OLED TV series arrives to take on the LG G2 OLED TV
The TV is a great choice for design-focused customers who wants to retain the expansive B&O sound output and also make a fashion statement with the TV. The Beovision Harmony OLED TV is the second-ever 97-inch OLED TV because it was released earlier than the LG M3 Wireless OLED announced during CES 2023.
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