Apple’s App Store Transparency Report Reveals 1.6 Million App Rejections Last Year

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May 22, 2023

In an ongoing effort to enhance transparency and foster trust among developers and customers, Apple has released its highly anticipated “2022 App Store Transparency Report.” This comprehensive report provides detailed insights into app removals, appeals, developer account terminations, government takedown requests, and more. What Apple has shared goes beyond the requirements of previous agreements with shareholders and developers, demonstrating the company’s commitment to accountability and security.

More than 185,000 apps were also removed from the App Store

App rejections and removals form a significant portion of the report’s findings. Over the course of the year, a staggering 1,679,694 app submissions were rejected. These rejections were primarily attributed to violations of the App Store Review Guidelines, with performance-related issues being the most prevalent at 1,018,415 rejections. Other categories included safety (92,598), business (152,391), design (212,464), legal (441,972), and miscellaneous reasons (79,736). However, amidst a large number of rejections, 253,466 apps managed to gain approval following the initial rejection.

The report also sheds light on the number of apps removed from the App Store, amounting to 186,195. These removals were categorized by app type, with games (38,883) taking the lead, followed by utilities (20,045), business (16,997), education (16,509), and lifestyle (15,171). The removals were carried out primarily due to violations of specific guidelines, with guideline 4.0 on design (149,3787) and DPLA 3.2(f) on fraud (32,009) being the most common reasons.

Notably, the report reveals that apps are removed only from storefronts where the jurisdiction demanding their removal has authority, ensuring their availability in other storefronts worldwide. The report discloses specific government takedown demands, with mainland China leading the list (1435), followed by India (14), Pakistan (10), Russia (7), and several other countries.

The transparency report also provides valuable insights into developer account data. With a total of 36,974,015 registered Apple developers, the report reveals that 428,487 developer accounts were terminated. Fraud (428,249) and export control violations (238) were the primary reasons for account terminations. While developers have the option to appeal terminations, the report highlights that most appeals from terminations due to fraud are typically rejected.

Apple’s commitment to customer security is evident in the termination of 282,036,628 customer accounts, preventing fraudulent transactions valued at a staggering $2,090,195,480. The average weekly visitors to the App Store amounted to 656,739,889, with app downloads reaching 747,873,877, and app redownloads totalling 1,539,274,266. Additionally, there were an average of 40,876,798,492 automatic app updates and 512,545,816 manual app updates each week.

Apple’s 2022 App Store Transparency Report serves as a testament to the company’s ongoing dedication to maintaining a secure and reliable App Store ecosystem. By providing granular details on app rejections, removals, account terminations, and more, Apple aims to bolster trust among developers, shareholders, and customers alike.

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Meta reportedly in talks to license Magic Leap’s AR technology

By

Jeet

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May 22, 2023

Meta Platforms, the parent company of social media giant Facebook, is reportedly in talks with Magic Leap for licensing the company’s augmented reality (AR) technology.

If the deal goes through, then Meta will get access to Magic Leap’s expertise in the development of lightweight and high-resolution AR headsets, a segment in which the social media company has invested heavily.

The deal would be a major step forward for both companies as Meta will get access to Magic Leap’s technology while the latter will get an infusion of cash, helping it accelerate the development of its tech. However, it’s still too early to tell if the deal will go through, and even if it does, then they are not expected to make a product together.

Magic Leap has been working on the development of AR technology for several years now, and it has already released its AR glasses named Magic Leap One which received mixed response. However, it has kept developing the technology and is arguably the leading player in the market.

On the other hand, Meta has been heavily investing in augmented reality as the company sees the technology as a core part of its future. It has launched Quest 2 and is now looking to develop a more advanced headset for a wide range of applications.

There are a few major technology companies working on AR technology but no one has launched a disruptive product so far the continued investment in this space indicates that the companies are serious about AR and expect it to play a major part in the future.

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Apple iOS 16.5 Update Breaks iPhone and iPad Dongle Compatibility

By

Anubhav

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May 22, 2023

Apple’s recent release of updates brought a range of new improvements for iPhone and iPad users. The tech giant recently rolled out iOS 16.5, iPadOS 16.5, and macOS 13.4, each packed with exciting features for sports enthusiasts. Notably, all three updates introduce a dedicated Apple News section solely focused on sports, allowing users to stay updated on rankings, scores, and captivating stories without the hassle of sifting through unrelated articles. However, amidst the positive developments, there is unfortunate news for those who have already installed the latest updates. These new software versions have inadvertently caused compatibility issues with Apple’s Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter dongle. This dongle serves as a crucial accessory for connecting USB-A devices to iPhones and iPads while enabling simultaneous charging.

The Lightning to USB 3 Adapter enables Apple Devices to be cross-compatible

Reddit users have taken to the platform to voice their concerns regarding the malfunctioning of the Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter following the installation of iOS 16.5. For instance, one Redditor named FIFanatic shared their experience with a digital audio setup, explaining that the DAC (Schiit Modi+) had functioned flawlessly with the adapter until they updated to iOS 16.5. Now, the device displays an error message indicating that it “draws too much power” and fails to charge the iPhone or communicate with the DAC. Similar stories can be found across various online forums, such as the Apple Community site, where a user named “Coyle235” complained regarding the loss of charging functionality for their 7th gen iPad when using the Apple USB lightning camera adapter.

Although Apple primarily markets the accessory as a camera adapter, its utility extends far beyond just importing photos and videos. The Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter enables users to connect USB-A accessories, unlocking a broader range of possibilities for iPhone and iPad users. This unexpected compatibility breakdown has disrupted countless workflows and left consumers seeking alternative solutions.

As reports flood in from frustrated users, it appears that the recent updates have rendered the dongle unusable, leaving consumers eager for a swift resolution from Apple.

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Xiaomi Civi 3 launch date confirmed, coming with dual-tone design, round camera module

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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May 22, 2023

Update: A new poster released by the brand shows the phone sporting a dual-tone design and round camera module.

Original story continues…

Xiaomi has finally confirmed the launch date of the Civi 3, which will be a female-focused smartphone for the Chinese market. It is scheduled to go official at 2 pm (local time) on May 25.

The below-shown poster not only confirms the Xiaomi Civi 3 launch date but also gives a glimpse of its rear design. It seems that the device will be equipped with a circular camera module, which is completely different from the rear camera designs of the predecessor models. It is likely that the company may reveal the entire design of the Civi 3 through forthcoming teasers.

Xiaomi Civi 3 May 25 launch date — Xiaomi Civi 3 to launch on May 25

Xiaomi Civi 3 specifications (rumored)

The Xiaomi Civi 3 will rival the likes of the Dimensity 8200-powered smartphones, such as the Oppo Reno 10 Pro and the Vivo S17 Pro, in the Chinese market. Recent reports have revealed a lot of information about the Civi 3. Here is a look at what to expect from the smartphone.

According to reports, the Civi 3 includes a 6.55-inch curved AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, along with an under-display fingerprint scanner. Powering the Civi 3 could be the Dimensity 8200-Ultra chipset, accompanied by LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. It is expected to come with 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB of built-in storage, and a 4,500mAh battery that supports 67W rapid charging.

The pill-shaped camera cutout on the screen will be equipped with a 32-megapixel primary selfie camera and a 32-megapixel ultra-wide lens. A 50-megapixel Sony IMX800 primary camera with OIS support will be the focal point of the device’s rear-facing triple camera unit. The phone is expected to run on the MIUI 14-based Android 13 OS.

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Instagram was Down for Hundreds of Thousands of Users Worldwide

By

Anubhav

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May 22, 2023

In a surprising turn of events on Sunday evening, Instagram, the popular photo-sharing platform, experienced a brief but impactful outage, leaving millions of users unable to access their feeds. Reports started pouring in just minutes after 6 PM ET, with over 175,000 users flagging the issue at its peak. However, the problem was swiftly addressed, and by 7:30 PM ET, Instagram was up and running again.

The downtime lasted for merely 1 hour as the glitch was fixed soon

The technical glitch, which caused the app’s feed to freeze and displayed error messages preventing refreshes, caused a momentary panic among users who rely on the platform for their daily dose of visual inspiration. The website, too, showed a blank page, adding to the frustration.

Dave Arnold, spokesperson for Meta, Instagram’s parent company, issued an apology after the incident, stating, “Earlier today, a technical issue caused some people to have trouble accessing Instagram. We resolved the issue as quickly as possible for everyone who was impacted, and we’re sorry for any disruption this has caused.”

Given the timing of the outage, it quickly made headlines in Australia, becoming a topic of discussion on Monday morning news reports. Fortunately, other services under the Meta umbrella, such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Horizon Worlds, remained unaffected, alleviating concerns about a broader system failure.

Curiously, Instagram’s help page and its accounts on other platforms like Facebook and Twitter remained silent about the incident, failing to provide timely updates to concerned users. Speculation about a potential Instagram-owned service on Twitter proved fruitless, as no such service exists currently. However, we might have something by as soon as next month, as the Twitter alternative codenamed P92 made headlines recently.

While the outage was a temporary setback, it serves as a reminder of our dependency on digital platforms for social interaction and entertainment. Instagram users worldwide can now breathe a sigh of relief as their beloved app is back online, ready to show them the creative content they cherish.

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Vivo V29 Lite 5G renders, global launch timeframe leaked

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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May 22, 2023

A recent leak revealed the key specifications of the Vivo V29 Lite 5G. Now, a new report courtesy of The Tech Outlook has released the leaked renders of the smartphone to reveal its design for the first time.

Vivo V29 Lite 5G renders

As can be seen in the leaked renders, the Vivo V29 Lite 5G will come equipped with a curved-edge display that is integrated with a fingerprint scanner. On the back, it has a rectangle module that has an LED flash as well as three camera sensors housed inside two camera rings.

Vivo V29 Lite 5G launch timeframe

As per the report, the V29 Lite 5G will arrive in the global market in the next two weeks, which indicates that it may debut by the end of May or early June. It is likely to be priced at $299.

Vivo V29 Lite 5G specifications (rumored)

The Vivo V29 Lite 5G is rumored to feature a 6.78-inch AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz display. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 695 chip, 8 GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 44W charging.

The V29 Lite will have a 16-megapixel front camera, and a 64-megapixel (main, with OIS) + 2-megapixel (depth) + 2-megapixel triple camera unit. The device will have 128 GB of internal storage and a microSD card slot for additional storage. It will run on Android 13 OS with FunTouch OS 13 on top.

In related news, the Vivo V29 Pro 5G is also expected to launch in June. Rumors are rife that it could be a rebranded version of the Dimensity 8200-powered Vivo S17 Pro, which may launch by the end of May in China.

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iQOO Z7s 5G launched in India with 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 695, 64MP dual cameras for Rs 18,999 (~$229)

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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May 22, 2023

iQOO has silently launched the iQOO Z7s 5G in India. It is the second Z7-series phone to release in the country after the Dimensity 920-powered iQOO Z7 5G, which was announced in March this year. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the Z7s.

iQOO Z7s 5G specifications and features

The iQOO Z7s 5G has a 6.38-inch AMOLED display that offers a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, a 90Hz refresh rate, a 360Hz touch sampling rate, and a peak brightness of 1300 nits. For security, it has an in-screen fingerprint scanner.

The Snapdragon 695 chipset powers the iQOO Z7s. For an enhanced gaming experience, the phone offers features like motion control, a 1200Hz instant touch sampling rate, and Ultra Game mode. The device comes with 6 GB / 8 GB of RAM, 8 GB of virtual RAM, and 128 GB of internal storage. There is a microSD card slot onboard for additional storage.

It features a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. The back panel of the device has an OIS-assisted 64-megapixel primary camera, a 2-megapixel bokeh camera, and an LED flash.

The iQOO Z7s 5G runs on Android 13 OS, which is overlaid with FunTouch OS 13. It has a 4,500mAh battery that supports 44W fast charging. It offers other features like dual SIM support, 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

In terms of specifications and design, it is identical to the iQOO Z7. The only major difference between the two phones is that the Z7 has the Dimensity 920 chip, whereas the Z7s has the Snapdragon 695.

iQOO Z7s 5G price in India, availability

The iQOO Z7s 5G is already listed for purchase on the iQOO India website and Amazon. The 6 GB + 128GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage variants of the phone are priced at Rs 18,999 (~$229) and Rs 19,999 (~$241), respectively. It can be purchased in Norway Blue and Pacific Night colors. After applying bank offers on Amazon, it can be purchased for as low as Rs 17,499 (~$211).

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Oppo Reno 10 Series Roundup: Everything you need to know

By

Anurag

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May 21, 2023

Oppo Reno series is the home to some of the most popular mid-rangers, and also to some of the prettiest ones. The last year’s Reno 9 Pro Plus was a feast for the eyes with its polished metal camera island and curved display. Oppo has always placed a high emphasis on design, and it shows in the company’s products.

On May 24, the brand will be unveiling the new Reno 10 lineup with upgraded hardware and a design that may not actually live up to your expectations. Just like the previous series, Reno 10 will include three models namely the Reno 10, the Reno 10 Pro, and the Reno 10 Pro Plus. Ahead of the official release, we have gathered everything about the new smartphones here in this post. Let’s dive in.

Design and Display

Although the Reno 9 series did not make it to the global market, our reviews noted that the lineup, particularly the Reno 9 Pro Plus (watch), offers a very balanced experience with a top-notch display and beautiful design. Oppo seems to have gotten the hardware part right even with the Reno 10 series, but the design lacks character, at least according to this author.

The phones don’t look all that bad, but when you compare them to the previous models, you start noticing flaws. In comparison, the Oppo Reno 8 Pro (review) from 2022 debuted with an appealing appearance. With extra large bezels around the corners of the camera module, the phone stands out from the crowd. Moreover, there’s something about its flat, iPhone-like sides, back, and front that adds to its appeal.

You can see in the images that Oppo has done away with the large rectangular camera module and instead opted for a pill-shaped one. The design remains consistent across all three phones. The module is divided into two compartments, with the upper one housing the camera rings and the lower one featuring a square housing for the periscope lens (only on the Reno 10 Pro Plus).

When it comes to the display, the Reno 10, Reno 10 Pro, and Reno 10 Pro Plus all sport a curved panel on the front with a punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera. The bezels surrounding the display are minimal. Both the Reno 10 and Reno 10 Pro will feature a 6.74-inch OLED screen with an FHD+ resolution of 2412 x 1080 and a 120Hz refresh rate. The Pro Plus model is expected to have a similar size, but Oppo might include some additional perks.

Specifications

The Reno 10 series is expected to bring several upgrades in the hardware department, with new cameras and chipsets. The vanilla Reno 10 will have a 32MP front-facing camera and a triple rear camera system consisting of a 64MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 32MP telephoto camera. It will be powered by a Snapdragon 778G processor, have 12GB of RAM, and a 4,600mAh battery with 80W fast charging support. It will weigh 180 grams and measure 7.58mm in thickness.

The Reno 10 Pro will have a similar camera system to the Reno 10, but it will be powered by a Dimensity 8200 processor and have 12GB or 16GB of RAM. It will also have a larger 4,600mAh battery with 100W fast charging support.

The Reno 10 Pro+ will have a more advanced camera system than the other two models, with a 64MP periscope zoom lens in addition to the 50MP main camera and 8MP ultra-wide camera. It will also be powered by the more-powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor and have 16GB of RAM. The battery will be slightly larger at 4,600 or 4,700mAh, and it will support 100W wired charging.

The OPPO Reno 10 series will run on Android with ColorOS 13 on top. The Reno 10 and 10 Pro will come in Brilliant Gold, Colorful Blue, and Moon Sea Black. All three phones will have an in-display fingerprint sensor, NFC, an IR blaster, and a plastic middle frame.

Expected Pricing

The pricing of the Oppo Reno 10 series is still anyone’s guess. We would expect a slight bump in the price as compared to the previous year’s models. For reference, the base variant of the Reno 9 starts at around $350, the Reno 9 Pro costs about $480), and the Reno 9 Pro+ is available in China for around $550.

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Google to Pay $39.9 Million to Settle Location Tracking Lawsuit

By

Oğuz Çakır

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May 21, 2023

Technology continues to develop and simplify our lives in every aspect. As a result, we incorporate the products and services we purchase into every facet of our daily routine. However, this situation also brings along certain security concerns. Many companies, including giant names like Samsung and Apple, are frequently involved in lawsuits due to violations of personal data security. Google, of course, is one of these companies. The tech giant is set to pay $39.9 million to settle a location tracking lawsuit. Here are the details…

What the Settlement Means for Consumers

Google has agreed to pay $39.9 million to settle a lawsuit alleging that the company misled consumers about its location tracking practices. The lawsuit, which was filed in 2020 by Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson, claimed that Google continued to track users’ locations even after they had disabled location tracking in their settings.

Google has denied wrongdoing, but agreed to settle the lawsuit to avoid the cost of a trial. As part of the settlement, Google will be required to make changes to its location tracking practices, including providing more transparency about how it collects and uses location data. Google will also be required to pay $39.9 million to Washington state, which will be used to fund consumer privacy education and enforcement programs.

This settlement is a victory for consumer privacy advocates, who have long been concerned about Google’s location tracking practices. It is also a reminder that even the largest tech companies are not above the law. The lawsuit alleged that Google violated the Washington Consumer Protection Act by misleading consumers about its location tracking practices. The lawsuit claimed that Google made it difficult for users to disable location tracking, and that Google continued to track users’ locations even after they had disabled location tracking.

The settlement also requires Google to pay $39.9 million to Washington state. The money will be used to fund consumer privacy education and enforcement programs. This settlement considers is a victory for consumer privacy advocates

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Honor Magic Vs foldable phone sales commence in the UK with a £200 early bird discount offer

By

Jed John Ikoba

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May 21, 2023

Honor has now extended the reach of the Magic Vs to the United Kingdom market. The Honor Magic Vs in the UK has been launched and it retails at £1,399 (~$1,741). However, the price of the foldable smartphone in the UK is discounted, with up to £200 in savings for early orders up until May 26. Thus, the device will cost 1,199 during the early bird offer period.

The Honor Magic Vs is Chinese brand Honor’s latest foldable offering and it was first announced for the global market at MWC 2023 in February. It is one of the most powerful models around and it squares up nicely with leading foldables. The Magic Vs originally is available in black and cyan colorways but the UK market will only have the black model for now. It is offered in a 12GB+512GB RAM+ storage configuration. The package includes a screen protection service for 6 months and a premium case. The one-off Screen Protection Service is reportedly worth £500 (~$622).

The Honor Magic Vs is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and features two OLED displays. It has a 5,000mAh battery and compares with the flagship Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4. The Magic Vs is however slightly lighter and thinner than the Z Fold4. It is however longer than the Z Fold4 by 5.2mm and 11.5mm wider when unfolded.

The Magic Vs foldable in the UK is being retailed at £1,399 (~$1,741), as mentioned earlier. Orders for the smartphone can be made directly via Honor’s website. Honor says it will ship the first 150 units of the Magic Vs at the start while the subsequent deliveries will be made in June.

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iPhone’s Emergency SOS Feature Saves Lost Hikers in California

By

Oğuz Çakır

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May 21, 2023

The competition in the smartphone market continues at full speed. Although the camera quality and processing power increase with each new model thanks to advancing technology, these improvements alone are not enough to catapult a manufacturer to the top. Therefore, manufacturers frequently announce new features to attract attention. One of these was the Emergency SOS feature announced by Apple not too long ago. Since its debut, this feature has become a compelling reason for people to purchase iPhones. This time, it saved a group of lost hikers in California. Here are the details…

How Apple’s Emergency SOS Saved a Group of Hikers

A group of lost hikers in California were rescued thanks to the Emergency SOS feature on their iPhones. Apple’s Emergency SOS app, designed for direct emergency calls, once again proved invaluable in saving lives. After successfully rescuing a family recently, it has now aided in the rescue of a group of hikers.

The hikers had set out on a nature walk and climbing expedition in an unfamiliar area of California. After covering significant distances, they found themselves off their planned route and lost near a canyon. Fortunately, around ten members of the group were iPhone users who activated Apple’s Emergency SOS feature simultaneously. Despite being in a remote location with no cell network coverage, the SOS feature connected them with local rescue teams.

Upon receiving the distress call, rescue teams were dispatched to locate and rescue the hikers. The nearest settlement to their location was Ventura. A deputy sheriff from Ventura confirmed that the hikers were safe and in good health after being rescued. During a press briefing, the deputy sheriff highlighted that many members of the hiking group were ill-prepared for such an activity and lacked essential equipment. He noted that several hikers were wearing only shorts and t-shirts, underestimating the challenging terrain, which included numerous water crossings and steep hills that required climbing, likely contributing to the group’s disorientation.

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Edifier W820NB Plus: Budget-Friendly Wireless Headphones with ANC, LDAC & 49-Hour Battery Launched

By

Sudhanshu

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May 21, 2023

Edifier, the maker of premium yet affordable audio products recently launched the M330 all-in-one Bluetooth Speaker in China. Now, the brand has brought the Edifier W820NB Plus ANC wireless headphones to the US market.

Edifier W820NB Plus headphones specs & features

These wireless headphones offer a host of features that cater to music lovers, movie enthusiasts, and gamers alike. With Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless Audio certification, you can expect exceptional sound quality and detail.

Equipped with a 40mm dynamic driver featuring a Titanium coated composite diaphragm, the W820NB Plus headphones deliver accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency range. The LDAC codec ensures high-quality wireless audio streaming, while Bluetooth 5.0 and wired USB connectivity provide flexible options for seamless device pairing.

Impressive battery life sets these headphones apart, with up to 49 hours of continuous playback when ANC is off and 42 hours when ANC is on. This extended battery life makes them perfect for long journeys and all-day use. The customizable EQ and soothing sounds available via the Edifier Connect app allow you to personalize your listening experience, creating an audio sanctuary tailored to your preferences.

Gamers will appreciate the low latency of just 0.08s in game mode, delivering an immersive gaming experience without noticeable delays. Clear phone calls are ensured with DNN noise cancellation technology, effectively eliminating background noise for hassle-free communication.

Active Noise Cancellation with an ANC depth of up to -43dB allows you to enjoy your music or find moments of tranquility in noisy environments. The specifications of the W820NB Plus include Bluetooth 5.0, a frequency response of 20Hz-40kHz, a sensitivity of 100dB, and an impedance of 32Ω, ensuring a stable connection, rich audio reproduction, and compatibility with various devices.

Weighing just 320g, these headphones prioritize comfort for extended wear. The adjustable headband and cushioned ear cups provide a snug fit and excellent noise isolation. The Edifier W820NB Plus headphones are currently priced at $79.99, offering great value for their outstanding features and impressive performance.

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Toyota and Suzuki collaborate to create mini electric vans and innovative BEV platform

By

Jed John Ikoba

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May 21, 2023

Toyota is jointly developing new mini electric vans with Suzuki. The two companies have also jointly developed a battery electric vehicle (BEV) system with Daihatsu Motor. The new BEV platform with be at the heart of a new generation of electric minivans. Toyota is gradually making inroads into the EV market with a raft of offerings and investments in that direction.

Toyota has made pointed efforts to accelerate development in its BEV strategy with its new CEO Koji Sato driving the process. The Japanese automaker plans to deliver ten new EVs by 2026 and a projected sales outlay of about 1.5 million units annually. Toyota had a less-than-expected reception for its first EV, the bZ4X, and expects to eclipse that with its new strategy. Toyota’s second EV, the bZ3 was released last month in China and was co-developed with BYD. There are several other EV models on the Toyota lineup including the bZ FlexSpace and an aerodynamic sports EV.

The new BEV platform is slated to come into operation by 2026 and this could see a significant increase in the range of Toyota EVs. The company claims the technology will double the range of future EVs with the use of highly efficient batteries. The three Japanese automakers, Toyota, Suzuki, and Daihatsu Motor will also deploy the BEV platform for new electric minivans. A prototype of the mini electric vans that implement the co-developed BEV platform will be on exhibition this week. The exhibition is being hosted by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.

The electric minivans combine features from Toyota, Suzuki, and Daihatsu models. The cars reflect Suzuki’s and Daihatsu’s expertise in small-sized cars in combination with Toyota’s electrification technology. The first model will be manufactured by Daihatsu while Toyota and Suzuki will subsequently release theirs by Q4, 2023. A minimum 200km range on a full charge is expected for the new electric minivans.

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Baseus Car Mobile Phone Holder Wireless Charger with 15W output unveiled in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

May 21, 2023

Baseus has launched its new Car Mobile Phone Holder Wireless Charger in China. The Baseus wireless charger supports 15W charging and can be operated even when the power is off. The new Baseus wireless charging car mount has its bottom and sides equipped with grippers for firmly securing the mobile phone. The built-in sensor in the charger will automatically clamp the smartphone as it approaches the charger.

Baseus Car Mobile Phone Holder Wireless Charger

Baseus is a fast-expanding consumer electronics brand and the new model operates as both a phone mount and a wireless charger. The Baseus Car Mobile Phone Holder and Wireless Charger’s model number is BS-CM020. The side of the Mobile Phone mount has independent buttons to control the wireless charging and light switch. The device can be opened and closed even when the power is off. The Baseus Car Mobile Phone Mount can charge mobile phones with screen sizes between 5.4 inches and 7.2 inches. It is equipped with a USB-C charging interface that delivers 20W charging power.

The Baseus Wireless Charging Mobile Phone Holder is available on the e-commerce platform Tmall. A 30 yuan coupon discount is available and the price after the coupon deduction is 229 yuan (~$33). There are no global availability details for the new Baseus phone mount and wireless charger at this time. However, it is likely that the model could be available in a sprinkling of overseas markets at the least. Availability in China will also be scaled to other online retail platforms after the launch period.

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BMW Wants to Bring Multiplayer Gaming to Your Car

By

Oğuz Çakır

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May 21, 2023

German automaker BMW is on a quest to make car journeys more exciting than ever before. The brand recently filed for a novel patent that, once fully realized, will allow BMW owners to turn their cars into veritable gaming room like Tesla. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with AirConsole, promises to revolutionize the in-car entertainment experience. Here are the details…

BMW’s New Gaming System Is About to Change the Way You Travel

The promise of BMW’s new patent is simple, yet audacious: It offers the potential for both single and multiplayer gaming within the car. Following the global trend of “smart cars,” which is now embraced by virtually all automotive brands, BMW is making strides in integrating groundbreaking features into their models. The first of these innovations came in the form of a “cinema room” feature, first introduced in the electric BMW i7 series. Now, BMW is gearing up to transform car interiors into fully-fledged gaming hubs.

The patent application filed last week by BMW seems to indicate the introduction of a mini in-car gaming console. Aimed to keep the driver’s attention undistracted on the road, the console is designed for passengers in the car’s rear seats. It will allow from a single passenger up to three to play games together. Thanks to a collaborative effort with AirConsole, each passenger will be able to use their iDrive screen as a monitor. Imaginatively, passengers’ phones will serve as game controllers for the virtual console. Utilizing a cloud-based system, the platform will offer up to 200 different games, mostly comprised of fast mini-games similar to those in the Jackbox series.

The game selection will feature quick, entertaining games like car racing, mystery box finding, and small-scale fighting games. Connection to the system will be made through a special app accessible only to BMW owners by scanning an in-car QR code. With the patent news becoming public, some users have expressed excitement about the new feature, particularly noting its potential to keep children entertained during long car journeys. However, not everyone shares the enthusiasm. A group of users raised concerns about the potential for this feature to distract drivers, which could potentially lead to severe traffic accidents.

As of now, the feature is still in the patenting stage. It is expected to hit the market by the end of 2023, and soon we will be seeing it in BMW cars. It is anticipated to be offered not as a standard feature, but as an option. The first model to introduce this new option will be BMW’s electric vehicle, the i7. This ambitious move by BMW demonstrates the evolving nature of the automotive industry, not just focusing on the mechanics of driving, but also enhancing the overall passenger experience.

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Samsung Galaxy F54 Indian pricing leaks along with camera setup & display specs

By

Sudhanshu

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May 21, 2023

We recently reported on the leaked box price of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy F54 5G smartphone. As we know, the actual price of the device is usually a bit lower than the box price. Keeping that in mind, tipster Mukul Sharma has tipped, what could be the price of the Galaxy F54 5G.

Mukul has stated that the Galaxy F54 5G is expected to be priced at Rs 33,000 when it launches. The details regarding the RAM and storage options of the Galaxy F54 5G have not been disclosed by Sharma. However, it is likely that the device will come with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

Samsung #GalaxyF54 5G to feature Nightography and Super-Steady OIS.
120Hz AMOLED
108MP + 8MP + 2MP/32MP front
Price will be around ₹33,000

The device is soon going to launch in India.#Samsung #SamsungGalaxyF54 pic.twitter.com/MbyZPxYtw7
— Mukul Sharma (@stufflistings) May 21, 2023

In addition to the pricing, the tipster has also revealed a video showcasing the triple-camera setup of the smartphone. The Galaxy F54 5G will offer notable features including Nightography and Super-steady optical image stabilization (OIS). According to the tipster, the Galaxy F54 5G will have a high-resolution 108MP primary camera sensor. Additionally, it will include an 8MP ultra-wide camera and a 2MP macro sensor. For capturing selfies, the phone will feature a front camera sensor with a resolution of 32MP.

This is in line with the previous leaks about the Galaxy F54 5G. Let’s check out all the details.

Samsung Galaxy F54 5G specs

Rumors suggest the Samsung Galaxy F54 5G will feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution. Powering the device is expected to be the octa-core Exynos 1380 processor, which is also found in the Galaxy A54 5G. The smartphone may sport a triple rear camera setup, consisting of a 108MP primary camera with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP auxiliary sensor.

Under the hood, the Galaxy F54 5G is rumored to house a 6000mAh battery and offer support for 25W fast charging, although no charger will be included in the box. The device is likely to come with Android 13 pre-installed, along with Samsung’s One UI 5.1 interface.

Other notable features of the Galaxy F54 5G may include a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, AI face unlock, a USB Type-C port, and support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and more.

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Samsung Galaxy Note 10 gets May 2023 security update in the US

By

Soumyakanti

-

May 21, 2023

Samsung has recently rolled out the May 2023 security update for its Galaxy Note 10 series in the United States. Following its release in South Korea, the update is now available for carrier-unlocked models in the US, while the global versions of the smartphone are yet to receive it.

Galaxy Note 10 gets May 2023 security update: What’s new?

The latest software version, labeled N97xU1UEU7HWE1, brings the May 2023 security patch to unlocked models of the Galaxy Note 10 and Galaxy Note 10+. The update primarily focuses on addressing more than 70 security vulnerabilities identified in Galaxy devices, including fixes for issues within the FactoryTest function, ActivityManagerService, kernel log file, Theme Manager, GearManagerStub, and the Tips app.

Furthermore, the update resolves security flaws in the Shannon modem present in Exynos processors, as well as the bootloader, Telephony framework, call settings components and AppLock access control. In addition to Samsung’s fixes, the update also includes 58 security patches from Google.

To install the May 2023 security update on your unlocked Galaxy Note 10 or Galaxy Note 10+ in the US, navigate to Settings, then select Software update, and tap on Download and Install. Alternatively, you can manually download the firmware from the official site or third-party sites and flash it onto your device.

Samsung introduced the Galaxy Note 10 series in the second half of 2019 with Android 9. The devices received the Android 10 update in early 2020, followed by the Android 11 update later in the same year. The Android 12 update arrived for the Galaxy Note 10 series in late 2021. Please note that these smartphones will not receive any future Android OS updates.

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Vivo V29 Pro Key Specifications Leaked, Launch Expected in June

By

Anurag

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May 21, 2023

Rumors about the Vivo V29 series have been circulating online for some time now, and one might argue that it’s quite early since the V27 series is only a few months old. But that’s the world we live in. From what we are hearing, the next range of lifestyle smartphones will be unveiled as early as June next month. While we wait for an official confirmation, a report is here with the Key specifications of the Pro model— Vivo V29 Pro.

Vivo V29 Pro to get a curved display, 64MP Primary camera

A 91Mobiles Hindi report claims the Vivo V29 Pro will make its global debut in June. The smartphone will likely be accompanied by a vanilla model and a stripped-down Vivo V29 Lite. All three phones are also said to launch in the Indian market. Do note that Vivo is yet to officially confirm any of these details.

Vivo V29 Pro is reported to feature a curved 6.7-inch OLED display with a Full HD+ resolution and up to 120Hz refresh rate. The device will get a triple-rear camera setup shooter with a 64MP primary sensor that may support OIS. There may also be an ultrawide shooter and the third unit could be just a depth or macro sensor. For selfies and video calls, it will likely be equipped with a 50MP front snapper.

The Vivo V29 Pro will come packed with a 5000mAH battery unit that supports 66W fast charging. The report also mentions that the smartphone will feature 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The handset is rumored to be a rebranded version of Vivo S17 Pro, which is headed to China. It is said to be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 processor under the hood.

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OnePlus 11 receives OxygenOS 13.1 Update along with older OnePlus devices

By

Soumyakanti

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May 21, 2023

OnePlus is rolling out OxygenOS 13.1 update, based on Android 13, for its flagship device, the OnePlus 11. This update not only introduces a range of new features but also extends its support to several older OnePlus smartphones, including the OnePlus 8, OnePlus 8 Pro, OnePlus 8T, OnePlus 9, OnePlus 9 Pro, OnePlus 9R, OnePlus 10 Pro, and OnePlus 10T.

OnePlus devices that have received OxygenOS 13.1 so far:

OnePlus 11R
OnePlus 10 Pro
OnePlus 10R
OnePlus 10T
OnePlus 9R
OnePlus 8T
OnePlus 11
OnePlus 9 Pro 5G
OnePlus 9 5G
OnePlus 8
OnePlus 8 Pro

OnePlus devices that will receive OxygenOS 13.1 in the future:

OnePlus 9RT 5G
OnePlus Nord 2
OnePlus Nord 2T
OnePlus Nord CE
OnePlus Nord CE 2
OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite

OxygenOS 13.1 features:

One of the standout additions in OxygenOS 13.1 is the expansion of Omoji’s functionality and library, enhancing personalization options for OnePlus 8 Pro, 8T, 9, 9 Pro, 9R, 11, and 11R users. Additionally, OnePlus has introduced a new TalkBack feature that uses advanced image recognition technology to identify and announce images in apps and Photos, enhancing accessibility for users.

Another noteworthy inclusion is the Zen Space app, featuring two modes—Deep Zen and Light Zen—which aim to promote mindfulness and help users focus on the present moment. Moreover, the Simple mode on OnePlus 8 Pro, 8T, 9, 9 Pro, and 9R has been enhanced with a helpful widget and quick tutorials on the Home screen, making it even more user-friendly.

Gaming enthusiasts will also benefit from the OxygenOS 13.1 update, as OnePlus has introduced the Championship Mode to the Game Assistant. This mode optimizes performance while providing an immersive gaming experience by disabling notifications, calls, and other distractions. Additionally, the update brings music playback control to the Game Assistant, allowing users to seamlessly listen to and manage their favorite tracks while gaming.

Furthermore, OnePlus 10 Pro users can expect improved system stability and performance with the OxygenOS 13.1 update. The update also extends battery life in specific scenarios, enhancing the overall user experience.

Currently, the OxygenOS 13.1 update is being gradually rolled out in India, starting with a small percentage of OnePlus 11 users. However, OnePlus plans to expand the rollout to a broader user base in the coming days, ensuring that a wider audience can enjoy the latest features and enhancements.

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OPPO A1 Vitality Edition with Dimensity 6020, 6.56-inch 90Hz display announced

By

Soumyakanti

-

May 21, 2023

Last month, Oppo announced Oppo A1 5G in China. Now the company has introduced a new edition of the device called Oppo A1 Vitality Edition, aimed at budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on performance and style. This phone looks like the rebranded version of Oppo A58 5G which was launched last year. Let’s take a closer look at its key features.

OPPO A1 Vitality Edition specifications

The Oppo A1 Vitality Edition sports a 6.56-inch display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. It covers 100% of the DCI-P3 wide color gamut, delivering vibrant and true-to-life visuals. With intelligent brightness adjustment featuring 4096 levels, the screen automatically adapts to ambient lighting conditions, optimizing visibility. The display offers a resolution of 1612×720, an 89.8% screen-to-body ratio, and a peak brightness of 480nits, providing an immersive viewing experience.

In terms of design, the A1 Vitality Edition features a crystal diamond design, offering a sleek and premium appearance. With a thickness of approximately 7.99mm and a weight of about 188g, it is both slim and lightweight. Additionally, it provides IP54 dust and water resistance, safeguarding the device from everyday hazards.

Under the hood, the A1 Vitality Edition is powered by the Dimensity 6020 chipset based on the A76 architecture with Mali-G57 GPU. This ensures smooth performance and efficient multitasking. The device supports RAM expansion, offering a maximum capacity of 20GB with 12GB LPDDR4X inbuilt RAM + 8GB expandable RAM. The inbuilt storage can also be expanded.

The A1 Vitality Edition features a 50-megapixel main camera and a 2-megapixel depth sensor on the rear. On the front, it houses an 8-megapixel camera to take care of the selfies. The device offers various camera features, including portrait mode, AI scene enhancement, RGB retention video, and super night scene mode.

Connectivity options include dual SIM dual standby, dual-mode 5G, 360-degree surround antenna, and 5G+WiFi dual-channel acceleration. The A1 Vitality Edition’s audio capabilities are enhanced by a linear speaker with real sound technology. It delivers optimized sound quality for music, cinema, gaming, and short videos, enhancing the overall multimedia experience. The smartphone houses a 5000mAh battery with SuperVOOC 33W fast charging support.

The device comes in three color options: Quiet Sea Blue, Starry Black, and Fresh Wind Purple. Oppo A1 Vitality Edition is priced at 1799 yuan ($256).