Apple Weather App Experiences Issues Yet Again, Resolves Them Promptly

By

-

May 10, 2023

Our smartphones are likely our biggest helpers. We handle various tasks with these devices, from our daily communication needs to our general financial transactions. Manufacturers and developers, aware of this situation, continue to enhance functionality with new features and functions.

For example, Apple informs iPhone, iPad, and Mac users about the weather with its Weather App. However, this app has recently been plagued by ongoing issues. Today, many users experienced problems with the Weather App, but the company quickly intervened and resolved the issue. Here are the details…

Reliability Concerns Raised After Apple Weather App Experiences Issues”

Apple’s Weather app experienced issues earlier today, leaving some users without access to the service. The outage reportedly began at 7:00 a.m. Eastern Time, with users noticing the app’s sluggishness or complete unavailability. Not all users were impacted by this issue, but those who were experienced significant inconvenience due to the lack of weather updates.

Fortunately, Apple acted swiftly to fix the issue, and as of now, the Weather app is back to normal functionality for all users. While the reason behind the outage remains unclear, it serves as a reminder of the importance of having reliable weather services in our daily lives. In the meantime, users affected by the outage might consider turning to alternative weather apps, such as The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, or Weather Underground, in case of similar issues in the future.

This isn’t the first time Apple’s Weather app has faced such problems. In April, there was a major outage that weather the app incapable of displaying any data. Apple promptly addressed the issue and restored the service, but today’s problem has raised concerns about the app’s reliability.

RELATED:

(via)

LG launches new UltraGear curved ultrawide gaming monitor with 1ms response & 240Hz refresh rate

By

Sean

-

May 10, 2023

LG Electronics has just launched a brand new monitor from its popular UltraGear gaming series. The new model is the 49GR85DC, which is an ultrawide curved gaming monitor model. So here are all the details.

LG launches new ultrawide curved monitor for gamers with a 49 inch 240Hz display

As the model number suggests, the new UltraGear monitor sports a tall 49 inch display that has a 32:9 aspect ratio. The panel offers a Dual QHD resolution, 3000:1 contrast ratio, 240Hz refresh rate, and 1000nits of peak brightness. This screen also comes with VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification and 1000R curvature. For ports, it houses a DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 ports for connectivity. The rear also features LED Hexagon backlighting, which adds to its gaming aesthetic.

Being a gaming monitor, response times are a crucial aspect and the new 49GR85DC model offers 1ms response time. It even offers 95 percent DCI P3 color gamut support and is based on a VA panel. According to Seo Young-jae, Senior VP and Head of the IT Business Unit of LG Electronics Business Solutions Company, “With the gaming monitor market expanding, the demand for larger displays with exceptional picture quality and high refresh rates is on the rise. The new LG UltraGear is a versatile and premium display solution that caters to the diverse needs of modern day consumers.”

The LG UltraGear gaming monitor is now available for purchase in the US for a price start of 1,299 US Dollars via the company’s official stores. It will also be available in launched in other regions including Europe later this month, with an Asia launch slated to follow soon after. Notably, this launch also arrives mere days after the brand announced the new UltraGear 27GR75Q earlier this month.

RELATED:

Vivo Y78 5G launched in China with Dimensity 7020, 8GB RAM & 44W fast charging

By

Sudhanshu

-

May 10, 2023

Vivo has released its latest mid-range smartphone, the Vivo Y78 5G, in China. This new device follows the launch of the Vivo Y78+ just last month. Boasting a MediaTek Dimensity 7020 SoC, which is essentially a rebranded version of the Dimensity 930 chipset (Check out our coverage about the MediaTek Dimensity SoC rebrand), the Y78 5G also offers a sizable battery and fast charging capabilities. Check out the other details below.

Vivo Y78 5G specs

Vivo has recently launched the Y78 5G in China, which is a mid-range smartphone that features a MediaTek Dimensity 7020 SoC. The SoC is an octa-core processor based on a 6nm process and has a maximum clock speed of 2.2GHz. The device comes with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, with support for expandable storage via a microSD card slot.

The device sports a 6.64-inch IPS LCD display with a Full HD+ resolution of 2388×1080 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a hole-punch cutout for the front camera. The screen has a pixel density of 394PPI and a 91.06 percent screen-to-body ratio.

Under the hood, the Y78 5G packs a powerful 5000mAh battery that supports 44W fast charging. It also has a USB Type-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and dual-band Wi-Fi support, among other connectivity features. For biometrics, the Y78 5G has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and support for AI face unlock. The phone runs on Android 13 with Origin OS 3 on top.

The phone has a dual-camera setup on the back, which includes a 50MP primary camera sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and a 2MP bokeh sensor with an f/2.4 aperture. On the front, there is an 8MP selfie camera.

Pricing, configurations & color options

Vivo has unveiled the Y78 5G in China, featuring multiple storage configurations. The phone comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage and is priced at CNY 1399. It is also offered in 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB storage variants, but their pricing details have not been disclosed. The device is available in Black, Jade Porcelain Blue, and Phoenix Feather Gold color variants.

RELATED:

Vivo S17 clears 3C certification with 80W fast charging

By

Sudhanshu

-

May 10, 2023

At the end of 2022, Vivo launched the S16 series of premium mid-range smartphones in its domestic market. Now, around 5 months after the launch, it looks like the brand is getting ready to launch the next iteration of its S series devices. Like last year, the lineup is expected to feature three devices: Vivo S17e, S17, and S17 Pro. Ahead of the launch, we have seen the S17e appear on Geekbench. Now, the Vivo S17 has visited 3C certification with its fast charging specifications.

Vivo S17 gets improved charging

The model number V2283A for the Vivo S17 was spotted on the 3C certification website, along with its charger model numbers V8037L0A0-CN, V8037L0B0-CN, or V8037L0D0-CN. The listing confirms that the charger is capable of providing power output at 10W (5V/2A), 18W (9V/2A), and 80W (11V/7.3A), indicating that the Vivo S17 will likely support 80W fast charging technology. For those unaware, the Vivo S16 offers 66W fast charging.

Vivo S17 specs (rumored)

According to previous leaks, the Vivo S17 will be powered by the Snapdragon SM7325, which is expected to be either the Snapdragon 778G or Snapdragon 782G chipset.

The device will feature a 1.5K OLED 120Hz display manufactured by BOE and with curved edges. The rear camera setup for the device will include a 50-megapixel Sony IMX766V primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 12-megapixel IMX663 telephoto camera.

Other details are currently unavailable, but the smartphone could debut in 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB, and 12GB + 256GB configuration options.

RELATED:

(via MySmartPrice)

The Huawei P60 Pro: The new king of smartphone cameras according to DxOMark

By

Soumyakanti

-

May 10, 2023

The globally launched Huawei P60 Pro, with its unprecedented camera performance, has surpassed all expectations. The smartphone outshone its closest competitors, the Oppo Find X6 Pro and the Honor Magic 5 Pro, and clinched the top spot on the DxOMark camera benchmark.

A Deep Dive into the Superior Camera Capabilities of the Huawei P60 Pro

On the DxOMark scoring system, the Huawei P60 Pro achieved a remarkable score of 159 points for photos, 80 for bokeh shots, and 75 for preview. In addition, it garnered 158 points for zoom and 147 for video, showcasing its superb versatility as a camera phone.

The Huawei P60 Pro underwent rigorous testing in a multitude of scenarios, including outdoor and indoor settings, low-light conditions, and casual friends-and-family photography. It attained an impressive score of 171 in outdoor shots, 159 for indoor photography, 132 in low-light situations, and an exceptional 146 for friends-and-family photography.

The Huawei P60 Pro is equipped with a triple camera setup, which includes a 48 MP ultra lighting camera with a variable aperture of f1.4 to f4.0 and OIS, a 13 MP ultra-wide angle camera with an f2.2 aperture, and a 48 MP ultra lighting telephoto camera with an f2.1 aperture and OIS. The camera setup employs an XMAGE-based imaging system and algorithm to enhance color accuracy and deliver brighter images.

There are numerous advantages to the Huawei P60 Pro’s camera. It performs excellently under all lighting conditions, particularly excelling in low-light situations. The camera also shines in capturing friends-and-family photographs, rendering accurate skin tones, and capturing candid moments. The variable aperture ensures that everyone in a group shot remains in focus due to a large depth of field. The camera also provides a high level of detail across all zoom ranges and performs exceptionally in macro mode, especially with the telephoto lens.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks to the camera system. These include inconsistencies in depth estimation between the preview of the image and the final capture. There can also be occasional unnatural detail rendering in challenging shooting conditions, and noticeable focusing transitions when shooting videos.

In conclusion, the camera of the Huawei P60 Pro is a standout feature of this flagship phone, making it the perfect choice for those seeking top-tier camera performance in all shooting scenarios. The Huawei P60 Pro reaffirms Huawei’s position as a front-runner in the smartphone market.

RELATED:

Mobile PDF Signing Comes to Microsoft 365 App for Smartphones

By

Anubhav

-

May 10, 2023

In a recent press release, Microsoft announced an exciting update for members of the Microsoft 365 Insider program. The company has introduced a new feature in the Microsoft 365 app, enabling users to sign PDF files directly from their mobile devices. This convenient addition aims to address the productivity needs of mobile users.

This new feature is available on both iOS and Android

In today’s fast-paced world, mobile devices have become indispensable tools for productivity on the go. Acknowledging the increasing demand for convenient solutions, Microsoft has responded by incorporating a PDF signing feature in their popular Microsoft 365 app. Now, users can effortlessly sign important PDF documents from both iOS and Android devices, eliminating the need for desktop access or external tools.

The process of signing PDFs through the Microsoft 365 app is remarkably straightforward. After opening a PDF file, users can navigate to the More section and select the Sign PDF option. This action leads them to the desired location within the document where the signature is required. By clicking on Create, users can generate their unique signature and apply it seamlessly to the PDF file. This streamlined approach ensures a hassle-free experience, empowering users to complete vital tasks while on the move.

Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing productivity shines through this addition to their mobile app. Whether it’s tax documents, lease agreements, contracts, or any other essential PDF file, users can confidently rely on the Microsoft 365 app to meet their signing needs. By eliminating the need for paper-based signatures or the use of separate signing tools, Microsoft has made it easier for professionals and individuals alike to keep up with their workflow.

Furthermore, the integration of this feature into the Microsoft 365 app underscores the company’s dedication to ensuring a cohesive experience across platforms. By providing consistent functionality on iOS and Android, Microsoft emphasizes its commitment to inclusivity and user convenience.

With the introduction of the PDF signing feature in the Microsoft 365 app for iOS and Android, Microsoft has empowered mobile users to stay productive while on the move. This user-friendly addition streamlines the signing process, making it simpler than ever to sign PDF documents directly from mobile devices.

RELATED:

(Via)

Baojun Yunduo, A Breakthrough in Electric Family Cars

By

Anubhav

-

May 10, 2023

In an exciting development for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Baojun Automobile has officially unveiled its first large five-seater pure electric family car, named the “Baojun Yunduo.” This announcement was made through the official WeChat account of Baojun Automobile, creating a wave of anticipation among EV enthusiasts and potential buyers.

The Baojun Yunduo has two rim sizes, 17 inches & 18 inches

The Baojun Yunduo boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 4295mm, 1850mm, and 1652mm in length, width, and height, with a wheelbase of 2700mm. These specifications position it as a spacious and comfortable family car, accommodating passengers and their belongings with ease.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology previously reported that the Baojun Yunduo will be available with two different rim sizes: 17 inches and 18 inches. The corresponding tire sizes are 215/60 R17 and 215/55 R18 respectively, ensuring a smooth and stable driving experience. The vehicle’s lithium iron phosphate battery is sourced from Liuzhou Huating New Energy Technologies Ltd., a renowned name in the EV battery industry.

As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, manufacturers are constantly striving to introduce innovative and practical models to the market. The Baojun Yunduo aims to capture the attention of eco-conscious families seeking a reliable and environmentally friendly transportation option. With its sleek design and impressive specifications, it is poised to make a strong impact in the EV segment.

Notably, Baojun Automobile has a reputation for producing affordable vehicles without compromising quality. This commitment to affordability, coupled with the benefits of electric mobility, could make the Baojun Yunduo an attractive choice for budget-conscious families looking to make the switch to electric vehicles.

With the official unveiling of the Baojun Yunduo, Baojun Automobile has taken a significant step forward in establishing its presence in the competitive electric family car market. As EV technology continues to advance and consumers increasingly embrace sustainable transportation options, the Baojun Yunduo may just be the catalyst that accelerates the adoption of electric vehicles among families worldwide.

RELATED:

(Via)

Vivo Y36 4G clears NBTC & Google Play certifications, could launch soon

By

Sudhanshu

-

May 10, 2023

Vivo is working on a new mid-range 4G smartphone called the Vivo Y36 4G. This device has already emerged on Geekbench and Bluetooth SIG confirming some of the key specifications. Now, it has also emerged on NBTC & Google Play Certification listing hinting at an imminent launch.

As per the listing on the NBTC certification website, the Y36 4G smartphone has been assigned the model number V2247. The listing further confirms the official name of the device, which has also been verified by the Google Play Certification listing. This is the same model previously spotted on Geekbench and Bluetooth SIG. Let’s look at all the information available on the Vivo Y36 4G so far.

Vivo Y36 4G specs

Rumors surrounding the Vivo Y36 4G suggest that the phone will come with a sizable 6.8-inch LCD display, although there is no confirmation yet on whether it will feature a high refresh rate. Under the hood, the device is expected to run on the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset and offer 8GB of RAM. An interesting feature of the phone is its rumored additional 8GB of expandable RAM.

According to the Geekbench listing, the Vivo Y36 4G smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 SoC, which is an older and comparatively inferior chipset as compared to the newer Helio G99. The smartphone managed to score 410 and 1,343 points in the single-core and multi-core test results, respectively, which is a satisfactory performance for a lower-midrange device.

As for camera capabilities, the upcoming Vivo Y36 4G is expected to come equipped with a 50MP primary camera on the rear, although details about the other camera sensors are yet to be disclosed. The device is anticipated to be powered by a 5,000mAh battery that supports 44W fast charging, ensuring that users can stay connected throughout the day.

RELATED:

(via)

Meta Unveils ImageBind, Revolutionizing AI with Multimodal Learning

By

Anubhav

-

May 10, 2023

In a groundbreaking development, Meta has unveiled ImageBind, an innovative AI model that bridges the gap between machines and humans in terms of holistic learning from multiple modalities. Unlike traditional AI systems that rely on specific embeddings for each modality, ImageBind creates a shared representation space, enabling machines to learn simultaneously from text, image/video, audio, depth, thermal, and inertial measurement units (IMU). This article explores the immense potential of ImageBind and its implications for the future of artificial intelligence.

ImageBind incorporates Multiple Sensory Inputs to Generate Media

ImageBind represents a significant leap forward in AI capabilities, transcending the limitations of previous specialist models trained on individual modalities. By incorporating multiple sensory inputs, ImageBind offers machines a comprehensive understanding that connects various aspects of information together. For instance, Meta’s Make-A-Scene can utilize ImageBind to generate images based on audio, enabling the creation of immersive experiences such as rainforests or bustling markets. Additionally, ImageBind opens doors for more accurate content recognition, moderation, and creative design, including seamless media generation and enhanced multimodal search functionalities.

As part of Meta’s broader efforts to develop multimodal AI systems, ImageBind lays the foundation for researchers to explore new frontiers. The model’s ability to combine 3D and IMU sensors could revolutionize the design and experience of immersive virtual worlds. Furthermore, ImageBind offers a rich avenue for exploring memories by enabling searches across various modalities, such as text, audio, images, and videos.

The creation of a joint embedding space for multiple modalities has long posed a challenge in AI research. ImageBind circumvents this issue by leveraging large-scale vision-language models and utilizing natural pairings with images. By aligning modalities that co-occur with images, ImageBind seamlessly connects diverse forms of data. The model demonstrates the potential to interpret content holistically, enabling various modalities to interact and establish meaningful connections without prior exposure to joint training.

ImageBind’s unique scaling behaviour reveals that its performance improves with larger vision models. Through self-supervised learning and utilizing minimal training examples, the model showcases new capabilities, such as associating audio and text or predicting depth from images. Moreover, ImageBind outperforms prior methods in audio and depth classification tasks, achieving remarkable accuracy gains and even surpassing specialized models trained solely on those modalities.

With ImageBind, Meta paves the way for machines to learn from diverse modalities, propelling AI into a new era of holistic understanding and multimodal analysis. The company has been making significant strides in the field of AI, with the company launching its own AI model some time back.

RELATED:

(Source)

Elon Musk announces Twitter ‘Purge’, Inactive accounts at risk

By

Anubhav

-

May 10, 2023

Twitter CEO Elon Musk has announced that the social media platform will be “purging” accounts that have been inactive for several years. If you haven’t logged into your Twitter account in a while, you could be at risk of losing your handle. On the other hand, if you’ve been waiting for a specific handle to become available, you might be in luck soon.

Follower Count may drop sharply after the Twitter Account Purge

Musk did not provide a timeline for when the account deletions would take place, but he did caution that people should expect their follower count to drop after the purge.

This announcement follows Musk’s previous statement in December 2022 that Twitter would start “freeing the name space of 1.5 billion accounts,” which he clarified would include obvious account deletions with no tweets or logins for years.

We’re purging accounts that have had no activity at all for several years, so you will probably see follower count drop
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 8, 2023

However, Musk did not provide any clarification regarding what will happen to accounts belonging to deceased individuals or offer a way to memorialize those accounts. Additionally, if inactive accounts are opened up for claiming, this could lead to another impersonation problem for Twitter, which has already been plagued by the issue, as blue checkmarks are now available for purchase.

John Carmack, the founder of ID Software, replied to Musk’s tweet, warning that deleting inactive accounts could make it more challenging to source historic tweets. This could result in Twitter threads from years ago being fragmented with gaps of unavailable tweets.

Twitter has not yet responded to a request for comment on the matter.

It’s worth noting that Musk purchased Twitter in late 2022 for $44 billion, and since then, the platform has undergone significant changes. The site has seen an 80% reduction in its workforce, leaving around 1,500 employees. Twitter has also been embroiled in numerous controversies, including a rise in hate speech, account impersonations, and verification checkmarks being taken away from legacy accounts and major publications. Very recently, a bug allowed private tweets from Twitter Circle to be visible outside the Circle itself.

In light of Twitter’s takeover by Musk, several alternative social media platforms have emerged, hoping to attract disaffected users. These include Bluesky Social, founded by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, Hive etc.

It remains to be seen what impact this account purge will have on Twitter and its users. While it may help to free up usernames and prevent account squatting, it could also result in the loss of valuable historical tweets and cause further impersonation issues.

RELATED:

(Via)

Google Pixel Tablet to hit markets on June 20 after May 10 unveiling

By

Sudhanshu

-

May 10, 2023

At last year’s I/O 2022 event, Google hinted at the release of its forthcoming Pixel Tablet. Recent rumors suggest that the launch of the device is imminent and could be announced at this year’s I/O event. Nevertheless, it is expected that customers will have to wait for another month before the Pixel Tablet hits the market.

The news comes from known tipster SnooppyTech who shared an image of the tablet with its docking station on Twitter. The tipster claims that the actual launch will take place on June 20, while the unveiling will most likely happen later today (May 10).

Other than that, we recently reported on the leaked pricing of the 128 GB and 256 GB storage versions of the tablet as well as the entire spec sheet that leaked through a fumble by Amazon. Let’s take a look at what’s known so far.

Google Pixel Tablet specs

The Google Pixel Tablet is set to arrive with a tall 10.95-inch LCD panel that boasts a 2560 x 1600px resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The screen will have a peak brightness of 500 nits and will be compatible with the USI 2.0 touch pen, providing users with a seamless drawing and writing experience.

Under the hood, the Pixel Tablet will house the powerful Google Tensor G2 processor that is paired with a Titan M2 security coprocessor, ensuring optimal performance and top-notch security. The device will also come with 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage, providing ample space to store all your favorite apps, files, and media.

The Pixel Tablet will also feature an 8-megapixel camera on both the front and back, with a 1.12 μm pixel width, f/2.0 aperture, fixed focus, and an 84-degree field of view. This setup will allow users to capture stunning photos and videos, making the Pixel Tablet a perfect device for content creators.

Other notable features include WiFi 6 support, Bluetooth 5.2, a USB Type-C port, a quad-speaker setup, and three microphones, providing users with an immersive audio experience during video calls or while streaming media. Additionally, the rear pogo pins will allow for dock functionality, providing users with a versatile tablet experience. The Pixel Tablet can also be used as a smart home center, as it can connect to a speaker dock and function as a larger Google Nest Hub.

RELATED:

(Source)

WhatsApp Microphone Bug: User Privacy at Risk?

By

Anubhav

-

May 10, 2023

WhatsApp is a popular messaging application owned by Meta that has been in the spotlight for various security concerns in the past. The app has over two billion active users and is widely used around the world.

A Twitter Engineer found the bug on his Pixel 7 Pro

Recently, several users reported a bug in the app that allowed it to access the microphone even after the app had been closed. The issue was brought to the spotlight by a Twitter engineer who noticed it happening on his Pixel 7 Pro. The bug appears to be affecting several Android devices, including different Samsung and Pixel models, as well as several different versions of the Android app.

This bug is concerning for users who are worried about their privacy and security. In several of these reports, microphone activity from the app has been spotted in Android’s Privacy Dashboard as well as through the visible green dot notification on the Android status bar. This means that even when the user thinks that they have closed the app, it is still accessing their microphone, potentially recording their conversations without their knowledge or consent.

Over the last 24 hours we’ve been in touch with a Twitter engineer who posted an issue with his Pixel phone and WhatsApp.

We believe this is a bug on Android that mis-attributes information in their Privacy Dashboard and have asked Google to investigate and remediate. https://t.co/MnBi3qE6Gp
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) May 9, 2023

WhatsApp has responded to these reports by claiming that the issue lies with Android and not the app itself. They state that this seems to be a bug on Android that misattributed information in the privacy dashboard and have asked Google to investigate further. Unfortunately, WhatsApp’s response came after Elon Musk took to his Twitter account to share his opinion on the matter, accusing the company of not being trustworthy.

This latest bug has raised concerns about the app’s security and privacy features, further eroding users’ trust in the app. It is crucial that Google investigate the issue and address it as soon as possible to ensure users’ privacy and security are protected.

While WhatsApp is a popular messaging app, it is important to stay vigilant and aware of any potential security issues. Users should regularly check their app permissions and settings to ensure that their data is being protected.

RELATED:

(Via)

Samsung’s One UI 6.0 based on Android 14 spotted in Early Testing on Flagship Phones

By

Anubhav

-

May 10, 2023

Samsung is known for its impressive Android devices and software, and the company has been making headlines lately for its work on Android 14. While the latest version of Android hasn’t even been officially released yet, Samsung is already testing early internal builds of the update on its Galaxy S23 devices, as well as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Flip 4. This is quite early, about two months ahead of schedule, and suggests that Samsung is moving quickly to prepare for the new update. The update, which is expected to be called “One UI 6.0” for Samsung devices, is confirmed to address longstanding issues with background apps on Galaxy devices, but it’s unclear what else Samsung has in store.

@tarunvats33 noticed the first One UI 6.0 Test Build on Samsung Servers

The evidence of Samsung’s testing was first spotted by multiple Twitter users, including @tarunvats33, who noticed the first One UI 6 test build on Samsung’s servers. The firmware is meant for internal testing on the Galaxy S23 Ultra and carries the identification S918BXXU1BWE2. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 test firmware has the F936BXXU2DWE1 identification, while the Galaxy Z Flip 4 test update carries firmware version F721BXXU2DWD7. The fact that these firmware versions are believed to be associated with One UI 6.0 lies in the fourth to last digit, which represents a new big One UI update.

The Galaxy S23 series and the 2022 foldable flagship phones are expected to be the first to enter the Android 14 beta testing program later this year and could also be the first to receive the stable One UI 6.0 update. While it’s not entirely clear what One UI 6.0 will bring to Samsung devices, it’s expected to borrow some features from the Android 14 update that Google unveiled at its I/O conference. Samsung’s work on the update is an exciting development for Android fans who are eager to see what the new version of the operating system will bring. Samsung’s early testing suggests that the company is working hard to ensure that its devices are ready for Android 14 as soon as it’s released. The company is already working on its upcoming smartphones, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 5, which appeared in recent leaks.

RELATED:

(Via 1, 2)

Apple’s upcoming Beats Studio Pro headphones to be powered by a custom chip

By

Jeet

-

May 10, 2023

Apple, under its Beats brand of audio products, has a top-end headphones named Beats Studio, but the company hasn’t updated it for almost half a decade now. However, the device is now all set to get refreshed and will come with some new and premium features.

According to the latest report from 9to5Mac, the Cupertino-based technology giant is about to launch new Beats Studio Pro headphones but the timeline for the launch of this product is not yet confirmed.

It is also being claimed that the headphones will be powered by a custom Beats chip, which is also promised to come with improved support for Active Noise Cancellation and improved performance for the Transparency Mode.

Another update in the device will be the addition of a USB Type-C port for charging the headphones, that too with a faster speed. It is said to have support for features like audio sharing, automatic device switching, and Siri integration, among others. It is also claimed to feature personalized spatial audio.

As for the design, the Beats Studio Pro appears similar to the Studio3, but the company seems to have gotten rid of the Studio branding from the side of the headphones. If the reports are to be believed, then Apple partnered with fashion designer Samuel Ross for the Beats Studio Pro.

There are reports claiming that the Beats Studio Pro will be offered in four color options — Blue, Black, Brown, and White. It is not yet known what will be the price point of the headphones but given that it will be a premium offering, it will be priced on the higher side.

RELATED:

Source

Google Pixel 7a listed by US retailer ahead of its expected May 10 launch

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

May 9, 2023

The Pixel 7a will be one of the highlights of Google’s scheduled I/O conference on May 10. The Pixel 7a had been the subject of several unofficial leaks and it has already been listed by a US retailer. The unreleased smartphone was spotted on the US marketplace platform Swappa.

Already, multiple offers have been made for the smartphone. The highest offer yet for the Pixel 7a is $499. The listed Google Pixel 7a were in white, blue, and gray colors and all the listed units were carrier unlocked. The RAM/ storage configuration of all the listed Pixel 7a units was 8GB/ 128GB. Some other details of the Pixel 7a are visible from the images from the Swappa listing. The in-hand photos highlighted the USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-A dongle, and the normal documentations/ warranty for the phone.

All attention is now focused on the Google I/O conference on May 10. The Pixel 7a mid-ranger will be premiered with all its glory. The conference will be a busy one with a raft of innovative offerings expected to be released. The annual Google Developer conference is Google’s biggest event of the year. A minimum of two smartphones – the Pixel 7a and the Pixel Fold will be unveiled. This is in addition to the introduction of the Android 14 operating system. Google will also provide details about the Pixel tablet and other offerings still under development.

The 2023 Google I/O conference will kick off at 10 AM (5 PM UTC) on May 10, 2023. The event will take place at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California.

RELATED:

(source)

Huawei Nova 8 SE refurbished version retaining the Kirin 710A launched starting at 1,099 yuan ($159)

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

May 9, 2023

Huawei has relaunched the Nova 8 SE smartphone in China. Recall that the Huawei Nova 8 SE was first launched in November 2021 powered by the HiSilicon Kirin 710A SoC. Launching a refurbished version of the smartphone is a testament of the model’s high resale value. The new Nova 8 SE is presently available on Huawei’s mall starting at 1,099 yuan ($159). For a devcie with a base memory option of 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, this is an incredible price tag.

The refurbished model retain the design and specs of the original model. To recall, the Huawei Nova 8 SE uses a 6.5-inch OLED water drop screen. The device packs a Quad camera setup at the rear comprising a 64MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide angle, 2MP depth of field, and a 2MP macro sensor. The device crams a decent 3,800mAh battery under the hood with support for 66W fast charging. The Huawei Nova 8 SE expectedly runs on HarmonyOS and the phone weighs about 180g. The phone is 7.5mm thick and the lowest memory/ storage configuration is 8GB/ 128GB.

Huawei Nova 8 SE refurbished version arrives with a cheaper price tag

As a result of the stringent chip embargo placed on Huawei by the United States government since 2020, Huawei has continued to evolve new options to remain afloat. The Kirin 710 was first released in 2018. The current Kirin 710A chipset is manufactured through SMIC’s 14nm process. It is equipped with a 4-core A73 clocked at 2.0GHz and a 4-core A53 clocked at 1.7GHz. This is atop a Mali G51-MP4 GPU.

The Huawei Nova 8 SE starts at 1,099 yuan (~$159) for the 8GB+128GB version. The original price of the particular model is 2,099 yuan (~$303). Huawei is yet to provide the optics of the global launch of the Nova 8 SE.

RELATED:

Volvo Unveils the EX30: A Small SUV Revolutionizing the Electric Vehicle Market

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

May 9, 2023

Swedish automotive giant Volvo continues to expand its successful electric vehicle portfolio. The company had previously introduced the electric luxury SUV model EX90, which is set to replace the XC90 series. Today, Volvo announced that they will unveil a brand new model even before the EX90 hits the market. The new electric model is called the Volvo EX30, and it is described as a small SUV. The global launch of the vehicle is scheduled for June 7th. Here are the details…

Volvo X30 Launch Date Revealed

The name Volvo EX30 has been circulating for a few weeks now, and the company’s recent announcement confirmed the existence of such a vehicle. According to the latest reports, the highly anticipated car will be a small SUV. The company emphasizes the importance of thinking small, describing the EX30 as “small in size, big in life.”

Details about the features and design of the EX30 are still scarce. However, it is expected to be positioned below the 40 series electric vehicles, which include the C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge. The fact that it will be released as an SUV suggests that it could be taller than the C40.

It is possible to say that Volvo is targeting a younger audience with this vehicle. This means that there is a high likelihood of encountering a compact and sporty car. The new model is expected to help the brand reach a broader audience in the electric vehicle market, contributing to further growth. All eyes are now on the global launch set to take place on June 7th. At that time, we will learn more details and information about Volvo’s new electric SUV model, the EX30.

RELATED:

(via)

Fengmi Laser TV C3 4K UST Projector released in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

May 9, 2023

The Fengmi Laser TV C3 4K ultra-short throw (UST) projector has been launched in China. The new Fengmi TV C3 projector is available on pre-order in China and comes with some decent functionality.

The Fengmi Laser TV C3 projector can cast content up to 200 inches wide and delivers a maximum brightness of 400 nits. The projector supports HDR10+, HDR10, HLG, and MEMC. It uses an ALPD laser light source and has a throw ratio of 0.23:1. This allows the projector to cast wide images when within 24cm away from the wall.

The projector is equipped with an AI image-enhancing MEMC motion smoothing and a 3,000:1 contrast ratio. The new Fengmi UST projector comes with several improvements over its predecessor, the Fengmi C2. It has HDMI 2.1, eARC ports and runs on FengOS 3.0. The projector can also cast content from other devices using Miracast and Apple AirPlay. The Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Home ecosystem is compatible with the Fengmi Laser TV C3 projector. You can also use voice commands to operate the projector.

On the sound aspect, two built-in 15W speakers provide the sound output of the projector with Dolby Audio and DTS-HD technology. You can also scale up the sound output by connecting external speakers to the device via USB 2.0 or S/ PDIF ports.

The Fengmi Laser TV C3 projector is currently priced at 12,999 yuan (~$1,878). It is available on pre-order with a 100 yuan deposit (~$14).

Additional accessories of the projector like a Fresnel screen for an 88-inch model. Fengmi offered a discount for customers who purchase the product before May 8. Global pricing and availability details will be known soon.

RELATED:

AMOLED Displays Will be Better Than Ever with Visionox ViP Display Technology

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

May 9, 2023

Technology keeps advancing and enhancing our quality of life. For instance, televisions have evolved from displaying grainy images to presenting incredibly lifelike visuals. Nowadays, even our smartphones are equipped with 2K resolution screens, which are becoming the standard. With no limit to innovation, Visionox has introduced its groundbreaking Visionox Intelligent Pixelization (ViP) technology. This development has increased AMOLED pixel density to an impressive 1700 ppi or more. Here are the details…

Visionox Debuts Groundbreaking ViP Display Technology with AMOLED Pixel Density Above 1700 ppi

ViP technology offers significant improvements to AMOLED displays, including an impressive increase in the effective emitting area (aperture ratio) from the standard 29% to a remarkable 69%. In addition, it pushes pixel density to new heights, surpassing 1700 ppi. When combined with Visionox’s Tandem stacked devices, ViP technology is capable of delivering up to six times longer device lifespan or four times greater brightness compared to Fine Metal Mask (FMM) AMOLED screens.

According to Visionox, the advanced pixel precision achieved with ViP technology allows for enhanced clarity, color performance, and uniformity in AMOLED displays. By maintaining Real RGB pixel arrangement at high ppi levels and addressing common issues such as subpixel color mixing and crosstalk, ViP technology brings substantial improvements to the display experience.

One notable advantage of ViP technology is its ability to enhance existing technologies, like under-display cameras, AR/VR, wearables, smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop displays, automotive screens, and televisions. Visionox has already successfully tested a medium-sized sample based on ViP technology and is actively working on mass production for all AMOLED sizes. The company has been developing photolithography-based pixel patterning since 2016 and started constructing a dedicated ViP technology mass production line in 2022.

RELATED:

(source)

The Great European Exit: Are Oppo and OnePlus Preparing to Withdraw?

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

May 9, 2023

Oppo is one of the world’s largest smartphone manufacturers, with its headquarters located in China. The company operates in numerous countries, striving to increase its market share. Or at least, that’s what we thought. Recently, some claims have emerged, suggesting that the situation might not be as it seems. It appears that Oppo and OnePlus, both under the BBK Group umbrella, are preparing to withdraw from Europe. The first country where they plan to cease operations is France. Here are the details…

All signs hint toward Oppo and OnePlus leaving France. Rest of Europe next?

Rumors have been swirling that Oppo and OnePlus are planning to leave Europe, with France reportedly being the first country where this withdrawal will take place. Although both companies deny these claims, people who have worked for Oppo in retail stores think otherwise, confirming that the situation is indeed bad. Employees have verified the companies’ cost-cutting measures, and another concerning detail comes from their advertising activities.

As in the rest of the world, brand awareness created through advertising is important in France. However, Oppo has ceased its commercial activities, which it had been actively pursuing for a long time, in recent weeks. It has also been alleged that the company is working to clear inventory in its French stores and not replenishing sold-out stocks.

One employee commented on the matter, saying, “We understood that they were leaving because we were no longer trained on new products. We saw the Find X being released in China, but not in France. The Reno 8 series arrives, but it’s not coming to France either. When the Find N2 Flip was launched, we were told about a store release, but in the end, it was only available on the website.”

Sudden End to Collaboration

Most of Oppo’s sales force worked for a subcontractor called Atmosphères. This company, which specializes in the sector, placed all external collaborators working for Oppo on partial unemployment, including store employees, regional managers, brand ambassadors, and trainers. The contract with this critical company for the Chinese tech giant’s operations in the country was set to expire on June 30th and was expected to be renewed soon.

However, instead of the collaboration ending as scheduled, the general manager of Atmosphères, Arnaud Dutin, announced that it was over. Philippe shared that Dutin told them, “Stop everything for Oppo.” When they mentioned that they still had ongoing tasks, Dutin responded, “We’re not doing anything anymore.”

Taking all these details into account, it seems possible that Oppo could indeed withdraw from France. The company has not yet confirmed this with an official statement, but future moves would not be surprising for anyone. Oppo has already suspended its operations in Germany due to a lawsuit involving Nokia.

When these two events are combined, it leads to the conclusion that the entire European operation could be halted. Unfortunately, this situation means that competition in the region will decrease, and consumers are always the ones who suffer the most from reduced competition. Therefore, as the Gizmochina team, we hope that the rumors remain just rumors and do not become reality.

RELATED:

(source)