Ever since its announcement, the Apple AirTags have helped many find their lost possessions which were either misplaced or stolen. However, this product has also led to a dark problem as some people have been using it to stalk others. This issue has been acknowledged by the company and it appears to be working on fixing this problem.
Apple partners with Google to combat stalking via its AirTags
According to a new report, the Cupertino based giant is teaming up with Google to deal with the stalking issue on its smart tracker. The iPhone maker is working with the Search Engine giant to bring support for the Google Rich Communication Services or RCS into iOS. This collaboration will have both companies join hands in an effort to combat the growing issue of unwanted location tracking using AirTags.
NYC just recently began donating over 500 AirTags to help deal with car theft issue in the city, which is an example of how these devices can be helpful. However, the smart tracker from Apple is also being used by stalkers by placing the AirTags on the person or one of their possessions. These stalkers then track the victim using an iPhone. Fortunately, there are some measures already in place. There have been cases where people have found a message popping up on their iPhone that notifies them that an “AirTag Found Moving With You.”
Due to this issue, Apple has even released an application called Tracker Detect that can detect these smart trackers that are far from their partner iPhone. It is also available on the Google Play Store for Android smartphones. As per an official announcement, “Apple and Google jointly submitted a proposed industry specification to help combat the misuse of Bluetooth location-tracking devices for unwanted tracking. The first of its kind specification will allow Bluetooth location-tracking devices to be compatible with unauthorized tracking detection and alerts across iOS and Android platforms.”
Motorola announced a bunch of new devices in a recent launch event, including the Motorola Edge+ 2023, Watch 70, and Watch 200. Alongside these devices, the brand has also announced two budget-mid-range smartphones for the US market called the Moto G 5G (2023) and Moto G Stylus (2023).
Moto G 5G (2023), Moto G Stylus (2023) pricing & availability
The Moto G 5G (2023) is set to release on May 25 and will be priced at $250. Customers can purchase the device from various retailers, including Motorola.com, Best Buy, and Amazon, as well as through carriers such as T-Mobile, Metro, AT&T, Boost Infinite, Boost Mobile, Cricket, Google Fi, US Cellular, and Consumer Cellular. The phone will also be available in Canada through select retailers and carriers at a later date.
Meanwhile, the Moto G Stylus (2023) will retail for $200 and will be available for purchase from May 5th through Best Buy, Motorola.com, and Amazon.com. The device will also be sold through Cricket, Straight Talk Wireless, and Walmart Family Mobile in the coming months.
Moto G Stylus (2023) specs & features
Moto G Stylus (2023) features a built-in stylus, which sets it apart from other devices in its price range. The 4G smartphone boasts a large 6.5-inch IPS display with HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate.
Under the hood, the Moto G Stylus is powered by MediaTek’s octa-core Helio G85 processor and comes with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. Additionally, the device supports microSD card expansion, allowing users to expand their storage up to 1TB. On the software side of things, the smartphone runs on the latest Android 13 OS with Motorola’s My UX skin on top, providing users with a customizable user experience.
In terms of photography, the Moto G Stylus features a dual-camera setup with a 50MP primary camera and a 2MP macro camera. The device also includes an 8MP camera for selfies and video calls. The smartphone is backed by a 5,000mAh battery, which supports 15W fast charging. This means users can expect to have enough power to last throughout the day.
Other features of the Moto G Stylus include a 3.5mm audio jack, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth v5.0, GPS, and a USB Type-C port. The device also has dual stereo speakers that support Dolby Atmos, making it ideal for media playback.
Moto G 5G (2023) specs & features
The Moto G 5G (2023) features a 6.5-inch display with an HD+ resolution and up to 120Hz refresh rate, providing users with smooth and clear visuals. Additionally, the device has a punch-hole cutout to accommodate the front-facing camera.
Under the hood, the Moto G 5G is powered by an octa-core Snapdragon 480+ processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM. The handset also comes with 128GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB using a microSD card.
In terms of imaging, the Moto G 5G (2023) features a dual-camera setup with a 48MP primary camera and a 2MP macro sensor. The device also has an 8MP selfie camera, making it a great option for users who love taking photos and selfies. Both the rear and front-facing cameras can record 1080p videos at 30 fps.
To keep user data secure, the device has both face unlock support and a fingerprint sensor. The Moto G 5G (2023) also features stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, ensuring users can enjoy high-quality audio playback. The device also has 5G connectivity, a 3.5mm audio jack, a USB Type-C port, and a 5,000mAh battery with 15W fast charging support, ensuring users can stay connected and powered throughout the day.
The Chromebook market has seemingly been dominated by the likes of Intel and Qualcomm, who’s chipset power a majority of the models offered by various brands. However, it appears that Samsung and AMD are looking to better compete by teaming up.
AMD turns to Samsung for next gen CPUs for Chromebooks
The news arrives from known tipster @OreXda who shared the information on Twitter. The leak claims that the chipmaking has signed a deal to use the South Korean tech giant’s semiconductor foundry. This agreement will have AMD gain access to Samsung’s advanced 4nm process technology. As of right now, the Chromebooks segment is dominated by notebooks featuring Intel and Qualcomm CPUs.
So, the move to using 4nm chips could help in making upcoming AMD powered Chromebooks more competitive in the market. Unfortunately, the leak doesn’t reveal any finer details regarding the yet to be announced chipset from AMD. At the moment, the world’s largest contract chipmaker, TSMC, has been flooded with orders for its 4nm process by various tech giants. This news also follows as Samsung pushes to expand its 4nm production capacity.
The two companies are already working on the upcoming Ryzen Z1 series of chipsets that will power upcoming handheld gaming consoles like the ASUS ROG Ally. Meaning, it would arrive as no surprise if AMD turns to Samsung’s Foundry for its next gen processors dedicated for Chromebooks. Samsung already has its own Chromebook lineup, so AMD may also soon partner up with the brand for its newer Chromebook models.
Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Micron, the three leading memory chip makers in the world, are reportedly pushing for the popularization of DDR5 memory to help boost the semiconductor market. Industry experts are hopeful that increasing the output and promotion of DDR5 memory will stimulate replacement demand, curbing the downward trend of the semiconductor market.
DDR5 DRAM Performs Twice as Better as DDR4 DRAM
DDR5 DRAM is the latest memory specification introduced by JEDEC, boasting a performance double that of its predecessor, DDR4 DRAM. However, DDR4 DRAM currently dominates the memory market, and experts believe that promoting DDR5 memory is necessary to stimulate demand for newer specifications.
According to market research company OMDIA, DDR5 DRAM is set to take over the memory market by 2024, surpassing DDR4 DRAM. The company predicts that DDR5 DRAM will account for 12% of the DRAM market in 2023, up from just 3% in 2022, and is expected to grow to 27% by 2024, while DDR4 DRAM is expected to fall to 23%.
The popularization of DDR5 memory could have significant implications for the semiconductor market. The semiconductor market has been hit hard by a global shortage of chips, which has impacted various industries, including automobiles, smartphones, and gaming consoles. The promotion of DDR5 memory could help boost the market, as more consumers replace their devices with newer, DDR5-equipped models.
DDR5 memory offers several advantages over its predecessor, DDR4 memory. DDR5 memory has double the data rate, higher memory density, and lower power consumption. These improvements make DDR5 memory ideal for high-performance applications such as gaming, artificial intelligence, and data centers.
The popularization of DDR5 memory is a significant development for the semiconductor market. China saw a 17 percent decline in semiconductor output in 2023 so far. It is expected to help stimulate replacement demand and boost the market, particularly as more consumers upgrade to DDR5-equipped devices. With its higher performance and energy efficiency, DDR5 memory is poised to take over the memory market in the coming years, surpassing DDR4 memory in terms of popularity and usage.
Samsung currently offers the longest software support on Android smartphones and tablets spread across all price segments. Last year, the company pledged to support its devices for up to 5 years.
However, prior models were limited to 4 years. A few such phones and tablets have now reached the end of their official software support.
Samsung Galaxy A20
According to GalaxyClub (via SamMobile), Samsung has ended software support for the following devices.
These products will work just fine without software support
All of these handsets and tablets were released in or before April 2019. The Galaxy A10 and Galaxy A40 are on March 2023 security patch. Whereas, the Galaxy A20 is stuck with the December 2023 update.
These products will continue to work despite their software support has been suspended. They currently boot Android 11, which can run almost all the apps available on the Google Play Store.
Perhaps, the only issues you could face on these devices are performance and battery-related. Though the latter can be fixed with a replacement, the former cannot.
Further, none of them have 5G connectivity. So that could be one more reason to upgrade to a newer phone if you have coverage for the latest-gen mobile networks in your city.
Having said that, a lot more Samsung Galaxy-branded handsets and tablet will see their software support end in the coming months.
Last year, Amazon pledged support for Matter smart home standard for its devices, and the company had provided a timeline for the devices to get support for this standard.
Now, in line with that, some of the older Echo speakers from the brand are getting support for Matter smart home standard through an over-the-air update.
The update being rolled out by Amazon turns the second-generation Echo, Echo Dot, and Echo Plus devices into Matter controllers. The fourth-generation Echo can serve as a Thread border router with support for adding Matter-compatible Thread devices.
Along with support for Android to set up Matter gear, it now also supports iOS, which in turn means support for Apple HomeKit. The Matter over Thread update also brings Alexa control to a range of Eve hardware, and it will also support Alexa setup for Eve Door & Window, Eve Energy, and Eve Motion later this month.
Last year, when Amazon announced support for Matter, the company promised that 17 Echo products would support Matter over Wi-Fi by the end of 2022 and a total of 30 Echo and Eero models by early this year.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has recently announced new features to enhance users’ experience with Reels, Facebook’s short-form video content. With Reels’ growing popularity on the platform, Meta aims to help users discover and personalize content that matches their interests.
Discover Relevant Reels
To improve the discovery of relevant Reels, Facebook has introduced new updates to how they are surfaced in Facebook Watch. Reels can now be accessed directly from the main navigation at the top of Facebook Watch, providing users with quick access to creators, trends, and content that align with their interests. Users can also seamlessly scroll between Reels and long-form videos while watching videos on Facebook.
Personalize Your Reels Feed
In addition to making it easier to discover relevant content, Meta has introduced features that allow users to personalize their Reels experience. Users can now tap the three-dot menu at the bottom of the video player to inform the types of Reels they would like to see more or less of. This feature will help users explore what they enjoy now while also helping them discover new interests, creators, and communities they’ll love in the future.
Furthermore, Facebook has launched a new feature on the Reels video player that provides contextual labels. These labels aim to clarify why a particular Reel is being shown to the user. For example, if a friend liked the video, the label would explain why it’s on the user’s feed. This feature will help users understand the relevance of the Reels they’re seeing and give them more insight into their personalized Reels feed.
Facebook’s new tools for Reels are part of Meta’s efforts to improve the user experience on its platforms. With the introduction of these features, Facebook aims to provide a more personalized and enjoyable Reels experience for users. By allowing users to discover and personalize the content they see, Facebook hopes to keep users engaged and continue to grow the popularity of Reels on the platform.
In the midst of security breaches and privacy concerns, a lot of people still have weak passwords. One of the main reasons is that they choose passwords that are easy to remember, such as common phrases or simple numerical patterns, making it easier for hackers to guess them. Another reason is that many people use the same password for multiple accounts, which means that if one password is compromised, all of their accounts could be at risk. Additionally, people may not understand the importance of using strong passwords or the potential consequences of a security breach. Some people may also find it inconvenient to create and remember complex passwords, especially if they have multiple accounts that require different passwords.
NordPass evaluated 3TB of Data to Reveal 200 most common Passwords
NordPass, a password manager, recently released its latest report in preparation for World Password Day on May 4. The report evaluated over 3TB of data and confirmed the 200 most commonly used passwords in 30 countries and regions. The results were disappointing, as the report revealed that despite growing awareness about cybersecurity, people continue to use weak passwords to protect their accounts.
The top ten list of most commonly used passwords was particularly concerning. Eight of the passwords on the list could be easily cracked in less than one second. The most common password used was simply “password”. Other commonly used passwords included variations of numerical patterns and simple phrases that are easy to guess.
Experts in the field of cybersecurity have repeatedly emphasized the importance of using strong and unique passwords for different accounts. However, many people still prioritize convenience over security, using the same password across multiple accounts and choosing passwords that are easy to remember. It is important for individuals to prioritize strong password practices to protect their personal information from cyber threats. This includes using a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, avoiding easily guessable patterns, and using different passwords for different accounts. As the NordPass report highlights, old habits die hard, but they must be broken to ensure the safety and security of personal information in the digital age.
Google I/O event will be held on May 10 where the brand will be launching the Pixel 7a smartphone as well as the Pixel Fold. Rumors also say that the Pixel Tablet will also be launching at this event. We recently reported on the Pixel Tablet emerging at the Milan Design Week 2023. Now, another leaked image of the tablet has emerged online revealing what it looks like from the front.
Pixel Tablet has thick bezels
A new leak of the upcoming Google Pixel tablet has surfaced, revealing the front design of the device. The image, shared by tipster EVLeaks, shows that the tablet will have slightly thick bezels around the display. The front camera is positioned on the right bezel of the tablet when held vertically, which is useful for video calls and aligns well with the device’s compatibility with a dock.
Image via EVLeaks
The frame of the tablet seems to have a beige color, while the bezels around the display are white. There is a USB Type-C port and two speaker grille cutouts on the device. Google had previously revealed another color option for the Pixel tab with black bezels around the display. The new color option is expected to have a green rear panel and frame. The Pixel tablet is rumored to launch in four colors, and it will have an aluminum body made of recycled materials with a nano-ceramic finish akin to porcelain. The rear panel of the device will feature a single camera sensor.
Other details about the Pixel tablet have also been leaked. The device will feature Google’s Tensor G2 SoC, an 8MP front camera, and an 8MP rear camera. It will run Android 13 out of the box, have at least 8GB of RAM, and launch with two storage options. The base 128GB variant of the Pixel tab is expected to be priced between EUR 600-650.
LinkedIn is shaking up the job search process with a new AI feature that is being tested to help candidates create personalized messages to send to hiring managers. The new feature, currently available for premium subscribers, generates brief cover letter-like messages based on information from the candidate’s profile, the job description, and the hiring manager’s profile.
LinkedIn also provides AI Writing Suggestions for Profiles
With this feature, job hunters can easily send highly personalized messages that showcase their skills and experience directly to hiring managers through the LinkedIn platform. This is expected to save candidates a significant amount of time and effort, as well as make the job search process more efficient and streamlined.
LinkedIn has previously experimented with generative AI features such as AI writing suggestions for profiles and AI-written text for collaborative articles. However, this new feature is a step forward in the use of AI in the recruitment process, as it enables candidates to quickly and easily create personalized messages that are tailored to specific job opportunities.
The AI-generated messages read like the opening sentences of a cover letter and are personalized based on the candidate’s profile, the job description, and the hiring manager’s profile. The feature has the potential to be a game-changer for job seekers, as it allows them to stand out from other applicants by sending highly personalized messages that showcase their unique skills and experiences.
While the AI-generated messages are highly personalized, LinkedIn emphasizes that candidates should still customize and edit the text to ensure that it accurately reflects their strengths and experience. This is a reminder that while AI can be helpful in generating content, human input is still essential to ensuring that the final result is accurate and effective.
One other area where LinkedIn could potentially use AI is in the recruitment process itself. For instance, AI algorithms could be trained to analyze job postings and suggest potential candidates based on their profiles and experience. This could help to streamline the recruitment process by quickly identifying the most qualified candidates for a given role.
OnePlus recently launched the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 TWS earbuds. However, it seems like the company is not stopping at the Nord Buds 2 and is working on a new pair of Nord-branded earbuds. The latest news comes from Malaysia’s SIRIM certification, which confirms that the device will be called the OnePlus Buds Nord 2R in the Malaysian market.
Although the certification does not reveal any details about the features and specifications of the earbuds, tech tipster Mukul Sharma reported that serial production of the Nord Buds 2R has already begun. He also suggests that the OnePlus Nord Buds 2R might launch simultaneously with the much-awaited OnePlus Nord 3 5G in India.
OnePlus Buds Pro 2ROnePlus Buds Pro 2
OnePlus recently did something similar with the OnePlus Buds Pro 2, where it launched a slightly cut-down version of the earbuds called the OnePlus Buds Pro 2R. If we follow that trend, then the Buds 2R will likely be a cut-down version of the Nord Buds 2 with no significant change in the design. Let’s take a look at the specs of the Nord Buds 2 to get an idea of what to expect from the Nord Buds 2R.
OnePlus Nord Buds 2 specs
The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 come with a semi-in-ear design, featuring a flat stem and silicone ear tips. The earphones are IP55-certified, making them water and dust-resistant. On the audio front, they are equipped with a 12.4mm dual dynamic titanium driver, with active noise cancellation up to 25 dB. The BassWave bass enhancement algorithm ensures a balanced listening experience, and the dual microphones offer clear quality on calls. These earbuds support Dolby Atmos, Dirac Sound tuning, and sound master equalizer, along with a transparency mode to stay aware of surroundings.
The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 are powered by a 480mAh battery unit, which is claimed to deliver a total battery life of 36 hours with the charging case. Each earbud provides 7 and 5 hours of music playback with ANC enabled and disabled, respectively. The TWS earphones also support fast charging via USB-C port. These earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, fast pair, and can connect to two devices simultaneously.
Xiaomi is reportedly working on its next Civi-branded phone for the Chinese market. It is still unclear whether the upcoming phone will be called the Civi 2s or the Civi 3. According to a report by Xiaomiui, the Civi 3 will debut by the end of this month (May).
The report states that the Xiaomi Civi 3’s recent internal MIUI build is 14.0.3.0.TMICNXM, which hints that it will go on sale by the end of this month in the home market. The report even states that the Civi 3 will launch on May 30. Since the company is expected to confirm the launch date in the coming days, it is advisable to wait for the official announcement.
Xiaomi Civi 2
The Xiaomi device with model number 23046PNC9C, which was recently approved by China’s 3C authority, is said to be the upcoming Civi 3. The listing revealed that the device may support 67W fast charging.
The Civi 3 is expected to arrive with an FHD+ 120Hz OLED screen with curved edges and a pill-shaped cutout. The latter may house a pair of 32-megapixel selfie cameras. The device is likely to feature the Dimensity 8200 chipset and a Sony IMX8-series camera with OIS support on the back. The other details of the Civi 3 are under wraps. In all likelihood, the device will remain exclusive to the Chinese market.
The Civi 3 is not the only phone that is expected to launch in China this month. Recent reports have revealed that the Realme 11 Pro lineup, the iQOO Neo 8 lineup, the Honor 90 series, the Vivo S17 series, and the OPPPO Reno 10 lineup will also debut this month in the home market.
Twitter has recently faced backlash for its decision to restrict access to its API, causing inconvenience for public institutions and businesses. However, the company has now decided to backtrack and has restored free access to verified government and publicly-owned services that use the tool for critical purposes such as emergency notifications, transportation updates, and weather alerts.
Twitter
This decision has come as a relief to those who rely on Twitter to disseminate important information to the public. The API restrictions had caused significant issues for various apps and services, and government services faced additional difficulties due to the high fees for access. The company had recently announced its $100 API Pricing Plans to the public, and a lot of developers were affected because of the same. The move to restore free access is a step in the right direction towards ensuring that critical information can be shared effectively.
However, Twitter needs to be cautious about balancing its desire to monetize its platform and providing essential services to the public. While it is understandable that the company needs to shift its revenue to subscriptions, it should not do so at the expense of public services. The decision to restore free access to verified government and publicly-owned services is a positive one, but more needs to be done to ensure that all public services can continue to use Twitter without facing high fees or significant limitations.
Twitter’s decision to restore free access for verified government and publicly-owned services is a positive one, but it raises concerns about the company’s priorities. Twitter and its CEO, Elon Musk, must consider the impact of its decisions on public services and ensure that they are not disadvantaged. While monetizing its platform is important, it should not come at the cost of providing essential services to the public. The company also recently announced that it will charge publishers for articles on its platform.
Realme is gearing up to launch new devices on May 10th in China. The devices coming are the Realme 11 series smartphones, whilst the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro TWS earbuds are also rumored to debut alongside the phones. Last month, we reported on what the Buds Air 5 Pro could look like. Now, a new report has emerged with a live image of the earbuds.
Realme Buds Air 5 Pro has a familiar design
TheTechOutlook has revealed live images of the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro. The image features the white color version of the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro. However, it is said that the earbuds will have two more color options: black and nature green. Design-wise, the new earbuds aren’t that different from the currently available Realme Buds Air 3 Pro, and they will also have a similar capsule-shaped charging case with an LED charging light.
Although the details about the features of the forthcoming earbuds are not disclosed, their battery specifications have been revealed through the FCC certification website. As per the listing, the charging case is supposed to comprise a battery pack of 460mAh, while each earbud is likely to be equipped with a 60mAh battery. It is anticipated that the earbuds can provide a usage time of at least 24 hours on a full charge. To get an idea about other specifications, let’s take a look at its predecessor.
Realme Buds Air 3 specs
In February 2022, the Realme Buds Air 3 hit the market, boasting a powerful set of 10mm dynamic drivers that incorporate a liquid crystal polymer diaphragm to produce sharp vocals and punchy bass. Supporting Dolby Audio and equipped with customizable audio tuning options, this device also boasts Active Noise Cancellation capabilities that can reduce ambient noise by up to 42dB.
When used in normal mode, the earbuds can deliver up to 5.5 hours of battery life, which can be extended up to 30 hours with the charging case. Enabling the ANC feature, however, reduces the total battery life to approximately 22 hours. Along with its impressive battery life, the Buds Air 3 offers features such as an 88ms low latency mode for gaming, transparency mode, dual device connection, touch controls for calls and media, and IPX5 sweat and splash resistance.
Samsung fans will be glad to know that Samsung is reportedly working on its Fan Edition flagship phone, which is likely to launch with the Galaxy S23 FE moniker. In a new report, GalaxyClub.nl has revealed that the device will offer an improved photography experience compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy S21 FE.
According to the publication, it has learned through a reliable source that the Galaxy S23 Fan Edition will inherit the 50-megapixel primary camera, which has been available on the Galaxy S22 and the Galaxy S23.
The report is in line with a previous leak, which claimed that the S23 FE will have a 50-megapixel snapper. It will be a major upgrade resulting in an improved photography experience since the S21 FE featured a 12-megapixel primary camera.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE
Unfortunately, the report does not have any information on the other cameras on the S23 FE. At present, the South Korean tech giant is reportedly focused on the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and the Galaxy Z Flip 5, which, according to a recent report, are expected to launch in the last week of July. In all likelihood, the Galaxy S23 FE may arrive in the fourth quarter of this year.
Other reports have claimed that the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE will come equipped with the Exynos 2200 chipset, but it may be released with a Snapdragon chip in some markets. It is expected to arrive with 6 GB / 8GB of RAM and 128 GB / 256 GB of storage.
The Galaxy S23 FE will arrive with a 4,500mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging. It is expected to feature a 120Hz AMOLED screen, but its exact size is not known yet.
Smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives, and manufacturers are always looking for ways to improve their devices to meet customers’ expectations. The design of a smartphone plays a crucial role in determining its success in the market, and Samsung’s Galaxy S series is no exception.
The Galaxy S Series has Retained a similar Aesthetic for 2 years now
According to recent reports, Samsung’s Galaxy S24 and S24+ will retain the same design as their predecessors, which could be a letdown for some users who were expecting a new look and feel. The Galaxy S23 lineup brought significant improvements to the table, making it a substantial upgrade over its predecessor, but the series has retained the same general aesthetic for a couple of years now.
While it’s true that high-end smartphone lineups have plateaued in recent years, with devices becoming so good that they are nearly indistinguishable from one another in terms of functionality, a new design can still make a considerable impact on a device’s overall appeal. A fresh look and feel can make a device appear as a much bigger improvement than it actually is, creating a sense of excitement among users.
One of the most significant changes in smartphone design in recent years has been the shift towards larger screens and thinner bezels. This trend has been driven by the desire to provide users with a larger and more immersive viewing experience. Samsung has been at the forefront of this trend, with its Galaxy S series featuring some of the largest screens on the market.
Another design trend that has been gaining popularity is the use of foldable screens. Samsung’s Galaxy Fold was one of the first devices to feature a foldable screen, and the company has continued to innovate in this area with devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Galaxy Z Flip 3. Foldable screens provide users with a unique form factor and a more immersive experience, and they are likely to become more prevalent in the coming years.
In addition to these trends, there has been a growing focus on sustainability in smartphone design. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, manufacturers are looking for ways to reduce waste and increase the lifespan of their devices. This has led to the development of more repairable and upgradable devices, as well as the use of recycled materials in device construction. Past leaks have already suggested that the S24 will feature improvements in the battery department while cutting down one of its camera lenses. This will be quite interesting to see when it happens.
Design trends are constantly evolving, and manufacturers are always looking for ways to innovate and stay ahead of the competition. Whether it’s through larger screens, foldable screens, or sustainable design, smartphone design will continue to evolve in the coming years, and users can look forward to new and exciting devices.
Launched almost a year ago, the Pixel Buds A-Series was introduced as an affordable alternative to the original Pixel Buds. With its sleek design and standout features, it quickly became a favorite among Google fans. One of the standout features of the Pixel Buds A-Series is its reliable Bluetooth connectivity. Unlike the original Pixel Buds that suffered from frequent cut-offs, the A-Series fixed this issue, providing a seamless listening experience. Additionally, it comes with touch controls, allowing users to easily pause, play, and skip tracks with just a tap.
The Leaked Pixel Buds A-Series match the colorway of the new Pixel 7a
Now, a new leak has surfaced giving us a better look at the existing Pixel Buds A-Series but in the new baby blue hue, showing exactly where the color pop will appear. The new sky blue color will be present on the inside of the battery case lid and on the earbuds themselves. “Sky Blue” is expected to be an almost exact match of the “Arctic Blue” hue that we expect the Pixel 7a to come in, which looks like a very muted pastel blue. The renders of the Sky Blue Pixel Buds appeared online in March 2023 previously, and this leak confirms that report.
Of course, as this is just a relaunch in a new color, there aren’t really any differences to be expected as far as specs or performance. However, the possibility of getting the Pixel Buds A-Series in “Sky Blue” might entice customers who want earbuds that match their new Google Pixel 7a.
At $99 USD, the Pixel Buds A-Series is an affordable option for those who want reliable earbuds without breaking the bank. The higher-end version of the earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro also recently received the Spatial Audio Update, putting them at par with other players in the market. As of now, it’s unclear if the “Sky Blue” version will ship as a bonus item or at a discount when the Google Pixel 7a is purchased via the Google Store or any phone carriers. However, it is a possibility considering last year’s deals for the Pixel 6a. The Pixel 7a has already leaked in all its entirety, and with only a week remaining for its official launch, fans are waiting eagerly.
Several reports have claimed Motorola will soon launch the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra and the Motorola Razr 40 in different markets. Both devices are expected to launch on June 1 in the global market. There is a possibility that the Ultra variant of the device may debut first in China, where it is already being teased. Ahead of the expected launch, XDA-Developers has published a report to reveal all the major specs of the Razr 40 Ultra.
Motorola Razr 40 Ultra specifications (rumored)
According to the report, the main AMOLED foldable screen present on the inside of the Razr 40 Ultra will offer a Full HD+ resolution of 2640 x 1080 pixels, a 20.5:9 aspect ratio, and a 120Hz refresh rate. As per a previous report, the main screen will measure 6.9 inches, whereas its cover AMOLED screen will be 3.6 inches in size. The XDA report states that the external screen will offer a resolution of 1056 x 1066 pixels.
Motorola Razr 40 Ultra leaked render by Evan Blass
Under the hood, the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra will feature the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 mobile platform. The device will come equipped with up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of storage. According to previous reports, the Razr 40 Ultra will house a 3,800mAh battery with 33W fast charging.
The report also sheds light on the cameras of the Razr 40 Ultra, which were previously unknown. The flip phone will feature a 32-megapixel OmniVision OV32B40 front camera. On the back, the device will have a 12-megapixel Sony IMX563 primary camera and a 13-megapixel SK Hynix Hi1336 secondary camera, which could be an ultra-wide snapper.
The Razr 40 Ultra will also come with other features, such as a dual SIM variant, an eSIM variant, NFC, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. Lastly, the report also states that the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra will arrive in three colours, such as Black, Blue, and Barberry. According to a previous report, the device is likely to be priced at around 1,200 euros for the 8 GB variant in Europe.
Last week we visited the Canton Fair 2023, as known as China Import and Export Fair, which is the largest and most representative trade fair in China. After a three-year hiatus under the influence of the pandemic, the offline exhibition finally restarted this spring. As a tech media, we tried to get a glimpse of the exhibition to see how the giant world factory shows the world its capacity, especially in the field of tech manufacturing.
The first Canton Fair was held in 1957 in Guangzhou. Now it’s developed to have 16 categories of products, which will be exhibited in 3 phases and 54 sections.
Indeed it’s the pinnacle of international trade events with a long history and staggering scale, attracting buyers from all over the world and has generated immense business dealings in China. So it’s really interesting that it has also become a microcosm of China’s hyper-speed development.
Most of the exhibitors are Chinese factories and trade companies. If they were lucky enough to get well-developed, you might have heard of the brands they built such as vacuum robot maker Ecovacs, Appliance maker Haier, and TV maker Hisense.
Tech on Canton Fair 2023
Unfortunately, we didn’t see those famous phone manufacturers or the new EV brands at the exhibition. But the good news is that we did get to learn a bit about how Chinese suppliers of electronics work downstream. Perhaps some of the products you are using are just the result of their design and manufacturing since most of the exhibitors at the show were willing to give up their own brands and offer custom OEM and ODM services to global buyers. And buyers may be primarily responsible for marketing, branding, and sales.
We have recorded some of the products we found interesting without purpose. So let’s take a look together.
Doni Intelligent mobile Dustcart Robot H100
We were mainly visiting Halls 1 to 3 in Zone A, where the main categories are electronics and household appliances. The first product that caught our eyes was the Intelligent mobile Dustcart Robot H100 from Doni. It can automatically replace big trash bins without human operation, which looks like a robot for serving commercial spaces or public spaces. It supports auto-recharging and intelligent systems to have multi-machine cooperation.
FuninVR gaming machines
The next product we found interesting is a super-cool 360° VR simulator, which seems to provide a completely immersive experience for simulation gaming of flight and shooting. The guy was really having fun here. And you can see some sort of VR racing motor and treadmill game machine. I didn’t really experience these machines since the booth is pretty busy with the long queues.
Ferrofluid Speaker
Then I found an interesting speaker, it’s a magnetic fluid speaker that waves with the music and uses magnetic fluid to visualize the sound.
HAKII MIX series Headphone
We’ve seen too many wireless headsets in the wearable industry, and most of them seem uninspired now. But here we found a creative wireless sports headphone made in a look of headbands. It calls Hakii Mix created by the brand Hakii. That’s one of the very few wearables that still look innovative at the exhibition.
Ecovacs Winbot W1 Pro
This is Ecovacs latest window cleaning robot, called Winbot W1 Pro, which has a steady-climbing system to offer a smooth cleaning experience for various surfaces like windows, polished wall,s and all kinds of glasses. It has a firm grip with 2800Pa suction power, so here it has automatic path planning and firm wipe without any assistant fixtures.
LOCTEK Ergonomic Fitness Chair
This was one of the most innovative products I saw at the exhibition, the latest desk bike with a chair look from Loctek, combining an indoor cycling bike with an office chair. It gives us a new idea that even if you are having desk-bound tasks with your hands and mind, you can still keep your legs exercising subconsciously.
HAVIT peripheral Collection
We also spotted a number of odd PC accessories, such as this transparent-styling or even complete RGB-styling mice, keyboards, and gamepads. This is a collection of peripherals from a brand called Havit.
AOCHUAN Smart S2 Phone Gimbal
The brand Aochuan brings us another smart gimbal for phones, which looks more professional than the Aochuan Smart X series that we reviewed before. It supports 360° gestured human tracking with a lovely fill light for V-loggers. It does feel like a DLSR gimbal that offers much better stability.
POWERUN 40000mAh IP67 Power Bank
And we also found a big power bank that features IP67-rated waterproofness and dust resistance. It has a 40000mAh battery capacity with multiple USB charging ports that support up to 100W power in total. And it looks pretty cool. The transparent panel and a multi-mode LED light make it look like a product designed for geeks.
YONGNUO YNLUX200 Handheld Fill-in Light
If you shoot videos indoors as often as we do, you probably know what it’s like to put up with bulky lighting equipment. But at the exhibition, I found a professional handheld 200W video light manufactured by YongNuo, which just caught our eyes at very first glance. It’s special because of its compact size for easy hand-holding and replaceable battery power supply. Meanwhile, it has a professional information display, multiple working modes, and easy operation. If you guys are interested in it, please let me know down below this video. We will buy it and do a quick review for you.
Comments & Verdict
It’s been almost four years since we last visited the Canton Fair. Four years ago we saw an explosion of smart wearable products and phone accessories. But this year we could feel the difference, as smart homes and entertainment devices were finding their way into the new world. For example, display devices are no longer just about TV, gaming, and office. Some manufacturers are starting to target niche markets such as educational use, and developing complementary education software and interaction.
Overall, we didn’t find so many innovative products and ideas, although most of them seem to be well developed and made. Many products don’t have particularly high technical barriers, which allows us to predict that in the near future, if China sees a wave of industrial shifts, then the South East Asian countries with lower manufacturing costs could be the ones to pursue in the world market.
But unfortunately, we didn’t get to see manufacturers from the electric-vehicle industry, which is another market and industry on the rise in China. Most of them were at the time in another exhibition, the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition. And what happened at that exhibition is a different story.
Software updates are very important in the tech world, giving our devices new features, better performance, and protection from new threats. Microsoft understands the significance of updates and often releases new ones to improve the Windows experience. However, until recently, these updates had to be manually installed, causing delays in the process. Realizing that users were postponing updates, the company introduced Windows Autopatch last July as a solution. Since then, this highly effective tool has reportedly saved over a million dollars. Here are the details…
Microsoft says it saved over a million dollars with Windows Autopatch
Microsoft has recently released its May 2023 Windows Autopatch update, which brings various improvements to the operating system. However, the company’s real success lies in the method of updating itself. Microsoft claims that using their cloud-based Autopatch system can save companies time, money, and effort. But what exactly is Windows Autopatch?
Windows Autopatch is a software developed by Microsoft for Windows users. It automatically downloads and installs updates for the operating system, ensuring that the system remains up-to-date and secure. A recent commissioned report has highlighted the effectiveness of this feature, showing that businesses can save between 50-95% of their resources by adopting this new technology.
Autopatch has helped Microsoft save over a million dollars, with $848 thousand in efficiency gains and almost $500 thousand in savings for on-site infrastructure. These numbers are already amazing, but the study also mentions some benefits that can’t be measured, which means the real impact of Windows Autopatch could be even bigger than we know.
Surely, Windows Autopatch, is a big deal in the world of software updates. The new cloud auto-patching technology has made resource management better and saved millions of dollars. With the potential to make updates better for both users and businesses, Autopatch is definitely an update you should know about.
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