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Micron Crucial T700 PCIe Gen 5 NVMe SSD goes on sale with impressive 12.4GB/s speed

Earlier today (3rd May 2023), Micron finally made its Crucial T700 SSD available for purchase. The new SSD features some notable specifications and cutting edge technology. So here are all the details.

Micron Crucial T700 series can hit up to 12GB/s in read speeds

For those unaware, the company’s SSD storage module was announced earlier this year and has finally gone on sale in the market. The brand’s latest product is the T700 model, which is based on the PCIe Gen 5 standard and the NVMe format. Previously, the T700 was available for pre-orders, but is now available for direct purchase. One of its highlighting aspects its undoubtedly its extremely fast read and write speeds.

Micron

As per official notes, the Crucial T700 SSD offers up to a whopping 12.4GB/s read and 11.8GB/s write speeds. This is noticeably faster than the current market standard with SSD’s reaching just 10GB/s in read speeds. The T700 PCIe Gen 5 NVMe SSD is available in multiple storage capacities, including a 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB variant. Furthermore, the company is also offering an additional heatsink that you can buy separately for 30 US Dollars.

The additional heatsink would help keep the temperature low to avoid overheating. Micron has launched the Crucial T700 series SSD with a starting price tag of 180 US Dollars. On the other hand, the 2TB model csots 340 US Dollars, while the 4TB model is available for a whopping 600 US Dollars.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Cover Display May Not Look Like Folder Icon When Turned Off

As per various reports, Samsung is expected to launch its next-generation Galaxy Z foldables earlier than usual this year. Leaks and rumors about the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 have started gathering pace in recent weeks. Both the upcoming offerings were spotted in CAD leaked renders. However, the renders of the brand’s next-generation clamshell foldable i.e. the Galaxy Z Flip 5 missed a key detail as per publication SamMobile who has shared a video to demonstrate how things could work. 

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 secondary display may not look like a folder icon when turned off

The leaked renders of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 revealed a large secondary display positioned just below the camera sensors. The screen is squarish and has a unique folder-like icon design. This is to ensure enough space for the dual rear camera setup at the top left of the back panel. However, this also meant that the folder cutout would be visible at all times. 

As per SamMobile, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 will have a black back panel like the Z Flip 4 and 3. This would negate the folder-like cutout when the screen is not lit up which would have otherwise looked weird. The above-embedded video also shows how this would work. The publication says that Samsung wouldn’t opt for such a design without thinking about how it will look in action. 

With the Galaxy Z Flip 5, Samsung seems to join the bandwagon of launching a clamshell flip phone with a larger secondary display. The OPPO Find N2 Flip and Vivo X Flip have larger than 3-inch cover screens. Even the forthcoming Motorola Razr is confirmed to get a larger secondary display. 

The larger secondary display on the Galaxy Z Flip 5 will be a significant upgrade from its predecessor. 

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Redmi 12 gets TKDN certified ahead of global launch

Back in March, Redmi launched the Redmi 12C smartphone in India. The device is targeted at customers on a budget as it costs less than Rs 10,000 (~120). Now, the brand is apparently gearing up for the launch of the Redmi 12 as the device has made an appearance on Indonesia’s TKDN certification website.

Realme

Redmi 12 could launch soon in Indonesia

An upcoming Xiaomi device, identified by the model number 23053RN02A, has been approved by Indonesia’s TKDN authority, as indicated in a screenshot. Although the listing does not reveal the exact model name or any specifications, the model number is similar to the 23053RN02Y/L that was previously spotted in the IMEI database, suggesting that the 23053RN02A could be the Indonesian version of the Redmi 12.

The previous FCC listing of the Redmi 12 has revealed that the device has a 5,000mAh battery that supports 33W fast charging. In addition to that, it will feature an operating system based on Android 13. Further details are currently unavailable, however, we can take a look at the specs of the Redmi 12C to get an idea of what to expect.

Redmi 12C specs

The Redmi 12C smartphone flaunts a 6.71-inch IPS LCD panel that produces an HD+ resolution of 1650 x 720 pixels. With a 20.6:9 aspect ratio, 500 nits of brightness, a 1500:1 contrast ratio, and a 70 percent NTSC color gamut, the display provides a captivating visual experience. The device runs on Android 12 OS, overlaid with MUI 13, and comes with the MIUI dialer instead of the Google dialer.

Redmi 12C

The Redmi 12C is powered by the Helio G85 chipset under the hood, accompanied by up to 6 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, up to 5 GB of virtual RAM, and up to 128 GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. Furthermore, the device offers a dedicated microSD card slot for additional storage.

On the security front, the device offers multiple options such as face unlock and a rear-facing fingerprint scanner. The phone features a 5-megapixel camera on the front and a 50-megapixel primary camera, along with a depth sensor and an LED flash on the back.

The Redmi 12C packs a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging support. The phone offers dual-SIM support, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, a micro USB port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

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Apple claims “baseless” $2 billion iPhone battery lawsuit, seeks dismissal in UK court

Apple is trying to defend itself against a $2 billion mass lawsuit filed in London, where the tech giant stands accused of concealing defective batteries in millions of iPhones. The company has called the lawsuit “baseless” and is seeking its dismissal in the UK court.

Apple denies battery defects in response to UK class action lawsuit

Sergei Elagin / Shutterstock.com

The lawsuit, filed by consumer advocate Justin Gutmann on behalf of UK iPhone users, alleges that Apple hid battery issues in certain phone models by “throttling” them with software updates. The company is said to have “surreptitiously” installed a power management tool that limited performance. Apple, however, denies that its iPhone batteries were defective, except for a small number of iPhone 6s models, for which it offered free battery replacements.

Apple maintains that the power management update it introduced in 2017 was designed to manage demands on older batteries or those with a low level of charge. According to the company, the update only reduced an iPhone 6’s performance by an average of 10%. Gutmann has requested that London’s Competition Appeal Tribunal certify the case, allowing it to proceed toward trial.

The company’s defense is bolstered by its 2020 agreement to settle a US class action and regulatory action by US states over iPhone battery issues. Gutmann’s lawyer, Philip Moser, cites this as evidence that Apple is not “saying this never happened.” Additionally, Apple committed to being “clearer and more upfront” about battery health with iPhone users, as agreed with Britain’s competition watchdog in 2019.

Despite these agreements, Apple denies allegations that it misled customers about iPhone battery issues. The company has pointed to a public apology it issued in 2017, in which it offered cheaper battery replacements to affected customers as proof of its transparency.

In court filings, Apple’s lawyer David Wolfson argues that the lawsuit effectively alleges that “not all batteries could deliver the peak power demanded in all circumstances at all times”, a claim that he says is common to all battery-powered devices. The tech giant is determined to fight the accusations and seeks to have the case dismissed in the UK court.

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ViewSonic launches new 15.6 inch 4K Portable Monitor with an OLED display

ViewSonic has just unveiled a new monitor that is set to launch in the market soon. The company’s latest product is a portable monitor that features some notable specifications. So let’s have a look.

ViewSonic

ViewSonic announces VX1622-4K Portable Monitor with a 15.6 inch OLED display

As the name suggests, the device is features a compact design with a display size that is in line with standard laptops, which is a 15.6 inch screen. This is an OLED panel that supports 4K resolution. This screen has an aspect ratio of 16:9, 3840x2160px resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, 440cd/㎡ max brightness, and 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio.

Talking a bit about its design, the portable monitor has minimal bezels on three sides and a notable chin at the bottom. The upcoming portable monitor is quite responsive with a 1ms response time. The VX1622-4K portable monitor is even a great option for creative professionals as it offers a color depth of 1.07 billion along with 100 percent Adobe RGB and 100 percent DCI P3 color gamut coverage.

ViewSonic

It even comes with HDR true black 500, and for connectivity, the portable monitor houses a Mini HDMI port and USB Type C port. For audio, the new ViewSonic portable monitor is equipped with a twin 1W speaker system, similar to the VA2409 monitor that was launched by the company just last month.. Unfortunately, the pricing and availability of this monitor is still unclear. But the brand is expected to launch this device in the market soon.

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Nokia XR21 Rugged Phone With 120Hz Display, Snapdragon 695 Launched

Nokia XR21 has debuted in the UK market. It arrives as the successor to the XR20. The smartphone’s full specifications had leaked last month. The latest offering is a rugged device from the company that is claimed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Read on to know what the XR21 offers out of the box. 

Nokia XR21 specifications

The Nokia XR21 sports a center-aligned punch-hole cutout display with a 6.49-inch LCD screen bearing an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 550 nits peak brightness. The device has Gorilla Glass Victus protection and is compatible with wet hands and gloves. The smartphone features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and two programmable buttons. 

In terms of design, the Nokia XR21 sports a 100 percent recycled aluminum chassis and tough materials. It is MIL-STD 810H military-grade durability and is IP68-rated waterproof. The device also bags IP69K-certification against dust, water, and drop resistance. 

The Nokia XR21 features a 16MP front-facing selfie snapper. There is a dual rear camera setup of a 64MP primary sensor paired with an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens and a LED flash unit. 

Under the hood, the Nokia XR21 is equipped with a Snapdragon 695 processor coupled with 6GB RAM and 128GB onboard storage. It draws its power from a 4,800mAh battery unit with support for 33W fast charging. The device runs on Android 12 OS out of the box. 

The Nokia XR21 has extra-loud stereo speakers, a 3.5mm jack, a USB-C port, NavIC, 5G, WiFi, and Bluetooth 5.1. 

The Nokia XR21 carries a price tag of £499.99 ($ 625) for the sole 6GB + 128GB variant. It is offered in Midnight Black and Pine Green colors. The smartphone can be purchased in the UK starting next month. 

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WhatsApp latest Beta features GIFs AutoPlay & Chat Locking

WhatsApp is gearing up to bring a set of new features on its popular messaging platform. The latest beta has revealed that the company is planning to add a new chat locking and autoplay feature for GIFs. So here are all the details.

WhatsApp to soon bring GIF Autoplay & Chat Lock feature

The news arrives from WABetaInfo who spotted the latest feature in the latest Android Beta update of the chat based application. The beta is the version 2.23.10.2 which can be found on the Google Play Store at the moment. In the new report, WhatsApp Beta program users gain access to a new feature, which basically automatically plays the GIFs. As of right now, one has to manually click on GIFs in chats to have them play.

Although, this change will be welcomed since it would make the conversations flow more smoothly with the seamless GIFs. But it is unclear if this feature can be toggled on and off through the settings. Apart from this, the company is also working on a Chat Lock feature in the beta, which was spotted on the iOS build 23.9.0.71 update. Looking at the screenshots shared, we can see that the Chat Lock feature will be accessible through the Chat Info segment.

WhatsApp

As the name suggests, this feature would allow you to lock any chat by scrolling down to the Chat Lock option. If users enable this option, users will be shown a Locked Chats option. Clicking on this takes users to a dedicated Locked Chats section, which requires users to use Face ID to gain access. Since this is on iOS beta, an Android counterpart should also be in the works.

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Apple’s 14-inch iPad Pro Tipped To Be Equipped With A Powerful M3 Pro SoC

Last year, Apple updated its iPad Pro with the company’s M2 chipset. As per various reports in the past, the Cupertino-based tech giant is working on a bigger iPad Pro model. It is tipped to pack top-of-the-line specifications and be more powerful than the regular variants. The model could be dubbed the iPad Pro Max or iPad Pro Ultra. Now, tipster Revegnus has revealed key information about Apple’s flagship tablet. 

Apple could debut iPad Pro with M3 Pro next year

Apple’s current generation iPad Pro with M2 SoC are already an overkill for what people use tablets for. However, the brand plans to take things a notch further. Revegnus states that the new iPad Pro could boast a 14.1-inch OLED screen which will make it the largest tablet in the portfolio. It will reportedly be powered by Apple’s M3 Pro processor that could arrive next year.  The vanilla M3 chipset is expected to debut in the MacBook 2023 later this year. The tipster also added that Apple is building a monster and iPad OS will also get a big update. The rumored iPadOS upgrade suggests that many macOS features will arrive on the 14.1-inch iPad Pro. 

If rumors about the 14.1-inch iPad Pro with M3 chipset indeed turn out to be true, it could potentially become an alternative to the MacBook or Mac desktop. However, it’s worth noting that this powerful iPad Pro is still a year away and a lot could change. Apple is also expected to launch refreshed iPad Pros this year alongside the iPhone 15 lineup. The Cupertino-based tech giant’s WWDC 2023 is also scheduled between June 5th – 9th. 

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Samsung investing billions to enhance OLED production for future Apple devices

Samsung Display, the world’s largest OLED panel maker, is investing billions of dollars to improve the efficiency of its OLED production in anticipation of increased orders from Apple.

The South Korean company is investing around $3.05 billion to set up new OLED production lines at its Tangjeong factory, which will become the world’s first to start mass-producing 8.6-generation OLED substrates measuring 2,620 x 2,200mm each. These substrates will then be converted into mid-sized OLED panels for laptops and tablets, with Samsung Display planning to manufacture around 10 million OLED panels every year.

Samsung aims to double production efficiency with 8.6-generation OLED substrates

Samsung logo

Samsung Display’s move to upgrade from sixth-generation glass substrates to 8.6-generation substrates will double its production efficiency and increase production capacity. However, it is a more complex process that could compel Japanese production equipment firms to improve their technology. LG Display is also investing $2.46 billion to improve its OLED production facilities and is expected to adopt sixth-generation substrates in the future.

Both Samsung Display and LG Display are competing to secure OLED manufacturing contracts from Apple, which is expected to launch its first OLED iPad in 2024 and its first OLED MacBook Pro in 2026. The two South Korean companies are also competing to keep Chinese display manufacturing firms out of the OLED market.

Chinese firms have already captured most of the LCD market and are expanding their OLED production capacity with subsidies from the Chinese government. As a result, it is crucial for LG and Samsung to hold on to their combined 80% market share to survive.

In other news, Samsung plans to cut memory chip production by 25% as their Q1 2023 profits fall by 95% due to weak chip demand. The company has also confirmed that their Exynos chipsets may return in Galaxy flagship smartphones, and rumors have been circulating that Samsung may launch the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 earlier than expected.

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Realme C53 spotted on SIRIM as we edge closer to its launch

Just last month, the Realme C55 went on sale in the Indian market. However, it appears that there is another C series smartphone model in the works that will likely launch sometime soon following a recent certification sighting.

Realme

Realme C53 hinted to launch soon after surfacing on SIRIM

Just recently, the Realme C53 was spotted on the NBTC certification database. This sighting hinted at its near launch. And soon after, the upcoming smartphone was also spotted on the SIRIM certification database as well. Looking at this listing, we can see that this device is once again confirmed to carry the RMX3760 model number and the Realme C53 moniker. But unfortunately, this certification does not reveal any finer details regarding this new handset.

Interestingly enough, recent leaks have also found that the Chinese smartphone maker is also working on a Narzo N53 model that will launch in India later this month. This device is a 4G LTE model that had its storage configurations and color options revealed. There have been rumors going around that the Narzo N53 is just a rebranded C53 model since the company had also launched the Realme C55 and Narzo N55 in the Indian market, which are basically the same devices.

Realme

Although, the only difference is that the latter was sold exclusively on Amazon in the country. So, it is likely that the C53 and Narzo N53 will follow a similar path. Based on what we know so far, the Narzo N53 leak revealed that it will launch in a Feather Black and Feather Gold option along with a 4GB + 64GB and 6GB + 128GB storage configuration.

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Apple teams up with Google to deal with the AirTags stalking issue

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.

Apple

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.”

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Moto G Stylus & Moto G 5G 2023 models launched with HD+ IPS displays, dual cameras & 5,000mAh battery

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).

Motorola

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.

Motorola

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.

Motorola

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.

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Samsung, AMD may be joining hands to take on Intel & Qualcomm in Chromebooks

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.

Samsung

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.

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DDR5 Memory Pushed by Samsung, SK Hynix & Micron to Revive Semiconductor Market

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.

RAM

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.

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Samsung ends software support for Galaxy A10, A20, A40, and 3 tablets

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
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.

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Amazon’s older Echo speakers now have Matter smart home support

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.

Amazon Echo Dot

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.

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Facebook introduces new tools to personalize and discover Reels

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.

Facebook reels update

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.

Facebook reels update

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.

Facebook is also trying out some cool features such as Messenger now allows users to play multiplayer games during video calls. Following Twitter’s footsteps, Meta is also rolling out paid verification for Instagram and Facebook users.

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NordPass Report Exposes the Danger of Weak Passwords – Is Your Account at Risk?

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.

Data Breach

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.

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Google Pixel Tablet Official image leaks showing off front view

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.

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Streamlining Job Hunts: LinkedIn Tests AI-Generated Cover Letters for Premium Subscribers

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

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.

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