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YouTube’s New Premium 1080p Option Runs Videos at Higher Bitrate

It seems like the new YouTube CEO is already making changes since YouTube has announced that it is testing a new “1080p Premium” option for its Premium subscribers. According to the company’s spokesperson, Paul Pennington, the option is currently only available to a small group of YouTube Premium subscribers. The new feature is essentially an enhanced bitrate version of 1080p that provides a higher-quality viewing experience by offering more information per pixel. However, Pennington clarified that there are no changes to the existing quality offerings for 1080p resolution on YouTube.

YouTube Premium

It’s worth noting that resolution is just one factor in determining overall video quality. Other factors, such as bitrate and color depth, are also crucial in making a video look good. Bitrate refers to how much data is used to transfer each second of video. A 1080p Blu-ray, for example, provides a maximum of 40 Mbps, which delivers a crisp image. YouTube’s standard 1080p bitrate, on the other hand, ranges between 8 and 10 Mbps, resulting in footage with more blocks than Blu-ray.

YouTube’s new Premium 1080p option is an attempt to provide a better viewing experience for its Premium subscribers. One Reddit user shared a screenshot of the “Stats for Nerds” tool, which is accessible via the settings toolbar of a YouTube video. It revealed that the Premium 1080p option ran at around 13 Mbps compared to 8 Mbps in the standard mode for the same video. While YouTube typically uses variable bitrate encoding, which means the amount of data used fluctuates depending on what’s on the screen, video encoded at a higher bitrate will generally look better.

The new Premium 1080p option could provide a 50 percent boost in bitrate, resulting in a better viewing experience for those willing to pay for the service. YouTube doesn’t show videos at their maximum bitrate to save on bandwidth costs. This is why lower-quality videos take up less bandwidth in the journey from YouTube’s servers to the viewer’s screen.

This is not the first time YouTube has tested higher-quality video behind its Premium paywall. Last year, the company tested a 4K playback feature that was only accessible to subscribers. However, this move received a fair amount of backlash from the community, as some people were losing access to something they previously had for free. This experiment, however, only adds a perk for paying customers while keeping the regular 1080p option the same. That is, if you consider the lower-bitrate 1080p to be the same as higher-bitrate 1080p.

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Xiaomi MIJIA Air Conditioner 3HP Gold Edition With up to 489kWh/Year Power Saving Launched

Xiaomi has released yet another MIJIA air conditioner with excellent power consumption ratings in China. The MIJIA Air Conditioner 3HP Gold Edition offers significant power savings of up to 489kWh per year. It comes with a simple design and joins a list of successful MIJIA air conditioners in the Chinese market.

The new gold-plated version of the Xiaomi MIJIA air conditioner adopts a suspended fuselage structure. The exterior design retains the simple but versatile setup of previous iterations of the air conditioner. The gold-plated design gives the air conditioner a touch of class. The air conditioner comes with intelligent controls and access to the MIJIA smart home ecosystem. It supports adjustment via the smartphone app as well as through Xiaoai voice commands. The air conditioner can thus be linked to lamps, door locks, vacuum robots, and other smart gadgets.

The MIJIA Air Conditioner 3HP Gold Edition has a full DC frequency conversion system. Its 102mm diameter wind wheel achieves an air volume of 1050 square meters per hour for rapid air cooling and heating. It meets the Level 2 energy efficiency standard with up to 3.91 APF value. This translates to massive power savings estimated on average as 489 kWh/ year. The wind mode of the new air conditioner is also more effective than the current level 3 air conditioners. It also supports canopy wind, carpet wind, and surround wind modes. It can adopt the most suitable effect even in extreme situations of cold winds or warm winds.

MIJIA Air Conditioner 3HP Gold Edition

The MIJIA air conditioner 3HP Gold Edition has temperature and humidity dual control technology with automatic adjustment. The air conditioner is being retailed in China at a launch price of 3,999 yuan (~$575). The air conditioner will revert to its original price of 4,299 yuan ($618) after the launch period.

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Retailer Leaks High-res Renders and Alleged Launch Date of the Garmin Forerunner 965

Garmin‘s upcoming Forerunner 965 smartwatch has been under the radar within the past week. The tempo of leaks and tips about the next Garmin flagship has remained high. This week, high-resolution renders and the alleged launch date of the Forerunner 965 have surfaced online.

Garmin Forerunner 965

Some high-resolution images of the Garmin Forerunner 965 have been released by SwimOutlet. The smartwatch was listed on the SwimOutlet website and was accompanied by marketing images of the product. The images indicate that the Forerunner 965 may have the same sensors as its predecessor, and the choice of an AMOLED was again confirmed. The slimmer display bezels give the 965 a more modern look than the Forerunner 955. The new Garmin smartwatch has a bigger start/stop button.

While there are no definitive release dates posted by SwimOutlet for the Forerunner 965, another site states March 2 as the release date. It has been suggested that the March 2 launch date will also see the release of the Garmin Forerunner 265. Other sources say that a March 14 launch date for the Forerunner 965 is more plausible. Garmin has not provided any official details yet as to the launch date of the Forerunner 965.

Garmin Forerunner 965

The Garmin Forerunner 965 will retail for $569.99 and is significantly more expensive than the Garmin Forerunner 955. It remains to be seen however whether the improvements in the Forerunner 965 justify its price differential from its predecessor.

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Playseat Trophy Logitech G Edition Racing Cockpit With an Ergonomic Design Unveiled

Logitech has unveiled its latest racing cockpit and it comes with global compatibility with several products. The Logitech Trophy G cockpit will operate seamlessly with steering wheels, pedals, consoles, and PCs of different builds. The new Logitech solution is a cost-effective solution for racing simulator players.

Logitech G Edition Racing Cockpit

The product is the output of a collaboration between Logitech and Playseat and it is actually named Playseat Trophy-Logitech G Edition racing cockpit. Playseat is a manufacturer of game accessories and the new Trophy G cockpit holds lots of promise for both companies. The cockpit adopts an open design and is made of lightweight carbon steel and anodized aluminum parts. The cockpit’s seat is made of polyurethane leather and ActIFit material. The seat fits more closely and comfortably with the body.

Logitech G Edition Racing Cockpit

The Trophy G seat can be tilted and moved in forward/ backward and up/ down positions. The steering wheel and pedal board’s position can also be adjusted. The cockpit weighs 17kg and has dimensions 140 x 58 x 100 cm. As earlier mentioned, the chassis is compatible with all steering wheels and pedals currently on the market. It also supports all the major game consoles and PCs. The Trophy G can be used with Logitech’s professional series racing steering wheels and pedals.

Logitech G Edition Racing Cockpit

The Playseat Trophy-Logitech G racing cockpit comes with a two-year warranty. It is currently available in the United States, Canada, and selected markets for $599. The Trophy G racing cockpit could provide a perfect match between the steering wheel bracket and the seat for a more immersive experience.

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Honor Magic 5 Series Roundup – Specs, Design, Price & Everything We Know So Far

Honor has confirmed that it will be hosting the launch of new devices at the MWC (Mobile World Congress) 2023 scheduled to commence on February 27. At this event, the brand will be launching the Honor Magic 5 series and Honor Magic Vs.

The Honor Magic 5 series will consist of three models – Honor Magic 5, Honor Magic 5 Pro, and Honor Magic 5 Ultimate. The Magic 5, 5 Pro, and 5 Ultimate will be flagship-grade devices with the latest and greatest tech, including the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. Let’s take a detailed look at what these devices will offer.

Design & display

Design-wise, the Magic 5 series will retain its signature circular camera module in the center, and there will be three camera cutouts on it in a triangle alignment. The Magic 5 and Magic 5 Pro will have a metal-glass combination chassis, while the Ultimate Edition will be constructed from nano-ceramic. The Pro and Ultimate models are said to have a curved display with a pill-shaped cutout in the top left corner. This cutout will hold dual cameras.

Honor Magic 5 Pro

The leaked information suggests that the Magic 5 Pro and Magic 5 Ultimate Edition will feature a 6.81-inch OLED LPTO display with various capabilities, including a refresh rate of 1Hz to 120Hz, 2160Hz PWM dimming, a touch sampling rate of 480Hz, HDR10+ support, and a maximum brightness of up to 1100nits. The Vanilla Magic 5 model is said to have a 6.78-inch OLED LTPO display.

Performance

The Magic 5 series will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and equipped with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. The Magic 5 will have a 5,000mAh battery with 66W charging capability, while the other two models will have a 4,800mAh battery and support faster charging speeds, with 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging available. The series will also be compatible with the 40W UFCS charging standard. Additionally, these phones will operate on Magic UI 7.0, which is based on the Android 13 operating system.

All three phones in the Magic 5 series will feature an under-display fingerprint scanner, with the Magic 5 supporting 2D face unlock and the other models offering 3D facial recognition. The series will also include a range of other features, such as 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, USB 3.1, Dolby-powered dual speakers, an X-axis linear motor, and USB 3.1. The Pro and Ultimate models will offer IP68 protection against water and dust, whereas the Magic 5 will have an IP54-rated chassis.

Camera

The upcoming Honor Magic 5 series will feature a 13-megapixel Sony IMX688 front-facing camera. The rear camera setup of the Magic 5 will consist of a Sony IMX800 primary camera, an OmniVision OV64B lens, and a Sony IMX758 lens. Meanwhile, the Magic 5 Pro’s rear camera setup will include a Sony IMX878 with OIS support as the primary camera, an OmniVision OV64B lens, and a Sony IMX516 camera. The Ultimate Edition will feature a Sony IMX989 with OIS support as its primary camera, along with a Sony IMX758 lens, a Sony IMX516 sensor, and another OIS-enabled Sony camera. Additionally, all three devices will come equipped with a ToF lens and a flicker sensor.

Pricing

Leaked information states that the Honor Magic 5 variants with 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, and 12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage will be priced at 4,999 Yuan (~$696), 5,399 Yuan (~$751), and 6,199 Yuan (~$862). The Pro model is also expected to arrive in the same variants priced at 5,999 Yuan (~$835), 6,399 Yuan (~$891), and 7,199 Yuan (~$1,000). The Honor Magic 5 Ultimate Edition will only come in a single 12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage configuration, priced at 7,999 Yuan (~$1,113). To find out how to watch the launch event, you can check out this article.

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Acer One 10 FCC Certification Reveals Design And MediaTek Processor

Acer has been known for producing quality laptops and tablets, and they have recently unveiled new models that are sure to impress consumers. The new Nitro and Swift laptops come with AMD Ryzen 7000 processors, which promise to offer powerful performance for both work and play. Additionally, the company will also be releasing an updated version of their 10.1-inch tablet, the Acer One 10. Lastly, some specs of the tablet in question have surfaced on FCC certification. Here are the details…

Acer One 10 FCC Certification Reveals Design And MediaTek Processor

The Acer One 10 (2023) will come with a number of upgrades from the previous models. One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of an octa-core 2.0GHz MediaTek MT8768 chip, which is an ARM Cortex-A53 core. This chip promises to provide faster and more efficient performance for users. The tablet also will come with 4GB of DDR4 memory and 64GB of storage space, with the option to expand to 1TB of storage.

The tablet features a 10.1-inch IPS display with a 1920×1200 resolution. This makes for clear and vibrant visuals, which is perfect for watching videos or working on documents. The front-facing camera is 5MP, which is great for video conferencing or taking selfies. Additionally, the tablet now comes with dual cameras on the back, with the main camera being 13MP.

One of the biggest advantages of the Acer One 10 (2023) is its portability. It has a thickness of 7.6mm and weighs only 450 grams, making it easy to carry around. An optional keyboard will also be available, which will make it easier for users to work on the tablet for extended periods of time.

In terms of connectivity, the Acer One 10 (2023) supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0. It also comes with a 3.5mm audio jack for headphones and a USB-C port. The tablet is powered by a 5000mAh battery, which promises up to 7 hours of battery life.

One of the most exciting features of the Acer One 10 (2023) is its 4G LTE variant. This will allow users to access the internet from anywhere, making it a great option for people who are always on the go. Additionally, the 4G LTE variant will be offered at a relatively low price in select markets, making it an affordable option for consumers who are looking for a reliable tablet.

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Upcoming Smartphones: Xiaomi 13, Vivo V27, Realme GT 3, and More

After a long while, we are going to have multiple smartphone launches, courtesy of Mobile World Congress 2023. At least four brands are expected to debut multiple new phones.

Unfortunately, most of these handsets are merely making their way to the global markets as they had already gone official in China. Either way, they are new products for most parts of the world.

The announcement of these phones will begin coming Sunday and will last until Wednesday. With that out of the way, let’s take a quick look at the devices that are scheduled to be unveiled in the next few days.

Upcoming Smartphones Next Week

1. Xiaomi 13 Series

Xiaomi 13 Pro

Xiaomi has scheduled to launch the Xiaomi 13 series for global markets on February 26. The event will begin at 4 PM GMT+1. It will be live-streamed on YouTube.

The lineup is expected to include three models, namely Xiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro, and Xiaomi 13 Lite. The former two are the same as the ones sold in China. Whereas, the lite variant is actually a rebranded Xiaomi Civi 2 from September.

The regular and pro phones will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, while the lite will house a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 SoC. The former two will even arrive with Leica-tuned cameras.

The Xiaomi 13, 13 Pro, and 13 Lite are tipped to cost around €999, €1,299, and €499, respectively.

2. Honor Magic 5 Series and Honor Magic Vs

Honor Magic Vs Ultimate

Honor has planned its event for February 27 at 1:30 PM CET. The brand has confirmed to debut the Honor Magic 5 series and Honor Magic Vs at this conference.

Unlike most handsets, not much is known about the Magic 5 series. The lineup is said to include four devices, such as Honor Magic 5, Honor Magic 5 Pro, Honor Magic 5 Ultimate, and Honor Magic 5 Lite. The first three phones are expected to house a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, while the last one is said to be powered by a Snapdragon 695 SoC.

On the other hand, the Honor Magic Vs foldable smartphone had already gone official in China in late November. Everything is known about this product.

3. Realme GT 3

Realme GT Neo 5 featured
Realme GT Neo 5

The Relame GT 3 is set to launch in global markets on February 28. The event will start at 4 PM UTC+1 and will be live-streamed on YouTube.

The GT 3 for international markets is nothing but rebranded Realme GT Neo 5 from China. The handset will be available in 150W and 240W charging variants.

The highlights of the device will include a 6.74-inch 10-bit 144Hz AMOLED display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chip, a 50MP Sony IMX890 primary camera, dual stereo speakers, an in-screen fingerprint sensor, infrared sensor, and more.

4. Vivo V27 Series

Vivo V27

The Vivo V27 series will be debuting in India on March 1. It will be announced in a live stream that will start at 12 PM IST.

The lineup will consist of three smartphones, namely Vivo V27, Vivo V27 Pro, and Vivo V27e. These handsets are rebranded versions of the Vivo S16 series sold in China with a few differences.

Like its predecessors, the Vivo V27 series is all about design and selfie cameras. However, unlike the previous models, the upcoming devices will also come with flagship-killer chipsets, such as MediaTek Dimensity 8200 and Qualcomm Snapdragon 870.

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ChatGPT Relies on Lenovo’s Puhui Computing Power Infrastructure for Success

Artificial intelligence technologies continue to spread, particularly ChatGPT developed by OpenAI is causing a storm on the internet. Many people use this AI bot to write articles, books, and even scripts. Recently, the CEO of Lenovo, Yang Yuanqing, made a statement about ChatGPT in leading technology companies. Here are the details…

Lenovo’s technology innovation plans prioritize short, mid, and long-term perspectives

Yang Yuanqing, chairman and CEO of Lenovo Group, spoke about ChatGPT at the Lenovo Venture Capital CEO Annual Meeting. Yang praised the popular language model, stating that the Puhui computing power infrastructure needed behind it aligns with Lenovo’s strengths, which have been deployed for many years.

Lenovo’s commitment to creating “Technology Lenovo” has always been its original entrepreneurial intention, according to Yang. In the face of changes in the global political and economic environment, as well as rapid changes in technology and industrial cycles, Lenovo has emphasized the use of technological innovation to drive development to enhance the company’s endurance through the cycle.

Lenovo has planned for technological innovation from the short-term, mid-term, and long-term perspectives, Yang added. Yang highlighted that ChatGPT’s recent global popularity showcases Lenovo’s strengths in the Puhui computing power infrastructure, which the language model relies on. The Puhui computing power infrastructure is a natural advantage for Lenovo, and Yang believes that large computing power will be an important basis for future social development and national competition.

Lenovo Venture Capital Group President He Zhiqiang echoed Yang’s thoughts, stating that Lenovo has a natural advantage in the computing power field. He also noted that large computing power will be crucial for future social development and national competition, indicating that Lenovo is well-positioned to take advantage of this trend. As technology continues to shape the world, companies like Lenovo will need to focus on developing their strengths and leveraging them to remain competitive in the future.

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US May Set a Cap on South Korean Semiconductors Made in China

The United States is planning to limit the number of advanced chips made by South Korean companies in China. This move will likely affect South Korean tech giants like Samsung and SK Hynix who have significant investments in China.

According to a Reuters report, The United States Commerce Department undersecretary for Industry and Security, Alan Estevez said that Washington will likely add a cap to the number of chips that South Korean companies can make in China. Estevez who supervises the Chinese trade restrictions made this comment during an event hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, in Washington. 

source: Samsung

South Korea’s Investment in Semiconductor Foundries in China:

South Korea is a world leader in memory chip production with a total market value of $70 billion. The South Korean semiconductor economy is mainly driven by two of the world’s largest semiconductor producers, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix who have invested billions of dollars in key manufacturing facilities in China.

Samsung Electronics has two main production facilities in China, one for NAND (flash memory) which is located in Xi’an, and another for DRAM ( Dynamic Random Access Memory) which is located in Suzhou. Apart from these facilities, Samsung has also established three advanced R&D centers in China, which is more than it has in its home country. The Samsung Xi’an factory accounts for 42.5% of its total NAND production and 15.3% of its global capacity. It is also the tech giant’s largest overseas investment with an initial expenditure of $7 billion for the production facility. 

When it comes to SK Hynix, though the company has no R&D centers in China, it has built its DRAM and NAND memory chip production facilities in Wuxi, Chongqing, and Dalian. The factory at Wuxi produces more than 40% of the company’s DRAM chips.  Apart from these two tech companies, there are many other South Korean fabless semiconductor firms and startups that have established their base in China. 

Why is South Korea in a Dilemma?

Right now, China is the largest market for South Korean semiconductor companies. According to data from the Korea International Trade Association, mainland China and Hong Kong account for about 60% of the country’s semiconductor exports. However, the ongoing US-China trade war has put South Korea in a difficult position

If a chip production cap is put on South Korean companies in China, then the companies will face severe losses and the South Korean economy will take a downturn. South Korea’s Minister of Industry said that to date there have been no official discussions between South Korea and the United States for setting a limit on the technology and production levels. 

He further added that both South Korea and the US have agreed to not let the sanctions and policies affect the current and future investments of Korean companies in China. Last year in October, both Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix received a one-year reprieve from US export restrictions. The country is now planning to enter into a discussion with the US to extend the reprieve. 

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Why Cryptocurrencies Should Not be Given Legal Tender Status – IMF’s Viewpoint

Although cryptocurrencies have been in our lives for a long time, they are still discussed. While many consider these digital assets as the money of the future, not a small number of people want crypto, which they describe as fraud and a joke, to be banned. So much so that this debate has divided many countries in the world into two. Finally, the IMF, one of the world’s leading monetary authorities, announced its opinion on cryptocurrencies. Here are the details…

cryptocurrencies should not be given official currency, legal tender status – IMF

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned against granting cryptocurrencies legal tender or official currency status. In a paper published on February 23rd, titled “Elements of Effective Policies for Crypto Assets,” the IMF warned that such a move could have a negative impact on the monetary sovereignty and stability of a nation.

IMF cryptocurrencies

The IMF’s paper considers nine key elements that nations and their central banks should take into account when creating effective policies for cryptocurrencies. It suggests that granting cryptocurrencies the status of legal tender or official currency could increase adoption and exposure to traditional financial institutions, leading to financial stability issues.

Furthermore, the IMF states that government revenues would be at risk of high variation if quoted in cryptocurrencies and that state-owned enterprises should not handle operations related to cryptocurrency. It suggests that in cases where a cryptocurrency is given official status, governments should minimize its use for official payments and avoid guaranteeing crypto-to-fiat conversions.

cryptocurrencies

The IMF also highlights the importance of building strong domestic institutions and policies to enhance trust in the traditional monetary system. The paper suggests that creating a solid Monetary Policy Framework (MPF) is the first step in ensuring credibility. The IMF recommends that the MPF should be transparent, coherent, and consistent, and that it should help to anchor market expectations, curb currency substitution, and ensure the effectiveness of monetary policy.

The paper also addresses other key elements, including the need to safeguard against excessive capital flow, analyze risks stemming from crypto assets regularly, establish legal certainty around crypto assets, and establish a joint framework across agencies. The IMF also recommends enhancing global cooperation among regulators and sovereigns, monitoring the impact of crypto assets on other economies, and developing digital infrastructure and alternative solutions to improve cross-border payments.

The IMF’s paper provides a comprehensive framework for countries to create effective policies for crypto assets, and highlights the importance of building strong domestic institutions and policies to enhance trust in the traditional monetary system. While the paper cautions against granting cryptocurrencies official status, it suggests that countries should be proactive in addressing the risks associated with crypto assets, and should collaborate globally to develop digital infrastructure and alternative solutions to improve cross-border payments.

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Possible Meizu 20 Pro Listed on AnTuTu With Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC

Meizu is going to launch a new flagship series after a long time. The company has confirmed it is working on a new lineup equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. The series could include at least two devices— Meizu 20 and Meizu 20 Pro. Now, ahead of the formal release, the Pro phone has possibly been spotted in AnTuTu results with the above-mentioned processor. Let’s look at the details.

The alleged Meizu 20 Pro has appeared in AnTuTu results with model number m2391. The handset has been listed with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, which is paired with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. There may be other storage configurations. The phone has managed to get a score of 1,255,418 points. This includes the CPU score of 248,541, the GPU score of 570,255, the memory score of 256,118, and the UX score of 180,504.

Meizu-20-Pro-AnTuTu

The handset is reported to feature a 120Hz display with a 1,080 x 2,400px resolution. Further, the company has confirmed the device will be equipped with a super-fast ultrasonic fingerprint reader, capable of unlocking in 0.075s even if your finger is wet. There may also be 13 gaming-grade antennas.  The phone’s battery is claimed to maintain at least 80% of its original capacity after 1,600 charging cycles.

While the company didn’t reveal the battery capacity of the device, reports suggest it will house a 4,600mAh unit with 80W charging support. The handset could feature a triple camera unit on the back, headlined by a Sony’s 1” IMX989 image sensor. Currently, the Meizu 20 series’ launch date is not known. Rumors hint at an early spring launch.

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MediaTek to Showcase the MT6825 IoT-NTN Chip Bringing 2-Way Satellite Connectivity to Phones at MWC 2023

Chipmaker MediaTek will showcase its revolutionary satellite connectivity technology during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2023. The company made this known via a press release that outlined the particulars of the new tech.

MediaTek says it is working to bring reliable connectivity everywhere with two-way satellite communications implemented using smartphones and other devices. The Taiwanese company will be demonstrating the 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology for two-way satellite communications. MediaTek will also showcase its 5G New Radio NTN (NR-NTN) technology to be deployed in satellite-enabled devices. The first smartphones with this new technology are also launching and more device launches are on the horizon.

Satellite networks are increasingly considered to bridge the existing gaps in mobile networks. They offer a more reliable way for devices to communicate in remote locations. Satellite-enabled smartphones hold lots of promise and expand the reach of mobile networks. The biggest market for the 3GPP NTN technology is smartphones. There is however a growing demand for new technology in IoT applications and the automotive industry.

MediaTek says that two-way satellite communication will usher us into a new era of connectivity and open up new possibilities. MediaTek’s MT6825 standalone chipsets are based on 3GPP NTN technology and can be integrated into any smartphone. MediaTek will target both IoT-NTN and NR-NTN. IoT-NTN is designed for low-data rate connections, while NR-NTN supports video calls.

MediaTek is partnering with Bullit to release the world’s first commercial devices with 3GPP NTN technology. The MT6825 chipset will connect to the Bullit Satellite Connect Platform. The new MediaTek chipset is a standalone product and will be compatible with a wide range of smartphone brands. More illuminating details of the new MediaTek satellite technologies will be showcased during MWC 2023 from February 27.

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Get Inked Anytime, Anywhere with LG’s New Portable Tattoo Machine

LG Household & Health Care, one of South Korea’s leading beauty firms, announced on Monday that it will be showcasing its portable temporary tattoo printer, Imprintu, at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, which is set to take place next week. This marks the first time a South Korean beauty company will participate in the trade show that is considered to be one of the biggest exhibitions for telecommunication and mobility technologies.

LG’s Imprintu: The Ultimate Portable Tattoo Machine

Imprintu, a combination of “impromptu” and “print,” is a tattoo printer that connects to mobile devices and allows users to select images and print temporary tattoos. With a print resolution of 600 dots per inch, the tattoos produced by Imprintu are of high quality. Furthermore, it only takes two to three seconds for the machine to be ready to print tattoos, making it an efficient and convenient option for those who want to get temporary tattoos.

lg imprintu

The company claims that the tattoos produced by Imprintu use safe vegan tattoo ink and can last for around a day. They can be printed on both skin and clothes, making them versatile and suitable for various occasions.

In addition, LG H&H plans to update the number of illustrations and pattern designs available through the Imprintu mobile app. These designs are created using LG’s latest multimodal supergiant artificial intelligence model, Exaone. This feature allows users to choose from a wider range of designs, making it more appealing to a larger audience.

lg imprintu

According to LG H&H, Imprintu will be launched during the second half of this year, starting with South Korea and the United States. This move signals the company’s intention to expand its presence in the beauty industry and explore new markets.

The introduction of Imprintu is a significant step for LG H&H, as it demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovation and its desire to remain at the forefront of the beauty industry. The launch of Imprintu at MWC will allow the company to showcase its latest product to a wider audience and potentially attract new customers from different markets.

In conclusion, LG Household & Health Care’s announcement of Imprintu, a portable temporary tattoo printer, marks an exciting development in the beauty industry. With its high-quality tattoos, efficient printing process, and a wide range of design options, Imprintu has the potential to become a game-changer in the temporary tattoo market.

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CAT S75 Rugged Phone With a MediaTek Dimensity 930 SoC, 2-Way Satellite Messaging Support Launched

CAT phones are known for their rugged build but the brand has been quiet in recent times. Not anymore, though, as Bullitt Group, the company controlling the phone brand has announced the CAT S75 rugged phone. The smartphone emerges as the first to have MediaTek’s NTN chip for two-way satellite messaging support. It should be noted though, that it shares specs and design with the Motorola Defy rugged phone.

CAT S75 Rugged Phone

The CAT S75 features a 6.6-inch Full HD+ LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by an octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 930 6nm processor paired with 6GB LPDDR4x RAM, and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage. The phone runs on Android 12 with two OS updates and offers 5 years of security patches. As a rugged phone, it has reportedly undergone Mil-Spec 810H testing and has been tested to withstand drops from up to 1.8 meters, as well as being impervious to dust, sand, and dirt ingress

CAT S75 Rugged Phone

For optics, the rugged phone features a 50MP camera with f/1.8 aperture, an 8MP ultra-wide camera with f/2.2 aperture, and a 2MP macro camera with f/2.4 aperture. It has an 8MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture. The phone has a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor and USB Type-C audio, and it weighs 268g with dimensions of 171 x 80 x 11.9mm. It has IP68 and IP69K ratings and is capable of handling high-pressure water jets.

CAT S75 Rugged Phone

The Bullitt Satellite Messenger, which is the first 3GPP standards-based satellite NTN or ‘direct-to-satellite’ messaging service for mobile phones, uses the new MediaTek MT6825 NTN chip and Bullitt Satellite Messenger to access a network of geostationary satellites. To send or receive messages via satellite, users need a subscription and an NTN-enabled device. The Bullitt Satellite Messenger service offers a twelve-month free trial of SOS Assist, providing 24/7 access to emergency response centres provided by FocusPoint International.

CAT S75 Rugged Phone

As for the price, the CAT S75 will retail for a hefty €599 (US$ 634). It is even available to pre-order from selected operators and retailers across EMEA. It includes a 3-month free trial of the Bullitt Satellite Messenger Essentials service plan, which includes up to 30 direct-to-satellite messages per month. The company is expected to showcase the smartphone at the Mobile World Congress 2023 next week.

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Razer Blade 15 2023 With 13th-Gen Intel Processors and NVIDIA GPUs Launched

Razer has announced a new model of its Blade 15 laptop, which has been refreshed with new specs for 2023. The laptop features a 13th-generation Intel Core i7-13800H processor, which has 14 cores and 20 threads and can boost up to 5.2GHz. The processor comes from Intel’s 45W series, rather than the HX series used for the Blade 16 and Blade 18.

Razer Blade 15 2023

The new Razer Blade 15 comes with up to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, which offers impressive gaming performance. The laptop also features 16GB of DDR5 5200MHz RAM and a 1TB SSD, which provides ample storage for games, media, and other files.

The laptop features a Quad HD IPS panel with 100% coverage of DCI-P3 and a 240Hz refresh rate. While there’s nothing too fancy here, like a dual-mode display or mini-LED, this is still a great screen that should offer excellent color accuracy and smooth gaming performance.

The focus of the Razer Blade 15 is being more portable than the other two models, which is greatly helped by the less powerful specs. It starts at 4.4 pounds of weight, instead of the 5.4 pounds of the Blade 16. It should also last longer on a charge since the components aren’t going to use as much power.

The laptop is available starting today, and pricing starts at $2,499.99. Razer also announced that the Blade 16 and Blade 18 are available with GeForce RTX 4060 and RTX 4070 GPUs starting today. That means the Razer Blade 16 now starts at $2,699.99 and the Blade 18 starts at $2,899.99.

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TSMC Plans a Second Facility in Japan for High-end Chip Production

Leading chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is reportedly planning to expand its presence in Japan with a second chip plant. The new plant will be used for the production of 5 and 10 nanometer chips starting in the second half of the decade, according to the Japanese newspaper Nikkan Kogyo.

Japan believes that improving its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities is important for its future economic growth, particularly in light of the increasing importance of digital technologies. Hence, a new TSMC factory could aid in revitalizing the country’s advanced semiconductor manufacturing industry. As per Nikkan Kogyo, TSMC’s second plant in Japan will cost more than 1 trillion yen (roughly $7.4 billion).

TSMC second plant in Japan

The Taiwanese company will be building its first foundry in Japan on Kyushu island, with an aim to start the production of 12 and 16 nanometer semiconductors next year. The Japanese government is said to offer TSMC a 476 billion yen subsidy, roughly half of the factory’s expected cost. Sony Group and auto parts maker Denso Corp, which will utilize the chips produced, have also invested in the expansion.

The Chip maker did not give an official about the report, however, it referred to comments from CEO C.C. Wei at its last quarterly earnings call in January. Wei has stated that TSMC is considering expanding its presence in Japan with a second plant.

For the unaware, TSMC is a significant player in the chipmaking industry, being the exclusive producer of chips used in iPhones. Additionally, it manufactures processors designed by the Cupertino company for its desktop computers and laptops. The Taiwanese firm also manufactures the majority of the Qualcomm chips that are used in Android phones.

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Samsung Goes Beyond Apple with Full Message and Media Capability via Satellite

The “Emergency SOS Via Satellite” feature implemented by Apple with the iPhone 14 series is gaining popularity. Almost every day, we hear about someone’s life being saved thanks to this feature. This brings users closer to choosing the iPhone when it’s time to buy a new phone. Other smartphone manufacturers, who do not want to lose their users, are also incorporating this feature. For example, Huawei recently announced that it will use the Emergency SOS feature on its new phones. Now, Samsung has taken a similar step on the Android front. Here are the details…

Samsung debuts satellite connectivity for smartphones using the Pixel 7’s modem

Samsung has announced its entry into the satellite connectivity arena for smartphones, following the lead of Apple’s iPhone 14 series. However, the company goes beyond Apple’s, as it enables users to send full messages, pictures, and even videos via satellite. The technology uses 5G NTN (non-terrestrial networks) to communicate, sending data from the smartphone to satellites before transmitting it back down to ground stations for transfer to the intended recipient or emergency services.

Samsung’s Exynos 5300 modem, the same modem used in Google’s Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, provides the technology to support satellite connectivity. Samsung has developed and simulated 5G NTN standard-based satellite technology on top of this modem, providing proof of concept. However, this functionality will not be available in current Google phones, as Samsung intends to incorporate it into future versions of its Exynos modems.

Earlier this month, Samsung announced that it was holding off on bringing satellite connectivity to its own smartphones until the technology was mature enough. The timing of this Exynos announcement is not ideal for Samsung’s own smartphones, as Galaxy flagships switch to solely using Qualcomm chips on a global scale. Qualcomm also recently announced its own form of satellite connectivity, but it is not yet available on any devices.

Satellite connectivity is poised to become one of the “next big things” in smartphones, providing a way for people to stay connected even in areas without traditional cellular coverage. The ability to send full messages, pictures, and videos via satellite could be particularly useful in emergency situations or remote areas where traditional communication methods are unavailable. With Samsung’s entry into this market, it remains to be seen how this technology will evolve and be adopted by consumers.

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iQOO Z7 Officially Teased To Launch Soon, OIS Enabled Primary Camera Confirmed

A new iQOO Z-series smartphone is teased to launch soon in India. iQOO India CEO Nipun Marya tweeted a photo of the upcoming offering that reveals some key details. Although the name of the device remains under wraps, the font in the image mentions Z7. This means that the iQOO Z7 will arrive as the successor to the Z6 that debuted in September last year. 

The image in the tweet shared by Marya reveals the back panel design of the iQOO Z7. It looks similar to the last year’s Vivo T1x with a rectangular camera module housing two vertically stacked sensors. Upon a closer look, the image confirms the presence of OIS on the smartphone. There is also a text ‘Photography High Definition’ written alongside the LED flash. There is an iQOO branding at the bottom centre of the back panel. Lastly, the upcoming offering is seen in Teal colour and we can expect more options at launch. 

The rest of the details about the iQOO Z7 are yet to be revealed. Considering that the device has been teased, we can expect the brand to share more information in the coming days. Since the Vivo sub-brand’s Z-series is exclusive to Amazon, we can expect the upcoming offering to be available on the e-commerce platform. 

A previous report revealed that the iQOO Z7 series will have a regular Z7 5G and a Z7 Pro 5G with model numbers I2207 and I2213 respectively. We will have to wait and learn if both devices will be launched by the brand simultaneously. 

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Tecno & TCL Jointly Develop a Flagship Dual Screen for the Upcoming Phantom V Fold

Tecno has confirmed it will be showcasing an interesting and rather new smartphone during the MWC Barcelona 2023. The device in question will be the brand’s first-ever foldable smartphone, Phantom V Fold. While we wait for the formal debut, Tecno has revealed that the upcoming folding phone features an advanced flagship screen developed in collaboration with technology giant TCL CSOT, in a joint laboratory of the two technology brands.

Tecno and TCL CSOT set up a joint lab in July 2022, strengthening their long-standing partnership. The lab aims to drive innovation and meet customer needs, as both brands value research and development. The new flagship display is a result of this collaboration and it is claimed to deliver an outstanding visual experience in both folded and unfolded large-screen setups.

Tecno Phantom V Fold Concept
Tecno Phantom V Fold Concept

Tecno says the upcoming Phantom V Fold uses an LTPO dual screen with up to 120Hz refresh rate. In addition, the display will apparently fold “ultra-flat” and have a “virtually crease-free surface to provide immersive and remarkable large-screen visuals”.

Phantom V Fold’s Successor and a Rollable Device Also in Development

Additionally, Tecno confirmed that the successor of the upcoming Phantom V Fold is also in development and it will have even better display capabilities. The next-gen foldable is slated to be released sometime in 2024 with Tecno’s self-developed Pattern 2.0 crease optimization technology that will ensure the crease on the display is almost non-existent.

The phone’s screen layering is said to be approximately 20% thinner and it will use TCL CSOT’s PLP technology to further improve the display.

Notably, Tecno and TCL CSOT have another intriguing large-screen device in development. This said device will be a rollable smartphone with an extendable and retractable screen. Apparently, they’re planning to put a motor in the device that can roll out the screen and make it big without needing to fold it. This means that the screen won’t have any creases and will be really flat.

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(Source: Press release shared by Tecno)

Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Pad 6, Pad 6 Pro and Mix Fold 3 To Feature USB 3.2 – Leak

Xiaomi flagships are famously known for their price-to-performance value offerings, however, the cheaper price tag always means that some cost-cutting was done in the feature department. And one shortcoming of Xiaomi flagships that has been known by buyers for quite some time is the company’s reluctance to upgrade from the 23-year-old USB 2.0 data transfer standard on their flagships like the Xiaomi 13 Pro, and Xiaomi 12S Ultra.

After much criticism from buyers and reviewers, it seems that the company is listening to feedback from its users, as the next 4 Xiaomi flagship products will include the USB 3.2 standard onboard.

The rumour comes from the famous and reputable Chinese leakster, Digital Chat Station. In their latest post on Chinese social media, they claim that the next 4 flagship devices from Xiaomi feature USB 3.2 data transfer, as well as support for the USB PD (Power Delivery) charging standard protocol.

Source: Digital Chat Station on Weibo

Although not directly revealed in the post, the next 4 flagship devices from Xiaomi are respectively the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Xiaomi Pad 6, Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro, and the Xiaomi Mix Fold 3. 

The move to include USB 3.2 data transfer speeds on their flagships finally puts Xiaomi on par with other brands such as Samsung which included USB 3.2 in their flagships since 2020 with the Samsung Galaxy S20 series, and Vivo which included USB 3.2 in their flagships since 2022 with the Vivo X80 Pro.

Vivo X80 Series Promo Material

However, it was not mentioned in the post which USB 3.2 generation (Gen 1, Gen 2 or Gen 2 2×2) data transfer is supported in the upcoming Xiaomi flagships.

As for the inclusion of USB PD support, it is said to improve inter-compatibility when using different charging devices, as long as the charging adapters and cables are USB PD certified as well. In turn, it translates to faster charging even when Xiaomi’s original charger is not around.

If you want to know more about Xiaomi’s upcoming Leica-branded flagship smartphone, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, you can learn more about it from our previous article here.

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