Samsung confirms smartphone performance throttling, patch in works

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Mar 4, 2022

The Google app on Android may be getting even darker on dark mode as a new shade for the app’s background is currently being tested. The color isn’t really pitch black but is still darker than the usual dark grey and also looks to be having a warmer tone.

The change reflects on the search bar too on the Discover page of the app, although the bottom tab retains the lighter grey color. Search results look largely unaltered though and the same goes for the Snapshot page as well.

All in all, the new colors should be easier on the eyes during your late-night Google searching sessions. Darker colors are also less taxing on the battery with OLED displays so that’s another plus.

As to why Google bothered with such a subtle change, well, it could have something to do with Material You. I recall spotting Chrome and the Play Store switch to a similar darker shade of grey sometime back before they gained support for dynamic theming, so the Google app could be getting treated to the same now. The app currently does not appear to support Material You and looks rather out of place among the sea of monet-supporting Google apps.

If you wish to check out the new colors on the app too, then you’ll want to download Google’s latest 13.8 update which you can get via APKMirror. Or you could just wait for the changes to appear on the stable branch, which shouldn’t be much longer.

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realme GT Master Explorer Edition gets Android 12-based realme UI 3.0 stable update

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Mar 4, 2022

Last year, realme launched two models in the realme GT Master series. These smartphones are called realme GT Master Edition and realme GT Master Explorer Edition. The latter has now started receiving realme UI 3.0 stable update based on Android 12.

Realme GT Master Explorer Hands on 07 — realme GT Master Explorer Edition

The realme GT Master Explorer Edition got access to the realme UI 3.0 Early Access update in November. This means it took the brand almost 4 months to deliver the stable release.

Unsurprisingly, the update is being rolled out in batches. In simpler words, it is only available for a select few users. But it should reach every user in the coming days.

Further, since this is an OTA software update intended for the general public, it will not erase the device’s internal storage. However, it is recommended to back up important data to avoid loss in case of any issue.

Having said that, the realme GT Master Explorer Edtion is a China-exclusive smartphone. Hence, there will not be a global rollout for its latest software update.

Anyway, if you have imported one, the unit will get the OTA update when it is made available for everyone in the coming days. In fact, going by realme’s track record, the handset may receive one more Android update in the future.

Segway KickScooter GT2 with a top speed of 70km/h & 90km range launched

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Jed John Ikoba

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Mar 4, 2022

Segway is entering the pacy end of the electric scooter market with the release of the GT2 e-scooter that boasts a top speed of 70km/h. The Segway GT2 is a standing electric scooter that seems to have heralded Segway into the high-performance territory with its features.

The Segway GT2 seems to be in a class of its own among standing electric scooters. Its features are different from the standard expected of standing e-scooters. It has 11-inch wheels, two electric motors with a combined power of 3kWwhich can deliver speeds up to 70km/h. The Segway GT2 can go from zero to a speed of 48km/h under 5 seconds. There is also traction control to modulate the speed and power when there is a possibility of the wheel slipping.

Segway KickScooter GT2

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The fast nature of the Segway GT2 may not engender licensing in some places but the e-scooter’s speed could be reduced by interfacing with the smartphone app. The GT2 also comes with dual adjustable damping hydraulic suspension. The front fork of the Segway GT2 also has a solid suspension that firms up the model. The scooter can take weights up to 150kg while the scooter itself weighs 52kg. The Segway GT2 has a range of about 120km and will be available towards the end of the year.

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(via)

Xiaomi Mi 11X Pro receives MIUI 13 update based on Android 12 in India

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Mar 4, 2022

Xiaomi has started seeding MIUI 13 based on Android 12 to the Mi 11X Pro in India. It is currently limited to Mi Pilot Testers but should be rolled out widely once found bug-free.

The Xiaomi Mi 11X Pro was launched in April 2021 as a flagship-killer of sorts, coming with near top-of-the-line specs. Performance appears to be its main focus, and as such, it features the Snapdragon 888 chip, which was last year’s top performer in the Android camp.

The device first booted into Android 11, meaning it should be eligible for two Android upgrades. One of these has been delivered with firmware 13.0.1.0.SKKINXM, now rolling out in India (via Xiaomiui). Its complete official changelog has been given below.

System

‌Stable MIUI based on Android 12
‌Updated Android Security Patch to February 2022. Increased system security.

More features and improvements

‌New: Apps can be opened as floating windows directly from the sidebar
‌Optimization: Enhanced accessibility support for Phone, Clock, and Weather
‌Optimization: Mind map nodes are more convenient and intuitive now

Do keep in mind that the update is currently a Mi Pilot Tester-exclusive, so you’ll not be getting it as of now unless you’re part of the testing program. Still, it should be rolled out widely soon enough since pilot builds are a prelude to stable releases.

Alternatively, you can try a manual flash of the build if you’re bold enough after downloading it through this link.

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Redmi K40 Gaming Edition bags MIUI 13 update based on Android 12

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Mar 4, 2022

Xiaomi has been seeding MIUI 13 update for eligible devices since January. The latest smartphone to get the fresh version of the company’s mobile software is Redmi K40 Gaming Edition. The update arrives for this handset less than a month from the launch of its successor – Redmi K50G aka Redmi K50 Gaming Edition.

Redmi K40G Review 27 — Redmi K40 Gaming Edition

The MIUI 13 update for Redmi K40 Gaming Edition is based on Android 12. Like any other OTA system update, this one is also being seeded in batches.

In other words, it is only available for a select few users. The build should reach more users in the coming days if there are no major bugs.

The latest software update for the phone carries build number V13.0.3.0.SKJCNXM. Apart from bringing new features, it also comes with January 2022 security patches.

For those unaware, the Redmi K40 Gaming Edition is a China-exclusive device. However, it is sold under the name of POCO F3 GT in India. Since both are basically the same smartphone and run identical firmware with regional differences, it should also receive a similar treatment very soon.

That being said, MIUI 13 and Android 12 are the first major MIUI and Android updates for the Redmi K40 Gaming Edition. Going by Xiaomi’s track record, the handset will likely get one more Android update and two additional MIUI updates.

Remember the alt realme GT2 Pro with horizontal cameras? It’s still a go after all

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Mar 4, 2022

Back in December, OnLeaks had leaked renders of a unique offering from realme with a horizontal camera design, reminiscent of the Galaxy S10 series and very similar to the Pixel 6. The phone was touted to be the realme GT2 Pro and had generated much hype because of its divergence from realme’s usual design language.

Realme-GT2-Pro-promo-vs-leak — realme GT2 Pro we got vs the realme GT2 Pro we wanted

However, when official teasers of the GT2 Pro began flowing in, the device was found to ditch the horizontal camera layout, opting for the not-so-special top-left-aligned camera layout instead. After that, the realme GT2 Pro with the Pixel 6-like camera bar was never seen again.

But fast forward to today and said device has actually reemerged — tipster OnLeaks took to Twitter enquiring into its whereabouts, to which realme’s official global handle replied a very straightforward “stay tuned.”

stay tuned.

— realme (@realmeglobal) March 4, 2022

The response clears rumors of the alt-realme GT2 Pro being just a concept that didn’t make the final cut, meaning we could be seeing it as a release soon. No expected launch date was provided, though, but considering the phone has been under development for a while now, we probably won’t have to wait much longer now.

Some of you may be wondering what happens to the realme GT2 Pro moniker since a device carrying the same name has already been released. To this, we’d say that realme may be planning on launching the phone as a special edition of its replacement or perhaps as a different model entirely.

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MG Motor to raise funds for future Electric Vehicle plans in India

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Mar 4, 2022

MG Motor, which is owned by China’s SAIC Motor, is planning on raising funds to push for its future plans related to electric vehicles in India. Interestingly, The company is aiming on pushing its electric mobility business in the region amid frictions between China and India, with Chinese investments facing rising scrutiny.

According to a Reuters report, three sources close to the matter have stated that MG Motor India is expected to sell around 10 to 30 percent stake and is even looking at other options as well. This includes issuing new shares or diluting SAIC’s holding, as per one of the sources. Furthermore, the carmaker could even be seeking to spin off a separate unit for its electric vehicle business in India.

The report also adds that the company is in talks with private equity funds that are showing interest in investing into the EV push. This isn’t surprising considering that the electric vehicle segment is seeing explosive growth in the automobile industry. It is also the next alternative since nations are shifting their economies away from fossil fuels. One source stated that “Everyone is buying into the EV story because it gives investors an ESG bet, and MG is trying to pitch itself as an EV play.”

At the moment, there is still no final plans on raising funds for MG Motor’s EV push, as it is subject to change based on the valuation of the Indian business and its growth plans. The funds acquired will be used to ramp up production and introduce new EV model to expand its business. Unfortunately, the company has declined to comment on this matter.

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Samsung Galaxy A53 could be costlier than Galaxy A52s 5G

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Mar 4, 2022

We have been hearing about the Galaxy A53 for months. The smartphone may go official at the rumored Galaxy Awesome Unpacked 2022 event sometime later this month. Ahead of that, its price in Europe has emerged.

Samsung Galaxy A53 Render Leak A — Samsung Galaxy A53 | Source: @OnLeaks via Digit

According to GizPie (via SamMobile), the upcoming Samsung Galaxy A53 will likely debut at €469 in Europe for the 6GB + 128GB memory configuration. This is based on a retailer price listing spotted by the publication, which mentions €466.49, which is an odd price tag.

Even if the phone releases for the listed price, it will be slightly more expensive than the Galaxy A52s 5G. For the unaware, the current-gen model was unveiled at €449 for the same memory variant.

Talking about features, the Galaxy A53 is expected to bring minor upgrades over its predecessor. Its design will be somewhat similar with some tweaks and will be available in an orange color instead of purple, in addition to black, white, and blue.

Most importantly, it will be powered by Samsung’s own Exynos 1200 SoC. The chipset will be paired with 6GB/8GB RAM and 128GB storage.

Further, the handset will flaunt a 6.52-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with a centered punch hole. It will house a 64MP (wide) + 12MP (ultra-wide) + 5MP (macro) + 5MP (depth) quad-camer setup on the rear.

Finally, the smartphone will boot Android 12 and get its juice from a 5,000mAh, which will have support for 25W fast charging.

Xiaomi Watch S1 Active, Xiaomi 12, 12X, 12 Pro renders for global markets leaked

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Mar 4, 2022

Xiaomi is expected to hold a global launch event to announce the Xiaomi 12 series of smartphones on March 15. The company announced the Xiaomi 12, Xiaomi 12X, and Xiaomi 12 Pro in December 2021 in China. All three phones are expected to launch at the upcoming global launch event. A new report reveals that the Xiaomi Watch S1 Active will also launch alongside the Xiaomi 12 series on March 15.

Xiaomi Watch S1 Active render

Citing tipster Ishan Agarwal as the source, publication 91mobiles has shared a leaked press render of the Xiaomi Watch S1 Active. The publication did not share any information on the specs of the smartwatch. It appears to be a new variant of the Xiaomi Watch S1, which was announced with the Xiaomi 12 lineup in China.

Xiaomi Watch S1 Active leaked render by 91mobiles

The leaked render shows that the Watch S1 Active will have a rugged design featuring a round-shaped display, a metal case with two hardware keys, and silicone straps. The bezel of the device is imprinted with text like Home, Sport, Outdoor, and Active. The left side of the device may feature two more buttons, but they are not available in the leaked render. The Watch S1 Active will come in colors like black, blue, and white.

Xiaomi 12 series renders

Shown above are the leaked press renders of the Xiaomi 12, 12X, and 12 Pro. As can be seen, the trio will come in dark grey, blue, and pink colours. Recent reports have revealed that the Xiaomi 12X and Xiaomi 12 will be available in two variants such as 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. The 12X is likely to be priced between 600 and 700 euros. On the other hand, the Xiaomi 12 may start at 899 euros.

The Xiaomi 12 Pro is likely to arrive in two configurations such as 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage and 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. It may have a starting price of 1,099 euros.

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Intel and AMD halt all shipments to Russia and Belarus over Ukraine invasion

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Mar 4, 2022

Due to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, various companies had sought to cut ties with Russia. Now, Intel and AMD have also followed suit and have suspended all shipments to the region following the Russian invasion into Ukraine.

As of right now, both Team Blue and Team Red have halted all component shipments to Russia and Belarus. This move will affect both the consumer segment and data center operations in the region. Furthermore, losing supply from the two chip giants, Russia will have both its economy and even its networking infrastructure affected as well. Notably, the implications of Intel and AMD cutting off supply could possibly even impact the military sector too, which also relies on certain components manufactured by these two firms.

In an official statement, the American chip giant stated that it “condemns the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and has suspended all shipments to customers in both Russia and Belarus. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by this war, including the people of Ukraine and the surrounding countries and all those around the world with family, friends and loved ones in the region.”

Similarly, AMD is also making a similar move and its representatives have confirmed that the company is suspending all of its sales and distribution to Russia and Belarus. Keep in mind that this includes products outside of chipsets as well, like PCs and more. Although, Russia an Belarus aren’t exactly major customers for the companies since they largely rely on their home grown Baikal processors. So it remains to be seen how this move affects the region.

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Google emails $10 coupons to Pixel 6 owners encouraging them to buy accessories

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Mar 4, 2022

Google is encouraging Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners to purchase some accessories for their devices by offering a $10 coupon for the Google Store, sent through email. A snippet from the email reads, “Use the code below to save on your next purchase. Get inspired with devices and accessories that are a great match for your Pixel 6 Pro.”

Among the accessories Google is convincing users to buy is a Pixel 6 Pro case that costs $29. Applying the coupon brings the price down to $19. The case makes use of a dual-layer shock-absorbing material with raised edges that helps protect the device against scratches and drops.

The coupon also covers the Pixel Buds A-series which normally cost $99 but will cost $89 after the coupon is applied. The TWS earbuds come with features like 12mm dynamic drivers, dual beamforming microphones, and offer up to 24 hours of playback time. Adaptive Sound is supported too, allowing the Buds to adjust their volume automatically depending on the environment.

Lastly, the coupon suggests availing of the Pixel Stand wireless charger which is compatible with the Pixel phones, Pixel Buds, and various other Qi-certified devices.

If you own a Google Pixel 6/6 Pro and haven’t received the $10 coupon yet, then keep your eyes peeled for the mail. It’s unclear how Google is determining who gets qualified for the coupon but it could be tied to the region a device owner resides in.

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LVNENG S6 e-scooter is a Vespa-styled, 120km range scooter from France

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Jed John Ikoba

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Mar 4, 2022

France-based electric scooter manufacturer LVNENG has unveiled a new e-scooter. The LVNENG S6 electric scooter is a charming retro-style e-scooter whose design mirrors the iconic Vespa. The charming design of the S6 is another bold statement by Chinese company LVNENG as it continues to expand across Asia and Europe. The S6 looks like a fashion accessory that also provides mobility on the go.

The LVNENG S6 comes with premium features and an impressive performance that is bound to showcase the model across markets. Already, LVNENG has notched up to seven e-scooters in France including the S6 and the company continues to grow in presence across several regions. The S6 seems to compete with the electric Vespa but it comes at a cheaper price, even though still on the high side. The LVNENG S6 is priced at €5,649 ($6,383) and in France, several incentives guarantee a lower payment for the e-scooter.

Some of the features of the LVNENG S6 are a full LED lighting system, an impressive digital instrument pod, keyless start, USB charging port, an immobilizer among others. Other design details place the S6 as a premium model including the seat and tires. The electric motor powering the S6 is a Bosch brand and packs some punch for its size. The S6 is claimed to be capable of climbing gradients even maintaining its speed and with a passenger onboard. The S6 has a top speed of 75km/h and a range of about 120km. The S6 has two LG battery packs.

The LVNENG S6 however has to compete with some quite established and less pricey models in the market. It remains to be seen what kind of reception will trail the release of the S6 in the various markets.

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Lava X2 launched in India for 6,599 INR ($86), with large 5,000mAh battery

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Mar 4, 2022

Lava has just launched a new smartphone in India earlier today (4th March 2022). The handset in question is the Lava X2, which is the company’s latest entry level device. The device features a large battery pack and display at a budget price point.

The Indian smartphone maker’s newly launched X2 sports a 6.5 inch HD+ IPS display that has a notch on the front. This screen also has a 20:9 aspect ratio and the regular 60Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by an octa core MediaTek Helio processor. Unfortunately, the exact model of this chipset is currently unknown, although, it is paired with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage.

For security, the device offers a fingerprint scanner on the rear and even face unlock as well. The rear features an 8 megapixel dual camera setup while the front has a 5 megapixel selfie shooter. Other features include, Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, Dual 4G SIM, 3.5mm headphone jack and USB Type C charging port. The company is also offering a free protective cover with the box.

The Lava X2 has been launched in India for a price of 6,599 INR (roughly 86 US Dollars). It will be available in the region via Amazon India, with its first sale starting in 12th March 2022. For those interested, pre bookings are currently live till March 11. This device is exclusive to Amazon and will be sold in two color variants, namely blue and cyan.

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Realme 9 5G SE could be rebadged version of the Realme Q3s

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Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Mar 4, 2022

In October 2021, Realme announced the Realme Q3s in China. Today, Realme India confirmed that it will be announcing the Realme 9 series of smartphones on March 10 in India. The lineup will include two models, the Realme 9 5G and Realme 9 5G SE (Speed Edition). It seems that the China-exclusive Realme Q3s may be rebranded as the Realme 9 5G SE.

So far, the company has revealed the Realme 9 SE 5G will be equipped with the Snapdragon 778G chip, a 48-megapixel triple camera unit, and a side-facing fingerprint scanner. A recent report claimed that the Realme 9 may carry support for a 144Hz refresh rate. However, it is more likely that the company may offer a 144Hz screen on the Realme 9 5G Speed Edition.

Realme 9 5G (left) and Realme 9 5G Speed Edition (right)

All the above-mentioned specs are available on the Realme Q3s. In addition, the design of the Realme 9 5G SE also matches with the Q3s. Hence, it is likely that the Q3s could be launched in India with the Realme 9 5G SE moniker. According to a recent report, the Speed Edition will come with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of built-in storage. It may go on sale in colours like Starry Glow and Azure Glow.

Realme Q3s specifications

The Realme Q3s has a 6.6-inch IPS LCD punch-hole display that offers a Full HD resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The Snapdragon 778G SoC fuels the device with up to 8 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of storage. A 5,000mAh battery powers the Q3s, and it carries support for 30W fast charging.

The back panel of the Q3s has a 48-megapixel primary camera, which is coupled with a 2-megapixel depth sensor and a 2-megapixel macro camera. A 16-megapixel camera is available on the device for selfies and video calls. It is equipped with a side-facing fingerprint scanner.

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New POCO, Redmi smartphones for India receive BIS certification

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Mar 4, 2022

The Xiaomi group is expected to introduce new smartphones very soon. The company’s next big release will be the Redmi K50 series. Other than that, it is also anticipated to announce new budget models under Redmi and POCO brands, in addition to ultra-premium phones like the successors of Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold. Amidst this, two mysterious handsets from the company have made their appearance on a certification website.

According to Xiaomiui, three Xiaomi group smartphones have been certified by BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards). This suggests that these devices with model numbers 22021211RI, 22041219PI, and 22011119I may launch in India.

Out of the trio, one of them carrying model number 22021211RI had already received the BIS certification in early February. The Chinese variant of this phone with model number 22021211RC is said to go official as Redmi K50.

Per TENAA, the so-called Redmi K50 will be available in three memory configurations, such as 6GB + 128GB, 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB. It is rumored to feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 SoC and is expected to look like a vivo handset.

Xiaomiui says that the device will launch under the POCO brand in India. It might go official as POCO F4 in the country.

On the other hand, the smartphones with model numbers 22041219PI and 22011119I were also earlier spotted in the IMEI database in January. The former is said to release under the POCO brand and the latter under Redmi. Specifically, Xiaomiui suggests that the first one could launch as POCO M4 5G.

What are your thoughts on these upcoming phones? Do let us know in the comment section below.

realme 9 5G series, TechLife Watch S100, TechLife Buds N100 launch date is here!

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Mar 4, 2022

realme through its website revealed the launch dates of the realme 9 5G series, realme TechLife Watch S100, and the realme TechLife Buds N100 together. All three devices are scheduled for a March 10th launch at 12:30 PM in India.

The realme 9 5G series will comprise of two models, one of which will be powered by the upper-mid-range Snapdragon 778G while the other will feature the Dimensity 810. Both appear to have very similar designs, save for their camera modules which have lenses in different positions. From the two, the realme 9 5G SE will come with a crazy-smooth 144Hz display.

Specifications of the realme TechLife Watch S100 have been revealed in slightly greater detail. The smartwatch comes with a 1.69″ display and promises a battery life of 12 days. Its body is metallic and protects the innards with an IP68 water resistance rating. Support for blood oxygen, heart rate, and body temperature monitoring are also present.

The aforementioned devices will be joined by the realme TechLife Buds N100 at the March 10th launch event. The neckband earphones come with ear wings for a better fit and use soft, flexible material for the body. Audio is outputted through 9.22mm dynamic bass drivers and a full charge gets you a promised 17 hours of playback. Connection is made through Bluetooth 5.2 and the whole thing is protected by an IPx4 rating. Color options are two — black and grey.

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Elon Musk warns that SpaceX’s Starlink system may be targeted in Ukraine

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