Acer Nitro Blaze 7: A Powerful New Gaming Handheld Launched

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Sep 5, 2024

Nothing has recently released a new update for its top-of-the-line Nothing Phone (2). The update is 681 MB in size and includes the September security patch alongside some new features, improvements, and bug fixes. You can find the complete changelog below.

Nothing Phone (2) September update changelog:

New features & improvements

Swipe down incoming notifications to enter Pop-up view. For easy access to information without having to leave an app. Turn on via Settings > System > Pop-up view.
Newly refined ringtone volume for incoming calls.
Improved the speed of the Bluetooth tile toggle in Quick Settings.
Enabled vibration for third-party apps during calls. Turn on via Settings > Sound and Vibration> Vibration.
Ensured Bluetooth tile reflects correct earbud information.
Battery and Pedometer Widgets can now be displayed on the lock screen and Always On Display.
Updated to September Security Patch.
Introducing the News Reporter Widget. Let your daily news stories be read aloud to you by Tim, Nothing’s CFO. Please note: this feature is still in beta and relies on various generative AI models, which may sometimes behave unexpectedly.

Bug Fixes

Optimized wallpaper preview displays.
Resolved an issue preventing calls to be made on specific networks.
Fixed an issue affecting 112 calls to the police.
Resolved the problem causing some Cloned Apps to auto-rotate despite being disabled.
Fixed an issue where the Media Player Widget couldn’t play music when switching from guest to main user.
Optimized the Always On Display interface.
Ensured consistency of information within photo details on the camera roll.
Resolved zoom slider display issues when videoing on the camera.
Fixed system stability issues.

The September update is being released gradually. If you haven’t received it automatically, you can search for it manually under Settings > System > System Update.

In other news, Nothing is reportedly working on two new smartphones, spotted by Gizmochina with model numbers A059 and A059P. The A059 is expected to be a standard model, while the A059P is likely a Plus version with enhanced hardware. It’s unclear whether these devices will be sold under the Nothing or CMF brand, and no technical details or release dates are confirmed. However, the smartphones are predicted to be announced in about 3-4 months.

(via 1, 2)

Acer debuts Iconia X12 tablet with 12.6″ 2.5K display & 10,000mAh battery

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Sep 5, 2024

Acer has introduced its newest tablet, the Iconia X12, ahead of IFA 2024. The tablet is mainly designed for productivity and entertainment, offering a large screen with a slim body, along with a capable processor.

Acer Iconia X12 specs & features

The Acer Iconia X12 boasts a 12.6-inch 2.5K AMOLED display, quad stereo speakers, and a sleek 6.7 mm design. Powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 processor, paired with 8 GB of LPDDR4X memory and up to 256 GB of storage, it offers ample performance for multitasking and demanding tasks.

To enhance productivity, Acer has also introduced a range of accessories for the Iconia X12. These include an aluminum stylus pen, a portfolio case with a stylus slot and adjustable stand, and a detachable Bluetooth keyboard with a trackpad. For audio, the tablet comes with a quad-speaker setup.

The Iconia X12 features an 8 MP front camera for video calls and selfies, as well as a 13 MP autofocus rear camera with flash for capturing photos and videos. The tablet has a 10,000 mAh battery paired with quick charging. It has a USB Type-C port, along with a microSD card slot (1 TB capacity) and an earphone jack. For connectivity, it offers dual-band WiFi 5, along with Bluetooth 5.2 and GPS. Running on Android 14, the tablet offers a smooth and user-friendly experience.

Pricing & availability

Acer has priced the tablet at USD 349 / 369 Euros / 2,688 RMB, making it a competitive option in the market. The Iconia X12 is expected to be available in North America, EMEA, and China in January 2025.

In other news, Red Magic will unveil two gaming tablets later today with 10.9-inch and 12.4-inch displays. Both models share a similar design, featuring a 50 MP rear camera, RGB lighting, and two color options: Deuterium Transparent Silver Wing and Dark Night.

The 10.9-inch version will have a 2.8K LCD display, 144Hz refresh rate, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. The 12.4-inch model is expected to use a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and feature a larger battery.

(Source)

HyperOS 1.0.5 Brings New Features and Security Updates to Xiaomi 14 Civi

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Sep 5, 2024

Xiaomi has released a new update, HyperOS 1.0.5, for the Xiaomi 14 Civi smartphone. The update, identified by the firmware version 1.0.5.0UNJINXM, is 450MB in size and brings various improvements, including the August 2024 security patch.

A user named Technerd shared a screenshot of the update changelog on X, revealing the key changes as mentioned below.

Xiaomi 14 Civi HyperOS 1.0.5 update

System

Fix: Having too many notifications could cause the system to restart.
Updated the security patch to August 2024.
Increased system security.

Lock screen

Optimization: New “press and hold to edit” logic for Lock screen reduces accidental triggers.

Calculator

Optimization: Improved the sensitivity of Calculator buttons.

Camera

Optimization: Skin tone rendering by Camera

In related news, Xiaomi is expected to release HyperOS 2.0 on October 10, 2024, with the Redmi K70 Ultra likely being one of the first devices to receive it. The Xiaomi 15 series may also launch with the new operating system.

HyperOS 2.0, based on Android 14 and 15, will improve device connectivity and introduce features like hidden camera detection. It will have enhanced AI capabilities, offering better voice recognition, improved photo editing, and personalized app suggestions. The OS may also include smart battery management and other performance optimizations.

In terms of design, HyperOS 2.0 is expected to offer a refreshed UI, smoother animations, better multitasking, improved notification management, and more home screen customization options.

(via)

BGMI Gets Dolby Atmos immersive sound

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Sep 4, 2024

KRAFTON, the developer of India’s popular battle royale game BGMI, has partnered with Dolby Laboratories to introduce Dolby Atmos audio to the game’s Arena and Team Death Match modes. This update is designed to improve the gaming experience for players by offering more realistic sound effects.

BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA Dolby Atmos sound

Players with Dolby Atmos-enabled Android devices will now be able to enjoy enhanced audio in BGMI. Seddharth Merrotra, Head of Business Development at KRAFTON India, noted the importance of sound in mobile gaming and expressed his excitement about adding Dolby Atmos to BGMI.

Sameer Seth, Director of Marketing for India at Dolby Laboratories, mentioned that Dolby Atmos can provide gamers with a more immersive experience and potential advantages. Xiaomi, a well-known smartphone manufacturer, has collaborated with Dolby and KRAFTON to include Dolby Atmos in their Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G device, offering players an improved audio experience.

With Dolby Atmos, BGMI players can expect clearer sound effects and better sound placement, which could enhance their overall gameplay.

In other news, Bitmo Lab has launched the GameBaby, a mobile accessory that functions as both a protective case and a retro gaming controller for iPhones. The GameBaby features physical buttons for playing classic emulator games and is compatible with the Delta emulator, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro Max. The case can switch between gaming and regular phone use, and it operates without a power source, using capacitive touch control. Priced at $20 for the first 1,000 pre-orders, it will later retail for $39.99, with shipments starting in October.

Is it Samsung’s response to Apple’s “Tetraprism” telephoto?

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Sep 4, 2024

Apple developed something called a tetraprism telephoto lens assembly for the iPhone 15 Pro Max‘s 5x periscope telephoto. While a 5x optical zoom is not anything new for its Android counterparts, the underlying optics and the tetraprism branding were certainly something new in the industry.

In the latest news, a patent application from Samsung Electro-Mechanics suggests that the company is working on something that sounds like an upgraded or more cutting-edge version of Apple’s periscope telephoto solution. It’s called the ‘hexa prism’ lens.

As the name suggests, this is going to be a six-lens setup that offers an advanced periscope zoom. It may compete with Apple tetraprism periscope telephoto tech. As you can see from the image, three of the six lenses are concave (light bulging outwards) and the others are convex. The lenses will be placed inside a periscope that allows the assembly to have a longer focal length (in the range of 180mm to 7000mm).

The abstract of Samsung‘s patent provides further insight into the optics that Samsung may be planning to use in one of its future Ultra flagships:

“An optical imaging system includes a first lens with negative refractive power, a convex object-side surface, and a concave image-side surface; a second lens with positive refractive power; a third lens with negative refractive power; a fourth lens with positive refractive power; a fifth lens with negative refractive power; and a sixth lens with positive refractive power and an image-side surface featuring an inflection point. The first through sixth lenses are arranged sequentially in ascending numerical order from the object side of the optical imaging system toward the imaging plane.”

While the company is likely to use this technology in one of its S Ultra flagships, it’s unclear which model will first feature the new ‘hexa prism’ lens. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to have a 5x periscope telephoto camera, but given the focal length of the ‘hexa prism’ lens, it doesn’t seem to be the S25 Ultra. For context, the 5x periscope telephoto of the Galaxy S24 Ultra has a focal length of 111mm, so the ‘hexa prism’ tech might debut in the S26 Ultra or a future model.

(Source | Via)

Galaxy M05 support page goes live in India, hints at an imminent launch

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Sep 4, 2024

Samsung‘s budget-friendly smartphone Galaxy M05 is expected to be launched sometime in early September. In the latest news, the support page for a Samsung device with model mane SM-M055F/DS was spotted live in India. The ‘DS’ suggests that the phone will likely come with dual-SIM card support.

While the support page doesn’t reveal any details about the Galaxy M05, it at least hints at an imminent launch of the device.

To recall, the launch timeline of the lineup has been a bit inconsistent so far. The Galaxy M04 (predecessor) was launched back in December 2022, while there doesn’t even exist a Galaxy M03. The Galaxy M02 was launched back in 2021, which succeeds the Galaxy M01 launched in 2020. Nonetheless, the model number on the support page suggests that there will be a Galaxy M05, which should release soon.

Notably, the phone has also previously appeared on the Wi-Fi Alliance certification website and India’s BIS certification website, indicating the device’s existence and suggesting an imminent launch. According to the WiFi Alliance certification listing, the phone will support dual-band WiFi, which is going to be an upgrade as compared to its predecessor. Based on the company’s track record, we can expect the specifications to be similar to the already released Galaxy A05.

Galaxy A05 specifications:

The phone packs a 6.7″ PLS LCD display with an water drop notch for the 8 MP front camera. On the back there is a 50 MP + 2 MP dual-camera system.

In terms of build and design, the phone offers a slightly curved plastic middle frame with sharp edges (which looks good) and a plastic back panel.

In terms of performance, the device is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G85 (12 nm) chip and eMMC 5.1 storage. It features a 5,000 mAh battery with 25W charging support, measures 8.8mm in thickness, and weighs 195g.

(Via)

Obsbot Meet 2 AI-powered 4K webcam with 48MP 1/2″ CMOS sensor, 4x digital zoom, HDR launched

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Sep 4, 2024

Obsbot, a leader in AI-powered imaging technology, has unveiled the Obsbot Meet 2, the latest addition to its Meet series. This AI-powered 4K webcam is designed for content creators, gamers, and remote professionals who prioritize superior video quality and cutting-edge features.

Priced at $129, the Obsbot Meet 2 offers a compact and stylish design with advanced features, making it one of the most affordable high-resolution webcams in the market.

1. Specifications

The Obsbot Meet 2 features a 1/2″ CMOS sensor with 48M effective pixels, supporting up to 4K resolution at 30fps and 1080p at 60fps. It also includes a 4x digital zoom, Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF), and a wide 79.4° field of view.

The webcam is lightweight, weighing just 40.5g without the mount and 67.5g with the mount, making it easy to integrate into any setup. The camera supports HDR for superior low-light performance and includes built-in dual omnidirectional microphones with noise reduction and auto gain control, ensuring clear audio during video calls or streams.

2. Special Features

Obsbot Meet 2 comes with AI Auto Framing technology, which ensures users remain perfectly centered during video calls or live streams, whether in portrait or landscape mode. The webcam also excels in low-light conditions thanks to its F/1.8 aperture and large CMOS sensor, delivering crystal-clear images even in challenging lighting environments. For added privacy, the Obsbot Meet 2 comes with a magnetic privacy cover and an Auto Sleep mode that activates when the camera is not in use.

In addition, Obsbot Meet 2 offers versatile mounting options with its magnetic mount and 1/4″ UNC thread, making it compatible with a wide range of tripods. The camera also supports easy angle adjustments, making it user-friendly for any content creation setup.

3. Pricing & Availability

The Obsbot Meet 2 is available in three color options: Space Grey, Cloud White, and Aurora Green, catering to different aesthetic preferences. The webcam is priced at $129 and includes essential accessories such as a USB-C to USB-A adapter, a privacy cover, and a magnetic mount.

Obsbot also offers a combo package at $201.90, which includes additional accessories like an extendable tripod. The Obsbot Meet 2 can be purchased from the official Obsbot website and authorized retailers.

Amazfit GTR 4 New with 1.45″ AMOLED display, up to 12-day battery life, Bluetooth calling launched in India

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Sep 4, 2024

Amazfit has introduced its latest addition to the GTR series, the Amazfit GTR 4 New, in the Indian market, following the global launch of its Limited Edition variant last year.

This premium smartwatch boasts enhanced features, including a vibrant 1.45-inch HD AMOLED display, advanced health tracking, and impressive battery life. Let’s check out its full specs.

1. Amazfit GTR 4 New Specifications

The Amazfit GTR 4 New comes equipped with a 1.45-inch Ultra HD AMOLED display offering 331 pixels per inch (PPI) resolution, making visuals sharp and vibrant even in varying lighting conditions.

The smartwatch is encased in a premium stainless steel frame, with a glass-ceramic back panel that combines elegance and durability. The device runs on Zepp OS 2.0, which supports Android 7.0 and iOS 12.0 and above, making it accessible to a wide range of smartphone users.

On the health front, it features the BioTracker 4.0 PPG biometric sensor, allowing for 24-hour heart rate monitoring, SpO2 measurement, and stress tracking. Other sensors include an acceleration sensor, gyroscope, geomagnetic sensor, barometric altimeter, ambient light sensor, and temperature sensor, ensuring precise activity tracking and environmental adaptability.

The smartwatch is rated 5 ATM for water resistance, allowing it to withstand depths up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming. It includes Bluetooth 5.0 LE, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz), dual-band GPS, and supports six satellite positioning systems for precise navigation.

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2. Special Features

The GTR 4 New features Zepp Aura, an AI-powered sleep and relaxation guide, offering sounds to improve sleep quality. It supports over 150 sports modes with automatic recognition of 8 popular sports and real-time syncing with Adidas Running and Strava. The PeakBeats Workout Status Algorithm provides detailed feedback on training progress.

The watch also includes a microphone and speaker for Bluetooth calling and offline voice commands. It offers 2.3GB of built-in storage, allowing users to store up to 470 songs directly on the device.

The GTR 4 New offers a 12-day battery life, ensuring long-lasting performance for users with active, on-the-go lifestyles without frequent recharging.

3. Pricing & Availability

The Amazfit GTR 4 New is available in two stylish editions: Galaxy Black with a silicone strap and the more sophisticated Brown Leather edition. Both variants are priced at Rs. 16,999. The smartwatch can be purchased on Amazon and through Amazfit’s official Indian website, making it easily accessible to Indian consumers.

From world’s slimmest phone to flying car, here’s what we expect at IFA 2024

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 4, 2024

The Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin, better known as IFA, is one of the world’s largest and oldest technology trade fairs, held annually in Berlin, Germany. Since its start in 1924, it has been a key gathering point for the consumer electronics and home appliance industry.

This year’s IFA is set to take place from September 6 to 10 at Messe Berlin. This event is particularly special as it marks the 100th anniversary of the fair. More than 180,000 visitors from 139 countries are expected to attend the fair, where they will be able to explore more than 1,800 exhibits from technology brands, according to the organizers.

Brands that will be presenting this year include giants such as Honor, Samsung, LG, Philips, Hisense, and Lenovo. These companies will use IFA 2024 as a showcase for their latest innovations in areas such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and sustainability.

In this article, we’ll outline what to expect from IFA Berlin 2024, though this will not be an extensive list. With around 93 million products expected to be announced, covering every single one is impossible. Hopefully, however, it will give you an idea of the scope of what the show will offer.

1. Phones

You won’t usually see Samsung, Apple, or Google announcing its new phone at IFA or any other tech trade fair for that matter. But Honor isn’t letting go of this chance.

The company is set to launch its latest foldable, Magic V3, at the event. It’s also the world’s thinnest foldable, and Honor has gone above and beyond to market this guy — that includes a Guinness World Record attempt and taking jabs at Samsung not just once, but twice. Honor is also expected to unveil its MagicPad 2 tablet at the event.

TCL will also be part of the smartphone showcase, likely launching its new Nxtpaper phone. The brand will introduce some new QD-Mini LED televisions and has teased a “new cutting-edge sound solution,” aimed at creating a new category in its TV series.

2. Laptops

Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X Plus 8-core chip is making its way into laptops, and IFA will likely be a launchpad for several new models.

Lenovo is set to unveil a new IdeaPad Slim 5 featuring the Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100, offering a 14-inch OLED display and a range of configurations with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The ThinkBook 16 G7 QOY, another Lenovo offering, will also be equipped with the new processor, promising a large 16-inch display and a hefty 84-watt-hour battery.

Asus is also joining the Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 party, bringing at least two new devices to the market. The Vivobook S15 S5507QA, a laptop with a powerful Snapdragon X Plus/Elite version, will now be available with the new octa-core processor. The ProArt PZ13, a 2-in-1 tablet designed for creators, will also be showcased, boasting a 13.3-inch OLED display with Pantone-validated color accuracy and a large 70-watt-hour battery.

Acer is also set to unveil a new laptop with the Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100, the Acer Swift Go 14 AI SFG14-01, offering a 14.5-inch display and a 75-watt-hour battery.

3. Home Appliances

Home appliance gadgets have always been a highlight at the IFA event, and this year is no different. Samsung is set to hold a press conference on August 5, though the specifics remain a mystery. Last year, the company wowed attendees with tech like the 98-inch Neo QLED 8K TV, gaming monitors, and a new Freestyle projector.

Similarly, Panasonic is returning for the 2024 event, but details on new products are scarce. Historically, Panasonic has used the event to showcase their latest TVs, often introducing them earlier in the year.

However, we’re hoping for a few surprises, especially given the company’s reputation for producing high-quality audio equipment, such as their Technics turntables.

LG, another major player in the home appliance market, is not to be outdone. In addition to their usual array of white goods like washing machines and refrigerators, LG will be introducing ThinQ On, a new AI-powered home hub.

Designed to control a variety of connected smart devices, ThinQ On is Matter-certified, ensuring maximum compatibility. We’re eager to see how it compares to existing smart speaker setups and will be exploring its capabilities in detail at LG’s booth in Berlin.

Beyond these major brands, IFA will also feature a host of startups and smaller companies showcasing their innovative home appliance solutions. From smart kitchen gadgets to energy-efficient appliances, there will be something for everyone to discover.

4. AI

IFA 2024 will be another major showcase for artificial intelligence (AI) technology for this year. Building on the momentum from CES 2024 and Computex 2024, AI is expected to play a significant role in many of the products and announcements at this year’s event.

One of the key areas where AI is expected to make a big impact at IFA is in the home. LG has already announced plans to unveil a range of new AI-powered appliances, and we can expect to see many more innovative home devices that utilize AI technology.

In addition to home appliances, AI is also likely to be a factor in other areas of IFA, such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables. Honor has already confirmed that its latest phone and tablet will feature AI-powered features, and we can expect to see similar announcements from other companies as well.

5. Flying Cars and Futuristic Eyewear

IFA doesn’t shy away from the audacious. This year, Alef Aeronautics will showcase a non-operational model of their Model A flying car. With over 2,850 pre-orders already secured, this electric two-seater may be one step closer to becoming a reality. Expect to learn more about its production timeline and capabilities during the company’s keynote on September 8th.

Focusing on a different kind of future, ViXion will be showcasing its ViXion01 smart glasses. These aren’t your typical augmented reality glasses; they take a health-conscious approach, aiming to improve eye health through features like auto-focus and zoom, designed to minimize strain. Don your inner Captain Picard and experience the future of comfortable digital interaction.

Ulefone will unveil World’s First Dimensity 9300+ rugged phone at IFA 2024

By

Joane

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Sep 4, 2024

Ulefone is set to make waves at IFA 2024 in Berlin, unveiling its most powerful rugged smartphone to date, the Armor 28 Ultra. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the brand, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary and an 8-year legacy of innovation in rugged devices. The Armor 28 Ultra, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, is designed to surpass even top-tier competitors like the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, positioning Ulefone as a leader in the rugged smartphone industry.

A Decade of Innovation: Ulefone’s Journey

Since its inception, Ulefone has consistently pushed the boundaries of what rugged devices can achieve. Celebrating a decade of excellence, the company showcases its latest lineup of rugged smartphones and tablets at IFA 2024. These devices are designed to focus on durability, performance, and reliability, catering to adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and professionals in demanding environments. Ulefone’s commitment to quality is evident in its diverse product offerings, which include the highly anticipated Armor 28 Ultra and the compact Armor Mini 20 Series.

Armor 28 Ultra Series: Redefining Rugged Performance

The Armor 28 Ultra is Ulefone’s flagship model, boasting a dual-display design that features a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen and a rear sub-display. This powerful device is equipped with 16GB of Ultra RAM and a 50MP triple camera system that includes a 1-inch Sony IMX 989 sensor. For those who need advanced imaging capabilities, the Armor 28 Ultra also comes in a thermal variant, which includes ultra high-resolution thermal imaging. This combination of cutting-edge technology and rugged durability makes the Armor 28 Ultra a standout device in the market.

Armor Mini 20 Series: Small But Mighty

In addition to the Armor 28 Ultra, Ulefone is also introducing the Armor Mini 20 Series, the smallest rugged smartphone in the company’s history. Despite its compact 4.7-inch display, the Armor Mini 20 is packed with features, including FLIR Lepton 3.5 thermal imaging, a versatile LED light and warning light integration, and a 6200mAh battery. This device is also equipped with a 5G SoC, ensuring fast connectivity in even the most challenging environments. Its compact size and custom holder make it ideal for use as a body camera, further expanding its versatility.

Armor Pad 4 Series: The World’s First 5G Thermal Rugged Tablet

Ulefone is also breaking new ground with the Armor Pad 4 Series, the world’s first 5G thermal rugged tablet. This device features a 10.36-inch 2K display and includes a uSmart Expansion Connector, which allows users to connect a range of accessories, creating a versatile and customizable ecosystem. The Armor Pad 4 is set to be released in September 2024, further cementing Ulefone’s reputation as an innovator in rugged technology.

Experience Ulefone at IFA 2024

Ulefone invites media, consumers, and industry professionals to visit their booth at IFA 2024, located at Booth H2.6A-104 (near HONOR and Google). Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the Armor 28 Series and the full lineup of rugged devices firsthand. For more details, visit the Ulefone IFA 2024 Event Page.

GameBaby turns iPhone into a handheld console with retro gaming controls

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Sep 4, 2024

Bitmo Lab has officially launched the GameBaby, a unique mobile accessory designed for retro gaming on iPhones. This product functions as both a protective case and a gaming controller, providing physical buttons for playing classic emulator games on the iPhone.

Bitmo Lab GameBaby Retro Gaming Controller

iPhone Case that Doubles as a Retro Gaming Controller

Unlike other mobile controllers that need to be attached separately, the GameBaby doubles as a phone case, making it convenient for users who want to switch between regular phone use and gaming without carrying extra accessories.

The case is divided into two parts. When gaming, the bottom half of the case is placed on the front of the iPhone, covering part of the screen and adding physical directional buttons and keys that mimic handheld consoles like the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, and NES. When not gaming, the case’s bottom half can be moved to the back of the phone, turning it into a standard protective case.

The standout feature of the GameBaby is that it operates without any power source or connection to the phone. Instead, it uses capacitive touch control to function. Bitmo Lab has designed this accessory to be compatible with the Delta emulator, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro Max, ensuring it can handle multiple handheld console layouts.

Pricing for the GameBaby starts at $20 for the first 1,000 pre-orders, after which the price will increase to $25. Shipments are expected to begin in October. After the pre-order period, the regular price of the GameBaby will be set at $39.99.

Bitmo Lab, known for its work with JSAUX on Steam Deck accessories, has developed the GameBaby as their second iPhone case, with a specific focus on retro gaming enthusiasts.

(Via)

Here’s how the Nokia Lumia 1020-inspired HMD smartphone could look

By

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Sep 4, 2024

HMD is reportedly working on a new phone which is inspired by the design language of the Nokia Lumia 1020. The new phone from HMD will have a large circular camera island on the back. You can check out the leaked schematic of the phone below.

As can be seen, the phone will have a total of four cameras within the circular camera island on the back, which also includes the flash module. For context, the Nokia Lumia 1020 from 2013 had a similar circular camera island but only one camera in it. It also looks like the new device from HMD will also come with rounded sides similar to the Lumia 1020.

The Nokia Lumia 1020 was considered one of the best camera phones of its time and HMD could also focus on the imaging capabilities of the upcoming device.

To recall, the Lumia 1020 comes with a 41MP rear camera and a 1.2MP selfie camera. For comparison, the iPhone 5s (from 2013) had only 8MP resolution for the back camera, whereas Nokia utilized the resolution to offer 4x lossless zoom at that time.

Unfortunately, not much is known about the internals of the upcoming HMD smartphone yet.

The recently released HMD Skyline packs a 108MP main sensor that has a sensor size of 1/1.67″. This is accompanied by a 50 MP 2x telephoto and a 13 MP ultrawide. On the front, the phone packs another 50 MP sensor for selfies. Speaking of the overall imaging capability, it has been well-received, especially for its price range.

The 108MP main camera is praised for capturing detailed and sharp images in good lighting conditions. It also includes Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to reduce blur in photos.

Given the upcoming device is largely inspired by the camera-centric Lumia 1020, it may offer similar if not better imaging capabilities as compared to the HMD Skyline.

(Via)

Is the Upcoming iPhone SE 4 the Best Budget iPhone Yet?

By

Sean

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Sep 4, 2024

Over the last couple of weeks, Apple‘s next-gen budget iPhone has been spotted in various rumors and leaks. The iPhone SE series has struggled to find a proper space among its higher-end counterparts. However, fresh reports have pointed out that the upcoming iPhone SE 4 has some impressive upgrades over its predecessors. So would that make it worth buying? Read on to find out.

1. The Problem with Apple iPhone SE

Apple’s iPhone SE models are basically cutdown versions of its flagship phones that feature older tech and design to make them more affordable. But these devices often faced issues similar to the mini models. For those unaware, the iPhone 13 mini was the last of its kind as the company discontinued the small iPhone in favor of the Plus. To customers, bigger is better and the iPhone SE is even smaller than the mini.

While the iPhone 13 mini at least had some specs on par with its taller siblings, the iPhone SE packs features that are a couple of years behind. This is mainly seen in its design, camera, and display. The chipsets under the hood are quite capable and in line with other models. Recent rumors have hinted that the iPhone SE 4 would make improvements in almost all of these areas.

2. All upgrades for iPhone SE 4

One of the biggest upgrades coming to the iPhone SE 4 is the inclusion of an OLED display. This means that Apple is finally bringing OLED to all of its iPhones. Rumors have suggested that the iPhone SE 4 may feature iPhone 13’s OLED panel. Reports have also pointed at China’s BOE and South Korea’s LG Display will be supplying the OLED screens for the new iPhone SE. The screen is expected to be a taller 6.06-inch panel, making it much larger than the 4.7-inch on the iPhone SE 3.

Unlike the iPhone SE (2022), which launched with a generations-old design, the iPhone SE 4 would be more in line with something like the iPhone 14 in front. So no huge chin black bezels on the top and bottom, just a notch. In this same report from back in July, we even talked about the camera and specifications. The CAD renders point at the iPhone SE 4 possibly having only a single camera module and not the dual camera setup that was previously rumored.

Under the hood, the iPhone SE 4 may pack Apple’s A18 Bionic chipset, which may be coupled with 6GB or 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM. Looking at the notch, the iPhone SE 4 would finally bring support for Face ID, which will replace the Face ID. Similar to the iPhone 15, the iPhone SE 4 would include a USB Type-C port for charging.

3. But is it worth buying?

Considering all of these rumors are mostly true, Apple’s new iPhone SE 4 is undoubtedly the best budget iPhone from the back. It is expected to be a noteworthy upgrade and is rumored to have a price tag between 499 to 549 US Dollars. This makes it over 200 US Dollars cheaper than the base iPhone 15. Keep in mind that this is still just speculation at this point so take these rumors with a pinch of salt.

Samsung’s Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 Launched: Premium AI-powered laptop with Intel’s Core Ultra 200V CPUs

By

Sean

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Sep 4, 2024

Following Intel’s announcement of the Core Ultra 200V series of processors, Samsung is one of the first companies to announce a PC that will feature these cutting edge chipsets. The Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 has just been unveiled, blending Copilot+ with Galaxy AI.

1. Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360: What makes it special?

Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360

Samsung’s Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 is the brand’s premium notebook that offers some impressive specs and features. It features a thin and light design with a metallic body. It measures just 12.8mm in thickness and weighs 1.69 kilograms in weight. On the front, the notebook sports a 16-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display that has a WQXGA+ resolution (2880 x 1800). This panel offers 500 nits of peak brightness, 120 percent DCI P3 color gamut, Vision Booster tech, and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.

Under the hood, Samsung equips the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and Intel ARC graphics, coupled with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage. The hardware promises up to 47 TOPS NPU with 17 percent improvements in graphics.

2. What’s with all the AI?

Thanks to these specs, the notebook to bring Copilot+ along with Galaxy AI. The Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 arrives with over 300 AI powered features supported on over 100 apps for productivity, gaming, creativity, and more. Samsung’s new laptop integrates Microsoft Phone Link along with Galaxy AI, which lets you Cricle to Search with Google, Chat Assist, and Live Translate. AI has become quite

3. Other notable features

Connectivity options include Bluetooth v5.4, WiFi 7, USB-A (3.2), HDMI 2.1, 2 x Thunderbolt 4 ports, a microSD slot, and an audio jack. A sizeable 76Wh battery pack powers this laptop, which the company claims will offer up to 25 hours of video playback. It fast charges via a 65W USB Type-C adapter. On the front, buyers get a 2-megapixel HD webcam. There are also dual microphones and a quad speaker setup with Dolby Atmos. These laptops run on the Windows 11 Home out of the box with Samsung Knox for security.

4. Pricing and Availability

The Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 is currently listed for preorders right now. The base 16GB + 512GB variant costs 1,699 GBP (roughly 2,228 US Dollars), while the higher 32GB + 1TB variant has a 1,899 GBP price tag (roughly 2,490 US Dollars). It arrives in Gray and Silver in markets like Canada, France, Germany, UK, and US.

(Via)

Gmktec launches G6 mini PC with AMD Ryzen 3 5425U, WiFi 6E, up to 4TB storage & 64GB RAM

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Sep 4, 2024

Gmktec has launched a new mini PC called G6 in the Chinese market. The mini PC comes in two versions: a barebones system without SSD priced at 888 yuan ($125), and a fully equipped version with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD for 1388 yuan ($195). Let’s check out its key specs.

Gmktec G6 Mini PC Specifications:

The G6 min PC is powered by the AMD Ryzen 3 5425U processor which offers a 35W low-power consumption solution while delivering solid performance. The processor features 4 cores and 8 threads, with a base clock speed of 2.7GHz and the ability to turbo boost up to 4.1GHz.

The mini PC features AMD Radeon Graphics (6-core, 1600MHz), dual 2.5G network ports for fast internet, and WiFi 6E with Bluetooth 5.2 for reliable wireless connectivity. Its dual 2×2 array antennas provide broad coverage and faster data transmission.

The Gmktec G6 supports dual-channel memory and has two SO-DIMM slots for DDR4 3200MHz RAM, allowing for a maximum of 64GB. For storage, it offers dual M.2 2280 SSD slots, each capable of supporting up to 2TB, allowing for a maximum storage capacity of 4TB.

The PC features a dual-turbine cooling system with stereo surround intake vents to maintain optimal temperatures during heavy use. It offers various connectivity options, including USB 3.2, USB 2.0, Type-C, HDMI 2.0 (supporting 4K @ 60Hz), and DisplayPort (supporting 4K @ 120Hz) for display connections.

The mini PC is designed in a sleek, compact form factor, measuring just 128.8 x 127 x 47.8mm, and comes in a sophisticated titanium blue color. It comes with Windows 11 Professional (barebones) pre-installed and supports three custom performance modes: Balanced, Performance, and Silent modes, catering to various user needs, from basic computing to resource-intensive tasks.

Intel Core Ultra 200V Series Debuts with Powerful Xe2 Graphics for Cutting-Edge AI PCs: Can it outperform Apple M3 & Snapdragon X Elite?

By

Sean

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Sep 4, 2024

Intel has just announced its most efficient family of x86 processors. The Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors brings breakthroughs in performance, efficiency, and AI computing. These new CPUs arrive with more powerful integrated graphics. So here’s everything you need to know.

1. Intel Core Ultra 200V Series: What’s New & What’s Improved?

The chipmaker’s latest Core Ultra 200V series aims to offer improved performance with better power efficiency. It is designed to deliver better low power performance for next-gen AI PCs. Intel claims that its latest processors consume up to 50 percent less power while achieving up to 120 TOPS in performance with the CPU, GPU, and NPU. The Core Ultra 200V series processors pack Intel’s fourth generation NPUs that offer up to 4 times faster than the last gen model.

With the Intel Core Ultra 200V series, the brand plans to make PCs great with every model being capable of productivity and battery life of up to 20 hours with typical work use. Thanks to the AI enhancements, the company can leverage over 500 optimized AI models to help in content creation, security, productivity, and gaming. These are the four main areas that will employ Intel’s cutting-edge tech.

2. Improved Graphics

Apart from making the new processors faster and more efficient, Intel has upgraded the graphics performance with the new Xe2 integrated graphics. Xe2 enhanced performance by 30 percent over its predecessors. Furthermore, the built-in Intel Arc GPUs now include up to 8x 2nd Gen Xe cores, 8x Ray Tracing units, and supports up to three 4K monitors. The new Intel Xe Matrix Extension AI delivers up to 67 TOPS that help applications in creative fields and gaming as well.

3. Can it outperform Apple M3, Ryzen HX 370, & Snapdragon X Elite?

To showcase the prowess of its new AI processors, Intel pits it against AMD’s new Ryzen HX 370 series, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite, and even Apple M3. Graphs showed that the Core Ultra 200V processors offer up to three times the performance per thread along with an 80 percent hike in peak performance. All of this while promising a battery life of up to 20 hours.

The top-end Core Ultra 9 2988V outclassed the Ryzen HX 370 and Snapdragon X Elite and Apple MC in speed and power efficiency. Intel showed off the efficiency of its new processors with a laptop that is powered by a 72Wh battery. This notebook managed to run for up to 14 hours while running productivity applications or 9.5 hours while running Microsoft Teams.

4. When can we expect them?

LG Gram 16 Pro

Intel Core Ultra 200V processors are currently available for preorder and will be released globally starting from 24th September 2024. LG Electronics will be the first to debut the new lineup with the LG Gram 16 Pro with the Intel Core Ultra processor (Series 2), during the Intel Core Ultra Global launch event. Other major brands like Acer, Dell, GP, MSI, Samsung, and others will also launch their offerings soon.

(Via)

Pixel 9a’s Tensor G4 adopts inferior chip packaging tech

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Sep 4, 2024

The Google Pixel 9a is expected to be released later this year, possibly at the end of 2024. Some sources suggest it could launch in May 2025, which will be in line with the launch date of the last two generations of A series devices – the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a.

In the latest news, Kamila Wojciechowska, a source inside Google, claims that the Pixel 9a will pack Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip but an older modem.

We have seen Google’s A series Pixel phones coming closer and closer to the base model of the flagship tear Pixel. While it sounds like a good deal, it has created confusion among users regarding their purchase decisions. Notably, the pricing of the A series devices has also increased.

According to the source, Google might be trying to clear up some of the confusion by better differentiating its A series devices from the more premium models, and using an older modem could be a step in that direction.

Pixel 9a’s Tensor G4 to adopt inferior chip packaging tech

Speaking of the Tensor G4 chip that will power the Pixel 9a, the silicon die remains the same, however, the packaging is different. For those unfamiliar, the packaging protects the die from the external environment and also interconnects it to the PCB (Printed Circuit Board). The packaging element also helps dissipate heat generated by the SoC during operation, which is crucial for maintaining a stable performance. Advanced packaging may include materials or designs that enhance thermal conductivity.

Specifically speaking, the Tensor G4 chip for the Pixel 9a has shifted to IPoP (Integrated Package on Package) from FOPLP (Fan-Out Panel Level Packaging). According to Samsung, the FOPLP is the company’s newer and more advanced packaging method, which is thinner and dissipates heat better. So, technically, the Pixel 9 series flagship devices may maintain an edge in performance and stability while the decision to shift to IPoP may make the Pixel 9a slightly less expensive to manufacture.

(Source)

OnePlus Ace 5 Pro, Ace 5 leak reveals Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, 8 Gen 3, 6,000mAh+ battery, and more

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 4, 2024

Last week, tipster Smart Pikachu claimed that the OnePlus Ace 5 series will debut in November. He also suggested that the Ace 5 and Ace 5 Pro will compete directly with the Redmi K80 and K80 Pro smartphones, which are also expected to launch in the same month. Today, tipster Digital Chat Station released a Weibo post revealing key details about both OnePlus devices.

According to the leak, the Ace 5 will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, while the Ace 5 Pro will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. As a result, both phones are expected to rival the Redmi K80 and K80 Pro, which are anticipated to come equipped with the same chipsets.

The OnePlus Ace 5 and Ace 5 Pro are said to come with a high-density silicon battery with a capacity of around 6,000mAh. Both devices will sport a customized BOE X2 8T LTPO panel, offering a 1.5K resolution on a flat display with ultra-thin bezels on all four sides. For added durability, they will be equipped with a right-angled metal middle frame.

The Ace 5 series is expected to feature a 50-megapixel triple-camera setup, without a periscope lens. For security, both devices will include an ultra-thin optical fingerprint sensor. A previous leak claimed that the Ace 5 Pro will have a ceramic build.

It is speculated that the OnePlus Ace 5 may get rebranded as the OnePlus 13R in the global market. On the other hand, the Ace 5 Pro may remain confirmed to the Chinese market.

Who should upgrade to iPhone 16?

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Sep 4, 2024

Apple‘s fall event on September 9, 2024, is set to unveil the new iPhone 16 series, and with it, the question on many minds is: “Should I upgrade to the iPhone 16?” With four devices in the lineup—the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max—the base models, iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, are particularly appealing for those who want the latest tech without splurging on the Pro variants. But is the iPhone 16 base model the right choice for you? Let’s break it down.