Audio-Technica Launches New Condensor Microphone Designed for Content Creators, Musicians, Streamers

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Jun 8, 2024

Audio-Technica has introduced a new condenser microphone, the AT2020USB-XP, designed for content creators, streamers, and musicians. It features a cardioid directional pickup pattern to focus on the sound source in front of the microphone, ideal for recording vocals, voiceovers, and instruments.

The microphone has an auto gain control feature for handling fluctuating audio levels

The AT2020USB-XP integrates digital noise reduction technology that can be adjusted using a button on the base of the microphone. This helps reduce unwanted background noise from air conditioners and PC fans, ensuring cleaner audio recordings. The microphone also boasts an automatic gain control (AGC) function. When enabled, it automatically adjusts the microphone’s output level to maintain a consistent signal strength, especially beneficial for situations with fluctuating audio levels. The AGC function works in conjunction with an 80Hz high-pass filter to eliminate low-frequency noise without affecting the quality of your voice recordings.

Keep in mind that noise reduction and AGC functionalities are only available at specific sampling rates: 44.1kHz and 48kHz for noise reduction, and 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, or 96kHz for AGC.

The AT2020USB-XP offers versatile connection options. It utilizes a USB Type-C connector and includes a USB Type-C to Type-A cable for compatibility with various devices. Additionally, a USB conversion adapter is included for added convenience.

The microphone boasts a built-in high-output headphone amplifier, allowing you to directly monitor your audio with headphones at a maximum sampling rate of 24-bit/192kHz. This ensures you can hear exactly what you’re recording in real-time.

A pop filter is included to minimize plosive sounds, like p’s and b’s, that can create unwanted pops in your recordings. The microphone also comes with a microphone stand for desktop placement. For added control and ease of use, the AT2020USB-XP features a touch sensor that allows you to mute the microphone with a tap. The status is indicated by a built-in LED light: blue for recording and red for mute.

(Via)

ViewSonic Unveils XG2536, a 280Hz IPS Monitor for Competitive Gamers

By

Anubhav

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Jun 8, 2024

ViewSonic has launched a new monitor overseas targeted towards FPS gamers and fast-paced action: the XG2536. This 24-inch display boasts a high refresh rate of 280Hz combined with a 1080p resolution, offering smooth visuals for competitive gaming. While the official launch date remains unknown, the price is set at US$290 (around RMB 2,104).

The monitor also has 2 2W speakers for basic audio needs

The XG2536 features a 1920 x 1080 resolution IPS panel with a 280Hz refresh rate, ensuring a tear-free and responsive gaming experience. It delivers a respectable brightness of 300 nits, a 1000:1 static contrast ratio, and a 5ms response time. Additionally, the monitor offers good color reproduction with 8-bit color depth and covers 99% of the sRGB and 98% of the NTSC color gamuts.

For ergonomics, the stand provides a wide range of adjustments including tilt, rotation, horizontal and vertical movement, and pitch. The monitor is also equipped with two 2W speakers for basic audio needs and an ambient light on the back for a touch of atmosphere. Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, a USB-C 3.2 port with 65W Power Delivery for charging laptops, and a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.

(Via)

Groovers Theta gaming earbuds with 45 ms low-latency mode, LED lights & touch controls launched for ₹1,999

By

Sudhanshu

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Jun 8, 2024

Grooves has unveiled a new pair of TWS earbuds called the Grooves Theta earbuds. These earbuds are targeted toward gamers and feature RGB lights and a super low latency mode.

Grooves Theta earbuds specs:

The Grooves Theta gaming TWS earbuds come with 10 mm custom composite diaphragm drivers tuned by Langsdom Audio Wireless to produce rich sound. The earbuds feature a Blurtrum chipset and use Bluetooth 5.3 for connectivity. This allows the earbuds to offer a super low latency mode of 45 ms which is necessary for gaming and watching videos without any audio lag. The earbuds also have support for AAC and SBC audio codecs.

Although it does not feature active noise cancellation (ANC), the brand has included an AI called noise reduction, which comes in handy to provide clear, disturbance-free audio through your mic while making calls or playing multiplayer games.

These earbuds offer touch controls for managing audio levels, responding to calls, and switching tracks. As for the battery, the earbuds offer 30 hours of audio playback on a single charge. They come with a USB-C port for charging, and a full charge takes 90 minutes. Lastly, the earbuds come with IPX5 water and sweat resistance, making them the perfect workout partner.

Pricing & availability

The Grooves Theta gaming TWS, available in Black and White, is priced at ₹1,999. These earbuds can be purchased on Amazon.in, Flipkart, Tata Cliq, JioMart, and Moglix.

In related news, Grooves also launched the Alpha Gaming TWS earbuds a couple of weeks back which also feature an attractive RGB design, 13mm dynamic drivers, dual-label ENC chip, and Active Noise Cancellation. These earbuds also come with the same ₹1,999 price tag.

Poco M6 Plus 5G: What to expect from this budget smartphone?

By

Soumyakanti

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Jun 8, 2024

Poco, a sub-brand of Xiaomi, is gearing up to launch the Poco M6 Plus 5G in India. This smartphone is expected to be a budget-friendly option powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor. Leaks suggest it will be a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 13R, which recently launched in China. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect from the Poco M6 Plus 5G.

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1. Display

The phone is expected to flaunt a 6.79-inch Full HD+ (1080 x 2460 pixels) LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This high refresh rate promises a smoother user experience. The display will likely feature a center punch-hole design for the front-facing camera.

2. Performance

The Poco M6 Plus 5G is rumored to be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor. This chipset is designed to provide balanced performance, suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming. It will likely be paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and offer up to 512GB of storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample space for your files.

3. Camera

This is where the Poco M6 Plus 5G deviates from expectations. Leaks suggest a significant upgrade compared to the Redmi Note 13R. While the Redmi Note 13R features a 50MP primary camera, the Poco M6 Plus 5G is rumored to boast a whopping 108MP main sensor. This sensor is expected to be accompanied by a 13MP secondary ultra-wide sensor. For selfies and video calls, the device is expected to feature an 8MP lens.

If these leaks are true, the Poco M6 Plus 5G could be a great option for budget-conscious users who prioritize camera quality. A 108MP sensor promises high-resolution photos with greater detail, especially in well-lit conditions.

4. Software

The Poco M6 Plus 5G is expected to run on Android 14 with Xiaomi’s custom skin, HyperOS. This UI offers a variety of features and customization options for a personalized user experience. You can expect regular updates from Xiaomi to ensure the phone stays secure and up-to-date.

5. Battery and Charging

The Poco M6 Plus 5G is likely to pack a 5030mAh battery, similar to the Redmi Note 13R. This capacity should provide a full day’s worth of usage on a single charge for most users. The phone is also expected to support 33W fast charging.

6. Design and Build

According to a leak from the Google Play Console, the device appears to closely resemble the Redmi Note 13R, particularly from the front. Although there are no official details regarding the back panel’s design, it is likely to mirror the Redmi Note 13R, assuming it’s a rebrand. The Redmi Note 13R sports a glass back with a wave-textured finish and includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for security.

7. Price and Availability

The Poco M6 Plus 5G is expected to launch in India soon. The exact launch date remains unconfirmed, but leaks suggest it could arrive sometime this month. Pricing details are also unknown, but considering the Redmi Note 13R’s pricing in China (starting around $193), we can expect the Poco M6 Plus 5G to be a budget-friendly smartphone.

8. Conclusion

The Poco M6 Plus 5G appears to be a promising option for budget-conscious smartphone users in India. The phone offers a good processor, a smooth display, and a long-lasting battery. The surprise camera upgrade with a rumored 108MP sensor makes it even more appealing.

However, it’s important to note that these are based on leaks and rumors. We’ll have to wait for the official launch to confirm the exact specifications, pricing, and availability of the Poco M6 Plus 5G.

Nikon Z6 III tipped to launch on June 11 with 6K RAW, 120 fps JPEG burst, others

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 8, 2024

Renowned camera brand Nikon is rumored to be planning to unveil its latest model under the Z6 lineup. It is the Nikon Z6 III which comes with significant improvements over its predecessor, the Nikon Z6 II. The new full-frame camera is slated for release in June according to the rumor. It will support 4K ProRes RAW video and also 6K, while the maximum frame rate is 120 fps. The new autofocus setup of the model is hyped to be at par with the flagship Z9.

The Nikon Z6 II has been an exciting and functional camera for professionals and other users since it was released in 2020. It is a mid-range full-frame mirrorless camera that has now berthed a new iteration. The rumors relating to the upcoming Nikon Z6 III emanated from New Camera and Nikon Rumors. The upgrades available in the new model will further enhance the appeal of the camera for both photo and video engagements. The Z6 III reportedly retains the same 24.5MP BSI CMOS sensor as its predecessor but it comes with dual Expeed 7 processors. This allows for higher-resolution videos and frame rates.

The leaks indicate that the Z6 III is capable of capturing 6K videos in 12-bit NRAW format but the frame rate under this scenario was not specified. In contrast, the Z6 II is limited to 4K @ 60fps. Full HD video capability remains the same in the new model, at 240fps in 8-bit with a crop. The autofocus system in the Z6 III is also very impressive, comparable with some of the Nikon flagship models, the Z8 and Z9. The Z6 III also comes with a better cooling system and greater ergonomics. Pricing confirmation of the Nikon Z6 III and other optics will be established at its launch.

(source)

Disappointing leak: Galaxy Z Fold 6 camera reportedly unchanged

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jun 8, 2024

Samsung fans hoping for a camera upgrade with the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 might be disappointed. A leak from a usually reliable source Ice Universe suggests the Fold 6’s cameras will be identical to the Fold 5 which is identical to the Fold 4.

The leak states that “all camera specifications, including front camera, rear camera, UPC [Under Panel Camera] and aperture value, are exactly the same, and there is no change.”

Seeing that many people still don't know the camera specifications of Galaxy Z Fold6.I'll emphasize it once,
All its camera specifications, including front camera, rear camera, UPC and aperture value, are exactly the same, and there is no change.
Exactly like Fold4 and Fold5.
— ICE UNIVERSE (@UniverseIce) June 8, 2024

This means the Fold 6 will feature the same 50MP main sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, a 10MP telephoto lens with an f/2.4 aperture and 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens with an f/2.2 aperture and a 123-degree field of view. The main and telephoto lenses will likely continue to include optical image stabilization (OIS).

Samsung’s pace of innovation in its foldable phones has been sluggish in recent years, while Chinese brands like Vivo and Oppo have been consistently pushing boundaries.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 CAD render | Galaxy Z Fold 6 Camera — Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 CAD render by SmartPrix / OnLeaks

For instance, Vivo’s latest X Fold 3 Pro foldable claims the title of the world’s lightest foldable phone, weighing just 236 grams, despite housing a substantial 5700mAh battery — larger than some well-known bar phones like the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Additionally, the X Fold 3 Pro has an impressive camera setup making it probably the best foldable camera phone.

On the other hand, Samsung has been keeping the upgrade list pretty minimal, only bringing the expected generational upgrades such as a new processor.

This year, though, there might be a notable change in the Fold 6’s design. Samsung is reportedly planning to provide a wider cover screen to make it feel more like a conventional phone when closed. Apart from this, leaks so far suggest no major change or upgrade in the upcoming foldable.

Qualcomm unveiled Snapdragon 6s Gen 3: new chip or rebranded Snapdragon 695?

By

Debasish

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Jun 8, 2024

Qualcomm secretly unveiled the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 5G chipset for mid-range devices. The chipset is built on a 6nm process node.

Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 specs and features

This is an octa-core chipset with a (2+6) core cluster that achieves a maximum clock speed of 2.3GHz. It equips undisclosed Qualcomm Kryo CPU cores. The Adreno GPU is also undisclosed, which supports H.264 (AVC), H.265 (HEVC), VP8, and VP9 playback. According to a benchmark listing, it could be the Adreno 619, the same GPU that powers the Snapdragon 695.

It supports FHD+ (1080 x 2520) display output at 120Hz.

Speaking of the camera system, smartphone makers can offer 108MP photo capture, a 32MP single camera, a 25MP + 13MP dual-camera system, or a 13MP triple camera system. This chipset supports 1080p video capture at 60 fps and 720p slow motion video capture at up to 120 fps. However, it depends on the smartphone maker how they will utilize the resource.

For image processing the chipset equips Qualcomm Spectra triple ISP (Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 offers the same).

The chipset supports Hi-fi audio, up to 384 kHz/32-bit, and an AI-based echo cantillation and noise cancellation.

For cellular connectivity, it equips the Snapdragon X51 5G Modem-RF System that offers 2.5Gbps maximum download speed. It supports mmWave, 5G NR, LTE support for CBRS, HSPA, sub-6 GHz, TDD, WCDMA, FDD, SA (standalone), NSA (non-standalone), TD-SCDMA, 5G mmWave, CDMA 1x, EV-DO, GSM/EDGE.

Speaking of WiFi and Bluetooth, you get WiFi 4, WiFi 5, and Bluetooth 5.2 support with Qualcomm FastConnect 6200 System. The chipset also supports Qualcomm’s proprietary TrueWireless technology for improved experience with compatible Bluetooth earphones and other devices.

Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 supports LPDDR4x memory (up to 2133 MHz) UFS 2.2 storage, and Quick Charge 4+ technology for fast charging.

A rebranded Snapdragon 695?

As Android Authority pointed out, this new chipset could be a rebranded version of the Snapdragon 695 5G.

The chipset comes with two part numbers – SM6375-AC and SM6370. According to the documentation, the latter one is not 5G capable. The company didn’t mention any other difference between the two parts. It means that the latter one (4G) also equips the same 5G Snapdragon X51 modem.

Citing this Android Authority speculated that the new Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 could be just a rebranded version of the Snapdragon 695 chipset, where the 4G version has the 5G modem disabled. For context, the Snapdragon 695 chipset was launched back in 2021.

(Source)

Samsung Galaxy Watch FE prematurely listed on Amazon with price

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jun 8, 2024

The Galaxy Watch FE looks determined to steal its own thunder. Following design leaks, the wearable has now prematurely appeared on an Amazon listing, spilling the beans on its price and some key details.

We already knew the Galaxy Watch FE would likely fall into the budget category, and the Amazon listing confirms this. It’s priced at €199, which translates to roughly $215. The listing also confirms that the Watch FE will be available in a 40mm size and three colors – Black, Silver, and Pink Gold.

As we know, the Galaxy Watch FE will borrow heavily from the three-year-old Galaxy Watch 4. The design features wider bezels, a look that feels dated compared to current smartwatch trends.

The Amazon listing itself is light on details beyond size, dimensions (40 x 10 x 39 mm), and weight (26.6 grams). Thankfully, previous leaks have filled in the blanks.

The Watch FE will feature a 1.2-inch Super AMOLED display with a 396 x 396 pixel resolution. Powering the watch will be a dual-core Exynos W920 processor clocked at 1.18 GHz, backed by 1.5GB of RAM and 16GB of storage.

On the software side, the Galaxy Watch FE is expected to run the latest Wear OS 4 with Samsung’s One UI Watch 5 on top. Battery life is expected to be around 30 hours thanks to the 247mAh battery.

The watch will also boast features like magnetic wireless charging, 5 ATM water resistance, an aluminum body, and MIL-STD-810H durability certification.

Now, the launch date is a bit of a mystery. Samsung’s Unpacked event is on July 10, and that’s when we expect to see Watch FE alongside the Galaxy Watch 7 and Ultra.

But Samsung is already offering the Watch FE for free with the purchase of S24 phones in Belgium (ending June 30). That got us thinking that the Watch FE might launch earlier than July. And guess what? A reliable source now claims the Watch FE will launch on June 24th. Now, we just need Samsung to make the smartwatch official, as we already know the details about it.

(Via)

Nintendo Switch Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD trailer surfaces ahead of its June 27 release

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 8, 2024

Nintendo has released an official trailer for the Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD game on Nintendo Switch. The four-minute introduction video of the new game details the main gameplay, mechanisms, maps, and multiplayer cooperation mode.

Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is a remake of the Luigi’s Mansion 2: Dark Moon game which was released as a Nintendo 3DS game in 2013. There are multiple modes in the game and it supports multiplayer online games. Up to four persons can play the game online. It also supports local multiplayer functionality in the ScareScraper mode. The game itself features Luigi who uses flashlights to stun ghosts and vacuum cleaners to catch ghosts. Each level is themed around different places including greenhouses and ice palaces. King Boo is the villain in the game and Luigi’s mission is to find the missing fragments of the dark moon and stop King Boo.

The Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD game has an ultra-powerful ghost hunting tool Poltergust 5000 to suck out the ghosts. The tool also puffs air to enable Luigi to thoroughly search every nook and cranny of the charming but creepy mansion. The visual enhancements of HD offer a better user experience for the game than its predecessor.

The Nintendo Switch Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD game is available for pre-order from the Nintendo Switch eShop at a price of around 397 yuan ($55). The official release date for the new game is June 27 and the game supports Chinese.

Huawei MatePad SE 11 launched as an affordable tablet with a premium metal build

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jun 8, 2024

Huawei has launched a new budget tablet, the MatePad SE 11, globally. The device focuses on affordability while offering features like a large display, long battery life, and stylus support. Let’s walk through its specs, price, and availability details here.

Huawei MatePad SE 11 Specifications

The MatePad SE 11 features a thin and lightweight metal body for a premium look. It comes in two colors, Crystal Blue and Nebula Gray, and measures 252.3 x 163.8 x 6.9mm, weighing 475 grams.

The display is an 11-inch TFT LCD (IPS) panel with FHD+ resolution (1920 x 1200 pixels) and an 85% screen-to-body ratio. The screen has 400 nits peak brightness, 1400:1 contrast ratio, 16.7 million colors, 100% sRGB color gamut, and eBook mode for comfortable reading.

Huawei has not officially confirmed the processor, but reports suggest it could be either a Kirin 710A or a Snapdragon 680 chipset. The tablet runs on HarmonyOS 2.0, offering features like multi-screen collaboration for seamless data transfer and screen sharing.

Other features include multi-window, a kid’s corner for safe and controlled use, and MeeTime calling for video communication. Storage options include 64GB or 128GB, with RAM options of 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB.

The MatePad SE 11 features a basic camera setup with an 8MP rear lens and a 5MP front-facing camera for video calls and selfies. The tablet packs a 7700mAh battery with support for 22.5W fast charging.

The MatePad SE 11 also supports the M-Pen Lite stylus for writing, drawing, and note-taking. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.1, and a USB Type-C port. It also has a gravity sensor, ambient light sensor, microphone, quad speakers with Huawei Histen 9.0 audio, and support for USB OTG.

We don’t yet know how much the Huawei MatePad SE 11 will cost.

Xiaomi launches the MIJIA Weighing Scale S200 Blue Edition for 69 yuan ($10)

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 8, 2024

Just last month, Xiaomi launched the MIJIA Weighing Scale S200. The Xiaomi MIJIA Weighing Scale S200 Blue color option has now been unveiled in China. The S200 weighing scale is capable of measuring four body parameters at a time. It delivers high-precision measurements thanks partly to its E-shaped and high-precision manganese steel sensor. The sensor has a minimum division of 0.05kg while the scale has a weighing range of 0.1kg to 150kg. It can intelligently determine modes for its efficient measurement.

The Xiaomi MIJIA Weighing Scale S200 can also calculate the standard weight based on the user’s height and age. It offers a reasonable weight control suggestion to the user to reduce the health hazards caused by unmonitored weight loss regimens. It also measures body parameters such as weight and BMI in real time. The MIJIA mobile application provides users with a slew of data including weight trends over specified time intervals of weeks, months, and years.

The smart scale supports balance testing. The user can stand on one foot on the scale and use the MIJIA app to obtain data and understand the body’s coordination, stability, and responsiveness. The app can store information for up to 36 individuals at the same time. It also supports connection to a Bluetooth gateway, as well as random weighing of persons without saving the accompanying data.

Pricing

The Xiaomi MIJIA Weighing Scale S200 Blue Edition is priced at 69 yuan ($10). It can be purchased from Xiaomi Mall, Xiaomi Youpin, and JD.com. There are no indications at this time on the global availability and pricing of the new Xiaomi MIJIA scale.

Infinix Note 40S Surfaces On Google Play Console With Key Specs

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jun 8, 2024

Infinix recently unveiled the Note 40 Series Racing Edition. The brand is reportedly working on a new model in the lineup that comprises of the standard, 4G and 5G versions of the Pro, and a Pro+ 5G variant. The upcoming offering is expected to be the Infinix Note 40S and it has been spotted on the Google Play Console certification website. The listing reveals key specifications of the device.

Infinix Note 40S Google Play Console listing

The Infinix Note 40S is listed on the Google Play Console website with the model number X6850B. The render of the smartphone reveals a curved display and a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout. It will have a display resolution of 1080 x 2436 pixels and a 480 dpi screen density.

The Google Play Console listing mentions a MediaTek MT6789 system on a chip. It comprises two Cortex-A76 cores and six A55 cores. There is Mali G57 GPU onboard. This suggests that the Infinix Note 40S will be powered by a Helio G99 processor. The device will pack 8GB RAM and we can expect more options at launch. Software-wise, it will ship with Android 14 OS out of the box.

This is everything the certification website reveals about the Infinix Note 40S at the moment. We should learn more details in the coming weeks.

Infinix recently launched the Note 40 5G in the Philippines market. It features a 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and an integrated fingerprint scanner. The device is equipped with a Dimensity 7020 processor coupled with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. The smartphone is backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 33W wired and 15W wireless charging. The Infinix Note 40 5G sports a rectangular camera module housing a 108MP main sensor and two 2MP lenses along with ‘Active Halo’ LED light.

Via

Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 utilizes a new GPU architecture with improved cache and memory compression tech, claims tipster

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jun 8, 2024

Qualcomm‘s next flagship mobile processor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, is expected to launch later this year, and rumors regarding its features are picking up steam. A new leak by Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station has shed light on upgrades for the upcoming SoC’s graphics processing unit (GPU).

The tipster suggests that the 8 Gen 4 will utilize an upgraded GPU architecture with improved cache and memory compression technology. The architecture in question is called “Slice GPU architecture” according to a source on X (formerly Twitter) which goes by the handle name sun.dtsi.

The source explains that in Slice architecture, the GPU is divided into multiple independent physical units called “slices.” Each slice has its own pipeline, cache, and memory.

Digital Chat Station also mentioned that Qualcomm has developed a “new technology” to improve “GPU utilization” that will ultimately deliver better performance. According to the X source, the technology referred to by the tipster is called “Dynamic Wave Pairing” for which Qualcomm filed a patent in 2022.

The "new technology" DCS mentioned is called "dynamic wave pairing", which was patented by Qualcomm in 2022.https://t.co/beaLmbyVrv
— sun.dtsi (@negativeonehero) June 7, 2024

According to the patent’s abstract, Dynamic Wave Pairing will allow the GPU to distribute tasks more efficiently. The GPU can assign workloads to different sections within itself, and then choose the most suitable one to handle that specific task. It will ensure that the GPU is constantly working at its optimal capacity leading to smoother performance.

Qualcomm’s custom Oryon CPU cores are also expected to bring significant performance gains. A report earlier this month revealed that 8 Gen 4’s high-performance core reaches a clock speed of 4.2GHz, with benchmark scores of 3,000 points in single-core and 10,000 points in multi-core on Geekbench.

All the leaked details so far suggest that the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be a powerful SoC that will give tough competition to MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 and Samsung’s Exynos 2500.

DuckDuckGo Launches a Neat New AI Chat Feature, Lets you Interact with Powerful AI Chatbots Anonymously

By

Anubhav

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Jun 8, 2024

DuckDuckGo, the search engine known for its strong focus on user privacy, has launched DuckDuckGo AI Chat. This new service allows you to interact with powerful generative AI chatbots completely anonymously and for free.

DuckDuckGo will remove any personal information from the queries

This AI Chat acts as a middleman between you and the chatbots. You can ask questions or provide prompts, and DuckDuckGo AI Chat will route them to the appropriate chatbot (like OpenAI GPT-3.5 Turbo or Anthropic’s Claude 3 Haiku) while removing any personal information from your queries. The chatbots themselves will only see DuckDuckGo’s IP address, not yours, further protecting your anonymity.

While some chatbots might temporarily store your conversations, this one assures users that this data is deleted within 30 days and cannot be used to train or improve the AI models.

The service is free to use, but there’s a daily limit on the number of interactions to prevent abuse. Regular users shouldn’t encounter this limit during normal use. DuckDuckGo plans to expand the number of chatbots available in the future, offering you even more options to explore the capabilities of advanced AI and have anonymous conversations.

(Via)

China Celebrates 5 Years of 5G with Focus on Future Advancements, Huawei Looks Towards 5.5G (5G-A)

By

Anubhav

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Jun 8, 2024

China‘s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology hosted a forum to commemorate five years of 5G commercial use in the country. The forum shed light on China’s achievements in 5G development, boasting the world’s largest 5G network with over 3.7 million base stations and 889 million users.

5G-A will provide better bandwidth and latency.

A significant takeaway was the emphasis on 5G-A, also known as 5.5G, as the next step in mobile communication evolution. Huawei’s Cao Jibin emphasized 5G-A’s potential for significant improvements in network capabilities like speed, latency, and positioning.

This evolution is driven by the growing need for faster, more stable connections to support advancements like AI assistants and massive data processing. 5G-A promises a tenfold increase in bandwidth and latency, along with sub-meter perception and centimeter-level positioning capabilities.

Looking ahead, Cao Jibin predicts a surge in computing power demand, particularly for AI applications. He proposes integrating computing, storage, and networking to transform data centers into AI supercomputers. While acknowledging limitations in chip manufacturing, he sees potential in optimizing network infrastructure through collaboration across various sectors.

The forum concluded with a call for industry-wide collaboration to unlock the full potential of 5G-A. This includes policy support, continued innovation, and fostering partnerships across the technology chain.

The focus is on achieving “full connectivity” across various scenarios, potentially creating a trillion-dollar industry through applications in areas like smart factories, connected cars, and the low-altitude economy. With both opportunities and challenges ahead, China’s 5G program seems pretty solid. Let’s see how the next few years shape up for the country.

(Via)

Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Curtain 2 with multiple control methods unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 7, 2024

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has unveiled the MIJIA Smart Curtain 2 in China. The new Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Curtain 2 comes with several improvements over its predecessor and can now be pre-ordered. It supports multiple control methods for opening and closing the gadget.

Features

The smart curtain can be controlled using the XiaoAI, MIJIA app, timer switch, and wireless remote control. Therefore the user does not need to manually pull up the curtain but rather will use any of the control methods. In the absence of a power supply, however, the Smart Curtain 2 can be manually closed or opened.

The MIJIA Smart Curtain 2 is designed for enhanced noise reduction and shock absorption. Its motor can drive curtains that are up to 60kg while still operating at low noise less than 26 decibels. The smart curtain supports custom opening and closing ratio, stepless speed regulation, and hand-pull adaptive speed regulation. It supports one-way opening and closing, two-way opening and closing, single-track installation, double-track installation, and top and side installation. Installation is not supported for L-shaped, or U-shaped tracks.

The Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Curtain 2 comes with different modes. Users can set the curtain to wake-up mode, sleep mode, movie-viewing mode, and home mode. The design adopted for the MIJIA Smart Curtain 2 allows for its easy installation. Its design eliminates the need for on-site measurements and delays in installation.

The Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Curtain 2 is on presale and is available from Xiaomi Youpin, Xiaomi Mall, and other retail platforms. It carries a retail price of 849 yuan ($117).

Alleged Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 will support eMBB networking technology; reveals MIIT certification

By

Debasish

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Jun 7, 2024

Earlier reports revealed that Xiaomi is working on its next-generation book-style foldable, the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4, which reportedly could be the slimmest foldable phone ever on the market.

Alleged Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 bags MIIT certification

Now a phone with model number 24072PX77C has passed network access certification from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). This device supports NR SA/NR NSA/TD-LTE/LTE FDD/WCDMA/CDMA 1X/GSM standard.

It also supports Tiantong satellite connectivity and Enhanced Mobile Broadband technology. For those unfamiliar, Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) is a 5G service category that offers increased bandwidth and decreased latency compared to 4G services. eMBB can enable new applications that require high data rates, such as: 8K video streaming, Immersive virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR),

According to Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station, the model number represents the Mix Fold 4. The phone could also support 5.5G or 5g-Advanced, which is considered the next step in the evolution of 5G technology. It’s expected to improve on 5G in terms of speed, latency, and efficiency.

The phone will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which powers many of the latest flagships such as the Xiaomi 14 series. To power the chipset, it will reportedly boast a 5000mAh battery (2390mAh + 2485mAh). It will offer wired and wireless fast charging, although, the specific charging speed isn’t confirmed yet. According to a previous leak from Digital Chat Station, the phone will offer an upgraded 100W wired fast charging. For context, the Mix Fold 3 offered 67W wired and 50W wireless fast charging.

The Mix Fold 4 will reportedly offer a 50MP quad camera setup that includes a 5X periscope telephoto, similar to the predecessor. The main sensor and the ultrawide on the Mix Fold 4 could be the OV50E and the OV13B respectively. The Mix Fold 3 offers a 3.2x telephoto and a 5x periscope telephoto. According to ITHome, the 3.2x telephoto could be replaced by a 2x one, and the 2x and 5x telephoto modules will equip OV60A and S5K3K1 sensors respectively.

Grab four-pack Samsung SmartTag 2 Trackers for $70

By

Simranpal Singh

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Jun 7, 2024

Smart Trackers have become quite handy these days to track important items. It is an easy and precise way to track the important stuff you’d hate losing. Apple has AirTag, and Samsung offers SmartTag. The Korean giant recently introduced SmartTag 2 with some necessary advancements. There’s a good $30 discount available on a four-pack Samsung SmartTag 2, and interested buyers can grab it for $70 from Amazon

In case you’re looking to grab a single piece instead of a four-pack, it is also available at a discounted price of $21.

Grab SmartTag 2 Bundle

It is one of the best smart trackers if you own a Samsung phone, as most of the features and tracking abilities are fully compatible. If you’re an iPhone user, then we suggest you grab an Apple Air Tag instead of a Samsung phone. Moreover, Google’s Find My Device is currently not compatible with Google’s Find My Device network.

However, the market is not viable for new players; only established OEMs can succeed in the market, which has a strong user base across the globe or at least within a country.

Samsung SmartTag 2 Features

Samsung SmartTag 2 brings advanced Compass View functionally, offering directional arrows and location and distance information. It works with UWB-supported Galaxy smartphones. The new iteration offers an improved battery life of 500 days and can extend up to 700 days while in power-saving mode. It has been improved by 50% if we compare it with its predecessor. It is also IP67-rated for water and dust resistance. However, other features remain the same as those of its predecessor, including Bluetooth Low Energy, and UWB capabilities.

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TSMC sees no immediate challenge from Huawei in chipmaking

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jun 7, 2024

TSMC, the world’s leading chipmaker, downplayed the threat posed by Huawei’s recent advances in chip development during its shareholder meeting. Citing a technological gap and US export restrictions, TSMC executives expressed confidence in maintaining their market dominance.

Chairman Mark Liu addressed a shareholder’s query about Huawei and other competitors, stating, “TSMC considers every competitor very carefully. We will always have competitors. But it has nothing to do with Huawei or not.” He downplayed Huawei’s threat, suggesting it, and China by extension, are far behind.

TSMC President Wei Zhejia also claimed that “it’s impossible” for Huawei to catch up to their chip fabrication technology. The confidence is likely due to TSMC’s established position at the forefront of the semiconductor industry.

Huawei is particularly affected by US government restrictions that limit its access to advanced chipmaking equipment, hindering its ability to compete at the highest level. As a result, while TSMC is planning to start 2nm chip production by next year, Huawei is still working with 7nm processors, with rumors suggesting that their 5nm SoC may debut soon.

Huawei which was blacklisted by the US in 2019 has attempted a comeback with the Mate 60 Pro and its new Kirin 5G processors. However, their 7nm technology puts them at a disadvantage in terms of performance and efficiency compared to the latest offerings from other chipmakers.

While Huawei’s efforts towards self-sufficiency are noteworthy, the gap in technology and the limitations imposed by US restrictions is a significant challenge. The question remains: can any competitor, including Huawei, overcome TSMC’s established lead and strict export controls? Only time will tell if a challenger emerges to dethrone the current leader in the chipmaking race.

(Via)

Get a whopping $400 OFF on Xiaomi 14 Ultra flagship phone at GeekWills

By

Joane

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Jun 7, 2024

Xiaomi 14 Ultra is a flagship device that stands as a testament to Xiaomi’s commitment to innovation, boasting cutting-edge features and capabilities that cater to the needs of even the most discerning smartphone users.

You can now get $400 OFF on Xiaomi 14 Ultra at GeekWills. The smartphone which generally retails for $1200 is now available for as low as $799 only. This is one of the best prices offered on this phone.

WHERE TO BUY

Xiaomi 14 Ultra at $400 Discount @GeekWills

Photography Redefined

At the heart of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra lies its brand-new Qual-Camera LEICA System, a testament to Xiaomi’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of smartphone photography. Equipped with a Sony LYT-900 1-inch 50MP main camera featuring an infinitely variable aperture ranging from f/1.63 to f/4.0, this device ensures unparalleled versatility and image quality in various lighting conditions. Additionally, including OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) and ADL ultra-low reflection coating further enhances the clarity and sharpness of images captured.

Complementing the main camera are a 50MP ultra-wide-angle camera, a 3.2x portrait telephoto camera, and a 5x telephoto camera, each offering unique perspectives and capabilities. Whether it’s capturing sweeping landscapes or zooming in on distant subjects with astonishing clarity, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera system delivers exceptional results every time.

AI-Powered Photography

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra leverages Xiaomi’s advanced AI large model computational photography platform, AISP, to further elevate the photography experience. Features like ULTRA SNAP enable users to capture fleeting moments with ease, while ULTRA RAW ensures uncompromising image quality for professional photographers. Moreover, with ULTRA ZOOM offering advanced 30X AI Super zoom capabilities, users can bring distant subjects into sharp focus like never before.

Immersive Display and Superior Performance

Featuring a stunning 6.73″ 1440P display with a silky-smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 3000nits, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers an unparalleled viewing experience. Whether it’s streaming your favorite content or immersing yourself in the latest mobile games, this device delivers vibrant colors and crisp visuals that captivate the senses.

Under the hood, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, ensuring lightning-fast performance and seamless multitasking. With 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB, this device offers ample space for storing your media files, apps, and more.

Superior Connectivity and Battery Life

In addition to its impressive photography capabilities and performance, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra sets a new standard for connectivity with its dual satellite communication feature. By incorporating high-performance antennas and Xiaomi’s signal enhancement chip, the Surge T1 ensures reliable connectivity and real-time communication, even in remote areas.

Furthermore, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with a robust 5300mAh battery that supports 90W super-fast wired charging and up to 80W fast wireless charging, ensuring that you stay powered up throughout the day, no matter where life takes you.

Elegant Design and Premium Materials

Xiaomi 14 Ultra exudes elegance and sophistication with its classic 3-stage design and premium materials. Whether you opt for the sleek black or white variants or the stunning Dragon Crystal Blue ceramic version, each iteration of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is crafted to perfection, featuring a lightweight ceramic back cover and a fully enclosed metal frame that exudes durability and refinement.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra represents the pinnacle of smartphone technology, combining groundbreaking photography capabilities, unparalleled performance, and exquisite design into a single, cohesive package. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a power user, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is sure to exceed your expectations and redefine your smartphone experience.