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Realme 13 Pro RAM, storage, color options leaked, launch imminent

Realme is reportedly working on the Realme 13 Pro series of smartphones for India and China. There is speculation that Realme 13 Pro and 13 Pro+ may go official in the coming weeks. Last week, a report by 91mobiles revealed the configurations and color options of the Realme 13 Pro+. Now, a new report, courtesy of 91mobiles, has revealed the same details about the Realme 13 Pro.

Realme 13 Pro configurations, color variants (rumored)

Realme 12 Pro
Realme 12 Pro

According to the report, the Realme 13 Pro, which has the RMX3990 model number for India, will come in four configurations, such as 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage, 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, and 12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage. The report further mentions that the device will be available in three shades, such as Monet Gold, Monet Purple, and Sky Green.

The Realme 13 Pro+ is also expected to arrive with the same RAM and storage options. However, it will be offered in two colors: Monet Gold and Emerald Green. The rumored model number for the 13 Pro+ is RMX3992. Given the fact that Realme 13 Pro and 13 Pro+ will be available in the same configurations, it appears that both phones may come equipped with different chipsets.

To recall, the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+, which debuted earlier this year, came equipped with a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 telephoto and a 50-megapixel IMX890 3x periscope telephoto camera. The 13 Pro+ might keep the periscope camera, but it’s unclear if the 13 Pro will feature a telephoto or periscope camera.

Realme is currently preparing for the June 20 global launch of the Realme GT 6, which includes India. This suggests that the Realme 13 Pro series may break cover in July.

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Oppo Find X8 Ultra to retain quad 50MP camera setup but IMX858 periscope lens may get replaced

Reports have revealed that Oppo is gearing up to launch the Find X8 in October of this year. The device may come equipped with the Dimensity 9400 chipset. The X8 Ultra, which may feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, may debut in the first quarter of 2025. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Digital Chat Station, sheds light on the camera setup of the Ultra variant.

Oppo Find X8 Ultra camera specifications leaked

According to the tipster, the current camera configuration for the Find X8 includes four 50-megapixel cameras on the back. Like the Find X7 Ultra, the X8 Ultra will continue to sport a pair of dual periscope telephoto cameras.

The leaker added that the engineering prototype of the Find X8 Ultra aims to offer optical zoom photography that exceeds the capabilities of a 200-megapixel periscope lens. This indicates that the X8 Ultra may offer better optical zoom results than the Vivo X100 Ultra, which features a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera.

Find X8 Ultra

DCS further said that the Find X8 Ultra’s camera setup does not include a Sony IMX858 camera. For those who don’t know, the Find X7 Ultra has two periscope telephoto cameras, a 50-megapixel IMX890 lens that offers 3x optical zoom and a 50-megapixel IMX858 lens with support for 6x optical zoom. While the X8 Ultra may not have the IMX858 lens, it may still retain the IMX890.

The other details of the Find X8 Ultra are currently under wraps. The device is likely to face competition from phones like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, Honor Magic 7 Ultimate, and Vivo X200 Ultra. There are rumours of an intermediate model in the Find X8 series, called the Find X8 Pro, but this may not be accurate.

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Xiaomi Mix Flip to be pure flagship, Honor Magic V Flip to target female audience

Yesterday, Honor confirmed that it will announce the Honor Magic V Flip on June 13 in China. While the company has confirmed its configurations, there is no clarity about its chipset. Xiaomi is reportedly developing its first flip-style foldable phone, the Xiaomi Mix Flip, concurrently. Tipster Digital Chat Station revealed how these phones will target the Chinese market in a recent Weibo post.

What to expect from Honor Magic V Flip, Xiaomi Mix Flip

The above Weibo post suggests that Vivo and Oppo, mentioned as “blue” and “green,” have stopped updating their small foldable phones. This means both brands may not have plans to launch a flip-style foldable phone this year. Both brands launched the Vivo X Flip and the Oppo Find N3 Flip last year. However, their successor editions are unlikely to launch in 2024.

At the same time, brands like Honor and Xiaomi are stepping up with new offerings, such as the Honor Magic V Flip and the Xiaomi Mix Flip. DCS said that these devices feature a hole-punch design for their large external displays, but their product positioning differs.

The Honor Magic V Flip is geared towards female consumers, with their highest configuration offering 12GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, focusing on being sufficient rather than top-tier in performance. The brand has already confirmed that it will come in two other options, such as 12GB+256GB and 12GB+512GB. Reports have revealed that it will have a 4,800mAh battery, 66W fast charging, and a 50-megapixel primary camera. It will be available in black, white, and pink shades.

Xiaomi, on the other hand, is positioning its upcoming model as a pure flagship. As per reports, it will have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, a 50-megapixel + 60-megapixel (2x telephoto) dual-camera setup on the back, a 32-megapixel front camera, and 67W fast charging.

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Samsung Galaxy F55 5G review: A stylish mid-ranger with all-round performance  

Samsung unveiled the Galaxy F55 5G last week in India, succeeding last year’s Galaxy F54 5G. Compared to the F54, the F55 brings several changes in terms of specifications and design. Continue reading this review to explore the new features and improvements in the F55 phone.

1. Design

Samsung Galaxy F55

The Galaxy F55 retail package includes the following items, such as the Galaxy F55, a USB-A to USB-C cable, a SIM ejector tool, and a quick start guide. The F55 is Samsung’s first phone in recent times to feature a stitched leather back design. To be precise, it has a vegan leather back equipped with a saddle stitch pattern on the left and right sides. The golden frame (plastic) and embossed Samsung logo accentuate the look of the phone. The phone comes in two attractive shades: Apricot Crush and Raisin Black. A good thing about its design is that it has a slim profile of 7.8mm and weighs only 180 grams. There is no IP rating for this device.

Around the edges, the Galaxy F55 has a microphone on the top edge, and its bottom features a microphone, a USB-C port, and a speaker grille. The SIM slot (supports microSD card via hybrid slot) is available on the left, and the volume rocker and a power key are on the right. The earpiece doubles up as the second speaker for stereo output.

2. Display

Samsung Galaxy F55

On the front, the Galaxy F55 features a 6.7-inch flat AMOLED display that offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 1,200 nits of peak brightness. The top and bottom bezels are almost the same size, while the other bezels are thin. Overall, the phone looks good from the front. The screen is visible under sunlight but may struggle under the harshest conditions. The stereo output and the bright display offer a good viewing experience while watching YouTube HDR videos indoors.

Samsung Galaxy F55

3. Performance and Software

Samsung Galaxy F55

The Galaxy F55 has the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, which sounds a bit old when the market has a couple of other phones with Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, and 7+ Gen 3 phones. Nevertheless, the performance of the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 is similar to the 7s Gen 2, and in real-world usage, it is good enough for everyday use. The F55 is suitable for casual gaming. The Galaxy F55 offers up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage.

The Android 14 OS is overlaid with the latest One UI 6.1 interface. While the device has several preinstalled apps, the F55 offers longer software support than any other mid-range phones from other brands. It is promised to receive four Android OS upgrades and five years of security patch updates. The Galaxy F55 has a 5,000mAh battery. While the phone supports 45W fast charging, there is no charger inside the box. I used a 45W Samsung charger, which I purchased for an older Samsung flagship, to power up the F55. It took around 1:10 hours to achieve a full charge. Here is how it performs on benchmarking apps.

4. Camera and Other Features

2x zoom

For selfies, the device has a 50-megapixel front-facing camera instead of the 32-megapixel camera, which was seen on the predecessor. The back panel of the device has a 50-megapixel main camera instead of a 108-megapixel primary camera. Like the predecessor model, the F55 features an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 2-megapixel macro camera. The primary camera does well in capturing shots in both bright and dim light conditions. I would advise users to make use of the Night mode to capture shots as it enhances the image quality by reducing noise and improving clarity in low-light environments. However, the front camera has room for improvement.

The haptic performance is pretty good, providing responsive and satisfying feedback during use. The fingerprint scanner is well-positioned and functions as expected. A good thing is that the device also supports NFC connectivity.

5. Samsung Galaxy F55 5G price in India, availability

The Galaxy F55 5G is available in the following options in India:

  • 8GB+128GB: Rs 26,999 (~$325)
  • 12GB+256GB: Rs 32,999 (~$395)
  • Colors: Apricot Crush and Raisin Black
WHERE TO BUY
Buy Samsung Galaxy F55 5G @ Samsung India website | Flipkart

This pricing puts the Galaxy F55 in competition with the available phones in its price segment such as the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion, Motorola Edge 50 Pro, Realme GT 6T, and Poco F6, to name a few.

6. Samsung Galaxy F55 review: Verdict

Samsung Galaxy F55

While the pricing of the Galaxy F55 5G may raise eyebrows given the competition, its unique selling points cannot be ignored. The device’s stylish design, featuring a stitched vegan leather back, stands out from the crowd. Its decent display, capable cameras, and promise of extended software support add to its appeal. For consumers seeking a good-looking mid-range smartphone with decent performance, the Samsung Galaxy F55 5G could prove to be a worthy contender. Its distinctive aesthetics and promising longevity might just be the features that tip the scales in its favor.

Disclaimer: All of the opinions in this Galaxy F55 5G review are mine and based on my own experiences. There has been no editorial input from Samsung.

AI-powered Avatars will Soon Attend Meetings on our Behalf, Zoom Founder States

In a recent interview with The Verge, Eric Yuan, founder of the popular video conferencing platform Zoom, discussed his vision for the future of video conferencing and a novel concept – digital twins for meetings.

Eric Yuan envisions Zoom going up against Microsoft and Google soon

Yuan, who previously worked at Cisco before launching Zoom with the goal of simplifying video conferencing, now aspires for Zoom to evolve beyond just a video conferencing platform. He envisions Zoom competing with tech giants like Microsoft and Google in the realm of enterprise software, offering a comprehensive suite that includes document collaboration, email services, and chat functionality alongside video conferencing.

Zoom

The interview highlighted Zoom’s significant investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) – a trend prevalent across various industries. Yuan believes AI holds immense potential for the workplace, particularly through the creation of “digital twins.” These AI-powered avatars could represent users in Zoom meetings, potentially even making decisions on their behalf while the user attends to more pressing matters.

However, Yuan emphasizes the importance of user control over these digital twins. He envisions a scenario where users can train them to exhibit different characteristics depending on the meeting context. For example, a user could have a digital twin tailored for sales presentations and another for technical discussions. While acknowledging the inherent uncertainties in AI development, Yuan remains confident in the eventual realization of this technology.

It’s worth noting that Zoom has already addressed user concerns around AI development in its terms of service.

(Via)

Sony PC Adapter for PlayStation VR2 will be Officially Launched on August 7, 2024

In exciting news for PlayStation VR2 owners, Sony announced on June 3rd that a PC adapter will be officially launched on August 7, 2024. Priced at $59.99 USD (roughly RMB 436), this adapter unlocks a vast library of Steam VR games, significantly expanding the entertainment options for PS VR2 users.

Users can now experience Steam VR titles with the PS VR2 headset

The adapter seamlessly connects your PS VR2 headset to a PC, allowing you to experience the extensive world of Steam VR titles. While connected to a PC, PS VR2 retains its impressive features like stunning 4K visuals, a captivating 110-degree field of view, fingertip touch detection for intuitive interaction, and a perspective view mode for added convenience. Additionally, 3D sound effects ensure you stay immersed in the heart of the action.

Sony

However, it’s important to note that some of the PlayStation VR2’s advanced functionalities won’t be available when using the adapter on PC. These include HDR visuals, headset feedback for physical sensations during gameplay, eye tracking technology, adaptive triggers that adjust resistance based on in-game situations, and haptic feedback beyond basic vibration.

Despite these limitations, the PlayStation VR2 PC adapter opens doors to a plethora of new VR experiences for PS VR2 owners. By offering access to the vast Steam VR library, this adapter significantly enhances the overall value and appeal of the PlayStation VR2 headset.

(Via)

Instagram is Testing Unskippable Ads in the App, Feature is Dubbed “Ad Breaks”

Social media users were met with surprise recently after Instagram confirmed it’s testing unskippable ads within the app. Screenshots showcasing this new feature, dubbed “ad breaks,” have been circulating online. These ad breaks display a countdown timer, essentially pausing users’ ability to scroll through their feed until the ad finishes playing.

This format will drive value for advertisers, Meta spokesperson stated

This move by Instagram mirrors the ad strategy employed by the free tier of YouTube, which forces viewers to watch ads before and sometimes during videos. The shift makes sense for Instagram, considering its own evolution into a platform heavily focused on video content through features like Stories and Reels, going beyond its initial roots as a photo-sharing app.

Instagram

While Instagram remains tight-lipped on specifics, a Meta spokesperson confirmed the tests to TechCrunch, stating the company explores “formats that can drive value for advertisers.” They emphasized that these are tests and any potential changes based on the results will be communicated.

The news originated with Instagram user Dan Levy, who shared a screenshot of the test encountering an unskippable ad. Levy expressed his disapproval, calling it a “bonkers move.” Further details emerged through a Reddit post clarifying that clicking the ad break’s information icon reveals a message explaining it’s “a new way of seeing ads on Instagram” and users might need to watch it before continuing to browse.

Predictably, the reactions haven’t been overwhelmingly positive. Levy’s post gained traction as it was re-shared by other social media accounts. While Instagram hasn’t disclosed specific locations where the test is running or its global reach, screenshots suggest the ad breaks appear within the in-app feed during video post viewing. Additionally, it’s unclear whether content creators will have any influence over these ad placements. The company is potentially in pursuit of boosting ad revenue. As of now, it remains a test, but it’s a development worth keeping an eye on for frequent Instagram users.

(Via)

Xiaoji Games’ G8+ Gamepad Controller will be Compatible with PC, Switch, Android, iOS, Priced at 399 Yuan ($55)

Xiaoji Games unveiled more details about its G8+ gamepad controller today, June 3rd, 2024. The G8+ will be available for pre-sale starting June 7th, 2024 at 10:00 AM for an initial price of 399 yuan.

The G8+ has a one-button wake-up feature for the switch console

The G8+ features an asymmetrical design with a button layout reminiscent of an Xbox controller. It utilizes Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity and is compatible with a wide range of devices including PC, Switch, Android, Hongmeng, and iOS (version 13 and above).

For the Switch console, the G8+ boasts a one-button wake-up function for added convenience. It also includes a built-in six-axis gyroscope for motion control and is compatible with devices measuring up to 215mm in length, making it suitable for use with tablets like the Y700 and iPad mini.

This announcement comes after Xiaoji Games previously revealed four new controllers: the G8+ (featured in this article), the Nine-Tailed Fox symmetrical architecture flagship controller, the Wind Walker 2 wireless game controller, and the X2s Bluetooth mobile phone stretch game controller. All four controllers were slated for release during the 618 shopping festival period in China, which runs from May 20th to June 20th, 2024.

(Via)

The Eddie Bauer smart glasses collection with ChatGPT is Innovative Eyewear’s latest product

Innovative Eyewear has launched the Eddie Bauer smart eyewear collection powered by ChatGPT. The smart glasses feature dual microphones via which users can call up Siri and ChatGPT by speaking into the mics. The user then receives answers via the gadget’s four built-in speakers. Users can also take calls and control apps using the smart glasses when connected to their phones via Bluetooth.

Eddie Bauer smart glasses collection

Simply saying Lucyd into the microphones activates ChatGPT and answers are provided via the speakers. The Eddie Bauer smart eyeglasses feature the free Lucyd app which integrates with all Lucyd eyewear from the brand. ChatGPT can be asked to compose email replies and summarize or translate texts. The app allows the user to keep the same chat history regardless of the eyewear they choose to wear on separate days. The eyewear is powered by rechargeable batteries that can deliver up to 12 hours of use on a full charge.

Eddie Bauer smart glasses collection

The Eddie Bauer smart eyewear collection integrates well with Apple iPhones without the Lucyd Eyewear app and its Android integration will soon arrive. Users can also take calls, play music, and control apps via Bluetooth 5.2 within a range of 30 meters (100 feet). The eyeglasses also come with basic touch controls for answering calls, controlling music playback, and activating the voice assistant. The package includes a charging dock for the device.

Eddie Bauer smart glasses collection

The Innovative Eyewear Eddie Bauer smart eyewear collection includes the Horizon, Navigator, Velocity, and Explorer models. The prescription versions of the models are slightly more expensive than their non-prescription counterparts. The Horizon is promoted as the world’s first rimless smart glasses powered by ChatGPT.

The price of the non-prescription Velocity model starts from $229 while the prescription version is priced from $249. The models can be purchased directly from the Lucyd website but availability is expected to expand to Amazon subsequently.

Motorola moto X50 Ultra Soft Peach Limited Edition launched

Motorola has unveiled the moto X50 Ultra Phone Soft Peach Limited Edition in China. The new edition is just a new color variant of the moto X50 Ultra that was launched just last month.

Motorola moto X50 Ultra Soft Peach Limited Edition

The Moto X50 Ultra is an AI phone powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor and Lenovo Xiaotian AI personal agent. The smartphone is equipped with a 6.7-inch LTPS OLED display with 144Hz refresh rate and 2,712 x 1220 pixels resolution. The RAM/ storage configuration of the smartphone is 16GB/ 1TB.

The moto X50 Ultra Soft Peach Limited Edition has an impressive camera setup including a 50MP front camera, a 50MP ultra-large bottom main camera, a 50MP JN1 ultra-wide angle, a 64MP 3x periscope telephoto with a 100x zoom capability. The model also adopts the AI adaptive anti-shake image stabilization technology. It is equipped with a 4,500mAh battery which supports 125W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. The phone has a USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface and supports Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.

Motorola moto X50 Ultra Soft Peach Limited Edition

The Motorola moto X50 Ultra has a metal middle frame and a solid wood/ glass body that is 8.5mm thick and the phone weighs 197g. It comes with IP68 dust and water resistance certification. The Soft Peach Limited Edition of the moto X50 Ultra is what is now on sale. The overall configuration of this model is the same as for other models from the same lineup. The AI agent supports chats,, natural semantic question and answer, document translation, summarization, and AI calls.

Motorola moto X50 Ultra Soft Peach Limited Edition

Pricing & Availability

The moto X50 Ultra Soft Peach Limited Edition currently comes only in the 16GB/ 1TB configuration. It is priced at 4,699 yuan ($649). It can be purchased from JD.com, as well as other outlets in the country.

Meizu launches Live AI earbuds with 45dB noise reduction, AI dynamic sound, Hi-Fi audio & more

Meizu has launched budget-friendly, Hi-Fi TWS earbuds called Meizu Live AI in the Chinese market. The earbuds are now up for pre-sale on JD.com for 599 yuan (roughly $84). The earbuds will be up for sale on June 14th. Let’s check out its key specs.

Meizu Live AI Earbuds

Meizu Live AI Earbuds Specifications:

The Live earbuds sport a Sony CXD3784 noise-canceling chip and a dual-driver setup featuring an 11mm dynamic coil for deep bass and a 5mm Locte co-developed balanced armature unit for clear highs. Meizu touts an “AI Dynamic Sound Experience” that analyzes a user’s ear canal and tailors the audio output for a personalized listening experience.

The earbuds achieve a maximum noise reduction depth of 45dB and a bandwidth of 4000Hz. This should effectively cancel out ambient noise, allowing users to focus on their music or calls. Meizu also mentions an intelligent dynamic noise reduction algorithm that adjusts based on the environment and offers three manual noise reduction levels for user control.

For optimum call quality, the earbuds feature a 3-microphone AI noise reduction system that tackles background noise during calls. Meizu claims this system can eliminate up to 99% of everyday noise distractions. The earbuds boast certification from QQ Music and Kugou Music, two major Chinese streaming services, for their sound quality.

Battery life seems decent, with Meizu claiming the earphones themselves can last up to 7 hours on a single charge. When combined with the charging case, that number jumps to 29 hours.

The Meizu Live earbuds connect via Bluetooth 5.3 and support the LHDC 5.0 audio codec, which allows for high-resolution audio transmission. They also feature a lightweight design, with each earbud weighing only 5.2 grams. The included carrying case utilizes an open magnetic suction design.

ZTE launches U10L portable WiFi with built-in dual SIM and Wi-Fi 6 support

ZTE has unveiled a new portable WiFi hotspot, the U10L, boasting a budget-friendly price tag, dual SIM card functionality, and support for the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard. This comes after the recent launch of U10S Pro portable Wi-Fi with up to 10 hours of battery life.

The U10L portable WiFi is priced at 99 yuan (around $14) and it is now available on JD.com. Let’s check out its key specs.

ZTE U10L Portable WiFi

ZTE U10L Portable WiFi Specifications:

The key highlight is the presence of two built-in SIM card slots, one for China Mobile and another for China Telecom networks. This eliminates the need to carry separate SIM cards or fiddle with swapping them when switching providers. Users can reportedly activate and switch between networks through a dedicated public service number platform.

ZTE is also offering official data packages for the U10L, starting from 1GB for just 2.2 cents, promising transparency and avoiding hidden charges. Additionally, buyers will receive 10GB of free trial data during the upcoming 618 shopping festival.

Under the hood, the U10L packs a proprietary chipset from ZTE, which the company claims delivers high performance and low power consumption. This translates to a smoother internet experience for users.

Performance-wise, the U10L supports the Wi-Fi 6 protocol, enabling theoretical speeds of up to 287Mbps. The portable Wi-Fi also features a 2000mAh removable battery, which ZTE claims can provide up to 8 hours of operation on a single charge.

The U10L can connect up to 16 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for sharing a stable internet connection with laptops, tablets, smartphones, game consoles, and other Wi-Fi-enabled devices.

The device sports a compact and lightweight design, measuring just 108mm x 59.8mm x 16.6mm. It also boasts a stylish and modern appearance, making it easy to carry around.

Ulefone Armor 25T Pro rugged 5G phone with night vision and thermal imaging launched

The Ulefone Armor 25T Pro smartphone has been unveiled and is now available for purchase. The smartphone comes with a compact and rugged design, as well as 5G network support. It has a night vision camera, and thermal imaging and is being offered at a very affordable price. The smartphone has a 6.78-inch screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz and a resolution of 1,080 x 2,460 pixels.

Ulefone Armor 25T Pro

The Armor 25T Pro is 12.5 mm thick and weighs 326 grams. The smartphone comes with a thermal imaging camera with a resolution of 160 x 120 pixels, which covers a temperature range of -20°C to 550°C. The rugged smartphone is said to be able to measure temperatures up to an accuracy of 3°C. It is also equipped with a 64MP night vision camera and a 50MP main camera.

The Ulefone Armor 25T Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC, with a dual SIM architecture and an integrated 5G mobile modem. The smartphone has an installed RAM capacity of 6GB and 256GB UFS 2.1 storage. The storage is expandable by up to 2 TB via a microSD memory card. The smartphone has a fingerprint sensor that is integrated into the power button, and facial unlocking is also supported.

The Ulefone Armor 25T Pro can withstand drops and is protected against damage from water and dust ingress. It comes with IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certifications which all underscore its rugged credentials. Furthermore, the display is protected with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. In terms of charging, the smartphone offers up to 30 watts of wireless charging.

Ulefone Armor 25T Pro

Pricing & Availability

The Armor 25T Pro is currently available only directly from Ulefone but its availability could later expand to other channels. The current price of the rugged smartphone is just under $273 and this is inclusive of shipping costs and import fees. Delivery times, according to the company, can be up to three weeks.

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iOS 18 will let you remove unwanted objects from images before sharing, and more

Following Google, Samsung, Huawei, and many other Android OEMs who have already started offering numerous AI-based features in their flagships, Apple could finally add some on-device and cloud-based AI features to the iOS 18 for the iPhone 16 series. Reportedly, the heart of Apple’s AI strategy for iOS 18, known as Project Greymatter, includes a series of AI features that the company will integrate across its core apps and services like Safari, Notes, and Photos.

iOS 18 AI Features

Alongside the notification summarization feature called ‘Greymatter Catch Up’ that lets users listen to the summary of recent notifications through Siri, there will be other new features such as AI-powered photo editing and more.

iOS 18 Generative Playground may let you erase unwanted objects from images

Previously we have mentioned the possibility of the addition of these two features. But now we know more about how the photo editing feature might work. Apple has reportedly developed a new object-erasing feature, where generative AI recognizes, removes an unwanted object, and fills the area with AI-generated content that surprisingly matches its surroundings. It sounds similar to what we have already seen with Pixel, Galaxy, and Huawei devices.

Reportedly, Apple has developed an “internal application” called the Generative Playground that may let users experience the above-mentioned AI-powered photo editing feature. It could come integrated into iMessage for easy sharing. iOS 18 could also let you generate personalized emojis.

iOS 18 will also offer an automated response generation capability based on LLMs that will be intelligent enough to consider factors like names, calendar events, locations, times, and more. Siri is also undergoing development that aims to improve the text-to-speech functionality for more natural and smooth output and a better experience overall.

Notes app will also get some major improvements with AI

The Notes app will also get a major upgrade with iOS 18 and macOS 15 to offer text-based generative AI capabilities such as speech-to-text conversion and summarization. Speaking of a practical use case, users will be able to record audio directly from the notes app, convert it to text, and summarize it. Accessing information from an entire meeting or lecture could finally become easy for an iPhone.

The company will announce whatever it has been developing in the upcoming WWDC conference, set to take place from June 10 to June 14.

Honor’s first flip foldable: Here’s what you can expect from Magic V Flip

After a series of leaks and rumors, Honor has finally confirmed the launch of its first flip-style foldable phone, the Magic V Flip. Scheduled to debut in China on June 13th, this phone is expected to feature the largest cover display on any flip phone.

The phone’s other specifications are also expected to be competitive. So, what can we realistically expect from this new foldable contender? Here’s a breakdown of the confirmed and rumored features of the Honor Magic V Flip.

1. Bigger Cover Screen

Foldable phones with a clamshell design are no longer a novelty in 2024. Samsung and Motorola got there first, making flip phones popular again which drew the attention of other brands like Vivo, Oppo, and others into the market.

So, Honor is entering an existing market with established players. But they’re doing things differently to attract users, particularly women, who Honor seems to be targeting with this phone.

According to rumors, the Magic V Flip will feature a cover display measuring over 4 inches in size, the largest yet on a flip foldable. As you can see in the image above, the display has very thin bezels and a subtle curve to it to make it easier to grip. 

The bigger display will improve the phone’s usability when folded, allowing for tasks like checking notifications, composing messages, or even using a limited set of apps without unfolding the entire device. 

Official images confirm that the device will have a dual-camera cutout on the cover display likely a wide and ultrawide lens combo.  A more interesting detail is that the LED flash is placed on the bottom half of the device. The device will launch in three colors – Camellia White, Champagne Pink, and Iris Black.

2. Internal Display

While specifics about the internal display are scarce, teasers suggest a large, uninterrupted foldable screen. Honor boasts an “IMAX Enhanced” certification for its book-style Magic V foldable so that the feature could extend to the Flip variant. 

The hinge, a crucial element in any foldable device, is another area where details are limited. Durability and a minimized crease will likely be the key selling points for V Flip considering its book-style foldables are known for having barely visible creases.

3. Performance and Battery

The Magic V Flip is confirmed to pack 12GB of RAM, with storage options ranging from 256GB to a whopping 1TB.  However, the specifics about the device’s processor are still under wraps.

Battery life is often a concern with foldable phones due to the design constraints on fitting a large battery. The Magic V Flip, however, appears to stand out in this area as it will pack a big enough 4,500mAh battery, as revealed by previous certifications. 

If true, it will be the largest battery on a flip foldable so far. Additionally, the certification confirmed 66W fast charging support for quick top-ups.

4. Camera and Others

While the cover display will have a dual-camera setup, details regarding the megapixel count, sensor size, and capabilities are still unknown. Honor has yet to reveal the camera specifications for the unfolded phone either.

The Magic V Flip will launch with the latest version of Magic UI, Honor’s custom skin based on Android 14. While specifics about optimizations for the foldable form factor are unknown, it’s reasonable to expect features that leverage the dual displays for multitasking and enhanced functionality.

5. The Verdict

The Honor Magic V Flip stands out among current flip phones with its large cover display and bigger battery in a classic clamshell design. However, key details such as the internal display quality, hinge durability, and camera capabilities are still unknown, making it hard to judge how the Magic V Flip will compare to its competitors. The upcoming launch will shed more light on Honor’s foldable ambitions.

Arm to roll out 100 biliion devices for AI by 2025

Arm Holdings, is aiming to roll 100 billion Arm devices out in 2025. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to establish Arm as a key player in the rapidly expanding AI chip market, projected to grow from $30 billion in 2024 to over $200 billion by 2032.

To achieve this, Arm will establish a dedicated AI chip division. The division aims to produce prototypes by spring 2025 and begin mass production by the fall of the same year. The manufacturing will be managed by contract manufacturers, including potential collaborations with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp (TSMC) and others. The development costs for these AI chips are expected to reach hundreds of billions of yen, with financial backing from Arm and contributions from SoftBank.

Strategically, there is a possibility that the AI chip business could be spun off and integrated under SoftBank once mass production is underway. This move aligns with SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son’s vision of transforming SoftBank into an AI powerhouse. Son has earmarked a $64 billion investment to drive innovations across various sectors, including data centers, robotics, and power generation. He envisions integrating AI, semiconductor, and robotics technologies to revolutionize industries such as shipping, pharmaceuticals, finance, manufacturing, and logistics.

At the Computex forum in Taipei, Arm highlighted their target of having 100 billion Arm devices worldwide by the end of 2025, emphasizing the role of AI-ready devices. Furthermore, Arm unveiled new AI chip designs and software tools aimed at enhancing AI capabilities in smartphones. These new designs are expected to improve compute and graphics performance by over 30% and accelerate AI inference by 59% for machine learning and computer vision tasks.

Arm’s strategy includes providing ready-for-manufacturing blueprints, a departure from their previous approach of offering abstract designs. This shift aims to expedite the development process for their partners, such as Samsung and TSMC. Samsung is already collaborating with Arm on 3nm process technology to meet the growing demand for generative AI in mobile devices. TSMC is working with Arm to enhance AI performance and efficiency through their Open Innovation Platform ecosystem

With these initiatives, Arm is not positioning itself as a competitor but as an enabler, helping its customers bring AI-driven chips and devices to market more swiftly. Chris Bergey, Arm’s General Manager, expressed the company’s vision of combining a platform for tightly coupled accelerators with customer Neural Processing Units (NPUs) to foster the rapid development of powerful AI chips and devices.

As Arm moves forward with its plans, it aims to capture a significant share of the burgeoning AI chip market, capitalizing on the unmet demand currently dominated by Nvidia. The company’s focus on AI chip development is a pivotal step in SoftBank’s broader strategy to lead the AI revolution and transform various industries through cutting-edge technology.

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ASUS TUF Gaming A16/A14 laptops with new AMD Ryzen AI CPUs & RTX 40 series GPUs unveiled at Computex

At Computex 2024, ASUS introduced two new gaming laptops, the TUF Gaming A14 and A16. These models are designed for gamers and come equipped with AMD Ryzen AI processors and NVIDIA RTX 40 series GPUs.

ASUS TUF Gaming A16
ASUS TUF Gaming A16

Asus TUF Gaming A16/A14 specs:

The TUF Gaming A16 features a 16-inch display and is built with a thin 17.9 mm chassis, offering a 90% screen-to-body ratio. The display offers 2.5K resolution, 400 nits of brightness, a 165 Hz refresh rate, and a 3 ms response time. It fully supports the sRGB color gamut. It includes a larger touchpad and full-sized arrow keys for better control. This model also provides a variety of connection options such as two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, a USB 4 port with DisplayPort 2.1, a USB 3.2 Type-C port supporting 100W power delivery, an ethernet jack, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5 mm combo jack.

ASUS TUF Gaming A14

The laptop is powered by the latest AMD Ryzen AI processors and can be equipped with up to an RTX 4070 GPU and LPDDR5X-7500 memory. It also includes a 90 Wh battery and advanced cooling technology to manage heat.

ASUS TUF Gaming A14

The smaller TUF Gaming A14 shares many of the A16’s features but includes an RTX 4060 GPU and a 73 Wh battery. It has a slightly lower system TDP of 100W, which can be increased to 110W in Turbo mode. The 14-inch display also provides 2.5K resolution, 400 nits of brightness, a 165 Hz refresh rate, and a 3 ms response time.

Both laptops are built to be durable, with the A14 featuring a military-grade chassis and an FHD webcam that supports Windows Hello.

In related news, ASUS has also debuted the ROG Prism Delta 2, a tri-mode headset for gamers. It has a long battery life of up to 110 hours, along with low-latency 2.4GHz connectivity using a convenient Type-C receiver.

OnexPlayer launches X1 Ryzen Edition with R7 8840U, 120Hz display, up to 4TB storage

OnexPlayer has launched a new iteration of its X1 gaming tablet cum PC, the OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition. This Ryzen Edition boasts an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor and starts at a competitive price of 6899 yuan (roughly $952). The X1 initially launched earlier this year with Intel Core Ultra processors.

OneXPlayer X1

OneXPlayer X1 Specifications:

Aside from the processors, the rest of the specs remain almost the same as the previous iteration. The X1 Ryzen Edition features a large 10.95-inch 2.5K display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for tear-free gaming. The display offers a bright 540 nits peak brightness and a comfortable 16:10 aspect ratio. To further enhance the viewing experience, the tablet supports DC dimming technology for flicker-free visuals.

Unlike a typical two-in-one, it comes with a detachable controller with ergonomic grips and customizable buttons. This transforms the device into a handheld gaming console reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch, perfect for on-the-go entertainment. The package also includes a magnetic detachable backlit keyboard for those productivity tasks.

OneXPlayer X1

Under the hood, the OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition packs a punch with its AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor. This is paired with LPDDR5X-7500 memory in either 32GB or 64GB configurations. Storage options include PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 2280 SSDs with capacities ranging from 1TB to a whopping 4TB, ensuring ample space for games and applications.

The X1 boasts Harman-certified dual speakers, featuring a high-performance full-range speaker unit for rich and immersive sound. In terms of connectivity, the device comes loaded with options, including dual USB 4.0 ports, a TF card slot, a USB-A 3.2 port, two USB-C 4.0 ports, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and an Oculink interface for connecting to external graphics docks.

The tablet cum PC is equipped with a sizable 16890mAh battery. This translates to up to 169 minutes of gameplay in Genshin Impact, 8 hours of office work, or an impressive 11 hours of video playback on a single charge. When it’s time to refuel, the included 100W gallium nitride charger ensures a quick turnaround, minimizing downtime.

Pricing

The OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition comes in three storage configurations, all starting at competitive prices. The base model with 32GB of memory and 1TB of storage starts at 6899 yuan (around $952). Upgrading to 2TB bumps the price to 7399 yuan ($1,022), while the top-of-the-line option with 64GB of memory and a whopping 4TB of storage reaches 9599 yuan ($1,325).

Xiaomi 14 Civi specs officially confirmed via Flipkart microsite

Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the Xiaomi 14 Civi smartphone in India on June 12. After a recent leak of the retail box of the device, the brand has now confirmed a bunch of specifications through the 14 Civi’s Flipkart microsite.

Xiaomi 14 Civi

As per the details on the microsite, the smartphone has a 50 MP primary camera with Leica’s Summilux Lens. The primary camera is paired with a 50 MP Portrait telephoto camera that offers 2x zoom, along with a 12 MP ultra-wide lens with a 120-degree field of view.

Xiaomi 14 Civi

On the front, it has a 32 MP + 32 MP dual selfie camera capable of recording videos in 4K resolution. The phone will have a slim 7.4mm metal body with a premium vegan leather finish on the back. The display is confirmed to be a ‘floating quad-curve’ display with 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. The panel will offer over 68 billion colors, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ support. For Audio, it will feature stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos tuning.

Xiaomi 14 Civi

Under the hood, it is confirmed to house a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip, with Android 14-based HyperOS running the software side. The device will draw power from a 4,700mAh battery, paired with 67W fast charging. Lastly, the microsite confirms three color options: Crusie Blue, Matcha Green, and Shadow Black. Details about the pricing could emerge in the coming days.

In related news, tipster DCS has leaked some details about the camera system of the upcoming Xiaomi 15 series smartphones. These devices are expected to be among the early adopters of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip, so we can expect them to launch around Q4 2024.

(Source)

ASUS Unveils ROG Prism Delta 2, A Tri-Mode Headset for Gamers on the Go, Features 50mm Titanium-plated Drivers

If you were looking for a pair of gaming headphones to add to your setup, today marks the announcement of the ASUS ROG Prism Delta 2, a tri-mode gaming headset designed for marathon gaming sessions. This feature-packed headset boasts an incredible battery life of up to 110 hours, ensuring you can stay immersed in your favorite worlds without worrying about running out of juice (as long as you keep the flashy RGB lighting deactivated).

The headset has dual-material earmuffs for a comfortable fit while long gaming sessions

Comfort is paramount for long gaming sessions, and the ROG Prism Delta 2 takes this seriously. Its dual-material earmuffs provide a comfortable fit that won’t leave your ears feeling fatigued after hours of use. On the audio front, the headset packs a serious punch with 50mm titanium-plated driver units, promising crisp and clear audio for both in-game soundscapes and detailed music reproduction.

Prism 2 Gaming Headset

Gone are the days of juggling connections. The ASUS ROG Prism Delta 2 offers ultimate flexibility with its tri-mode connectivity. Utilizing ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, you can connect the headset using low-latency 2.4GHz wireless with the included Type-C receiver, standard Bluetooth for mobile devices, or the classic 3.5mm wired connection for broad compatibility.

For those who multitask while gaming, the innovative DualFlow audio technology is a game-changer. It allows you to connect two devices simultaneously, letting you seamlessly switch between in-game audio and voice chat with teammates on your phone, all without ever needing to disconnect.

The official launch of the ROG Prism Delta 2 is slated for the third quarter of 2024. This solid headset looks to be a strong contender for the throne of best gaming headset What do you think about this one?

(Via)