Author: GizNews

  • Ex-Apple Engineer Given Sentence for Theft of Self-Driving Car Secrets

    Ex-Apple Engineer Given Sentence for Theft of Self-Driving Car Secrets

    A former engineer at Apple, Xiaolang Zhang, finds himself on the wrong side of the law, having been handed a six-month prison sentence for his role in pilfering secrets from the tech giant’s vaults. This unfolds as Zhang admits to swiping details on the development of Apple’s self-driving vehicle project, an endeavor that people have been talking about for years.

    Xiaolang Zhang’s Conviction

    Zhang’s journey from trusted employee to convicted felon began with his arrest at San Jose International Airport in 2018, moments before he could escape to China. Initially, he fought the charges, pleading not guilty. However, in a dramatic turn of events in 2022, Zhang confessed to the theft of trade secrets, leading to his current predicament. Beyond his prison term, Zhang faces a three-year leash of supervised release and a hefty restitution bill of $146,984.

    Involvement in Project Titan

    His tenure at Apple was marked by his involvement in Project Titan, Apple’s mysterious and much-discussed foray into autonomous vehicles. According to allegations, Zhang’s acts of espionage included transferring a detailed 25-page document with engineering blueprints to personal devices and pilfering hardware, illustrating a breach of trust as profound as it was audacious.

    Zhang’s Resignation and Investigation

    Following a paternity leave and a trip to China, Zhang resigned, revealing plans to join XPeng Motors, a move that raised eyebrows given the company’s competing interests in autonomous driving. This revelation set off alarm bells, leading to an investigation that caught Zhang red-handed, engaging in activities that betrayed confidence.

  • Customizable 2024 Models Elevate Velo de Ville’s E-Bike Game

    Customizable 2024 Models Elevate Velo de Ville’s E-Bike Game

    Electric bicycles are evolving, and Velo de Ville is at the forefront of this transformation. The German e-bike specialist is rolling into the 2024 riding season with four exciting new models, each designed to cater to a wide array of preferences and riding styles. What sets these bikes apart is their emphasis on customization, allowing riders to tailor their bicycles to fit their unique needs perfectly.

    The diverse range of e-bikes can cater to a wide range of people

    The lineup kicks off with the AEB Urban Commuter, a bike that’s as versatile as it is efficient. Available in several frame and wheel configurations, the AEB series is powered by Bosch motors, offering a range of performance options to suit different urban adventures. From the compact 40-Nm Active Line motor in the AEB 290 to the robust Performance Line CX motor in the AEB 990, there’s an AEB for every city dweller.

    Pricing: AEB 290 – starting from $2,599
    AEB 990 – starting from $3,999

    For those who crave adventure beyond the city limits, the SEB model, dubbed the “SUV” of e-bikes, combines rugged design with off-road capability.

    Equipped with a suspension fork and durable Schwalbe Johnny Watts tires, the SEB is ready for anything from daily commutes to weekend explorations.

    Pricing: SEB – starting from $3,299

    Urban comfort gets a new definition with the CEB model, designed for a smooth and relaxed riding experience.

    The Bosch Performance Line SX motor ensures a natural pedal feel, while the bike’s comfort-enhancing features, like a suspension seatpost and full-coverage mudguards, make for an effortlessly enjoyable ride.

    Pricing: CEB – starting from $2,899

    Lastly, the KEB model brings compact convenience to the urban landscape.

    Its small frame and 20-inch wheels make it ideal for navigating city streets, while still packing the same punch as its larger counterparts with the Bosch Performance Line SX motor.

    Pricing: KEB – starting from $2,499

    Velo de Ville’s commitment to customization doesn’t end with the bike’s specifications. Riders can choose from a variety of paint finishes and add custom touches for a truly personalized ride. This approach not only highlights the brand’s dedication to meeting individual rider needs but also showcases the potential for e-bikes to become a more integral part of our daily lives.

  • Announcement: AOC Unveils Agon Gaming Monitor Q27G4X with 180Hz Refresh Rate and 1440p Resolution

    Announcement: AOC Unveils Agon Gaming Monitor Q27G4X with 180Hz Refresh Rate and 1440p Resolution

    The AGON GAMING Q27G4X gaming monitor by AOC has been unveiled as a budget-friendly option with impressive specifications. This new gaming monitor features a 27-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1440p and a refresh rate of 180Hz. It is an updated version of the G4 GAMING monitor series, following the release of the AGON GAMING 24G4X and AGON GAMING 27G4X.

    Features

    The AGON GAMING Q27G4X offers a higher resolution compared to its predecessor, the AGON GAMING 27G4X, making it a high-end alternative. The AGON GAMING 27G4X has a native resolution of 1080p. Additionally, the Q27G4X boasts a refresh rate of 180Hz, with response times of 1ms GtG and 0.05ms MPRT respectively. The gaming monitor is VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified, delivering 8-bit image quality and up to 400 nits of peak brightness.

    Connectivity and Design

    The AOC AGON GAMING Q27G4X gaming monitor comes with a range of ports but does not support USB connectivity. It features DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 interfaces. The built-in speakers provide decent sound output. The monitor also includes VESA mounts for sturdy placement.

    Pricing and Availability

    The AOC gaming monitor is expected to be available in select markets, including the UK, later this month. Some key specifications of the model are yet to be revealed by the manufacturer, but these details are expected to be announced soon. The monitor is priced at £229.99 in the UK and €290 in the EU. It is anticipated that the AOC AGON GAMING Q27G4X will be listed on popular retail platforms like Amazon, where previous AGON GAMING monitors are already available.

    Get AGON GAMING Q27G4X Monitor on Amazon

  • Insights Revealed by Former Meizu Executive on Upcoming Huawei Vision AR Headset

    Insights Revealed by Former Meizu Executive on Upcoming Huawei Vision AR Headset

    With the launch of Apple Vision Pro, the headset market received much-needed attention from the masses. The already mature market includes players like Meta, Vive, and Valve, and the entry of Apple made it more competitive. Amid all this, a former Meizu executive, Li Nan, and the founder of Numiao Technology sarcastically shed some light on the expected Huawei Vision AR Headset via his official Weibo Handle.

    Huawei’s VR Headset Details

    As per the post shared, Li Nan claims that Huawei is working on a VR headset that will feature the company’s self-developed chipset, which would offer such exciting performance that there would be “no delay” in spatial renders. The VR headset will come with a Sony 4K micro-OLED display, which is expected to ship to the Huawei manufacturing unit within the next 6 months. The same display is part of Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

    Huawei’s VR headset will weigh around 350 grams, which is around half of the 600 grams measuring Apple’s Vision Pro.

    Pricing and Availability

    If we believe the story, then it would result in a great alternative to the Apple Vision Pro on the market. However, the pricing would be around 15000 Yuan, which roughly translates to ~$2100. We also expect it to be available for a lower price than Apple’s counterpart.

    Huawei’s Previous VR Efforts

    Huawei’s venture into VR is not entirely new, as the company introduced Vision Glass with a head-mounted display in 2021. It was bundled with a 1080P micro-OLED screen. This latest development aligns with Huawei’s previous efforts and its registration of the Vision Pro trademark back in 2019. Even some rumors state that Huawei is bringing its Mixed Reality headset.

    Additionally, Apple may need to change the Vision Pro name in China, as Huawei already has the same name trademark in China.

  • Introducing the Newly Unveiled Apollo Go E-Scooter: Equipped with Dual Motors, Lightweight Build, and 45km/h Top Speed

    Introducing the Newly Unveiled Apollo Go E-Scooter: Equipped with Dual Motors, Lightweight Build, and 45km/h Top Speed

    The Apollo Go electric scooter is the latest affordable e-scooter from Canadian firm Apollo. The brand has a slew of fanciful scooters which have been designed from the ground up. The Apollo Go offers a marked departure from these fancier models as it has a lightweight design with an overall weight of 20.8kg. It is designed to compete with entry-level scooters and its strong points include affordability and functionality.

    Performance Metrics

    The Apollo Go comes with some decent performance metrics. It has a pair of 350W motors that peak at 750W each, delivering a total of 2 horsepower to the system. It can reach a top speed of 45km/h, which is quite impressive for an entry-level scooter. The scooter has a 36v 15Ah battery with a capacity of 540Wh with a reduced weight than batteries in Apollo’s more elegant models. The scooter can be sufficiently carried up a flight of stairs without much stress, thus enhancing its versatility. The Apollo Go is also foldable.

    Features and Specifications

    The Apollo Go can navigate up to 25% inclines and also provides regenerative braking when riding downhill. It has a dual suspension system which also delivers a more comfortable ride. The scooter also has self-healing tires, IP66 waterproof protection, all-around LED lighting, and fully enclosed braking combining drum and motor brakes.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Apollo Go foldable e-scooter is priced at a launch offer of $1,099, but its original price is $1,199. Pre-orders for the Apollo Go will open on February 20 but it is unclear when the earliest deliveries will happen. The Apollo Go is expected to have a massive reception in the market, as it combines affordability, performance, and comfortable riding in a versatile and lightweight electric scooter.

  • Coming Soon: Acer Predator Extreme PES017 Electric Scooter with Off-Road Capabilities

    Coming Soon: Acer Predator Extreme PES017 Electric Scooter with Off-Road Capabilities

    The Acer Predator Extreme PES017 is a new off-road e-scooter that is expected to launch soon after it was announced in March 2023. The Acer Predator Extreme has a 350W motor with a peak output of 960W and a dual suspension system for a more comfortable ride even in extreme conditions.

    A Powerful and Upgraded E-Scooter

    The Acer Predator Extreme PES017 was on display during the Taipei Cycle 2023 event and it has had several upgrades since it was first announced last year. It comes with a more powerful motor than initially planned and also offers an increased range. It has a maximum torque of 40Nm which allows the rider to navigate inclines up to 18%. The top speed of the Extreme e-scooter is either 20km/h, 25km/h, or 32km/h according to regulatory caps in different jurisdictions.

    Flexible Speed Modes and Swappable Battery

    The Acer Predator Extreme has three speed modes which can be chosen via the handlebar-mounted controller. It has a swappable 48V 10.5Ah battery that delivers a riding range of 35km on a single charge. The swappable battery allows the rider to extend the range of the e-scooter with an extra battery pack. The dual suspension system of the e-scooter combines a front telescopic fork and a rear shock absorber. The scooter has a low center of gravity and its 10-inch crocodile tires offer enhanced grip and safety while on the trail. The PES017 also comes with hydraulic disc brakes and indicator lights.

    Expected Pricing & Availability

    The Acer Predator Extreme PES017 will be available in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa in Q2, 2024, according to the company. The model will retail in the selected markets for the equivalent of about $1,400. There are no indications yet on when the PES017 off-road e-scooter will be available in the US and Canada.

  • Tipster: Custom Sony Primary Camera Possibly to Be Featured in Oppo Reno 12 Series

    Tipster: Custom Sony Primary Camera Possibly to Be Featured in Oppo Reno 12 Series

    The Oppo Reno 11F was recently launched in the global market, likely being the final addition to the Reno 11 series. With that out of the way, the brand is now focusing on the Reno 12 series, which is expected to arrive in June this year. Last week’s report revealed details about the chipset inside the Reno 12 series. Now, a new leak from Weibo Tipster 智慧皮卡丘 has revealed some key camera specifications of the Reno 12 series.

    Improved Camera Capabilities

    According to the tipster, the Reno 12 series will feature a custom Sony camera lens, suggesting significant improvements in photography capabilities. While the exact implications of the camera upgrade are unclear, there’s speculation about changes in image quality compared to earlier models.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Reno 12 is expected to be powered by a MediaTek MTK 24M processor, coupled with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. It’s also rumored to have a 6.7-inch FHD 120Hz OLED display and a design featuring a 4-sided curved glass back. In terms of the camera setup, it might consist of a 50MP OIS + 8MP dual rear camera and a 50MP selfie camera. The device is said to be complemented by a 5000mAh battery with 67W fast charging.

    Pricing and Availability: The pricing and availability details of the Oppo Reno 12 series have not been revealed yet. We can expect more information to surface closer to the launch date in June.

    Reno 12 Pro

    As for the Reno 12 Pro, leaks suggest the use of a MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chipset, marking a departure from earlier Snapdragon speculations. The Pro model may share the standard model’s display and design traits but could include a more advanced 50MP (2x optical zoom) + 8MP dual rear camera setup and a 50MP autofocus selfie camera. Similar to the Reno 12, the Pro model is also expected to support a 5000mAh battery with 67W fast charging.

    Conclusion

    The Oppo Reno 12 series is generating a lot of excitement with its rumored camera improvements and impressive specifications. With the use of custom Sony camera lenses and powerful processors, Oppo is aiming to deliver a top-notch photography experience to its users. As we await the official launch in June, more details are expected to emerge, including pricing and availability information.

  • FDA Approves Samsung Galaxy Watch for Sleep Apnea Detection

    FDA Approves Samsung Galaxy Watch for Sleep Apnea Detection

    Samsung has received FDA approval to introduce a sleep apnea detection feature for Galaxy Watch users in the United States. This makes Samsung the first smartwatch maker to gain such approval by the FDA. The company, however, already got approval for this feature in South Korea back in October 2023.

    Monitoring Sleep Apnea with Galaxy Watch

    Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that prevents a person from breathing while asleep. This can lead to reduced sleep quality and an increased risk of serious health issues like heart disease. It’s incredibly common but often undiagnosed.

    While Samsung remained tight-lipped on the exact method it will use for detection, the Galaxy Watch is equipped with the necessary sensors to monitor factors associated with sleep apnea. For instance, the watch can accurately detect changes in blood oxygen levels and heart rate, which should be pretty useful for the feature to work.

    Collecting Data for Analysis

    Users will need to wear the watch while sleeping for at least two nights within a ten-day timeframe to collect sufficient data for analysis. You can then view the results on the Samsung Health Monitor app. Also, it’s important to note that the feature is only for adults over 22 who haven’t already been diagnosed with sleep apnea.

    Sleep apnea detection is a valuable addition to the Galaxy Watch’s suite of health monitoring features. While not a substitute for formal diagnosis, it could be life-saving by detecting sleep apnea proactively.

    Apple’s Efforts and Availability

    Apple is also said to be working on a sleep apnea detection feature for its smartwatch. However, the company might face obstacles due to ongoing legal restrictions regarding its SpO2 sensor.

    Nonetheless, the feature will be rolled out to Galaxy Watch users in the United States later this year. However, it is likely to be available only on newer models like the Galaxy Watch 5 and 6 series.

  • Release of Redmi Buds 5 on Amazon Affirmed, Significant Features Disclosed.

    Release of Redmi Buds 5 on Amazon Affirmed, Significant Features Disclosed.

    Xiaomi sub-brand Redmi is all set to launch a new smartphone and TWS earphones in India. The smartphone is scheduled to be launched on February 14, while the TWS earphones will be announced on February 12. Ahead of the official launch next week, Redmi has revealed the key specifications of the Redmi Buds 5. Xiaomi has created a microsite for the upcoming offering.

    Redmi Buds 5: Coming Soon on Amazon

    The Redmi Buds 5 made its debut in China in September last year and was recently announced in global markets. The Indian variant is expected to come with the same specifications. Redmi has confirmed that the TWS earphones will be available for purchase on Amazon.

    Key Specifications and Features

    According to the information on Xiaomi’s official website and Amazon, the Redmi Buds 5 will have an in-ear design with a stem and silicon ear tip. The earphones will be available in Black and Light Blue color options. The TWS earphones will feature 12.4mm titanium drivers for powerful bass and sound. The upcoming offering will also include a 46dB hybrid ANC mode to eliminate surrounding noise. Additionally, they will have a dual-mic AI voice enhancement technology to ensure crystal clear sound during calls.

    One of the notable features of the Redmi Buds 5 is the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously. The earphones are claimed to provide up to 38 hours of battery life with the squarish-shaped case.

    Pricing and Availability

    More details, including pricing and availability, will be revealed on Monday. The Redmi Buds 5 TWS earphones are expected to compete with the recently launched OnePlus Buds 3.

  • India introduces the Blaupunkt SBA50 soundbar with Bluetooth connectivity, delivering 45W output and a battery life of up to 14 hours.

    India introduces the Blaupunkt SBA50 soundbar with Bluetooth connectivity, delivering 45W output and a battery life of up to 14 hours.

    The Indian market has just been introduced to a new audio product by Blaupunkt. The Blaupunkt SBA50 Bluetooth soundbar speaker comes with impressive specifications and features. Let’s take a closer look at what this soundbar has to offer.

    Blaupunkt SBA50 Bluetooth Soundbar Specs

    The SBA50 soundbar from Blaupunkt features a quad 2.04-inch speaker setup, delivering a stereo sound output of 45W. With these speakers, Blaupunkt promises a deep bass and balanced audio. The soundbar weighs 2.2 kilograms and measures 90.7 x 12.5 x 12.5 cm, sporting a sleek rectangular bar design. It is powered by a 2,400mAh battery pack that provides up to 14 hours of battery life on a single full charge.

    Connectivity and Audio Experience

    The Blaupunkt SBA50 soundbar offers various connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.0, USB, AUX, microSD card slot, Gutar, Min input, and even FM radio. Additionally, this soundbar can be paired with another SBA50 model for seamless audio, as both soundbars can connect to the same music source. Blaupunkt has also included a built-in equalizer with six preset modes, allowing users to personalize their audio experience.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Blaupunkt SBA50 Bluetooth soundbar speaker is available in a sleek black color option. It is currently available for purchase on Amazon India’s official website, with a price tag of 3,999 INR, which is approximately 48 US Dollars.

    If you’re in the market for a new soundbar, the Blaupunkt SBA50 Bluetooth soundbar speaker offers an impressive combination of features and specifications at an affordable price. With its sleek design and powerful sound output, it is definitely worth considering for your audio needs.