Author: GizNews

  • Huawei Slows Down Phone Production and Shifts Focus to AI Chips

    Huawei Slows Down Phone Production and Shifts Focus to AI Chips

    Huawei is making a big change in its production plans, showing a strong interest in the growing area of artificial intelligence (AI). The tech giant has chosen to boost the production of its AI chip, the Ascend 910B, even though it means slowing down the making of its Mate 60 smartphones in at least one of its factories. This move is surprising because the Mate 60 had recently done better than Apple in terms of phone sales in China, as mentioned by the South China Morning Post. Huawei’s decision to focus more on AI chips than on smartphones highlights the company’s belief in the significant impact AI will have on the tech world.

    Increased Demand for AI Chips in China

    The Ascend 910B chip is important for developing AI models, and there’s a growing demand for it in China. This increase in interest comes as Chinese AI developers are finding it hard to get their hands on high-quality AI chips from abroad, like Nvidia’s H100, because of trade restrictions set by the United States. By concentrating on the Ascend 910B, Huawei is not only finding a way around these challenges but also setting itself up as an important player in the domestic AI market.

    Chinese Tech Companies Embrace AI

    Huawei’s new direction also shows how Chinese tech companies are eager to get involved in the AI field. Even though they’re a bit behind global leaders like OpenAI and Google, companies such as Baidu are moving forward with their own AI projects. China is also ahead in making rules for AI, requiring companies to get approval before they release AI products to the public.

    Preparing for the Future

    With this shift towards AI technology, Huawei is preparing for the future, focusing on an area that could change technology in big ways. This move shows Huawei is thinking ahead, ready to face current challenges while betting on the long-term importance of AI.

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  • Vivo X Fold inches closer to launch, secures crucial certification

    Vivo X Fold inches closer to launch, secures crucial certification

    Several reports indicate that Vivo will unveil the Vivo X Fold 3 and X Fold 3 Pro foldable phones in the first quarter of 2024 in China. The series seems to be nearing launch, as a new Vivo phone, believed to be the X Fold 3, has received radio certification in China. This certification suggests an imminent launch could be on the horizon.

    Vivo X Fold 3 bags radio certification

    An IMEI database listing that emerged in December revealed that the forthcoming Vivo X Fold 3 has the V2303A model number. This same device has now appeared in the database of China’s radio certification platform. While the listing remains silent on key specifications, it signifies an important hurdle cleared for the phone’s launch.

    Affordable foldable phone with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset

    Multiple leaks have claimed that the Vivo X Fold 3 will be an affordable foldable phone that will lack some of the premium features like an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, wireless charging, and a periscope telephoto camera, which are said to be exclusively available on the X Fold 3 Pro.

    According to reports, the Vivo X Fold 3 will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. The device may pack a 5,600mAh battery, which may support 80W fast charging. At present, there is no clear information about the internal and external displays of the phone. However, it is expected to feature a 50-megapixel OV50H primary camera with OIS support. It is also being said that it will be a lightweight foldable phone that weighs around 220 grams.

    March launch event with three devices

    As far as the launch is concerned, Vivo may hold a massive launch event in March in China. It may see the arrival of three devices, such as the Vivo X100s smartphone, the Vivo Pad 3 tablet, and the Vivo X Fold 3 foldables.

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  • China’s Plug-in Sales Soar by 46% in 2023, Driving Electric Car Market Growth

    China’s Plug-in Sales Soar by 46% in 2023, Driving Electric Car Market Growth

    China has once again proven itself as the global powerhouse in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, with a whopping 8 million new plug-in electric cars hitting the roads in 2023. This achievement not only sets a new benchmark for the country but also underscores the rapidly growing appetite for greener transportation options among Chinese consumers.

    Electric cars now account for 37% of all car sales in China

    The latest data reveals a significant 46% surge in plug-in car sales compared to the previous year, highlighting the unrelenting momentum of China’s EV market. This surge is fueled by a remarkable blend of all-electric cars (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), both registering record highs in sales. BEVs, leading the charge, witnessed about a 31% increase, while PHEVs, with their growing popularity due to larger battery capacities, saw an astounding 80% jump in registrations.

    BYD is the leading Chinese EV maker

    The electric revolution in China isn’t just about numbers; it’s a clear sign of the country’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and making electric mobility mainstream. With electric cars now accounting for 37% of all new car sales in China, the country is setting the pace for the global transition to sustainable transportation.

    The dominance of domestic brands like BYD, which has captured a significant share of the market, alongside international players like Tesla, showcases a competitive and vibrant EV ecosystem. Models such as the BYD Song Plus and Tesla Model Y have become consumer favorites, topping the sales charts and driving the market forward.

    Continued growth and a greener future

    As we look ahead, expectations are high for continued growth, albeit at a more measured pace. The industry is optimistic about reaching a new milestone of 10 million sales in 2024, reflecting confidence in the enduring appeal and potential of electric vehicles. With each passing year, China is driving closer to a greener, more sustainable future on the roads, demonstrating what’s possible with innovation, investment, and a shared vision for a cleaner planet.

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  • Latest Press Render Reveals Initial Leaks were Incorrect about The Nothing Phone

    Latest Press Render Reveals Initial Leaks were Incorrect about The Nothing Phone

    Nothing, the London-based company, is set to announce its upcoming smartphone, the Phone (2a), at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) later this month. While there have been numerous leaks and rumors surrounding the device, reliable tipster Steve Hemmerstoffer (aka Onleaks) has now shared a leaked press render of the Phone (2a), revealing some interesting details.

    Changes in Design

    One of the notable changes between the initial leaked renders and the latest one is the placement of the camera lenses. The Phone (2a) will have two vertically stacked camera lenses at the top left side, similar to Nothing’s other smartphones.

    Another significant difference is the addition of a big circular element beside the camera sensors. This is in contrast to the large circular lines seen in the center above the wireless charging hardware on the Phone (2). It is worth noting that the Phone (2a) will not feature the unique Glyph interface, which is expected considering its mid-range positioning.

    Transparent Back Panel

    The Nothing Phone (2a) will retain the brand’s signature transparent back panel, similar to its more premium counterparts. It seems that the absence of the Glyph interface and the slightly different design are the company’s way of differentiating the flagship number series from the more affordable smartphones.

    Additionally, a Reddit user has also shared an image of a prototype unit of the Phone (2a) that matches the latest leaked render, giving further credibility to the design.

    Expected Specifications

    The core specifications of the Nothing Phone (2a) are expected to include a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, a Dimensity 7200 SoC paired with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, a 50MP primary camera, and 45W charging support.

    With the MWC just around the corner, fans of Nothing are eagerly waiting for the official announcement of the Phone (2a) and more details about its features and pricing.

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  • Snap Inc. Announces 500 Employee Layoffs

    Snap Inc. Announces 500 Employee Layoffs

    Snap Inc., the company behind Snapchat, is letting go of 10% of its workforce, about 500 people. This move is part of a plan to make the company work better together and more efficiently. Snap’s decision reflects a bigger trend in the tech world, where many companies are trimming down to stay agile and competitive. Some other recent layoffs include Discord’s layoff of 17% of its employees and Microsoft’s layoff of almost 1900 employees.

    Tech Sector Job Cuts

    The tech sector has seen nearly 24,000 job cuts in the month of January alone. The layoffs are meant to help Snap reduce layers within the company and improve face-to-face work among teams. This is a strategic step to keep the company strong and focused, especially during a time when the tech industry is facing a lot of changes. Other tech firms, including big names like Okta and Zoom, have also been cutting jobs recently. In fact, the tech sector saw nearly 24,000 job cuts in January alone.

    Ongoing Restructuring

    Snap has been through this before, with several rounds of job cuts starting in 2022. This is part of an ongoing effort to align the company’s structure with its goals for growth and innovation. These latest layoffs are expected to cost between $55 million to $75 million.

    Challenges and Efforts

    The company is also under the spotlight for the impact of social media on young people, with CEO Evan Spiegel recently speaking to the Senate Judiciary Committee about this issue. Despite these challenges, Snap has managed to increase its revenue from digital ads recently and has started buying back $500 million in shares.

    Even with these efforts, Snap’s stock price is still below its initial public offering price and far from its peak in 2021. This shows the company is working through some tough times, trying to find the best path forward in a fast-changing tech landscape.

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  • OpenAI’s ChatGPT app integrated with Apple Vision Pro

    OpenAI’s ChatGPT app integrated with Apple Vision Pro

    OpenAI has introduced its ChatGPT app for the new Apple Vision Pro headset, featuring the GPT-4 Turbo model. This allows users to engage with AI through the headset in a highly immersive augmented reality (AR) setting.

    ChatGPT App is Now Available on VisionOS

    The ChatGPT app on Vision Pro enables users to communicate with the AI in various formats, including text, voice, and visual inputs. It’s one of the first applications to utilize visionOS, Apple’s operating system for the Vision Pro, designed for seamless integration of digital content with the real world.

    The Apple Vision Pro includes advanced features such as Optic ID for biometric authentication through eye tracking and iris recognition, Spatial Audio for lifelike sound experiences, and VisionKit for app development. Although it’s not specified which features the ChatGPT app will use, there’s significant potential for enhanced AI interactions using text, speech, and visual inputs.

    Integrating ChatGPT with Vision Pro

    Integrating ChatGPT with Vision Pro marks a step towards more natural and intuitive interactions between humans and AI. Users can address complex issues or generate content by speaking instructions or showing problems to the AI via the headset’s camera. This integration could transform various tasks, from troubleshooting mechanical problems to meal planning and educational activities, through direct visual input.

    Making ChatGPT available on Vision Pro is part of OpenAI’s strategy to extend its generative AI technologies across multiple platforms. ChatGPT was previously made available on iPhone and iPad, broadening user access.

    The ChatGPT app is available for free on the visionOS App Store, with an optional subscription for advanced features and quicker responses. The store also offers over 600 other apps designed for a range of purposes, ensuring a rich ecosystem for Vision Pro users.

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  • Nio’s exploration of range diversity in the face of arduous market conditions

    Nio’s exploration of range diversity in the face of arduous market conditions

    Nio Gears Up for Update, Introduces New Variants with Shorter Ranges

    Nio, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is preparing for a significant update next month. In an effort to tackle headwinds in the competitive market, the company is introducing new variants with shorter ranges for its existing models. This move comes after China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) included Nio’s eight on-sale models in a regulatory catalog, making them eligible for vehicle purchase tax reductions.

    New Options with Lower Ranges

    While the available battery packs for Nio’s models will maintain their capacities, ranging from 70-kWh to 150-kWh, the introduction of new options with significantly lower ranges is noteworthy. The standard range options will include the 70-kWh and 75-kWh packs, which utilize Li-ion ternary battery technology. On the other hand, the 100-kWh pack will cater to long-range capabilities. It’s important to note that the 150-kWh pack, a semi-solid-state battery, is not yet integrated into the battery swap system.

    Strategic Move to Lower Range and Price

    The adjustment in the minimum Chinese Long-Term Cruising (CLTC) range for various models indicates a strategic move by Nio to potentially lower both the range and price of their vehicles. There have been reports suggesting that Nio might offer battery packs with a 50-kWh capacity, referred to as “city-class range.” These packs would be derived from the standard range battery packs. This strategic decision aims to reduce the barrier to purchase, allowing for increased sales without causing significant dissatisfaction among existing customers.

    Challenges in the Chinese EV Market

    Nio faced a challenging January, with its stock declining by 38%. Despite this, the company managed to deliver over 10,000 vehicles, reflecting an 18.21% increase compared to the previous year. The decline in stock prices can be attributed to intense competition in the Chinese EV market, with larger players like Tesla and BYD initiating price wars that impact the pricing power of smaller players.

    Record Deliveries and Market Conditions

    In December 2023, Nio, along with XPeng and Li Auto, reported record deliveries of nearly 88,500 units. This marked a third consecutive monthly record. However, the positive delivery results did not prevent a decline in stock prices, as investors chose to sell the news. The current market conditions, characterized by a slowdown in China’s economic recovery, have affected consumer spending on expensive electric cars.

    Future Outlook for Nio

    Nio’s challenges and opportunities in the evolving Chinese EV market are crucial for its long-term success. The company has seen a positive trend in weekly registrations, indicating efforts to sell inventories before the anticipated business hiatus during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the current market conditions and maintain a steady sales momentum.

    Nio’s upcoming update, featuring new variants with shorter ranges, showcases the company’s determination to adapt to the competitive landscape and cater to a wider range of customers. By introducing more affordable options, Nio aims to attract a larger consumer base and solidify its position in the Chinese EV market.

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  • Gaming Laptops On Sale in Europe: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 & G16

    Gaming Laptops On Sale in Europe: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 & G16

    Asus has officially launched the ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 2024 models, which were initially showcased at CES about a month ago. The German online store of Asus now lists these new gaming laptops, providing eager consumers with details about their configurations and pricing.

    ROG Zephyrus G14 2024

    The ROG Zephyrus G14 2024, the 14-inch model, is available in three different configurations:

    • Base Model: €1,899
      • Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 laptop GPU (90W)
      • 16 GB RAM
      • 512 GB SSD
    • Mid-Range Variant: €2,199
      • Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 (90W)
      • 16 GB RAM
      • 1 TB SSD
    • Top-Tier Model: €2,599
      • Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 (90W)
      • 32 GB RAM
      • 1 TB SSD

    Notably, only the mid-range model is currently available in white.

    ROG Zephyrus G14 Features

    All variants of the G14 feature:

    • AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor
    • New 14-inch ROG Nebula display in a 16:10 format
    • OLED panel with a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 pixels
    • 120 Hz refresh rate
    • USB-C port with USB 4 and Power Delivery support
    • Infrared camera for Windows facial login
    • Quad speakers
    • Wi-Fi 6E

    ROG Zephyrus G16 2024

    The larger ROG Zephyrus G16 2024 comes in five configurations:

    • Mid-Range Model: €2,499 (available in white case)
      • Core Ultra 9 185H processor
      • GeForce RTX 4060 (100W)
      • 32 GB RAM
      • 1 TB SSD
    • Highest-End Model: €4,299
      • Core Ultra 9 185H processor
      • GeForce RTX 4090 (115W)
      • 32 GB RAM
      • 2 TB SSD

    ROG Zephyrus G16 Features

    Each G16 configuration includes:

    • 16-inch, 240 Hz OLED display with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels
    • Thunderbolt 4 port (USB-C)
    • Quad speakers
    • Gaming Laptops On Sale in Europe: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 & G16
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  • OnePlus Paves the Way for the Future of Compact Phones

    OnePlus Paves the Way for the Future of Compact Phones

    There are many phones in the smartphone world and they all have different features. While phones with screens larger than 5 inches were considered gigantic until 10 years ago, we can say that phones with 5.7-inch screens are now standard. While some people adore small phones, phone makers are starting to make fewer and fewer phones with small displays. For instance, Apple released the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 Mini and then shelved the Mini iPhone with the iPhone 14 series.

    Apple’s Decision to Shelve the Mini iPhone

    Apple, known for its innovative and trend-setting smartphones, made a bold move when it released the iPhone 12 Mini. With its compact 5.4-inch display, the iPhone 12 Mini catered to those who prefer smaller phones. However, it seems that this experiment did not go as planned for Apple, as the Mini iPhone was not included in the iPhone 14 series.

    The Decline of Small Phones

    In recent years, there has been a decline in the availability of small phones in the market. Phone makers are focusing more on larger displays, as they offer a better multimedia experience and increased productivity. This shift in consumer preference has led to the discontinuation of smaller phones like the iPhone 12 Mini.

    The Standardization of 5.7-inch Screens

    While phones with screens larger than 5 inches were once considered gigantic, they have now become the standard. Phones with 5.7-inch screens are now commonplace, offering a balance between screen size and portability. This shift towards larger displays is driven by the demand for immersive content consumption and the need for larger on-screen keyboards for increased productivity.

    The Future of Phone Displays

    As phone makers continue to prioritize larger displays, it is likely that the availability of small phones will continue to decrease. This may disappoint those who prefer compact devices, but it reflects the evolving needs and preferences of the majority of smartphone users. However, there will still be niche markets for small phones, catering to those who prioritize portability and one-handed use.

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  • OPPO Reno 11F 5G Spotted on Geekbench, Available for Pre-Order in Indonesia

    OPPO Reno 11F 5G Spotted on Geekbench, Available for Pre-Order in Indonesia

    OPPO is set to launch its latest smartphone, the Reno 11F 5G, which is expected to be named the OPPO F25 in the Indian market. The device, with the model number CPH2603, was recently spotted on the Geekbench database, showcasing its performance.

    Oppo Reno 11F 5G Geekbench

    According to the Geekbench results, the Oppo Reno 11F 5G achieved a score of 897 in the single-core test and 2329 in the multi-core test, indicating a strong performance. This can be attributed to its MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset, Mali-G68 MC4 GPU, and 8GB of RAM. The smartphone will also run on the latest Android 14 operating system.

    Pre-order in Indonesia

    The Reno 11F 5G has already generated high anticipation in Indonesia, where it is available for pre-order. It comes in two attractive color options: pink and green. A recent teaser of the OPPO F25, which is a rebranded version of the Reno 11F 5G, revealed key features such as a 64MP primary camera and support for 67W SUPERVOOC fast charging.

    Promising Specifications

    While some specifications are still unknown, the Reno 11F is expected to feature a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a high 120Hz refresh rate. It will also include an in-display fingerprint scanner for security. The camera setup is expected to consist of a 64MP primary camera with an OV64B sensor, an 8MP Sony IMX355 ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. A 32MP front-facing camera is speculated. The device will be powered by a robust 5,000mAh battery and may come with an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.

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