Category: All News

January 8, 2025
Importance of the New Snapdragon X Chip for Windows Laptops
Qualcomm is making significant strides in the Windows on ARM space with its Snapdragon X series chips. The company has previously introduced its high-end X Plus and X Elite system-on-chips (SoCs), but now they’ve rolled out a new option aimed at expanding access to Windows on ARM for more consumers.
Fresh Innovations at CES 2025
At CES 2025, Qualcomm presented its latest ARM PC chip, simply called the Snapdragon X. This product is positioned as an economical choice, designed to run Windows laptops that are priced around $600. These laptops, featuring innovations like Copilot+PC, are set to compete with Intel and AMD in the budget-friendly laptop market.
Why This Matters for Budget Laptops
We believe this development is crucial for the budget Windows laptop sector. The Snapdragon X is categorized as the entry-level option in Qualcomm’s expanding lineup of processors for PCs. It joins the Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite, which are intended for more premium devices.
In contrast to its more powerful counterparts, which can have up to 12 cores and clock speeds over 3GHz, the Snapdragon X has an eight-core structure, with a peak clock speed of 3GHz and 30MB of cache. Although these specifications may not rival the raw capabilities of its higher-tier siblings, they are well-suited for the needs of average users.
Efficiency and Performance Highlights
Manufactured using a 4-nanometer process, the Snapdragon X emphasizes Qualcomm’s commitment to efficiency. The company asserts that the Snapdragon X will surpass Intel’s Core 5 120U in terms of performance-per-watt and battery life. While this isn’t Qualcomm’s first attempt to highlight energy efficiency as a key selling point, they face the challenge of convincing consumers that Windows on ARM laptops have matured enough to serve as viable options against Intel or AMD devices.
Moreover, the Snapdragon X is equipped with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that can achieve 45 TOPS (trillion operations per second).
Tags: Qualcomm, Snapdragon X, Windows on Arm
January 8, 2025
Acer Nitro Blaze 11: Unique Features of This Handheld Gaming Console
Acer has broadened its gaming handheld collection with the introduction of the Nitro Blaze 8 and Nitro Blaze 11. In September 2024, the Nitro Blaze 7 was released as a high-performance handheld gaming console. Now, the company is elevating the experience further with the Blaze 11. Let’s explore what makes the Nitro Blaze 11 different from its rivals.
Key Feature of the Nitro Blaze 11
Acer is preparing to present its newest Nitro gaming handhelds at CES 2025. Before diving into specifics, there’s one standout feature that sets the Nitro Blaze 11 apart: its display. True to its name, the Nitro Blaze 11 comes with a large 10.95-inch WQXGA screen, boasting a refresh rate of 144Hz, peak brightness of 500 nits, a 10-point touch interface, and AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution.
Larger Screen for Better Experience
With this screen size, it resembles an iPad, a device that has been a favorite among mobile gamers. Currently, many handheld gaming devices on the market have displays that are typically between 7 to 8 inches. This includes options like the Steam Deck (7.4-inch), Nintendo Switch (7-inch), and ROG Ally X (7-inch), among others. A bigger display can enhance the immersive experience, even while maintaining portability.
Tags: Acer Nitro Blaze 11, gaming handheld, WQXGA display
January 8, 2025
Samsung Unveils First MicroLED Smartwatch with 4000nits Brightness
The CES 2025 event is showcasing the newest advancements in technology from various brands, and Samsung Display is among them. The company has introduced a new MicroLED display specifically made for smartwatches, which can achieve astonishing peak brightness levels. Currently, there are no smartwatches on the market that utilize MicroLED technology.
Impressive Brightness Levels
The prototype presented by Samsung boasts a peak brightness of 4000 nits, making it 33 percent brighter than the OLED display found in the Galaxy Watch Ultra. This MicroLED prototype matches the Galaxy Watch Ultra in pixel density, which is an important achievement.
Specifications of the New Display
The MicroLED display showcased by Samsung measures 2.1 inches and has a resolution of 418 x 540 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 326ppi. In comparison, the display on the Galaxy Watch Ultra has a resolution of 480 x 480 pixels with a pixel density of 327ppi. This is a notable improvement, since previously, MicroLED screens did not compete well with OLED screens in terms of pixel density. It’s encouraging to see Samsung successfully addressing the challenges of implementing these screens in compact devices like smartwatches.
Advantages of MicroLED Technology
MicroLED displays, in theory, have a much longer lifespan compared to OLED screens, while retaining the advantages that OLED technology already provides. Like OLED screens, MicroLED displays are self-illuminating and can deliver true black, limitless contrast, and a broad viewing angle. Furthermore, MicroLED displays have faster response times, greater energy efficiency, and can operate across a wide range of temperatures without suffering from thermal damage.
Future of Smartwatches with MicroLED
As per a prior report from MICROLED-info, Samsung is currently developing a Galaxy Watch that will feature a MicroLED display, aiming for a launch in 2025. Nonetheless, Samsung isn’t the only player in the field; Garmin is also exploring the integration of MicroLED technology in its upcoming Fenix 8 series smartwatches.
Competition in the Market
Apple is also investigating MicroLED technology for its Apple Watch series. The original plan was to incorporate this display technology into the Apple Watch Ultra by 2025, but recent reports suggest that the timeline may be pushed back, with a potential market release in 2026.
Source: Link
Tags: Galaxy Watch Ultra, Samsung MicroLED, Smartwatch technology
January 8, 2025
New Casio 2100 Series Solar Bluetooth Watches Now in the US
The Casio GAB2100CD1A7 and GAB2100CD1A4 watches have recently made their debut in the United States. These timepieces were first revealed last year and started appearing in other regions, particularly Europe, where they are referred to as the GA-B2100CD-1A7 and the GA-B2100CD0-1A4.
Design Inspiration
These GAB2100CD models were created in partnership with the Charles Darwin Foundation. They draw inspiration from the Galapagos marine iguana and the Galapagos penguin, animals that the foundation aims to protect. The GAB2100CD1A4 features a striking red and black bio-based resin case and strap, while the GAB2100CD1A7 showcases a sleek white and black design.
Impressive Features
Both of these 2100 Series watches come equipped with Tough Solar charging, which allows the battery to last over seven months. With Bluetooth connectivity, users can access the Casio Watches app for features like reminders and a phone finder, alongside automatic time adjustments. Additional functionalities include support for 38 world time zones, an LED backlight, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and daily alarms.
Pricing and Availability
The Casio GAB2100CD1A7 and GAB2100CD1A4 watches are currently available for purchase at the brand’s online store in the United States for $170. This price matches the recommended retail price of other comparable models, such as the GAB2100CT-5A, which is now priced at $136 on Amazon.
Source: Link
Tags: Casio GAB2100CD, Galapagos Inspired Watches, Tough Solar Charging
January 8, 2025
LG XBOOM Speakers and Buds by will.i.am Launch Before CES 2025
LG has recently introduced two exciting items from its xboom audio product line. The new models are the xboom by will.i.am Speakers and the xboom Buds, showcasing a collaboration with the famous pop artist will.i.am.
xboom by will.i.am Speakers
Before the CES 2025 event, LG revealed the xboom by will.i.am, a fresh line of audio devices. The xboom speakers feature audio specially tuned by will.i.am and include LG’s known Xboom sound. Several models are part of this collection, like the xboom Bounce, Grab, and Stage 301, all equipped with advanced AI-driven features.
Innovative Features of the Speakers
One standout feature is AI Sound, which can analyze audio tracks and smoothly shift between sound profiles to enhance melody, rhythm, or vocals. With AI Lighting, the lights on the speakers pulse in colorful sync with the music. AI Calibration allows the speakers to detect their environment and adjust the audio accordingly. The xboom Bounce is a portable option with top-firing passive radiators, dual tweeters, a woofer, and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.
Details on the Other Models
When fully charged, it can run for up to 30 hours. The xboom Grab is a more compact version of the Bounce, designed for travel as a Bluetooth speaker. Despite its smaller size, LG included dual passive radiators for enhanced bass. It also boasts an IP67 rating, along with a military-grade body design, and can last up to 20 hours.
Lastly, the xboom Stage 301 is tailored for parties or gatherings. It features a 6.5-inch woofer and dual 2.5-inch midrange drivers. This model has IPX4 water resistance and a replaceable battery that provides up to 11 hours of usage. This speaker aligns more closely with LG’s 2023 offerings, such as the XBOOM XL7S & XL5S portable party speakers.
xboom Buds
In addition to the Bluetooth speakers, LG has also launched the xboom Buds. These are truly wireless in-ear earbuds featuring a hook design for improved fit. The xboom Buds are equipped with graphene drivers, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and support for LE Audio Auracast.
Features of the xboom Buds
The Auracast feature lets users access open audio streams in public settings and supports multi-device connectivity. After a full charge, the LG xboom Buds can deliver up to 30 hours of audio playback. For users who lead an active lifestyle, the earbuds come with an IPX4 rating for water and dust resistance.
Pricing and Availability
LG has not yet announced the pricing or availability for these new audio items. However, it’s anticipated that the hearables will launch later this year. LG plans to showcase the xboom by will.i.am series at CES 2025, which starts on January 9, 2025.
Are you a tech lover? Get the latest updates first! Join our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily dose of tech news!
Tags: LG xboom, will.i.am, xboom Buds
January 8, 2025
Galaxy A56 and A35 Support Pages Now Live; Launch Soon
Samsung is preparing to enhance its mid-range phone collection with the upcoming Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A36 models. Their support pages, listed under model numbers ‘SM-A566B/DS’ and ‘SM-A366B/DS’, are now active in France.
Launching Soon
This suggests that Samsung will soon introduce these devices in France and potentially in other markets, including the US and India. The ‘DS’ in the model number likely indicates that both phones will support dual-SIM functionality.
Anticipated Features
The support pages don’t provide extensive information, but the devices have surfaced on benchmark and certification sites, revealing important specifications. The Galaxy A56 is expected to feature a striking redesign. CAD renders that have previously surfaced indicate that the phone will sport a vertical pill-shaped rear camera layout, which stands out among recent Samsung phones and those from its rivals. On the front, a flat display is anticipated, which seems to have slightly thinner bezels compared to the Galaxy A55. Additionally, the ‘Key Island’ design can be found on the upper right side of the device.
Performance Boost
A Geekbench listing suggests that the Galaxy A56 will operate on Android 15, with One UI 7 on top. In terms of hardware, it will include the Exynos 1580 chip, which is the successor to the Exynos 1480 used in the Galaxy A55. This new chip is designed on an advanced node, featuring ARMv9 CPU cores and doubled GPU capabilities. Specifically, it is manufactured using Samsung’s third-generation 4nm EUV FinFET technology.
The CPU architecture has transitioned to a three-cluster design, incorporating one prime Cortex-A720 core (2.9GHz), three large A720 cores (2.6GHz), and four A520 cores (1.95GHz). This design represents a significant upgrade over the previous 1480 chip, which was based on ARMv8 cores. While the Galaxy A55 scored around 1150 and 3400 in Geekbench tests, the A56 has achieved scores of 1341 and 3846. Other enhancements include quicker (at least theoretically) 45W charging, an increase from the 25W available in its predecessor.
Galaxy A36 Details
Turning to the Galaxy A36, earlier reports suggest a similar camera module redesign. This model is also rumored to be slightly smaller than the previous version, featuring a 6.64-inch display, a minor decrease from the 6.6-inch screen of its predecessor. According to The Tech Outlook, this phone could leverage either Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 or the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, promising better power efficiency compared to the Exynos 1380 found in the earlier model.
In summary, consumers can look forward to a fresh design along with enhanced performance and energy efficiency in the new A series smartphones.
Tags: Galaxy A36, Galaxy A56, Samsung
January 8, 2025
Meta Ends Fact-Checking Program and Eases Content Restrictions
Meta has announced a significant overhaul of its content moderation approach for Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. The company is returning to its initial aim of promoting freer expression among users. They will be eliminating their third-party fact-checking system in the U.S. and introducing a new community notes feature, inspired by X’s model.
New Community Notes System
Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, pointed out that the existing moderation framework has resulted in too many posts being removed—estimations suggest that 10-20 percent of these removals could be errors. The revamped community notes feature will require feedback from users holding diverse perspectives before adding any extra context to posts, which is expected to reduce potential bias in the moderation process.
Changes to Content Rules
The adjustments extend beyond just fact-checking. Meta will also remove restrictions on discussions surrounding topics such as immigration and gender identity. In future, the automated moderation system will primarily focus on identifying illegal content and serious violations, including terrorism, child exploitation, drug-related posts, fraud, and scams. Less urgent issues will not be flagged unless users bring them to attention.
Relocation of Teams and Political Content
In a significant shift, Meta is relocating its Trust and Safety and Content Moderation teams from California to Texas and other locations across the nation. They are also revising how they manage civic topics, which have been limited since 2021. The platform plans to provide users with more personalized political content based on their interactions, such as clicks and reactions. These updates are anticipated to be implemented in the U.S. over the next few months.
These alterations represent the most substantial change in Meta’s policies since the initiation of the fact-checking program in 2016, and they could potentially impact how billions of individuals engage with and share content on Meta’s social media platforms.
Source: Link
Tags: Community Notes, content moderation, Meta
January 8, 2025
Philips Hue App Update Enhances Customization for Gradient Lights
A fresh update for the Philips Hue app has just been released for both iOS and Android devices. The new version, 5.33, is a small enhancement, bringing one key feature for the smart lighting system. The last update, version 5.32, was launched in mid-December and introduced better support for multiple Hue Bridges along with the addition of new All-day scenes.
Enhanced Control Over Scattered Mode
In the update notes for version 5.33, it’s clear that users gained extra control over the Scattered mode designed for gradient lights. In this mode, assorted colors are spread out randomly along the light. While users already had the option to select colors, they can now also choose how many colors are included in this gradient effect. This newfound feature can be utilized with products such as the Philips Hue Gradient Signe Table Lamp, which is currently priced at $171.81 on Amazon.
How to Access New Settings
To adjust this new setting, simply head to the card for your gradient light. From there, click on the Style icon to change the number of colors, tap on a current color to remove it, or hit the plus icon to introduce an additional color. The Philips Hue app version 5.33 is ready for download from both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
Source: Link
Tags: app update 5.33, Gradient Signe Table Lamp, Philips Hue
January 8, 2025
Alienware Unveils 27-Inch 4K 240Hz QD-OLED Gaming Monitor
Dell’s Alienware has unveiled the AW2725Q, a 27-inch 4K QD-OLED gaming monitor boasting a 240Hz refresh rate. Following in the footsteps of similar products from Asus, Samsung, and MSI, this monitor is crafted to compete within the high-end gaming display segment. Let’s take a look at its important specifications.
Alienware AW2725Q Details
The Alienware AW2725Q showcases a 26.5-inch QD-OLED screen with remarkable 4K resolution. It provides 99% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and Delta E<2 color accuracy, allowing for bright and realistic visuals. This display is designed with an infinite contrast ratio and comes with Dolby Vision HDR and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certifications, offering outstanding HDR performance for an immersive experience like no other.
Features and Performance
Additionally, the monitor includes Creator Mode, which is perfect for gamers who also produce content. This feature lets users toggle between DCI-P3 and sRGB color spaces and tweak gamma settings, providing flexibility for both work and play. The monitor usually shines at a brightness of 250 nits but can peak at an impressive 1000 nits when in HDR mode, ensuring bright highlights in a range of lighting conditions. For fluid gameplay, the AW2725Q is compatible with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, NVIDIA G-Sync, and VESA Adaptive-Sync Display 240 standards, effectively eliminating screen tearing and stuttering for a smooth gaming experience.
Durability and Design
This monitor is equipped with AI-powered burn-in prevention technology that keeps an eye on the images displayed and adjusts accordingly to reduce the chances of OLED burn-in and image retention. It also features an anti-burn-in graphite layer to boost its longevity. Alienware supports this product with a three-year warranty that covers burn-in, giving users confidence in their purchase.
Alienware’s new AW30 design language makes its debut with the AW2725Q, merging sci-fi looks with practical elements. The monitor includes 360-degree ventilation, smart cable management, and a compact base for improved desk organization. Moreover, it offers an easy-to-use On-Screen Display User Interface and full compatibility with Alienware Command Center 6.6 for personalizing settings.
Connectivity Options
On the connectivity front, the monitor features a DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.1 ports that enable 4K at 240Hz, and eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) for Dolby Atmos passthrough. However, it does not include USB-C video input but makes up for this with a USB-A hub and a USB-C port that provides 15W charging.
Tags: 4K QD-OLED Monitor, Alienware AW2725Q, Gaming Display
January 8, 2025
Motorola Launches Affordable Moto G05 Smartphone in India
Motorola has introduced its latest budget smartphone, the Moto G05, in India. This device is the direct replacement for the economical Moto G04, which is currently priced at $121 on Amazon. The Moto G05 brings notable upgrades, featuring a MediaTek Helio G81 Extreme processor, along with 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. Users can expand the storage further up to 1 TB using a microSD card.
Camera and Display Features
The Moto G05 is equipped with a 50 MP main camera on the rear, which comes with an ambient light sensor—a big improvement over the Moto G04’s 16 MP camera. For selfies and video calls, there’s an 8 MP camera on the front. Furthermore, the device showcases a 6.67-inch LCD screen that has a resolution of 1612 x 720 pixels and supports a refresh rate of 90 Hz, reaching a peak brightness of 1000 nits.
Battery and Additional Features
In the Moto G05, Motorola has included a 5,200 mAh battery, increased from the previous 5,000 mAh, which allows for 18 W wired charging. However, only a 10 W charger is included in the box, meaning users need to buy a faster charger separately. The phone is also rated IP52 for water and dust resistance. Additional features consist of a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, up to 12 GB of RAM expansion capability, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and Hi-Res audio support.
The Moto G05 comes in two color choices: Plum Red and Forest Green. It is priced at INR 6,999 (approximately $82/€78) for the single 4 GB + 64 GB variant. The smartphone will be available on Motorola’s official website, Flipkart, and other authorized retailers starting January 13.
Source: Link
Tags: affordable smartphone, Moto G05, Motorola