Category: All News

  • Android 15 Update Bricks Pixel 6 Devices After Private Space On

    Android 15 Update Bricks Pixel 6 Devices After Private Space On

    Recent user feedback on Reddit reveals that some Pixel 6 phones are experiencing issues known as "bricking" after the Android 15 update, especially when the new "Private Space" feature is utilized. While not everyone seems to be impacted, the increasing number of affected devices points to a significant problem, and Google hasn’t made an official statement yet.

    The Problem

    According to users, the trouble occurs when the Private Space feature is activated on their Pixel 6 models. Two Reddit users, GegoByte and Homer_95, shared their stories. GegoByte reported that their phone stopped responding right after opening an app in Private Space, while Homer_95 experienced a bricking issue during normal usage, even with plenty of battery life. Both described their phones as “totally dead,” and standard troubleshooting steps, such as pressing the Power and Volume Down buttons, were unhelpful. Connecting to a computer also failed to revive the devices.

    Early theories suggested that the problem might be tied to user profiles, similar to issues seen in the Android 14 update, but the exact reason is still unknown. As more reports of bricked phones continue to surface, it appears that the problem may extend beyond just the Private Space feature.

    New Features in Android 15

    Android 15 has brought forth numerous new features designed to improve privacy and security for users. The Private Space feature is particularly notable, as it enables users to conceal important apps and data in a protected, isolated space. However, this new functionality has resulted in unforeseen complications on some Pixel 6 devices.

    In addition to Private Space, Android 15 includes Theft Detection, enhanced multitasking for foldable devices, and better smart home device integration, as per Google’s official release. While the update has been rolled out for other Pixel models without major issues, the Pixel 6 seems to be facing unique challenges. This raises concerns about specific bugs or compatibility issues with this particular model, leading affected users to be cautious and refrain from using the Private Space feature until the matter is resolved.

    With many reports surfacing about Pixel 6 devices becoming fully unresponsive, owners of this model are encouraged to take care, especially when exploring new features like Private Space. We can only hope that Google will address and fix this issue promptly.

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  • Realme GT 7 Pro: First Snapdragon 8 Elite Smartphone in India

    Realme GT 7 Pro: First Snapdragon 8 Elite Smartphone in India

    Following the announcement of the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor by Qualcomm, several brands hinted at their upcoming premium smartphones featuring this new chip. One of these brands, Realme, has announced that the Realme GT 7 Pro will be the first smartphone in India to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.

    Launch Details for Realme GT 7 Pro in India

    Realme has revealed a teaser for the GT 7 Pro on its official X account (previously known as Twitter). To remind you, the Realme GT 7 Pro is set to launch globally in November 2024, and this teaser confirms that it will also hit the Indian market around the same time. The device will be available for purchase on the Realme India official website, Amazon India, and in physical stores.

    Insights from the Teaser

    If you want more details, you can click here to check our compilation of all the rumors about the Realme GT 7 Pro. Just to give a brief summary, the Realme GT 7 Pro is expected to feature a custom Samsung AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, a peak brightness of up to 2,000 nits, and a refresh rate of 120Hz. It will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, which offers a 45 percent improvement in CPU performance compared to its predecessor. It may have a large 6,500mAh silicone carbon battery that supports 100W fast charging.

    Camera and Additional Features

    For photography, the Realme GT 7 Pro will boast a 50-megapixel Sony IMX906 main camera on the back, alongside an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 periscope telephoto camera that features 3x optical zoom. On the front, it might have a 16-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. Other significant features could include an IP68/69 rating for water and dust resistance, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), and it will run on Android 15 with Realme UI 6 as its custom skin right out of the box.

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  • Tesla Model Y 0% APR Financing No FSD Purchase Needed

    Tesla Model Y 0% APR Financing No FSD Purchase Needed

    Tesla has recently launched an incredible deal on the Model Y, presenting a 0% APR loan rate financing option that doesn’t require buyers to purchase the FSD feature.

    Monthly Payment Details

    This new offer brings the monthly payments for the Model Y RWD down to $581, with an initial payment of 8% or $3,999 for a 60-month term after applying the federal tax credit. For those considering a longer commitment, the 72-month option remains at a 0.99% APR rate, while the 84-month term is set at 2.99%.

    Best Offer Yet

    This makes the 5-year financing rate at zero percent interest the best deal Tesla has ever provided for its top-selling vehicle. However, there’s also a good offer on the Model 3 that buyers may find appealing.

    Tesla’s most affordable car is now also available with 0% APR financing, but only for the shorter 36-month term.

    Promotional Rate for Model 3

    The company is offering a 0% APR promotional rate for qualified buyers with excellent credit who order a new Model 3 starting October 21, 2024. This offer is limited to a 36-month term and requires a minimum down payment of 20% ($7,500 Federal tax credit, if applicable). The monthly payment is $27.78 for every $1,000 financed over 36 months. It’s important to note that not everyone will qualify for this promotion, which can change or end without notice, and it cannot be applied retroactively. Used vehicles and enterprise sales are not included.

    Thus, the base Model 3 RWD, which boasts an impressive 363-mile range, can now be obtained for an $899 monthly payment over three years with the same $3,999 down.

    Model Y Financing Terms

    Tesla is reserving its most favorable financing terms for the Model Y, as it remains the company’s best-selling vehicle. Plus, the anticipated Juniper facelift for the SUV seems to be coming soon. Tesla is reportedly starting trial production of the Model Y Juniper at its Gigafactory in Shanghai today, with plans to release the facelift in the next quarter, at least in China.

    This could be the reason behind the recent shift from exploring higher APR rates, zero down payments, or FSD purchase requirements to introducing a straightforward 0% financing rate for the Model Y without a specified expiration deadline.

    Given that this is among the best Model Y deals Tesla has ever made, it may lead to record quarterly shipment figures, even as the release of the Juniper refresh approaches.

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  • Nvidia and India Discuss AI Chip Development Collaboration

    Nvidia and India Discuss AI Chip Development Collaboration

    Nvidia has put forward a plan to work with India on an AI chip production project, as mentioned by The Economic Times.

    Preliminary Discussions

    Aswini Vaishnaw, India’s Electronics and IT Minister, shared with The Economic Times that discussions are "at a preliminary stage" regarding "the development of an AI chip."

    Custom Solutions for India

    Nvidia aims to tap into India’s talent for chip design to create a specialized AI chip tailored for various applications in the country. This includes potential uses in security systems and could also support Indian startups in developing their own applications.

    Earlier in March, The Register highlighted that the Indian government approved a significant fund of ₹10,300 Crore ($1.24 billion) to enhance the country’s AI infrastructure.

    New Educational Initiatives

    The initiative will also establish a new academic center named "IndiaAI Innovation Centre," which will focus on the development, training, and deployment of foundational AI models.

    If everything proceeds smoothly, Nvidia could oversee the main design of the chip, while India’s Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) would adapt and tailor it to meet local requirements. Alternatively, customization might be taken care of by private companies.

    A government official mentioned to The Economic Times, “India is the top choice due to the sheer size of the talent available in chip design, which no other country has.”

    The source further explained, "The government is currently thrashing out the details such as costing, benefits, and use cases of such a co-developed chip."

    @narendramodi on X, The Economic Times, The Register

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  • Xiaomi 15 Series Available for Pre-Order Ahead of Launch Date

    Xiaomi 15 Series Available for Pre-Order Ahead of Launch Date

    Right after the Snapdragon 8 Elite was launched, several Chinese firms began to unveil their new flagship devices that will utilize the updated 3 nm SoC. While some of these smartphones already have confirmed release dates, Xiaomi has kept a low profile. Although the company hasn’t provided specific details regarding the launch of the Xiaomi 15 series, it has commenced pre-orders for the new range in China.

    Pre-Order Details

    The pre-order page does not disclose any information about the forthcoming smartphones. It even lacks images of the devices in the Xiaomi 15 series. Nonetheless, it does outline the bonuses available for those who pre-order.

    Design Insights

    Regarding the design, a prior leak indicated that the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro are likely to resemble their forerunners quite a bit. However, it also suggested some significant modifications. For instance, the camera area on the rear is anticipated to feature a ceramic finish, with the flash module positioned outside this area.

    Pricing and Specifications

    Recently, the Xiaomi 15 Pro was reportedly seen in the hands of Wang Xiaoyan, the company’s vice president. The device appeared to share a design similar to the leaked images. Another leak suggested that the non-Pro variant would maintain a compact size like its previous model, featuring a 6.36-inch display. In contrast, the Pro model is expected to sport a 6.73-inch screen.

    In addition to these features, the Xiaomi 15 series is likely to come with a price increase. The standard version is expected to kick off at CNY 4,599 (around $646), while the Pro model is anticipated to start at CNY 5,299 (approximately $744). For comparison, the standard model of the Xiaomi 14 series launched at a starting price of CNY 3,999 (about $561), with the Pro model retailing at CNY 4,999 (around $702).

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  • Oppo Reno 13 Pro Specs Leaked: Quad-Curved Display & 3x Zoom

    Oppo Reno 13 Pro Specs Leaked: Quad-Curved Display & 3x Zoom

    Oppo is said to be developing the Reno 13 series, with recent information from the well-known leaker Digital Chat Station suggesting that the Pro version could be a significant player in the mid-range market. Although these details stem from an engineering model and may change by the time the device is launched, they give us an initial glimpse of the features that may come with the new smartphone.

    Exciting Specifications on the Horizon

    The leaks indicate that the Reno 13 Pro may come with a 6.78-inch quad-curved OLED screen boasting a 2780×1264 resolution, categorized as 1.5K. This design hints at a consistent curvature along all edges, promising a smooth viewing experience for users.

    For those who are passionate about photography, the Reno 13 Pro is anticipated to feature a 50MP periscope telephoto lens that can achieve up to 3x optical zoom, enhancing its capabilities for long-distance shots. Additionally, it might support 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, along with advanced water and dust resistance features.

    Powerful Performance Expected

    Earlier this month, Digital Chat Station also mentioned that the device would utilize MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300 chipset, which would mark it as one of the first phones to employ this powerful processor. The leak suggests that Oppo is looking to differentiate its mid-range offerings from its flagship models by omitting a metal frame in the Reno 13 Pro. It is also expected to feature magnetic wireless charging via a unique protective case.

    In terms of battery life, the Reno 13 is rumored to come with a 5,600mAh battery, while the Pro version could feature a larger 5,900mAh battery.

    Comparing with the Previous Model

    When looking back at its predecessor, the Reno 12 Pro had a 6.70-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2412×1080 and could reach peak brightness levels of up to 1600 nits. It included a triple 50MP camera configuration and was powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chipset. This device offered up to 16GB of RAM, with storage options reaching 512GB, and housed a 5,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging, all within a sleek body measuring just 7.55mm in thickness.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Dimensity 9400: Qualcomm vs MediaTek Comparison

    Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Dimensity 9400: Qualcomm vs MediaTek Comparison

    Qualcomm has just revealed the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the high-end processor set to drive the next wave of flagship smartphones. This announcement comes just weeks after MediaTek showcased its own premium Dimensity 9400 SoC. We previously put together a preliminary comparison based on rumors and leaks regarding these two processors. Now, let’s take a closer look at how the Snapdragon 8 Elite stacks up against the Dimensity 9400.

    Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Dimensity 9400: Specs Overview

    The new Dimensity 9400 from MediaTek is built around their 2nd Gen All Big Core architecture, which features the robust ARM Cortex-X925 core. These cores operate at speeds exceeding 3.62GHz, and the chip integrates three Cortex X4 cores along with four Cortex A720 cores. This setup allows the Dimensity 9400 to deliver a 35% enhancement in single-core performance and a 28% increase in multi-core performance when compared to its predecessor, the Dimensity 9300.

    It is manufactured using TSMC’s 2nd Gen 3nm technology, which provides up to 40% better power efficiency. The new chip also comes with an advanced NPU that enhances AI capabilities and includes a 12-core ARM Immortalis-G925 GPU, which boasts 40% faster ray tracing capabilities.

    Snapdragon 8 Elite’s Features

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite follows a similar path with its All Big Core architecture. It features eight cores, consisting of 2 prime cores that run at a remarkable 4.32GHz, along with 6 performance cores clocked at 3.53GHz. This new chip is also built on TSMC’s 3nm process, indicating a 45% boost in CPU performance and a 44% enhancement in power efficiency.

    Thanks to its upgraded Adreno 830 GPU, it also sees a 40% improvement in performance and power efficiency, alongside a 35% increase in ray tracing speed. Notably, the Snapdragon 8 Elite supports Unreal Engine 5.3 and its Nanite virtualized geometry system, which is a big plus for gaming enthusiasts.

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  • Anbernic RG CubeXX: Compact Handheld for Dreamcast, N64, PS1 Emulation

    Anbernic RG CubeXX: Compact Handheld for Dreamcast, N64, PS1 Emulation

    Anbernic has begun offering the RG CubeXX as a more affordable option compared to the RG Cube, which is currently priced at $196.99 on Amazon and was released in the late spring. True to form, Anbernic has made the new gaming handheld available in three color choices, known as Black, Grey, and White. Additionally, these options can be customized with one of four memory configurations.

    Performance Comparison

    In essence, the RG CubeXX is significantly less powerful than its predecessor, the RG Cube. Anbernic has fitted the RG CubeXX with the same Allwinner H700 chipset used in various devices from the RG35XX series. Moreover, it comes with 1 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, which is a standard feature in this price range.

    Gaming Capabilities

    Due to these specifications, the RG CubeXX is expected to handle games from platforms like Dreamcast, N64, and PS1, with some PSP games also playable. However, it remains uncertain whether the device’s 720p screen will impact emulation performance when compared to the 480p display found in RG35XX series devices. For context, the RG CubeXX includes a 3.95-inch IPS display that maintains a 1:1 aspect ratio.

    Pricing and Options

    At present, the starting price for Anbernic’s newest gaming handheld is $59.99, which includes a 32 GB MicroSD card in any of the three color options. It’s important to note that this price will increase to $66.99 on October 25. Furthermore, customers can opt for larger MicroSD cards of 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB at prices of $67.99, $74.99, and $89.99, respectively.

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  • Netflix Closes Southern California Game Studio

    Netflix Closes Southern California Game Studio

    Netflix’s plans to enter the AAA gaming market have apparently faced some challenges. The streaming giant has reportedly closed its Southern California studio, which was developing an action RPG for PC.

    Studio Closures and Key Departures

    The company had brought in Chacko Sonny, a former Overwatch executive producer, to lead the studio, attracting industry heavyweights like Joe Staten (known for his work on Halo and Destiny) and Rafael Grassetti (who was the art director at Sony Santa Monica studio). However, according to a report by Game File, Netflix has now shut down the studio, and the three prominent hires have left the company.

    Leadership Changes

    As per The Verge, Netflix appointed Alain Tascan as the new head of its gaming division in July, while former leader Mike Verdu transitioned to a different role. Tascan was previously the VP of game development at Epic Games.

    Recent Layoffs

    Business Insider noted that Tascan made layoffs in the gaming division just last week, with sources indicating that fewer than 35 jobs were eliminated during this process.

    Even with the studio’s closure and the likely end of the AAA project, Netflix is still dedicated to its gaming segment. The company continues to release mobile games based on popular series like “Too Hot To Handle” and “Squid Game,” among others.

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  • Griffin Cove and Nova Lake IPC: Intel to Replace E-Cores with P-Cores

    Griffin Cove and Nova Lake IPC: Intel to Replace E-Cores with P-Cores

    Intel’s CPU plans appear to be ever-changing, based on the latest leaks. So far, it’s been revealed that Intel has scrapped Beast Lake, Beast Lake Next, and has also disbanded Jim Keller’s Royal Core initiative. Moreover, there are reports suggesting that Team Blue could launch Panther Lake desktop chips to compete against AMD’s Zen 6 by 2025.

    Future Innovations

    In a recent update regarding IPC metrics for Nova Lake, Moore’s Law Is Dead indicates that Intel might be developing a groundbreaking CPU architecture set to debut in 2027 or later. The source mentions that Intel is working on Griffin Cove P-cores for a yet-to-be-named architecture expected to arrive in 2027 or beyond. These P-cores might utilize the Intel 14A-P, which is an upgrade of the Intel 14A technology anticipated to commence production in 2026.

    Design Changes Ahead

    Interestingly, MLID suggests that Intel could adopt a “Unified Core” approach for E-cores, mirroring AMD’s strategy. The upcoming CPUs based on Griffin Cove or Griffin-Next might eliminate the distinction between P and E-cores, taking inspiration from Zen 5 and Zen 5c cores. Unlike Intel’s separate P and E-cores, the Zen 5 series features similar architecture with minor changes in the Zen 5c for size reduction. Intel seems to be planning to implement a similar design for its 2027 architecture, moving away from the two distinct core types within a single CPU.

    Performance Expectations

    On the performance front, MLID speculates that the Griffin Cove P-cores could see a 10-20% IPC increase compared to Nova Lake and its Coyote Cove P-cores. However, since Griffin Cove is still quite a ways off, any talk of “IPC enhancement” should be approached with skepticism. MLID is aware of this uncertainty and cautions in their video that “anything after Nova Lake is NOT finalized”.

    In addition, MLID claims a potential IPC boost of 9 to 18% for the Coyote Cove P-cores in Nova Lake, although no numbers are provided for the Arctic Wolf E-cores. The leaker further suggests that Nova Lake might implement the refreshed Intel 18A-P process instead of the previously rumored 14A and TSMC 2 nm.

    As we move forward, it remains to be seen what Intel has planned with Nova Lake. In the meantime, we can look forward to the reviews of the Arrow Lake Core Ultra 200 CPUs, which should roll out in the coming years. The end of 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting period for gamers, especially since AMD has announced that the Ryzen 9000X3D will launch next month.

    Moore’s Law Is Dead on YouTube, Teaser image: Intel, Moore’s Law Is Dead, edited.

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