Category: All News

  • Leaked: Expect improved display and higher RAM in Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus

    Leaked: Expect improved display and higher RAM in Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus

    Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus: A Promising Upgrade

    For years, the Galaxy S Plus phones from Samsung have been considered the weakest link in the lineup. These devices typically only offered a larger screen and a bigger battery compared to the baseline Galaxy S handset. However, it seems that Samsung is set to break this trend with the upcoming Galaxy S24 Plus, as new details about its improvements have emerged.

    Display Upgrade and More

    Renowned leaker Ice Universe was the first to reveal the changes coming to the Galaxy S24 Plus, and now he has shared additional details. One of the most notable upgrades will be the device's display. It is said to feature a 2K display, which was already disclosed earlier. Today, Ice Universe adds that the QHD+ screen will utilize Samsung Display's high-end M13 panel.

    Slim Design and Increased RAM

    In addition to the display upgrade, Ice Universe mentions that the Galaxy S24 Plus will have a slim profile, measuring just 7.7mm in thickness. This sleek design will contribute to the device's overall aesthetics and user experience. Furthermore, the upcoming smartphone will come equipped with a generous 12GB of RAM. This is a significant improvement considering that the Galaxy S models have been limited to 8GB of RAM in most markets since 2019.

    Competition and Potential Drawbacks

    While the Galaxy S24 Plus is expected to be better than its predecessors, it may still fall short compared to its competitors in the same price segment. Chinese smartphone brands offer devices with "Ultra" level features within a similar price range. However, Samsung's offering is still expected to be a notable upgrade for Galaxy S series fans.

    However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. The battery life and thermal performance of the Galaxy S24 Plus remain uncertain. This is because the device is rumored to be powered by the Exynos 2400 chip in most regions. In comparison, the Galaxy S23 Plus features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy in all markets, which enables it to run cooler and offer excellent endurance.

    Conclusion

    The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus holds promise as a significant upgrade over its predecessors. With a 2K display utilizing Samsung Display's high-end M13 panel, a slim design, and an increased RAM capacity of 12GB, it aims to deliver an enhanced user experience. While it may face tough competition from Chinese rivals offering "Ultra" level features, Samsung's offering is expected to be a step in the right direction for the Galaxy S series. However, the device's battery life and thermal performance remain a question mark, as it is rumored to be powered by the Exynos 2400 chip in most regions. Only time will tell how well the Galaxy S24 Plus will perform in these areas.

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  • Enhanced Cooling and Performance Unveiled in Steam Deck OLED Teardown

    Enhanced Cooling and Performance Unveiled in Steam Deck OLED Teardown

    Valve has surprised the gaming and tech community with the global release of the Steam Deck OLED. The standout feature of this new version is the slightly larger 90Hz OLED screen, which is an upgrade from the previous 7" LCD display. With a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, gamers can expect a more vibrant gaming experience.

    YouTuber Dave2D wasted no time in getting his hands on the Steam Deck OLED and providing a comprehensive rundown of its improvements over the older model.

    Improved Performance and Cooling

    Taking a closer look at the details, the Steam Deck OLED boasts a new 6nm processor, an enhanced battery, and an improved cooling system, all of which contribute to noticeable improvements in performance. During testing, it was found that the Steam Deck OLED runs about 2 decibels quieter and 5 degrees cooler under load compared to its predecessor.

    Valve has opted to stick with a single copper heatpipe for the chip's 15-watt maximum TDP (thermal design power). In addition, there is a slightly larger and quieter fan to improve air circulation. While the 6nm "Sephiroth" SoC (system-on-a-chip) has a new name, it shows minimal differences from the older 7nm version.

    Extended Battery Life

    The larger battery in the Steam Deck OLED has more than just aesthetic value. It significantly extends the battery life across all tested games, particularly in demanding titles. For example, in games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Control, the OLED model lasts over 20 minutes longer under load, requiring a recharge after just over two hours. On the other hand, less demanding titles like Dead Cells see a runtime boost to eight hours, which is an hour and a half more than the previous model.

    Overall, the Steam Deck OLED offers an impressive upgrade with its larger OLED screen, improved performance, and extended battery life. Gamers can expect a more immersive experience with vibrant visuals, quieter operation, and longer gaming sessions. With Valve's continued commitment to refining their handheld gaming device, the Steam Deck OLED is undoubtedly a top contender for portable gaming enthusiasts.

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  • China Witnesses Launch of Vivo Watch 3 Featuring BlueOS and Extended 16-Day Battery Life

    China Witnesses Launch of Vivo Watch 3 Featuring BlueOS and Extended 16-Day Battery Life

    The Vivo Watch 3: A New Smartwatch with Upgrades

    Vivo has recently unveiled its latest smartwatch, the Vivo Watch 3, alongside the launch of its flagship X100 series smartphones. Serving as the successor to the Watch 2, which made its debut back in 2021, the Vivo Watch 3 comes with several significant upgrades over its predecessor.

    A Sleek Design and Display

    One of the standout features of the Vivo Watch 3 is its slimmer form factor compared to its predecessor. The smartwatch sports a stainless steel rotating crown on the top and a physical button at the bottom right side of the device for easy navigation and access to various functions. It boasts a 3D curved glass on top of its 1.43-inch circular screen, offering a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and an AOD (Always-On Display) mode. Additionally, the Vivo Watch 3 is water-resistant up to 5 meters.

    Health and Fitness Tracking

    The Vivo Watch 3 is equipped with a range of health and fitness tracking features. It includes a heart-rate monitor and an SpO2 sensor, which can detect abnormal fluctuations and alert the user. The smartwatch is also capable of tracking sleep patterns, monitoring stress levels, and even keeping track of menstrual cycles for women. Additionally, it can detect high noise levels for hearing protection. With support for over 100 workout modes and customized exercise plans, the Vivo Watch 3 aims to cater to various fitness needs.

    BlueOS Operating System and Other Features

    Running on Vivo’s proprietary BlueOS operating system, which is based on the Rust programming language, the Vivo Watch 3 offers a range of features. These include NFC car keys, camera control, and more. The smartwatch can also store cards, allowing users to make payments by simply raising their wrist to display a QR code. With eSIM support, the Vivo Watch 3 enables hands-free voice calling. It also comes with 64MB RAM and 4GB of native storage for music storage and can connect to TWS earbuds. The device is powered by a 505mAh battery, claiming a battery life of up to 16 days on a single charge.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Vivo Watch 3 is available in a variety of colors, including Chen Yehei, Moonlight White, Starlight, and Bright Moon. The eSIM version with a leather strap starts at CNY 1,399 ($191), while the version with a soft rubber strap is priced at CNY 1,299 ($178). The Bluetooth version, with the same strap options, is priced at CNY 1,199 ($164) and CNY 1,099 ($150).

    In conclusion, the Vivo Watch 3 offers a sleek design, a range of health and fitness tracking features, and an array of functionalities powered by the BlueOS operating system. With its competitive pricing and impressive specifications, the Vivo Watch 3 aims to be a notable contender in the smartwatch market.

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  • iOS 17.2 to Introduce Sideloading Feature on iPhone, Announces Apple

    iOS 17.2 to Introduce Sideloading Feature on iPhone, Announces Apple

    Apple Relents on Sideloading APKs on iPhone Following EU Ruling

    Apple, known for its strict regulations and oversight, is now facing a new challenge to its App Store monopoly. In a European Union ruling, Apple has been forced to implement new rules that will allow iPhone users to install APKs, or Android Package Kit files, on their devices. This move comes after Apple switched from the Lightning port to the USB-C port in its iPhone 15 series, following another EU decision last year.

    Opening Up New Possibilities for iPhone Users

    For Android users, installing applications outside of the Google Play Store using APK files is a common practice. However, iPhone users have been limited to Apple's rules and the App Store as their only source for apps. But with the new ruling, the ability to install APKs on the iPhone will soon become a reality.

    It's important to note that when we refer to "installing APK on the iPhone," we are using familiar terminology. APK files are specific to the Android platform, while the iOS equivalent is IPA, or iOS App Store Package files. Both file types contain the application's code, images, and resources.

    The Digital Markets Act and Sideloading

    The European Union's Digital Markets Act, which came into effect on November 1, 2022, allows Apple users to sideload applications on their iPhones. Sideloading refers to the installation of applications outside of the official app store. While the law is already in effect, Apple has requested additional time to implement the feature, citing system readiness. The EU has granted this request, with the condition that the feature be introduced no later than the iOS 17.2 update in 2024.

    Apple's Dilemma and Concerns

    Apple has the option to not comply with the EU rules but doing so could result in penalties amounting to 20% of its global revenue and even a ban on sales in Europe. Therefore, the tech giant has no choice but to adhere to the ruling. However, Apple has expressed concerns about sideloading.

    One of the main concerns for Apple is the potential disruption to the App Store economy. The company may argue that sideloading could lead to security vulnerabilities, as iPhones are currently considered more secure than Android devices due to their closed-system design. Allowing users to install apps from external sources could potentially change this.

    Another aspect is the financial impact on Apple. The company currently takes a 15% to 30% commission from the earnings of all applications on the App Store. This commission, known as the "Apple Tax," contributes to Apple's revenue. If app developers can bypass the App Store and avoid this commission, it could have significant financial implications for Apple. However, opening the door to pirated installations could also pose challenges for app developers.

    The Future of Apple and App Store Developers

    The future implications of the EU ruling on Apple and App Store developers remain uncertain. While the ability to install APKs on the iPhone is a positive development for users, it raises questions about the potential consequences for app developers and the overall App Store ecosystem. As Apple works towards implementing the new rules, the tech giant will need to find a balance between user freedom and maintaining the security and stability of its platform.

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  • Warzone cheaters face gravitational consequences in Call of Duty’s latest approach

    Warzone cheaters face gravitational consequences in Call of Duty’s latest approach

    Cheaters in Call of Duty: Warzone Will Now "Splat" on Impact

    Call of Duty: Warzone, like many other multiplayer games, has been plagued by cheaters and hackers. Activision, the company behind the popular game, has come up with a creative solution to deal with these pesky individuals – a feature called "Splat".

    A New Approach to Combat Cheating

    In an official blog post, Activision announced their plan to introduce the "Splat" feature in Call of Duty: Warzone. When a game starts, all players are airdropped into the battle royale map. However, if a cheater is detected, a special routine is triggered. Instead of being able to glide down to the ground with their parachutes, the hacker will have their parachutes cutoff, causing them to plummet to the ground and go "Splat!" upon impact.

    The developers intentionally made this feature obvious to draw attention to the hackers. They want it to be immediately clear to all players that someone is trying to disrupt the game. This is a departure from the usual approach taken by game companies, who often deal with cheaters privately by either removing them from the game or using them to collect data.

    Frustrating the Hackers

    Activision's approach goes beyond just embarrassing the hackers. Even if the game doesn't immediately catch the cheater, there is another method to deal with them after they hit the ground. The next time they try to jump, the Splat feature will be replicated, sending the hacker sky high and then dropping them back from an extreme height.

    This fun approach not only frustrates the cheaters, but it also adds an extra layer of entertainment for regular players. The Splat feature will only be activated when machine learning algorithms spot verified breaches, so false flagging should not be a concern for legitimate players.

    A Boost for Call of Duty: Warzone Players

    The introduction of the Splat feature is great news for Call of Duty: Warzone players, especially after the recent launch of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III. This feature adds an element of humor and satisfaction to the game, as cheaters will now face immediate consequences for their actions.

    In addition to this exciting update, Activision has also recently launched a PS5 bundle for Call of Duty: Warzone in the Indian market. This bundle includes the game and the highly anticipated next-gen console, giving players an enhanced gaming experience.

    Overall, the introduction of the Splat feature showcases Activision's commitment to creating a fair and enjoyable gaming environment for all Call of Duty: Warzone players. Cheaters beware – you may just find yourself going "Splat!" on impact.

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  • Global Launch of Vivo TWS Air 2 Imminent, Earbuds Receive Certification in Indonesia

    Global Launch of Vivo TWS Air 2 Imminent, Earbuds Receive Certification in Indonesia

    Vivo TWS Air 2: Global Launch Imminent

    Vivo, the Chinese tech giant, is set to launch its TWS Air 2 earbuds globally. This news comes after the earbuds were spotted on the SDPPI certification in Indonesia, indicating their imminent release outside of China. While finer details such as specifications and global pricing remain undisclosed, here's what we know so far.

    Specs and Pricing

    The Vivo TWS Air 2 earbuds were initially announced in China with a price tag of 149 Yuan (approximately 20 US Dollars). These earbuds feature a semi in-ear design and are equipped with 14.2mm audio drivers. Users can expect impressive sound quality with DeepX 3.0 stereo sound effects and 3D panoramic audio. Additionally, the earbuds boast a low latency of 55ms, ensuring a seamless audio experience.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    With Bluetooth 5.3 technology, the Vivo TWS Air 2 offers a wireless range of up to 10 meters. This allows users to enjoy their favorite audio content without being tethered to their devices. The earbuds also come with AI call noise reduction, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication during calls.

    When it comes to battery life, Vivo promises up to 30 hours of usage on a single full charge. The earbuds alone can last for 6 hours, making them ideal for extended listening sessions. Additionally, the TWS Air 2 earbuds feature a USB Type-C port for convenient charging.

    Durability and Design

    Vivo has taken durability into account with an IP54 rating for dust and water protection. This means that users can confidently use the earbuds in various environments without worrying about damage caused by dust or splashes of water. The TWS Air 2 earbuds are available in two color options: Night Blue and Morning White, catering to different style preferences.

    Conclusion

    With the Vivo TWS Air 2 earbuds set to launch globally, users can look forward to a high-quality audio experience with impressive features such as DeepX 3.0 stereo sound effects, AI call noise reduction, and a long-lasting battery. While the exact release dates and pricing for different regions are yet to be announced, Vivo's commitment to delivering exceptional audio performance is something to anticipate. Stay tuned for further updates on the global availability of the Vivo TWS Air 2 earbuds.

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  • China Sees Launch of Vivo X100 and X100 Pro Featuring Dimensity 9300 and Zeiss Cameras

    China Sees Launch of Vivo X100 and X100 Pro Featuring Dimensity 9300 and Zeiss Cameras

    Vivo Unveils X100 Series Smartphones and Smartwatch at China Event

    Vivo has recently launched its latest-generation flagship X100 series smartphones at an event in China. The lineup includes the standard and pro models, which serve as successors to last year's X90 series. Let's take a closer look at what these smartphones have to offer.

    Vivo X100, X100 Pro Specifications and Features

    Both the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro feature a sleek design with a protruding circular camera module on the rear. They boast a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with curved edges, offering a 1.5K resolution, an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. Additionally, both devices come with an in-screen fingerprint scanner and are IP68-certified dust and water-resistant.

    Impressive Camera Capabilities

    The Vivo X100 and X100 Pro are equipped with a triple rear camera setup. This setup includes a 50MP OIS-enabled main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle unit, and a 64MP (50MP on Pro) telephoto lens with 3x optical and 100x digital zoom. The super telephoto camera utilizes the ZEISS-certified Vario-APO-Sonar lens. For selfies, the smartphones offer a 32MP front-facing camera. The devices are further enhanced by Vivo's proprietary V3 imaging chip, allowing for enhanced photography capabilities and 4K video recording.

    Powerful Performance and Storage

    Under the hood, the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro are powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 9300 SoC. These smartphones are the first to feature LPDDR5T RAM technology, offering up to 16GB RAM and 1TB UFS 4 storage. The standard model is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery with support for 120W wired charging, while the pro model comes with a slightly larger 5,400mAh battery and supports 100W wired charging. The X100 Pro also offers the convenience of 50W wireless charging. Both devices run on OriginOS 4-based Android 14 out of the box.

    Connectivity and Color Options

    Connectivity options on the Vivo X100 series include a USB-C Gen 3.2 port, WiFi-7, 5G, NFC, and Bluetooth 5.3. The smartphones are available in four color options: Star Trail Blue, Sunset Orange, White Moonlight, and Cheyne Black.

    Vivo X100, X100 Pro Pricing and Availability

    The Vivo X100 and X100 Pro come in various configurations to cater to different storage and RAM needs. The pricing details are as follows:

    • Vivo X100:

      • 12GB + 256GB: CNY 3,999 (~$550)
      • 16GB + 256GB: CNY 4,299 (~$589)
      • 16GB + 512GB: CNY 4,599 (~$630)
      • 16GB + 1TB: CNY 4,999 (~$685)
      • 16GB + 1TB (LPDDR5T RAM): CNY 5,099 (~$699)

    • Vivo X100 Pro:

      • 12GB + 256GB: CNY 4,999 (~$700)
      • 16GB + 256GB: CNY 5,299 (~$726)
      • 16GB + 512GB: CNY 5,499 (~$800)
      • 16GB + 1TB: CNY 5,999 (~$822)

    The Vivo X100 series smartphones are now available for purchase in China.

    In addition to the smartphones, Vivo also unveiled a new smartwatch at the event. However, detailed information about the smartwatch, including specifications, features, pricing, and availability, has not been provided yet.

    Overall, the Vivo X100 series showcases impressive specifications, innovative camera capabilities, and powerful performance, making it a noteworthy addition to the flagship smartphone market.

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  • Self-developed satellite communication technology showcased by Honor, anticipated to be incorporated in Magic 6 series

    Self-developed satellite communication technology showcased by Honor, anticipated to be incorporated in Magic 6 series

    Honor Announces Groundbreaking Advancements in Satellite Communication Technology

    At the 2023 Digital Ecosystem Satellite Mobile Communications Industry Development Forum in China, Honor’s General Manager Li Kun made an exciting announcement. He revealed that the company has made significant advancements in its self-developed satellite communication technology.

    Addressing Major Technical Challenges

    Li Kun highlighted that Honor’s solution has successfully tackled three major technical challenges in satellite communication. These challenges include antenna size, call duration, and overall communication experience. With this breakthrough, consumers can expect a seamless satellite communication experience that offers the smallest antenna size, the most stable signal, and the most power-efficient operation.

    Integration into Honor Magic6 Series Smartphones

    Industry insider Digital Chat Station shared that Honor’s new satellite communication technology is expected to be integrated into the upcoming Honor Magic6 series smartphones. These smartphones are scheduled for release before the Spring Festival. Additionally, the Magic6 series devices will also feature Honor’s proprietary low-power calling and heat dissipation technologies, further enhancing the user experience.

    Deepening Integration of Honor’s AI Model with MagicOS

    In another exciting development, Honor CEO Zhao Ming revealed plans to deepen the integration of Honor’s AI model with MagicOS. This integration aims to enhance the overall performance and functionality of Honor devices, providing users with even more advanced features and capabilities.

    On-Device LLM Powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Chip

    Honor had previously teased its on-device LLM (Large Language Model) powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. This innovative technology processes all data stored on the device, including photos, contacts, videos, and more. By utilizing the power of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, the LLM provides users with faster and more reliable results, making their device experience even more seamless and efficient.

    Exciting Prospects for Honor’s Future

    With these recent advancements in satellite communication technology and the integration of AI and LLM capabilities, Honor is setting the stage for an exciting future. Consumers can look forward to Honor devices that offer unparalleled communication experiences, enhanced performance, and advanced features. As Honor continues to innovate and push boundaries, it solidifies its position as a leading player in the mobile communications industry.

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  • Potential updates for Apple iPad, including OLED iPad Pros and 12.9″ iPad Air

    Potential updates for Apple iPad, including OLED iPad Pros and 12.9″ iPad Air

    New iPad Air and iPad Pro Models Revealed

    According to recent reports, Apple is set to refresh its iPad lineup with new models of the iPad Air and iPad Pro. Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared more details about these upcoming devices. Here's what we know so far.

    Launch Timeline and Sizes

    The new iPad Air is expected to launch in the early part of this year. It will come in two sizes: a 12.9-inch model and a 10.9-inch model, which is a first for the iPad Air series. On the other hand, the higher-end iPad Pro model is likely to debut in the second quarter of this year.

    Display Technology

    While the iPad Pro will feature an OLED display, the iPad Air will not have the mini-LED display found on the larger Pro model. Instead, the iPad Air will incorporate an oxide backplane, which is expected to enhance its performance. It is worth noting that the Pro models will also ditch the mini-LED panels in favor of OLED screens.

    Chipsets and Upgrades

    The upcoming iPad Pros will reportedly be equipped with M3 chips and will utilize the same LTPO backplane technology as the iPhone 15 Pros. This is expected to result in improved power efficiency and display performance. As for the other iPad versions, they are likely to receive upgrades across the board. These models could be released in the second half of 2024.

    It seems that Apple is gearing up to offer a refreshed iPad lineup with exciting new features and improvements. With the introduction of OLED displays and advanced chipsets, users can expect enhanced performance and a more immersive visual experience. Stay tuned for further updates on these highly anticipated iPad Air and iPad Pro models.

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  • YouTube Faces Criminal Complaint From Privacy Consultant Over Ad Blocker Detection Scripts

    YouTube Faces Criminal Complaint From Privacy Consultant Over Ad Blocker Detection Scripts

    Privacy Consultant Files Criminal Complaint Against YouTube in Ireland

    A privacy consultant named Alexander Hanff has taken legal action against YouTube, filing a criminal complaint in Ireland over the platform's use of scripts to detect and restrict ad blockers. Hanff argues that this practice violates EU law, which mandates consent for non-necessary interactions with users' devices, and considers the scripts to be a form of spying on EU citizens.

    Violation of EU Law and Privacy Concerns

    Hanff alleges that YouTube's deployment of these scripts without users' knowledge or authorization constitutes spyware or surveillance technology. He believes that the sole purpose of these scripts is to intercept and monitor user behavior, regardless of whether ads load or are blocked by an ad blocker. Hanff's decision to pursue a criminal complaint stems from his lack of confidence in EU regulators' ability to effectively enforce the ePrivacy Directive.

    YouTube's Ad Blocker Restrictions

    YouTube recently made the decision to block ad blockers on its platform, citing the need to protect its advertising revenue. However, this move has faced significant criticism from users who argue that it infringes upon their privacy and right to control their online experience.

    In addition to the criminal complaint, Hanff has also filed a civil complaint against YouTube with the Irish Data Protection Commission. This regulatory authority is currently investigating the matter, further highlighting the seriousness of the allegations made against YouTube.

    The outcome of these legal actions remains uncertain, but they serve as a reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding online privacy and the responsibilities of tech companies. As users become increasingly aware of the ways in which their data is collected and utilized, the need for transparent and ethical practices in the digital realm becomes more evident.

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