Category: All News

  • Windows 10 Mobile App Store appears to be quietly closed by Microsoft.

    Windows 10 Mobile App Store appears to be quietly closed by Microsoft.

    Microsoft Shuts Down Core Functionalities of Windows 10 Mobile App Store

    Microsoft has taken a significant step in phasing out its Windows 10 Mobile platform by quietly shutting down the core functionalities of its Microsoft Store app store on this platform. This closure marks the end of an era for Windows 10 Mobile and the classic generation of Windows Phone systems. The Lumia 950 series was the first to feature Windows 10 back in 2015.

    Inaccessible Homepage and Malfunctioning Pages

    Users have reported that the Windows 10 Mobile App Store's homepage is no longer accessible, and the pages designated for app downloads and updates fail to load correctly. Furthermore, the app details page is experiencing intermittent issues. This decline in functionality follows Microsoft's decision in December 2019 to end support for all Windows 10 Mobile devices, a move that coincided with the closure of the Windows Phone 8.1 store.

    App Store Functionality Termination

    Despite the termination of device support, the Microsoft Store app store remained operational for a time. Microsoft had assured users that while the operating system would not receive further updates, the app store would continue to function, with app and software support left to the discretion of developers and OEMs.

    Sideloading as an Alternative

    An important feature of Windows 10 Mobile is its support for sideloading, allowing users to install applications outside of the Microsoft Store. This capability remains a vital alternative for users, especially in light of the store's malfunction. Interestingly, some users have reported that the store resumes normal function upon installing the latest offline package, suggesting a potential workaround for accessing the store's services.

    Microsoft's Shift in Focus

    Microsoft has shifted its primary focus away from mobile platforms and is now concentrating on AI and the PC market. There have been rumors suggesting that the company is actively working on the development of Windows 12. Recently, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella made a significant statement, acknowledging that discontinuing Windows Phone was a mistake.

    Expanding Mobile Device Market

    Despite the PC market being a lucrative area for Microsoft, the mobile device market is still expanding and evolving, especially with the emergence of new products like foldable devices. Many smartphone companies joined the market relatively late but have achieved success through perseverance. While Microsoft entered the smartphone arena somewhat belatedly, it was during the early days of smartphones, and thus, missed out on this opportunity.

    Tags: , ,
  • Newly Released Anbernic RG ARC Gaming Handhelds Feature 4″ IPS Display, Android 11/Linux Compatibility, and Start at 399 yuan ($55)

    Newly Released Anbernic RG ARC Gaming Handhelds Feature 4″ IPS Display, Android 11/Linux Compatibility, and Start at 399 yuan ($55)

    Anbernic Introduces New Handheld Gaming Consoles: RG ARC-D and RG ARC-S

    Anbernic, a leading gaming device manufacturer, has recently expanded its lineup of handheld gaming consoles with the introduction of the RG ARC-D and RG ARC-S. These consoles offer gamers a highly functional and versatile gaming experience.

    Key Features of RG ARC-D and RG ARC-S

    The RG ARC-D model stands out with its dual operating system capability, supporting both Android 11 and Linux. This versatility allows users to enjoy a wide range of games and applications. The console features a 4-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 640×480 pixels, providing a clear and immersive gaming experience. The multi-touch screen enhances interactivity, making gameplay more engaging.

    Powering the RG ARC-D is the Rockchip RK3566 Quad-Core 64-bit Cortex-A55 processor, running at a main frequency of 1.8GHz. It is equipped with 2GB of LPDDR4 RAM and offers 16G TF + eMMC 32GB of internal storage. The console also supports dual TF card expansion, allowing users to expand the storage capacity up to 512GB.

    On the other hand, the RG ARC-S operates solely on Linux and features a standard screen without touch capability. It comes with 1GB LPDDR4 RAM and 16G TF of storage. Similar to the RG ARC-D, it also supports dual TF card expansion.

    Enhanced Gaming Experience

    Anbernic has prioritized the gaming experience with these handheld consoles. The button layouts are customizable, ensuring a comfortable and personalized gaming experience. The consoles support various functionalities, including HDMI casting, local multiplayer, streaming, and Bluetooth controller connections.

    To provide an immersive audio experience, both models are equipped with high-quality dual horn stereo speakers. The built-in 3500mAh Li-polymer battery offers up to 6 hours of gaming and is supported by a C2C charger.

    Classic Design and Pricing

    The design of the RG ARC-D and RG ARC-S consoles pays homage to classic gaming. The six-button layout, arranged in an arc for tactile feedback, and the round disc D-pad allow for precise control during gameplay.

    These handheld consoles were made available for pre-sale on November 9, 2023, and are expected to start shipping by November 20, 2023. The pricing for the consoles starts at 399 yuan ($55) for the RG ARC-S and 499 yuan ($69) for the RG ARC-D.

    Overall, the Anbernic RG ARC-D and RG ARC-S handheld gaming consoles offer gamers a versatile and immersive gaming experience, with their powerful specifications and customizable features. Whether playing games ported from PC or downloading compatible formats, users can enjoy a wide range of gaming options on these consoles.

    Tags: , ,
  • Reportedly, Apple is currently testing the future iPhone 16 Pro featuring a hole-punch cutout.

    Reportedly, Apple is currently testing the future iPhone 16 Pro featuring a hole-punch cutout.

    Rumors Surrounding the iPhone 16 Pro Models

    Rumors about the upcoming iPhone 16 are already making rounds, despite the iPhone 15 series being relatively new. One of the most intriguing rumors suggests that the iPhone 16 Pro models might feature a hole-punch cutout instead of the Dynamic Island.

    The Dynamic Island Design

    Introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, the Dynamic Island is a unique design element that houses the front-facing camera and Face ID sensors. While opinions about it have been mixed, there is no denying that it has sparked conversations.

    The Possibility of a Hole-Punch Cutout

    According to tipster Majin Bu, Apple is currently testing a prototype of the iPhone 16 Pro with a hole-punch cutout in place of the Dynamic Island. This change would eliminate the need for the pill-shaped cutout that has become a hallmark of recent iPhones.

    Conflicting Views on the Future of the Dynamic Island

    However, Ross Young of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) holds a different opinion. Young predicts that all four iPhone 16 models will continue to feature the Dynamic Island, with the most significant display changes being larger screens for the Pro models.

    Changes Expected in 2025

    Looking ahead to 2025, Young expects even more significant changes. He predicts that the non-Pro models will match the screen sizes of the Pro models. This means that both the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro will have a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 17 Plus and iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature a 6.9-inch screen.

    The Future of the Dynamic Island

    Young also predicts that the Dynamic Island will still be present on the non-Pro models in 2025. Additionally, he believes that the ProMotion 120Hz display, currently exclusive to the Pro models, will be used on the less expensive phones for the first time.

    Advancements in iPhone 17 Pro Series

    Looking specifically at the iPhone 17 Pro series, Young speculates that Apple will have advanced to an under-display Face ID module with a hole-punch cutout on the screen. This design change would be a significant leap forward, as it would eliminate any visible cutouts on the screen.

    It remains to be seen which rumors will come to fruition, but one thing is clear: Apple continues to innovate and experiment with its iPhone designs to provide users with the best possible experience.

    Tags: , ,
  • Microsoft changes direction, intends to launch Office 2024 as a standalone version

    Microsoft changes direction, intends to launch Office 2024 as a standalone version

    Microsoft to Release Standalone Version of Office in 2024

    Microsoft is changing its strategy by planning to launch a standalone version of its Office suite in 2024. This move comes as a surprise, considering the company's recent focus on subscription-based software. The new version, called Office 2024, is currently in development and is expected to be available in the third or fourth quarter of that year.

    Shifting Focus from Microsoft 365

    Microsoft has been placing a greater emphasis on its cloud-based service, Microsoft 365. This subscription-based service provides users with access to the latest versions of popular Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for a monthly or annual fee. However, the demand for standalone Office versions has not waned, especially among users who prefer a one-time purchase instead of ongoing subscription fees.

    Office 2024: A Surprising Announcement

    There was speculation that Office 2021 would be the last perpetual license version of the product. However, Microsoft's plans for Office 2024 clearly indicate otherwise. The existence of this upcoming standalone version was discovered within an internal preview build of Microsoft Office through the Click-to-Run (C2R) release API.

    Features and Enhancements Awaited

    While specific details about the features and enhancements in Office 2024 remain undisclosed, it is likely that this new version will incorporate some of the features currently available to Microsoft 365 subscribers. Microsoft is known for continually improving and updating its Office suite, so users can expect new and enhanced functionalities in the standalone version as well.

    Stay tuned for more updates on Office 2024 as Microsoft continues to develop and refine its latest offering.

    Tags: , ,
  • Few design changes found in teardown of 14-inch MacBook Pro with M3 chips

    Few design changes found in teardown of 14-inch MacBook Pro with M3 chips

    Apple MacBook Pro (M3, M3 Pro) Teardown: What the Inside Reveals

    A recent teardown of the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M3 chips has provided some interesting insights into the device’s construction and design. While there are no major changes to the way the M3 Pro model is constructed, there are notable differences compared to the M3 model. Let’s take a closer look at what the teardown reveals.

    Cooling System: More Power, More Fans

    One of the most significant differences between the two models is the cooling system. The M3 Pro comes equipped with two fans to cool down the chip, while the M3 model uses only one. This difference is likely due to the fact that the M3 Pro is a more powerful chip and generates more heat. Additionally, the M3 Pro also features a larger heatsink compared to the M3 model.

    Storage: Eliminating Speed Bottlenecks

    Another major difference between the two models lies in the storage. The base M3 board of the MacBook Pro has two flash storage modules, which theoretically eliminates the speed bottlenecks experienced in the M2 Air, which only had one module. This means that the M3 model should offer faster storage performance compared to its predecessor.

    Similar Design with Easy Replacements

    Despite these differences, the overall design of both models remains very similar. The insides of both the M3 and M3 Pro are mostly modular, allowing for easy replacement of most components. This modularity ensures that users can easily swap out faulty or damaged parts without much hassle.

    Some Components are Locked Down

    However, it’s worth noting that there are a few components that are locked down and cannot be easily replaced. These include the Touch ID and lid angle sensors, which are paired to the logic board. Special tools are required to replace these components, making it more challenging for users to perform repairs themselves.

    Repairability Score

    iFixit, a renowned company known for its teardowns and repairability assessments, has given the new MacBook Pro models a provisional “Repairability” score of four out of ten. This score is based on the expectation that parts and manuals will be provided via Self Service Repair channels, which would make it easier for users to repair their devices.

    In conclusion, the teardown of the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M3 chips has revealed some interesting details about the device’s construction and design. With improved cooling systems, faster storage, and a mostly modular design, these new models offer potential for easy repairs. However, users should be aware of the few components that are locked down and may require professional assistance for replacement.

    Tags: , , ,
  • Leaked Images Unveil Rear Design of Redmi K70 and K70 Pro

    Leaked Images Unveil Rear Design of Redmi K70 and K70 Pro

    Recently, there have been leaks of a schematic and mock render of the Redmi K70 series circulating for several days. Now, fresh images of the Redmi K70 and K70 Pro have surfaced on Weibo. These new images, much like the ones seen earlier, offer a look at the rear design of the Redmi K70 series.

    Redmi K70, K70 Pro design

    Rumors are rife that the upcoming Redmi K70, K70 Pro, and K70e will have the same design language. In the above image, the alleged Redmi K70 can be seen in white, sporting a triple camera unit with an LED flash. The edges of the phone have a shiny appeal, and as per reports, it will have a metallic frame.

    Redmi K70 Pro

    The above images show the black variant of the Redmi K70 Pro equipped with a 50-megapixel primary camera. The top edge of the device seems to feature a microphone, an IR blaster, and a speaker grille. On the bottom side, it features a speaker grille, a USB-C port, a microphone, and a SIM slot.

    As per other reports, the Redmi K70 and K70 Pro will be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, respectively. On the other hand, the Redmi K70e is also said to be equipped with the upcoming Dimensity 8300 chipset. Both devices will have an OLED panel with a flat design. The K70 is said to support a 1.5K resolution, whereas the Pro variant will offer a 2K resolution.

    The Redmi K70 lineup is said to come equipped with the HyperOS-based Android 14. The K70 may house a 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging, whereas the Pro variant will pack a 5,120mAh battery with 120W fast charging. On the other hand, the K70e will pack a 5,500mAh battery with 90W charging. As far as launch is concerned, the K70 lineup is expected to launch by the end of November.

    Tags: , ,
  • Leaked Render of Huawei Pocket S2 Reveals Launch Timeline; Nova 12 Series to Debut Simultaneously

    Leaked Render of Huawei Pocket S2 Reveals Launch Timeline; Nova 12 Series to Debut Simultaneously

    Huawei Pocket S2 Leaks Reveal Design and Launch Details

    Huawei, known for its innovative smartphones, is set to launch another foldable device under its Pocket series. The company has previously released two flip-style foldable phones, the P50 Pocket in December 2021 and the Pocket S in November 2022. Now, leaks have surfaced showcasing the design of the upcoming Huawei Pocket S2 and providing some insights into its features.

    Huawei Pocket S2 Design

    According to leaked renders shared by tipster Teme, the Pocket S2 is expected to maintain the design language of its predecessors. The device will feature two circular camera modules on the rear. The first module will house three cameras and an LED flash, with a camera layout reminiscent of the Honor Magic 6 series.

    The second module on the back will serve as a secondary display, showing various information such as notifications. On the right side of the device, a volume rocker can be found, and it is likely that this side will also incorporate a fingerprint sensor.

    Rumored Launch Timeframe

    Chinese leaker and tipster Teme suggests that the Huawei Pocket S2, codenamed LEM, is set to launch in December. It is speculated that the Nova 12 series, alongside the Pocket S2, will also make its debut. There are rumors that the launch event may take place in the second week of the month.

    Specifications

    Not much is known about the specifications of the Huawei Pocket S2 at this point. However, it is speculated that the device may be equipped with Huawei's upcoming Kirin 8-series chipset.

    Additionally, Huawei is also working on the Nova 12 and Nova 12 Pro smartphones for the Chinese market. The standard Nova 12 model is rumored to feature the forthcoming Kirin 830 chip, while the Pro model may come with the Kirin 9000s SoC. It is likely that the Huawei Pocket S2 and Nova 12 series will be unveiled at the same launch event.

    As the leaks continue to surface, Huawei fans and tech enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting more information about the Pocket S2 and its features. Stay tuned for further updates on this highly anticipated foldable device.

    Tags: ,
  • Ahead of its launch, the OnePlus Pad Neo receives IMDA certification.

    Ahead of its launch, the OnePlus Pad Neo receives IMDA certification.

    Oppo Pad Neo: Launching Soon in Singapore

    Oppo is gearing up to launch its latest tablet, the Oppo Pad Neo, in global markets. Last month, OnePlus introduced the OnePlus Pad Go tablet in India, and now Oppo is set to release a variant of the tablet under a different name. The tablet has recently appeared on the IMDA certification website, confirming its imminent launch in Singapore.

    IMDA Certification Reveals Oppo Pad Neo

    The Oppo Pad Neo, identified by the model number OPD2302, was spotted on the IMDA certification website by TheTechOutlook. The listing not only confirmed the tablet's arrival in Singapore but also revealed its compatibility with WiFi and Bluetooth connections. While detailed specifications are still scarce, a previous SIRIM certification hinted at the tablet's availability in a 4G variant as well.

    Expected Specifications of Oppo Pad Neo

    The Oppo Pad Neo is expected to feature an impressive 11.35-inch LCD display with a 2.4K resolution and a 7:5 aspect ratio. It is likely to come equipped with 8GB of RAM and offer storage options of 256GB, with a potential variant offering 128GB of storage. The tablet is rumored to be powered by the Helio G99 chipset and backed by a robust 8,000mAh battery that supports USB-C charging using the USB 2.0 standard.

    In terms of photography, the Oppo Pad Neo is anticipated to sport an 8MP front camera and an 8MP rear camera. It is also expected to deliver an immersive audio experience with its four speakers and Dolby Atmos support. Running on OxygenOS 13.2-based Android 13, the tablet may also include a microSD card slot for expandable storage.

    Pricing and Availability

    While pricing details and an exact launch date for the Oppo Pad Neo are yet to be announced, the IMDA certification suggests that the tablet's arrival in Singapore is imminent. Tech enthusiasts and fans of Oppo can look forward to experiencing the latest tablet offering from the brand very soon.

    In conclusion, the Oppo Pad Neo is set to make its debut in global markets, with Singapore being one of the first regions to receive the tablet. With its impressive specifications and features, the Oppo Pad Neo aims to provide users with a seamless and immersive tablet experience. Stay tuned for more updates on pricing and availability.

    Tags: ,
  • Reportedly, launch of Oppo Reno 11 series faces delay.

    Reportedly, launch of Oppo Reno 11 series faces delay.

    According to recent reports, Oppo is planning to release the Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro models specifically for the Chinese market. The launch event for the Reno 11 lineup, alongside the Honor 100 series, is expected to take place on November 23 in China. While Honor has officially confirmed its upcoming launch event, Oppo has not yet made any official announcement regarding the Reno 11 series. However, there is now speculation that the launch of the Reno 11 series may have been delayed and could potentially be pushed to December instead of the previously rumored November date.

    Delayed Launch for Oppo Reno 11 Series

    The Reno 11 series, which is highly anticipated among smartphone enthusiasts, was initially rumored to be unveiled in November. However, a new update suggests that the launch may have been postponed. While the exact reasons for the delay are unknown, it is possible that Oppo wants to ensure a flawless and successful launch for its latest flagship devices.

    New Release Date Speculation

    Although Oppo has not officially confirmed the change in launch date, industry insiders now speculate that the Reno 11 series could be unveiled in December instead. This potential delay may disappoint eager fans who were hoping to get their hands on the new smartphones sooner. However, it is important to note that these speculations are not yet confirmed and should be taken with a grain of salt until an official announcement is made by Oppo.

    What to Expect from the Reno 11 Series

    While the exact details of the Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro are still under wraps, there have been some leaks and rumors regarding their specifications. It is expected that the Reno 11 series will come equipped with powerful processors, high-resolution displays, and impressive camera capabilities, as is customary for Oppo's flagship devices. Additionally, the smartphones are likely to offer 5G connectivity, catering to the growing demand for faster and more reliable network speeds.

    Conclusion

    The launch of the Oppo Reno 11 series, initially scheduled for November, may have been delayed and could potentially take place in December instead. Although there has been no official confirmation from Oppo regarding the change in launch date, industry insiders speculate about the potential delay. Smartphone enthusiasts eagerly await the release of the Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro models, which are expected to boast impressive features and specifications. As of now, it is advisable to wait for an official announcement from Oppo to get accurate information about the launch date and specifications of the Reno 11 series.

    Tags: , ,
  • EICMA 2023: Horwin’s Project Horizon and Sustainable Electric Mobility

    EICMA 2023: Horwin’s Project Horizon and Sustainable Electric Mobility

    The Emergence of Electric Two-Wheelers at EICMA 2023

    Fusion of Austrian Design and Chinese Manufacturing Effectiveness

    A notable presence at the exhibition was Horwin, a company that merges Austrian design aesthetics with the efficient manufacturing capabilities of China. Their most recent endeavor, dubbed "Project Horizon," serves as a testament to their dedication to sustainable transportation. In partnership with renowned custom motorcycle builder, Arjan van der Boom, this project underscores a human-centric approach. Central to this initiative is Horwin’s electric scooter, the Senmenti 0, which offers a fresh perspective on conventional mobility ideologies.

    Wendsor Zhou, the founder of Horwin, elucidates, "Project Horizon is in perfect harmony with Horwin’s vision for a sustainable tomorrow." Going beyond just fabricating environmentally friendly vehicles, this endeavor strives to cultivate a mutually beneficial rapport among riders, innovators in the mobility realm, and the Horwin team. The collaborative objective is to craft practical, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing urban mobility solutions that incorporate cutting-edge technologies. This signifies a transition towards a more inclusive and community-oriented product development approach.

    The Ingenious Senmenti 0

    The bespoke Senmenti 0, anticipated to hit the market by 2024 at an estimated price of 14,900 euros, showcases Horwin’s innovative ethos. Boasting a robust electric motor and a battery unit capable of delivering up to 300 kilometers in range, this model reflects the escalating standards for electric vehicles concerning distance coverage and performance.

    Kevin Liu, co-founder of Horwin, emphasizes, "Embracing novel methodologies and technologies is imperative for sustainable progress." Through their strategy of engaging with experts and community stakeholders, the company plays a pivotal role in propelling their products forward and making a positive impact on the world. This ethos is progressively gaining significance in an age where sustainability and user experience are fundamental factors in the evolution of the mobility sector.

    Wrapping Up

    The 2023 EICMA exhibition underscored the mounting significance of electric two-wheelers in the transportation domain. Horwin’s "Project Horizon" emerged as a prime illustration of harmonizing Austrian design elements with Chinese manufacturing efficiency. Their electric scooter, the Senmenti 0, embodies a transition towards sustainable mobility solutions that prioritize user-centric design and collaborative engagement with communities. With its potent engine and impressive travel range, the Senmenti 0 epitomizes the escalating expectations for electric vehicles. Horwin’s unwavering dedication to embracing novel approaches and technologies underscores their commitment to sustainable development within the mobility sector.

    Tags: ,