Category: All News

  • Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus: Google AI & 15.6″ OLED Display

    Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus: Google AI & 15.6″ OLED Display

    Google has introduced its latest Chromebook, the thinnest and lightest model in the Chromebook Plus line. This new device, named the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus, is equipped with various Google AI features such as Help me read, Live Translate, and more. Additionally, it has been announced that all Chromebooks will now include Gemini, Google’s AI platform.

    Specifications of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus

    The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus boasts a stylish and lightweight design, featuring a 15.6-inch OLED display with a brightness of 400 nits. It is powered by an Intel Core i3 100U processor, comes with 8GB of RAM, and offers 256GB of storage. Notably, it has a Quick Insert key for quick access to tools like text editing, adding links, and emoji searches.

    Alongside Quick Insert, the Chromebook Plus includes AI capabilities such as Help me read, which provides summaries of PDFs and articles, and Live Translate, allowing users to translate content in over 100 languages. The device also features an AI-driven Recorder app for transcriptions and improved audio and visual quality for video calls.

    New AI Features and Functionality

    With the introduction of Gemini, all Chromebooks will enable users to chat and receive assistance with tasks like trip planning and image generation. New Chromebook buyers can enjoy a complimentary three-month subscription to Google One AI Premium.

    Additional features include Welcome Recap, which gives a visual summary of recent activities, and Focus mode, designed to minimize distractions. Users can also pin essential files to their home screen for quick access.

    Battery Life and Connectivity Options

    Samsung claims that the Chromebook Plus can last up to 13 hours on a single charge. The device offers a variety of connectivity options, including a full-sized HDMI port, a micro SD card slot, two USB Type-C ports, a USB Type-A port, and a combined headphone/microphone jack. It measures 11.8mm in thickness and weighs approximately 1.17 kg.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus starts at $699 in the United States and will retail for €799 in select European markets.

    (Source: Samsung PR)


  • BenQ TK710STi 4K Laser Projector Launch in India for Rs. 3,59,000

    BenQ TK710STi 4K Laser Projector Launch in India for Rs. 3,59,000

    BenQ has introduced its newest product in home entertainment and gaming: the TK710STi 4K Smart Short Throw Laser Projector. This cutting-edge projector is tailored for those living in smaller spaces and features authentic 4K UHD resolution, HDR10 support, and an impressive brightness of 3,200 ANSI lumens. These specifications allow for breathtaking visuals, even in brightly lit rooms. Below are the details regarding the specifications, features, and price of the BenQ TK710STi.

    Specifications and Features of BenQ TK710STi

    The BenQ TK710STi 4K Smart Short Throw Laser Projector provides true 4K UHD resolution, HDR10 support, and a brightness level of 3,200 ANSI lumens. This ensures clear and vibrant images, even in well-lit conditions. Utilizing BenQ’s sophisticated laser light technology, the projector achieves an outstanding contrast ratio of 600,000:1 and covers 95% of the Rec.709 wide color gamut. This results in remarkable image depth, clarity, and color precision.

    Ideal for Gamers

    For gaming fans, the TK710STi is particularly impressive with an input lag as low as 4.16ms, making it perfect for an engaging gaming experience. It supports high frame rates like 4K at 60Hz, 1440p at 120Hz, and 1080p at 240Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay across various resolutions. Furthermore, it includes dedicated HDR game modes that are optimized for RPG and FPS games, enhancing immersion and responsiveness on a large 4K HDR screen.

    Short Throw and Smart Features

    The projector is built for compact living spaces, able to project a large 100-inch image from just 5.5 feet away. Its short throw ability is enhanced by features like 4-corner correction, 3D keystone correction, and a 1.2x zoom, making installation flexible and straightforward for different room layouts.

    Additionally, the integrated Android TV system, which includes access to Netflix, allows users to enjoy a broad selection of streaming content seamlessly. The HDR10 support, high contrast ratio, and extensive color gamut work together to create a cinematic viewing experience.

    Pricing and Availability in India

    The BenQ TK710STi is priced at Rs. 3,59,000 and is available through leading home AV integration and smart home automation partners in India. This pricing strategy makes the TK710STi an attractive option for consumers seeking a high-performance projector that combines advanced features with user-friendly installation in smaller spaces.

  • iPhone 17 Pro Features New Button Design for Enhanced Usability

    iPhone 17 Pro Features New Button Design for Enhanced Usability

    Apple has rolled out a Capture Button across all models of the iPhone 16 series, enhancing camera accessibility. This change is significant, as Apple typically reserves new features for its Pro versions for a period before they appear in the standard and Plus models. Recently, a rumor has emerged indicating that Apple is planning another button redesign for the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models.

    A New Button Design

    According to information from tipster Majin Bu, Apple intends to replace both the volume buttons and the Action button with a single new button that can serve both functions. The Capture Button introduced this year includes a sensitivity feature, allowing for various controls depending on how it’s interacted with.

    However, specific details about the new button’s capabilities are limited. Majin Bu speculates that it will act as a control for volume, ringtone, and other functions that users can currently customize with the Capture Button. While it’s possible that Apple could change its plans before the expected release in September 2025, the company has previously tested similar prototypes aimed at consolidating the volume controls. Whether the iPhone 17 lineup will incorporate these new features remains uncertain.

    Additional Features in the iPhone 17 Series

    In addition to the button changes, the iPhone 17 series is expected to include a ‘Slim’ model, which may help narrow the performance gap between the non-Pro and Pro versions. The new series could also utilize a 2nm chip if TSMC successfully brings its 2nm production line online in time. The 2nm process is projected to deliver significant enhancements in performance and power efficiency, allowing Apple to integrate more AI capabilities that operate natively.

    Furthermore, a previous rumor suggests that the non-Pro models might finally support ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate, potentially ending the standard 60Hz refresh rate that has been typical for iPhones.


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  • New Study Shows Mental Strain from Using Multiple Devices at Work

    New Study Shows Mental Strain from Using Multiple Devices at Work

    A recent study commissioned by Honor has shed light on the increasing pressure that contemporary technology exerts on professionals throughout Europe. The research involved a survey of 8,000 office workers, revealing that many individuals feel overwhelmed by the multitude of devices and notifications they encounter on a daily basis.

    Device Dependence

    On average, office workers utilize three different devices during their workday. This includes laptops, tablets, headphones, and sometimes even multiple phones. While these tools are essential for their daily tasks, they also contribute to stress; 25% of survey participants reported feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of notifications they receive. Additionally, 1 in 7 workers mentioned that they deal with over 30 notifications each day, which hampers their ability to concentrate and efficiently manage their tasks.

    Hybrid Work Challenges

    Many professionals are finding themselves transporting several devices to and from the workplace. An astonishing 67% of those surveyed indicated that hybrid working arrangements compel them to carry more technology, with commuters averaging a load of 4.1 kg in their bags—about the same weight as an air fryer. This situation raises health concerns for 12% of participants who are worried about the adverse effects of carrying so much technology around.

    Desire for Simplified Solutions

    The study also highlighted a significant demand for a more simplified tech experience. A notable 52% of respondents expressed willingness to pay extra for a single device that could replace their collection of gadgets, while 1 in 5 indicated a preference for just one device to meet all their needs. Foldable phones, such as the Honor Magic V3, seem to be an attractive option, with 1 in 7 participants believing that such devices could help streamline their lives.

    HONOR’s President of EU, Tony Ran, addressed the findings, stating that professionals are burdened by their devices both “literally and figuratively.” He pointed out that abandoning technology is not a viable solution, and innovation is essential to alleviate or lessen the mental strain. The Honor Magic V3, built to be slim and lightweight, aims to fulfill this need by providing a durable, multifunctional device that reduces the necessity for multiple gadgets.

    This study highlights the growing trend among professionals seeking simpler, more integrated technology solutions to cope with the demands of modern work life.

  • Tecno Spark 30C 5G: 5 Features to Know Before India Launch

    Tecno Spark 30C 5G: 5 Features to Know Before India Launch

    Tecno has recently introduced several Spark-branded smartphones in various regions. In India, the entry-level model Spark Go 1 was launched, while Spark 30 (4G) and Spark 30C (4G) were made available in other markets. Now, the company is set to reveal the Spark 30C 5G in India on October 8. The smartphone has been listed on the official website, providing nearly all its specifications. Below are the top five features of the Spark 30C 5G.

    Eye-catching Design

    The images released show that the Tecno Spark 30C 5G is inspired by the earlier Xiaomi 11 Lite series. The device includes a punch-hole display at the front that supports both wet and oily touches. On the back, there is a unique squircle camera module featuring a single camera along with a ring LED flash. Additionally, it has an IP54 rating, ensuring protection against dust and water. The official listing indicates that the Spark 30C 5G will be available in several colors: Azure Sky (blue), Aurora Cloud (white), and Midnight Shadow (black).

  • Vivo V40e Launch: Special Deals and Features Explained

    Vivo V40e Launch: Special Deals and Features Explained

    Vivo has introduced its new V40e smartphone in India, entering the mid-range market. The V40e is now available for purchase in the country, along with some enticing offers.

    Pricing and Launch Promotions

    The Vivo V40e is priced at Rs. 28,999 for the 8GB + 128GB version and Rs. 30,999 for the 8GB + 256GB variant. Online buyers can benefit from a flat 10% instant discount when using SBI or HDFC Bank cards, or they can receive a flat 10% exchange bonus. Furthermore, customers can take advantage of up to 6 months of no-cost EMI options.

    For offline shoppers, there are offers such as up to 10% instant cashback or a 10% upgrade bonus through V-Upgrade, along with a complimentary 10-month extended warranty. Additionally, the Vivo TWS 3e earbuds can be purchased for a reduced price of INR 1,499 as part of a bundled deal.

    Specifications of Vivo V40e

    The Vivo V40e features a 6.77-inch curved AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10 capability. It also includes an in-display fingerprint scanner for added convenience. The smartphone boasts a sleek design with a slim profile and a unique pill-shaped camera module that houses two elongated sensors.

    Camera and Performance Features

    Powering the Vivo V40e is a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. The device includes a heat dissipation system for effective cooling. A robust 5,500mAh battery with 80W fast charging capability keeps the smartphone running. It operates on Android 14 and is set to receive updates for the next three years.

    For photography, the Vivo V40e is equipped with a dual-camera system that includes a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. An Aura Light LED flash is available, allowing users to modify the color temperature in low-light settings. The front of the phone features a 50MP camera for selfies, and the camera system supports OIS + EIS, AI eraser, and AI portrait enhancement functionalities.camera system supports OIS + EIS

    Is Vivo V40e a Good Buy?

    The Vivo V40e is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone, showcasing a sleek design and powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset with 8GB of RAM. It offers dependable performance for everyday tasks, a vibrant 6.44-inch AMOLED display, impressive battery life with 80W fast charging, and a capable 64MP triple rear camera system, complemented by a 50MP front camera.

    That said, its gaming performance is somewhat average, and it may receive fewer software updates than some competitors. If you’re in the market for a stylish phone with reliable cameras for daily use, the V40e is a solid choice. However, for gaming enthusiasts, especially for demanding titles like BGMI, it could be worth looking into more powerful options within this price range.


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  • Open NotebookLM: Convert PDFs to Podcasts with Open Source

    Open NotebookLM: Convert PDFs to Podcasts with Open Source

    For those who are new to Google’s AI project, NotebookLM serves as a research assistant platform that allows users to upload documents. It utilizes Gemini 1.5 pro to prioritize notetaking when interacting with the information extracted from these documents. NotebookLM summarizes all uploaded documents in the user’s notebook and enables users to pose questions regarding the content. After processing the data, NotebookLM provides answers along with relevant citations from the uploaded files. One of its standout features is the capability to create podcasts based on the uploaded documents. The podcasts, generated by Gemini, feature AI-curated information and consist of audio discussions between two speakers about the topics found in the materials, with segments lasting between five and thirty minutes. However, some users might hesitate to upload their content to a proprietary large language model (LLM), which is where Open NotebookLM presents a different option.

    A User-Friendly Alternative

    Open NotebookLM offers a simple and user-friendly interface, constructed using various open-source and text-to-speech technologies to convert PDFs into podcasts. For PDF processing, it employs Llama 3.1, which has a character limit of 100,000. While it may not match Gemini’s capabilities, MeloTTS delivers reliable text-to-speech performance, allowing users to modify the AI’s tone to be either "fun" or "formal." Furthermore, Open NotebookLM is compatible with just over ten languages, including Spanish, French, and German among its selections. Users can currently experiment with the project on Chua’s Hugging Face page or compile it locally using the resources provided on the project’s GitHub repository.

    Accessing the Project

    Gabriel Chua can be found on both Hugging Face and GitHub, where users can explore the Open NotebookLM project further.

  • First Impressive Gaming Results for Native HarmonyOS NEXT Game

    First Impressive Gaming Results for Native HarmonyOS NEXT Game

    With the public beta of HarmonyOS NEXT set to launch on October 8th, Huawei device gamers have exciting news ahead. Tencent, a leading name in the gaming industry, has introduced native versions of its well-known games—PUBG Mobile and Honor of Kings—specifically for HarmonyOS NEXT. While these titles are still in closed beta, a Weibo user named Jerroid_Tech has shared insights on the performance of the native version of Honor of Kings.

    Impressive Performance on HarmonyOS NEXT

    The testing primarily examined how the game handles intense gameplay. Jerroid_Tech played as Sima Yi, a character known for having a broad field of view, during a challenging 15-minute 5v5 ranked match filled with team battles. The game was set to HD graphics and 1080p resolution, running on a Pura 70 Pro+ with the Kirin 9010 processor.

    Remarkably, even under these demanding conditions, the HarmonyOS NEXT version of Honor of Kings achieved a smooth average frame rate of 120.73. Jerroid_Tech noted that the game included water surface reflection effects, which typically require significant GPU resources, yet the performance remained impressive.

    Thermal and Power Consumption Insights

    In terms of temperature, the highest recorded was 48.07°C on the phone’s back, while the front reached 43.2°C. During gameplay, the game used 4.9W of power and 2.45GB of RAM. There were no indications of frame rate drops or stuttering during the test, suggesting that the phone can provide a fluid gaming experience. While a direct comparison with Android devices hasn’t been made yet, these results appear to rival flagship phones that use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. It’s worth noting that this is merely a preview version and not the final public release.

    Should You Be Excited?

    From this preliminary test, it seems that native HarmonyOS NEXT games are poised to deliver a gameplay experience comparable to high-end Android devices, even when faced with demanding tasks. This development is encouraging for the new operating system, particularly for mobile gamers using Huawei devices. However, it’s crucial to remember that this is just one test of a closed beta version.

    We will have to wait for the full rollout to assess how Honor of Kings and additional games perform on HarmonyOS NEXT across a broader spectrum of devices in real-world situations.


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  • Oppo K12 Plus Specs Leaked with Official Design Image Revealed

    Oppo K12 Plus Specs Leaked with Official Design Image Revealed

    Oppo is said to be developing a new K-series smartphone aimed at the Chinese market. The upcoming Oppo PKS110, which has recently received approval from China’s radio certification platform and was found in Geekbench’s database, is rumored to be the Oppo K12 Plus. This device has also surfaced in TENAA’s database, disclosing its full specifications.

    Specifications of the Oppo K12 Plus (Rumored)

    According to the information from TENAA, the Oppo K12 Plus is equipped with a 6.7-inch AMOLED display that offers an FHD+ resolution. While the listing does not specify it, the display is believed to support a 120Hz refresh rate. Additionally, the phone will include an in-display fingerprint sensor for enhanced security.

    The TENAA listing suggests that the Oppo K12 Plus is powered by a 2.4GHz octa-core processor. Its Geekbench entry has confirmed it to feature the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset. The device is anticipated to come in variants with 8 GB or 12 GB of RAM and storage options of 256 GB or 512 GB in China. Furthermore, it is expected to house a 6,400mAh battery (typical value) with fast charging capabilities of 80W. However, TENAA lists the rated battery capacity as 6,220mAh.

    Camera and Operating System

    For photography, the Oppo K12 Plus will include a 16-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. The rear setup boasts a 50-megapixel main camera alongside an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The smartphone is likely to operate on ColorOS 14, which is based on Android 14. In terms of dimensions, the device will measure 162.47 x 75.33 x 8.37 mm and weigh 193 grams. Although there are no images of the phone available in the TENAA database, an Oppo executive has previously shared an official image displaying the rear design of the K12 Plus, aligning it with the design of other K-series devices released earlier this year.

    Previous K-series Releases

    To remind readers, the Oppo K12 and K12x that launched in China earlier this year were later rebranded as the OnePlus Nord CE 4 and Nord CE 4 Lite for the international market. Currently, it remains uncertain if the K12 Plus will receive a different name for its global release.

  • Test Google’s Gemini Nano AI Model on Pixel 9 Devices Now

    Test Google’s Gemini Nano AI Model on Pixel 9 Devices Now

    Gemini Nano is a specialized and lightweight variant of the wider Gemini family of AI models. Although both models are part of the Gemini lineup, the Nano version focuses specifically on on-device AI functions. It aims to enhance the efficiency and privacy of conversations by processing data directly on the user’s device.

    Availability for Experimentation

    Google has launched Gemini Nano for testing on Android devices through its AI Edge SDK via AIcore. This on-device AI model is said to be optimized for tasks such as text generation and rephrasing. Following this announcement, developers will have the opportunity to explore AI capabilities without heavy reliance on cloud services. However, it is worth noting that access will be limited initially to Pixel 9 series devices.

    Use Cases and Features

    Gemini Nano excels particularly in text-centric AI applications like summarization, proofreading, and generating smart replies. The AI Edge SDK enables developers to adjust specific settings, including temperature, top-K sampling, and output length, to refine the model’s outputs. Top-K sampling is a technique in AI that restricts the number of potential next words to the top K most likely options, aiming to strike a balance between coherence and randomness. This method allows for the generation of relevant and less repetitive text while still providing variability in responses, all while reducing the need for powerful servers.

    Performance Enhancements

    In terms of performance, Gemini Nano boasts significant improvements over its predecessor. According to the company, the model’s accuracy in tasks like paraphrasing and solving math problems has risen to 90% and 23%, respectively. Google is currently providing experimental access to developers, enabling them to incorporate these features into their applications.

    Developers interested in getting started can consult the SDK’s documentation, which offers a detailed guide on implementing Gemini Nano in mobile applications.

    Android Developers Blog via @AndroidDev on X/Twitter


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