Category: All News

  • Galaxy S24 Ultra Owners Report S Pen Odor Concern

    Galaxy S24 Ultra Owners Report S Pen Odor Concern

    Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra, the latest smartphone equipped with cutting-edge features for 2024, has unexpectedly captured attention due to a peculiar problem: a strong burnt plastic smell emitted by the S Pen stylus.

    The buzz surrounding this unusual issue originated on Reddit when a user named LatifYil highlighted that the S Pen on their Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra emitted a highly unpleasant odor. The post quickly garnered numerous comments from users who also experienced the same problem.

    User Reactions

    Some users injected humor into the conversation, with one user playfully affirming, "Can confirm it’s a stinky boi." Descriptions of the smell varied, with some likening it to "burnt plastic" and others associating it with the unique scent of a "cybertruck."

    Potential Explanations

    While some users speculated that chemical coatings might be responsible for the smell, Samsung's EU community forum moderator offered a simpler explanation. The moderator explained that the S Pen's close proximity to internal components causes it to heat up when stored, resulting in a "hot plastic" smell reminiscent of a car left in the sun.

    Previous Instances

    Interestingly, this odor issue is not exclusive to the S24 Ultra model. Reports from 9to5Google indicate that earlier models like the Galaxy S23 Ultra and S22 Ultra also exhibit this characteristic smell.

    Upon investigation, it was found that even my Galaxy S22 Ultra had a faint odor from the S Pen, although not as intense as reported. Surprisingly, it was noted that the older Note S20 Ultra stylus did not have any odor, possibly due to its glossy finish in contrast to the rubberized coating found on newer models.

  • HKC Unveils High-Speed ANT253VF Gaming Monitor: 360Hz, 1ms GTG

    HKC Unveils High-Speed ANT253VF Gaming Monitor: 360Hz, 1ms GTG

    HKC has introduced a fresh gaming monitor in the ANTGAMER series, known as the ANT253VF. This monitor stands out with its rapid 360Hz refresh rate, aiming to provide an exceptionally smooth gaming experience tailored for competitive gamers. It is currently available on JD.com in China at a price of 2499 yuan (approximately $350). Let’s delve into the key specifications.

    HKC ANTGAMER ANT253VF Specifications:

    The ANT253VF showcases a 24.5-inch Fast IPS panel featuring a 1920×1080 resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio. Its IPS panel technology ensures broad viewing angles and accurate color reproduction, while the 1ms GTG response time minimizes ghosting and blurring in fast-paced gaming scenarios.

    Visual Experience and Performance:

    This gaming monitor delivers a color gamut that covers 99% of the sRGB spectrum, guaranteeing a wide array of precisely represented colors. With HDR 400 certification, it enhances brightness and contrast levels, resulting in more lifelike and vibrant images.

    Enhanced Gaming Capabilities:

    Boasting a rapid 360Hz refresh rate, the ANT253VF offers notably smoother visuals compared to conventional 60Hz or even 144Hz monitors. This can provide gamers with a competitive advantage, enabling quicker and more precise responses to in-game events.

    Advanced Features and Connectivity:

    The ANT253VF supports AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync variable refresh rate technologies, ensuring added smoothness. These technologies eradicate screen tearing and stuttering that may arise when the monitor’s refresh rate lacks synchronization with the graphics card’s frame rate.

    Versatile Connectivity and Customization:

    This gaming monitor offers versatile connectivity options, including two HDMI 2.0 ports for up to 240Hz gameplay and a DisplayPort 1.4 port enabling the full 360Hz refresh rate. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting headphones or speakers directly to the monitor for an immersive audio experience.

    Gamer-Centric Features and Adjustability:

    Equipped with a range of features tailored to gamers, such as a built-in aiming crosshair and dark field brightening mode, which can be advantageous in first-person shooter games. The monitor also provides multiple scene modes for customizing display settings based on different game genres.

    Ergonomic Design for Comfort:

    The ANT253VF comes with an ergonomic stand allowing for height adjustment, swivel, tilt, and pivot functions, ensuring a comfortable viewing position during extended gaming sessions. Recently, HKC also launched another gaming monitor sharing similar specifications.


  • Asus ExpertCenter PN65 Mini-PC: Intel Core Ultra CPUs & Up to 96GB RAM Support Now Available in China

    Asus ExpertCenter PN65 Mini-PC: Intel Core Ultra CPUs & Up to 96GB RAM Support Now Available in China

    After introducing the ExpertCenter PN65 mini-PC earlier this year at CES, Asus has now launched these devices in China. The ExpertCenter series from Asus is tailored for business applications, emphasizing reliability and security.

    Asus ExpertCenter PN65 Mini-PC: Upgraded Features and Pricing

    The ExpertCenter PN65 represents the latest addition to the ExpertCenter lineup, featuring Intel’s newest Core Ultra processors. This compact desktop is available in two versions: one equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor, priced at CNY 5,199 ($719), and another variant with the Core Ultra 7 155H processor, offered at CNY 6,199 ($857).

    Enhanced Performance and Connectivity

    The PN65 mini-PC enhancements encompass more robust processors and Intel Arc Graphics, enhancing its overall performance and suitability for AI-centric tasks. Moreover, it boasts an impressive memory capacity, supporting up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM.

    Versatile Connectivity Options

    On the connectivity front, the PN65 mini-PC shines with its diverse array of ports, including USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, COM, and VGA. Furthermore, it has the capability to link up to four 4K displays simultaneously at 60Hz.


    Asus ExpertCenter PN65 Mini-PC: Intel Core Ultra CPUs & Up to 96GB RAM Support Now Available in China
  • ASUS Teases BE88U Dual Band WiFi 7 Router Launch on March 27

    ASUS Teases BE88U Dual Band WiFi 7 Router Launch on March 27

    Along with introducing the Intel Core Ultra powered ExpertCenter PN65 mini-PC, ASUS is gearing up to release a new dual-band WiFi router labeled RT-BE88U, set for launch in China on March 27. ASUS has integrated AI capabilities into this product line, branding the router as "ASUS AI routing."

    FCC Certification and Specifications

    The router, having secured FCC certification, has had its quick start guide leaked, unveiling details about the device before its official debut. Featuring WiFi 7, the device boasts speeds of 1376Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 5765Mbps on the 5GHz band.

    Ports and Connectivity

    Detailed in the guide is an overview of the I/O ports, showcasing support for a 10G WAN/LAN port and 10G SFP+ electrical port, a 2.5G WAN/LAN port, 3 x 2.5G LAN ports, and 4 x Gigabit LAN ports. Additionally, the router includes a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port with 4K QAM support, MLO (Multi-Link Operation), a DCIN port, a WPS port, and a reset button.

    This device operates on a 2.6GHz quad-core processor, with 256GB flash memory and 2GB DDR4 memory. Noteworthy is its compatibility with up to 34GB WAN/LAN bandwidth.

    Special Features

    Reportedly, the router incorporates ASUS's RangeBoost+ technology and several AI functionalities, including enhanced network protection with AI, AI sense acceleration, AI WAN port detection, and game acceleration. The AI sense acceleration feature enables packet identification for optimized data packet processing.

  • LG’s Latest 1080p Monitor: 100Hz, IPS, Full HD for 629 Yuan

    LG’s Latest 1080p Monitor: 100Hz, IPS, Full HD for 629 Yuan

    LG has introduced a new monitor aimed at cost-conscious users who value high refresh rates. This new model, the 24.5-inch 25MS500, has been released on JD.com with an initial price of 629 yuan (approximately 87 USD) and features a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution along with an impressive 100Hz refresh rate.

    Specifications and Features

    The monitor’s key specifications include a brightness of 250 nits and a 5ms response time, making it a compelling choice for both gamers and general users. The 100Hz refresh rate enhances visual smoothness and reduces motion blur, especially beneficial during fast-paced gaming sessions or while browsing through content.

    Display Quality and Performance

    Apart from the core resolution and refresh rate, the 25MS500 offers a brightness of 250 nits, a 1000:1 contrast ratio, and a 5ms response time (GtG). These features ensure satisfactory image quality and performance for everyday activities and multimedia consumption. With an IPS panel, the monitor provides wide viewing angles and good color reproduction, covering around 72% of the NTSC color gamut, suitable for most day-to-day applications.

    Functionality and Connectivity

    Prioritizing functionality, the 25MS500 includes a tilt-adjustable stand for ergonomic positioning and is equipped with two HDMI 1.4 ports for connecting to your PC or other devices. Additionally, it features a 3.5mm headphone jack for convenient headphone connectivity.

    For individuals in search of a high-refresh rate monitor without unnecessary extras at an affordable price, the LG 25MS500 emerges as a dependable choice. While it may not cater to professional content creators due to its basic color gamut coverage, it offers an excellent feature set for casual users and budget-conscious gamers.


    LG's Latest 1080p Monitor: 100Hz, IPS, Full HD for 629 Yuan
  • Steve Jobs’ Signed Business Card Sells for $181,183 at Auction

    Steve Jobs’ Signed Business Card Sells for $181,183 at Auction

    A piece of Apple history recently sold for an impressive sum. At RR Auctions on March 24th, a business card signed by Steve Jobs was purchased for a remarkable $181,183 (approximately 1.312 million yuan). This particular card, believed to date back to around 1983, was described as "ultra-rare" and in excellent condition, fetching a value 14 times higher than an unsigned Apple business card sold at the same auction house previously.

    Rarity and Condition

    The business card, one of just five certified Steve Jobs business cards known to exist, displays minor signs of age such as fading, a slight stain on the front, and faint tape marks on the back. Despite these imperfections, its exceptional state considering its age was a significant factor in determining its worth. The authentication of signed memorabilia adds to its allure, with this card holding a "Gem Mint Level 10" rating from the reputable Professional Sports Memorabilia Authentication Agency (PSA).

    Insight into Apple's Past

    This artifact provides a glimpse into a pivotal period at Apple, signed during Steve Jobs' chairmanship of the board and predating the launch of the groundbreaking Macintosh computer. At the time, Apple's flagship product was the Apple Lisa, the first commercial PC to feature a graphical user interface (GUI), which was more advanced than the Macintosh but faced challenges in the market.

    Rarity and Future Prospects

    According to RR Auction House, only five Steve Jobs business cards have successfully undergone PSA/DNA authentication. The signature on this card is described as "neatly positioned and very clear." As the auction scene continues to evolve, it's only a matter of time before another significant piece of Apple's history emerges, potentially setting new records. The anticipation for what the future holds in store for such unique artifacts remains high.

  • LG 27UQ850V Monitor: 4K IPS Panel, 90W USB-C Power Delivery Released in China

    LG 27UQ850V Monitor: 4K IPS Panel, 90W USB-C Power Delivery Released in China

    LG introduced its UltraFine 27UQ850V monitor to the Chinese market in December last year, and it is now accessible on JD.com starting at 2799 yuan (approximately $392). Let’s delve into the essential specifications of this monitor.

    LG UltraFine 27UQ850V Specifications:

    The monitor boasts a 27-inch IPS Black 10-bit panel with a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160, a 60Hz refresh rate, and an impressive contrast ratio of 2000:1, ensuring rich blacks and vibrant colors.

    Visual Enhancements and Performance:

    Featuring VESA DisplayHDR 400 support and 98% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, the display guarantees true-to-life colors and deep contrast, catering ideally to professionals in creative fields like video editing and graphic design.

    Versatile Functionality:

    With a 178-degree viewing angle, 400 nits brightness for vivid visuals, and a 5ms GtG response time for seamless performance, the UltraFine 27UQ850V suits a range of activities such as gaming and video editing.

    Connectivity and Features:

    The monitor is equipped with various ports including 1 USB-C PD 90W port, 1 DP 1.4 port, 2 HDMI 2.0 ports, and 2 USB-A 3.0 ports for seamless connectivity. The USB-C PD 90W port enables simultaneous laptop connection and power supply.

    Audio and Additional Features:

    Incorporating built-in speakers with 5W x 2 output and Maxx Audio, as well as AMD FreeSync technology for smoother gaming experiences, the monitor offers an immersive audio-visual experience. It also comes with LG Screen Control software for easy customization of workspaces and monitor settings.

    Ergonomic Design:

    Measuring at 613.9 x 569.6 x 239.3 mm (with stand) and weighing 5.85kg, the LG UltraFine 27UQ850V strikes a balance between size and portability. It includes ergonomic features like height adjustment up to 110mm, tilt adjustment from -5 to 20 degrees, and a 90-degree clockwise rotation for flexible viewing angles.


  • Baseus AirGo 1 Ring Open-Ear Earphones: 360° Sound, 25hr Battery, Low Latency & Fast Charging

    Baseus AirGo 1 Ring Open-Ear Earphones: 360° Sound, 25hr Battery, Low Latency & Fast Charging

    Baseus recently introduced a novel set of clip-on earbuds named the AirGo 1 Ring, characterized by an open-ear design and an impressive overall battery life of 25 hours. These earphones are priced at 138 yuan (equivalent to approximately $20) and can be purchased on JD.com.

    Baseus AirGo 1 Ring Highlights:

    The AirGo 1 Ring stands out with its distinctive feature of "360-degree surround sound effects," made possible by 12mm dynamic drivers and spatial audio technology. This technology is intended to deliver a more lifelike and immersive listening experience for open-ear headphones.

    Innovative Design and Functionality:

    Although designed as open-ear earphones, Baseus assures that the AirGo 1 Ring employs directional audio transmission and a precise 20-degree ear angle to minimize sound leakage while preserving high-definition audio quality.

    Impressive Features and Performance:

    In terms of battery life, the AirGo 1 Ring offers up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge, with the charging case extending this duration to a total of 25 hours. The case also supports fast charging, providing 2 hours of listening time with just a 10-minute charge.

    The earbuds are incredibly lightweight at 4.5 grams each and feature a transparent, double-layer ear hook design for a secure and comfortable fit all day long.

    Moreover, the earbuds offer a range of features. They are equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 for a reliable connection and minimal power consumption. Additionally, they support Baseus Smart Dual Connect technology, enabling users to simultaneously connect to two devices, making it ideal for managing work calls and personal music listening.

    Enhanced Gaming Experience:

    Gamers will appreciate the ultra-low latency of 0.06 seconds, ensuring that audio and visuals remain perfectly synchronized during gameplay. The Baseus app enhances this experience with customizable buttons, headphone positioning adjustments, and a choice of 12 EQ sound effects.

    The earphones feature touch controls that allow users to manage music playback, handle calls, switch between sound modes, and activate their voice assistant. All gesture controls can be personalized via the Baseus app.

    Design and Connectivity:

    The Baseus AirGo 1 Ring is available in two colors: Starlight White and Star Yao Black. They weigh 42.8 grams (excluding packaging) and offer a communication range of approximately 10 meters. The charging case utilizes a Type-C interface, requiring around 1.5 hours for a full charge.


  • Samsung Galaxy smartphones set to receive Android 15 with One UI 7 update

    Samsung Galaxy smartphones set to receive Android 15 with One UI 7 update

    With Google's initial developer preview of Android 15 out, Samsung Galaxy device users may be wondering about the possibility of receiving the update. While an official list is not yet released, we can anticipate which devices might be eligible.

    Android 15 Update Expectations

    Google is anticipated to finalize Android 15 by around July 2024. Following this, Samsung will incorporate its upcoming One UI 7 into the latest Android version, which could take a few extra months. Consequently, there is a considerable waiting period before Galaxy devices begin to receive the software update.

    Potential Galaxy Devices for Android 15

    While an exact list isn't available, Samsung has provided update durations for most of its devices. Based on this information, we can speculate on which Samsung devices could receive the Android 15-based One UI 7 updates. SamMobile has compiled a list of potential devices that might be eligible for the update:

    Galaxy S Series

    • Galaxy S24 Ultra
    • Galaxy S24+
    • Galaxy S24
    • Galaxy S23 Ultra
    • Galaxy S23+
    • Galaxy S23
    • Galaxy S23 FE
    • Galaxy S22 Ultra
    • Galaxy S22+
    • Galaxy S22
    • Galaxy S21 FE
    • Galaxy S21 Ultra
    • Galaxy S21+
    • Galaxy S21

    Galaxy Z Series

    • Galaxy Z Fold 6
    • Galaxy Z Fold 5
    • Galaxy Z Flip 6
    • Galaxy Z Flip 5
    • Galaxy Z Fold 4
    • Galaxy Z Flip 4
    • Galaxy Z Fold 3
    • Galaxy Z Flip 3

    Galaxy A Series

    • Galaxy A73
    • Galaxy A72
    • Galaxy A54
    • Galaxy A53
    • Galaxy A34
    • Galaxy A33
    • Galaxy A25
    • Galaxy A24
    • Galaxy A23
    • Galaxy A15 (LTE+5G)
    • Galaxy A14 (LTE+5G)

    Galaxy Tab Series

    • Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
    • Galaxy Tab S9 FE
    • Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra (Wi-Fi/5G)
    • Galaxy Tab S9+ (Wi-Fi/5G)
    • Galaxy Tab S9 (Wi-Fi/5G)
    • Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (Wi-Fi/5G)
    • Galaxy Tab S8+ (Wi-Fi/5G)
    • Galaxy Tab S8 (Wi-Fi/5G)

    Galaxy F Series

    • Galaxy F54
    • Galaxy F34
    • Galaxy F15

    Galaxy M Series

    • Galaxy M54
    • Galaxy M34
    • Galaxy M53
    • Galaxy M33
    • Galaxy M15

    The above list is based on current information and may change upon Samsung's official announcement, expected around August or September 2024. Stay tuned for updates as they become available.

  • Vivo X Fold 3 Series: Specs, Camera, Pricing & More – Roundup

    Vivo X Fold 3 Series: Specs, Camera, Pricing & More – Roundup

    On March 26, Vivo is set to host a launch event in China where they will introduce several new products including the Vivo TWS 4 and the Pad 3 Pro. However, the spotlight will be on Vivo’s latest foldable smartphone, the Vivo X Fold 3 series. This series will include a standard model and a Pro model, each with distinctive features and specifications.

    Design and Display

    The upcoming Vivo X Fold 3 series maintains a similar visual design to its predecessors but introduces the "Armor Feather" body structure, making it exceptionally durable with the world’s first foldable SGS five-star anti-drop certification. The hinge has also been upgraded for longevity and reduced creasing on the foldable display.

    The X Fold 3 Pro, when folded, will measure 11.2mm and 5.2mm when unfolded, weighing 236 grams. In comparison, the standard model weighs 219 grams, lighter than the iPhone 15 Pro Max, and measures approximately 4.65mm when unfolded.

    Leaks suggest both models will sport an 8.03-inch foldable OLED panel and a 6.53-inch OLED cover display. These displays will offer high resolutions and advanced features such as ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanners, 120Hz refresh rates, and a peak brightness of 3000nits.

    Performance

    The Pro model is confirmed to feature a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, while leaks suggest the standard model might debut with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. Both models will include LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, and up to 16GB of RAM. The Pro model will offer storage options of 512GB and 1TB, running on Android 14-based OriginOS 4. Battery-wise, the standard model is expected to house a 5,600mAh or 5,700mAh battery with 80W fast charging, while the Pro model will feature a 5,800mAh battery supporting fast wired and wireless charging.

    In terms of performance benchmarks, the Vivo X Fold 3 and X Fold 3 Pro have shown impressive results on tests like Geekbench and AnTuTu, indicating powerful processing capabilities.

    Camera

    The X Fold 3 Pro is rumored to include a high-quality primary camera setup with advanced features like optical zoom and telephoto macro photography. On the other hand, the standard model is expected to have a solid camera configuration with capabilities for great photography and videography.

    Pricing

    While the pricing details for the standard model are not yet available, leaked information suggests that the Pro model will be offered in two variants with different storage options, priced at 13,999 Yuan ($1,945) and 14,999 Yuan ($2,085) respectively.