Category: All News

  • Garmin Lily 2 Active: Stylish GPS Smartwatch with Health Features

    Garmin Lily 2 Active: Stylish GPS Smartwatch with Health Features

    Garmin has introduced its latest smartwatch, the Lily 2 Active, which combines style and wellness in a fashionable design.

    Features of the Lily 2 Active

    The Lily 2 Active showcases a sleek metal casing, a hidden touchscreen, and a comfortable silicone strap. It is available in both gold and silver, catering to those who prefer a more elegant and subtle aesthetic. Despite its compact dimensions, the watch is equipped with impressive features, including built-in GPS for accurate activity tracking and a battery life that can extend up to 9 days.

    Focus on Health and Wellness

    This smartwatch goes beyond basic step and calorie tracking. It keeps tabs on your energy levels, sleep quality (offering insights into sleep stages and breathing patterns), and stress levels. New sports applications have been added for activities such as tennis and pickleball. Additionally, it provides on-screen workouts for strength training, yoga, and HIIT, making it easier than ever to maintain fitness.

    Stay connected with smartphone notifications, contactless payment options, and quick access to the Garmin Connect app. For extra reassurance, the Lily 2 Active includes incident detection and assistance features, enabling you to share your location with emergency contacts in case of an emergency.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Lily 2 Active is priced at $299.99 and is currently available. It’s an excellent choice for individuals looking for a fashionable yet functional smartwatch that helps them stay active, healthy, and connected.

    In other news, Garmin has also launched the rugged Enduro 3 GPS smartwatch, designed for endurance athletes. It boasts an impressive 320-hour battery life with solar charging capabilities. The Enduro 3 features dynamic round-trip routing, VO2 max insights for trail running, and preloaded TopoActive maps. Notable features include a robust titanium bezel, sapphire lens, nylon band, LED flashlight, and SatIQ technology to enhance battery efficiency.

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  • Model Y Zero Down Payment Deal Continues in Q4 Without 1.99% APR

    Model Y Zero Down Payment Deal Continues in Q4 Without 1.99% APR

    Tesla appears to be gearing up for its holiday promotions for the Model Y, having quickly rolled out a new offer at the start of the fourth quarter. This new deal is essentially an extension of an existing promotion.

    New Lease Offer

    The latest offer includes a Model Y lease with no down payment required, allowing customers to drive away in a Model Y without any initial payment. While a similar zero-down deal was offered just a few weeks ago to boost third-quarter delivery numbers, this one suggests that the Model Y has secured its position as the top-selling vehicle in the US, surpassing the Toyota RAV4.

    With this current offer, buyers can lease the highly popular Model Y for $633 per month without any upfront cost, following the standard 72-month financing plan.

    Pricing Changes

    Even though this monthly payment exceeds the previous $580/month rate that included a federal tax credit during the last quarter, the increase is due to the removal of the APR financing discount. In the earlier promotion, Tesla had slightly raised the APR from a promotional rate of 1.99% to a still favorable 2.49% for most lease terms, except for those lasting 84 months.

    Now, all financing promotions for the Model Y have come to an end, and the current terms do not offer the same incentives. Whether customers opt for the zero-down lease or provide a cash payment, the APR has significantly increased to 5.29%, which is a notable rise compared to last month’s offer.

    Future Prospects

    Additionally, those who select the 84-month financing option will face an even higher APR of 6.29%, making the new offer less attractive than the one introduced earlier. Tesla is expected to announce its quarterly sales figures soon, and there remains a chance for the company to unveil financing rate discounts for the Model Y that buyers are anticipating.

    As Tesla aims to enhance its fourth-quarter numbers, it is also preparing for the upcoming launch of the Model Y Juniper refresh, which is expected to debut next quarter. This new version will feature various specifications and design updates, potentially leading to a significant upgrade cycle for the Model Y.

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  • Aescape Expands AI Massage Robots to Miami Locations

    Aescape Expands AI Massage Robots to Miami Locations

    Aescape has broadened the deployment of its AI massage therapist robots to the Kimpton EPIC Hotel in Miami. This innovative robot offers tailored body massages without needing a human therapist or operator. This expansion follows the robot’s introduction earlier this year in Equinox clubs located in New York.

    How the Robot Works

    The Aescape massage robot employs two robotic arms that are strategically positioned next to and above the massage bed to provide full body massages. A camera scans the customer’s body at 1.2 million points to accurately identify the location of muscles and body tissues. To ensure privacy during the massage, customers don Aerwear body suits that resemble yoga attire. These suits also help reduce skin friction with the robotic massager.

    Features of the Massage Experience

    Instead of using hands, the massage robot utilizes Aerpoint surfaces to perform massages. Each Aerpoint is designed with seven distinct surface shapes, all heated to 95º F (35º C) for precise pressure application during the massage. Customers can choose from a range of massage programs, and additional options will be added in the future. Sessions can be personalized from 15 to 120 minutes by modifying the intensity, pressure, and specific areas of focus. Furthermore, the ambient music, lighting, and components of the massage table, including the armrest, bolster, and headrest, can be customized. All preferences are saved for easy access during subsequent visits.

    Installation Requirements and Pricing

    The Aescape setup necessitates a room measuring 8 by 10 feet, a 120V 5A power supply, and a 2MB/s Internet connection. The rental cost for the machine is noted to be $84,000 annually, with companies potentially breaking even after two appointments or approximately $230 per day. Aescape offers a ROI calculator to help estimate the accurate cost of ownership. At Kimpton, the pricing for a 15-minute session starts at $40, while a 60-minute session begins at $140. For readers who may not have access to an Aescape AI robotic massage therapist nearby, a heated chair massager pad like the one available on Amazon can be an alternative option.

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  • Fujifilm Rumors: Full-Frame, Micro Four Thirds, or 1-Inch Sensor?

    Fujifilm Rumors: Full-Frame, Micro Four Thirds, or 1-Inch Sensor?

    When it was announced that Fujifilm is creating a new camera sensor for its future camera range, there was speculation that it could be an X-Trans-based GFX sensor intended for a fixed lens medium-format camera. However, a recent update from Fuji Rumors has clarified this uncertainty.

    New Sensor Size Speculation

    The latest information from a reliable Fujifilm insider suggests that the new sensor will be of a “sensor size never used by Fujifilm so far.” This has sparked fresh discussions among fans about the possibility of a full-frame Fujifilm camera. It’s important to note that in a 2018 interview with DPReview, Fujifilm firmly stated its intention to avoid entering the full-frame market.

    In that interview, a Fujifilm representative said, “No, never. Because we don’t have that legacy – luckily or unluckily. We don’t see any point in Fujifilm entering that market, particularly since we have good APS-C and medium format systems. If we entered full-frame [our systems] would just start cannibalizing each other. We’re happy to stay with two completely independent systems.”

    Limited Future Options

    Unless Fujifilm has changed its strategy, which appears unlikely since the company continues to prioritize the APS-C segment, the options for future Fujifilm cameras seem limited. The most logical and popular predictions suggest that the new format could be Micro Four Thirds or a 1-inch sensor. While both possibilities exist, a 1-inch sensor seems to be the more sensible choice.

    Fujifilm has justified its avoidance of the full-frame market by expressing a desire to protect its existing medium-format GFX series, and a Micro Four Thirds camera could similarly affect the APS-C lineup. The difference in surface area between a full-frame sensor and a GFX sensor is not vastly different from that between Micro Four Thirds and APS-C.

    Production Cost Considerations

    Moreover, while a Micro Four Thirds sensor could potentially reduce body size and lower production and retail costs, a 1-inch sensor would offer more significant advantages in terms of size and production expenses, making it a more likely option. Additionally, it would be distinct enough from the X-T and upcoming X-M series, minimizing the risk of competing with those models.

    It appears improbable that Fujifilm is developing anything smaller than the 1-inch sensors typically found in models like the Canon PowerShot G7X series and the Sony RX100VII (currently priced at $1,298 on Amazon). However, there is a possibility that Fujifilm could be exploring a more unique sensor, as Fuji Rumors has hinted in its report.

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  • Gigabyte Launches AI Street Fighting Arcade Tournament in Canada

    Gigabyte Launches AI Street Fighting Arcade Tournament in Canada

    Gigabyte has launched a new project that aims to make generative art more engaging, offering a unique experience that goes beyond just creating a Street Fighter-style avatar. This initiative is part of Gigabyte’s broader strategy to promote the use of AI technology, which is powered by their hardware, in both daily life and entertainment settings.

    Tournament Details

    The first VS AI Street Fighting Arcade is equipped with RTX 4080 SUPER GAMING OC 16G graphics and operates on a Z790 AORUS ELITE X WIFI7 motherboard. This arcade can be found at Canada Computers’ Markham store, located at 3828 Hwy 7, Markham, ON L3R 1L7 in Ontario.

    Visitors can enjoy the arcade experience daily and decide if they want to join the official Tournaments. These tournaments will be held on Gigabyte Brand Days, scheduled at regular intervals during the Canada Computers event on October 5, November 9, and December 7, 2024.

    Prizes Up for Grabs

    Each Tournament offers an RTX 4080 card as the grand prize, while the second prize is an Aorus FO27Q3 1440p/360Hz OLED monitor, which is currently available for $749.99 on Amazon. Additionally, premium peripheral sets will be awarded to the 3rd and 4th place finishers.

    The VS AI Street Fighting Arcade in collaboration with Canada Computers also features exciting elements such as special giveaways and promotional deals on Gigabyte products. This event will continue until December 31, 2024.

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  • Cheapest Tesla Model 3 Offers Longest Range and Tax Credit

    Cheapest Tesla Model 3 Offers Longest Range and Tax Credit

    If the basic Model 3 RWD didn’t seem to fit Tesla’s lineup in the U.S. until now, it has become even less relevant with President Biden’s new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and parts now in effect.

    New Tariffs Impacting the Market

    Earlier this year, the Biden administration announced a significant increase in tariffs on electric vehicles and their components imported from China, which took effect on September 27. The 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles marks a steep rise from the previous 25% rate, but it is mostly symbolic since there are currently no such vehicles available in the U.S. market. However, the rise in lithium cell import tariffs from 7.5% to 25% is impacting several automakers, including Tesla, as China is home to the major manufacturers of EV batteries.

    Discontinuation of the Base Model

    As a result of these changes, Tesla has decided to discontinue the base Model 3 RWD, which was previously the most affordable Tesla model. Although it was the cheapest based on MSRP, its actual pricing ended up being higher than that of the next model up, the RWD Model 3 Long Range. The basic Model 3 RWD was equipped with cost-effective iron phosphate LFP batteries produced by CATL, the largest battery manufacturer in the world. Since CATL is based in China, this model no longer qualifies for the federal tax credit.

    New Options for Buyers

    In contrast to the discontinued base RWD Model 3, the recently reintroduced Tesla Model 3 LR RWD features a battery pack that qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. This change has brought its price down from $42,490 to just $34,990, making it the new entry-level Tesla vehicle. The price gap between this and the base Model Y RWD is now only $2,500, making the Model Y an attractive choice for many buyers. Additionally, this new affordable Tesla offers an impressive range of 363 miles, providing a more balanced selection in Tesla’s offerings now that the basic RWD Model 3 is no longer available.

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  • YouTuber 3D-Prints Rideable Star Wars AT-AT Model

    YouTuber 3D-Prints Rideable Star Wars AT-AT Model

    2 meters tall, with a speed of about 0.06 km/h, and strong enough to support a human, the AT-AT replica created by James Bruton is a dream come true for Star Wars enthusiasts. The core of this project is a 3D printer, which Bruton utilized to manufacture most of the components himself. Alongside the printed pieces, the design incorporates aluminum profiles, engines, and electronic parts.

    Design Modifications

    Bruton’s version of the AT-AT does not perfectly match the original design. The robot’s knees are positioned outward, which is a departure from the film’s design but provides essential stability. The legs are powered by electric motors, which are connected via an Ethernet cable and can be controlled remotely.

    Precision Control

    To accurately track the position of the legs, Bruton has included a potentiometer in each leg. This device measures resistance and sends vital information back to the central control system about the leg’s position. This feature allows the AT-AT to maintain a specific movement pattern without losing balance.

    Project Origins

    The journey began with a small, remote-controlled AT-AT, which served as the foundation for this larger endeavor. The first YouTube video showcases the template and documents the assembly process leading up to the completion of the legs.

    In the follow-up video, Bruton, dressed as a stormtrooper, demonstrates and tests the 3D-printed AT-AT in a parking lot. If the AT-ATs from "The Empire Strikes Back" had displayed this kind of speed, the outcome for the Galactic Empire would have been quite different. Nevertheless, the robot successfully carried Bruton, marking the experiment as a triumph.

    For those interested in creating their own AT-AT, Bruton has made the CAD and code files available on GitHub for both the smaller and larger versions.

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  • Five New Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass by Mid-October

    Five New Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass by Mid-October

    Although there are no new game releases until mid-October, there are still five fresh titles across various genres. MLB The Show 24 introduces numerous features for baseball enthusiasts, but it is only playable on the Xbox Series X/S (priced at $480 on Amazon) or Xbox One through Game Pass. For those seeking a deep narrative experience, Open Roads is a great choice. Fighting game lovers will also have two new options: Sifu, a challenging single-player beat-’em-up inspired by Souls games, and Mad Streets, a lively multiplayer brawler. If you’re in the mood for something entirely different, check out Inscryption.

    MLB The Show 24 Features

    The baseball simulation game, MLB The Show 24, offers players different gameplay modes. In the Road to the Show mode, you can create your own baseball player and advance from the Minor Leagues to the Major Leagues, with the added option of creating female characters for the first time. The Storylines mode explores iconic moments in baseball history, while Franchise mode allows players to manage their own teams. The Negro Leagues Season, featuring legendary figures like Josh Gibson and Buck Leonard, has been carried over from the previous installment into MLB The Show 24.

    Open Roads Narrative Adventure

    Open Roads takes players on an emotional journey centered around the relationship between a mother and daughter. The story unfolds through the perspective of Tess, who travels with her mother, Opal, to uncover family secrets following her grandmother’s passing. They stumble upon old diaries and letters that reveal mysterious events from the past. The game emphasizes emotional storytelling and encourages players to engage in dialogue and exploration. Open Roads is visually presented in a realistic yet slightly melancholic comic book style.

    Sifu and Mad Streets for Fighting Fans

    For fans of souls-like games, Sifu offers a tough action beat ’em up experience, where players take on the role of a young kung fu fighter seeking revenge against the murderers of his family. The gameplay revolves around skill-based martial arts combat and introduces a unique aging mechanic: each time the player dies, the character ages, gaining strength but losing health points. The objective is to complete the quest for vengeance before the character becomes too old to fight.

    Mad Streets brings a physics-based party brawler with a vibrant cartoon aesthetic. The exaggerated characters and cartoon-like physics ensure entertaining yet challenging fights. The combat system is designed to be easy to pick up but hard to master. Players can battle in various settings like schoolyards, backyards, or parking lots, and can engage in local multiplayer with up to four players or compete online.

    The Unique Experience of Inscryption

    Inscryption blends elements of card games, roguelikes, puzzles, and psychological horror to create a unique gaming experience. The narrative revolves around a card master who draws players into a dark card game, where the stakes are life and death. At its essence, Inscryption is a deck-building game where players collect cards with unique abilities to strategically defeat their opponents. The game stands out for its frequent breaking of the fourth wall, drawing players into various metagames and puzzles.

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  • Wear OS Smartwatches Set for Exciting Messaging Upgrade

    Wear OS Smartwatches Set for Exciting Messaging Upgrade

    RCS messaging is a feature that Google has been advocating for quite a while. The tech giant has also been urging Apple to implement it. However, currently, Google’s Wear OS does not support this feature. Messages sent from smartwatches using this operating system are treated as regular SMS texts.

    Potential Changes Ahead

    The good news is that this situation might soon improve. According to a report from Android Authority, the latest beta version of Google Messages has started to establish the groundwork for standalone RCS messaging on Wear OS smartwatches. This information emerged following an APK teardown conducted by Android Authority.

    In the new Google Messages beta for Wear OS, there are "some flags" which suggest that standalone RCS support might be on the way for these smartwatches. Additionally, the new code hints that the devices could support voice messages through RCS, enhancing the messaging capabilities significantly.

    Questions Remain

    It is still uncertain whether this update will be available for non-LTE smartwatches (like the 40 mm LTE Galaxy Watch 7 currently priced at $319.99 on Amazon). Nevertheless, Google could potentially roll out RCS messaging for these models since the protocol can transmit messages via WiFi. As for when this update may be released, a specific timeline has not been provided yet.

    Another important point to consider is that these code lines might have been mistakenly included in the recent Google Messages beta. If that is the case, the rollout of RCS messaging support on Wear OS smartwatches could take longer than initially expected.

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  • Oppo Find X8 Launching in India After New Certifications

    Oppo Find X8 Launching in India After New Certifications

    Oppo is preparing to launch its next flagship smartphone series called the Find X8. Before the official announcement, the Find X8 has been seen on certification platforms, indicating it will be available in India. Here’s what we know up to now.

    Certification Details

    The Chinese smartphone manufacturer has not yet officially announced the launch event for the Find X8 series. However, recent certifications suggest that the global launch may be imminent. The Find X8 has appeared in both India’s BIS and Indonesia’s SDPPI databases, identified by the model number CPH2651. Unfortunately, these certifications do not provide detailed information about the new flagship device.

    Display and Features

    A company representative shared some specifications on Weibo, a popular Chinese microblogging platform. Zhou Yibao, the head of the Oppo Find series, revealed that the Find X8 will feature a flat display with slim, uniform bezels surrounding it. The screen will be framed by metal, and the phone itself will be noticeably thinner and lighter compared to its predecessor. Additionally, the Find X8 will support 50W wireless fast charging and reverse wireless charging. A compatible magnetic protective case will be included in the package.

    Classic features are making a return, including an infrared remote control, smart NFC, and a three-stage mute slider. Some key specifications include the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 SoC, a robust 5,700mAh battery, 80W wired fast charging, and up to 16GB of RAM. The Oppo Find X8 Pro is expected to be revealed after National Day in China, which was yesterday, hinting that more information will be available soon. This is all the current information we have, so stay tuned for further updates.

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