Category: All News

November 7, 2023
Thousands of SONDORS Metacycle Customers Left in the Lurch as Company Abandons Bikes in China
Affordable and beautiful phones, computers, homes, cars, motorcycles, and much more…
These are undoubtedly things we all desire and, if there’s healthy competition, sometimes things we can truly own. For example, in the highly competitive smartphone market, where some manufacturers offer a product for $1000, it’s possible to get another phone with the same features for $500.
However, in our field, it’s important to be a bit more cautious because when the words “cheap” and “technology” come together, they can bring some risks with them. The product you purchase might not turn out as expected, or it might not even exist at all. Sometimes, as in the case of the SONDORS Metacycle we’ll discuss now, both of these can happen simultaneously. Here are the details…
SONDORS Metacycle: A Dream Turned Nightmare for Customers and Producers
Electric vehicles are gaining popularity day by day for several reasons. The primary one is their eco-friendliness and the savings they offer in terms of fuel and maintenance. However, it’s worth noting that buying an electric vehicle can be more expensive upfront. While this cost discrepancy is gradually changing, with even Tesla working on producing more affordable electric cars, the pros and cons still remain as they are today. This is why the SONDORS Metacycle made a shocking announcement in 2021.
In a year when everyone was grappling with the pandemic, spending most of their time at home, and engaging in frequent online shopping, the SONDORS Metacycle emerged as a dream project by introducing its electric motorcycle. Unlike the products available in the market at that time, this vehicle was not only stylish but also affordable and easy to use. Moreover, it surprised everyone with its top speed of 130 km/h and a range of 130 km. It featured a single-gear, user-friendly transmission, a sleek LCD display, a removable battery, and much more.
What truly set this already budget-friendly product apart was its price tag of $5,000. Its competitors were either more expensive, lower-quality electric motorcycles or premium products priced at $10,000 or higher. As expected, the SONDORS Metacycle garnered significant attention worldwide. Initially, everything seemed normal, and the company continued to accept orders. However, the first problem emerged in 2022 when the delivery date arrived. The manufacturer cited supply chain issues and announced delays in the delivery schedule.
To be fair, many companies were grappling with similar problems during that period, so this didn’t raise much suspicion. Furthermore, by the end of 2022, deliveries had indeed begun. The SONDORS Metacycle was truly delivering the product customers wanted for $5,000. However, some people experienced a bit of disappointment regarding the range and speed, which didn’t quite match the promised specifications. Still, many customers who believed they received a fair product for $5,000 chose not to dwell on these discrepancies.
The SONDORS Metacycle continued to take orders, seemingly disregarding these issues. However, deliveries never quite reached the expected level, especially after the initial deliveries when the company’s popularity was rapidly growing, resulting in more orders. Unfortunately, delivery quantities did not increase in proportion. We don’t have information on the exact number of orders placed and how many were canceled. Only the factory in China, manufacturing products for SONDORS, revealed that they had shipped 2,000 units to the United States. However, it remains unknown how many of these reached customers.
Despite all the setbacks, it seemed like everything was running smoothly for the SONDORS Metacycle until the Chinese manufacturer broke its silence. The company that produces electric motorcycles for SONDORS announced that they had unilaterally terminated the contract due to not receiving payments for a while and the violation of their financial obligations by SONDORS. In their statement, the Chinese manufacturer also revealed an operational disaster.
According to the statement, there are approximately 500 ready-to-ship SONDORS electric motorcycles in the factory warehouse, and they have more than 1,500 parts to assemble more. The founder of the company, Storm Sondors, is also facing allegations of misusing commercial relationships, as he has made almost no payments to the manufacturer. It was revealed that Sondors made excuses for payments during his visit to China in March and demanded senseless and impossible discounts on both delivered and future products.
Furthermore, the termination of some employees only strengthens the claims. Former employees underline the company’s impending closure through their social media posts. Regardless of the situation, one thing remains clear: there are both affected producers and customers. Moreover, SONDORS Metacycle continues to accept orders through its website. The dream of an affordable and stylish electric motorcycle still appeals to many. It is expected that those who have not received refunds will take legal action against the company in the near future.
Tags: Metacycle, SONDORS
November 7, 2023
WhatsApp’s Email Verification: Privacy Progress or Security Risk?
WhatsApp’s New Profile Verification Method via Email
WhatsApp, a platform highly dedicated to safeguarding privacy, continues its pursuit of enhancing user experience through innovative features. Among these is the ongoing testing phase for email-based profile verification. This recent addition aims to empower users by enabling them to validate their WhatsApp accounts using their email addresses, thereby bolstering security measures and accessibility.
Previously, users were mandated to verify their WhatsApp accounts through their phone numbers, involving the reception of a verification code via SMS for account access. However, with the introduction of email-based profile verification, users now have the flexibility of using their email addresses as an alternative method. This implies that even in instances of phone loss or number alteration, users can still retrieve their WhatsApp accounts.
To initiate email verification, users can proceed to the "Settings" and "Account" segments within the app. Here, they can input their email addresses and activate the feature. It’s noteworthy that while email verification is being implemented, the necessity of a phone number for WhatsApp persists. The primary motive behind the email verification feature is to furnish additional security benefits and serve as a backup solution.
While the emergence of this feature is undoubtedly intriguing, concerns have been raised regarding the security contrast between email addresses and phone numbers. SMS verification is commonly perceived as more secure than email verification by many individuals. Risks like forgetting to log out of WhatsApp on a shared device or potential compromise scenarios could pose threats to users’ WhatsApp accounts.
User vigilance remains imperative, particularly due to scammers’ adaptability to evolving technology. Nevertheless, users can fortify the security of their email addresses by activating two-factor authentication, a measure that can help reduce the vulnerabilities inherent to email-based verification.
Although the definitive release date for this feature remains undisclosed, its launch is anticipated in the near future. WhatsApp continues its commitment to platform enhancement by furnishing users with advanced privacy and security options. The email-based profile verification feature signifies just one of the numerous upcoming updates for users to anticipate.
Tags: WhatsApp
November 7, 2023
Potential Redmi K70 series phone reportedly seen during Dimensity 9300 unveiling
Redmi K70 Series: Rumors and Speculations
Alleged Redmi K70 series phone’s front design revealed
At MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300 launch event, the sight of Zeng Xuezhong, the Senior Vice President of Xiaomi Group and the President of the Mobile Phone Department, holding a mysterious smartphone caught the attention of many. It is speculated that the mysterious phone in his hand could be a Redmi K70-series smartphone.
In terms of design, the alleged Redmi K70 series phone can be seen sporting a punch-hole display. The screen is flat with narrow bezels and offers a high screen-to-body ratio. Unfortunately, the rear design of the phone has not been disclosed.
Xiaomi’s Collaboration with MediaTek
During the MediaTek event, Xuezhong expressed Xiaomi’s commitment to deepening its collaboration with MediaTek and celebrated the launch of the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 processor. However, none of the leaks have claimed that there will be a Redmi K70 series phone with a D9300 chip.
According to reports, the Redmi K70 will have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, whereas the Redmi K70 Pro will have the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. It is speculated that the lineup will include a third model named the Redmi K70e, which may feature a MediaTek chip.
Reportedly, MediaTek is working on the Dimensity 8300 chipset, a successor to the Dimensity 8200 that powered Redmi K60e last year. The upcoming Redmi K70e could likely be equipped with the Dimensity 8300. Hence, there is a possibility that the device teased by Xuezhong could be the K70e.
Expected Release and Features
A recent Weibo post by tipster Digital Chat Station hinted that the Redmi K70 series will debut this month. He also said that the K70 lineup stands out primarily due to its exceptional design and screen quality. He is of the view that the K70 series has no competitors in its category. Notably, the primary competing products are slated for release in the coming year.
As for pricing and specifications, they have not been officially confirmed yet. However, based on the rumors and leaks, the Redmi K70 series is expected to offer powerful processors, high-quality displays, and innovative design elements. Fans of the Redmi brand are eagerly waiting for the official announcement from Xiaomi to get more details about the highly anticipated K70 series.
Tags: Dimensity 9300, K70, redmi
November 7, 2023
Edifier Zero X TWS Earbuds with Bluetooth 5.3 Now Available in China, Priced at 199 Yuan ($27)
Edifier Zero X TWS Earbuds: A Stylish and Feature-Packed Audio Solution
Edifier has recently launched its latest TWS earbuds in the Chinese market, known as the Zero X, priced at 199 Yuan. The earbuds are now available for purchase from JD.com. Let’s take a closer look at the key features of these earbuds.
Stylish Design and Color Options
The Zero X earbuds boast a stylish design, with color options that include Carbon Gray, Moon White, and Bean Green. The earphones are accompanied by a sleek charging case, crafted using a high-gloss nano NCVM vacuum coating process. Each individual earbud is incredibly lightweight, weighing just 3.5 grams. The earbuds feature a 13mm PET diaphragm dynamic driver, delivering well-balanced sound across the entire audio spectrum. The incorporation of a reverse sound waveguide structure enhances bass details, resulting in an impressive audio experience.
Comfort and High-Fidelity Sound Quality
Comfort is a top priority, as these earphones offer a comfortable half-in-ear fit. The large drivers and unique sound architecture ensure high-fidelity sound quality, catering to music enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Seamless Connectivity and AI-Powered Noise Reduction
The Edifier Zero X earphones are equipped with Bluetooth V5.3 technology, enabling a seamless, low-latency connection with just 0.06 seconds of latency in gaming mode. They also come with an AI-powered noise reduction algorithm, effectively reducing background noise during calls for crystal-clear communication.
Impressive Battery Life and Rapid Charging Support
Battery life is impressive, with up to 7 hours of playback on a single charge and a total of 28 hours when using the charging case. Rapid charging support allows for an hour of playback with just 15 minutes of charging, and a full charge takes only 1.5 hours.
Convenience and Intuitive Touch Controls
Convenience is a priority with these earbuds, featuring intuitive touch controls for effortless operation. Functions such as double-tap for calls and music control, as well as triple taps to switch between game mode and track skipping, simplify your experience. They seamlessly pair with your device after the initial connection and can be used interchangeably between the left and right ears. The charging case has a user-friendly design resembling a “space capsule,” making it easy to retrieve the earphones.
Edifier Connect App and IP54 Rating
To further enhance the user experience, the Edifier Connect app provides customization and tracking features to prevent loss. Additionally, these earbuds boast an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, enhancing their versatility and durability.
With its stylish design, impressive features, and affordable price of 199 Yuan, the Edifier Zero X TWS earbuds are a compelling choice for audio enthusiasts and casual users alike. Experience high-quality sound and convenience with these feature-packed earbuds.
Tags: Edifier, Zero X
November 7, 2023
Kansas May Fuel Chevrolet Bolt’s Electric Aspirations for the Future
The Chevrolet Bolt has had its fair share of ups and downs in the EV market. Initially discontinued due to outdated hardware and profitability challenges, the Bolt has now made an impressive comeback and is set to ride a wave of innovation from Kansas.
GM Considers Shifting Production to Fairfax, Kansas
Rumors about GM’s production strategies suggest a potential shift from Michigan to Fairfax, Kansas for the resurrection of the Bolt. The tentative labor agreement between GM and the United Auto Workers (UAW) hints at a $391 million investment in the Fairfax Assembly plant for an unnamed “future electric vehicle.” While not officially confirmed, this investment could breathe new life into the Bolt.
The Fairfax plant, known for producing models like the Cadillac XT4 and Chevrolet Malibu, now has an opportunity for transformation. With EVs taking center stage in the automotive industry and chip shortages causing disruptions, this move could secure jobs for the plant’s over 2,000 workers and ensure a promising future.
This potential shift to Kansas is part of a larger narrative for GM, which includes exciting ventures like an all-electric Corvette. If it comes to fruition, this would be the first time a “Corvette” is built outside of its traditional Kentucky home since the 1980s, marking both a technological and geographical shift.
GM’s Challenges and the Future of Electric Mobility
GM has faced challenges in scaling up its new Ultium EV lineup, leading to investor skepticism. However, it’s worth considering whether this hesitance stems from GM’s production capabilities rather than the market’s appetite for electric cars.
Despite these challenges, GM’s potential shift to Kansas signifies a strategic win for the UAW, especially following historic strikes. The future of electric mobility for GM is likely to be powered by union labor, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act incentives and the recent inclusion of Ultium battery plant workers in the union fold.
Tags: Bolt, Chevrolet
November 7, 2023
iQOO 12 Series Begins in China at 4,299 Yuan
iQOO 12 series: Unveiling and Pricing Details
Scheduled for an official unveiling at 7 pm today in China, the iQOO 12 series has seen its pricing details emerge on JD.com just before the launch event. The listing not only reveals the pricing but also confirms the initial sale date for the Chinese market.
Insight into iQOO 12 series pricing
Presented in the screenshot above, the iQOO 12 series will commence at a price of 4,299 Yuan (~$590) and will be up for grabs from Nov. 14 onwards. Reports indicate that the base model of the iQOO 12 will boast 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. Consequently, the displayed price is likely tailored for the 12GB+256GB variant of the iQOO 12.
This revelation on pricing has ignited substantial curiosity among internet users. Certain individuals have raised doubts, hinting that this pricing could be a deliberate misdirection to mask the genuine cost of the new device. Nonetheless, it seems plausible that the price is accurate since the Xiaomi 14’s 12GB+256GB variant also aligns with the same price point.
For those uninformed, Vivo’s parent brand, iQOO, is gearing up to introduce the Vivo X100 series in China on Nov. 13. Vivo has officially disclosed that the base model of the Vivo X100 will ship with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, tagged at a starting price of 3,999 Yuan (~$550). A point of reference reveals a similar pricing structure for Xiaomi 14’s entry-level model, offering 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage.
While the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro are set to house the Dimensity 9300 chipset, the iQOO 12 and 12 Pro will showcase the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.
What are your thoughts on the iQOO 12 series pricing? Feel free to express your opinions in the comments section below.
Tags: iQOO, iQOO 12
November 7, 2023
Leaked: Expected release date for Oppo Reno 11 series, Reno 11 Pro+ potentially excluded
Oppo Reno 11 Series Launch Rumored for Late November in China
Oppo Reno 11 Series Launch Rumored for Late November in China
Back in May, Oppo introduced the Reno 10, Reno 10 Pro, and Reno 10 Pro+ smartphones to the Chinese market. Now, six months later, it seems like Oppo might be gearing up for the release of the Reno 11 series, as per the typical launch patterns. A recent leak from tipster Digital Chat Station has disclosed the expected launch window for the Reno 11 series in the Chinese market.
Oppo Reno 11 Series Launch Timeframe (Rumored)
According to DCS, the Reno 11 series will tentatively be scheduled to debut in late November in China. He added that this particular generation will not include the Reno 11 Pro+ variant, which indicates that the company may only announce the Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro.
A previous leak revealed that all the Reno 11 models will be equipped with a curved-edge screen. It also revealed that the Reno 11 lineup will have enhanced versions of the camera modules previously featured in the Reno 10 series. Additionally, it was suggested that this new lineup will introduce a periscope telephoto macro camera. Furthermore, it also revealed that the rear panel of the Reno 11 series will have a refreshed design.
If the Reno 11 series is indeed scheduled for a November release, the company will probably start teasing its impending arrival in the coming days. DCS also mentioned that Honor intends to unveil its Honor 100 series in November.
Additionally, the leaker hinted at the imminent announcement of the Vivo S18 series but didn’t specify a precise launch date. According to other reports, both the Vivo S18 series and the iQOO Neo 9 lineup are expected to make their debut in China in December. DCS also indicated that Huawei’s Nova 12 series is poised for a December launch.
Tags: Oppo, Reno 11 series
November 7, 2023
Introducing Exciting Upgrades to ChatGPT: OpenAI’s Latest Announcement at the First Developer Conference
OpenAI’s ChatGPT: A Game-Changer in User-Centric AI
OpenAI’s ChatGPT has taken the AI world by storm, amassing over 100 million weekly users in less than a year. This rapid growth is a testament to the platform’s ability to revolutionize our digital experience. OpenAI’s recent developer conference showcased groundbreaking features that promise to further integrate AI into our daily lives.
Customizable GPTs: Empowering Users
One of the most exciting announcements from the conference was the introduction of customizable “GPTs.” This feature allows users, regardless of their coding expertise, to create their own personalized ChatGPT models. Whether you need a Creative Writing Coach or a Tech Advisor, these AI models can be tailored to meet individual needs.
This move towards user-centric AI is a game-changer. It signifies a future where artificial intelligence is not limited to tech-savvy individuals but becomes an integral part of our everyday tasks. By removing the barrier of complex programming skills, OpenAI is making AI more accessible and enhancing productivity and creativity. To further facilitate the distribution of these custom AI models, OpenAI is setting up a GPT Store, making them readily available to users.
GPT-4 Turbo: Smarter and More Cost-Effective
OpenAI’s “GPT-4 Turbo” is another exciting development that promises a smarter and more powerful AI. This new iteration of GPT is not only more potent but also significantly more cost-effective for developers. By offering a cost-effective solution, OpenAI is ensuring that AI technology becomes more accessible to a wider range of developers.
In addition to GPT-4 Turbo, OpenAI has also introduced the Assistants API. This API allows developers to integrate GPT’s AI capabilities into their applications seamlessly. By enabling AI integration, OpenAI is making sure that its AI technology becomes more integrated into the software ecosystem.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT is leading the charge in user-centric AI innovation. With customizable GPTs and the introduction of GPT-4 Turbo and the Assistants API, OpenAI is pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve. The future looks promising as AI becomes more accessible, powerful, and seamlessly integrated into our daily digital experience.
Tags: ChatGPT, OpenAI
November 7, 2023
Lucid Motors Embraces EV Revolution by Adopting Tesla’s NACS Charging Standard
As the electric vehicle (EV) market continues to expand, Lucid Motors has taken a significant step by embracing the North American Charging Standard (NACS), a system initially developed by Tesla. Starting in 2025, Lucid’s electric cars in North America will transition from the Combined Charging System 1 (CCS1) to NACS. This move paves the way for Lucid car owners to access Tesla’s vast Supercharging network, which boasts over 15,000 charging stations.
Tesla Confirms NACS Support for 1000-Volt Systems
The adoption of NACS by Lucid is a reflection of a broader industry trend, signaling a gradual phase-out of the CCS1 charging standard. Previously, Lucid had reservations about NACS, particularly regarding compatibility with their high-voltage battery systems. However, any such concerns have been resolved, and even brands with a focus on high-voltage systems are now aligning with NACS. Tesla has confirmed that NACS can support systems up to 1,000 volts, which is suitable for the fast-charging needs of modern EVs.
Peter Rawlinson, Lucid’s CEO, expressed that the integration of NACS is crucial for providing customers with more reliable and convenient charging options. He also emphasized the importance of a unified charging infrastructure to encourage EV adoption in the U.S.
A Transition Period for a Robust NACS Charging Network
The transition period until the shift in 2025 allows for the establishment of a more robust NACS-based charging network. SAE International is working to standardize the NACS connector, and various suppliers are expected to develop and offer compatible equipment, ensuring Tesla does not remain the only provider.
While Lucid has made its position clear, some major automakers like the Volkswagen Group and Stellantis have not yet announced a switch to NACS, leaving a bit of uncertainty in the industry’s direction. Nevertheless, the future of EV charging in the U.S. seems to be consolidating around a single, high-voltage standard, which could be a game-changer for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
Tags: Lucid Motors, Tesla NACS Charging
November 7, 2023
Find X-series phone from Oppo set to include Dimensity 9300, possibility of Find X7 showcasing it
MediaTek has recently unveiled its latest flagship chipset, the Dimensity 9300. The Vivo X100 and X100 Pro, set to launch on November 13, will be the first smartphones to feature this new chip. Oppo has also confirmed that its next Find-series phone will be equipped with the Dimensity 9300 chip. It is highly likely that the Find X7 phone, expected to debut in the first quarter of 2024, will come with this new flagship chip.
OPPO Find X7 Likely to Feature Dimensity 9300
The Find X7 series will replace the Find X6 and Find X6 Pro, which were equipped with the Dimensity 9200 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipsets, respectively. Reports suggest that the X7 lineup will consist of two models, the Find X7 and Find X7 Pro.
Recently, an upcoming Oppo phone with the model number PHZ110 was spotted in the Geekbench benchmarking platform’s database. The listing revealed that the device is equipped with the Dimensity 9300 chip, 16 GB of RAM, and Android 14. In the Geekbench 6 single-core and multi-core tests, the device scored 2139 and 7110 points, respectively. Speculations suggest that the PHZ110 will be launched as the Oppo Find X7.
On the other hand, the Find X7 Pro is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. A recent report revealed that the Pro model will come with a 1-inch LYT-900 camera sensor, which will also be seen on the Vivo X100 Pro+ and Xiaomi 14 Ultra premium flagship phones expected to launch next year.
An August report claimed that the Find X7 Pro is designed to address the shortcomings of the Find X6 Pro. It is also said to come with incremental upgrades, including an enhanced design. The X7 Pro is expected to feature a 2K-resolution display, a 32-megapixel front camera, and a 50-megapixel (LYT-900) + 50-megapixel (LYT-700 ultra-wide) + 50-megapixel (LYT-700) periscope telephoto camera. Other specifications may include 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, and a large battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging support.
Tags: Dimensity 9300, Oppo, X-series