Category: All News

  • Samsung’s Strategy to Maintain Dominance: Apple Closing the Gap in the Smartphone Race

    Samsung’s Strategy to Maintain Dominance: Apple Closing the Gap in the Smartphone Race

    The Highly Anticipated Samsung Galaxy S24 Series

    The release date for the Samsung Galaxy S24 models is just around the corner, with indications suggesting that the highly anticipated phones will be unveiled on January 17th. As is the case every year, this series is expected to incorporate the best possible features, creating excitement both for the South Korean tech giant and its users. However, it appears that Samsung is even more optimistic about the Galaxy S24 family than we may have initially thought. Here are the details…

    Samsung’s Optimism and Expectations

    Samsung believes the Galaxy S24 series will be a massive success, projecting a 10% increase in shipments compared to the previous S23 generation. As the world’s leading smartphone manufacturer in terms of sales, Samsung has faced a significant challenge in matching the profitability of Apple. The primary reason behind this is that a significant portion of Samsung’s sales come from budget and mid-range models, while flagship sales, which generate more profit, have fallen short of expectations.

    One of the reasons for this is fierce competition in the smartphone market. Android phones often share similar components, resulting in devices with many similarities. This leads customers to consider other brands like Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Honor, which offer similar experiences at more affordable prices. To combat this, smartphone manufacturers strive to provide unique features whenever possible.

    In the past, Samsung has introduced cameras with 100x zoom capabilities, collaborated with manufacturers like Qualcomm to overclock processors, and developed custom interfaces to enhance Android’s functionality. For the Galaxy S24 series, Samsung has ambitious plans and high expectations.

    According to reports, Samsung is anticipating that the Galaxy S24 family will sell approximately 35 million units in 2024, a 10% increase from the previous generation. The company plans to integrate Bard and ChatGPT into the phones to capture users’ interest.

    Samsung’s Competitive Position

    While Samsung aims to increase its sales and market share, it faces tough competition from Apple. Apple’s production and sales expectation for 2024 is 250 million units, significantly higher than Samsung’s projected 253 million. However, Apple’s sales are primarily attributed to its latest iPhone 15 family, which generates a significantly larger profit. The minimal difference between the two manufacturers indicates that Samsung could lose its top spot if the current trend continues.

    Whether artificial intelligence integration is the key to rescuing Samsung from its challenging situation remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: if Samsung doesn’t take action, it won’t remain the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer for much longer.

    Tags: ,
  • 01.AI, a Chinese startup, establishes itself as a dominant force in AI with a $1 billion valuation

    01.AI, a Chinese startup, establishes itself as a dominant force in AI with a $1 billion valuation

    In a groundbreaking development in the realm of artificial intelligence, Chinese start-up 01.AI, founded by renowned computer scientist Lee Kai-fu, has achieved a staggering valuation of over US$1 billion after a successful funding round, supported notably by Alibaba Group Holding’s cloud unit.

    Revolutionary Open-Source AI Model

    At the core of 01.AI’s success is its revolutionary open-source AI model, Yi-34B. This foundational large language model (LLM) has outperformed leading counterparts, including Meta Platform’s Llama 2, in crucial metrics. Trained extensively on diverse datasets, Yi-34B excels in generating humanlike text, images, and code. The model is accessible to developers globally in both Chinese and English, empowering innovation across linguistic boundaries.

    The Visionary Behind 01.AI

    Lee Kai-fu, the visionary behind 01.AI, is not a newcomer to the tech scene. With a rich background encompassing Google, Microsoft, and Apple, Lee assembled a dedicated team for 01.AI, commencing operations in June. Under his leadership, the company has ventured into uncharted territory, competing head-to-head with tech giants like OpenAI, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Meta. Notably, Chinese tech titans such as Baidu and Alibaba have also entered the AI arena, with Alibaba supporting ventures like 01.AI.

    Despite challenges stemming from political tensions between the US and China impacting AI development, 01.AI has strategically navigated the landscape. The company smartly stockpiled advanced AI semiconductors, mitigating constraints on sales to Chinese customers. Looking ahead, 01.AI is working on a 100-billion-plus parameter model, benchmarked against OpenAI’s GPT-4, showcasing its commitment to pushing AI boundaries.

    01.AI has ambitious plans to expand beyond Chinese and English, aiming to provide AI solutions in more languages. Lee Kai-fu envisions AI as a transformative force for humanity and is dedicated to contributing significantly to its realization. Balancing his roles as a venture capitalist and 01.AI CEO, Lee’s dedication underscores the importance of bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical applications.

    01.AI’s remarkable growth and valuation underscore the global fascination and investments in AI technology. Their open-source approach not only propels their success but also democratizes access to advanced AI models, fostering innovation on a global scale.

    Tags: ,
  • iQOO 12: Mainstream Gamer’s Dream with 1.5K 144Hz Ultra-Sensitive eSports Display

    iQOO 12: Mainstream Gamer’s Dream with 1.5K 144Hz Ultra-Sensitive eSports Display

    iQOO is gearing up to introduce its latest flagship smartphone series, the iQOO 12, which is set to launch on November 7th in China. This new lineup promises to deliver cutting-edge performance and display capabilities.

    iQOO’s 1.5K 144Hz display: Elite eSports visuals, 3000 nits peak brightness

    Now, iQOO has officially teased that the iQOO 12 will come equipped with a high-end 1.5K 144Hz LTPO eSports display, tailored for an improved mainstream gaming experience. This display offers the highest peak brightness ever in an iQOO device at 3000 nits, ensuring visibility in bright conditions.

    Taking it a step further, the iQOO 12 Pro is set to debut the industry’s first 2K E7 144Hz full-sensory screen, offering high definition, high brightness, high refresh rate, and low latency, alongside reduced blue light and power consumption.

    At the heart of the iQOO 12 series will be the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, featuring an advanced processor built on TSMC’s 4nm process. The CPU is equipped with a high-frequency Cortex-X4 super core and other efficient cores, complemented by an Adreno 750 GPU that promises a 20% larger core size, improved peak performance, and reduced power consumption for superior graphics.

    iQOO also recently teased the camera samples for both the standard and Pro variants, highlighting their camera capabilities. The series is also expected to stand out with its impressive advanced audio technology, a sophisticated four-zone heat dissipation system, Origin OS 4-based Android 14, and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

    Additionally, a global variant of the iQOO 12 was spotted on GeekBench, indicating potential international release plans. It features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, up to 12GB RAM, and runs Android 14 with FuntouchOS 14. The base model is set to launch in India in December 2023 as the country’s first Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered device.

    The iQOO 12 and 12 Pro will be available in Black and White with glass rear panels, and a Red variant with a leather back, aligning with iQOO’s tradition of offering premium materials and design in its flagship offerings.

    Tags: ,
  • Honda Unveils New e-MTB Concept with Full Suspension Frame and Portable Charging

    Honda Unveils New e-MTB Concept with Full Suspension Frame and Portable Charging

    Honda Presents Concept Electric Mountain Bike at Japan Mobility Show

    Honda has made a noteworthy debut in the electric mountain bike (e-MTB) market by introducing its concept e-MTB at the Japan Mobility Show. Renowned for its electric and hybrid vehicles, Honda’s venture into the e-MTB sector underscores the increasing demand for sustainable outdoor pursuits.

    The concept bike’s design draws inspiration from motorcycles, demonstrating Honda’s knack for fusing automotive expertise with the high-performance electric mountain bikes already present in the market, as exemplified by leading brands like Ducati and Yamaha.

    Staying true to the company’s legacy in motorcycles, the Honda e-MTB Concept features a striking full-suspension frame. The frame’s bold downhill geometry and elegant monocoque design bear resemblance to motorcycles, distinguishing it from other e-MTB models available. Although Honda has not revealed specifics about the powertrain, speculations hint at a potential collaboration with Brose, a reputable German technology powerhouse in the e-bike system realm.

    Yet, the concept bike transcends mere aesthetics and heritage. Honda has outfitted the e-MTB with elements that outdoor enthusiasts covet. It includes a Sram Eagle AXS drivetrain for smooth gear-shifting and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for dependable braking prowess. Furthermore, Honda provides a portable fast charger to ensure extended rides can be relished without concerns about battery life.

    Despite its conceptual nature, Honda’s vision for the e-MTB is evident. The company envisions it as an integral part of a lifestyle that upholds sustainability and cherishes family time. Honda’s embrace of industry terms like "sustainable" and "family-oriented" goes beyond mere marketing; it embodies an optimistic perspective towards a future where recreational activities not only entertain but also contribute to environmental stewardship.

    Pricing and Specifications

    • Full-suspension frame
    • Sram Eagle AXS drivetrain
    • Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
    • Portable fast charger

    At present, the Honda e-MTB Concept remains a conceptual model, and pricing information has not been disclosed. Details concerning the powertrain and battery capacity are also yet to be revealed by Honda.

    Tags: ,
  • $5.4 Billion Investment Drives Memory Chip Growth as China Boosts Semiconductor Self-Sufficiency

    $5.4 Billion Investment Drives Memory Chip Growth as China Boosts Semiconductor Self-Sufficiency

    China’s Changxin Xinqiao Memory Technologies Raises $5.4 Billion in Funding

    In a significant move highlighting China’s dedication to technological self-sufficiency, semiconductor start-up Changxin Xinqiao Memory Technologies, based in Hefei, successfully raised US$5.4 billion in its latest funding round. The funds were secured from government-backed investors, including the China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund Phase II, underscoring Beijing’s commitment to achieving breakthroughs in the semiconductor industry and countering US sanctions.

    Changxin Xinqiao, established in 2021, shares key shareholders and its general manager with Changxin Memory Technologies, China’s leading DRAM chip maker. The investment demonstrates Beijing’s resolve to bolster the nation’s semiconductor sector, aiming to compete with global industry giants such as Micron Technology and Samsung Electronics. Changxin Memory Technologies is gearing up for a significant move, planning to file for an initial public offering in China that could potentially value the company at over US$14.5 billion.

    China’s Focus on the Semiconductor Industry

    This strategic investment aligns with China’s broader focus on the semiconductor industry, which has gained momentum amid US efforts to restrict China’s access to cutting-edge chip technologies. Earlier successes were observed with companies like Huawei Technologies, which released a 5G phone featuring silicon produced by top Chinese chip maker Semiconductor Manufacturing International in August.

    At the forefront of China’s semiconductor financing initiatives is the China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund, commonly known as the Big Fund. Established in 2014, the Big Fund has attracted significant capital, totaling US$45 billion, and has supported numerous companies, including the US-blacklisted Yangtze Memory Technologies. Despite facing challenges due to a corruption probe, the Big Fund has ramped up its funding activities in 2023, making multiple investments, including the substantial backing provided to Changxin Xinqiao Memory Technologies.

    Pursuing Technological Independence

    This latest injection of funds underlines China’s steadfast commitment to achieving semiconductor excellence, fostering domestic innovation, and reducing reliance on foreign technologies in pursuit of technological independence.

    Tags: , ,
  • Newly Launched RCA Evolution Premium Monitor Features 27″ QHD IPS Panel, 240Hz Refresh Rate, and KVM Switch

    Newly Launched RCA Evolution Premium Monitor Features 27″ QHD IPS Panel, 240Hz Refresh Rate, and KVM Switch

    A new gaming monitor has been introduced by American electronics manufacturer RCA in the domestic market. Known as the RCA Evolution Premium (M27PG135F), this monitor boasts a range of premium features, such as a high refresh rate panel, a KVM switch, and a cable management slot.

    RCA Evolution Premium (M27PG135F) Monitor Specifications

    The RCA Evolution Premium gaming monitor offers a 27-inch display with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 (QHD) and a maximum refresh rate of 240 Hz. It utilizes a flat IPS panel with a brightness of 300 nits, providing 95% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and HDR-10 compatibility. One standout feature is its remarkable 1ms response time, which is uncommon for an IPS panel.

    The stand of the monitor is designed with flexibility in mind, offering tilt, height, and rotation adjustments. Furthermore, it incorporates a cable management slot to ensure a clean and organized setup. In terms of connectivity, users can expect 1 DisplayPort 1.4, 1 USB type-C with DP Alt mode and 90W power delivery, along with 2 HDMI 2.0 ports and 2 USB data ports. Additionally, there is a headphone jack, and the monitor comes equipped with integrated stereo speakers. Notably, it also features a KVM switch, enabling seamless switching between multiple connected devices.

    Pricing & Availability

    Interested customers can purchase the RCA Evolution Premium (M27PG135F) monitor for $429 in the United States.

    Tags: ,
  • Yuga Labs, Creator of Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs, Holds Inaugural “ApeFest” in Hong Kong

    Yuga Labs, Creator of Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs, Holds Inaugural “ApeFest” in Hong Kong

    Yuga Labs, the creator of Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) NFTs, decided to host their first ApeFest outside of New York in Hong Kong. This event, which brought together more than 2,500 NFT enthusiasts, not only signifies a strong push into Asia’s thriving Web3 landscape but also highlights Hong Kong’s growing status as a virtual asset hub.

    Global Participation

    The three-day extravaganza attracted participants from over 60 countries, demonstrating the widespread appeal of the Bored Apes. Daniel Alegre, CEO of Yuga Labs, emphasized the significance of their Asian community, suggesting a strategic shift towards markets with active NFT engagement.

    Partnership with BMW

    In collaboration with BMW, the festival provided a unique experience where attendees could capture moments with a car featuring their own NFTs. This not only highlights the mainstreaming of NFTs but also showcases the innovative ways in which they can be utilized for real-world interactions.

    This event is particularly timely for Hong Kong, as the city has recently experienced a talent drain in the cryptocurrency industry due to more favorable regulations in other jurisdictions. However, Yuga Labs’ decision, alongside the support of local government initiatives and partnerships with companies like Animoca Brands, indicates a potential reversal of this trend.

    Despite the challenges faced by the NFT market, such as declining sales and increased regulatory scrutiny in the United States, Yuga Labs remains committed. Their confidence is echoed by the enthusiasm of Bored Ape enthusiasts, some of whom traveled internationally for the first time to be a part of this community gathering.

    Tags: , ,
  • Polestar Collaborates with SK On to Boost Driving Range of Upcoming Polestar 5 EV

    Polestar Collaborates with SK On to Boost Driving Range of Upcoming Polestar 5 EV

    Polestar has made a significant leap by partnering with SK On for its upcoming Polestar 5 model. The tie-up promises to bring a powerhouse of a battery that could redefine long-range travel in electric cars.

    Ultra-Long Lithium-Ion Cells

    The Polestar 5, a sleek 4-door GT born from the Precept concept, is gearing up to house a unique set of ultra-long lithium-ion cells. These aren’t just your average batteries; they’re designed to pack a punch with a high energy density, ensuring that drivers can go further on a single charge. While the exact figures are under wraps, there’s chatter about the potential for a range that rivals, if not surpasses, some of the best in the market—possibly reaching up to 373 miles.

    All-Wheel Drive Powertrain

    The anticipated dual-motor setup is equally impressive, with the all-wheel drive powertrain boasting up to 650 kilowatts of power and 900 Newton-meters of torque. Such specs hint at not just a drive that’s about endurance, but one that can deliver a thrilling experience.

    What’s interesting is the backstory of this collaboration. SK On, an arm of SK Innovation, isn’t new to the Polestar narrative. The wider SK Group has previously invested in Polestar and seems to be deepening its ties within the EV domain through this partnership.

    The production schedule points to a 2025 launch, slightly later than initially expected, but if the promises hold true, it could well be worth the wait. As we see Polestar rise as a contender in the EV space with almost 14,000 all-electric cars sold in the third quarter of 2023 alone, the future looks electrifying. This partnership could not only propel Polestar further but also send ripples across the industry as we cruise into an era where the synergy between car manufacturers and tech innovators drives us toward a more sustainable future.

    Tags: ,
  • Korean Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Receives Toy Story Cases

    Korean Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Receives Toy Story Cases

    Samsung’s latest wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds FE, are offering a special treat for fans in South Korea. They have launched a limited-edition package that features iconic characters from Pixar’s Toy Story. This exclusive bundle, called ‘Galaxy Buds FE Toy Story’, is now available on G Market starting from the 6th.

    Toy Story-Themed Cases

    In this package, customers will find two charming case designs inspired by Lotso Bear and Hamm. The ‘Lotso Bear’ case is priced at 39,600 won ($30), while the ‘Hamm’ case costs 36,300 won ($28). If you purchase the Galaxy Buds FE with these special cases, the total price is 125,900 won ($97). However, there is a promotional price of 105,900 won ($82) available until November 29.

    Impressive Sound Quality

    The Galaxy Buds FE themselves offer impressive sound quality with active noise canceling and robust bass. These earbuds cater to all music preferences with their deep and rich bass. They also provide precise control over your audio environment through Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Sound features, allowing you to block out noise or stay aware of your surroundings.

    Toy Story-Themed Cases

    The real highlight of the Galaxy Buds FE Toy Story bundle is the Toy Story-themed cases. The ‘Lotso Bear’ case comes in dark pink with an adorable expression, while the ‘Hamm’ case sports a round face and apricot color. These cases are not limited to Galaxy Buds FE; they also fit ‘Galaxy Buds 2 Pro’ and ‘Galaxy Buds 2’. Customers can purchase these cases separately at Samsung Gangnam stores and online shopping platforms.

    Specifications of Samsung Galaxy Buds FE

    Here are the specifications of the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE:

    • High-quality sound with deep and rich bass
    • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Sound features
    • Advanced three-microphone system and AI-powered Deep Neural Network (DNN) for clear communication during calls
    • Up to 8.5 hours of playback on the earbuds alone
    • Extends to 30 hours with the charging case

    The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE are ideal for extended use, providing long-lasting battery life and impressive sound quality. Whether you are a fan of Toy Story or simply looking for high-quality wireless earbuds, the Galaxy Buds FE Toy Story bundle is worth considering.

    Tags: ,
  • Xiaomi 14 Claims Top Spot in October AnTuTu Performance Rankings Amidst Growing Competition

    Xiaomi 14 Claims Top Spot in October AnTuTu Performance Rankings Amidst Growing Competition

    Top Performing Android Flagship Smartphones in October 2023

    In the ever-evolving world of Android flagship smartphones, performance remains a key selling point. The latest AnTuTu benchmark results for October 2023 reveal intriguing insights into the top-performing devices. The average running scores during October shed light on which smartphones are leading the pack. Here’s a glimpse into the standings:

    1. Xiaomi 14 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 16GB+512GB) – 1,997,427 Points

    Xiaomi takes the top spot with its Xiaomi 14, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. This powerhouse leads the competition with an impressive performance score, which is no doubt thanks to the latest flagship chip from Qualcomm.

    2. Xiaomi 14 Pro (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 16GB+512GB) – 1,985,014 Points

    Right on the heels of its sibling, the Xiaomi 14 Pro secures the second position with a remarkable score. That being said, normally we expect the Pro variant to be on top, however, the difference in the scores is quite negligible.

    3. OnePlus Ace 2 Pro (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 24GB+1TB) – 1,663,507 Points

    Despite falling to the third position in October, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro continues to be a strong contender. It’s equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage.

    4. iQOO 11S (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 16GB+1TB) – 1,650,842 Points

    The iQOO 11S showcases its might with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage, securing the fourth position.

    5. iQOO 11 Pro (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 16GB+512GB) – 1,633,169 Points

    iQOO’s 11 Pro follows closely behind with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.

    6. Vivo X90 Pro+ (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 12GB+512GB) – 1,624,675 Points

    Vivo’s X90 Pro+ ranks sixth in the performance charts, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.

    7. realme GT5 240W (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 24GB+1TB) – 1,621,188 Points

    Realme’s GT5 240W makes its presence felt with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage.

    8. OPPO Find X6 Pro (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 16GB+512GB) – 1,591,832 Points

    OPPO’s Find X6 Pro secures the eighth spot with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.

    9. iQOO 11X (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 16GB+512GB) – 1,585,699 Points

    iQOO’s 11X follows closely behind with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.

    10. iQOO Neo 8 Pro (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 12GB+256GB) – 1,580,564 Points

    The iQOO Neo 8 Pro rounds out the top ten with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.

    Expectations for November and Beyond

    With that being said, we can expect a shake-up in the flagship rankings of November due to a bunch of new flagships like the OnePlus 12 and the iQOO 12 Pro launching with the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. Then there is the dark horse Vivo X100 featuring the unannounced Dimensity 9300 chip, which is said to easily cross the 2 million point mark on AnTuTu.

    Although the devices mentioned have purportedly surpassed the 2 million point threshold on AnTuTu, sustaining this level of performance in actual retail models is the true measure of their capabilities.

    Tags: ,