Category: All News

  • Fitbit withdraws from international market, halts sales in almost 30 countries

    Fitbit withdraws from international market, halts sales in almost 30 countries

    Fitbit Product Sales Discontinued in Multiple Countries

    In a strategic decision that has largely flown under the radar, Google, the parent company of Fitbit, has announced the discontinuation of Fitbit product sales in 29 countries across the globe. This move has affected regions in Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

    European Countries Affected

    The European countries that will no longer be able to purchase Fitbit products include Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Slovakia. Fitbit premium has already been discontinued in these countries, effective October 24, 2023. However, the Fitbit Charge 6 is still available for purchase in Portugal through the Google Store (via 9to5Google).

    Latin America and Mexico

    The discontinuation of Fitbit sales has also extended to Mexico and all Latin American countries. The specific dates for these removals have not been disclosed, but Fitbit products are no longer available for purchase in these regions.

    Asian Countries

    Earlier in August, Google also discontinued the renewal of Fitbit Premium memberships and product sales in a few Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines.

    Impact on Fitbit Market Presence

    As a result of these market withdrawals, Fitbit is now only selling products in 23 countries.

    Google’s Statement

    In a statement to Android Authority, Google says, “We communicated that we will stop selling Fitbit products in select countries to align our hardware portfolio to map closer to Pixel’s regional availability.”

    Assurances for Existing Customers

    Despite this retreat from certain markets, Fitbit has assured existing customers that their devices will continue to receive software and security updates, and customer support will remain unaffected.

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  • Complete details of the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G leaked prior to its launch

    Complete details of the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G leaked prior to its launch

    Samsung is gearing up to release its latest budget-friendly smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G. After leaked renders of the phone surfaced a few days ago, we now have official information on the specifications and price of the device, thanks to a report from Appuals.

    Samsung Galaxy A25 5G Specifications (Rumored)

    The Galaxy A25 5G is rumored to feature a 6.5-inch display with FHD+ resolution. It will come with a waterdrop-style notch that houses a 13MP front-facing camera. On the rear, users can expect a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide camera, and a 2MP macro sensor.

    Under the hood, the device is said to be powered by a Samsung Exynos 1280 chipset. It will be paired with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM and offer storage options of 128GB or 256GB. This chipset is the same one used in the Galaxy A33 and A53, which were launched last year.

    Other specifications mentioned in the report include a 5,000mAh battery with 25W charging support and a USB-C port.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Galaxy A25 5G is expected to be priced between EUR 300 to EUR 400 for both the 6GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB models. While an official launch date has not been announced, the appearance of the device on certification sites like the FCC suggests that an announcement is imminent. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.

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  • Xiaomi Projector Youth Edition 2S Now Available in China at 2399 Yuan ($329)

    Xiaomi Projector Youth Edition 2S Now Available in China at 2399 Yuan ($329)

    Xiaomi has recently launched the Projector Youth Edition 2S in China, which is now available for purchase on major e-commerce platforms for 2399 yuan ($329). This projector comes with a range of impressive features and specifications.

    Key Features of Xiaomi Projector Youth Edition 2S

    The Projector Youth Edition 2S offers a true 1080P physical resolution and is compatible with 4K content. It supports HDR10+ decoding and utilizes AI algorithms to automatically enhance image quality. Additionally, it incorporates MEMC motion compensation technology, ensuring smooth high-speed visuals.

    Powered by the Amlogic T982 chip and equipped with 2GB+16GB of storage, this projector utilizes DLP digital optical processing technology. It has a throw ratio of 1.2:1 and boasts full-frequency high-fidelity dual speakers. With 500 ANSI lumens of brightness, it provides an immersive viewing experience. The projector also features automatic keystone correction, Dolby sound effects, and low blue light eye protection for comfortable viewing.

    Connectivity and Smart Home Integration

    The Projector Youth Edition 2S offers a variety of connectivity options, including an HDMI 2.1 port, a USB 3.0 port, a headphone jack, and a DC charging port. It supports 2.4GHz/5GHz dual-band Wi-Fi and comes with Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities. As part of the Xiaomi ecosystem, it is integrated with the built-in Xiao Ai Assistant, allowing seamless integration with other smart home devices.

    With compatibility with Mi Home and Mijia devices, this projector enables easy control of various smart home appliances, enhancing the overall user experience. It also features screen mirroring capabilities, allowing users to mirror their devices' screens onto the projector.

    Entertainment Options and Performance

    The MIUI TV Smart System provides a wide range of entertainment options on the Projector Youth Edition 2S. Users can access content from popular platforms such as Mango TV, Cool Cat, Aurora TV, and iQiyi. This ensures a diverse and enjoyable viewing experience.

    In terms of performance, the Amlogic T982 chip offers a significant improvement compared to its predecessor, the T972. It delivers a 100% improvement in GPU performance, ensuring smooth operation and efficient image processing. The 4-core A55 CPU can achieve a maximum frequency of 1.9GHz, further enhancing performance. The dual-channel memory ensures seamless functionality.

    Wireless Screen Casting and Eye Protection

    The Projector Youth Edition 2S supports wireless screen casting, allowing users to easily cast their device screens onto the projector. This feature enhances convenience and provides additional flexibility.

    Moreover, this projector has been certified for low blue light by SGS, indicating reduced eye strain and added protection, especially for children. This makes it a suitable option for prolonged viewing sessions.

    In conclusion, the Xiaomi Projector Youth Edition 2S offers impressive features and specifications. With its true 1080P resolution, support for 4K content, and AI-enhanced image quality, it provides a high-quality viewing experience. Its connectivity options, smart home integration, and entertainment options further enhance its appeal. Additionally, the performance improvements and eye protection features make it a compelling choice for consumers.

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  • Pre-launch pre-orders for Vivo X100 surpass 1 million units

    Pre-launch pre-orders for Vivo X100 surpass 1 million units

    Vivo is set to launch its flagship X100 series smartphones in China on November 13. Ahead of the official launch, pre-orders for the standard X100 model have already begun, and the response has been overwhelming.

    According to a recent report from Wall Street (Chinese Publication), over 1 million units of the smartphone have been reserved in just seven days. This marks a significant milestone for Vivo, as it is the first X-series smartphone in the company’s history to achieve such a high pre-reservation volume.

    It is important to note that these pre-order figures are specifically for the standard X100 model and not the X100 Pro. The X100 model is available in a 12GB/256GB variant, priced at CNY 3,999 (approximately $546).

    The X100 Pro, which also comes with 12GB/256GB storage, is rumored to cost CNY 5,999 (approximately $813).

    Specifications

    The X100 is expected to feature a 6.79-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution. It will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipset, paired with LPDDR5T RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.

    Vivo has been actively teasing camera samples of the smartphone, indicating that the X100 will have impressive camera capabilities. It is rumored to sport a 50-megapixel Sony IMX920 primary sensor with OIS support, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 64-megapixel periscope zoom lens with OIS. The periscope lens will offer 3x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom.

    For a more comprehensive overview of the Vivo X100 series, please refer to our dedicated story.

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  • Key specifications of Oppo Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro leaked, unveiling crucial details

    Key specifications of Oppo Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro leaked, unveiling crucial details

    Oppo Reno 11 Series: Leaked Specifications and Features

    We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Oppo Reno 11 series, which is rumored to launch this month. Leaked renders of the upcoming smartphones suggest that their design will closely resemble their predecessor. Thanks to the renowned tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS), we now have some insight into the specifications of both the Oppo Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro.

    Oppo Reno 11: Expected Specifications

    The Oppo Reno 11 is rumored to be equipped with a Dimensity 8200 chipset and a powerful 4800mAh battery. The device will support 67W fast charging and will have a sleek body measuring 7.59mm-7.66mm in thickness and weighing 184 grams. The front of the phone will feature a curved screen with a punch-hole cutout housing a 32MP selfie camera. On the back, users can expect a triple camera setup, including Sony’s LYT600 sensor for the main unit, IMX355 sensor for ultrawide shots, and IMX709 sensor for telephoto capabilities with 2x optical zoom.

    Oppo Reno 11 Pro: Rumored Specifications

    The Oppo Reno 11 Pro will boast an impressive 1.5K display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2160Hz PWM dimming. It will be powered by a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, accompanied by LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. In terms of photography, the Reno 11 Pro will sport a 32MP front-facing camera, while the rear camera setup will consist of a 50MP IMX890 primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP IMX355 ultra-wide lens, and a 32MP IMX709 2X telephoto lens.

    The Reno 11 Pro is expected to feature a slightly smaller 4700mAh battery compared to the standard model. However, it compensates with an impressive 80W fast charging capability. The device will have a slim profile, measuring approximately 8.19-8.26mm in thickness and weighing around 190 grams. Additionally, it is rumored to offer a dual speaker setup for audio and an X-axis motor for haptic feedback.

    Interestingly, according to DCS, there will not be a Reno 11 Pro+ variant this time. Plans may have changed, but Oppo has not made any official announcements regarding this matter.

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  • Microsoft Workers’ ChatGPT Usage Limited Due to Security Concerns

    Microsoft Workers’ ChatGPT Usage Limited Due to Security Concerns

    Microsoft Blocks Employee Access to ChatGPT by OpenAI Temporarily Due to Security Concerns

    Employee access to OpenAI’s ChatGPT was temporarily blocked by Microsoft owing to security worries. Initially reported by CNBC, this action led to a brief restriction on corporate devices, preventing them from reaching ChatGPT and other AI services like Midjourney, Replika, and Canva.

    Addressing the Ramifications of ChatGPT’s Security Vulnerabilities

    Microsoft pointed to "security and data concerns" as the rationale behind the curtailment. They stressed that ChatGPT is a third-party external service, advising caution concerning privacy and security threats. Nevertheless, the restriction was short-lived, with Microsoft swiftly reinstating access. They attributed the problem to an error during the testing of control systems for large language models.

    This development raised questions, considering Microsoft’s significant investment in OpenAI and their close partnership. OpenAI’s AI models, including ChatGPT, have been integrated into Microsoft offerings such as Bing Chat and Bing Image Creator.

    Despite its massive user base of over 100 million, ChatGPT has been under scrutiny due to worries about divulging sensitive information. Various other tech firms, including Samsung, Amazon, and Apple, have imposed bans or limitations on employee access to ChatGPT due to data security issues.

    Nonetheless, Microsoft remains a supporter of ChatGPT. A Microsoft spokesperson clarified to CNBC, saying, "We were testing endpoint control systems for LLMs and inadvertently turned them on for all employees. We restored service shortly after we identified our error. As we have said previously, we encourage employees and customers to use services like Bing Chat Enterprise and ChatGPT Enterprise that come with greater levels of privacy and security protections."

    This episode underscores the persistent struggles in balancing the potential advantages of AI models like ChatGPT with the necessity of addressing security and privacy concerns, particularly in corporate environments.

    OpenAI Introduces GPT-4 Turbo and Reduces Prices

    It proved to be a hectic week for OpenAI as they introduced their latest AI model, GPT-4 Turbo, which touts enhanced knowledge capabilities up to April 2023 and can handle significantly larger inputs. Moreover, OpenAI is slashing prices for developers utilizing its AI models.

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  • Ulefone’s Double Eleven Event: Introducing 5G Flagships and Irresistible Discounts

    Ulefone’s Double Eleven Event: Introducing 5G Flagships and Irresistible Discounts

    Double Eleven Extravaganza: November 11th – 17th

    Double Eleven online shopping extravaganza, unfolding from November 11th to the 17th, is currently underway on AliExpress. This event showcases a wide range of discounted products, and Ulefone, a well-known brand specializing in rugged phones is participating in this event. Ulefone is presenting enticing offers that include impressive discounts of up to 69% on a diverse array of items.

    Global Premiere of 5G Flagship Power Armor 18T Ultra & 18 Ultra

    The spotlight of the event is undoubtedly on the global debut of the 5G flagship Power Armor 18T Ultra and 18 Ultra, both representing the Ultra Version of Ulefone’s Power Armor 18 Series. Building upon the foundation of the 5G rugged Power Armor 18 Series, these Ultra Versions boast advanced thermal imaging capabilities, upgraded processors, increased RAM and storage, the latest Android 13 OS, and more.

    Irresistible Deals on Flagship Devices

    One of the best offers during the Ulefone 11.11 Sale is available on the Power Armor 18T Ultra. Initially priced at $999.98, this cutting-edge device is now available at an astounding final price of $383.99, which means an impressive 60% discount. Adding to the allure, an additional $16 coupon is available, making it an irresistible offer for tech enthusiasts seeking top-notch features at a compelling price point.

    Best Prices of the Year on Best-Selling Products

    Beyond the flagship releases, Ulefone is extending its best prices of the year to a range of best-selling products. Whether the need is for a rugged tablet like the Armor Pad 2, a durable smartphone such as the Armor 24, Armor 22, or Armor 21, or a feature-packed device like the Note 16 Pro (512GB) with ample storage, Ulefone asserts that better prices cannot be found elsewhere.

    Limited-Time Opportunity: Explore and Save

    Let us capitalize on this limited-time opportunity and explore the noteworthy discounts and promotions available during the 2023 Double Eleven online shopping spree. The Ulefone AliExpress online store is open from November 11th to the 17th, showcasing what is deemed the best deals of the year. For additional information, visit the Ulefone AliExpress Store.

    Highlights of the Ulefone Double Eleven Deals:

    Embark on a tech-savvy journey with the Ulefone Double Eleven event, where cutting-edge products take center stage. Among the standout offerings are:

    Power Armor 18T Ultra: Purchase Here

    Power Armor 18 Ultra: Purchase Here

    Ulefone 11.11 Sale: Discover Deals

    These meticulously crafted devices showcase the pinnacle of Ulefone’s innovation, making them prime choices during this exclusive event.

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  • Introducing the FOSSiBOT F101 Pro: Revolutionizing Outdoor Connectivity with a Durable Mid-Range Smartphone

    Introducing the FOSSiBOT F101 Pro: Revolutionizing Outdoor Connectivity with a Durable Mid-Range Smartphone

    FOSSiBOT is set to redefine the mid-range smartphone landscape with the global launch of the FOSSiBOT F101 Pro, a robust device designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. Packed with innovative features and practical upgrades, the F101 Pro stands out as a unique offering in the market.

    Display Innovation:

    The FOSSiBOT F101 Pro boasts a 5.45-inch HD+ touch screen, providing a vivid visual experience for users. However, what sets it apart is the additional 1.32-inch round display on the top back, introducing a new dimension to smartphone functionality. This rear display serves a multitude of purposes, offering users quick access to essential information and functions without unlocking the device.

    The rear display, with a resolution of 360*360, functions as more than just an aesthetic addition. Users can seamlessly check the time, date, and week at a glance. The 24MP main camera’s quick shoot function, along with notifications, reminders, and battery level checks, enhances user convenience. The rear display also serves as a control center for music playback, a timer, a pedometer, call management, and a recorder, catering specifically to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

    Design Refinements:

    The design of the F101 Pro reflects a thoughtful approach to both aesthetics and functionality. Notably, there’s a notable absence of a large speaker on the back, contributing to a sleeker and more streamlined appearance. The addition of the 1.32-inch round display on the top back enhances both the visual appeal and usability of the device.

    Outdoor Adventure:

    For outdoor enthusiasts, the F101 Pro proves to be a reliable companion. The rear display plays a pivotal role in extending battery life, thanks to its lower power consumption. With nine functions tailored for outdoor use, users can efficiently navigate through various features without compromising on energy efficiency.

    Processor and Memory Power:

    Under the hood, the FOSSiBOT F101 Pro is powered by the MediaTek MT8788 octa-core processor. Comprising 4 Cortex-A73 cores at 2.0GHz and 4 Cortex-A53 cores at 2.0GHz, this processor ensures seamless performance, handling multitasking and resource-intensive applications with ease. Accompanied by a substantial 8GB of RAM (expandable up to 15GB) and a capacious 128GB ROM (extendable up to 1TB via TF card), the F101 Pro offers an impressive memory and storage combination for users with diverse needs.

    Battery Performance:

    The F101 Pro’s colossal 10600mAh battery capacity is a standout feature, providing users with extended usage periods. With 18W fast charging capabilities, the device ensures a swift recharge process, taking only 3 hours for a full recharge with the fast charger. The device boasts an impressive standby time of over 40 days with a SIM card inserted, making it an ideal choice for users on the go.

    Camera System:

    The triple-camera system on the back comprises a 24-megapixel main camera, a 5-megapixel macro camera, and a 0.3-megapixel bookend camera. Additionally, the front-facing 8-megapixel selfie camera ensures users capture moments with clarity. The diverse camera system caters to various photography preferences, from detailed macro shots to immersive landscape captures.

    Connectivity and Rugged Features:

    The FOSSiBOT F101 Pro introduces NFC support, a feature absent in its predecessor (F101), expanding the device’s connectivity options. The device is designed to withstand challenging outdoor conditions, boasting IP68/IP69K waterproofing, dust and shock resistance, and MIL-STD-810H compliance. These rugged features ensure the F101 Pro remains operational in diverse environments, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

    Operating System and Key Specifications:

    Running on the Android 13 OS out of the box, the F101 Pro provides users with the latest in Android technology. Notably, the device is HAC Certified, catering to the needs of hearing aid users. The inclusion of a side press fingerprint sensor, face ID unlock support, and a custom button further enhance the device’s security and user accessibility.

    Global Launch and Pricing:

    The FOSSiBOT F101 Pro will be available for a special launch price of $99.99 on FOSSiBOT’s official website and the AliExpress FOSSiBOT Official Store starting November 11th. After November 17, the post-launch price will be $139.99.

    FOSSiBOT F101 Pro stands as a testament to FOSSiBOT’s commitment to innovation and user-centric design. With a focus on outdoor usability, robust features, and a competitive price point, the F101 Pro emerges as a compelling option for users seeking a mid-range rugged smartphone that seamlessly integrates functionality with durability.

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  • Snapdragon 888 powers Samsung Galaxy M44 (Galaxy Jump 3) released in South Korea

    Snapdragon 888 powers Samsung Galaxy M44 (Galaxy Jump 3) released in South Korea

    Samsung has quietly unveiled a new mid-range smartphone called the Galaxy Jump 3 in South Korea. While the name may differ, it’s believed to be the same phone as the upcoming Galaxy M44 that’s expected to launch globally soon. The phone’s model number, SM-M446KZKAKTC, hints at its M44 identity.

    Samsung Galaxy Jump 3 Specifications

    The Galaxy Jump 3/M44 sports a design typical of Samsung’s mid-range offerings for late 2023, featuring a triple-camera setup on the rear and a notch on the front. It’s also equipped with a 6.58-inch LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate.

    What’s surprising about the Galaxy Jump 3 is its chipset – the Snapdragon 888. This high-end chip was released in 2020, and it’s unclear why Samsung chose to use it in a mid-range phone. However, for those who aren’t fans of Samsung’s Exynos processors, the 888 should offer a significant performance boost.

    Along with the Snapdragon 888, the Galaxy Jump 3 packs 6GB of RAM, 128GB of expandable storage, a 50MP main rear camera, a 13MP selfie camera, and a 5,000mAh battery. The phone measures 167.7 x 78 x 9.1 mm and weighs 216 grams.

    Pricing details for the Galaxy Jump 3 have not yet been announced. And it is unclear whether Samsung will launch the Galaxy M44 globally with the Snapdragon 888 chipset.

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  • OnePlus 12 Obtains Certifications from UAE’s TDRA and Russia’s EEC

    OnePlus 12 Obtains Certifications from UAE’s TDRA and Russia’s EEC

    OnePlus 12 Bags TDRA and EEC Certification

    OnePlus is widely expected to launch its next-generation number series flagship in China in the coming weeks. Recently, the brand revealed a host of camera features of the upcoming OnePlus 12. It has also bagged various certifications in the past including Geekbench, 3C, and IMDA. Now, the smartphone has been spotted on the TDRA and EEC certification websites. All this development hints at the imminent arrival of the OnePlus 12.

    TDRA Listing

    The OnePlus 12 is listed with model number CPH2581 on TDRA certification in the UAE. It also carries the same model number on Russia’s EEC certification website. The listings do not reveal any key details of the device but they do suggest that the smartphone will be launching in those respective countries. We can expect the OnePlus 12 to first debut in the China market before the end of the year.

    EEC Certification

    OnePlus has already confirmed a few key details of the OnePlus 12. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The upcoming offering is also confirmed to feature a 6.8-inch BOE X1 panel bearing a 2K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. The OnePlus 12 is teased to pack a Sony LYT 808 main camera sensor along with an OIS-enabled 64MP telephoto unit. Additionally, OPPO and Hasselblad’s collaborative HyperTone camera system– computational photography will be present on the smartphone.

    As for leaks and rumors, the OnePlus 12 will come with the same design as its predecessor. A 3C certification listing revealed support for 100W fast wired charging whereas the Geekbench database mentioned 16GB RAM onboard and Android 14 OS.

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