Category: All News

  • Could Decathlon’s Latest E-Bike Be the Ideal Urban Companion?

    Could Decathlon’s Latest E-Bike Be the Ideal Urban Companion?

    Decathlon, the popular French sports retailer, has recently unveiled a new version of its Riverside 520 E e-bike that is specifically designed for city living. The latest model now features a step-through design, making it more accessible and user-friendly, particularly for urban commuters. Not only does this design cater to shorter riders, but it also simplifies the process of getting on and off the bike, making it a practical choice for city travels.

    A Reliable and Powerful Urban Companion

    The Riverside 520 E is tailored for urban environments and is equipped with a rear hub motor that has a 250-watt output, in compliance with European e-bike regulations. This motor provides ample power to conquer city hills, making it a reliable partner for daily commutes. Although the bike's narrow tires suggest that it is more suitable for paved surfaces rather than off-road trails, it does come with a short-travel front suspension to tackle uneven city roads.

    Impressive Battery Range and Advanced Features

    One of the standout features of this e-bike is its 500-watt-hour battery, which promises a range of up to 62 miles on a single charge, depending on the assist level used. This makes it an excellent option for longer city commutes or leisurely rides around town. Additionally, the bike incorporates a torque sensor, ensuring a smoother ride and highlighting Decathlon's commitment to providing a high-quality and enjoyable riding experience.

    Straightforward Technology and Comfortable Design

    The Riverside 520 E keeps things simple yet efficient when it comes to technology. It includes a multi-function button for controlling assist settings, a display for monitoring speed and distance, and even a USB port for charging devices on the go. Moreover, the bike prioritizes comfort and convenience with features like an ergonomic saddle and grips, as well as standard basic lighting and a rear stand. However, additional accessories such as mudguards and a luggage rack come at an extra cost.

    Reliable Performance and Safety

    Equipped with a Microshift H081 drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, the Riverside 520 E ensures reliable performance and safety. The bike is available in a single green color and comes in sizes S, M, and L. Priced at around 1,399 euros (approximately $1,510 USD), it offers excellent value for money in the competitive e-bike market. Overall, the Riverside 520 E is a well-thought-out addition to the urban e-bike segment, providing a combination of accessibility, functionality, and comfort for the modern city resident.

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  • Gemini Pro Empowers Bard to Challenge ChatGPT: Google’s Launch of Gemini AI Nano and Ultra

    Gemini Pro Empowers Bard to Challenge ChatGPT: Google’s Launch of Gemini AI Nano and Ultra

    Google Gemini: A Powerful AI Model for Chatbots

    Google has recently unveiled its latest addition to the world of AI chatbots – the Gemini Pro. This brand-new AI model is set to revolutionize the capabilities of Google's existing chatbot, the Google Bard. With Gemini Pro, Google aims to compete with other AI chatbots like ChatGPT, which are already equipped with advanced models like GPT-3 and GPT-4.

    The Most Capable AI Model from Google

    According to Google, Gemini is their most capable AI model to date. Its powerful capabilities enable it to seamlessly process and integrate various forms of data, including text, code, audio, images, and videos. This versatility makes Gemini a highly adaptable and robust AI model, capable of handling a wide range of tasks and applications.

    From Data Centers to Mobile Devices

    One of the key advantages of Gemini is its ability to run on different systems, from large data centers to mobile devices. This flexibility ensures that Gemini can be integrated into a variety of platforms, providing users with a consistent and efficient experience across different devices.

    Gemini Nano, Pro, Ultra

    In addition to the Gemini Pro, Google has also introduced two other variants of this AI model – Gemini Nano and Gemini Ultra. These variants cater to different needs and requirements, offering users a range of options to choose from based on their specific use cases.

    Pricing and Specifications

    Google has not yet released specific pricing details for the Gemini models. However, given Google's track record of providing competitive pricing for its AI products, it is expected that the Gemini models will be accessible to a wide range of users.

    As for the specifications, Google has highlighted the versatility and processing power of the Gemini models. With their ability to seamlessly handle various types of data, users can expect high-performance and accurate results from these AI models.

    In conclusion, Google's latest AI model, Gemini, is set to elevate the capabilities of its AI chatbot, the Google Bard. With its impressive processing capabilities and versatility, Gemini aims to rival other advanced AI chatbots in the market. Whether it's running on data centers or mobile devices, Gemini promises to deliver a seamless and powerful AI experience.

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  • Experience Toyota’s Simulated Manual EV Transmission with an Impressive 14 Gears

    Experience Toyota’s Simulated Manual EV Transmission with an Impressive 14 Gears

    Toyota Introduces Simulated Manual Transmission for Electric Vehicles

    Toyota is revolutionizing the electric vehicle (EV) market with its groundbreaking simulated manual transmission system. This innovative technology, which can feature up to 14 gears, represents a significant shift in how EVs operate, combining traditional driving with futuristic advancements.

    Enhancing the Driving Experience

    At the core of this development is the desire to provide a more engaging experience for drivers. Unlike the straightforward operation of conventional EVs, Toyota’s approach adds a layer of interaction that has been missing in electric cars. The inclusion of a manual transmission in an EV brings back a sense of nostalgia and control to the driver’s seat. Additionally, many professional drivers believe that manual transmissions offer better control in certain situations. It’s akin to manual camera settings, where experienced individuals can achieve more by adjusting their settings accordingly.

    Unprecedented Customization

    Toyota’s system, as outlined in their recent patent application, allows drivers to select their preferred number of gears. This level of flexibility means that drivers can opt for a simple six-gear pattern or choose a more complex 14-gear arrangement. The ability to customize the transmission is unparalleled in the EV industry and could potentially make electric cars more appealing to a wider audience.

    A Virtual Transmission

    It is important to note that this simulated manual transmission is not a physical transmission with numerous gears. Instead, Toyota proposes a fixed number of shift gates with a virtual pattern that shifts to the next set of “ratios” as the driver progresses. For instance, selecting the sixth gear in a six-gear pattern prompts the system to offer the seventh gear and beyond. This approach preserves the familiarity of a manual transmission while embracing the flexibility of digital technology.

    Exploring New Possibilities

    But why go up to 14 gears? Traditional manual transmissions in gasoline cars rarely exceed seven gears due to practicality constraints. However, in the realm of EVs, where physical limitations are less of a factor, Toyota is venturing into new possibilities. This move is not solely about technical capability; it also aims to offer a unique driving experience that merges the old with the new. This development could potentially set a new standard in the electric vehicle industry, making EVs not only a responsible choice but also an exhilarating one.

    Conclusion

    Toyota’s simulated manual transmission for electric vehicles represents a significant advancement in the EV market. By combining traditional driving elements with futuristic technology, this innovation aims to provide a more engaging and customizable experience for drivers. With the potential to set a new industry standard, Toyota is paving the way for EV manufacturers to follow suit and redefine the driving experience for electric car enthusiasts.

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  • AI Translation Boosts China’s Web Novel Industry

    AI Translation Boosts China’s Web Novel Industry

    AI Translation Boosts Global Popularity of China’s Web Novel Industry by 40%

    The global appeal of China’s web novel industry is on the rise, thanks to advancements in AI translation. China Literature, supported by Tencent, revealed in a recent report that overseas sales surged by an impressive 40% in 2022, totaling a substantial 4.06 billion yuan (equivalent to around $572 million). This significant growth is primarily due to the transformative impact of generative AI technologies, which have streamlined the translation process and made Chinese web novels more accessible to readers worldwide.

    Enhanced Translation Efficiency through AI Tools

    Previously, translating web novels into various languages was a cumbersome and time-intensive endeavor. Nonetheless, with the introduction of AI-powered tools, this process has become notably faster and more effective. Generative AI has expanded the reach of Chinese content to more than 40 countries and regions, with translations available in over 20 languages. Presented at the second Shanghai International Online Literature Week, the report emphasizes the crucial role of AI in broadening the global readership of Chinese online literature.

    Varied Perspectives on AI Translations

    Despite the progress in AI translation, the quality of these translations has elicited mixed reactions. Some readers have raised concerns about the subpar grammar and readability of the translated material. While AI has undeniably accelerated the translation process and improved accessibility to these novels, there remains a need for enhancements in quality. Nevertheless, many readers acknowledge the positive trajectory and recognize the strides made over time, particularly in rendering these captivating narratives in multiple languages.

    Embracing AI Translation Technology to Elevate Standards

    In response to quality issues in translation, China Literature is proactively investing in AI translation technology. The objective is to further elevate translation quality and broaden the scope by translating more works into languages like English, Spanish, Portuguese, and others. This strategic move aligns with the company’s observation that the majority of WebNovel’s readers are from Gen-Z, a demographic characterized by diversity and a global mindset. With ongoing technological advancements, AI is poised to assume an even more pivotal role in bridging cultural and linguistic gaps in the literary realm.

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  • Nvidia Faces Challenges in Chinese Market, Collaborates with US Government Amid Export Curbs

    Nvidia Faces Challenges in Chinese Market, Collaborates with US Government Amid Export Curbs

    Nvidia Collaborates with US Government to Navigate Export Controls

    California-based AI semiconductor designer Nvidia, which holds over 90% of China's $7 billion AI chip market, is working closely with the US government in an effort to navigate complex US export controls. The company aims to ensure that its new chips designed for the Chinese market comply with the latest export curbs imposed by the United States.

    Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang confirmed the ongoing collaboration with the US government during a news conference in Singapore. He emphasized the company's commitment to creating products that adhere to regulatory requirements and specified limits. Although Huang did not confirm or deny reports of a delay in the launch of a new China-focused AI chip, he acknowledged the challenges Nvidia faces in navigating the shifting regulatory landscape.

    Potential Impact on Chinese Market

    The new US curbs on chip exports are expected to open doors for Chinese rivals in the AI chip market. In response, Nvidia has reportedly notified Chinese customers of a delay in the release of a China-focused AI chip. This move highlights the challenges the company faces in complying with the evolving regulations.

    Huang also recognized Huawei Technologies as a formidable competitor and revealed that seeking market advice is an integral part of Nvidia's ongoing process. The company's November earnings report warned of a substantial drop in fourth-quarter sales in China due to the impact of the new US rules. The uncertainty surrounding the extent of change in Nvidia's revenue adds complexity to the situation, as China traditionally contributes around 20% to the company's earnings.

    Collaboration with Singapore and Growing Importance of AI in Southeast Asia

    Simultaneously, Nvidia is in talks with Singapore for potential significant investments. The company is collaborating with Singapore on the development of its own AI Large Language Model (LLM) named Sealion. Singapore, known for its vibrant AI ecosystem, has also announced a $52 million initiative to create Southeast Asia's first LLM, showcasing the region's growing importance in the global AI landscape.

    High-Stakes Nature of Semiconductor Technology in US-China Relations

    These developments come in the wake of US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo's recent appeal to Congress for additional funding beyond her $200 million budget. Raimondo emphasized the critical nature of denying China access to cutting-edge chips for national security, citing Nvidia's chip redesign for the Chinese market as a prime example. The call for increased resources underscores the high-stakes nature of semiconductor technology in US-China relations and the ongoing challenges faced by industry players like Nvidia.

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  • ASUS Introduces ProArt PA169CDV Drawing Monitor specifically for the Taiwanese market

    ASUS Introduces ProArt PA169CDV Drawing Monitor specifically for the Taiwanese market

    ASUS Launches ProArt PA169CDV Drawing Screen: Redefining Precision and Visual Fidelity

    ASUS, the Taiwanese tech giant, has recently unveiled its latest innovation, the ProArt PA169CDV drawing screen, in Taiwan, China. This groundbreaking product is set to revolutionize the drawing and design experience for creative professionals. Priced at NT$29,900 (USD 949), this 15.6-inch 4K powerhouse offers unparalleled precision and visual fidelity.

    Cutting-Edge Features

    At the heart of the ProArt PA169CDV lies a 15.6-inch 10-bit IPS display panel, boasting an impressive 4K UHD resolution. This high-quality screen is accompanied by the ProArt Pen, which incorporates Wacom EMR technology. With this innovative pen, artists can expect an exceptional level of accuracy and responsiveness in their creative endeavors. Notably, the PA169CDV is the world's first portable monitor to receive certifications from both PANTONE and Calman, solidifying ASUS's commitment to delivering true-to-life color accuracy.

    True-to-Life Color Reproduction

    The ProArt PA169CDV supports a 100% sRGB, Rec.709, and DCI-P3 wide color gamut, ensuring vibrant and accurate color reproduction. With a remarkable brightness of up to 500 nits and VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification, this drawing screen promises a visually stunning and immersive experience for users engaged in graphic design, digital art, and multimedia creation.

    Unleash Creativity with Precision

    The ProArt Pen is a pivotal component of this creative arsenal. With Wacom EMR technology, artists can achieve precision even when the pen is tilted up to 40°. With an impressive 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, the ProArt Pen allows artists to unleash their creativity with nuanced and expressive strokes. Additionally, the fully laminated panel minimizes parallax, while anti-fingerprint and anti-glare coatings contribute to a pristine and distraction-free workspace.

    ASUS has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation and excellence with the launch of the ProArt PA169CDV drawing screen. This powerful and feature-packed device is set to redefine the drawing and design experience for creative professionals. With its cutting-edge technology and its dedication to true-to-life color accuracy, the ProArt PA169CDV is poised to become an indispensable tool for artists and designers worldwide.

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  • December 14 launch of Vivo S18 unveils two additional color choices with accompanying images

    December 14 launch of Vivo S18 unveils two additional color choices with accompanying images

    Vivo is set to launch its S18 series of premium mid-range smartphones on December 14 in China. The series will include three devices: Vivo S18, Vivo S18e, and Vivo S18 Pro.

    New color options for the Vivo S18 have been revealed ahead of the launch. The smartphone will be available in Black and Grey, featuring the same flower-like pattern on the back that was shown in the previously teased color options.

    Vivo S18 & S18 Pro Specifications

    The Vivo S18 is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip, providing strong performance. On the other hand, the S18 Pro is rumored to come with a more powerful Dimensity 9200 Plus chipset, potentially enhancing its processing capabilities. Both models are said to come in various color options, including Huaxia Red, Black, Purple, and Sea Green.

    In terms of camera, the S18 Pro is rumored to have an impressive 50-megapixel front camera with dual soft LED flash, ensuring stunning selfies. The device is also expected to feature a 50-megapixel main camera (Sony IMX920), a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera (Samsung JN1), and a 12-megapixel portrait camera (Sony IMX663) on the rear. Both phones are expected to incorporate the Blue Heart AI model with six billion parameters, enhancing the portrait photography experience and introducing various AI features.

    Both the standard S18 and the Pro variant are rumored to come with a curved-edge OLED display, offering an immersive visual experience. The display is expected to support a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring seamless interaction with the devices. In terms of charging capabilities, both phones are expected to support 80W charging. However, there are reports suggesting that the Pro model may offer an even faster 100W charging option.

    Moving on to the Vivo S18e, it will feature a flat display and a circular camera module housing an OIS-enabled dual-camera setup along with an Aura LED flash. The included image confirms the presence of a 4,800mAh battery with support for 80W charging. Notably, the device has a slim profile with a thickness of 7.69mm and will be available in color options like Cloud Gauze White, Glow Purple, and Starry Night Black.

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  • Acer offers a sneak peek of the Aspire Vero 16 Notebook featuring an eco-friendly body constructed with recycled plastic

    Acer offers a sneak peek of the Aspire Vero 16 Notebook featuring an eco-friendly body constructed with recycled plastic

    Acer Unveils the Aspire Vero 16: A Sustainable Notebook

    Acer is set to unveil its latest innovation – the Aspire Vero 16 notebook. The new laptop is a culmination of efforts by the brand to fuse its technological prowess with its commitment to environmental responsibility. Breaking new ground in sustainable computing, this cutting-edge notebook stands as a beacon of eco-conscious design and performance.

    State-of-the-Art Processor for Energy Efficiency and Performance

    At the heart of the Aspire Vero 16 is the state-of-the-art Core Ultra processor from Intel, setting new standards for energy efficiency and performance. The integration of the Intel AI Boost Neural Processing Unit (NPU) takes artificial intelligence functions to unprecedented heights while maintaining ultimate energy efficiency. This ensures a powerful computing experience that doesn’t compromise on sustainability.

    Minimizing Environmental Impact

    What sets the Aspire Vero 16 apart is its dedication to minimizing environmental impact across every aspect of its lifecycle. The notebook’s casing, a testament to Acer’s commitment, is crafted from more than 60% recycled plastic, doubling the recycled content from its predecessor. Notably, the surface is free from volatile organic compounds, paints, and additives, providing a user experience that is both cutting-edge and eco-friendly.

    Revolutionizing Packaging Paradigm

    Acer goes beyond the device itself, revolutionizing the packaging paradigm. Recycled waste generated during production is reincorporated into the manufacturing process, contributing to a circular economy. The 100% recyclable packaging not only reduces waste but showcases Acer’s pledge to sustainable practices. Versatile FSC-certified 100% recycled paper boxes are not just containers but a testament to eco-friendly design thinking, emphasizing reuse.

    Green Transportation Logistics

    The commitment to sustainability extends to transportation logistics, with Acer partnering with logistics providers to implement biomass fuel solutions on multiple routes. This strategic move reduces emissions associated with standard shipping containers, further solidifying Acer’s dedication to a greener future.

    Energy Efficiency at the Usage Stage

    In the usage stage, Acer is introducing AcerSense battery management software, focusing on energy efficiency. Four performance modes – “Energy Saving+,” “Energy Saving,” “Balanced,” and “Performance” – empower users to tailor their experience while conserving energy.

    A Testament to a Sustainable Future

    Acer sets a new standard for eco-conscious computing with the Aspire Vero 16. From its recycled materials and energy-efficient components to eco-friendly packaging and user-centric features, this notebook is a testament to Acer’s vision of a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

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  • Upgrade to OS 17.2 Introduces Lightning-Speed Qi2 Charging for Earlier iPhone Models Including iPhone 13 and 14

    Upgrade to OS 17.2 Introduces Lightning-Speed Qi2 Charging for Earlier iPhone Models Including iPhone 13 and 14

    Apple is already working on the development of iOS 18 and the iPhone 16 series, despite recently launching iOS 17 in September. However, before the release of the next major update, Apple is set to roll out iOS 17.2, which will bring a range of new features and enhancements to older iPhones.

    One of the notable features of iOS 17.2 is the support for faster Qi2 wireless charging on the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 models. Apple has introduced the release candidate beta for this update, enabling users of these devices to charge their iPhones at a faster rate, reaching up to 15W when using Qi2 chargers. This is a significant improvement from the current 7.5W charging speed.

    Qi2 is an innovative wireless charging standard that incorporates a MagSafe-like ring of magnets into the existing Qi standard. This enhancement not only enables quicker charging speeds but also provides a more convenient wireless charging experience for users.

    Although Qi2 chargers are not currently available for purchase, they are expected to be released in the near future. Meanwhile, the iOS 17.2 update is anticipated to be rolled out either later this week or the following week, making the faster wireless charging feature accessible to iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 users.

    In addition to the Qi2 support, iOS 17.2 will also introduce several other features to enhance the overall user experience. These include:

    Journal app

    A new app specifically designed for journaling and note-taking purposes. This addition will provide users with a dedicated platform to document their thoughts and ideas.

    Spatial video capture

    iPhone 15 Pro models will gain the ability to capture spatial videos. This feature will enable users to capture immersive videos with a sense of depth and spatial audio.

    Wireless charging fix

    iOS 17.2 will address an issue with wireless charging on the iPhone 15 models in certain cars. This fix will ensure a seamless charging experience for users who encounter this specific problem.

    Default notification sound

    A new setting will be introduced, allowing users to customize the default sound for notifications. This feature will provide users with the flexibility to personalize their notification experience.

    The information about iOS 17.2 and its features is based on the release candidate beta version that Apple has made available. While the company has not provided a precise release date for the update, it is expected to be rolled out in December. iPhone users can look forward to the upcoming release, which will bring faster wireless charging and various other enhancements to their devices.

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  • Cutting-edge Tianhe Xingyi Supercomputer revealed by China

    Cutting-edge Tianhe Xingyi Supercomputer revealed by China

    China has unveiled its latest achievement in the field of supercomputing with the introduction of the "Tianhe Xingyi Supercomputer." The announcement was made by the National Supercomputing Center in Guangzhou at an industry event in Guangdong Province, and was reported by state news agency Xinhua.

    The Tianhe Xingyi sets itself apart from its predecessor with its cutting-edge domestically designed architecture. While specific details about its computing power remain unknown, Lu Yutong, the director of the National Supercomputing Center, revealed that the Tianhe Xingyi surpasses the renowned Tianhe-2 in various critical aspects such as CPU computing power, networking efficiency, storage capacity, and application performance.

    The Tianhe-2, developed by the National University of Defense Technology, held the title of the world's fastest supercomputer for three consecutive years starting in 2013. However, its reign was disrupted in 2016 when the U.S. government blacklisted the university, limiting access to crucial Intel processors necessary for supercomputing capabilities.

    The unveiling of the Tianhe Xingyi is not an isolated event in China's supercomputing landscape. The Sunway TaihuLight, another notable creation by the National Supercomputing Center in Wuxi, secured the seventh position in the global rankings in June 2023, while the Tianhe-2 secured the tenth spot.

    The lack of specific details regarding the Tianhe Xingyi's computing power has left the computing community eagerly anticipating further information. Lu Yutong shed some light on the supercomputer's operational expectations, emphasizing its crucial role in meeting the increasing computing demands across various fields, including high-performance computing, artificial intelligence (AI) big model training, and big data analysis.

    The design of the Tianhe Xingyi reflects its dedication to addressing evolving challenges in computing, particularly in the realms of AI and big data applications.

    China holds a dominant position in the global supercomputing landscape, with its centers collectively possessing a significant share of the world's top 500 supercomputers. As of November 2019, China surpassed the United States with 228 supercomputers among the top 500.

    China's journey in supercomputing began in the 1980s and quickly progressed to claim the top spot in November 2010 with the Tianhe-1A. Notably, China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2A rank seventh and tenth globally, respectively. In an effort to overcome potential technology embargoes, China has developed its processors, such as the Loongson, signaling a push towards self-sufficiency. However, geopolitical tensions have resulted in some Chinese supercomputing entities facing restrictions on the global stage.

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