Category: All News

  • Sam Altman Hires Apple’s iPhone Designer for AI Hardware Venture

    Sam Altman Hires Apple’s iPhone Designer for AI Hardware Venture

    Apple Chief Designer Departs, Links Up with Jony Ive and Sam Altman on AI Hardware Venture

    Tang Tan, who recently assumed the role of Apple’s chief designer, has stepped down from his post, as reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. While the specific rationale behind his resignation remains undisclosed, Tan is set to venture into LoveFrom, a design agency established by Jony Ive, the renowned designer pivotal to Apple’s triumphs. Tan is poised to collaborate with Ive and Sam Altman of OpenAI on an artificial intelligence hardware endeavor.

    Surprising Exit Sparks Inquiries

    Tan’s exit from Apple comes as a shock, given his pivotal role in shaping the tech giant’s major products, including the iconic iPhone. This development triggers inquiries about potential issues within the organization, particularly as all members of Ive’s 2019 design team have also departed.

    It appears that the project spearheaded by Ive and Altman may have enticed Tan more than his role at Apple did. However, details surrounding the project remain veiled for now. The successor to Tan as Apple’s new lead designer remains ambiguous.

    Apple’s Turbulent Phase Persists

    Since Jony Ive’s departure in 2019 to establish his own venture, Apple has navigated a turbulent phase. With two changes in chief designer over the past four years, the company now faces the task of finding a replacement.

    Design has perennially been a linchpin of Apple’s success, as the brand positions its offerings as coveted objects. Concerns arise about the future trajectory of Apple’s product designs and their ability to allure consumers with key designers exiting.

    Tang Tan’s Contribution to AI Hardware Initiative

    While specifics surrounding the AI hardware project remain shrouded, Tang Tan’s involvement hints at a project transcending mere product innovation. The collaboration between Jony Ive, Sam Altman, and Tang Tan bodes well for groundbreaking strides in artificial intelligence.

    Moving ahead, Apple’s handling of this unstable period and their selection of a new chief designer to uphold the legacy of exceptional design synonymous with the brand will be closely monitored.

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  • Amid Semiconductor Tensions, Beijing Reveals High-Powered AI Computing Platform

    Amid Semiconductor Tensions, Beijing Reveals High-Powered AI Computing Platform

    Beijing Introduces State-of-the-Art Computing Platform to Resolve Shortage of Computing Power

    Beijing has recently launched a cutting-edge computing platform, known as the Beijing AI Public Computing Platform or the Shangzhuang project. This initiative comes at a crucial time as global semiconductor tensions, particularly with the US, continue to escalate.

    The main objective of the Shangzhuang project, operated by Beijing Energy Holding (BEH), is to address the critical shortage of computing power in Beijing. This shortage has posed significant challenges for universities, research centers, and small and medium-sized businesses. The introduction of this new platform is not only a technological advancement but also a strategic move to establish China as a leader in AI technology.

    Impressive Computing Power and Sustainability Commitment

    BEH’s computing platform is equipped with a remarkable 500 petaflops of power in its initial phase. To put this into perspective, the most powerful supercomputer in the world, the US’s Frontier, has a peak performance of 1,194 petaflops. However, BEH has ambitious plans to triple this capacity to 1,500 petaflops in the near future.

    One notable aspect of the Shangzhuang project is its commitment to sustainability. BEH has expressed its intention to eventually power the platform entirely with green energy, aligning with global environmental goals.

    Collaborations and Partnerships

    The inauguration of the platform was marked by significant collaborations with major Chinese tech firms. BEH signed agreements with Alibaba Cloud and AI startup Zhipu AI, among others. These partnerships aim to explore various sectors, ranging from green energy to digital economy development.

    Beijing’s Broader Strategy

    The introduction of the Shangzhuang project is part of a broader strategy by Beijing’s municipal government. Earlier this year, the government announced plans to consolidate computing resources to bolster AI development. With a third of China’s core AI startups already based in Beijing, the city is rapidly solidifying its position as a hub for AI innovation.

    With the Beijing AI Public Computing Platform, Beijing aims to address the shortage of computing power and further its ambitions in AI technology. The platform’s impressive computing capabilities and commitment to sustainability, along with collaborations with major tech firms, position Beijing as a frontrunner in the global AI race. As tensions in the semiconductor industry continue to rise, initiatives like the Shangzhuang project play a crucial role in ensuring technological advancements and maintaining a competitive edge in the field of AI.

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  • China Welcomes the Launch of iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro Featuring 144Hz Display and 120W Charging

    China Welcomes the Launch of iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro Featuring 144Hz Display and 120W Charging

    iQOO, a sub-brand of Vivo, recently held an event in China to unveil its latest products. Among the new offerings are the iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro smartphones, as well as TWS earphones and a smartwatch. These devices serve as successors to the iQOO Neo 8 series and come with premium specifications. Let’s take a closer look at the features of the Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro.

    iQOO Neo 9, Neo 9 Pro Specifications

    Display and Design

    Both the iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro boast a 6.78-inch OLED display with a 1.5K resolution. The screens support a 144Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ technology. Additionally, the displays are equipped with an integrated fingerprint scanner. The smartphones feature a flat frame design and two camera rings on the back panel.

    Camera

    In terms of camera capabilities, the iQOO Neo 9 series includes a 50MP primary camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), which is the same as the one found on the Vivo X100. The standard variant sports an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, while the Pro variant comes with a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens. Both phones also offer a 16MP front-facing selfie camera.

    Performance and Battery

    Under the hood, the iQOO Neo 9 is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, while the Neo 9 Pro is equipped with a Dimensity 9300 chipset. Both devices come with up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. They also feature a 6K VC liquid cooling 3D heat dissipation system to prevent overheating. The smartphones are backed by a 5,160mAh battery with support for 120W fast charging.

    Additional Features and Software

    The iQOO Neo 9 series offers several additional features, including dual speakers, an IR Blaster, X-Axis linear motor, and WiFi-7 support. The devices come pre-installed with OriginOS 4, based on Android 14.

    Pricing and Availability

    The iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro are available in Red and White Soul (with a dual-tone leather textured back panel), Nautical Blue, and Fighting Black color options. The standard variant starts at CNY 2,299 ($321) for the 12GB + 256GB variant. The 16GB + 256GB, 16GB + 512GB, and 16GB + 1TB configurations are priced at CNY 2,499 ($349), CNY 2,799 ($391), and CNY 3,199 ($447) respectively. On the other hand, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro in 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB options are priced at CNY 2,999 ($419) and CNY 3,299 ($461) respectively. The 16GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB variants cost CNY 3,599 ($503) and CNY 3,999 ($559).

    In conclusion, the iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro smartphones offer impressive specifications and features. With their high-resolution displays, powerful processors, and advanced camera systems, these devices are sure to provide an enhanced viewing and gaming experience. Additionally, the fast charging capabilities and ample storage options make them suitable for users with heavy usage demands. Overall, the iQOO Neo 9 series presents a compelling option for those in search of a new smartphone.

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  • Leaked: Lenovo Yoga Book 9i (9th Gen) Design Reveals Dual Displays

    Leaked: Lenovo Yoga Book 9i (9th Gen) Design Reveals Dual Displays

    Lenovo Yoga Book 9i (9th Gen) Leaked: Dual Screen Design and More

    A new leak suggests that Lenovo is working on the successor to its Yoga Book 9i laptop. Images of the upcoming device have been shared by well-known tipster Evan Blass on X (formerly Twitter), giving us a glimpse into the design and features of the 9th Gen Yoga Book 9i.

    Dual Screen Design and 360 Degree Hinge

    The leaked images showcase the thin and light laptop's dual screen design, with a hinge that offers 360 degree support. The primary display is a large front display, while a smaller secondary screen is positioned above the keyboard near the hinge mechanism. The panel is expected to be touch screen enabled, allowing users to utilize the tablet mode. Just like its predecessor, the Yoga Book 9i is likely to target creative professionals as it supports a stylus.

    Keyboard with Hidden Touchpad

    The leaked images also reveal that the Yoga Book 9i will feature a keyboard with a hidden touchpad, similar to the previous generation model. This design choice helps maintain the sleek and compact form factor of the laptop.

    Thunderbolt 4 Ports and Updated Specs

    On the sides of the device, two Thunderbolt 4 ports are visible, indicating the presence of high-speed connectivity options. As for the specifications, the previous iteration of the Yoga Book 9i launched with 13th Gen Intel Core processors. It is expected that the newer model will offer updated and refreshed specs, possibly even featuring the Intel Core Ultra CPUs. However, it is important to note that these speculations are yet to be confirmed.

    Conclusion

    While the leaked images give us a glimpse into the design and some features of the upcoming Yoga Book 9i, finer details about the device are still unknown. The leak only confirms the availability of one color option at the moment. As we await further updates, it will be interesting to see how Lenovo improves upon its previous model and caters to the needs of creative professionals and laptop enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more information on the Yoga Book 9i (9th Gen) as it becomes available.

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  • China Launches iQOO Watch Featuring 1.43-inch Display and eSIM Support

    China Launches iQOO Watch Featuring 1.43-inch Display and eSIM Support

    iQOO Launches New Smartwatch Alongside Neo 9 Series Smartphones

    iQOO, the Vivo sub-brand, has recently unveiled its first-ever smartwatch, the iQOO Watch, alongside the launch of the iQOO Neo 9 series smartphones. The iQOO Watch is essentially a rebadged version of the Vivo Watch 3, which was introduced in China last month. While the two devices share the same specifications, they differ in terms of pricing.

    iQOO Watch Specifications and Features

    The iQOO Watch features a circular dial with a 1.43-inch display that boasts a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels. Users can choose from a variety of watch faces and take advantage of the always-on display mode. The smartwatch is equipped with a rotating crown and a physical button on the right side for easy navigation.

    In terms of health and fitness tracking, the iQOO Watch offers a 24-hour heart-rate monitor and a SpO2 sensor. It provides four major warnings to alert users when their heart rate and blood oxygen levels are either too high or too low. The device also includes high-altitude reminders. The smartwatch features sleep tracking with interference-free infrared monitoring during the night. Additionally, it can monitor stress levels, detect high noise levels, and track menstrual cycles for women. The iQOO Watch even sends notifications when the user has been inactive for an extended period. With support for over 100 sports modes and an AI running coach, the smartwatch proves to be a versatile fitness companion.

    Running on BlueOS, the iQOO Watch offers eSIM support, a built-in speaker, and a microphone that enables hands-free voice calling. The device also comes with a range of features, including QR code payment, NFC car keys, camera, and music control, among others. The smartwatch is powered by a 505mAh battery that can provide up to 7 days of usage on a single charge.

    Pricing and Availability

    The iQOO Watch is available in soft rubber, genuine leather, and nylon woven color options. The standard version of the smartwatch is priced at CNY 1,099 ($153), while the eSIM variant comes with a price tag of CNY 1,299 ($183). Interested buyers can purchase the iQOO Watch starting from today.

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  • The Launch of Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G Featuring Snapdragon 7c+ Gen 3 and 45W Fast Charging

    The Launch of Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G Featuring Snapdragon 7c+ Gen 3 and 45W Fast Charging

    Samsung has introduced a new addition to its laptop lineup with the launch of the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G. This laptop serves as the successor to the Galaxy Book 2 Go, which made its debut earlier this year. Let's take a closer look at the specifications and features of the Book 3 Go 5G.

    Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G Specifications

    The Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G features a 14-inch IPS display with an anti-glare coating and an FHD resolution. It also comes equipped with a 720p webcam. In terms of audio, the laptop is equipped with dual 1.5W stereo speakers that support Dolby Atmos technology. Despite its powerful features, the laptop weighs just 1.43kg and has a slim profile of 15.5mm.

    Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G is powered by a Snapdragon 7c+ Gen 3 chipset based on a 6nm process. It also comes with an Adreno GPU. The laptop offers 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. To ensure long-lasting usage, the Book 3 Go 5G is equipped with a 42.3WHr battery that supports 45W charging. Samsung claims that the laptop can provide 8 hours of usage with just 30 minutes of charging.

    On the software front, the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G runs on Windows 11 OS. Users can also enjoy various Galaxy ecosystem features such as Quick Share, Second Screen, Buds Auto Switch, and Multi Control. In terms of connectivity, the laptop offers WiFi-6E, Bluetooth 5.1, two USB-C ports, an SD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G is priced at KRW 557,700 (~$430) in South Korea. It is available in the Silver color variant and can be purchased from Samsung stores and three Korean carriers starting from January 2nd.

    With its impressive specifications and affordable price point, the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Go 5G is sure to attract consumers looking for a reliable and feature-packed laptop.

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  • Next week, Redmi Note 13 5G set to launch in IndiaORIndia-bound launch of Redmi Note 13 5G scheduled for next week

    Next week, Redmi Note 13 5G set to launch in IndiaORIndia-bound launch of Redmi Note 13 5G scheduled for next week

    Xiaomi’s First Global Launch Event: Redmi Note 13 Series to Debut in India

    Xiaomi is set to host its inaugural global launch event on January 4th, unveiling the highly anticipated Redmi Note 13 series. The event will take place in India, and Xiaomi has been gradually teasing the devices and their features leading up to the big day.

    The company recently disclosed the third and likely final phone that will be launched at the event – the Redmi Note 13 5G. This device will be presented alongside the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G and Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G.

    According to the teaser poster shared by Xiaomi, the international version of the Redmi Note 13 5G will have slight differences compared to its Chinese counterpart. Notably, it will feature three rear cameras instead of two, as previously revealed by renders.

    Leaked information suggests that the triple camera system on the Redmi Note 13 5G will consist of a 108MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a 2MP macro snapper. In comparison, the Chinese model lacks the ultrawide cameras and instead sports a 2MP depth sensor in place of the macro shooter.

    Despite these differences, the rest of the specifications will remain the same for the global variant. It will boast a 6.67-inch centered punch-hole FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display. Under the hood, it will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 chip, paired with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage.

    Other notable features of the Redmi Note 13 5G include an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, dual stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a MicroSD card slot. The device will be backed by a 5,000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging.

    In terms of software, the handset will run on Android 13-based MIUI 14. Xiaomi has also hinted that the device may receive up to three Android updates and four years of security updates, ensuring a long-lasting user experience.

    With its first global launch event just around the corner, Xiaomi fans and tech enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating the unveiling of the Redmi Note 13 series. Stay tuned for more details and pricing information as the event draws near.

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  • Ahead of January launch, Samsung Galaxy S24 makes a visit to IMDA

    Ahead of January launch, Samsung Galaxy S24 makes a visit to IMDA

    Samsung Galaxy S24 Spotted on IMDA Certification

    The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is set to launch soon, and there have been numerous reports and leaks circulating online. The latest sighting comes from a Singaporean certification platform, providing some interesting details.

    Certification on IMDA Database

    Ahead of the official launch date on January 17, 2024, the base model of the Galaxy S24 has appeared on Singapore's IMDA database. The device is listed with the model number SM-S921B/DS. While specific details are not disclosed on IMDA, the listing confirms that the phone will support NFC, Bluetooth, and WiFi connectivity.

    Rumors and Leaks

    The Samsung Galaxy S24 series has been the subject of various rumors and leaks recently. Just today, on December 27, 2023, leaked SIM tray images revealed the color options for the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+. The images showcased Orange, Purple, and White color variants. In a separate report, we covered the complete specifications of the Galaxy S24 series. It was revealed that the devices will be equipped with the Exynos 2400 SoC, except for the US and Canadian markets, which will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.

    Specifications of Galaxy S24

    To recap, the Galaxy S24 boasts a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution. It is equipped with a 50-megapixel triple camera setup on the rear and a 12-megapixel selfie shooter on the front. The device is expected to be powered by a 4,000mAh battery and support 25W fast charging.

    Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to gather additional information about the Samsung Galaxy S24 series.

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  • Global Leak Confirms Exynos 2400 to Power Samsung Galaxy S24 Series, Except for USA & Canada

    Global Leak Confirms Exynos 2400 to Power Samsung Galaxy S24 Series, Except for USA & Canada

    Samsung Galaxy S24 Series: Leaked Infographic Reveals Key Specifications

    A leaked infographic has provided an in-depth look at the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 series, which is set to be unveiled next month. The leaked specs sheet, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by WigettaGaming, sheds light on the flagship smartphone lineup's key details and features.

    Exynos 2400 for Global Markets

    According to the leaked infographic, the Galaxy S24 series will be equipped with the Exynos 2400 processor for the global markets. However, for the US and Canada, the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra are expected to come with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. This marks a return to Samsung's usual cycle of launching devices with Snapdragon processors in the US, while the rest of the world receives the Exynos variants.

    AMOLED LTPO Display with Variable Refresh Rate

    The leaked infographic also confirms that the entire Galaxy S24 lineup will feature an AMOLED LTPO display with a variable refresh rate. The refresh rate will range from 1Hz to 120Hz, offering a smooth and fluid user experience. The Galaxy S24 will sport a 6.2-inch FHD+ panel, while the Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24 Ultra will come with 6.7-inch and 6.8-inch QHD+ panels respectively.

    Impressive Camera Setup

    In terms of camera capabilities, the Galaxy S24 Ultra will boast a 200-megapixel quad-camera setup, delivering exceptional photography performance. On the other hand, the base Galaxy S24 and the Galaxy S24+ models will feature a 50-megapixel triple camera setup, ensuring high-quality images and videos.

    Power and Performance

    The Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+ will be equipped with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra will offer 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM. These devices are expected to provide smooth multitasking and efficient performance. Additionally, the Galaxy S24 series will come pre-installed with the Android 14 operating system and One UI 6.1 custom skin. Users can expect a range of features including Dynamic Lock Screen, Smart Keyboard, and various AI functionalities.

    Color Options

    In a separate report, it was revealed that the Galaxy S24 and S24+ will be available in Orange, Purple, and White variants. These vibrant color options add a touch of personalization to the devices, allowing users to choose a color that suits their style.

    With the leaked infographic providing a comprehensive overview of the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, anticipation for the upcoming flagship smartphones is building. Fans and tech enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the official unveiling next month to get a closer look at these highly anticipated devices.

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  • Lenovo Introduces ThinkPad Z13 / Z16 Gen 2 Laptops in China, with Prices Starting at 10,999 Yuan ($1,538)

    Lenovo Introduces ThinkPad Z13 / Z16 Gen 2 Laptops in China, with Prices Starting at 10,999 Yuan ($1,538)

    Lenovo's ThinkPad Z series laptops, the ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2 and ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2, have been launched in China. These laptops were showcased at MWC 2023 and are now available for purchase in the Chinese market.

    Specifications and Pricing

    The Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2 starts at 10,999 Yuan ($1,538) and is powered by an AMD R7 Pro 7840U processor, providing high-performance computing. It is incredibly lightweight, weighing only 1.24kg, and slim with a thickness of 13.99mm, making it highly portable without compromising on performance.

    The Z13 laptop boasts a 13-inch 2.8K OLED panel with a resolution of 2880 x 1800. This display offers exceptional quality, supporting a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, a brightness level of 400 nits, and 10-point touch control.

    On the other hand, the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 is priced higher at 14,999 Yuan ($2,098). This model features an AMD R7 Pro 7840HS processor and an RX 6550M dedicated graphics card, making it more powerful. It is slightly heavier and bulkier than the Z13, weighing 1.84kg with a thickness of 15.8mm, but it offers a more robust set of features and a larger screen.

    The Z16 sports a standout 16-inch WQUXGA 4K OLED panel with a resolution of 3840 x 2400. Like the Z13, it also supports a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and 400 nits brightness, along with 10-point touch control.

    Both laptops are equipped with 32GB LPDDR5X-6400 memory and a 1TB SSD, ensuring fast and efficient storage and multitasking capabilities. The Z13 includes dual USB4 ports and an audio interface, while the Z16 adds an additional USB-C port and an SD card slot.

    Security and Videoconferencing Features

    Both the Z13 and Z16 prioritize security with facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. They also incorporate eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, making them environmentally responsible choices.

    In addition, both models focus on enhancing the videoconferencing experience. They are equipped with FHD infrared cameras and AI-based audio for crisp and clear online meetings. Furthermore, they meet the US Department of Defense's MIL-STD 810H standards, ensuring their durability and reliability in tough conditions.

    With their impressive specifications, sleek designs, and advanced features, the Lenovo ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2 and ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 laptops offer a compelling option for users in China who are seeking high-performance computing and an enhanced videoconferencing experience.

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