Category: All News

  • iFixit Critiques Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Repairability

    iFixit Critiques Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Repairability

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo will not raise the price of the Switch 2, but accessories, including the Pro Controller, have seen price increases.
    2. iFixit’s teardown highlights concerns about the Pro Controller’s durability and repairability due to adhesive and difficult-to-access screws.
    3. The Pro Controller lacks Hall effect analog sticks, relying on potentiometers, which raises concerns about potential stick drift issues.
    4. Feedback on the controller’s performance is generally positive, but iFixit criticizes its high price compared to more affordable alternatives with better features.
    5. Nintendo’s repair policy remains accommodating, offering services for stick drift issues and indicating potential free repairs for new accessories beyond warranty periods.

    Nintendo decided against raising the price of the Switch 2, but several accessories faced price hikes. An examination by iFixit of the new Pro Controller sought to determine if its build quality justifies the $84.99 sticker price. While the focus of the site is on how easy it is to repair, they also expressed worries about the durability of the device. One of the main points of criticism was the choice to not include Hall effect analog sticks in the Switch 2 Pro Controller.

    Teardown Insights

    iFixit began their teardown by taking off the outer casing of the new Switch 2 controller. The adhesive used by Nintendo around the faceplate might weaken after putting it back together. Additionally, some internal parts are secured with small screws that are not easy to access. The site specifically pointed out the challenge in reaching the rechargeable lithium battery, which is a part that is often replaced.

    Durability Concerns

    A frequent issue with the original Pro Controller and Joy-Cons was the problem of analog stick drift. As time passed, mechanical components would degrade, leading to incorrect directional inputs. Many gamers hoped that Nintendo would use Hall effect sensors for the upcoming controllers. However, it became clear that the Switch 2 Pro Controller still relies on potentiometers. While these parts are a bit simpler to detach, iFixit raises doubts about whether this will lead to less stick drift.

    Performance Reviews

    Overall, feedback about the controller’s performance has been mostly favorable. Nevertheless, iFixit criticizes Nintendo for the high price of the accessory. Their teardown revealed that a more affordable wireless Switch 2 controller equipped with Hall effect sensors is available. Though it doesn’t have features like a C button, the $29.99 8BitDo Ultimate 2C is compatible with the new handheld.

    For consumers, one silver lining is that Nintendo has been quite accommodating with its repair policy. In various areas, they have serviced the original Joy-Cons and Pro Controller that had issues with stick drift. There are signs that free repairs beyond the warranty period will also apply to the new accessories.

    Repairability Challenges

    The Switch 2 Pro Controller isn’t the only Nintendo item that could put a strain on repair shops. iFixit had previously examined the Switch 2 console, noting how challenging the repairs could be.

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  • Galaxy S26: Major Changes Expected in Samsung’s Next Flagship

    Galaxy S26: Major Changes Expected in Samsung’s Next Flagship

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 series will include the Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26 Ultra, with a standard Galaxy S26 model confirmed.
    2. The Plus model has been replaced by the Galaxy S26 Edge, but its absence is not yet definitive as Samsung could introduce it later.
    3. The model number for the Galaxy S26 base model has changed from SM-S931 to SM-S942, indicating a shift in the product line.
    4. The last digit of the model numbers typically reflects the hierarchy within the Galaxy S series, suggesting potential upgrades for the base model.
    5. The absence of the Plus variant may lead Samsung to enhance features in the standard model to maintain competitiveness.

    To be honest, the first solid clues about the Galaxy S25’s successors were spotted in the GSMA database back in June. Specifically, the listings for the Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26 Ultra were identified, but now Samsung has also included the standard Galaxy S26 model. As of July 11, 2025, the following model numbers are confirmed to be in the works:

    Notable Changes

    This situation is peculiar for a few reasons. The most striking change is the lack of a Plus model, which seems to be swapped out for the Galaxy S26 Edge, as was speculated months ago. Nevertheless, it’s not definite that there will be no Galaxy S26+, since Samsung still has ample time to introduce another version.

    Yet, it’s still strange that the database lists the Galaxy S26 Edge without mentioning a Galaxy S26 Plus. Another interesting point is found in the new model numbers. As Erencan Yılmaz from Sammypolice highlights, the last digit of the Galaxy S26 base model number has shifted from 1 to 2. Consequently, the successor to the Galaxy S25 (SM-S931) will have the product number SM-942, instead of SM-S941.

    Implications of the Changes

    Given that this last digit typically indicates the hierarchy within the Galaxy S series, the flagship Ultra model usually has the number 8. This could suggest that Samsung is gearing up for major enhancements to the base model, possibly to compensate for the missing Plus variant.

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  • Affordable Lenovo Wireless Earbuds Now Available from $7

    Affordable Lenovo Wireless Earbuds Now Available from $7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo offers a wider range of products, especially accessories, in China compared to other markets.
    2. Prices for Lenovo XT60 Pro and XT88 Pro earbuds are low at $7 and $8 on Aliexpress, but warranty issues may arise with imports.
    3. Shipping to the US is free, but import fees are not included in the listed prices.
    4. Both models lack high-end features like active noise cancellation and advanced audio codecs.
    5. The XT60 Pro has a battery life of up to 6.5 hours (24 hours with the case), while the XT88 Pro lasts up to four hours with larger drivers.

    PC giant Lenovo has a much bigger range of products in China, especially when it comes to accessories. While some Lenovo headphones can be found at third-party sellers on Amazon, others can also be imported directly. Buying these products might create issues about warranty rights, but the risk of spending money on the new Lenovo XT60 Pro or XT88 Pro earbuds is quite low, as they are currently priced at $7 and $8 on Aliexpress, respectively.

    Shipping and Pricing Details

    For customers in the US, shipping is free, but any potential import fees aren’t included in these prices. Despite the “Pro” label in their names, these wireless headphones aren’t high-end options. Therefore, buyers will not get some of the more advanced features like active noise cancellation or better quality codecs such as LDAC or even lossless codecs.

    Design and Battery Life

    Nonetheless, the Lenovo Erazer XT60 Pro are wireless headphones designed with an open style. These earbuds fit around the ears and should stay in place even during intense workouts, possibly making them more comfortable than standard in-ear models. They reportedly have a battery life of up to 6.5 hours, which can be extended to 24 hours with the included charging case. In contrast, the Lenovo Erazer XT88 Pro are classic in-ear headphones with a battery life of up to four hours and come with larger 13mm drivers, compared to the 10mm drivers found in the XT60 Pro.

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    Affordable Lenovo Wireless Earbuds Now Available from $7
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  • Motorola Razr Swarovski Edition: Foldable Phone with Crystals

    Motorola Razr Swarovski Edition: Foldable Phone with Crystals

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Motorola Razr Swarovski Edition, nicknamed “RAZR-ovski,” is set to be released on August 5.
    2. The phone features blue leather on the back embellished with 32 Swarovski crystals.
    3. It is based on the Motorola Razr 60 model, not the higher-end Razr 60 Ultra.
    4. Key hardware includes a MediaTek Dimensity 7400X chipset, a 50MP main camera, and a 6.9-inch main display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
    5. The phone has a 4,500mAh battery, supports USB-C and wireless charging, and is priced at $699.

    According to the newest information from the very trustworthy leaker Evan Blass, the much-anticipated “RAZR-ovski” is expected to be released on August 5. This likely points to the Motorola Razr Swarovski Edition, which has recently been showcased in initial images shared by Ytechb. The device is rumored to showcase eye-catching blue leather on its back, decorated with a total of 32 Swarovski crystals placed evenly throughout the back panel.

    Design Features

    The metal hinge and frame will also be coordinated with the blue leather back. Although the chassis doesn’t appear to carry a Swarovski logo, Motorola is set to personalize the software and will provide a unique clock design for the secondary display. It’s quite interesting that the Swarovski Edition is based on the Motorola Razr 60 rather than the pricier Razr 60 Ultra, which is known for its larger secondary display. Nevertheless, special edition phones like this typically maintain similar hardware specs.

    Hardware Specifications

    As a result, the Motorola Razr 60 Swarovski Edition is expected to come equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7400X chipset, a 50MP f/1.7 main camera featuring a 1/1.95-inch sensor, a 13MP f/2.2 ultrawide camera, and a 32MP f/2.4 selfie camera. The primary 6.9-inch display operates at 120Hz, boasts an HDR peak brightness of 3,000 nits, and has a resolution of 2640 x 1080 pixels. Plus, the 3.6-inch secondary display provides a resolution of 1056 x 1066 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate, and brightness of 1,700 nits. The battery, rated at 4,500mAh, supports charging via USB-C along with wireless options. The standard Motorola Razr (2025) is currently listed for $699 on Amazon.

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    Motorola Razr Swarovski Edition: Foldable Phone with Crystals
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  • Wanbo Mozart 1 Pro 2025 Projector Upgrade Coming Soon

    Wanbo Mozart 1 Pro 2025 Projector Upgrade Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2025 Mozart 1 Pro is the first LCD projector to feature Google TV and MEMC motion smoothing technology.
    2. It offers 1080p video resolution, 4K content compatibility, and a brightness of up to 1,200 ANSI lumens, a 33% increase from the previous model.
    3. Key features include automatic keystone correction, focus adjustments, obstacle avoidance, screen alignment, variable refresh rate (VRR), and HDR10 support.
    4. The projector runs on the Google TV interface, supports voice commands via Google Assistant, and includes HDMI 2.0, USB, Bluetooth 5.0, and dual-band Wi-Fi.
    5. The early access sale starts on July 15th, with an initial price of $399, offering a $100 discount from the standard price of $499.

    Wanbo has introduced the 2025 Mozart 1 Pro New projector, which enhances the earlier Mozart 1 Pro model that came out in 2023. The company boasts that this new version is the first LCD projector in the industry to feature Google TV and MEMC motion smoothing technology.

    Features and Specifications

    Like its predecessor, the 2025 Mozart 1 Pro offers video in 1080p resolution, while also being compatible with 4K content. It has a 1.2:1 throw ratio, projecting images as large as 120 inches (~305 cm) wide, and it claims to provide brightness of up to 1,200 ANSI lumens, which is a 33% increase from the previous model. With functions such as automatic keystone correction, focus adjustments, obstacle avoidance, and screen alignment, users can easily refine the image quality. In addition to MEMC, it includes features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and HDR10 support.

    New Interface and Connectivity

    For its 2025 release, the projector now runs on the Google TV interface instead of Android. This change allows users to utilize Google Assistant voice commands and access a range of streaming platforms. The connectivity options consist of HDMI 2.0, USB, and a 3.5mm audio jack, along with Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band Wi-Fi capabilities. Additionally, it comes with two built-in 10W speakers and has the option for a 150° gimbal stand (RRP $99), which allows for adjustable projection angles. The projector features a dark blue finish and measures 176 x 209 x 223 mm (~6.9 x 8.2 x 8.8 inches).

    Availability and Pricing

    The Wanbo 2025 Mozart 1 Pro New projector will kick off an early access sale on July 15th. The initial pricing for this device is set at $399 for early buyers, offering a $100 discount compared to the standard price of $499. To note, the original Wanbo Mozart 1 Pro is currently listed at $399.99 on Amazon. Three different versions will be available, tailored for US, EU, and UK plug types.

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    Wanbo Mozart 1 Pro 2025 Projector Upgrade Coming SoonWanbo Mozart 1 Pro 2025 Projector Upgrade Coming Soon

     

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  • Acer Iconia Tab iM11 Launches in India with 7400mAh Battery

    Acer Iconia Tab iM11 Launches in India with 7400mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Accessory Bundle: The Acer Iconia Tab iM11 comes with an ergonomic keyboard, Active Stylus Pen, and smart Flip Cover.

    2. Display and Design: It features an 11.45-inch 2.2K IPS display with high brightness and stylus accuracy, designed for portability at 8.0mm thickness and 550 grams weight.

    3. Performance Specs: Powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 chip with a Mali G57 GPU, the tablet ensures stable performance with a Resource Management Engine 2.0.

    4. Operating System and Configurations: Runs on Android 14, available in two configurations: 6GB RAM/128GB storage and 8GB RAM/256GB storage, expandable up to 1TB.

    5. Pricing: Priced at ₹23,999 for the 6GB + 128GB variant and ₹29,999 for the 8GB + 256GB model.

    Acer has introduced the Acer Iconia Tab iM11 in India, a fresh Android tablet designed for work, education, and fun.

    Accessory Bundle

    One significant part of their marketing plan is the complete set of accessories that come with the tablet; when you buy it, you’ll get an ergonomic keyboard, an Active Stylus Pen, and a smart Flip Cover.

    Display and Design

    The Iconia Tab iM11 features an 11.45-inch 2.2K IPS display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, reaching up to 450 nits brightness, and a refresh rate of 60Hz. Acer mentions that the in-cell touch panel delivers high accuracy for stylus usage, making it great for tasks like taking notes and drawing. The tablet is also designed for easy portability, being just 8.0mm thick and weighing 550 grams.

    Availability

    This device comes in a blue color and can be found on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Acer exclusive stores, and the Acer online shop.

    Performance Specs

    Inside, the tablet is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 chip, built using a 6nm process, with a max clock speed of 2.2 GHz. It is coupled with a Mali G57 GPU for graphics processing. The device also features a Resource Management Engine 2.0, aimed at ensuring stable performance and a smoother experience during gaming and other applications.

    Operating System and Configurations

    It runs on the Android 14 operating system. There are two versions to choose from: one with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage, and another with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage. You can expand storage by up to 1TB using a microSD card.

    Camera and Security Features

    For photography and security, the tablet has a 16MP rear camera with autofocus and flash, plus an 8MP front-facing camera. The front camera allows for face unlock, and there’s also a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button.

    Audio and Battery Life

    The audio setup includes Pure Voice quad-core speakers. A 7,400mAh battery powers the device, which supports 18W fast charging. Acer claims it can deliver around 10 hours of video playback.

    Connectivity Options

    For connectivity, the tablet supports 4G LTE, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.2.

    Pricing

    The Acer Iconia Tab iM11 is priced at ₹23,999 for the 6GB + 128GB variant and ₹29,999 for the 8GB + 256GB model.

    Competition

    In the competitive market, it faces off against the Lenovo IdeaPad Pro, which starts at ₹27,999 and features a 3K display along with a larger 10,200mAh battery. Another rival is the Redmi Pad Pro, priced at ₹21,999, which boasts a larger 12-inch display and faster 33W charging capabilities.

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  • Exynos 2500 Benchmarks Show Disappointing Performance for Galaxy Z Flip7

    Exynos 2500 Benchmarks Show Disappointing Performance for Galaxy Z Flip7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Flip7 alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE.
    2. The Galaxy Z Flip7 uses the Exynos 2500 chipset, which underperforms compared to newer flagship chipsets.
    3. Geekbench 6 scores show the Exynos 2500 has a single-core score of 2,093 and a multi-core score of 7,498.
    4. Performance of the Exynos 2500 is comparable to older chipsets, falling behind MediaTek and Qualcomm competitors.
    5. The Exynos 2500’s GPU, Xclipse 950, is expected to compete better against Snapdragon 8 Elite’s Adreno 830.

    Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Flip just a week ago, along with the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE. In contrast to its larger counterpart, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is equipped with Samsung’s own Exynos 2500, which seems to hinder its performance.

    Performance Insights

    According to Fenibook on X, the Exynos 2500 falls behind when stacked against the latest flagship chipsets in terms of CPU capabilities. The chipset in the Galaxy Z Flip7 records a single-core score of 2,093 and a multi-core score of 7,498 on Geekbench 6.

    These scores match those listed before the phone’s launch, indicating that the performance is aligned with older chipsets. For instance, the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 achieved scores of 2,207 and 7,408 during our tests on the Vivo X100 Pro. Similarly, the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro, which features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, delivered a single-core score of 2,318 and a multi-core score of 7,357.

    Competitive Comparison

    It’s clear that the Exynos 2500 does not provide performance that can compete with rivals like Apple, Qualcomm, and MediaTek, at least in terms of CPU. However, the chipset’s Xclipse 950 GPU is anticipated to be more competitive with the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s Adreno 830.

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    Exynos 2500 Benchmarks Show Disappointing Performance for Galaxy Z Flip7
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  • Jurassic World Evolution 3 Introduces New Dinosaur and Challenges

    Jurassic World Evolution 3 Introduces New Dinosaur and Challenges

    Key Takeaways

    1. Jurassic World Evolution 3 is highly anticipated by fans of dinosaurs and management games.
    2. The newly revealed dinosaur, Lokiceratops, has unique traits, including two large horns and a social nature.
    3. Lokiceratops lived during the Late Cretaceous period and prefers group living in wetland environments.
    4. The game will feature over 80 subspecies, each with distinct needs and behaviors for players to manage.
    5. Jurassic World Evolution 3 will be released on October 21, 2025, for PS5, Xbox Series X, S, and PC.

    Players who have a love for dinosaurs and enjoy management games are super excited for Jurassic World Evolution 3. This is great since a new and lesser-known species has been revealed in a trailer by the Frontier Developments studio.

    New Dinosaur Discovery

    As time passes, the studio is sharing more details about this upcoming game that is based on the hit franchise. After an initial reveal, a new dinosaur has now been shown in a video. This dinosaur is called the Lokiceratops, named after the Norse god Loki, and it features two large horns on its head.

    Unique Characteristics

    This creature lived during the Late Cretaceous period and is herbivorous, as well as being social with other animals. However, despite its graceful look, it has a complex personality and strict social rules. The Lokiceratops prefers to live in groups and favors wetlands that are full of plants and have ample space to roam. This aspect is crucial because if it feels threatened or confined, it could turn aggressive, potentially causing harm to your park and its visitors.

    Diverse Behavior Options

    Moreover, Jurassic World Evolution 3 promises a variety of behavioral options. In fact, there will be over 80 subspecies available in the game, each with unique needs and behaviors. To create the ideal park, you’ll need to meet your goals while paying close attention to the needs of your dinosaurs.

    You won’t have to wait long to meet this new species and design your perfect park. Jurassic World Evolution 3 is set to launch on October 21, 2025, for PS5, Xbox Series X, S, and PC. But if you’re feeling eager, you can always dive into Jurassic World Evolution 2, which will take you back to the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods with challenges involving your dinosaurs and managing your empire.

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  • Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in Canada by CA$20,000, reducing it from CA$84,990 to CA$64,990.
    2. Delivery times for the Model Y have increased, with customers facing waits from a few weeks to September-October.
    3. The price drop and delivery delays may be influenced by a 25% tariff imposed on US goods by Canada.
    4. Tesla plans to import Model Y units from its Berlin Gigafactory to avoid high import tariffs and regain market share.
    5. European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, while vehicles from Tesla’s Giga Shanghai factory incur a 100% tariff.

    Tesla has made a significant change to the price of the Model Y in Canada, slashing it by a remarkable CA$20,000. This reduction brings the price down from CA$84,990 (which is about 62,025 US dollars) to CA$64,990. In the US, the same Model Y Long Range RWD model has a starting price of $48,990, which is more than 20% lower than the Canadian price.

    Delivery Delays

    Alongside this major price cut, there’s been a noticeable increase in delivery times. Customers now face a wait that stretches from a few weeks to the September-October timeframe. To help ease the waiting period, Tesla has also introduced a new color option for the Model Y called Diamond Black, which was previously only available in the US.

    Tariffs Impacting Prices

    The significant price drop and the extended delivery time suggest that tariffs might be influencing these changes. Canada imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on US goods following similar actions taken by the Trump administration. This tariff had previously caused Tesla to raise its prices in Canada back in May.

    Since then, Tesla has been managing to sell vehicles at prices prior to the tariffs, but that advantage is fading fast. The combination of a steep 25% price hike due to tariffs and Elon Musk’s controversial political stance in Canada has led to a sharp decline in sales in the region.

    Importing from Europe

    To regain some market share, Tesla is expected to start importing Model Y units from a factory that will only incur transportation fees, avoiding high import tariffs. The Berlin Gigafactory, which produces only Model Ys, appears to be the best option to navigate around the tariff issues in Canada.

    Interestingly, European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, thanks to the CETA trade agreement signed between Canada and the EU. In contrast, vehicles imported from the Giga Shanghai factory now face a 100% tariff, while those from Giga Texas or Fremont have a 25% tariff due to reciprocal trade measures.

    The Trump administration has announced plans to escalate tariffs to 35%, with an additional 35% if Canada retaliates, which would make importing from the US even more impractical.

    This situation explains Tesla’s strategy to shift imports from Europe to bypass the newly established tariff barriers, resulting in longer wait times for Canadian customers awaiting their new Model Y as the company works to stabilize inventory levels and reduce delivery delays.

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  • OpenAI Set to Launch Chat-Style Browser to Compete with Chrome

    OpenAI Set to Launch Chat-Style Browser to Compete with Chrome

    Key Takeaways

    1. OpenAI is planning to launch its own web browser to compete with Google Chrome and Safari, featuring a chat-oriented interface.
    2. The browser will include an AI tool called Operator, designed to automate tasks on websites, like filling out forms.
    3. OpenAI aims to gain direct access to user data through this browser, which is crucial for improving its large language models (LLMs).
    4. The browser is built on Chromium and is nearing completion, though availability details for users remain unclear.
    5. This development aligns with OpenAI’s growth strategy, including recent acquisitions to enhance its AI hardware capabilities.

    In the upcoming weeks, OpenAI might introduce its own web browser to directly rival major competitors like Google Chrome and Safari, as reported by Reuters. This new browser is anticipated to feature a chat-oriented interface, akin to ChatGPT, while also incorporating unique services such as Operator, an AI tool designed to automate various tasks on websites, including filling out forms. Operator was initially launched in January 2025.

    Browser Development Insights

    Sources well-informed about the situation told Reuters that the expected launch of this browser would give OpenAI direct access to user data, which is essential for the development and enhancement of large language models (LLM). This progress reportedly comes after OpenAI’s failed attempts to collaborate with Google to gain access to search data for a project named SearchGPT. Following the breakdown of those negotiations, OpenAI decided to move forward with its own browser project.

    User Interaction Experience

    According to the report from Reuters, two sources mentioned that the design of this browser is intended to keep user engagement within the chat-like framework, minimizing the necessity for multiple clicks across different sites, a common trait in browsers like Google Chrome and Safari.

    As stated in the Reuters article, this browser is constructed on Chromium, the open-source base that powers Chrome and Edge, and is said to be almost finished. However, it is still not clear if the first version will be exclusively available to ChatGPT Pro users or if it will be launched in specific areas.

    Future Prospects for OpenAI

    While OpenAI has yet to officially verify the development of this browser, such a move aligns with a larger trend of vertical growth observed recently. In May, Sam Altman’s company revealed the acquisition of io, a hardware startup co-founded by ex-Apple designer Jony Ive. The agreement, which was completed on July 9, is anticipated to bolster OpenAI’s goals in AI-centric hardware, further solidifying its dominance over both software and user interfaces.

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