Category: Computers

  • The Unveiling of the HP Fortis X360 G11 Rugged 14-inch Chromebook

    The Unveiling of the HP Fortis X360 G11 Rugged 14-inch Chromebook

    The Fortis G11 Chromebook, one of the latest additions to HP’s lineup, was unveiled on January 11, 2024. Designed for rugged use, this Chromebook features a 14-inch display and boasts solid internal specifications to enhance productivity. Additionally, it offers rapid charging capabilities for its battery.

    Features

    The HP Fortis G11 Chromebook shares a similar design with its predecessor, the Fortis G10, and is aimed at students, office workers, and frontline workers. It has been rated MIL-STD-810, indicating that it has successfully undergone a series of durability tests. Furthermore, the chassis of the Fortis G11 Chromebook has an IP51 rating, providing added protection for the device.

    The 14-inch display of the Fortis G11 Chromebook is spacious enough to accommodate various productive tasks and entertainment purposes. Users have the option to configure the screen to their liking, with choices including an FHD touchscreen panel with 250 nits of brightness or a non-touch FHD panel with 300 nits. The base model of the laptop features an HD panel with 250 nits of peak brightness. The Fortis G11 Chromebook offers several RAM and storage options, ranging from 4GB LPDDR5-4800 to 16GB of RAM. It also provides up to 128GB of UFS onboard storage.

    In terms of connectivity, the Fortis G11 Chromebook supports WiFi 6E and 4G LTE. It is equipped with an Intel N-Series processor, although it is currently unclear whether it is the N200 or the N95. The Fortis G11 features a variety of ports, including USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1 (x2), USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 (x2), HDMI 1.4, and a headphone and microphone combo jack. Additionally, the new Fortis Chromebook comes with a SIM card slot.

    HP Fortis X360 G11

    Pricing & Availability

    The HP Fortis G11 Chromebook with a 14-inch display is already available for purchase in the US, starting at a price of $319. As of now, there is no information regarding the global availability and pricing of the Fortis G11 Chromebook.

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  • Google to Remove Seventeen Assistant Features Soon

    Google to Remove Seventeen Assistant Features Soon

    Google Assistant Eliminates 17 Features to Improve User Experience

    Modifications Effective from January 26

    Inventory of Features Getting Eliminated

    • Management of audiobooks on Google Play Books by voice command
    • Organization of cookbooks
    • Establishment of media, music, or radio alarms on Google Assistant devices
    • Administration of stopwatches on Smart Displays and Speakers
    • Device-to-device voice calls or broadcasting to your Google Family Group
    • Transmission of emails, video, or audio messages using voice commands
    • Requesting contact details
    • App Launcher found in Google Assistant driving mode within Google Maps for messages and calls
    • Voice command for activities on Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 devices
    • Caller ID presentation for calls from speakers and Smart Displays
    • Verifying personal travel plans via voice
    • Voice-directed actions such as transferring payments, securing reservations, or sharing on social media

    Enhancements to the Google App

    • Upon tapping the microphone icon, users will activate search responses in the Google app.
    • The microphone icon will no longer manage smart home devices or send messages.
    • This adjustment also pertains to the Pixel Search bar, which will now initiate Voice Search instead of Assistant.
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  • Twitch Cuts Over 500 Jobs Amid Financial Challenges and Competition

    Twitch Cuts Over 500 Jobs Amid Financial Challenges and Competition

    Twitch Encounters Difficulties Following Staff Reductions

    Twitch, a prominent player in the live streaming technology realm, currently grapples with financial hurdles and has unveiled substantial staff cuts. The CEO, Dan Clancy, has candidly addressed the company’s challenges and outlined its future trajectory.

    Financial Struggles Persist for Twitch

    Despites efforts to reduce costs, Twitch remains in the red. By 2023, it became apparent that the company had expanded beyond what was necessary for its existing business scope. Clancy attributes this discrepancy to overly optimistic forecasts rather than the current market realities. Even though Twitch disbursed over $1 billion to streamers last year, it still heavily leans on its parent corporation, Amazon, for financial reinforcement.

    Escalating Competition and Tenuous Contracts

    The tech landscape, particularly in live streaming, is witnessing intensified competition. Competitors like Kick have been clinching exclusive deals with top streamers, exerting pressure on Twitch. The recent signing of streamer xQC (Félix Lengyel) by Kick for a reported $100 million contract underscores the hurdles Twitch confronts in both attracting and retaining talent. Clancy posits that such exorbitant contracts pose sustainability challenges in terms of revenue and outlays.

    Amazon’s Pledge to Twitch

    Amid layoffs and Twitch’s financial struggles, Clancy stresses Amazon’s unwavering support for the platform. He rebuffs any insinuation that Amazon might relinquish Twitch, underscoring the corporation’s substantial investment and backing. Nevertheless, Twitch’s obstacles align with a prevailing trend in the tech sector, with major entities like Discord and Unity also announcing significant staff reductions.

    Navigating Change and Charting a Course Ahead

    Twitch is downsizing its San Francisco headquarters, signaling a phase of transition. The company’s dilemma lies in discovering a viable path forward, harmonizing cost-effectiveness with its predominant position in the live streaming arena.

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  • Tim Cook awarded $63.2 million despite 2023 profit drop

    Tim Cook awarded $63.2 million despite 2023 profit drop

    Tim Cook’s Compensation Reaches $63.2 Million in 2023: Apple’s Proxy Statement Unveils Executive Pay

    Apple recently unveiled its annual proxy statement, delivering intricate details to stakeholders regarding executive compensation and pertinent information. A standout revelation in the statement pertains to CEO Tim Cook’s earnings for the year 2023.

    Tim Cook’s Compensation Surpasses Projections

    In the fiscal year 2023, Tim Cook garnered a grand total of $63.2 million from Apple, outstripping his initial goal of $49 million by an impressive margin of 28%. This follows a prosperous 2022, where Cook went beyond his target of $84 million, securing a total compensation of $99.4 million.

    Breakdown of Cook’s Earnings in 2023

    A closer analysis of Tim Cook’s 2023 compensation uncovers a salary of $3 million, $46.9 million in stock awards, $10.7 million in performance incentives, and $2.5 million in additional compensations. While there was a 36% decline from his 2022 earnings, Cook still managed to surpass the revised target for 2023.

    Surge in Personal Air Travel and Security Expenses

    In adherence to Apple’s 2017 policy mandating the use of a private jet for Tim Cook’s business and personal travels, the company bore $1,621,468 in personal air travel costs for him in 2023, more than doubling the expenses from 2022. Moreover, Apple allocated $820,309 for Cook’s personal security, factoring in the increased expenses tied to specialized security services.

    Employee Compensation Landscape at Apple

    The proxy statement also offers insights into the broader spectrum of employee compensation at Apple. The median annual compensation for Apple employees in 2023 stood at $94,118, starkly contrasting with Tim Cook’s earnings and leading to a pay ratio of 672-to-1 between Cook and the median employee.

    Detailed Compensation of Other Key Executives

    Apart from Tim Cook, the proxy statement unveils the compensation details of other top executives at Apple. Luca Maestri, the Chief Financial Officer, received $26.9 million, alongside Kate Adams, the General Counsel and Secretary, also obtaining $26.9 million. Deirdre O’Brien, the Senior Vice President of Retail, and Jeff Williams, the Chief Operating Officer, each earned a sum of $26.9 million.

    In essence, Apple’s proxy statement offers a holistic view of executive compensation, shedding light on Tim Cook’s earnings and the broader employee compensation scenario within the company.

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  • Lenovo Unveils Sleek Xiaoxin Mini PC with 13th Gen Intel CPU

    Lenovo Unveils Sleek Xiaoxin Mini PC with 13th Gen Intel CPU

    Lenovo Xiaoxin Mini PC

    Lenovo recently revealed the newest addition to its Xiaoxin PC series, the Xiaoxin Mini PC. This portable gadget showcases a compact structure and is driven by Intel’s 13th generation lineup of processors.

    Specifications of the Lenovo Xiaoxin Mini PC

    The Xiaoxin Mini PC, manufactured by the Chinese PC giant, features a stylish and condensed form factor that optimizes space within its 1L framework. Despite its diminutive dimensions, it manages to house a sturdy 150W power system while being powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core processor. The processor is paired with dual memory slots and dual SSD slots, offering ample storage and memory alternatives. Moreover, this mini PC incorporates a dual-fan setup, where one fan is tasked with cooling the CPU, and the other manages the power supply. Lenovo asserts that the operational noise of this device remains under 30 decibels, ensuring a serene user interaction.

    Enhanced Connectivity and Standout Attributes

    Positioned on the front of the Xiaoxin Mini PC are an array of connectivity interfaces, including USB 3.2 ports, a USB C port, an audio jack, and the power button. Transitioning to the rear panel, users will encounter a LAN 2.5G port, 2x USB 3.2 ports, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and a Thunderbolt 4 port. This comprehensive assortment of ports facilitates seamless connectivity with diverse gadgets and peripherals. Noteworthy features of the Xiaoxin Mini PC encompass pre-installed Windows 11, support for WiFi 6, Microsoft Office, and DDR4 memory.

    Pricing and Availability of the Lenovo Xiaoxin Mini PC

    Lenovo has officially released the Xiaoxin Mini PC and is now open for pre-orders. The base variant of the Intel i5-13420H model, equipped with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, initiates at a cost of 3,299 Yuan (equivalent to around 465 US Dollars). For consumers in pursuit of expanded storage capacity, the 16GB + 1TB variant of the Intel i5 is priced at 3,499 Yuan (approximately 493 US Dollars). Transitioning to the Intel i7 models, the 16GB + 1TB setup begins at 3,999 Yuan (roughly 563 US Dollars), while the 32GB + 1TB alternative is accessible for 4,499 Yuan (or about 634 US Dollars).

    With its condensed form, robust specifications, and an array of connectivity selections, the Lenovo Xiaoxin Mini PC is designed to address the requisites of individuals seeking a mobile and efficient computing resolution.

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  • Discord Declares a Cutback of 17% in its Workforce

    Discord Declares a Cutback of 17% in its Workforce

    Discord Announces Significant Workforce Reduction

    Discord, the popular communication platform, recently made headlines with its announcement of a significant reduction in its workforce. This decision, communicated by CEO Jason Citron, reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where rapid expansion during the pandemic years is giving way to a more cautious approach.

    Layoffs Impact 170 Employees Across Various Departments

    The impact of the layoffs at Discord is substantial, as it affects 170 individuals across various departments. This marks the company’s largest workforce reduction to date, following a smaller round of layoffs in August last year. Citron’s memo to employees outlines the decision and reveals a company grappling with the challenges of over-expansion. Discord’s workforce has grown fivefold since 2020, leading to inefficiencies and an unsustainable operational model.

    Discord’s Complex Financial Situation

    Discord’s financial situation is complex, despite having raised about $1 billion in funding and possessing over $700 million in cash reserves. The company is still striving for profitability as the surge in user growth during the pandemic has plateaued. Discord is now refocusing its strategy to become leaner and more agile, aligning with the current market conditions.

    A Recalibration in the Tech Sector

    Discord’s workforce reduction is not an isolated event but rather mirrors a larger trend in the tech industry. Giants like Google and Amazon have also experienced recent cuts, signaling a recalibration in the sector. The tech industry, once known for its unchecked growth and expansion, is now facing the need for more cautious approaches and streamlined operations.

    Support for Affected Employees

    Discord is committed to supporting the employees affected by the layoffs. The company is offering considerable support, including five months of salary, continuation of benefits, outplacement services, and equity vesting. Citron’s memo emphasizes the importance of providing assistance to those leaving and acknowledges the contributions they have made to the company.

    In conclusion, Discord’s decision to reduce its workforce reflects the broader trend in the tech industry towards a more cautious approach. With a focus on becoming leaner and more agile, Discord is aligning its strategy with the current market conditions. The support offered to the affected employees demonstrates the company’s commitment to their well-being and recognizes their contributions. As the tech sector goes through a recalibration, it will be interesting to see how companies like Discord navigate the path to profitability and sustained success.

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  • India’s Honor MagicBook X16 Launch with Intel i5 CPU

    India’s Honor MagicBook X16 Launch with Intel i5 CPU

    Honor MagicBook X16 2024 Set to Arrive in India

    Honor has revealed the imminent arrival of the MagicBook X16 2024 laptop in India. The official preview, unveiled on an Amazon landing page, showcases the subsequent specifications:

    • Utilization of a 12th Gen Intel i5 H series processor (compared to the 13th gen present in Chinese iterations)
    • Swift 65W charging capability
    • Screen free from flickering, incorporating Blue Light defense
    • High-quality Full HD display
    • Constructed with a metallic body

    Honor MagicBook X16 2024 Specifications (Chinese Model)

    • Employs the i5-13420H processor (comprising 4 major and 4 minor cores)

    • Design features a large fan, slender blades, and dual copper tubes for efficient heat dispersal (offering a 29,700 mm² area)

    • Showcases a 16-inch IPS matte display (with a 16:10 aspect ratio, 300nits brightness, and covering 100% sRGB color gamut)

    • Features innovative Full-range DC dimming technology

    • Boasts of Honor’s proprietary technology for "natural light-like eye protection"

    • Weighs 1.75kg

    • Measures a thickness of 17.9mm

    • Equipped with a 60Wh battery (for up to 11 hours of local 1080p video playback or 10 hours of daily office use)

    • Supports 65W fast charging

    The variant of the MagicBook X16 2024 tailored for the Indian market is anticipated to deliver comparable performance and attributes. Await further updates regarding the official unveiling and availability in India.

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  • Launching Soon in India: ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED 2024 Models Featuring Intel Core Ultra Processors

    Launching Soon in India: ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED 2024 Models Featuring Intel Core Ultra Processors

    ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED Laptops Set to Launch in India

    ASUS has announced that its latest ZenBook 14 OLED laptop models will soon be available in the Indian market. This revelation was made on the company’s official Indian Twitter account, where it was revealed that the laptops will be powered by the Intel Core Ultra processor and integrated with AI capabilities. Indian customers can start pre-booking the device from January 13, 2024.

    Impressive Display and Powerful Processors

    The ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED laptops boast a 14-inch OLED display with a choice of either 3K or FHD resolution. The display supports refresh rates of either 120Hz or 60Hz. Notable features of the display include 400 nits brightness, HDR peak brightness of either 500 nits or 600 nits, a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and an impressive 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. Users can also choose between touch-screen and non-touch-screen display variants.

    The 2024 models of the ZenBook 14 OLED offer three processor options: Intel Core Ultra 5 Processor 125H, Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 185H, and Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor 155H. These processors are complemented by Intel Arc graphics and Intel AI Boost NPU, highlighting the laptops’ powerful computational capabilities.

    Enhanced Features for Productivity and Multimedia

    In addition to its impressive display and powerful processors, the ZenBook 14 OLED laptops come with a range of other features. The backlit chiclet keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with a 1.4mm key travel distance. The precision touchpad also doubles as a touchpad with a number pad for added convenience.

    For multimedia enthusiasts, the laptops are equipped with an FHD camera that includes an IR function and a camera shutter to enhance privacy. The built-in speaker and microphone array utilize Smart AMP Technology and Harman/Kardon audio technology, ensuring an immersive audio experience.

    Convenient Connectivity and Efficient Power Management

    ASUS has prioritized connectivity options on the ZenBook 14 OLED laptops. They feature Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless wireless connections. Additionally, users who prefer a hands-on approach can opt for an optional stylus.

    The laptops are powered by a 75Whrs battery and support 65W type-C fast charging, providing a convenient and efficient power management system.

    With its impressive specifications and innovative features, the ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED laptops are set to make a splash in the Indian market. Customers can look forward to pre-booking the devices starting January 13, 2024, and experiencing the power of the Intel Core Ultra processor combined with AI capabilities.

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  • The weight of Asus’ latest Zenbook S 13 OLED laptop is only 1kg.

    The weight of Asus’ latest Zenbook S 13 OLED laptop is only 1kg.

    Asus Debuts New Zenbook S 13 OLED at CES 2024

    At CES 2024, Asus unveiled its latest lineup of laptops, featuring the new Zenbook S 13 OLED. This ultraportable model boasts an incredibly slim design and is equipped with the newest Intel Core Ultra processors.

    The World’s Slimmest 13.3-inch OLED Laptop

    The new Zenbook S 13 OLED (model UX5304) claims the title of the “world’s slimmest 13.3-inch OLED laptop,” measuring just 10.9mm thick on average. This makes it even thinner than the already sleek MacBook Air M2, which comes in at 11.3mm. Additionally, the laptop is impressively lightweight, weighing only 1kg.

    Stunning Display and Powerful Performance

    The Zenbook S 13 OLED features a 16:10 display with a sharp 2880×1800 resolution, offering a vibrant 600 nits peak brightness and an impressive 85% screen-to-body ratio. With its OLED panel, users can expect deep, inky blacks and incredibly vivid colors.

    Powering the Zenbook S 13 OLED are the new Intel Core Ultra 5 125U and Core Ultra 7 155U processors. These Meteor Lake chips, unveiled by Intel in December, promise enhanced power efficiency and are optimized for on-device AI tasks. The laptop also includes a new Copilot key on the keyboard, a feature that is becoming increasingly common in 2024 laptops.

    Sleek Design and Premium Materials

    Asus has made subtle design changes to the Zenbook S 13 OLED, with the most notable one being the lid. The lid is now crafted from a unique “plasma ceramic aluminum” material exclusive to Asus. This material is said to resemble natural stone, giving each lid a unique and one-of-a-kind look and feel.

    Impressive Features and Connectivity Options

    The Zenbook S 13 OLED comes with a range of impressive features and connectivity options. It includes a full HD webcam, a spacious Asus ErgoSense touchpad, up to 1TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage, up to 32GB of RAM, a 63 Wh battery, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2. In terms of ports, users can expect two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A connector, HDMI 2.1, and a combo audio jack.

    Availability and Pricing

    Asus has not yet revealed the launch date or pricing details for the new Zenbook S 13 OLED. We will keep you updated as Asus makes an official announcement.

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  • Huawei MateBook D 14 2024: Featuring 13th Gen Intel H Series Processor

    Huawei MateBook D 14 2024: Featuring 13th Gen Intel H Series Processor

    Huawei Unveils New MateBook D 14 2024 Laptop Featuring Upgraded Screen and Extra Color Selection

    Huawei has unveiled its latest laptop, the Huawei MateBook D 14 2024, in China. This new release showcases a 13th Gen Intel H series processor, presenting various enhancements compared to the recently launched Huawei MateBook D 14 SE 2024.

    Overview of Huawei MateBook D 14 2024 Specifications

    The Huawei MateBook D 14 2024 showcases a sophisticated metal unibody design, with dimensions measuring only 15.9mm in thickness and a weight of 1.39kg. It is offered in two color variants: Bright Moon Silver and Deep Space Gray.

    This laptop features a 14-inch IPS LCD display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, providing users with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. The screen offers a 161 PPI and a contrast ratio of 1200:1.

    A marked enhancement in the MateBook D 14 2024 is its capacity to support 100% of the sRGB color gamut and a peak brightness of 300 nits. In contrast, the SE version of the laptop is only capable of covering 45% NTSC of the NTSC color gamut and is exclusively available in the Bright Moon Silver variant.

    Improved Performance and Connectivity Features

    Internally, the Huawei MateBook D 14 2024 is driven by a 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13420H processor. This chipset is combined with LPDDR4x RAM and a 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD, ensuring seamless performance and abundant storage capacity. Additionally, it comes pre-loaded with Microsoft Windows 11 Home Edition.

    The laptop offers a selection of ports, including 1 x USB Type-C (USB 3.2 Gen 1), 2 x USB Type-A (USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0), an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless connectivity.

    Added Features and Pricing Information

    The Huawei MateBook D 14 2024 is equipped with several other notable features, such as a backlit keyboard with 1.5mm key travel, dual speakers, dual microphones, a fingerprint sensor, a 56Wh battery, and 65W charging support.

    Priced at ¥4,299 (~$605) for the single configuration of 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, the laptop is currently available for purchase in China.

    In comparison, the Huawei MateBook D 14 SE 2024, offering similar specifications, is priced at a more budget-friendly ¥3,999 (~$560).

    Featuring an upgraded screen and an additional color option, the Huawei MateBook D 14 2024 presents an enticing option for consumers in search of a high-performance and elegant laptop.

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