Category: Wearables

October 16, 2023

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3 Launch globally: A Sound Revolution with Exceptional Offer on Band 8

Unveiling the pinnacle of wireless audio technology, Huawei has launched the FreeBuds Pro 3, its latest flagship True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds in Europe, particularly in markets like Germany on October 18, 2023. These earbuds, an emblem of style and comfort, promise an impressive up to 31 hours of battery life, making them a reliable companion for all-day use¹.

Exceptional Audio Performance

At the core of the FreeBuds Pro 3 lies an advanced Kirin processor, powering the earbuds with L2HC 3.0-based features that ensure a top-tier sound experience. They support high-fidelity audio, thanks to their Hi-Res Dual Driver Sound System. Furthermore, the earbuds are compatible with L2HC 2.0 and LDAC codecs over Bluetooth, enhancing the overall audio quality. A remarkable feature is the Triple Adaptive EQ algorithm, which adapts to the user’s ear shape to provide a personalized listening experience²³.

Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation

The FreeBuds Pro 3 boast the latest generation of “Intelligent Dynamic” Active Noise Cancellation (ANC 3.0) technology. This feature, coupled with Pure Voice 2.0 technology, significantly improves the clarity of voice and video calls, setting a new benchmark in the TWS category².

Robust Battery Life and Elegant Design

With a single full charge, these earbuds provide up to 6.5 hours of playback, and the charging case can fully recharge them three times, summing up to a total of 31 hours of audio playback. The earbuds are available in three elegant colors: Eucalyptus Green, Silver Frost, and Ceramic White, offering a classy choice for every individual. Moreover, the charging case is designed with a single piece of nano glass, making it 32% more resistant to wear and tear².

Special Launch Offer

To celebrate the launch, Huawei has introduced an exciting offer. With each purchase of the FreeBuds Pro 3, customers have the opportunity to get the Band 8 fitness tracker for just €19.99, a significant markdown from its regular price. This offer is even sweeter for customers purchasing through Huawei’s official website, where using the code ANBCFBP3 at checkout gifts them the Band 8 for free¹.

The FreeBuds Pro 3 are not just a pair of earbuds; they are a statement of Huawei’s relentless pursuit of sound perfection, encapsulated in an elegant, functional design that offers incredible value, especially with the promotional offer on Band 8.

Source: 1, 2

Tags: Huawei, Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3
October 15, 2023

Apple on a Fixing Spree: Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Display Flicker Issue Under Investigation

In a digital era where the smartwatch has become an indispensable accessory, ensuring flawless performance is crucial for maintaining a loyal user base. Apple, a leading player in this realm, has recently come under the spotlight as some users of the newly launched Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 have reported a disconcerting display flicker issue when the Always On mode is activated.

Unveiling the Display Flicker Issue

Several users have taken to forums and social media to voice their discontent regarding a display flicker issue encountered on the latest Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models. According to an internal service memo shared with Apple Authorized Service Providers, there is a noticeable flicker or “pulse” in the display brightness when the Always On mode is enabled on these devices¹. Although the exact models affected were not specified in the memo, the complaints appear to be more prevalent among the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 users.

Anticipating a Swift Resolution

Apple has acknowledged the issue and is actively working towards a resolution. A future update is expected to address this problem, as indicated in another internal service memo. This is not the first instance where Apple’s latest product releases have encountered hurdles. Previously reported issues like overheating and burn-in were also swiftly addressed by operating system updates². The tech giant’s proactive approach in resolving these glitches reaffirms its commitment to delivering a seamless user experience to its global consumer base.

Reflecting on Apple’s Commitment to Excellence

The display flicker issue, albeit a minor hiccup, brings to light the importance of continual product enhancement and customer feedback in the tech industry. By promptly acknowledging and addressing the reported issues, Apple continues to uphold its reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable products to its users.

The rapid response to rectify the display flicker issue on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models is a testament to Apple’s unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. As the tech behemoth gears up to resolve this, users can look forward to enjoying an uninterrupted smartwatch experience in the near future.

Source: MacRumors, AppleInsider

Tags: Apple, Apple Watch
October 14, 2023

Samsung’s Forthcoming Galaxy Watch Ultra: Micro LED Technology Takes the Lead
Samsung is charting a pioneering path with its purported venture into integrating Micro LED technology into its smartwatches, specifically hinting at the Galaxy Watch Ultra as the debutant for this advanced display tech. The integration of Micro LED presents a promising leap, potentially offering superior display qualities when compared to the prevalent OLED and LCD technologies.

Micro LED: The Future of Display

Micro LED technology is hailed for its cutting-edge attributes that significantly outshine traditional LCD and OLED displays. The essence of Micro LED lies in its utilization of minuscule LEDs to form the image on the screen, eliminating the need for a backlight layer. This not only allows for thinner and lighter displays but also enhances brightness and energy efficiency. Moreover, Micro LED displays are known for their higher durability, better contrast, and color fidelity, offering an enriched visual experience to the users. Notably, this technology has already been adopted in certain high-end television models, albeit at a premium price point¹.

Galaxy Watch Ultra: A Potential Game-Changer

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is speculated to be Samsung‘s direct answer to Apple’s Watch Ultra 2. Although Samsung has not officially confirmed the development of this model, the rivalry with Apple suggests a robust smartwatch could be in the pipeline. The inclusion of Micro LED technology is expected to significantly elevate the display quality, making it a compelling alternative in the high-end smartwatch market. The self-luminous Micro LED display, with its small LEDs measuring less than 100 micrometers in size, and even lesser in Samsung’s iteration (below 50 micrometers), is designed to eliminate burn issues while maintaining quality over an extensive period, clocking over 100,000 hours of usage².

Anticipations and Market Implications

The ambitious move towards Micro LED technology underscores Samsung’s relentless pursuit to stay ahead in the display technology curve, matching stride with evolving consumer expectations for better brightness and visual quality. However, this technological advancement comes with a caveat – a probable steep price owing to the high cost of Micro LED technology. The Galaxy Watch Ultra, with its Micro LED display, is not only expected to redefine the smartwatch display standards but also set a precedent for future smartwatch models from Samsung and possibly other manufacturers.

As Samsung inches closer to possibly unveiling the Galaxy Watch Ultra with Micro LED technology, the tech realm is abuzz with anticipation. This move signifies a substantial stride in smartwatch technology, potentially igniting a new trend in the smartwatch industry, where display quality becomes a paramount consideration for consumers and manufacturers alike.

Sources:
1. TudoCelular
2. Gizmochina
Tags: Galaxy Watch Ultra, Samsung
October 13, 2023

Apple Vision Pro’s Economical Variant: A Friendly Price with Compromised Features

In a bid to reach a wider consumer base, Apple is reportedly working on a cost-effective variant of its high-end mixed reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro. The original device, priced at a steep $3,500, is beyond the reach of many consumers, prompting Apple to explore a more budget-friendly version¹²³.

Lowering the Price Tag

The prime focus in developing this economical variant is to significantly lower the price to a range of $1,500 to $2,500. The strategy to achieve this price cut involves removing certain features and downgrading the chip used in the device⁴⁵.

Sacrificing the EyeSight Feature

One of the notable features to be axed in this cost-cutting endeavor is the EyeSight feature. The EyeSight technology in the original Vision Pro uses an external OLED display to project a three-dimensional rendering of the user’s facial expressions to others in the room. While this feature enhances the interactive experience, it doesn’t offer substantial benefits to the wearer of the device. By eliminating this feature, Apple can significantly reduce the bill of materials, thus lowering the price point of the device⁶.

Reduced Camera and Sensor Array

Additionally, the number of cameras and sensors will be trimmed down in the budget-friendly variant. This move is another step towards reducing the production costs while maintaining the core functionality of the mixed reality headset⁶.

Future Expectations

Although Apple is heading towards a more affordable Vision Pro, there are speculations that the low-cost version might have been shelved for now⁷. On the brighter side, along with the low-cost model, Apple is purportedly also working on a second-generation high-end Vision Pro, focusing on making it lighter, more comfortable, and equipped with a chip spec bump⁶.

The development of a low-cost Apple Vision Pro is a testament to Apple’s initiative to make mixed reality technology more accessible. While the reduction in price comes with a trade-off in features, it opens the door for a broader consumer base to experience Apple’s mixed reality technology.

Source Links: appleinsider.com | wccftech.com | 9to5mac.com

Tags: Apple, Apple Vision Pro
October 13, 2023

Garmin Unveils Exciting Features with Update 14.68 for Select Smartwatches
Garmin has recently rolled out a significant update, version 14.68, enhancing the functionality of various smartwatches including Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, and Epix 2 Pro. This update, once exclusive to Beta Program members, is now accessible to all users, marking a noteworthy upgrade from the previous version 13.22.

New Additions and Enhancements

The highlight of this update is the introduction of a Gaming App, improvements to Golf features, and the ability to view weather forecasts for multiple locations directly on your smartwatch. Additionally, an array of sports activities like American Football, Ice Hockey, Soccer, and more have been added to non-pro models, enriching the user experience significantly.

Garmin also introduced a Device Settings Backup and Restore feature, allowing a seamless transition between old and new devices. A revamped Virtual Caddie interface is among the optimizations made to Golf features, ensuring a more intuitive and enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts.

User Feedback and Future Updates

Some users have reported crashes post-update, an issue Garmin is yet to address. However, the company encourages users to share any issues on their forum for a better resolution. With update 14.68, the 14.xx Beta cycle concludes, hinting at the initiation of the 15.xx period in the near future.

Garmin continues to evolve its software capabilities, ensuring an enhanced user experience with each update. The latest update is a testimony to Garmin’s commitment to delivering robust and feature-rich smartwatches to cater to a variety of user needs.

Compatible smartwatches
- Fenix 7
- Fenix 7 Pro
- Fenix 7x
- Fenix 7x Pro
- Fenix 7s
- Fenix 7s Pro
- Epix
- Epix Pro
- Enduro 2
- Quatix 7
- MARQ Gen 2
Source: NotebookCheck
Tags: Garmin
October 12, 2023

Apple Faces Growing Legal Storm: 36 More Plaintiffs Join AirTag Stalking Lawsuit
The legal quagmire for tech giant Apple is deepening as 36 additional plaintiffs from 20 US states have joined a class-action lawsuit concerning the misuse of Apple’s AirTags for stalking purposes. The lawsuit, initially filed in December, accuses Apple of negligence for failing to incorporate adequate anti-stalking safeguards before launching AirTags. The total count of individuals, not including unnamed class members, now stands at 38 as the amended complaint brings new accusations to light, painting a grim picture of the real-world dangers posed by the misuse of AirTags¹.

A Trail of Terror

Apple’s AirTags, despite their primary function to help users locate misplaced items, have become tools of terror in the hands of stalkers. The size of a large coin, AirTags employ Bluetooth broadcasting technology to link with nearby Apple devices, registering their location on Apple’s FindMy network. This feature, while innovative, has become a double-edged sword. The lawsuit highlights how the ubiquity of Apple devices in the US amplifies the risk, making it nearly impossible for individuals being stalked to escape the 30-foot reach of AirTags, even if they do not own an Apple device themselves¹.

Disturbingly, since the original filing, there has been an “explosion of reporting” concerning AirTag stalking cases. In Tulsa, Oklahoma alone, police have investigated 19 cases involving AirTags, many of which ended in violence. The amended complaint also links multiple instances of AirTag tracking directly to tragic outcomes, including murders. For instance, one woman was murdered by her boyfriend after discovering and removing an AirTag he had hidden in her car. In another horrifying event, a 61-year-old theft victim was murdered after tracking stolen vehicles equipped with AirTags to the thieves’ locations¹.

A Call for Accountability

The outcry for accountability grows louder as the victims and their families seek justice. The nearly 100-page-long amended complaint adds a myriad of victim accounts, illustrating the far-reaching implications of this technology gone awry. In one case, an AirTag was found sewn into a stuffed teddy bear among objects recovered from an ex-partner’s home. In another, a woman was unable to sell her car due to multiple undiscovered AirTags, which mechanics failed to locate¹.

As Apple finds itself under the legal microscope, the allegations underscore a pressing need for tech companies to prioritize user safety and privacy over innovation. The lawsuit, now bolstered by a growing roster of plaintiffs, sends a strong message about the dire consequences when technology is misused and inadequately safeguarded against potential threats.

Sources:
- The Register
Tags: Apple, Apple AirTag
October 12, 2023

The Pinnacle of Luxury and Functionality: Garmin Unveils MARQ 2 Carbon Collection Smartwatches

Garmin astounds the market with its latest MARQ 2 Carbon Collection smartwatches, embodying a blend of luxury and advanced functionalities. This collection boasts a unique Fused Carbon Fiber build, a marvel decades in the making, and now brought to life in three distinguished models: the Athlete, Golfer, and Commander editions.

Exquisite Craftsmanship Meets Robust Performance

The MARQ 2 Carbon collection is a testament to Garmin’s relentless pursuit of perfection, as seen in the intricate craftsmanship and the robust performance of these smartwatches. Each watch is built with 130 layers of carbon fiber, meticulously arranged to maintain tensile strength, and finished with a diamond cutter to exhibit a captivating spiral pattern. The collection shares its hardware with the regular MARQ 2 series, featuring a 46mm case housing a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, ensuring crisp visuals and an immersive user experience. With up to 6 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and 21 days in battery saver mode, these watches are crafted for the long haul.

Tailored for the Elite

The Athlete edition, priced at $2,950, is the epitome of a multi-purpose sports watch, laden with a plethora of activity tracking and performance coaching features. The Golfer edition, on the other hand, priced at $3,100, is a golfer’s companion, pre-loaded with over 43,000 golf courses worldwide and an onboard virtual caddie. Lastly, the Commander edition, tagged at $3,200, is military-inspired, offering core functionalities with a rugged design for the adventurous at heart.

MARQ 2, Garmin MARQ 2

MARQ 2, Garmin MARQ 2

MARQ 2, Garmin MARQ 2

MARQ 2, Garmin MARQ 2

MARQ 2, Garmin MARQ 2

MARQ 2, Garmin MARQ 2

MARQ 2, Garmin MARQ 2

A Lasting Impression

The MARQ 2 Carbon Collection is not merely a set of smartwatches; it’s a statement of luxury, precision, and unrivaled performance, setting a new standard in the wearable tech sphere.

A Closer Look at the Straps and Software Features

Delving deeper into the aesthetics and functionalities, each model comes with distinct strap materials and software features. The Garmin Golfer’s strap boasts a leather outer and rubber inner, while the Athlete edition comes with a silicone strap, and the Commander edition features a jacquard nylon weave strap. The software features are tailored to the theme each watch represents. The Commander edition is laden with tactical/military features, including a killswitch. The Golfer edition is a haven for golf enthusiasts with Garmin’s Virtual Caddy feature and pre-installed info for 43,000 golf courses. On the other hand, the Athlete edition is geared towards the sports aficionados, mirroring the feature set of the latest Fenix 7 and Epix watches.

In conclusion, the MARQ 2 Carbon Collection is a remarkable blend of luxury and functionality, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship, superior materials, and a range of features tailored for different lifestyles. It’s not just a smartwatch collection; it’s a statement for the elite, offering a unique blend of style, functionality, and exclusivity¹².

Sources: NotebookCheck Forbes

Tags: Garmin, Garmin MARQ 2 Carbon
October 11, 2023

Elevate Your Virtual Experience: A Comprehensive Guide to Meta Quest 3 Accessories

In a world that’s rapidly embracing the metaverse, Meta’s Quest 3 stands out as a beacon of immersive virtual reality (VR). However, to unlock the full potential of this cutting-edge gadget, you’ll need the right accessories. This guide unveils the essential accessories that promise to elevate your Meta Quest 3 experience to a new horizon.

Dive Deeper with Enhanced Comfort

The foremost concern for any VR enthusiast is comfort. Prolonged VR sessions can become a tad uncomfortable, but fret not; there are accessories designed to combat this very issue. Investing in a quality head strap or a facial interface replacement can significantly enhance comfort. These accessories distribute the weight of the headset evenly, reducing pressure on your face and head, ensuring a snug fit no matter the marathon gaming session you are planning.

Power Up Your Sessions

There’s nothing more frustrating than having to pause your virtual adventure due to a low battery. Fortunately, there are battery packs and charging docks available that ensure your Quest 3 remains juiced up. A reliable battery pack extends your playtime, while a convenient charging dock ensures your headset is ready to transport you to virtual paradises whenever the whim strikes.

Immersive Soundscapes Await

Sound is a vital part of the VR experience, and the right audio accessories can make or break your virtual explorations. Investing in dedicated VR earphones or a deluxe audio strap will provide a crisp and immersive sound, enhancing your sense of presence in the virtual world.

Protection and Portability

Taking your Quest 3 on the go? A sturdy carrying case is indispensable. Not only does it protect your headset from bumps and scratches, but it also provides room for all your essential accessories. For those looking to personalize their VR gear, various skin wraps and lens protectors are available that add a touch of personality while keeping your device pristine.

Step into New Realities

The Meta Quest 3, with its impressive array of accessories, offers an unparalleled gateway into virtual realms. Whether you’re a VR veteran or a newcomer to the digital frontier, the right accessories are sure to enhance your Quest 3 experience. As the metaverse continues to expand, ensuring you have the tools to explore it comfortably and with high fidelity is crucial.

Intrigued to know more? Dive into detailed accessory reviews and recommendations on Mixed News, Upload VR

Tags: Meta Quest 3
October 10, 2023

The Unveiling of Honor Watch 4 Pro: Hits the Market in China
The highly anticipated Honor Watch 4 Pro has finally made its debut, showcasing a blend of aesthetic appeal and cutting-edge technology. Launched alongside the Honor Magic Vs2 product, the smartwatch is a testament to Honor’s innovation in the wearable tech realm. Here’s a deep dive into the features, specifications, and pricing of the Honor Watch 4 Pro that is set to make a significant mark in the smartwatch market.

A Peek into Elegance and Durability

The Honor Watch 4 Pro exhibits a premium design encapsulated in a stainless steel body with a frost-like texture, delivering a sleek and visually appealing look. It houses a circular dial paired with a rotating crown, adding a touch of elegance that suits both casual and formal settings. Its dimensions stand at 46.4 x 46.4 x 11.44mm with a weight of 50 grams, making it a compact yet robust accessory for everyday wear¹².

Technological Prowess

Tucked within its elegant frame is a host of advanced features. The smartwatch sports a 1.5-inch AMOLED screen boasting a resolution of 464 x 464 pixels, enhanced with LTPO technology which allows an always-on display without draining the battery excessively. Its core is powered by an STMicroelectronics STM32U5AP low-power chipset, coupled with 4GB of storage space, ensuring a smooth user interface and adequate space for apps and data. The Honor Watch 4 Pro also comes equipped with an eight-channel optical sensor, heart-rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, sleep and stress tracker, and a unique fat-burning algorithm, making it a comprehensive health and fitness companion¹².

Moreover, it’s not just about health tracking; the watch supports LTE connectivity with eSIM functionality, enabling voice calls directly from the watch. The built-in GPS, various sports modes, and the array of connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, further amplifies its versatility¹³.

Pricing and Availability

The Honor Watch 4 Pro is available in three distinct color variants: Black, Brown, and Dark Green. The pricing is set at CNY 1,599 (around $220) for the Black variant, and CNY 1,799 (around $250) for the Dark Green and Brown variants. It was released for pre-order with sales commencing from October 16, exclusively in the Chinese market for now. Its competitive pricing, coupled with the rich feature set, makes it a compelling option for those looking to invest in a high-quality smartwatch¹³.

The Honor Watch 4 Pro is a blend of style, functionality, and innovation, poised to offer a refined user experience to tech-savvy individuals and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Sources:
Tags: honor, Honor Watch, Honor Watch 4 Pro
October 9, 2023

Google Calendar on Wear OS: A Dive into New Features and User Experience
In a bid to enhance user accessibility and functionality on smartwatches, Google has seamlessly integrated its widely used Google Calendar into the Wear OS platform. This integration came in quick succession after the tech giant extended Gmail support to the platform, clearly showcasing Google’s commitment to boosting the utility of its primary services on Wear OS¹.

Seamless Transition to Your Wrist

Google Calendar’s arrival on Wear OS smartwatches is more than just a mere extension. It is meticulously tailored to cater to the on-the-go needs of users, providing a Schedule-like view right on their wrists. This view simplifies the tracking of daily events, mirroring a similar user experience to that on phones. Notably, the app allows users to delve into event details, change RSVP statuses, and even manage notifications with a few taps on their smartwatch screens²³.

Enhanced Features for Better Management

Among the new facets introduced, the Google Calendar app on Wear OS brings forth specialized tiles labeled “Next Event” and “Next Tasks”. These tiles are designed to provide users with a quick glance at their upcoming events and tasks without the need to open the full app, thus saving time and making schedule management a breeze⁴.

Moreover, the app facilitates a closer interaction with one’s schedule by providing precise location details for events and offering options to mark events as complete, thanks to its integration with Google Tasks. For those who prefer a larger view, the app also enables users to open any date or event on their smartphone, making the transition between devices seamless and efficient⁵.

Towards a Holistic Smartwatch Experience

With this integration, Google nudges Wear OS a step closer to becoming a more holistic platform for managing day-to-day tasks. As Wear OS 3 and Wear OS 4 continue evolving with new features, the inclusion of Google Calendar is indeed a significant stride towards enriching the user experience on smartwatches.

The Google Calendar app for Wear OS is now available for download on the Play Store, making it easier for users to stay organized and manage their schedules efficiently, whether they are on their phone or smartwatch.

In conclusion, the addition of Google Calendar to Wear OS is not just a feature upgrade; it’s a substantial move towards intertwining smartwatch technology with everyday life, making schedule management more intuitive and less of a chore.

Sources:
- Gizmochina: Link
- Android Central: Link
- PhoneArena: Link
- NewsBytesApp: Link
- Engadget: Link
Tags: google, Smartwatch, Wear OS