Category: Wearables

  • Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro’s Global Price Leaked Prior to Release

    Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro’s Global Price Leaked Prior to Release

    Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro, initially launched in China last August, is now set to have a global release, possibly at the upcoming Mobile World Congress (MWC) later this month.

    Pricing Details

    A reliable tipster, Sudhanshu Ambhore, has shared pricing details for the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro in Europe. The official price for the Band 8 Pro in Europe will be EUR 89. However, depending on promotions and local taxes, retailers might offer it for as low as EUR 69.

    This is great news for consumers as the previous model, Band 7 Pro, was launched at EUR 99. The lower price for the iterative upgrade is likely to be well-received by buyers.

    Color Options

    The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro will be available in two color options: Black and Silver.

    Specifications

    The Band 8 Pro features a 1.74-inch AMOLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate and 600 nits peak brightness. It is also water-resistant up to 5 meters.

    • Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro's Global Price Leaked Prior to Release
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  • Complex Design and Challenging Repair Discovered in Apple Vision Pro Teardown

    Complex Design and Challenging Repair Discovered in Apple Vision Pro Teardown

    Mere two days after Apple‘s mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro, hit the market, repair experts iFixit has already performed a teardown, offering a glimpse into its intricate workings.

    Apple Vision Pro teardown shows its intricate details

    The Vision Pro is unsurprisingly Apple’s most complex piece of hardware yet. iFixit says the device is so complicated that it requires more than one video to tackle it. So we can expect more teardown content for the Vision Pro in the coming days. 

    Disassembly of the headset

    The first part of the video focused primarily on the disassembly of the headset. The most challenging part of the teardown was removing the front curved sheet of glass. It was, however, carefully removed using heat and without damaging the display.

    Layers beneath the glass

    Beneath the glass, there were two more layers – a black layer and an unlaminated layer over the top of the exterior screen. The black layer was likely a spacer, and the unlaminated layer was a lenticular lens array. This lens array is said to create a 3D effect when you watch content in the Vision Pro.

    Removal of the display and lens assembly

    In the next step, we saw the removal of the display and lens assembly. This involved removing torque screws, as well as several layers of tape, screws, brackets, and cables.

    Internal mechanisms revealed

    Once the display and lens assembly were removed, the iFixit team was able to see the cameras and the stepper motor that parks the lenses.

    Challenging repairs, user-friendly connections

    Taking apart the Apple Vision Pro certainly seems like a challenging task that demands a considerable amount of patience. Nevertheless, the iFixit team managed to successfully dismantle the Vision Pro, unveiling its internal mechanisms. Although they refrained from giving a formal “repairability” score, the team did recognize that while repairs might pose a challenge, certain connections turned out to be surprisingly user-friendly.

    Specifications

    • Cameras: Multiple cameras
    • Sensors: Included
    • Cooling fans: Yes
    • Lens motors: Included
    • Complex Design and Challenging Repair Discovered in Apple Vision Pro Teardown
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  • Apple Vision Pro exceeds expectations in drop tests with impressive durability

    Apple Vision Pro exceeds expectations in drop tests with impressive durability

    Apple’s new Vision Pro headset has been put through drop tests to assess its durability, and the results may surprise some users. Sam Kohl of Apple Track conducted the tests, which showed that the headset can withstand bumps and falls from significant heights, although there are some caveats.

    Summary of the Drop Tests

    During regular usage, the Vision Pro headset experienced minor scratches on the glass from accidental bumps against walls or doors, but no significant damage occurred. Even intentional bumps against walls did not shatter the glass. However, the light seal, which helps block out ambient light, did come off easily during the testing.

    When the headset was dropped onto a carpet from a low height multiple times, it survived without major damage. However, the right speaker stopped working after the third drop due to an internal break in the band connection. Despite this, the headset remained in good overall condition and fully functional.

    A significant fall from 10-12 feet finally resulted in shattered front glass. However, the glass did not break into pieces, and the headset continued to function normally.

    It is worth noting that the front glass of the Vision Pro can be peeled off to expose the display layer, which, although still functional, is likely very delicate and prone to damage.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the Vision Pro headset demonstrated better-than-expected resilience in everyday usage scenarios. The only weak points seem to be the speakers and light seal becoming loose. While users should exercise caution, especially if they tend to drop their gadgets frequently, the headset offers good durability.

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  • Vision Pro Gets Developer Strap (USB-C Dongle) from Apple

    Vision Pro Gets Developer Strap (USB-C Dongle) from Apple

    Apple Vision Pro is now officially available for purchase with a collection of nearly 600 apps designed specifically for the headset. Although this number may seem substantial, it falls short compared to the extensive app stores of the iPhone and iPad.

    Apple Introduces “Developer Strap” for Vision Pro

    In an effort to support developers, Apple has introduced a “Developer Strap” for the Vision Pro, priced at $300. It essentially functions as a USB-C dongle allowing developers to make a direct connection between the headset and a Mac.

    The strap is exclusively available through the Apple Developer website and is targeted at developers who can use this USB-C dongle to “accelerate the development of graphics-intensive apps and games.”

    This likely means compiling and debugging apps directly on the device, bypassing the need for a wireless connection. However, Apple hasn’t confirmed if file transfer is also possible (via 9to5Mac).

    Developer Strap Benefits for Vision Pro Projects

    While development options are available for other Apple devices like Apple TV and Watch, transferring VisionOS apps with 3D features can be cumbersome over Wi-Fi. Hence, the Developer Strap can be particularly valuable for developers working on Vision Pro projects involving these advanced features.

    However, it’s important to note that Apple is strictly positioning this accessory for developers and not for consumers. Thus, it’s not available through the regular Apple Store. Instead, it can only be ordered via the Apple Developer site and currently by only US-based developer account holders.

    Interestingly, the Developer Strap includes a built-in speaker, as developers need to replace the right audio strap that comes with Vision Pro.

    Vision Pro Demos Now Available in Apple Stores

    Separately, Apple Stores in the US are now providing 25-minute Vision Pro demos, showing the device’s capabilities, available content and apps, and more. The headset might launch in additional countries later this year.

    • Vision Pro Gets Developer Strap (USB-C Dongle) from Apple
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  • Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Tab S6 Lite may see a re-release by Samsung in 2024

    Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Tab S6 Lite may see a re-release by Samsung in 2024

    Samsung to Re-Release Galaxy Tab S6 Lite and Galaxy Watch 4

    Samsung is reportedly planning to re-release two of its products, following a trend it has set in recent years. The company is said to be re-launching a tablet and a smartwatch, both of which were originally released several years ago.

    According to reliable tipster Roland Quandt, the re-launched products will carry the branding ‘2024’ in their names, similar to the previously re-released devices. While Quandt does not provide any further details about the devices, it is expected that more information will be revealed in the coming days.

    The Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, which was initially launched in 2020 with an Exynos 9611 chip, will be re-released for the second time. In 2022, the tablet was launched again with Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G and Snapdragon 720G chipsets.

    As for the Galaxy Watch 4, it was originally released in 2021 and the upcoming ‘2024’ edition will mark its first re-release. It is currently unclear whether the re-released models will have any differences in terms of specifications. However, based on previous experiences with Samsung’s re-released devices, it is likely that any changes will be limited to newer firmware rather than hardware upgrades.

    In the meantime, if you are in need of a new smartwatch and cannot wait for the re-released Galaxy Watch 4, you can explore the latest Galaxy Watch 6 series, which is available for purchase on sites like Amazon.

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  • People nearby can easily disrupt Apple Vision Pro’s gesture controls

    People nearby can easily disrupt Apple Vision Pro’s gesture controls

    Apple Vision Pro Headset Faces Minor Flaw in Hand-Tracking Gesture Controls

    Apple’s innovative Vision Pro headset, known for its gesture-based interaction, has been found to have a minor flaw in its hand-tracking gesture controls, according to test results from technology media CNET. The issue arises when other people insert themselves into the interaction area while the wearer is using gestures, causing interference with the headset’s gesture controls and impacting the overall user experience.

    Difficulty in Distinguishing Between User and Others’ Hands

    The Apple Vision Pro headset heavily relies on gestures for user interaction, facilitated by the visionOS software. However, CNET’s tests reveal that the headset struggles to differentiate between the wearer’s hand and the hands of others entering the interaction space. This can pose challenges, especially in scenarios where users have children or other individuals around them.

    Impact on User Experience

    The interference from additional hands affects the seamless execution of gestures, potentially disrupting the intended experience. This flaw can be particularly inconvenient, as even a random hand movement within the range of the gesture system may lead to unintended actions, such as accidental deletion of a file.

    Room for Improvement in Apple’s visionOS

    While this flaw is relatively minor, it highlights the need for improvement in Apple’s visionOS. It is expected that future updates will address this issue, enabling the headset to accurately distinguish the wearer’s hand. As Apple continues to enhance its software systems, gesture recognition improvements are likely to become a focal point, ensuring an optimal and uninterrupted user experience for Vision Pro users.

    Future Updates and Second-Generation Vision Pro

    In conclusion, while this imperfection may cause some inconvenience in certain situations, it is part of the ongoing development process for this first-generation product. Apple is already rumored to be working on a second-generation Vision Pro headset, potentially named the Apple Vision Pro 2. This future iteration of the headset is expected to address some of the imperfections of the first-generation product, including improvements in weight and weight distribution.

    Overall, Apple’s Vision Pro headset remains a groundbreaking product with its innovative gesture-based interaction. As Apple continues to refine and enhance its software and hardware, users can look forward to an even better user experience in future iterations of the headset.

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  • Lenovo Yoga TWS Earbuds Successfully Meet TDRA Certification Prior to Global Release

    Lenovo Yoga TWS Earbuds Successfully Meet TDRA Certification Prior to Global Release

    The Lenovo Yoga True Wireless Stereo Earbuds, designed specifically for the Lenovo Yoga device ecosystem, were recently showcased at CES 2024. These earbuds serve as the ideal audio accessory for your Yoga tablet or Laptop. Excitingly, they have now appeared on the TDRA certification website, indicating an imminent launch.

    Lenovo’s Yoga TWS earbuds have made their way onto the TDRA certification database with the model number LT310. While the certification does not provide any specific details, it does suggest that these earbuds will soon be available in the UAE. According to industry insiders, we can expect their release around June of this year.

    Features and Specifications of Lenovo Yoga TWS Earbuds

    The Lenovo Yoga TWS earbuds offer several impressive features. Each earbud is equipped with three microphones, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality and facilitating seamless communication. One of the standout features of these earbuds is the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. This feature is further enhanced by touch-sensitive controls and quick charging support. Additionally, these earbuds have an IPX4 rating, making them resistant to splashes and suitable for workouts.

    In terms of technical specifications, the Lenovo Yoga TWS earbuds utilize 12.2mm drivers, providing a frequency range of 20-20,000 Hz and an impedance of 16 Ohms. These specifications ensure that users can enjoy high-quality audio with rich and detailed sound. The charging case, which houses a 500 mAh battery, can sustain the earbuds for up to 6 hours and 30 minutes when ANC is turned off.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Lenovo Yoga True Wireless Stereo Earbuds will be available in a stylish Blue color variant. These earbuds are competitively priced at $69.99, offering users an affordable yet feature-packed audio accessory.

    In conclusion, the Lenovo Yoga True Wireless Stereo Earbuds are set to make a splash in the market. With their tailored compatibility with the Lenovo Yoga device ecosystem, impressive features such as Active Noise Cancellation, and a competitive price point, these earbuds are certainly worth considering for Yoga tablet or Laptop users. Keep an eye out for their anticipated launch in the coming months.

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  • New Xiaomi Invention: Wearable Device Alerts for Nearby Secret Cameras

    New Xiaomi Invention: Wearable Device Alerts for Nearby Secret Cameras

    A recent report has revealed that Xiaomi Mobile Software Co. Ltd has been granted a patent for anti-peep prompt methods, devices, electronic equipment, and storage media. This suggests that Xiaomi is potentially working on a wearable device that can alert users when they are being secretly photographed. The patent outlines the process of obtaining environmental image data through a camera device and determining the shooting angle of the device.

    Anti-Peep Prompt Functionality

    The wearable device, as described in the patent, would provide an anti-peep prompt to the user when they are within the shooting range of a camera device, based on the shooting angle. This prompt aims to prevent unauthorized capturing of the user’s activities by secret cameras or other shooting devices. By alerting the user, Xiaomi aims to safeguard their privacy and prevent any potential intrusion.

    Limitations and Uncertainties

    The patent specifies that the wearable device can only achieve the anti-peep function if it has an in-built camera. This suggests that current Xiaomi smartwatches and bracelets, which lack cameras, may not feature this anti-peep functionality. However, the Mi Rabbit children’s watch, which does have a camera, may also be excluded from this feature. It remains unclear whether the wearable device would allow the user to accurately determine the position of the shooting device. If possible, this would enable the user to take appropriate action by moving away from the range of the shooting device.

    Future Possibilities

    Xiaomi’s MIJIA smart glasses, equipped with cameras, could potentially be products capable of providing the anti-peep prompt functionality. This suggests that Xiaomi may be considering launching a new lineup of wearable devices that support this feature. Consequently, future Xiaomi smartwatches and bracelets may come equipped with in-built cameras, in order to offer users enhanced privacy protection.

    In conclusion, Xiaomi’s recent patent for anti-peep prompt methods and devices indicates the company’s focus on developing a wearable device that can alert users when they are being secretly photographed. While the specifics of this technology are yet to be seen, it is clear that Xiaomi is dedicated to ensuring the privacy and security of its users in an increasingly connected world.

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  • China launches limited edition Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG Black persimmon wood headphones priced at 32,800 yuan ($4,582)

    China launches limited edition Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG Black persimmon wood headphones priced at 32,800 yuan ($4,582)

    Audio-Technica Releases ATH-AWKG Black Persimmon Wood-Limited Headphones in China

    Audio accessories brand Audio-Technica has unveiled its latest offering in China – the ATH-AWKG black persimmon wood-limited headphones. These headphones are crafted using black persimmon, a traditional Japanese wood that has never been used before by Audio-Technica in their audio tuning process. Interestingly, this new model bears resemblance to the one released in 2022 to commemorate the company’s 60th anniversary.

    Design and Features

    The decision to incorporate black persimmon into the design of the ATH-AWKG headset has resulted in the exclusion of the traditional all-cavity LOGO painting. Instead, the model adopts the Muji design previously used in the Narukami series. The ATH-AWKG headphones are equipped with a 53mm moving coil unit and utilize a 6N-OFC (99.99%) oxygen-free copper coil. The driving part of the headphones features Permendur Iron-cobalt alloy units, while titanium alloy flange rings are used internally. Additionally, the headphones boast Audio-Technica’s Dual Air Damping System (DADS) in the cavity.

    The ATH-AWKG headset comes with lambskin headphone pads and employs the A2DC pluggable interface by Audio-Technica for its cables. The package also includes two 3.0m detachable braided shielded wires that are compatible with 6.3mm single-ended and XLR (4-pin) balanced dual output specifications. This model draws inspiration from the functionality of the KG-NARU headsets. Some experts suggest that the use of black persimmon wood may enhance the natural sound effects, resulting in a more pleasing audio experience.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG black persimmon wood-limited headphones are currently available in China at a retail price of 32,800 yuan ($4,582). It is important to note that this limited-edition model is specifically designed for the Chinese market. The premium price tag attached to these headphones suggests that they may appeal to collectors. However, there is no information available regarding the quantity of units produced for the Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG black persimmon wood-limited headphones.

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  • Leaked Official Listing of Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 Exposes Full Specifications

    Leaked Official Listing of Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 Exposes Full Specifications

    Samsung Galaxy Fit 3: A Sneak Peek at the Upcoming Fitness Tracker

    Samsung recently made headlines with the launch of its latest flagship series, the Galaxy S24, and its first-ever smart ring, the Galaxy Ring. But it seems the South Korean brand has more in store for us. Rumors about the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3, a highly anticipated fitness tracker, have been circulating since last November. And now, thanks to a pre-mature official listing on Samsung’s website, we have a glimpse of what to expect from this upcoming wearable device.

    Accidental Listing Reveals Design and Features

    One of Samsung’s regional websites accidentally published images of the Galaxy Fit 3, giving us a first look at its design. The leaked renders were spot on – the fitness tracker sports a rectangular shape and comes with a quick release button mechanism. The device will be available in two strap options: Orange and Black. Additionally, there is a physical button located on the right edge of the tracker for easy navigation.

    Impressive Specifications and Upgrades

    According to the specification sheet shared by Samsung Community, the Galaxy Fit 3 will boast a 1.57-inch AMOLED display. The device will feature an aluminum unibody design with IP68 certification for dust and water resistance, as well as 5ATM water resistance. Weighing in at just 18.5 grams, the Galaxy Fit 3 is a lightweight companion for your fitness journey. The display itself is a significant upgrade compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy Fit 2, which was released back in 2020.

    Advanced Fitness Tracking Capabilities

    The Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 aims to be your ultimate fitness companion. It will come equipped with an optical heart rate sensor, sleep tracking capabilities, a light sensor, and even fall detection. With support for over 100 exercise modes, this wearable device will cater to a wide range of fitness enthusiasts. However, it’s worth noting that the Galaxy Fit 3 will not have a built-in GPS, speaker, or NFC capabilities.

    Convenient Features and Long Battery Life

    In addition to its fitness-focused features, the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 will offer various convenient functionalities. Users can expect notifications, music playback control, camera control, find my phone feature, and more. The leak also suggests that the fitness tracker will have an impressive battery life of up to 13 days, ensuring that it can keep up with your active lifestyle.

    Pricing and Availability

    While the leaked listing provided a wealth of information about the Galaxy Fit 3, one crucial detail remains unknown – the pricing. Rumors suggest that the fitness tracker will be priced around $80. With the accidental listing, it’s highly likely that Samsung will officially launch the Galaxy Fit 3 in the near future.

    In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 promises to be a feature-packed fitness tracker with a sleek design and advanced tracking capabilities. With its long battery life and convenient features, it aims to be a reliable companion for fitness enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for its official release, as Samsung is expected to unveil more details, including pricing, very soon.

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