Category: Wearables

  • Wear OS 5 Development with Android 14 in Progress; Possible Launch with Galaxy Watch 7

    Wear OS 5 Development with Android 14 in Progress; Possible Launch with Galaxy Watch 7

    Collaboration between Samsung and Google for the Upcoming Launch of Wear OS 5

    In the past year, a number of new original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have adopted Wear OS for their latest wearable devices. Xiaomi, the renowned Chinese electronics manufacturer, entered the Wear OS arena with the introduction of its inaugural Wear OS smartwatch, the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro running on Wear OS 4. Samsung also jumped aboard the trend by unveiling the Galaxy Watch 6, equipped with Wear OS 4, eventually extending compatibility to Pixel smartwatches. Leveraging this positive momentum, Samsung and Google are now engaged in a collaborative effort towards the development of the forthcoming iteration, Wear OS 5, which will be rooted in Android 14. Recent reports hint at Samsung’s dedicated efforts towards the imminent launch of Wear OS 5 in conjunction with the upcoming Galaxy Watch 7.

    Anticipated Schedule for the Release of Wear OS 5

    As per insights from 9to5Google, the release of Wear OS 5 is slated for this summer, coinciding with the debut of Samsung’s fresh Galaxy Watch 7. The release schedule for Wear OS 5 is projected to mirror the progression of its forerunner, Wear OS 4. Notably, Wear OS 4 initially materialized with the introduction of the Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic as part of One UI 5 Watch. This was subsequently rolled out to devices such as the Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch, Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, Galaxy Watch 5, and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.

    Samsung’s Endeavors in Crafting Wear OS 5

    Insights hint at the presence of various allusions to Wear OS 5 within the unreleased Android 14 build. Samsung is actively engaged in refining the new build to ensure optimal performance of the Exynos 5535 chipset when operating with Wear OS 5. These developments point towards the upcoming Samsung smartwatch, anticipated for a summer launch, debuting with Wear OS 5. The update is also expected to extend to the Pixel Watch 3 during the fall season.

    Enhancements and Modifications in Wear OS 5

    While specific details concerning the enhancements and modifications in Wear OS 5 are not yet public, the shift towards an annual update cycle for wearable devices aligns it more closely with the customary update timelines observed in smartphones. This shift from past practices, where Wear OS often lagged behind in adopting new Android versions, indicates a more synchronized and systematic approach to updates.

    With much anticipation surrounding the release of Wear OS 5 and Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 7, it is evident that the collaborative efforts between Samsung and Google are geared towards elevating the user experience and performance of Wear OS smartwatches. Stay tuned for further disclosures on Wear OS 5 and its range of exciting new functionalities.

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  • New Feature: Google Pixel 8 Pro Is Capable of Monitoring Body Temperature

    New Feature: Google Pixel 8 Pro Is Capable of Monitoring Body Temperature

    Google Pixel 8 Pro Introduces Body Temperature Tracking Feature

    Google has recently launched the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones in a new Mint color option. While both models offer impressive features, the Pixel 8 Pro has just received an exciting addition. In the latest Pixel Feature Drop, Google has introduced a long-awaited feature – body temperature tracking.

    A “Medical-Grade” Feature

    According to official notes, Google’s Pixel 8 Pro now has the capability to read a person’s body temperature. The company claims that this feature is “medical-grade,” suggesting that it may have received approval from the FDA. With the latest update, Pixel 8 Pro users can access the Thermometer application, which allows them to scan their forehead for a temperature reading.

    Enhanced Health Tracking

    The Thermometer app also offers the option to save temperature results to the user’s Fitbit profile. This integration enhances health tracking capabilities, allowing users to monitor their body temperature over time. Google assures users that the feature provides accurate readings, although it has yet to be confirmed against a medical thermometer.

    How it Works

    The Pixel 8 Pro’s body temperature tracking feature utilizes infrared radiation emitted from the user’s forehead. The sensor can measure temperatures ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that the accuracy of this feature for human body temperature is still uncertain.

    Proceed with Caution

    While the addition of body temperature tracking is undoubtedly a valuable feature, it is crucial to understand its limitations. Google advises against replacing traditional thermometers with smartphones for any medical use. The accuracy and reliability of this feature for medical purposes have not been fully confirmed.

    Stay Tuned for Updates

    As of now, these are all the details available regarding the Pixel 8 Pro’s body temperature tracking feature. It remains to be seen how accurate and reliable this feature truly is. Users are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates on this matter.

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  • Samsung racing against Apple to create a needle-less blood sugar monitor

    Samsung racing against Apple to create a needle-less blood sugar monitor

    Samsung and Apple’s Focus on Non-Invasive Health Monitoring

    Both Samsung and Apple are making significant strides in the field of wearable technology, specifically in the development of non-invasive methods for monitoring vital health metrics such as blood glucose levels and blood pressure. This competition between the two tech giants is expected to lead to significant advancements in health monitoring devices within the next five years.

    Apple’s Exploration of Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring

    Apple has been actively exploring non-invasive blood glucose monitoring techniques for several years. The goal of these methods is to eliminate the need for skin piercing and blood extraction, making the process much easier and more convenient for patients.

    Huawei’s Non-Invasive Glucose Monitoring Capability

    Huawei, on the other hand, has already released a watch called the Huawei Watch 4, which features a non-invasive glucose monitoring capability. This function assesses the risk of high blood sugar by measuring ten health metrics. However, it does not directly read blood glucose levels. There are some uncertainties surrounding the accuracy and functionality of Huawei’s innovation in this area.

    Samsung’s Vision for Non-Invasive Monitoring

    Hon Pak, Samsung Mobile’s Head of Digital Health, emphasized the importance of non-invasive blood glucose monitoring for diabetes patients in a recent Bloomberg interview. He believes that wearable devices capable of continuously measuring blood pressure and blood glucose will revolutionize health management. Pak stated that these technologies will be available in some form within the next five years, although no specific timeline was provided.

    The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

    Samsung’s Galaxy Watch already includes blood pressure measurement features, but it requires frequent calibration and does not provide continuous monitoring. However, Samsung is working on the development of the Galaxy Ring, a wearable device that focuses on tracking activity and sleep quality. Over time, it will incorporate more advanced health monitoring features.

    Continuous Wearability and Enhanced Smart Headphones

    The Galaxy Ring is designed for comfort, allowing for continuous wear to ensure accurate health data tracking. This sets it apart from smartwatches, which often need to be removed for charging, interrupting constant health monitoring.

    Additionally, Samsung plans to enhance its smart headphones to measure body temperature and heart rate. According to the company’s vice president, the ear is an ideal location for such measurements due to its proximity to the heart. When combined with data from smartwatches, these readings from headphones could offer a more comprehensive view of a user’s health.

    In conclusion, both Samsung and Apple are making significant strides in the development of non-invasive health monitoring solutions. With their ongoing efforts, we can expect to see major advancements in wearable technology and health management within the next five years.

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  • Global Launch: OnePlus Buds 3 Equipped with ANC Available at $99.99 (Rs 5,499, €99, £99)

    Global Launch: OnePlus Buds 3 Equipped with ANC Available at $99.99 (Rs 5,499, €99, £99)

    OnePlus Buds 3: The Latest Addition to OnePlus Audio Lineup

    OnePlus has expanded its audio lineup with the global launch of the OnePlus Buds 3. This new addition comes with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and was first unveiled in China at the end of last year alongside the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus Ace 3 smartphones. The OnePlus Buds 3 is now available in India, North America, and Europe, priced at Rs 5,499, $99.99, and €99, respectively.

    Open Sale Dates and Color Options

    For those interested in purchasing the OnePlus Buds 3, mark your calendars. The earbuds will be available for open sale starting on February 5 in North America and on February 6 in India and Europe. You can choose between two color options: Metallic Gray and Splendid Blue.

    Enhanced Features for an Immersive Audio Experience

    The OnePlus Buds 3 is designed to provide an immersive audio experience with its impressive features. It features a dual-driver design and offers active noise cancellation of up to 49 dB, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes without any disruptions from intrusive background noises. The 10.4mm composite diaphragm bass unit delivers crystal-clear highs and deep, resonant bass.

    High-Resolution Audio and Seamless Connectivity

    With LHDC 5.0 Hi-Res codec support, the OnePlus Buds 3 ensures high-resolution audio transmission with a 96 kHz sampling rate. It also offers a wireless speed of 1 Mbps. The earbuds provide seamless connectivity through Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

    Elevate Your Gaming Experience

    Gamers will appreciate the enhanced gaming experience the OnePlus Buds 3 brings. The earbuds offer custom game sound effects, a new sound field expansion, and 3D spatial sound effects. With a latency of just 94 ms, the Buds 3 delivers precise and clear sound for an immersive gaming session.

    Long Battery Life and Water Resistance

    The OnePlus Buds 3 boasts an impressive battery life, offering up to 44 hours of usage without noise cancellation. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge provides 7 hours of uninterrupted music playback. Each earbud is equipped with a 58 mAh battery, while the charging case houses a 520 mAh battery. The Buds 3 is also rated IP55 for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for various environments.

    With its advanced features and immersive audio experience, the OnePlus Buds 3 is a worthy addition to OnePlus’ audio lineup. Whether you’re a music lover or a gamer, these earbuds are designed to enhance your audio experience. So mark your calendars and get ready to grab the OnePlus Buds 3 during the open sale.

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  • Sky-High Prices in China’s Grey Market Attributed to Strong Demand for Apple Vision Pro

    Sky-High Prices in China’s Grey Market Attributed to Strong Demand for Apple Vision Pro

    Apple’s Vision Pro Mixed Reality Headsets Face Soaring Prices in China’s Grey Market

    As Apple prepares for the global launch of its highly-anticipated Vision Pro mixed reality headsets, a peculiar trend is emerging in China. Tech enthusiasts in the country, eager to get their hands on this cutting-edge gadget, are encountering a challenge – a thriving grey market where prices are skyrocketing.

    Customers Paying Double the Original Price

    The Vision Pro has created a frenzy among buyers in China, leading resellers to take advantage of the situation by doubling the asking price. Reports indicate that eager customers are willing to pay twice the official rate to secure this high-tech device. The original price range of $3,499 to $3,899, depending on the model, has been dwarfed by the prices in the grey market.

    The Revival of the Daigou Market

    This trend is not entirely new. The practice, known as Daigou, involves agents traveling overseas to purchase luxury items, which are then sold back home at marked-up prices. While the pandemic had dampened this market, the easing of travel restrictions has seen a resurgence. With Apple’s new product launch, Daigou sellers are once again active, promising deliveries from the U.S. to China.

    Apple’s Potential Game-Changer in the Mixed Reality Sector

    The Vision Pro is expected to make a significant impact in the mixed reality sector, an area where companies like Meta and Pico have previously ventured with limited success. Apple’s entry is seen as a game-changer that could potentially revitalize the market. Industry experts believe that this could be the turning point for VR/AR technologies, projecting a substantial growth in headset shipments this year.

    Shifting Dynamics in the Industry

    However, the industry also faces its challenges. For instance, Pico, a major VR brand, recently scaled back operations due to lower-than-expected sales. But with Apple stepping into the arena, the dynamics might just shift in favor of augmented and virtual reality technologies.

    Diversifying Revenue Streams for Apple

    For Apple, this venture goes beyond adding another product to its lineup; it is about diversifying revenue streams. With the iPhone being a significant revenue generator, the Vision Pro offers a new avenue, particularly in tech-hungry markets like China.

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  • Introducing the Noise ColorFit Hexa Smartwatch: AMOLED Display, AOD, Bluetooth Calling & Health Suite

    Introducing the Noise ColorFit Hexa Smartwatch: AMOLED Display, AOD, Bluetooth Calling & Health Suite

    Noise ColorFit Hexa: The Latest Addition to the Indian Smartwatch Brand

    Noise, a well-known Indian smartwatch brand, has recently introduced a new product called the ColorFit Hexa. This launch comes soon after their previous release, the ColorFit Chrome.

    Noise ColorFit Hexa Specs & Features

    The ColorFit Hexa stands out with its square-shaped front and smoothly curved body. It features a special ‘ArcView’ display. The standout feature is its 1.96-inch AMOLED screen, which offers a bright and clear viewing experience with a 360 x 360 pixels resolution and 600 nits of brightness. The screen’s always-on feature makes it easy to check time and notifications quickly.

    Customizable Watch Face and Connectivity

    This smartwatch allows users to change the look of the watch face with over 100 options, so everyone can find a style they like. It also has Noise’s own technology for easy and power-saving Bluetooth calling and connectivity.

    Health and Fitness Tracking

    For those who keep track of their health and fitness, the ColorFit Hexa is equipped with tools for checking heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep quality, and stress. It also has different modes for tracking various exercises and sports.

    Compatibility and Additional Features

    The smartwatch works well with both Android and iPhone devices through the NoiseFit App. This app adds more features like showing notifications, weather, reminders, controlling the camera and music, and even a calculator. The smartwatch is also tough against water and dust, which is great for outdoor use.

    Pricing & Availability

    Starting January 24th, the ColorFit Hexa will be available in four colors: Teal Blue, Classic Brown (leather), Classic Black (leather), and Jet Black. It will be sold for Rs. 2,499 as a special starting price on the Noise website and Flipkart. The first 300 buyers from the Noise website will get an extra discount of Rs. 300.

    One of the best features is its battery life, lasting up to 7 days, which is quite long for a smartwatch. With its attractive design, impressive features, and affordable price, the Noise ColorFit Hexa is definitely worth considering for those in search of a reliable and stylish smartwatch.

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  • Pre-Order Weekend Sees Strong Demand for Apple Vision Pro, Selling 180,000 Units

    Pre-Order Weekend Sees Strong Demand for Apple Vision Pro, Selling 180,000 Units

    Apple Vision Pro Pre-Order Sales Meet Expectations, But Delivery Dates Delayed

    Apple's highly anticipated mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, has seen strong interest during its pre-order phase, according to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo estimates that the headset has garnered between 160,000 to 180,000 units in sales during its first pre-order weekend. This success can be attributed to the loyal fanbase and heavy users of Apple products. However, the surge in interest has caused a delay in delivery dates for some buyers.

    Delivery Delays

    Due to the overwhelming demand, the shipping times for the Vision Pro have extended to 5-7 weeks immediately after the pre-orders went live. Surprisingly, these shipping times have remained unchanged even after 48 hours. Kuo notes that this is a common pattern observed with iPhones, but the surge in demand for the Vision Pro poses a potential challenge for Apple to overcome.

    Challenging Demand

    Kuo believes that Apple can achieve 500,000 shipments of the Vision Pro this year without any major challenges. With a massive active user base of 1.2 billion, even if only 0.007 percent of them are willing to purchase the Vision Pro after pre-ordering, the product could still sell out. However, it is important to note that the mixed-reality headset is a niche product and may not appeal to the wider consumer market.

    Production Efficiency Improvement

    According to media reports, Apple's supply chain partners, such as Luxshare, are working overtime to meet the demand for the Vision Pro. However, there is still room for improvement in the headset's production efficiency. Apple may need to address these production challenges to ensure a smoother delivery process and meet the high demand for their latest innovation.

    Overall, the Apple Vision Pro has seen a successful pre-order phase, with strong sales and high interest from consumers. While delivery delays may pose a temporary setback, Apple's dedicated user base and the niche appeal of the mixed-reality headset suggest that it will continue to be a sought-after product in the tech market.

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  • ANC & Spatial Audio equipped Sony Inzone Buds gaming TWS now available at discounted price in India.

    ANC & Spatial Audio equipped Sony Inzone Buds gaming TWS now available at discounted price in India.

    Sony Launches Inzone Buds: Truly Wireless Gaming Earbuds

    Sony has expanded its lineup of gaming audio products with the launch of the new Inzone Buds truly wireless gaming earbuds in India. These earbuds were unveiled earlier this month and are now available for purchase starting today, January 22, 2024. Let's take a closer look at the pricing and specifications of the Sony Inzone Buds.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Sony Inzone Buds are priced at 17,990 INR, which is approximately 216 US Dollars. This makes them slightly more expensive than the Inzone H5 gaming headset, which is priced at 15,990 INR. The Inzone Buds are available in two color options: White and Black. Interested buyers can purchase them from various e-commerce platforms, including ShotatSC, Amazon, Flipkart, and official Sony Retail Stores.

    Specifications

    The Inzone Buds are part of Sony's Inzone series, which is specifically designed for gamers. These earbuds come with a USB Type-C dongle that enables a 2.4GHz wireless connection for low latency gaming. They are lightweight and feature a comfortable design. The earbuds are equipped with 8.4mm audio drivers and support Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless connectivity.

    One of the standout features of the Sony Inzone Buds is the support for Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and 360 Spatial Sound. These technologies enhance the gaming experience by providing immersive audio and blocking out unwanted background noise.

    In terms of battery life, each earbud weighs just 6.5 grams and offers up to 12 hours of playback time with ANC off, 11 hours with ANC on, and 24 hours when connected via Bluetooth LE Audio. The earbuds also support fast charging, with just 5 minutes of charging providing 1 hour of audio playback.

    Other notable features of the Inzone Buds include IPX4 splash resistance, customizable touch controls, and compatibility with the Inzone Hub PC software.

    With the launch of the Sony Inzone Buds, gamers can now enjoy a truly wireless audio experience with advanced features tailored to their needs. Whether it's immersive sound, low latency gaming, or customizable controls, these earbuds have it all. So, if you're in the market for a new gaming audio solution, the Inzone Buds are definitely worth considering.

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  • Imminent launch expected as Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 smart band receives certification in Malaysia

    Imminent launch expected as Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 smart band receives certification in Malaysia

    Samsung Galaxy Fit 3: A Next Gen Smart Band Model

    Samsung is gearing up to release its next generation smart band model, the Galaxy Fit 3. The device recently made an appearance on Malaysia’s SIRIM certification platform, indicating that its official launch may be just around the corner. With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at what we know so far about the Galaxy Fit 3.

    SIRIM Certification and Model Number

    The Galaxy Fit 3 was spotted on Malaysia’s SIRIM certification platform, where it was listed with the model number SM-R390. While the certification suggests that the launch is imminent, it does not provide any further details about the device. However, based on the name, it is clear that the Galaxy Fit 3 will serve as a fitness tracker.

    Other Certifications and Battery Life

    Aside from the SIRIM certification, the Galaxy Fit 3 has also been spotted on other certification platforms, including TUV Rheinland, BIS, and FCC. This indicates that Samsung is actively working towards the release of this new smart band model.

    A recent report suggests that the Galaxy Fit 3 may offer an impressive battery life of up to 21 days on a single full charge. This is a significant improvement of 7 days compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy Fit 2. With such a long-lasting battery, users can enjoy uninterrupted fitness tracking without the need for frequent charging.

    Leak Reveals Design and Display

    In a separate leak, a poster of the Galaxy Fit 3 was revealed, giving us a glimpse of its design and display. The poster showcased the smart band in various color options and highlighted a larger display compared to its predecessor. This suggests that Samsung has made efforts to enhance the user experience by providing a more visually appealing and immersive display.

    As of now, these are the key details that have emerged about the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3. With its imminent launch on the horizon, fitness enthusiasts and tech enthusiasts alike can look forward to exploring the advanced features and capabilities of this next generation smart band model. Stay tuned for more updates as Samsung unveils its official release date and specifications for the Galaxy Fit 3.

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  • Masimo reveals the Freedom smartwatch featuring blood oxygen monitoring following the Apple Watch prohibition

    Masimo reveals the Freedom smartwatch featuring blood oxygen monitoring following the Apple Watch prohibition

    Masimo, the company that previously sued Apple for proprietary infringement, has recently unveiled its latest smartwatch called the Masimo Freedom. This new smartwatch is a significant step for Masimo as it expands its focus from being solely a medical technology company to now incorporating consumer-friendly gadgets. While Masimo had previously released the Masimo W1 smartwatch in 2023, which was more health-centered, the Freedom smartwatch has the potential to attract a broader customer base.

    The Masimo Freedom prototype was showcased at CES 2024, and it stands out from the Apple Watch with its distinct design. The smartwatch features a round display and a navigation touchbar on the right-hand side, along with a button for selecting objects. Masimo is intentionally creating its own unique identity to avoid any potential patent infringements from Apple. The company aims to emphasize the accuracy of its health monitoring technology through the design of the Freedom smartwatch. According to Masimo, its blood oxygen monitoring is more accurate compared to its competitors. It claims to account for various factors that can affect readings, such as low perfusion, motion, skin pigmentation, or poor blood flow.

    In addition to blood oxygen monitoring, the Masimo Freedom smartwatch offers a range of other health features. These include tracking hydration index, pulse rate variability, pulse rate, respiration rate, and even detecting when a user falls over. Alongside these advanced health monitoring capabilities, the smartwatch also includes standard functionalities like sleep tracking. It continuously monitors vital signs on a per-second basis, making it an excellent choice for the elderly or individuals who require constant health monitoring.

    As for pricing and availability, the Masimo Freedom smartwatch is expected to be released later this year. However, there may be some deviations from the prototype's specifications. The projected cost of the smartwatch is $999, but it is important to note that Masimo is currently awaiting FDA approval for its health features. Interested customers can reserve the Masimo Freedom through the Masimo website by placing a $100 deposit.

    Overall, the Masimo Freedom smartwatch represents a significant expansion for the company into the consumer-friendly gadget market. With its focus on accurate health monitoring and a range of advanced features, it has the potential to appeal to a wide range of users. As Masimo continues to innovate and push the boundaries of wearable technology, it will be interesting to see how the Freedom smartwatch performs in the market.

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