Category: Wearables

  • Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch with Zepp Coach AI Workout Assistant Launching Soon in India

    Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch with Zepp Coach AI Workout Assistant Launching Soon in India

    After its global debut back in October 2023, the Amazfit Active Edge smartwatch is now about to launch in India. It features a rugged design and an AI workout assistant. Earlier this month, the brand debuted the Amazfit Active smartwatch in India as well.

    Amazfit Active Edge specs & features

    The smartwatch features a rugged design that comes with 10 ATM water resistance, meaning that you don’t need to take it off while swimming or diving up to 100 meters. It has a 1.32″ (360 x 360 pixels) LCD display, offering 100+ watch faces. It will be available in three color options: Lava Black, Midnight Pulse, and Mint Green.

    The smartwatch comes with built-in navigation solutions with 5 satellite positioning systems and route navigations. It operates on Zepp OS 2.1 offering Zepp Coact AI workout assistant. 130+ sports modes are included on the watch with auto-detection for 7 sports modes – Outdoor running, treadmill, walking, indoor walking, outdoor cycling, running machine, and elliptical. The watch also has auto-detection for 25-strength exercises.

    Battery Life and Health Features

    The watch promises up to 16 days of battery life with typical use. Health features include heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring as well as stress detection.

    Pricing & availability

    While the pricing of the smartwatch has not been revealed yet, it is confirmed to be available on Amazon India. The Active Edge smartwatch is expected to be slightly cheaper than the Amazfit Active smartwatch which launched for Rs 12,999 earlier this month.

    Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch with Zepp Coach AI Workout Assistant Launching Soon in India

  • Samsung Commemorates Twin Panda Cubs with Exclusive Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Edition

    Samsung Commemorates Twin Panda Cubs with Exclusive Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Edition

    Samsung has recently introduced a special edition of its Galaxy Buds 2 Pro in South Korea, known as the “Twin Bao” edition. This unique release is inspired by the birth of twin panda cubs, Hui Bao and Rui Bao, at Samsung’s Everland theme park.

    The limited-edition package includes the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro along with charming Twin Bao cases. Consumers also have the option to purchase the cases separately if they desire.

    Unique Pairings

    Samsung has thoughtfully paired the two color variants of the buds with distinct cases. The graphite Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is coupled with the Rui Bao case, while the white version comes with the Hui Bao case.

    Born on July 7th, 2023, the names of the cubs, Hui Bao which means “shining treasure” and Rui Bao which means “wise treasure,” are reflected in the Twin Bao cases, showcasing intricate details of the pandas’ facial features and markings.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Twin Bao edition is priced at KRW 195,000 ($146) on Samsung.com from February 21st, 2024. The standalone cases are available for KRW 42,900 ($32) and are compatible with Galaxy Buds FE, Live, 2, and Pro models.

    Want to experience them firsthand? The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Twin Bao edition is being showcased at select Samsung retail outlets in South Korea, including Samsung Gangnam, Bucheon Jung-dong, Starfield Hanam, The Hyundai Seoul, and more.

    Impressive Specifications

    In terms of specifications, the Twin Bao edition of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro boasts the same features as the standard model. This includes active Noise Cancellation (ANC) of up to 33dB, transparency mode, and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.

    These earbuds are designed with IPX7 water resistance, making them resistant to water and splashes. Each bud is equipped with 10mm drivers that provide 24-bit Hi-Fi sound and 360-degree audio for an immersive listening experience.

    Moreover, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro includes a Dolby Head Tracking feature and three microphones to ensure clear voice transmission during calls. With ANC turned off, the battery life lasts up to 8 hours on a single charge, and with the charging case, it extends to up to 29 hours.

  • Luxury Airline Beond to Introduce Apple Vision Pro on Flights

    Luxury Airline Beond to Introduce Apple Vision Pro on Flights

    Beond Airlines, a newly established luxury airline, has created a buzz in the aviation industry by being the first airline to introduce Apple Vision Pro headsets for select passengers, elevating the inflight entertainment experience through cutting-edge technology.

    A Luxurious Upgrade

    Tero Taskila, the Chairman and CEO of Beond Airlines, has unveiled this groundbreaking move, emphasizing the airline's dedication to delivering a premium travel experience from beginning to end.

    The Apple Vision Pro, with a starting price of $3499, boasts advanced features such as the M2 chip for computing and the R1 chip for processing data from various lenses, sensors, and microphones. These components work together to offer a seamless and immersive mixed reality content viewing experience.

    Innovative Travel Entertainment

    Tailored by Apple with a travel mode designed specifically for air travel, the Vision Pro allows passengers to indulge in movies on a large virtual screen, enhancing the enjoyment and privacy of long-haul flights. This unique feature has been lauded for its potential to significantly improve passenger comfort and entertainment during flights.

    Beond Airlines intends to leverage the Vision Pro to not only present regular content but also showcase captivating visuals of resort destinations and activities in the Maldives, building anticipation and excitement among passengers before they reach their destination.

    Future Plans

    Scheduled to launch in July 2024, this service coincides with Beond Airlines' plans to expand flight services from key cities worldwide to Malé, Maldives, offering fully flat seating configurations for an unparalleled travel experience.

    However, the specifics of which passengers will be eligible for the Vision Pro experience have not been clarified by Beond, sparking speculation. Additionally, concerns regarding hygiene may arise with shared headsets, particularly in a post-pandemic environment.

    The response to the Apple Vision Pro from users, critics, and the public has been varied. While some individuals are returning their headsets due to comfort issues and skepticism about its everyday utility, complaints have surfaced about discomfort, headaches, motion sickness, and doubts about practicality.

    Despite these challenges, the inclusion of Apple Vision Pro on Beond flights marks a significant milestone in the advancement of inflight entertainment, offering passengers an unparalleled level of immersion and customization in their travel adventures.

  • An Affordable Alternative to the Apple Vision Pro Gains Popularity in China Under $300

    An Affordable Alternative to the Apple Vision Pro Gains Popularity in China Under $300

    Let’s be honest, Apple’s Vision Pro headset is one of the hottest topics in tech right now. While enthusiasts in many parts of the world wait eagerly for the delivery of the headset, another mixed-reality headset is slowly surfacing. A Shenzhen-based company, EmdoorVR, is offering a more wallet-friendly alternative. Named Vision SE, this device draws heavily on the design cues of Apple‘s much-discussed headset but at a fraction of the cost.

    EmdoorVR’s Vision SE: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

    EmdoorVR’s CEO, Shi Qing, sees this as a smart move to catch the wave of interest Apple has created, despite the slight slowdown in the VR and AR sectors. The Vision SE, while resembling Apple’s offering in looks, cuts down significantly in capabilities and price. For around $280, users get to experience VR and AR through a decently specced 5.5-inch display, though without the sophisticated features like eye tracking and hand-gesture controls that the $3,499 Apple Vision Pro boasts.

    Similarities and Distinctions

    Shi acknowledges the similarities between the two devices, which has even earned the Vision SE a playful nickname online, linking it to Shenzhen’s reputation for tech imitations. However, he assures that all legal bases are covered with patents and audits to avoid any issues.

    Challenging Times for the AR and VR Industry

    The backdrop to this launch is a challenging year for the AR and VR industry, with a reported decline in shipments and economic pressures affecting both consumers and businesses. Yet, with giants like Apple and Meta introducing new devices, there’s renewed optimism for growth in the sector.

    EmdoorVR, which began by making VR devices for other companies, sees the Vision SE as its entry into the consumer market. This strategy seems timed to ride on Apple’s launch, with the Vision SE launching just as the tech world is on and on about the Vision Pro.

    Adapting to a Changing Landscape

    Apple’s move into VR and AR is drawing more developers and possibly altering how we interact with digital content. For EmdoorVR, the immediate goal is survival in a competitive atmosphere, and more so, adapting to these changes. Let us wait and see how that turns out for the China-based company.

  • Introducing TikTok’s Apple Vision Pro Native App: A Sleek and Impressive Interface

    Introducing TikTok’s Apple Vision Pro Native App: A Sleek and Impressive Interface

    TikTok has recently launched a new app for Apple’s Vision Pro headset, bringing the popular video platform into the realm of augmented reality. This move allows users to enjoy TikTok in a way that is familiar yet takes full advantage of the capabilities of the Vision Pro.

    The Familiar Layout with Additional Windows

    The app’s layout closely resembles the mobile version, complete with videos playing vertically and buttons for liking, commenting, and sharing. However, TikTok has optimized the layout for the Vision Pro, making it easier to view comments and creator information without obstructing the video.

    Designed for the Vision Pro

    TikTok had previously announced its plans to develop an app specifically for the Vision Pro. The app is designed to allow users to watch videos either with a view of the real world or in a completely virtual space, such as on the moon. Additionally, it is designed to seamlessly integrate with other apps on the headset.

    A Cautionary Approach from Streaming Giants

    While TikTok is diving headfirst into augmented reality, other major streaming platforms are taking a more cautious approach. Disney, for example, fully supports Vision Pro users by offering movies in 3D. Similarly, Amazon Prime Video has also joined the bandwagon. However, Netflix and YouTube have chosen to stick to the basics, suggesting users watch through the browser. Although, YouTube might consider developing an app for the Vision Pro in the future.

  • Experience TCL’s New 120Hz OLED AR Glasses: Exceptional Vision without the Price Tag

    Experience TCL’s New 120Hz OLED AR Glasses: Exceptional Vision without the Price Tag

    Many of us know TCL for its smart TVs, but the company’s reach is expanding. They recently launched the 505 smartphone (featuring a 6.75-inch 90Hz display and Helio G36 SoC). However, their latest product isn’t a TV, phone, or tablet. Responding to the growing AR/VR trend, TCL has introduced their new Vision Pro AR glasses, equipped with 120Hz OLED screens. Here are the details…

    TCL Launches New AR Glasses with 120Hz OLED Display

    Apple’s $3,500 Vision Pro aims to reshape the mixed reality market, but affordable alternatives continue to emerge. One such option is TCL’s new augmented reality glasses. The company, already familiar with this space through its Nxtwear S AR glasses, now introduces the Nxtwear S Plus as its successor.

    Affordable AR Glasses with Impressive Visuals

    This is an affordable product that doesn’t offer the power of an M2 chip. As a result, it’s limited in its standalone capabilities. Instead, connect it to a laptop or phone via USB-C to enjoy its built-in OLED screens, which simulate a 215-inch screen six meters away. The TCL Nxtwear S Plus boasts a 1920 x 1080 resolution for 2D visuals and an impressive 3840 x 1080 resolution for 3D content.

    Bright and Smooth AR Experience

    Recognizing the importance of brightness for a seamless augmented reality experience, TCL has increased the brightness to 600 nits, ensuring a clear blend of the virtual and real worlds. The dual displays also now have a max refresh rate of 120 Hz.

    Affordability vs. Alternatives

    Certainly, price is a major factor when considering electronics. The TCL Nxtwear S Plus costs $399. As a relatively new technology, higher prices are expected. However, for just $100 more, the Meta Quest 3 might be a compelling alternative. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your needs.

  • Discover How the Apple Watch Rescues Lives of UK Senior Citizens Once Again

    Discover How the Apple Watch Rescues Lives of UK Senior Citizens Once Again

    Tony Jauncey, an 82-year-old man from Kidderminster, UK, found a lifesaver in his Christmas gift, an Apple Watch, after being hit by a car on January 19, 2024. The incident, which took place at a painted roundabout intersection, left him with significant injuries, including a broken collarbone and cracked ribs.

    Quick Response from the Apple Watch

    Jauncey was crossing the street to get to his car parked at a local supermarket when a car, not adhering to the roundabout rules, struck him. Despite the common belief that roundabouts are safer, this unfortunate event proves that accidents can still happen.

    The moment he was hit, Jauncey’s Apple Watch kicked into action. It detected his fall and automatically asked if he needed to call emergency services. Unable to move or cancel the alert, the watch called for help on its own. This quick response brought the needed assistance to Jauncey at a critical time.

    Collective Effort for Survival and Recovery

    The driver involved in the accident stopped immediately to help, and, luckily, three off-duty nurses were close by to offer first aid until the emergency services arrived. This collective effort, along with the smartwatch’s timely alert, played a vital role in Jauncey’s survival and recovery. We have seen countless instances of how smartwatches contribute towards alerting services promptly, and hopefully, incidents like these motivate more people to get smartwatches for older members of their family/community.

  • New Arrivals: Boult Z40 Ultra TWS Now Available in India, featuring ANC and Dual Pairing Support

    New Arrivals: Boult Z40 Ultra TWS Now Available in India, featuring ANC and Dual Pairing Support

    Earlier this month, Boult had unveiled the Z40 Ultra truly wireless earbuds in India. Now, the latest hearables from the company have officially gone on sale in the region. So here are all the details regarding its specs, pricing, and launch offers.

    Boult Z40 Ultra Pricing and Availability

    The Boult Z40 Ultra was announced for a price tag of 1,999 INR (roughly 24 US Dollars). But the brand is offering the wireless earphones for a special launch price of just 1,799 INR (roughly 21 US Dollars) from its official Indian website. Although, you can find it listed on Amazon India as well. It is available in multiple color options, namely Black, Beige, and Metallic.

    Boult Z40 Ultra Specs

    It features a design similar to the Apple AirPods Pro with an in-ear style with a stem. The earbuds are housed in a pebble-shaped charging case. Both come with a dual-tone design, with the earbuds supporting touch controls as well. The earbud houses 10mm BoomX drivers as well as a Quad mic setup that enables ENC and ANC (Environmental Noise Cancellation and Active Noise Cancellation). The former helps improve the calling experience, while the latter lowers noise by up to 32 decibels.

    On a single full charge, Boult claims that the Z40 Ultra can offer up to 100 hours of audio playback (without ANC enabled) when paired with the charging case. There is even a dedicated gaming mode that lowers the latency down to 45ms. Other notable features include 3 preset EQ modes (HiFi, Bass, and Rock), IPX5 splash resistance, Bluetooth 5.3, fast pairing, and support for SBC and AAC audio codecs.

  • India witnesses launch of Noise ColorFit Macro smartwatch featuring Bluetooth calling & sleek metallic finish

    India witnesses launch of Noise ColorFit Macro smartwatch featuring Bluetooth calling & sleek metallic finish

    Noise has recently launched its latest smartwatch in India, the ColorFit Macro. This new addition to the ColorFit series boasts a premium body and a tall display, making it an attractive option for tech enthusiasts. Let’s delve into the specifications and pricing of the Noise ColorFit Macro.

    Noise ColorFit Macro Specs

    The Noise ColorFit Macro showcases a sleek metallic finish and a rectangular display with rounded corners. Its standout feature is the tall 2-inch TFT PCD panel, which is complemented by a 2.5D curved glass. With more than 200 watch faces to choose from, users can personalize their smartwatch to match their style and preferences.

    In line with Noise’s recent releases, the ColorFit Macro offers Bluetooth Calling with Noise Tru Sync technology. This enables users to make calls directly from their smartwatch, eliminating the need to rely solely on their smartphones. The built-in microphone and speaker further enhance the calling experience, ensuring clear and convenient communication.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Noise ColorFit Macro is priced at [insert pricing details]. It is currently available for purchase in India through various online and offline retailers. With its impressive specifications and stylish design, the ColorFit Macro is likely to attract tech-savvy individuals who are in search of a feature-packed smartwatch.

  • The Reasons Behind Some Buyers Returning their Apple Vision Pro Headsets

    The Reasons Behind Some Buyers Returning their Apple Vision Pro Headsets

    Just weeks after its launch, the Apple Vision Pro is seeing some buyers change their minds. With a return policy of 14 days, it’s not surprising that a number of users are sending back their $3,500 headsets. The reasons range from comfort issues to doubts about its usefulness in everyday life.

    Comfort Issues and Design Criticisms

    Many have complained that the headset is uncomfortable to wear, causing headaches and even motion sickness for some. The design, which puts most of its weight at the front, has also been called out. These kinds of issues are not exactly new in the world of wearable tech, but they’re especially noticeable given the high price of the Vision Pro.

    Questioning the Usefulness

    But it’s not just about how it feels to wear it. People are also talking about whether the Vision Pro is really useful. Some users have found that it doesn’t help much with work tasks and doesn’t offer enough fun or games to be worth keeping. This has led to a lot of second-guessing, especially when you consider the hefty price tag. It’s definitely far from affordable.

    The Future of Wearable Technology

    These early experiences are a wake-up call about the challenges facing wearable technology. They show that making these devices comfortable and genuinely useful is key. And while the Vision Pro might not have hit the mark for everyone right out of the gate, the feedback from these early adopters could help shape better versions in the future.

    The Vision Pro’s story is just beginning, and it’s clear that there’s a lot to learn about what people really want from their wearable tech. With some adjustments and more attention to user feedback, the next version from Apple could win over those who were hesitant the first time around.