Smartwatch sales in India hit new highs with 50% growth rate in 2023: Counterpoint

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Feb 8, 2024

The smartwatch market in India witnessed an impressive 50% year-on-year growth in 2023, according to Counterpoint Research, signaling a significant tech evolution where smartwatches are becoming increasingly popular as both fashionable accessories and health monitoring devices.

Driving Forces Behind India’s Smartwatch Market Boom in 2023

Remarkably, this growth has been driven primarily by local Indian brands such as Fire-Boltt, which holds a 30% market share, Noise with 26%, and boAt with 17%. These brands have successfully captured the market by offering smartwatches at affordable prices, often below the ₹2,000 threshold, a significant increase from 26% in 2022. Their success is attributed to a combination of aggressive marketing, local manufacturing, and catering to a cost-conscious consumer base, thus making smartwatches more accessible to a broader audience.

Despite the overall market growth, international premium brands like Samsung saw a 3% year-on-year decline, although they did experience a 17% growth in the fourth quarter, with the Galaxy Watch 4 emerging as their most popular model due to promotional pricing. It also became the top-selling WearOS smartwatch in India. Conversely, Apple witnessed a substantial 57% decline in shipments, primarily due to its products’ longer replacement cycles, higher price points, and compatibility exclusively with iPhones. However, Apple still managed to maintain its dominance in the high-end market segment, priced above ₹20,000 and anticipates a gradual increase in Apple Watch shipments in 2024 following a rise in iPhone sales in India during 2023.

The surge in smartwatch popularity isn’t solely about affordability. An increasing emphasis on health consciousness, wellness, and the appeal of tech as a fashion statement are significant factors driving this trend. Consumers are keen on gadgets that enable them to monitor their health metrics, stay physically active, and express their personal style, and smartwatches fulfill these needs.

India’s rapid adoption of smartphones and its young, tech-enthusiastic demographic make it an ideal landscape for the expansion of wearable technology. Unlike the saturated market in China, where Indian brands have been cautious to enter, India presents a promising opportunity for growth and innovation in the wearable tech space.

Looking ahead, market analysts anticipate further consolidation, with the top five brands already commanding 81% of total shipments. The future is likely to bring a wider range of feature-rich, yet affordable smartwatches that cater to various consumer needs, from fitness tracking to fashion. Additionally, the emphasis on local manufacturing is expected to stimulate job creation and support the development of a self-reliant technology ecosystem in India.

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Poco X6 Neo, Poco F6 India launch timeline tipped

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 8, 2024

Last month, the Poco X6 series made its debut. The brand released two models, namely Poco X6 and Poco X6 Pro.

As per leaks, there is a third device in the lineup called Poco X6 Neo. This phone’s launch timeline was recently tipped.

Now, yet another source reiterates the same timeline. They also disclose when can we expect the Poco F6.

According to tech influencer Yogesh Brar, the Poco X6 Neo will launch in India by March. This piece of information goes in line with the previous leak.

Additionally, he reveals that the Poco F6 will make its way to the country in July. Unfortunately, he does not have any further info on this handset.

On the other hand, it is already known that the Poco X6 Neo is a rebranded Redmi Note 13R Pro. Hence, we know everything about this product, except for its pricing.

The Poco X6 Neo will be built around a 6.67-inch centered puch-hole FHD+ OLED display. This panel will support up to a 120Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate, and 1920Hz PWM dimming.

The smartphone will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC. The chipset will be paired with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage.

On the rear, there will be a 108MP primary camera paired with a 2MP depth sensor. While the front of the device will be fitted with a 16MP selfie camera.

Other features of the phone will include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, an IR blaster, a 5,000mAh battery, and 33W charging support.

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Apple Launches New TV, Music and Devices Apps for Windows Devices

By

Anubhav

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Feb 8, 2024

After a long, long wait, Apple is changing how Windows users enjoy its services by launching three new apps: Apple TV, Apple Music, and Apple Devices. The company is aiming towards reducing Windows users’ need for iTunes, offering a more direct and streamlined way to access Apple’s entertainment and device management features.

Apple worked closely with Microsoft to ensure the quality of these apps

After a period of testing and feedback, these apps are no longer just a preview. Apple worked closely with Microsoft to ensure these apps were ready for the public – a joint effort to improve the user experience across different platforms.

For those who love watching TV shows and movies or listening to music, the Apple TV and Apple Music apps open up a world of content. Windows users can now easily watch their favorite shows or listen to music from their iTunes library or through Apple’s subscription services. The Apple Devices app makes managing iPhones and iPads from a Windows PC easier, offering options to back up, restore, and sync content.

Alongside these new apps, Apple has updated the iCloud for Windows app, making it work better with Windows systems. This is part of a larger effort to ensure Windows users can enjoy a seamless experience with their services. Microsoft has also embraced this collaboration, integrating iCloud Photos into Windows 11‘s Photos app.

These apps are available for PCs running Windows 10 or Windows 11, but they’re currently not out for ARM64-based devices. However, the release does make it clear that the trillion-dollar tech giant is trying its best to cater to a broader audience, ensuring that even those on Windows can easily access and enjoy Apple’s services without relying on iTunes.

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Tech Giants TikTok and Meta Push Back on EU’s Content Policing Bill

By

Anubhav

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Feb 8, 2024

Tech behemoths Meta and TikTok‘s parent company ByteDance are making headlines by challenging a new financial demand from the European Union. This controversy centers around the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates that major online platforms, including these tech giants, contribute to the costs of their own regulation. According to reports, the EU has tallied these costs at a hefty €45.2 million ($48.7 million), a sum that Meta and ByteDance are now contesting.

Meta has been handed a bill for $11.9 million, but Amazon and Pinterest are exempt

The crux of their argument? The method the EU has used to calculate how much each company should pay. As it stands, the fee depends on the size of a platform’s user base, with those having 45 million users or more being asked to pay up. However, not all companies are treated equally under this system. For instance, businesses like Amazon and Pinterest, which reported minimal profits, have been exempted from payment. In contrast, Meta has been handed a bill for €11 million ($11.9 million). ByteDance’s exact dues remain undisclosed, but they’re standing with Meta in questioning the fairness of this approach.

Meta has voiced concerns that the current system unfairly burdens certain companies, particularly highlighting that firms recording losses are exempt regardless of their user numbers or regulatory demands. This discrepancy, they argue, could leave a disproportionate financial load on the shoulders of profitable companies.

The stakes are high, with non-compliance risking fines up to six percent of a company’s global revenue. Beyond the fees, the DSA imposes obligations for clearer advertising, content moderation, data sharing with the EU Commission, and participation in annual audits. With the DSA now in effect, all eyes are on how this battle over the balance of financial responsibility for online safety and transparency will unfold.

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Google Officially Rebrands Bard to Gemini, a Unified AI Platform

By

Anubhav

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Feb 8, 2024

Google has taken the next big step in revamping its AI strategy by officially introducing Gemini, a unified AI platform that consolidates its previous efforts like the Bard chatbot and Duet AI. By rebranding and enhancing these services under the Gemini name, Google is making its intent clear – they are throwing it down in the AI sector, directly challenging the popularity of OpenAI‘s ChatGPT.

The Gemini AI has a whole new set of advanced features for users

The transformation into Gemini brings with it a suite of advanced features, extending Google’s AI capabilities to text, voice, and image interactions. With a dedicated app for Android users and integration into the Google app for Apple users, Gemini is set to become more accessible and user-friendly.

At the heart of Gemini’s new offerings is Gemini Ultra, available through Google One‘s AI Premium tier. For a monthly fee of $20, users gain access to advanced AI features, alongside the usual perks of Google One like additional cloud storage. This positions Gemini as a strong competitor to ChatGPT Plus, offering a richer package for the same price.

Google aims to make Gemini stand out by infusing it with a distinct personality. The goal is to move beyond the neutral tone typical of AI interactions, offering users a more engaging and dynamic experience. By understanding user intent and reacting with personality, Gemini hopes to carve out a unique space in the AI chatbot landscape.

Despite the upgrades, there’s a level of skepticism around the ability to distinguish large language models like Gemini from others, such as ChatGPT. The real challenge for Google lies in demonstrating clear advancements and convincing users of Gemini’s unique value proposition.

As Google rolls out Gemini, starting in the US and later expanding to the Asia Pacific region, the AI community and users worldwide are keen to see how this new contender fares against established players like ChatGPT. Google’s commitment to innovation in AI through Gemini marks an exciting chapter in the evolving story of artificial intelligence.

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Genshin Impact devs sue cheat creators for copyright infringement and damages

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 8, 2024

Genshin Impact, the popular open-world action RPG, has been plagued by cheaters who use unauthorized tools to gain an unfair advantage. Developer HoYoverse is taking a stand against these practices by suing cheat creators Joaquin Soarin and others in a Canadian court.

Legal Battle Begins: HoYoverse Takes Cheat Creators to Court

The lawsuit alleges that Soarin and his associates infringed HoYoverse’s copyright by creating and distributing cheating tools like Akebi GC, Acrepi, and Genshin XYZ. These tools offered various advantages, such as rapid in-game progress and bypassing purchase prompts, giving their users an edge over legitimate players.

HoYoverse claims that these cheats not only harm the game’s balance and competitive integrity but also damage their reputation and finances. The company invests heavily in detecting and banning cheaters, as well as developing patches to counter their exploits. This lawsuit seeks to recover over $50,000 in damages from Soarin and the other defendants.

This isn’t the first time HoYoverse has taken action against cheaters. In the past, they’ve implemented stricter anti-cheat measures and issued waves of bans. However, this lawsuit signifies a more aggressive approach, targeting the creators of these tools directly.

The case raises important questions about intellectual property rights in the gaming industry. While players generally accept certain limitations on modding and customization, creating and distributing tools that grant unfair advantages through copyright infringement is a different matter.

This lawsuit could have broader implications for the online gaming landscape. If HoYoverse prevails, it could set a precedent for other developers to pursue similar legal action against cheat creators. This could deter future attempts to develop and distribute unauthorized cheating tools, promoting a fairer and more enjoyable gaming experience for everyone.

It’s worth noting that legal outcomes can be unpredictable, and this case is still ongoing. However, the message from HoYoverse is clear: they will not tolerate cheaters and are willing to take legal action to protect their intellectual property and the integrity of their game.

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Energizer P28K with 28000mAh battery to launch at MWC 2024

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 8, 2024

Energizer is one of the world’s largest battery manufacturers. Like several popular companies, it also licenses its brand name to other organizations for different products.

Therefore, we have Energizer-branded smartphones on the market. These devices are developed by Avenir Telecom.

Ahead of MWC 2024, Avenir has revealed that it will announce a new Energizer smartphone with a high-capacity battery.

Energizer P28K is the name of the upcoming smartphone. The company has confirmed that this phone will house a humongous 28,000mAh battery. The P28K in the name stands for the battery capacity.

Further, the firm has also disclosed that the device will be a rugged smartphone. It will be built around a 6.78-inch FHD display.

The handset will sport a 60MP primary camera on the rear. This main sensor will be accompanied by two 20MP sensors. On the front, it will feature a 16MP selfie camera.

Last but not least, as mentioned in the beginning, the product will be unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. The conference will kickstart on February 26.

Since neither Energizer nor Avenir is a big name in the smartphone industry, we don’t expect to learn more about this phone before its official announcement at the end of this month.

Like other handsets from the brand, the Energizer P28K will likely see limited availability. Also, it won’t be recommendable to most people as a niche product.

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iPhone 16 series to feature increased battery sizes, ditch the L-shaped design: leak suggests

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 8, 2024

More iPhone 16 details continue to emerge. According to recent leaks, the series is expected to maintain its four-model structure but will introduce significant changes in battery design and capacity across its variants.

iPhone 16 Series to Introduce New Battery Designs and Capacities

According to the leaks, the iPhone 16 series might ditch the L-shaped battery design introduced in the iPhone 13 series for some models. While the specific reason for this shift remains unclear, it could point towards internal layout changes or perhaps pave the way for new features requiring more space.

But fear not, power users! Leaks suggest significant boosts in battery capacities across the board. The standard iPhone 16 is rumored to jump to a 3,561mAh battery, while the iPhone 16 Plus might sport a hefty 4,006mAh cell. The flagship model, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, could see a monster 4,676mAh battery, potentially offering multi-day usage for moderate users. Details on the iPhone 16 Pro, expected to be the most sought-after model, have yet to surface.

iPhone 15 vs iPhone 16 battery comparison leak

These reported numbers represent a welcome improvement over the current generation. The base iPhone 15 currently features a 3,279mAh battery, while the Pro Max tops out at 4,352mAh. If accurate, the increases could translate to noticeable gains in screen-on time and overall user experience.

iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone 16 Pro Max battery comparison leak

However, it’s important to remember that these are still leaks, and things can change before the official launch. Apple could decide to stick with the L-shaped design, tweak the reported capacities, or surprise us entirely with other battery-related innovations.

As per previous leaks, the iPhone 16 series is expected to undergo a major redesign, ending the design trend that started with the iPhone 11 Pro. This redesign will feature significant changes including a shift from diagonal to vertical camera lenses for the rear camera layout.

The Pro Max variant is not expected to significantly increase in size. The new models will return to a camera layout reminiscent of the iPhone X and iPhone 11, with additional updates including a new button layout that may incorporate capacitive touch buttons. There is also speculation about the inclusion of a periscope camera in the iPhone 16 Pro, although details are sparse.

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Samsung Galaxy A55 5G Surfaces On TENAA With Live Images

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 8, 2024

Earlier today, the Samsung Galaxy A35 surfaced in a leaked live image. Now, another upcoming A-series phone has been spotted on the TENAA certification platform. Unsurprisingly, it is the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G which has leaked plenty of times in the past. The device has been picking up various certifications hinting at its imminent launch. Rumor has it that the A55 5G may debut between April to June period.

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G appears in live image on TENAA

The Samsung Galaxy 55 5G has been spotted on the TENAA certification with model number SM-A5560. The live images posted on the platform reveal the device with a boxy form factor and Key Island that was introduced on the A15 and A25. The latter is simply a protrusion on the right frame housing power and volume rocker buttons. The smartphone has three vertically stacked cameras on the back panel.

The TENAA listing does not reveal any additional information of the Galaxy A55 5G. The live images are in line with the leaked CAD-based renders from nearly two months ago. As per FCC, 3C, and TUV Rheinland databases, the smartphone will support 25W fast charging.

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G has already appeared on the Geekbench benchmarking platform. As per the database, it will be powered by an Exynos 1480 SoC and may or may not feature AMD graphics. The device is expected to pack 8GB RAM and is tipped to be backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit.

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Chinese chip maker SMIC faces revenue decline and profit drop in 2023

By

Joane

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Feb 8, 2024

SMIC, one of China’s leading semiconductor manufacturers, faces a mixed bag in its financial performance for the year 2023 and the beginning of 2024. Despite challenges, including weak global demand and intense competition, the company remains a key player in the semiconductor industry.

In 2023, SMIC experienced a decline in revenue, dropping from $7.27 billion in 2022 to $6.32 billion, marking a significant decrease. Net income followed suit, plummeting by 50.4% to $902.5 million compared to the previous year. Factors contributing to this slump include weak global market demand, high industry inventory levels, and fierce competition within the semiconductor sector.

However, there were glimmers of hope in the fourth quarter of 2023. SMIC witnessed a 3.5% increase in revenue year-on-year, reaching $1.68 billion. This uptick was attributed to strong demand for Huawei Technologies’ Mate 60 series 5G smartphones, which utilized processors manufactured by SMIC. Despite this positive development, SMIC’s quarterly net profit declined by 55% compared to the previous quarter, falling to $174.68 million.

Looking ahead to 2024, SMIC’s outlook remains cautious. The company expects its revenue growth to align with the industry average, with no significant rebound anticipated. Factors influencing this outlook include the gradual improvement in client inventory levels and the rising demand for smartphones and internet services. However, SMIC remains wary of potential challenges, including uncertainties in the global economic landscape.

Regionally, China continues to dominate SMIC’s revenue distribution, accounting for 80.8% of total revenue in the fourth quarter of 2023. Despite this, there was a slight decrease from the previous quarter, with revenue from the US increasing to 15.7% of the total.

Revenue breakdown by applications reveals that smartphones, computers, and tablets remain the largest revenue sources for SMIC, comprising 60.8% of total revenue in the fourth quarter. However, the consumer electronics segment experienced a slight decline in revenue, reflecting slow demand in this sector.

Despite challenges, SMIC’s involvement with Huawei in developing advanced chips for the Mate 60 series highlights the company’s technological prowess and its ability to secure significant partnerships in the industry. However, SMIC’s cautious approach to recovery reflects the ongoing uncertainties in the semiconductor market.

SMIC’s financial performance in 2023 reflects both challenges and opportunities in the semiconductor industry. While the company faces headwinds such as weak global demand and intense competition, it remains resilient and poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the market.

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Huawei Mate 60 series gets AR measurement tool, beauty filters for portraits, and more via system update

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 8, 2024

Huawei surprised everyone by unveiling the Mate 60 series with support for 5G connectivity in the second half of 2023. The company’s latest flagship smartphones helped it to regain some of its lost market share from Apple and other players.

The firm has been continuously improving the user experience of these phones through software updates. Right now, it is rolling out a new firmware update which brings further improvements and a few useful tools.

HUAWEI-MATE-60-PRO02 — Huawei Mate 60 Pro

The Huawei Mate 60 and the Huawei Mate 60 Pro are receiving an OTA system update. The latest software build for the handsets bumps up the firmware version to HarmonyOS 4.0.0.158.

According to the official changelog, the update adds an AR measurement tool. Users can use this app to measure height, length, volume, and other parameters.

Further, the update adds ‘AI Cloud Enhancement’ for portrait photos. In other words, users can now apply beauty filters to pictures shot in portrait mode.

Also, the update brings improvements to the camera app. It comes with optimizations that improve the overall user experience of using various features of the camera application.

Lastly, the new firmware also arrives with optimizations for the authentication system. Both face unlock and fingerprint unlock receive improvements.

The OTA software update weighs 881MB. It is being rolled out in batches, and therefore, some units may get it earlier than others. Anyways, every user should get access to this update in the coming days.

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Tecno Spark Go 2024 Launched In A New Variant In India

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 8, 2024

Tecno launched the Spark Go 2024 in December last year. At that time, the brand had only announced the price of the base 3GB + 64GB and 4GB + 64GB RAM and storage configurations. Now, Tecno has launched a new variant of the Spark Go 2024 in the country. It doubles the base storage capacity.

Tecno Spark Go 2024 gets a new variant

The Tecno Spark Go 2024 now comes in 4GB RAM and 128GB internal storage. The former is the same as one of the previous variants. There is also 4GB virtual RAM technology. However, the storage capacity is now doubled. The new option carries a special launch price tag of Rs 6,799 which is the same as the base model.

The Tecno Spark Go 2024 can be purchased from Amazon starting February 9. It is offered in Mystic White and Gravity Black colors.

Apart from the increased storage, the rest of the core specifications of the Tecno Spark Go 2024 remain the same. It has a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout display that can show notifications. The screen size is 6.56-inch bearing an HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. The smartphone has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button.

The Tecno Spark Go 2024 features a squarish camera module housing a 13MP primary camera paired with an AI lens. There is an 8MP front-facing selfie snapper. Internally, the Tecno Spark Go 2024 is powered by a Unisoc T606 SoC. It is backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit with 10W charging. The device runs on Android 13 OS out of the box.

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Xbox Game Pass lineup for February: Resident Evil 3 & Madden NFL 24 coming this month

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 8, 2024

The Xbox Game Pass library is set to receive a series of new games across various genres, catering to the diverse tastes of its subscribers. The lineup includes titles ranging from mythical adventures to intense survival horror and strategic simulations.

Effective immediately, subscribers can access “Anuchard,” where players are tasked with reviving a fallen kingdom using the magical Audros Bell, engaging in battles, and solving puzzles to reclaim its skyward glory.

On February 7, “Train Sim World 4” becomes available, offering a realistic train simulation experience with extensive customization options and detailed routes across the UK, Austria, and the USA. Following closely, “Madden NFL 24” launches on February 8, providing EA Play members early access and exclusive content for football simulation enthusiasts.

“Resident Evil 3,” scheduled for February 13, immerses players in the survival horror experience of Jill Valentine’s escape from Raccoon City and the terrifying Nemesis. “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night,” rejoining the Game Pass on February 14, delivers a Metroidvania-style action RPG adventure.

For puzzle game fans, “A Little To The Left” arrives on February 15, turning daily messes into engaging puzzles, while “PlateUp!” combines cooking action with roguelite progression for an innovative culinary challenge. “Return to Grace,” launching on February 20, offers a first-person narrative adventure set in a visually striking ’60s retro sci-fi world.

Additionally, “MLB The Show 24” is announced to join the Game Pass on its release day, featuring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on the Standard Edition cover and celebrating the Negro Leagues in the Deluxe Editions.

The update also includes new DLC and game updates such as “Sea of Thieves: Season 11,” along with Ultimate Perks for “Mighty Doom,” “F1 23,” “The Sims 4,” and “Smite.”

However, subscribers should note that “Galactic Civilizations III” and “Opus: Echo of Starsong” will be leaving the Game Pass on February 15, providing a final opportunity to play these titles.

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ASUS launches ROG Carnyx professional-grade condenser gaming microphone for $179.99

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 8, 2024

ASUS has recently launched the ROG Carnyx, a condenser gaming microphone that promises professional-grade audio quality for content creators, gamers, and streamers.

ASUS ROG Carnyx Microphone Specifications:

Designed to deliver high-fidelity sound with minimal setup, the ROG Carnyx features a 25 mm condenser capsule and supports a high-resolution 192 kHz / 24-bit sampling rate. This ensures that every nuance of the user’s voice is captured clearly and precisely, making it ideal for both gaming sessions and streaming.

The microphone has been engineered to enhance vocal clarity through a high-pass filter and includes a built-in pop filter to minimize vocal plosives. It boasts a sensitivity of -37dB±3dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 100dB, with a frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz.

Additionally, it incorporates a premium metal shock mount with an elastic cord to reduce external vibrations, contributing to its ability to produce crystal-clear audio recordings.

The microphone also focuses on ease of use, connecting to computers with a single USB cable and featuring compatibility with standard 3/8-inch threaded boom arms for flexible positioning. It includes a multifunctional control knob for volume adjustment and a one-touch mute button for quick muting, simplifying operation for users.

Aesthetically, the ROG Carnyx stands out with its RGB lighting, compatible with ASUS Aura Sync, enabling users to synchronize its glow with other gaming setup components. The lighting offers various effects like Rainbow, Color Cycle, Breathing, Static, Strobe, and Music. Its design features triangular elements, adding to its bold, gaming-focused appearance.

The microphone supports Windows 10 and 11, as well as MAC OS 10.12/10.13 platforms. The package includes the ROG Carnyx microphone, a 3-meter USB-A to USB-C cable, a warranty card, and a quick start guide.

The ROG Carnyx comes in black and white color options, priced at $179.99 in the US. Earlier today, Asus also launched the ROG Falchion RX 65% keyboard globally with pre-lubed RX Red and Blue switches.

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Garmin Forerunner 165 leak hints at AMOLED display, elevate V4 Sensor

By

Rajesh

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Feb 8, 2024

It’s been almost 3 years since Garmin‘s Forerunner 55 hit the market, and it seems like an upgrade is finally on the horizon. Folks at Fitness Tracker Test have unearthed details about its successor, dubbed the Forerunner 165, on the official Garmin website.

Garmin Forerunner 45 — Garmin Forerunner 55.

While we don’t have any pictures yet, the leaks reveal almost everything about the upcoming watch. Let’s dive in!

Garmin Forerunner 165 Specs (Rumored)

Reportedly, the Forerunner 165 will feature a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with 390 x 390 pixels. While it’s a notable upgrade from the 1.04-inch LCD screen on its predecessor (the Forerunner 55), looks like it will have an impact on its battery.

While the Forerunner 55 can run for two weeks, the report suggests that 165 will only last for 11 days in smartwatch mode.

When GPS is activated, this drops to 19 hours, and with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) enabled, it decreases further to 17 hours. Music playback alongside GNSS will further reduce the runtime to just 6.5 hours.

Additionally, the leak suggests that the Forerunner 165 might come in two models — the standard Forerunner 165 and the Forerunner 165 Music.

The latter includes built-in storage for music playback through Bluetooth headphones but will have a limited storage of 4GB. Moreover, only the Music model is said to support Wi-Fi connectivity.

As for health and wellness features, the watch reportedly includes the Elevate V4 PPG sensor for tracking heart rate variability and a barometric altimeter for measuring altitude. It can even track the number of floors you’ve climbed.

The smartwatch will offer other expected health features, such as an internal compass, sleep tracking with Nap Detection, and SpO2 monitoring.

Price

We’ve yet to get any details on the official price or release date of the Garmin Forerunner 165 smartwatch. But the leak suggests that the standard model could start at €280 (around $225) and the Music variant will be priced at €330 (around $355).

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Huawei Band 9 spotted on Malaysia’s SIRIM certification

By

Rajesh

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Feb 8, 2024

Huawei has a lot in the pipeline, with new devices popping up left and right. We’ve been hearing rumors about new additions to the P-series and Mate series, along with whispers about new foldables. Looks like the company is just not stopping there.

A new Huawei fitness tracker called the Band 9, has recently popped up on Malaysia’s SIRIM certification database, suggesting that the device is gearing up for a global launch soon.

SIRIM, which oversees product standards and quality in Malaysia, gave the green light to Band 9 under the model number KIM-B19 on February 6th, 2024.

While the certification doesn’t spill the beans on specs or features, the Band 9 will succeed the Band 8, which hit the shelves last year.

For a quick recap, the Band 8 boasts a big enough 1.47-inch AMOLED display for a budget tracker. It also features Huawei’s TruSleep 3.0 sleep monitoring technology for improved accuracy and personalized sleep advice.

Additionally, the band has TruSeen 5.0 heart rate monitoring technology that offers a 7-day resting heart rate graph for better insights.

Beyond sleep and heart health, the Band 8 packs over 100 sports modes, blood oxygen detection, women’s health tracking, and all-day stress monitoring. It also has an impressive 14-day battery life, paired with fast charging that refuels it from 0 to 100% in just 45 minutes.

With its appearance on certification databases, it’s clear that the Huawei Band 9’s launch is just around the corner. While we’re still in the dark about specific details, it’s only a matter of time before more information surfaces in the coming days.

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ASUS ROG Falchion RX 65% keyboard with pre-lubed RX Red and Blue switches unveiled globally

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 8, 2024

After launching the ROG Falchion RX keyboard in China last month, ASUS has brought the keyboard to global markets as well. This wireless gaming keyboard features a 65% compact design and is equipped with ROG RX low-profile optical switches.

It supports a tri-mode connection that includes ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, Bluetooth, and wired USB connectivity. The keyboard also comes with a protective cover, integrated silicone dampening foam for quieter typing, an interactive touch panel for added functionality, and is compatible with MacOS.

The ROG Falchion RX Low Profile features a sleek, slim design, incorporating arrow and navigation keys within a compact frame. The keyboard utilizes pre-lubed RX Red and Blue switches with centralized lighting, aimed at providing consistent, wobble, and rattle-free keystrokes with minimal delay.

The keyboard features an interactive touch panel that allows for easy adjustment of media playback, volume, and lighting settings. The addition of two-layer integrated silicone foam aims to reduce typing noise and eliminate echo.

Connectivity is a standout feature of the ROG Falchion RX Low Profile, offering users the ability to connect via Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless through the ROG SpeedNova technology, or a wired USB connection. The Omni Receiver facilitates the connection of compatible keyboards and mice, enhancing the overall setup experience.

Pricing & availability

Pricing & availability details for the global market are still under wraps, however, we expect these details to be revealed soon. In China, the keyboard costs 1299 yuan ($182) for the red switch model and the blue switch model costs 1399 yuan ($196).

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AI Chip Boom will soon push NVIDIA past Amazon in market value

By

Joane

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Feb 8, 2024

Nvidia is on the verge of surpassing e-commerce giant Amazon in market value, marking a significant milestone after two decades. With its market value soaring to a staggering $1.73 trillion, a mere 3% shy of Amazon’s $1.77 trillion, Nvidia’s ascent underscores the remarkable surge of AI-driven technologies in today’s digital landscape.

The company’s stock performance has been nothing short of spectacular, surging by an impressive 40% in the year 2024 alone. Currently trading at $694.48, Nvidia’s shares witnessed a further uptick of 1.8% following an optimistic report from financial heavyweight Morgan Stanley. The renowned analyst firm raised Nvidia’s price target to $750, reflecting the sustained optimism surrounding the company’s trajectory.

Fueling this remarkable growth is the insatiable demand for AI applications, pushing Nvidia to the forefront of innovation in the tech sector. As AI permeates various industries, from autonomous vehicles to healthcare diagnostics, Nvidia’s cutting-edge processors have become indispensable tools for developers worldwide. However, this surge in demand has led to significant wait times for AI developers seeking access to Nvidia’s processors through cloud-computing providers, although recent trends suggest a gradual improvement in availability.

Reflecting on Nvidia’s historical trajectory, the company’s current valuation marks a stark departure from its humble beginnings. In 2002, Nvidia’s market value was under $6 billion, a fraction of today’s astronomical figures. The remarkable journey from relative obscurity to becoming the fifth most valuable company in the US stock market underscores the transformative impact of technological innovation.

Amidst Nvidia’s ascent, the landscape of corporate titans is undergoing a seismic shift. Microsoft’s recent ascent to become the world’s most valuable company, surpassing erstwhile leader Apple, exemplifies the dynamic nature of the market. Furthermore, Saudi Aramco’s formidable presence as the third most valuable publicly listed company globally, with a market capitalization of $2 trillion, underscores the diverse array of players vying for dominance on the global stage.

Looking ahead, Nvidia’s upcoming quarterly results, scheduled for release on February 21, are eagerly anticipated by investors and industry observers alike. Analysts, remain bullish on Nvidia’s prospects, citing the relentless surge in AI demand as a key driver of future growth.

Nvidia’s imminent challenge to Amazon’s market supremacy symbolizes a pivotal moment in corporate history. With its pursuit of innovation, Nvidia will be a key player in reshaping the technological landscape for years to come.

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Vivo V30 Pro launch may be near, visits Bluetooth SIG

By

Sean

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Feb 8, 2024

Vivo is gearing up to unveil the higher `end Pro version of the V30 soon. The company recently released the Vivo V30 in its home market of China, and now, it appears that the Vivo V30 Pro is nearing its official announcement as well. This model was just spotted on a major certification platform, so here are all the details.

Vivo V30 Pro surfaces on Bluetooth SIG

The Chinese tech giant’s V30 Pro model was spotted on Bluetooth SIG carrying the model number V2319. This online listing does not reveal any finer details regarding this device like its specs or features. However, it does confirm support for the Bluetooth 5.3 standard. Just recently, the smartphone had visited the SDPPI certification as well.

For those unaware, The Vivo V29 Pro was a rebranded version of the Vivo S17 Pro, so we can expect the Vivo V30 Pro to also be a slightly tweaked version of the Vivo S18 Pro. This means that it could sport a tell 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution. Under the hood, it may offer a MediaTek Dimensity 9200 SoC that is paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

The rear will likely feature a 50-megapixel primary camera with OIS support (Optical Image Stabilization) along with a 50-megapixel ultra wide angle lens, and a 12-megapixel telephoto shooter. A large 5,000mAh battery is expected to power this device, which may support 80W wired fast charging. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stay tuned for more updates.

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Videotex launches new TVs in India with LG’s webOS Hub 2.0S

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 8, 2024

Videotex, India’s first licensed manufacturer of TVs powered by LG’s webOS, has recently unveiled its latest line of smart TVs, introducing the HD 32-inch and FHD 43-inch models powered by webOS Hub 2.0S.

The new models from Videotex boast a modern, sleek metal design with borderless screens, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any living space. They are equipped with Quantum Luminit+ Display technology and a Realtek Chipset, promising superior picture quality and vibrant, accurate colors thanks to HDR10 and HLG support. For gaming, there is an Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and MEMC technology, which ensure a smoother, more responsive gaming experience.

These smart TVs are designed for smooth operation, featuring 1.5GB of RAM and 8GB of ROM, and support for webcam-enabled remote meeting applications, making them suitable for both entertainment and work-from-home setups. The TVs operate on LG’s webOS Hub 2.0S which has support for LG’s ThinQ app. This app essentially lets users control their TVs from their smartphones, giving them the ability to turn the TVs on/off, adjust settings, Remotely monitor their status, and more. They also come with family-friendly settings, an Eye Care Mode to minimize eye strain, and seamless integration with iOS devices through Apple AirPlay.

Key specifications include a variety of features like Dolby Audio, dual-band WiFi, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

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