Category: Technology News

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Samsung’s Rugged Galaxy XCover 7: Affordable Durability with Impressive Features

Samsung, known for its top-notch flagship smartphones, is gearing up to unveil three new Galaxy S24 phones. Alongside its flagship line, Samsung has been catering to users in extreme conditions with its ruggedized Galaxy XCover range since 2011. The latest addition to this rugged lineup is the Galaxy XCover 7, and we now have more details, thanks to leaks from a Czech Samsung reseller.

The Galaxy XCover 7 has been in the spotlight since renders surfaced in November, followed by pricing details in late December. Now, a Czech retailer, Setos, has spilled the beans on the phone’s hardware specs and pricing in the Czech Republic.

Let’s dive into the details. The Galaxy XCover 7 is expected to be priced at 9,000 Czech Koruna, roughly $400, making it more affordable than its predecessor, the Galaxy XCover 6 Pro, which debuted at $600 in the US.

In terms of display, the XCover 7 boasts a 6.6-inch FHD+ screen with a resolution of 2408 x 1080. The prominent notch houses a 5MP selfie camera, and it’s likely that Samsung has stuck with an LCD panel, similar to its predecessor. The rear dual-camera setup has been replaced by a single 50MP sensor, as per the retailer’s listing and corresponding images.

Under the hood, Samsung has opted for the MediaTek MT6835V/ZA, also known as Dimensity 6100+, an octa-core SoC with 5G support. The processor includes two Arm Cortex-A76 cores clocked at up to 2.2GHz and six Arm Cortex-A55 cores at 2.0GHz. The XCover 7 features 6GB of RAM and 128GB of onboard storage, expandable via the microSD card slot.

On the software front, the phone is expected to run Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6 overlay. Powering the device is a 4,050 mAh battery, ensuring decent battery life. The XCover 7 is equipped with IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, providing robust protection against the elements.

For charging and data transfer, the phone retains the standard USB-C port. Samsung has also kept the 3.5mm headphone jack, a thoughtful inclusion for users who prefer wired headphones. The XCover 7 continues the tradition of a user-configurable hardware button, known as the XCover key, although the second customizable hardware button, or Top key, present in the XCover 6 Pro, seems to be absent.

January 11, 2024
Ugreen Nexode Pro 160W Charger: Smart Charging Solution

If you need a new wall charger for your laptop or want to charge multiple devices simultaneously, the Ugreen Nexode Pro 160W 4-Port GaN Wall Charger is an excellent choice. Though it’s a bit pricey, its powerful performance makes it a worthwhile investment.

The Nexode Pro 160W is compact, not much larger than the traditional power supply that comes with a MacBook. It’s only 2.5 inches tall, 1.30 inches wide, and 2.75 inches from front to back, making it easy to travel with or integrate into your desk setup.

One potential issue is the charger’s depth, nearly three inches, which might prevent a desk or table from sitting flush against the wall. The USB ports also face outward, potentially causing cable clutter. It would have been helpful if Ugreen had placed the plug on the wider side of the charger to address these concerns.

The Nexode Pro 160W features Ugreen’s typical matte gray casing with black trimming around the USB ports. It includes three USB-C connections and one USB-A port, with foldable prongs for portability.

Ugreen’s GaNInfinity tech, used in the Nexode Pro 160W, makes it 21% smaller than a MacBook charger. GaN engineering is more efficient at dissipating heat, allowing for a more compact design. Additionally, the charger includes Thermal Guard protection, an internal temperature monitor ensuring safe usage.

For charging multiple devices, the Nexode Pro features Ugreen’s SmartCharge, distributing power to devices efficiently. During testing, the charger performed exceptionally well. Charging a MacBook Pro from 56% to full took about one hour and 24 minutes, showcasing its impressive capabilities.

The top USB-C ports offer 100W and 65W individually, suitable for charging iPhones and other devices. Even when using all four ports simultaneously, the Nexode Pro maintained efficient charging, with the top ports delivering 65W each and the bottom ports providing a total of 15W.

January 10, 2024
Google’s Exciting Plans for Android in 2024: New Features and Collaborations

Google has exciting plans for Android in 2024, with new features and collaborations that will enhance user experience. One major development is the introduction of “Quick Share,” a cross-Android solution created in collaboration with Samsung. Quick Share feature is offering a similar experience and functionality. It will start rolling out next month and will be pre-installed on Windows devices.

Later in the year, Google plans to use Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and other wireless technologies on the Pixel Tablet. This innovation will enable users to “Tap to Cast” songs in YouTube Music or Spotify seamlessly. Users with Pixel 6 Pro, 7 Pro, 8 Pro, or Fold devices can bring their phones near a docked Pixel Tablet to transfer the playing content between devices. This bidirectional feature also allows users to move a song from the Pixel Tablet to their Pixel phone.

Google is also enhancing the casting experience by making it easier to share short-form content, starting with TikTok, directly to larger screens. The default behavior includes autoplay, but users will have the option to disable it from their phones.

Fast Pair support, initially announced at CES 2022, is expanding to the Chromecast with Google TV in the next month. This feature allows seamless Bluetooth pairing with an onscreen “Connect now” prompt for headphones. Google plans to bring Fast Pair to more Google TV devices later this year.

In terms of hardware partnerships, the 2024 LG TV series, powered by webOS, will feature Chromecast built-in. Other launches include Google TV-powered 2024 Hisense ULED and ULED X Series, along with the TCL Q Class and TCL QM7 line.

Google is also expanding the capabilities of select Google TV and Android TV OS devices, as well as LG TVs, to serve as Matter hubs for Google Home. Android Auto is receiving deeper integration, particularly for electric vehicles. Now, electric vehicles can share real-time battery information with Google Maps, providing users with essential details about their vehicle’s battery status.

For Android Automotive users, a new feature allows them to send planned trips from their phones to the Google Maps app on their car display. This feature is rolling out starting today.

Additionally, Google is introducing a Chrome app to Android Automotive, accessible when the vehicle is parked. This feature is currently in beta, offering users a convenient and familiar browsing experience in their vehicles.

January 10, 2024
How to Activate Adaptive Connectivity on Your Google Pixel Phone

Google Pixel phones, known for their advanced features, sometimes face battery life challenges due to increased smartphone usage and the introduction of new technologies. However, Google strives to optimize battery performance and introduce unique features to address these issues. One such feature is Adaptive Connectivity, designed to enhance battery life by intelligently managing network usage.

Adaptive Connectivity monitors and learns from your network usage patterns. It automatically switches between 5G and 4G based on your activities. When the extra bandwidth of 5G is unnecessary, it switches to 4G to conserve battery, and when higher speed is needed, it seamlessly shifts back to 5G.

Follow this simple guide to enable Adaptive Connectivity on your Google Pixel 4a or newer models using the Settings app.

How to Enable Adaptive Connectivity in Google Pixel Smartphone

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your smartphone. You can do this by pulling down the Notification Shade twice and tapping on the Gear icon at the bottom-right corner. Alternatively, you can find the Settings app in the App Drawer.

Step 2: In the Settings app, navigate to the “Network & Internet” option.

Step 3: Under “Network & Internet,” select or tap on the “Adaptive Connectivity” option. Toggle the switch to ON to enable the feature.

Following these easy steps, you have successfully activated the Adaptive Connectivity feature on your Google Pixel smartphone. By incorporating Adaptive Connectivity, Google aims to provide users with a seamless experience, optimizing battery usage based on individual needs and ensuring efficient network management. This feature reflects Google’s commitment to enhancing the overall performance and usability of its Pixel series smartphones.

January 9, 2024
Enhancing Security in Windows 11: A Guide to Enabling LSA Protection

Microsoft’s Windows operating system is widely used globally, making it a common target for security threats. To enhance security, Microsoft has incorporated various features into the operating system, and one such feature is the Local Security Authority (LSA). LSA plays a crucial role in verifying a user’s identity during the sign-in process on a local computer, managing password changes, login attempts, and performing other authentication and authorization tasks in Windows.

Securing the Local Security Authority subsystem adds an extra layer of protection to your system and accounts against potential threats. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to enable Local Security Authority Protection (LSA Protection) using the Settings app in a Windows 11-powered computer.

How to Easily Enable LSA Protection in Windows 11

Step 1: Open the Windows Security application on your computer. You can do this by accessing the Start Menu, searching for the application, and clicking on it in the search results.

Step 2: Once the app is open, navigate to the “Device Security” tab.

Step 3: In the “Device Security” tab, locate and click on “Core isolation details” under the Core Isolation section.

Step 4: Turn on the toggle switch for the “Local Security Authority Protection” option.

Following these easy steps on your Windows 11 computer enables Local Security Authority Protection (LSA Protection). Keep in mind that you will need to restart your computer for the system to activate this feature. Securing your system with LSA Protection adds an additional security layer to your Windows 11 operating system, contributing to a safer computing experience.

January 9, 2024
Enhanced Recording Capabilities: Atomos Ninja and Ninja Ultra!

Atomos’ Ninja and Ninja Ultra have received a significant update since their debut in 2010. Back then, having a monitor/recorder capable of capturing ProRes to a removable SSD was considered groundbreaking for feature shooters.

While many cameras can now internally record in 4:2:2 10-bit and higher codecs, external recorders/monitors remain in demand, especially among mirrorless hybrids and budget digital cinema cameras lacking internal RAW recording capabilities.

The new Ninja and Ninja Ultra feature a distinctive ‘camo’ colored polycarbonate body and offer 6K ProRes RAW, ProRes, DNxHD, and H.265 codecs.

Despite having the same screen and body design as their predecessors, the real changes are inside the device. The new Ninja Ultra focuses on camera-to-cloud technology and Atomos Connect to optimize workflows.

The Apple ProRes codec is ready to use immediately. To activate the H.265 and DNx codecs, visit the my.atomos.com site, register your product, and follow the simple online steps. For Apple ProRes RAW, visit the portal and plug in your RAW-compatible camera, a step that needs to be done only once.

The Atomos Ninja 5.2″ 4K HDMI recording monitor supports DCI 4K HDMI and ProRes RAW up to 6K. It is compatible with existing Atomos monitor accessories.

Highlight Features:

– 1920 x 1080 touchscreen display
– 10-bit external viewable monitor
– 4K HDMI 2.0 input/output
– 6K30 ProRes RAW
– AtomOS 11 operating system
– 1000 cd/m² brightness
– Supports different log formats
– ProRes and DNxHR/HD recording
– Record to Master Caddy II/III hard drive
– L-series battery slot, USB-C port

The Ninja Ultra’s HDMI supports up to DCI 4K at 60 fps in various modes, with select cameras handling 3.5K RAW at 60 fps. Over 55 cameras support RAW recording over HDMI with Ninja Ultra, up to 8K at 30 fps.

The Atomos Ninja Ultra 5.2″ 4K HDMI recording monitor maintains its form factor, compatible with most Atomos monitor accessories. It records up to ProRes RAW 4K 60p while simultaneously recording HD 60p to H.265.

January 9, 2024
The Giants of the Sea: From Evergreen Containership to Azzam Yacht

Ships are a common and important mode of transportation for large-scale travel. These vessels come in various sizes and shapes, catering to different capacities and needs. A significant portion, around 90 percent, of global trade happens through ships, making them a familiar sight at sea.

Ships play a crucial role in transporting various goods, including clothing, coal, and oil. There are different types of cargo ships, such as container ships, ro-ro ships, bulb carriers, and oil tankers. The Evergreen Containership holds the title of the world’s largest cargo ship, capable of carrying over 24,000 standard-size containers. To grasp its enormity, picture three to four football fields combined. The ship has a length of 400 meters and a side width of 61.50 meters.

Developed by a Chinese company in 2022, this massive vessel showcases the advancements in shipping technology. Another notable cargo ship is the Hyundai Merchant Marine vessel Algesius, built in September 2019, and the Marine Oslo, constructed in 2020. The Marine Oslo can carry 23,900 standard containers and features a length of about 400 meters and a height of 61 meters. Its bottom can be submerged 13 meters below sea level.

Sailing ships, on the other hand, rely on the air as their medium of movement. The largest sailing yacht globally is the Sailing Yacht A, which can be considered a hybrid of a yacht and sailboat. With three massive masts, this luxury ship can accommodate 60 passengers and boasts a maximum speed of 21 knots. Its price tag reaches around 425 million euros.

The ‘Sea Cloud Two’ is another sailing ship, measuring 17 meters in length and featuring three masts with 23 sails. It can host 95 passengers and reach a maximum speed of 14 knots, with a price tag of 100 million euros. The ‘Wonder of the Sea’ is an astonishingly huge ship with a speed of 22 knots and the capacity to accommodate 60 thousand passengers. It offers luxurious facilities like swimming pools and restaurants.

The Azzam is a motor-powered ocean liner and holds the title of the world’s largest yacht. Valued at over 500 million euros, it can carry 36 guests and 80 crew members, achieving a speed of 32 knots. These ships, with their impressive sizes and capabilities, showcase the remarkable advancements in maritime technology.

January 9, 2024
Honor and Porsche Join Forces: Looking into the Future Smartphone Design

In the fast-paced world of technology and innovation, Honor, a well-known smartphone brand, is teaming up with Porsche to create a new and exciting device. This collaboration brings together the daring spirit of both brands; They are to taking on challenges and leading in innovation.

The upcoming Honor Magic RSR Porsche design aims to set new standards in both technology and design, pushing the limits of what smartphones can look like.

The essence of this collaboration is captured in the tagline, “Pioneer technology empowers pioneer design.” This highlights the shared dedication of Honor and Porsche to combine cutting-edge technology with innovative design, creating a product that stands out in the competitive market.

Recent leaked images of the Honor Magic RSR Porsche design give a glimpse of what could be a visually stunning device. The back of the smartphone features a unique polygonal camera module housing three cameras, showcasing a mix of modernity and sophistication. The backplate proudly displays the Honor Logo alongside the iconic Porsche Design English logo, making a visual statement for brand enthusiasts.

Adding to the charm is the integration of the Porsche 911 fly line design, a subtle reference to the racing heritage shared by both brands. This design not only pays tribute to Porsche’s iconic racing history but also emphasizes the commitment to precision and performance.

In an exciting update, there are hints that Honor is also planning to launch a co-branded Porsche foldable phone. This device may include a camera module with a distinctive beveled sword-shaped design, enhancing its visual appeal. The color palette, described as a combination of velvet black and glossy black, radiates luxury and sophistication, positioning the device as a premium offering in the foldable smartphone market.

While details are still speculative, enthusiasts and tech fans eagerly await the official unveiling, looking forward to the seamless integration of Honor’s technological expertise and Porsche’s timeless design philosophy. The future of smartphone innovation seems promising as these two industry leaders collaborate to redefine possibilities in the mobile device world.

January 9, 2024
Thinking About Buying a PS5? Here’s What You Should Consider

If getting a PS5 is on your mind, it’s important to think it through before making a purchase. Let’s look at a few things you should consider before spending your hard-earned money on Sony’s latest gaming console.

Can You Afford the Total Cost?
Before diving into the PS5 world, think about the overall cost. While the console itself may range from $400 to $450, remember there are additional expenses. New games can cost around $70 each, and if you plan to play online, a PlayStation Plus Essential subscription at $80/year is necessary. Adding just two games and a year of online play could increase your expenses by $220. Also, consider potential accessory costs like an extra controller or charging stand.

Are You Done Playing PS4 Games?
If you already own a PS4, think about whether you’ve explored all the games it has to offer. PS4 games are still enjoyable, and as they age, you can often find them at a discounted price. The good news is, the PS5 is backward-compatible with most PS4 games, so you won’t lose access to your existing game library.

Are You Interested in Available PS5 Games?
Consider the games available on the PS5. Some top titles are also accessible on the PS4 or other platforms. If the games you’re excited about are not exclusive to the PS5, you might want to wait. However, if there’s a must-play title only available on the PS5, it could be the right time to upgrade.

There Are Two Models of PS5 Now
Sony introduced a newer model, known as the PS5 Slim. It comes in two versions: one with a disc drive for $500 and a digital-only edition for $450. The Slim model offers a few improvements, including increased internal storage (1TB compared to the original’s 825GB). If you decide to go for a PS5, the Slim model is a sensible choice for a similar cost.

Waiting May Get You Better Deals
Being a bit patient can pay off. As the PS5 ages, you’re more likely to see bundles that offer better value. Keep an eye out for special deals or bundles that include games at no extra cost. Waiting for the right moment might result in a more satisfying purchase.

January 8, 2024
Mini PC vs. Desktop PC: Simplifying Your 2024 Buying Decision

Deciding between a mini PC and a desktop PC in 2024? Let’s break it down in simple terms. Mini PCs are becoming powerful enough for work and gaming, thanks to advancements in hardware. As games get optimized and hardware becomes more efficient, a mini PC could be a great choice for your PC needs this year.

Desktop PCs, on the other hand, will always be more powerful due to better cooling and full-sized graphics cards. However, don’t underestimate the performance of an AMD APU (Accelerated Processing Unit).

APUs come with integrated graphics, and AMD has been focusing on developing them for portable devices like laptops, handheld gaming PCs, and, of course, mini PCs. Placing these chips in mini PCs with improved cooling allows manufacturers to extract more performance, making the performance per dollar competitive compared to full-sized PCs.

For example, let’s compare the $499 Beelink SER5 MAX’s Ryzen 7 5800H APU to an equivalent desktop with a Ryzen 7 5700G APU. Benchmarks show they have similar performance, and prebuilt desktops on popular platforms go for over $600, making the mini PC a winner in the low-to-mid-range performance bracket.

Functionally, mini PCs are the same as desktop PCs. What sets them apart is the ease of access. No more fussing around the back of a heavy PC with cables—everything is easily accessible on the small PC on your desk.

Mini PCs can offer more interfaces than similarly priced desktop builds. For instance, the MINISFORUM UM780 XTX (around $630-640) with a Ryzen 7 7840HS and 32GB of DDR5 RAM has more interfaces than a similarly priced desktop build. Even if the ports aren’t enough, you can add a high-speed USB-C hub without dealing with cable clutter.

While mini PCs lack the upgradability of desktop PCs, you can still upgrade RAM and storage in many cases. Although you can’t upgrade the APU, some users have experimented with adding external GPUs for enhanced gaming performance.

If you prioritize ease of use and immediate functionality over peak performance or upgradability, a mini PC might be the perfect choice. Their small footprint makes them easy to carry around, so don’t overlook mini PCs for your next hardware upgrade.

January 8, 2024