Category: Technology News

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  • Honor Magic V2 vs Google Pixel Fold: Which is best?

    Honor Magic V2 vs Google Pixel Fold: Which is best?

    The Honor Magic V2 takes the lead in the design department. It’s thinner and lighter than Google’s option. While the Google Pixel Fold is thin compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, it’s still quite hefty at 283g. In contrast, the V2 is a marvel of engineering, with a thickness of only 4.4mm when unfolded and 9.9mm when fully folded. It’s also incredibly light at 231g, making it the lightest foldable on the market and even lighter than some standard smartphones like the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

    Honor Magic V2

    Google excels in the AI department, which is evident in its foldable devices and flagship smartphones like the Google Pixel 7. It offers unique AI-powered features for photography and image enhancement, as well as AI capabilities integrated into the Android 13 OS. These features set Google apart from the competition. While the Honor Magic V2 also incorporates AI into its operating system, its focus is on optimizing the phone’s performance rather than introducing unique and fun features.

    The Honor Magic V2 and Google Pixel Fold feature different chipsets. The V2 uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, which prioritizes processing power. With 16GB of RAM, it’s likely to outperform the Pixel Fold in benchmark tests. However, real-world usage won’t show a significant difference in performance.

    The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset may provide better future-proofing for the V2, ensuring it can keep up with the demands of apps and operating systems.

    Both foldables experiment with their display designs, resulting in varying aspect ratios. The Honor Magic V2 sports a boxy 7.92-inch OLED display, while the Pixel Fold offers a wider 7.6-inch OLED display. The choice between them depends on your intended use. The wider display of the Pixel Fold is ideal for watching movies, while the taller display of the Magic V2 is better for multitasking.

    However, app developers have been slow to adapt to these unique aspect ratios, limiting the usefulness of the inner displays, particularly on the Pixel Fold.

    The Honor Magic V2 boasts the title of the fastest charging foldable on the market, featuring 66W fast charging technology. Even better, it comes with a fast charger in the box. While we haven’t benchmarked the V2 yet, it’s expected to charge fully in just under an hour.

    On the other hand, the Google Pixel Fold suffers from slow charging, with the same 30W as the Pixel 7 Pro. Despite its slightly smaller 4821mAh battery, it takes over an hour and a half to go from zero to full charge, with only a 24% charge in 15 minutes.

  • Omnidirectional Obstacle Avoidance: Potential Game-Changer in DJI Mini 4 Pro

    Omnidirectional Obstacle Avoidance: Potential Game-Changer in DJI Mini 4 Pro

    The DJI Mini 3 Pro drone made quite an impression when it arrived in May 2023. It was hailed as the best compact drone for most people due to its compact size, intelligent obstacle avoidance, and impressive low-light performance with its 4K camera. The Mini 3 Pro fell into the sub-250g drone category, which allowed it to be flown almost anywhere without restrictions.

    DJI Mini 3 Pro

    Now, it seems DJI is gearing up to introduce a successor, possibly named the Mini 4 Pro. The timing couldn’t be better for DJI, as new US legislation set to take effect on September 16 will require drones weighing over 250g to continuously broadcast the pilot’s and aircraft’s location. If the Mini 4 Pro remains under this crucial 250g limit, owners can fly it without needing to register or identify themselves. Launching the Mini 4 Pro at the end of September, as recently suggested, would align perfectly with this regulation change.

    The expected updates for the Mini 4 Pro compared to the Mini 3 Pro are relatively minor but could include enhancements to the drone’s obstacle avoidance system, improved transmission technology, extended flight time, and the inclusion of DJI’s new RC 2 controller. Let’s dive into what we can anticipate from the upcoming DJI Mini 4 Pro.

    Understanding DJI’s drone lineup can be a bit confusing. Currently, DJI classifies the Mini 3 as its entry-level drone. Above it, you’ll find the Mini 3 Pro and the new Air 3, both labeled as “advanced” drones, while the Mavic 3 Pro sits as the current flagship.

    The Mini 4 Pro is expected to replace the Mini 3 Pro, likely leading to a price cut for its predecessor until stocks run out. Though details are scarce, leaked videos posted on social media suggest that the Mini 4 Pro may feature a more advanced obstacle avoidance system compared to the Mini 3 Pro. This could potentially include omnidirectional avoidance technology similar to the new DJI Air 3.

    While specific details are limited, it appears that the development of the Mini 4 Pro is quite advanced, hinting at a potential release date in the not-so-distant future. While improvements to the camera are always welcome, it’s unlikely DJI will make significant changes here to avoid encroaching on the Air 3’s territory. Similarly, a few extra minutes of flight time would be appreciated, but the Mini 3 Pro already boasts 47 minutes, one minute more than the pricier Air 3.

    Although the Mini 3 Pro was released just 15 months ago in May 2022, DJI has previously launched new models in September, including the Osmo Action 3 camera in 2022 and the Mavic Pro drone in 2016. A 15-month turnaround for the Mini 4 Pro may seem quick, but it’s not out of the question for DJI.

    In terms of pricing, the Mini 4 Pro is expected to cost around the same as the Mini 3 Pro, roughly $759 / £709 / AU$1,119. This would position it neatly between the entry-level Mini 3 at $469 and the more advanced Air 3 at $1,099.

  • OnePlus Open: Worthy Competitor of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5!

    OnePlus Open: Worthy Competitor of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5!

    The OnePlus Open foldable phone is generating a lot of buzz in the tech world, and recent leaks suggest that it might outperform the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 in terms of durability. Samsung phones have a track record of being more durable than their official ratings suggest.

    OnePlus Open

    OnePlus has partnered with OPPO to create the OnePlus Open, and it seems they are determined to outdo their competitors in terms of durability. Even the recently released OPPO Find N3 Flip is rated for 400,000 folds. This impressive number means that you could open and close the OnePlus Open foldable phone over 100 times a day for about 10 years. That’s longer than most people keep their phones.

    Foldable phones have been gaining popularity in recent years, as they offer a unique combination of portability and screen real estate. However, concerns about their durability have been a common issue. OnePlus seems to be addressing this concern by rigorously testing their OnePlus Open foldable phone.

    The OnePlus Open is expected to feature a foldable design similar to other foldable phones on the market. It will likely have a flexible display that allows the device to fold in half, transforming it from a traditional smartphone form factor into a larger tablet-like display. This design offers users the convenience of a compact phone while providing a more expansive screen for tasks like reading, watching videos, or multitasking.

    Foldable phones like the OnePlus Open are known for their versatility. They can function as both a primary phone and a tablet replacement, eliminating the need to carry multiple devices. This flexibility appeals to users who value both portability and productivity.

    While specific details about the OnePlus Open’s hardware specifications are limited, we can make some educated guesses based on the information available about similar devices in the market. OnePlus typically aims to offer flagship-level performance, so we can expect competitive components.

    The OnePlus Open is likely to feature a high-quality AMOLED or OLED display, given OnePlus’s history of using vibrant and sharp screens. The foldable display should offer a crisp viewing experience, whether it’s used as a phone or unfolded into a tablet.

    OnePlus often employs the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon processors in their devices. The OnePlus Open may feature a powerful chipset to ensure smooth performance, making it suitable for demanding tasks and gaming.

    OnePlus places importance on camera quality, and the OnePlus Open is expected to have a capable camera system. While it may not compete with dedicated camera phones, it should offer satisfying photography and video capabilities.

    To support the larger display and extended usage, the OnePlus Open is likely to have a sizable battery. OnePlus typically includes fast-charging technology to quickly top up the battery.

    OnePlus devices run on OxygenOS, their custom Android-based operating system. Users can expect a clean and intuitive software experience with regular updates.

  • Bill Gates’ Vision: Will Electronic Tattoos Replace Smartphones?

    Bill Gates’ Vision: Will Electronic Tattoos Replace Smartphones?

    The widespread adoption of mobile phones, particularly smartphones, has become an integral part of modern life, fueling the internet boom. These pocket-sized devices have evolved to become indispensable tools, leading many to wonder if they will ever be replaced. The future of smartphones is a topic that has piqued curiosity and speculation, and recent statements by industry leaders have added intriguing dimensions to this conversation.

    Smartphones

    Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, has hinted at a disruptive technology that could potentially eclipse smartphones: electronic tattoos. Nokia’s CEO, Pekka Lundmark, predicts that the advent of 6G technology by 2030 will bring about a seismic shift in how we interact with digital devices, with smart glasses and body-integrated products poised to replace traditional smartphones. In this article, we delve into the possibilities and implications of these emerging technologies.

    Bill Gates has ignited speculation about the future of mobile phones by suggesting that electronic tattoos could supplant traditional smartphones. These electronic tattoos, developed by CHAOTIC MOON, represent a convergence of biotechnology and wearable technology. While their current applications are specialized, the company is actively exploring the potential for these tattoos to replace smartphones in the future.

    The idea of electronic tattoos replacing smartphones might seem far-fetched at first, but it underscores the relentless pace of technological innovation. Imagine a future where you simply touch or gesture on your own skin to make a call, send a message, or access the internet. Such a transformation could redefine our relationship with technology, making it even more integrated into our daily lives.

    Nokia’s CEO, Pekka Lundmark, has also weighed in on the future of mobile phones, predicting a significant disruption with the advent of 6G technology by 2030. According to Lundmark, the traditional smartphone interface as we know it will undergo a fundamental shift.

    In this envisioned future, smart glasses and other body-integrated products will replace conventional smartphones. These devices will directly connect to our bodies, offering a seamless and immersive digital experience. Imagine wearing smart glasses that display information, provide communication capabilities, and access the internet without the need for a handheld device. It’s a scenario that promises greater convenience and a deeper integration of technology into our daily routines.

    As we contemplate the potential transition from smartphones to electronic tattoos and body-integrated devices, it’s essential to consider the implications and possibilities. While these innovations offer exciting prospects, they also raise questions about privacy, security, and societal impact.

    Electronic tattoos, with their data-gathering capabilities, may spark concerns about the protection and ownership of personal information. Additionally, the integration of technology into our bodies presents ethical dilemmas and the need for robust cybersecurity measures.

  • Eyes on Screens: Protecting Your Vision in the Smartphone Era

    Eyes on Screens: Protecting Your Vision in the Smartphone Era

    The advent of smartphones has undoubtedly revolutionized the way we live, bringing an array of conveniences to our fingertips. However, along with these advantages, smartphones also introduce potential disadvantages, one of which is the strain they can impose on our eyes due to prolonged screen time. In this age of constant connectivity, it’s essential to find effective ways to protect our eyes from screen glare and digital eye strain. This article will explore the multifaceted aspects of smartphone usage, including both its benefits and drawbacks, and delve into strategies to safeguard our ocular health.

    smartphones

    Smartphones have become an integral part of modern life, offering numerous benefits. They provide instant access to information, facilitate communication with loved ones, and offer a wide range of entertainment options. With smartphones, we can navigate through cities, manage our schedules, and even monitor our health. They have simplified tasks that previously required multiple devices or manual effort.

    However, the ubiquity of smartphones has also raised concerns about excessive screen time and its impact on our eyesight. Prolonged use of smartphones can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and other potential health issues. To mitigate these risks, it’s essential to adopt eye protection strategies.

    Mobile apps are designed to engage users for extended periods. To reduce screen time, consider using websites instead of apps for tasks like social media or news consumption. Deleting apps you frequently use can also help break the habit of constant phone usage.

    An upcoming app named ‘Go Grey’ promises to keep your phone in grayscale mode during scheduled times, reducing screen brightness. This can significantly alleviate eye strain by minimizing the intensity of colors and brightness emitted by your smartphone.

    Smartphone addiction often stems from the endless stream of information available online. Utilize built-in features or third-party apps that allow you to control your internet access. Setting specific periods of restricted connectivity can help you detach from your phone and give your eyes much-needed respite.

    Enable the ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode on your phone to reduce interruptions and notifications. For Android users, further customize your app and notification settings to limit distractions. By managing app notifications, you can reduce the temptation to check your phone constantly, subsequently relieving eye strain.

    Instead of holding your phone close to your eyes, opt for Bluetooth headphones or earbuds. These accessories allow you to keep your phone at a comfortable distance, reducing eye strain caused by extended close-up screen viewing.

    Many individuals have replaced traditional watches with smartphones for timekeeping. However, consider using a smartwatch instead of constantly glancing at your phone. Smartwatch screens are smaller and less strenuous on the eyes. They provide essential information without requiring you to stare at a bright, expansive screen.

  • How Goa became part of India from Portuguese colony

    How Goa became part of India from Portuguese colony

    Although India gained independence from Britain in 1947, Goa was under Portuguese occupation for a long time. It was included in the map of India in 1961. Valmiki Fellero wrote a book on the history of Goa. He said that at that time Nehru was in power. In December 1961, he started gathering Indian troops there.

    Goa

    More than 100 passenger trains in North, West and South India were diverted to transport troops to Belagavi. Freight trains were used to deliver military equipment.

    At that time Portugal sent a ship in response. After arriving at port the ship began its return journey to Lisbon on 12 December. Portugal thought that through US diplomatic efforts, it would be possible to stop India’s military operations altogether.

    Indian troops met nominal resistance when they entered Goa. On December 18 that year, Indian troops entered Goa from the north, south and east.

    The common people of Goa had warned the Indian Army not to be in danger of Portuguese land mines. Within 36 hours of the operation, the Portuguese authorities officially signed the surrender of Goa.

    The most interesting thing is that no experienced Portuguese soldiers were deployed in Goa at that time. They had little training and no combat experience. But Portugal’s defeat was not communicated to the people of Lisbon.

    Indian forces were able to successfully carry out attacks on Goa’s airport and radio station. There too they did not have to face any obstacles. At that time the wives and children of the Portuguese officers were also taken in two planes and important government documents were sent by plane. On December 19, the last governor of Goa, General Silva, surrendered. 22 Indian soldiers were killed and 54 soldiers were injured in this operation.

  • Water Sustainability Challenges in Middle East: Focus on Groundwater Resources

    Water Sustainability Challenges in Middle East: Focus on Groundwater Resources

    In the Middle East, underground water plays a vital role in preventing heat and drought in arid countries. Even though this brings some challenges, countries like Libya and Iraq are finding success in agriculture. Groundwater serves as the primary source of fresh water in ten Arab nations.

    Middle East

    With rivers and lakes drying up due to climate change, groundwater is gaining importance in these regions. Some underground water in the Middle East has been stored for thousands of years, often called fossil groundwater. What’s unique is that replenishing it is quite difficult, much like a one-time-use resource. Yet, when it rains, the amount of underground water can increase. However, if more water is taken out than what is naturally replenished, there is a risk of depletion.

    War-torn Yemen finds it hard to manage these rules, but developed countries like Saudi Arabia can implement them more easily. In various parts of Morocco, local people rely on groundwater regularly.

    Satellite images show a significant decline in Middle Eastern groundwater levels over time. This naturally stored water is diminishing, though it’s challenging to predict exactly when it will run out.

    Recent reports reveal that Libya uses around half of its 6,500 wells, whereas Tunisia and Algeria have fewer wells. Unfortunately, there are no legal consequences for countries using excessive water. Water issues in the Middle East are intricate, and this will likely lead to high-level discussions in the future. If not addressed, water scarcity could create dangerous situations in the region ahead.

  • Global Positioning System: The Technology Behind Location Tracking

    Global Positioning System: The Technology Behind Location Tracking

    Once upon a time, people had not any GPS system and they were dependent on looking at the stars in the sky. But now times have changed. We live in the midst of advanced technology. However, we currently do many important tasks including location determination through artificial satellites. It is also possible to determine the pin point location of  through GPS.

    Global Positioning System

    Even if you are in the middle of vast desert, ocean or deep forest, it is possible to determine your pin point location with GPS. Everyone is curious about why we are getting this service for free and how this work is done. The GPS receiver that comes with your phone can pick up signals from satellites.

    When you turn on location on the mobile it starts receiving the signal. Suppose you are currently in Dhaka and your mobile is receiving signal from an artificial satellite located in the sky of France. Now the distance between these two is determined and a circle is drawn.

    You are located at either end of this circle. Simultaneously it receives signals from many more satellites and draws out your pin point location by drawing a circle.

    The US Department of Defense controls these satellites. But the satellites do not know when and how and where all these services are being used. As a result, there is not much scope for strict surveillance. But we don’t get this service for free. The company sells the device to us. And they pay tax for this service.

  • Innovative TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G Smartphone with Unique Display Technology

    Innovative TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G Smartphone with Unique Display Technology

    TCL has introduced a new smartphone called the TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G, which comes with a unique display technology called NXTPAPER. This technology was initially designed for tablets and e-readers, but TCL has now incorporated it into their smartphones. The TCL 40 NXTPAPER models are budget-friendly options that prioritize eye comfort and offer mid- to low-range specifications.

    TCL 40

    NXTPAPER is described by TCL as a blend of a screen and paper, delivering 25 percent more contrast than regular E-Ink displays and consuming 65 percent less power. This latest version of NXTPAPER boasts a brightness of up to 500 nits and claims to exceed certified levels for reducing blue light. This technology aims to protect users’ eye health while maintaining accurate colors and avoiding screen discoloration. Additionally, the display’s color temperature adjusts automatically according to the time of day and the surrounding environment.

    Two models of the TCL 40 NXTPAPER series have been introduced: the TCL 40 NXTPAPER and the TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G. Despite sharing the NXTPAPER name, they have distinct designs and specifications. The former model features a 6.78-inch FHD+ NXTPAPER display with a 32-megapixel front camera located within a punch hole. Its rear camera is 50 megapixels. It is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G88 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage that can be expanded using a microSD card. This model offers 4G connectivity and will be available for €199 ($215) in Europe starting from September 2023.

    On the other hand, the TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G, as indicated by its name, supports 5G connectivity. However, its specifications are somewhat downgraded. It sports a smaller 6.5-inch HD+ notch-type display with an 8-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel rear camera. The device is powered by MediaTek’s MT6833v processor, tailored for 5G compatibility, and it provides 6GB of RAM and 256GB of expandable storage. This model will go on sale in Europe in October for €249 ($269). Both versions of the phone are expected to be released worldwide later in 2023.

    While the specifications are important, the standout feature of these smartphones is the NXTPAPER display technology. Despite the differences between the models, both have a 5,000mAh battery and given the claimed power efficiency of the display, they are expected to offer extended battery life. The true test, however, will be how well the NXTPAPER display performs in providing a satisfying smartphone experience.

  • Hisense A6L: Revolutionary Dual-Sided Smartphone with E Ink Display

    Hisense A6L: Revolutionary Dual-Sided Smartphone with E Ink Display

    In the ever-changing world of smartphones, the Hisense A6L stands out with its dual-sided design. Unlike typical phones, it offers a special feature that sets it apart. On one side, it resembles other Android smartphones, but the true innovation lies on the other side – an E Ink display that transforms the device into a portable e-reader. This review will explore whether this blend of smartphone and e-reader functionality is practical or just a gimmick, while also covering all aspects of the device.

    Hisense A6L

    At first glance, the Hisense A6L appears like any other smartphone from the front. The front side features a standard LCD display with a notch at the top housing the front camera. The phone runs Android and comes with the usual array of apps. On the reverse side, the E Ink display provides a matte screen protector for a comfortable reading experience.

    The design includes the Power button on the right, which doubles as a fingerprint sensor. The top edge has a 3.5mm headphone jack, while the left side holds the volume rocker buttons and a button to activate the E Ink display. The SIM card tray is also on the left. At the bottom, there’s a speaker and a USB Type-C port. The rear E Ink side boasts dual cameras (24MP + 8MP) with an LED flash, while the front features a 20MP selfie camera.

    Surprisingly, the addition of the E Ink display hasn’t significantly affected the phone’s dimensions. It remains relatively thin at 9.1mm and lightweight at 203 grams, comparable to other single-screen smartphones. The phone’s aluminum sides and glass materials contribute to its solid build quality. Notably, every aspect of the phone, including the camera, speaker, and headphone jack, remains accessible regardless of which display is in use.

    Flipping the phone over and pressing the E Ink button on the left activates the E Ink display. The default display includes an analog clock at the top, a calendar in the middle, and buttons for Wi-Fi, Ringer, Bluetooth, and Data Connection at the bottom. Swiping along the left reveals Fusion reading and WeChat cards. At the bottom left, the battery icon is displayed.

    The E Ink display offers various controls accessible by tapping the three vertical dots at the bottom right. These controls include the Brightness level slider, pre-set controls like Night and Auto, and options to Switch Screen, access E-Ink Settings, add a New Panel, Move Panel, or Delete Panel. E-Ink Settings provide further customization options, including Lock screen pinned display time, E Ink notification reminder, and Application covers.

    The E Ink display excels at providing a comfortable reading experience, similar to a Kindle but in a smaller form factor. Turning pages is easy with one-handed swipes or using the volume rocker buttons as page turn buttons. Users can seamlessly switch between the E Ink display and the LCD display, retaining their reading progress.