Category: Technology News

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Huawei Mate 60 Set to Offer Satellite Calls and Messaging: Leak Reveals

Last year’s top-tier Huawei Mate 50 series smartphones had a standout feature: the ability to use satellite communications. This means that if there’s an emergency and regular mobile networks are not available, these smartphones can still send messages.

Now, in the upcoming Huawei Mate 60 series, this feature is getting even better. According to a leaked source, the new Huawei Mate 60 smartphones will not only have the capability to send messages in such situations but also to make calls via satellite, all without needing regular mobile networks.

To enable this functionality, these phones will come equipped with power amplifier (PA) chips made by Chinese chip manufacturers. Additionally, the communication will be supported by another Chinese satellite system called Tiantong.

This system is specially designed for various purposes like voice communication, accurate positioning, as well as sending images and data. The official launch of the Huawei Mate 60 is anticipated for this upcoming autumn.

August 24, 2023
Nokia Introduces Clever Corteca Software for Better Home Internet

Nokia has introduced a new software called Corteca, designed to improve internet connections at home. This software is clever and works in the cloud as well as at your home. It helps internet providers make customers happier, earn more money, and save on costs.

Nokia’s new software also comes with a store full of apps that can make money, and it works together with other software makers. Nokia is the first company to offer this solution using open-source software and industry rules. This solution is great for working with different brands of equipment.

This software package has three main parts: a smart controller that works in the cloud (Corteca Cloud), a place where you can get different apps (Corteca Applications), and software for devices like routers and Wi-Fi extenders (Corteca Device Software). It’s important to note that Nokia had already created a Wi-Fi Cloud Controller before, so the new part of this announcement is the app store.

Nokia has been working on Corteca for a while because they know that Wi-Fi can sometimes be slow and frustrating. The app store in Corteca will let internet providers earn more money from their networks by offering new services like better gaming, parental controls for kids, firewalls to protect from online threats, VPNs for security, and SD-WAN solutions for businesses.

Ever ever since it was started using Nokia Beacons, people’s home Wi-Fi has been really good, solving all the problems. we wish more people could get Nokia beacons too. When you look at the graphics and features of Corteca, the Nokia Pure design style that accidentally came out in March 2023 fits really well.

August 24, 2023
Samsung’s Smart City: Behind-the-Scenes Look at Smartphone Manufacturing

Twice a year, Samsung unveils its latest devices at Galaxy Unpacked, showcasing years of research and development that goes into creating innovative gadgets. While we rarely get a glimpse into the manufacturing process, I recently had the unique opportunity to tour Samsung’s “Smart City,” where they build devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. Join me on this journey as we delve into the impressive world of smartphone production.

Touring smartphone manufacturing facilities is a rarity, and I was excited to get a firsthand look at how these devices come to life. While I’ve had the chance to visit similar facilities before, this time, I was better prepared with notes and an eager attitude to learn. Let’s explore the incredible processes that enable Samsung to pack so much technology into our pocket-sized devices.

Located in Gumi, a city southeast of Seoul in South Korea, Samsung’s Smart City is a hub of industrial activity. Spread over a significant area, it accommodates multiple campuses, dormitories, a hospital, a school, and various centers for employees. It’s here that Samsung conducts extensive research and development to optimize their manufacturing and assembly processes. With a staggering 6 billion smartphones produced globally across all its factories, Smart City plays a pivotal role in Samsung’s innovation.

The journey through Smart City begins with a walk down memory lane in Samsung’s smartphone museum. Here, a variety of iconic devices, such as the first Galaxy S and the groundbreaking Galaxy Edge, are showcased. An entire room is dedicated to displaying every smartphone model Samsung has ever made, giving an impressive overview of the company’s evolution in mobile technology. As a tech enthusiast, seeing all these devices in one place was truly awe-inspiring.

Our tour took us to a room where cross-sections of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 were on display. Each part was meticulously arranged to reveal how components are stacked inside these innovative devices. This served as a sneak peek of what we’d witness later on the assembly line.

The heart of the manufacturing process lies in the assembly line. In Samsung’s Gumi facility, 25 assembly lines work in harmony, with 16 currently operational. These lines not only produce Samsung’s own devices but also cater to other OEMs, highlighting the company’s prowess in contract manufacturing. Walking between two assembly lines assembling the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold 5, I gained a deep appreciation for the complexity and precision involved.

Assembled devices undergo rigorous testing, with various robots conducting inspections. Water resistance tests involve air expansion within the device, while camera parallax correction ensures optimal photo alignment. A low failure rate of 0.7% showcases the quality of Samsung’s manufacturing. While automation has streamlined much of the process, the final packing step still relies on manual labor.

Samsung is on the path to full automation, with plans to automate the entire assembly process by year-end. Despite advancements, certain steps still require human touch. Notably, packing and labeling are steps yet to be fully automated. Still, Samsung’s commitment to automation and optimization is evident in the advanced machinery and robotics employed.

A highlight of the tour was the automation testing lab, where devices are subjected to various conditions and simulations. From accelerated aging to Bluetooth connectivity tests, Samsung’s dedication to real-world scenarios is impressive. Their innovative software tie-ins enhance the testing experience, ensuring devices perform exceptionally even under demanding conditions.

Touring Samsung’s Smart City offered a rare glimpse into the evolution of smartphones. From manufacturing techniques to testing procedures, I witnessed the dedication to innovation that drives Samsung forward. The meticulous attention to detail, commitment to quality, and ongoing pursuit of automation are all evident in the devices that end up in our pockets and on our wrists.

source: androidcentral

August 23, 2023
USB-C Phone Accessories for 2023: Enhance Your Smartphone Experience

The era of USB-C has arrived, bringing with it a wave of versatile and efficient accessories to complement your smartphone. Gone are the days of multiple USB connectors; USB-C has become the standard for most modern smartphones, including the best models on the market. Let’s delve into the realm of the best USB-C phone accessories that can elevate your mobile experience.

USB technology has come a long way since its inception in the ’90s. With the emergence of USB-C, a transformation has taken place over the past few years. With the exception of Apple, almost every smartphone on our list of best devices features USB-C connectivity. Let’s explore the realm of USB-C phone accessories that can amplify your smartphone usage.

Gone are the days of juggling between various USB connectors like microUSB, Mini USB, and more. The universal adoption of USB-C has simplified the landscape. Beyond its role in charging, USB-C offers a plethora of possibilities. Here, we’ve compiled a list of 10 exceptional USB-C accessories that can seamlessly integrate with your smartphone.

USB-C isn’t a new USB standard; instead, it’s the latest type of USB connector that has revolutionized the tech industry. Its reversible design sets USB-C apart, allowing for easy plug-in regardless of orientation. Moreover, USB-C cables support bidirectional charging, meaning your smartphone can charge a peripheral device and vice versa.

While USB-C itself isn’t inherently faster than previous USB versions, most USB-C cables are equipped with USB 3.1 technology, offering twice the speed of USB 3.0. The introduction of USB 4 has further elevated the capabilities of USB-C.

USB-C isn’t limited to charging; it also supports concurrent power and video transfer. Recent advancements have enabled audio transmission as well. Furthermore, USB-C seamlessly integrates with high-speed data connectivity standards like Thunderbolt 3 and 4, enabling the use of large 4K screens for power and display purposes.

Universal USB-C Desktop Charging Dock
Enhance your device’s functionality with a charging dock that accommodates any USB-C-equipped device. This dock facilitates simultaneous charging and data sync, making the most of USB-C’s capabilities.

Anker PowerCore+ 20100 USB-C
Experience rapid charging with Anker’s PowerCore+. This power bank boasts a high-capacity 20,100mAh cell, ensuring multiple charges for your smartphone.

USB-C to Micro-USB Adapter
This small but essential adapter allows you to connect microUSB devices to your USB-C-enabled gear. It supports USB OTG technology and offers rapid charging and data transfer rates.

USB-C Car Charger
Upgrade your car charging experience with a USB-C car charger that plugs into your vehicle’s 12V port. Equipped with both USB-C and USB-A outputs, it even features a built-in 3000mAh battery for backup charging.

Kanex USB-C to HDMI 4K Adapter
Easily project your content on a 4K screen using this straightforward adapter. Just plug it into your USB-C port and connect it to a display via HDMI for an enhanced visual experience.

As USB-C becomes the standard, embracing its versatility is essential. From charging to data transfer and audio/video capabilities, USB-C phone accessories have unlocked new dimensions of smartphone usage. Whether you’re looking to charge on the go, connect peripherals, or enhance your multimedia experience, USB-C accessories are here to transform the way you interact with your smartphone.

August 22, 2023
Galaxy S24 Ultra’s Titanium Frame: A Bold Move or a Safe Evolution?

Samsung’s upcoming flagship phone lineup, the Galaxy S24 series, has been generating a lot of buzz lately, despite the fact that there are still several months to go before the official reveal. In a recent leak, attention was drawn to the rumored titanium frame of the S24 Ultra, with an intriguing detail: this change won’t impact the phone’s weight.

Now, additional details are emerging from renowned leaker Ice Universe, shedding light on the regular Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24 Plus models. Traditionally, Samsung has maintained a consistent design across its flagship phones, characterized by a smooth, curved aesthetic resembling a pebble. However, according to Ice Universe, a design shift is in store for the Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus. Specifically, these models are rumored to feature flat sides.

While Apple’s iPhone has previously transitioned from flat sides to curved and back to flat, the Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus represent Samsung’s first foray into flat-sided frames. A key distinction here is that current iPhones possess flat sides all around.

But here’s the question: if the regular Galaxy S24 models are adopting flat sides, will the Galaxy S24 Ultra follow suit? As of now, Ice Universe hasn’t provided any hints that the Ultra variant will undergo a similar change. Therefore, it’s reasonable to anticipate that the Ultra will maintain its predecessor’s design, at least for the time being.

An intriguing consideration in this design shift is the potential impact on the feel and look of the phones. Preferences regarding flat versus curved frames are quite subjective. Some users argue that flat sides are uncomfortable to hold, while others contend that they provide a more secure grip. Furthermore, proponents of boxier shapes claim that such designs facilitate optimal spacing of internal components.

Beyond practical considerations, Samsung might be aiming to introduce a fresh appearance to its flagship lineup. The Galaxy S series has retained a consistent look over the years, and this might be an opportune time to experiment with something new, especially given the incremental nature of recent upgrades.

August 22, 2023
Quad-Bayer Sensor: A Game-Changer in Photography, Advantages and Insights

The new OM System ‘Olympus’ OM-1 camera introduces an intriguing feature called the ‘quad-Bayer’ sensor design. This article aims to explain the concept, along with its advantages and drawbacks. The quad-Bayer sensor design employs a Bayer color filter array where each ‘red’, ‘green’, or ‘blue’ filter patch covers four pixels instead of just one. This is shown in the illustration below, comparing the standard Bayer array with the quad-Bayer alternative.

It’s important to clarify some terms here – while manufacturers often refer to the pixel as a ‘photo-diode’, each of the four pixels beneath a color filter functions independently and can be read separately. This design wouldn’t make sense otherwise. Initially, the quad-Bayer arrangement might seem to halve the sensor’s resolution, but there’s a reason behind it, as we’ll explore later.

This quad-Bayer sensor approach is commonly seen in smartphones. You might wonder how a phone’s lens provides enough resolution for sensors with up to 100MP. The answer is that it can’t. However, a small pixel aperture can help increase resolution. In phones, the quad-Bayer setup allows the combination of all four pixels in low light conditions. In brighter lighting, the pixels are used individually, enhancing sharpness by effectively reducing the pixel aperture.

The first consumer cameras to adopt this arrangement were the Panasonic Lumix GH5S and Sony Alpha 7S III, which cater to video with lower pixel counts. Notably, these cameras lack the function mentioned earlier. So, what’s the advantage of the quad-Bayer layout? Both these cameras employ the design shown in figure 2, featuring individual microlenses for each pixel.

This preserves the efficiency of the microlens in focusing light onto the pixel’s active area. However, this design doesn’t offer any improvement over using larger native pixels. The real reason behind its adoption lies in cost savings during production. The specialized nature of the low pixel count sensor allows it to be a variant of another product, leading to reduced manufacturing expenses. For instance, Sony’s 12MP sensor can be derived from a 48MP sensor – a strategy seen in their full-frame sensors with similar pixel counts.

Now, let’s delve into the OM-1. This camera employs a distinct microlens arrangement, as shown in figure 3. In this case, one microlens covers each quad-pixel color filter. Although this approach reduces efficiency by focusing light on inactive parts of each pixel, it introduces a significant advantage: the sensor now offers a phase-difference focus detection mechanism. This system is akin to Canon’s dual-pixel arrangement but functions both horizontally and vertically.

With this sensor design, every pixel in the frame becomes a focus pixel, enabling ‘cross-type’ detection. When capturing a frame, there’s no need to interpolate focusing pixels. Canon provides a ‘dual pixel raw’ feature that extracts depth information from images. While a quad-pixel raw option would be intriguing, OM System currently doesn’t offer it.

August 22, 2023
Curved Display and 4K Video at 60FPS: Infinix Zero 30 5G’s Innovative Features

Infinix is gearing up to launch a new 5G smartphone called the Infinix Zero 30 5G. The company has already given us a glimpse of what to expect with teasers on its website and social media platforms.

The latest teaser from Infinix reveals an exciting feature of the upcoming Zero 30 5G – it will come with a curved display and the capability to record 4K videos at 60 frames per second (FPS). While recording 4K videos at 60FPS might not sound like a big deal, it’s actually quite groundbreaking in its specific category.

Although the exact price of the smartphone is not yet clear, we can speculate based on previous models. For instance, the Infinix Zero 5G 2023 Turbo with Dimensity 1080 was launched in India for around Rs 19,999 for the 8GB+256GB version. Therefore, it’s reasonable to expect that the Zero 30 5G might fall in a similar price range.

From what we’ve seen in teasers and leaks, the Zero 30 5G will boast a 10-bit AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,400p. The highlight is its 60-degree curved design. The camera setup on the back will be housed in a rectangular module, which includes an LED flash and Optical Image Stabilization. Although details about the specific camera sensors haven’t been disclosed yet, it’s safe to assume that they will be impressive.

According to information from a Geekbench listing, the device might be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 SoC, coupled with 8GB of RAM. The smartphone is expected to run on the Android 13-based operating system.

Excitingly, the launch of the Infinix Zero 30 5G is anticipated to take place this month. This means that we won’t have to wait long to get more detailed information about its features and specifications. So, keep an eye out for more updates as they come in.

August 22, 2023
Features of Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Breaking Ground or Following Trends?

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, set to be released in a few months, is causing a buzz with rumors and concept videos that suggest it might have some impressive features. However, it’s worth considering whether these features truly represent Samsung’s innovation or if they’re just following what others are doing in the industry.

One of the rumors about the S24 Ultra is its potential titanium frame. Titanium is known for being strong and lightweight, but this idea is similar to a rumor about the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro. It might not be a complete revolution, but rather an evolution of Samsung’s existing “Armor Aluminum” construction.

The S24 Ultra might also introduce a slightly curved frame, which is different from previous Ultra models. This change could show that Samsung is open to trying new things. However, is this change meant to give the phone a fresh look or is it merely following a current trend?

Other changes in the S24 Ultra, like increasing the display size by 0.1 inch and upgrading to a 144Hz OLED panel, could be seen as minor improvements. Inside, there could be a boost in performance with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and more RAM. But are these changes truly significant advancements?

The camera system is another area of interest. With a rumored 50MP telephoto lens and improved low-light capabilities, the camera setup sounds promising. However, considering the already impressive camera of the S23 Ultra, one might wonder how much more improvement can be achieved. Additionally, offering exclusive red and green color options might be an attempt to make the phone look stylish. But is this an effort to make the phone stand out, or is it just a way to tap into current fashion trends?

While the Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to bring several enhancements, whether these changes represent true innovation or are simply following the latest trends will only become clear when the phone is officially launched in February 2024. This is an exciting period for technology enthusiasts, yet the question lingers: Is Samsung leading the pack with its innovations, or is it simply following the paths set by others in the industry?

August 21, 2023
OnePlus Ace 2 Pro: A Powerful Smartphone with Remarkable Features

OnePlus has recently unveiled the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro in China, showcasing impressive specifications and a design reminiscent of the OnePlus 11 model. Although the previous OnePlus Ace Pro was initially exclusive to China and later launched globally as the OnePlus 10T, this new release holds its roots within the Chinese market.

The OnePlus Ace 2 Pro boasts an impressive range of features, starting with its 6.74-inch OLED display that supports a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and can reach a remarkable 1200nits brightness under sunlight. Additionally, the device is equipped with a powerful 5,000mAh battery and offers rapid 150W fast charging, an improvement over the already impressive 100W fast charging found in the OnePlus 11.

The camera setup includes a 50MP IMX890 primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a third camera with a 2MP sensor. While this camera configuration might appear slightly downgraded compared to the OnePlus 11’s 50MP main camera, 48MP ultrawide, and 32MP telephoto lens, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro’s camera system still promises excellent performance.

Under the hood, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro is powered by the robust Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and a potential 24GB of RAM. This configuration surpasses even the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, which tops out at 16GB of RAM. As a result, users can expect seamless performance across popular applications and even niche games without encountering any slowdowns or performance issues.

Interestingly, the OnePlus Ace Pro was rebranded as the OnePlus 10T for its global launch last year. However, it seems that this pattern might not repeat with the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro and the OnePlus 11T. Reports suggest that OnePlus intends to streamline its brand and will not be introducing a OnePlus 11T this year. The company’s focus on simplification led them to decide against launching any more ‘Pro’ models in their flagship lineup.

According to a spokesperson from OnePlus, “Starting with our 2023 lineup, we are streamlining the flagship portfolio in North America (and globally) by removing our Pro lineup. In our opinion, you don’t need to have a ‘Pro’ name for a device that’s already ‘pro’.”

It’s worth noting that while OnePlus’s statement specifically refers to the removal of the ‘Pro’ models, it does not explicitly mention the fate of the T-series devices. This leaves room for speculation that a OnePlus 11T might still be in the works for certain markets, even if not in the US.

If the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro eventually makes its way to global markets as the OnePlus 11T, it could prove to be an excellent option for those seeking an upgrade in 2023 and are looking for a top-tier smartphone experience. OnePlus has also introduced devices like the OnePlus Nord 3 and OnePlus Nord CE 3, indicating an interest in offering multiple devices under the same brand umbrella.

August 20, 2023
A New Era of Tech: Samsung’s Vision for Foldable Tablets and Laptops

Samsung has already taken the lead in the world of foldable smartphones, and it seems the company is gearing up for the next big step – the launch of foldable tablets and laptops.

Insiders’ reports indicate that Samsung plans to introduce a foldable tablet sometime this year. While the exact release date remains uncertain, representatives from Samsung have indeed confirmed that the company is actively working on developing such a cutting-edge device.

Samsung’s head of the mobile division, Tae Moon Roh (T.M. Roh), shared this information during an interview with The Independent on July 28th. Strangely, it’s only now that his words have gained attention from the media. He stated, “The innovations applied to smartphones will soon extend to tablets and laptops as well. At Samsung, we’re committing significant resources to make this happen.”

According to Roh, Samsung’s approach involves introducing foldable tablets and laptops only when they can offer meaningful advancements to consumers. He emphasized, “A foldable tablet must strike a balance – it should be lightweight and slim for easy portability, yet sturdy enough for worry-free usage.”

Notably, Samsung had previously patented a design for a foldable tablet named the Galaxy Fold Tab. This patent revealed a device featuring a flexible display that can be folded both inwards and outwards.

Samsung’s move into the realm of foldable tablets and laptops marks a significant progression beyond smartphones. The company’s focus on delivering meaningful innovation while maintaining the portability and durability of these devices suggests a new era of exciting and promising technology. As Samsung continues to invest in resources and expertise, the world awaits unveiling these innovative foldable gadgets, which are sure to redefine how we interact with tablets and laptops.

August 20, 2023