Category: Technology News

Technology News: Plug into the pulse of the digital world with our Technology News section. Stay ahead of the curve with breaking news from innovative startups to tech giants, from artificial intelligence breakthroughs to the latest in cybersecurity. Our broad coverage spans across diverse areas, including gadgets, software, hardware, cloud computing, gaming, and beyond. Get exclusive access to interviews, product launches, and insightful reviews. Stay informed and navigate the future of technology with us today.

Xiaomi’s Latest Innovation: Mi Home Smart Massage Chair for Relaxation

Xiaomi is expanding its product range with a new addition that has caught the eye of many – the Mi Home Smart Massage Chair. While Xiaomi is commonly known for its smartphones, the company actually makes a wide variety of items, from phones to robot vacuums and even toothbrushes. Recently, they introduced a robot dog called CyberDog 2, and now they’ve unveiled the Mi Home Smart Massage Chair, priced at 6999 yuan. This chair is designed to help you relax and de-stress, offering a host of impressive features at an attractive price point.

Xiaomi isn’t entirely new to the world of massage devices. In 2021, they launched a massage gun, dipping their toes into this area for the first time. Now, they’ve taken it up a notch with the Mi Home Smart Massage Chair, which is creating quite a buzz due to its remarkable features and the affordable price of 6999 yuan.

What does this smart massage chair bring to the table? Well, quite a lot, actually:

1. Preset Modes: There are four preset modes ready to use, making it simple for you to get started.

2. App Choices: If you’re using the Mi Home app, you’ll have access to five unique modes that are specifically selected for app users.

3. Cloud Delights: For some variety, there are six cloud-based modes that you can explore.

4. DIY Fun: If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can dive into three modes that allow you to customize your massage experience and play masseuse.

But what sets this massage chair apart is its intuitive nature. Thanks to advanced pressure sensing technology and Hall shoulder detection, the chair effectively maps your body, ensuring that the massage hits all the right spots. It’s almost like having a pair of expert hands that know exactly where to apply pressure and how much. This personalized touch is what makes the Mi Home Smart Massage Chair truly special.

And if you thought a two-handed massage was soothing, imagine experiencing a four-handed massage. The chair achieves this sensation through its unique V-shaped core structure. You’ll also have the freedom to choose from six different massage techniques, allowing you to adjust the strength and speed to match your preferences. Sometimes, simplicity is key when all you want is to unwind, which is why Xiaomi has integrated voice commands via the Xiao Ai assistant, enabling you to control the chair effortlessly.

For those who prefer a hands-on approach, the Mi Home app and a wireless remote control are at your disposal. The chair even supports NFC touch connection and smart user recognition, adding a touch of luxury and advanced technology to your relaxation routine.

The Mi Home Smart Massage Chair from Xiaomi is more than just a piece of furniture. It’s a thoughtful and advanced creation that aims to provide you with the ultimate relaxation experience. Whether you’re using the preset modes, exploring customized options, or enjoying the luxury of voice commands, this massage chair combines technology and comfort in a seamless and impressive manner.

August 17, 2023
Discover the World of Heat with an Arduino Thermal Camera

Ever seen those inexpensive telescopes at the store? They come in fancy boxes with stunning pictures, usually from powerful telescopes like Hubble. However, what you see through them is often quite different. That’s a bit like what happens with [upir’s] Arduino thermal camera project. It’s important to take a closer look at this project because it mixes images you’d expect from an 8×8 sensor with pictures from a much better camera.

The actual project is quite cool. It brings together a cheap 8×8 infrared (IR) sensor and an 8×8 LED panel to create a basic but functional thermal camera.

He makes good use of existing libraries, explaining how and why he chose them and made some necessary changes. One interesting part is when he demonstrates plotting HSV values to the LED array instead of the typical RGB values.

The rest becomes relatively simple once you have code ready to read the sensor and control the LEDs. However, just like the dime-store telescope, you shouldn’t expect astonishing results. Nevertheless, you probably have most of the necessary components lying around, except for the $20 sensor.

Around the ten-minute mark in the video, he showcases the same sensor in a commercial module that enhances resolution on an LCD screen. While still basic, he quickly reviews a commercial camera that can be plugged into your phone. (Feel free to skip the video beyond this point if you do not like subtle advertising.) We’ve actually discussed that camera before, as well as some of its competitors. While any of those options will outperform the 8×8 Arduino camera, they’ll also be pricier and won’t provide the satisfaction of building it yourself.

August 16, 2023
Camo Cool: Exploring the Features of Atomos Ninja and Ninja Ultra Monitors

Atomos has just revealed its latest generation of monitor/recorders, the Ninja and Ninja Ultra. This marks a significant update since the original Ninja’s debut in 2010. Back then, having a monitor/recorder that could capture ProRes to a removable SSD was groundbreaking for DSLR shooters.

Although many cameras can now internally record in 4:2:2 10-bit and decent codecs, there remains a demand for external recorders/monitors, especially among mirrorless hybrids and budget digital cinema cameras lacking internal RAW recording capability.

The new Ninja and Ninja Ultra sport a distinctive ‘camo’ color polycarbonate body. They both offer 6K ProRes RAW, ProRes, DNxHD, and H.265 codecs. Notably, H.265 was formerly a paid option, but it’s now included. Oddly, there’s only a camo color option, and regular black isn’t available.

Despite the same screen and body design as their predecessors, the real changes are under the hood. The new Ninja targets mirrorless hybrid owners, while the Ninja Ultra focuses on optimizing camera-to-cloud tech and Atomos Connect workflows.

Out of the box, the Apple ProRes codec is ready for immediate use. To activate H.265 and DNx codecs, visit my.atomos.com, register your product, and follow simple online steps. For Apple ProRes RAW, go to the portal and plug in your RAW-compatible camera—this step is needed only once.

With an updated OS, HDR monitoring, and RAW recording capabilities, the Atomos Ninja 5.2″ 4K HDMI Recording Monitor supports DCI 4K HDMI and ProRes RAW up to 6K. It retains compatibility with existing Atomos monitor accessories.

Highlighted Features:

– 1920 x 1080 Touchscreen Display
– 10-Bit Exterior Viewable Monitor
– 4K HDMI 2.0 Input/Output
– 6K30 ProRes RAW (select cameras)
– AtomOS 11 Operating System
– 1000 cd/m² Brightness
– Supports Various Log Formats
– ProRes and DNxHR/HD Recording
– Record to Master Caddy II/III Hard Drive
– L-Series Battery Slot, USB-C Port

The RecordAssist function schedules recordings, ideal for pre-arranged events. Multiple Ninjas can even record in different locations simultaneously.

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 the Ninja Ultra, reaching up to 8K at 30 fps.

The Atomos Ninja Ultra 5.2″ 4K HDMI Recording Monitor maintains the form factor of its predecessors, compatible with most Atomos monitor accessories. It records ProRes RAW up to 4K 60p while simultaneously recording HD 60p to H.265. It supports automatic matching filenames, timecodes, and works with ARRI, Canon, and RED cameras, with more to come.

Curiously, there’s an image of an Atomos Ninja Ultra on an ARRI Alexa Mini, even though the Alexa Mini lacks an HDMI output.

Ninja Ultra’s new 4K camera-to-cloud mode lets you upload higher quality, higher bitrate H.265 video with better framerates. These smaller H.265 files are ideal for camera-to-cloud workflows and quick use on social media, sports, or news.

By adding an Atomos Connect module to a Ninja or Ninja Ultra, you enable Atomos RemoteView. This groundbreaking tech lets you share live views from your Atomos screen wirelessly with other Atomos monitors, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs. RemoteView transforms remote production with innovative features.

For the Ninja Ultra, the Atomos Connect module offers lower latency, higher throughput, and a more stable Wi-Fi 6E connection. Atomos leads by incorporating this advanced Wi-Fi standard into cloud-enabled products.

Atomos introduces an overhauled operating system, AtomOS 11. It’s cleaner, faster, and fresher thanks to hardware optimizations. Notably, AtomOS 11 introduces new features like EL Zone exposure referenced colorized image, ARRI False Color, and new scheduled playback & recording tools—a welcome addition after 13 years of waiting for standardized false color.

August 16, 2023
Xiaomi CyberDog 2: The Next Generation of Robotic Innovation

Xiaomi has just introduced the CyberDog 2, a follow-up to the original CyberDog launched in 2021. This new version is a four-legged robotic dog, but Xiaomi has made some significant changes to its design to make it stand out even more than its predecessor.

The first CyberDog was created to resemble Boston Dynamics’ Spot, but the CyberDog 2 has a unique and different look. Its body has been completely redesigned to resemble a Doberman, featuring small ears on both sides of its head. This gives it a more realistic dog-like appearance compared to the previous model.

One noticeable difference is that the CyberDog 2 is now smaller and lighter than before. It weighs only 8.9 kilograms and stands at 36.7 centimetres tall, much smaller than a typical golden retriever. In fact, Xiaomi has demonstrated that the robot can even balance on just one leg without causing damage.

Enhancing its mobility, Xiaomi has equipped the CyberDog 2 with its self-developed CyberGear micro-actuators. These actuators provide greater agility, allowing the robot to perform complex manoeuvres such as continuous backflips and recovering from falls.

The robot also boasts an advanced decision-making system equipped with 19 sensors dedicated to vision, touch, and hearing. These sensors include various technologies like RGB cameras, interactive AI-backed cameras, ToF sensors, LiDAR sensors, and more. The CyberDog 2 is also equipped with microphones and supports the Xiaomi AI voice algorithm.

In terms of intelligence, Xiaomi has given the CyberDog 2 impressive capabilities. It is powered by the NX processor and two co-processors, delivering a computing power of up to 21 TOPS (tera-operations per second).

As for the price, the CyberDog 2 is priced at 12,999 yuan, which is roughly equivalent to around USD 1,790. It will soon be available for purchase in China.

Xiaomi has decided to make the CyberDog 2 open-source in a noteworthy move. The robot’s code, structural drawings, and even programming methods for its various sensing capabilities are available to the public. This open approach allows technology enthusiasts and developers to experiment and tinker with the product, making it an appealing option for those interested in exploring its potential.

August 15, 2023
Potential Rebirth: Rumors of a PSP Resurrection for Modern Gamer

Sony’s PlayStation Portable, or PSP, gained immense popularity upon its release in 2004. While its lifespan was relatively short, lasting about a decade, this handheld device transformed the world of mobile gaming and left a lasting impact on the era of console gaming.

As games became more demanding and required substantial battery power, Sony shifted its focus towards full-size consoles rather than handheld gaming devices. However, a sense of déjà vu might be in store as rumors are swirling about a potential revival of the PSP. Known as “Project Q Lite,” this streaming PSP handheld, designed for PlayStation Remote Play, is anticipated to debut by this year’s end.

It’s important to note that this remote play gadget won’t function as a standalone gaming device or even a cloud gaming handheld device. Instead, it will serve as a platform for streaming your PS5 games. As of now, we can’t confirm this aspect with certainty. While a standalone device provides users with greater freedom, Sony’s intentions remain unknown. It would be more advantageous for the next-generation PSP to possess such capabilities.

This potential development presents us with yet another reason to explore another PlayStation portable handheld that could capture the attention of discerning gamers who prioritize their preferences. The concept render envisions a more ergonomic body design compared to the original PSP’s angular structure. Placing the buttons closer to the upper portion of the device benefits those with larger hands, though it might prove slightly uncomfortable for those with smaller hands. On the other hand, the curved trigger buttons seem to offer ergonomic comfort for both types of users.

While the PSP was a formidable handheld console during its time, an upgraded PSP Pro with enhanced power would be a welcome sight. Such enhancements would lead to improved graphics and gameplay, ensuring the console remains relevant in the future. An upgraded PSP Pro could feature a higher-resolution display, potentially reaching 1080p or even higher, to enhance the visual quality of games.

An extended battery life allowing for several hours of gameplay without constant recharging would also be ideal. Incorporating backward compatibility with PSP and PS Vita games would also be beneficial if it becomes an option. This feature would enable individuals to relish their classic PSP and PS Vita games on a modern console.

August 15, 2023
Revolutionizing Smartphone Photography: Rise of 200MP Periscope Telephoto Lenses

In the world of fast-changing smartphone technology, new ideas are always appearing. People want phones with more features, so companies are always working on new ideas. One new thing in smartphone cameras is the use of periscope telephoto lenses that can take pictures from far away. And now, there’s something even more exciting on the horizon: a 200MP periscope telephoto lens for smartphones. This could change how we take pictures with our phones.

People love using telephoto lenses on their phones, especially in expensive models. These lenses help you take clear pictures of things that are far away. But now, things are getting even better. The Honor Magic 6 Ultimate phone is going to have a periscope lens that can take pictures at 200 megapixels. That’s a lot of detail! And to make things even cooler, they’re adding a new technology that lets you zoom in on pictures and still see lots of detail. The main camera on the phone is also getting a boost, going up to 50 megapixels.

But there’s more to this phone than just the camera. Inside, it’s going to have a super fast Snapdragon 8 Gen3 chip. This will make the phone work really well and use less power. The screen is also amazing, made by a company called BOE. It has a special design that makes it look great and use less power too. It can also change how bright it is very quickly, which is good for your eyes and your battery. Even the way the phone charges is getting better, although they haven’t said exactly how.

And Honor isn’t the only company doing this. Another big company, Vivo, is also making a phone with a 200MP periscope lens and a big main camera. This means they’re going to be in a competition to see who can make the best phone camera. This is not just about regular cameras, but also about the special periscope part. So, both of these companies are trying really hard to make phones that can take amazing pictures, especially from far away.

All of these changes in smartphone cameras mean that we’re going to be able to take even better pictures with our phones. Honor and Vivo are both working on phones that could change how we take photos and videos. They want to give us more options and make our pictures look really good. These new phones are supposed to come out soon, maybe next year. So, get ready for some big changes in the way we use our phones to capture the world around us. It’s going to be an exciting time for smartphone photography!

August 15, 2023
The 5 top foldable phone you can buy in 2023

Foldable or flip phones are now more popular in the market. Customers are looking to get a foldable phone within their budget. Today’s article will discuss the 5 best foldable phones of 2023. When it comes to performance, you can consider Samsung. On the other hand, if you want a budget phone, you can buy Oppo’s foldable phone.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

Next month i.e. in July this year, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 was launched in Seoul, South Korea along with Galaxy Z Flip 5. The foldable phone is believed to be more or less the same as the Z Fold 4, but will feature an updated processor and some minor tweaks. For example, Qualcomm’s custom-developed Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor is said to be used. It will feature a 7.6-inch foldable display, a 6.2-inch cover display and a triple-camera setup. Regarding the camera, Sanskar informed that there will be a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and a 12-megapixel telephoto camera.

Motorola Razr 40 Ultra

This Motorola smartphone will feature 144 Hz refresh rate. The smartphone is expected to display a 6.67-inch folding OLED panel. Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen1 chipset is likely to be used as the processor. It can be expected to feature up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. A powerful 3640 MHz battery will power the device. Motorola’s device will feature a 50-megapixel primary camera. Besides, the 32 megapixel selfie camera will be provided on the front of the smartphone.

Google Pixel Fold

Pixel Fold is often unfolded in vertical orientation, as it is quite convenient for scrolling apps and websites. The Pixel Fold has Google’s Tensor G2 chip, while the Phantom V Fold uses a MediaTek flagship 9000+ chip. The Pixel Fold’s battery drains quickly. Pixel Fold offers rich, advanced features in place of its software Pixel Fold is known for its camera, with a 5x zoom telephoto lens, offering quality images. The device has received an IPX8 certification. It provides protection from accidental splashes or water. One of the notable advantages of the Pixel Fold is its wide external screen, which offers a landscape orientation when unfolded, facilitating video viewing without the need to rotate the device.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 new generation foldable handsets were launched at the company’s special ‘Galaxy Unpacked’ event on July 26. For the upcoming Flip 4 successor, Samsung is introducing a larger cover display with design and practical improvements in mind. Leaked dummy images reveal an upgrade from the previous Z Flip model. Samsung is now gearing up to launch the Galaxy Z Flip 4 successor with a larger cover display. However, the Korean tech giant seems to be overlooking the hinge gap in their upcoming foldable device.

Oppo Find N2 Flip

The new flip smartphone released by Oppo will be a strong competitor to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 4 mobile. The most interesting thing about Oppo’s new phone is that it will be priced relatively low. In addition, the phone uses MediaTek Dimension 9000 Plus powerful chipset. The Oppo Find N2 Flip phone will feature a 50-megapixel primary camera and a larger display than Samsung’s device. While the new Flip device has launched globally, it is not making its way into the US market very soon.

August 14, 2023
Honor Magic V2: The Outward-Folding Innovation Set to Compete Globally

Just a month ago, Honor revealed its latest technological advancement with the Magic 2, an impressively thin foldable smartphone. The company has bold plans to introduce this state-of-the-art device to global markets in the upcoming month. Honor Magic V2 aims to directly challenge Huawei’s Mate X3 foldable phone and also compete with well-established players like Samsung and Xiaomi.

Several well-known brands, including Samsung, OPPO, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Honor, have entered the foldable phone arena with models featuring inward folding displays. However, Huawei has distinguished itself by adopting a unique outward folding design, showcased in the Mate Xs series. This approach sets it apart, providing a slimmer and more streamlined profile compared to the conventional inward folding models. The single, expansive foldable screen contributes to this distinctiveness.

In a strategic move to rival Huawei’s offering, Honor has dedicated its efforts to crafting an outward foldable phone, which is already in the works. A recent development saw an Honor device, identified by the model number VCA-AN00, successfully obtaining network licensing from telecom authorities. Insiders have given this model the codename “Victoria,” widely believed to represent Honor’s forthcoming outward foldable phone.

Anticipated to be Honor’s groundbreaking outward foldable display smartphone, the “Victoria” stands out from devices with smaller folding screens by featuring a spacious 2K eye-friendly display. If we follow Huawei’s naming patterns, the device could potentially hit the market as the Honor Magic Vs2. This strategic decision underscores Honor’s unwavering commitment to embracing innovation and going head-to-head with the pioneers of foldable technology in the market.

August 13, 2023
DJI Mini 4 Pro: A Closer Look at Leaked Image and Expected Upgrades

We’ve recently finished testing the DJI Air 3 controller, but it appears that DJI is already working on its next release, as indicated by the leaked image of the DJI Mini 4 Pro shared by well-known DJI leaker @Quadro_News on Twitter. This new model seems to be a follow-up to the DJI Mini 3 Pro from last year, which we consider one of the top drones on the market.

Although no specific specifications have been leaked alongside the image, we can make some informed assumptions based on its appearance. The most noticeable improvement is likely to be an omnidirectional obstacle-sensing system, similar to what was introduced in the Air 3. This can be inferred from the adjusted fisheye sensors positioned above the camera and gimbal. These sensors now face outwards to the sides instead of directly ahead, a departure from the setup on the Mini 3 Pro.

While other enhancements are less clear from the leaked image, it seems that the Mini 4 Pro might still feature only one camera. The Air 3 made a significant upgrade by introducing a dual-camera system, one of which offered 3x optical zoom.

Upon closer examination of the leaked image of the supposed Mini 4 Pro, it appears that there is only one camera, likely based on the same 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor found in both the Mini 3 Pro and Air 3. This decision might have been made to keep the weight down. The Mini series is popular for being under 250 grams, allowing greater flexibility for flyers in various regions, such as needing only an Operator ID instead of a Flyer ID in the UK.

Another probable feature in the Mini 4 Pro is OcuSync 4.0, the latest iteration of DJI’s digital transmission system connecting drones to their controllers. This version enhances signal reliability and extends the range to 20km (12 miles), although legal restrictions in most regions limit the practical use of such a range.

This development suggests that DJI might pair the Mini 4 Pro with the new DJI RC 2 controller, a feature that also accompanied the Air 3. Although the leaked image implies a minor upgrade, the Mini 4 Pro will likely incorporate most of the quality-of-life improvements seen in the recent all-rounder model, albeit in a more compact package. This could make it another fantastic travel companion.

Considering that the DJI Mini 3 Pro was released in May 2022, it’s just over a year old. Would DJI really introduce a successor this soon? Given DJI’s recent pattern of releases, it seems quite plausible. As an owner of the Mini 3 Pro, I wouldn’t be too bothered about upgrading if this were to be the case.

Based on the leaks, the Mini 4 Pro seems to be a modest upgrade, possibly aligning it with the Air 3 in terms of its controller and connectivity. If the Mini 4 Pro boasts an omnidirectional obstacle-sensing system, OcuSync 4.0, and the new RC 2 controller, it would be a sensible update, especially anticipating the upcoming shopping season.

DJI has started to create sub-categories within its models, so we might expect to see a more affordable DJI Mini 4 (perhaps in 2024) accompanied by the new DJI RC-N2 controller. This controller comes with an improved processor, enhanced antennas, and support for OcuSync 4.0.

August 13, 2023
Mediatek’s Dimensity 9300 Chipset: Pioneering All-Big-Core Design for Enhanced Performance

MediaTek is getting ready to introduce its Dimensity 9300 chipset, which is creating quite a buzz due to its unique design featuring all-big-core architecture. According to information from Digital Chat Station, the launch of this chipset is anticipated in October. This source also discloses that the chipset will showcase an 8-core CPU setup, consisting of 4 Cortex-X4 and 4 Cortex-A720 cores, along with the Immortalis G720 GPU. This change from smaller cores is expected to enhance performance and lower power consumption.

The Cortex-X4 cores within the Dimensity 9300 are projected to provide a 15% performance improvement and a 40% reduction in power usage. Additionally, the Cortex-A720 cores are likely to achieve a notable 20% increase in energy efficiency.

Crafted using TSMC’s N4P process, the Dimensity 9300 aims to surpass Apple’s A17 chip by considerably reducing power consumption linked to paper-based usage, by over 50%. This transition to complete 64-bit processing is anticipated to contribute to smoother smartphone functioning and reduced power drain.

The Dimensity 9300 has displayed its capabilities when paired with SK Hynix’s LPDDR5T mobile DRAM, achieving remarkable speeds of 9.6Gbps – which is a remarkable 13% improvement compared to the previous generation. This progress might make its debut in the Vivo X100 series, potentially enhancing performance for Android devices.

The launch of the Dimensity 9300 is planned before Qualcomm’s 2023 Snapdragon Summit, which is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. There are whispers that the global introduction of the Dimensity 9300 might occur with the vivo X100 series. As the launch date approaches, it appears the chipset holds great promise for significantly advancing smartphone performance and efficiency.

According to DCS, it’s also suggested that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 might come with a higher cost, prompting some manufacturers to consider using older Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or Dimensity platforms in their new devices. This strategy could save them money while maintaining efficiency and functionality.

August 13, 2023