Tag: tech

  • Tech Buzz: Xiaomi’s Upcoming Devices, MIX Fold 3 and Pad 6 Max, Teased for August Release

    Tech Buzz: Xiaomi’s Upcoming Devices, MIX Fold 3 and Pad 6 Max, Teased for August Release

    Xiaomi is getting ready to release some new products soon. The MIX Fold 3 model, which people have been looking forward to, will be launched in August 2023, as confirmed by the company’s President, Lu Weibing. But it seems that this device will not be the only one released next month.

    Xiaomi

    According to a recent report, Xiaomi is planning to launch other new products as well. These include the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max and the Redmi K60 Ultra. The Chinese tech giant is apparently getting ready to introduce the new Xiaomi Pad 6 Max. People spotted this upcoming tablet on the Bluetooth SIG listing, suggesting that its launch is imminent. The Pad 6 Max was also seen on the 3C certification database.

    Similarly, the Redmi K60 Ultra is also expected to make its debut in August. The report mentions that the MIX Fold 3 and Pad 6 Max will be launched separately in China. The smartphone model is expected to be launched in early August before the MIX Fold 3. Moreover, the MIX Fold 3 and Pad 6 Max software is already live on the official MIUI server.

    The MIX Fold 3 has the codename Babylon and runs on MIUI FOLD 14.1 based on Android 13 out of the box. On the other hand, the Pad 6 Max has the codename Yudy and is also based on Android 13. The launch timeline matches a previous report that hinted at a Q3 2023 launch.

    In summary, Xiaomi is preparing to launch several new products in August. The MIX Fold 3, Pad 6 Max, and Redmi K60 Ultra are among the devices that will be released. Exciting times lie ahead for Xiaomi fans as they eagerly await the launch of these new gadgets.

  • Galaxy S24 Series to Introduce Faster Charging Speeds with EV-Inspired Tech

    Galaxy S24 Series to Introduce Faster Charging Speeds with EV-Inspired Tech

    The launch of the Samsung Galaxy S24 series is still several months away, but there have been leaks and rumors about the upcoming flagship phones. One notable improvement is the use of EV-inspired technology to enhance the batteries. Previously, it was reported that the Galaxy S24 series would feature improved batteries. Now, a tip from RGcloudS suggests that the charging speeds of the Galaxy S24 series have been revealed.

    Samsung Galaxy S24

    The current generation Samsung Galaxy S23+ and S23 Ultra support a charging speed of 45W, while the standard S23 is limited to 25W. Samsung has not increased the charging speed beyond this level since its introduction in 2019 on the Galaxy Note 10+. However, with the upcoming S24 series, Samsung is expected to adopt stacked battery charging technology, similar to what is used in electric vehicles. This technology allows for improved battery capacities without changing the battery’s physical size.

    The stacked battery charging technology is said to be limited to the S24+ and S24 Ultra models, which are rumored to have a 5,000mAh battery. This new technology will also enable faster charging speeds, potentially reaching a maximum of 65W. This is a 20W increase compared to the current 45W speed found in the Galaxy S23+ and Ultra variants. The S24 Ultra is also rumored to include a cooling gel for better heat dissipation.

    Unfortunately, the standard Samsung Galaxy S23 will not benefit from the charging speed upgrade. This is because the company has not yet begun testing the stacked battery technology, and there may not be sufficient production capacity for its implementation.

    In addition, it has been revealed that Apple’s upcoming iPhone 15 lineup will also utilize stacked battery technology, according to the tipster.

  • Is the Google Pixel Tablet Worth It? A Comprehensive Review

    Is the Google Pixel Tablet Worth It? A Comprehensive Review

    The Google Pixel Tablet is an Android-based tablet from Google, and it comes with a Charging Speaker Dock that transforms it into a smart display with improved speakers and Nest Hub-like features. The tablet is powered by custom Tensor G2 silicon and features a 10.95-inch LCD display, front and rear 8MP cameras, and a 7,020mAh battery.

    Google Pixel Tablet

    The base model of the Pixel Tablet with 128GB storage is priced at $499 in the US, while the 256GB storage variant costs $599. In the UK, it is priced at £599, and in selected European markets, it is priced at €679. You can purchase the Pixel Tablet from the Google Store, Amazon, Best Buy, and other major retailers.

    The Pixel Tablet was tested for two weeks, with the review unit purchased by Android Authority. The unique feature of the tablet is its dock, which enhances its functionality as a smart display. However, the dock is the main reason to consider buying the tablet, as it offers a better speaker and a pseudo-Google Nest smart display experience.

    When attached to the Charging Speaker Dock, the Pixel Tablet provides a room-filling audio experience. The dock holds the tablet securely with strong magnets, but it loses its functionality when separated from the tablet. The tablet itself has a Google aesthetic with soft-touch aluminum and slim bezels around the screen, making it suitable for both portrait and landscape orientations. The LCD panel is decent for a tablet and provides a good smart display experience.

    In terms of performance, the Tensor G2 chip offers enough power for everyday tasks without any issues. However, the tablet’s screen refresh rate is capped at 60Hz, which can make the overall performance feel sluggish compared to other devices with higher refresh rates.

    The Pixel Tablet provides the full Pixel experience on a larger screen, running on Android 13. It offers Google apps, Pixel-specific features, and a Material You design. However, some apps may not be optimized for the larger screen, and the absence of an official stylus or keyboard attachment limits their productivity potential.

    While the Pixel Tablet aims to excel in smart home integration, its Hub Mode falls short compared to dedicated Nest Hubs. It lacks features like Continued Conversation support and multiple Voice Match users. However, it performs well for basic tasks that require an interface, and the dock-centric setup ensures the tablet is always charged and ready to use.

    The battery life of the Pixel Tablet is standard, lasting around 10 hours with typical use. The cameras on the tablet are average, with both front and rear shooters being 8MP and limited to 1080p/30fps video recording.

    The Google Pixel Tablet caters to a specific niche, offering a hybrid experience as a portable slate and a smart display. While it may not match the performance and features of other Android tablets or provide a complete Nest Hub experience, it is a suitable option for those on a budget seeking a basic smart display and a user-friendly Android tablet.

  • Top 5 Noteworthy Smart TVs: Exploring the Best Features and Options

    Top 5 Noteworthy Smart TVs: Exploring the Best Features and Options

    The demand for smart TVs in the current market is undeniably on the rise. These televisions offer a wide range of features and applications, allowing users to enjoy various channels and access popular streaming platforms like YouTube and Netflix. In this article, we will delve into the details of some noteworthy smart TVs available in the market today.

    televisions

    One notable option is the Samsung QN90BAK, a 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV. Powered by Samsung’s Tizen operating system, this TV boasts a stunning 4K display with a refresh rate of 100 Hz. It offers an immersive audio experience with its 4-speaker system and supports Bluetooth audio with Q-Symphony technology. Additionally, it comes with convenient features like a smart remote control and auto power-off. The inclusion of AI upscale and quantum matrix technology further enhances picture quality, making it a compelling choice for consumers.

    Another impressive option is the Vu Masterpiece Glo, a 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV. Similar to the Samsung model, this TV features a 4K display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, ensuring smooth and vibrant visuals. Its 4.1 speaker system with 100-watt output, in-built subwoofer, and support for Dolby Atmos delivers exceptional audio quality, bringing movies and TV shows to life.

    Xiaomi’s Mi Q1 is another contender in the 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV segment. Running on the Android TV platform, this smart TV offers a 120 Hz screen refresh rate and a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels. It is equipped with a quad-core processor and Mali G53 GPU for seamless performance. With six speakers and Dolby audio support, users can enjoy immersive sound quality. Multiple HDMI and USB ports provide convenient connectivity options for external devices.

    The Blaupunkt 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV is another worthy consideration. Featuring a screen resolution of 3840×2160 pixels, this 4K smart TV offers 60 watts of sound output through its four speakers. With built-in Wi-Fi, users can easily connect to the internet and access popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+Hotstar, and Prime Video, expanding their entertainment options.

    Lastly, there is IQ-IT’s ROYALTY 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV. This smart Android TV offers a 4K resolution with a screen refresh rate of 60 Hz. It comes equipped with two Dolby Atmos speakers for immersive audio. With three HDMI and two USB ports, users have ample connectivity options to connect their devices and enjoy their favorite content.

  • Breaking the Cost Barrier: Build Solid Mid-Budget PC with Core i5-12400 Under $600

    Breaking the Cost Barrier: Build Solid Mid-Budget PC with Core i5-12400 Under $600

    Building a mid-budget PC has become challenging due to the soaring prices of graphics cards. However, Intel’s latest processor, the Core i5 12400, has gained popularity in the mid-budget segment. In today’s build, priced at $600, we have incorporated Intel’s Core i5 12400 processor, along with discussions on motherboard selection and memory support, alongside software and gaming benchmarks.

    Mid-Budget PC

    The Intel 12th Gen Core i5 12400 is now available in the market for $225. However, one major hurdle with this processor is the lack of budget-friendly motherboards available. Unlike AMD builds, which offer the advantage of using new processors on older boards with a simple BIOS update, Intel requires a new motherboard for nearly every generation. The 12th Gen CPUs utilize the LGA 1700 socket, replacing the previous LGA 1200 socket used in the 10th and 11th Gen processors.

    Considering budget constraints, our recommended choice for the motherboard is the Prime h610m-a, priced at $110. It offers adequate support for the Core i5 12400. However, if you have extra funds, the B660 board priced at $160 provides additional features such as memory overclocking and more ports. Those who require these features can consider investing in the B660 board, particularly for those looking to build with the more powerful 12600 processor.

    In terms of memory, current builds do not require high-speed RAM. DDR4 RAM running at 3200 MHz is sufficient and easily attainable without any complications. Additionally, upgrading the motherboard in the future will provide an opportunity to experience DDR5 RAM. For this build, we are utilizing two Corsair Vengeance LPX 8GB 3200 MHz RAM sticks, priced at $65 each.

    Storage preferences differ from person to person, so in this build, we are excluding additional storage options apart from a system drive. A 128GB M.2 PCIe SSD is included, priced at $28.

    In terms of the case, value-oriented options with decent build quality and features are sought after in tight budgets. For this build, we have chosen a case from a reputable brand that comes with four fixed rainbow RGB fans, priced at $35.

    To power the system, we have opted for the ANTEC CSK 450W Power Supply, priced at $40. This build, with the Core i5 12400, excels in gaming performance, but for those prioritizing overall productivity, the 5600G processor may be a better fit.

  • Apple Watch Fall Detection Feature Delivers Timely Help, Prevents Tragedy

    Apple Watch Fall Detection Feature Delivers Timely Help, Prevents Tragedy

    With time, Apple Watch is making its place as a great gadget in the tech world. As time passes, this special device’s achievements are coming up in front of everyone. Recently, this Apple watch has come into the discussion after saving the life of a young man.

    Apple Watch

    According to Apple Insider’s report, Alexander Ledgerson fell down the stairs and suffered a head injury. And that’s when his Apple Watch-8 automatically contacted emergency services through its fall detection feature and sent a notification to his wife. From there, the feature automatically activates and communicates with emergency services and selected contacts if the Ledgerson does not respond to a fall detection alert within one minute of falling.

    Fortunately, Ledgerson’s wife was able to contact the emergency department via her Apple Watch as soon as she received notification of the accident. Ledgerson was then rushed to the emergency department by ambulance. He was later given all the necessary treatment and received seven stitches to cover his wound. In danger, this special technology of Apple saved the user’s life, so they thanked Apple.

    Here’s how Apple Watch’s fall detection feature works
    If a user accidentally falls and does not respond within a minute, the gadget starts an alert by starting a 30-second countdown. It gradually increases so that the user or a bystander can hear it. If the user is still unable to call emergency services, the Apple Watch automatically initiates contact with the selected contact, including the emergency department.

    How to activate the feature
    First, open the Watch app on your iPhone and click on the My Watch option. Then tap on Emergency SOS. Then turn fruit detection on or off. If the fall detection feature is turned on, you can select Always On or Only On During Workout.

    Note that this feature is easily available on Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series-8 or later versions.

  • AMD’s RX 7600: Budget-Friendly GPU Packs Punch for 1080p Gaming

    AMD’s RX 7600: Budget-Friendly GPU Packs Punch for 1080p Gaming

    AMD has made a significant move by introducing the RX 7600, a budget-friendly graphics card that aims to cater to the needs of 1080p gamers. While AMD has been relatively quiet in releasing new GPUs, Nvidia has steadily expanded its product stack. However, the RX 7600 is a compelling option, especially compared to Nvidia’s underwhelming RTX 4060 Ti.

    RX 7600

    Priced at $270, the RX 7600 is $60 cheaper than its predecessor, the RX 6600, which was released during the GPU shortage. It’s a positive sign to see prices returning to more normal levels after the shortage subsided. Although there was a last-minute price adjustment from the initially reported $300, it is hoped that abundant options will be available at the $270 price point, as that’s where the RX 7600 offers the best value.

    Regarding specifications, the RX 7600 features 8GB of GDDR6 memory on a 128-bit bus, similar to the RX 6600 and RX 6600 XT, as well as Nvidia’s RTX 4060 Ti. While the limited bus and lower memory size may pose challenges at higher resolutions and demanding VRAM scenarios, the RX 7600 is not targeting 4K gaming, where memory bottlenecks become more pronounced. Its primary focus is on providing an excellent upgrade path for 1080p gamers, and in that regard, it succeeds.

    When evaluating synthetic performance using 3DMark, the RX 7600 falls just below Nvidia’s RTX 3060 Ti but surpasses the RX 6600 XT. This is noteworthy considering the RX 7600’s lower price tag, offering superior performance compared to its predecessor at a more affordable price. The improvement over the previous generation is substantial, with a 29% boost in Time Spy benchmark scores while still being $60 cheaper than the last-gen option.

    However, regarding ray tracing performance, the RX 7600 lags behind the competition from Nvidia and even Intel’s Arc A750. It’s important to note that 3DMark may give inflated scores for Intel GPUs, and real-world game performance aligns more closely between Nvidia and AMD cards. AMD positions the RX 7600 as a 1080p graphics card, making it a more reasonable choice than Nvidia’s higher-priced RTX 4060 Ti, which offers less power for more money.

    Comparing it to the RX 6600 and RX 6600 XT, the RX 7600 demonstrates a 30% and 12% performance increase, respectively, while being slightly more expensive. The comparison against Nvidia’s RTX 3060 is even more favourable, with the RX 7600 offering a 17% performance advantage at a lower price point. In games without ray tracing, such as Horizon Zero Dawn, the RX 7600 showcases a massive 43% performance improvement and even outperforms the RTX 3060 Ti.

    While the RX 7600 excels in most games, there are instances, like in Red Dead Redemption 2, where it falls behind Intel’s Arc A750 and A770. Nevertheless, this is the only game where the RX 7600 is noticeably outperformed.

    Overall, AMD has delivered a compelling option for 1080p gaming with the RX 7600. Not only is it $60 cheaper than its predecessor, but it also offers better value than the decreasing prices of last-gen options.

  • What to Consider When Buying a New Digital TV

    What to Consider When Buying a New Digital TV

    Technological advancements have made digital televisions (TVs) the standard for modern home entertainment. If you’re in the market for a new digital TV, several factors must be considered to ensure you make the right choice. This article will guide you through the essential factors to keep in mind when purchasing a new digital TV, using simple and easy-to-understand language.

    The screen size of the TV is an important consideration. Determine the space available in your room and choose a size that fits comfortably without overwhelming the viewing area. Additionally, consider the resolution. High-definition (HD) TVs offer sharper and clearer images compared to standard-definition TVs. Opt for a TV with at least 1080p resolution for an immersive viewing experience.

    Digital TVs use various display technologies, including LED, OLED, and QLED. LED TVs are cost-effective and provide good picture quality. OLED TVs offer deeper blacks, wider viewing angles, and vibrant colors. QLED TVs provide excellent brightness and color accuracy. Consider your preferences and budget when choosing the display technology that suits your needs.

    Smart TVs have built-in internet connectivity, allowing access to streaming services, apps, and online content. Check if the TV offers popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Hulu. Ensure the TV has Wi-Fi connectivity and supports the apps you want to use. Smart features enhance your entertainment options and provide convenience.

    Consider the connectivity options available on the TV. Look for multiple HDMI ports to connect external devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, or sound systems. USB ports are useful for playing media files directly from external storage devices. Additionally, check for audio output options such as optical or HDMI ARC to connect external audio devices.

    While the focus is often on the TV’s visual performance, audio quality is equally important for an immersive viewing experience. Look for TVs with built-in speakers that provide clear sound. If you prefer enhanced audio, consider a TV with support for external sound systems or soundbars.

    Newer digital TVs are more energy-efficient compared to older models. Look for TVs with an Energy Star rating, as they consume less power and contribute to lower energy bills. Energy-efficient TVs are environmentally friendly and can save you money in the long run.

    Set a budget for your new digital TV purchase. Compare prices from different retailers and consider the features and specifications offered for the price. Additionally, check the warranty provided by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period gives you peace of mind and protects your investment.

    When buying a new digital TV, it’s crucial to consider factors such as screen size, resolution, display technology, smart features, connectivity options, audio quality, energy efficiency, price, and warranty. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a TV that meets your entertainment needs, fits your budget, and provides an enjoyable viewing experience for years to come.

  • 2023 Best Electric Cars: Top 10 Models for Range, Performance, and Price

    2023 Best Electric Cars: Top 10 Models for Range, Performance, and Price

    At present time, electric cars are defined as vehicles that are powered by one or more electric motors, using only energy stored in batteries. Compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric cars are quieter, have no exhaust emissions, and lower emissions overall, however the plant producing the electricity might generate its own emissions.

    The term generally refers to highway-capable automobiles, but there are also low-speed electric vehicles with limitations in terms of weight, power and maximum speed that are allowed to travel on public roads. The latter are classified as Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) in the United States, and as electric motorised quadricycles in Europe.

    Here are some of the benefits of electric cars:

    • They are better for the environment. Electric cars produce zero emissions, which helps to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
    • They are more fuel-efficient. Electric cars can travel further on a single charge than gasoline-powered cars.
    • They are quieter. Electric cars are much quieter than gasoline-powered cars, which can help to reduce noise pollution.
    • They are easier to maintain. Electric cars have fewer moving parts than gasoline-powered cars, which means they are less expensive to maintain.

    However, there are also some challenges associated with electric cars:

    • The upfront cost of an electric car is higher than the cost of a gasoline-powered car.
    • The range of an electric car is limited. Most electric cars can only travel about 100-200 miles on a single charge.
    • The charging infrastructure for electric cars is not as widespread as the infrastructure for gasoline-powered cars.

    Despite these challenges, the popularity of electric cars is growing. In 2022, electric car sales in the United States reached a record high of 691,000. This is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, as more automakers introduce new electric car models and as the cost of electric cars continues to come down.

    New Era of ‘Tricycle’

    2023 Best Electric Cars: Top 10 Models for Range, Performance, and Price

    Here are the top 10 best electric cars for 2023, based on range, performance, and price:

    1. Lucid Air – The Lucid Air is the new luxury electric car that has everyone talking. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 520 miles, can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, and starts at $169,000.
    2. Tesla Model S Plaid – The Tesla Model S Plaid is the fastest electric car on the market, with a top speed of 200 mph. It has an EPA-estimated range of 390 miles and starts at $129,990.
    3. Ford Mustang Mach-E – The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a stylish and affordable electric SUV. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 300 miles and starts at $42,895.
    4. Tesla Model 3 Long Range – The Tesla Model 3 Long Range is the most popular electric car on the market. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 358 miles and starts at $46,990.
    5. Hyundai Ioniq 5 – The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a stylish and practical electric car. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 303 miles and starts at $40,950.
    6. Kia EV6 – The Kia EV6 is a sibling to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, and it offers similar features and performance. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 274 miles and starts at $40,990.
    7. Nissan Leaf Plus – The Nissan Leaf Plus is a more affordable option for those looking for an electric car. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 226 miles and starts at $38,285.
    8. Chevrolet Bolt EV – The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a great option for those looking for an affordable and practical electric car. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 259 miles and starts at $31,000.
    9. Volkswagen ID.4 – The Volkswagen ID.4 is a stylish and practical electric SUV. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 250 miles and starts at $41,190.
    10. Tesla Model Y Long Range – The Tesla Model Y Long Range is a more practical and affordable option for those looking for an electric SUV. It has an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles and starts at $51,990.

    These are just a few of the many great electric cars on the market in 2023. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect electric car for your needs.

    The Ultimate Guide to Buy the Best Electric Cars of 2023

    Here is a guide to buying the best electric cars of 2023:

    1. Consider your needs. What do you need your electric car for? Do you need a lot of space for passengers or cargo? Do you need a car that can handle rough terrain? Once you know what you need, you can start narrowing down your options.
    2. Think about your budget. Electric cars can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. There are a number of affordable electric cars on the market, so you don’t have to spend a fortune to get into an EV.
    3. Do your research. Read reviews, compare features, and test drive as many cars as you can before you make a decision. The more research you do, the better equipped you’ll be to make the best decision for your needs.
    4. Don’t forget about the tax incentives. Many states offer tax incentives for buying an electric car. These incentives can save you thousands of dollars, so be sure to factor them into your decision.
    5. Be prepared for the change. Going electric is a big change, so be prepared for some challenges. You’ll need to learn how to charge your car, and you may need to adjust your driving habits. But the rewards of owning an electric car are many, including lower operating costs, reduced emissions, and a quiet and smooth ride.

     

  • RX 6400 Graphics Card: Very Budget-Friendly but worth it?

    RX 6400 Graphics Card: Very Budget-Friendly but worth it?

    AMD received significant backlash for its controversial release of the RX 6500 XT graphics card priced at $200. The card failed to deliver the expected performance for its price, leading to numerous negative reviews. In response, AMD is now set to launch more affordable NAVI-based RDNA2 graphics cards, with the  introduction of the AMD Radeon RX 6400.

    RX 6400

    The Radeon RX 6400, a budget-friendly entry-level graphics card, supports ray tracing and comes with an enticing price tag. Unlike AMD’s usual practice, there is no Founders edition available for this particular card. Instead, custom board manufacturers such as Biostar, XFX, ASUS, and Gigabyte have released their respective RX 6400 models.

    AMD has positioned this new graphics card as a competitor to the GTX 1050 Ti. Priced at just $160, the RX 6400 offers an attractive alternative for budget-conscious PC builders. Additionally, its entry-level nature ensures lower power consumption, eliminating the need for an additional power connector. If the card is priced correctly and readily available in the market, it will be welcomed news for those seeking an affordable option with ray tracing capabilities.

    Taking a closer look at the GPU’s specifications, it is apparent that the RX 6400 is a refined version of the RX 6500 XT, with slightly weaker specifications. The GPU features 768 streaming processors, 12 ray accelerators for ray tracing, and 48 texture units. It operates at a base clock of 2 GHz and a boost clock of 2.3 GHz.

    Unfortunately, similar to the RX 6500 XT, the RX 6400 lacks support for AV1 Decode, H265/HEVC Encode, and 4K H264 Encode. With a TDP of only 53 watts, the card requires no additional power connector, making it compatible with power supplies as low as 350 watts.

    Considering the disappointment surrounding the RX 6500 XT’s performance, it is crucial for potential buyers to exercise caution before purchasing the RX 6400. According to AMD’s claims, this card is positioned as a competitor to the GTX 1050 Ti and GTX 1650, offering superior performance. It remains to be seen whether the RX 6400 lives up to these expectations and provides a viable alternative in the budget graphics card market.