Apple plans to assemble 25% of iPhones in India over the next 2-3 years.
Scaling up to produce 50 million iPhones annually in India.
Key partnerships with Foxconn and Tata to boost iPhone assembly.
Apple also aims to manufacture iPhone 16 batteries in India.
Apple has targeted India as its production and manufacturing hub for the future.
The company’s ambitions are gaining a lot of momentum and a new report has stated that Apple has plans to assemble nearly a quarter of all iPhones in the country over the next two to three years.
So basically 1/4th of all iPhones shipped across the globe will be made in India.
50 Million iPhones Every Year
Apple to Manufacture iPhone 15 in India
The plan involves scaling up production in India to over 50 million devices in the coming years, followed by an increase in tens of millions of iPhones thereafter.
This expansion is driven by s Taiwan’s Foxconn, a key Apple supplier, which is gearing up to inaugurate a new plant in Karnataka in April.
This facility alone is expected to produce around 20 million smartphones annually, primarily iPhones.
Bloomberg has reported that from the Indian side of things, Tata is also making significant moves to bolster iPhone assembly in India.
Tata’s ambition includes establishing the largest iPhone assembly plant in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.
Additionally, Tata, which already owns an iPhone manufacturing site in Karnataka acquired from Wistron, is collaborating with Apple to open 100 retail stores across the country.
Broadening the Expansion in India
Currently, China is a critical hub for iPhone production but that may not be the case in a few years.
Apple’s shift towards India is partly driven by challenges such as restrictive labor rules in China.
Furthermore, US-China relations are at their lowest in terms of economic dependency.
iPhone 16 Batteries To Be Made In India
iphone 16 pro prototype leaked battery
In more recent news, Apple also expressed a preference for iPhone 16 batteries to be manufactured in India, as part of its ongoing efforts to diversify its production and supply chain.
To facilitate this shift, Apple has encouraged its battery suppliers, including Chinese manufacturer Desay and Taiwanese firm Simplo Technology, to establish or expand their production facilities in India.
We shall see how Apple’s plans will work out but one thing has become abundantly clear, India is Apple’s next big destination.
FAQs:
What is Apple’s Plan for iPhone Production in India?
Apple intends to increase its iPhone production in India to cover about a quarter of its total global output, aiming to manufacture 50 million devices yearly in the country.
Who are Apple’s Key Manufacturing Partners in India?
Apple’s key manufacturing partners in India include Taiwan’s Foxconn, which is opening a new plant in Karnataka, and the Indian conglomerate Tata, planning the country’s largest iPhone assembly plant in Tamil Nadu.
Why is Apple Shifting its Production Focus to India?
Apple is shifting its focus to India to diversify its production base, reduce dependency on China, and navigate challenges like restrictive labor rules and fluctuating US-China relations.
How is Apple Planning to Manufacture iPhone Batteries in India?
Apple has expressed a preference for iPhone 16 batteries to be made in India and is encouraging suppliers like Desay and Simplo Technology to establish or expand their manufacturing facilities in India.
Threads rolls out a new tagging feature to organize and categorize content.
Unique tagging system allows phrases with spaces, limited to one tag per post.
Tags appear in blue and emojis can be included, enhancing user interaction.
Significant user engagement drop challenges Threads’ growth prospects.
Threads, an X competitor owned by Meta, has recently introduced a new taggingfeature, widely known as ‘Tags,’ globally.
After an initial burst of users, engagement on the platform has not been too good. Perhaps this new addition might soothe some troubled waters.
Tags: A New Threads Feature
Adam Mosseri, the Head of Instagram,announced the global rollout of this feature in a post on Threads.
The introduction of tags is designed to help users categorize their content, making it easier to find and interact with.
If it sounds familiar, then you are right as it is basically the hashtag feature that is prevalent on various social media platforms.
However, Threads’ implementation of tags comes with noticeable differences and functional changes.
In Threads, the traditional “#” symbol, commonly associated with hashtags, won’t be displayed.
Tags: A New Threads Feature
Users have the flexibility to tag phrases with spaced-out words, and uniquely, only one tag can be added to each post.
According to Mosseri, this approach to tagging is intended to foster community-focused discussions rather than simply boosting user engagement.
The process of adding a tag on Threadsis straightforward. Users can either use the “#” key on their keyboard or a newly introduced # button within the post composer.
This will prompt a list of existing topics from which to choose, or users can create a new one. The tags can include spaces and special characters.
Tags in Threads posts appear in blue, akin to a hyperlink, and can be clicked to follow related conversations on the same topic.
Interestingly, emojis are also permitted as part of or in combination with a tag, as noted by an Instagram Product Designer
Slowing User Growth on Threads
As mentioned above, Threads has experienced a significant drop in user engagement after its launch.
Initially, the app saw over 49 million daily active users, but this number fell by nearly half to 23.6 million within a week.
The average time users spent on the app also decreased from 21 minutes to 6 minutes.
All this is an indication that Threads is now facing challenges and potential difficulties in its long-term growth.
These new features could be a shot in the dark to see if user engagement numbers can be driven up.
FAQs
What is the New Tagging Feature on Threads?
Threads introduced a tagging system allowing users to categorize content, different from traditional hashtags as it omits the “#” symbol and allows spaced phrases.
How Do Tags Function in Threads Posts?
Tags in Threads are unique, appearing in blue like a hyperlink, and can include emojis, offering a new way to follow conversations on specific topics.
What Challenges is Threads Currently Facing?
Threads has seen a sharp decline in user engagement, with daily active users falling significantly, indicating challenges in maintaining long-term user interest.
Can Tags Impact User Engagement on Threads?
The new tagging feature aims to enhance content discovery and interaction on Threads, potentially addressing recent issues in user engagement.
X app update resolves black bar issue on Pixel Tablet and Fold.
New update brings centered content display for better readability.
Pixel device users report performance issues with Twitter/X app.
Company opens tweet thread for users to report issues on Pixel phones.
X (formerly Twitter) has recently updated its app to better accommodate the larger screens of Google’s Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold. Prior to this, the Twitter/X app on these devices had displayed black bars along the sides of the screen, which just doesn’t look all that great.
Pixel Tablet and Fold Getting A Better X App
The latest update however resolves this by extending the app to cover the full width of the screen.
Instead of stretching the content awkwardly across this larger space, Twitter/X has chosen a more user-friendly approach.
The main content area is centered and displayed in a size that is both comfortable for reading and interaction.
Google has a weird approach with its Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, as apps that are not optimized for larger screens are letterboxed, and are kind of displayed in black bars around the content, instead of forcing them to display in full screen.
That’s just bad interfacing and can lead to a rather jittery experience. Not something you want from a nearly $1,700 device. Now the update to Twitter/X is not exclusive to Google’s devices but is particularly beneficial for them due to this specific design choice.
With version 10.18.0 of Twitter/X now available in the Play Store, users should find that the app’s interface better for larger screens as compared to earlier. It’s worth noting that this update may also appear in older versions of the app.
In contrast, some other apps, like Meta’s Threads, have yet to implement such optimizations and still display with black boxes on the Pixel Tablet and Fold.
Pixel Phones Having Issues on X
More recently it was pointed out that some Pixel device users are experiencing several performance issues with the X app, notably slow loading times for both the app and content refreshes and problems with image loading where images either fail to load or stop loading abruptly.
Additionally, there’s a noticeable delay in posting new tweets, deviating from the usual quick response times, and a slower-than-usual response when opening notifications.
However, the company has responded to these issues and opened up a tweet thread where users can put in screenshots of their problems. Let’s see how quickly the X team can resolve this issue.
FAQs
How Does the Latest Twitter/X Update Improve User Experience on Pixel Tablet and Fold?
The updated Twitter/X app extends to cover the full width of the screen, eliminating black bars and centering the content for a better reading and interaction experience on Pixel devices.
What Design Approach Does Google Use for Non-Optimized Apps on Pixel Devices?
Google adopts a letterboxing approach for apps not optimized for larger screens on Pixel Tablet and Fold, displaying black bars around the content instead of forcing full-screen display.
What are the main performance issues Google Pixel users face with the X app?
Google Pixel users are encountering several issues with the X app, including slow loading times for content and feed refreshes, challenges in image loading, delayed tweet posting, and slow notification responses.
How has the X team responded to these performance issues?
Fred Lohner, a member of the X mobile development team, has recognized the performance issues. He is actively engaging with the user community to gather examples and insights for addressing these problems.
Apple’s market cap rises to $3.01 trillion after a 2% share increase.
The company faced a 2.5% revenue drop in China affecting its market performance.
Apple’s 2023 growth surpasses S&P 500 but lags behind other Big Tech firms.
Mixed market response to iPhone 15 launch, with uncertain future sales trends.
Apple is the richest company in terms of market valuation.
That much has been known for a while.
The company was valued earlier in the year at an eye-watering $3 trillion but its shares fell for a couple of months.
However, now the Cupertino-based tech behemoth has once again crossed the monumental $3 trillion market cap, making it the most successful company for the 5th-year running.
The company’s shares saw a 2% increase by the end of the trading session, propelling its market cap to an impressive $3.01 trillion.
This valuation, as reported by Refinitiv,hasn’t been seen since August, marking a notable recovery from a period of relatively stagnant performance.
Navigating Market Challenges
Apple Again Reaches Fabled $3 Trillion Market Cap Amid Varied Market Performance
Apple’s reliance on China over the past months has not been met with appreciation, particularly after a slight drop in revenue from the region was reported in their July-September quarter earnings.
There was 2.5 percent drop in revenue and the economic challenges plaguing China, thanks to the year COVID-19 lockdown, did not get better.
However, Apple’s overall 2023 performance has been remarkable, with a 49% increase, adding nearly $1 trillion to its market value, as calculated by Business Insider.
This growth rate surpasses that of the S&P 500 index, although it still trails behind some of its Big Tech counterparts, namely Nvidia, Meta, Tesla, Amazon, and Microsoft, all of which have posted higher gains year-to-date.
Market Response To Products
Market Response To Products
The year 2023 also saw Apple announce its most ambitious hardware product till date: the Apple Vision Pro and also the unveiling the iPhone 15 series.
However, the reception of the iPhone 15 in markets, especially in China, has been mixed, not matching the sales success of its predecessor, the iPhone 14.
As per reports, Apple’s stock price went up by 2%, reaching $193.42 per share early in December and actually this increase continued into the next day.
However, there is some uncertainty about whether this higher value will last.
Apple has been known to buy back its own stock, and there are predictions that the company might not see any growth in its earnings for the last part of the year.
This period is the first full quarter since the release of the iPhone 15, but it might also be the fifth time in a row that Apple sees a drop in its sales.
FAQs
How Has Apple’s Market Valuation Changed Recently?
Apple has recently regained a market capitalization of over $3 trillion, showing a recovery from a period of lower performance earlier in the year.
What Challenges Did Apple Face in the Chinese Market?
Apple reported a 2.5% revenue decline in China, partly due to economic issues in the region, affecting its overall market performance.
How Does Apple’s 2023 Growth Compare to Other Companies?
In 2023, Apple saw a 49% increase in its market value, outperforming the S&P 500 index but trailing behind other technology giants like Nvidia and Meta.
What Are the Sales Trends for Apple’s Latest iPhone 15?
The iPhone 15 has received a mixed response in key markets like China, raising questions about its sales performance compared to previous models like the iPhone 14.
What does Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment in India signify?
Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment represents a strategic shift in Apple’s iPhone production, moving away from a China-centric approach. This initiative in India is aimed at enhancing operational capacity and diversifying manufacturing locations.
How does this investment align with the broader ‘China+1’ strategy?
The ‘China+1’ strategy involves diversifying manufacturing bases beyond China. Foxconn’s $1.5 billion investment in India is a significant step in this direction, helping mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on a single country.
What impact will Foxconn’s investment have on India’s role in global manufacturing?
Foxconn’s investment is likely to significantly boost India’s position in the global supply chain. By expanding iPhone production capabilities, it could potentially double the country’s output by 2024, enhancing India’s manufacturing stature.
What are Foxconn’s previous investments in India?
Before the $1.5 billion announcement, Foxconn had already committed to a $600 million project in Karnataka and a $500 million factory in Telangana, underscoring its growing commitment to India as a key manufacturing hub.
Oppo Find X7 and X7 Pro confirmed to support 100W fast charging.
Find X7 gets a charging speed boost from 80W to 100W.
Series expected to feature advanced triple and quad-camera setups.
Devices to be powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9300 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets.
Oppo’s upcoming Find X7 series, comprising the Find X7 and Find X7 Pro, has just been spotted on China’s 3C platform.
This certification confirms that both models will support impressive 100W fast charging capabilities.
However, the phones are slated to only be China-exclusive and not make their way across global shores, which will disappoint some Indian fans, at the very least.
Find X7 Series: 3C Certfication Details
Find X7 Series: 3C Certfication Details
The Find X7 Procontinues with the same 11V/9.1A charging rate as its predecessor, while the standard Find X7 model gets a boost from the previous 80W to 100W.
As such it would seem that both devices will quite close to each other in terms of charging speeds.
Both phones, identified as PHY110 and PHZ110 in the certification, are compatible with the VCBAJACH charger, a part of Oppo’s 2023 lineup.
This charger supports all SuperVOOC charging rates, although the certification does not confirm whether the new Find X7 series will feature wireless charging.
The previous generation saw only the Pro variant equipped with this feature.
Find X7 Series: Expected Specs
Oppo Find X7 Series: Expected Specs
In terms of specifications, the OPPO Find X7 is expected to sport a BOE X1 display, seen on the OnePlus 12 and Realme GT 5 Pro.
It is likely to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipset while the Find X7 Pro could come with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.
The Find X7 might feature a triple camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor and support for Dual Conversion Gain (DCG) technology, along with a periscope lens for 3x optical zoom and an ultra-wide sensor.
The Pro variant is expected to take it a step further with a quad-camera array, including a 50MP primary lens with OIS, and additional periscope telephoto lenses offering up to 6x optical zoom.
Both models will likely run on an Android 14-based ColorOScustom skin and include a variety of connectivity options like 5G, 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, and a USB Type-C port.
FAQs
What are the Charging Capabilities of the Oppo Find X7 Series?
The Oppo Find X7 series, including the Find X7 and X7 Pro models, will support 100W fast charging, with the Pro model maintaining the same charging rate as its predecessor and the standard Find X7 receiving an upgrade from 80W.
Will the Oppo Find X7 Series Feature Wireless Charging?
While the series is compatible with Oppo’s VCBAJACH charger, it’s currently unclear if the new Find X7 models will include wireless charging capabilities, a feature previously exclusive to the Pro model.
What Display Technology is Expected in the Oppo Find X7 Series?
The standard Find X7 is anticipated to feature a BOE X1 display, similar to those seen in the OnePlus 12 and Realme GT 5 Pro.
What are the Expected Camera Specifications for the Find X7 Series?
The Find X7 is likely to have a triple camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor, while the Pro variant may include a quad-camera array with up to 6x optical zoom.
What are the rumoured camera features of the OPPO Find X7 Pro?
The OPPO Find X7 Pro is speculated to boast a dual periscope lens setup, potentially offering up to 6x optical zoom. The camera might include a 50MP wide camera with Sony’s LYT900 sensor. These features, still in the realm of rumours, promise to significantly enhance the photography experience.
How is the design of the Find X7 Pro expected to differ from its predecessor?
According to leaks, the Find X7 Pro might depart from the Find X6 Pro’s design, featuring a rounded silver metal frame and a distinct hexagonal camera module. This shift could include a soft finish or faux leather rear panel, representing a significant aesthetic evolution from the previous model.
What charging capabilities are rumoured for the Find X7 Pro?
While not confirmed, there is speculation that the Find X7 Pro could support rapid charging technologies, including 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. This implies a significant improvement in charging efficiency and possibly a larger battery capacity than the 5000mAh battery in the Find X6 Pro.
When is the OPPO Find X7 series expected to launch?
The OPPO Find X7 series, including the Find X7 and X7 Pro, is rumoured to launch either by the end of January or in early February 2024. This timing strategically places its debut before the Chinese Spring Festival, marking an early release compared to previous models.
What are the key specifications of the OPPO Find X7?
The OPPO Find X7 is rumored to feature the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, up to 6GB of LPDDR5T RAM, and a massive 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device is expected to run on Color OS 14 based on Android 14 and will likely include a high-refresh-rate 120Hz display panel.
What sets the OPPO Find X7 Pro apart from the standard model?
The Find X7 Pro is anticipated to elevate the series with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and OPPO’s innovative HyperTone camera system. These features suggest a significant enhancement in both processing power and photographic capabilities over the standard model.
What is the AnTuTu score of the OPPO Find X7?
The OPPO Find X7 has scored a total of 2,270,677 on the AnTuTu benchmark. This score reflects its robust performance, particularly scoring high in CPU and GPU tests, indicating the phone’s strong processing and graphics capabilities.
What are the specifications of the OPPO Find X7 as per the AnTuTu listing?
According to the AnTuTu listing, the OPPO Find X7 is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of internal storage. It also boasts a high-refresh-rate display and runs on the latest Android 14 OS.
How does the OPPO Find X7 compare with other phones using the same chipset?
The OPPO Find X7 has outperformed the Vivo X100, which also uses the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC, in the AnTuTu benchmark scores. This suggests that OPPO has effectively optimized the Find X7 to leverage the chipset’s potential.
Reportedly Altman received an overwhelming influx of messages following his unexpected dismissal leading to technical issues with his iPhone.
The revelation came in after Sam Altman’s interview with Trevor Noah, where the former spoke about how his iMessage crashed.
The entire saga has been fraught with controversy.
Altman’s termination from OpenAIwas not only a surprise to him but also sparked a series of resignations within the company, including its president, Greg Brockman.
This turmoil triggered interest from various individuals who expressed a desire to collaborate with Altman.
To date, even after so many interviews, the reasons behind Altman’s firing remain unclear, with OpenAI’s board providing vague explanations, referring to Altman’s lack of candor in his communications.
Altman expressed his initial confusion and difficulty in coming to terms with the board’s decision to let him go, citing that the board did not offer a clear justification for their action.
Sam Altman’s iPhone Crashed From Influx of Messages After News of His Termination from OpenAI
The upheaval in OpenAI led to Microsoft playing peacekeeper.
After days of what can only be described as madness, Microsoftrelieved the existing board with Satya Nadella getting a seat and Altman returning to the helm, championed by a completely new board.
OpenAI is of course known for its incredibly good chatbot ChatGPT.
Being a follow-up to the successful GPT-4, GPT-5 is expected to bring substantial advancements and improvements.
However, as of now, there is no official confirmation regarding its release date or the specific features it will include.
FAQs
What Were the Circumstances Surrounding Sam Altman’s Firing from OpenAI?
Sam Altman was unexpectedly dismissed as CEO of OpenAI, a decision that surprised him and led to several key resignations within the company, including President Greg Brockman.
How Did Sam Altman’s Dismissal Impact His Communication Devices?
Following his firing, Altman received an overwhelming number of messages, causing technical issues with his iPhone, including a temporary crash of the iMessage app.
What Reasons Did OpenAI’s Board Give for Sam Altman’s Firing?
OpenAI’s board provided vague explanations for Altman’s firing, mentioning a lack of candor in his communications, but failed to offer a detailed justification.
How Was Sam Altman Reinstated as CEO of OpenAI?
Following intense internal turmoil and intervention by Microsoft, Sam Altman was reinstated as CEO of OpenAI, accompanied by a complete overhaul of the company’s board.
What led to Sam Altman’s reinstatement as CEO of OpenAI?
Altman’s reinstatement followed a phase of internal discord and rapid leadership changes, climaxing with employee dissent and a demand for transparency about his initial firing. These factors pushed the board to reconsider their decision and bring Altman back.
Who are the members of the new initial board of OpenAI?
The new initial board comprises Bret Taylor as Chair, Larry Summers, and Adam D’Angelo. D’Angelo’s presence ensures continuity from the previous board, aiming to stabilize the company’s governance.
What role did employee reactions play in the board’s decision?
Employee reactions were crucial. The threat of mass defection to Microsoft and solidarity with Altman and Brockman significantly pressured the board, contributing to the reversal of their decision to fire Altman.
Why was Sam Altman ousted from OpenAI?
Sam Altman’s abrupt dismissal from OpenAI was a surprise to many, including insiders. The reasons behind this sudden decision have not been publicly disclosed, but it has led to speculation about internal disagreements and potential power struggles within the company.
What has been the response to Altman’s potential return?
The news of Sam Altman’s potential return as CEO of OpenAI has been met with mixed reactions. While some view it as a stabilizing move, others are concerned about the underlying governance issues that led to his initial dismissal.
How did Altman’s departure affect OpenAI?
Sam Altman’s departure resulted in immediate and significant repercussions within OpenAI. Key figures, including President Greg Brockman, resigned, and there were a series of high-profile resignations from senior researchers, signaling a period of internal turmoil.
What is the focus of OpenAI’s current board?
OpenAI’s board, unlike traditional companies, does not focus on maximizing shareholder value as none hold equity in the company. Their mission is to guide OpenAI in creating artificial general intelligence (AGI) that is beneficial for the broader society.
It could be for the worse or for the better or it could be an absolute dumpster fire.
We don’t know yet.
Rumors suggest that Qualcomm is moving away from its traditional CPU architecture, opting instead for custom Oryon cores.
Here’s why it’s a big deal.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 4: New Architecture?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 4: New Architecture
There is rumoured to be a notable change in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s CPU configuration.
Differing from the traditional mix of high, mid, and low-power cores, the new chipset is rumored to feature a ‘2 + 6’ CPU cluster.
This configuration will consist of two high-performance Phoenix cores and six mid-tier cores, also named Phoenix.
This shift in design is all but a departure from including low-power efficiency cores, which have been a staple in previous generations.
Apple has done something quite similar with the A17 Pro and Qualcomm might just be trying to up the ante.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is expected to be manufactured using TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, specifically the ‘N3E’ variant.
This manufacturing process is likely to mitigate the potential increase in power consumption that might result from the absence of efficiency cores,as per the leaks by reputed tipster Digital Chat Station.
Early tests have been done and show promising results, particularly for the chipset’s Adreno 830 GPU, which reportedly outperforms the graphics processor of Apple’s M2 chip in certain aspects.
That certainly is a big boost for Qualcomm’s claim to the top of the performance throne.
However, here’s the potential bad news.
This new process is very likely to increase in cost compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
Switching to new custom Oryon cores and the advanced manufacturing process, will shoot up pricing for flagships coming next year.
As such 2024 is expected to be a significant one for Qualcomm and its partners as they adapt to these changes.
Dimensity 9300 Reported Throttling
Dimensity 9300 Reported Throttling
MediaTek recently came under a bit of criticism for the Dimensity 9300, which was throttling in performance.
It also uses the same 6+2 architecture that is rumoured for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
MediaTek refutes the tests and claims that its flagship silicone is every bit as powerful as the company has claimed.
Overheating has been an issue with a few Samsung-made Qualcomm chips in the past but TSMC has a reputation for power efficiency.
Time will tell if the 8 Gen 4 is likely to be wrapped in controversy or will turn out to be a performance powerhouse.
FAQs
What is the New CPU Configuration in Snapdragon 8 Gen 4?
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is rumored to adopt a ‘2 + 6’ CPU cluster, featuring two high-performance Phoenix cores and six mid-tier cores, marking a shift from the traditional mix of core types.
How Does TSMC’s 3nm N3E Process Impact Snapdragon 8 Gen 4?
The 3nm N3E process from TSMC, used in manufacturing Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, is expected to help manage power consumption despite the absence of low-power efficiency cores.
What Performance Improvements Can We Expect from Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s GPU?
Early tests suggest the Adreno 830 GPU in Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 could surpass the performance of Apple’s M2 chip in graphics, indicating significant advancements in Qualcomm’s GPU capabilities.
What was the outcome of the CPU Throttling Test for the Dimensity 9300?
The MediaTek Dimensity 9300 exhibited a drastic performance drop of 46% during the CPU Throttling Test. This test subjected the chipset to intense processing demands, resulting in thermal throttling and a significant reduction in core frequencies.
How did the lack of efficiency cores affect the Dimensity 9300’s performance?
The absence of efficiency cores in the Dimensity 9300 led to higher power consumption and increased heat generation. Unlike its competitors, which balance high-performance with efficiency cores, the Dimensity 9300’s sole focus on performance cores contributed to its overheating under stress conditions.
What are the key specifications of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3?
The chipset features a multi-core CPU architecture, an Adreno GPU with a 25% speed boost, and enhanced AI capabilities. It is manufactured using TSMC’s second-generation 4nm technology.
How does Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 compare with its predecessor in benchmark scores?
The new chipset scores higher in Geekbench, AnTuTu, and other benchmark tests. For instance, it scored 7526 points in Geekbench multi-core tests compared to around 5000 points scored by its predecessor.
What devices will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3?
Besides Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series, the chipset will also be featured in the iQOO 12 series in India and Xiaomi 14 series in China.
What are Qualcomm’s plans for AI capabilities?
Qualcomm is working closely with Microsoft and Meta to maximize the AI potential of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, although specific comparisons with Google’s Tensor G3 chipset have not been made public.
This is something that Apple has already been doing for a while on the iPhones and it looks like the South Korean giant is playing catchup.
Battery Protection on OneUI 6.1
Battery Protection on OneUI 6.1
Tech analyst Tarun Vats revealed the details of this update and stated that it will bring in a revamped battery protection system.
The current “Protect Battery” feature in Galaxy phones will be upgraded to “Battery Protection” and will include three modes: Basic, Adapt, and Max.
Each mode offers a different level of battery care, tailored to the users’ charging habits and needs.
In the “Basic” mode, the charging will halt at 100% and resume only if the battery level drops to 95%.
This mode maintains the battery at full charge while avoiding continuous top-up charging, which can stress the battery.
The “Adapt” mode is designed to learn from the user’s daily routine.
It charges the phone to 80% overnight and completes the charging cycle just in time for the user’s typical wake-up time.
This feature is akin to smart charging solutions already present in other Android devices, focusing on optimizing battery health based on usage patterns.
For those particularly concerned about maximizing battery lifespan, the “Max” mode limits the charging capacity to 80%.
Again Apple has been know to do this for various iPhones over the past year with the iOS updates.
Additional One UI 6.1 Features and Rumoured Launch
Additional One UI 6.1 Features
Additionally, One UI 6.1 is expected to bring innovations to “Wallpaper services.”
Following the Galaxy AI announcement, there’s speculation that AI might be integrated into this feature for more dynamic and personalized wallpaper options, much like Google’s AI-generated wallpapers in the Pixel 8 series.
Rumours have suggestsed that One UI 6.1 might be unveiled as early as January, possibly coinciding with the launch of the Galaxy S24 series.
We’ll just have to wait and see what Samsung has in store for us in 2024.
FAQs
What New Battery Protection Features Will Samsung One UI 6.1 Offer?
The upcoming Samsung One UI 6.1 update is set to introduce a revamped battery protection system with three modes – Basic, Adapt, and Max – designed to optimize and prolong battery life based on user habits.
How Will the Adapt Mode in One UI 6.1 Improve Battery Health?
Adapt mode in One UI 6.1 intelligently adjusts charging to 80% overnight, based on the user’s daily schedule, completing the charge just before waking, to enhance battery health and longevity.
What is the Purpose of Max Mode in Samsung’s Battery Protection?
Max mode in Samsung’s One UI 6.1 limits the phone’s charging capacity to 80%, a strategy known to extend the overall lifespan of smartphone batteries.
What Other Features Can We Expect in Samsung’s One UI 6.1 Update?
Apart from battery enhancements, One UI 6.1 is rumored to introduce AI-powered customization in Wallpaper services. The update is expected to launch in January, possibly alongside the Galaxy S24 series.
Which Samsung devices are first in line for the One UI 6 update?
The first wave of the One UI 6 update includes flagship devices like the Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy Z Fold 5, and Galaxy Z Flip 5. These models are expected to receive the update by November 15.
What new features does the One UI 6 update bring?
One UI 6 offers a revamped interface, including an enhanced quick settings panel, Samsung DeX improvements, and lock screen customization. It also introduces new widgets, improved camera controls, and a fresh emoji style on the Samsung keyboard.
When will mid-range Samsung phones receive the One UI 6 update?
Mid-range Samsung models like the Galaxy A52 and A72 are part of the second phase of the rollout, scheduled to receive the update by November 30. The Galaxy A04s, XCover 5, and A25 5G will follow in early to mid-December.
By far the main highlight of the update is the integration of the recently revealed Gemini AI model in three variants: Ultra, Pro, and Nano.
Introduction of Gemini AI Model: Google has unveiled the Gemini AI model in three sizes: Ultra, Pro, and Nano.
The Nano version, known for its efficiency, is integrated into the Pixel 8 Pro to manage AI tasks locally on the device,eliminating the need for internet or cloud connectivity.
As for the Ultra and Pro, they are likely to come in a future update.
New Features in Pixel 8 Pro
New Features in Pixel 8 Pro
Summarise in Recorder App: Utilizing the Gemini Nano model, this feature generates summaries of recorded content like conversations and interviews directly on the device.
Smart Reply in GBoard: Apart from that Gemini Nano also offers Smart Reply offers automated responses in chat conversations. Currently, in developer preview, it’s operational in specific apps, with an expansion planned for next year.
Video Boost: Leveraging Google’s Tensor G3 processor, this feature enhances video quality post-recording using computational photography techniques. Adjustments to color, lighting, stabilization, and graininess are made when the video is uploaded to the cloud.
Features for Both Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8
Features for Both Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8
Night Sight Timelapse: Available in the camera mode, this new feature allows the shooting of timelapse videos with improved dynamic range and clarity.
We’ll have to see how well the device does when we review the update.
Pixel Fold and Older Pixel Devices
Pixel Fold and Older Pixel Devices
Google’s Pixel Fold is also receiving an exciting new feature alongside the enhancements mentioned earlier.
The Dual Screen Preview is a novel addition, allowing subjects to view themselves while a photo is being taken, using the cover display of the Fold for a second preview.
For older Pixel models, ranging from the Pixel 7 Proto the Pixel 6a, users will now have access to the Portrait Light tool in the Photos app.
This tool enables users to eliminate harsh shadows and enhance the lighting in any stored photos, regardless of whether they were taken with a Pixel device.
Additionally, the Photo Unblur feature is receiving an update.
It now extends its capabilities to include dogs and cats, offering improved functionality for pet photos.
FAQs
How Does the Summarise Feature in Pixel 8 Pro’s Recorder App Work?
Utilizing the Gemini Nano AI model, the Summarise feature in the Recorder App of Pixel 8 Pro automatically generates concise summaries of recorded content like interviews, enhancing productivity and information management.
What Improvements Does the Video Boost Feature Bring to Pixel 8 Pro?
The Video Boost feature in Pixel 8 Pro, powered by Google’s Tensor G3 processor, improves video quality post-recording by optimizing color, lighting, and stability, offering an enhanced visual experience.
What is Google Gemini and how does it enhance Bard?
Google Gemini is a versatile AI model with three variants – Ultra, Pro, and Nano – designed to significantly boost Bard’s reasoning, planning, and understanding capabilities, thus enhancing its efficiency across various platforms.
How is the rollout of Gemini being implemented in Bard?
The implementation of Gemini in Bard is a two-phased approach. Initially, Gemini Pro is being integrated, focusing on English language processing in over 170 countries.
The second phase will introduce Bard Advanced with Gemini Ultra in 2024, offering more advanced data processing capabilities.
What benchmarks did Gemini Pro outperform GPT-3.5 in, and what does it indicate?
Gemini Pro excelled in six out of eight benchmarks, notably in MMLU and GSM8K, surpassing GPT-3.5. This suggests that while Gemini Pro is catching up to existing AI technologies, it signals Google’s growing competitiveness in the AI market.
What is Google Gemini and how does it enhance Bard?
Google Gemini is a versatile AI model with three variants – Ultra, Pro, and Nano – designed to significantly boost Bard’s reasoning, planning, and understanding capabilities, thus enhancing its efficiency across various platforms.
How is the rollout of Gemini being implemented in Bard?
The implementation of Gemini in Bard is a two-phased approach. Initially, Gemini Pro is being integrated, focusing on English language processing in over 170 countries.
The second phase will introduce Bard Advanced with Gemini Ultra in 2024, offering more advanced data processing capabilities.
What benchmarks did Gemini Pro outperform GPT-3.5 in, and what does it indicate?
Gemini Pro excelled in six out of eight benchmarks, notably in MMLU and GSM8K, surpassing GPT-3.5.
This suggests that while Gemini Pro is catching up to existing AI technologies, it signals Google’s growing competitiveness in the AI market.
What is Gemini Ultra and how does it excel in language understanding?
Gemini Ultra is the most advanced model in the Gemini AI series, specifically designed for Massive Multitask Language Understanding (MMLU).
It boasts exceptional performance across 57 subjects including math, physics, history, law, medicine, and ethics, even surpassing human expert levels in these areas.
This makes Gemini Ultra particularly adept at handling complex, multi-subject queries and tasks.
How does Gemini Pro support developers and enterprise customers?
Gemini Pro offers versatility for a broad spectrum of tasks and is primarily targeted at developers and enterprise customers.
Accessible through the Gemini API in Google AI Studio or Google Cloud Vertex AI, Gemini Pro is integral to powering Google products like the Bard chatbot and the Search Generative Experience.
Its key strengths lie in advanced reasoning, planning, and understanding, making it suitable for sophisticated AI applications in various industries.
What is the purpose of Gemini Nano, and how does it benefit mobile applications?
Gemini Nano is designed for specific, streamlined tasks and is optimized for mobile devices, particularly Android. Its main purpose is to enhance the efficiency and performance of mobile applications.
Android developers will soon be able to incorporate Gemini Nano into their projects, leveraging its capabilities to improve app functionalities and user experiences on mobile platforms.
What is Google Bard AI?
Meet the expected “ChatGPT killer.” Using a set of deep learning algorithms known as “large language models,” the Google Bard AI chatbot can respond to questionnaires provided via text. The chatbot is built on LaMDA technology and is programmed to use the web to find the most “recent” answers to questions.
An experimental conversational AI service developed by Google, Bard AI learns from its encounters with humans to improve its performance.
Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai introduced the Google Bard AI chatbot in a blog post, showcasing the company’s recent priority on AI.
Pichai has expressed his enthusiasm for adapting cutting-edge AI research and development to real-world problems.
Other organizations, such as OpenAI, have surpassed them in terms of AI developments and applications because of the rate of technology advancement and delayed decision-making at huge firms like Google.
OpenAI concentrated on generating high-quality models and letting people discover their own uses for them, while Google worked on incorporating AI into their existing business plans.
How to use the Google Bard AI chatbot?
If you are chosen as a beta tester, all you have to do to use the Google AI chatbot is open the Google app on your smartphone and tap on the chatbot icon. Like ChatGPT
enter your prompt and hit enter!
How to access Google Bard AI?
Currently, only a small number of people have access to the Google Bard AI link for testing purposes. To reduce the amount of time and energy spent on computation, Google is developing a “lightweight model version of LaMDA.”
Google Bard AI chatbot, known as Bard, is unfortunately not yet widely available for use. However, once the Google Bard AI link is shared, it will likely be integrated into Google Search and can be accessed by asking questions through the search bar. The chatbot draws information from the web to provide up-to-date answers to text prompts.
It is designed to provide easy-to-digest answers to complex questions and can help with tasks such as planning a baby shower, comparing movies, and getting lunch ideas.
It is not yet known if the chatbot will be available through other Google products such as Google Assistant or Google Maps.
What’s more this colour, designated as PANTONE 13-1023, has been selected as the Pantone Color of the Year for 2024.
Ruben Castano, Head of Customer Experience and Design at Motorola, has highlighted the importance of colour in technology, noting its capability to facilitate meaningful interactions and personal expression.
The description for the colour is “having a cozy and tender essence”, which Motorola says reflects themes of community and collaboration.
“It has been wonderful to work with Motorola and see their dedication to enabling creativity, connection, and personalization through color across their devices, and this year’s color carries particular importance to harnessing connection, community and personal wellbeing,” Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, said.
“Our Pantone Color of the Year 2024, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, seamlessly blends the virtual and real life, making it an ideal color for the physicality of digital devices. We are excited to see how our audiences leverage the features Motorola offers to enable and facilitate further connections.”
Moto Razr 40 Ultra and Edge 40 Neo: Pricing and Potential
Moto Razr 40 Ultra and Edge 40 Neo: Pricing and Potential
Both the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra and Moto Edge 40 Neo in the new Peach Fuzz colorway will be available without any change in their pricing.
The Razr 40 Ultra, featuring a single 8GB/256GB model, is priced at Rs 89,999.
The Moto Edge 40 Neo comes in two variants: 8GB/128GB and 12GB/256GB, priced at Rs 23,999 and Rs 25,999, respectively.
These smartphones are expected to start shipping from December 12th and are also anticipated to launch in India soon.
It comes with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, runs on Android 13, and features a 50MP primary camera alongside a 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens.
The phone is also equipped with a 5,000mAh battery supporting 68W fast charging and has several connectivity options including 5G, NFC, and a USB Type-C port.
The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra on the other hand features a 6.9-inch main display and a 3.6-inch QuickView cover screen, both offering high refresh rates and vivid colour reproduction.
The phone runs on Android 13 and includes a 3,800mAh battery with fast charging capabilities.
It also features a 12MP main camera, a 13MP ultrawide lens, and a 32MP front camera.
FAQs
What is the Significance of Motorola’s New Peach Fuzz Colour?
The Peach Fuzz colour, designated as PANTONE 13-1023, is the Pantone Color of the Year for 2024. Motorola’s introduction of this colour to its Razr 40 Ultra and Edge 40 Neo models emphasizes the role of color in enhancing technology and personal expression.
How Does Motorola’s Partnership with Pantone Influence Its Products?
According to Ruben Castano of Motorola and Laurie Pressman of the Pantone Color Institute, the Peach Fuzz colour blends virtual and real-life aspects, ideal for digital devices. It reflects Motorola’s focus on creativity, connection, and well-being in technology design.
What are the Prices and Availability of the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra and Edge 40 Neo in Peach Fuzz?
The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra (8GB/256GB) is priced at Rs 89,999, while the Moto Edge 40 Neo comes in two variants (8GB/128GB and 12GB/256GB) priced at Rs 23,999 and Rs 25,999, respectively. These models are expected to start shipping from December 12th and might launch in India soon.
What Features Do the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra and Edge 40 Neo Offer?
The Razr 40 Ultra features a 6.9-inch main display and a 3.6-inch QuickView cover screen, powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1. The Edge 40 Neo offers a 6.55-inch FHD+ pOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, powered by MediaTek Dimensity 7030. Both run on Android 13 and boast impressive camera setups and battery.
