TSMC becomes primary choice for 3nm chipsets, overtaking Samsung.
Apple’s A17 Pro SoC production boosts TSMC’s 3nm chipset dominance.
TSMC plans to increase 3nm production capacity to 100,000 wafers monthly.
Samsung faces challenges in 3nm market despite GAA transistor development.
It has been revealed that Qualcomm and MediaTek are setting their sights on TSMC for the production of their next-generation 3nm chipsets, moving away from Samsung.
Is TSMC gaining a very firm foothold over the semiconductor market? It certainly seems so with this latest move.
TSMC’s Rising Dominance
Qualcomm and MediaTek Shift Looking at TSMC for 3nm Needs Ahead of Samsung
With Apple’s new A17 Pro SoCbeing made by the Taiwanese electronics giant, TSMC is increasingly becoming the go-to manufacturer for 3nm chipset technology.
The evidence is clear thanks to large-scale orders from leading companies, including Qualcomm and MediaTek.
The TSMC’s current production capacity stands at about 70,000 silicon wafers per month for 3nm architecture, with an expected increase to 100,000 by the next year.
This expansion can be considered a response to the growing demand for more advanced and efficient chipsets, which TSMC seems well-equipped to meet.
The company’s SoCs are known to be highly thermal efficient when compared to recent endevours by Samsung.
Samsung’s Position and Future Prospects
Samsung’s Position and Future Prospects
Which leads us to the South Korean giant. Despite having the infrastructure for 3nm processor production,Samsung has not secured major orders in this segment.
The company is working on a new transistor design, the GAA (Gate All Around), which may provide better power efficiency than TSMC’s FinFET process.
However, with major players like Qualcomm and MediaTek leaning towards TSMC, Samsung’s role in the 3nm chipset market is becoming increasingly uncertain.
FAQs
Why are Qualcomm and MediaTek choosing TSMC over Samsung for 3nm chipsets?
Qualcomm and MediaTek are opting for TSMC for their 3nm chipset production due to TSMC’s advanced manufacturing capabilities and proven track record in delivering efficient, high-quality chipsets. TSMC’s recent successes, including the production of Apple’s A17 Pro SoC, have bolstered its reputation as a leading chipset manufacturer.
How is TSMC’s production capacity changing in response to the demand for 3nm chipsets?
TSMC is ramping up its production capacity to meet the increasing demand for 3nm chipsets. Currently capable of producing about 70,000 silicon wafers per month in the 3nm architecture, TSMC plans to boost this number to 100,000 by the following year, indicating significant growth and commitment to this technology.
What makes TSMC’s 3nm chipsets stand out in the semiconductor market?
TSMC’s 3nm chipsets are known for their high thermal efficiency and cutting-edge technology, making them preferable for tech giants seeking advanced and reliable semiconductor solutions. TSMC’s expertise in producing efficient and powerful chipsets has set them apart in the highly competitive semiconductor market.
Vivo S18 Series launch scheduled for December 14, 2023, in China.
Series includes Vivo S18, S18 Pro, and S18e, catering to diverse market segments.
Vivo S18 to feature Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC and 5,000 mAh battery.
Vivo S18 Pro boasts MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset and 50 MP Sony IMX920 camera.
The Vivo S18 series has been confirmed for a December 14, 2023 launch, in China.
Ahead of this day let’s take a look at the lineup itself and see what devices are going to be on offer.
Spoiler alert: there’s going to be more than just smartphones on the menu.
Launch Date and Event Details
Vivo S18 Series: Launch Date
The launch event is slated for 02:00 pm local time in China, which translates to 04:30 pm IST.
A special guest appearance is also going to be made by the Vivo TWS 3ealongside the S18 series.
But first the smartphones.
The series will comprise the Vivo S18, Vivo S18 Pro, and Vivo S18e, each poised to cater to different segments of the market.
Interestingly, for its global debut, the series will be rebranded as the Vivo V30 or Vivo V31 series, so that Vivo fans in India are not left out.
In terms of aesthetics, the Vivo S18 doesn’t disappoint, with colour options like Clear (Blue), Flowers Are Blooming (White), and Black.
Stepping up the game, the Vivo S18 Pro will actually feature the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset, a flagship silicone from last year.
The camera system is also especially noteworthy, with the S18 Pro sharing the same VCS main camera as the Vivo X100 – a 50 MP Sony IMX920 primary sensor.
Both the Vivo S18 and S18 Pro boast a curved OLED display, ensuring a premium visual experience.
From all the leaked looks, the handsets’ design language is modern and sleek, accentuated by a triple-camera setup housed in a distinct squared-shaped island at the back.
No details as such for the Vivo S18e but we expect it to target the budget audience.
Also, the new TWS 3e are also likely to be in the affordable category. We’ll update you as and when we get more information.
Vivo S18 Specs
GENERAL
Sim Type
Dual Sim, GSM+GSM
Dual Sim
Yes
Sim Size
Nano+Nano SIM
Device Type
Smartphone
Release Date
December 14, 2023 (Expected)
DESIGN
Bezel less
Yes
DISPLAY
Type
Color OLED Screen (1.07B)
Touch
Yes, 480 Hz Touch Sampling Rate
Size
6.82 inches, 1800 x 3440 pixels, 144 Hz
Aspect Ratio
20:9
PPI
~ 569 PPI
Screen to Body Ratio
~ 93.3%
Features
P3 color gamut, 2800nits
Notch
Yes, Punch Hole
MEMORY
RAM
8 GB
Storage
128 GB
Storage Type
UFS 3.1
Card Slot
No
CONNECTIVITY
GPRS
Yes
EDGE
Yes
3G
Yes
4G
Yes
5G
Yes
5G Bands
n1/n3/n5/n8/n28A/n41/n77/n78
VoLTE
Yes
Wifi
Yes, with wifi-hotspot
Wifi Version
Wi-Fi 6
Bluetooth
Yes, v5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD
USB
Yes, USB-C v2.0
USB Features
USB on-the-go
EXTRA
GPS
Yes, with A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS
Fingerprint Sensor
Yes, In Display
Face Unlock
Yes
Sensors
Accelerometer, Gyro, Proximity, Compass, Color Spectrum
What are the key specifications of the Vivo S18 and S18 Pro?
The Vivo S18 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC and a 5,000 mAh battery. The S18 Pro steps up with the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset and a high-end 50 MP Sony IMX920 camera, promising top-tier performance and exceptional photography capabilities.
When is the Vivo S18 Series launch date, and where will it take place?
The Vivo S18 Series is set to launch on December 14, 2023, in China. The event will take place at 02:00 pm local time, which is 04:30 pm IST, showcasing the latest innovations from Vivo.
Apple Watch’s fall detection feature calls emergency services after hiker’s near-fatal accident.
Mike Menand credits Apple Watch fall detection for potentially saving his life in Georgia.
Fall detection alerts emergency contacts with location if the wearer cannot respond.
Modern technology has become a boon for so many people and if you are wearing an Apple Watch, there’s a chance that this boon could be life-saving.
As per a report, the Apple Watch’s fall detection feature has played a crucial role in rescuing a Georgia man during a hiking mishap
Dramatic Rescue Triggered by Technology
Apple Watch: Dramatic Rescue Triggered by Technology
Mike Menand, an avid hiker, experienced a near-fatal accident in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.
On the fateful day, he took his two dogs along for a hike and they unexpectedly encountered a coyote, causing them to panic and inadvertently knock Menand off the trail.
This sudden fall activated the Apple Watch fall detection feature, which automatically called emergency services, as Menand was unable to reach his phone.
Injury and Timely Response
Apple Watch: Timely Response
Poor Menand suffered a broken leg from the fall which required surgery and the insertion of a titanium rod.
However, his situation could have been much worse and he credits the Apple Watch fall detection with potentially saving his life.
Without it, he fears he could have faced a fate similar to another hiker who tragically did not survive a fall in the same park just a month later.
Fall detection on the Apple Watch is not a new feature it has been around for quite a while, and this is not the first rodeo in which it has saved lives.
How it works is pretty straightforward though wherein the device’s in-built gyroscope detects a fall and if the wearer doesn’t dismiss the alert within one minute, it automatically contacts emergency services.
Additionally, if the wearer has emergency contacts listed, they are notified with a text and the location of the fall.
Menand reached out to Apple CEO Tim Cook to express his gratitude for this life-saving feature.
His story, shared by Apple with FOX 5, of course also acknowledges the quick response and care provided by the Roswell Fire Department and EMTs.
FAQs
How does the Apple Watch Fall Detection feature work?
The fall detection feature on the Apple Watch uses a built-in gyroscope to detect sudden falls. If the wearer doesn’t respond or dismiss the alert within a minute, the watch automatically contacts emergency services and notifies the wearer’s emergency contacts with the location of the fall.
What happened to Mike Menand in Georgia?
Mike Menand, an avid hiker, experienced a potentially life-threatening fall when his dogs got spooked by a coyote and knocked him off the trail. The Apple Watch fall detection feature activated, calling emergency services since.
Tesla nearing a deal to import EVs to India and establish manufacturing within two years.
Planned $2 billion investment in India for new plant and local battery production.
Tesla models like Model 3 and Y are likely to be the first imports; new entry-level EVs are in development.
Is it time for Indian fans of Tesla to finally rejoice? The world’s most valuable car maker is likely to be on the brink of a significant expansion into the Indian market if reports are to be believed.
This move, as reported by Bloomberg first and then some other sources, could likely change the nation’s EV landscape and possibly even the entire automotive industry.
The market dynamics don’t paint a particularly rosy picture for EVs in India.
Electric cars currently account for only 1.3% of passenger vehicle sales in the country,hindered by high costs and limited charging infrastructure.
Is Tesla’s entry into the Indian market going to change the situation? Let’s take a look.
Key Developments
Tesla Reportedly Preparing for Major Expansion into Indian Market with EV Imports
Import and Manufacturing Plans: Tesla is close to finalising a deal to import its EVs to India starting next year. Additionally, plans are in motion to establish a manufacturing plant within two years. The states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu are potential locations due to their robust infrastructure.
Investment and Local Production: An initial investment of about $2 billion is being anticipated for a new Indian plant. Tesla also plans to purchase auto parts from India, potentially worth up to $15 billion, and may produce some batteries locally to cut costs. This is extremely good for the Indian economy in general as well.
CEO Elon Musk’s Vision: While details are still being finalised, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has expressed his intention to visit in 2024. In fact, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goesl had visited the company’s Gigafactory in the US in hopes of meeting Musk, but unfortunately could not.
Entry-level Model: Tesla’s entry with locally made cars could potentially be priced at around $20,000 or about Rs 18 lakh, which could significantly boost EV adoption.
Tax Incentives and Import Rates: The Indian government is reportedly considering a tax reduction on EVs for five years, contingent on EV makers establishing local manufacturing. This policy shift is being considered a key factor in Tesla’s new outlook for the Indian market, incidentally the third biggest in the world for cars.
Initial Steps in India
Tesla Reportedly Preparing for Major Expansion into Indian Market with EV Imports
Before establishing a manufacturing base, Tesla plans to import some of its global products to India, likely from its Germany plant, due to geopolitical tensions with China.
The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y which have already been seen in test phases in India, are strong candidates for the initial import.
Additionally, a new entry-level EV, possibly named ‘Model 2,’ is likely in development, which could be Tesla’s smallest and most affordable model.
If the import of these vehicles works as expected, then Tesla will fast-track its next initiative of setting up a local manufacturing plant.
This move is crucial for Tesla to leverage tax benefits and reduce import tariffs, making its EVs more accessible to Indian consumers.
Additionally, the company’s spending of nearly Rs 16,000 crore could have massively positive economic implications.
However, we are all in the realm of speculation as now so take all these reports with a grain of salt till the official confirmation can come down from the company.
FAQs
What are Tesla’s plans for entering the Indian market?
Tesla is finalizing a deal to import its electric vehicles to India from next year and aims to set up a manufacturing plant within two years. The initiative includes a significant investment and local production of batteries to reduce costs.
Which Tesla models are expected to be imported to India first?
The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, which have already undergone test phases in India, are expected to be the first imports. Additionally, a new, more affordable entry-level model, likely named ‘Model 2,’ is also in development.
OnePlus Open update introduces specific exposure setting in Photo mode.
Firmware CPH2551_13.2.0.201(EX01) focuses on system stability and performance.
Update addresses screen blackout issue during image viewing.
Includes November 2023 Android security patch for enhanced protection.
The OnePlus Open is getting a fresh software update that brings several enhancements to the device.
We are a bit disappointed that it doesn’t move the phone to Android 14, but the update is significant in its own right, focusing on a bit of camera functionality that could help users.
Enhancements in Camera and UI
New OnePlus Open Update Enhances Camera Functionality & System Stability
This update is identified as firmware CPH2551_13.2.0.201(EX01) and is approximately 510MB in size.
Several issues have been rectified with the update such as the screen going black when viewing certain images.
Of course, there are the usual system stability and performance improvements that users are accustomed to in updates.
However, the main highlight of this update is the new camera feature.
Users can now set a specific exposure value in Photo mode, giving you a better free hand in areas of low exposure.
Although it is a mystery how a device costing nearly Rs 1,40,000 failed to provide this setting out-of-the-box, this update is nevertheless a welcome change.
Apart from all of this, the OnePlus Open’s communication also gets an update that improves the stability and compatibility of Bluetooth connections, which is a boon for users who rely on wireless devices.
Also, OnePlus is giving network connections a stability boost, making for more reliable internet and data use.
Finally, the update also includes the November 2023 Android security patch, keeping the device secure and up-to-date with the latest protections.
OnePlus Open users in India are the first to receive this update, as it’s currently being rolled out in the region.
While this update doesn’t bring OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14 to the OnePlus Open, it’s a step forward in enhancing the device’s capabilities.
Hasselblad Camera for Mobile, Nightscape, Dolby Vision, Smart Scene Recognition, Portrait Mode, Pro Mode, Panorama, Tilt-Shift mode, Long Exposure, Dual-View Video, Retouch, Movie Mode, XPan Mode, Focus Peaking, Raw file, Raw Plus file, Filters, Super Stable, Video Nightscape, Video HDR, Focus Lock, Time-lapse, Google Lens
Video Recording
4K @ 30/60 fps UHD, 1080p @ 30/60 fps FHD
Flash
Yes, LED
Front Camera
Punch Hole 20 MP 20 mm f/2.2 (Wide Angle)
32 MP 22mm, 1/3.14″, Cover camera f/2.4 (Wide Angle)
The latest OnePlus Open update, sized at approximately 510MB, introduces new camera functionality allowing users to set specific exposure values in Photo mode. It also focuses on improving system stability and performance and fixes a known issue causing screen blackouts while viewing images.
How does the OnePlus Open update improve the camera?
The update adds a feature to the camera, enabling users to manually set exposure values in Photo mode. This enhancement allows for better control over photography, especially in low-light conditions.
Hackers gain access to hotel systems linked to Booking.com.
Scam involves sending fake emails to hotels and installing harmful software.
Hackers deceive customers into paying them directly through Booking.com.
Booking.com working with partners to secure systems and recover lost funds.
The digital age is a bonanza for hackers to scam usersand Booking.com is the latest to have fallen prey to it.
As per reports, these cybercriminals have been operating since at least March, employing various deceptive methods to carry out their scams on the travel website.
How the Scam Works
Booking.com Users Beware
Here is a little brief on how the scam unfolds though and we think it should be made clear that they haven’t directly hacked Booking.com website.
Instead, the hackers begin by gaining access to hotel systems linked to the site. They often pose as former guests claiming to have left passports behind.
Through this pretense, they send emails to hotel staff with links that, when clicked, install harmful software on the hotel’s computers.
This software then searches for and can access Booking.com information.
Once inside the system, the hackers view details of customers who have booked rooms or holidays.
They then contact these customers through the official Booking.com app, pretending to be the hotel, and deceive them into paying money directly to them.
This is a scam that users should be cautious about and any kind of transfer should always be done through the Booking.com website or app.
Increasing Sophistication of the Scam
Increasing Sophistication of the Scam
However, even with all the vigilance this booking.com scam is getting more sophisticated and is increasing in reach and effectiveness.
Hackers are now paying other criminals to gain access to more hotel systems. The scam is successful because it often appears that the emails are coming from trusted sources.
This makes it easier to deceive genuine customers.
One such victim, Lucy Buckley, was tricked into transferring £200 through the Booking.com app to what she thought was a hotel in Paris.
Although she later got her money back from the bank, the money had been sent to an account in Moldova.
Actions Taken and Recommendations
Actions Taken and Recommendations
Booking.com is aware of this scam and is working to help partners secure their systems and assist customers in recovering lost funds.
Cyber-security experts suggest that hotels on Booking.com should implement additional security measures, such as multi-factor authentication, to prevent unauthorized access.
Also sometimes hackers spoof the original website with a counterfeit one and extract user details, so always be vigilant.
FAQs
What is the Booking.com scam?
The Booking.com scam involves hackers accessing hotel systems linked to Booking.com. They send deceptive emails to hotel staff, install malware, and then use this access to deceive customers into paying them directly, often pretending to be the hotel.
How do hackers carry out this scam on Booking.com?
Hackers pose as former hotel guests and send emails to the hotels with malicious links. When clicked, these links install software that grants access to Booking.com information. The hackers then contact customers through the app, masquerading as the hotel, to solicit direct payments.
What should Booking.com users do to stay safe?
Users should be cautious and always ensure that any payments or communications are done through the official Booking.com website or app. Be wary of direct payment requests from hotels and verify all communications for authenticity.
Galaxy A55 leaks show a design similar to Galaxy A54 with distinct changes.
Unique protrusion around the power and volume buttons in the Galaxy A55.
Device is expected to feature a 6.5-inch FullHD+ screen and 120Hz refresh rate.
Anticipated Exynos 1480 SoC and 50MP primary camera in Galaxy A55.
The Samsung Galaxy A55 is on its way, and thanks to recent leaks, we’re getting an early peek at what to expect.
Images shared by @OnLeaks and MySmartPriceshow CAD-based renders of the Galaxy A55, which reveal details about its design and features.
Design and Display: A Closer Look
Samsung Galaxy A55: Design
As per the Galaxy A55 renders, the handset’s rumoured design seems quite similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy A54.
The phone has a triple-camera setup on the back and each lens has its own protrusion.
The smartphone also features a flat back and front glass with a hole punch for the selfie camera.
The side rails of the device seem to have undergone a slight change, appearing flatter and possibly polished, differing from the Galaxy A54’s slightly rounded and matte-finished rails.
Samsung Galaxy A55 Leaked Renders Reveal New Design
An unusual detail that you will notice in the Galaxy A55 renders is a protrusion on the right side, surrounding the power and volume buttons.
This design choice, while unique, does make you wonder if there is some functionality coming out of it.
So far, we are out of ideas of what it could mean.
The phone’s dimensions are expected to be slightly larger than the Galaxy A54, with renders showing measurements around 161.1 x 77.3 x 8.2mm.
The button protrusion adds a minor increase to the thickness.
Performance and Expected Features
Samsung Galaxy A55: Performance
Although these renders of the Galaxy A55 provide insights into the phone’s aesthetics, some specifications have also been hinted at.
The Galaxy A55 is likely to feature a 6.5-inch screen with FullHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
Under the hood, it’s speculated to house the Exynos 1480 SoC, a 50MP primary camera, and offer 25W charging capabilities.
Samsung may launch the Galaxy A55 in the coming months, possibly in early Spring.
The Galaxy A series is the company’s best-selling lineup of devices and we can expect a proper global rollout of the Galaxy A55 next year, including the Indian market.
What do the Galaxy A55 leaks reveal about the phone’s design?
The Galaxy A55 leaks suggest a design closely resembling the Galaxy A54, with a triple-camera setup and each lens having its own protrusion. It features flat back and front glass and slightly altered, potentially polished side rails. A notable design aspect is the protrusion around the power and volume buttons.
How does the Galaxy A55’s design differ from the Galaxy A54?
While the Galaxy A55’s overall design mirrors the A54, the most apparent difference lies in the side rails, which appear flatter and potentially polished compared to the A54’s rounded and matte finish. Additionally, there’s an unusual protrusion around the power and volume buttons.
What are the expected features of the Galaxy A55?
Based on the leaks, the Galaxy A55 is expected to have a 6.5-inch FullHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s speculated to be powered by the Exynos 1480 SoC, feature a 50MP primary camera, and support 25W charging.
WhatsApp to launch username search feature for easier user connections.
New feature allows users to connect without sharing phone numbers.
Username setup offers full user control and privacy management.
WhatsApp enhances security with a new secret code feature for Chat Lock.
WhatsApp is looking to prepare the introduction of a new feature that will change how users connect.
As per reports, users will be able to find others using a unique username, thanks to a new search bar feature.
This is another of a rising number of instances where WhatsApp is borrowing features fromInstagram.
Finding Contacts Without Sharing Numbers
WhatsApp To Reportedly Introduce Username Search for Enhanced Connectivity
The very obvious benefit of this username search on WhatsApp is that users won’t have to share their phone numbers to connect with others.
Instead, they can create a username and keep their phone numbers quite private. It also seems from the report that users will have the freedom to choose whether or not to use this feature, making it a flexible option for everyone.
If you decide to set up a username, you’ll have full control over it. You can change it, remove it, or keep it as is, whenever you want.
And this flexibility will let you manage your privacy according to your comfort level.
Still in Development: What to Expect Next
WhatsApp Update
But this feature is currently in a developmental phase and will go through rigorous testing before being rolled out.
Also, it’s not clear yet if this feature will be available on both Androidand iOS platforms. What we know for sure is that WhatsApp plans to include this in a future update of the app.
Alongside this new feature, WhatsApp has also made it a point to focus on enhancing security.
A recent update introduced a secret code feature for Chat Lockwhich allows users to set a different password for their locked chats.
Meta’s Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, highlighted this update, noting that it ensures private conversations remain secure and hidden unless the secret code is entered.
FAQs
What is the WhatsApp Username Search feature?
WhatsApp Username Search is an upcoming feature that will enable users to find and connect with others using unique usernames. This feature aims to provide an alternative to sharing phone numbers, enhancing user privacy and convenience.
How will the WhatsApp Username Search feature work?
Users will have the option to create a username in WhatsApp, which others can use to find them through the app’s search bar. This username can be changed, removed, or kept as per the user’s preference, providing flexibility and control over privacy.
Is the WhatsApp Username Search feature available now?
Currently, the WhatsApp Username Search feature is in beta testing and is not yet available for all users. WhatsApp plans to include it in a future update, though the availability for Android and iOS platforms is still unclear.
Advanced Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity with Seamless Pairing
Superior Sound Quality with Meridian Presets and HSP Technology
Long-lasting Battery Life with Fast Charging Feature
IP67 Water Resistance and Innovative UVnano Technology for Hygiene
The LG Tone Free Fit TF7 emerges as a dark horse in a challenging market with tons of competition.
Balancing a sleek, sporty design with UVnano technology, these earbuds are crafted for the modern, health-conscious user.
At a competitive price of Rs 19,999, they don’t just aim to meet expectations but to redefine them.
My several months of experience with these buds should provide insights into whether they truly live up to the hype.
In this review, we delve into the nuances of LG’s innovative approach to see if the Tone Free Fit TF7 is more than just another pair of earbuds.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Superior sound quality
Bulky design
Effective ANC
No AptX support
Reliable battery life
Comfortable fit
Key Features
LG Tone Free Fit TF7 Review: Key Features
Bluetooth 5.3 Connectivity
6mm Drivers and Meridian Presets
Headphone Spatial Processing (HSP)
IP67 Water Resistance
Up to 30 Hours Battery Life (with case)
Touch-Sensitive Controls
Design and Fit
LG Tone Free Fit TF7 Review: Design
In reimagining the design of the LG Tone Free Fit TF7, LG has embraced minimalism and functionality with a keen eye for detail.
The earbuds themselves, echoing the colour palette of the case, boast a matte finish accented by a distinctive green line, a subtle yet stylish touch.
Their compact, stem-free appearance is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, eliminating bulkiness.
The case’s textured surface, adept at repelling scratches and stains, is complemented by a USB Type-C port, a charging indicator, and an innovative UV nano light.
That last bit is LG’s homage to hygiene by using ultraviolet light to sanitize the earbuds, ensuring a cleaner, healthier listening experience.
I don’t know how much difference it makes in practical usage, but having it as an option doesn’t hurt.
The earbuds themselves stand out with their compact design and user-friendly features.
Smaller than utmost competitors in the price range, they feature a dot design which, while not to everyone’s taste, provides a surprisingly comfortable fit even for those with protruding ears, as the default tips fit snugly.
As such, comfort seems to be a key strength of these buds, making them suitable for bothsedentary and active use.
With an IP67 water resistance rating, they proved reliable during my intensive workouts, handling sweat without any issues.
Features and Companion App
LG Tone Free Fit TF7 Review: Features
The LG Tone Free Fit TF7 feature Bluetooth 5.3 connectivitythat ensures mostly smooth performance with occasional minor hiccups.
Pairing is a breeze, as I discovered when connecting them to iPhone 12 Pro Max; the process was quick and seamless.
These earbuds also boast wear detection technology, pausing and playing music automatically when removed or worn, earning them brownie points in my book.
Although lacking AptX support, which is fine since I have an iPhone, they support AAC and SBC codecs, effectively minimizing latency.
The audio-video experience is synchronized for the majority of my usage whether I was streaming movies or gaming.
Additionally, the TF7’s design incorporates intuitive touch-sensitive controls that respond more-or-less accurately to gestures.
The earbuds can perform various functions with simple taps: single taps for play/pause, double taps on the right or left for volume control, and triple taps for track navigation. These gestures are easy to remember and execute.
Apart from that, the TF7 also offer versatile multi-point connectivity, allowing simultaneous pairing with up to five devices and easy switching between them.
However, the absence of a pairing button means new connections require either disconnection from current devices or use of the companion app.
For those seeking an immersive listening experience, the earbuds also feature Active Noise Cancellation, activated by a long press on either bud.
Sound Quality
LG Tone Free Fit TF7 Review: Sound Quality
The pièce de résistance of the Tone Free Fit TF7 are definitely the incorporation of advanced technologies like 6mm drivers, Meridian presets, and Headphone Spatial Processing (HSP).
I predominantly liked the Bass Boost EQ setting, which provided an enthralling auditory experience since I like to listen to a lot of hip-hop.
The TF7s were able to deliver clear vocals and rhythmic beats, despite its relatively small driver size. The treble, too, is well-balanced, contributing to a rich and detailed sound profile.
Exploring further, I tested the TF7 with some iconic rock music, starting with the instrument-heavy Led Zeplling’s Kashmir.
The earbuds impressively replicated every element of this classic track, from the guitar and drums to the electronic beats, creating a dynamic soundscape.
The TF7’s noise cancellation feature is another standout aspect. With ANC activated, these earbuds effectively isolate you from external noise, offering an immersive listening experience.
Whether it’s the hum of an AC unit or the ambient noise at a park, the TF7 manages to minimize distractions significantly.
However, I would advise caution when using the highest ANC setting outdoors, as it can create a sense of over-isolation.
For outdoor scenarios, I recommend switching to the ambient sound mode, which strikes a balance between staying aware of your surroundings and enjoying your music.
While the audio performance in this mode might not match the full intensity of ANC, it remains impressively satisfying and safe for external environments.
Battery Life
LG Tone Free Fit TF7 Review: Battery
The FN7s offer a robust battery performance that aligns closely with the brand’s claims. The earbuds lasted about 5 hours on a single charge while using ANC continuously, which is quite impressive.
Turning off ANC extends the battery life even further, reaching around 10 hours. The charging case contributes significantly to longevity, providing at least 28 hours extra, a notable achievement in real-world usage.
An additional highlight of the TF7 is its efficient fast-charging capability.
In practical terms, this meant that with just 5 minutes of charging, the earbuds could deliver about an hour of playback time, a convenient feature for those on the go.
Testing the earbuds with ANC activated and the volume set to 50%, I recorded a battery life of just under six hours.
This performance meets expectations, solidifying the TF7 as a reliable choice for extended use, whether it’s for work, travel, or leisure.
Final Verdict
LG Tone Free Fit TF7 Review: Verdict
The LG Tone Free Fit TF7 earbuds are a standout choice in the crowded market of wireless earbuds.
They skillfully combine innovative features with robust performance, offering excellent sound quality, intuitive controls, and reliable battery life.
While they may not be perfect for every user, especially given the lack of AptX support and the slightly bulkier design, their strengths in areas like comfort, sound customization, and active noise cancellation make them a compelling option for a wide range of listeners.
LG Tone Free Fit TF7 Review
FAQs
How does the LG Tone Free Fit TF7 perform in terms of sound quality?
The TF7 earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality with 6mm drivers, Meridian presets, and HSP technology, ensuring clear vocals and balanced treble. They are particularly impressive with bass-heavy music, providing a rich and detailed sound profile.
What are the battery life and charging capabilities of the TF7?
The TF7 earbuds offer a robust battery life of up to 5 hours with ANC on and around 10 hours without. Their fast-charging feature allows for about an hour of playback with just 5 minutes of charging, with the case extending total playtime significantly.
Are the LG Tone Free Fit TF7 earbuds comfortable for extended use?
Yes, their compact, stem-free design and customizable ear tips ensure a comfortable fit for both sedentary and active use. The IP67 water resistance rating also makes them suitable for workouts.
Chrome Canary introduces Boarding Pass Detector to streamline travel in Google Wallet.
Feature discovered by AssembleDebug, accessible via Chrome Flags in Canary version.
Detector scans for airline URLs and boarding pass information on open tabs.
Potential capabilities include automatic addition and detailed pass information.
Google has recently introduced a Boarding Pass Detector in the Chrome Canary app.
This feature, still in its developmental phase, is quite frankly the next evolution for enhancing the utility of Google Wallet on Android devices.
First some background. Chrome Canary is primarily a playground for developers and a pre-beta version of Chrome.
The Boarding Pass Detector was identified first by AssembleDebug and reported by Android Police.
Just like Apple’s Testflight,Chrome Flags is a tool for both developers and general users that allows the exploration of new functionalities before they become mainstream.
The specific flag in question, found in Chrome Canary version 121.0.6145.0, remains inaccessible in the standard Chrome app on Android.
However, users interested in exploring this feature can locate it by searching “Boarding Pass Detector” on the Chrome Flags page within Chrome Canary.
Direct access is also available by inputting chrome://flags#boarding-pass-detector in the URL bar of Chrome Canary.
Inputting chrome://flags#boarding-pass-detector
The Boarding Pass Detector may offer a couple of benefits, aside from its obvious one for detecting your pass.
It may offer automatic or manual options for adding boarding passes to Google Wallet.
Besides the primary function of handling boarding passes, it could also provide access to supplementary information like departure times or gate numbers.
The GApps Flags & Leaks group has shed light on the underlying mechanism of this feature.
It works by scanning open tabs in Chrome Canary to identify URLs of airlines recognized by Google.
Upon detecting a boarding pass, it could theoretically interact with various elements such as QR codes and barcodes, though its full scope remains to be seen.
FAQs
What is the Chrome Boarding Pass Detector?
The Chrome Boarding Pass Detector is an experimental feature in Chrome Canary, a pre-beta version of Google Chrome. It’s designed to detect boarding pass information from open tabs, potentially allowing users to add them directly to Google Wallet on Android devices.
How can I access the Boarding Pass Detector in Chrome?
To access the Boarding Pass Detector, you’ll need to use Chrome Canary, version 121.0.6145.0 or later. Within Chrome Canary, search for “Boarding Pass Detector” on the Chrome Flags page or directly navigate to it using chrome://flags#boarding-pass-detector in the URL bar.
What functionalities does the Boarding Pass Detector offer?
While still in development, the Boarding Pass Detector is expected to automatically scan and detect boarding pass information on airline websites. It could facilitate adding boarding passes to Google Wallet and provide additional travel details like departure times or gate information.
