This means Pixel phones will be able to connect even when there’s no normal phone signal.
Google is offering two years of free satellite service for Pixel users.
This feature could be really important in emergencies.
It lets users send important information when they’re in places with no regular phone service.
This could include:
Your location
The type of help you need
Information about injuries
Pixel 9: First with Built-in Satellite Support
The update includes support for satellite communication
The new Android 15 update suggests that the upcoming Pixel 9 phoneswill have satellite communication built-in from the start.
These phones are expected to come out in August.
This puts Google in the same league as Apple and Huawei, who already have this feature in their phones.
Other companies like vivo, OPPO, Honor, and Xiaomi are also working on similar features.
For users, this means Pixel phones will be even more useful in remote areas or emergencies.
It adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.
What This Means for Android Users
The upcoming Pixel 9 phones will have built-in satellite support
The Android 15 Beta 4 update, especially with its satellite communication feature, shows that Google is working hard to keep Pixel phones at the cutting edge of technology.
This feature could be a real lifesaver in emergencies and makes Pixel phones more useful in remote areas.
As we wait for the official release of Android 15 and the new Pixel 9 phones, it’s clear that Google is committed to making phones that are not just smart, but also keep users connected and safe in all situations.
It shows that Google is thinking about how to make phones more useful in all kinds of situations, not just for everyday use in cities and towns.
FAQs
Which Pixel devices can get the Android 15 Beta 4 update?
The update is available for Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, Pixel tablet, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro.
What is the most exciting feature of Android 15 Beta 4?
The most exciting feature is the support for satellite communication, allowing users to connect even without a regular phone signal.
How long is the free satellite service offered by Google for Pixel users?
Google offers two years of free satellite service for Pixel users with this update.
What advantages does satellite communication bring to Pixel phones?
Satellite communication can be crucial in emergencies, enabling users to send their location, the type of help needed, and information about injuries when there is no regular phone service.
When are the Pixel 9 phones expected to be released?
The Pixel 9 phones, expected to come with built-in satellite support, are anticipated to be released in August.
The Spigen Ez Fit comes in a pack of two and includes an easy installation kit.
With over 3,000 ratings and an average of 4.1 stars, it’s a customer favourite.
ESR Military Grade MagSafe Case
Price: Not specified (Check Amazon for current price)
ESR Military Grade MagSafe Case
This tough case for the iPhone 15 Pro offers military-grade protection and MagSafe compatibility.
Its Air Guard corners absorb shocks, while the 1,500-gram magnetic force keeps your phone secure.
With 7,500+ ratings and a 4.0-star average, it’s a reliable choice.
Spigen EZ Fit Optik Pro Camera Lens Protector
Price: Rs. 1,419 (Was Rs. 2,899)
Spigen EZ Fit Optik Pro Camera Lens Protector
Keep your iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max’s camera lenses safe with this specialized protector.
It’s especially useful if you often place your phone face-up without a case.
Boasting over 2,600 ratings and a 4.3-star average, it’s highly regarded by users.
Apple AirTag
Price: Rs. 2,889 (Was Rs. 3,490)
Apple AirTag
Never lose your belongings again with the Apple AirTag.
This small tracker works seamlessly with Apple’s Find My network and offers Precision Finding for accurate location tracking.
ESR Magnetic Wallet
Price: Not specified (Check Amazon for current price)
ESR Magnetic Wallet
This MagSafe-compatible wallet attaches to your iPhone’s back, holding cards and cash.
With a 3,000-gram holding force, it doubles as a stand for your phone.
It’s well-loved by users, with over 13,000 ratings and a 4.4-star average.
Apple MagSafe Charger
Price: Rs. 3,849 (Was Rs. 4,500)
Apple MagSafe Charger
Charge your iPhone, AirPods Pro, or AirPods withWireless Charging Caseeffortlessly with this official Apple accessory.
It’s a popular choice with over 34,000 ratings and a 4.1-star average.
Belkin 5,000 mAh Magnetic MagSafe Wireless Power Bank
Price: Rs. 3,999 (Was Rs. 8,999)
Belkin 5,000 mAh Magnetic MagSafe Wireless Power Bank
Keep your iPhone charged on the go with this MagSafe-compatible power bank.
It features a built-in stand and works with the last four generations of iPhones.
With over 1,000 ratings and a 3.7-star average, it’s a solid portable charging solution.
These accessories offer a mix of protection, convenience, and enhanced functionality for your iPhone.
The Amazon Prime Days Sale 2024 presents an excellent opportunity to grab these items at significantly reduced prices.
Whether you’re looking to safeguard your device, improve its usability, or extend its battery life, there’s something here for every iPhone user.
Remember, the sale is ending soon, so act quickly to take advantage of these deals.
Always check the current prices on Amazon, as they may fluctuate during the sale period.
Happy shopping!
FAQs
What is the Spigen Ez Fit Tempered Glass Screen Protector?
It’s a high-quality tempered glass screen protector for the iPhone 15, including an easy installation kit and comes in a pack of two.
How does the ESR Military Grade MagSafe Case protect my phone?
The case offers military-grade protection with Air Guard corners that absorb shocks and a strong magnetic force for secure attachment.
What are the key features of the Apple AirTag?
The AirTag works with Apple’s Find My network for precise location tracking, helping you keep track of your belongings.
What makes the Belkin 5,000 mAh MagSafe Wireless Power Bank unique?
It features MagSafe compatibility, a built-in stand, and can charge the last four generations of iPhones, making it a versatile portable charging solution.
Are these iPhone accessories available at discounted prices during the Amazon Prime Days Sale 2024?
Yes, these accessories are available at significantly reduced prices during the sale, offering great value for iPhone users.
When it first came out, Samsung said it would only work with certain Samsung phones.
But now, there’s exciting news for Android users who don’t have Samsung devices.
Let’s look at how the Galaxy Ring might work with other Android phones.
Surprising Compatibility
There are some reviews out there claiming that the Samsung Galaxy Ring only works on a Samsung device, therefore it doesn’t work on other Android devices.
This is untrue.
All you have to do is install the Galaxy Wearable app, connect, and go through the setup process. pic.twitter.com/H6Jm97hJSI
— M. Brandon Lee | THIS IS TECH TODAY (@thisistechtoday) July 21, 2024
Samsung’s official website says the Galaxy Ring works with Galaxy smartphones running Android 11.0 or newer, with at least 1.5GB of memory.
They also mention that syncing data through Samsung Cloud needs a Samsung phone, the Samsung Health app, and a Samsung account.
But here’s the surprise: a YouTuber named M. Brandon Lee showed the Galaxy Ring working with a Nothing phone.
This suggests the ring might be more flexible than Samsung first said.
How to Set Up the Galaxy Ring on Any Android Phone
Galaxy Ring Compatibility Reportedly Expands Beyond Samsung Phones
If you want to try using the Galaxy Ring with a non-Samsung Android phone, here’s how you might do it:
Download the Galaxy Wearable app from the Google Play Store.
Set up the app, which might ask for personal details like your birthday and height.
Install Samsung Health and SmartThings apps. Use the same Samsung account for all these apps.
Open the Galaxy Ring case. Your phone should ask to pair with the ring. Say yes.
Choose which features you want to use.
Wear the ring on your index finger, with the embossed mark facing your palm.
The Vivo V40 series features a 5,500mAh battery for extended use.
These phones come with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
Available in three colors: Ganges Blue, Lotus Purple, and Titanium Grey.
Includes a unique Infinity Eye Camera module and curved display.
Vivo is getting ready to bring its new V40 series phones to India, as per 91mobiles.
These phones are expected to launch next month so let’s look at what we know so far about these new devices.
Big Battery and Tough Design
Vivo V40 Series Set to Launch in India Next Month
The Vivo V40 series will distinguish out because of its large battery.
These phones will contain a 5,500mAh battery, which is huge for such thin smartphones.
This implies they should last a long period before needing to be recharged.
These phones will also be extremely durable.
They will have an IP68 classification, indicating that they can withstand water and dust.
These phones come with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance
This is wonderful news for anyone who are concerned about their phone being wet or soiled.
In India, the V40 series will be available in three color options: Ganges Blue, Lotus Purple, and Titanium Grey.
They will feature a unique cushioning structure to make them even more durable.
The phones will also have a curved display and a new camera design called the Infinity Eye Camera module.
What to Expect at Launch
The Vivo V40 series features a 5,500mAh battery for extended use
Vivo hasn’t revealed anything about these phones yet.
However, we believe there will be at least two models: the Vivo V40 and the V40 Pro.
They could debut in August.
The V40 has already been released in Europe, and it appears that the Indian version will be comparable.
We don’t know much about the V40 Pro yet, but it will most likely have some advancements over the ordinary V40.
There is a likelihood that Vivo would modify the names for India.
In India, the ordinary V40 may be referred to as the “Pro” model, and it may be used with a different phone.
We’ll have to wait till the formal announcement to find out for sure.
These new Vivo phones sound exciting, especially with their big batteries and tough build.
If you’re looking for a new phone that can last all day and handle a few bumps, the Vivo V40 series might be worth checking out when it launches in India.
But inside sources say it could be unveiled by the end of 2024.
This is earlier than some people thought.
Game developers have been told they can submit PS5 Pro-ready games from July 30th.
Improved CPU with a high-speed mode for smoother gameplay
Any games released after September 15th must work on the PS5 Pro.
This hints that Sony is getting ready for a big launch.
Some worry there aren’t enough new games to show off the PS5 Pro’s features.
But it seems Sony is still moving ahead with their plans.
Expected Features and Improvements
Developers must submit PS5 Pro-ready games from July 30th
The PS5 Pro is rumored to be much more powerful than the current PS5.
Here’s what we might see:
– A stronger GPU that could make games look 45% better
– Better ray tracing for more realistic lighting in games
– A slightly faster CPU with a new high-speed mode
– The option for developers to use either the faster CPU mode or the standard mode
These changes could mean prettier games that run more smoothly.
But remember, Sony hasn’t confirmed any of this yet.
The PS5 Pro, if it comes out, could be a big step up for PlayStation fans.
It might offer much better graphics and smoother gameplay.
But we’ll have to wait for Sony to make it official before we know for sure.
Gamers should keep an eye out for more news in the coming months.
FAQs
When is the PlayStation 5 Pro expected to be released?
The PS5 Pro is rumored to be unveiled by the end of 2024, according to insider sources.
What improvements can we expect from the PS5 Pro?
The PS5 Pro is expected to feature a stronger GPU, improved ray tracing, and a faster CPU with a new high-speed mode.
Are developers preparing games for the PS5 Pro?
Yes, developers have been instructed to submit PS5 Pro-ready games from July 30th, and all games released after September 15th must support the PS5 Pro.
Will the PS5 Pro have better graphics than the current PS5?
The PS5 Pro is rumored to deliver significantly better graphics, with potential improvements of up to 45% over the current PS5.
Has Sony officially confirmed the PS5 Pro?
No, Sony has not officially confirmed the PS5 Pro, but multiple reports and leaks suggest its impending release.
A faulty CrowdStrike update caused widespread Windows system crashes, known as the “blue screen of death.”
Approximately 8.5 million devices were affected globally, disrupting major industries.
Both Microsoft and CrowdStrike acted swiftly to resolve the issue and reassure users.
Elon Musk’s comments on social media added to the controversy during the crisis.
On 19 July 2024, millions of Windows users worldwide woke up to an unexpected nightmare.
A routine security update from CrowdStrike, a leading cybersecurity company, went terribly wrong, causing widespread system failures and the dreaded ‘blue screen of death’ (BSOD).
This incident, now dubbed the “CrowdStrike Update Fiasco,” has sent shockwaves through the tech industry and highlighted the delicate balance between security and stability in our digital world.
Understanding the CrowdStrike Update
The Great Windows Crash of 2024: CrowdStrike Update Causes Global Chaos
To fully grasp the scope of this incident, it’s crucial to understand what the CrowdStrike update was meant to accomplish.
CrowdStrike’s Falcon is an advanced endpoint protection platform designed to detect and prevent cyber threats in real-time.
The ill-fated update was part of a routine process to enhance the software’s ability to identify and neutralise emerging cybersecurity threats.
A faulty CrowdStrike update caused widespread Windows system crashes, known as the “blue screen of death.”
The update included new threat detection algorithms and improved system scanning capabilities.
However, a critical error in the code caused the software to misinterpret normal system processes as potential threats.
This triggered an aggressive response from the Falcon software, leading to system crashes and the infamous blue screen of death.
Ironically, the very update intended to bolster system security became the biggest threat to millions of Windows devices worldwide.
Microsoft’s Response: Damage Control
Approximately 8.5 million devices were affected globally, disrupting major industries
As the crisis unfolded, Microsoft scrambled to assess the damage.
According to their reports, approximately 8.5 million devices were affected by the faulty update.
While this number is staggering, it represents less than 1% of all Windows devices globally, thanks to Windows’ massive user base and the update’s focus on enterprise systems with automatic updates enabled.
Businesses Bear the Brunt
CrowdStrike’s stock price took a nosedive, dropping 11% and wiping billions off the company’s market value
The impact on businesses was particularly severe.
Airlines, banks, hospitals, and retailers found themselves grappling with communication breakdowns, halted transactions, and operational slowdowns.
The widespread use of virtual machines for remote work only compounded the problem, leaving many employees unable to access their work systems.
As news of the global outage spread, CrowdStrike’s stock price took a nosedive, dropping 11% and wiping billions off the company’s market value.
Elon Musk Adds Fuel to the Fire
We just deleted Crowdstrike from all our systems, so no rollouts at all
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 19, 2024
Never one to miss an opportunity for a jab, tech mogul Elon Musk took to social media to mock Microsoft during the crisis.
His tweet, “Macrohard >> Microsoft,” along with a meme highlighting that his platform X (formerly Twitter) was still functioning, added a touch of controversy to an already tense situation.
Musk followed up his initial tweet with several more posts, including one that read, “Maybe it’s time for an OS that doesn’t blue screen every other Tuesday.”
Crowdstrike server room pic.twitter.com/9n5rwiYxMj
— Not Elon Musk (@iamnot_elon) July 19, 2024
This comment not only mocked Microsoft’s historical issues with system stability but also hinted at Musk’s own ambitions in the tech world.
Some speculated that Musk’s comments were more than just opportunistic jabs.
Given his involvement in AI development through companies like Tesla and xAI, some industry watchers wondered if Musk was subtly positioning himself or his companies as potential players in the operating system market.
The Road to Recovery
Both Microsoft and CrowdStrike acted swiftly to resolve the issue and reassure users.
Both Microsoft and CrowdStrike acted swiftly to address the crisis.
Microsoft released a patch to correct the error and provided detailed instructions for users to manually remove the faulty files.
CrowdStrike, for its part, rolled back the problematic update and deployed fixes to address the crashes.
George Kurtz, CrowdStrike’s CEO, took to social media to reassure customers, stating, “This is not a security incident or cyberattack.
The issue has been identified, isolated, and a fix has been deployed.”
He directed affected users to the company’s support portal for updates and promised ongoing communication.
Lessons Learned: The Future of Software Security
“CrowdStrike Update Fiasco,” has sent shockwaves through the tech industry
The CrowdStrike disaster is a wake-up call to the whole IT sector.
It emphasizes the vital need of thorough testing and quality assurance in software development, particularly for security systems in which a single error can have far-reaching effects.
Moving forward, experts suggest several key areas for improvement:
Enhanced Collaboration: Closer cooperation between cybersecurity companies and operating system providers is essential. This includes better communication channels and standardised update deployment protocols.
Automated Testing: Implementing more robust automated testing systems can help catch errors before software is released to the public.
AI-Powered Security: Artificial intelligence can play a crucial role in identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities, reducing reliance on manual updates.
Self-Healing Systems: Developing security software that can detect and fix problems automatically could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
User Preparedness: The incident underscores the importance of robust disaster recovery plans for businesses, including regular data backups and clear troubleshooting procedures.
An Unexpected Saviour: Windows 3.1 to the Rescue
Windows 3.1, a version of Microsoft’s operating system released back in 1992
In an ironic twist to the CrowdStrike Update Fiasco, some companies found an unlikely hero in a 30-year-old operating system.
Southwest Airlines, one of the many businesses affected by the widespread system failures, managed to keep some of its operations running thanks to Windows 3.1, a version of Microsoft’s operating system released back in 1992.
This revelation highlights the surprising resilience of older technology in the face of modern challenges.
Southwest used Windows 3.1 for certain of its ground operations systems, therefore the CrowdStrike upgrade, which was built for far later versions of Windows, had no effect on these specific terminals.
While not a perfect solution to the issue, this unanticipated workaround allowed Southwest to preserve some level of operation throughout the outage, illustrating that occasionally, older may truly be better.
FAQs
What caused the global Windows crash in July 2024?
The crash was caused by a faulty CrowdStrike update intended to enhance threat detection but resulted in system failures and blue screens of death.
How many devices were affected by the CrowdStrike update?
Approximately 8.5 million Windows devices were affected worldwide.
What was Microsoft’s response to the CrowdStrike update issue?
Microsoft released a patch to correct the error and provided detailed instructions for users to manually remove the faulty files.
How did CrowdStrike address the update problem?
CrowdStrike rolled back the problematic update, deployed fixes, and assured customers that it was not a security breach or cyberattack.
What impact did the update issue have on businesses?
The issue caused significant disruptions in various sectors, including airlines, banks, hospitals, and retailers, affecting communication, transactions, and operations.
A much bigger battery could solve one of the main problems with foldables – short battery life.
It might make these phones more practical for everyday use.
Of course, we’ll have to wait for official news from OnePlus to know for sure.
But this leak gives us an exciting glimpse at what might be coming in the world of foldable phones.
FAQs
What is the expected battery capacity of the OnePlus Open 2?
The OnePlus Open 2 is rumoured to feature a 6,000mAh battery, which is a significant increase from the 4,805mAh battery in the current OnePlus Open.
Why is a larger battery important for foldable phones?
Foldable phones have larger screens that consume more power, so a larger battery can help extend the device’s battery life and make it more practical for everyday use.
What new technology might OnePlus use in the Open 2’s battery?
OnePlus might use “Glacier Battery” technology, which involves using silicon to pack more power into the same space as a traditional battery.
When is the OnePlus Open 2 expected to be released?
The OnePlus Open 2 is expected to be released in early 2025.
What processor might the OnePlus Open 2 use?
The OnePlus Open 2 is rumoured to feature Qualcomm’s newest chip, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, providing enhanced performance.
OnePlus Open 2 5G Specs
GENERAL
Sim Type
Dual Sim, GSM+GSM
Dual Sim
Yes
Sim Size
Nano+Nano SIM
Device Type
Smartphone
Release Date
October 19, 2024 (Expected)
DESIGN
Dimensions
Unfolded: 132.2 x 140.5 x 7.4 mmFolded: 132.2 x 72.6 x 14.6 mm
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
MediaTek’s Dimensity 8400 surpasses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in AnTuTu benchmark tests.
The Dimensity 8400 offers powerful performance at a lower price point.
Phone makers like Xiaomi are expected to use the Dimensity 8400 in upcoming models.
This development could lead to more affordable high-performance smartphones.
A new chip from MediaTek has shocked the tech world.
This chip, which isn’t even their top model, has beaten a top Qualcomm chip in a key test.
Let’s look at what this means.
The Surprising Test Results
MediaTek’s Dimensity 8400 Outperforms Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in Benchmark Test
MediaTek is making a new chip called the Dimensity 8400.
It’s not meant to be their best chip, but it’s still very strong.
In a test called AnTuTu, which measures how fast a chip is, the Dimensity 8400 scored higher than Qualcomm’s best chip, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
This is big news because Qualcomm’s chips are often seen as the best.
For MediaTek to beat them with a less powerful chip is impressive.
What This Means for Phones
The Dimensity 8400 offers powerful performance at a lower price point
The Dimensity 8400 could change how phone makers choose chips.
It’s expected to be cheaper than top chips but still very powerful.
This implies that phone manufacturers may utilize it to create mid-range phones that are almost as quick as the most costly models.
Some major telephone providers are already preparing to employ this device.
Xiaomi, a popular phone manufacturer, may include it in certain of its phones.
This might result in more powerful phones at reduced rates for consumers.
Future Impact on the Smartphone Market
This development could lead to more affordable high-performance smartphones.
This development could have far-reaching effects on the smartphone industry.
If MediaTek can consistently produce chips that outperform more expensive options, it might force other manufacturers to rethink their strategies.
Qualcomm and other chip makers might need to lower their prices or boost performance to stay competitive.
For consumers, this could mean better value across all price ranges.
Mid-range phones might start to offer performance that was once reserved for flagship devices.
Dimensity 8400 scored higher than Qualcomm’s best chip, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
This could blur the lines between phone tiers, giving buyers more options at different price points.
MediaTek is showing they can compete with the best chip makers.
This new chip could shake up the phone market.
It might lead to faster, cheaper phones for everyone.
We’ll have to wait and see how phone makers use this exciting new chip.
FAQs
What is the Dimensity 8400?
The Dimensity 8400 is a new chip from MediaTek, designed to provide powerful performance for mid-range smartphones.
How did the Dimensity 8400 perform in benchmarks?
In AnTuTu benchmark tests, the Dimensity 8400 scored higher than Qualcomm’s top chip, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
What does this mean for consumers?
This could lead to more affordable smartphones that offer high-end performance, as phone makers might use the Dimensity 8400 in mid-range devices.
Which phone makers are expected to use the Dimensity 8400?
Companies like Xiaomi are rumored to be planning to use the Dimensity 8400 in their upcoming smartphones.
How might this impact the smartphone market?
If MediaTek consistently produces high-performance chips at lower prices, it could force competitors to lower their prices or improve their performance, benefiting consumers with better value devices.
