Month: March 2023

  • Apple to Invest $1 Billion a Year on Theatrical Film Releases

    A new report from Bloomberg suggests that Apple is planning to spend $1 billion a year on theatrical film releases. It aims to screen significant films in thousands of theaters, for at least one month.

    The move would be a major shift for Apple, which has so far largely focused on streaming original content rather than releasing them in theaters. But it could also be a win for movie exhibitors.

    Theatrical Releases Are a Way to Market Apple TV+

    Theatrical releases are a crucial part of the movie-going experience. They help build buzz for a film and can give it a sense of exclusivity.

    They also allow the film to be seen by a much wider audience than might otherwise be possible. This can be important for a film if it’s an independent release or if it hasn’t made back its cost to the studio.

    However, with the shift in the modern theatrical to home release timeline, many people don’t feel the need to make the trip to the theater anymore. This can cause a major impact on the bottom line of theaters as well as on their selection of films.

    Theatrical Releases Are a Way to Please Talent

    Apple will invest $1 Billion a year on Theatrical Film Releases, as part of its effort to increase its profile in Hollywood and lure subscribers to its streaming service. The commitment is a way to please talent, who want their projects to be seen on the big screen and to drum up awareness for Apple TV+.

    It also allows filmmakers to take advantage of one of the most effective promotional tools available: the word of mouth. In a crowded marketplace, it’s often difficult for an independent movie to establish its own unique voice and make an impression on audiences.

    A theatrical release can help you do just that. It can allow you to create buzz and interest about your film before it even arrives on digital platforms, and this can be a powerful marketing tool for a new indie feature.

    Theatrical Releases Are a Way to Raise Awareness

    Apple plans to invest $1 billion a year on theatrical film releases that will run in thousands of cinemas for months. It hopes to attract big-name directors and producers, a move that should increase the popularity of its streaming service, reports Bloomberg.

    For example, Apple has a partnership with Paramount for Martin Scorsese’s next thriller, Killers of the Flower Moon, which is expected to make its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. Other titles on Apple’s slate — including Matthew Vaughn’s action-thriller Argylle with Henry Cavill, and Ridley Scott’s historical epic Napoleon starring Joaquin Phoenix — could also get major theatrical plays.

    But getting a movie in theaters can be a tricky business. It involves creating trailers, sending stars to different locations to promote the title, and holding press junkets. Marketing campaigns are a huge chunk of movie production, and can cost nearly as much as the actual budget for a title.

    Theatrical Releases Are a Way to Avoid Streaming Competition

    Theatrical release is a marketing strategy that allows movies to get their feet wet in the big world of theaters. This is a great way to generate buzz about your movie and increase your audience.

    A film’s theatrical release can happen in one of several ways, depending on its theme and audience. Some examples include limited theatrical releases, platform releases and simultaneous releases.

    Limited theatrical releases are often used by arthouse and independent films that have a niche audience. They are usually released in a small number of theaters for a short period, but the goal is to increase word-of-mouth to encourage wider distribution.

    Simultaneous releases allow a movie to be distributed across multiple platforms, like cinema, DVD, and VOD, at the same time. They also reduce the amount of marketing work for production studios, who only have to run one campaign for all releases. This is especially beneficial for smaller companies and distributors, who do not have the resources to spend on advertising campaigns.

  • Google Rolling Out iOS-Like Sync Apps to Devices Feature for Android

    Google is now rolling out a new feature for Android devices that allows people to sync apps across their mobile phones. This works a bit like iOS’s?Sync Apps?, which has been a popular feature for years.

    This enables users to install apps on their other Android devices remotely, without having to manually update them. As a result, it can be especially useful for users with multiple smartphones and Chromebooks or Wear OS devices.

    Syncing Apps to Devices

    Previously, Android users had to manually sync their library of apps between devices they owned. This is a time-consuming process, especially when changing from a new device.

    Google is now rolling out a feature that will make it easier for users to keep a set of apps across multiple Android phones linked to the same Google account. This is similar to how iOS users can install apps on multiple devices such as an iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.

    The new option is now available in the ‘Manage Apps and Device’ section on the Play Store. This option will allow users to select which devices they want their phone apps to be automatically synced to.

    This is a big win for users who have multiple devices, as it will save them from having to manually sync apps between each device they own. It’s also likely to help increase the convenience quotient of the Android ecosystem overall.

    Syncing Apps to Wear OS

    Google is rolling out an iOS-like?Sync Apps to Devices? feature for Android that will make it easier to keep a set of apps on a primary device and sync them across multiple devices linked to the same Google Account. The feature is now available in the Play Store on Android devices and smartwatches.

    It’s a great way to make sure you don’t miss anything on your phone or tablet, and it will save you from having to manually download the app to each of your connected devices. This is a huge time-saver for users who have more than one device with the same Google Account, and it’s definitely worth trying out!

    Another great app for keeping track of notes is Google Keep. This free app syncs all your notes from your watch and phone, and it’s also a good place to keep all of your contacts.

    Runkeeper is another great fitness app for Wear OS, which lets you track runs, walks, and cycles. Outdooractive is a great hiking app, and Simple Wear is a good utility app for controlling settings and opening apps from your wrist.

    Syncing Apps to Chromebook

    As Google looks to compete with Apple in the Android ecosystem, it is reportedly rolling out the iOS-like?Sync Apps to Devices? feature to the Google Play Store.

    This new option will allow Android users to install apps on all their devices they are logged-in from a single Google account. This is expected to make it easier for users to share data across multiple devices in a convenient manner, and minimize the setup time on each device.

    Syncing files between a Chromebook and another computer is easy, thanks to Autosync. However, Autosync takes a bit of time to sync the contents of your OneDrive on a regular basis, especially if you have a lot of files in storage.

    Additionally, Google is bringing fast pairing support to Chromebooks later this year so that Android users can set up their laptops from connected phones and instantly access saved Wi-Fi passwords. Likewise, Fast Pair will make it easier for people to connect their Pixel Buds and other Bluetooth headphones to Chromebooks.

    Syncing Apps to Google Home

    When you get new smart home devices, they often come with their own set of instructions and their own app. This can be a pain when trying to stay on top of all your gadgets and control them from your phone.

    One way to make life easier is by consolidating all of your devices into a single app, like the Google Home app. That makes it faster and more convenient to keep an eye on your home while also freeing up some room on your smartphone’s screen.

    To do that, just tap the + button in the top left corner of the app, then select Set up device. There are two options, New device (for gizmos that Google Home can manage entirely) and Works with Google (for gadgets from third-party manufacturers).

    Once you’ve selected Works with Google, the app should prompt you to assign rooms to your devices, giving you another way to control them. You’ll also be able to create nicknames for your gadgets, which will help the Assistant know what they’re talking about.

  • Elon Musk Denies Report on Plans for Billion Dollars Funding From Saudi Arabia and the UAE

    Earlier this week, several media outlets reported that SpaceX was planning to receive billions of dollars from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The billionaire founder, Elon Musk, quickly denied the report in a tweet.

    On Thursday, The Information reported that a unit of Saudi Arabia’s investment fund and an Abu Dhabi company were planning to invest in SpaceX. This was expected to raise its capitalisation by $140 billion.

    What is SpaceX?

    SpaceX was founded in 2002 by Elon Musk with the aim of revolutionizing space exploration. The company has made a number of important achievements, including making the first privately developed liquid-propellant rocket that reached orbit and sending astronauts to space.

    Today, the company is a dominant player in the launch industry and works closely with NASA to fly cargo supplies to the International Space Station and to launch science spacecraft. Its launches are cheaper than those of its competitors, and it is one of the few companies that flies reusable rockets.

    SpaceX is also working on a large rocket system called Starship that will carry massive payloads to space. It also hopes to eventually send people to Mars for permanent habitation. It is also developing a large constellation of satellites that will provide global high-speed internet. Its Starlink project aims to bring free Internet service to rural areas around the world.

    Why is Saudi interested in SpaceX?

    SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk denies a report on plans for billion dollars funding from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The report, which was cited by The Information on Wednesday, said that a unit of Saudi Arabia’s investment fund and an Abu Dhabi-based company were looking to invest in SpaceX.

    The news isn’t surprising: Saudi Arabia has a national strategy to develop the space industry, Vision 2030, and it wants to work with private companies. It’s also seeking to diversify its economy away from oil and gas.

    While the country is pursuing its ambitious goals, it will have to face tough political issues like human rights violations and the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. In the meantime, it wants to forge partnerships with American companies and help them meet the demands of its vision, while also acquiring the technology needed to make its own space programs viable.

    What is SpaceX’s business model?

    SpaceX is an aerospace manufacturing and transportation company founded in 2002 by Elon Musk. It aims to reduce the cost of space travel and explore the Moon and Mars.

    The bulk of SpaceX’s revenue comes from launching satellites into space to provide a variety of services to companies and governments. This includes weather satellites, spy satellites, and research satellites.

    Moreover, SpaceX is also aiming to build a network called Starlink that will allow every citizen to have access to fast and affordable internet service. This is an important pillar of the Business model, and it’s likely to be SpaceX’s biggest source of revenue in the near future.

    In addition to the primary aim of commercializing space travel, SpaceX is also attempting to civilize Mars by creating reusable rockets that surpass anything else in the market at this point in time in terms of size and carrying capacity. This has led to SpaceX becoming the dominant player in the industry and has a strong first-mover advantage over its competitors.

    What is SpaceX’s mission?

    Founded in 2002, SpaceX is a company that builds and launches rockets into orbit. It is a pioneer in the space industry, and has made several groundbreaking achievements.

    It is known for making a liquid-propelled rocket that reached orbit, and it has also made reusable boosters. This is a huge step forward for space exploration.

    A key part of SpaceX’s mission is to revolutionize space technology. They are always looking for new and innovative ways to get to space, and to help humans live on other planets.

    The company has also been trying to reduce the amount of energy that humans use in space, and has developed ways to make sure that we don’t overuse the Earth’s resources. This is a great way to help save the environment and to protect us from future disasters.

    It is important to understand the company’s mission and vision statement to understand how it differentiates itself from its competitors. This will help you understand why SpaceX has become a worldwide brand.

  • Samsung Galaxy F14 5G With 50-Megapixel Rear Camera

    The Samsung Galaxy F14 5G With 50-Megapixel Rear Camera is a new smartphone from the South Korean tech giant. It features a 6.6-inch display with a waterdrop notch and a 6,000mAh battery.

    It is powered by the Exynos 1330 SoC and runs Android 13 out of the box with OneUI 5. The company has also guaranteed two major updates and four years of security upgrades.

    Camera

    The Samsung Galaxy F14 5G With 50-Megapixel Rear Camera comes with a triple-camera setup that includes a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. It also features a 13-megapixel front camera with an LED flash.

    The smartphone is powered by an Exynos 1330 SoC and offers up to 6GB of RAM. The phone runs Android 13 based One UI 5.1 out of the box and has a 6000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging.

    It comes with a 6.6-inch full HD+ Infinity-V LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. It also has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a triple slot (nano SIM-1, nano SIM-2, and microSD card).

    Display

    The Samsung Galaxy F14 5G With 50-Megapixel Rear Camera features a 6.6 inches PLS LCD display that comes with a Full HD+ resolution and supports a 90Hz refresh rate. It also houses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.

    This smartphone is backed by an Exynos 1330 chipset, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of internal storage. It is also fueled by a 6,000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging.

    The device runs Android 13 with One UI 5 on board and is guaranteed two years of OS upgrades and four years of security updates. It also comes with a side fingerprint sensor and Knox security.

    Battery

    The Samsung Galaxy F14 5G is a smartphone that packs a huge battery and offers some great specifications. It features a 6.6-inch Full HD+ waterdrop display with a 90Hz refresh rate, an Exynos 1330 chipset and 50-Megapixel dual rear cameras.

    The smartphone also comes with a 6,000mAh battery that provides up to two days of standby time and supports 25W fast charging. In addition, the smartphone also sports a side fingerprint sensor and Knox security.

    It is powered by an in-house Exynos 1330 processor, paired with 4GB or 6GB RAM and 128GB storage that can be expanded via microSD card. The phone supports 5G connectivity and runs Android 13 OS based on One UI Core 5.1 out of the box.

    RAM

    The Samsung Galaxy F14 5G comes with a 6.6-inch PLS LCD and 90Hz Display. It is powered by a 5nm Exynos 1330 octa-core processor with 4GB/6GB LPDDR4x RAM, 128GB storage, and a 6,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging.

    It features a triple camera setup on the back, including a 50-Megapixel primary sensor with f/1.8 aperture and LED flash. It is paired with a 2-Megapixel depth sensor and a 13-Megapixel front camera.

    The smartphone will be available in India in two configurations – 4GB RAM + 128GB storage priced at Rs 12,990 and 6GB RAM with 128GB storage for Rs 14,490. It will be available on Flipkart and the Samsung India website.

    Storage

    Samsung Galaxy F14 5G is a new smartphone from the Korean company that comes with a huge 6000mAh battery. This new model will be available for purchase in India at an introductory price of Rs 12,990.

    This phone will feature a 6.6-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate. It will run Android 13 OS based on One UI and will get two years of OS updates in addition to four years of security upgrades.

    It is powered by an Exynos 1330 chipset with 4 or 6 GB RAM. It also has 128 GB of storage expandable by up to 1 TB using a microSD card.

  • Xiaomi Reports Record Drop in Q4 Revenue

    The Chinese smartphone vendor Xiaomi on Friday reported a record drop in Q4 revenue. It cited the impact of the COVID-19 curbs on China as well as global component shortages.

    The company said that it expected the economic slowdown in China to recover slowly. However, it warned that the coronavirus outbreak could also affect overseas demand.

    Smartphone

    Among smartphone vendors, Xiaomi is experiencing a record drop in Q4 revenue. This has caused it to report a 20% year-on-year decline in profits.

    The global smartphone market also experienced a record drop in shipments for the fourth quarter, with a 18.3% annualized decline, according to IDC. This is the biggest drop in sales for one quarter since 2013.

    IDC believes the coronavirus pandemic will have a negative impact on overseas demand. However, it expects the holiday season and year-end sales to increase demand.

    Chinese smartphone makers Oppo, Vivo and Xiaomi saw their shipments decrease by 9%, 1.4% and 19.8%, respectively, in 2022. Compared to the same period last year, the three brands’ share decreased by 1 point.

    Internet of Things

    The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to an ecosystem of connected devices that use embedded sensors and wireless communication to collect and exchange data. These connected devices range from the fluffy (smart lights) to the serious (connected cars).

    The IoT is becoming increasingly common in consumer products, such as smart thermostats and lights, but it also enables organizations within industries like energy, agriculture and infrastructure to automate processes, improve productivity and efficiency and boost safety. These IoT applications may include sensor-based tracking of assets or employees in hazardous environments, such as oil and gas fields or chemical plants.

    However, despite the potential for these IoT devices to make our lives easier, there is also a concern over security. US intelligence agencies warn that hackers could exploit IoT devices to spy on citizens or cause disruptions if they are compromised.

    Financial Services

    Xiaomi has made a big name for itself as a Chinese smartphone manufacturer in the past couple of years, and now it’s on a mission to break out into global markets. However, it’s going to have its work cut out for it, as the smartphone industry in the West is dominated by subsidy-driven devices and carrier relationships.

    The company has a long way to go before it can become a major player in the global smartphone market, but it’s making progress. As long as it continues to improve its average selling price, Xiaomi’s future looks bright.

    While the latest revenue report from Xiaomi shows a record drop in financial services sales, it also points to strong growth in its internet services segment. This is mainly thanks to strong overseas sales and a robust gaming business. That helped to offset a decline in advertising and fintech revenues. In addition, smartphone shipments also rose. But overall, the company’s Q4 revenue is down a whopping 40% year-on-year.

    Other

    Despite its high-profile position in the smartphone industry, Xiaomi faces many challenges. These include counterfeiting and piracy, data-mining issues, and product quality issues.

    Nevertheless, the company manages to deliver a steady stream of smartphones with innovative features. These are complemented by its smart home gadgets and other devices that offer affordable options for consumers.

    The company makes smartphones, tablets, laptops, wearable devices, TVs, and routers. These are sold through its web store and third-party stores.

    In addition to its hardware, the company offers a customized version of Android called MIUI. Its interface looks like iOS and drives users to cloud messaging, device security, and backup features.

    The Chinese firm also manufactures internet-connected appliances, including televisions, flashlights, unmanned aerial vehicles, and air purifiers. These products are offered through its Mi and Redmi brands. The company’s online business has been growing rapidly. Its revenue from Internet services in the second quarter of 2021 grew 1100% year-over-year. It expects to expand its overseas business.

  • TikTok to Get Banned in France for Use on Smartphones of Civil Servants

    The French government is now joining a growing list of nations that are banning the Chinese-owned video-sharing app TikTok from smartphones of civil servants over security concerns. France’s Civil Service Minister Stanislas Guerini said Friday that the app is among those that will be banned from the devices.

    The French ban covers a wide range of social media and content platforms, including TikTok. It also affects gaming apps like Candy Crush, streaming services such as Netflix, and dating applications.

    TikTok’s Ties to China

    TikTok’s ties to China are potentially the most serious concern for the app. The Chinese government has extensive controls over the internet, including censorship rules that restrict what is viewed online and which companies can operate in China.

    The Communist Party can order businesses to hand over user data and other information to government officials or to delete content at their request. It can also levy penalties on companies that fail to comply with laws and regulations.

    This makes TikTok’s ownership by ByteDance, a Chinese company, even more important to lawmakers and other skeptics.

    The Chinese government believes that the digital space is territory that could be conquered and used as an information-gathering tool. It has encouraged Chinese firms to conduct national security data audits, and it can threaten to cancel licenses or impose penalties on foreign companies operating in China.

    TikTok’s Privacy Concerns

    TikTok collects a lot of user data. That includes device identifiers, information about how people use the app and how they interact with other apps.

    TikTok’s privacy policies are causing concern among European regulators, who have been investigating it for several years. Ireland’s data protection authority is conducting two investigations into the app for its child protection practices and for transferring EU citizen data to China.

    CNIL has also opened an investigation into whether the company is complying with GDPR regulations. In a statement, CNIL said it would need to prove that it was obtaining consent to use the personal data it had collected.

    The French ban on TikTok is not a new development, but it brings the country in line with other governments that have banned the app. The Netherlands recently banned TikTok on government-issued smartphones because of concerns that it may be used by hackers to spy on the country’s security agencies and interests.

    TikTok’s Security Concerns

    The popular social video app TikTok will get banned in France for use on smartphones of civil Servants, in line with recent steps taken by other Western countries. The decision comes in response to concerns over security and privacy risks.

    French Civil Service Minister Stanislas Guerini said on Twitter that TikTok has no “sufficient levels of cybersecurity and data protection” and should not be deployed on govt-issued devices.

    Several Western governments have already banned TikTok from government-issued phones, but this is the first time that a country has decided to ban its use for all civil servants.

    The bans were prompted by cybersecurity experts who reviewed the application and determined it presents a risk to government devices, said Tom Dowden, director of UK Cybersecurity and Cyber Defence at the Cabinet Office. The move is a proportionate and prudent one, he added.

    TikTok’s Global Reach

    The fastest growing app on the planet, TikTok has more than 150 million monthly users worldwide. But it is gaining more and more calls for it to be banned over fears about China’s access to user data.

    A number of governments in the U.S., Britain and the European Union have already banned TikTok on government phones. Western governments worry that Chinese authorities could force TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to hand over data on international users or push pro-Beijing narratives.

    The French government is also banning the use of TikTok on smartphones of civil Servants in a bid to protect data. The minister of public services, Stanislas Guerini, said Friday that TikTok, as well as Twitter, Instagram and other recreational apps, would be blocked from all official devices. He added that exceptions would be granted for communication departments.

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Battery Specifications Tipped

    Battery life is a big deal for any tablet that can be expected to last all day. And Samsung is known for extending battery life on its phones, which means we might expect similar longevity from the Galaxy Tab S9.

    According to an online listing, the upcoming Galaxy Tab S9 will get a bigger battery than previous models in this series. The Li-ion battery developed by Samsung SDI will carry the EB-BX716ABY model number, which matches with the SM-X71X designation.

    Battery Capacity

    Samsung is taking its tablet lineup more seriously with the upcoming Galaxy Tab S9. According to an online listing that appeared on Sammobile, the upcoming premium Android tablet should pack a larger battery than its predecessors.

    The report cites a recent application found by GalaxyClub in the database of Chinese agency CQC, revealing that the upcoming Galaxy Tab S9 will use a Li-ion battery developed by Samsung SDI with part number EB-BX716ABY. This model number is likely to be used for the base Tab S9 variant.

    This rated capacity is significantly higher than the 8000mAh rated capacity of the batteries in the Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Tab S7, as well as the 10000mAh rated battery on the Galaxy Tab S7 Plus and Galaxy Tab S8 Plus. If the unannounced Galaxy Tab S9 is capable of maintaining this battery capacity, it should be able to last for a very long time.

    Battery Life

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is a great choice for any user who wants a high-quality tablet with plenty of storage space and long battery life. It has a large screen and fast processor, so it’s ideal for work or play.

    A new leak shows that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 will feature a battery that’s significantly larger than the ones found on its predecessors. According to a Sammobile report, the Galaxy Tab S9 will feature a lithium-ion battery that has part number EB-BX716ABY, which is the model number of the SM-X71x variant that should be used by the base Tab S9.

    In addition to this battery upgrade, the unannounced tablet will also reportedly feature IP67 dust and water resistance, which would make it one of the most rugged tablets on the market. That would be a big step forward for Samsung’s premium tablet line, which has thus far been lacking in this important feature.

    Battery Optimization

    Battery life is one of the most important features to look for in any smartphone or tablet. With so many people relying on their phones to keep them connected, batteries need to be as efficient and long-lasting as possible to keep up.

    Thankfully, most new smartphones come equipped with smart features that help optimize your charging and battery use. Specifically, they allow you to slow down your charging process, protect the health of your battery by avoiding frequent charge cycles that happen when you leave your device plugged in for long periods of time, and enable optimized battery charging for individual apps.

    Optimized battery charging is one of the most useful features on Android devices, but it can also be tricky to find. Luckily, Samsung has a few tips to help you turn this feature on and get the most out of it. First, disable automatic screen brightness to reduce power consumption and extend battery life.

    Battery Charger

    If you’re planning to use your tablet for long periods of time, you’ll need a battery that can take care of that. That’s why Samsung has stepped up its game in this regard with last year’s Galaxy Tab S7 and the Galaxy Tab S8 series, offering some very good features at some very competitive prices.

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is no exception to this rule, a new report claims. It’s rumored to come with IP67 dust and water resistance, which will be the first time that feature has been applied to a high-end tablet from Samsung.

    The latest leak, first brought forward by Galaxy Club and subsequently covered in a dedicated article by SamMobile, indicates that the unannounced Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 will sport a rated battery capacity of 8,160mAh. This is higher than both the rated and typical capacities of the Galaxy Tab S7 and Tab S8 batteries.

  • Alleged Renders For the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

    A recent leak suggests that Samsung’s next-gen foldable may come with a massive cover screen. This will make it much more usable than the Galaxy Z Flip 4.

    It also means that the company could update its One UI software to take better advantage of its extra screen real estate. It’s a good move that will help the company stand out from its competitors and improve the Galaxy Z Flip 5.

    Renders Show Two Outer Displays

    Alleged renders for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 suggest the clamshell foldable device will have a massive cover screen. A tipster by the name of SuperRoader revealed that the foldable will have a small display next to the dual cameras and a larger 3.4-inch display that covers the remaining real estate on the front when it’s folded.

    This would be a massive upgrade from the 1.9-inch outer display on the Z Flip 4. It should be able to show notifications, widgets, and quick settings without the need to open the phone completely, which makes it more usable in various situations.

    This larger external display might also help improve the clamshell’s performance by reducing the visibility of its screen crease. This could mean that the Z Flip 5 will have a significantly improved user experience and could be a major competitive advantage against other foldables like Motorola’s Razr 2023.

    Renders Show Dual Cameras

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is rumored to sport a massive cover screen, according to new leaks. A tipster named SuperRoader claims the upcoming foldable phone will feature two outer displays–a small one next to the dual cameras and another that covers the rest of the front when folded.

    The small screen will show limited information, like the time and AR emojis, while the larger one is for notifications, widgets, and quick settings. It will also act as a viewfinder.

    This is a big upgrade from the 1.9-inch screen of the Galaxy Z Flip 4, and it would be very useful for checking notifications, accessing quick settings, or even using as a viewfinder. But, it’s important to note that the larger screen will likely switch off when not in use to conserve battery life.

    Renders Show a Waterdrop Hinge

    According to a new report from tipster @chunvn8888, Samsung will be equipping the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and its upcoming foldable sibling with waterdrop hinges. These new hinges reduce the visibility of the screen’s crease and allow the two halves to shut completely flat, which is good news for buyers who aren’t fans of the gap that often forms between the folding point and the screen.

    The waterdrop hinge is also said to provide the phones with IPX8-rated water and dust resistance. This will be a huge plus for the foldable market, where ingress protection ratings continue to be a rarity.

    In addition to the waterdrop hinge, both devices will also feature a “redesigned” inner display. According to Ross Young, CEO of DSCC, this redesign will help reduce the slope and strain on the foldable panel when it’s folded. He claims a 57% reduction in strain and 66% less waviness after folding to fatigue. This will help prevent a visible seam from developing over time and keep users happy.

    Renders Show a Dual-Lens Camera

    The alleged renders for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 reveal that the smartphone will have a dual-lens camera. This comes as a welcome development as it will allow users to take better photos while using the device.

    The leaks also show that the cover screen on the device will be split into two sections, allowing the dual-lens camera to be seen clearly. In addition, a small display will be used to display the time, battery life, and AR Emojis.

    While the Galaxy Z Flip 4 is rumored to have a 1.9-inch external cover display, the new model may have a larger one (3.4 inches). This could make it easier to see what’s onscreen when it’s folded.

  • China’s Online Gaming Regulator Grants Approval to 27 New Video Games

    Chinese regulators have granted approval to 27 new video games, the latest sign of a thaw in Beijing’s crackdown on the gaming industry.

    The National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) approved the games on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the regulator’s efforts to reduce video game addiction among minors.

    1. Merge Mansion

    Merge Mansion is a puzzle game in which you use garden tools and other objects to complete home renovation tasks. You can match items by pulling images of seeds onto a board, for example, to transform them into seedlings that can be used to complete the tasks.

    It’s a fun, relaxing experience that draws players looking to escape reality for a little while. But it also has a few quirky elements that make the game a bit hard to follow.

    2. Audition: Everybody Party

    China?s online gaming regulator has granted approval to 27 new video games, including titles to be published by Tencent Holdings and NetEase. The National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) announced the list on Monday.

    NPPA also issued specific content restrictions affecting a number of new games. These include games that relate to harem infighting, political maneuvering and poker. These restrictions are not written into the NPPA regulations but will impact whether a game passes NPPA?s content censorship review and receives the required approval for publication in China.

    3. Shanyao! Youjunshaonu

    The regulator granted approval to 27 new video games on Monday including titles from Tencent Holdings, NetEase and Bilibili. These include Merge Mansion, Audition: Everybody Party and Shanyao! Youjunshaonu.

    The new rules are set to impact the way international players operate in China’s gaming market. Specifically, these are aimed at restricting the time minors can spend playing online and blocking certain types of content.

    4. The Wizard of Legend

    China’s online gaming regulator recently granted approval to 27 new video games. The list includes Wizard of Legend, a roguelike dungeon crawler by American studio Contingent99 with over 500,000 units sold worldwide.

    The Wizard of Legend is a fast paced game that emphasizes dynamic magical combat. The game allows players to chain spells together to create devastating combinations against enemies.

    5. Gorogoa

    China’s online gaming regulator has granted approval to 27 new video games including Merge Mansion, Audition: Everybody Party and Gorogoa. The list also includes a roguelike dungeon crawler, Wizard of Legend.

    Gorogoa is a puzzle game developed by Jason Roberts in which players manipulate images placed in a two-by-two grid to solve puzzles. It tells the story of a boy who grows up in a war-ravaged landscape.

    6. Fairy Tale: Fighting

    Chinese regulators granted approval to 27 new video games on Thursday, easing rigid curbs that have hit the country’s online gaming industry for nearly 18 months. Among them were titles from Tencent Holdings and NetEase, Reuters reported.

    It’s not just about the games that are getting approval – China also implemented new rules affecting the time allowed for minors to play. These include limiting the amount of experience points they can earn.

    7. Yo-kai Watch 4

    Level-5’s latest Yo-kai Watch entry, Yo-kai Watch 4, was granted approval by China?s online gaming regulator on Wednesday. It is the fourth mainline installment in the series and features a completely action RPG-based battle system.

    The Chinese government imposed strict rules on online video games in 2007, requiring gamers to register with their real names and ID cards. This was done to discourage underage users from playing for prolonged periods.

    8. Valorant

    China has finally lifted a near 18-month-long crackdown on foreign games, with the country’s online gaming regulator granting publishing licenses to 45 imported titles. These include Nintendo’s Pokemon Unite and Riot Games’ Valorant.

    Chinese state media branded online games as “mental opium” and a health detriment to minors, leading to strict regulations restricting children to three hours of gaming a week. But despite the regulatory curbs, analysts say there is still room for the market to return to growth.

    9. Pokemon Unite

    Pokemon Unite, a popular mobile multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by TiMi Studios, has been granted approval in China. This is a big deal as it marks the first time that the country has approved games from foreign developers in 18 months.

    The Chinese government is lifting rigid restrictions that have hammered the industry for 18 months, and this is a sign that a policy reversal may be near. Besides Valorant and Pokemon Unite, other imported games to receive approval include CD Projekt Red’s Gwent: The Witcher Card Game and Klei Entertainment’s Don’t Starve.

    10. Honor of Kings

    China’s online gaming regulator on Monday granted approval to 27 new video games, including a mobile title from Tencent. The move is an important step in easing the government’s crackdown on the country’s gaming market, which has seen approvals frozen for nine months.

    Honor of Kings, a popular game from Tencent and TiMi Studio Group, is an online multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) that has become the world’s top mobile gaming revenue earner. It has raked in $10 billion in player spending worldwide since its launch in 2015.

  • Acer Nitro 5 With AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors

    Acer on Monday launched Nitro 5 with AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors in India. The new laptop is available in all Acer exclusive stores, Acer E-store and Flipkart.

    The Nitro 5 packs up to 8 cores and 16 threads of CPU processing power, with up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card. It also has up to 32GB RAM, two M.2 PCIe SSDs and a 15.6-inch display.

    Price

    The Acer Nitro 5 With AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors is launched in India at a price of Rs 79,990. The laptop comes with a 15.6-inch display with In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology, QHD resolution, 165Hz refresh rate, and 3ms response screen time.

    It is backed by a 57.5 Wh 4-cell Li-ion battery and can last up to 8 hours on a single charge. It also features a multiplexer (MUX) switch, which allows users to manually enable or disable the integrated GPU.

    It is powered by a Ryzen 7 7735HS octa-core processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card. The machine packs 8GB of DDR5 RAM and 512GB SSD storage. For connectivity, it has one USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, and WiFi-6E and Bluetooth 5.2.

    Processors

    Acer has launched a new gaming laptop in India which is powered by AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors. The Nitro 5 comes in single 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage variants at a starting price of Rs 79,990. It will be available in Acer exclusive stores, Acer E-store and Flipkart.

    This laptop is designed to handle intensive gaming sessions with its advanced cooling and quad-exhaust port design. It also features a 4-zone RGB keyboard and dual 2W speakers with DTS:X Ultra support. It can also be customised via the NitroSense utility app, which allows users to control fan speeds and lighting among other things.

    Graphics

    The Acer Nitro 5 With AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors launched in India is equipped with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics and up to 32GB of RAM. The laptop also features a 15.6-inch QHD+ display with 165Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response time.

    Its CPU is available in two variants: the AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS hexa-core and the AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS octa-core processor. It also comes with a Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU, up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and 512GB of PCIe Gen4 storage.

    The laptop features dual-fan cooling, dual intakes (top and bottom), and a quad-exhaust port design to ensure maximum performance while gaming. Additionally, users can control fan speeds, lighting, and more using the NitroSense utility app.

    Storage

    The new Acer Nitro 5 With AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors launched in India comes with an Intel Killer E2600 Ethernet controller and Wi-Fi 6E for lag free online gaming. It also offers a range of ports including HDMI 2.1 and USB 3.2 Gen 1 with support for Gen 2.

    The laptop is powered by either an AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS or an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor with up to 8 cores and 16 threads along with a boost clock of 4.55GHz. It also includes an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card with 4 GB of dedicated GDDR6 VRAM.

    The laptop is equipped with a 15.6-inch QHD+ IPS display with 165Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response time. It also features a 4-zone RGB keyboard and dual 2W speakers with DTS:X Ultra support.

    Connectivity

    Powered by AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU, Acer Nitro 5 With AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors launched in India packs all the gaming juice you need. It comes with Wi-Fi 6E and Killer Ethernet E2600 for lag-free online gaming, smooth HD streaming video, interrupt-free audio and video chats, and a full range of ports including HDMI 2.1 and the latest USB 3.2 standard with Gen1 and 2 support.

    It also has a 15.6-inch QHD display, 2W dual speakers with DTS:X Ultra and 3D spatial sound, and quad-exhaust port design to improve cooling. Its 4-zone RGB keyboard is also customised for gamers with a dedicated NitroSense key that lets you take control of fan speeds and other features.