الوسم: release

  • OnePlus Open 2 May Launch Next Year

    OnePlus Open 2 May Launch Next Year

    The OnePlus Open has been well-received, earning four out of five stars from Digital Trends. However, anticipation is building for an upcoming model. Although OnePlus has not yet officially unveiled the OnePlus Open 2, there are indications surrounding the Oppo Find N5, a device likely to be rebranded as the OnePlus Open 2 when it launches globally.

    The Oppo Find N5 has recently begun its testing stage, and details about its specifications are starting to emerge. This device will feature the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, an IPX8 waterproof rating, improved battery performance, and wireless charging capabilities. As per insights from Digital Chat Station on Weibo, it is anticipated to be the only folding Android flagship available.

    A screenshot of a Weibo message translation.
    Weibo

    If these details hold true, one of the most notable upgrades is the addition of wireless charging, which was notably absent in the original OnePlus Open. The enhanced waterproofing also adds appeal, especially compared to the IPX4 rating of its predecessor.

    According to leaks, the phone is expected to house a 50-megapixel telephoto camera, and earlier reports suggest it may feature a triple-camera configuration on the back. The first OnePlus Open debuted at a price of $1,700, setting expectations that this new model could also come with a significant price tag—though if it resolves the shortcomings of the original, it might prove to be a worthy investment.

    The speculation that the Oppo Find N5 will evolve into the next OnePlus model appears plausible. In China, the initial OnePlus Open is marketed as the Oppo Find N3, and given the cultural hesitance towards the number four, it stands to reason that the Oppo Find N5 is positioned to become the OnePlus Open 2. Current leaks suggest a possible launch in the first quarter of 2025, with global availability likely following shortly thereafter.

  • Try Out Windows 11 Recall After Nearly Six Months

    Try Out Windows 11 Recall After Nearly Six Months

    Following a rocky initial response and several months of revisions, Microsoft is now unveiling the first preview of its highly debated Recall feature. If you’re a Windows Insider using a Qualcomm Copilot+ PC, you can download a new build of Windows 11 that comes with both Recall and Click to Do functionalities.

    If you haven’t joined the Windows Insider Program yet but wish to explore this feature, it’s simple to register on the Microsoft site. Recall was initially introduced prior to the launch of Copilot+ PCs, and it was intended to be available at that time; however, privacy and security concerns led Microsoft to postpone its rollout.

    The Recall feature is designed to give your PC a “photographic memory,” enabling you to search for anything displayed on your screen using natural language. To function properly, the feature continuously captures images of your activities on the PC, which raised alarms about the safety of these snapshots.

    Screenshot of Recall.
    Microsoft

    As detailed in the Windows Insider Blog, users will need to authenticate with Windows Hello each time they access Recall. While this may enhance the perception of security, it could become a minor annoyance. To assess its true security level, many security experts are expected to examine the updated architecture of the feature’s privacy settings and report any findings through Microsoft’s Bug Bounty Program.

    Moreover, you have the ability to manage which snapshots are retained and specify which applications can use this snapshot feature. Microsoft asserts that it has no access to your screenshots, does not transfer them to the cloud, and will not utilize them for AI training.

    The Click to Do functionality within Recall enables you to perform actions directly from the captured images, such as copying text or storing images. If Recall doesn’t appeal to you, there’s no need to fret about it being available on all Windows 11 PCs right away. Once it does, Microsoft assures users they will have the option to completely uninstall the feature if desired.

  • Is Quest 3 coming out?

    Is Quest 3 coming out?

    The anticipation surrounding virtual reality (VR) gaming continues to grow, with enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the next iteration of Meta’s popular Quest headset. Speculation is rife about the release of the Meta Quest 3, as gamers and VR fans alike are keen to learn more about what the next generation of this technology will bring.

    What We Know So Far

    As of now, the official announcement from Meta has confirmed that the Quest 3 is indeed in development, generating excitement within the VR community. Here’s a breakdown of what has been reported:

    Features and Specifications

    • Improved Processing Power: The Quest 3 is expected to utilize a more powerful chip, likely an upgraded version of the Snapdragon XR series. This enhancement should deliver better graphics and smoother performance.

    • Enhanced Display Quality: Rumors suggest that the new headset will incorporate higher resolution displays for clearer and more immersive visuals.

    • Design Changes: The design may feature a lighter and more ergonomic build, focusing on comfort for extended usage.

    • Mixed Reality Capabilities: There are speculations regarding improved mixed reality features, possibly allowing users to interact with both virtual and real-world elements seamlessly.

    Release Date

    While no official release date has been set, industry insiders indicate a potential launch window. Here’s what we can infer:

    • Expected Launch: Many analysts predict that the Quest 3 may be released in late 2023 or early 2024, aligning with Meta’s strategy of annual headset updates.

    • Pre-Order Options: If the release timeline holds true, pre-orders might become available a month or two before the official launch, allowing eager fans to secure their devices in advance.

    Community Reactions

    The community has had mixed reactions leading up to the anticipated release. Here are some key sentiments:

    Excitement Among Gamers

    • Gaming Opportunities: The thought of improved graphics and performance has many gamers eagerly looking forward to experiencing new titles in a more immersive environment.

    • VR Growth: Many believe that advancements in technology will push the boundaries of VR gaming and experiences, attracting a wider audience.

    Concerns from Users

    • High Expectations: With great excitement comes high expectations. Some users worry that the new features may not justify the cost or may not deliver on promises.

    • Price Speculations: While no price has been announced, there are concerns about whether the cost will be accessible to the average consumer, especially given the trend of rising hardware prices.

    What’s Next for VR?

    Following the anticipated release of Quest 3, the future looks promising for VR enthusiasts. Meta continues to invest heavily in VR and augmented reality (AR), which suggests that the Quest 3 could be part of a larger strategy to establish Meta as a leader in the immersive technology space.

    Upcoming Events

    • Meta Connect Conference: Keep an eye on events like Meta Connect, where updates on product launches and features are often revealed. This annual conference is typically a platform for significant announcements regarding VR innovations.

    • Developer Support: Meta’s ongoing support for developers hints at a variety of new games and applications that could be optimized for the Quest 3, making it an exciting time for content creators.

    In summary, while there is no definitive date for the Meta Quest 3’s release, the information currently available paints a promising picture for VR enthusiasts. As developments unfold, the gaming community remains poised for what could be a truly transformative leap forward in virtual reality experiences.

  • Samsung’s Vision Pro Rival Moves Closer To 2025 Launch

    Samsung’s Vision Pro Rival Moves Closer To 2025 Launch

    Samsung's TM Roh discusses XR initiatives at the 2023 Galaxy Unpacked event.
    Samsung’s TM Roh discusses XR initiatives at the 2023 Galaxy Unpacked event.
    Samsung

    Samsung has officially stated that it plans to introduce an XR device, projected to be released next year.

    In its latest third-quarter earnings report, the company provided updates regarding its extended reality (XR) project, previously indicating a 2024 rollout. Now, Samsung aims to enhance connectivity across its devices, including the forthcoming XR offerings, targeting a launch for 2025.

    Although specific details about the XR devices were not disclosed in the earnings report, there’s already a buzz surrounding these potential products. Samsung has been collaborating with Qualcomm and Google since 2023 on a mixed-reality product capable of supporting augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and XR functions.

    Despite the lack of details about this collaboration, it’s reasonable to speculate how it may unfold. Samsung will likely contribute its branding, design, and user experience, while Qualcomm will supply the chipset, and Google will develop the software. Qualcomm’s latest XR chip, the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2, became available in January 2024. The three companies reaffirmed their intentions during Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event in July.

    The uncertainty surrounding Samsung’s XR device may stem from the limited information available about its features. However, a recent report from Android Authority highlighted an update to the Google Play Store, which now includes support for XR headset app installations, coinciding with Samsung’s third-quarter guidance release. Notably, no other Android manufacturers are currently known to be developing XR devices, suggesting that Google is positioning itself in anticipation of its collaboration with Samsung.

    A person wearing the Sony XR headset.
    The Sony XR headset
    Sony

    Samsung has now confirmed a projected timeline for 2025. In fact, Business Insider reported as early as July that the Samsung XR project would not see a 2024 launch, potentially debuting in March 2025 instead.

    While there have been no updates until now, industry analysts anticipate that this device could compete with the Apple Vision Pro, which launched in February at a price of $3,500. Previous reports have suggested that the Android-based XR platform might retail between $1,000 and $1,500.

    Samsung and Apple are not the only players in the XR space. Sony has showcased its upcoming XR headset since July, and Meta is actively collaborating with companies such as Lenovo and Asus for future headsets in its Horizon OS ecosystem, following the recent release of the Quest 3S.