الوسم: Technology

How Auracast Supports Sydney Opera House Visitors With Hearing Loss

We’ve been highlighting the potential of Bluetooth’s broadcast audio technology, Auracast, for quite some time. Recently, this innovation made a groundbreaking debut at the iconic Sydney Opera House, helping individuals with hearing challenges rekindle their enjoyment of live music.

If Auracast hasn’t crossed your radar yet, it’s worth noting that this technology, spearheaded by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), employs Bluetooth’s Low Energy (LE) Audio standard. This enables high-quality sound to be transmitted from Auracast-compatible devices to receivers such as hearing aids and headphones. Users can access these dedicated broadcasts via an app or other interfaces.

At CES over the years, we’ve had the opportunity to witness this technology in action, where its applications are expansive. For instance, airport patrons could tune into specific flight gate announcements through their personal headphones, and sports bars could allow fans to select the audio feed of their preferred games being aired on multiple screens.

An Auracast transmitter set up on a TV, transmitting audio to compatible Auracast devices.
Derek Malcolm / Digital Trends

The Sydney Opera House, teaming up with leading hearing technology firms such as GN, Hearing Australia, and Australia’s National Acoustic Laboratories, has become the inaugural major cultural venue to implement Auracast in its performance spaces, including the Drama Theatre, Playhouse, and Studio venues, with plans to include the larger Concert Hall and other areas soon. Bluetooth LE Audio not only ensures low latency and efficient battery consumption but also boasts remarkable sound quality. Auracast can connect an unlimited number of receiving devices, enhancing the experience for users.

A string quartet performs for the launch of Auracast at the Sydney Opera House.
GN

Auracast is now actively enhancing live performances at the Sydney Opera House, allowing users with compatible Auracast hearing aids or headphones to enjoy the shows, thereby fostering a more inclusive atmosphere. This initiative might inspire other venues around the globe to adopt similar technology, broadening access to theatrical experiences.

According to a press release, “Hearing aid users often encounter challenges at live events, where traditional assistive listening systems, like induction hearing loops, are primarily designed for speech and can distort music while limiting seating options to areas with coverage.” The introduction of Auracast seeks to enhance this experience significantly.

For the festival launch at the Sydney Opera House, guests lacking compatible hearing devices were provided with Auracast-compatible Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro to experience the technology firsthand. Representatives from Samsung, Google, and the Bluetooth SIG were present to showcase Auracast-compatible products that highlight improvements in auditory experiences within public venues.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra paired with Galaxy Buds3 Pro
Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Statistics indicate that one in five individuals globally is affected by hearing loss. In the United States, approximately one in eight people (13%, or 30 million people) aged 12 or older experience hearing loss in both ears, as reported by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. However, advancements are being made to assist those with hearing impairments. The FDA took significant steps in 2022 by allowing the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids aimed at those with mild to moderate hearing loss without the need for a prescription or hearing test. Recently, Apple has introduced hearing aid functionalities in its AirPods Pro 2.

Auracast holds promise for further enhancing experiences for individuals with hearing challenges.

“We are at the forefront of integrating Auracast for hearing aid users to seamlessly connect and enjoy exceptional sound anywhere,” said Peter Karlstromer, CEO of GN. “We take pride in our collaboration with the Sydney Opera House, National Acoustic Laboratories, and Hearing Australia to enable Auracast for performances at this landmark venue – we hope this sets a precedent for others to embrace and advance into the next era of connectivity.”

مارس 19, 2025
Apple Could Launch Major Front Camera Upgrade For iPhone 17

The realm of Apple rumors is abuzz with discussions surrounding the contentious redesign of the iPhone 17 Pro, particularly its prominent camera bump. Concurrently, conversations are also swirling around the sleek iPhone 17 Air. However, beyond these design highlights, there are several internal enhancements that merit attention.

Analyst Jeff Pu reports that each model in the iPhone 17 lineup will feature an upgraded 24-megapixel front camera. Historically, Apple has utilized a 12-megapixel selfie camera across its mainstream iPhone offerings. Interestingly, the company has never incorporated a 24-megapixel sensor, having primarily experimented with 12-megapixel and 48-megapixel configurations in recent years.

While Pu’s research note, which was referenced by MacRumors and 9to5Mac, lacks detailed specifications for the new front camera, we can make educated assumptions based on Apple’s previous transitions, notably when changing from 12-megapixel to 48-megapixel rear cameras.

Apple

The integration of a 24-megapixel sensor is likely to utilize pixel-binning, which allows for lower resolution images that still retain a high level of detail. Pixel-binning effectively merges the light data from adjacent pixels to create what is commonly referred to as a super-pixel.

These enhancements will aim to deliver clearer images with more vibrant color accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. The resulting images may have a lower resolution than the inherent pixel count but will likely be more visually appealing.

For instance, the iPhone 16 Pro’s 48-megapixel primary camera employs 4-in-1 pixel binning to generate 12-megapixel photos while still allowing users to capture full-resolution 48-megapixel shots. There’s also a middle ground, enabling users to capture 24-megapixel images, combining the benefits of both techniques.

With the advent of a 24-megapixel front camera, customers purchasing the iPhone 17 can expect enhanced selfies and superior video call quality. Furthermore, the increased pixel count allows for advanced camera functionalities.

Jon Prosser / MacRumors

Low-light selfies will particularly benefit from the larger sensor, allowing for clearer images even in challenging lighting. Additionally, cropping or zooming will result in less noticeable detail loss compared to smaller sensors. The 24-megapixel sensor could also allow for more intricate bokeh effects in portraits.

Apart from the enhanced front camera, the iPhone 17 Pro is also anticipated to upgrade from a 12-megapixel zoom camera to a 48-megapixel telephoto lens. Reports suggest that the RAM capacity may also be increased to 12GB for the iPhone 17 Pro models.

مارس 18, 2025
Razer Aims to Combat Gaming’s AI Issues Using More AI

Razer has joined forces with Sam Altman’s World to identify genuine players in multiplayer games, distinguishing them from bots. The presence of bots in gaming isn’t a recent phenomenon; many multiplayer titles use AI-controlled bots to fill matches when there aren’t enough human players. However, these bots can sometimes be overly skilled, making them nearly unbeatable, or they may turn into farming bots that detract from the overall game experience.

To counteract this issue, Razer ID, verified through World ID, aims to authenticate users as human players. This initiative provides players with confidence that their opponents are real, enhancing the integrity of the gameplay experience. The system operates on the World Network, which employs iris scans to confirm identities.

While the technology is promising, it still requires time to become widely implemented. Its debut will occur in the blockchain-centric game, Tokyo Beast, where players are required to log in with a Razer ID. This requirement is intended to ensure that human players aren’t matched against bots.

A recent survey conducted by Echelon Insights, commissioned by World, revealed that 59% of gamers frequently encounter bot-controlled players. Of those surveyed, 71% believe bots hinder the competitive aspect of gaming, and 18% have quit a game due to an overwhelming presence of bots.

Both Razer and World are committed to preserving a human-centric multiplayer environment, allowing gamers to pit their skills against each other rather than facing off against artificially intelligent opponents. Wei-Pin Choo, Razer’s Chief Corporate Officer, stated, “Building a verified community is essential for promoting fair play. In order to encourage healthy competition, developers must create trusted gaming experiences that exclude AI bots. Our collaboration with World ensures that real players form the core of every gaming experience, maintaining fairness, immersion, and a focus on human interaction."

مارس 17, 2025
Oppo’s Next Phone Outshines iPhone 16 Pro Feature

The launch of Oppo’s upcoming flagship smartphone, named the Oppo Find X8s, is just around the corner. The company has been eagerly showcasing its innovations compared to competitors, recently highlighting the impressive display enhancements of this new model, including its superiority over the iPhone 16 Pro.

According to Oppo, the Find X8s will feature remarkably slim bezels on all four sides of its display. Product manager Zhou Yibao shared a comparison image on the Chinese social platform Weibo, where the bezels of the Find X8s—previously thought to be called the Find X8 Mini—are juxtaposed with those of the iPhone 16 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Bezel comparison between Oppo Find X8s (left) and iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max Zhou Yibao/Weibo

It’s evident that the bezels on the Oppo device appear to be thinner than those on the iPhone 16 Pro. Though the exact measurement hasn’t been disclosed, it has been indicated that the thickness is “only 1.xx mm,” with the “xx” denoting two decimal points following 1. Oppo has reportedly achieved this impressive thinness with a proprietary “chip-level screen packaging technology.”

Previously, a similar approach was highlighted when Oppo announced its earlier flagship, the Find X8, last November, which showcased a display with 1.45mm bezels on all sides.

In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro is expected to have bezels measuring 1.41 mm along the top and bottom and 1.46 mm on the sides. Notably, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, despite having a larger display, features even slimmer bezels at just 1.36 mm. It’s worth mentioning that the Galaxy S25 Ultra has much thicker borders, exceeding two millimeters.

If Oppo is making a point to emphasize these measurements, it seems they are positioning themselves to rival the smaller values found on the two iPhone 16 Pro models. While the significance of these comparisons may seem trivial, Oppo is keen to establish itself as the brand with the thinnest bezels.

The Oppo phone appears noticeably narrower than the iPhone in the image, likely due to its smaller anticipated display size of around 6.3 inches.

Competition Among Upcoming Slim Phones

Oppo’s larger device, the Find X8 Pro, has already outperformed the iPhone 16 Pro with its versatile camera capabilities, though the same may not hold true for this smaller variant. More details are on the way, as Oppo has assured us that the “ultra-thin, small-screen flagship” is set to debut in April, positioning itself to compete against the Galaxy S25 Edge and the upcoming iPhone 17 Air. Whether the Oppo phone can claim the title for overall slimness will soon be revealed next month.

This timeline points to a launch in China. However, given that Oppo recently opted out of a global launch for its foldable device, the Find N5, expectations for the Find X8s should be tempered. That said, this same model might debut as the OnePlus 13T, should there be no notable changes along the way.

مارس 17, 2025
Samsung May Demand Big Bucks For Galaxy S25 Edge

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Samsung has only offered a sneak peek of its sleek Galaxy S25 Edge smartphone, showcasing its engineering prowess. However, for the average consumer, the price tag may be quite steep.

Reports from Android Headlines indicate that the model featuring 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage could be priced between €1,200 and €1,300, which is approximately $1,300 to $1,400 based on current exchange rates.

The premium variant, boasting double the storage capacity, is expected to retail for between €1,300 and €1,400 ($1,400 to $1,522). To put this in perspective, the anticipated iPhone 17 Air might launch around $900 later this year.

A Glimmer of Hope

Nirave Gondhia / Digital Trends

It's essential to note that Samsung typically prices its phones more competitively in the U.S. compared to the European market. For example, while the Galaxy S25 starts at €900 in Europe, it retails for $800 in the U.S. The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a price tag of €1,470, yet is available in the U.S. starting at $1,300.

Despite these comparisons, the leaked price points for the Galaxy S25 Edge are closely aligned with those of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is widely regarded as the most feature-rich Android device. Samsung seems to be charging a premium for innovation, amidst rising material costs for this new device.

The leaks suggest that the Galaxy S25 Edge will be positioned between the Galaxy S25+ and the Ultra model, which would set its retail price between approximately $1,000 and $1,300.

What to Anticipate?

Alexis Garza / YouTube

Latest leaks indicate that the Galaxy S25 Edge will feature a titanium chassis, similar to Apple's offerings. Additional color options include Titanium Icyblue, Titanium Jetblack, and Titanium Silver.

Among its specifications, the phone is expected to house Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, a 6.7-inch OLED display, and a battery capacity of 3,786 mAh, which is less than that of the Galaxy S25.

On a positive note, it may incorporate an enhanced vapor chamber cooling system compared to the standard Galaxy S25. The dual rear camera setup is anticipated to include a 200-megapixel primary sensor and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The phone is likely to be unveiled later this month, though its availability may be limited.

مارس 17, 2025
Gemini Takes Over Google Assistant How Will It Affect You
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The inevitable change away from Google Assistant has been announced. Google confirmed that users will transition to Gemini as their primary AI assistant on devices in the upcoming months, meaning Google Assistant will no longer be accessible.

Currently, users can still set Google Assistant as the default assistant on Android phones, even on newer models that launch with Gemini pre-installed. This transition will also encompass smartwatches, Android Auto, tablets, smart home technology, TVs, and audio devices.

“We’re also introducing a revamped experience powered by Gemini for home devices such as speakers, displays, and televisions,” says Google. However, they have not specified when this transition will fully take place. Following the switch, Google Assistant will be phased out from various devices and removed from app stores.

Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends

Gemini can already interact with numerous Google apps and several third-party applications. Users can request tasks across different services without having to navigate through individual apps. Beyond Google’s offerings like Docs, Drive, and Gmail, Gemini can also operate tasks in applications like WhatsApp and Spotify, as well as a number of Samsung apps.

Which devices are transitioning to Gemini?

Gemini will support most features that users currently enjoy with Google Assistant. Core functions like managing smart home devices, accessing the assistant from the lock screen, setting routines, song identification, and messaging will also be available with Gemini.

Digital Trends

Many of these features have been refined in Gemini to deliver an upgraded experience. For instance, it excels in handling reminders, managing events, and processing inquiries related to Google Maps, Google Drive, and YouTube videos, while also being aware of on-screen context.

Here’s a general list of device compatibility for those set to upgrade to Gemini in the coming months:
- Devices with a minimum of 2 GB RAM.
- Android version 10 or higher.
- iPhones running iOS 16 or newer.
The virtual assistant on your headphones will align with the version installed on your phone, except for budget-friendly Android Go devices, which provide a simplified Google experience. Since no new Android Go phones have been released recently, it’s understandable that Gemini will not be moving forward with these models.

What changes come with Gemini?

Starting with the activation word, there’s no need for concern; the familiar “Hey Google” prompt will continue to serve as the hotword to evoke Gemini, just like it did for Google Assistant. For devices not yet upgraded, using “Hey Google” will still summon Google Assistant without any limitations.

To make the transition as smooth as possible, especially regarding familiarity, Google will carry over certain user data from Google Assistant to Gemini. Assuming all necessary on-device permissions have been granted, Gemini will automatically have access to user information related to calls and messages.

“We will utilize some preferences and history from Google Assistant when we transition your device to Gemini,” states Google in a support document. Thankfully, users will not encounter any functional limitations. In the upcoming months, Gemini will also review your search history to provide more personalized responses. Eventually, it will be able to engage with Photos as well.

What makes this a superior option?

Gemini is a substantial upgrade over Google Assistant in terms of technological foundation. Whereas Google Assistant was primarily an AI built on natural language understanding, Gemini is designed as a natural language chatbot capable of sophisticated reasoning and comprehension.

Unlike Google Assistant, Gemini operates more like a knowledge repository trained on a vast range of information, allowing it to function offline for many tasks. It can engage in free-flowing conversations across multiple languages, but its true strength lies in its ability to interpret various input forms.

For instance, by uploading a PDF, Gemini can analyze and summarize the content for you. It can process images, text, audio, and even live video in a technically defined process known as multimodal processing. Furthermore, Gemini has capabilities for generating images.

In terms of problem-solving abilities, Gemini can tackle complex questions related to science, mathematics, and coding—areas where Google Assistant falls short. In the forthcoming months, with the introduction of Project Astra, Gemini will be able to interpret the real world through camera input in real time.

Beyond these features, there are several other capabilities that far exceed those of Google Assistant. For example, the newly available Deep Research tool can conduct extensive web research and generate comprehensive reports in just minutes, a task that typically demands hours of searching and compiling information.

Additionally, there are Gems, custom user-created versions of the Gemini assistant tailored for specific tasks. Anyone can create these Gems without needing coding skills, using only natural language instructions. Previously restricted to paying users, these features have been made freely available to all users as of March this year.

Another significant advantage of Gemini is its diverse format options, each suited for specific capabilities. Unlike Google Assistant's more rigid approach, Gemini allows users to select models based on the nature of the tasks they wish to complete.

For instance, if a user needs assistance with tasks based on a lengthy book they've uploaded, the “Pro” model is ideal. Alternatively, the “Flash” model offers quick and efficient responses for everyday assistant tasks.

In summary, Gemini represents a monumental leap forward from Google Assistant, both in versatility and functionality. If you own an advanced smartphone capable of running the Gemini Nano model, the assistant will manage tasks such as real-time translation without requiring an internet connection.
مارس 15, 2025
Light Phone III Launches This Month To Beat Distraction

Introducing the Light Phone III

For those looking for a phone that prioritizes simplicity while keeping you connected, the Light Phone III stands out as the ideal choice. Manufactured by the company Light, which is committed to creating products that serve the user rather than the opposite, this latest model is set to debut on March 27.

The Light Phone III features a 3.92-inch AMOLED display, replacing the e-paper screens found in earlier iterations, making it straightforward to navigate. It’s equipped with a camera and an NFC chip for easy wireless payments, and it’s designed to be more repair-friendly, allowing access to the battery and the option to replace either the screen or USB port if needed.

Rather than offering a plethora of apps to distract you, the Light Phone III limits its features to essential tools such as Phone, Alarm, Directions, Music, Notes, and Calendar. This minimalist approach encourages users to remain present rather than getting sidetracked with endless notifications and entertainment options.

Light

It’s important to note that this phone does not support social media platforms, email, or streaming videos. However, the newly integrated camera allows users to snap quick pictures, though sharing them on social media isn’t an immediate option.

The LightOS operating system further emphasizes privacy and is designed to promote intention in usage, helping users focus on their current tasks. As research increasingly highlights the distractions posed by smartphones and the potential negative impact of social media on mental health, the Light Phone III presents a tranquil alternative.

The device is available for pre-order at an introductory price of $599, with the regular price set to increase to $799 upon launch. Shipping is anticipated for June of this year.

مارس 14, 2025
Apple May Add Live Translation Feature To AirPods This Year

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Recently, Apple has shifted its focus for AirPods, aiming to enhance their appeal with a wellness-oriented approach rather than simply promoting them as basic wireless earbuds. The AirPods Pro 2 introduced a Loud Sound Reduction feature last year, along with a hearing test system and an in-built hearing aid capability.

Now, the company appears to be preparing for a new upgrade. Reports suggest that Apple is planning to launch a real-time translation feature for AirPods later this year. This initiative aims to bridge communication gaps in face-to-face interactions.

The anticipated feature is currently in development and is expected to be included in the iOS 19 software update. Designed to facilitate two-way translation, the system will work collaboratively with both the AirPods and the iPhone.

How it works?

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

In this system, the iPhone will act as the translation hub. It will convert language A into language B and send the translated audio to the AirPods user. Simultaneously, spoken language B will be translated back into language A and played through the iPhone’s speaker for the other participant.

Details regarding Apple's choice of translation engine remain unclear, including whether the approach will incorporate AI and how many languages it will support. Nonetheless, the feature promises significant utility, though Apple is not the first to offer such capabilities.

Apple is late to the game

Google has provided this functionality for some time with its Pixel-branded earbuds, leveraging Google Translate to support nearly 40 languages. Users can choose between a live Conversation Mode for interactive voice chats or the Transcribe Mode for different needs.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 provide translation capabilities. Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Other brands have also entered the “translation earbuds” market. The Earfun AirPro 4+ earbuds, for example, launched earlier this year with AI-assisted real-time translation features, while the Mymanu Click and Mars earbuds have offered this benefit since 2017.

There is even a niche dedicated to translation earbuds, with products like the Timekettle X1 catering to business and enterprise needs. Additionally, AI chatbots such as Google’s Gemini also provide translation services.

Apple has options regarding its approach, especially given its existing partnership with OpenAI, which allows for integrations of ChatGPT capabilities whenever Siri requires enhancement. Developments in neural machine translation have also been significant, with several open-source models readily available.

For instance, Meta open-sourced its AI translation tool, supporting almost 200 languages, in 2022. However, given Apple’s emphasis on privacy, the company may choose to collaborate with a trusted partner or develop its proprietary technology for on-device translations, ensuring both speed and security.

مارس 14, 2025
Motorola Edge 60 Fusion Leak Shows Extra Camera And AI Features

Motorola is stepping up its game in the “AI on phone” arena with its upcoming 2025 lineup, joining the ranks of industry giants like Google and Samsung, as well as various prominent Chinese brands. Recent leaks suggest that Motorola’s next Edge series smartphone will be one of its first models without a foldable design to showcase the Moto AI suite.

Renowned leaker Evan Blass has unveiled what appears to be promotional visuals for the Moto Edge 60 Fusion, prominently featuring the Moto AI branding. Until now, Motorola’s AI capabilities have primarily been available on its latest foldable models and the Edge 50 Ultra flagship. Importantly, the entire system is still in the beta-testing phase as of now.

Moto AI, introduced last year, utilizes Google’s AI framework, which includes features like the Gemini assistant, the Imagen photo-creation model, and Google Cloud’s Vertex. In its initial rollout, Moto AI included tools like Magic Canvas, which transforms text prompts into creative images, and Style Sync, which generates wallpapers that match users’ outfits.

During the ongoing beta trials, the range of AI features has significantly expanded with a focus on practicality. A new addition called Catch Me Up summarizes all missed notifications for users. Meanwhile, the Remember This feature enables users to create personal notes directly in a built-in Journal.

With just a gesture, users can activate the Moto AI, take a photo, and issue voice commands to save their findings. The integrated journaling system employs a memory feature that allows users to retrieve previously saved information using simple natural language queries.

Another innovative feature is Pay Attention, which records voice conversations, automatically transcribes them, and creates a concise summary. This functionality bears some resemblance to what Apple’s Notes app offers following its AI enhancements.

The Edge 60 Fusion appears poised to offer the complete Moto AI experience from launch. Regarding hardware, the new phone is expected to feature three rear cameras. In contrast, the Edge 50 Fusion came equipped with two rear lenses, including a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 13-megapixel ultrawide sensor. The next version is likely to add a zoom lens to the setup. Leaked visuals reveal that the Edge 60 Fusion will house a 50-megapixel main camera with optical stabilization, utilizing one of Sony’s LYTIA image sensors.

The stylish vegan leather finish will continue for this new generation, complemented by an eye-catching sea green option featuring a textile-inspired texture on the rear panel. In addition to the fresh color choices, a notable design shift is evident in the Edge 60 Fusion. Unlike the Edge 50 Fusion’s curved sides, the successor will showcase a quad-curved display with symmetrical bezels on all sides, giving it a striking resemblance to the OnePlus 7 Pro, aside from the centrally located selfie camera disrupting the seamless look.

While specific details about the device’s internal components remain under wraps, Motorola has yet to announce an official launch date for the Edge 60 series. However, based on the rollout of the Edge 50 series, the new models are expected to be revealed around April of this year.

مارس 12, 2025
Water-Cooled Laptop Can Hold Desktop Parts Because Why Not

A groundbreaking Kickstarter initiative is set to revolutionize mobile computing with an innovative hybrid laptop that combines desktop components and an integrated liquid cooling system. The Ultra High Performance Integration Liquid Cooled Laptop, or UHPILCL T1000, is crafted to accommodate standard mini-ITX motherboards, enabling users to install high-performance desktop CPUs and full-size graphics cards, including the powerful RTX 5090.

This creation stands out as one of the most potent and modular laptop alternatives ever introduced. In contrast to typical gaming laptops that depend on bulky vapor chamber cooling setups or external docking solutions, the T1000 boasts a fully integrated open-loop liquid cooling system capable of handling up to 720 watts of thermal output. Given the significant power requirements of components like AMD’s Ryzen 9 9950X3D, effective cooling is critical, and users will need to fill the system with deionized water prior to use to ensure optimal heat dissipation.

UHPILCL

The T1000 features a 17.3-inch display with a stunning 3K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, striking an impressive balance between visual clarity and fluid performance. It weighs around 4.8 kg, while its “Super” variant tips the scales at 5.2 kg, thanks to its additional 7mm of cooler height. Although it is considerably bulkier than traditional gaming laptops, it still offers a relatively portable option compared to full desktop setups.

One of the standout features of this laptop is its modular design. The T1000 allows users to easily replace essential components such as the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. This upgradability ensures users can keep their system current without needing to invest in a completely new device.

The Kickstarter campaign has not yet officially launched, and specifics regarding pricing and availability are still under wraps. However, it has already garnered attention from tech enthusiasts eager for desktop-level performance packed into a semi-portable format.

مارس 12, 2025
Google Takes Another Shot at Smart Glasses Again

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Google initiated the trend for smart glasses more than ten years ago, but the concept struggled to catch on. Some argue that it was simply ahead of its time, while others were wary of potential privacy issues. However, it appears that a significant resurgence may be on the way.

As reported by Bloomberg, Google is nearing an agreement to purchase AdHawk Microsystems, a firm specializing in comprehensive eye-tracking technologies that are already available in wearable devices.

According to sources familiar with the transaction, the technology giant plans to acquire the Canadian startup for $115 million. Interestingly, Meta, which is already heavily invested in the smart glasses market with products like Aria, Orion, and Meta Ray-Ban, had expressed interest in acquiring AdHawk in 2022.

Why AdHawk is a strong candidate?

AdHawk has backing from notable investors, including Essilor Luxottica, the parent company of Ray-Ban, which has collaborated with Meta to create AI glasses equipped with cameras. Other investors include HP, Samsung, and Intel.

More than just financial support, the technology they bring is significant. In 2024, Mindhawk unveiled the MindLink Air smart glasses, featuring advanced eye-tracking technology.

It’s day two of #ETRA2024 and we’re showcasing our eye tracking technology in action!

From now until June 7, you can stop by our table for a live demonstration of our all-day, camera-free eye trackers.

Watch as they follow your gaze across the room and across the page! pic.twitter.com/O1QTYXiXMk

— AdHawk Microsystems (@AdhawkMicro) June 5, 2024

“We utilize a beam of light that scans your eye thousands of times per second, capturing reflections to build a detailed model of various aspects of your eyes,” explained AdHawk CEO Neil Sarkar in an interview with CTV News.

Eye-tracking technology is crucial for extended reality (XR) equipment, especially those featuring immersive augmented reality uses. For instance, Apple has integrated a sophisticated eye-tracking system into its Vision Pro headset, while Meta’s Orion holographic glasses also depend on advanced eye-tracking capabilities.

Google's ambitions are clear

Halliday AI smart glasses. Halliday

Over recent years, Google has provided intriguing insights into how it envisions the integration of AI into everyday life, with one of its more ambitious projects centered around the smart glasses concept.

Last year, Magic Leap partnered with Google to deploy the latter's Gemini AI, Project Astra, and the Android XR app ecosystem in a set of augmented reality smart glasses.

Furthermore, Google acquired North Focals back in 2020, signaling that it was not finished exploring the smart glasses market. During the I/O 2024 annual developers' conference, Google showcased its most advanced vision for smart glasses with Project Astra.

Towards the end of 2024, Google also revealed Android XR, its most comprehensive attempt yet at building a robust XR software ecosystem based on Android. “It demonstrates renewed dedication from the company to establish an operating system capable of powering headsets, glasses, and other forms of wearable tech,” noted Digital Trends’ Jason Howell after experiencing the demo.

The market is also poised for Google's entry. Companies like Solos, RayNeo, and TCL have launched a variety of smart glasses over the last few years, while new entrants such as Halliday and Even Realities are offering remarkably impressive wearable technology.

It’s apparent that Google missed its early opportunity, and while its official entry into the smart glasses space remains uncertain and perhaps delayed, the targets outlined in the Bloomberg article indicate that smart glasses are firmly on the company’s product roadmap.

مارس 12, 2025
Chromecast Issues? Google Is Working On A Solution

Over the past weekend, numerous second-generation Chromecast devices unexpectedly stopped functioning, leaving users frustrated and bewildered. Many took to Reddit to voice their concerns, revealing a noticeable pattern: only the second-generation devices were impacted, while the first and third generations remained operational.

Initially, there were worries that Google had abandoned support for these devices, but the tech giant has not indicated any such intentions. Google has acknowledged the issue and is actively working towards a solution. The exact cause of the malfunction is still unclear, but it appears to stem from a problem related to Google’s end rather than any error on the users’ part. This suggests that users may simply need to wait for a server-side fix to become available.

According to an investigation by a Reddit user known as u/tchebb, the issue arises from the expiration of the Chromecast’s device authentication certificate. By reviewing error logs within Chrome, u/tchebb was able to link part of the issue to an expiring intermediate certificate authority (CA), which was supposed to remain valid until March 9, 2025, but appears to have expired prematurely.

Google

The problem manifests when attempting to cast content to the Chromecast, resulting in an error message that states: “Untrusted device: [name] couldn’t be verified. This may be due to outdated device firmware.” This error blocks further action, forcing users to close the dialog box. Reports indicate that this issue frequently occurs with applications like YouTube, and it comes at a particularly inconvenient time, as many Pixel users are experiencing screen brightness problems following a recent update.

It’s important to stress that this error does not indicate the discontinuation of support for Chromecast devices. Google has confirmed there is indeed a problem with the second-generation Chromecast, and a fix is already underway. While the company has a track record of discontinuing device support, it typically provides advance notice before doing so. For instance, Google announced the termination of support for the first-generation Chromecast in May 2023, yet those devices are still functioning today.

With any luck, Google will swiftly resolve the issue, allowing your streaming device to be operational once again.

مارس 11, 2025
Is Your Google Pixel Display Acting Up? There’s A Solution

With the release of its March update for Pixel devices, Google introduced several new features, including pulse detection and scam identification. However, this update has also resulted in some frustrating bugs that users are starting to report. Many individuals on Reddit have shared their experiences of screen brightness fluctuating dramatically while viewing fullscreen videos, a problem they claim began with this latest update.

This issue appears to be widespread, affecting a variety of models from the Pixel 6 through to the Pixel 9 Pro and beyond.

Users are experiencing the problem across multiple applications such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney Plus, Prime Video, and MX Player. While attempting to identify the root of the issue, many checked display settings like Adaptive Brightness, but this adjustment did not improve the situation.

Christine Romero-Chan / Digital Trends

Besides affecting videos, some users have noted that their phone’s wallpaper appears to be more subdued and lacks vibrancy compared to the rest of the display.

Despite the glitch, a temporary workaround has emerged. Disabling the Smooth Display feature can stabilize brightness fluctuations; however, this also limits the display’s refresh rate to 60Hz on devices that otherwise support 120Hz. It’s not the most desirable fix, but it at least allows for a more pleasant video-watching experience without the risk of eye strain.

Google has yet to acknowledge the problem publicly, but with a growing number of users voicing their concerns, a quick hotfix might be on the horizon. We’ve reached out to Google for further details and will update the article once we receive more information.

مارس 10, 2025
AMD RX 9070 XT Outshines Nvidia’s $1,000 GPU With A Catch

The AMD RX 9070 XT debuted last week, garnering mostly positive reactions from the gaming community. Anticipated to perform competitively against Nvidia’s RTX 5070 Ti, the RX 9070 XT has unexpectedly outperformed expectations, even surpassing the formidable RTX 5080, which retails for over $1,000.

Prominent overclocker Der8auer put the RX 9070 XT through rigorous testing, yielding fascinating findings. Initially, it was believed the RX 9070 XT would only compete with the RTX 5070, yet it has demonstrated capabilities that outshine both the RTX 5070 Ti and the 5080 in recent assessments. Notably, Der8auer utilized a high-end variant of the card, which he overclocked and undervolted to achieve these results.

Overclocking and undervolting a GPU can be an intricate process, often leading to rewarding outcomes—this instance certainly highlights that. Der8auer aimed to push the card to its maximum advertised clock speed of 3,060MHz for the PowerColor RX 9070 XT Red Devil. Simply overclocking was insufficient; he only achieved 3.1GHz by raising the power limit to 110%. After attempting to undervolt by 200mV, he encountered crashes. Ultimately, he stabilized the GPU by running it at -170mV, which allowed it to reach a remarkable 3.4GHz—an unprecedented frequency for many graphics cards.

der8auer

The results from the overclocking and undervolting experiments were outstanding, leading the RX 9070 XT to take the top spot in Der8auer’s benchmarks, edging out the Nvidia RTX 5080 Founders Edition, albeit by a slight margin.

This performance is particularly striking given that the RTX 5080 is priced at $999 for the Founders Edition, while the RX 9070 XT starts at $599. This specific model is priced at $790 due to its premium features, making the price difference more significant than anticipated. Nevertheless, both graphics cards are currently sold out, rendering the point largely academic.

It’s worth noting that Der8auer did not employ ray tracing or path tracing during his benchmark of Cyberpunk 2077. Given Nvidia’s historical advantage in optimizing ray tracing workloads, this could mean even better performance for the RX 9070 XT. Furthermore, the RTX 5080 was tested without overclocking, which would likely have shifted the results in its favor—but nonetheless, this accomplishment serves as a solid win for AMD.

مارس 10, 2025
Samsung Galaxy S25 May Get Big Software Update Soon

Earlier this week, a reliable source hinted that Samsung might bypass One UI 7 and jump directly to One UI 8, referencing the delays that have affected the current iteration of the software. Today, the initial builds of One UI 8 were discovered on an internal test server. While this doesn’t imply that One UI 8 will be available immediately, it does suggest that development has commenced at least two months sooner than anticipated.

One UI 7 has been undergoing beta testing since December and has been rolled out to only a limited number of devices so far. Samsung confirmed that the stable version of One UI 7 will be available in April, with additional devices, including foldable models, being incorporated into the beta program. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 have started receiving updates as well, allowing them to finally participate in the Android 15 ecosystem.

One UI 7 brings a wealth of valuable features, including the Now Bar, which is Samsung’s version of Apple’s Dynamic Island, along with specific functionalities like parental controls and content restrictions.

Concerns have emerged among fans regarding the delays of One UI 7, particularly since even entry-level Android devices are already running Android 15. Many believe that Samsung has lagged behind in recent years, and the delays associated with One UI 7 are a result of the efforts needed to catch up.

By initiating development on One UI 8 now, Samsung allows enough time to address potential bugs and ensures the software will be ready to launch with the Samsung Galaxy S26. The company has reassured its customers that despite the setbacks, One UI 7 is on its way, and those who have tested it commend its animations, smooth operation, and AI features, even if some of these functionalities are not available on older devices due to hardware limitations.

مارس 7, 2025
iPhone 17 Air Could Be World’s Thinnest Phone

Apple has never been one to boast about groundbreaking hardware advancements. While the company often lets others take the lead, they typically refine their products to offer one of the finest experiences in the smartphone market. However, the highly anticipated iPhone 17 Air may just change that perception in an impressive way.

According to insider leaks shared by Universe on X, the forthcoming “slim” version of the iPhone 17 series is expected to boast an astonishing thickness of merely 5.5mm. Apart from its side profile, the dimensions—height and width—will reportedly match that of the iPhone 17 Pro.

With a thickness of just 5.5mm, the iPhone 17 Air is likely to claim the title of the slimmest smartphone available. For comparison, rumors suggest that the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge will have a thickness ranging from 5.85 to 6.4mm.

Exclusive leak: The dimensions (length, width, screen size, and bezel) of the iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro Max are identical.
The only difference is in thickness: the iPhone 17 Air is 5.5mm, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max measures 8.725mm. pic.twitter.com/YjcMFva5IW

— ICE UNIVERSE (@UniverseIce) March 7, 2025

At MWC 2025, Tecno also impressed crowds with its Spark Slim, a sleek device claiming a thickness of 5.7mm, along with a robust battery. Yet it seems unlikely to outdo the iPhone 17 Air in the quest for the slimmest phone title, based on current information.

Despite aiming to be the thinnest, Apple won’t be setting records in this arena. Previously, China’s Gionee introduced models measuring 5.5mm and even 5.1mm in thickness, and back in 2014, the Vivo X5 Max was released at just 4.75mm, surpassing the Oppo R5 at that time.

@zellzoi / x

However, achieving the title of the world’s thinnest smartphone in 2025 may come at a price. Alleged designs suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will feature a single rear camera, in contrast to competitors that are incorporating dual-camera systems.

iDeviceHelp and I have been collaborating on something special to share soon. Stay tuned! pic.twitter.com/n5AKqSOoWz

— Majin Bu (@MajinBuOfficial) March 6, 2025

Industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that the iPhone 17 Air will utilize a high-density battery to compensate for its smaller form factor. While he did not disclose specific technical details, it is likely that Apple will opt for a silicon carbon battery, known for its higher energy density without sacrificing charging speed or overall battery life.

Furthermore, the company may implement its new battery packaging technology, which was first used in the iPhone 16, simplifying the battery repair and replacement process. This method involves a metallic shell combined with an ionic liquid battery adhesive, separated through a technique known as electrically induced adhesive debonding.

The iPhone 17 Air is set to take the place of the outgoing “Plus” model this year. However, it could be priced higher than the current iPhone 16 Plus and may feature an updated variant of Apple’s new C1 modem, which recently made its debut with the iPhone 16e model.

مارس 7, 2025
iPhone 17e Is Coming But Will We See An iPhone 18e

Though the Apple iPhone 16e has just hit the market, insiders at Fixed Focus Digital indicate that the Apple iPhone 17e is highly likely to follow. Notably, Fixed Focus Digital was the first to suggest the “16e” moniker, while others—including us—had speculated that it would be dubbed the iPhone SE 4.

Sticking with the “1xe” naming convention makes logical sense. With the apparent discontinuation of the “SE” series, the 16e and any subsequent models are poised to fill that gap. According to a post on Weibo from Fixed Focus Digital, they noted, “I see 17e there. The digital e-series is not a passing trend.” Since the original post was not in English, potential translation inaccuracies should be taken into account.

This theory gains further support from forecasts made by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP). They state, “It seems that ‘e’ models may become a regular part of Apple’s offerings. Following the launch of the core iPhone 17 models in September, we anticipate Apple to debut an iPhone 17e around this time next year. This would parallel Google’s approach of releasing ‘a’ models in its Pixel lineup after the annual Spring introductions of flagship and Pro models in recent years.”

Apple

Given the similarities between the iPhone 16 and 16e, CIRP argues that the elevated price of the 16e is justified due to its offerings. At $599, it is priced similarly to the iPhone 14, which effectively distances it from other competitors in the market.

CIRP further elaborates that the iPhone SE only captured a “modest” market share, making it less lucrative than initially anticipated, especially when compared to the far more successful iPhone 5c, which existed for only one generation before evolving into the iPhone SE.

It’s likely that Apple will roll out the iPhone 17e to bridge the market gap left by the iPhone SE. However, whether the series will extend to the iPhone 18e and subsequent models will hinge on sales performance and consumer acceptance.

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مارس 6, 2025