One UI 7 Release Date: Anticipated Timeline for Samsung's Android 15 Update

Samsung is gearing up to unveil its One UI 7 update, based on Android 15, shortly after its Developer Conference (SDC24) on October 3, 2024. As anticipation builds, a tentative release schedule has been outlined, providing Galaxy users with an idea of when they can expect to receive the update on their devices.

The latest Samsung flagship devices are likely to be the first to receive the One UI 7 update, with the rollout expected to begin in late October. The initial wave will target the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Flip 6, and Galaxy Z Fold 6. The month of November will be particularly significant for Samsung enthusiasts, as several other flagship models are slated to receive the stable One UI 7 upgrade.

Key Considerations

It is important to note that this release schedule is based on Samsung's previous rollout patterns and may not represent the final roadmap. The list of eligible devices and their respective update timelines is subject to change. However, based on historical trends, Samsung is expected to deploy One UI 7 to all eligible devices by the end of the year. The phased rollout will continue throughout this period, eventually reaching millions of Galaxy S, Z, A, M, F, and Tab series devices.

As with all major software updates, the timing and availability of One UI 7 may vary depending on the region and carrier.

Apple Unveils iOS 18.1: What to Expect and When

Apple is currently beta testing iOS 18.1, the latest iteration of its mobile operating system, with developers. Expected to be released in October, iOS 18.1 promises to deliver a plethora of exciting new features, including significant enhancements to Apple Intelligence, the company's suite of artificial intelligence capabilities. In this article, we will delve into the details of iOS 18.1, exploring its new features, release date, and more.

Apple Intelligence: A Suite of AI-Powered Features

Apple Intelligence, first announced at WWDC in June, is a comprehensive suite of artificial intelligence features designed to enhance the overall user experience. The first set of Apple Intelligence capabilities is included in iOS 18.1, which promises to revolutionize the way users interact with their iPhones.

Writing Tools: Simplifying Text Editing

One of the most notable features of iOS 18.1 is the introduction of Writing Tools, a suite of AI-powered editing capabilities that enable users to rewrite, proofread, and summarize text with ease. The available options in iOS 18.1 include:

• Rewrite
• Proofread
• Make Friendly
• Make Professional
• Make Concise
• Summarize
• Create Key Points
• Make List
• Make Table
• Reduce Interruptions

Reduce Interruptions: A New Focus Mode

Reduce Interruptions is a new Focus mode in iOS 18.1 that leverages AI to show users only notifications that require immediate attention. This feature behaves similarly to other Focus modes in iOS, allowing users to set different apps and contacts from which they always want to receive notifications.

Photos App Enhancements

The Photos app in iOS 18.1 has received several significant updates, including a new Clean Up feature that enables users to remove distracting objects and people from their photos with a single tap. Additionally, users can now create memories on demand by simply typing a description, and Apple Intelligence will select the most suitable photos and videos to construct a storyline.

New Siri Design and Features

iOS 18.1 introduces an all-new design for Siri, featuring a glowing light that wraps around the edge of the screen when Siri is active. The update also adds the ability to switch between text and voice for Siri by double-tapping the home indicator at the bottom of the iPhone. Furthermore, Siri can now provide detailed answers to questions about Apple products and software, and is better at keeping up with users when they stumble over words or change their request midway through.

Mail App Upgrades

The Mail app in iOS 18.1 includes several new Apple Intelligence features, including a "Priority Messages" section at the top of the inbox, which shows the most urgent emails. Additionally, the app now includes a summary of each message instead of just a preview of the first few lines of the email.

Transcription Summaries and Notification Summaries

iOS 18.1 brings advanced summaries support powered by Apple Intelligence, enabling users to get a summary of audio recordings in the Notes app. The update also introduces notification summaries, which automatically summarize multiple notifications from Mail or Messages, allowing users to get a recap without having to tap and read every message.

NFC Access for Third-Party Apps

In addition to Apple Intelligence features, iOS 18.1 will open up the iPhone's NFC chip to third-party developers for the first time. This means that third-party developers will be able to access the iPhone's NFC chip for contactless features in their apps, including in-store payments, car keys, and more.

Release Date and Availability

While Apple has not officially announced a release date for iOS 18.1, it is expected to be released in October. The update will be available for all compatible iPhone devices, and users can expect a seamless and intuitive experience with the new features and enhancements.

In conclusion, iOS 18.1 promises to deliver a plethora of exciting new features and enhancements, including significant updates to Apple Intelligence, the Photos app, Siri, and more. With its expected release in October, users can look forward to a more polished and feature-rich operating system that will further cement Apple's position as a leader in the tech industry.

Gemini 1.5 Flash Enhances Response Speed and Google Tasks Extension Rolls Out

Google has announced significant improvements to its Gemini AI model, specifically the 1.5 Flash version, which now delivers responses up to 50% faster due to major latency enhancements. This upgrade follows the introduction of Gemini 1.5 Flash for developers in May, which also included a fourfold increase in the context window, expanding from 8,000 to 32,000 tokens.

In addition to these advancements, Google is rolling out the Google Tasks Extension beyond the Pixel 9 series. This extension, part of the Google Workspace suite, allows users to integrate tasks seamlessly across devices. Notably, it includes features such as adding tasks via photos of checklists and setting reminders through natural language commands.

Furthermore, the Gemini platform now supports interactive practice quizzes across various subjects, enhancing its educational capabilities.

These updates underscore Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience through faster AI responses and more integrated task management solutions.

Google's AI: Revolutionizing Health through Sickness Detection

 

Google's research division is actively investigating the phenomenon of AI-induced motion sickness, a condition that has been reported by users engaging with artificial intelligence (AI) applications. This condition, frequently referred to as "cybersickness," is characterized by symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and disorientation, which can occur during interactions with certain AI-driven technologies.

Cybersickness has traditionally been associated with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) environments, where discrepancies between what users see and what they physically experience can lead to sensory conflict. However, recent advancements in AI, particularly in areas such as generative AI and AI-driven simulations, have introduced new contexts in which users may experience similar symptoms.

Google's AI research team is exploring the underlying causes of this phenomenon, seeking to mitigate its effects through various technical and design interventions. The company's efforts are focused on understanding how different types of AI-generated content, such as rapidly changing visuals or unpredictable movements in virtual environments, contribute to motion sickness.

One area of particular interest is the role of AI in generating real-time content that may not align perfectly with users' sensory expectations. For instance, AI-generated imagery or simulations that exhibit unnatural motion patterns or lack consistent visual cues may elicit discomfort. To address this, Google is investigating ways to optimize the presentation of AI-generated content to reduce the sensory conflict that can lead to motion sickness.

Additionally, Google is considering the potential for personalized solutions that take into account individual susceptibility to cybersickness. By leveraging AI to analyze user interactions and physiological responses, the company aims to develop adaptive systems that can adjust content delivery in real-time, thereby minimizing the risk of inducing discomfort.

This research is part of Google's broader commitment to enhancing user experience and safety in AI-driven environments. As AI continues to evolve and integrate more deeply into everyday applications, understanding and addressing the potential side effects of these technologies is crucial. Google's proactive approach in this area underscores the importance of user-centric design in the development of next-generation AI applications.

Moving forward, Google plans to collaborate with experts in fields such as neuroscience, human-computer interaction, and user experience design to further refine its strategies for mitigating AI-induced motion sickness. The company's ongoing research will likely contribute to the development of industry-wide best practices for managing the sensory impacts of AI technologies.

Apple and NVIDIA Make Strategic Investments in OpenAI

Apple and NVIDIA have made significant financial investments in OpenAI, according to recent reports. These investments highlight the growing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in the tech industry and underscore the increasing collaboration between leading technology companies and AI research institutions.

OpenAI, a prominent player in the AI landscape, has already made substantial strides in developing advanced AI models, such as ChatGPT and GPT-4. These models have demonstrated notable capabilities in natural language processing and other complex tasks, making them valuable assets in various commercial applications.

The investments from Apple and NVIDIA are seen as strategic moves to secure their positions in the rapidly evolving AI sector. For Apple, this investment aligns with its broader strategy of integrating AI more deeply into its ecosystem, potentially enhancing its products and services with more sophisticated AI-driven features. NVIDIA, a leader in graphics processing units (GPUs) and AI hardware, stands to benefit from closer ties with OpenAI by further cementing its role as a key provider of the computational power required for training and deploying large-scale AI models.

These developments also reflect the broader trend of increased collaboration between hardware companies and AI research organizations. As AI continues to become more central to technological innovation, partnerships like those between Apple, NVIDIA, and OpenAI are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry.

In conclusion, the investments by Apple and NVIDIA in OpenAI signify a deepening commitment to AI advancements, positioning these companies at the forefront of the next wave of technological evolution.

Gemini AI Agent Gems, Imagen 3 Image Generation Capabilities Rolling Out to Users

 

Image: Google

Google has announced the rollout of two new advanced capabilities for its Gemini AI chatbot. The features, which were first previewed at the Google I/O earlier this year, include the AI agent Gems and image generation capabilities of the recently released Imagen 3 AI model.

The AI agent Gems will be available to Gemini Advanced, Business, and Enterprise users, while the Imagen 3 features will be shipped to all users, including those on the free tier. However, users on the free version may see some added limits to image generation.

Gems are miniature versions of the chatbot with a limited dataset, allowing them to focus on specific topics and generate more specific and accurate information. Users can customize Gems to create a team of experts to help with challenging projects, brainstorm ideas, or write social media posts. Gems will be available in multiple languages on desktop and mobile devices in over 150 countries.

Imagen 3, Google's latest image generation AI tool, can generate images in different styles, such as Nikon DSLR, GoPro style, wide-angle lens, and more. It can also generate photorealistic landscapes, textured oil paintings, or whimsical claymation scenes. The AI model has been upgraded to include the generation of images of people, with added safeguards to reduce the risk of deepfakes. SynthID has been used to watermark the images as generated by AI.

The rollout of Imagen 3 capabilities may also include inline editing of generated images using text prompts. However, it appears that editing can only be done using text prompts. Google has specified that Imagen 3 will not support the generation of photorealistic, identifiable individuals, depictions of minors, or excessively gory, violent, or sexual scenes.

The integration of Gems and Imagen 3 into the Gemini apps is part of Google's efforts to enhance its AI capabilities and provide users with more advanced tools for image generation and chatbot interactions.

Motorola Razr 50 India Launch Date Set for September 9; Amazon Page Goes Live

Motorola has confirmed that the Razr 50 will be launched in India on September 9. The company has also published a dedicated webpage on Amazon, revealing the design and specifications of the phone. The Indian variant of the Motorola Razr 50 is teased to come with a 3.6-inch cover display, which is claimed to be the largest external display in the segment. It has an IPX8-rated build for water resistance and Gorilla Glass Victus coating on the display.

The Motorola Razr 50 was already unveiled in China in June, but it is available in US markets as Motorola Razr 2024. In China, its price starts at CNY 3,699 (roughly Rs. 47,000) for the 8GB RAM + 256GB variant. The Indian variant could be priced in line with the same.

The Moto Razr 50 features a 6.9-inch full-HD+ (1,080x2,640 pixels) pOLED inner display and a 3.6-inch full-HD+ (1,056x1,066 pixels) pOLED cover display. It runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 7300X chipset alongside up to 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage.

The Moto Razr 50 dual outer camera unit comprises a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 13-megapixel ultra wide-angle camera. It has a 32-megapixel shooter on the inner display for selfies and video chats. It has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and carries a 4,200mAh battery unit with support for 30W wired and 15W wireless charging support.

The launch of the Motorola Razr 50 will take place on September 9, and it will be available for purchase through Amazon.

Google Play Store Now Allows Simultaneous Installation of Multiple App Updates

 

In a recent development, Google has introduced a new feature to the Play Store that allows users to install multiple app updates simultaneously. This enhancement aims to streamline the update process, making it more efficient and user-friendly.

Previously, users were required to update each app individually, which could be time-consuming and inconvenient, especially when numerous updates were available. The new feature addresses this issue by enabling batch updates, thereby reducing the time and effort required to keep all apps up-to-date.

The implementation of this feature is straightforward. When multiple updates are available, users will see an option to update all apps at once. By selecting this option, the Play Store will automatically download and install the updates in the background, ensuring that all apps are updated without the need for manual intervention.

This update is part of Google's ongoing efforts to improve the user experience on the Play Store. By simplifying the update process, Google aims to enhance user satisfaction and encourage regular app updates, which are crucial for maintaining app performance and security.

The batch update feature is currently being rolled out to users globally. If you haven't received the update yet, it should be available soon. To check for the new feature, simply open the Google Play Store and navigate to the "My apps & games" section. If the feature is available, you will see the option to update all apps at once.

This latest enhancement to the Google Play Store demonstrates Google's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that users have a seamless and efficient experience when managing their apps.

Google Meet Introduces Automatic Note-Taking Feature

Picture: Google

In a significant update, Google Meet has integrated an automatic note-taking feature designed to enhance productivity and streamline workflows. This new functionality aims to reduce the manual effort required during meetings, allowing participants to focus more on discussions and less on documentation.

The automatic note-taking feature leverages advanced natural language processing (NLP) technology to transcribe and summarize key points from the conversation. This ensures that important information is captured accurately and efficiently, without the need for manual intervention.

This innovation is particularly beneficial for remote teams and businesses that rely heavily on virtual meetings. By automating the note-taking process, Google Meet enables participants to engage more actively in discussions, fostering a more collaborative and productive environment.

The feature is seamlessly integrated into the Google Meet interface, making it user-friendly and accessible. Users can easily access the notes after the meeting, ensuring that all critical information is readily available for review and follow-up actions.

Google's commitment to enhancing its suite of productivity tools is evident in this update. The automatic note-taking feature in Google Meet is a testament to the company's ongoing efforts to provide innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern workplaces.

Google Introduces Custom AI Chatbots with GEMs for Workspace Users

Google has officially launched a new feature that allows users to create and deploy custom AI chatbots within its Workspace suite. This innovation, available to both businesses and individual users, is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to integrate advanced artificial intelligence into its productivity tools.

The new feature is powered by Google’s Generative Experience in Workspace (GEMs), which provides users with the ability to design and implement AI-driven chatbots tailored to specific tasks or needs. These custom chatbots can be embedded directly into Google Workspace applications, such as Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Sheets, enhancing their functionality and automating routine tasks.

GEMs leverages Google’s extensive AI capabilities, including natural language processing and machine learning, to enable users to create chatbots that can understand and respond to a wide range of queries and commands. Users can customize the behavior and responses of the chatbots, allowing them to serve roles ranging from simple task automation to more complex decision-making processes.

The introduction of custom AI chatbots is expected to significantly boost productivity by automating repetitive tasks and streamlining workflows. For example, businesses can use these chatbots to automate customer support interactions, manage internal communications, or even assist in project management by tracking progress and providing updates.

Google has emphasized the ease of use of this new feature, noting that users do not need extensive programming knowledge to create and deploy their chatbots. The interface is designed to be intuitive, with a focus on enabling users to quickly build and modify their chatbots to meet their specific needs.

This launch is part of Google’s broader strategy to integrate AI more deeply into Workspace, following the introduction of other AI-powered features like Smart Reply and Smart Compose. By enabling users to create custom AI solutions, Google is positioning itself as a leader in the AI-driven workplace productivity market.

Overall, the release of custom AI chatbots with GEMs in Google Workspace marks a significant step forward in the use of AI to enhance workplace efficiency and productivity. As businesses and individuals increasingly seek ways to automate tasks and optimize workflows, Google’s latest offering provides a powerful tool to meet these demands.

Android 15 Pixel Update Officially Slated for October Release

Google has concluded testing for Android 15 with the release of Beta 4.2 two weeks ago and has already begun development on the subsequent Quarterly Platform Release (QPR1). However, recent reports indicate that the stable version of Android 15 will not be deployed to Pixel devices until October.

Update: The Android 15 Beta 4.2 to Android 14 downgrade message confirms the October timeframe for the stable release of Android 15.

According to recent reports, the Android 15 Pixel update is anticipated to arrive in October, potentially mid-month. Sources express confidence that the release will not occur in September, suggesting that Android 15 is "being withheld to improve its stability."

Should this timeline prove accurate, the Pixel 9 series and other compatible devices are expected to receive Android 14 with the September 2024 security patch next month.

The release schedule has deviated from initial expectations. When Google announced Android 15 Beta 4 as the "last scheduled update" in July, some speculated about an August release. Expectations then shifted to September, especially after the release of Beta 4.2 and Google's instructions to await the "final public stable release of Android 15 (AP3A) coming soon."

Concurrently, Google has initiated testing for Android 15 QPR1, targeting a December release.

As of Beta 4.2, which has been made available for the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL, Android 15 appears to be relatively stable, making the delay somewhat unexpected.

It's worth noting that the Pixel 9 series will ship with Android 14, with Google backporting certain features introduced during the Android 15 Beta. While Android 15 is not considered a major update, it does introduce significant additions such as Private Space, a redesigned Material You volume panel, and modifications to the widgets picker.

Reports also suggest that Android 15 will be added to the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) next week. Typically, this milestone coincides with the Pixel release, with a notable exception being the 15-day gap between Android 12's source code release and the Pixel update. This year's gap appears to be considerably longer.

The extended timeline for what appears to be a minor update has raised questions within the community, particularly given the perceived stability of the beta version.

Phone 16 Plus, Pro, and Max Dummy Units: Hands-On Video Reveals Camera Details and Capture Button

Image: AppleInsider youtube channel

Recent developments in the tech industry have shed light on the upcoming iPhone 16 series, with dummy units of the iPhone 16 Plus, Pro, and Max models surfacing in a hands-on video from AppleInsider. This video provides a detailed glimpse into the anticipated camera features and a newly introduced capture button, offering valuable insights into Apple's forthcoming innovations.

The video, which has garnered significant attention, showcases the dummy units of the iPhone 16 Plus, Pro, and Max models. These units are non-functional but serve as accurate representations of the final design, allowing viewers to appreciate the aesthetic and functional changes Apple has implemented.

One of the most notable features highlighted in the video is the enhanced camera system. The iPhone 16 series is expected to feature advanced camera technology, including improved sensors and lenses, which promise to deliver superior image quality and performance. The video provides a close-up look at the camera module, revealing a sophisticated design that suggests significant upgrades in photographic capabilities.

Another intriguing aspect revealed in the video is the introduction of a dedicated capture button. This button is strategically placed to offer users quick and convenient access to the camera, enabling them to capture moments with ease. The inclusion of this feature underscores Apple's commitment to enhancing user experience and making the iPhone a more versatile tool for photography enthusiasts.

The dummy units also provide insights into the overall design language of the iPhone 16 series. The devices exhibit a sleek and modern aesthetic, with refined edges and a premium finish. The video suggests that Apple has maintained its focus on crafting devices that are not only technologically advanced but also visually appealing.

While the video offers a comprehensive look at the external features of the iPhone 16 series, it is important to note that these are dummy units and may not reflect the final internal specifications or software capabilities. Nonetheless, the hands-on video serves as a valuable resource for tech enthusiasts and potential buyers, providing a tangible preview of what to expect from Apple's next-generation smartphones.

In conclusion, the hands-on video of the iPhone 16 Plus, Pro, and Max dummy units has revealed exciting details about the upcoming series, particularly the advanced camera system and the new capture button. These features, along with the refined design, indicate that Apple is poised to deliver another groundbreaking lineup of smartphones. As the official launch approaches, anticipation continues to build among consumers and industry experts alike.

Google's Circle to Search Feature Expands to More Samsung Devices

Image: Samsung India

Google's innovative Circle to Search feature, initially introduced on a limited number of devices earlier this year, is now being rolled out to a broader range of Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets. The latest update, which began deploying in August 2023, brings support for Circle to Search to several additional Samsung devices, including select Galaxy A series smartphones, Galaxy Quantum releases, and the Galaxy Tab S9 FE series.

According to recent reports, the following Samsung devices are now eligible to receive the Circle to Search feature:

• Galaxy A34

• Galaxy A54

• Galaxy A35

• Galaxy A55

• Galaxy Quantum 4

• Galaxy S21 FE

• Galaxy Tab S9 FE

• Galaxy Tab S9 FE+

This expansion is expected to benefit an estimated 25 million users, significantly increasing the feature's reach. Notably, this update follows Samsung's announcement earlier this month that Circle to Search would be coming to more Galaxy A devices and affordable tablets.

Circle to Search has undergone several updates since its introduction, with new features such as "About this image," a translate shortcut, and the ability to share directly to the system share menu. Google continues to enhance the feature, demonstrating its commitment to improving the user experience.

For more information on Circle to Search, please refer to the following articles:

• Google working to prevent accidental Circle to Search activations

• Deadpool and Wolverine are Google's first Easter eggs in Circle to Search

• Google effectively brings Android's Circle to Search to any iPhone with new Lens shortcut

Motorola Edge 50 Neo Expected to Launch on August 29

Motorola is set to unveil its latest addition to the Edge series, the Motorola Edge 50 Neo, on August 29. This announcement comes amidst growing anticipation for the device, which is expected to feature a range of advanced technologies and design enhancements.

The Motorola Edge 50 Neo is poised to offer a blend of performance and affordability, catering to a wide array of consumers. While specific details about the device remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest that it will incorporate cutting-edge hardware and software innovations.

One of the standout features of the Motorola Edge 50 Neo is its high-resolution display, which promises vivid colors and sharp imagery. The device is also expected to come equipped with a powerful processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance across various applications.

In terms of camera capabilities, the Motorola Edge 50 Neo is rumored to feature a multi-lens setup, designed to capture high-quality photos and videos. This includes advanced features such as improved low-light performance and enhanced image stabilization.

The battery life of the Motorola Edge 50 Neo is another area of focus, with the device expected to offer extended usage times and fast charging capabilities. This ensures that users can enjoy prolonged periods of use without the need for frequent recharging.

The Motorola Edge 50 Neo is also anticipated to run on the latest version of Android, providing users with access to a wide range of apps and services. Additionally, Motorola's custom software enhancements are expected to further enrich the user experience, offering unique features and optimizations.

As the launch date approaches, Motorola is expected to release more detailed specifications and features of the Motorola Edge 50 Neo. The device is poised to compete with other mid-range smartphones in the market, offering a compelling blend of performance, design, and affordability.

Stay tuned for more updates as Motorola prepares to unveil the Motorola Edge 50 Neo on August 29.

Gmail's New "Polish" Feature: Effortlessly Refine Your Emails

Image: Gmail

Google is enhancing its "Help me write" feature in Gmail with a new "Polish" draft option available on Android, iOS, and the web.

In addition to the existing "Formalize," "Elaborate," and "Shorten" options, "Polish" allows you to effortlessly refine your emails. After entering some text, simply tap the pencil with a sparkle icon in the toolbar to access the "Polish" feature. Google will then generate refined suggestions that you can quickly "Replace." This feature was first previewed in April.

For mobile users, Gmail will now display a "Help me write" shortcut in the body of a draft. You can swipe to open the "Refine my draft" panel.

The ability to polish drafts in Gmail is widely rolled out for Google One AI Premium, Gemini Business and Enterprise add-on, and Gemini Education and Education Premium add-on.

The option for "Help me write" to polish email drafts is now available on the web, Android, and iOS. The "Help me write" and "Refine my draft" shortcuts are also available on Android and iOS.

Qualcomm Introduces Snapdragon 7s Gen 3: Enhanced Performance and AI Capabilities for Mid-Tier Devices

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. has announced the latest addition to its Snapdragon lineup, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. This new system-on-chip (SoC) is designed to bring advanced features and improved performance to mid-tier devices, offering a balance between power and affordability.

The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 features a 1+3+4 core configuration, comprising one prime core clocked at up to 2.5GHz, three performance cores at up to 2.4GHz, and four efficiency cores at 1.8GHz. This setup is built on a 4nm process and includes a Kryo CPU, Adreno GPU, and onboard neural processing unit (NPU) for artificial intelligence (AI) processing.

Compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 boasts a 20% increase in CPU performance and a 40% improvement in GPU capabilities. Additionally, the chip achieves a 12% reduction in power consumption, making it an attractive option for device manufacturers seeking to balance performance and battery life.

The integrated NPU enables advanced AI features, including multi-language translation and transcription, as well as contextual detection tasks. Qualcomm highlights the chip's AI noise-cancellation capabilities, which have seen a 2x performance increase over the Micro NPU used in the company's Sensing Hub.

In terms of camera capabilities, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 supports triple-camera setups with each camera featuring up to 21MP resolution. Alternatively, it can handle dual-camera configurations with a 23MP primary sensor and a 21MP secondary sensor. The chip also enables 10-bit HDR and 4K video capture, as well as on-display support for FHD+ at 144Hz.

The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 offers advanced connectivity features, including support for 5G mmWave networks and Wi-Fi 6E. According to Qualcomm, the chip supports a wider range of networks and bandwidths globally compared to its predecessor.

Several leading device manufacturers, including RealMe, Samsung, Sharp, and Xiaomi, are expected to integrate the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 into their upcoming devices in the coming months. With its enhanced performance, AI capabilities, and advanced camera features, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 is poised to bring premium-like experiences to mid-tier devices.

Meta's Threads Enhances User Experience with Multiple Draft Saving and New Creator Tools

 

Source: Meta blog

Meta's microblogging platform, Threads, has recently expanded its functionality, enhancing the user experience by allowing the storage of multiple draft posts. Initially, the platform permitted the saving of only one draft at a time. This enhancement is part of a broader rollout of new features aimed at improving utility for both creators and business users.

Enhanced Draft Capabilities

The update to the draft feature provides significant flexibility for users, enabling the initiation of a post and the option to refine and complete it at a subsequent time. "Recognizing that a single great idea may undergo several iterations, we are pleased to introduce a facility for composing and saving multiple drafts. This feature allows our users to perfect their messages before sharing them with their audience," Meta explained in a recent announcement.

Prior to this update, users were restricted to saving only one draft post. The new enhancement now supports the storage of up to 100 drafts, allowing for a more robust content creation process.

Advanced Tools for Creators and Businesses

In addition to the expanded draft capabilities, Threads has introduced several new tools designed specifically for creators and business accounts. Among the most notable of these tools are detailed insights into content engagement. These insights provide valuable data, including the number of views, reposts, and demographic details such as the age, gender, and location of followers. "These metrics are instrumental in helping creators and businesses identify the content that most resonates with their audiences," stated the company.

Furthermore, Threads has implemented a scheduling feature, which is particularly beneficial for business accounts. This feature allows for the planning and scheduling of posts, either for multiple postings on the same day or for days in advance, facilitating more strategic content management.

These updates underscore Threads' commitment to enhancing user engagement and providing valuable tools for content creators and businesses to thrive on the platform.

Evaluating the Waterproof Capabilities of the Google Pixel 9

 

Pic: Google

As smartphone technology advances, consumers increasingly demand devices that can withstand the rigors of everyday life, including exposure to water. With the release of the Google Pixel 9, potential buyers and tech enthusiasts alike are keen to understand its resilience to water. Here, we delve into whether the Google Pixel 9 can claim the waterproof title.

Understanding IP Ratings

Before discussing the Pixel 9 specifically, it's essential to comprehend the industry standard for measuring water and dust resistance: the Ingress Protection (IP) rating. This rating, given as IP followed by two digits, indicates the level of sealing effectiveness against intrusion from foreign bodies and moisture. The first digit represents protection against solids like dust, while the second specifies protection against liquids.

The Google Pixel 9's IP Rating

Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with an IP68 rating. Here’s what this means:

IP68:

The '6' indicates that the device is "dust tight," offering complete protection against dust ingress.

The '8' signifies that the device can withstand submersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer, typically up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.

Implications of the IP68 Rating for Pixel 9 Users

An IP68 rating for the Google Pixel 9 offers several practical benefits:

Water Resistance: Users can feel confident using their Pixel 9 in the rain, accidentally dropping it in water, or even taking underwater photos in shallow depths, without immediate damage.

Durability: Beyond water, the dust protection ensures that the internal components remain safe from particulate matter, which can be beneficial for longevity and performance.

Limitations to Consider

However, there are critical limitations and considerations with this rating:

Not All Waterproof: IP68 does not mean the Pixel 9 is entirely waterproof. It's resistant to submersion under specific conditions, but this resistance can degrade over time due to wear and tear.

Saltwater and Other Liquids: The IP68 test is conducted with fresh water. Saltwater or other liquids like chlorinated pool water can be more corrosive and potentially damage the device if not rinsed promptly.

Warranty Implications: Water damage might not be covered under standard warranty conditions. It's crucial for users to check Google's warranty policy regarding water damage.

Best Practices for Pixel 9 Owners

To maximize the lifespan of their device concerning water exposure:

Avoid Prolonged Submersion: Even though the Pixel 9 can handle being underwater, prolonged submersion or exposure to high-pressure water streams is not recommended.

Regular Checks: Ensure all ports are free from debris and the seals are intact. Regular maintenance checks can prevent potential water ingress.

Immediate Action: If the device does get wet, dry it off immediately with a soft cloth, and if submerged in anything other than fresh water, rinse it with fresh water before drying.

The Google Pixel 9's IP68 rating signifies a robust level of water and dust resistance, offering peace of mind for everyday mishaps. While not entirely waterproof, it provides substantial protection that aligns with the demands of modern smartphone usage. Users should, however, remain mindful of the limitations of this protection to ensure their device continues to function optimally over time. With proper care, the Pixel 9 is well-equipped to handle the wet and dusty challenges of daily life.

Google Announces the Availability of its Latest AI Image Generator, Imagen 3, for US Residents

 

Google's Imagen 3, its latest iteration of the AI-powered text-to-image generator, has become accessible to the entire US user base, according to a recent report by VentureBeat. The cutting-edge technology, previously available exclusively via Google's Vertex AI platform, can now be accessed via the AI Test Kitchen on Google's official website.

Google's AI image generator tool, introduced at the Google I/O event in May, promises to deliver images with enhanced detail, richer lighting, and fewer distracting artifacts compared to the company's previous iterations. This upgrade was made available to users in the US within the past few days, as reported on Reddit.

The Imagen 3 model uses Google's advanced deep learning algorithms to create detailed images based on user prompts. Additionally, users can manipulate these images by highlighting specific areas and describing the desired changes.

In a research paper published on arXiv, Google's research team elaborated on the capabilities of Imagen 3. The AI model, which is based on the latent diffusion model, is particularly adept at generating high-quality images from textual descriptions. Google's researchers state that Imagen 3 outperforms other state-of-the-art models in generating images from text prompts.

One of the primary applications of Imagen 3 is Google's recently launched Pixel 9's Pixel Studio app, which utilizes the AI platform's capabilities to generate images based on user inputs and enable on-device AI-powered picture editing. This feature saves users time by automating image editing processes.

Google Announces the Availability of its Latest AI Image Generator, Imagen 3, for US Residents

Google's Imagen 3, its latest iteration of the AI-powered text-to-image generator, has become accessible to the entire US user base, according to a recent report by VentureBeat. The cutting-edge technology, previously available exclusively via Google's Vertex AI platform, can now be accessed via the AI Test Kitchen on Google's official website.

Google's AI image generator tool, introduced at the Google I/O event in May, promises to deliver images with enhanced detail, richer lighting, and fewer distracting artifacts compared to the company's previous iterations. This upgrade was made available to users in the US within the past few days, as reported on Reddit.

The Imagen 3 model uses Google's advanced deep learning algorithms to create detailed images based on user prompts. Additionally, users can manipulate these images by highlighting specific areas and describing the desired changes.

In a research paper published on arXiv, Google's research team elaborated on the capabilities of Imagen 3. The AI model, which is based on the latent diffusion model, is particularly adept at generating high-quality images from textual descriptions. Google's researchers state that Imagen 3 outperforms other state-of-the-art models in generating images from text prompts.

One of the primary applications of Imagen 3 is Google's recently launched Pixel 9's Pixel Studio app, which utilizes the AI platform's capabilities to generate images based on user inputs and enable on-device AI-powered picture editing. This feature saves users time by automating image editing processes.