Monthly Archives: February 2024

Samsung triple foldable phone rumor hints at a 2024 launch

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Foldable smartphones are an attempt at solving an old problem with two diametrically opposed goals. On the one hand, people want large screens that give them enough space for their content, from videos to social media to even work. On the other hand, they still want a device they can conveniently carry around, especially inside their pockets. Today’s generation of foldable phones similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold deliver a phone that does transform into a tablet, but the latter is admittedly still a small piece of screen real estate, even smaller than the iPad mini. Having a regular tablet-sized display requires drastically changing the design and construction of a foldable phone, which isn’t exactly easy to pull off, judging by the current state of foldables. That’s not to say that manufacturers haven’t been working on a feasible solution, and Samsung itself might be ready to unveil its answer this year to beat one of its rivals to the punch.

Designer: Samsung (via @Tech_Reve)

The current design of foldable phones has never been the endgame. If you reference Samsung’s concept video back in 2013, you will realize its ambitions go beyond this simple foldable design. A phone that unfolds into a tablet would definitely need more than just one fold, and the company’s display manufacturing arm has been working on such a screen for years now. In fact, it demonstrated in 2022 how close it was to an actually usable form, suggesting that such a device is not only plausible but might even be just around the corner.

A new rumor adds fuel to speculations that Samsung might, in fact, announce this “Flex S” triple foldable phone this year, maybe even alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. Samsung might be in a rush to push out this revolutionary new device due to rumors that long-time rival Huawei also has a tri-fold phone that it will be launching in the second half of 2024. Unsurprisingly, Samsung wouldn’t want Huawei to claim the title of “first,” even if the Chinese brand has extremely limited market reach these days.

A triple folding phone, under the prototype name of “Flex S,” will drastically change the game when it comes to foldables. Not only will it offer a much larger screen in tablet form, it also allows the collapsed phone form to retain a wider aspect ratio, unlike the Galaxy Z Fold designs so far. At the same time, it also offers new modes of use for the device, from a tent-like stand mode to a unique laptop mode that’s like having a mini dual-screen laptop.

That said, haste always makes waste and Samsung should have already learned its lesson five years ago. Even after years of R&D, the first Samsung Galaxy Fold (no “Z” in the name yet) was plagued with problems, especially when it came to reliability. Given how a new tri-fold design will once again test the durability of flexible screens, there will be even more risks and costs this time around. And with Huawei’s limited presence in global markets, Samsung has no need to be afraid of not being the first, but that has never stopped any company from rushing out a product launch anyway.

The post Samsung triple foldable phone rumor hints at a 2024 launch first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sony predicts it’ll sell fewer PS5s than first thought

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Sony has lowered its PlayStation 5 sales forecast for fiscal 2023 significantly and now expects to sell 21 million units, down from a previous forecast of 25 million. That's despite posting record quarterly revenue and selling 8.2 million PS5s over the holiday season. So far this fiscal year, Sony has sold 16.4 million consoles, bringing its total to 54.8 million overall. (The company sold 19.1 million PS5s in fiscal 2022.)

Sony announced in December that it had sold 50 million PS5 units over three years, as of December 9, 2023. That's just a week longer than it took the PS4 to achieve the same number, and the latter wasn't bogged down by supply chain issues and a worldwide pandemic. 

Revenue was up 16 percent over the same quarter last year, thanks in part to improved sales of non-first-party titles. However, operating income was down significantly (26 percent), due a drop in first-party sales and losses on hardware due to promotions. In other words, PS5 sales aren't meeting the company's expectations despite discounts. 

Sony has seen higher sales in all three quarters this year compared to last. That might not continue this year though, as it's forecasting sales of just 4.6 million for Q4 2023 (February to April), down from 6.3 million in Q4 2022. 

In terms of new first-part games, Sony noted that Marvel's Spider-Man 2 has sold 10 million units (as of February 4) since its release in October 2023.

Almost all other Sony divisions saw higher revenue, including its Imaging & Sensor Solutions division (Sony makes sensors for iPhones and many other devices), along with Pictures and Music. That resulted in a record 3.75 trillion yen for Q3 ($24.9 billion) compared to 3.08 trillion yen the year before ($20.5 billion). 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/sony-predicts-itll-sell-fewer-ps5s-than-first-thought-091816189.html?src=rss

What’s new in iOS 17.4 beta 3 (Video)

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iOS 17.4 beta 3

Apple’s continuous commitment to enhancing user experience is evident in the latest iOS 17.4 beta 3 update. This iteration brings a blend of bug fixes, performance improvements, and exciting new features that promise to refine the functionality and usability of your iPhone. If you’re keen on understanding what this update entails and how it can […]

The post What’s new in iOS 17.4 beta 3 (Video) appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Transforming Your Mac Into a Productivity Powerhouse: Essential Tips for Enhanced Efficiency

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Mac Productivity

Boosting your productivity on a Mac can be a smooth and rewarding journey, not an overwhelming one. Through a collection of direct, yet impactful modifications, it’s possible to elevate your day-to-day operations significantly. This transformation turns your Mac from a simple computing device into a central hub for efficiency and productivity. Tailored for both the […]

The post Transforming Your Mac Into a Productivity Powerhouse: Essential Tips for Enhanced Efficiency appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

What is the Apple Vision Pro Missing? (Video)

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Apple Vision Pro

In the rapidly evolving world of virtual reality (VR), the Apple Vision Pro has certainly made waves. However, like any pioneering technology, it comes with its share of limitations and areas ripe for enhancement. If you’re keen on understanding where the Vision Pro stands in comparison to its contemporaries like the Quest 3 and PS […]

The post What is the Apple Vision Pro Missing? (Video) appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Apple’s iOS 17.4 beta 3 and iPadOS 17.4 beta 3 released to developers

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Apple has released iOS 17.4 beta 3 for the iPhone and iPadOS 17.4 beta 3 for the iPad to developers and these new beta land a week after the previous ones. We are also expecting to see some new public beta of the software soon as well. The new iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4 software […]

The post Apple’s iOS 17.4 beta 3 and iPadOS 17.4 beta 3 released to developers appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Waymo issued a recall after two robotaxis crashed into the same pickup truck

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Last year, two Waymo robotaxis in Phoenix "made contact" with the same pickup truck that was in the midst of being towed, which prompted the Alphabet subsidiary to issue a recall on its vehicles' software. A "recall" in this case meant rolling out a software update after investigating the issue and determining its root cause. 

In a blog post, Waymo has revealed that on December 11, 2023, one of its robotaxis collided with a backwards-facing pickup truck being towed ahead of it. The company says the truck was being towed improperly and was angled across a center turn lane and a traffic lane. Apparently, the tow truck didn't pull over after the incident, and another Waymo vehicle came into contact with the pickup truck a few minutes later. Waymo didn't elaborate on what it meant by saying that its robotaxis "made contact" with the pickup truck, but it did say that the incidents resulted in no injuries and only minor vehicle damage. The self-driving vehicles involved in the collisions weren't carrying any passenger. 

After an investigation, Waymo found that its software had incorrectly predicted the future movements of the pickup truck due to "persistent orientation mismatch" between the towed vehicle and the one towing it. The company developed and validated a fix for its software to prevent similar incidents in the future and started deploying the update to its fleet on December 20. 

Waymo's rival company Cruise was involved in a more serious incident last year, wherein one of its robotaxis accidentally dragged someone hit by another vehicle a few dozen feet down a San Francisco street. California then suspended its license to operate in the state, and Cruise eventually paused all robotaxi operations, even the ones with a human driver behind the wheel, as part of a safety review. Meanwhile, it's business as usual for Waymo, which recently announced that it will start testing driverless vehicles on highways and freeways in and around Phoenix. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/waymo-issued-a-recall-after-two-robotaxis-crashed-into-the-same-pickup-truck-055708611.html?src=rss

A Timelessly Captivating Retro Yet High-Tech Watch

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The BTF Nixie Watch is a remarkable combination of history and modernity, blending the nostalgic glow of Soviet-era Nixie tubes with contemporary design and technology. More than a mere timepiece, it’s a statement of style and innovation, offering a unique blend of retro charm and modern functionality. In this exploration, we uncover the features that set the BTF Nixie Watch apart, from its distinctive aesthetic to its user-centric features, making it a standout accessory for those who value both form and function.

Designer: NeonWorks

Click Here to Buy Now: $289 $399 (28% off). Hurry, only 30 limited editions are available!

The design of this watch prominently features the iconic glow of the Nixie tube, recognized for its warm orange light that adds a retro yet futuristic charm. This aesthetic is a purposeful homage to an era when technology was valued for its form and function, starkly contrasting the often impersonal feel of contemporary digital devices. The use of genuine Soviet-era IN16 Nixie tubes not only lends authenticity to the watch but also makes it a unique collector’s item due to the rarity of these components, which were phased out for more efficient display technologies.

 

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it incorporates advanced features like gesture-based activation, which lights up the Nixie display with a simple wrist lift, eliminating the need for manual operation and enhancing the user experience. This feature adds a layer of convenience and contributes to the watch’s energy efficiency by ensuring that the display is only activated when needed.

Lift the wrist to wake the watch

The charging experience marries convenience with aesthetic harmony, featuring a bespoke wireless charger designed to mirror the watch’s unique look while delivering efficient power. This tailored solution underscores the watch’s seamless blend of form and function. Further enhancing its user-friendly appeal, the watch is fully compatible with all Qi-standard wireless chargers, ensuring you can keep your timepiece powered using any Qi-certified charging pad. Whether at home, in the office, or on the move, this universal compatibility ensures that your BTF Nixie Watch remains charged and ready, embodying the perfect fusion of retro design and modern convenience.

Easily recharge using any Qi-compatible wireless charging pad

Another cool feature is the timer, which combines the nostalgic charm of Nixie tubes with the practicality of modern technology. Initiating the timer is effortlessly intuitive; a quick double-tap on the watch’s lower button engages the timer mode, priming it for use with just a simple gesture. To start the timer, a single tap suffices, setting it in motion from zero and allowing for precise tracking up to 99 seconds. This feature proves invaluable for a myriad of everyday tasks and moments where precision is crucial, such as timing exercises during a workout or monitoring short intervals while cooking, showcasing the watch’s blend of vintage charm and modern utility.

Double-tap tap lower button to activate the timer feature

The BTF Nixie Watch offers flexibility in time display, allowing users to easily switch between 12-hour and 24-hour formats to suit personal preferences or cultural norms. This feature enhances the watch’s versatility, catering to a global audience and diverse user needs.

The designer combines ergonomic design with an intuitive user interface, ensuring comfortable wear and ease of use. Its thoughtful layout elements cater to user comfort, while the seamless interaction between its vintage and modern components provides a straightforward, enjoyable experience. This approach underscores the watch’s commitment to making advanced technology accessible and delightful to use.

The sapphire glass on the watch’s face ensures durability and clarity

Worn on the wrist, the watch transforms the concept of timekeeping into an art form, blending technological innovation with unparalleled craftsmanship. Including a sapphire surface on the watch’s face is an aesthetic enhancement that ensures durability and clarity. Known for its scratch resistance and hardness, sapphire glass protects the watch while offering a crystal-clear view of the Nixie tubes’ captivating glow, ensuring the time is always visible in its full, luminous splendor.

The sapphire glass is durable and scratch-resistance

The watch comes with two unique case options to cater to different tastes and needs. The 7-series aluminum variant, commonly used in aerospace and military applications, provides an excellent balance of durability and lightness. As a result, the watch can withstand daily wear and tear while remaining comfortable and unnoticeable on the wrist.

For those seeking an extra touch of elegance and resilience, the titanium frame is an ideal choice, offering high strength and corrosion resistance, which keeps the watch looking sleek and new over time, regardless of the environment. These carefully selected materials and customization options reflect the watch’s blend of luxury, functionality, and personal expression, making it a versatile accessory for any occasion.

Besides its technical specifications and customization options, the BTF Nixie Watch provides a distinct identity. Unlike a traditional watch, this timepiece stands out and speaks volumes of individuality, offering wearers the chance to express themselves through a piece that is as rare as it is handsome.

The BTF Nixie Watch combines style, engineering, and history that goes beyond telling time. It invites wearers to appreciate the precision and functionality of a high-quality timepiece and connect with the aesthetic and emotional resonance of a bygone era while enjoying the comforts and conveniences of contemporary technology.

Click Here to Buy Now: $289 $399 (28% off). Hurry, only 30 limited editions are available!

The post A Timelessly Captivating Retro Yet High-Tech Watch first appeared on Yanko Design.

Why an ‘EDC Display Case’ should be on your Shopping List this Year

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EDC Display Case by Holme & Hadfield

Great gear deserves a great home… and simply stashing your state-of-the-art EDC collection in a dopp bag or in a drawer in your shed is honestly a little shameful if you ask me. A great display case allows you to store, and more importantly, flaunt your EDC to your guests like the trophies they are. Whether it’s knives, multitools, pens, money clips, or anything else you’ve got on hand, a good EDC display case is just about as much of an investment as your EDC itself.

Why do I need a Display Case?

We’re at a point where EDC from companies like Gerber, CIVIVI, Tekto, CRKT, and The James Brand are less utility-focused tools and more of visual specimens of artistry and craftsmanship that ‘get the job done’. With the use of fine materials like Damascus Steel, Stone-washed Titanium, Micarta, and even sometimes top-grain wood, these knives, tools, and gear look like works of art, which is why a display case makes sense. The display case not only allows you to admire them when not in use, but it also lets you access them when you need to, whether it’s to show off to a fellow collector/enthusiast or get some tool action.

Moreover, a display case adds to the beauty of your EDC collection. It organizes your tools but also gives you a cohesive unit on your desk that looks great and enhances the overall value of your tabletop as well as your gear.

What should I look for in an EDC Display Case?

It overwhelmingly depends on the kind of EDC you’ve got, but luckily, there’s a vast variety of cases to choose from. Is your EDC watch-centric? Well, a nice watch-holder case should work. How about blades? Then Holme & Hadfield’s Blade Deck makes a nice pick too. It’s important to evaluate the kind of EDC you’d like to showcase (watches, blades, pens, coins, perhaps even spectacles) and then choose your case based around that. Make sure your case complements your gear as well as your decor… although you can never really go wrong with a nice hardwood and some plexiglass. For blades, try not to choose a leather or metal display case, because leather may end up getting cut, and metal might dull your blade. For watches, however, a leather or felt base helps prevent your watch from getting scuffed. If your case has a plexiglass (or glass) outer shell, we recommend keeping a nice cleaning spray handy. (Here’s the one they use to clean devices on display in Apple Stores)

Don’t focus on just one gear category

Most people (not just EDC collectors) end up having multiple things they carry around with them, which is why it’s important to not fall into the trap of a single-use display case. Choose something with versatility, perhaps a few drawers and organizing areas for your other gear. A place for your ‘less favorite’ knives, maybe a few carabiners, some pens, loose change, etc. Put the fancy stuff on display, but keep the other stuff easily accessible for later. And make sure your drawers are lined with felt or microfiber, so your tools don’t end up scratching the wood… or worse, slipping around every time you open/close the drawer and scratching each other.

What budget should I have?

The quantity and the value of your EDC should determine how much you spend on a display case. Unless you’ve got high-flying collector’s edition gear worth tens of thousands collectively, your display case shouldn’t cost you more than $250-300. The larger your collection, the bigger your case should be, but whether you’ve got luxury watches or high-end knives, a good display case shouldn’t cost more than $500 even on the higher side. Moreover, with Valentine’s, Easter, and other holidays always around the corner, make sure you grab yours on sale!

The post Why an ‘EDC Display Case’ should be on your Shopping List this Year first appeared on Yanko Design.