Tag: Computers

  • Tata Confirmed to Make iPhones in India

    iPhone-15-Rear-camera-system

    Tata Group will soon be making iPhones in India after Wistron, one of the official manufacturers of iPhones in India, sold its Indian plant to the company. With this, the Tata Group has become the first Indian iPhone maker. Have a look at the details.

    ‘Made in India’ iPhones by Tata

    IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar confirmed the news via his X (formerly Twitter) post, which congratulated Tata Group on the acquisition. The IT Minister also thanks Wistron for its contributions and applauds Apple for “building a global supply chain from India with Indian companies at its helm.

    Chandrasekhar revealed that the company will start making iPhones in India within 2-2.5 years. This will be both for the Indian and global markets.

    For those who don’t know, Tata Group has been in talks to acquire the Wistron plant in Karnataka. Foxconn and Pegatron are the other two manufacturers of iPhones in India. One thing to note here is that ‘Made in India‘ iPhones are just assembled in the country and not made from scratch.

    It is revealed that both Wistron and Tata will be signing the important agreements post which will be seeking the necessary approvals. This move is another step toward making the ‘Made in India’ initiative stronger and reducing the dependence on China-assembled products in India.

    There’s no word on whether Tata will continue making iPhones in the Wistron plant or will move operations to its factory in Hosur, near Bengaluru. It is also revealed that the deal to acquire Wistron Corp by the Tata Group is estimated to be $125 million.

    Other details regarding this are still not known and we will have to wait for more information on this. We will keep you posted on the matter, so, stay tuned. Also, what are your thoughts on Tata making iPhones in India? Let us know in the comments below.

    Featured Image: iPhone 15



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  • Selling 250 Million Phones in 2024

    Samsung, a major player in the smartphone industry, has already unveiled its ambitious goals for 2024. The renowned South Korean tech giant is determined to sell a staggering 250 million smartphones in the upcoming year. This audacious target signifies Samsung’s commitment to maintaining a prominent position in the highly competitive smartphone market.

    Samsung Aims High with Smartphone Sales Target in 2024

    Samsung Software Update - Samsung smartphone sales

    The information, sourced from the reputable website The Elec, sheds light on Samsung’s strategic approach. Notably, the company plans not only to bolster its overall smartphone sales. But also to ramp up the popularity of its flagship models.

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    In the fiercely competitive smartphone landscape, Samsung faces rivalries from Chinese brands like Xiaomi in Europe and Huawei in China. Apple continues to lead the global market, securing Samsung’s respectable second-place status.

    To regain lost profitability, Samsung is leaving no stone unturned. The company has already increased the production of its foldable smartphones by an additional two million units. Currently holding a 20% market share, Samsung aims to secure a more solid footing in the market.

    The smartphone industry has seen a gradual downturn since 2019, further accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic. While most brands, including Samsung, witnessed revenue declines, the premium segment has been an exception. Samsung is keenly aware of this trend and is poised to capitalize on it.

    Samsung’s strategy for 2024 revolves around boosting the sales of its premium smartphones, particularly the Galaxy S series and its renowned foldable models. With the Galaxy S24 series set to debut in the first quarter of the year, Samsung has a head start over Apple, which plans to launch the iPhone 16 in September. This advantageous timeline may allow Samsung to solidify its position in the high-end smartphone market.

    In conclusion, Samsung’s aspiration to sell 250 million smartphones in 2024 signifies its determination to thrive in the fiercely competitive smartphone industry. By focusing on premium models and strategic production increases, Samsung aims to secure a bright future in the world of smartphones.



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  • Hammer Launches New Ultra Classic, Polar, and Conquer Smartwatches

    hammer ultra classic smartwatch

    Indian wearable brand Hammer has introduced three new smartwatches in India called the Ultra Classic, Polar, and Conquer. All three of them are affordable options and come with features like a big 2-inch display, an AI voice assistant, and much more. Have a look at the details below.

    Hammer Ultra Classic: Specs and Features

    The Ultra Classic looks a lot like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and features a 2.01-inch LCD display with 600 nits of brightness, a 60Hz refresh rate, and the Always-on-Display (AOD) feature. You get multiple watch face options too. It has a sleek design, which includes a functional crown and detachable straps.

    Hammer Ultra Classic

    There’s support for Bluetooth 5.3, which can also enable calling (thanks to the speaker and microphone). You get health features like a heart rate sensor, a SpO2 sensor, blood pressure monitoring, sleep tracking, period tracking, and more. You can also get sedentary reminders. There are multiple sports modes and features like music/camera controls, inbuilt games, password protection, support for various languages, and much more. The Ultra Classic comes with an IP67 rating and has Black and Orange color variants.

    Hammer Polar: Specs and Features

    The Hammer Polar also has a 2.01-inch display and supports the AOD functionality. It is very similar to the Ultra Classic smartwatch and carries the same features like support for Bluetooth Calling (via Bluetooth 5.0) and an IP67 rating.

    Hammer Polar

    You also get the same health features and multiple sports modes. Additional functionalities include camera/music controls, support for 24 languages, sedentary reminders, password protection, and much more. It comes in Ice Grey and Black color options.

    Hammer Conquer: Specs and Features

    The Hammer Conquer has a slightly bigger 2.02-inch AMOLED display and supports Bluetooth Calling (via Bluetooth 5.2). There’s support for a heart rate sensor, a SpO2 sensor, a blood pressure monitor, a sleep tracker, and a period tracker. You also get 100+ sports modes to track various activities.

    Hammer Conquer

    There are multiple watch faces, weather updates, different UI styles, inbuilt games, and much more. It also comes with an IP67 rating. The Hammer Conquer comes in Grey and Black colors.

    Price and Availability

    The Hammer Ultra Classic is priced at Rs 1,399, the Polar at Rs 1,299, and the Conquer at Rs 2,999. These smartwatches will be available via Amazon, Myntra, Flipkart, Reliance Digital, Nykaa, TataCliq, CRED, and the company’s website.

    Featured Image: Hammer Ultra Classic

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  • The biggest update to Windows 11 is now available to everyone

    The Windows 11 Moment 4 update has made its debut, bringing a host of new features and improvements to the Windows 11 operating system. Microsoft began rolling out this update in September 2023, initially as a staggered release to select users. However, it is now available to all users who are willing to install non-security updates. In this article, we’ll dive into the key features and changes that the Moment 4 update brings to Windows 11.

    The key features and changes of the Windows 11 Moment 4 update

    Windows 11

    A Redesigned File Explorer

    One of the standout features of the Moment 4 update is a redesigned File Explorer. The new File Explorer Home, powered by WinUI, offers a more modern and user-friendly experience. It introduces a “Recommended files” carousel, displaying files that are relevant to you. However, it’s important to note that this feature is currently available for users signed in to Windows with an Azure AD account. If you prefer to show pinned folders instead of the recommended section, you can easily make this adjustment in the settings.

    File Explorer’s address bar has also received an upgrade. It now recognizes both local and cloud folders, making it more convenient for users who rely on cloud storage services. For Microsoft OneDrive users, the address bar includes OneDrive sync status and a quota flyout box, providing a comprehensive view of your cloud files.

    The addition of a new details pane (accessible with ALT + Shift + P) in File Explorer enhances the way you interact with your files. This pane provides contextual information about the selected file, including a thumbnail, sharing status, and related actions, without the need to open the file itself.

    Gallery in File Explorer is another exciting feature introduced in this update. It simplifies access to your photo collection, with recently taken photos appearing at the top. The content in Gallery mirrors the All Photos view in the Photos app, including photos from your mobile device if you have OneDrive Camera Roll Backup configured. You can customize the folders displayed in Gallery and even add subfolders for more precise content filtering.

    Enhanced Archive File Support

    The Moment 4 update expands File Explorer’s capabilities with native support for additional archive file formats. This support is made possible through the libarchive open-source project, and it includes formats like TAR, TAR GZ, RAR, BZ2, and more. Keep in mind that this feature does not extend to password-encrypted files.

    Improvements in Taskbar, System Tray, and Notifications

    A significant focus of the Moment 4 update is enhancing the Taskbar, system tray, and notification system in Windows 11. Here are some of the notable changes:

    • Volume Mixer: The update introduces an enhanced volume mixer accessible via Quick Settings. This feature allows you to customize audio settings for individual apps and easily switch between audio devices. You can swiftly access the volume mixer using the keyboard shortcut WIN + CTRL + V.
    • Windows Spatial Audio: It’s now more straightforward to enable the Windows Spatial Audio experience. A new quick access list displays all installed spatial audio technologies. For additional spatial sound options like Dolby and DTS, you can explore the Microsoft Store.
    • “Never Combined” Mode: In this update, a “never combined” mode is introduced, allowing you to view application windows and their labels separately on the Taskbar. This feature can be configured in Settings, particularly under Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors.
    • Desktop Labels: Desktop labels now appear when you switch between desktops in Task View using various methods, including keyboard shortcuts and touch gestures. New sliding animations add a visual touch to these transitions.

    • System Tray Customization: Users can now hide the time and date in the system tray, providing more control over the taskbar’s appearance. This feature is accessible via a right-click on the system tray clock and choosing “Adjust date and time.”
    • Notifications: Notifications now appear as a bell icon in the system tray. The icon’s fill color reflects your system’s accent color, providing a visual indicator of new notifications. The update also introduces a “view notification” button for urgent notifications received while in “do not disturb” mode.
    • App Termination: You can now right-click an app on the taskbar and end the task, offering a convenient way to manage running applications.
    • Network Diagnostics: Users can initiate network problem diagnostics directly from the system tray by right-clicking the network icon.
    • Search Highlight Gleam: Selecting the search highlight gleam now opens a Bing.com page for the daily search highlight. However, this feature is initially available to a limited audience and will be gradually rolled out.
    • Notification Toast Interaction: Windows now detects whether you interact with notification toasts. If not, it suggests turning off toast banners for that app to reduce distractions.

    These improvements enhance user interaction and customization options for the Taskbar, system tray, and notifications.

    Start Menu Enhancements

    The Start menu receives several enhancements in the Moment 4 update:

    1. Richer Previews: When hovering over files under the “Recommended” section in the Start menu, users now experience richer previews. Thumbnail previews are available for some files, providing a more informative user experience.
    2. Cloud File Sharing: The update introduces the option to quickly share cloud file recommendations by right-clicking on them.
    3. Recent File Ranking: In the coming weeks, the Start menu will feature a new ranking system for recently used files in the “Recommended” section. This ranking considers factors like the last usage date and file extension, offering a more personalized file display.

    These improvements make the Start menu more dynamic and user-friendly, ensuring that users can quickly access their most relevant files and documents.

    Introducing Copilot in Windows

    Moment 4 update marks the introduction of “Copilot in Windows,” a centralized AI assistance feature. This update positions Windows 11 as the first PC platform to incorporate centralized AI assistance, aimed at helping users be more productive. The initial preview focuses on integrated UI assistance, opening up possibilities for more advanced AI features in the future.

    Customization and Accessibility

    Windows 11 has always placed a strong emphasis on customization and accessibility. The Moment 4 update further reinforces this commitment with several features:

    1. Hiding Time and Date: Users can now hide the time and date in the system tray, allowing for a more streamlined taskbar appearance.
    2. Accessibility for Notifications: Urgent or important notifications received during “do not disturb” mode now include a “view notification” button for easy access to notification content.
    3. Enhanced Narrator Support: Narrator, the built-in screen reader, receives new natural voices and improved support for various languages. It also provides a more efficient reading experience in Microsoft Excel.
    4. Voice Access Enhancements: Voice Access, designed for users with disabilities, now includes commands to correct recognized words and improved support for app usage. Voice Access can be initiated from the Lock screen, enabling voice-based device interaction.

    Improved Security Measures

    Security is a top priority for Microsoft, and the Moment 4 update introduces several security enhancements:

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    1. Passkeys: Passkeys offer a more secure alternative to passwords for signing in to websites and applications. Users can create passkeys using Windows Hello (face, fingerprint, or PIN) for added security.
    2. Phishing Protection: Enhanced Phishing Protection in Microsoft Defender SmartScreen helps protect against phishing and unsafe password use. It provides warnings for unsafe password practices, such as password reuse.
    3. Enterprise Policies: Enterprise customers gain the ability to implement the “EnablePasswordlessExperience” policy, which hides passwords for specific Windows authentication scenarios.

    Graphics and Windows Mixed Reality

    The Moment 4 update introduces Auto Color Management (ACM) for Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) displays, ensuring consistent and accurate color representation across all Windows apps. This feature benefits a range of GPUs and display types, enhancing the visual experience for users.

    For Windows Mixed Reality users, Microsoft has resolved an issue where the Microsoft Store stopped responding when accessed via Windows Mixed Reality headsets.

    Settings and Bluetooth Enhancements

    Windows 11 offers a more user-friendly and personalized experience through improved settings and Bluetooth features:

    1. Settings Home Page: The new Settings home page features interactive cards that represent devices and account-related settings. It provides quick access to key settings, including cloud storage, account recovery, personalization, and more.
    2. Dev Drive: Dev Drive is a new form of storage volume designed for developers. It allows the hosting of source code, working folders, and package caches. This feature is built on Resilient File System (ReFS) technology and includes a Performance mode.
    3. Dynamic Lighting: Dynamic Lighting control offers users the ability to sync their Windows accent color with compatible devices, creating a cohesive visual experience.
    4. Adaptive Dimming: Devices with presence sensors that support attention detection can now dim the screen when users look away and undim it upon returning their gaze.
    5. Network Adapter Properties: Users can access advanced properties for network adapters and internet properties directly from the Settings app.
    6. Wi-Fi Passwords: The update allows users to view Wi-Fi passwords for known networks via the Settings app.
    7. Uninstall Apps: A context menu option to uninstall apps from the Start menu simplifies app management.
    8. Task Manager and Firewall Design: The Task Manager dialogs and Firewall notification dialogs now align with Windows 11’s design principles, providing a more cohesive and visually appealing interface.

    These improvements enhance the user experience in terms of personalization, convenience, and control.

    Windows 365 Switch

    Windows 365 Switch is a new feature that allows users to seamlessly switch between their local desktop and a Windows 365 Cloud PC. This feature enables easy movement between these environments using familiar input methods, making the transition between local and cloud computing more intuitive.

    Enhanced Touch and Pen Input

    The Moment 4 update brings improvements to digital handwriting (inking) in Windows Ink. This feature is initially available for English (U.S.) and offers more accurate recognition and additional gestures for text editing.. Windows 11 has always prioritized touch and pen input, and the Moment 4 update continues to improve these features. In particular:

    1. Digital Inking: This update introduces new gestures for digital inking. For instance, you can now use a back gesture to delete words or phrases. Handwriting recognition is also more accurate, making it easier for users who prefer writing on their touch-enabled devices. The inking experience is initially available in English (U.S.) and is expected to expand to more languages in future updates.
    2. On-Screen Keyboard Improvements: The on-screen keyboard now features an updated design, with a more responsive layout that adapts to various screen sizes and orientations. This makes it more user-friendly for both traditional laptops and 2-in-1 devices.
    3. Support for More Languages: Handwriting and touch input support is being expanded to additional languages, ensuring that more users around the world can take advantage of these features.

    Gaming Enhancements

    Windows 11 continues to evolve as a gaming platform with several gaming-specific enhancements in the Moment 4 update:

    1. DirectStorage for More Games: DirectStorage, which speeds up game load times and improves game performance, is extended to support more games. This feature leverages the power of NVMe SSDs, resulting in faster load times and smoother gameplay experiences.
    2. Auto HDR Support for More Monitors: Auto HDR, which automatically enhances the color and contrast in supported games, is now supported on a broader range of monitors. This provides a more immersive gaming experience without requiring a specific HDR-capable display.
    3. Licensing Updates for Gaming Services: The update simplifies licensing for gaming services, making it more transparent and user-friendly. This benefits both gamers and game developers.

    App Store Evolution

    The Microsoft Store continues to evolve, offering developers and users a better experience:

    1. Preview of Direct URLs: Users can now directly access content within the Microsoft Store using URLs. This feature provides a more seamless experience for browsing and sharing app listings.
    2. Streamlined App Listing Page: The app listing page in the Microsoft Store receives a redesign, making it more intuitive for users to explore details and install apps. Users will find it easier to discover key information, reviews, and screenshots.
    3. Updated Categories: The Microsoft Store now includes new app categories, ensuring a more organized and efficient way for users to find the apps they need.
    4. Simplified Progressive Web App (PWA) Installation: Users can now install Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) from their favorite websites more easily. With simplified installation steps directly from the Microsoft Store.
    5. Store Search Improvements: Search in the Microsoft Store is enhanced with better filtering options, improving the discoverability of apps and content.

    Developer-Focused Features

    The Moment 4 update also brings several developer-focused features:

    1. New APIs: Developers can take advantage of new APIs to create more immersive and feature-rich applications. These APIs enhance the capabilities of Windows apps, offering users a richer experience.
    2. Performance Improvements: The update includes various performance improvements, ensuring that Windows apps run smoothly and efficiently. This results in a more responsive and enjoyable experience for users.
    3. Developer Tools: The Windows App SDK and developer tools are updated to provide developers with better support and resources for building high-quality applications.

    Accessibility Enhancements

    Accessibility has always been a core focus of Windows 11, and this update introduces several new features and improvements:

    1. New Natural Voices: Narrator, the built-in screen reader, now offers new natural voices. Making it more pleasant to listen to and easier to understand for users with visual impairments.
    2. Improved Support for Various Languages: Narrator expands its language support. Catering to users around the world who require screen reading capabilities in their native language.
    3. Efficient Narration in Excel: Narrator in Microsoft Excel now provides a more efficient reading experience. Enhancing productivity for users who rely on this tool for work or study.
    4. Voice Access from Lock Screen: The enhanced Voice Access feature allows users to interact with their Windows device through voice commands right from the Lock screen, providing a more accessible and convenient experience.

    Conclusion

    The Windows 11 Moment 4 update is a substantial release that brings a wide array of new features and enhancements to the Windows 11 operating system. From a redesigned File Explorer to improved Taskbar and notification management, the update aims to enhance user productivity and customization. It also introduces AI assistance, accessibility improvements, and security enhancements. All while focusing on providing a more user-friendly and personalized experience.

    As Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11, users can expect an evolving and improving ecosystem that caters to their diverse needs and preferences. While the Moment 4 update is currently optional, it will soon become a mandatory part of the Windows 11 experience. Ensuring that all users benefit from these new features and improvements.

    In summary, the Windows 11 Moment 4 update represents a significant step forward in Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to refine and enhance the Windows 11 operating system, making it more user-friendly, secure, and customizable than ever before.



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  • How to Hide Likes on Instagram (2023 Guide)

    Back in 2021, Instagram introduced the ability to hide the likes count of photos and videos you interact with. This was done to let users interact with posts based on their quality rather than popularity. You can also hide likes from your own Instagram posts to have a healthier and more positive social media experience. So, if you have been looking for a way to do so, look no further. In this article, I will showcase how to hide these likes on Instagram. Without any further ado, let’s jump right into it!

    Hide Likes on Others’ Instagram Posts on Android/ iOS

    This segment will focus on hiding likes of all Instagram posts that appear on your Instagram feed and Explore page. Moreover, the process to do so is the same on both Android and iOS devices. However, it is slightly different on Instagram Web. Don’t worry, we have outlined all the steps for you.

    1. From your Instagram profile, tap on the hamburger menu at the top right corner of your screen and select the “Settings and privacy” option.

    Hiding the like count of others' Instagram posts

    2. Here, scroll down to find and select the “Like count” option in the What you see section and toggle on the “Hide like count” setting.

    Toggling on Hide like count setting on Instagram

    And that’s it! All Instagram posts appearing on your feed and explore page from now onwards will have the like count hidden for them. If you ever want to unhide these Instagram posts, just toggle this setting off.

    Hide Likes on Others’ Instagram Posts on the Website

    Whether you are on Windows or macOS, you can also log into your Instagram account via the web to toggle off the like count for others’ posts you interact with. Follow the below-mentioned steps to do so.

    1. Click on the hamburger “More” menu located at the bottom left corner of the Instagram Web page. From the pop-up menu select “Settings.”

    Hide likes on Instagram on the web

    2. Within the settings menu, click on the “What you see” option to toggle on the “Hide like count” option. With that, you will have successfully hidden the like count for others’ Instagram posts.

    Hide likes on Instagram on web

    Hide Likes on Existing Posts on Your Instagram

    Now, if you want to hide the like count for your existing posts on Instagram, you can do that as well. However, the biggest con of this method is that you have to individually hide the likes for each and every post that you have ever made on the platform. There is no way to do the same in batch.

    1. Firstly, head over to your Instagram profile and then, select the post you want to hide the likes for. Once you open the post, tap on the vertical three-dot menu towards the top left corner of this post.

    2. Next, you will see the option to “Hide like count”. Tap on this and then, you will receive the “Like count hidden” prompt to indicate the success of this procedure.

    2. You will receive the “Like count hidden” prompt to indicate the success of this procedure. This is a great way to hide the like for the posts that are already up on your Instagram account.

    Hiding likes on your own existing Instagram posts

    You can simply tap on “unhide like count” and that should undo it to display likes on the posts again.

    Hide Likes on New Posts on Your Instagram

    The “hide like count” feature is not limited to the posts that you have already posted. You can also hide likes from an Instagram photo or video before posting them. To do so, you need to tweak a particular setting before you share a photo or video on Instagram. Follow these steps:

    1. Right before you share a post on Instagram, you will see an “Advanced settings” panel in the New Post screen. Tap on it.

    2. Now, all you have to do is toggle on the “Hide likes and view counts on this post” option.

    Hide likes before sharing a post on Instagram

    And there you have it! By following these steps you can successfully make a post on the platform with the view and likes count hidden.

    With that being said, these are the different steps that you can employ to hide the like counts for the various posts that you interact with on Instagram, as well as the ones you are going to make and have already made. So, go ahead and try it out yourself and share your experience in the comment section below. Meanwhile, you can also check out our other guides on how to view Instagram posts without an account and turn on Quiet Mode on Instagram.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What do people see when you hide like count on Instagram?

    Hiding the like count on your posts will prevent your followers from viewing the total like count on them. However, they can still view the list of all those who have liked your posts. In the case of videos, the total views or plays count is visible as well.

    Who can see hidden likes on Instagram?

    No one can see the like count on your Instagram posts if you have hidden it. If you have a Public account, any Instagram user, whether your followers or not, can view the list of people who have liked your posts. However, if you have a Private account, only your followers can view this data.

    Why can’t I see all the likes on someone’s Instagram post?

    If you can’t see all the likes on someone’s Instagram post and just the list of people who have liked the post, this is because this individual has hidden his or her like counts. You can do the same by navigating to Your profile – >Hamburger Menu in the top right -> Settings and privacy ->Like count -> Toggle on Hide Like count setting.

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  • Benchmark Test: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 vs A17 Pro

    Benchmark tests like Geekbench, AnTuTu, and 3DMark serve a crucial purpose in the world of smartphones. They provide manufacturers and phone enthusiasts with an objective measure of a device’s performance. These tests help assess intangible aspects that are difficult to measure. However, it’s important to note that some manufacturers have not followed the rules in the past. In 2013, Samsung faced criticism for manipulating benchmark results with the Galaxy Note 3, and the following year, HTC also faced similar allegations. While some may debate the significance of benchmark scores, they undeniably play a role in assessing and comparing smartphone performance.

    When it comes to benchmark testing, two significant System-on-Chip (SoC) processors will certainly take the stage in the coming months. The 4nm Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and the 3nm Apple A17 Pro. These two powerhouses recently went head-to-head on Geekbench. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 will be the main driving force behind most flagship Android smartphones next year. This includes the Galaxy S24 Ultra, with Qualcomm’s official unveiling just around the corner. On the other hand, the Apple A17 Pro is currently the only 3nm smartphone chip in use. It fuels the performance of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    Benchmark Test Scores of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and A17 Pro Chip

    Benchmark Test

    In this benchmark showdown, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 outperformed the Apple A17 Pro in the multi-core test. It achieved a score of 7494 compared to the A17 Pro’s 7288. However, the A17 Pro did excel in the single-core test, scoring 2846 as opposed to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3’s 2207. It’s worth noting that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 was tested on the recently released Xiaomi 14 with 16GB of RAM. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the device that produced the score for the A17 Pro. These results provide a glimpse into the performance capabilities of these two powerful processors.

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    CPU Configurations of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and A17 Pro Chip

    The robust performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 can be attributed to its well-balanced configuration. It includes one high-performing CPU core running at 3.30GHz, three additional performance CPU cores operating at 3.15GHz, two more performance CPU cores clocked at 2.96GHz, and two efficient CPU cores running at 2.27GHz. In contrast, the A17 Pro features a total of six CPU cores, consisting of two high-performance cores and four efficiency cores. The performance cores run at an impressive speed of 3.78GHz, while the efficiency cores operate at 2.11GHz. These distinct configurations contribute to the performance disparities observed in the benchmark tests.

    Benchmark Test Conclusion Benchmark Test

    In theory, it may come as a surprise that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performed better than the A17 Pro, considering that TSMC manufactured the A17 Pro using its advanced N3B 3nm process node. In contrast, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 was built using TSMC’s 4nm process node. Typically, with the smaller transistors utilized in the 3nm process, the A17 Pro, with its impressive 19 billion transistors, should technically have a higher transistor count compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This would generally make the A17 Pro more powerful and potentially more energy-efficient than its rival.

    Indeed, when it comes to Geekbench scores, multiple variables come into play, one of which is the thermal performance of a device. It’s entirely plausible that various Android smartphones equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset could achieve varying scores, influenced by factors such as how effectively they manage heat dissipation. The ability of a device to maintain optimal performance under varying conditions, including heat management, can significantly impact benchmark results. Thus, while benchmark scores provide valuable insights, they are only one piece of the puzzle in assessing a device’s overall performance and capabilities. In real life usage, performance might be slightly different from what we saw in the test.



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  • Xiaomi Makes HyperOS Official: Features, Eligible Devices, and More

    xiaomi hyperos

    Last week, Xiaomi announced the new HyperOS to replace MIUI and it has now made it official in China, alongside the launch of the Xiaomi 14 series. This will be a unified OS for smartphones, IoT devices, and even cars. With this, Xiaomi wants to improve the performance and efficiency of the compatible devices. Have a look at the details below.

    HyperOS: Features

    Xiaomi’s new HyperOS is lightweight and based on Linux and the self-developed Xiaomi Vela. Xiaomi Vela is open-source based on the NuttX real-time operating system. It will occupy only 8.75GB of system storage. The OS has resource management capabilities, which allow it to work with varying device configurations while improving performance. It has a supported RAM range of 64KB and 24GB, which makes it pretty versatile.

    There’s better network performance and enhanced multitasking. You also get features like the MiSans global font system for global users, enhanced visual effects rendering, changes to the Lock screen with new styles, and more.

    HyperPS lockscreen changes

    It supports precise hardware scheduling, which can ensure smooth performance and power efficiency even in complex scenarios. Xiaomi says this is achieved “through technical means such as dynamic thread priority adjustment and dynamic task cycle evaluation.” There will be a more stable frame rate and less power consumption while running Graphic-intensive games. HyperOS is also restructuring the file system, memory management, imaging subsystem, and network system.

    As mentioned earlier, HyperOS wants to be a unified system for connected devices, and with the integrated device center, controlling and monitoring any connected device will be much easier. This will enable you to “seamlessly switch camera sources during video conferencing, access car cameras from your phone, access your smartphone’s rear camera while you’re using a tablet or a laptop, and even connect your tablet to the internet via your smartphone.

    This will also leverage the power of AI with HyperMind. With this, connected devices will learn from usage patterns and habits for added convenience. HyperOS also includes large foundation models for Xiaomi AI Assistant to activate features like text generation, real-time subtitles, and more. The Mi Canvas app for Xiaomi tablets will also support the AI Brush for professional-level improvements to the artwork.

    Xiaomi has also included the self-made TEE security model for enhanced security and privacy features and end-to-end encryption for data transmission between devices. 

    Eligible Devices and Rollout Timeline

    Xiaomi’s HyperOS is available with the Xiaomi 14 and the Xiaomi 14 Pro out of the box in China and will roll out to other devices in December 2023 in China. The global rollout will begin in Q1, 2024. Here’s a look at the eligible devices.

    • Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro
    • Xiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro, and Xiaomi 13 Ultra
    • Redmi K60, Redmi K60 Pro, and Redmi K60 Extreme Edition
    • Xiaomi Mix 3
    • Xiaomi Mix 2
    • Xiaomi Pad 6, Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro, and Xiaomi Pad 6 Max
    • Xiaomi TV S Pro (85-inch, 75-inch, and 65-inch)
    • Xiaomi Watch S3
    • Xiaomi Sound Speaker
    • Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 Pro PTZ

    There’s no proper clarity on the global device list yet but this should be revealed soon. So, what are your thoughts on the new HyperOS? Let us know in the comments below.

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  • How to Fix Blue Screen of Death Errors

    If you’ve been a Windows user for a long time, you may have already encountered the Blue Screen of Death issue. Not only are these errors annoying, but they can also lead to lost data. Sometimes, they can even permanently damage the software and hardware. And if you’re getting them often, you may be wondering how to fix Blue Screen of Death errors.

    Some of the Blue Screen of Death errors are more common than others. And these common errors require nothing but simple troubleshooting steps. In this guide, you can learn everything there’s to it regarding these common Windows errors.

    What Is a Blue Screen of Death?

    Commonly abbreviated to BSoD, a Blue Screen of Death error is a critical error screen that only comes up on ReactOS or Microsoft Windows operating systems. They appear when there’s an event of a fatal system crash. Even though these screens may seem random, they do give you some important info.

    You can find some essential information regarding what is causing the error to appear. Also, although these crashes may seem annoying, they are there to protect your system. The thing is, Blue Screen of Death errors only appear when the operating system reaches a state where it can’t function safely.

    In other words, the Blue Screen of Death shuts down the operating system completely to make sure that there’s no further data loss.

    How to Fix the Most Common Blue Screen of Death Errors?

    There are many reasons why fatal system errors can occur. For that reason, the operating system utilizes an identification system. This system helps the users find the issue that’s causing the Blue Screen of Death and troubleshoot it accordingly. Let’s go through the most common error codes to give you a better idea:

    1.      System_Service_Exception Blue Screen of Death Error

    The System_Service_Exception is one of the most common Blue Screen of Death errors that Windows users have encountered. This error tends to come up due to faulty, corrupted, or outdated drivers. It can also appear for corrupted system files and GUI errors.

    Windows laptop

    An easy fix for the System_Service_Exception Blue Screen of Death error is to uninstall the recently installed software. You should also update all the drivers that are installed on your system. If these don’t help, you may need to reset your Windows to get rid of the issue.

    2.      System Thread Exception Not Handled

    Another common Blue Screen of Death error is the System Thread Exception Not Handled error. At the core, it appears mainly due to outdated, faulty, or incompatible drivers. And in most cases, it’s not just one driver that’s causing the error to occur. It can be for multiple drivers.

    For this Blue Screen of Death Error, the best fix is to use a good Windows error lookup tool. These tools can identify the driver or drivers that are causing the issue to occur. And when you identify the drivers, all you need to do is update them.

    3.      Unmountable Boot Volume Blue Screen of Death Error

    The Unmountable Booth Volume Blue Screen of Death error is pretty self-explanatory. This error code appears when your Windows can’t load correctly from the selected boot driver. Considering the nature of the error, you will generally come across it when you are trying to boot up your system.

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    As you can guess, the easiest way to fix this error is to fix the boot volume. You can also try to repair the Windows installation files. And if that doesn’t work, diagnose the system’s overall health and check for issues to fix the error.

    Windows Boot

    4.      Error Code 0xc00000e

    This Blue Screen of Death error generally occurs on Windows 10 systems. And essentially, it’s mainly for corrupted system files or hardware issues. They prevent the operating system of your system from booting up correctly.

    Another thing about this issue is that the error can appear regardless of whether your Windows files are inside the SSD or HDD. But the good news is that you don’t need to go through too many complicated steps to fix the error. You need to carry out software-related fixes, which include resetting the BIOS.

    Alternatively, you can use the Automatic Repair Tool inside your Windows to fix this Blue Screen of Death error. If you think that the error is a hardware-related issue, consider changing the CMOS battery of the system’s motherboard.

    5.      Memory Management Stop Code on the Blue Screen of Death Error

    The Memory Management Stop Code is another Blue Screen of Death error that’s pretty self-explanatory. Otherwise known as Windows error code 0x0000001A, the error comes up when something goes wrong with the Windows system’s ability to handle memory management.

    That said, this issue can come up due to various reasons. It can be due to faulty RAM, software, drivers, corrupted system files, and disk driver issues. To fix the issue, you need to update the OS and drivers. Also, you can use the built-in diagnostic tools.

    Windows system

    6.      Bad System Config Info Error

    Compared to others, the Bad System Config Info Blue Screen of Death error is pretty easy to fix. Otherwise known as Windows error code 0x00000074, the error comes up mainly due to faulty system configurations. To fix it, you need to simply restart your system.



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  • Full story of Sakura leading into Street Fighter 6











    She doesn’t really win Street Fighter tournaments, nor does she often play integral roles in Street Fighter story lines, and yet Sakura Kasagano is one of the most popular and beloved characters in all of Street Fighter.






    She’s not in Street Fighter 6 yet, but given her long time waifu status we figure it’s more than likely just a matter of time before she is. We’re hoping to pass that time a little more rapidly with a fun recap of the character’s story thus far, as well as a little speculation as to what Capcom might do with her if and when they bring her back again.









    It doesn’t take long to see what kinds of boxes developers were aiming to check when designing Sakura. She’s a young, naive school girl with a total infatuation with the franchise’s most popular character, (also the one that’s easiest to map one’s own identity over) and so it comes as little surprise that she’s been immensely popular with fighting game players.


    Indeed, Sakura was voted as the most popular character of every single SF character (previously playable and not) in their 2017 poll, and she was easily one of the most requested characters for Street Fighter 5 DLC before she was officially announced for that game’s third season.


    While this approach has certainly worked in the past, it’s getting a little tired at this point, especially since Street Fighter 6 takes place later in the timeline than any other entry to date.


    Even in her brief SF5 story, Sakura expresses a want to evolve and grow into a widely different person. She’s no longer drawn to travel the world in search of Ryu (a story that Capcom has recycled over multiple games) and wants to start exploring more down to earth avenues.


    She directly mentions and considers motherhood in her most recent appearance, which is an endeavor that’s amongst the most bold and courageous a woman can take on. This could be explored via her actually having her own child, or perhaps she takes on a pupil or a younger character that she must watch over with a maternal eye.


    Such a situation is naturally high stakes and presents plenty of easy paths for the character to get into righteous fights, but she could also wrestle with the idea of simultaneously wanting to hold onto the freedoms of her younger years.


    Perhaps the psychological schism could lead to Sakura’s darker side surfacing, especially since she’s had run ins with Ryu while he was under the influence of the dark Satsui no hado energy in the past. Indeed, this energy rubbed off on Sagat and led him to some inner struggles in SF5, so it could just as easily lead to Evil or Dark Sakura being a character in Street Fighter 6.


    Check out Sakura’s full historical recap and our ideas of what Capcom might do with her in the full video below. If you enjoy what you watch please consider liking and subscribing over on our YouTube Channel.











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  • All Conduit Abilities in Apex Legends Season 19 (Explained)

    apex legends season 19 ignite - conduit

    As many fans already know, joining the vast roster of characters in Apex Legends Season 19 is Conduit. Her backstory, as we witnessed in the latest Stories from the Outlands, ties in with the Titanfall universe. She wears a bright yellow and blue-color exoskeleton and carries a titan battery on her back. This titan battery powers most of her kit, along with the exoskeleton, so let’s understand all of Conduit’s abilities in Apex Legends.

    Conduit Abilities in Apex Legends

    For those unaware, Conduit has Filipino origins and can be seen speaking Tagalog from time to time. She is a fan of the Apex Games and can be seen mimicking other legends at times. Conduit is 27 years old, has a bubbly and cheerful personality, and has joined the games to fulfill her responsibilities towards her family. That said, let’s dive in and check out the new support legend’s kit:

    Passive: Savior’s Speed

    Brief: Conduit gets a speed boost when running towards allies out of range of her tactical

    A good medic is one that can reach you on time to help space your life in sticky situations. Conduit’s passive is based on this principle and gets activated when you look at one of your teammates who is farther away from you. You will see a small icon when looking at teammates, which will fill up and give you a speed boost to catch up with overzealous teammates who are hunting for their next prey.

    The speed boost, as revealed to us, is enabled by the enhanced legs that are part of her cool blue and yellow exoskeleton. So yes, Conduit is not just a medic but kind of a movement legend too. We can’t wait to see what some movement pros can accomplish with her passive.

    Tactical: Radiant Transfer

    conduit tactical - season 19

    Brief: Blast your ally with energy, regenerating temporary shields for them when in danger

    Now that you have caught up with the blood-thirsty Octane or Revenant on your team, it’s time to back them up in combat. This is where Conduit’s tactical comes into play. Unlike Lifeline, who heals health, Conduit is the shield healer in Apex Legends.

    Powered by the Titan battery on her back, she can send a surge of energy to her teammates, replenishing any missing bars of shield. She also gets the same boost if any of her shield bars are not filled up. But there’s a very peculiar thing about Conduit’s tactical. It does not generate permanent shields, say like Wattson, but a temporary one.

    When activated, you will see your shield bar fill up with temporary shields (marked in green) OVER TIME. Yeah, you don’t get full shields instantly, but they take a few seconds to generate. Then, they remain available for around 12 seconds, post which they’ll start depleting over time. These work like usual shields, but the regeneration is temporarily paused when you take damage.

    Conduit’s tactical can come in clutch when you are in the middle of fighting and drop down to a sliver of health. Again, just like her passive, you need to look at your teammate to grant this shield buff.

    Ultimate: Energy Barricade

    conduit ultimate - season 19

    Brief: Deploy an array of shield jammers that damage and slow enemies

    Lastly, let’s talk about her ultimate ability. Using her exoskeleton, Conduit shoots out seven shield jammers that look like glowing Titan batteries. The jammers are all deployed in a straight line and cover a lot of area; like a lot when deployed outdoors. These serve as Conduit’s offensive strategy against enemies and take a couple of seconds to deploy.

    Since it’s an offensive ability, the jammers damage (10 per second) and slow down enemies when they attempt to cross through the barricade. You can easily use Conduit’s ultimate indoors as well, but there is a dynamic functionality to it. I will update this post to explain the same once the second embargo lifts.

    Furthermore, a question that many players might have is – can I destroy the shield jammers like Horizon’s black hole or Rampart’s walls? The answer is yes. Each jammer has 250 health, and you can shoot them to clear out the space. It will be interesting to see how they’re used on the new Storm Point map update, which arrives on October 31st.

    While Conduit’s defensive-cum-offensive kit seems impressive, it will be interesting to see how her abilities fit into the current legend meta in Apex Legends. Will she be employed by some teams to cut off rotations in ALGS? Or, maybe fill the final circle with shield jammers that slowly chip away the enemy’s health? We can’t wait to see how players make use of Conduit’s abilities in the game.

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