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  • Apple reportedly acquires AI-centric privacy startup SilkLabs

    Apple reportedly acquires AI-centric privacy startup SilkLabs

    Apple has reportedly acquired SilkLabs, a start-up which focuses on AI-centric privacy and builds machine learning products. Founded in 2015 by Mozilla’s former CTO, Andreas Gal, Silk Labs develops on-device machine learning software and products for private and business security.

    The startup has launched only one product so far: a smart home monitoring camera dubbed as Sense. The device uses facial and object recognition that can recognize different faces as well as pets for home security and business surveillance.

    Besides, the device can connect with smart home products such as thermostats, cameras, smart bulbs, and speakers. With the help of on-device machine learning software, Sense can even identify users patterns and play music as per the user’s taste.

    SilkLabs also stresses that the way it collects data offers more privacy than its rivals. The start-up explains its algorithms are designed to collect only key data, instead of substantial amounts a user processes so that a user is always in control of his privacy. Put simply, it could process data without sending it to the cloud.

    Silk Lab’s focus on privacy and machine learning would have lured Apple , who also has a similar approach to privacy. The AI-talent from Silk Labs can be put to use by Apple to improve Siri and its smart products such as HomePod.

    With Apple’s increased focus of AI- centric privacy, the acquistion of Silk Labs shouldn’t come as a surprise. Reports also suggest that Apple’s acquisition of SilkLabs was on a much smaller scale compared to the company’s other acquisitions.

    The Information reports that SilkLabs only has around a dozen employees and received $4 million in funding. However, neither company has issued an official statement regarding the acquisition.

  • Google Pixel 3 XL running Android Q allegedly spotted on Geekbench

    Google Pixel 3 XL running Android Q allegedly spotted on Geekbench

    One of the main reasons users prefer Pixel-branded handsets is because they receive timley Android updates and security patches. The Google Pixel 3 range shipped with the latest Android 9 Pie. And now, it appears Google has already started testig the next version of Android on the Pixel 3 XL.

    A Geekbench listing has allegedly been spotted which shows the Pixel 3 XL running Android Q. This, for obvious reasons, comes as a surprise given the fact that Google will reveal details about Android Q next year. Though, the listing seemingly suggests that Google has already started testing the next version of Android OS on the Pixel 3 XL. As per the listing, the Pixel 3 XL running Android Q pulled off single and multi core scores of 2404 amd 8510 respectively.

    android q

    Android Q is the next version of Android that will arrive on supported Pixel-branded handsets in 2019, followed by smartphones from other manufacturers. Therefore, it’s rather suprising to see a listing with Google Pixel 3 XL running the forthcoming version of Android.

    With that being said, Google also promised that it’ll offer comaptible smartphones an early chance to test Android Q. Hence, it’s possible that some testers might have been given early access to test Android Q build for the Pixel 3 XL.

    That said, there’s also a possibilty that the listing is fake given that it has become rather easy to tweak Geekbench listings. Editing the build.prop with a different version of Android is one of the most common methods to tweak Geekbench listings. For now, nothing can be authecticated or verified, therefore, readers are advised to take this leak with a huge grain of salt.

  • LG V40 ThinQ likely to get Android 9 Pie update soon

    LG V40 ThinQ likely to get Android 9 Pie update soon

    According to a Geekbnech listing, the LG V40 ThinQ may soon receive the new Android 9 Pie update. The listing revealed a 6GB RAM variant of the flagship running benchmarks with a test build of Android 9 Pie.

    Now, this essentially implies that LG is testing its latest flagship for the latest Android 9 Pie update. Though given LG’s lacklustre track record when its comes to providing timely Android updates, one can’t say the update will arrive soon enough on the LG V40 ThinQ. For now, LG’s only smartphone that has been updated to Android 9 Pie is the LG G7.

    lg v40 thinq
    Image Source: Geekbench

    To recall, the LG V40 ThinQ was launched back in early October with Android 8.0 Oreo. It’s the first handset in the V-series to boast five cameras and a display notch. The smartphone features triple rear cameras with a 12MP standard sensor, a 16MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12MP telephoto sensor. For selfies, the LG V40 ThinQ comes with an 8MP and a 5MP secondry shooter.

    Other key specifications of the handset include a 6.4-inch display with a resolution of 1440×3120 pixels and a 19:5:9 aspect ratio. Besides, the smartphone’s display boasts a screen to body ratio of 83.6 percent. Under the hood, the device gets powered by the latest Snapdragon 845 processor bundled with Adreno 630 GPU and 6GB of RAM. As for color variants, the LG V40 ThinQ is offered in a choice of Carmine Red, Moroccon Blue, Platinum Gray, and Aurora Black color options.

  • Chromecast gets support for multiple speaker groups

    Chromecast gets support for multiple speaker groups

    Google today announced Chromecast support for multiple speakers along with its Home speakers. With this support, Chromecast owners can add the streaming device to play songs, add playlists, podcast, and audiobooks across several Chromecast connected devices in their homes.

    Chromecast support for speaker groups is now rolling out for everyone and works on all generations of  the streaming device. The feature is certainly good news for owners who want a better aural experience. Not only can users play audio on their Google Home speaker, they can also sync the audio with any other device connected to their dongle. All in all, it’s a great way to setup multi-room audio with the devices you already own.

    The feature is gradually rolling out to all Chromecast devices, hence it might not show up instantly on your dongle. That said, it will likely become available soon. In the meantime, you can join the Preview program with your device to try this feature.

    To join the preview program, just open the Google Home app on your iOS or Android device. Then tap on the Chromecast connected to your Wi-Fi network, and click on the Settings Tab at the top right corner. Just scroll down the Preview program section, and join in by following the on-screen instructions. That said, you might need to restart your dongle a few times in order to see the option.

    Once your device is setup, you’ll need to add your dongle to a speaker group in the Google Home app, as well as other speakers you ant to sync with. To do so, just open the Google Home App. Then tap Add> Create speaker group, and then tap on each device you want to sync. Give your group of connected devices a name and hit Save. Try to play some music and audio should play through your connected devices as well as your speaker.

  • New Samsung Galaxy S10 details leak out on the internet

    New Samsung Galaxy S10 details leak out on the internet

    Rumors and leaks about the upcoming Galaxy S10 flagship are pouring thick and fast. Now, new details about the upcoming smartphone are doing rounds on the web. The latest leak falls in line with previous leaks, however, it also puts an end to certain rumoured upgrades.

    According to a report by Sammobile, the Korean giant plans to launch three variants of the Galaxy S10. These three variants will carry the following model numbers – SM-G970x (base model), SM-G973x (mid-range model), and SM-G975x (top-end model).

    As indicated by earlier leaks, the latest report also suggests that Samsung will finally integrate the fingerprint sensor within the display. However, the report notes that only high-end varaints of the Galaxy S10 will be equipped with this feature. The base model will reportedly feature the regular fingerprint sensor on the handset’s back.

    Moving on, the report adds that the base model of the Galaxy S10 will come with 64GB of storage and a 5.8-inch display. Earlier, it was rumoured that this model would come with flat screen without any curved edges. That said, the latest report does not mention anything on those lines.

    The two other variants will have 5.8-inch and 6.4-inch displays, and both are expected to come with a fingerprint sensor embedded within the display.

    The report further notes that Samsung will offer the Galaxy S10 in more color options. These include black, white, yellow, and green. However, the report also notes that some colors might be exclusive to certain markets at launch, while remaining could arrive at some point after the flagship’s debut.

    Samsung is also expected to launch LED Flip and Protective covers for its upcoming Galaxy S10 lineup, sometime in Februray 2019 alongside the handset’s official debut.

    As per earlier leaks, Samsung is rumored to launch its upcoming flagship sometime in February next year. Besides, the Korean giant is also expected to introduce a 5G variant of the Galaxy S10 about a month later in March, during the launch event of the Galaxy F foldable phone.

  • Tumblr ousted from the AppStore over child pornography issues

    Tumblr ousted from the AppStore over child pornography issues

    Tumblr suddenly went missing from the AppStore a few days back, though no statement by either companies were issued over the disappearance. Now, a report from Download.com has revealed the reason as to why the social media app went missing from the App Store.

    According to the report, Tumblr was removed from the AppStore because some images showing child pornography appeared on website. The report further claims that the cause of disappearance was confirmed by independent sources within the company.

    “As this is an industry-wide problem, we work collaboratively with our industry peers and partners like [the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children] (NCMEC) to actively monitor content uploaded to the platform. Every image uploaded to Tumblr is scanned against an industry database of known child sexual abuse material, and images that are detected never reach the platform. A routine audit discovered content on our platform that had not yet been included in the industry database. We immediately removed this content. Content safeguards are a challenging aspect of operating scaled platforms. We’re continuously assessing further steps we can take to improve and there is no higher priority for our team,” said Tumblr in a statement.

    Just like other websites, Tumblr scans images that users upload. Though in this case, these images depicting child sexual abuse somehow got through the website’s filters. The social network is now reportedly deleting all kinds of NSFW blogs, even those not related to child pornography. Apple has laid down clear iOS guidelines that all apps must have content filter to detect such material, and it appears the Yahoo-owned app doesn’t have enough tools yet.

    Tumblr notes that getting back to the AppStore is now its number one priority, however, it didn’t reveal an exact timeframe when it’ll be back. Tumblr is infamously tolerant of NSFW and adult-oriented content, which also led to its brief ban in Indonesia. As back in 2016, the Indonesian government banned the site for a while over pornography content.

  • OnePlus 6 gets a $100 discount ahead of Black Friday

    OnePlus 6 gets a $100 discount ahead of Black Friday

    OnePlus just announced its latest flagship the OnePlus 6T, succeding the OnePlus 6 that was launched earlier this year. However, the OnePlus 6 is still considered a great Android smartphone which you can get for a an attractive dispcunt from its orginal $529 starting price. The discount comes ahead of Black Friday sales that begin on November 23.

    OnePlus has oficially tweeted that it’ll offer a $100 discount on the OnePlus 6 starting 3am ET on November 20. The handset will now cost $429 for the base 64GB storage model. No to mention, the top-end model of handset with more memory and storage also gets a $100 discount.

    If you’re planning to buy the OnePlus 6T, you’ll get improvements for that extra money such as the in-screen fingerprint scanner, a slighlt larger display, a bigger battery, and minor camera upgrades. However, it does not get the classic 3.5mm jack.

    With that said, there’s not much to distingusih the latest OnePlus 6T from its previous iteration. Both smartphones come with Dash Charge and dual-rear cameras. Even software-wise, there’s not much differnce on the OnePlus 6T from its predecessor. It also gets powered by the latest Snpdragon 845 processor. All in all, the OnePlus 6 is still a top performer, even compared to the latest OnePlus 6T.

    OnePlus 6 Specs:

    Display: 6.28-inch, AMOLED, 19:9, 2280 x 1080, 401ppi
    Hardware: Snapdragon845, 6/8GB RAM, 64/128/256GB storage, 3300mAh with Dash Charge
    Camera: 16MP/20MP rear, 16MP front

  • Apple slashes production orders for iPhone XS and iPhone XR

    Apple slashes production orders for iPhone XS and iPhone XR

    In addition to cutting back production of the iPhone XR, Apple has reportedly decided to reduce production orders for its newly launched iPhone XS range as well. Reports indicate that production models for the iPhone XR have been massively reduced, by up to 30 percent. Although, the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max have not witnessed such reduced production orders, according to reports.

    Apple’s decison to cut down production orders comes as a result of lower than anticipated demand for new iPhone models, as well as overall shrinking of the smartphone-market. Reports further cite that weak demand in China is another reason for cutting down production of newly launched iPhone range.

    Apple’s stock reduced by 5 percent earlier this month, as the company was unable to forecast iPhone demand for the holiday season. Another reason for falling Wall Street numbers is that Apple told investors that it would no longer reveal iPhone unit sales, which has probably made them apprehensive.

    Besides, renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also suggests that Apple will see an year-over-year decline in iPhone shipments during the first quarter of 2019.

    Well, this isn’t the first time we’ve heard of prodution cuts for iPhone units. Last year, similar reports of the iPhone X popped up at this time of the year. Apple was overly optimistic about the debut of iPhone X, though reportedly decided to slash its production by 20 million units. However, it surpassed everyone’s expectations and turned out to be the most popular smartphone in the world.

  • Apple ousts WhatsApp stickers from the AppStore

    Apple ousts WhatsApp stickers from the AppStore

    Apple has reportedly decided to remove all WhatsApp stickers from its App Store. Not because they’re competeing with its own iMessage platform, but because Apple thinks they’re apparently violating certain AppStore gudelines.

    Apple has not one, but three reasons as to why they’re violating its AppStore guidelines. First, Apple beleives there are too many apps that exhibit the same behaviour. Now, this essentially implies that there are far too many stickers available for download, which Apple thinks isn’t a good thing.

    Secondly, Apple thinks WhatsApp need to be installed in order to download these stickers. And the company doesn’t allow apps that need other apps to perform downloads.

    Finally, Apple thinks the design of these stickers are too similar as they lack enough creativity. As a result of this move, WhatsApp stickers can no longer be downloaded on your iPhone.

    WhatsApp hasn’t yet issued an official statement on how it plans to deal with this restriction. However, it appears the platform could rectify this issue is by building a dedicated store for stickers, something like what Facebook offers for Messenger users.

    It’s also worth noting that at this point, Google hasn’t laid down any such restrictions for stickers on its PlayStore.

  • Users facing bending issues with the 2018 iPad Pro

    Users facing bending issues with the 2018 iPad Pro

    Apple’s latest 2018 iPad Pro certainly combines powerful hardware and a top-notch design in one single package. However, it appears the iPhone-maker could be embroiled in another bendgate turmoil, as several users are facing bending issues with their 2018 iPad Pro.

    While we’ve already across several bend and stress tests which didn’t look good for the 2018 iPad Pro, users are now complaining about bending issues. The issue was reported by MacRumours citing users on the publication’s forum. Users are stating that the bend occurs naturally even though they haven’t conducted the stress test themselves.

    One user experienced a slight bend on his 2018 iPad Pro after he came back from a weekend trip. Now, this brings back memories of the whole bedgate fiasco Apple faced with the iPhone 6 Plus. To rectify the issue, Apple introduced 7000 series aluminum to stop that from happening with the iPhone 6 Plus.

    The good news, however, is that this doesn’t seem to be a widespread issue. As the number of complaints received for the 2018 iPad Pro bending is far less than what we saw with the iPhone 6 Plus.

    In case you didn’t know, the latest iPad Pro is rather thin at 5.9mm, which makes it rather prone to bending. The exact cause of the bending still remains a mystery, and we hope Apple will investigate the matter as soon as psoosible.

    We’ll certianly come across more regarding the bending issue with Apple’s 2018 iPad Pro, so stay tuned for more. We’ll update you as soon as hear anyhting new. Until then, keep checking back for more.

  • Pixel 3 Lite leak tips at headphone jack and Snapdragon 670

    Pixel 3 Lite leak tips at headphone jack and Snapdragon 670

    A new leak of an alleged Pixel 3 Lite variant has surfaced on the web, and it appears Google is trying to attract buyers with a competitively priced handset.

    The leak comes from Rozetked, the same tipster who also revelead key details about the Pixel 3 XL before its official release. Now, he has allegedly leaked close-up pictures along with techincal specifications of the alleged Pixel 3 Lite.

    According to the leak, the Pixel 3 Lite is codenamed Sargo. As for specifications, it’ll come with a 5.56-inch IPS display having a resolution of 2220×1080 pixels. The leak further suggests it’ll have a notchless display just like the regular Pixel 3. However, it is rumoured to come with a 3.5mm headphone jack.

    Under the hood, the smartphone is expected to run Snapdragon 670 processor bundled with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of built-in storage.

    As for cameras, the Pixel 3 Lite appears to have the same 12MP primary camera from the Pixel 3 range. Though up front, there’s only a single-lens selfie shooter. Finally, the leak suggests the handset will get fuelled by a 2915mAh battery.

    That said, readers are advised to take this information with a pinch of salt as it’s impossible to know for sure if these details are accurate.

    However, we all know there was time when Google was releasing affordable phones back in the day with its Nexus range. In the present times, all their smartphones are considered premium, and the number of Android users purcahsing Google-branded devices have seemingly reduced. And one way to attract more buyers would be to offer a competetively priced handset, and the latest leak suggests that something along those lines could be on our way.

  • PlayStation 4 sales crosses 86.1 million units in five years

    PlayStation 4 sales crosses 86.1 million units in five years

    Sony has offically announced that over 86.1 million units of the PS4 have been sold till today. In a blog post celebrating PlayStation 4’s fifth anniversarry, Sony announced this monumental figure since the console’s launch back on November 15, 2013.

    Besides, Sony also revealed that the platform has sold over 777.9 million copies of software till date. The company also shared top five selling games on the PS4. These inlcude the likes of Grand Theft Auto V, FIFA 18, FIFA 17, Call of Duty; Black Ops 3, and Call of Duty: WW2.

    “It’s hard to believe it’s already been five years since the launch of PlayStation 4. In that time, we’ve sold more than 86.1 Million hardware units, in addition to over 777.9 Million software units worldwide. We are so grateful to all the fans who have helped us come this far — it truly is an amazing time to be a part of the PlayStation family, and we thank you for your continued support,” wrote Eric Lempel Senior Vice President, PlayStation Worldwide Marketing, SIE in the blog post.

    In addition, the blog post also revealed best-selling colors for the DualShock 4 Controller. Apart from the standard black, Steel Black was the top selling color for the DualShock 4. While rounding up the top five spots were blue, red, white, and camouflage color variants.

    playstation 4

    Finally, the company also confirmed in the post that the new PS4 Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 bundle will be released on November 27 for $299.99. The bundle will include the standard Jet Black 1TB PlayStation 4 console and a physical retail disc of Call of Duty: Black Ops 4.

    The PlayStation 4 has surpassed its predecssor, the PlayStation 3, which sold nearly 83.8 million units. As successful as the PS4 and PS3 have been, the PlayStation 2 did even better, selling more than 150 million units during the course of its lifetime.

  • New 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan goes official

    New 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan goes official

    Toyota has introduced the 12th generation of its Corolla sedan. While last few generations have been minor upgrades, the latest iteration of the Corolla sedan invokes a breadth of fresh air thanks to a sharper design and improved features.

    It’s inspired by Toyota’s New Global Architecture Platform, also known as TNGA. The platform has been the foundation of company’s other products such as Prius, Avalaon, Camry, and C-HR

    The interiors of the 2020 Corolla sedan are rather similar to its hatchback counterpart. Though it turns out to be good thing given that car’s premium material quality and design.

    The base L model sports a 7.0-inch touchscreen display, while all other variants come with an 8.0-inch Toyota Entune touchscreen infotainment system with Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay support. Unfortunately, Android Auto support hasn’t been added. Buyers also have the option to go for a dual-tone leather upholstery, with a few different color combinations.

    Just like its predecessor, several active-safety features are standard across all models. These include adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. That said, Blind-spot monitoring will be optional.

    Under the hood, the L, LE, and XLE variants of the 2020 Corolla sedan get powered by the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder gas engine found on last year’s model. However, the engine has been tuned to offer better mileage and performance.

    The sportier XSE and SE variants, however, come fitted with a new 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force inline four-cylinder engine, which churns out 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. There’s a CVT and a six-speed manual transmission option as well. The latter also comes with larger 18-inch wheels and tires.

    The 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan is expected to go on sale early next year, with a starting price tag of less than $20,000. However, Toyota hasn’t revealed exactly when it arrives in the market happen next year, nor confirmed pricing at the time of writing.

    Toyota also announced that there will be a Corolla Hybrid for the first time, adding that more details would be revealed when the car officially debuts in LA.

  • New Galaxy S10 concept render leaked, shows a notchless fullscreen display

    New Galaxy S10 concept render leaked, shows a notchless fullscreen display

    Rumours and leaks about the forthcoming Galaxy S10 flagship are flying thick and fast. Samsung is expected to launch three Galaxy S10 variants next year, which will reportedly feature significant design and hardware upgrades. Out of these, two of them will feature a 5.8-inch display, while one will have a 6.4-inch screen.

    Samsung has already announced it’ll adopt a top-cutout for its Infinity-O display panels on the upcoming flagship range. Today, another leaked render of the handset has surfaced online, giving us a fairly good idea about handset’s new display panel.

    Going by the leak, it appears Samsung has found a workaround to hide the notch for its Infinity-O panel. The camera cuts outs for these panels are drilled at the top-left, a strategic placement which allows users to cover it up with their thumb while consuming multimedia content. Samsung essentially wants its users to have a more immersive experience by utilizing every inch of the screen.

    Besides, credible tipster Evan Blass has also revealed a few preliminary details about the Galaxy S10. He suggests that the upcoming flagship will feature an Infinity-O display, Ultrasonic fingerpirnt sensor, triple rear cameras, and Samsung’s latest OneUI.

    Not to mention, Samsung has also announced its next-gen Exynos 9820 processor. According to the company, its latest chipset delivers a 20 percent improvement in single-core performance over its predecessor and is 40 percent more power efficient. That means, the Galaxy S10 could be the most powerful Android smartphone in the near future.

    As far as release goes, Samsung is rumoured to launch its upcoming flagship sometime in February next year. Besides, the Korean giant is also expected to introduce a 5G variant of the Galaxy S10 about a month later in March, during the launch event of the Galaxy F foldable phone.

    That said, readers are advised to take this information with a pinch of salt as nothing is official at the moment. More details about Samsung’s upcoming flagship are likely to surface as we near its official launch. We’ll update you as soon as we hear anyhting new. Until then, keep checking back for more.

  • Apple probing claims of iPhone X explosion after iOS 12.1 update

    Apple probing claims of iPhone X explosion after iOS 12.1 update

    An iPhone X user has claimed that the smartphone exploded after it was updated to iOS 12.1. According to the owner, his iPhone X first emitted grey smoke and eventually burst into flames. The owner, Rocky Mohamadali, posted on Twitter that his iPhone X became alarmingly hot and all of a sudden exploded after it was updated to iOS 12.1.

    The iPhone X in question was bought in early January and was working fine, until the explosion. The owner also claims that he was using genuine accessories that came bundled with his iPhone X, including the official Apple Lightning cable and charger. He, however, also stated that at the time of explosion his device was not plugged into the charger.

    “This year early January I bought the iPhone and have been using it normally. Dark grey smoke started coming from the phone. The update was completed and as soon as the phone turned on it started to smoke and caught fire,” explained Mohamadali.

    As expected, the owner has reached out to Apple and the company has asked him to ship the device for further investigation. Apple is yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. Though Apple’s official support page on Twitter did respond to Mohamadali’s Tweet with the message,” That’s definitely not expected behaviour”.

    No additional details are available regarding the issue. Though it doesn’t appear to be widespread problem as this is the first such incident about the iPhone X. Also, given the fact that Apple is rather strict about its QA procedure, we aren’t going to witness a Galaxy Note 7-like fiasco.