Day: February 16, 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Tech News Weekly: OnePlus Bypasses Open 2, Android 16 Beta 2 Launches for Pixels, and Additional Updates
    Tech News Weekly: OnePlus Bypasses Open 2, Android 16 Beta 2 Launches for Pixels, and Additional Updates

    # **Tech News Weekly: This Week’s Top Tech Headlines**

    Welcome to the latest edition of **Tech News Weekly**, where we present the most prominent updates from the technology sector. From smartphone advancements to software launches and unforeseen bugs, here’s everything essential you need to be aware of.

    —

    ## **OnePlus Open 2 Won’t Debut This Year**
    OnePlus has confirmed that it will not launch the **OnePlus Open 2** foldable smartphone in 2024. In a blog post to the community, the company explained that it is “reassessing its foldable strategy” and will prioritize future innovations instead.

    While this news may be disappointing for brand enthusiasts, OnePlus assured users that this does not signify a permanent withdrawal from the foldable segment. Rather, the company is concentrating on the **OnePlus Watch 3**, which is scheduled to debut on **February 18** with a remarkable **16-day battery lifespan** in power saver mode.

    —

    ## **Android 16 Beta 2 Unveils Thrilling New Features**
    Google has launched **Android 16 Beta 2**, introducing various enhancements in media, photography, and graphics. One of the standout features is the **hybrid auto-exposure mode**, enabling users to manually adjust ISO or exposure duration while utilizing auto-exposure algorithms.

    Another significant addition is **motion photo actions**, allowing developers to dictate how motion photos (a blend of still images and brief videos) are saved. Google remains on course to launch **Android 16** publicly in **Q2 2025**.

    —

    ## **Samsung’s One UI 7 Introduces Customizable Home Screen Options**
    Samsung’s latest **One UI 7** update unveils a new **Home Up Refresh** option that empowers users to personalize their home screens completely. A Reddit user recently highlighted this feature, which includes a **”DIY Home” button** for users to resize and rearrange app icons and widgets at will.

    Currently, this update is in beta, but Samsung has reportedly postponed the stable release due to a **display color issue** on the **Galaxy S24**. The company intends to roll out **One UI 7** for older Galaxy devices in **Q1 2025**.

    —

    ## **TikTok Makes a Comeback to US App Stores**
    Following a **20-day hiatus**, TikTok has returned to the **Apple App Store** and **Google Play Store** in the US. The app was taken down due to security anxieties voiced by the US government but has now been reinstated after reported “reassurances” from TikTok.

    Nonetheless, TikTok still has **75 days** (from January 20) to address privacy and security issues with the US government. While this is optimistic for TikTok users, the app’s long-term status in the US remains unsure.

    —

    ## **Spotify Premium Users Encountered a Frustrating Ad Glitch**
    This week, Spotify Premium subscribers experienced an unforeseen problem as they heard **ads** despite subscribing for an ad-free service. The issue was highly discussed on Spotify’s **community forums**, with users expressing their frustration.

    Spotify later acknowledged that the problem stemmed from a **bug** which has now been resolved. However, the company clarified that **both free and Premium users may still encounter ads during podcast listening**.

    —

    ## **Additional Tech Headlines This Week**
    Here are some more noteworthy headlines that stirred interest in the tech landscape:

    – **YouTube TV** has struck a temporary agreement to retain **Paramount channels**, such as CBS.
    – **Google Contacts** has received a new **emoji-based profile update**.
    – **Duolingo** is gradually phasing out its **Owl mascot and other characters**.
    – **Nothing Phone 3a** teaser suggests a **budget Qualcomm chipset**.
    – **Google Gemini Live** is gaining **screen sharing and live video support**.
    – **Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra** passes an **iFixit teardown**, but concerns about repairability persist.
    – **YouTube** plans to utilize **machine learning** to identify users **misrepresenting their age**.

    —

    That concludes this week’s **Tech News Weekly**! Stay connected for more updates next week as we keep you informed about the latest in technology. 🚀

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Chargeasap Unveils Flash Pro Ultra: The Initial Dual OLED 275W Power Bank”
    “Chargeasap Unveils Flash Pro Ultra: The Initial Dual OLED 275W Power Bank”

    # Chargeasap Unveils the Flash Pro Ultra: The Next Generation of Portable Power

    In a time when our devices boast unprecedented power, the need for efficient and adaptable charging solutions has surged. Chargeasap is responding to this need with the introduction of their Kickstarter campaign for the **Flash Pro Ultra**, an innovative portable power bank that aims to revolutionize our approach to charging while on the move.

    ## Presenting the Flash Pro Ultra

    The **Flash Pro Ultra** is heralded as the world’s first 275W portable battery, featuring an OLED screen that shows live charging information. This trailblazing power bank is crafted to support simultaneous charging for up to six devices, making it perfect for tech aficionados and professionals alike. Whether charging a MacBook Pro or an Apple Watch, the Flash Pro Ultra is built to manage it all.

    ### See the Flash Pro Ultra in Action

    For those excited to witness the Flash Pro Ultra’s capabilities, Chargeasap has unveiled a demonstration video highlighting its features and performance. [Take a look here](https://bit.ly/4k3yHCm).

    ## What Devices Can the Flash Pro Ultra Charge?

    Chargeasap has tailored the Flash Pro Ultra to serve as a flexible charging solution. It is capable of powering everything from low-powered gadgets like the Apple Watch to high-performance laptops such as the MacBook Pro.

    Picture charging two MacBooks, an iPad, an iPhone, AirPods, and an Apple Watch simultaneously—this is now achievable with the Flash Pro Ultra. Notably, it can charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50% in just 30 minutes, while the power bank itself can recharge from 0 to 80% in merely 35 minutes, or fully recharge in 70 minutes using a 140W power input.

    ## How Much Power Does the Flash Pro Ultra Deliver?

    With a solid 25,000mAh capacity, the Flash Pro Ultra can recharge a MacBook Air 1.5 times or an iPhone 16 Pro Max up to four times on a single charge. It can even power two 16-inch MacBook Pros at the same time—a remarkable achievement that was nearly inconceivable just a few years back.

    Furthermore, the Flash Pro Ultra supports pass-through charging, enabling users to recharge the power bank while simultaneously powering five other devices. All this energy is housed in a lightweight design that weighs less than one and a half pounds.

    ## What Types of Charging Ports Are Available?

    The Flash Pro Ultra includes a variety of charging ports to accommodate various devices:

    – **Smartwatch Charging Pucks**: Each unit comes with a selection of charging pucks for either Samsung or Apple Watch, with 5W output.
    – **Magnetic Wireless Charging Surface**: Employing Qi2 Fast Charge technology, this surface supports 15W output, ideal for quickly charging iPhones or AirPods wirelessly.
    – **USB-A Port**: Provides 60W output.
    – **USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 Port**: Another 60W output available.
    – **100W USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 Port**: For devices requiring extra power.
    – **USB-C1 Power Delivery 3.1 Port**: Capable of delivering up to 140W output.

    Together, these ports yield an impressive total output of 275W, establishing the Flash Pro Ultra as the most powerful power bank on the market.

    ## OLED on a Power Bank?

    One of the notable features of the Flash Pro Ultra is its dual OLED display. This technology, once exclusive to high-end devices, is now incorporated into a power bank. The OLED screen offers real-time insights, including battery percentage, estimated time remaining for charging, and detailed charging metrics such as volts and amps.

    ## Pricing and Launch Information

    The Flash Pro Ultra is priced starting at **$169**, making it a compelling option for anyone seeking a potent portable charging solution. Chargeasap is launching a **60-day Kickstarter campaign** to bring this product to consumers. Supporters can select either an Apple Watch or Samsung Watch charging pad, with a limited-edition space grey option available if the campaign achieves the $350K stretch goal.

    The campaign begins today and will run until **April 12**, with shipping expected in **August**.

    For additional details and to back the campaign, visit [Chargeasap’s Kickstarter page](https://bit.ly/4k3yHCm). Stay connected with Chargeasap on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/chargeasap) and

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Thorough Evaluation of the BenQ MA270U: A Budget-Friendly Display Perfect for the New Mac Mini
    Thorough Evaluation of the BenQ MA270U: A Budget-Friendly Display Perfect for the New Mac Mini

    # Discovering the Ideal Monitor for Your Mac Mini: An Examination of the BenQ MA270U

    Transitioning from a MacBook to a Mac mini can be a thrilling enhancement, yet it brings specific challenges, especially when it comes to choosing the right screen. While MacBooks come with exceptional displays, finding an appropriate external monitor that pairs well with a Mac desktop can be intimidating. Many users grapple with the choice of opting for Apple’s high-end monitors or compromising with third-party alternatives that might fall short in quality. In this article, we will delve into the BenQ MA270U, a 27-inch 4K display that delivers an impressive blend of features, performance, and affordability.

    ## Notable Features of the BenQ MA270U

    The BenQ MA270U is offered at a price of $459, making it a tempting selection for those aiming to match a monitor with their Mac mini. Below are some remarkable features that position this display as a strong contender:

    ### 1. **Display Excellence**
    The MA270U features a 27-inch 4K screen (3840×2160) with a peak brightness of 400 nits. While some may suggest that this brightness is lesser than what Apple’s Studio Display offers, it remains commendable for indoor settings. Many monitors in this category generally range between 250 and 350 nits, giving the MA270U’s brightness a notable edge.

    ### 2. **Precision in Color**
    With a color spectrum of 95% DCI-P3 and 99% sRGB, the MA270U delivers vivid and accurate hues, making it ideal for creative experts who depend on meticulous color fidelity. Furthermore, it supports VESA DisplayHDR 400, elevating the overall visual enjoyment.

    ### 3. **Diverse Connectivity**
    This monitor is equipped with USB-C compatibility, essential for Mac users. It features an integrated USB hub consisting of two USB-A ports and one USB-C port, allowing for the connection of multiple devices via a single cable. The USB-C port also provides up to 90W of power, enabling swift charging for your MacBook.

    ### 4. **Comfortable Design**
    The MA270U includes an adjustable aluminum base, which provides 115mm of height adjustment, 15 degrees of tilt/swivel, and a 90-degree pivot. This adaptability ensures that you can tailor your viewing experience for optimal comfort.

    ### 5. **Intuitive Features**
    A highlight of the MA270U is the Display Pilot 2 companion application, allowing users to manage brightness and volume directly from macOS. This feature removes the hassle of using physical buttons on the monitor, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

    ## Specifications Snapshot

    – **Screen Size:** 27 inches
    – **Resolution:** 4K (3840×2160)
    – **Brightness:** Up to 400 nits
    – **Color Gamut:** 95% DCI-P3, 99% sRGB
    – **HDR Support:** VESA DisplayHDR 400
    – **Speakers:** Dual 3W treVolo speakers
    – **Panel Type:** Nano Matte Panel
    – **Adjustability:** Height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments
    – **Connectivity:** USB-C, USB-A, HDMI

    ## Summary

    The BenQ MA270U stands out as an outstanding option for Mac mini users in search of a premium external monitor without overspending. Its impressive specifications, ergonomic design, and user-friendly features create a commendable balance between performance and cost. At $459, it presents a persuasive alternative to Apple’s pricier displays, making it a valuable choice for both casual users and professionals alike.

    If you’re seeking a dependable monitor to enhance your Mac mini experience, the BenQ MA270U should definitely be a priority. For those interested in a larger display, a 32-inch variant is also available for $599, offering more choices to meet your workspace requirements.

    **Purchase BenQ MA270U (27-inch):** [Link](https://amzn.to/3EH4gl9)
    **Purchase BenQ MA320U (32-inch):** [Link](https://amzn.to/3EH4gl9)

    For additional insights and updates, connect with Michael on [X/Twitter](https://x.com/mbrkhrdt), [Bluesky](https://bsky.app/profile/michaelb.nyc), and

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