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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on OnePlus Officially Terminates Collaboration with Hasselblad, Launches DetailMax Engine
    OnePlus Officially Terminates Collaboration with Hasselblad, Launches DetailMax Engine

    A significant chapter between the two concludes, yet OnePlus remains optimistic, thanks to Hasselblad’s mentorship.

    What you should know

    – OnePlus CEO Pete Lau shared a touching message announcing the official breakup with Hasselblad concerning its devices for the proprietary DetailMax Engine.
    – This new engine, according to Lau, aims to provide “clarity and authenticity” for users, as it will avoid masking photos with “over enhancement or distortion.”
    – Speculation all summer suggested that OnePlus might part ways with Hasselblad, but confirmation gives us definitive details to consider.

    In a poignant message to Hasselblad, OnePlus reveals its formal split from its former imaging collaborator as it embarks on a journey toward fresh, internal solutions.

    Today (Sep 5), OnePlus CEO Pete Lau elaborated on the “next chapter” for the brand as it concludes its alliance with Hasselblad. Lau affirmed that OnePlus is working on its new DetailMax Engine designed to offer “clarity and authenticity” for users and their images. Lau mentions that, in the creation of the DetailMax Engine, he participated in discussions with a diverse group of users regarding their primary desires for such software.

    Users expressed to OnePlus their wish for “clear and genuine” images that maintain sharpness and detail, even when zooming in.

    Lau indicates that the DetailMax Engine’s computational imaging technology has progressed to a level where it can “capture and interpret far more data, producing images with peerless depth and realism.” The company asserts that its new in-house engine will never conceal photos with “over enhancement or distortion,” reinforcing the true-to-life appeal of users’ photography.

    Lau updates users that testing for the initial prototype is currently underway, with his active participation thus far. The company believes the engine will be ready by launch, ensuring that all issues and details are resolved. Lau expresses gratitude to Hasselblad for steering OnePlus toward this imaging future and conveys enthusiasm for new possibilities that lie ahead.

    The Closure of a Chapter

    We’ve had to rely on speculation regarding OnePlus’ expected departure from Hasselblad until now, and the latest reports provide further (supposed) insight. Following some initial whispers in June, recent theories suggest that the new OnePlus engine could emphasize improved details in low-light situations, skin tones, and even “video processing.” Allegedly, the Chinese manufacturer is developing new algorithms to further refine this engine’s emerging capabilities.

    Persistent rumors indicate that this new OnePlus engine may debut on its upcoming flagship, the OnePlus 15. If accurate, we might see this device by late 2025 or early 2026.

    Other speculations hint that the OnePlus 15 could arrive with a design overhaul, replacing its usual circular camera arrangement for one resembling Apple’s iPhones. Additionally, a 50MP primary lens and a 7,000mAh battery have also been suggested.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top 3 Cutting-Edge Brands Presented at Global Connect IFA 2025
    Top 3 Cutting-Edge Brands Presented at Global Connect IFA 2025

    the top products showcased at ShowStoppers, IFA 2025 unveiled another surprise with Global Connect, a brand new exclusive event orchestrated by iMpact, CM, Interculture, and PartnerBoost, with Static as its media partner.

    The exhibition assembled innovators, leading technology brands, and industry experts to showcase the newest advancements. Static Media’s partnership director, Ste Knight, represented the organization during the opening ceremony, which included numerous exhibitors. “It was an honor to stand for Static Media and engage with a truly worldwide community of brands and colleagues at Global Connect @ IFA 2025. Discussing the significance of authentic partnerships between media and brands of various sizes—and the benefits those collaborations provide to the larger community—was immensely fulfilling,” Knight expressed.

    Static Media's partnership directorJosé Adorno/BGR

    Alongside him on stage were IFA CEO Leif Lindner, iMpact founder Chris Pereira, and other prominent innovators, who provided their insights on this new element of IFA. Following the ceremony, BGR ventured onto the floor to witness some of the most thrilling brands in action.

    Rokid, Gravity, and AIVELA are BGR’s standouts from Global Connect

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/the-3-coolest-brands-we-saw-at-global-connect

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on AYN Odin 3: Initial Handheld Featuring Snapdragon 8 Elite, Starting at $299
    AYN Odin 3: Initial Handheld Featuring Snapdragon 8 Elite, Starting at $299

    All this capability, for under $300

    (Image credit: AYN)

    Key information you should know

    • AYN has revealed all the specifics about its forthcoming Odin 3 handheld.
    • This will be the pioneering gaming handheld utilizing the Snapdragon 8 Elite, with an entry price of merely $299.
    • There will be four distinct configurations, with pre-orders commencing on September 7 at 9:30 PM ET.

    At the end of August, AYN caught us off guard by hinting that not one, but two new handhelds were on the horizon. The first was the AYN Thor, a dual-screen clamshell handheld, which is still available for pre-order via Indiegogo.

    The second is the AYN Odin 3, coming as the eagerly anticipated successor to the immensely popular Odin 2. However, instead of launching both the Thor and Odin 3 simultaneously, AYN decided to allow the anticipation to build around the Thor first, and now it’s the Odin 3’s turn.

    Above all, the most thrilling feature of the Odin 3 is the processor at its core. It boasts the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the same SoC present

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Leaked Mock Event Indicates Preliminary Preview of iPhone 17 Pro Keynote from Apple
    Leaked Mock Event Indicates Preliminary Preview of iPhone 17 Pro Keynote from Apple

    ### Anticipation Grows for Apple’s iPhone 17 Event

    As Apple gets ready to reveal the eagerly awaited iPhone 17 in just a few days, enthusiasm among tech fans is escalating to new heights. The event is set to highlight the most recent advancements in smartphone technology, and followers are keen to discover what innovations Apple has prepared.

    #### Jon Prosser’s Mock Teaser

    In the build-up to the event, tech analyst Jon Prosser has shared a video that has caught considerable attention. His mock teaser, which merges various leaks and speculation, showcases a visually impressive glimpse of what the iPhone 17 might resemble. The video is so expertly produced that it could easily be mistaken for authentic footage from Apple.

    Prosser’s method involves piecing together credible information from numerous sources, delivering a thorough preview of the anticipated features and design of the upcoming device. His knack for crafting realistic mockups has established him as a key player in the tech community, frequently generating excitement before significant product unveilings.

    #### Main Features and Anticipations

    While exact details regarding the iPhone 17 remain confidential, several rumors have emerged surrounding its prospective features. These may include progress in camera technology, enhanced battery life, and increased processing power. Furthermore, there are predictions about new design aspects that could distinguish the iPhone 17 from its earlier models.

    As the event nears, the anticipation keeps growing. Fans are anxious to find out if the actual product matches the expectations established by Prosser’s mock teaser and other leaks circulating within the tech sphere.

    #### Legal Issues and Ingenuity

    Interestingly, Prosser has encountered legal issues concerning his leaks, including a lawsuit from Apple relating to his earlier revelations about iOS features. Despite these obstacles, he remains resolute, leveraging his platform to produce captivating content that resonates with Apple enthusiasts. His ability to transform challenges into creativity highlights his commitment to the tech community.

    As the countdown to the iPhone 17 event progresses, all attention will be on Apple to determine if they can fulfill the high expectations set by the leaks and mockups. The tech world is poised for another groundbreaking release, and the iPhone 17 is set to make a notable impact.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on OpenAI Aims to Launch Its Initial AI Chip by 2026
    OpenAI Aims to Launch Its Initial AI Chip by 2026

    Financial Times links these reports to statements made by the CEO of Broadcom — a firm that OpenAI has allegedly collaborated with to develop its AI chip. The statements indicate that Broadcom recently mentioned a “mystery” client during an earnings call, a client that has pledged over $10 billion in purchases.

    Moreover, Financial Times reports that several individuals knowledgeable about the partnership have verified that the chip is set to be delivered in 2026. However, specifics regarding what to expect from the AI chip have not yet been disclosed. Nevertheless, one individual associated with the project mentioned that OpenAI intends to utilize the chip as an internal resource, rather than offering it for sale externally.

    While the reports imply it could be released as soon as next year, a clear timeline for OpenAI’s new AI chip does not seem to exist. Up until now, both OpenAI and Broadcom have chosen not to comment on the issue. Nonetheless, The Wall Street Journal has since validated the report with its own findings.

    Reasons Behind OpenAI’s Development of an AI Chip

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/openai-may-launch-its-first-ai-chip-as-

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Authors Charge Apple with Illegally Utilizing Pirated Books for AI Model Training
    Authors Charge Apple with Illegally Utilizing Pirated Books for AI Model Training

    **Apple Faces Class Action Lawsuit Regarding Alleged Utilization of Pirated Books for AI Training**

    A new proposed class action lawsuit has been submitted in the federal court located in Northern California, alleging that Apple has unlawfully employed copyrighted books for training its artificial intelligence models. The suit, initiated by authors Grady Hendrix and Jennifer Robertson, asserts that Apple made use of a dataset referred to as Books3, which allegedly comprises pirated works, including those authored by the plaintiffs.

    ### Authors Ground the Allegation in Apple’s Own Materials

    The lawsuit references Apple’s own records related to its OpenELM language models, which were publicly disclosed on Hugging Face last year. According to the complaint, Apple is accused of integrating Books3 into its training datasets for OpenELM and possibly its Foundation Language Models too. The authors contend:

    > “However, Apple is developing part of this new venture using Books3, a dataset comprising pirated copyrighted books that features the published works of Plaintiffs and the Class.”

    The dataset in focus, Books3, is associated with another dataset named RedPajama, which has been recognized as including pirated content.

    ### Legal Requests

    Hendrix and Robertson are looking to have the lawsuit designated as a class action, with themselves serving as representatives of the impacted authors. They are soliciting multiple remedies, which include:

    – Class action designation with the plaintiffs as representatives.
    – Statutory and compensatory damages, in addition to restitution and disgorgement.
    – A lasting injunction against Apple to halt the alleged unlawful activities.
    – Elimination of all AI models and training datasets that integrate the plaintiffs’ works.
    – An award of legal expenses and fees.

    ### Context of the Lawsuit

    This lawsuit arises amidst a backdrop where similar cases have resulted in varied outcomes. Recently, Anthropic settled a comparable lawsuit for $1.5 billion, underscoring the financial stakes that accompany copyright claims tied to AI training. Conversely, Meta recently won a case where a judge determined that its use of copyrighted books for AI training qualified as fair use, a ruling that has ignited discussions concerning the legality of such actions.

    ### Wider Implications

    The ongoing conversations surrounding AI training and copyright have captured attention from numerous sectors, including notable figures. Former President Trump has remarked on the difficulties of compensating authors for every piece of material incorporated into AI training, implying that such a framework is unfeasible.

    As the legal framework continues to change, the outcome of this lawsuit has the potential to establish significant precedents regarding how AI companies engage with copyrighted materials and the entitlements of authors in the digital era. The pressing question remains: should authors receive compensation for the use of their works in training AI models? The ramifications of this case could extend well beyond the courtroom.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Examining the Changes in Seasonal Trends
    Examining the Changes in Seasonal Trends

    what hour we arise, and the quantity of rock salt we procure since the beginning of time. Yet the only constant is transformation, and according to scientific findings, Earth’s seasons aren’t perpetually aligned. With what, precisely? Other regions of Earth.

    In a recent research effort published in Nature, researchers utilized visual data sourced from global phenology maps to identify hotspots of seasonal asynchronicity worldwide. Phenology encompasses the examination of how biological rhythms interact with the seasons, and while certain areas of the globe adhere to the typical seasonal patterns, there are just as many geographical locations that exhibit irregularities, particularly regarding biodiversity.

    Insights derived from Earth’s five Mediterranean climate zones — which include sections of California, Chile, South Africa, southern Australia, and the Mediterranean itself — uncovered a nexus of asynchronicity that certainly merits further investigation.

    Relying on the research of plant growth cycles

    One pattern revealed by this in-depth exploration of phenology is that asynchronous hotspots tend to congregate. In the case of the previously mentioned Mediterranean regions, “double peak” seasonal patterns are not unusual, where forest growth commonly peaks two months later than surrounding ecosystems. This is especially pronounced when comparing these areas to adjacent drylands, which receive a considerable amount of summer rainfall.

    The satellite observations unveiled comparable hotspots in tropical mountain areas. Scientists have theorized that these asynchronous regions result from the distinctive impact these tropical mountains exert on local airflow. Airflow patterns influence precipitation and cloud cover, which directly affect the timing of plant growth. Elevation is also a factor: Regions that capture more sunlight, such as valleys, may end up generating warmer temperatures and additional precipitation, as opposed to a nearby mountainous area that remains continually shrouded by clouds.

    It’s no accident that these mosaics of microclimates host some of Earth’s densest biodiversity zones. Wildlife is attracted to plants, resulting in other wildlife becoming increasingly predatory on that primary batch of

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Recent iPhone 17 Air Leak Implies Enhanced Battery Life
    Recent iPhone 17 Air Leak Implies Enhanced Battery Life

    **Final-Hour iPhone 17 Air Leak Provides Optimism For A Durable Battery**

    The iPhone 17 launch presentation set for next Tuesday is set to unveil one of Apple’s most significant iPhone redesigns in recent years. The iPhone 17 Air will take the place of the Plus model in Apple’s September lineup, emerging as Apple’s slimmest iPhone yet. Numerous reports over the last few months have suggested that the iPhone 17 Air will be approximately 5.5mm thick, with dummy units further validating those claims.

    With just days remaining until Apple’s iPhone 17 launch presentation, those claims are likely accurate. The iPhone 17 Air will introduce a new category of iPhone — a sleek device featuring a large-screen display. Reportedly, some compromises had to be made for this iPhone design. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to include a single-lens camera on the rear, lack a physical SIM card slot, and contain an ultra-thin battery. The last compromise is probably the most significant concern for any iPhone user contemplating an upgrade to the iPhone 17 Air.

    A last-minute leak regarding the iPhone 17 Air appears to provide promising news about battery longevity, though it does not give specific estimates. Analysts at TrendForce suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will utilize a silicon anode battery, a type of smartphone battery that has surfaced in earlier leaks discussing Apple’s anticipated battery advancements for upcoming iPhone models. Silicon anode batteries use lithium-ion cells in which the graphite in the anode is partially substituted with silicon. This chemical modification can enhance battery life in thinner devices, as silicon bonds more effectively with lithium than graphite does. The outcome is a high-energy battery within a lighter frame.

    **Our understanding of the iPhone 17 Air battery**

    “The Air model will implement a silicon anode battery and eSIM setup to harmonize slimness with longevity,” TrendForce stated in a report on Thursday, the same analysis that suggested the iPhone 17 Air could be priced at $200 above the iPhone 16 Plus. The analysts did not elaborate on the “silicon anode battery” technology, and this mention might easily be missed. TrendForce also did not disclose the source of its information. It could be derived from supply chain contacts or could be an informed speculation based on the earlier iPhone 17 Air rumors.

    However, TrendForce is not the first to reference novel iPhone battery technologies that may be in development. Speculation has previously circulated regarding stacked battery technologies for the iPhone this year. Prior to that, silicon iPhone batteries were mentioned in reports just as rivals were introducing phones equipped with silicon carbon batteries. Honor is an example of this, having launched this smartphone battery technology at MWC 2023.

    Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst renowned for his accurate insights on unreleased products, reported in March that the foldable iPhone set for next year will utilize “the same high-density battery cells as the ultra-thin iPhone 17.” He did not clarify the battery technology Apple would employ in greater detail, but silicon anode batteries would fit the criteria.

    **What is the expected lifespan of the iPhone 17 Air battery?**

    Recently, rumors surrounding the iPhone 17 Air hinted at a battery capacity of below 3,000mAh. The battery would measure 2.49mm thick, making it roughly half as thick as the iPhone 17 Pro battery. The standard iPhone 16 model boasts a 3,561mAh battery that can last up to 22 hours based on Apple’s video playback estimates. The iPhone 16e has a larger 4,005mAh battery, effective for up to 26 hours of playback. The standard iPhone 17 might deliver similar battery performance to its predecessor.

    In May, The Information reported that the iPhone 17 Air’s battery life would be inferior to earlier iPhones. Apple’s internal evaluations reportedly indicated that 60% to 70% of users would not need to recharge the iPhone 17 Air throughout the day. This figure is significantly lower than other iPhone models, where between 80% and 90% of users would not require a daytime recharge. The same report mentioned that Apple might introduce a battery case to address battery life concerns. Nevertheless, it did not provide battery life estimates, nor did it reveal the chemical makeup of the battery.

    All these factors enhance the credibility of employing silicon anode batteries in the iPhone 17 Air. Apple will likely aim to provide the best possible battery life in the iPhone 17 Air and avoid facing consumer backlash. Conventional batteries may fall short. Additionally, Apple might need to incorporate similarly thin batteries in the foldable iPhone. The iPhone 17 Air would serve as an ideal testing ground for novel battery technologies.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Improves Screen Recording Quality for iPhone and iPad Users
    iOS 26 Improves Screen Recording Quality for iPhone and iPad Users

    ### iOS 26 Upgrades: Full Resolution Screen Recording

    For the first time, iOS 26 enables users to record their iPhone or iPad screens at full resolution, delivering higher-quality and visually improved screen captures.

    Screen recording debuted with iOS 11, offering a straightforward method to capture screen content without a computer. However, the recordings were restricted to a maximum resolution of 1920 pixels in height or width. Consequently, modern iPhones recorded at a resolution of 884×1920, which on an iPhone 16 Pro Max was only around two-thirds of its full resolution, resulting in videos that looked compressed and blurry.

    With the latest beta of iOS 26, screen recordings have been enhanced to capture at the device’s full resolution, yielding significantly clearer recordings.

    #### Screen Recording Resolutions Comparison

    Before this update, screen recordings on an iPhone 16 Pro Max were captured at 884×1920. Now, with the newest beta of iOS 26, they are recorded at 1320×2868, which corresponds to the device’s full screen resolution. This improvement in resolution and quality is best showcased through comparative images.

    Even with the rise in resolution, file sizes remain quite similar. A 12-second screen recording of identical on-screen content was 24.2 MB on iOS 26 Beta 6, reflecting only a 5.3 MB increase from 18.9 MB on Beta 1.

    #### Concluding Thoughts

    The capability to capture screen recordings at full resolution marks a considerable enhancement, particularly for users who heavily depend on screen recordings for app development, where lower quality can hide intricate details.

    In addition to these enhancements, iOS 26 will bring several new functionalities for screenshots and screen recordings, such as the ability to record in HDR, an option to disable CarPlay screenshots, and Visual Lookup. iOS 26 is presently available in public beta and is anticipated to launch in the upcoming weeks.

    For a thorough summary of iOS 26, you can read the full roundup

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s Circle To Search Unveils Groundbreaking Translation Function
    Google’s Circle To Search Unveils Groundbreaking Translation Function

    Google is improving its Circle to Search feature by adding a new function that lets users translate text on websites while they scroll. This upgrade fixes a prior issue where the translation process had to restart with each swipe. Now, once started, the translation flows continuously as new text loads on the screen. This enhancement is especially useful for viewing digital menus that consist of multiple images.

    This improvement forms part of Google’s larger initiative to enhance its applications. Recently, Google has introduced features like iMessage’s top capabilities to Google Messages and AI writing tools for the Gboard app, boosting the user experience across its platforms.

    To utilize the upgraded translation feature in Circle to Search, users must verify its availability on their devices. The rollout is currently in progress for Android devices, beginning with Samsung models. Users can activate the feature by long pressing the home button on their phone’s navigation bar, choosing the Translate icon, and locating the “Scroll and translate” option. If it’s not available, users may need to be patient for the update to arrive on their device.

    The gradual rollout, which starts with Samsung devices, corresponds with Google’s longstanding partnership with Samsung, especially in the field of AI advancements. This update comes after Google’s recent launch of new Android functionality and Pixel-centric improvements in the latest Pixel Drop.

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