Tag: Source: Androidcentral.com

Oura Initiates Legal Action Against Samsung and Amazfit, Demanding Royalty Fees from Rivals in the Smart Ring Industry

Oura, the well-known smart ring manufacturer, has launched a lawsuit against Samsung, Zepp Health, Noise, and Reebok, alleging “illegal importation and distribution of products” that purportedly violate its patents. The legal actions, submitted to the Eastern Texas U.S. District Court, point to the Samsung Galaxy Ring, Amazfit Helio Ring, Reebok Smart Ring, and Luna Ring, asserting that they incorporate designs safeguarded by Oura’s ‘178 “Wearable computing device” patent. Oura has previously achieved victories in similar legal proceedings against Ringconn and Circular, forcing them to create royalty-based patent agreements.

The company contends that its patented innovation, which entails embedding electronic components between the inner and outer layers of a ring, is being wrongfully utilized by these rivals. Oura’s legal approach seeks to establish licensing arrangements, permitting competitors to keep marketing their products in the U.S. in return for royalty compensation. While smaller companies have acquiesced, Samsung has previously countered with a lawsuit against Oura, questioning the extent of its patents. The results of these legal confrontations could greatly influence the smart ring industry, deciding whether competitors will incur licensing costs or confront possible sales prohibitions.

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“AMVR’s Innovative Haptic Feedback Meta Quest Club Transforms VR Golf Experience”

Provides the authentic sensation of striking a golf ball on days when adverse weather conditions spoil the course.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential information

  • AMVR’s newest Meta Quest golf club accessory includes force feedback for games such as Golf+.
  • This club features a magnetic system that simulates realistic weight and physical feedback while impacting virtual golf balls.
  • It is specifically tailored for the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S and is currently available on Amazon.

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RLCD Tablets Transform Eye-Care E-Paper Screens with Cutting-Edge Technology

More RLCD tablets are entering the marketplace, closing the divide between slower E Ink and high-quality OLED.

E Ink has historically been regarded as the premier display type if eye health ranks high on your priority list. However, an E Ink alternative you may not be familiar with is making notable strides: RLCD. Short for Reflective Liquid Crystal Display, this technology harnesses the reflective properties of E Ink and adapts it to a more conventional pixel-based display, yielding significantly smoother performance than E Ink could ever aspire to offer.

This isn’t my first encounter with an RLCD device. I previously wrote about the Daylight Computer in June, an Android tablet that features a custom black & white RLCD with a backlight. That backlight makes it a standout among RLCD devices, as most of them exclude the back or front light to achieve a more “paperlike” feel. The only other significant RLCD tablet with a front light is the upcoming Eazeye Paper 2, expected to launch in April 2026.

Today, I’m examining three distinct RLCD tablets — Harbor Paper 7, Daylight Computer, and Hisense Q5 — to highlight the advancement of RLCD into a genuine competitor to E Ink, tracing back from one of the first RLCD tablets ever produced to the latest in color RLCD that resembles a screen printed on metal.

Five years of RLCD progression

Most e-readers use an anti-glare coating to minimize reflections and mimic paper as closely as possible, but the original RLCD tablet did not. The Hisense Q5 was an innovative yet ill-fated device upon its launch in 2020. Discontinued shortly after its initial production run, Hisense later produced a second batch in 2020, as COVID disrupted supply chains, likely contributing to this unique tablet’s premature end.

Leading up to this product, all LCDs utilized transparent layers that permitted a backlight to shine through a layer of colored pixels, forming the images observed on screens. The Hisense Q5 replaced that transparent layer with a reflective one and retained only a black hue, optimizing light reflection back to the user.

This tablet was groundbreaking at its release, and while the lack of a backlight and a black-and-white display constrained its potential, its influence on the display industry was remarkably significant. Years later, companies like Daylight and Eazeye would follow in Hisense’s footsteps, further advancing RLCD with products such as the Eazeye Monitor and Daylight Computer.

Those companies elevated RLCD to the next level, developing genuine 8-bit displays that no longer depended on temporal dithering for bit depth simulation, introducing a new wave of truly flicker-free displays. Although these remain niche products, it is evident that RLCD is gaining traction due to its ability to provide significantly quicker refresh rates and richer colors than E Ink.

The top E Ink displays typically reach a maximum of 40Hz, while RLCD can achieve 120Hz. In contrast, color E Ink displays usually support up to 4096 colors, whereas the 8-bit depth of color RLCDs can display up to 16.8 million colors. Unfortunately, the Harbor Paper 7 color RLCD tablet I have utilizes dithering, meaning it cannot be classified as genuinely flicker-free.

Certainly, every technology has its constraints. As I noted in my article about the Daylight Computer in June, RLCD needs a constant power source to render an image. This is because it is still constructed on a traditional LCD pixel framework, which requires power to the pixels and continuous refreshing.

E Ink, on the other hand, is a fully passive technology that only draws power when the images on the screen change. Thus, if you’re reading something, E Ink requires no power to maintain the display because the pigments remain after being “set.” LCDs, however, refresh the screen 60 to 120 times per second, regardless of what’s happening.

Color or black & white?

Within the realm of reflective displays, a peculiar phenomenon occurs when color is introduced: the displays dim. It makes no difference if a built-in frontlight is utilized or if they’re exposed to natural sunlight, a color RLCD or color E Ink display will invariably appear darker than a black-and-white one. This trend persists until someone devises a novel approach to reflect light off the colored pixels.

This happens because black-and-white displays have a single pigment: black. Color displays must filter light through multiple colors — generally red, green, and blue — before it becomes visible to the user again. Since each pixel or pigment is now divided into colored sections, there is less physical space for light to bounce off the display.

It parallels how camera sensors operate. While a large digital camera can still capture superior images compared to what your smartphone could achieve, it’s challenging to overcome the laws of physics, especially.

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Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Case to Feature Crucial Button Absent in Prior Version

Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are creating excitement with prospective new functionalities, such as a “Find Your Phone” button on the charging case. This button, positioned adjacent to the USB-C port, can send a signal to your paired device via Bluetooth, assisting you in locating your phone. Moreover, the case might incorporate a built-in speaker grille to help in locating the case itself. These enhancements were unearthed in the early One UI 8.5 firmware, which also suggests a major design revamp for the earbuds. The Buds 4 Pro could showcase a fresh appearance, departing from the pointed stems of the Buds 3 Pro to a design characterized by sleeker lines and a brushed-metal finish. The case is also anticipated to undergo redesign, with the earbuds resting flat rather than standing upright. Leaked visuals exhibit versions in black and white, although additional colors are expected. The firmware further implies head-gesture controls for picking up calls or muting alarms. While these features have not been officially confirmed, they are likely to be unveiled alongside the Galaxy S26 series early next year, potentially positioning the Buds 4 Pro as a remarkable accessory for users prioritizing smart connectivity and audio excellence.

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Samsung Laptop Gets a $370 Price Cut in Best Buy’s Black Friday Event

This is an impressive 15.6-inch laptop priced at just $530.

(Image credit: Samsung)

Samsung laptop bargains are rare, but Best Buy’s Black Friday event is set to shift the scenario. Temporarily, the store is slashing $370 off this 15.6-inch Samsung Galaxy Book 4, bringing the total down to a reasonable $529.99. While the latest Galaxy Book 5 series features some top-tier laptops from Samsung, most everyday users will find the Book 4 model meets their requirements.

The Galaxy Book 4 boasts a fairly bright, Full HD display, and this specific version is equipped with 512GB of SSD storage. It also includes a durable battery and seamless integration with other devices in the Samsung ecosystem. In addition, it operates on the Windows 11 Home OS, includes the Copilot AI assistant, and features a built-in voice assistant with Bixby. It is also compatible with other voice assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Cortana, and more. It’s a <a

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How Shokz OpenFit 2 Plus Earbuds Enhanced My Marathon Performance with Dolby Audio

**Android Central Verdict: Shokz OpenFit 2 Plus**

**Rating: 4 out of 5 stars**

The Shokz OpenFit 2 Plus earbuds represent an excellent selection for fitness aficionados, featuring a distinctive open-ear design that guarantees comfort and awareness of surroundings. With a solid 4-star rating, these earbuds receive accolades for their all-day battery longevity and the newly introduced Dolby Audio mode, which enriches the audio enjoyment for both music and verbal content. The inclusion of Qi wireless charging is a practical addition, albeit minor.

**Pros:**
– The secure and cozy ear hook design maintains openness in the ears, ensuring a stable fit without hindering ambient sounds.
– The sound quality is impressive, further augmented by the Dolby Audio mode.
– Qi wireless charging presents a practical alternative to conventional charging techniques.
– The earbuds feature reliable all-day battery performance, making them ideal for prolonged usage.
– User-friendly button shortcuts improve convenience.

**Cons:**
– There are no notifications for low battery levels on the case, and the earbuds do not feature a “Find My” speaker function.
– The earbuds can occasionally fail to charge in the case and might be vulnerable to sweat damage.

In summary, the Shokz OpenFit 2 Plus earbuds are an exceptional choice for individuals looking for dependable workout earbuds with improved audio capabilities and practical charging solutions.

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YouTube TV Launches $60 Special Offer to Draw in Subscribers After Disney Channel Return

With ESPN and ABC back in the fold, YouTube TV is targeting its user base.

YouTube TV has executed a tactical strategy to reclaim its subscriber numbers following a recent channel blackout that impacted nearly 10 million users who were unable to access Disney’s networks, including ESPN and ABC. After extensive negotiations, YouTube TV and Disney have finalized a new multi-year deal, reinstating these channels on the platform.

The blackout, which endured for 15 days, significantly disrupted services, especially for sports enthusiasts missing crucial live events. Consequently, a number of subscribers contemplated or proceeded with canceling their subscription. In response, YouTube TV is providing competitive discounts, including $60 off the first month, to lure back former subscribers. This offer brings down the standard plan price from $82.99 to $22.99 for the first month, creating a compelling incentive.

This “win-back” strategy underscores YouTube TV’s dedication to recovering its lost audience. Nonetheless, the service confronts hurdles, as MLB.TV is set to transition to the ESPN app in 2026, leaving it out of YouTube TV’s anticipated sports bundle. Regardless, YouTube TV remains committed to broadening its content selection and maintaining its subscriber community.

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Uncover the Best Black Friday Garmin Offers: Enjoy Savings of Up to $250 on High-End Fitness Watches

Get a Head Start on Your Fitness-Oriented New Year’s Aspirations!

As the New Year draws near, many individuals begin contemplating their resolutions, with getting fit often being a primary focus. Regardless of whether you’re an experienced athlete or a newcomer, establishing fitness objectives can serve as an excellent method to enhance your health and wellness. Here are some suggestions to assist you in gaining a head start on your fitness-oriented New Year’s aspirations:

1. Set Specific Objectives: Clearly articulate what you aim to accomplish on your fitness journey. Whether it’s shedding pounds, increasing muscle mass, or boosting endurance, having a specific objective will maintain your motivation.

2. Formulate a Strategy: Craft a workout plan that aligns with your lifestyle. Think about integrating various forms of cardio, strength training, and flexibility workouts. If you’re uncertain about where to begin, it might be beneficial to seek advice from a fitness expert.

3. Invest in Proper Equipment: Possessing the appropriate gear can significantly influence your fitness journey. Contemplate investing in high-quality workout apparel, footwear, and accessories that will support your activities.

4. Monitor Your Progress: Utilize fitness applications or wearable gadgets to keep track of your progress. Logging your workouts, steps, and calories can assist you in remaining focused and making any necessary modifications to your plan.

5. Maintain Consistency: Consistency is essential for reaching your fitness objectives. Establish a regular workout timetable and adhere to it. On days when motivation wanes, remind yourself of the advantages of remaining active.

6. Seek a Workout Partner: Having a workout companion can foster accountability and make exercising more enjoyable. Discover someone with similar objectives and motivate one another to stay dedicated.

7. Diversify Your Routine: Prevent workout monotony by exploring different activities. Whether it’s yoga, cycling, or swimming, varying your routine can keep things engaging and challenge different muscle groups.

8. Emphasize Recovery: Remember to grant your body time to recuperate. Incorporate rest days into your regimen and consider activities such as stretching or foam rolling to facilitate recovery.

9. Maintain a Positive Attitude: Understand that progress requires time. Acknowledge small achievements along the way and avoid being overly critical of yourself if setbacks occur.

10. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the newest fitness trends and studies. This can offer fresh ideas and inspiration to keep your fitness journey exhilarating.

By establishing achievable goals and remaining dedicated, you can turn your fitness-oriented New Year’s aspirations into a reality. Start planning now, and you’ll be well on your way to a healthier, fitter version of yourself in the New Year!

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Selecting the Ideal Nothing Phone 3 Variant for Your Requirements

With four choices available, there’s a Nothing Phone suitable for every user.

Nothing emerged as an optimistic consumer tech startup just five years ago, and it has evolved into a flourishing company worth over a billion dollars. Its flagship collection is the Nothing Phone 3 series, comprising four distinct models that cover a range of price points. The premium Phone 3 is priced at $799, while the most affordable Phone 3a Lite is approximately $329.

The Nothing Phone 3a Lite, Phone 3a, Phone 3a Pro, and Phone 3 share many similarities — particularly among the three lower-priced models. Availability in the U.S. is limited. The Phone 3a Lite is not offered in this region at all, while the Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro can only be procured via a beta program with restricted carrier support. Only the flagship Nothing Phone 3 is optimized for genuine North American usage.

Nonetheless, the Nothing Phone 3 lineup enjoys significant demand in Europe, India, and other global markets. Even for buyers in North America, Nothing’s design is unique. If you’re interested in the company’s 2025 offerings, this guide will assist you in determining which Nothing Phone 3 model to purchase.

Nothing Phone 3 series: Summary

Specs

| Category | Nothing Phone 3a Lite | Nothing Phone 3a | Nothing Phone 3a Pro | Nothing Phone 3 |
|———-|———————–|——————|———————-|—————-|
| Display | 6.77-inch 120Hz OLED, 2392 x 1080, HDR, 1300 nits HBM, 3000 nits max | 6.77-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED, 2392 x 1080, HDR10, 1300 nits HBM, 3000 nits max | 6.77-inch 120Hz LTPO OLED, 2392 x 1080, HDR10, 1300 nits HBM, 3000 nits max | 6.67-inch 120Hz OLED, 2800 x 1260, Gorilla Glass 7i, 1,600 HBM, 4,500 nits max |
| OS | Nothing OS 3.5 based on Android 15 | Nothing OS 3.1 based on Android 15 | Nothing OS 3.1 based on Android 15 | Nothing OS 3.5 based on Android 15 |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 7300 Pro | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB/12GB | 8GB/12GB | 12GB/16GB |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB UFS 4.0 |
| Rear camera 1 | 50MP f/1.88 Samsung, 1/1.57″ sensor, 4K30, OIS, PDAF | 50MP f/1.88 Samsung, 1/1.57″ sensor, 4K30, OIS, PDAF | 50MP f/1.88 Samsung, 1/1.56″ sensor, 4K30, OIS, dual-pixel PDAF | 50MP f/1.7 OmniVision OV50H, OIS |
| Rear camera 2 | 8MP f/2.2 Sony, 120-degree FoV | 50MP f/2.0 Samsung, 1/2.74″ sensor, 2x optical zoom, EIS, Autofocus | 50MP f/2.55 Sony, 1/1.95″ sensor, 3x optical periscope zoom, OIS, Autofocus | 50MP f/2.7 ISOCELL JN5, 3x optical zoom, OIS |
| Rear camera 3 | 2MP macro | 8MP f/2.2 Sony, 120-degree FoV | 8MP f/2.2 Sony, 120-degree FoV | 50MP f/2.2 ISOCELL JN1 wide-angle |
| Front camera | 16MP f/2.5 wide | 32MP f/2.2 Samsung, 1/3.44″ sensor | 50MP f/2.2 Samsung, 1/2.76″ sensor | 50MP ISOCELL JN1, 4K60 video |
| Ingress protection | IP54 | IP64 | IP64 | IP68 |
| Connectivity | WI

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