In a recent unveiling, Qualcomm announced the introduction of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, poised to revolutionize a range of smartphones from brands such as Honor, iQOO, realme, Redmi, and Xiaomi in the upcoming months. This cutting-edge chip is designed to democratize premium features for a broader audience, previously exclusive to high-end models, by incorporating select advanced capabilities directly from its flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 series.
A research team led by Professor Wang Cheng from the Department of Electrical Engineering (EE) at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) has developed a world-leading microwave photonic chip that is capable of performing ultrafast analog electronic signal processing and computation using optics.
In a strategic move to enhance the appeal of its smartphones, South Korean tech giant Samsung has joined forces with Google and Qualcomm, marking a significant collaboration in the tech industry. The focus of Samsung’s latest Galaxy S24 series launch lies in the integration of generative AI, a result of the newfound partnership with Google Cloud.
In a recent announcement, chip manufacturer Qualcomm has introduced the latest iteration of its immersive technology, the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2. Boasting advancements in mixed reality (MR) and virtual reality (VR), the new chipset is set to power future VR innovations from tech giants Samsung and Google.
Emerging from the tech world, the AI Pin—an innovative, screen-free wearable gadget—incorporates artificial intelligence to facilitate verbal engagement and numerous other unique functionalities. Embedded into a shirt, it provides easy, hands-free access to information and personal communication. It features an unusual ability to support nutritional goals, leveraging computer vision technology to identify various food items. Functioning on the tailored OS, Cosmos, the AI Pin tries to simplify user interaction with AI, by veering away from the conventional method of downloading or launching apps. With no need for smartphone pairing and its claim of not eavesdropping on user’s conversations, it offers a fresh take on consumer technology.
Exploring Apple’s groundbreaking leap in silicon innovation with their latest M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max products, it’s evident that personal computer processing is being redefined. Promising substantially expedited rendering times and performance enhancements across the board, Apple offers these not as mere upgrades, but as game-changers in the hardware world. Furthermore, these innovations signal noteworthy shifts in the broader landscape of PC CPU chips, traditionally dominated by Intel and AMD, now facing exciting competition. Dive deeper to discover the impact of these changes in the world of technology.
HMD Global sets a new bar in smartphone manufacturing with the Nokia XR21, claiming ‘military-grade durability’ and localized data storage for improved security. Remarkably, this sturdy device boasts a chassis made from 100% recycled aluminium, affirming the company’s commitment to sustainability. As an added boon, it has moved its manufacturing to Europe, enhancing the product quality control. This move hints at the potential appeal of a ‘Made in Europe’ smartphone in an overwhelmingly Asian-dominated market.
The global wearable device market has bounced back, with an 8.5% year-on-year increase in Q2 shipments, counteracting a two-quarter decline. This upswing is not all positive news, with the market value taking a hit as competition leads to hefty price discounts. However, a growing preference for comprehensive health tracking provides exciting potential, with major brands and emerging players closely eyeing this trend. An interesting spectrum lies ahead in wearable technology, where even the traditional dominance of smartwatches may be contested by earware.
Apple’s recent unveiling of four new iPhone models, with prices starting from £799, highlights the company’s steady stream of innovation. This release has also stirred debate among smartphone enthusiasts questioning the extent of the innovations, especially considering the premium pricing. Despite predicted criticism, Apple maintains its market dominance by committing to incremental upgrades, asserting a commitment to environmental responsibility, and boasting durable, low-bug products.
Apple’s pursuit of self-reliance in 5G technology is put to the test as it continues its reliance on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 5G Modem‑RF Systems till 2026. Despite acquiring Intel’s modem segment after a failed business collaboration, Apple’s efforts to create an in-house 5G modem cast doubt on its separation from Qualcomm. The competition intensifies with Huawei’s claim of a successful 5G modem design, amidst the encroaching discussions on 6G technology.
