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Galaxy Buds Pro 2 Review


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SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds Pro 2 [2022] (SM-R510) – (Gray)

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Finally Addresses Its Major Flaw


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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Addresses Its Major Weakness at Last

Quick Read

  • The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 now boasts a larger 6.3″ cover display.
  • The device is the thinnest and lightest in the Galaxy Z series.
  • Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform for improved performance.
  • Intelligent features for enhanced productivity, such as Note Assist and Composer.
  • Enhanced resilience with Armor Aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 24.
  • Enhanced cooling solution featuring an expanded vapor chamber.
  • Available in Australia beginning July 31, with pre-orders starting from July 11.

Introduction

Samsung hosted their Galaxy Unpacked event for 2024 overnight, revealing several new hardware announcements. A standout was the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which tackles one of the main criticisms of the Galaxy Z Fold 5: the front display size.

Broader Cover Screen: A Game Changer

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 features a broader 6.3-inch cover screen, offering a more natural viewing experience. This enhancement ensures that content in apps is displayed more naturally, addressing the problem of the Fold 5’s excessively narrow front screen.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Finally Tackles Its Biggest Flaw

Design and Durability

Samsung keeps pushing the boundaries in foldable technology, producing the thinnest and lightest Galaxy Z series to date. The symmetrical structure with straight edges gives it a refined appearance, and the updated cover screen ratio delivers a more natural bar-style viewing experience.

Designed for robustness, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 incorporates a dual rail hinge design bolstered by a reinforced folding edge. Improved layers on the primary display ensure durability, and the device is fortified with Armor Aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 24 for increased protection.

Efficiency and AI Assimilation

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, delivering outstanding performance in CPU, GPU, and NPU, specifically enhanced for AI tasks. The cooling system has been improved with a larger vapor chamber in the Fold 6 and, for the first time, a vapor chamber in the Flip 6.

Productivity Features

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is equipped with AI-driven features designed to boost productivity.

  • Note Assist: Provides translation, summaries, and automatic formatting for meeting notes.
  • Composer: Generates text based on simple keywords for emails and social media posts.
  • S Pen Integration: Enhanced S Pen functionality with Galaxy AI, featuring Sketch to Image capability for generating AI-created images.

Enhanced Communication

Galaxy AI improves seamless communication on the Galaxy Z Fold 6. The distinct dual-screen design facilitates Interpreter mode, allowing easy translations across both screens. Live Translate provides instant phone call translations directly on your device.

Creative Tools

The AI-driven ProVisual Engine enhances creative potential on the Galaxy Z Fold 6. Photo Assist makes it easier to create professional-quality content, and Portrait Studio provides diverse portrait styles like 3D cartoon and watercolor. The Instant Slow-mo feature enables the creation of extra frames for smoother video playback.

Gaming Experience

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 enhances the gaming experience with its advanced chipset and expanded vapor chamber. Ray Tracing enables vibrant, realistic graphics on a brighter 7.6-inch display, offering a more immersive gameplay.

Technical Specifications

Spec Details
Main Screen 7.6-inch QXGA+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity Flex Display with a resolution of 2160 x 1856 and an adaptive refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120Hz.
Cover Screen 6.3-inch HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Screen (2376 x 968), 120Hz variable refresh rate (1~120Hz)
Dimension & Weight Closed: 68.1 x 153.5 x 12.1mm; Open: 132.6 x 153.5 x 5.6mm; Mass: 239g
Cameras 10MP front-facing camera; 4MP camera beneath the display; triple rear camera setup (12MP ultra-wide, 50MP wide-angle, 10MP telephoto)
Processor Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Processor for Galaxy
Memory and Storage 12GB of memory available with choices of 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of internal storage
Battery 4,400mAh dual battery
OS Android 14 One UI 6.1.1
Sensors Capacitive fingerprint sensor (side), accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, geomagnetic sensor, hall sensor, proximity sensor, light sensor.
Sims One Nano SIM card and one eSIM.
Colours Silver Shadow, Pink, Navy; Exclusive colors: Crafted Black, White

Availability

The Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, and Galaxy Buds3 series can be pre-ordered in Australia starting July 11, with general sales commencing on July 31. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes in Silver Shadow, Pink, and Navy. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 provides more color choices: Silver Shadow, Yellow, Blue, and Mint. Exclusive colors like Crafted Black, White, and Peach are available exclusively online at Samsung.com.

Summary

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 tackles key problems of its forerunner by incorporating a wider cover screen and upgraded functionalities aimed at productivity, communication, creativity, and gaming. Boasting increased durability and sophisticated AI integration, it establishes a new standard in the foldable smartphone industry.

Q&A Section

Q: What is the most notable improvement in the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6?

A: The most notable improvement is the larger front display screen (6.3 inches), offering a more comfortable viewing experience than the narrower screen of the previous model.

What enhancements has Samsung made to the durability of the Galaxy Z Fold 6?

Samsung has improved durability by integrating a dual rail hinge design, fortified with a strengthened folding edge, and utilizing Armor Aluminum along with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 24 for additional protection.

Q: Could you list some of the productivity features on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 that are powered by AI?

Key AI-enhanced productivity tools feature Note Assist for translating and summarizing meeting notes, Composer for creating text from keywords, and improved S Pen integration for producing AI-generated images.

How does the Galaxy Z Fold 6 improve communication?

The device improves communication with features such as Interpreter mode for dual-screen translations and Live Translate for real-time phone call translations directly on your device.

What enhancements have been introduced to the gaming experience on the Galaxy Z Fold 6?

The gaming experience is enhanced by a robust chipset, an enlarged vapor chamber for superior cooling, Ray Tracing compatibility for more vibrant graphics, and a brighter display that reaches up to 2,600 nits.

AMD Plans to Purchase Finnish AI Startup Silo AI for AU$1 Billion


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AMD plans to purchase the Finnish AI startup Silo AI for AU$1 billion.

AMD to acquire Finnish startup Silo AI for US$665 million

AMD Broadens AI Potential with Purchase of Silo AI

Quick Read

  • AMD plans to purchase Finnish AI startup Silo AI for about AU$1 billion.
  • This acquisition is intended to improve AMD’s AI chip capabilities, positioning the company to compete with Nvidia.
  • Silo AI focuses on comprehensive AI-powered solutions, catering to clients such as Philips, Rolls-Royce, and Unilever.
  • The deal is anticipated to be finalized in the latter half of 2024.
  • In recent years, AMD has broadened its presence in AI through various acquisitions and investments.

Advancing the Capabilities of AI Chips

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) plans to purchase the Finnish AI startup Silo AI for approximately US$665 million (AU$985 million) in cash. This strategic move aligns with AMD’s larger initiative to boost its AI chip technology and better compete with market leader Nvidia.

Accelerating the Creation and Implementation of AI Models

Building and training large language models presents significant challenges, even for leading tech firms. By acquiring Silo AI, AMD aims to enhance the creation and implementation of AI models powered by AMD. This strategic move is anticipated to help customers develop sophisticated AI models with AMD’s hardware, thereby bolstering AMD’s software development capabilities.

Silo AI’s Knowledge and Client Base

Located in Helsinki, Finland, Silo AI focuses on delivering comprehensive AI-driven solutions that assist clients in incorporating advanced technology into their offerings. Operating across Europe and North America, Silo AI’s clientele includes prominent firms like Philips, Rolls-Royce, and Unilever. After the acquisition, Peter Sarlin, the CEO and co-founder of Silo AI, will persist in leading the unit within the AMD Artificial Intelligence Group.

Tactical Actions in the Artificial Intelligence Sphere

This acquisition represents another crucial move for AMD as the company broadens its presence in the rapidly growing AI field. In the past year, AMD has taken over AI software companies Mipsology and Nod.ai. Furthermore, the company has poured over US$125 million into approximately twelve AI firms within the last 12 months. These strategic initiatives highlight AMD’s dedication to establishing itself as a significant force in the AI industry.

Summary

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is strategically enhancing its AI capabilities by acquiring Finnish startup Silo AI for around AU$1 billion. The acquisition is intended to strengthen AMD’s position against Nvidia by advancing the development and deployment of its AI models. Leveraging Silo AI’s expertise and strong client base, this move is expected to have a substantial impact on AMD’s future business direction.

Q&A Session

What is the main motivation for AMD’s purchase of Silo AI?

A: The main objective is to enhance the AI chip performance of AMD and advance the creation and implementation of AI models powered by AMD.

Q: Can you name any prominent clients of Silo AI?

Silo AI caters to notable clients such as Philips, Rolls-Royce, and Unilever.

When is the transaction projected to be finalized?

The purchase is anticipated to be finalized in the latter part of 2024.

Q: In what way does this acquisition align with AMD’s overall strategy?

This purchase aligns with AMD’s strategy to broaden its presence in the AI industry, building on earlier acquisitions of Mipsology and Nod.ai, as well as major investments in various other AI firms.

Will this agreement have an immediate effect on AMD’s financial results?

The agreement will not have an immediate effect on AMD’s financial results, according to Vamsi Boppana, AMD’s senior vice president of AI, but it is anticipated to create substantial business prospects in the future.

Skullcandy Sesh Evo Wireless Earbuds Review


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Skullcandy Sesh Evo in-Ear Wireless Earbuds, 24 Hr Battery, Microphone, Works with iPhone Android and Bluetooth Devices – Bleached Blue

McGrath Estate Agents’ Head of Technology Steps Down Unexpectedly


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McGrath Estate Agents’ Head of Technology Unexpectedly Resigns

McGrath Estate Agents head of technology departs

Darren Warner

Quick Read

  • Darren Warner, head of technology at McGrath Estate Agents, has left the company.
  • During Warner’s tenure, there were substantial advancements in digital transformation and improvements in cyber security.
  • The company has a temporary replacement, but the name has not been revealed.
  • McGrath Estate Agents were recently bought by Knight Frank and Bayleys.

Darren Warner’s Exit

McGrath Estate Agents has undergone a notable shift in its leadership with the exit of Darren Warner, who was the head of technology. Warner leaves after an impactful two-year period during which he spearheaded major digital transformation efforts and enhanced cyber security measures.

Accomplishments During Warner’s Tenure

While at McGrath, Warner and his team successfully completed significant projects such as introducing new digital capabilities, developing new applications, implementing automation processes, upgrading cyber security, and launching a new website. These efforts have evidently improved McGrath’s operational efficiency and security stance.

Upcoming Plans for Darren Warner

In a LinkedIn post, Warner revealed his decision to leave and shared his enthusiasm for pursuing new opportunities to advance digital transformation in different organizations. A company representative mentioned that his departure was effective at the end of May and extended best wishes for his future endeavors.

Interim Replacement

Though McGrath currently has a temporary fill-in for Warner’s position, the person’s identity is not publicly known. The real estate company is anticipated to officially reveal a permanent successor shortly.

Purchase by Knight Frank and Bayleys.

In addition to the structural changes, McGrath Estate Agents was purchased by Knight Frank and Bayleys, who obtained a controlling interest at the end of June. As a result of this acquisition, McGrath was removed from the ASX, signifying a new era for the real estate firm.

Summary

The exit of Darren Warner from his role as head of technology at McGrath Estate Agents signifies an important shift for the company. During his time, the company made substantial progress in digital transformation and cyber security. Presently, the firm is functioning with an interim head of technology as it searches for a permanent successor. Moreover, the company’s recent acquisition by Knight Frank and Bayleys has added to its changing environment.

What significant accomplishments did Darren Warner achieve while at McGrath Estate Agents?

During his tenure of two years at McGrath, Warner led initiatives for digital transformation which encompassed the implementation of new digital capabilities, development of applications, establishment of automation processes, enhancements in cyber security, and the creation of a new website.

Q: What prompted Darren Warner to depart from McGrath Estate Agents?

Warner revealed on LinkedIn that he is looking for new opportunities to lead digital transformation efforts in other companies. His departure became effective at the end of May.

Who is succeeding Darren Warner at McGrath?

The company has appointed a temporary replacement for Warner’s position, whose name has not been disclosed. A permanent successor is anticipated to be announced shortly.

What effect did the purchase by Knight Frank and Bayleys have on McGrath Estate Agents?

The acquisition resulted in McGrath being removed from the ASX, indicating a major change in the company’s corporate structure and governance.

Q: In what way has McGrath Estate Agents’ cybersecurity stance evolved under Warner’s leadership?

Warner implemented numerous improvements in cyber security to protect the company’s digital assets and secure client information.

What are Darren Warner’s upcoming plans?

Warner is seeking new opportunities to advance business growth through digital transformation in other areas.

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Technics True Wireless Earbuds Review


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Technics HiFi True Wireless Multipoint Bluetooth Earbuds with Noise Cancelling, 3 Device Multipoint Connectivity, Wireless Charging, Impressive Call Quality, LDAC Compatible, Blue (EAH-AZ60M2EA)

Meta and Vodafone Collaborate to Improve Video Streaming and Network Efficiency


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Meta and Vodafone Team Up to Improve Video Streaming and Network Efficiency

Quick Read

  • Meta and Vodafone enhance video streaming to increase network capacity.
  • Worldwide mobile data traffic increased by 25% within a year, primarily due to video content.
  • By the close of 2023, video made up 73% of all mobile traffic.
  • The collaboration seeks to tackle the significant expenses associated with network upgrades that telecom providers encounter.
  • Optimization led to a reduction in Meta’s data traffic on Vodafone’s UK network by a small double-digit percentage.
  • Comparable initiatives are underway with the Spanish telecommunications company Telefonica.
Meta and Vodafone optimise video to boost network efficiency

A surge in video traffic is causing network strain.

The increasing popularity of video content on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube has resulted in a substantial rise in data consumption on mobile networks. Ericsson’s 2024 Mobility Report indicates that worldwide traffic surged by 25 percent during the 12 months preceding the first quarter of 2024, with video content comprising an impressive 73 percent of all mobile traffic by the conclusion of 2023.

Obstacles Faced by Telecommunications Providers

Telecom providers like Vodafone have raised worries about the financial strain of enhancing their networks to handle the growing data usage. They claim that although Big Tech companies gain from these enhancements, they are not paying their fair share of the expenses. Last year, initiatives by the EU to get Big Tech to help fund 5G infrastructure hit a standstill, with minimal prospects of being revived soon.

A Pragmatic Partnership

Vodafone has adopted a “pragmatic approach” in collaborating with Meta to enhance the distribution of video content throughout its European markets. This partnership has resulted in more efficient utilization of existing network resources while maintaining a high-quality viewing experience for users. Alberto Ripepi, Vodafone’s Chief Network Officer, commended Meta’s commitment to improving network efficiency.

Results of the Trial and Upcoming Plans

In a trial carried out in April on Vodafone’s UK network, there was a noticeable reduction in Meta’s data traffic by a low double-digit percentage, which alleviated congestion in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls and transport hubs. Meta’s Vice President of Network Engineering, Gaya Nagarajan, emphasized the company’s dedication to advancing video optimization through collaborations with telecom providers, device makers, and equipment suppliers.

Expanding Collaborative Efforts

Following Vodafone’s lead, Spain’s Telefonica has also revealed its partnership with Meta to enhance video traffic delivery on its networks. These collaborations underscore a rising trend among telecommunications companies to explore innovative solutions that meet the demand for high-quality video streaming while ensuring efficient network management.

Summary

The partnership between Meta and Vodafone represents a crucial move towards tackling the issues caused by increasing video traffic on mobile networks. By enhancing video delivery, both firms are collaborating to provide an improved user experience and reduce network stress. This collaboration could become a template for other telecom providers encountering comparable challenges.

What motivated Meta and Vodafone to work together?

A:

The rising demand for video content on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube has resulted in a substantial increase in data usage on mobile networks. This increased demand has led Meta and Vodafone to work together on improving video delivery to effectively manage network strain.

Q: What effect did the optimization have on Vodafone’s network?

A:

The optimization resulted in a low double-digit decrease in Meta’s data traffic on Vodafone’s UK network during a trial in April. This increased capacity in high-traffic areas like shopping centers and transport hubs.

What importance does Ericsson’s 2024 Mobility Report hold?

A:

Ericsson’s 2024 Mobility Report emphasizes the significant surge in worldwide mobile data traffic, which saw a 25 percent rise over the past year. Additionally, the report observed that video made up 73 percent of all mobile traffic by the close of 2023, highlighting the influence of video usage on network demand.

Why do telecom operators worry about network upgrades?

A:

Telecom providers such as Vodafone are worried about the significant expenses involved in enhancing networks to support the growing data usage. They claim that major technology firms gain from these improvements but do not contribute adequately to the associated costs.

What were the outcomes of the European Union’s initiative for Big Tech to contribute?

A:

The EU’s plan to have major technology firms help fund 5G development encountered setbacks last year. It is unlikely to be reinstated before the year’s end, if it is ever revived.

Q: Are other telecommunications providers partnering with Meta?

A:

Spain’s Telefonica has also revealed its partnership with Meta to enhance the delivery of video traffic on its networks. This indicates an increasing trend among telecom providers who are looking for new methods to manage their networks efficiently.

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Panasonic B110 True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds Review


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Panasonic B110 True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds with Built-in Mic, Compact Design and Charging Case (RZ-B110WDE-K)

ANZx Enables Companies to Develop Their Ideal Strategies


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ANZx Enables Companies to Develop Their Own Ideal Strategies

ANZx gets business to create its own next-best actions

Karan Mehta at PegaWorld Inspire 2024.

Quick Read

  • ANZx improves the backend system for customer interaction.
  • Pega Customer Decision Hub (PegaCDH) implemented for personalized communications.
  • Event-driven next-best actions optimize customer interactions.
  • Achieved a 60% decrease in the duration of the next-best action lifecycle.
  • Enabling business teams to develop and evaluate their own strategies.
  • Implementing data mesh principles for distributed data management.

Introduction

In an effort to transform customer interaction, ANZx is upgrading the complexity of its backend system that supports the ANZ Plus digital-only service. This project seeks to provide customized and prompt communications by utilizing the features of the Pega customer decision hub (PegaCDH).

Pega Customer Decision Hub: The Intelligence Powering ANZ Plus

Karan Mehta, the Marketing Technology Lead at ANZx, disclosed at the PegaWorld Inspire 2024 conference that the bank had incorporated PegaCDH right from the start. Mehta clarified, “Our aim was for Pega to serve as the central intelligence, managing all customer touchpoints, with mobile being our main distribution channel.”

Event-Based Interactions to Improve Customer Experience

ANZx leverages real-time customer interactions and behaviors as prompts for communication. This strategy guarantees that customers’ first experiences with ANZ Plus are smooth. For example, if a welcome pack is not received, the deviation from anticipated communication is identified for corrective measures.

Next-Best Action Strategy

Communications that are driven by events focus on ‘next-best actions,’ a method designed to send the appropriate message at the most opportune moment through the best possible channel. Mehta notes that 47% of customers interact with at least one financial wellbeing next-best action, demonstrating successful customization of messages.

Empowering Business Teams

The next phase of ANZx’s development includes enabling business teams to develop their own next-best actions and access performance insights. By permitting these teams to contribute to the customer data model, known as the Customer Analytical Record (CAR), ANZx is promoting a more decentralized approach to data management and decision-making.

Implementing Data Mesh Principles

In accordance with data mesh principles, ANZx seeks to decentralize data management. Each domain within ANZ Plus will oversee its own data products, ensuring they are accessible throughout the organization. This approach allows business users and analysts to obtain insights tailored to their specific requirements.

Summary

ANZx is elevating customer engagement standards by leveraging PegaCDH technology and implementing data mesh principles. This approach not only customizes customer interactions but also enables internal teams to design and assess their strategies with greater efficiency.

Q: What are the objectives of ANZx with the improved backend engine?

A:

The objective of ANZx is to provide highly customized and timely communications to users of its ANZ Plus digital-only service, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction.

Q: What is the operational mechanism of the Pega customer decision hub (PegaCDH) in this configuration?

A:

PegaCDH functions as the central intelligence, analyzing real-time customer interactions and behaviors to initiate appropriate communications and optimal subsequent actions.

What are ‘next-best actions’?

A:

Event-driven communications, known as next-best actions, are customized to deliver the appropriate message at the optimal moment through the most suitable channel, thereby improving customer experience and engagement.

How is ANZx shortening the duration of next-best actions’ lifecycle?

A:

By integrating steps such as templating and testing directly within PegaCDH instead of relying on external tools, ANZx has managed to cut the lifecycle duration of next-best actions by 60%.

Question: In what ways are business teams being given more power in this new framework?

A:

Business teams are being given the tools to devise their own optimal actions and view performance metrics by filling the customer analytical record (CAR) with pertinent data from various sources within the bank.

Q: What are the principles of a data mesh?

A:

The principles of a data mesh promote decentralized data management, where each domain is responsible for its own data products or datasets. This approach ensures these data assets are available throughout the organization, thereby preventing bottlenecks.

What advantages does data mesh provide to ANZ Plus?

A:

The data mesh configuration enables business users and analysts to access a variety of datasets throughout ANZ Plus, allowing them to create customized perspectives and obtain insights that are specific to their requirements.

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