The Mac is On Track for M1X

Apple’s M1 System on A Chip (SoC) that powers their Mac products have been sensational. The Apple M1 chip that was launched late last year was all the rage for 2020 and most of 2021. The Apple M1 chip even found its way to the Apple iPad Pro for 2021. While it was a little undersold with the Apple iPad Pro series, it shows the world how versatile Apple’s M1 chip can be. At the same time, support for the integrated chip has increased over the year. It is now to a point that almost every conceivable app that is available on Apple’s MacOS are M1 optimised.

Apple’s M1 chip is nearly a year old though and that also means that it is time for a change. The new chip will not be called the M2 though. Instead, we will know it as the M1X SoC for the Mac ecosystem.

While rumoured and teased for most of 2021, there is not much that is known about Apple’s upcoming flagship MacBook Pro and its M1X processor. For those that have been waiting to get their hands on Apple’s silicon powering a MacBook though, their prayers might be answered with the new Apple MacBook line-up that is scheduled to appear in this month itself.

Rumours and reports all point to two variants of the Apple M1X chip. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg pointed out that the M1X will feature a 10-core processor within the chip. There is a choice of either 16-cores or 32-cores in the graphics department. There are also reports of higher-end SoCs that are developed for future MacBook series.

There are more rumoured changes to the MacBook Pro that is set to launch this month. Apple is reportedly bringing back full-sized HDMI and SD card slot into the new MacBook Pro line-up which is good news for content creators. The MacBook Pro is also expected to lose the Touch Bar that was introduced in 2016.

There might be other things that will be launched later in the year. We also must remember that Apple’s iPhone 13 launch did not see the launch of the third generation Apple AirPods. There is still plenty of unknown though. For now, we can only guess. Apple’s next launch event is expected to happen this month or early November 2021 at the latest.  

QunaSys to participate in IEEE International Conference on Quantum Computing and Engineering (QCE21)


TOKYO, Oct. 5, 2021 — QunaSys Inc. is a sponsor of Quantum Week 2021 (Oct 17 – 21) the leading quantum computing event that bridges the gap between the science of quantum computing and the development of the surrounding industry.

QunaSys researchers are deeply engaged in the event with an exhibit booth, a hands-on tutorial, and a panel:

  • The tutorial will cover Quantum Chemistry simulation of practical applications and use industry recognized tools based on python that work over the major quantum computing platforms from IONQ, Google, IBM, and Microsoft amongst others. Participants will learn how to develop use cases of chemistry algorithms and benchmark their performance. Date: 2021/10/17 16:00-19:00 (MDT)
  • The panel discussion will be held by matter experts from chemical industry, academia, and research institutions discuss count with the presence of experts from QunaSys Inc., Toyota Central R&D Labs, HPC SYSTEMS Inc., and Osaka University that will share their experience on how to collaborate to drive quantum computing adoption in chemistry calculations and what is the current state of the art. Date: 2021/10/18 15:45-16:45 (MDT)

"Japan’s technology ecosystem is actively advancing quantum computing. QunaSys is a key player in driving business, government, and academia collaboration to enable the quantum chemistry ecosystem and boost the adoption of this technology." – Tennin Yan, QunaSys Inc. CEO, and Hausi Müller, General Chair IEEE Quantum Week 2021 and Co-Chair IEEE Quantum Initiative.

"Companies are getting ready by learning the skills to develop and test quantum algorithms. Collaboration within an ecosystem and a multi-platform approach is key to expand use case proliferation that in turn advances the technology." – Tennin Yan, QunaSys Inc. CEO.

"As organizers, we are very pleased with the outstanding contributions from the international quantum community for IEEE International Conference on Quantum Computing and Engineering (QCE). We look forward to welcoming 800+ participants from 45+ countries and 220+ companies." – Hausi Müller.

Register now for the conference and learn how to maximize the power of quantum computing, understand the industry use cases potential and how to implement algorithms to solve chemistry related complex problems, please register here: https://qce.quantum.ieee.org/registration/registration-overview 

Additional resources 

About QunaSys Inc.

QunaSys is the world’s leading developer of innovative algorithms in chemistry focused on accelerating the development of quantum technology applicability. QunaSys enables maximization of the power of quantum computing through its advanced joint research that addresses cutting-edge technologies providing Qamuy™, the most powerful quantum chemical calculation cloud software; fostering development of collaboration through QPARC industry consortium; and working with research institutions from academia and government. QunaSys software runs on multiple technology platforms with applicability in all chemical related industries to boost quantum computing adoption.

About IEEE event 

IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. IEEE is actively contributing to the global R&D efforts to understand the power and promise of quantum computing. IEEE Quantum Week is bridging the gap between the science of quantum computing and the development of an industry surrounding it.

Media contact:

HIroki Oka
oka@qunasys.com / pr@qunasys.com 
+81-9060589550

Related Links :

https://en.qunasys.com/

The Inaugural Hong Kong Science Fair Offers a Platform for Youth to Showcase Their Innovations

HONG KONG, Oct. 4, 2021 — The inaugural Hong Kong Science Fair (‘Science Fair’) organised by Hong Kong Innovation Foundation (‘HKIF’) is opened for registration with an aim of encouraging schools, teachers, and students to think out of the box. Themed ‘Think Big Be Innovative’, the Science Fair welcomes creations that express students’ original ideas and their discoveries by applying their knowledge of science, technology and design. The Exhibition will be held in February 2022 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and is now accepting applications from Primary 4 to Form 6 students in Hong Kong through their schools.

Founded in 2018, Hong Kong Innovation Foundation has been cultivating the spirit of innovation in our younger generation.
Founded in 2018, Hong Kong Innovation Foundation has been cultivating the spirit of innovation in our younger generation.

The inaugural Hong Kong Science Fair offers a platform for youth to showcase their innovations.
The inaugural Hong Kong Science Fair offers a platform for youth to showcase their innovations.

Mr Daryl Ng, Chairman of the Hong Kong Innovation Foundation says, ‘Hong Kong Innovation Foundation is committed to promoting an ecosystem of innovative technology and encouraging the younger generation to cultivate an innovative mindset. We are grateful to have this opportunity to organise the first Hong Kong Science Fair which serves as a platform to showcase their discoveries and creations. The imagination of our youth is boundless, I am always impressed by their creativity and aspirations for embracing technology. The continuous support by schools and teachers in supporting our younger generation has provided a solid foundation to assist students to realise their dreams. Thanks also to the Hong Kong Government for committing over HK$110 billion in innovation and technology, over the past several years, to provide opportunities nurturing the younger generation and well-place Hong Kong to grow into a global innovation hub.’

The launch of Hong Kong Science Fair has been made successful with the support of a number of organisations including Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node and University of Hong Kong. Through the participation in the Hong Kong Science Fair, students will learn to refine their creations and turn their ideas into reality. HKIF is also pleased to be collaborating with industry experts who will offer assistance and guidance to participating students to better express their creativity through their works and to provide professional advice during the development of prototypes.

The Hong Kong Science Fair judging panel will consider works based on their design concepts, creativity, innovation, feasibility and functionality, as well as students’ presentation skills or teamwork. The competition comprises ‘Primary’, ‘Junior Secondary’ and ‘Senior Secondary’ divisions, with a Gold, Silver and Bronze award in each category. Participants can join the competition on an individual or group basis with the leadership of a teacher. Winning students or teams will receive a prize of HK$10,000, HK$8,000 and HK$5,000 respectively as Student Development Fund, as well as a special ‘Teacher Leadership Award’ and ‘School Development Fund’ in appreciation of the support and leadership of their schools and teachers.

Every selected team will receive a Merit Award and participate in the exhibition which will be hosted on 19 to 20 February 2022 at the Hong Kong Convention Centre and to compete for the People’s Choice Award. All awards will be announced at The Hong Kong Science Fair Award Presentation Ceremony on 20 February 2022.

Founded in 2018, HKIF has been cultivating the spirit of innovation in our younger generation via its four key programme pillars – initiatives, sponsorships, innovations, and scholarships. HKIF provides free STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) courses to encourage students to explore the world of technology and innovation. HKIF has initiated a number of major programmes such as Go Code that has provided over 6,000 placements of free coding classes for students from less-resourced families; ‘One Laptop’ Programme which has offered over 1,000 laptops to help students from less-resourced families to cope with new learning arrangement during the COVID-19 restrictions; ‘Think Like Leonardo da Vinci – 500th Anniversary Exhibition’ that brought the world-class thematic exhibition to Olympian City, together with immersive and interactive experienced for the public, and more.

 

Related Links :

https://www.hkif.org.hk/

Northern Star Energy Selects PDI Logistics Cloud to Automate Fuel Distribution


PDI’s industry-leading software will streamline operations and fleet management for the fuel marketer

ATLANTA, Oct. 4, 2021 — PDI (www.pdisoftware.com), a global provider of leading software solutions for the convenience retailers and petroleum wholesaler industries announced Northern Star Energy Corporation, a Philippine convenience retailer with a network of 70 Caltex service stations and a supplier of energy products and related services to various critical industries across the country, has chosen PDI Logistics Cloud to transform, innovate, and automate its fuel distribution operations.

PDI Logistics Cloud complements Northern Star’s digital transformation strategy by providing marketers, drivers, and dispatchers tools to streamline operations and improve order accuracy. The cloud-based fuel logistics solution will allow Northern Star to eliminate costly and time-consuming manual processes to ensure timely fuel delivery to its customers.

"We have expanded significantly in recent years – the Covid-19 pandemic notwithstanding – and continued to supply fuel and non-fuel products and services to the retail, commercial, and industrial markets," said Juan Miguel Delgado, COO at Northern Star. "PDI Logistics Cloud will help us reduce inefficiencies, automate our operations, and achieve end-to-end visibility across our business. PDI’s capabilities, technology stack, and industry reputation make them the perfect fit for our needs."

In 2020, Northern Star Retail opened eight new locations, acquired Branded Marketer status in a new territory, and ventured into new businesses and alliances, including marketing digital-based products and services. Its commercial and industrial business capitalized on excellent service and strong business relationships to attract and retain customers. Its subsidiaries in fuel distribution and facilities management ensured that the supply of products and services to its clients remained uninterrupted. Northern Star also went into lubricant distribution and – through its new subsidiary – entered the payments space.

"We’re excited to support Northern Star as they look to increase efficiency, productivity, and profitability by digitalizing their operation," said Sin Hin Wong, managing director and vice president of Sales, APAC, at PDI. "This new relationship is just the latest example of PDI’s ongoing commitment to convenience retailers and petroleum marketers of all sizes in this region. We look forward to delivering the results Northern Star and its customers deserve."

Tweet this: Northern Star Energy selects @pdisoftware as its logistics solution to automate its fuel distribution operations.

About PDI
Professional Datasolutions, Inc. (PDI) software helps businesses and brands increase sales, operate more efficiently and securely, and improve critical decision-making. Since 1983, PDI has proudly served the convenience retail and petroleum wholesale industries. Over 1,500 companies, representing more than 200,000 locations worldwide count on PDI’s solutions and expertise to deliver convenience and energy to the world. For more information about PDI, visit us at www.pdisoftware.com.

For more information, contact: Dimitra Farou
+49 69 82379613 I dfarou@pdisoftware.com 

Logo – https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/1517102/PDI_color_Logo.jpg?p=medium600

Related Links :

http://www.pdisoftware.com

http://pdisoftware.com

Joy Spreader Group Buys Back HK$120 Million Worth of Shares for Inclusion in its Share Incentive Plan

BEIJING, Oct. 3, 2021 /PR Newswire/ — Joy Spreader Group (HKG: 6988, "the Group") announced on September 30, 2021 that the trustee of the Group’s Share Incentive Plan had purchased 42.35 million of its shares from the market for a total consideration of some HK$120 million (approx. US$15.6 million) at an average price of HK$2.85 (approx. US$0.37) per share in accordance with the rules of the Plan and will hold the shares in the interest of the participants of the Plan.

The Share Incentive Plan announced in June aims to recognize the contributions of some of the Group’s directors, employees, consultants and advisors in a move to retain them to assist with the company’s future growth and expansion. 

The implementation of the Plan fully demonstrates the Group’s strong confidence in its business prospects. Going forward, the firm plans to continue implementing its share repurchase program based on market conditions. 

For more information about Joy Spreader Group Inc., please visit here.

 

Related Links :

http://www.joyspreader.com.cn

Global Technologies divests AEi – MycronicAB

STOCKHOLM, Oct. 2, 2021 — Mycronic’s Global Technologies division has divested Automation Engineering, Inc. (AEi) to Singapore-based ASM Pacific Technology.

AEi, which was acquired by Mycronic in 2016, develops, manufactures, and sells innovative and market leading solutions for precision Camera Module Assembly and Test (CMAT) systems used in electronics products. AEi provides a comprehensive product portfolio of fully-automated active alignment solutions, used to assemble camera modules and to measure and verify quality during volume production. The equipment is modular and adapted to customer requirements. The largest customer segment is the automotive industry.

"Our goal has been to find an owner with an existing broad offering towards the automotive industry, who in addition has a technological leadership position in active alignment solutions for camera and sensor assembly and thus can leverage AEi’s technology and know-how. We believe we have found such an owner in ASM Pacific Technology," says Michael Chalsen, Sr VP Global Technologies at Mycronic.

"We greatly look forward to continuing to develop AEi’s global market and technology leadership position together with ASM Pacific Technology and enabling full line solutions for the automotive and adjacent markets," says Jean Marc Peallat, General Manager, AEi.

The transaction is expected to be finalized in the fourth quarter of 2021 or first quarter of 2022, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

For additional information, please contact:
Michael Chalsen
Sr VP Global Technologies
Tel: +1 978 495 9418, e-mail: michael.chalsen@mycronic.com

Sven Chetkovich
Director Investor Relations
Tel: +46 70 558 39 19, e-mail: sven.chetkovich@mycronic.com

About Mycronic

Mycronic is a Swedish high-tech company engaged in the development, manufacture and marketing of production equipment with high precision and flexibility requirements for the electronics industry. Mycronic’s headquarters are located in Täby, north of Stockholm and the Group has subsidiaries in China, France, Germany, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, South Korea, United Kingdom and United States. Mycronic is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm. www.mycronic.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/mycronic-ab/r/global-technologies-divests-aei,c3423991

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CBDCs are Designed to be Very Stable; Majority of Central Banks Exploring CBDCs: IMF


NEW DELHI and MUMBAI, India, Oct. 2, 2021 — "About 80-100 Central Banks around the world, including G20 nations, are exploring the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and are in some sort of pilot or testing stages," Tobias Adrian, Financial Counsellor and Director Monetary and Capital Markets Department, International Monetary Fund said at the Global FinTech Fest. The three-day Fest, which concluded on 30 September, was attended by over 26,000 delegates from 121 countries. Policymakers, technocrats, investors, founders, economists, bankers, participated in the Fest. The event was organised by National Payments Council of India (NPCI) and Fintech Convergence Councill (FCC) and Payments Council of India (PCI) of Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI).

"CBDCs are designed to be very stable, stable in value, low transaction cost and backed by the Central Bank for added consumer confidence, very different from bitcoins which fluctuate in value and are more like an investment asset," Tobias Adrian said.

Central Banks around the world are rushing in to think about CBDCs as it is very appealing for Central Banks to go along with technological progress. Also, there could be a lot of innovations in Central Banks issued digital currencies, especially across payments, lending platforms.

"CBDCs could indeed be somewhat similar, not necessarily be, to bitcoin assets, could be based on blockchain technology, could be available in wallets. It depends on the design whether it is based on existing payment systems or using very powerful blockchain technologies," Tobias Adrian mentioned.

Meanwhile, he warned that cybersecurity could be a major challenge for CBDCs. "You need to make sure that the system is resilient against cyberattacks." It’s not the technology alone but the intersection of technology and human. Secondly, CBDCs might undermine existing banks so banks need to upgrade their technologies to compete. Finally, cellphones, not all today have cellphones for transacting CBDCs.

On expensive cross-border payments, Adrian envisioned that cross-border transfers would be a lot cheaper for small amount of payments. There are some wallet exchanges available that allow one to convert US dollar into rupee stable coin, with an implicit fee that is cheaper. However, there are a lot of discussions going on between Central Banks of various countries to make the cross-border payments cheaper.

Logo: https://techent.tv/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cbdcs-are-designed-to-be-very-stable-majority-of-central-banks-exploring-cbdcs-imf.jpg

Razer Unveils the Kiyo X Webcam and Ripsaw X Capture Card – Streaming Does Not Have to be Expensive

The gaming industry is huge today. A part of that industry is also contents that you can watch and enjoy. That is the game streaming industry that is made popular by people like PewDiePie, and even Markiplier. As the eSports scene sees a huge surge in recent years, the game streaming industry also blew up. This leads to the creation of specialised hardware and accessories just for game streaming.

Webcams, for example, used to be telecommunication devices that you can use for video conferencing. Full HD webcams technically has existed forever, but never meant to be used for game streaming, although that is still possible. Capture cards was also a thing that was used by studios for both live production and regular production usage. With game streaming though, these once premium items were more in demand and more purpose built than ever. That does not mean that they become more accessible in price.

Introducing the Razer Kiyo X and Ripsaw X peripherals made for streaming. These are made specifically for streaming, but they are also made with budget in mind. These products are really designed for newer streamers who just got started in the streaming industry and looking to upgrade their gear without breaking their banks.

Razer Kiyo X

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  • Kiyo X 2021 Render 02

The Razer Kiyo X is really a littler, more budget version of the Razer Kiyo. The ‘X’ moniker really gave it away as the more budget friendly companion in the line-up. It is capable of shooting videos at Full HD at 30fps to boot. If you want your videos to be extra smooth, you can get it to shoot at 60fps with a resolution penalty at 720p.

The USB plug and play webcam can be controlled via Razer’s Synapse software. While it does not come with its own right light, it still has something called The Razer Virtual Right Light software that goes along with it. In that case, the display becomes a light panel for the Razer Kiyo X for both video calls and streams.

Razer Ripsaw X

  • Razer Ripsaw X 2021 Render 01
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  • Razer Ripsaw X 2021 Render 08
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  • Razer Ripsaw X 2021 Render 02

Another very important item for live streaming is the capture card. A capture card functions either as a platform to record and project your games into the streaming software. From there, the software broadcasts the image that is captured from the capture card. It is commonly used in a two PC configuration, or when you want to use a regular camera as the webcam.

The Razer Ripsaw X is also technically a smaller version of the Ripsaw. It is quite a little bit more powerful than the old Ripsaw though. Where the Ripsaw could only capture streams at Full HD at up to 60fps, the new Ripsaw X can capture videos at 4K resolution at up to 30fps with HDMI 2.0 and a USB 3.0 interface. The Ripsaw X is also supposed to offer near-zero latency, which also means you do not have to be doing a lot of guess and calculation work done for streams.

Price and availability

The Razer Kiyo X and Ripsaw X will be is now available from Razer.com in the United States, Europe, and Singapore. There is no word on its availability in Malaysia, but we are expecting them to hit shelves in Malaysia soon. The Razer Kiyo X will set you back US$ 79.99 (MYR 334*) when it is available. The Ripsaw X will be available oat US$ 139.99 (MYR 585*).

*Approximately based on exchange rate of US$ 1 = 4.18 on xe.com as of 02/10/2021

Guardforce AI Co., Ltd. Announces Closing of $15 Million Underwritten Public Offering

NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2021 — Guardforce AI Co., Ltd. ("Guardforce" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: GFAI, GFAIW), an integrated security solutions provider in Asia, today announced the closing of its previously announced underwritten public offering of 3,614,458 units ("Units"), with each unit consisting of one ordinary share, par value $0.003 per share (the "Ordinary Share") and one warrant (the "Warrant") to purchase one Ordinary Share at a public offering price of $4.15 per Unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $15 million, prior to deducting underwriting discounts and other offering expenses.

EF Hutton, division of Benchmark Investments, LLC, acted as sole book-running manager for the offering.

The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") declared effective a registration statement on Form F-1, as amended (File No. 333-258054) (the "Registration Statement"), on September 28, 2021. A final prospectus relating to the offering was filed with the SEC and is available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus relating to this offering may be obtained from EF Hutton, division of Benchmark Investments, LLC, 590 Madison Avenue, 39th Floor, New York, NY 10022, Attention: Syndicate Department, or via email at syndicate@efhuttongroup.com or telephone at (212) 404-7002.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Guardforce AI Co., Ltd.

Guardforce AI Co. Ltd. is a leading integrated security solutions provider that is trusted to protect and transport the high-value assets of public and private sector organizations. Developing and introducing innovative technologies that enhance safety and protection, Guardforce AI helps clients adopt new technologies and operate safely as the Asia Pacific business landscape evolves.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws. We make such forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and other federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements provide our current expectations or forecasts of future events. Forward-looking statements include statements about our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, intentions, assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts. Words or phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "ongoing," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "will" or similar words or phrases, or the negatives of those words or phrases, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on reasonable assumptions we have made in light of our industry experience, perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances. As you read and consider this press release you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve risks, uncertainties (many of which are beyond our control) and assumptions, including the risks described in the reports and other documents we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although we believe that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect our actual operating and financial performance and cause our performance to differ materially from the performance anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of these assumptions prove incorrect or change, our actual operating and financial performance may vary in material respects from the performance projected in these forward-looking statements.  Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release speaks only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

 

Predator Triton 500 SE First Look

The Predator Triton 500 was one of the highest-rated products from their gaming stables in 2019 and even through 2020. They have a new one in the Predator Triton 500 SE.

The Predator Triton 500 SE is one of a kind gaming notebook with a 16:10 display ratio. With up to 240Hz WQXGA IPS display and 3ms response time, missing a moment in competitive games is a thing of the past. The high-resolution display also boasts highly accurate colours with 100% of DCI-P3 coverage.

Powering the 16-inch display is an 11th Generation Intel Core i9 (up to) and a mobile variant of NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 (up to), making the uniquely stealthy notebook one of the most powerful gaming PCs money can buy today. With up to 64GB of configurable RAM, this 19.9mm thin package is a true beast clad in a shining all-metal chassis as its armour.

Keeping the Predator Triton 500 SE cool and performing at its best at all times is Acer’s latest triple fan Vortex Flow cooling system