HONOR Launches the Magic5 Series with Millisecond Falcon Capture technology for MYR 3,499 Onward

Ever since HONOR has stepped out as an independent smartphone manufacturer, the brand has gone from strength to strength. They have successfully launched their own smartphones packing their own MagicOS based on Android with Google Play Store access for a couple of years now. While they have not been able to completely shake off their HUAWEI ties or association, they do make respectable smartphones that are rather appealing too.

Their latest addition to the stable is the Magic5 series announced in MWC 2023. You get to choose between vanilla model or a Pro variant in this series. They also launched a rather interesting foldable, the Magic Vs alongside the Magic5, but we are going to focus on the Magic5 series here.

HONOR Magic5 Pro

Screenshot 2023 04 07 135743
Source: HONOR

The Magic5 Pro is built to be the true 2023 flagship for HONOR. They started out with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 system on a chip (SoC), the fastest and most powerful processing chip for an Android smartphone to date. The octa-core chip is then paired to 12GB of RAM for good measure and to avoid bottlenecks in multitasking conditions. You get 512GB of storage too for good measure.

Part of the 512GB of storage holds the Android 13 based MagicOS 7.1 interface that shows on the large 6.82-inch display. The OLED panel offers 2,848 by 1,312 pixels, which is not quite QHD+, but more than Full HD+. It is a 10-bit display offering up to 1.07 billion colours and up to 1800nits in brightness though. It is also an LTPO panel that offers up to 120Hz in refresh rate for that extra smooth feel. The glass that protects the display also protects a 12-Megapixel front-facing camera supported by a 3-Megapixel depth sensor with up to 4K resolution video recording capabilities.

The HONOR Magic5 Pro’s party piece, the Falcon Triple Main Camera as HONOR puts it, is its main camera array at the back. Arranged in a familiar ‘halo’ design, the HONOR Magic5 Pro offers three 50-Megapixel sensors at the back. One is obviously a regular 24mm wide-angle shooter, the other is an ultra-wide shooter, and the last one is a telephoto lens capable of 3.5x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom. All of them offer optical image stabilisation (OIS) too if you are worried about your clammy hands. Of course, the camera array supports video recording at 4K resolution. They say also that the camera is faster than ever before, hence the name Falcon.

Keeping everything running for an entire day and possibly more is a 5,100mAh battery pack within the glass and aluminium constructed body. It supports HONOR’s 66W Supercharge technology which will still allow you to get going with a full charge in just about an hour’s time. If you prefer to just leave your device on the table to get it wirelessly charging, the device is capable of a 50W charge wirelessly.

HONOR Magic5

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Source: HONOR

The more premium Magic5 Pro may be appealing and can be recognised as the true flagship for HONOR. The vanilla is not too far behind though, in that case we think that the vanilla Magic5 is worth more than a look thanks to the value it offers. It is everything that is the Magic5 Pro with a few minor differences.

It packs the same SoC, for one. It also comes with the same amount of RAM. The storage is a little smaller though at 256GB. While the display is smaller at 6.73-inch, you still get an OLED panel that offers more than Full HD+ in resolution. You still get up to 120Hz in refresh rate and DCI-P3 colour gamut at up to 1600nits in brightness.

You lose one camera out in front. You also lose a little resolution the camera at only 12-Megapixel, but no matter, you still shoot videos at 4K resolution. Out the back is a more powerful main camera at 54-Megapixel. The ultra-wide camera remains the same at 50-Megapixel. The trade off is on the telephoto camera that offers 32-Megapixel and only up to 50x digital zoom.

It is still an Android 13 device offering MagicOS 7.1 interface though. Within the glass and aluminium construction is still a large 5,100mAh battery. It still charges at 66W but does not get wireless charging.

Price and Availability

HONOR Magic5 Pro Pre Order Starts
Source: HONOR

The HONOR Magic5 starts at MYR 3,499. You can get one in either Glacier Blue or Black colour. The vanilla HONOR Magic5 will go on sale starting 28th of April 2023. There are no pre-order programmes for this one.

The HONOR Magic5 Pro does have a pre-order programme. You can now pre-order your HONOR Magic5 Pro up until the 13th of April 2023. Shipping starts the day after that and you can pre-order your device from their own online stores, partner retailers, and even their official stores on Shopee and Lazada. Each pre-order entitles you to free gifts worth over MYR 1,200 while stocks last. The HONOR Magic5 Pro is available in Meadow Green and Black Colour options for MYR 4,299). For more information on HONOR’s Magic5 and Magic5 Pro, you can visit their website.

TCL PARTNERS WITH ARSENAL TO ENHANCE CONSUMER ENGAGEMENT IN THE MIDDLE EAST, AFRICA AND EUROPE

Utilizing innovative Mini LED and QLED TV offerings to unite football fans as they experience new realms of entertainment together.

HONG KONG, April 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — TCL, a Global top 2 TV brand, has announced a new partnership with Arsenal Football Club. The collaboration will give Arsenal supporters in the UK, Middle East and Africa more opportunities to engage with the club, while also increasing TCL’s expanding footprint in sport by becoming the club’s Official Regional Consumer Electronics Partner in those markets.

With a mission to Inspire Greatness, TCL understands the impact sport has on people around the world and the new partnership aims to engage supporters around their common passion for football.

TCL PARTNERS WITH ARSENAL
TCL PARTNERS WITH ARSENAL

TCL will provide Arsenal supporters with exclusive club content and exciting deals on a product range including TVs, white goods and home appliances. Supporters will have the opportunity to participate in competitions and games with the lucky winners receiving official Arsenal gifts and merchandise. TCL will also invite its customers to watch live matches at Emirates Stadium as well as meet and greets with current players and legends.

“We are thrilled to partner with Arsenal Football Club, one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world,” said Sunny Yang, General Manager TCL Middle East and Africa. ” This partnership will allow us to bring our innovative and high-quality products to Arsenal’s passionate and loyal supporter base in the Middle East, Africa and the UK. Our values of progression, positivity and inspiration are aligned to those of Arsenal and we’re excited to work together to engage supporters around the world in their common love for football.”

Juliet Slot, Arsenal’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are delighted to welcome TCL to our family of partners. This partnership represents an exciting opportunity for both Arsenal and TCL to engage with our supporters in the Middle East, Africa and the UK. We look forward to working closely with TCL to bring the best viewing experience to our fans in the region.”

Leaders On and Off the Field – The Powerful Pairing of Technology and Sports

TCL recognizes that TVs have the unique ability to connect and inspire people around the world, by immersing them in the action that unfolds on screen. Of all the TV content available, there is undeniably something magical about watching live sport and feeling the exact same emotion that millions of other viewers across the world are feeling at the same time. With its range of XL screens measuring up to 98″, TCL ensures consumers never miss a moment of the action and makes them feel like they are right there on the sidelines.

About TCL

TCL Electronics (1070.HK) is a fast-growing consumer electronics company and a leading player in the global TV industry. Founded in 1981, it now operates in over 160 markets globally. TCL specializes in the research, development and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio and smart home appliances.

SHEIN X Incubator Program to Recruit 500 New Aspiring Designers and Artists in the U.S. in 2023

Inaugural SHEIN X Design Summit gathered hundreds of designers and artists for showcases, panels and networking opportunities with fashion industry experts as SHEIN looks to onboard 500 more to the SHEIN X program in the U.S.

LOS ANGELES, April 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — On Saturday, April 1, SHEIN, the global e-retailer of fashion, beauty and lifestyle products, hosted the company’s first-ever SHEIN X Design Summit, which gathered hundreds of artists and designers, as well as industry leaders, at City Market Social House in Los Angeles, California. The event celebrated independent designers and encouraged them to leverage the company’s flagship incubator program, SHEIN X, to take their businesses to the next level, no matter their level of experience. Since the program’s launch, 1,500 aspiring designers from the U.S. have been empowered through SHEIN X, and the company is looking to onboard 500 more in the U.S. in 2023.

Marisa Runyon, Laura Kim, Maeve Reily, LaQuan Smith, Gary Wassner (Photo Credit: Virisa Yong/BFA.com)
Marisa Runyon, Laura Kim, Maeve Reily, LaQuan Smith, Gary Wassner (Photo Credit: Virisa Yong/BFA.com)

“The idea for this summit came from SHEIN X designers themselves,” George Chiao, SHEIN’s U.S. president, said at the event. “We’re always looking for feedback from our designers, and several wanted an educational opportunity where they could come together, get to know one another, and learn more about how to build their brands – all while having some fun. We hope we delivered on that today, and we’ll continue to identify ways to empower SHEIN X designers and improve their experience with the program.”

The day-long summit featured designer-dedicated programming and networking opportunities, including panels with LaQuan Smith, designer and founder of LaQuan Smith; Laura Kim, co-creative director at Monse; Maeve Reilly, celebrity stylist; Gary Wassner, CEO of Hilldun Corporation; Evette, co-founder of Act of Faith and founder of EXO Cosmetics; Racquel Natasha, influencer, designer and founder of Natasia swimwear; and Josephine Skriver, model and co-founder of JOJA. There was also a performance from The Future X, where the group announced each member will be partnering with a SHEIN X designer to launch their own capsule collection on SHEIN’s platform.

Attendees onsite had the opportunity to connect with stylists, merchandisers, buyers, influencers and other industry professionals, including top performing SHEIN X designers Armand Medhiri, Kenya Freeman and Valerie Campbell of Freak City, who shared their personal experiences with the program and advice for other aspiring creatives.

“Keep going, keep going, keep going,” said Freeman, who launched her first collection with SHEIN X in 2021. “For me, my career has been a long road, with a lot of twists and turns, but when you wake up each day and know you’re doing what you’re here to do, there’s nothing like it. The SHEIN X program has opened so many doors for me, and I’ve never been more excited for what’s ahead.”

More than 20 SHEIN X designers from around the world also showcased their personal collections at the summit. Following the showcase, SHEIN X designers Danielle Brion, Veronica Diaz Montalvo and Jade Breyon were chosen for a previously announced mentorship opportunity with Kim, while SHEIN X designer Francesca Lazzari was chosen for a mentorship program with Reilly.

From just seven designers when the program launched in January 2021, the SHEIN X incubator program has grown to almost 3,000 designers globally, launching more than 25,000 original creations. SHEIN has invested more than $55 million into the program and guides participants through the end-to-end process, from product development, to manufacturing, to marketing and supply chain logistics. Importantly, SHEIN X designers maintain ownership rights to their SHEIN X designs. Since the launch of SHEIN X, SHEIN X artists and designers around the world have earned over $5 million in commission from the sale of SHEIN X products.

All of the SHEIN X Design Summit panels were livestreamed on the SHEIN app, as well as SHEIN’s official Instagram and TikTok accounts. Video recordings of the panels can be found below and photos from the summit can be found here.

Panels:

ABOUT SHEIN

SHEIN is a global fashion and lifestyle e-retailer committed to making the beauty of fashion accessible to all. We use on-demand manufacturing technology to connect suppliers to our agile supply chain, reducing inventory waste and enabling us to deliver a variety of affordable products to customers around the world. From our global offices, we reach customers in more than 150 countries. To learn more about SHEIN, visit www.SHEINgroup.com.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Brings Flagship Class Specifications to a More Affordable Price Point

Xiaomi’s Redmi lineup has long been one of the most affordable smartphones available on the market. With the Redmi Note 11 series, the lineup took a step closer to bringing flagship-class specs with its 108-megapixel camera. This year, the series inches even closer with a 200-megapixel camera and high-performance display.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 006

The new series comes with three entries – for now. Spearheading the lineup is the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G which comes with a 200-megapixel camera and the MediaTek Dimensity 1080. The Note 12 Pro+ 5G also comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage and runs on Android 12 with MIUI 14. On the entry-level side of things is the Redmi Note 12 without 5G which comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of onboard storage and comes with a 50-megapixel camera. Sitting right in the middle of the lineup is the Redmi Note 12 5G which comes with the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1. It comes with a 48-megapixel camera and up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal space.

The hallmark of the new lineup is the 200-megapixel sensor which comes as the main sensor on the Pro+. This main sensor is complemented by an 8-megapixel ultrawide sensor and a 2-megapixel macro camera. On the front of the Pro+ is a 16-megapixel selfie camera. The Pro+ comes with a 6.67-inch FHD+ Flow AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 900 nits peak brightness and Dolby Vision support. The Pro+ is also the only one in the lineup which comes with a dual-curved design making it more ergonomic.

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  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 069
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 062
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 064
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 065
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 066
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 059
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 060

The Redmi Note 12 5G’s 48-megapixel sensor is complemented by 8-megapixel ultrawide and 2-megapixel macro sensors. It comes with a 13-megapixel on the front. Display-wise it comes with a 6.67-inch AMOLED DotDisplay with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1,200 nits peak brightness and Corning Gorilla Glass 3. The 5G version of the Redmi Note 12 comes with a curved back.

The Redmi Note 12 without 5G comes in a completely flat form factor. It has the same camera setup complementing its 50-megapixel sensor and selfie camera as the Redmi Note 12 5G. Even the display is the same. The major differences here are its processor, the lack of 5G connectivity and the 50-megapixel sensor.

The smartphones are IP53 splash and dust resistance certified. Xiaomi has also opted to keep the 3.5mm combo jack and IR blaster. All versions come with side-mounted fingerprint sensors which are embedded into the power button. They also all come with a 5,000mAh battery with 33W Fast Charging. However, Pro+ ups the ante a little bit with 120W HyperCharge.

Pricing & Availability

The Redmi Note 12 series will be available for pre-order in Malaysia starting on April 6, 2023. During this pre-order, purchases will be entitled to a free Redmi Smart Band 2. The e-commerce exclusive Redmi Note 12 (6GB + 128GB) will be available at a discounted price of MYR659 during this period.

In-store sales begin from April 15 onwards. Purchases made from this date onwards will be entitled to free Redmi Buds 4 Lite while stocks last.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Series Launch 011

Purchases and Pre-orders can be made at authorised Xiaomi dealers and the Xiaomi storefronts on Shopee and Lazada.

The official pricing and variants available are listed below.

ModelColoursPricing (MYR)Pre-order OfferIn-Store Offer
Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G (8GB+256GB)Midnight Black
Polar White
Sky Blue
RM 1,599FREE
Redmi Smart Band 2
FREE
Redmi Buds 4 Lite
Redmi Note 12 5G (8GB+256GB)Onyx Gray
Forest Green
Ice Blue
RM 1,099FREE
Redmi Smart Band 2
FREE
Redmi Buds 4 Lite
Redmi Note 12 (8GB+128GB)Onyx Gray
Mint Green
Ice Blue
RM 799FREE
Redmi Smart Band 2
FREE
Redmi Buds 4 Lite
Redmi Note 12 (6GB+128GB)
*e-Commerce exclusive
Onyx Gray
Mint Green
Ice Blue
RM 699FREE
Redmi Smart Band 2
Special Price: MYR659

FREE
Redmi Buds 4 Lite

Official Specifications

  • Redmi Note 12 one pager compressed
  • Redmi Note 12 5G one pager compressed
  • Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G one pager compressed

Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund/HSBC JUMPSTARTER 2023 Open for Application

In-person information sessions hosted in GBA and SEA

HONG KONG, April 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund/HSBC JUMPSTARTER 2023 Global Pitch Competition (“JUMPSTARTER 2023”) is now open for application, inviting entries from start-ups worldwide to bring more like-minded organizations together to bolster the growth of innovation and technology globally.



Due to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, JUMPSTARTER 2023 will again host a series of in-person information sessions, including cities in the Greater Bay Area including Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Zhuhai, as well as Southeast Asia including Singapore and Vietnam. To encourage more talents and drive the development of innovation in the region, successful entrepreneurs and industry experts will be invited to share their entrepreneurial journeys and challenges as well as to examine the current business climate and growth prospects in the market. So far, the information sessions attracted nearly 1,000 start-ups or those interested in JUMPSTARTER.


Cindy Chow, Executive Director of Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund (left), said,   

“During the height of COVID-19, we were incredibly inspired to see many start-ups unlock innovative ways to address societal pain points. We want to encourage start-ups in the sixth JUMPSTARTER to address the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. We have added biotech, industry 4.0 and web 3.0 to capture the emerging market trends. JUMPSTARTER aspires to be a platform that supports individuals with entrepreneurial aspirations to accelerate the innovation and technology industry with our partners.”

Frank Fang, General Manager, Head of Commercial Banking, Hong Kong and Macau, HSBC (right), said,

“We are pleased to partner with Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund for the fifth consecutive year in the JUMPSTARTER Global Pitch Competition, unlocking the potential of promising start-ups around the world. Innovation has emerged as an engine for high-quality and sustainable growth globally. In Hong Kong, our rapid transformation into an international innovation hub and increasing integration with other cities in the Greater Bay Area offer a fertile breeding ground to international start-ups. As a long-term partner of the business community, HSBC will continue to leverage our international network and financing expertise to support high-growth companies and play to our strengths as a super-connector in the start-up ecosystem.”

JUMPSTARTER 2023 Information session held in Hong Kong


During the information session in Hong Kong on March 31, 2023, a panel discussion was hosted by Jason Chen, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of Gobi Partners, to explore “Riding the AI wave: How start-ups and Venture Capitalists are navigating the Future of AI”, attended by Patrick Tu, Co-Founder & CEO of Dayta AI; Ivan Lau, Co-Founder & CEO of Pantheon Lab Limited; Miles Wen, Co-Founder & CEO of Fano Labs Limited; and Tim Lee, Partner of Creo Capital.

JUMPSTARTER 2023 Information Session in Singapore


During the information session in Singapore on April 3, 2023, a panel discussion was hosted by Olive Tai, Co-founder & Managing Director of Synagie, to explore “Breaking Borders: How Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area are unlocking opportunities for Southeast Asia starts”, attended by Atul Babu, Founder & CEO of Dhata Tech; Vincent Chow, Founder & CEO of En-trak (JUMPSTARTER 2017 Winner); and Ivan Goh, CEO of QuantumTX (JUMPSTARTER 2022 Top 10).

Ivan Goh, CEO of QuantumTX said,

“Participating in start-up competitions can offer numerous benefits and opportunities beyond winning a prize. JUMPSTARTER has given QuantumTX a good chance to grow engagement with the Hong Kong and Mainland China market. As a finalist, we were given the exhibition space to present our technology in Hong Kong. With that, QuantumTX gained more credibility that aroused interest in Hong Kong and the GBA. Last year, QuantumTX’s business in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) grew considerably, making up about 20% to 30% of their top-line.”

Vincent Chow, Founder & CEO of En-trak said,

“Starting a start-up can be a daunting challenge, especially when you do not have an established brand, network or financial backing. Therefore, participating in respected start-up competitions like JUMPSTARTER can be a good starting point to gain credibility and recognition from potential customers. Winning over your first corporate client can ignite a ripple effect, rapidly accelerating the growth of your customer base.”

JUMPSTARTER 2023 information session held in Shenzhen


During the information session in Shenzhen on March 28, 2023, a panel discussion was hosted by Bohan Zheng, Senior Investment Manager of Gobi Partners, to explore “How to Leverage Hong Kong to Seize the Opportunities of Globalization”, attended by Johnny Tang, Chief Operation Officer of Qupital; Yu Tian, Founder and CEO of Shenzhen Smart Supply Chain; and Zhang Shuai, Founder of HALOBLK.

Johnny Tang, COO of Qupital said,

Hong Kong’s advanced financial system offers extensive support and collaboration opportunities for startups, while also providing reliable measures for corporate financing. As a fintech startup, Qupital’s success greatly depends on the exceptional support of our Hong Kong team in finance and risk management, empowering businesses to achieve a stable and sustainable growth.”

Zhang Shuai, Founder of HALOBLK said,

Hong Kong offers an expansive platform for global capital, providing startups with abundant prospects for growth and resources. With Hong Kong’s rich background in foreign trade, startups can capitalize on this advantage to export their products to international markets, reach new heights in overseas expansion, attract diverse talent from round the world, customize their products to local markets, and achieve accelerated development.”

JUMPSTARTER 2023 is now open for application. Please visit https://www.jumpstarter.hk/en/  for more details.

About Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund

Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund (“AEF”) is a not-for-profit initiative launched by Alibaba Group in 2015. To vitalize the development of innovation and technology, AEF’s mission is to help Hong Kong entrepreneurs and young people realize their dreams and visions for a Hong Kong that is vibrant and engaged regionally and globally. As part of its investment program, AEF provides Hong Kong-based entrepreneurs with investment capital and strategic guidance to help them grow their businesses and penetrate the mainland Chinese and global markets, by utilizing Alibaba’s Ecosystem. For more information, please visit the website: https://www.ent-fund.org/en/

About JUMPSTARTER

JUMPSTARTER is a not-for-profit initiative created by Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund that provides a platform for all entrepreneurs and young people to jump start their dreams in Hong Kong. It is a first-of-its-kind start-up event focused exclusively on showcasing quality start-ups and providing high-impact networking opportunities. Its goal is to build, empower and boost Hong Kong’s start-up ecosystem and entrepreneurship by bringing entrepreneurs, corporations, investors and the public together, helping to transform Hong Kong into a leading hub for global innovation and technology. For more information, please visit the website: https://www.jumpstarter.hk/en/

You Can Soon Delete Your User Data from an App Thanks to Google

Data privacy and security is a big topic. It is also something Apple and Google, the world’s largest tech firms, have been working on for a long time. Over time, Google and Apple have both separately introduce new measures and policies for their developers to improve on security and giving more privacy access to their users. In their latest policy update, Google might make things easier for you if you wish to opt out or finally delete an app you no longer want to use.

As of yesterday, Google has introduced a few key initiatives for their Google Play store for 2023 and beyond. In their latest blog update, they are looking to achieve a few things with their initiative an policy update. Ads is still a big thing for Google, but they are looking to soften ads served to users. You are not getting any less ads, but Google seems to limit the amount of data that you share with apps and therefore shared across ad algorithms.

Google is also introducing a new Play Integrity API that is supposed to better protect their developers and the IP that comes with the apps. Alongside the enhanced API, Google is also introducing Google Play SDK Index so that developers have better overview over their SDK uses. In all this, they also look to balance the experience for developers and users by ensuring that there are better policies in place to ensure that data collection is done as responsibly as possible. At the same time, they want to make Google Play even safer for children and families, all through the updated policy.

Header Android Giving people more control over their data
Source: Google

The biggest emphasis, at least according to another blog update, is allowing more data control for its users. It is not just about accessing and viewing more data than ever. While that is also a part of an improved transparency over users’ data, the policy update requires developers to allow their users to have even more control and deliberation with their own data on their selected platforms. It is also more than just allowing you to choose which data or hardware that the app gets access to.

Modern apps requires us to hold a virtual account with the provider’s platform to use. Even if you are using a Google account to sign into different apps, the platform technically creates another account for you just for their platform. If you wish to create a separate account, you can too via the apps. What most apps does not allow you to do though is to reverse that process. That is about to change.

In Google’s latest policy for developers, developers are going to be required to enable in-app account deletion or at least initiate the account deletion process via their apps. Google also requires the developer to allow the app deletion process and initiation to be done completely online too so that users do not have to reinstall an app just to delete their account. Since the account deletion process can be done completely via your app, you also do not have to access two different devices to delete your user data off their platforms.

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Source: Google

With the policy as well, Google states that any account deletion must also be accompanied with a complete deletion of a user’s data from their database. In that case, users also get an option to either keep or delete their data from a developer’s database when their delete their accounts. There are going to be cases where developers might require data retention for security, fraud prevention, or regulatory compliance. In that case, the developer must clearly state that they will have hold your data for whatever reason they cite.

Google is looking to enforce their policy starting December 2023. They are allowing for extensions for developers up until May 2024. That also means that you can expect all your apps to include your account deletion feature from 2024 onward. Of course, this policy will not just affect Android users with access to Google Play. This most likely will also translate to users of other platforms since the policy does affect most developers that are on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Samsung and AMD Extends Strategic IP Licensing Agreement – Maybe That New Exynos is Worth a Look After All

Technically, this is not the first we heard of Samsung partnering with AMD to bring Radeon graphics into the mobile space. AMD technically licensed their RDNA architecture to Samsung in 2019. That partnership gave birth to something called the Samsung Xclipse, a mobile GPU with AMD’s RDNA 2 architecture built into it. It was the first of the world’s mobile GPU with ray-tracing and variable rate shading capabilities. It was also rumoured to match the performances of modern gaming consoles.

Samsung Xclipse did not see the light of day in our everyday products though. While we expected Samsung to integrate the product in to their Samsung Galaxy S flagship smartphones and Galaxy Tab S tablets, it never really happened. Instead, the Samsung Galaxy S23 and Galaxy Tab S line-up today features a third-party Qualcomm Snapdragon system on a chip (SoC). You will not be able to opt for Samsung’s in-house Exynos chips with the flagship devices too globally, because that high-end Exynos chip does not exist as of yet.

That might change in the coming iterations of Samsung Galaxy S and Galaxy Tab S device though. As per the title, Samsung has just signed a new licensing agreement with AMD. This agreement is not a renewal, but rather an expansion of the original agreement with AMD. The expansion now allows Samsung to integrate AMD’s Radeon RDNA architecture into an expanded portfolio, that includes more Exynos chips. This is where it could get interesting.

The expansion could allow Samsung to integrate the RDNA 2, or even RDNA 3 technology into their latest Exynos chips. While Samsung has yet to reveal a high-end world beater SoC, they are putting their Exynos chips into mid-range smartphones. You could potentially get a Samsung Galaxy A series smartphone with RDNA 2 or even RDNA 3 built into their Exynos platform. That also means that Samsung could boast console level gaming experience on their more accessible mid-range smartphone series. In that case, their mid-range smartphones could be a lot more appealing than flagship smartphone if all you are looking for in your smartphone is raw processing power.

The expansion could also mean that Samsung has been holding back on high-end Exynos chips because they have been working with AMD behind closed doors to offer that fabled Exynos SoC with RDNA 2 or even RDNA 3 graphics architecture in tow. In which case, they might have bragging rights in introducing the world’s first flagship smartphone that is capable of hardware ray-tracing and variable rate shading. You will also get console level gaming experience out of the device, obviously.

The thing is, we are not expecting to see the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series with Samsung’s Exynos with AMD Radeon graphics in tow anytime soon. The soonest we can expect to see the AMD Radeon name gracing a Samsung Galaxy device is probably in 2024, with the Samsung Galaxy S24. Even that is a far-fetched speculation we think and a very early one at that. All we can do currently is wait.

ActivePort Group (ASX:ATV) secures multimillion-dollar 10-year deal with Lightstorm

PERTH, Australia, April 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Announced this week, ActivePort Software has secured a notable 10-year deal with existing customer Lightstorm as they ramp up the next phase of growth and expansion globally. This multimillion-dollar agreement to deliver software-defined networking and cloud orchestration, solidifies the strategic alignment and future evolution of both companies.

Lightstorm is the digital network infrastructure arm of US private equity company I Squared Capital and specialises in building infrastructure for hyperscale networking in Asia Pacific and the Middle East.

With ActivePort’s multi-vendor orchestration solution as a core component, Lightstorm built a network-as-a-service (NaaS) platform called Polarin. This platform allows enterprises to easily manage their network infrastructure and securely deploy a high-availability network in minutes with guaranteed 100% uptime.

ActivePort CEO and MD, Karim Nejaim: ‘We are honoured that Lightstorm have put their trust in our software as a core part of their business and extended our contract both in scope and time. It is almost one year to the day that we began our strategic partnership. During this time, Lightstorm have built a cloud based NaaS platform with ActivePort’s Orchestration solution and end-to-end workflow automation functionality. We look forward to this long-term partnership as we continue to work with Lightstorm to build products and services and be a key part of their success from the Middle East, through India and into Southeast Asia.’

Lightstorm CTIO, Lalit Chowdhary: We could not be happier with ActivePort’s software and support for our business. Lightstorm’s NaaS Polarin platform is ready for general availability and this agreement extends our ongoing relationship with ActivePort to a strategic one as we continue to enrich our platform. We are excited for this next phase of growth and working together with the team at ActivePort as we expand globally.’

About ActivePort

ActivePort software specialises in software-defined networking solutions, including a vendor-agnostic Orchestration platform and the latest in network virtualisation technology. Their software offering includes Orchestration, SD-WAN, SD-Internet, NFV, Bandwidth on Demand, API Integration and Compute.

Having experienced un-precedented global demand, ActivePort is rapidly transforming from start-up to scale-up. To meet this increased customer demand, the company has added more resources, delivery capability and support capacity to ensure they remain leaders in Cloud orchestration.

For more information: www.activeport.com.au

ActivePort Software-Defined Networking Product Suite
ActivePort Software-Defined Networking Product Suite

Hyosung Chairman Cho Hyun-joon attends the Korea-Japan Business Roundtable


SEOUL, South Korea, April 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Hyosung Chairman Cho Hyun-joon attended the Korea-Japan Business Roundtable held in Tokyo, March.

At the meeting, key officials from the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) and the Japan Association of Corporate Executives (Keizai Doyukai) specified the visions for economic cooperation between the two countries and discussed expanding exchange and cooperation among business leaders.

From Korea, 12 members of the FKI attended, including Chairman Cho Hyun-joon and Acting FKI Chairman Kim Byong-joon, as well as leaders of conglomerates. From Japan, 11 business leaders attended, including Chairman Masakazu Tokura of Keidanren and Mikio Sasaki, the chairman of the Japan-Korea Economic Association.

Chairman Cho said, “I hope to mutual development in various fields for both countries through this meeting,” adding “I shall make efforts to contribute to the development of both countries through active economic exchange with Japanese companies”.

In the business world, Chairman Cho is regarded as an expert on Japan. He has been serving as the vice-chairman of the Korea-Japan Economic Association since 2014 and was reappointed in 2023 for his 10th year of service. He showed his interest in Japan by mentioning that “economic cooperation with Japan is essential” during the 29th Korea-Japan Business Conference last year. 

Picarro Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy Successfully Validated Under EPA’s OTM-47 to Measure Ethylene Oxide Emissions in Real-Time from Stationary Sources

SANTA CLARA, Calif., April 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Picarro, Inc. today announced the successful validation and use of the company’s Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) under Other Test Method 47 (OTM-47) as published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on March 23, 2023. The method describes the measurement of ethylene oxide (EtO or EO) emissions from stationary sources by CRDS. OTM-47 represents the first EtO specific real-time stack test method and will provide the industry with a reliable technique for demonstrating regulatory compliance.

CRDS is a highly sensitive analytical technology that can accurately measure trace levels of EtO emissions from source, stack, and ambient applications. The development of OTM-47 was conducted by third-party stack testing company, CleanAir Engineering, using multiple commercially available Picarro instruments, and through site-specific requests for the use of CRDS in performance testing at commercial sterilization facilities. Data gathered through EPA Method 301 validation of OTM-47 demonstrates that Picarro’s CRDS is a reliable and robust technology that can be used as an alternative to less precise technology-based methods such as optically enhanced Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (OE-FTIR), Gas Chromatography (GC), and passive techniques.

The successful validation of this method reaffirms Picarro’s ability to deliver accurate and reliable testing solutions to medical device and contract sterilization customers and chemical plants. Many incumbent technologies are complicated, expensive to maintain, and require large amounts of downtime due to frequent maintenance. Picarro CRDS operates by measuring the decay rate of light inside of a robust optical cavity using a coherent light source making its systems less susceptible to interference when measuring target gases such as EtO.

“We are excited to see the successful validation of CRDS under Other Test Method 47. This method will allow customers emitting ethylene oxide to generate more accurate and defensible data than other technologies, which is critical for ensuring compliance and mitigating regulatory risk,” said Joel Avrunin, Vice President of Environmental at Picarro.

About Picarro
Picarro is a leading provider of Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS)-based, real-time monitoring solutions that offer advanced detection and data analytics technology. Picarro’s suite of systems provides end-to-end visibility with monitoring systems for stacks, indoor air, and fencelines that are supported by a team of experienced and highly qualified professionals who are committed to providing turn-key solutions to customers.  With more than 25 years of expertise and thousands of customers in nearly 100 countries, Picarro is a trusted and reliable partner in ensuring compliance with regulations and environmental standards. For more information, visit www.picarro.com.

Media Contacts:
Jake Thill
Director, Marketing Communications
Picarro, Inc.
jthill@picarro.com

Source: Picarro, Inc.