Yearly Archives: 2024

PR Newswire

Kantar BrandZ 2024 Rankings: Haier Leads for the Sixth Consecutive Year as Premier IoT Ecosystem Brand

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QINGDAO, China, June 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Haier, the number one brand in the household appliances sector, has once again distinguished itself as the only Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem brand on the Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable Global Brands 2024 list, marking the sixth consecutive year it has achieved this accolade. This achievement underscores Haier’s enduring global leadership and innovation in integrating technology with user-centric solutions.

The announcement from Kantar highlights a significant trend toward deeper integration of technology with branding, an accelerated globalization of brands, along with a greater emphasis on evaluating sustainability. The total value of the top 100 global brands has surged by 20% year-on-year to $8.3 trillion, nearing the peak value recorded in 2022. Since its inception in 2006, the total brand value of these leading global entities has grown by an impressive 474%, with entry thresholds escalating from $4 billion to $19 billion, a 354% increase.

Haier Leads for the Sixth Consecutive Year as Premier IoT Ecosystem Brand
Haier Leads for the Sixth Consecutive Year as Premier IoT Ecosystem Brand

Sustained Growth and Innovation Drive Haier’s Success

Haier’s consistent rise through the ranks, from its debut at 89th place in 2019 to 58th this year, reflects the substantial growth in brand value facilitated by pioneering IoT-driven ecosystems. In the fiscal year 2023, Haier reported robust financial results with global revenues reaching RMB371.8 billion ($52.3 billion) and profits totaling RMB26.7 billion ($3.76 billion). Zhou Yunjie, Chairman and CEO of Haier Group attributes this performance to their ecosystem brand strategy which acts as a stabilizer, driver, and accelerator for high-quality corporate development.

“Haier has originated and is at the forefront of the ecosystem brand-new paradigm, dedicated to breaking new ground in original technology. By leveraging technological innovation to spur industry innovation, it guides the direction of global industry growth,” said Doreen Wang, Kantar China CEO and Global Head of BrandZ, “Haier was the first to introduce an intelligent interaction engine in the industry, enabling unlimited possibilities for enhancing life with users and for industry development with ecological partners, which has led to ongoing enhancements in brand value and rankings.”

Prioritizing Two Pillars Tracks to Boost High-quality Development in the Sector

Haier leads the way in ecosystem branding on a global scale, aiming to build lifelong customers by constantly interacting, refining experiences, with users. 

  • The company’s premium brand Casarte exemplifies how it leads through high-end innovative offerings that have seen a thirteen-fold increase over seven years, topping industry averages across price points and market share growth metrics.
  • Through the creation of COSMOPlat, an industrial internet platform created by Haier Group, representing the initiative of “big enterprises co-creating, smaller enterprises sharing”, it has developed ecosystems in 15 fields, such as chemicals, mold production, and the automotive industry. It has now engaged with more than 900,000 firms, assisted over 160,000 businesses, and has formulated a holistic digital empowerment approach that spans from businesses to industrial parks, to sectors, and ultimately to urban areas.
  • In the health sector, anchored in scientific creativity and digital intelligence, strategically focuses on life sciences, clinical medicine, and biotechnology. It provides avant-garde solutions in these sectors while partnering with more than 60 international organizations to serve multiple countries abroad, contributing to the development of an international public health ecosystem.

By securing the position as the only global IoT ecosystem brand on the Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable Global Brands 2024 list for the sixth time in a row, Haier has shown not just its ability to lead in the ecosystem brand paradigm; but also proven its resilience and consistent growth, during its 40-year long journey starting from 1984.

About Haier Group

Founded in 1984, Haier Group is a leading global provider of better life and digital transformation solutions. Based on the purpose of “More Creation, More Possibilities”, we’ve always been user centered, adhered to original technology, and built a landscape of two pillars, Smart Living and Industrial Internet. We have built 10 R&D centers and 143 manufacturing centers around the world. We are the world’s only IoT ecosystem brand that has been ranked in the Kantar BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands for six consecutive years, and we have held the No.1 position in Euromonitor’s Global Major Appliances Brand for 15 consecutive years.

Gaming

Concord: Unpacking the Details Ahead of August Launch

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Following the exciting reveal of Concord last week, the developers at Firewalk Studios are eager to share more details about the upcoming 5v5 hero shooter. This article dives into the game’s core features, upcoming beta access, pricing options, and pre-order perks.

Concorde Game PS5

From the outset, Firewalk Studios envisioned Concord as a multiplayer-focused experience brimming with engaging gameplay, rewarding progression systems, and a diverse roster of characters, maps, and game modes available at launch. This foundation provides a solid launchpad for the developers to expand the game world and introduce new content over time.

Standard Edition: The Core Concord Experience

Launching in August, Concord will offer a standard edition (available physically and digitally) that delivers the full game experience. This includes access to all 16 playable Freegunners, 12 unique maps set across various worlds, and six distinct team-based game modes. Firewalk Studios has committed to regular post-launch updates for all players at no additional cost, ensuring the game continues to evolve after launch. The standard edition is priced at USD$39.99 / £34.99 / €39.99 / ¥4,480 / SGD 55 / RM 169 / IDR 579,000 / THB 1,290.

Digital Deluxe Edition: Early Access and Bonus Cosmetics

For players eager to jump into the action early, the Digital Deluxe Edition offers 72 hours of early access to Concord before the global launch on August 24th (Asia time zone). Additionally, this edition includes the Northstar Freegunner’s cosmetics pack, granting 16 unique outfits – one for each of the 16 playable characters available at launch – allowing players to personalize their crew. The Digital Deluxe Edition is priced at USD$59.99 / £49.99 / €59.99 / ¥6,480 / SGD 80 / RM 249 / IDR 879,000 / THB 1,990.

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Monarch Pack: Pre-Order Bonus and Early Beta Access

Pre-ordering any edition of Concord unlocks the Monarch Pack cosmetic set, featuring the Monarch Frontliner outfit for the adept sniper Vale and Dead Reckoner weapon skins for her sniper rifle and sidearm.

Concord Beta: Get Your Hands on the Game Early

Firewalk Studios is offering a pre-launch beta to give players a taste of the action before the official release. The beta will be available simultaneously on PS5 and PC with full cross-play support. Pre-ordering any edition of Concord grants five beta access codes, allowing players to team up with friends across both platforms and take on rival crews across the galaxy. More details on the beta dates, including the Early Access and Open Beta periods, will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Pricing & Availability

Pre-orders for the PS5 version are now live on the PlayStation Store. Pre-purchases for the PC version can be made on Steam and the Epic Games Store. Physical pre-orders for Concord begin on June 7th, 2024. They will be priced as follows:

  • Standard Edition (Physical & Digital): USD$39.99 / £34.99 / €39.99 / ¥4,480 /SGD 55 / RM 169 / IDR 579,000 / THB 1,290 MSRP
  • Digital Deluxe Edition: USD$59.99 / £49.99 / €59.99 / ¥6,480 / SGD 80 / RM 249 / IDR 879,000 / THB 1,990 MSRP
  • Pre-order any edition to receive the Monarch Pack and Beta Early Access codes (more details on Beta dates coming soon).
Lifestyle, News

AirPods Gets A Nod to More Natural Interactions and Enhancements

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Apple‘s AirPods have become a staple for many users, offering a convenient way to listen to music, take calls, and interact with Siri. This fall, an AirPods software update brings a range of enhancements focused on improving communication and interaction with your iPhone. The update was announced at Apple’s recent WWDC.

The upcoming update introduces Siri Interactions, a feature exclusive to AirPods Pro (2nd generation). With Siri Interactions activated, users can initiate interactions with Siri by simply nodding their heads for “yes” or shaking their heads for “no.” This intuitive approach eliminates the need to reach for your iPhone or use voice activation commands, offering a seamless and hands-free way to control various functions. Imagine adjusting music playback, making calls, or even getting directions while on the go, all with a simple head gesture.

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Source: Apple

For those who frequently use AirPods for calls, the update introduces Voice Isolation, a new feature available on AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and AirPods Max. Imagine taking a call in a bustling coffee shop or a crowded airport and having your voice clearly transmitted to the other caller, even amidst background noise. Voice Isolation utilizes advanced algorithms to distinguish your voice from surrounding noise, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication. This feature caters to professionals who rely on AirPods for conference calls or anyone seeking a more focused calling experience in noisy environments.

Convenience is further enhanced with the introduction of press-to-mute functionality. This feature is available on AirPods (3rd generation), AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation), and AirPods Max. Imagine quickly muting your microphone during a call by simply squeezing the stem of your AirPods. This intuitive gesture allows for effortless control over audio during calls, eliminating the need to navigate through menus on your iPhone.

As mentioned earlier, the update is expected to arrive on the AirPods starting this fall.

Health, News

Scientists Just Used AI to Discover New Genes Linked to Heart Disease

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Heart disease remains the leading cause of death globally, impacting millions of lives each year. While significant progress has been made in understanding the risk factors associated with heart disease, the precise genetic underpinnings of this complex condition have remained largely elusive. However, a recent breakthrough involving artificial intelligence (AI) offers a glimpse into a future where personalized medicine for heart disease becomes a reality.

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Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash

Heart disease is a multifaceted condition influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Traditional methods for identifying genes associated with disease often relied on genome-wide association studies (GWAS). These studies compare the genetic makeup of individuals with and without a particular disease, searching for variations (single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs) that occur more frequently in the diseased population. While GWAS have identified numerous SNPs linked to heart disease, many of these variants exert a relatively weak effect, making it challenging to pinpoint the specific genes responsible and develop targeted therapies.

Machine Learning Model Used to Gain More Insights by Researchers

Researchers at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai are pioneering the use of a novel AI tool to unlock the secrets hidden within our genes. This tool, called a machine learning-based marker (MLBM), takes a more sophisticated approach compared to traditional GWAS. Instead of simply analyzing individual SNPs, the MLBM leverages machine learning algorithms to identify complex patterns across hundreds of genetic variants. Imagine sifting through a vast library of books, searching not just for individual words but for nuanced patterns and connections between sentences and paragraphs. The MLBM operates in a similar fashion, analyzing the interplay between numerous genetic variations to identify those that collectively contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

The MLBM’s ability to identify complex patterns within genetic data has yielded significant results. The research team used the MLBM to analyze electronic health records and genetic data from over 600,000 individuals. This analysis revealed not only common SNPs associated with heart disease but also a set of rare coding variants within 17 previously unknown genes. These rare variants, while individually occurring in a smaller proportion of the population, may exert a more significant impact on heart disease risk. Imagine finding a single, critical clue hidden amongst a mountain of seemingly unrelated information. The MLBM’s ability to identify these rare yet impactful genetic variations holds immense potential for uncovering new pathways involved in heart disease development.

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Photo by digitale.de on Unsplash

The identification of these novel genes opens doors for the development of more targeted therapies for heart disease. By understanding the specific genetic mutations contributing to an individual’s risk, doctors can potentially tailor treatment plans to address the underlying cause rather than simply manage symptoms. Imagine a future where preventive measures and medications can be personalized based on a person’s unique genetic makeup, potentially preventing heart disease altogether.

New Technologies Changing Medical Research

The success of the MLBM in uncovering new genetic variants for heart disease signifies a paradigm shift in our approach to medical research. AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we diagnose, treat, and ultimately prevent a wide range of diseases. By harnessing the power of AI to analyze complex biological data, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the intricate dance between genes and disease. This newfound knowledge can pave the way for the development of personalized medicine, offering a future where healthcare becomes more proactive and effective in combating life-threatening conditions like heart disease.

PR Newswire

ASPEED Showcases High-Definition AV-over-IP Transmission Solutions and Panoramic Video Conferencing Applications at InfoComm 2024

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LAS VEGAS, June 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — ASPEED Technology, the world’s leading supplier of Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) SoC, will participate in InfoComm in Las Vegas, exhibiting a variety of AV-over-IP (AVoIP) series products. These include the AST1530+1535 and AST1630 high-definition video transmission control system SoCs, as well as the AST1532 USB2.0 over IP SoC. The exhibition will also feature the Cupola360 series of video conferencing products, including multi-camera stitching hardware for 360-degree and 180-degree panoramic views, as well as sound bar conferencing equipment. ASPEED Technology is actively integrating the technical advantages of its Cupola360 and AVoIP product lines to create comprehensive image processing and transmission solutions.

ASPEED Technology’s AVoIP SoCs use proprietary image compression algorithms to transmit via network cables or fiber optics, ensuring near-lossless image quality even over long distances with zero latency. The AST1530+1535 HDMI 2.0 AVoIP SoC is designed for high-end professional video and audio transmission applications, offering 4K2K60 high-definition resolution. It supports 1-to-1 AV image transmission control and can utilize existing IP network infrastructure to achieve multi-input to multi-output high-definition video matrix switching and multicast functionality. Additionally, the AST1532 USB 2.0 over IP SoC within the same ecosystem provides USBoIP functionality, supporting bulk and isochronous type USB devices like webcams, as well as Keyboard and Mouse over IP (KMoIP) with hotkey control.

Furthermore, ASPEED Technology will showcase its next-generation AST1630 AV-over-IP extender/splitter SoC, specifically designed for simple professional applications. The AST1630 provides up to 4K60 YUV444 resolution, supporting HDR10/10+, Dolby Vision, and HDCP2.2/2.3, and supports both copper and fiber transmission. It also supports USB 2.0 over IP, including bulk, interrupt, and isochronous types of USB devices such as webcams, audio devices, keyboards, mice, and storage devices, and complies with AES-256 encryption standards.

Since 2023, ASPEED Technology has been in a strategic alliance with Audinate, a leading provider of digital network audio technology, incorporating the Dante® AV-A software solution with the AST1530+1535 AVoIP SoC. This solution has been adopted by several international AV audio-visual giants. Besides its collaboration with Audinate, ASPEED Technology continues to actively expand its AVoIP ecosystem, helping customers reduce integration time and costs while enhancing product value.

In addition, ASPEED Technology has achieved significant success in 360-degree image processing technology and will also showcase the Cupola360 series panoramic video conferencing solutions at InfoComm. With the post-pandemic era encouraging employees to return to offices, the demand for real-time, high-quality video conferencing equipment in meeting rooms with multiple participants and remote clients is increasing. The market increasingly demands wide-angle, easy-to-operate, and high-quality multi-person video conferencing equipment, with higher performance and convenience requirements for sound and image quality.

ASPEED Technology’s Cupola360 multi-camera stitching image processing SoC panoramic video conferencing solution features several key technologies and characteristics. The SoC uses a proprietary multi-camera stitching algorithm to achieve seamless 360-degree panoramic images, providing a distortion-free wide-angle view. The built-in high-performance image processor can simultaneously and instantly process multiple high-resolution image sensors, ensuring image clarity and smoothness, providing the clearest images for participants. To meet video conferencing needs, the Cupola360 SoC optimizes low-latency real-time transmission technology, ensuring no lag during meetings and improving communication efficiency. Additionally, the SoC offers high adaptability and compatibility, functioning either as the main SoC for video conferencing equipment or in combination with other chip platforms, facilitating ODM and brand customization.

In addition to providing critical technologies for video conferencing, the Cupola360 turnkey solution boasts several important features. It offers complete HDK/SDK reference designs, pre-integrated with third parties, saving ODM customers development resources. ASPEED Technology has long collaborated with various lens module manufacturers, introducing relevant calibration and testing environments, offering both standard and customized services. Moreover, Cupola360 has experience assisting customers in passing Microsoft Teams video conferencing software certification, covering image, sound, and system performance testing and certification, ensuring high compatibility and excellent performance.

ASPEED Technology, with years of rich experience in the high-end professional video and audio transmission application market and video conferencing market, is actively integrating the technological advantages of these two major fields, creating interconnected innovative solutions. It provides comprehensive image processing and transmission technology solutions to meet diverse market demands, bringing more value to customers and contributing to the industry’s development.

About ASPEED Technology Inc.

Founded in 2004, ASPEED Technology Inc. is a leading fabless IC design company headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan. As a pioneer and leader of cutting-edge SoC solutions with a focus on the niche markets, ASPEED specializes in Cloud & Enterprise Solutions, including Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) SoC, Bridge IC, and PFR SoC, and Smart AV Solutions, including AVoIP SoC, Cupola360 spherical image stitching processor and Cupola360⁺ Software Kit.

ASPEED is devoted to developing innovative technologies to quickly respond to customer needs. In 2016, ASPEED acquired Broadcom’s Emulex Pilot™ remote server management chip business and it’s currently the world’s No. 1 BMC SoC provider. To enter the market of image processing, ASPEED expanded its product portfolio by launching Cupola360 spherical image stitching processor and Cupola360⁺ software solutions in 2018.

Recognized as a trusted and reliable partner for customers, ASPEED has been awarded “Forbes Asia’s 200 Best Under a Billion” for ten consecutive years since 2014. The company was also recognized as “Taiwan Best-in-Class 100” by Taiwan Institute of Directors and CDRC Consulting Group in 2022-2023 and “Best Management Team in Asia” by Institutional Investor in 2023. For more information, please visit www.aspeedtech.com.

About Cupola360 Inc.

Cupola360 Inc., established in 2018, is a subsidiary of ASPEED Technology, a leading IC design company headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan. Cupola360 provides comprehensive real-time and AI-friendly 360-degree imaging turnkey solutions, creating a seamless and immersive first-person experience.

By leveraging ASPEED’s Cupola360 Spherical Image Processors, Cupola360 has introduced a range of panoramic cameras and deployment software. The collaboration extends to ecosystem partners, including AI service providers, system integrators, and distributors to introduce solutions for various applications such as smart patrol, smart cities, video conferencing, and more.  For more information, please visit https://cupola360.com/en/.

Source: ASPEED Technology Inc.

Consumer Electronics, Entertainment, Lifestyle, News

tvOS 18 Brings New Experiences to Apple TV to Change the Way You’re Entertained

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Apple TV has become a central hub for many home entertainment setups, offering a convenient way to stream movies, shows, and music. This year’s tvOS 18 update promises to take your viewing experience to the next level with a focus on intelligent features, improved accessibility options, and a seamless connection with other Apple devices.

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InSight – Making that Rabbit Hole Easier to Dive In

Imagine getting more out of your favourite movies and shows than ever before. tvOS 18 introduces InSight, a groundbreaking feature that displays real-time information about the actors, characters, and music on screen. With a simple glance at your Apple TV remote or iPhone acting as a remote, InSight reveals details about the actors you see, allowing you to learn more about their filmography with a tap. Similarly, InSight can identify and display information about musical pieces playing in the background, enriching your understanding of the soundtrack that complements the visuals. This intelligent feature goes beyond passive viewing by offering a more interactive and informative experience.

Enhanced Dialogue

For those who struggle to hear dialogue amidst background noise or music, tvOS 18 offers a solution: Enhanced Dialogue. This feature utilizes machine learning and computational audio to isolate and amplify dialogue, making voices clearer and easier to understand. Imagine watching a movie with a complex plot or characters speaking in accents, and having the dialogue cut through any distracting background noise. Enhanced Dialogue is a boon for viewers with hearing impairments or those simply seeking a more focused listening experience. It’s important to note that while initially available on Apple TV 4K, Enhanced Dialogue is expected to be compatible with built-in TV speakers, HDMI-connected speakers, AirPods, and other Bluetooth-connected devices in the future, offering wider accessibility.

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Automatic Subtitles

Subtitles are a valuable tool for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, those learning a new language, or simply those who prefer to follow along with on-screen dialogue. tvOS 18 introduces automatic subtitles that appear seamlessly, ensuring viewers never miss a beat. Imagine watching a foreign film without needing to manually activate subtitles, or having subtitles automatically appear when the language in a show or film doesn’t match your device language. Additionally, tvOS 18 automatically displays subtitles when you mute your TV, ensuring a smooth viewing experience regardless of the audio setting. These automatic subtitle features enhance accessibility and cater to diverse viewing preferences.

Other Minor Enhancements

While InSight, Enhanced Dialogue, and automatic subtitles take centre stage in tvOS 18, there are additional refinements worth mentioning. For movie buffs seeking a more cinematic experience, tvOS 18 offers 21:9 support for playing movies and shows on projectors. Imagine enjoying a widescreen cinematic experience in the comfort of your home with compatible projectors. Additionally, tvOS 18 introduces a range of new screen savers, including options that showcase stunning portraits, iconic movie and TV show imagery, and even a delightful animation featuring Snoopy and Woodstock.

Business, Lifestyle, News

Apple’s Vision Pro Headset Available in New Regions Starting June 28

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Apple’s Vision Pro is expanding its reach beyond its initial launch markets. Announced at WWDC 2023, Vision Pro has captured the imagination of many with its promise of revolutionizing the way we interact with the digital world. Initially available only in the United States, the headset is now poised to reach a wider audience with pre-orders opening in a wave of new countries and regions.

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The Vision Pro blends seamlessly with the digital world, offering users a unique augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experience. Imagine working on a complex design project with colleagues scattered across the globe, yet feeling virtually present in the same room through collaborative AR tools. It has also opened doors for immersive entertainment experiences, transporting users to fantastical virtual worlds or allowing them to enjoy a front-row seat at a concert from the comfort of their living room.

The announcement of the global expansion of the Vision Pro’s availability coincides with the unveiling of VisionOS 2, the headset’s latest operating system update. VisionOS 2 introduces a range of exciting features designed to enhance the user experience. One such feature is Spatial Photos, allowing users to transform their existing 2D photos into stunning 3D experiences. Imagine revisiting a cherished vacation by putting on your Vision Pro headset and stepping into a virtual recreation of a breathtaking landscape you captured with your phone.

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The pre-order schedule for Vision Pro in the new regions is staggered. China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore will have the opportunity to pre-order the headset beginning June 13th, with wider availability starting June 28th. For users in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, pre-orders open on June 28th with availability commencing July 12th. Pricing starts at USD$3,299 (approximately RM16,515.48).

Business, Lifestyle, News

Apple Vision Pro Getting More Features with VisionOS 2

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Many were quick to write off Apple’s Vision Pro headset after the initial rollout of the device. However, WWDC 2024 saw Apple bring even more features to the mixed-reality headset. Initially designed to revolutionize the way we interact with the digital world, the headset has revitalised interest in mixed- and augmented-reality headsets.

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This year’s VisionOS 2 update promises a range of enhancements focused on spatial experiences, improved user interaction, and deeper integration with Macs, solidifying Vision Pro’s position as a powerful tool for creativity, productivity, and entertainment.

VisionOS 2 introduces a groundbreaking feature known as Spatial Photos. Imagine transforming your existing 2D photos into stunning 3D experiences. Using advanced machine learning algorithms, VisionOS 2 analyzes depth and perspective within your photos, creating a sense of space and dimension. Imagine revisiting a cherished vacation by putting on your Vision Pro headset and stepping into a virtual recreation of a breathtaking landscape you captured with your phone. Spatial Photos breathe new life into your memories, allowing you to relive them in a more immersive and interactive way.

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VisionOS 2 also refines the gesture control system for navigating the virtual environment within your Vision Pro headset. Imagine using intuitive hand gestures to interact with applications and manipulate virtual objects. You could perform actions like swiping through menus, pinching to zoom in or out, and even grabbing and moving virtual objects with natural hand motions. This refined gesture control system promises a more intuitive and user-friendly experience within the virtual world.

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For those who rely on Vision Pro for productivity tasks, VisionOS 2 introduces a significant upgrade: the ultra-wide virtual Mac display. Imagine mirroring your Mac desktop onto a virtual screen within your Vision Pro headset that replicates the experience of working with two side-by-side 4K monitors. This expansive virtual display provides ample space for multitasking, allowing you to view and interact with multiple applications simultaneously. Additionally, VisionOS 2 offers support for a physical mouse for tasks that require greater precision, further streamlining your workflow within the virtual environment.

While Spatial Photos, improved hand gestures, and the ultra-wide virtual Mac display take centre stage in VisionOS 2, there are additional enhancements worth mentioning. The update introduces a redesigned home screen for a more intuitive and organized app layout within your Vision Pro. Additionally, developers gain access to a wider range of APIs and tools, empowering them to create even more immersive and interactive experiences for the Vision Pro platform.

Health, Lifestyle, News

watchOS 11 Puts the “Control” in “Take Control of Your Health”

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Apple Watch has become an indispensable tool for many users, offering fitness tracking, communication features, and a convenient way to stay on top of notifications. Each iteration of WatchOS has brought many enhancements that make the experience of Apple Watches a little better. This year’s watchOS 11 update promises a range of enhancements focused on personalization, improved health insights, and expanded functionality, solidifying the Apple Watch’s position as a comprehensive and versatile wearable device. Let’s delve deeper into the key features shared at WWDC 2024.

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Source: Apple

Taking Control of Your Activity Rings

watchOS 11 introduces a new level of personalization for Activity rings. Imagine needing a break from your fitness routine due to an injury or a busy schedule. With watchOS 11, you can now pause your Activity rings for a day, a week, a month, or even longer. This allows you to maintain your award streak while taking a necessary break, ensuring a more flexible approach to fitness goals. Additionally, users can customize their Activity ring goals by day of the week. Imagine setting a more ambitious move goal for weekdays when you have more time for exercise, while setting a more relaxed target for weekends. This customization empowers users to tailor their Activity rings to their individual schedules and fitness aspirations.

The Vitals App: A Holistic View of Your Health

watchOS 11 introduces the Vitals app, offering a centralized location to view key health metrics. Imagine glancing at your watch and seeing your overnight heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen level, and sleep duration displayed conveniently in one place. The Vitals app provides a holistic snapshot of your overall health and well-being, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and fitness routines.

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Source: Apple

For expecting mothers, watchOS 11 integrates seamlessly with the Health app on iPhone. The Cycle Tracking app on Apple Watch can display gestational age and allow users to log pregnancy symptoms, providing valuable insights throughout their pregnancy journey.

Smarter Stacks for Enhanced Functionality

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Source: Apple

Smart Stacks, a feature that groups relevant watch faces together for easy access, receives an upgrade in watchOS 11. Imagine a Smart Stack that automatically displays the weather forecast in the morning, your workout routine during exercise hours, and upcoming calendar events throughout the day. This functionality leverages on-device intelligence to display the most relevant information at the most opportune time, eliminating the need to manually switch between different watch faces.

Live Activities: Staying Connected in Real-Time

watchOS 11 introduces Live Activities, a new feature that allows users to stay updated on events happening in real-time directly from their wrist. Imagine following the live score of a sporting event, monitoring the progress of a ride-sharing service, or tracking the status of a food delivery order, all without needing to unlock your iPhone. Live Activities provide a convenient way to stay connected to ongoing events without interrupting your workflow.

Introducing the Translate App

watchOS 11 expands communication capabilities with the introduction of the Translate app. Imagine travelling abroad and needing to translate a phrase or sentence on the fly. With the Translate app, you can simply type or dictate a phrase in one language and view the translated text on your watch screen. This functionality can be particularly useful for navigating unfamiliar places, ordering food, or simply breaking down language barriers during your travels.

Enhanced Workout Tracking with Expanded Options

The Workout app on Apple Watch receives an upgrade in watchOS 11. Imagine having access to more structured workout options beyond running, walking, and cycling. With watchOS 11, users can create custom workouts for activities like swimming, strength training, or yoga. Additionally, the ability to set target-based and time-based intervals within workouts allows for a more personalized and goal-oriented fitness experience.

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Source: Apple

watchOS 11 also introduces Training Load, a new metric that calculates the intensity and duration of your workouts, providing insights into your overall training effectiveness and recovery needs. Imagine understanding how your workouts are impacting your body and adjusting your training plan accordingly to optimize your performance and prevent injury.

A More Personalized Watch Face

watchOS 11 introduces a redesigned Photos watch face that uses machine learning to automatically curate photos that it thinks will look best as a watch face. Imagine having a dynamic watch face that showcases your favourite memories throughout the day. Additionally, users can customize the watch face with different font and colour options to further personalize their Apple Watch experience.

Beyond the Headline Features: Minor Enhancements

While personalization features, the Vitals app, Live Activities, and the Translate app take centre stage in watchOS 11, there are additional enhancements worth mentioning. Users can now send and receive Apple Cash by holding the Apple Watch near another watch or iPhone with Tap to Cash, eliminating the need to carry physical cash or a debit card for small transactions. Additionally, offline turn-by-turn navigation for custom walking routes and hikes is now available for all U.S. national parks, allowing users to explore these natural wonders without relying on a cellular connection.

News

iPadOS 18 Gets Optimized for the Apple Pencil

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With Apple Intelligence getting integrated across the board, it seems like Apple is taking the Apple Pencil more seriously when it comes to iPadOS 18. The WWDC 2024 keynote focused on a range of enhancements focused on personalization, improved multitasking, and deeper integration with the Apple Pencil, solidifying the iPad’s position as a versatile tool for diverse workflows. Let’s explore some of the key features expected with iPadOS 18.

A Home Screen Tailored to Your Needs

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iPadOS’s close relationship with iOS continues with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 with personalization taking center stage. Imagine a home screen that reflects your individual workflow and preferences. Users can now arrange apps and widgets in any open space on the home screen, allowing for a level of customization that caters to specific needs. A data analyst might place data visualization tools and spreadsheets prominently, while a musician might prioritize music creation apps and tuners. Additionally, the ability to customize the Dock at the bottom of the screen provides quick access to frequently used applications, further streamlining workflows.

Enhanced Multitasking for Seamless Workflows

Multitasking on the iPad receives a significant boost in iPadOS 18. The introduction of Stage Manager allows users to create and manage multiple app windows simultaneously. Imagine working on a complex presentation in Keynote while simultaneously referencing a web browser window and conducting research in a note-taking app like Notability. Stage Manager facilitates a seamless transition between tasks, eliminating the need to constantly switch between full-screen applications. Additionally, users can leverage features like Split View and Slide Over for even more granular control over their workspace, allowing them to work with multiple apps simultaneously and efficiently.

Apple Pencil Optimization: A Boon for Creative Professionals

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Apple Pencil continues to be a core element of the iPad experience, and iPadOS 18 brings a range of optimizations designed to enhance its functionality for creative professionals. Imagine a more natural and responsive writing experience with improved palm rejection and reduced latency. Artists can create smoother lines and more precise strokes, while note-takers can enjoy a more pen-to-paper-like experience when jotting down ideas or taking notes in lectures.

Scribble, the feature that allows users to handwrite directly within text fields, receives an upgrade in iPadOS 18. Imagine handwriting a quick note in a brainstorming session and seamlessly converting it to typed text without needing to switch between handwriting and typing modes. That is exactly what’s coming with iPadOS 18. This functionality will streamline workflows and allow for a more fluid transition between handwritten ideas and digital text.

Advanced Note-Taking with Quick Notes

Note-taking receives further enhancements with the introduction of Quick Notes in iPadOS 18. Imagine a streamlined way to capture fleeting thoughts or ideas. With a simple swipe from the corner of the screen, users can access a Quick Note window and jot down ideas, create checklists, or even add sketches using the Apple Pencil. These Quick Notes can then be easily saved, organized, and accessed later within the Notes app.

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Enhanced Video Editing Capabilities

iMovie, the built-in video editing app on iPad, receives an update in iPadOS 18. Imagine having access to more professional-grade editing tools on your iPad. The update might include features like multi-timeline editing, allowing users to edit multiple video clips simultaneously, and the ability to apply color grading for a more polished look. This empowers iPad users to create more sophisticated and visually engaging video content.

Improved File Management

The Files app receives an update in iPadOS 18, offering improved functionalities for managing your digital library. Imagine quickly locating specific documents or projects by leveraging a more robust search function. Additionally, the ability to tag files for easier organization allows for a more streamlined workflow. You could categorize project-related files with specific tags, making them easier to find later.