Samsung seems to be taking user feedback seriously with the Galaxy S24 series. The company is rolling out a significant software update to address user concerns and enhance the overall user experience. The first major update comes with a range of improvements, focusing on display customization, camera enhancements, and other user-centric optimizations.
Display Customization with the “Vividness” Slider
One notable addition in the update is the introduction of a “Vividness” slider under advanced display settings. Samsung recognizes that users have diverse preferences when it comes to their device’s display, and this new feature allows users to fine-tune the vibrancy of the screen. Whether you prefer a more natural tone or a punchier, vibrant display. The “Vividness” slider gives users the flexibility to tailor their viewing experience according to their preferences.
This particular update directly addresses feedback from early users who expressed concerns about the Galaxy S24 series’ display appearing “dull” or “washed-out” compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy S23 series.
Camera Optimizations for Better Imaging
In addition, the update also brings improvements to the camera. With the update, Samsung acknowledges user feedback and aims to address concerns related to inconsistent shots and certain camera modes.
Specifically, the update targets improvements in the device’s zoom functions, Portrait Mode, Nightography, rear camera video shooting capabilities, and more. While the official release does not delve into specific details, it hints at a comprehensive enhancement of the camera system, promising users an elevated imaging experience.
User-Centric Approach and Future Possibilities
Samsung’s acknowledgement of user feedback and swift action in delivering updates indicates a shift in the company’s software approach. The S24 series seems to be adopting a more user-centric approach. The change seems aligned with the ethos of Galaxy AI as a whole. Catering to users with features that help make life simpler.
Rollout and Future Expectations
The updates began rolling out in February. However, the rollout schedule may vary based on regional variants, and you can manually check for updates in the device’s settings.
In a potentially game-changing move, OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is rumoured to be entering the web search arena. It looks like the company wants to challenge Google’s longstanding dominance. A report from The Information suggests that OpenAI has been quietly developing a web search product. The report claims that the information was shared by an anonymous insider.
While details about the project remain unclear, speculation is rife about whether the search tool will be seamlessly integrated into ChatGPT or introduced as a standalone product. OpenAI’s ambitious move into Google’s territory seems to bring a whole new experience to how we navigate the internet with search. If the rumours hold, we might witness a shift from the familiar phrase “Google it” to “OpenAI it”.
However, the authenticity of the claims is yet to be verified. OpenAI, itself, has not officially acknowledged the project. The company has been notoriously vigilant about leaks, even resorting to hiring investigators to address potential insider threats.
According to the insider, OpenAI’s search engine might leverage Microsoft’s Bing for certain functionalities. This makes sense with Microsoft’s substantial investments in OpenAI. Not to mention, Microsoft’s ongoing integration of GPT-based AI into various products like Bing Chat and Copilot.
Open AI search landing page generated with Microsoft Copilot
The move follows OpenAI’s pattern of expanding the capabilities of ChatGPT which was initially limited by a data cutoff or silo. In recent months, OpenAI introduced web browsing features, utilizing Bing’s search capabilities. This strategic partnership with Microsoft suggests a collaborative effort to bring about a more contextual and conversational approach to web search. This approach could potentially surpass traditional keyword-focused engines.
Despite the challenges inherent in competing with Google’s established search dominance, OpenAI’s innovative approach and support from Microsoft may pave the way for a new way of searching. The emergence of a search tool with generative and contextual AI features introduces exciting possibilities for the future of search on the internet. However, we will still need to wait and see as OpenAI is playing its cards very close to its chest.
In a surprising turn of events, Amazon Prime Video has decided to cut back on the audiovisual experience for users on its ad-supported tier. The move, following the introduction of ads to the streaming service on January 29, means that the free tier will no longer support Dolby Vision HDR or Dolby Atmos surround sound, leaving viewers with a diminished audiovisual feast.
The decision was first highlighted by German website 4KFilme and subsequently confirmed by Forbes. Instead of the previously available Dolby features, users on the ad-supported tier will now experience content in HDR10 with Dolby Digital 5.1. If users are looking to retain the higher quality audio experience, they’ll need to opt for the ad-free service, which comes with an additional cost of $2.99.
An Amazon spokesperson clarified the changes, stating, “Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos capabilities are only available on the ad-free option, on relevant titles.” This shift in strategy might irk users who were accustomed to the better audiovisual quality, especially considering the lack of a prior announcement regarding the removal of Dolby support from the ad-supported tier.
Amazon Prime Video’s ad-supported tier, introduced with ads at the end of January, has caused discontent among subscribers. The change not only introduces interruptions to their viewing experience but also strips away Dolby features unless they opt for the more expensive ad-free service. This move has prompted a proposed class-action lawsuit against Amazon, accusing the company of violating consumer protection laws and calling its change of terms “deceptive” and “unfair.”
The lawsuit argues that users who have already paid for a year-long Prime subscription were expecting an uninterrupted viewing experience, as promised by Amazon. However, with the removal of Dolby features from the ad-supported tier, subscribers feel that Amazon is not meeting their reasonable expectations. The proposed class action is seeking at least $5 million in damages and an injunction prohibiting Amazon’s “deceptive conduct.”
This shift in strategy not only affects users in terms of content quality but also raises concerns about transparency and customer satisfaction. Amazon, while introducing ads to its existing tier, did not explicitly mention the removal of Dolby features from the ad-supported tier, causing frustration among subscribers. As Amazon continues to make changes to its streaming service, it remains to be seen how these alterations will impact its subscriber base and reputation in the long run.
As the launch of Nothing’s mid-range smartphone, the Nothing Phone (2a), draws near. Nothing has released a 10-minute video, in which it hinted at creating a truly special device for its community.
The official launch of the Nothing Phone (2a) is set for March 5, 2024, with a global release expected to follow. However, for US customers, a unique twist awaits – the need to enrol in a “Developer Program” to acquire the device. This echoes the approach taken during the Phone (1) launch, signalling a strategic move in the US market.
A notable change highlighted in the video is the absence of the “Beta Membership” label used during the Phone (1) launch, suggesting enhanced US network support.
Adding to the intrigue, Nothing teased a crucial detail – the price. While the exact cost remains undisclosed, the company assured viewers that the Phone (2a) would come at a more affordable price point than its predecessor, the Phone (1), initially priced at $299 in the US.
Leaked information has started to surface, providing a sneak peek into the Phone (2a). According to tipster Yogesh Brar, the device is rumoured to feature a 6.7-inch OLED panel, Dimensity 7200 Ultra SoC, 50MP main camera, 50MP ultrawide camera, and a 32MP selfie shooter. With a promising 45W fast charging support, the Phone (2a) is shaping up to be a compelling mid-range option.
Source: X.com
As the countdown to March 5 continues, speculations abound on what Nothing will unveil next. Will they manage to keep the mystery intact, or will leaks gradually unravel the excitement?
Stay tuned for more updates as Nothing drops hints, promising a unique device that combines affordability with cutting-edge features.
techENT is taking you through a first look of the new ASUS ZenBook Duo announced at CES 2024 and officially launched in Malaysia!
The lightweight laptop comes with the Intel Core Ultra 9 that brings a balance of power and performance giving the laptop a whopping 10 hours of battery life even while powering two 3K AMOLED Lumina touchscreens.
Acer’s Swift Series is expanding yet again with a new generation of the ultra-portable Swift Go 14. The latest entry into the Swift series comes equipped with the latest generation of Intel Ultra processors and a bevvy of cutting-edge AI-centric features.
The new Acer Swift Go 14 comes with the latest and greatest from Intel. Sporting either an Intel Core Ultra 7 or Core Ultra 5, the laptop is leveraging Intel’s AI Boost to unlock its AI-powered resources. The new processors from Intel also come with enhanced power efficiency. Intel’s Unison technology also allows the laptop to work seamlessly with both iOS and Android devices with integrated experiences for things like file transfers, calling, messaging and device management through a single interface.
Acer is also bringing a QHD 1440p webcam to the laptop. The hardware is complemented by Acer’s own AI powered features such as Acer PurifiedVoice and PurifiedView. The former eliminates background noises and focuses on the person in front of the camera. PurifiedView helps keep the focus on the presenter by blurring the background, keeping them in frame and corrects their gaze to ensure that they appear engaged. Acer is also introducing a new feature called AlterView that uses AI-generated depth maps to convert 2D images into animated wallpapers with 3D effects.
The Acer Swift Go 14 comes with a larger touchpad. Of course, it goes without saying that the touchpad is made of OceanGlass which utilises ocean bound plastics keeping them out of our waterways. AcerSense is also integrated with a dedicated button that allows users to access and manage performance, laptop maintenance and personalise their experiences.
In addition to the Intel Core Ultra processors, the Acer Swift Go 14 comes with 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage. It comes with two USB-C ports that support fast charging of up to 100W. There is also an HDMI 2.1 and a microSD card slot. It also supports WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth LE Audio.
Pricing & Availability
The Acer Swift Go 14 is available in Malaysia through retailers and the Acer online store. It will be available in two variants. The Swift Go 14 with the Intel Core Ultra 5, 512GB of internal storage and 16GB of RAM is priced at RM3,599. The version with Intel Core Ultra 7, 1TB of internal storage and 16GB of RAM is priced RM4,299.
Unifi TV has been busy creating a furore for the upcoming Lunar New Year festivities. This past weekend, the company brought two of the hottest Hong Kong celebrities – Katy Kung and Owen Cheung – to Malaysia for its Lunar New Year kick-off for the new Ruby Plus Pack. This was done in collaboration with TVB.
Anthony SH Law (Head of Marketing & Sales, South East Asia, International Business TVB), Owen Cheung, Katy Kung, Jasmine Lee (Chief Commercial Officer, Consumer, Unifi), Andrew Pinto (Vice President, Brand and Marketing, Unifi), Ho Hock Doong (Head of Content, Unifi) launching the new Ruby Plus package at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. (Source: TM)
The new Ruby Plus pack brings the latest Chinese, Hong Kong and Taiwanese entertainment to complement your high-speed broadband subscription. The offering comes as a part of Unifi’s digital lifestyle offerings in Unifi TV. The pack focuses on oriental entertainment bringing blockbuster series like Forensic Heros (法证先锋), Justice Sung Begins (状王之王) and more to your screens. The new Ruby Plus Pack comes with channels such as CCTV4, Celestial Movies, Now Jelli, and SETI.
TVB, one of the most successful Hong Kong broadcasters, is also making a big splash with the Ruby Plus Pack. Channels such as TVB Jade, TVB News and Xing He will be available to Unifi TV subscribers through the new pack. In addition, Unifi TV subscribers who also subscribe to the pack will be able to access the TVBAnywhere+ app. The app joins apps like Netflix, iQIYI, WeTV and Mango TV that are already available on the Unifi TV Box.
Source: Unifi TV website
Together with the Ruby Plus Pack, Unifi TV subscribers will also be able to enjoy shows from a selection of over 40 premium channels such as tvN Movies, Warner TV, Nickelodeon, AXN and Unifi Sports. Unifi TV subscribers will also be receiving the updated Unifi TV Android TV 12 box worth RM480 for free. The Ruby Plus Pack itself will be priced at RM30 a month. This includes a subscription to TVBAnywhere+.
CelcomDigi is really upping the ante when it comes to owning devices with an RM0 upfront payment. The Telco is looking to make electronic vehicle (EV) ownership even easier with a CelcomDigi postpaid subscription. In partnership with Yinson GreenTech, the Telco will be making ownership of an e-bike as easy as owning a smartphone with its Easy360 instalment plans. The partnership will see RydeEV’s electric bikes become an option for subscribers with their postpaid plans for as low as RM299.
The new initiative lowers the cost of ownership of EVs tremendously. It comes as a result of a partnership between CelcomDigi’s Innovation Center and Yinson GreenTech. Under this plan, customers will be able to own either rydeEV’s Ryder or Hyper e-bike models with CelcomDigi’s Postpaid for RM299 and RM430 a month respectively. This will be in addition to the Postpaid subscription which starts at RM70. After a contract period of 36 months, customers will have the option of owning the bike for a further RM1 payment.
In addition to the subscription plan, customers who qualify for the Electric Motorcycle Use Promotion Scheme (MARiiCas) from the government will receive a further RM2,400 rebate on their e-bike purchases. This will be remitted as a monthly RM200 rebate over a period of 12 months. This means that you’ll be able to own an e-bike for as low as RM169 a month for the first year. Early birds will also get a limited edition helmet.
Both the Ryder and Hyper e-bikes from RydeEV have a riding range of 70-75km on a full charge at 45km/h speeds. However, they differ in their top speeds; the Ryder caps out at 65km/h while the Hyper caps at 90km/h. The Ryder is only available in red while the Hyper is available in three colours: red, blue and orange. If you run out of power, you won’t need to plug in as you can simply swap the battery out at a charging station. According to Yinson GreenTech, there are over 60 stations available in the Klang Valley area with more to come in the coming months.
As businesses in Malaysia embrace hybrid work models, the demand for robust data storage solutions is increasing. Synology, a NAS (Network Attached Storage) provider, is stepping up to the plate by unveiling a slew of innovative features during its recent Synology Solutions Day in Malaysia.
Jason Sin, Sales Manager for Synology Malaysia, expressed the company’s dedication to fortifying data security and boosting productivity. Synology’s NAS servers that run on its secure DiskStation Manager (DSM) will play a pivotal role in addressing the evolving needs of businesses.
Tailored Solutions for Malaysia
Synology is introducing four key solutions customized for the Malaysian market: Data Management, Data Protection, Productivity Enhancement, and Surveillance. This strategic move acknowledges the shift from cloud-based storage and solutions to Synology NAS storage, aligning with diverse industry requirements.
Combatting Cyber Threats
Synology presents a comprehensive data protection solution in response to the escalating cyber threats facing Malaysian businesses. This encompasses heightened NAS login security through features like two-factor authentication, multi-factor authentication, passwordless authentication, and IP address restrictions. The company also offers robust backup solutions for devices, PCs, servers, and SaaS (software-as-a-service) accounts.
A notable addition is Immutable Snapshot, a boon for industries handling sensitive records. Paired with WriteOnce Shared folders, it facilitates swift, secure snapshots, preventing data compromise through Write Once Read Many (WORM) actions for up to 30 days. This feature ensures the integrity of critical files by restricting alterations.
Productivity Amplified with Generative AI
In light of the changing landscape, Synology has integrated Generative AI into Synology Office and MailPlus. This allows users to generate written content seamlessly. Tasks like email composition, article translation, and information searches become effortless through AI-powered chat box interactions.
The Mail Merge feature further streamlines communication by automating the insertion of recipients’ details, and optimizing email workflows.
Future Roadmap and Innovations
Synology’s commitment extends beyond the present, with plans to enhance scale-out capabilities and introduce enterprise-level data protection products. High-performance solutions catering to the burgeoning AI storage demands are also on the horizon.
Samsung’s new Galaxy S24 series wasn’t really the focus of Unpacked. Instead, Samsung spent a good chunk of the announcement talking about Galaxy AI that powers a whole bevvy of new features that run on One UI 6.1. The new focus on AI brings a renewed focus on creating features that help improve the user experience.
Galaxy AI is the AI platform that is powering a whole load of new features that will make its debut with the Galaxy S24 series. You may recognise a lot of these features from other large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Bard. However, Samsung is using LLMs and LAMs (Large Action Models) to bring a lot of useful and potentially revolutionary features for its devices – particularly the S4 Ultra.
Galaxy AI for Language
When it comes to features that are coming with the Galaxy S24 series, the ones that involve language are the ones that we’re most excited for. Samsung showed off two at Unpacked – both involving translation on the fly. With Galaxy AI on the Galaxy S24 series, you will be able to translate messages and conversations live and on the fly.
When it comes to messaging, Samsung is bringing on-the-fly translations to messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messages and more. This feature will allow you to translate your text messages as you receive them. Translations of your messages will appear underneath the original one. This feature is app-specific and will only work with apps that have been optimised for it. So far, we have confirmation that WhatsApp and Messages will be supported.
In addition to this, you’ll also be able to translate conversations on the fly while you’re on a call or with the person. This translation occurs nearly live as you speak. Of course, you will need to activate it by tapping the Galaxy AI button which will open a text-to-speech interface. This will show you in real-time the translations being done. However, it can’t save the transcript just yet.
Galaxy AI is also being integrated into the Samsung Keyboard. You will be able to use the keyboard to translate your input with the keyboard. These translations can then be sent to the person on the other end of the conversation. Did we mention? You will not need to shift between apps to do this – instead, it’s done on the Samsung keyboard itself.
Samsung has clarified that it’s not using Google Translate to power these features. Instead, they’ve developed these translation models in-house. From what we saw during the demo, the models are pretty reliable. There are about 25 languages available at the moment. All the translation models are done locally on your device.
Galaxy AI for Notetaking & Writing
The Samsung Notes app is getting a supercharge when it comes to Galaxy AI features. The app will be leveraging the generative capabilities of Galaxy more extensively. Samsung isn’t just using AI for handwriting recognition, it’s taking things to the next level with formatting, correction and summarizing.
Your handwritten notes can now be used as a basis to create neatly formatted documents. You’ll be able to take your handwritten or typed-out notes from a meeting to generate neatly organised meeting minutes. Not only does it do this, it will also give you a few options to choose from when it comes to how you want your notes to be presented.
You’ll even be able to generate a cover letter for your notes with Galaxy AI. The generative capabilities of Galaxy AI are pretty impressive, you’ll be able to generate summaries in different tones. Want to inject a little humour? You’ll even be able to get it summarized in Shakespearean English. This feature can even be used to reply to messages in supported messaging apps.
Even searching with Galaxy AI and Google is getting more intuitive with “circle to search”. The new feature allows you to literally draw a circle around the item you’re interested it will automatically search for the item you’ve circled. This can work with humans too, but only for public figures.
Nightography Integrates Galaxy AI
Galaxy AI is also being integrated into the camera features of the Galaxy S24 series. The new Quad Tele camera system which is present on the S24 Ultra leverages AI to help with Nightography and even regular image processing. Samsung is using Galaxy AI to help with the clarity of photos and videos taken with the Samsung Galaxy S24 series.
Samsung’s Zoom on the S24 is perhaps one of the most stable we’ve seen in a few years. You’re able to get clear, crisp shots with Galaxy AI. The stabilization is done by both the OIS modules of the camera sensors themselves. The resultant shot is pretty impressive even on hybrid zoom.
However, it’s not just about low-light Nightography and Zooming, Samsung’s Galaxy AI is also bringing quick post-processing and editing to your fingertips. You’ll be able to edit your photos to remove items from the background or replace items in your photos with Generative Fill. You can even remove reflections with Galaxy AI at the touch of a button. Even if you don’t know what will make your photo better, Galaxy AI will have suggestions for you.
Galaxy AI in the Background, But on Your Terms
Galaxy AI is going to be powering a whole bevvy of features that will be debuting with the Galaxy S24 series. However, Samsung isn’t going to be using your data if you don’t want it to. The company is allowing users to opt out of sharing data with its servers. You can toggle this option in the settings of One UI 6.1. However, if you do choose to opt out, you will be unable to leverage Galaxy AI’s features fully, only those features that can be processed locally on your device.
Samsung’s Galaxy AI will be coming to older Galaxy devices – IF the device has the computational power. To date the only devices that have been guaranteed an update with Galaxy AI are the Galaxy S23 series, the Galaxy S23 FE, the Galaxy Z Fold 5, the Galaxy Z Flip 5, and the Galaxy Tab S9 series. Due to computational requirements, Galaxy AI may not have all its features as it makes its way to older devices.
