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The Dock Dilemma: Unlocking the Potential of the Google Pixel Tablet

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The Google Pixel Tablet is an unusual combination of tablet and Nest Hub functionality. This unique approach, however, creates a conundrum, resulting in its identity as a decent tablet and an acceptable smart home center. Regrettably, the provided dock lacks functionality and becomes completely useless when used alongside a USB device.

The dock is a clever and small addition that, with a simple magnetic attachment, turns your Pixel Tablet into a smart home screen. By purchasing numerous docks, you may easily mount the tablet in different rooms across your home. The dock’s major function, aside from charging, is to improve music output with its larger speaker system. Unfortunately, when the tablet’s USB-C port is used, the dock’s speakers stop working.

A Mastodon user just discovered something unusual regarding the Pixel Tablet’s dock speakers. When an accessory is connected to the tablet’s USB port, the dock speakers become inoperable, as Mishaal Rahman discovered. To enable the dock speakers, a message on the tablet shows that the linked USB device must be removed (as shown in the accompanying screenshot).

Rahman speculates that the Pixel Tablet may be misinterpreting the dock connection created via the Pogo ports on the back as a USB connection. As a result, the tablet may need to be prepared to manage both audio output and data transfer via its USB interface, resulting in this unusual situation for consumers. It remains to be seen whether this problem is caused by a hardware limitation linked with the onboard USB controller or if it may be resolved with a Google software update.

When a USB cable is linked to the Pixel Tablet, the dock’s speakers cannot be used by end users, while charging the tablet via USB while docked is unnecessary, this constraint may be inconvenient for users who want to attach a USB hub or other peripherals while the tablet is docked. Furthermore, as mentioned in a Mastodon discussion, the inability to submit ADB commands via USB debugging while docked exacerbates the problem.

If the Pixel Tablet’s restrictions damper your enthusiasm, investigate other top Android tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+, which provide an even more fulfilling productivity experience.

Get Ready for the Asus Zenfone 10: Unveiling the Next Generation of Compact Excellence

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The astonishing Asus Zenfone 9, released last year, defies the concept that higher smartphone performance is necessarily associated with the physical heft of a large gadget. As a result, it soon became one of our top tiny phones of the year. We are now excitedly awaiting the introduction of its successor, the Zenfone 10, and recently leaked press renders provided a glimpse into the device’s look. Additional photographs have since emerged, providing a thorough glimpse of all the color options from all angles.

The Asus Zenfone 10 is set to make its official debut on June 29 and has been the subject of multiple leaks in the lead-up to that day. Recently, WinFuture acquired a collection of leaked photographs showcasing this intriguing and pocket-friendly smartphone, which features two prominent lenses on the back and a front camera cutout on the left side. The Zenfone 10 will be available in black, blue, green, red, and white, as the leaked photographs show the gadget from every angle.

These photographs reveal numerous design choices that could help the Zenfone 10 gain popularity. For starters, it keeps an IP68 water-resistant designation, sometimes lacking in other smartphones in its class, while also providing the convenience of a 3.5mm headphone jack—a rarity in today’s smartphone scene. Furthermore, the tablet has a metal frame matched with a plastic rear decorated with the Asus logo.

A tantalizing glance at the Zenfone 10’s technical specifications suggests that it will have a 5.9-inch FHD AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120Hz. According to rumors, the gadget will be equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, 8 or 16GB of RAM, and 256GB or 512GB storage options, exceeding the 128GB variant featured in its predecessor, the Zenfone 9. A 5,000mAh battery, usually seen in top smartphones, should power the gadget for longer periods. The Zenfone 10 is expected to excel in photography, thanks to its 200MP primary camera from Samsung, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 32MP front-facing shooter.

While WinFuture cannot confirm the internal characteristics, all will be revealed in just a few days on June 29, leaving us excited to see the Zenfone 10.

Mark Your Calendars: Red Magic 8S Pro Launch Date Revealed

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The highly awaited Red Magic 8S Pro is about to debut, and the company’s official Weibo account, a prominent Chinese microblogging website, has finally confirmed the launch date.

The Chinese smartphone manufacturer has begun distributing its distinctive Red invitation letter, marking the upcoming debut of the Red Magic 8S smartphone model, accompanied by enormous enthusiasm. The exclusive letter reveals that the device will be shown to the public on July 5, 2023, corresponding to our prior report, hinting at a July 5 debut.

For those new to the Red Magic 8S Pro’s excellent characteristics, it is a flagship-grade smartphone with an impressive battery life of up to 40 hours and a phenomenal score of 1.7 million on AnTuTu benchmark testing. This astounding feat can be ascribed to Qualcomm’s next-generation flagship CPU, the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 SoC. Notably, this gaming-focused smartphone will also have a prominent display with a stunning 93.7 percent screen-to-body ratio, a mind-boggling 960Hz touch sampling rate, a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and a vivid Full HD+ resolution.

Furthermore, the device includes a 6,000mAh battery pack that supports lightning-fast 80W cable charging, assuring minimal downtime. With up to 16GB of RAM and a remarkable 1TB of internal storage, the Red Magic 8S Pro can meet the needs of even the most demanding users.

Excitingly, the Red Magic 8S Pro may be one of many attractions of the July 5 launch event. According to reports, the business plans to release a great gaming tablet with the flagship smartphone. This predicted tablet would have a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ series engine, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of internal storage. The extended display of the tablet will have a stunning 2.8K resolution and an extraordinarily smooth 144Hz refresh rate, giving an immersive visual experience. The tablet is believed to have an outstanding 12,000mAh battery pack for extended usage.

With the official launch date now established, Red Magic series fans may look forward to the July 5 debut of the Red Magic 8S Pro smartphone and the likely unveiling of the gaming tablet.

Google Play Points: Earn, Redeem, and Discover Exclusive Rewards

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Image Credit: androidpolice.com

The selection of Android apps and games on the Google Play Store is undoubtedly extensive. However, there are ways to maximize the value of your spending on this platform. One such method is leveraging Google Play Points, a program enabling users to earn points through in-app purchases and other transactions. Until recently, these points could be redeemed for various rewards, including items like Chrome Dino socks, sunglasses, sweatshirts, and discounts on third-party services like DoorDash and Instacart. Now, Google has introduced a delightful addition to its merchandise store—a captivating Android Plush soft toy.

Referred to as the Android Plush, this adorable creation stands 10.5 inches tall and spans 9 inches wide, boasting a charming circular shape, according to reports from 9to5Google. Although it has yet to surface on the web version of the Merchandise Store, Android users can find it within the Play Store app. By navigating to their profile icon and accessing the Play Points section, they can switch to the Use tab and scroll down to locate the enticing Merchandise Store header.
The listing presents the Android Plush as a “Member Exclusive Reward” redeemable for 1800 Play Points. However, 9to5Google discovered that the plush is also available for individuals in the Bronze, Gold, and Platinum tiers. It’s important to note that eligible users must claim the offer by September 30, 2023, and redeem it by the end of this year, as stated in the fine print. Google emphasizes that this is a one-time opportunity, meaning you won’t be able to acquire multiple plush toys per Google account.

With a price of 1800 points, the Android Plush is notably more affordable than other items like the Google Crewneck Sweatshirt, which requires 5000 points, or the Chrome Dino Socks, obtainable for 2100 Play Points.
Similar to the items unveiled in April, the Android Plush appears to be exclusive to the United States. However, as observed by 9to5Google, a selection of products in the Google Merchandise Store will expire on June 30, suggesting the possibility of Google introducing this charming plush toy to additional regions in the next wave of redeemable items.
News of Google’s plans to enhance the benefits available through Play Points has been circulating since last July. While Android users have long been able to redeem their points for in-app purchases, including tangible items such as the Android Plush adds an extra layer of excitement to Google’s rewarding program.

Google’s Pixel 8 Lineup: Explore Colorful Possibilities and Exclusive Wallpapers

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As the launch of the Google Pixel 8 series approaches, numerous rumors and reports have already circulated, providing glimpses into what we can expect. Adding to the excitement, a recent leak unveils the available color options and offers official wallpapers for download.

Throughout its history, the search engine giant has consistently provided default wallpapers that perfectly complement the color variants of Pixel models, and many users still opt for these wallpapers. In the past, Google collaborated with renowned studios like B-Reel and Ustwo to create captivating live wallpapers. However, the upcoming Pixel 8 lineup will feature a more minimalist and static wallpaper design.

According to a leak from AndroidAuthority, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro models will be available in various attractive color options. The Pixel 8 will offer four choices: Haze, Jade, Licorice, and Peony. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro comes in four variants: Jade, Licorice, Porcelain, and Sky. It’s worth noting that the availability of these colors may vary by region, and not all options might be widely released.

Examining the leaked wallpapers, it appears Google has maintained its theme of showcasing different minerals in its designs. This suggests that the talented artist Andrew Zuckerman might be behind the creation of these wallpapers once again. If you’re eager to give your device a fresh look, you can download these beautiful wallpapers in full-resolution quality. Simply click here to access the Google Drive link for the Pixel 8 gallery.

Embrace the upcoming Pixel 8 series with its enticing color choices and the charm of these new wallpapers that effortlessly capture the essence of Google’s design philosophy.

Unveiling the Nothing Phone (2): A Powerful Contender with Upgraded Features

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The highly anticipated release of the forthcoming Nothing Phone (2) is just around the corner, scheduled to debut on July 11 in multiple markets, including Europe. In contrast to its predecessor, the Phone (1), which boosts a Snapdragon 7-series processor, the Phone (2) will elevate its performance with a formidable Snapdragon 8-series System on a Chip (SoC). Consequently, consumers can expect a higher price range for this upgraded device. Recent findings from a reputable French publication have highlighted the pricing details for the two available configurations specifically tailored for the European market.

According to the report, the European market will have two enticing options for the Nothing Phone (2). The first variant offers 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, retailing at 729 euros. Meanwhile, the second variant steps up the game with a generous 12 GB of RAM and a whopping 512 GB of storage, commanding a price of 849 euros. Although the storage options have been clarified, the specific RAM capacities for each model remain undisclosed.

The original Nothing Phone (1) was launched with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage configuration, priced at 469 euros to jog our memories. Similar to its predecessor, the Phone (2) will be available in classic white and black color options, catering to different aesthetic preferences.

Leaked reports have also divulged some key specifications for the Nothing Phone (2). The device boosts a big 6.7-inch AMOLED display, anticipated to support an FHD+ resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz. An in-screen fingerprint sensor is also expected to enhance the device’s security features. Running on the Nothing OS 2.0, based on Android 13, the Phone (2) promises an impressive three-year support for Android OS upgrades and a commendable four-year span for security updates.

Underneath the sleek exterior, the Phone (2) will house the powerful Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset, guaranteeing seamless performance. The device will likely be equipped with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample space for data storage. Moreover, a substantial 4,700mAh battery will reside within the device, though details regarding fast charging capabilities and camera specifications have yet to be disclosed.

As the launch date draws near, the tech community eagerly anticipates the official unveiling of the Nothing Phone (2), eager to explore the device’s cutting-edge features and enhancements. With its premium specifications and attractive design, the Phone (2) is poised to significantly impact the smartphone market, catering to tech enthusiasts and discerning consumers alike.

Elegance Meets Performance: The Stylish Design of Redmi K60 Ultra

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Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the highly anticipated Redmi K60 Ultra, expanding its existing K60 lineup, which already boasts the K60, K60 Pro, and K60E models. The imminent arrival of this smartphone has sent waves of excitement rippling through the tech community, as key specifications and a captivating render sketch have already surfaced online, captivating the imaginations of tech enthusiasts worldwide. Adding fuel to the fire, the device has recently emerged on the prestigious 3C certification website, shedding light on its rapid charging prowess.

Drawing insights from the information gleaned from the detailed 3C listing, the forthcoming Redmi K60 Ultra (bearing the model number 23078RKD5C) is poised to deliver the awe-inspiring 120W fast charging capability, mirroring the capabilities of its current counterpart, the K60 Pro. Speculation mounts that the K60 Ultra may also have a robust 5,000mAh battery, extending support to 30W wireless charging, akin to the distinguished K60 Pro variant. Regrettably, the listing fails to disclose further intricacies, leaving us yearning for more profound revelations. Nonetheless, let us embark on an expedition through the available information.

Sources intimate that the Redmi K60 Ultra is primed to flaunt a mesmerizing OLED display, boasting an impressive 1.5K resolution and an astonishingly high 144Hz refresh rate, promising an unparalleled visual feast for its users. Beneath the sleek surface, the device is expected to be fortified by the formidable Dimensity 9200+ chipset, ensuring a seamless and unrivaled performance. Leaked design sketches have unveiled a rear camera setup comprising three discerning lenses, prominently positioned within large cutouts, while a smaller cutout accommodates a solitary lens. On the front, the device is poised to embrace a captivating punch-hole display adorned with elegant slim bezels that effortlessly captivate the gaze of onlookers. Whispers in the grapevine hint at the possibility of the K60 Ultra donning an exquisite aluminum body composition, further accentuating its premium allure.

As we eagerly anticipate the grand unveiling of the Redmi K60 Ultra, the fragments of information we have acquired tantalize our senses, leaving us yearning for more. Xiaomi’s latest addition to the illustrious K60 series promises to push boundaries, redefine expectations, and immerse its users in a world of unrivaled technological prowess.

Instagram Unveils Exciting New Feature: Download and Share Reels Beyond the App

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Image Credit: m.dailyhunt.com

A prominent social media giant, Instagram, has recently unveiled an exciting feature bound to delight its vast user base. In response to persistent user requests over the years, Instagram has finally fulfilled its wishes by introducing the ability to download and share Reels created by others, even outside the confines of the app. This development directly responds to TikTok, which has enjoyed success by facilitating content sharing across platforms, thanks to its distinct watermark that serves as a marketing tool.

Taking to his Instagram broadcast channel on Tuesday, Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, personally announced this highly anticipated feature. He divulged that users in the United States now have the convenience of downloading Reels directly to their device’s camera roll with a simple tap on the share icon, followed by the selection of the Download option. This newfound capability empowers users with greater control over the content they produce and enjoy on Instagram. However, it raises a thought-provoking question: should such a user-friendly download option be available across all platforms?

It is important to note that downloading Reels is limited to content posted by public accounts. Additionally, public performances retain the authority to disable the download option for their Reels, should they desire more stringent control over the distribution of their content. While it remains uncertain whether downloaded Reels will bear a watermark, Mosseri’s accompanying image subtly suggests the inclusion of an Instagram logo alongside the account name. This approach mirrors TikTok’s practice of attaching a watermark to downloaded videos. Notably, Instagram had previously permitted users to download their Reels from drafts without any watermark, making this a noteworthy change.

The introduction of Reels has already made a considerable impact on Instagram’s popularity, as Mark Zuckerberg revealed during the Q1 2023 earnings call that time spent on the platform surged by an impressive 24%. Following a format akin to TikTok, the platform renowned for viral videos, Instagram’s decision to enable Reels downloads undoubtedly signifies a significant milestone in its evolutionary journey.

The Power of Screenshots: Chrome Overcomes Incognito Mode’s Limitations

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Image Credit: gizchina.com

Capturing screenshots is incredibly convenient for preserving information or sharing content with friends. However, we often take this ubiquitous feature for granted, not realizing the challenges when the software fails to cooperate. Over time, users have come up with innovative workarounds to tackle the issue of capturing screenshots in certain situations. Now, Google Chrome is actively striving to enhance its screenshot capabilities by introducing a new feature in its Canary flag, allowing users to take screenshots even while browsing in Incognito mode.

Ordinarily, when users attempt to capture a screenshot in Incognito mode, they are greeted with a frustrating black screen devoid of content. To address this inconvenience, Google introduced the chrome://flags/#incognito-screenshot option in Chrome 88. Enabling this flag resolved the screenshot limitation but came with an unintended consequence: the Incognito tab preview became visible in the Recents overview on your phone. This presented an opportunity for onlookers to observe your browsing habits as you scrolled through your recent apps—a potential breach of privacy.

Techdows was the first to notice the recent change after prolonged discussions on the Chromium bug tracker. The screenshot restrictions were initially implemented as a protective measure against passive snooping while browsing the Recents overview. The only viable solution to prevent previews in Recents was to enforce a complete restriction on capturing screenshots. However, with the new implementation, the content of Incognito tabs remains invisible as you navigate through your recent apps while still allowing you to manually capture screenshots at your discretion.

In summary, Google Chrome’s recent update aims to balance preserving privacy and providing users with the convenience of capturing screenshots, even within the confines of Incognito mode. This improvement is a testament to the ongoing commitment to refining the user experience and addressing long-standing concerns within the Chrome ecosystem.

Ransomware Alert: Reddit Confronted by ALPHV Hackers

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Reddit has become a focal point of attention due to its recent modifications to API regulations, which have negatively affected third-party applications. This situation has led to the closure of announcements of several prominent apps and the temporary blackout of numerous significant subreddits as a form of protest. Additional development has emerged: a hacker group has come forward, threatening to expose 80GB of confidential Reddit data unless the company retracts the API modifications and pays a ransom.

This collective of malicious individuals, collectively known as ALPHV, has gained notoriety for their involvement in the notorious BlackCat ransomware, and they have claimed responsibility for a significant breach of Reddit that the company had acknowledged earlier this year in February. ALPHV has made headlines for targeting prominent entities like Western Digital and Ring, a surveillance hardware brand affiliated with Amazon. In their latest exploit, the group asserts that they successfully obtained approximately 80GB of compressed data from Reddit’s systems during the attack and are now leveraging it as a bargaining chip (according to reports by BleepingComputer).

The hackers now hold the stolen data for ransom, demanding that Reddit revert the API changes and pay $4.5 million. ALPHV has taken to the dark web to communicate their demands, stating that they attempted to engage with Reddit on April 13 and June 16, but their efforts proved fruitless. In addition to their needs, they have also resorted to mocking Reddit’s CEO, Steve Huffman, commonly known by the username /u/spez. It is worth noting that this incident resembles a traditional ransomware attack; however, Reddit’s systems remain operational, and the hackers have not imposed any restrictions on their access. While a Reddit spokesperson did not comment when approached by TechCrunch, they confirmed that ALPHV’s threat is related to the February data breach. At that time, Reddit had assured its users that no customer data, banking information, or user passwords had been compromised. The hackers had access to internal documents and the website’s underlying code.

Although the hackers have made audacious claims and presented their demands, they have yet to substantiate their possession of the stolen data. It remains to be seen whether Reddit will succumb to ALPHV’s demands and reverse the API changes or they will choose an alternative course of action. The unfolding situation will determine how Reddit responds to this unsettling predicament.