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10 Prominent Cybersecurity Acquisitions of 2023

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December 28, 2023

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10 Prominent Cybersecurity Acquisitions of 2023

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The cybersecurity domain is undergoing rapid changes owing to the rise in frequency and complexity of cyber threats.

As the digital world expands, the risk of cyberattacks is increasing, and security experts must stay vigilant to safeguard against potential breaches.

As digital risks grow, big companies are acquiring others in the cybersecurity field to enhance their capabilities and stay ahead of evolving threats.

Acquisitions provide access to the following key things:-

Advanced technologies
New talent
Threat intelligence

These key things allow these companies to strengthen their overall security posture and offer more comprehensive solutions to clients in an ever-changing threat landscape.

Impact of mergers & acquisitions (M&A)

Cybersecurity market is set to grow from $153.6bn (2022) to $424.9bn (2030). While the mergers & acquisitions (M&A) are significantly impacted by the following key factors:-

Risk aversion
High asset values
Capital costs

However, the limited international support prompts cybersecurity firms to merge for the required market demands that must be fulfilled.

Here below, we have mentioned all the key impacts of mergers & acquisitions (M&A) of cybersecurity companies:-

Enhanced Capabilities
Expanded Product Portfolio
Increased Market Share
Improved R&D (Research and Development)
Access to Talent
Streamlined Operations
Global Expansion
Improved Threat Intelligence
Compliance and Regulation Adherence
Economies of Scale

Prominent Cybersecurity Acquisitions 2023

Here below, we have mentioned all the top 10 prominent cybersecurity acquisitions of 2023:-

Now let’s discuss the above-mentioned prominent Cybersecurity Acquisitions of 2023:-

Cisco Acquired Splunk

Cisco acquires Splunk for $28 billion in cash, aiming to bolster AI-enabled security. The deal, at $157 per share, enhances strength and shareholder value.

The merger accelerates Splunk’s growth, encouraging innovation and global expansion. Approval from both boards anticipates finalization by Q3 2024.

Besides this, the transaction won’t affect Cisco’s share buyback or dividend program.

Broadcom acquired VMware, and this merger blends Broadcom’s engineering with VMware’s cloud expertise, promising agility in the digital era.

Broadcom’s innovation commitment shines in industry-leading products, and this merger will provide the ability to explore the power of VMware Cloud Foundation by reshaping private and hybrid clouds.

The union promises enhanced solutions and accelerated innovation in this transformative generation.

Accenture Acquired Innotec Security

Accenture acquired Innotec Security, a top Spanish cybersecurity-as-a-service provider, on November 2, 2023, strengthening Accenture’s cybersecurity capabilities and market presence in Spain.

Innotec Security, founded in 2002, boasts 500 cybersecurity experts and a wide range of services. The acquisition from Entelgy Group expands Accenture’s workforce and expertise in cybersecurity-as-a-service.

With 19 previous acquisitions, Accenture is a global leader in managed security services, securing the top spot in Gartner’s 2022 report. Besides this, the deal marks a strategic step in cybersecurity advancement.

Thales Acquired Imperva

Thales acquires a top-notch US cybersecurity firm known for data and app security at $3.6B. A global tech leader, Thales spans Defense, Aeronautics, Space, and Digital Identity.

A cyber leader, Imperva secures apps, APIs, and data with integrated edge, app, and data security. Partnership boosts both data and app security, propelling Thales into the app security market. Combined revenue exceeds €2.4B.

Deal impacts three key areas, finalizing in 2024 pending approvals.

SentinelOne Acquired Krebs Stamos Group

SentinelOne tackles cyber threats with PinnacleOne, a strategic advisory group led by Krebs and Stamos. Launched at OneCon, it offers holistic risk management for businesses amid tech, cybersecurity, and geopolitics complexities.

PinnacleOne, a think tank and advisory, aids executives in navigating modern risks. Krebs, ex-CISA director, is the Chief Intelligence Officer, while Stamos, ex-Facebook CSO, is the Chief Trust Officer. Acquisition of KSG enhances SentinelOne’s security capabilities.

IBM Acquired Polar Security

Under CEO Arvind Krishna, IBM acquired 5th company, Polar Security, focusing on cloud and AI capabilities. With 30+ acquisitions since April 2020, IBM addresses the “Shadow Data” surge amid COVID-19.

Polar Security offers Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) to locate and secure sensitive data across storage locations.

Automation detects structured or unstructured data, provides remediation, and generates security reports.

IBM plans to integrate Polar Security’s DSPM tech with Guardium for comprehensive data security, and for now, the acquisition price is undisclosed.

Proofpoint Acquired Tessian

Proofpoint offers cloud-based solutions to prevent threats and protect sensitive data; with Tessian acquisition, it targeted misdirected emails and data exfiltration.

However, Tessian’s AI platform enhances Proofpoint’s email data loss prevention service.

This helps in mitigating accidental and malicious data loss. The integration of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace ensures seamless email security implementation.

Okta Acquired Spera Security

Okta acquired Spera Security, a rising star in Identity security, and it focuses on uncovering threats within SaaS and infrastructure applications.

The strategic union aims for a robust “Zero Trust” security posture. With 86% of breaches from Identity-related attacks, the alliance addresses phishing and social engineering challenges.

Okta and Spera offer a beacon of hope, providing comprehensive visibility and threat monitoring in the expanding SaaS and cloud landscape. The alliance is a commitment to empower users for a more secure digital future.

Cisco Acquired Isovalent

Cisco boosts cloud security dominance with Isovalent acquisition, a pioneer in open-source cloud-native networking.

The union uses Cisco’s Security Cloud vision to reshape cyber risk management across diverse cloud infrastructures.

The acquisition reinforces Cisco’s role in open-source foundations, positioning it as a cornerstone. Isovalent’s integration into Cisco’s Security Business Group is set for Q3 FY 2024.

Check Point Acquired Perimeter 81

Check Point acquires Perimeter 81 for $490M, accelerating secure access adoption globally. Perimeter 81, a Forrester Zero Trust Wave leader, brings cloud and on-device protection to over 3,000 customers.

Integration into Check Point Infinity architecture enhances threat prevention, creating a unified solution for network, cloud, and remote users.

The acquisition supports Check Point’s vision for the fastest, most secure SASE solution.

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Why is banking software development so important for the financial sector?

Tech

andreasc

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December 28, 2023

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Why is banking software development so important for the financial sector?

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Is it so important for banks to go digital?

Global digitalization is a process which started years ago, but the recent COVID-19 pandemic has shown that online solutions are more than welcome. Traditional banking services are not so popular and effective anymore. Most clients – especially generation Y – readily reach for modern tools. After years of testing they are mostly stable, run smoothly and grant a high level of security. That makes even elderly people feel comfortable while using online banking.

Such rapid growth of expectations towards financial software creates literally a gold rush. Banks that can keep up that pace win trust and a large number of new clients. Entities that are strictly devoted to the previous service model incur losses.

Traditional banking has a really long story, reaching far into the medieval ages. However, an inflexible approach to the market may turn out to be their doom. According to the Statista website, so-called neobanks (entities that operate solely on the internet) are growing stronger and in a few years may pose a serious threat.

What are the main challenges that arise while making banking software?

Financial sector is heavily regulated by law. At the same time, an entity must ensure that provided services are secure and must run simultaneously for thousands of clients. There’s no point in arguing that manual labor of clerks cannot be efficient enough to satiate market hunger. Thus, banking software development is a crucial step to implement automation. However, it’s not as easy as it may seem, while banking entities have to cope with requirements connected with:

– biometric authentication;
– outdated technology stack ang legacy systems;
– legal regulations such as GDPR, PSD2 (and upcoming PSD3) and PCSDSS concerning payment cards;
– evolving ways of communication – simple customer service is not enough while people expect video calls, AI assistants and selfie/OCR bank account setup.

It’s worth noting that different kinds of financial services require a slightly different approach. Retail, corporate and investment banking need tools designed for a particular niche of client.

Discover top trends in software development for financial sector

Dynamic technology evolution touches each and every sector in our lives. From smartphones and cars to banking software, we demand more fluent and more convenient use. How does it impact banking software? What are the new directions for developers?

One of the hottest topics is machine learning (ML) which is a part of a wider AI topic. ML algorithms are used to gather data about clients to help in the decision-making process. It may be used for credit underwriting, fraud detection, task automation and security management.

Another “holy grail” is biometrics. Perceived as an ultimate security measure, biometric data help to authorize logging, payments, withdrawing money from ATMs and most of all – onboarding new clients. There are a few biometric methods – from face recognition, through fingerprint and iris scans to voice recognition and behavioral biometrics.

Banking software development is an expensive and time-consuming investment. Correctly done, however, it can greatly reinforce brand, automatize a lot of business processes and attract new clients.

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Huawei Nova 12 Pro packs in a brand new Kirin chip

Android

andreasc

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December 28, 2023

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Huawei has announced several new mid-range smartphones as part of its Nova 12 lineup. The Huawei Nova 12, Nova 12 Pro, and Nova 12 Ultra launched. The launch happened in China, and one of those phones is particularly interesting. The device in question is the Huawei Nova 12 Pro, and it packs a brand new Kirin chip.

The Huawei Nova 12 Pro has a brand new Kirin 8000 processor

The Huawei Nova 12 Pro launched with the Kirin 8000 processor. Truth be said, Huawei did not specifically mention that chip, but someone got ahold of the device, and checked out the specs on it. The Kirin 8000 is clearly mentioned.

Unfortunately, we don’t really have any information about that chip just yet. Based on its name, however, it’s placed under the Kirin 9000, which is seemingly included in the Huawei Nova 12 Ultra.

Chances are this a 7nm chip

Chances are that it’s also a 7nm processor, but that’s all we know at this point. Having said that, other than the difference in the chip department, the ‘Pro’ and ‘Ultra’ models are basically the same. There’s also a slight weight difference, but that’s it.

These two phones, despite being mid-rangers, also come with a physical variable aperture camera. That’s something we’ve seen in Huawei’s flagship devices thus far, and not many other companies. Needless to say, it’s a very useful feature to have.

The Huawei Nova 12 Pro and Ultra look the same

The Huawei Nova 12 Pro and Nova 12 Ultra look the same. They have a flat display and a pill-shaped display camera hole. The bezels are quite thin, and the back side looks quite unique too. An interesting pattern is back on the back, along with the Nova logo all over. The camera island is also rather unique-looking.

These two phones include a 6.76-inch 2776 x 1224 OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This is an LTPO display, and it enables a 1-120Hz refresh rate range. Both devices come in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB versions.

Harmony OS 4.0 comes pre-installed on both phones, while two SIM card slots are available. A 4,600mAh battery sits inside both smartphones, and 100W wired charging is supported. Both smartphones do have stereo speakers, and an in-display fingerprint scanner.

Both phones include a physical variable aperture camera

A 50-megapixel main camera (f/1.4-f/4.0 aperture, RYYB super-sensitive filter array) is included on the back. There’s also an 8-megapixel ultrawide macro camera (f/2.2 aperture). A laser focus sensor is a part of the package, as is a ten-channel color temperature sensor.

On the front, a 60-megapixel ultrawide tracking camera (f/2.4 aperture) is located, along with 2x optical zoom capability. An 8-megapixel portrait close-up camera (f/2.2) also sits on the front side.

The Huawei Nova 12 series is expected to launch globally too, at least some of the devices

The Huawei Nova 12 Pro and Ultra measure 163.4 x 74.96 x 7.68mm, and weigh 198 grams (Ultra) / 201 grams (Pro). The pricing for the Pro model starts at CNY3,999 ($559), and for the Huawei Nova 12 Ultra at CNY5,499 ($769). These are placed rather high on the mid-range smartphone scale. The Huawei Nova 12 series is expected to reach global markets too.

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Samsung nearing the launch of Galaxy Tab Active 5 & Active 5 5G

Android

andreasc

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December 28, 2023

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Samsung nearing the launch of Galaxy Tab Active 5 & Active 5 5G

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Samsung‘s next rugged Android tablet is called the Galaxy Tab Active 5, a Bluetooth SIG listing has confirmed. The organization that oversees the development of Bluetooth standards recently certified the upcoming device, revealing its name ahead of launch. The tablet will be available in Wi-Fi and cellular (5G) versions.

Galaxy Tab Active 5 Wi-Fi and 5G versions certified ahead of launch

The Bluetooth SIG certified the Galaxy Tab Active 5 with the model numbers SM-X300, SM-X306B, SM-X306N, and SM-X308U. The former is the Wi-Fi version while the latter three are 5G versions intended for the global market, South Korea, and the US, respectively. The tablet will feature Bluetooth 5.3, the certifications reveal.

The listings don’t give us additional information or specs. However, we now have confirmation that the device will arrive as the Galaxy Tab Active 5 with no “Pro” branding. We already expected that based on previously leaked specs, which hint at an affordable rugged tablet. It is more of a direct sequel to the Galaxy Tab Active 3 from 2020 rather than last year’s Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro.

Before the Bluetooth SIG, the upcoming Samsung tablet was certified by the FCC in the US and the KTL in the company’s home country, South Korea. Those certifications revealed that the Galaxy Tab Active 5 will feature a 4,900mAh battery with 15W wired charging. A live photo of the device published by the KTL suggested it would be a compact rugged tablet.

We are looking at a length of 210-220mm and a width of 120-130mm. That’s roughly the same size as the Galaxy Tab Active 3, which has a 5,050mAh battery and sports an 8-inch display. The Galaxy Tab Active 5’s display should also measure about 8 inches in diagonal. Last year’s Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro is 242.9mm long and 170.2mm wide. It features a 7,600mAh battery and a 10.1-inch display.

Other known details about the Galaxy Tab Active 5 include Android 14-based software (One UI 6.0 or One UI 6.1), 6GB RAM and 128GB internal storage (there may be more configurations), a microSD card slot, and a built-in S Pen. The FCC has already certified the S Pen that Samsung will ship with this tablet. The stylus pen accessory has the model number EJ-PT870.

Samsung also has a rugged phone in the pipeline

The Galaxy Tab Active 5 could accompany a rugged mid-range Android phone out of Samsung’s doors. The Korean firm is also readying the Galaxy Xcover 7, which is said to cost under €400/$450. The two rugged devices may break cover in early 2024, possibly after the Galaxy S24 launch. Based on leaks, the new flagships will go official on January 17, 2024.

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Google Clock app introduces Pixel-perfect weather forecast

Android

andreasc

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December 28, 2023

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Google Clock app introduces Pixel-perfect weather forecast

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The Google Clock app has recently undergone a delightful makeover in its weather forecast feature, exclusive to Pixel phones. Earlier this year, the app added support for displaying weather forecasts when alarms are turned off, and a recent update has brought a visually appealing redesign to the forecast interface. The feature rolled out for most Pixel users this month as part of the December 2023 Feature Drop and Android 14 QPR1.

Powered by the Google Weather app on Pixel devices, the new design introduces a more Pixel-centric layout. Although it provides the forecast for the current date and not for the next, users are likely to appreciate the aesthetically pleasing presentation. The redesign aligns well with Google’s Pixel design language.

Weather conditions are now easier to notice at a glance with the redesigned weather forecast in Google Clock

In October, Google introduced the capability to display weather forecasts immediately after you stop or snooze alarms, a feature exclusive to the Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro with Android 14. The initial design presented the forecast as a text block with an icon showing current conditions besides the temperature. The recent update brings a refreshing change to the user interface, animating the forecast in a Pixel-specific manner.

The redesigned forecast begins by showing current conditions and temperature in a circle that enters from the top left, followed by the forecasted high and low temperatures sliding in from the bottom right. A dismiss button labeled “Ok thanks” remains at the bottom of the screen similar to the previous design.

Despite the reduction in the amount of information displayed in the new UI, limited to the day’s forecast instead of the current and following days, the trade-off appears justified. The enhanced visibility and adherence to Google’s Pixel design language contribute to a more user-friendly experience, especially during the morning routine. The design does mirror the setup screen used on Pixel phones in recent years, offering a consistent visual language across the Pixel ecosystem.

Interestingly, this seems to be a server-side change or potentially influenced by the Google Weather app on Pixel phones, as the Clock app itself has not received an update since October, notes 9to5Google.

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Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11

Android

andreasc

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December 28, 2023

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The global launch of the OnePlus 12 is right around the corner. The OnePlus 11 has been getting discounted for a while now, and it may be worth getting, even with the OnePlus 12 on the horizon. In this article, we’ll compare the Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11. We do hope that this comparison will help you make a purchasing decision between the two phones, or at least help you decide whether you should wait for the OnePlus 12.

These two phones do look quite different, even though the in-hand feel is not that different. We’ll cover all that and more in the design section below. In addition to that, we’ll compare their specifications, and compare their displays, performance, battery life, cameras, and audio output. There’s plenty to talk about here, so, let’s get started.

Specs

Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11, respectively

– Screen size:
6.7-inch Super Actua AMOLED display (flat, 120Hz LTPO, HDR10+, 2,400 nits)
6.7-inch LTPO3 Fluid AMOLED display (curved, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1,300 nits)
– Display resolution:
2992 x 1344
3216 x 1440
– SoC:
Google Tensor G3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
– RAM:
12GB (LPDDR5X)
8GB/12GB/16GB (LPDDR5X)
– Storage:
128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB (UFS 3.1)
128GB/256GB/512GB (UFS 4.0)
– Rear cameras:
50MP (f/1.68 aperture, 82-degree FoV, 1.2um pixel size, OIS), 48MP (ultrawide, f/1.95 aperture, 125.5-degree FoV, 0.8um pixel size), 48MP (telephoto, f/2.8 aperture, 0.7um pixel size, 5x optical zoom)
50MP (f/1.8 aperture, OIS, multi-directional PDAF), 48MP (ultrawide, f/2.2 aperture, 115-degree FoV), 32MP (telephoto, f/2.0 aperture, 2x optical zoom)
– Front cameras:
10.5MP (f/2.2 aperture, 1.22um pixel size)
16MP (f/2.5 aperture)
– Battery:
5,050mAh
5,000mAh
– Charging:
30W wired, 23W wireless, reverse wireless (charger not included)
100W wired globally, 80W in the US (charger included)
– Dimensions (unfolded):
162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8mm
163.1 x 74.1 x 8.5mm
– Weight:
213 grams
205 grams
– Connectivity:
5G, LTE, NFC, Wi-Fi, USB Type-C, Bluetooth 5.3
– Security:
In-display fingerprint scanner (optical) & Face Unlock
In-display fingerprint scanner (optical)
– OS:
Android 14
Android 13 with OxygenOS 13
– Price:
$999+
$699+
– Buy:
Best Buy
OnePlus

Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11: Design

Both of these phones are made out of metal and glass. Both of them also have a display camera hole, but in a different spot entirely. The Pixel 8 Pro’s is centered, while the OnePlus 11 has a hole punch in the top-left corner. That being said, the Pixel 8 Pro has a flat display, while the OnePlus 11’s is curved. The back glass on both phones is curved towards the sides, and quite ergonomic. Do note that both smartphones are very slippery, though.

Both of these devices are also quite large. The Pixel 8 Pro is noticeably wider, though, so it all depends on what you prefer. The height and thickness are almost the same. The Pixel 8 Pro is a bit heavier. The main difference you’ll notice when you’re holding them is the width, heft, and the fact that the Pixel 8 Pro has a flat display in contrast to the OnePlus 11. Having said that, the OnePlus 11 also has additional hardware on the right-hand side, an alert slider.

When we flip them over, you can see how different their camera islands are. The Pixel 8 Pro has a camera visor that spans from the left side of the frame to the right. It’s covered in metal. The OnePlus 11, on the other hand, has a more regular-looking camera island in the top-left corner. Even that circular camera island has a bit of flare, as a piece of metal connects it to the frame, for design purposes.

Both phones are comfortable to use, though they’re both quite large and slippery. The Pixel 8 Pro does have a better IP rating with IP68, compared to IP64 of the OnePlus 11. They both do feel really premium in the hand.

Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11: Display

There is a 6.7-inch 2992 x 1344 LTPO OLED panel included on the Pixel 8 Pro. That display is flat, and it has a 120Hz refresh rate. It also goes up to 2,400 nits when it comes to brightness. The display aspect ratio here is 20:9, while the screen-to-body ratio is 87.4 percent. Another thing worth noting is that this panel is protected by the Gorilla Glass Victus 2 from Corning.

Google Pixel 8 Pro Review AM AH 09 — Google Pixel 8 Pro

On the flip side, the OnePlus 11 includes a 6.7-inch 3216 x 1440 LTPO3 Fluid AMOLED display. That panel can project up to 1 billion colors and has a 120Hz refresh rate too. Dolby Vision is supported here, as is HDR10+ content. This panel goes up to 1,300 nits when it comes to peak brightness. The display aspect ratio here is 20:9, while the screen-to-body is 89.7 percent. The OnePlus 11’s panel is protected by the Gorilla Glass Victus by Corning.

Google’s handset has one advantage when it comes to displays, its brightness. The OnePlus 11’s display is bright, it is, but the Pixel 8 Pro’s is brighter. If you do spend a lot of time in direct sunlight, that’s worth noting. Other than that, they’re on par. They’re both vivid, have deep blacks, and great viewing angles. Both displays also have good touch response, and they’re more than sharp enough.

Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11: Performance

The Google Pixel 8 Pro is fueled by the Google Tensor G3 processor. Google also included LPDDR5X RAM inside of this phone, along with UFS 3.1 flash storage. The OnePlus 11, on the flip side, offers up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and both UFS 3.1 and UFS 4.0 flash storage. Only the 128GB storage model offers UFS 3.1, while 256GB and 512GB storage variants include UFS 4.0.

What’s the actual performance like? Well, they’re both very good in that department, to say the least. They can handle everything tasks without a problem, ranging from opening and closing apps and browsing to multitasking, and consuming multimedia. We did not notice any slowdown in that regard, at all. The one difference you’ll notice between them is in gaming. The OnePlus 11 not only fires up games more quickly, but it also runs the most demanding games better.

That’s not all that surprising, though, as it includes a more powerful SoC. The Tensor G3 is not exactly made for gaming, but it can handle such tasks. The OnePlus 11 does remain cooler while handling demanding games, but both perform well under stress.

Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11: Battery

You’ll find a 5,050mAh battery inside the Google Pixel 8 Pro. The OnePlus 11, on the flip side, has a 5,000mAh battery on the inside. Based on the display size and battery capacities, they should offer similar battery life. That’s not the case, though. The Pixel 8 Pro offers good battery life, but the OnePlus 11 goes above and beyond that. In fact, the OnePlus 11 is easily one of the best battery life smartphones in 2023, especially in the flagship department.

We’ve managed to get between 6 and 7.5 hours of screen-on-time on the Pixel 8 Pro. The battery life was rather wild at first. When the phone settled, getting over 7 hours of screen-on-time was not a problem. The OnePLus 11 is a whole different story, though. The battery life was outstanding from the get-go. We’ve managed to pull out over 9-10 hours of screen-on-time on a regular basis. Do note that gaming will decrease those numbers when it comes to both devices, though.

When it comes to charging speed, the OnePlus 11 wins, easily. It supports 100W wired charging (80W in the US), compared to the Pixel 8 Pro’s 30W wired charging. OnePlus’ handset does not support wireless charging, though, while the Pixel 8 Pro does (23W wireless and 5W reverse wireless charging). The OnePlus 11 also comes with a charger in the box, unlike the Pixel 8 Pro.

Google Pixel 8 Pro vs OnePlus 11: Cameras

The Google Pixel 8 Pro has a 50-megapixel main camera, a 48-megapixel ultrawide unit (126-degree FoV), and a 48-megapixel telephoto camera (5x optical zoom). The OnePlus 11 includes a 50-megapixel main camera, a 48-megapixel ultrawide unit (115-degree FoV), and a 32-megapixel telephoto camera (2x optical zoom).

Both smartphones do provide very good pictures in both good lighting, and low light. Those images are different, however. Both devices do prefer contrasty shots, but the Pixel 8 Pro’s do end up looking a bit more processed, in a good way. The colors pop in samples from both smartphones, and both phones are more than capable of retaining a lot of detail in their pictures. The Pixel 8 Pro does have a slight edge in HDR conditions, but both do a great job in such demanding scenarios too.

In low light, the Pixel 8 Pro does tend to brighten up scenes a bit more. The OnePlus 11, on the other hand, does tend to provide more lifelike images in low light, Both smartphones are capable of retaining plenty of details in such scenarios. The Pixel 8 Pro does capture better video content, however, if that’s what you’re interested in.

The ultrawide shots look good on both sides, and both smartphones balance the colors well between the main and ultrawide cameras. The Pixel 8 Pro has a huge advantage in the telephoto department, however. 2x optical zoom on the OnePlus 11 is nowhere near as useful as 5x optical zoom on the Pixel 8 Pro. The Pixel 8 Pro actually does a really good job up to 10x zoom.

Audio

You will find a set of stereo speakers on both of these smartphones. Those speakers are well-balanced in both cases, but the OnePlus 11 speakers are a bit louder. That’s not something most of you will notice, however.

What you will notice is the lack of an audio jack on both of them, in case you still use wired headphones. You can always utilize their Type-C ports, however. Also, both smartphones do support Bluetooth 5.3, for wireless audio connectivity.

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Android 14 rolling out to Galaxy A13 5G and Tab Active 4 Pro

Android

andreasc

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December 28, 2023

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Another day, another Samsung phone gets Android 14. The big Android update is rolling out to the Galaxy A13 5G, a budget 5G handset from 2021. The Android 14-based One UI 6.0 update is also available for the Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro, a rugged tablet from last year.

Samsung updates Galaxy A13 5G and Tab Active 4 Pro to Android 14

As of this writing, the Android 14 update is available for Galaxy A13 5G users in Europe. The update comes with the firmware build number A136BXXU5DWK7 in the region. Samsung will soon release One UI 6.0 for the phone in other markets, including the US. The 4G version of the device should also get the update in the coming days.

Depending on your model and region, the build number may vary. However, it’s the same update for everyone. Samsung is pushing One UI 6.0 to the two-year-old budget phone. It brings new features, UI changes, functional improvements, improved system animations, and many more goodies.

The same update is also available for the Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro in Europe. The updated build number for the rugged tablet is T636BXXU4CWL5. Samsung will release the Android 14 update for the device globally over the next few days. One UI 6.0 enhances your everyday user experience of the tablet with new features.

Along with the new goodies, the Galaxy A13 5G and Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro are getting Samsung’s November 2023 security patch as well. Last month’s security release fixes over 60 vulnerabilities, including a handful of critical issues. The Korean firm has already released the December patch for some devices. These two will get a newer security patch later.

If you are using either of these Samsung devices, watch out for a notification about the new update. You will receive the update over the air (OTA). The OTA file size may be 2GB or larger, so make sure that you aren’t on a limited data plan. You can check for updates from the Settings app. Go to the Software update menu and tap on Download and install.

The A-series phone may not get Android 15

This is the third major Android OS update for the Galaxy A13 5G. It debuted with Android 11 and previously received updates to Android 12 and Android 13. We don’t expect it to get Android 15. On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro debuted with Android 12 and is only receiving its second major update. It should get at least one more if not two.

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ASUS ZenFone 10 now receiving stable Android 14 update

Android

andreasc

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December 27, 2023

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ASUS ZenFone 10 now receiving stable Android 14 update

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The ASUS ZenFone 10 (review) is now receiving a stable Android 14 OS update in the global markets. Earlier in June this year, the Taiwanese brand launched the compact flagship smartphone packed with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 144Hz display, gimbal cameras, and more. It shipped with Android 13 OS out of the box. Read on to know all the details below,

Android 14 arrives on ZenFone 10

ASUS is rolling out the stable version of the Android 14 OS to the ZenFone 10 units in the global markets, including those sold in the EU. In a community forum post, ASUS revealed that the smartphone needs to be on the software build number 33.0220.0220.101. The Android 14 update has the version number 34.1004.0204.65 and it weighs 1.34GB in size. Hence, owners are recommended to download the update over WiFi or strong cellular network.

The Android 14 update for the ZenFone 10 is being rolled out in a phased manner. Hence, it could take some time to reach all units across the world. If there is no update notification, users can manually check it by heading to Settings> System > System Updates. ASUS warns that users must take a backup of their data and charge the phone to 50 percent before proceeding with the update.

Android 14 new changes

The Android 14 update changelog on the ASUS ZenFone 10 mentions a revamped mobile manager, contacts, emergency dialer, calculator, and more system apps. The clock widget on the lock screen can now be customized. The update also introduces support for new photos and video permissions and the system photo ticker. It also fixes speakerphone call issues. The update also resolves the customized power menu on the phone lacking restart and shutdown options. Lastly, there’s a new method of displaying battery usage to view app usage in segments.

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Humane AI Pin shipment starts in March

Tech

andreasc

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December 27, 2023

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One of the latest pieces AI hardware that has created much buzz in recent months is the Humane AI Pin. While the gadget made its first public debut in November, it’ll hit the shelves in March, according to Engadget. Pre-orders also began on November 16.

The company announced the news on its X account, saying, “We are thrilled to announce that Ai Pin will start shipping in March 2024.” Those who placed orders before will receive their AI Pins once the shipment begins. The delivery will be based on the date of purchase. The March 2024 timeframe for shipping AI Pin comes after the company first announced the shipment starts in early 2024.

The Humane AI Pin shipment starts in the United States. While customers in the EU are also waiting to get their hands on the AI hardware, the product launch in the continent might face setbacks due to the regulations. If Humane plans to launch the AI Pin in the EU, it should ensure the product meets GDPR rules. The GDPR is said to be the most strict privacy and security set of laws in the world.

What the Humane AI Pin is, and how it works

As AI is finding its way to almost every app and service we use, AI-driven hardware is also becoming a focus for companies. The company behind the AI Pin, Humane, is founded by former Apple designers Bethany Bongiorno and Imran Chaudhri. The company is also backed by Sam Altman, co-founder and CEO of OpenAI.

The AI Pin is an AI-powered screenless phone that can be activated through voice commands. Since it’s backed by OpenAI, it uses ChatGPT to answer questions and benefits from a new operating system dubbed Cosmos. The idea behind the AI Pin is simple: Instead of picking up your bulky phone, you can interact with the AI Pin via voice commands and ask it to perform specific tasks. Chaudhri previously described the device as “a new way of thinking, a new sense of opportunity.”

While the Humane AI Pin is priced at $699, the company requires users to buy a subscription for $24 a month to access the pin’s cellular data, which is based on T-Mobile’s network. You can now order the device through Humane’s website.

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Samsung Wallet rolls out mobile driver’s licenses in Arizona

Apps

andreasc

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December 27, 2023

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Samsung Wallet rolls out mobile driver’s licenses in Arizona

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Samsung Wallet, the app that lets users store and manage their cards, tickets, and coupons on their Samsung Galaxy smartphones, has added a new feature: mobile driver’s licenses and state IDs. The company announced back in October that it will bring this feature to Arizona and Iowa, however, other than “coming later this year,” no specific date was given for when it would exactly go live.

Now, it looks like the wait is over as the feature is live in Arizona, according to the announcement made by the Arizona Department of Transportation. Samsung Wallet users who are Arizona residents can now store a digital version of their physical cards on their phones and use them at places that accept digital IDs, such as TSA checkpoints at select airports.

This feature offers more convenience and security for users, as they don’t have to carry their physical cards with them and risk losing or damaging them. The digital IDs are also encrypted and protected by fingerprint or PIN authentication, so only the authorized user can access them.

To add a mobile driver’s license or state ID to Samsung Wallet, users just need to open the app, go to the Quick access tab, and click on the ‘+’ button. From there, select ‘Digital IDs’, and click on the ‘Driver’s License/State ID’ option. At that point, users will need to scan the front and back of their ID card and verify their identity with a face scan.

Samsung says the face scan is only for verification purposes and does not store any biometric data. After submitting the scan, users need to authenticate with their fingerprint or PIN to complete the process.

This convenience isn’t just limited to air travel, though. Samsung envisions a future where digital IDs can be used for age verification, entering age-restricted establishments, and even renting a car. While Arizona is the first to experience this revolution, Samsung promises to add more states and functionalities in the near future.

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