Categories
Batteries Guide

Why does USB take longer to charge a mobile phone?

With the development of smart phones, the technology is very mature and the price is not expensive. Therefore, almost everyone has two mobile phones now, but the charging time of smart phones is sometimes long and sometimes short. What is the reason?

There are two ways for the charger to charge the phone:cradle chargeanddirect charge.

The cradle charge is to remove the battery and charge it on the charger, and the corresponding is the direct charge, that is, the charger is directly connected to the mobile phone to charge.

USB charging refers to the use of electrical equipment with a USB interface to charge mobile phones, and currently refers to PCs and laptops. Usually, USB charging takes much longer than charger charging. In order to explain the difference between USB charging and DC charging, we must first understand the charging principle of lithium batteries.

The charging method of lithium battery is limited voltage and constant current, which generally goes through three charging stages:

  • pre-charge, the voltage is less than 3V at this time;
  • Constant current charging. After the voltage reaches 3V, it enters the fast charging stage. At this time, the current is relatively large, and the constant current charging continues until the voltage rises to 4.2V;
  • Constant voltage charging, when the voltage rises to 4.2V, it is changed to small current charging, while the voltage of 4.2V remains unchanged. Usually, the current at this time is 1/10 of the constant current stage.

The cradle charging and direct charging methods will respectively cause a certain impact to the lithium battery and the mobile phone, and will cause a certain degree of damage in the long run. The USB output current is smaller than the above two, which is why the USB charging time is longer than the two. This small current is manifested in the constant current and constant voltage stages. The purpose of constant voltage charging is to supplement the capacity loss of lithium-ion batteries due to self-discharge after being fully charged.

At present, the USB output voltage of the computer is 5V, the output current is 500mA, and the charging current of the charger is 1000mA. Because the USB output current is small, its current in the constant voltage stage is even smaller.

Therefore, charging with USB feels longer, of which, the more important is the longer time spent in the constant voltage phase. If you can’t wait and end the process of charging the phone with USB as soon as possible, because there is still a part of the supplementary power that has not been charged, it seems that it is not fully charged. This is actually a current problem rather than leakage and other problems that consumers are worried about.

However, the problem of “not fully charged” has little effect. Even if there is no constant voltage charging process,the battery at this time has at least 90% capacity.For lithium batteries, as long as they are not overcharged and overdischarged, they can be charged at any time. , which is the difference between it and NiMH batteries.

Categories
News

Google Will Cancels Pixel Tablet 3 Development

Remember in 2019 when Google announced that it was giving up on tablets? And then teased the Pixel Tablet in 2022 before ultimately releasing it in 2023? Well, it looks like And now it turns out that the Pixel Tablet will also be joining that list again, though not before getting one more iteration. 

There is currently only the first generation Pixel Tablet available on the market. Insiders from Google claim that — though a Pixel Tablet 2 is under the works — there will be no third tablet.Multiple industry sources close to the project have confirmed that the device, internally known as “Kiyomi,” will not be moving forward.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Google made this decision last week, with internal communications and meetings taking place to inform the teams involved. The personnel previously assigned to the Pixel Tablet 3 project are being redirected to other initiatives within the company.

Pixel Tablet 2 is presumably too far into development to quit cold turkey which is why it will allegedly come out next year. However, there’s no saying how long support for it will last if Google has given up on the entire thing.

What does this mean for Google’s tablet?

The Pixel Tablet — something that sounds so appealing on paper — didn’t turn out to be the high-end Android experience we hoped for. Google’s newest tablet, while not bad per se, was nothing special either. The 60 Hz display in particular made it feel very outdated, a problem that is also present on the iPhone 16.

However, instead of working towards improving it and making it the Android contender we need, Google simply abandoning it.As it stands The Pixel Tablet was marketed as some “premium” tablet from Google, when in reality, it looked a lot like a cheap tablet from Five Below. It was pretty cheap compared to other premium tablets like the iPad Air and iPad Pro, as well as Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S series.And Google really can’t charge Apple prices because Android, unlike iOS, isn’t exclusive to Pixel.

This effectively means that the Pixel Tablet 2, when it launches next year, will be a lame duck tablet.

Categories
News

Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus international release date now official

Xiaomi has started teasing the first international release of the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus. Seemingly, the IP69 certified handset will be launching alongside the Redmi Note 14 and Redmi Note 14 Pro with quite a few changes from the current Redmi Note 13 series.

For context, the company kicked off the series in September by releasing the following Redmi Note 14 smartphones:

  • Redmi Note 14
  • Redmi Note 14 Pro
  • Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus

Specifications Overview

The Redmi Note 14 series launched in China boasts an array of features designed to cater to various consumer needs. All three models are equipped with a 6.67-inch OLED display, offering a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth and immersive viewing experience.

Under the hood, the Redmi Note 14 is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset. Meanwhile, the Pro variants showcase more advanced configurations, with the Redmi Note 14 Pro running on a Dimensity 7300 Ultra processor and the Pro+ variant featuring the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset.

Camera and Battery Features

Photography enthusiasts can expect high-quality imaging capabilities across the range. Both the Pro and Pro+ models include a 50MP primary sensor paired with an 8MP ultrawide lens. However, the Pro+ distinguishes itself further with a 50MP portrait telephoto camera, while the Pro opts for a 2MP macro lens.

Battery performance is another highlight. The Note 14 Pro+ is equipped with a robust 6,200mAh battery supporting 90W fast charging, ensuring quick top-ups for users on the go. On the other hand, the Note 14 Pro houses a 5,500mAh battery with 44W fast charging capabilities.

Please be aware that these are all 5G models. However, recent leaks suggest that there will be 4G variants too, though, to replace the Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G. Recently, Xiaomi confirmed that it would be unveiling the Redmi Note 14 series internationally, despite having introduced predecessors only earlier this year. Now, it seems that the company is ready to reveal more details about this release.

Xiaomi has now revealed that the Redmi Note 14 series will land in India on December 9. As expected, Xiaomi will expand Redmi Note 14, Redmi Note 14 Pro and Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus availability to India first before offerign the devices to other markets.Potentially, launches in US and other markets are not that far behind, though. Xiaomi has not confirmed as much just yet, though.

Categories
News

The first developer preview of Android 16 is now available

Android 15 just arrived on Pixel devices last month, but the first Android 16 developer preview is set to be released today — which is significantly earlier than we would have previously expected.

For reference, the first developer preview for Android 15 was released back in February, followed by the first beta release in April. So Google is effectively running 3 months ahead of schedule.

Considering Android 15 release much later than many people had hoped, things do seem to be moving rather quickly. Google has also elaborated promising that the Major SDK release will happen in Q2 2025, complete with Behavior changes, APIs and new features. Then a minor SDK release will follow in Q4 with new APIs and features — but without any “app-impacting behavior changes”.

Android 16 developer preview’s newest features

Google has given us a glimpse at what’s coming in the next major version of Android. The first is the latest version of Android’s Privacy Sandbox, which will offer more robust safeguards around users’ data collection and sharing. This will also feature SDK Runtime, which allows SDKs to “run in a dedicated runtime environment separate from the app they are serving.”

Also the preview available today allows developers to embed Android’s photo picker — the menu that lets users select specific images and videos they want to share — directly into their apps. This should make sharing media with apps more seamless without granting them access to your entire device or cloud storage library. It also includes the latest version of Privacy Sandbox, Google’s in-development replacement for Android’s advertising ID.

Finally, a preview of the Health Connect app “contains an early version of APIs supporting health records” that “allows apps to read and write medical records in FHIR format,” according to Google. This could let apps and medical devices share information and medical records (with explicit consent from the user) the way wearables and fitness trackers already do, mirroring a similar Apple Health feature on iPhones.

Categories
News

Oppo introduces Gemini and Circle to Search for ColorOS 15

Oppo is stepping into the future with its latest software update, ColorOS 15, showcasing an impressive leap in AI integration. After its initial launch in China,today, we learned that international users will get the Google-powered equivalents.

In a press release, the company officially announced that ColorOS 15 will bring the Gemini app and the Circle to Search with Google feature. The LLM will also work within the Notes and Documents app and offer an AI Recording Summary.

The Gemini app is essentially a revamped Google Assistant.By combining the intuitive capabilities of Google Gemini 1.5 Pro and 1.5 Flash, Gemini app now offers real-time answers and even has a chatbot for quick answers.

Speaking about the integration of Google’s Gemini technology, Oppo emphasized its potential to “boost productivity and creativity” across their devices. By embedding these tools into the very fabric of ColorOS 15, the brand aims to elevate how users interact with their devices, making complex tasks feel simple and intuitive.

Another standout feature is Circle to Search, which takes inspiration from innovations like the  Galaxy S24. This function allows users to circle any content on their screen to instantly search for information, translate text, perform currency conversions, or even copy/paste with ease.

The company talked about ColorOS 15 in general and did not reveal whether any Oppo smartphones might not get the features, and we highly doubt that would be the case. If the company deemed its devices to be powerful enough for AI, they will be capable of dealing with Google’s artificial services.

The global rollout of ColorOS 15 is set to begin on Thursday, November 21, alongside the much-anticipated international launch of the Oppo Find X8 series. As Oppo’s flagship devices, the Find X8 models are expected to showcase these innovations to their fullest potential.

Categories
News

Meta unveils prototype of Orion augmented reality glasses and 4 futuristic features

It was back in September when Meta first revealed an early prototype of its Orion AR glasses, and while they are a long way from becoming an actual product you can buy, the company does believe it can achieve this.

As part of its research-focused Project Aria initiative, Meta released a list of research projects that are being performed with its Orion smart glasses that were revealed at Meta Connect a couple of months ago. Orion isn’t even close to being available to the public yet, but when it is, there are a few things that it might be able to do to help you out in daily life.

Indeed, Meta’s wearables chief thinks that Orion can in time become the AirPods of augmented reality devices …

Orion augmented reality glasses

Meta rather optimistically described the prototype pair as having “the look and feel of a regular pair of glasses”.It’s way closer to glasses than the device shown off last year by Xiaomi. And the display is massively more Vision Pro-like than the proof-of-concept shown by Oppo.

Driving assistance

Researchers at IIIT Hyderabad in India are using machine learning and Orion to help people ideally become better drivers. For example, they are able to use the glasses to detect what the user is and isn’t looking at. What this means is that the glasses could potentially be able to warn you before you take a right turn into a pedestrian you didn’t see.

Help for the visually impaired

Investigators at Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute have also done some work with Project Aria. What they showcased in Meta’s post is tech that can help those with visual impairments navigate complex indoor spaces using audio cues. The example given was that they were able to create a 3D indoor map of Pittsburgh’s airport — and someone wearing the Orion glasses would theoretically be able to get around and find where they’re going, thanks to the onboard audio assistant.

Help for those with hearing loss

At the University of Iowa, Orion research is seemingly a little more straightforward, but no less useful in everyday life for some people.

Researchers in Hawkeye country have come up with a way to use the Orion glasses to provide visual cues for those with hearing loss. For instance, if a noise is made, the glasses could use their HUD to show the user which direction the noise came from. It’s not the most complicated or out-of-this-world application of Orion technology, but it’s one that could easily become important for some users — if it’s done properly.

Help with performing complex tasks

Finally, researchers at the University of Bristol have captured data from “highly skilled people” (think chefs and mechanics), which can be used to help the less-skilled among us perform complex tasks with visual aid. For example, in the future, Orion could guide you step-by-step on which components to install, the order to install them, and their exact placement.

Currently, Orion is just a prototype, so don’t expect a consumer version anytime soon. If it’s any consolation, a market-ready version should be available by 2030 at the latest.

Categories
Batteries Guide

How to fix a dead lithium ion battery?

Lithium-ion batteries have firmly woven themselves into the fabric of our daily lives. However, like every piece of technology, they’re not infallible. Ensuring their optimal health and troubleshooting issues like charging problems is crucial for the longevity of our devices and our peace of mind.

What is a Lithium Ion Battery?

Lithium-ion batteries are marvels of modern technology. Comprising of an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte, these batteries derive their power from the motion of lithium ions between the anode and cathode. When discharging, the ions travel from the anode to the cathode, producing the electrical charge. The reverse takes place during charging.
The widespread adoption of lithium-ion batteries is attributed to their myriad advantages. Firstly, their high energy density is commendable. They can pack a lot of power in a relatively small space, making them ideal for devices where size and weight matter. Furthermore, they are lightweight, which is a boon for portable devices. Also, these batteries aren’t plagued by the ‘memory effect’ that older battery technologies suffered from, meaning they don’t need to be completely discharged before recharging.

How Many Times Can You Recharge Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries showcase a vast spectrum in terms of rechargeability, greatly influenced by their chemical composition. To delineate, a conventional lithium-ion rechargeable battery offers a cycle life within the bracket of 300 to 500 cycles.
Contrastingly, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are a paragon of resilience, boasting an extensive cycle life that can reach up to 2000 cycles. Their enhanced cycle life not only underscores a promising sustainability quotient but also positions them as a preferred choice for heavy-duty applications.
A ‘cycle life’ epitomizes a battery’s vitality, defined as one full charge followed by a discharge. This concept is analogous to the mileage of running shoes, governed by not only the intrinsic quality but also the usage patterns. However, cycle life isn’t a static parameter; it undergoes a gradual decline due to several influencing factors, akin to wear and tear experienced by running shoes over time.

Temperature:
Quantitative Insight: Batteries operated within the optimal temperature range of 15°C to 25°C demonstrate a slower degradation rate, potentially enhancing the cycle life by up to 20% compared to batteries consistently exposed to temperatures above 45°C.
Charging Rate:
Comparative Data: Studies indicate that batteries charged at a slower rate (0.5C) can outlast those charged at a higher rate (1C or more), extending cycle life by approximately 20-30%.
Depth of Discharge (DoD):
Quantitative Analysis: A battery undergoing a DoD of 20% before recharging can exhibit a cycle life extending up to 3750-4700 cycles, starkly superior to a battery experiencing a 100% DoD, whose cycle life might be confined to 300-500 cycles.

Therefore, embracing a meticulous approach to maintaining optimal conditions can pave the way for lithium-ion batteries to reach, or possibly exceed, their expected cycle life.
Drawing parallels between various influencing factors and utilizing quantitative insights can aid professionals in nurturing a holistic understanding of lithium-ion battery cycle life. As we navigate through the nuances, it becomes imperative to approach battery usage with a nuanced perspective, acknowledging the variables that dictate the longevity and efficacy of lithium-ion batteries.

Why Is My Lithium Battery Not Charging?

It’s a sinking feeling when you plug in your electronic devices, eagerly waiting for that charging icon, and it’s nowhere to be seen. But what’s behind this? Let’s explore some of the culprits that might be keeping your lithium battery from charging.

The Growing Challenge of Internal Resistance

Every battery has what’s known as internal resistance. It’s a natural barrier to the flow of current within the battery. As the battery ages and goes through more charge and discharge cycles, this resistance tends to increase. When it reaches a certain threshold, it can significantly hamper the battery’s ability to charge. Imagine trying to run in waist-deep water; the resistance slows you down, much like increased internal resistance slows down charging.

The Temperamental Nature of Temperature

Batteries, much like us, have their comfort zones. When they’re exposed to extreme cold, the chemical reactions inside them slow down, making charging a challenge. On the flip side, extreme heat can cause the battery’s internal components to degrade faster, also affecting its charging capability. It’s always a good idea to keep your devices away from extreme temperature conditions for their overall health.

The Perils of Over-Discharge

Over-discharging happens when a battery’s charge dwindles down to an extremely low level, sometimes almost to zero. This is especially detrimental to lithium-ion batteries. When they’re over-discharged, the battery’s voltage plunges so low that the built-in battery management system (BMS) may think the battery is defective or dead. To prevent potential safety risks, the BMS might stop the battery from charging as a precautionary step.

What’s more, over-discharge can cause the battery cells to reverse in polarity. In layman’s terms, instead of the cells operating in sync, they begin working against each other. This not only stops the battery from charging but can also make it dangerous to use. If you think your battery might be over-discharged, handling the situation carefully is critical. Sometimes, specialized chargers might bring such a dead battery back to life, but consulting a professional is always the safest route.

The Inevitable Wear of Battery Age

Just like any other component, batteries have a lifespan. As they age, their capacity to hold a charge diminishes. If you’ve been using your battery for a long time and it’s not charging, it might simply be reaching the end of its life. Regularly monitoring your battery’s health can give you a heads-up when it’s time for a replacement.

The Often Overlooked Charger Issues

Sometimes, the battery is perfectly fine, but the charger or charging cable is the culprit. Faulty chargers or damaged cables can prevent the necessary current from reaching the battery. It’s always a good idea to test with a different charger or cable to rule out this possibility.

In conclusion, if you’re trying to fix a lithium-ion battery that won’t charge, understanding these potential issues can guide you in the right direction. Whether it’s addressing over-discharge, checking your charger, or simply acknowledging that it might be time for a new battery, being informed is half the battle.

How to Fix a Lithium Ion Battery That Won’t Charge?

We’ve all been there: eagerly waiting for that charging icon to appear, only to be met with disappointment. Before you consider your battery a lost cause, let’s explore some potential remedies.

Check Charger and Cable

When diagnosing lithium battery charging issues, it’s imperative to consider accessory functionality, specifically focusing on chargers and cables, often overlooked components. For instance, a minor misalignment in cable wiring or a flaw in the charger’s internal mechanism could lead to charging discrepancies. Verify the integrity of your charger and cable by examining their conditions and conducting compatibility tests with other devices, ensuring they meet the standard voltage requirements and aren’t inducing any voltage drops or interruptions. Reliable data indicates that around 15% of charging issues stem from faulty accessories rather than the battery unit itself. Always opt for accessories that are certified and comply with quality and safety standards, ensuring a stable power supply and mitigating risks of malfunction. These subtle yet critical checks serve as preliminary steps in pinpointing and resolving charging abnormalities, providing a foundation for more in-depth analysis if needed.

Clean the Battery Contacts

Battery contacts play a pivotal role, serving as conduits for efficient energy transfer. Yet, with time and exposure, these contacts may be compromised by dirt or corrosion, undermining their efficacy. Research indicates that approximately 10% of lithium battery charging issues can be attributed to obstructed contacts. To maintain peak performance, it’s paramount to periodically inspect these contacts. Subtle discoloration or debris buildup might indicate the onset of inefficiencies. Employ a soft cloth or a specialized eraser for gentle cleaning. Always prioritize safety: ensure the device is powered off, and where feasible, detach the battery during the cleaning process. Recognizing and addressing contact degradation not only prolongs battery lifespan but also ensures consistent charging and power output, consolidating the foundation for optimal battery health and performance.

Reduce Battery Self-discharge

Extended inactivity of lithium batteries can result in what is termed “deep discharge,” a state where the battery’s voltage drops to an exceedingly low level. Such conditions, over prolonged periods, can jeopardize the battery’s internal chemistry and structure. A recent study indicates that batteries kept at a near-zero charge level for over a month might see a degradation rate almost twice as fast as those maintained at a 50% charge level. To revive a deep-discharged battery, gently warm it within the safe threshold of 40°C, allowing the internal electrolyte’s mobility to improve, then proceed with charging. However, as a preventive measure, professionals advise retaining batteries within a 20%-80% charge range during storage periods. Such practices not only prevent extreme discharge states but also contribute to prolonging battery life, optimizing overall performance and safety.

Consider Environmental Factors

Temperature significantly influences lithium battery performance and charging efficiency. A deviation from the optimal range, be it cold below 0°C or heat exceeding 40°C, hampers charging capabilities. Research has shown that batteries exposed to temperatures above 60°C can experience a drop in efficiency by up to 40%. Conversely, those subjected to sub-zero conditions might exhibit diminished charge uptake. For optimal performance, it’s crucial to store and charge batteries in controlled environments between 20°C to 25°C. Understanding and respecting these temperature bounds not only ensures consistent charging but also extends the overall battery lifespan, maximizing the return on investment.

Consider Battery Lifespan

Every lithium-ion battery possesses a finite life, quantified in terms of charge cycles. Typically, a single cycle represents one full charge and discharge. As per industry data, most lithium-ion batteries maintain optimal performance up to 300 to 500 cycles, post which there’s a noticeable decline in capacity, often dropping to 80% or less of their original capacity. For instance, a battery that initially provided 10 hours of usage might dwindle to just 8 hours after surpassing its cycle threshold. It’s essential to recognize these signs of aging. If a battery consistently underperforms despite proper maintenance, it’s likely nearing the end of its effective lifespan. In such scenarios, the most pragmatic solution is replacement.Understanding and tracking charge cycles not only aids in anticipating battery replacements but also ensures devices operate at peak efficiency.

Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Lithium-Ion Battery

We’ve all been there: the dread of watching our device’s battery life diminish faster than we’d like. But with a little knowledge and care, you can extend the life of your lithium-ion battery, ensuring it serves you well for years to come.

Mindful Charging:
 While it’s tempting to charge your battery to 100% and drain it to the last drop, it’s not the best practice. Lithium-ion batteries prefer to be kept at a charge level between 20% and 80%. Consistently charging your battery to its full capacity or letting it discharge entirely can stress the battery, reducing its overall lifespan
Update Regularly:
 It’s not just the hardware that affects your battery life; software plays a role too. Regular software updates often come with optimizations that can improve battery efficiency. So, next time you see that update notification, don’t ignore it.
Limit Fast Charging:
 While fast charging is incredibly convenient, especially when you’re in a hurry, it’s not something you should use all the time. The increased current can generate more heat, which, as we’ve established, isn’t great for the battery. Use fast charging sparingly, and your battery will thank you.
Store Smartly:
 If you’re not going to use a device or battery for an extended period, store it properly. Ideally, the battery should be at around 50% charge. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Regular Check-ups:
 Every once in a while, it’s a good idea to check your battery’s health. Some devices have built-in diagnostics, while others might require third-party apps. Being aware of your battery’s health can help you take timely action,whether it’s changing usage habits or considering a replacement.

In the end, while lithium-ion batteries might seem like mysterious little boxes, understanding their needs can go a long way in ensuring they last longer. After all, a little care can make a world of difference.

Categories
News

Nubia Z70 Ultra Full Introduction

ZTE is gearing up to launch its highly anticipated Nubia Z70 Ultra on November 21 at 14:00,and the company has now officially showcased the design of its new Snapdragon 8 Elite flagship phone. It has also revealed the limited edition Starry Night variant.

Just like what the previous official-looking renders have suggested, the Nubia Z70 Ultra will indeed have a tweaked rear camera setup. The Z70 Ultra’s camera module distinguishes itself with a 35mm main camera featuring a physical variable aperture ranging from f/1.59 to f/4.0, allowing for unparalleled control over light and depth. The setup also includes a periscope telephoto lens and a ring flash, catering to photography enthusiasts. A standout feature is a dedicated camera control button, supplementing the red power and volume buttons, and one more button for added functionality.

The official photos also confirm that there will be a limited Starry Night edition available for the Z70 Ultra. This collector’s edition, according to the company, is the first phone to sport a micro-etched back, which should make it look and feel more premium than previous limited editions.

Regarding the others, the Z70 Ultra will also be available in Amber and Black Seal color options. Nubia says that they feature “soft sand glass” that’s geared for comfort. All variants feature a “micro-arc” middle frame to further enhance the hand feel.

Besides that,the Z70 Ultra is confirmed to feature the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Edition processor, paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, forming an “iron triangle” of performance. The device also boasts full-grade durability with IP68 and IP69 protection, ensuring resilience in tough conditions. It will run the latest Nebula AIOS out of the box, promising an optimized and intelligent user experience.

On the front, the Z70 Ultra is equipped with a 6.85-inch 1.5K true full-screen display, free of notches or holes, earning it the title of “anti-hole elite.” With a PPI of 430, it delivers the highest pixel density among under-screen solutions, ensuring stunnin

With its top-notch specifications, stunning design, and innovative features, the Nubia Z70 Ultra is poised to set new standards in the premium smartphone market. International availability details are still under wraps, but Nubia released the past flagships outside China, so this one should make it to the global market.

Categories
News

Samsung AI Smart Glasses have Ray-Ban Meta specs with more features

According to a new report, Samsung’s upcoming XR glasses that are being developed in collaboration with Google won’t arrive until the second half of 2025, but they’ll share some specs with the popular Ray-Ban Meta glasses.

“Samsung Electronics’ plan to release AI smart glasses was confirmed earlier this month, and its first production volume is 500,000 units in the third quarter of 2025,” Wellsen XR, a research company in Shenzhen, China, said in a note left for customers on the 15th (local time).

The glasses will apparently be powered by Qualcomm’s AR1 chipset, the same chip that’s used in Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses – the generation being used is not mentioned, but Qualcomm had already released AR2 in 2022.

That’s not the only spec the two devices share, as the report also claims Samsung’s glasses will have a 12MP camera and a 155 mAh battery, the same (give or take 1 mAh) as Ray-Ban’s glasses. In terms of weight, the glasses would weigh 50g, ever-so-slightly more than Ray-Ban Meta.

One of the big questions around Samsung’s XR glasses has been whether or not they’d have a display, and it seems this won’t be the case based on this report. To match the weight and battery size of Ray-Ban Meta while adding a display would be… impressive, to say the least. With this report revealing hardware specs, skipping all mention of a display strongly suggests this product simply won’t be including one.

However, we do get some indication of what these glasses will be capable of. Gemini would handle AI tasks alongside support for “payment,” QR code recognition, “gesture recognition,” and “human recognition functions.”In addition, the Gemini giant language model (LLM) will be installed in cooperation between Samsung and Google.

It’s not entirely clear what all of these features will do, but it suggests a product that’s a bit more capable than Meta’s offering. Meta uses AI on its glasses to leverage the camera for multimodal analysis and answers (and scan QR codes), set reminders, and Meta has teased translation features.

Samsung Electronics officially announced the launch of smart glasses in 2025 in its earnings announcement last quarter. However, it did not say when it will be released and released for the first time.A tease at Samsung’s Galaxy S25 launch in January isn’t out of the question.

Categories
News

New AirTag Rumored to Launch in Mid-2025 And Improved

Apple released the AirTag in April 2021, so it is now three over and a half years old. While the AirTag has not received any hardware updates since then, a new version of the item tracking accessory is rumored to be in development.

Apple is reportedly getting ready to make another splash in the accessories space with the release of a new version of its popular AirTag tracker, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. 


In his newsletter, Gurman reiterated that new AirTag is expected to look a lot like the current model, but with some key upgrades under the hood. One of the biggest improvements is an enhanced range, meaning you’ll be able to track your items from farther away.  The new AirTag will also feature a more powerful wireless chip for better performance and efficiency.


Gurman also believes the new AirTag’s built-in speaker will be more difficult to remove, as an anti-stalking measure.Apple has been working hard to improve the privacy features of the new AirTag. This comes after concerns about AirTags being used for stalking. By making it harder to tamper with the speaker, Apple is hoping to make it more likely that someone will be able to discover a hidden AirTag.


Kuo previously said the new AirTag will have some kind of integration with Apple’s Vision Pro headset, but he did not share any specific details.


However, that’s not all that’s up Apple’s sleeves, as the new AirTag is just one of many new products the company is expected to release in the coming year.  In addition to updates to its popular iPhone , Apple Watch, and MacBook Pro lines, Apple is also reportedly working on a new smart home display and updated versions of the iPad Air, the entry-level iPad, the MacBook Air, the Mac Pro, and the Mac Studio.  It seems like 2025 will be a very busy year for Apple.r Apple.