tech
Video game performers will go on strike over artificial intelligence concerns
Hollywood's video game performers announced they would go on strike Thursday, throwing part of the entertainment industry into another work stoppage after talks for a new contract with major game studios broke down over artificial intelligence protections.
The strike — the second for video game voice actors and motion capture performers under the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists — will begin at 12:01 a.m. Friday. The move comes after nearly two years of negotiations with gaming giants, including divisions of Activision, Warner Bros. and Walt Disney Co., over a new interactive media agreement.
SAG-AFTRA negotiators say gains have been made over wages and job safety in the video game contract, but that the two sides remained split over the regulation of generative AI. A spokesperson for the video game producers, Audrey Cooling, said the studios offered AI protections, but SAG-AFTRA’s negotiating committee said that the studios’ definition of who constitutes a “performer” is key to understanding the issue of who would be protected.
“The industry has told us point blank that they do not necessarily consider everyone who is rendering movement performance to be a performer that is covered by the collective bargaining agreement,” SAG-AFTRA Chief Contracts Officer Ray Rodriguez said at a news conference Thursday afternoon. He said some physical performances are being treated as “data.”
Without guardrails, game companies could train AI to replicate an actor’s voice, or create a digital replica of their likeness without consent or fair compensation, the union said.
“We strike as a matter of last resort. We have given this process absolutely as much time as we responsibly can,” Rodriguez told reporters. "We have exhausted the other possibilities, and that is why we’re doing it now."
Cooling said the companies' offer “extends meaningful AI protections.”
“We are disappointed the union has chosen to walk away when we are so close to a deal, and we remain prepared to resume negotiations," she said.
Andi Norris, an actor and member of the union's negotiating committee, said that those who do stunt work or creature performances would still be at risk under the game companies' offer.
“The performers who bring their body of work to these games create a whole variety of characters, and all of that work must be covered. Their proposal would carve out anything that doesn’t look and sound identical to me as I sit here, when, in truth, on any given week I am a zombie, I am a soldier, I am a zombie soldier,” Norris said. “We cannot and will not accept that a stunt or movement performer giving a full performance on stage next to a voice actor isn’t a performer.”
The global video game industry generates well over $100 billion dollars in profit annually, according to game market forecaster Newzoo. The people who design and bring those games to life are the driving force behind that success, SAG-AFTRA said.
Members voted overwhelmingly last year to give leadership the authority to strike. Concerns about how movie studios will use AI helped fuel last year’s film and television strikes by the union, which lasted four months.
The last interactive contract, which expired in November 2022, did not provide protections around AI but secured a bonus compensation structure for voice actors and performance capture artists after an 11-month strike that began in October 2016. That work stoppage marked the first major labor action from SAG-AFTRA following the merger of Hollywood’s two largest actors unions in 2012.
The video game agreement covers more than 2,500 “off-camera (voiceover) performers, on-camera (motion capture, stunt) performers, stunt coordinators, singers, dancers, puppeteers, and background performers,” according to the union.
Amid the tense interactive negotiations, SAG-AFTRA created a separate contract in February that covered independent and lower-budget video game projects. The tiered-budget independent interactive media agreement contains some of the protections on AI that video game industry titans have rejected. Games signed to an interim interactive media agreement, tiered-budget independent interactive agreement or interim interactive localization agreement are not part of the strike, the union said.
Meta's Oversight Board says deepfake policies need update and response to explicit image fell short
Meta's policies on non-consensual deepfake images need updating, including wording that’s “not sufficiently clear," the company's oversight panel said Thursday in a decision on cases involving AI-generated explicit depictions of two famous women.
The quasi-independent Oversight Board said in one of the cases, the social media giant failed to take down the deepfake intimate image of a famous Indian woman, whom it didn't identify, until the company's review board got involved.
Deepake nude images of women and celebrities including Taylor Swift have proliferated on social media because the technology used to make them has become more accessible and easier to use. Online platforms have been facing pressure to do more to tackle the problem.
The board, which Meta set up in 2020 to serve as a referee for content on its platforms including Facebook and Instagram, has spent months reviewing the two cases involving AI-generated images depicting famous women, one Indian and one American. The board did not identify either woman, describing each only as a “female public figure.”
Meta said it welcomed the board's recommendations and is reviewing them.
One case involved an "AI-manipulated image" posted on Instagram depicting a nude Indian woman shown from the back with her face visible, resembling a “female public figure.” The board said a user reported the image as pornography but the report wasn't reviewed within a 48 hour deadline so it was automatically closed. The user filed an appeal to Meta, but that was also automatically closed.
It wasn't until the user appealed to the Oversight Board that Meta decided that its original decision not to take the post down was made in error.
Meta also disabled the account that posted the images and added them to a database used to automatically detect and remove images that violate its rules.
In the second case, an AI-generated image depicting the American women nude and being groped were posted to a Facebook group. They were automatically removed because they were already in the database. A user appealed the takedown to the board, but it upheld Meta's decision.
The board said both images violated Meta’s ban on “derogatory sexualized photoshop” under its bullying and harassment policy.
However it added that its policy wording wasn't clear to users and recommended replacing the word “derogatory” with a different term like “non-consensual” and specifying that the rule covers a broad range of editing and media manipulation techniques that go beyond “photoshop.”
Deepfake nude images should also fall under community standards on “adult sexual exploitation” instead of “bullying and harassment,” it said.
When the board questioned Meta about why the Indian woman was not already in its image database, it was alarmed by the company's response that it relied on media reports.
“This is worrying because many victims of deepfake intimate images are not in the public eye and are forced to either accept the spread of their non-consensual depictions or search for and report every instance," the board said.
The board also said it was concerned about Meta's "auto-closing" of appeals image-based sexual abuse after 48 hours, saying it “could have a significant human rights impact.”
Meta, then called Facebook, launched the Oversight Board in 2020 in response to criticism that it wasn’t moving fast enough to remove misinformation, hate speech and influence campaigns from its platforms. The board has 21 members, a multinational group that includes legal scholars, human rights experts and journalists.
vivo iQOO Z9x 5G Review: Budget Meets Substance
iQOO first emerged in the smartphone industry as a sub-brand of vivo. Under vivo, the brand brought industry-leading R&D capabilities and supply chains to new customers. The Z series from iQOO stands out as a high-budget option with significant performance capabilities. The latest in the lineup, the Z9x 5G was recently launched on 29th April 2024. Here’s a detailed take on the vivo Z9x 5G.
Key Specifications of the vivo iQOO Z9x
Design and Build Quality
The Z9x is a plastic-built smartphone all around. However, the sophistication of the design elements makes everything unique about the device. The frosted textured back (“planetary orbit” according to iQOO), the sunburst camera module, and the flat frames make for a stylish design.
The dimension of the device comes in at 165.7 mm by 76 mm by 7.99 mm with 199 g weight. As a high-budget smartphone, the headphone jack and the card slot are on the Z9x. The power button doubles as the fingerprint scanner as the screen has no optical sensor.
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The porthole camera and the slight chin at the bottom of the display are streamlined with previous Z series smartphones. Needless to say, the design has adjusted enough to the changing landscape.
The Z9x also boasts IP64 water and dust resistance for accidental splashes. The device is available in two colors, Mystic Black and Northern Green.
The Display
The display on the Z9x is a 6.72-inch IPS LCD panel with 120Hz high refresh rate and 1000 nits of peak brightness. The FHD+ panel has a resolution of 2408 by 1080 pixels with about 393 ppi density. The relatively smaller chin accounts for an 86.4% screen-to-body ratio.
Additionally, the panel boasts about 83% NTSC color saturation. However, it does not support the DCI-P3 color gamut.
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As a sub-25 K smartphone, the lack of an AMOLED display might be a deal breaker for some. But if you can overlook that, the color accuracy, viewing angles, and overall smoothness of the display are praiseworthy.
The Camera
There’s a dual camera setup on the Z9x. The main camera is a 50 MP, f/1.8, wide-angle shooter with a 1/1.95" sensor. The secondary sensor is a 2 MP f/2.4 depth sensor. The front camera is a generic 8 MP, f/2.1 sensor.
In terms of performance, the Z9x holds up nicely for its price. The pictures taken in the daylight were well-detailed with decent exposure. One thing that stood out was the color vibrancy of the images. Regardless of the subject, the images tend to have a vibrant pop of color. At times, it might look and feel artificial, depending on the subject. Zooming on the images also shows over-sharpening issues at times, even with decent lighting.
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As for nighttime images, the included night mode is the saving grace here. Pictures with the night mode came out well-exposed and detailed. However, the post-processing produces overall soft images to roll out the grains.
As for the front camera, the portrait mode worked well thanks to the dedicated depth sensor.
The maximum videography capacity on the iQOO Z9x phone’s rear and front cameras are rated at 4K and 1080P respectively. The gyro-EIS helps slightly to stabilize the footage. But you’ll probably need a dedicated gimbal for proper videography with this camera.
Processor and Performance
The processor on the Z9x is Qualcomm SM6450 Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 based on a 4 Nm architecture. The Gen series brought an overhaul in the naming convention, with more or less the same increment as before. The octa-core processor has a chip design of 4x2.2 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 with Adreno 710 GPU.
Read more: Vivo Y28 4G Review: Is it a value-for-money smartphone?
In terms of day-to-day use, the Z9x breezes past activities like browsing the web, watching videos, or scrolling social media. Games like PUBG were stable on the Smooth Extreme setup. There weren’t any frame drops unless there were deliberate high graphics usage moments in the game. Genshin Impact was also playable, but it had far more frame drops and jitters compared to PUBG. Highly optimized games like Asphalt 9 and COD ran without any issues.
The device did, however, heat up quite a bit in each gaming session. But it didn’t affect the overall performance.
Benchmark
GeekBench 6: 933 (single core); 2799 (multi-core)
Antutu 10: 580645
Software
The iQOO Z9x runs on Funtouch OS 14, based on Android 14. Funtouch OS came a long way to becoming more optimized and streamlined with the stock Android experience. However, it still has its distinct features, like the app retainer, redesigned split-screen, and media locking. iQOO promises up to 50 months of smooth usage thanks to the newly optimized OS.
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Battery and Charge Time
The vivo iQOO Z9x is powered by a large battery featuring 6000 mAh. It’s one of the largest in its class and can be easily topped up using the supported 44W wired charging system. Surprisingly, the Z9x also supports reverse charging, which isn’t all that common in this price range.
Pros and Cons of the vivo iQOO Z9x
Pros:
- IPS LCD panel with 120 Hz high refresh rate- Capable dual camera system- 4K video recording capabilities- Audio jack and extendable micro SDXC- Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor- 6000 mAh battery with 44W wired charging- Side-mounted fingerprint scanner- IP64 water and dust resistance.
Cons:
- No ultrawide or zoom lens- No NFC support- Outdated UFS 2.2 storage system- No rated front glass protection.
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Price of the vivo iQOO Z9x
The iQOO Z9x is available in the 8/128 GB variant in India. The price is 16,630 INR (with a discount). It roughly translates to 23,348 BDT (1 INR = 1.40 BDT).
Verdict
The vivo iQOO Z9x, with its high refresh rate display, dual camera setup, and 5G capabilities, brings a lot to be hopeful about. Especially, its Snapdragon processor performs better than the similarly powered Helio options.
On the other hand, minor shortcomings like the lack of a faster read-write speed are the only mentionable drawbacks of the device. On the whole, anyone looking for a solid daily driver with slight gaming capabilities at a budget price can easily pick up the vivo iQOO Z9x 5G.
Read more: Honor 200 Pro Review: A Flagship Camera Experience
Honor 200 Pro Review: A Flagship Camera Experience
Honor has been manufacturing smartphones on a wider spectrum. The brand moved away from budget and mid-range devices to full-on flagships. In this wave, the Honor 200 Pro was launched in China on 31st May 2024. It brings impressive features with a distinct camera experience to cater to photography enthusiasts. Here are more details about the Honor 200 Pro.
Key Specifications of Honor 200 Pro
Design and Build Quality
Honor is known for their incremental design changes from one iteration to the other. The 200 Pro is also no different. The device feels like a more textured and refined version of last year’s 100 Pro with subtle changes here and there.
The design inspiration for the 200 Pro comes from Gaudi’s Casa Mila and the natural coastline of the beaches. The subtle curve on the display also makes for a chic design choice. The screen-to-body ratio comes in at 90.8% even with a slight chin at the bottom.
With a dimension of 163.3 mm by 75.2 mm by 8.2 mm, the 200 Pro is not a small phone by any means. However, the dual glass and plastic frame allows for a manageable 199 g weight.
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There’s a large vertical oval camera housing on the back which is its distinct markup. Ports and buttons are all in their usual space with an IR blaster included this time around. There is no extendable storage or headphone jack on the 200 Pro.
The device comes in Moonlight White, Black, and Ocean Cyan variants. The international version will have an IP65 rating.
The Display
The display on the 200 Pro is a 6.78-inch LTPS OLED panel with 1B colors, 120Hz refresh rate, and 4000 nits of peak brightness. The panel has a resolution of 1224 by 2700 pixels with 437 ppi density. Additional specs include a 3840 Hz risk-free dimming display, AI circadian night display, natural tone 2.0, hardware, and dynamic dimming among others.
Beyond the basics, the display also incorporates hyper-dynamic color technology along with full-chain HDR vivid codec to ensure a sharp and detailed panel. The color accuracy of the 200 Pro is also impressive with a Delta E score of about 0.27.
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Additional features like TUV Rheinland Flicker Free certification, Netflix, and Amazon HDR certification make the 200 Pro a perfect device for media consumption.
The Camera
The camera is the main game changer on the 200 Pro. The main sensor is a 50 MP f/1.9, 1/1.3" H9000 shooter with PDAF, OIS, and EIS. This is the same sensor found on the flagship Honor Magic 6 Pro. The second camera is a 50 MP, f/2.4 telephoto sensor with OIS and up to 2.5x zoom. Furthermore, its third camera features a 12 MP, f/2.2, 112˚ ultrawide shooter on the 200 Pro.
On the front, there’s a 50 MP, f/2.1 main shooter and a 2 MP, f/2.4 depth sensor.
Honor has been branding the 200 Pro as “The Portrait Master” and it’s easy to see why. Honor has partnered with the Paris-based Studio Harcourt to perfect their portrait shot on both the front and back camera. And the result is quite praiseworthy.
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There’s a clear separation between the subject and the background while maintaining the edges and details. The AI-rendered lighting allows for a perfect DSLR-like shot every time while using the portrait mode.
There are also two separate modes on the main shooter, natural and authentic. The natural mode produced pictures with amped-up colors and details while the authentic mode stayed true to the actual setting. The wide dynamic range and exposure balance on the 200 Pro have been impressive which aids in a perfect shot every time you click the shutter. The wide-angle and the telephoto lens along with the front camera were equally impressive.
The night mode also supports the two picture modes. However, the images in natural mode came out with better details and exposure.
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The videography on the front and rear sensors of 200 Pro is rated at 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 30fps.
Processor and Performance
The processor on the 200 Pro is Qualcomm SM8635 Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 based on a 4 Nm architecture. It has a chip design of 1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X4 & 4x2.8 GHz Cortex-A720 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A520 with Adreno 735 GPU.
On paper, the 8s Gen 3 is slightly below the flagship 8 Gen 3 processor. But in day-to-day use, the difference isn’t much noticeable. The 200 Pro can handle day-to-day tasks with ease without any hiccups whatsoever.
While gaming with 200 Pro, PUBG, and Genshin Impact can run with steady frame rates of over 50 fps. The heating issue also maxed at around 40 to 43 degrees Celsius which didn’t trigger any kind of thermal throttling.
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Benchmark
GeekBench 6: 1883 (single core), 4759 (multi-core)
3DMark Wild Life: 10918
Antutu 10: 1281655
DXOMark: 137 (2nd in High-End Ranking)
Software
The Honor 200 Pro is running on MagicOS 8 based on Android 14. The MagicOS comes with a full Google suite so users won’t have to worry about 3rd party solutions. The OS itself has minimal bloatware but overall, a very clean and responsive UI. Features like Magic Portal, Magic Capsule, and Air gestures truly alleviate the overall user experience of the OS.
Honor has also committed to 4 years of major OS updates and 5 years of security patches for the 200 Pro.
Battery and Charge Time
There’s a 5200 mAh battery on the Honor 200 Pro. The battery supports 100W wired Honor SuperCharge and 66W of wireless charging. Moreover, it features 5W reverse charging. The device can get up to 50% in just 30 minutes through wired charging and up to 64% in 30 minutes through wireless charging.
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Pros and Cons of Honor 200 Pro
Pros
- LTPS OLED panel with 120 Hz refresh rate - Coastline design - Flagship grade camera - Dual front shooter- High-end processor - IP65 water and dust resistance - Stereo speakers and IR blaster - Standard battery with wired, wireless and reverse charging - Based on Android 14 with MagicOS 8.
Cons
- No headphone jack or external card slot - No Gorilla Glass protection - A bit expensive compared to the processor.
Read more: Vivo Y28 4G Review: Is it a value-for-money smartphone?
Price of Honor 200 Pro
The Honor 200 Pro is available in the 12/512 GB variant in the Malaysian market. The price is 2699 RM which roughly translates to 67,869 BDT (1 MYR = 25.15 BDT). Honor has plans to officially launch the device in Bangladesh, so we might see a similar price in Bangladesh as well.
Verdict
The Honor 200 Pro is a game changer offering a flagship-level camera experience at a high-mid range budget. The great camera system is coupled with a great display, impressive design, powerful processor, and long-lasting battery life.
The only gripe with the 200 Pro is its price. At over 60000, the processor should’ve been a flagship level instead of a near-flagship one.
On the whole, those who are looking for a higher mid-range phone offering a great photography experience may consider the Honor 200 Pro.
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Startup Bangladesh cancels Tk 5 crore proposed investment in 10 Minute School
Startup Bangladesh Limited, the flagship venture capital fund of the ICT Division, today announced that it has canceled a Tk 5 crore investment proposal for 10 Minute School, Bangladesh’s largest edtech platform.
The decision was shared on Startup Bangladesh’s verified Facebook page and reiterated by State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak on his own verified page.
Attack on students: Quota protesters block Khulna-Jashore Highway
“Startup Bangladesh Limited has rejected the investment proposal of Tk 5 crore for 10 Minute School,” Palak posted.
Quota protests: NSU, BracU, IUB students block major roads in Dhaka
This move comes amid the ongoing protests demanding reform of the quota system in government jobs. Ayman Sadiq, co-founder and CEO of 10 Minute School, has publicly supported the protestors’ demands for quota reform. “We demand quota reform. Merit should be the biggest quota,” Sadiq posted on his Facebook on Saturday, using the hashtag #QuotaMovement.
Quota reform protests: Students block several points of Dhaka-Barishal Highway
Amazon Prime Day is big event for scammers, experts warn
Deceptions such as phony emails from people impersonating online retailers like Amazon are nothing new. But phishing attempts increase amid the heavy spending seen during significant sales events, whether it's Black Friday or Prime Day, according to the Better Business Bureau.
“This is a huge moment on the retail calendar," Josh Planos, vice president of communications and public relations at the Better Business Bureau, previously told The Associated Press. "And because of that, it represents an enormous opportunity for a scammer, con artist or even just an unethical business or organization to capitalize on the moment and separate folks from their hard-earned money.”
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Prime Day, a two-day discount event for Amazon Prime members, kicks off on Tuesday and runs through Wednesday. In updated guidance published last week, the Better Business Bureau reminded consumers to watch out for lookalike websites, too-good-to-be-true social media ads, and unsolicited emails or calls during sales events this month.
Consumers might need to be more vigilant this year than ever before. In June, the Better Business Bureau published a report that said it received a record number of phishing reports in 2023. Reports are also trending up so far this year, the organization said.
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Meanwhile, in a report released this month, the Israel-founded cybersecurity company Check Point Software Technologies said more than 1,230 new websites that associated themselves with Amazon popped up in June. The vast majority of them were malicious or appeared suspicious, according to Check Point.
Scott Knapp, director of worldwide buyer risk prevention at Amazon, identifies two areas that the company has seen hoaxes around come Prime Day in recent years: Prime membership and order confirmations.
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Last year, for example, more than two-third of scams reported by Amazon customers claimed to be related to order or account issues, Knapp wrote in an emailed statement. People reported getting unsolicited calls or emails saying there was something wrong with their Prime membership and seeking bank account or other payment information to reinstate the accounts, Knapp explained.
Urging consumers to confirm an order they didn't place is also a common tactic at this time of year, he added. Scammers might pick something expensive, like a smartphone, to get attention — and again ask for payment information or send a malicious link. They might also try to lure in consumers with promises of a giveaway, or by using language that creates a false sense of urgency.
Amazon is attempting “to ensure scammers are not using our brand to take advantage of people who trust us,” Knapp wrote, adding that customers can confirm their purchases and verify messages from the company on its app or website.
Additional scams are probably out there, but it's hard to know what form they might take before this year's Prime Day begins. Still, experts note that the same shopping scams tend to resurface year after year.
“Typically, the bones remain the same,” Planos said, pointing to fake delivery scams, email phishing and other repeated methods. “It’s always a ploy to separate consumers from (their) personal and payment information.”
But online hoaxes are also constantly evolving to become more sophisticated, Planos and others warn. That means images might look more legitimate, text messages may sound more convincing and fake websites that look very similar to real shopping destinations.
Amazon's Knapp has said that with artificial intelligence “starting to leak in," the scams targeting e-commerce shoppers follow the same approach but with a machine populating an email or text instead of a person.
According to data from the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing about $10 billion to fraud in 2023, a 14% jump from 2022. Online shopping scams were the second most-reported form of fraud, following impostor scams, the FTC said.
Both the FTC and Better Business Bureau provide consumers with tips to avoid scams year-round. Guidance includes blocking unwanted messages, not giving financial information to unsolicited callers and checking links before clicking — secure websites, for example, will have “HTTPS” in the URL, Planos notes, never “HTTP.”
Scammers will often pressure you to act immediately, experts say. It's important to pause and trust your gut. Experts also urge consumers to report scams to regulators.
Beyond scams that impersonate companies or retailers, it's also important to be cautious of counterfeit products and fake reviews on the sites of trusted retailers. Just because you’re shopping on Amazon, for example, doesn’t mean you’re buying from Amazon. The online shopping giant, like eBay, Walmart and others, has vast third-party marketplaces.
The quality and look of counterfeit products has significantly increased over recent years, Planos notes, making the activity difficult to police. A good rule of thumb is looking at the price tag — if the product is being sold for less than 75% of its year-round market rate, “that's a pretty big red flag,” he says.
Sketchy sellers can show up on different platforms, including sites like Amazon, “all the time” Planos said, urging consumers to check out companies on the Better Business Bureau's website. Like other scams, counterfeit products may increase around high spending periods.
Amid increasing pressure to tackle counterfeit products, Amazon has reported getting rid of millions of phony products in recent years. The company said it also blocked billions of bad listings from making it on to its site. In 2023, Amazon the company said more than 7 million counterfeit items were "identified, seized and appropriately disposed of.” The online retailer has also filed multiple lawsuits against fake review brokers.
Amazon notes customers can also report fake reviews and other scams on its website. If a shopper purchases a counterfeit item detected by the company, Amazon has said it will “proactively contact” the customer and provide a refund.
Xinji Nothing 3 Review: Amoled Smartwatch for 5000 Taka
Xinji is a brand that has been making waves in the smartwatch market with its innovative designs and cutting-edge technology. Their latest offering, the Nothing 3 Smartwatch, promises to combine style and functionality in a sleek, modern package. Let’s delve into the various aspects of the Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch, exploring its design, display, hardware and performance, features, battery life, and overall pros and cons.
Key Specs and Features of Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch
Design
The Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch boasts a comfortable design, making it a standout accessory for any occasion. Encased in a metal ultra-thin shell, the smartwatch exudes sophistication. Its round dial, complemented by a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, enhances its aesthetic appeal.
The watch is lightweight, weighing only 34 grams without the strap, ensuring comfort during prolonged use. Its dimensions are 45.5 mm by 45.5 mm by 12.6 mm, making it a perfect fit for various wrist sizes. The magnetic strap adds a touch of elegance and practicality, allowing for easy adjustment and a secure fit.
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Display
The Nothing 3 Smartwatch features a stunning 1.43-inch Super Retina AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 by 466 pixels. The screen offers a brightness of 600 nits, ensuring visibility even under direct sunlight. The display's smooth 60 frames per second refresh rate enhances the overall user experience, making interactions fluid and responsive.
With over 100 online watch faces available, users can customize the display to reflect their style. The vivid colors and sharp details provided by the AMOLED technology make every watch's face and notification pop with clarity.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the Nothing 3 Smartwatch is powered by a robust set of hardware components that ensure smooth performance. It supports Bluetooth 5.2 and BLE 3.0 connectivity, providing a stable connection for seamless data transfer and synchronization with your smartphone.
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The smartwatch is compatible with devices running Android 5.0 and above, as well as iOS 9.0 and above. It is equipped with high-performance sensors for health monitoring, including heart rate and body recognition sensors, ensuring accurate and reliable data collection.
Special Features
The Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch is packed with features designed to enhance your daily life. Here’s a detailed look at its key features:
Health Monitoring: The smartwatch offers comprehensive health monitoring capabilities, including heart rate tracking, sleep analysis, and SpO2 measurement. These features provide valuable insights into your overall health and well-being.
Sports Modes: With over 110 professional sports modes, the Nothing 3 Smartwatch caters to fitness enthusiasts. Whether you're running, cycling, swimming, or practicing yoga, the watch delivers real-time data and insights to help you stay on top of your fitness goals.
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Notifications and Connectivity: Stay connected with smart notifications for calls, messages, emails, and social media alerts. The smartwatch also supports HD Bluetooth calling, allowing you to make and receive calls directly from your wrist.
Customizability: Express your unique style with over 100 online watch faces. The easy-to-use interface allows for quick customization, ensuring your watch always matches your mood or outfit.Additional Tools: The smartwatch comes equipped with practical tools like a built-in calculator, music control, weather updates, and an SOS call feature for emergencies.Battery and Charger
The Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch is powered by a 300mAh battery, providing an impressive usage time of 5-7 days on a single charge. In standby mode, the battery can last up to 15 days, making it a reliable companion for everyday use.
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The smartwatch uses a magnetic charging method, ensuring a hassle-free and secure charging experience. This convenient charging solution means you can quickly power up your device without the need for complicated cables or connectors.
Pros and Cons of the Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch
Pros
- Elegant and Lightweight Design- Vibrant Display- Comprehensive Health Monitoring- Extensive Sports Modes- Standard Battery Life- One-year warranty.
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Cons
- Limited App Ecosystem- Dependence on Smartphone.
Price of the Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch
The price of the Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch is around 5000 Taka in Bangladesh. However, the price may vary depending on the sellers. A one-year warranty is provided with this watch.
Conclusion
The Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch is a remarkable blend of style and functionality, making it a worthy contender in the smartwatch market. Its elegant design, vibrant display, comprehensive health monitoring features, and extensive sports modes make it an excellent choice for both casual users and fitness enthusiasts. While it may have some limitations in terms of app ecosystem and smartphone dependence, its pros far outweigh the cons. The Xinji Nothing 3 Smartwatch offers great value for its price and is a reliable partner for anyone looking to enhance their lifestyle with a smart wearable.
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BASIS launches America Desk to strengthen Bangladesh-US ICT collaboration
Prime Minister's Advisor on Private Industry and Investment Salman F Rahman on Sunday said the BASIS America Desk will help establish “strategic and friendly” relationships between Bangladeshi and US tech companies.
“It will encourage joint research and development projects in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, IoT, and cybersecurity,” he said.
Salman said BASIS must take on the role of mentoring and nurturing its member companies to ensure they conduct their businesses effectively.
"We need to compete with other countries in the global market. The government is providing incentives to increase exports in this regard. Service exports are highly competitive, so maintaining quality is essential to staying ahead," he added.
Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) launched the "BASIS America" desk to facilitate and strengthen ICT business collaborations between Bangladeshi ICT and software companies and their counterparts of the United States of America.
The launching ceremony was held on Sunday at a hotel in the capital.
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter D Haas was present as guest of honor at the ceremony.
Additionally, the event was attended by officials from various embassies in Bangladesh, former presidents of BASIS, members of the executive committee, members, and senior officials from various government and private organizations.
The United States is the largest export destination for Bangladeshi software and information technology products and services, accounting for about 27% of total export earnings.
The BASIS America Desk will serve as a dedicated platform that showcases the latest technological advancements to American companies and investors, facilitate information exchange through seminars and B2B meetings, and organize training programs and workshops, thereby playing a leading role in enhancing the skills and knowledge exchange for BASIS members.
Syed Mohammad Kamal, Vice President (Admin) of BASIS, said, "The primary objective of the BASIS America Desk is to create new opportunities in the US market for Bangladesh's IT sector and to expand skill development programs through technology and knowledge exchange."
Additionally, he said, they aim to establish Bangladesh as a global ICT hub by building a smart economy.
Ambassador Haas expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, highlighting its mutual benefits for both countries.
He said BASIS America Desk represents a significant milestone in the growing collaboration between the ICT sectors of Bangladesh and the United States.
"Transitioning from a closed market to an open market is more beneficial. Bangladesh can leverage AI to enhance the efficiency of its garment and software exports. However, this requires investment in human resource development and increased investment. Moreover, providing better services at a lower cost than neighbouring countries is essential. Utilizing AI solutions can help businesses expand," said the envoy.
He hoped the BASIS America Desk will further enrich the export market to the USA. "I am confident that this initiative will play a vital role in strengthening bilateral trade, business expansion, and cooperation between the IT and software companies of both countries."
BASIS President Russell T. Ahmed discussed the strategic vision of the BASIS America Desk and the future prospects of BASIS.
He said there is no alternative to increasing foreign exchange earnings to strengthen our country's economy.
"I firmly believe that the IT sector will play a crucial role in achieving this goal in the future. Through the BASIS America Desk, we aim to generate $5 billion in export revenue from the IT sector within the next 5-6 years by increasing the export of Bangladesh's IT services to the United States. To reach this goal, the BASIS America Desk will create opportunities for Bangladeshi companies to enter the US market. The BASIS America Desk is not just a platform; we are very optimistic that it will open doors of immense potential for BASIS members and Bangladeshi IT companies. Special emphasis now needs to be placed on human resource development. I firmly believe that this initiative by the BASIS America Desk will help establish Bangladesh as a strong IT hub," he said.
In a video message as a special guest, State Minister for Post, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak said, "The launch of the BASIS America Desk is a significant milestone in strengthening Bangladesh's IT sector and positioning Bangladesh as a hub of information technology in the global market. By leveraging this platform, IT companies in both Bangladesh and the United States will be able to establish a strong mutual business relationship within the IT sector."
At the programme, M Asif Rahman, Director of BASIS, delivered a keynote presentation. M Rashidul Hasan, Senior Vice President of BASIS also spoke.
BASIS believes that through this initiative of forming the BASIS America Desk, both Bangladeshi and US IT and software companies will be able to create a business-friendly environment.
Smart Plugs Buyers’ Guide, Price Ranges in Bangladesh in 2024
Efficient electric appliances can minimize the risk of electric shocks and fire accidents. That’s where smart plugs come in. This handy little device opened a whole new window in terms of ensuring electrical safety and convenience. With that said, we have compiled a list of some popular smart plugs available in the Bangladeshi market and what you need to consider before getting one.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Smart Plug
Compatibility
The first thing to consider before getting a smart plug is compatibility. Typically, Bangladeshi appliances come in both UK and EU port types. More specifically, the C, D, G, and K types of sockets are commonly used in all appliances. Consider checking the smart plug socket to make sure they are compatible with the above variants.
Smart Home Integration
One of the key features of most smart plugs these days is smart home integration. Some basic smart plugs may only offer remote control features through the Wi-Fi. But a proper smart plug comes with remote voice control through smart home integration using Alexa or Google Home.
Features
Another thing to consider is the functions of the smart plugs. For example, a typical smart plug should automate the on/off system of your appliances as well as enable timer settings if necessary. Some advanced smart plugs may provide energy consumption data through the app. Other innate features like fire retardancy, anti-shock, and ergonomics can also be considered.
Read more: Why fire safety audit essential for commercial buildings
Connectivity
Most smart plugs connect using the Wi-Fi on the 2.4 GHz band. Some smart plugs may connect to a 5 GHz band so consider checking the compatibility first hand. There’s also the aspect of LAN control where a user can control the plug even if there is no internet on the line.
Certifications
Check for certifications like UL and CE. These ensure compliance with the global safety standards and ensure better safety overall while using the plug.
App Interface
The app interface is also another aspect to consider while buying a smart plug. Most apps are fairly simple with intuitive guidelines to get the hang of things. However, in our test, we found that the Xiaomi Home app had the overall best interface in terms of usability and navigation.
Price and Warranty
And lastly, consider the price and warranty of the smart plug. Depending on brand and features, the price and the warranty period may significantly differ.
Read more: How to Protect Children from Electric Shocks
Smart Plug Price Ranges in Bangladesh in 2024: Our Top Picks
TP Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS103P4)
TP Link being one of the global leaders for routers also has a range of home appliances. Their Kasa line of smart plugs is one of the best Wi-Fi smart plugs currently on the market. The Kasa line has both standalone sockets as well as strip plugs for all sorts of electrical needs.
The HS103P4 is a set of 4 standalone sockets that work independently of each other. It holds UL certification as well as 2021 PCMag Best Smart Plug among other recognitions.
Key Features
- Fire retardant outer shell - Dedicated Kasa App for remote control - Each plug can be customized with a timer and smart functions- Manual On/Off button - Nickel-plated phosphorus, and bronze contacts for stable connections - Double ground pin for increased resistance against shocks - Seamlessly integrates with other Kasa appliances - Works with Alexa and Google Home
The price of the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS103P4) is 6,699 BDT.
Read more: Workplace Fire Safety: 12 Effective Ways to Prevent Fire Hazards
Baytion 16A WLAN Smart Socket
Baytion 16A WLAN smart sockets are designed as a standalone socket that can easily connect to a power outlet or a wired strip. It's especially useful for those looking to use the plug for single appliances in a strip line. The plug comes in a set of two making it a perfect multi-device solution.
Key Features
- Works with any 2.4 GHz network - Energy monitoring feature - Standalone Smart Life App - Fully operable from the app- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home - Adjustable timer setting - High-quality fire-retardant build - Designed for UK wall sockets
The price of Baytion 16A WLAN Smart Socket is 4,029 BDT.
Read more: Common Causes of Fires, Explosions at Homes, Offices, Markets, Industries
Innovate 5-pin WIFI smart wall socket
Let’s say you want more than one smart plug but you don’t want the hassle of going for a plug strip. What do you do? Well, Innovate has the perfect solution for you in their 5-pin smart wall socket. There’s one each of a two-pin and three-pin socket. Besides, there are also two additional USB ports for direct charging or power transmission.
Key Features
- 16A capacity with up to 240V discharge - Max load of 18W in each port - Can be controlled by both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth - Dedicated app for remote controlling - A dedicated touch panel for seamless physical control - Voice control via Alexa and Google Home - Shock resist USB port technology
The price of the Innovate 5-pin WIFI smart wall socket is 3,500 BDT.
Read more: Top 10 Smartphones Coming in July 2024
UanTii 20A Tuya Smart Plug
If you want a smart plug that doubles as a minimal design piece, then the Tuya smart plug from UanTii can be a great choice. It’s a standalone single smart plug with a rounded all-black finish. The design looks sleek and modern, unlike most other smart plugs in the market.
The Tuya smart plug supports up to 20A making it a perfect choice for high-voltage appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and even AC.
Key Features
- Works remotely via the Tuya Smart Life App - Electricity usage data is automatically synced to the app to log the total usage - 20A power output at 220V - Scheduled timer - Built-in On/Off button - Overcharge protection circuit breaker - Works with Alexa, Google Home, and Yandex Alice
The price of the UanTii 20A Tuya Smart Plug is 3,289 BDT.
Read more: Top Home Skincare Devices in Bangladesh: Transform Your Beauty Routine
Orvibo B25UK Smart WiFi Socket
Orvibo is another reliable brand when it comes to smart plugs in Bangladesh. The standalone socket uses the UK-type ports which might or might not work with your appliances depending on their module.
Key Features
- 13A capacity with a 240V max output - Connects with any 240 Hz Wi-Fi band - Seamless remote control with HomeMate App - Scene control option - Power saving reminder - Real-time power consumption tracking - Voice control via Alexa and Google Home
The price of the Orvibo B25UK Smart WiFi Socket is 1,800 BDT.
Read more: CCTV Camera Buying Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh in 2024
TYSH-EEU41 Wi-Fi Universal Power Smart Socket
The TYSH-EEU41 smart plug brings a similar concept to the Innovate 5-pin plug. But with its innovative design element, the TYSH-EEU41 takes usability to the next level. Instead of having two separate sockets, the plug modified the three-pin port to double as another three-pin port using the two-pin socket. This innovative design means you can use both UK and EU ports on the same plug without any hassle.
Key Features
- 13A capacity with 240V output - Can be remotely controlled using Smart Life App - Flame retardant outer shell structure - Scene and manual control - Timer for each port - Two additional USB ports - Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant
The price of the TYSH-EEU41 Wi-Fi Universal Power Smart Socket is 1,699 BDT.
Read more: Best TWS Earbuds Under Tk 1500: A Detailed Buyer’s Guide
Xiaomi Mi Smart WiFi Plug (ZNCZ05CM)
The Chinese tech conglomerate Xiaomi also has an impressive lineup of home appliances, including smart plugs. Xiaomi’s design philosophy of being minimalist while keeping functionality at the forefront is easily reflected on their ZNCZ05CM smart plug.
The mouse-like plug offers three different kinds of port selection, moving away from the traditional UK and EU-style ports. It makes the plug more versatile and best suited for those unconventional power ends.
Key Features
- 16A capacity with a maximum 3680W output - 240V static volt - Real-time power consumption and power savings stats - Abnormality detection (high temperature, low voltage) - The remote control works through the Xiaomi Home App - Voice control works via Alexa and Google Home - Power button for manual control
The price of the Xiaomi Mi Smart WiFi Plug (ZNCZ05CM) is 1,290 BDT.
Read more: Top Smart TV Picks for 2024: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide in Bangladesh
Sonoff S26 WiFi Smart Plug
The Sonoff S26 is the perfect option for those looking for a smart plug on a budget. It’s a standalone single socket with a fairly large and elongated design. In a sense, the Sonoff S26 doesn’t look minimal but that might have its appeal to some users. The bottom chin houses the power button which also doubles as the manual control for the smart plug.
Key Features
- Seamlessly integrated with the eWeLink app - Provides LAN control - Multiple access and control points through the app - Gang feature of several sockets for scene control using the appCustom timer - Has a 13A capacity with a max output of 3250 W- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT - The price of Sonoff S26 is 950 BDT.
Read more: 2024 DSLR Camera Buying Guide: Prices and Top Picks in Bangladesh
Final Words
Smart plugs have become an integral part of a modern tech-savvy home. It brings automation to those appliances that are not there yet in terms of absolute smart integration. In our research, we found the TYSH-EEU41 Wi-Fi Universal Power Smart Socket to be the best overall option when it comes to smart plugs available in Bangladesh.
Read more: Top Home Electronics in Bangladesh for 2024: Simplify Your Life with These Smart Devices
7 Best Smartphones in Tk 35000-45000 Range in July 2024
Smartphones in the Tk 35000 To 45000 range can offer good features at a reasonable price. People choose these phones for their high-quality screens, strong performance, and long battery life. They give great value without the high cost of top-end models. Let’s explore a few best-buy smartphones in this price range.
Best Mid-Budget Smartphones in Bangladesh
Redmi K70
The Xiaomi Redmi K70 features a 6.67-inch OLED display with a 1440 by 3200 pixels resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Running on Android 14 with HyperOS, it is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.
Read more: Xiaomi Redmi K70 Review: Mid-range phone with flagship features