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Apple Sues Qualcomm Citing Extortion Attempts

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Apple has filed a patent royalty lawsuit against Qualcomm, alleging the firm failed to pay owed rebates in retaliation for Apple’s part in a Korean antitrust investigation. The claims goes further, however, accusing the chipmaker of partaking in unsavoury business practices, from price-gouging to extortion.

In its lawsuit, Apple alleges Qualcomm withheld nearly $1 billion in payments in retaliation for cooperating with law enforcement agencies. Specifically, Apple cites the Korea Fair Trade Commission’s probe into Qualcomm’s business practices that resulted in an $854 million fine in December, the largest in the agency’s history.

According to Apple lawyers, Qualcomm used its “monopoly power” to flout FRAND (fair, reasonable and nondiscriminatory) patent commitments by charging hefty royalty rates on standard-essential patents relating to cellular communications standards. In addition, Qualcomm refuses to sell chipsets to manufacturers until they first license the SEPs, often at “extortion-level” rates.

Since 2011, Qualcomm has conditioned billions of dollars in rebates on “exclusivity or de facto exclusivity from Apple,” the lawsuit reads. With the KFTC investigation, however, Qualcomm added yet another condition to payment. Along with Qualcomm’s most recent indiscretions, the lawsuit outlines questionable licensing strategy that goes beyond SEP licensing and component sales double-dipping.

At the heart of the issue are secret manufacturer licensing agreements. Apple has been forced to pay fees for patents obscured by a legal shroud since 2007, when the first iPhone was released. When Apple selected the Infeneon (now Intel) baseband chip, Qualcomm required a licensing fee. The situation worsened when in 2011 Apple introduced an iPhone capable of connecting to CDMA networks, a technology dominated by Qualcomm chipsets.

Instead of licensing directly to Apple, however, Qualcomm entered into a number of secret agreements with smaller contract manufacturers. Without bargaining power, these CMs pay “exorbitant” royalties on non-FRAND terms and pass the cost along to Apple. The process is hidden from Apple, meaning the company in many cases does not know what patents it is paying for its CMs to license.

Apple as recently as last year attempted to negotiate direct licensing arrangements as certain agreements were set to expire at the end of 2016. Amid accusations of patent infringement, and in the face of heavy resistance by way of Qualcomm’s increasingly litigious business strategy, those talks were largely unsuccessful.

Apple is seeking unspecified damages in its suit against Qualcomm including the $1 billion in unpaid payments, as well as a disgorgement of non-FRAND royalties paid by Apple CMs. The lawsuit also looks to leave Apple unencumbered of certain cellular patents-in-suit, or alternatively assign a reasonable FRAND royalty rate.

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Gadgets

OnePlus 12 to Get Wireless Charging Again

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The imminent launch of the OnePlus 12 is generating anticipation, with OnePlus adhering to its customary practice of revealing specifications and details prior to the official unveiling. Li JieLouis from OnePlus confirmed on Weibo that the OnePlus 12 is scheduled for release in China on December 5, shedding light on several key features of the upcoming flagship.

A predictable yet noteworthy inclusion in the specs is the use of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This powerful processor aligns with the high-performance standards associated with OnePlus devices. Another intriguing detail mentioned is the introduction of a “2K Oriental Screen,” likely referring to the display showcased by OnePlus in October. During this preview, an IR blaster was highlighted, a feature reiterated by JieLouis. Additionally, a brief reference to “rain touch” suggests the incorporation of technology showcased by OnePlus that enhances touchscreen functionality when wet.

The camera setup on the OnePlus 12 is anticipated to feature a Sony Lytia LYT-808 sensor. Earlier teasers provided insights into the camera’s capabilities, showcasing the periscope zoom lens. Drawing parallels with the OnePlus Open, which also utilizes a Sony Lytia sensor, raises expectations for impressive camera performance.

However, the standout revelation is the return of wireless charging on the OnePlus 12. While OnePlus had previously offered wireless charging, it was notably absent in the OnePlus 11 and OnePlus Open without clear justification. The absence left enthusiasts speculating on the feature’s future in OnePlus devices. The specifics of the wireless charging capabilities, such as potential improvements or adherence to previous 50W charging standards, remain undisclosed. Nevertheless, the mere confirmation of its reintroduction has been met with enthusiasm.

Notably, the OnePlus 12’s debut is set for December 5 in China, with global markets expected to receive the device in January, as per reports. The return of wireless charging adds an extra layer of anticipation for OnePlus enthusiasts, and the device’s overall features indicate a promising addition to the OnePlus flagship lineup. With certification underway, there’s speculation that OnePlus might embrace Qi2, potentially making it among the pioneers in adopting this wireless charging standard. As the launch date approaches, the OnePlus 12 holds the promise of delivering an enhanced user experience with its powerful internals and innovative features.

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Sunbird Temporarily Closes Android iMessage App Citing ‘Security Concerns’

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Sunbird, the app designed to bring iMessage to Android users, has temporarily halted its service due to “security concerns,” as initially reported by 9to5Google. In a communication to its users, Sunbird announced the decision to “pause Sunbird usage for now” while it investigates reports suggesting that its messages lack true end-to-end encryption.

Launched in 2022 with the aim of settling the blue versus green bubble debate, Sunbird has been accessible only to those who join its waitlist, emphasizing various privacy features such as end-to-end encryption, no message data collection, and an absence of ads. Last week, Sunbird joined forces with Nothing, the phone brand owned by OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, for the release of Nothing Chats. The Sunbird-powered messaging service was intended to enable owners of the Phone 2 to send texts via iMessage. However, it was swiftly removed from the Google Play Store just one day after its launch.

While Nothing initially cited the need to address “several bugs” in the app, its removal coincided with a post from Texts.blog, revealing potential lapses in end-to-end encryption for messages sent via Sunbird. Android developer Dylan Roussel reached similar conclusions and also discovered that Sunbird stores numerous media files on the cloud service Firebase. This implies that Sunbird’s assertion of not storing data on its servers is only partially accurate, as the company seems to be externally dispatching the information.

Sunbird has yet to provide a statement regarding the app’s closure, but its message to users states, “We will update you when we are ready to proceed.” The app is no longer featured on the Google Play Store, despite being downloadable just last month, as seen in an archived version of the page.

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OPPO Launches the Find N3 Series in the UAE

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OPPO has announced the Find N3 series in UAE, which includes the Find N3 and Find N3 Flip. Chi Zhou, President of OPPO MEA, said, “In our unwavering pursuit of excellence, we have crafted two groundbreaking devices that redefine innovation, and we are delighted to unveil the future of foldable to our users in the UAE. Just like a masterpiece seamlessly blends precision and creativity, our Find N3 and Find N3 Flip embody flawless design, vibrant displays, and unmatched camera capabilities. Despite their foldable nature, we’ve meticulously engineered these devices so our users never have to compromise on any essential aspect. More than just smartphones, they serve as gateways to limitless creativity, productivity, and self-expression.”

OPPO Find N3
The Find N3 showcases a premium design characterized by its slim and lightweight demeanour. When unfolded, it measures 5.8mm in thickness, and when closed, a sleek 11.7mm. Weighing just 239g in vegan leather, it’s lighter than some traditional bar flagship phones. Its user-friendly design, featuring flat sides and gently curved corners, provides a natural and comfortable grip for effortless use. The device is available in two exquisite colours: Sunlit Gold, featuring a glass back, and Classic Black, adorned with a vegan leather back.

Review: Oppo Find N3 Foldable Smartphone

The Find N3 stands out as the first foldable with a professional-grade imaging system, boasting the sharpest and brightest screens among foldable devices. Its advanced cameras, innovative stacked pixel technology, and Hasselblad tuning seamlessly combine with ColorOS 13.2’s next-generation capabilities, enabling PC-level productivity in the palm of users’ hands. Moreover, the Find N3 features three powerful speakers and is equipped with a large 4805mAh battery and 67W SUPERVOOC fast charging technology, making the Find N3 a best-in-class two-in-one experience in an elegant, slimline package.

OPPO revolutionizes foldable photography with the Find N3, featuring three professional-grade cameras covering popular full-frame equivalent focal lengths: 14mm, 24mm, and 70mm. The Find N3 introduces Sony’s groundbreaking LYTIA-T808 sensor to foldable devices, using a two-layer stacked CMOS image sensor to receive more light intake, resulting in reduced noise, superior dynamic range, and richly detailed photos and videos.

 

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The 48MP ultra-wide camera on the Find N3 stands out for its power and versatility. Its sensor size is over 100% larger than that of other flagship foldables, allowing users to capture dynamic macro shots, expansive landscapes, and group shots with exceptional clarity. For zooming capabilities, the Find N3’s ultra-thin periscope telephoto camera combines a 64MP resolution with a fast f/2.6 aperture. This setup ensures detailed shots in various lighting conditions, be it day or night.

At the core of the Find N3 series is portrait photography, enhanced by Hasselblad Portrait Mode. Both phones utilize the OPPO Computational Photography engine, which guarantees superior quality and excellent dynamic range with natural-looking results.

For a brilliant viewing experience, whether open or closed, the Find N3’s two large, user-friendly screens offer unparalleled clarity and brightness among foldable devices. The inner and outside display support class-leading peak brightness of 2800 nits, ensuring exceptional visibility even in bright lighting conditions. Building on the legacy of Find N and Find N2’s Golden Ratio displays, the Find N3’s screens are taller, resulting in a 6.3” outer screen, and a 7.8” unfolded screen. When closed, the Find N3 functions as a traditional smartphone, and when open, it becomes an immersive tablet.

Both Find N3 series’ screens display over 425 pixels per inch, ensuring flagship-level clarity. Additionally, the 1440Hz PWM dimming guarantees comfortable usage even during long periods. The LTPO technology enables a seamless 1-120Hz dynamic refresh rate, facilitating smooth scrolling and gameplay. Furthermore, adding a self-healing layer minimizes scuffs, resulting in an almost crease-free unfolded screen for an uninterrupted viewing experience.

OPPO’s third-generation Flexion Hinge lies at the core of the Find N3’s slim, lightweight profile. This hinge, despite being smaller than its predecessor, is more durable. This device not only boasts IPX4 splash resistance but is also the first phone to be independently tested to withstand 1,000,000 folds by TÜV Rheinland. Furthermore, the Find N3 has been tested through 100,000 folds in scorching 50ºC heat as well as freezing -20ºC conditions, ensuring its durability and reliability in extreme weather conditions.

The Find N3, which runs on Android 13 with ColorOS 13.2, will also receive a total of four years of software updates and five years of security updates. The Global TaskBar, featuring the App Library and File Pocket, ensures quick access to recent files and apps. With OPPO’s innovative Boundless View supporting three apps, users can effortlessly work across three tall apps, with two displayed side-by-side and a third app accessible off-screen. A simple tap brings the off-screen app into view.

The 15” Boundless View mode displays all three apps in a 7.8” tablet-like view, allowing concentrated work on one app while still multitasking smoothly between all three.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform, the Find N3 boasts a 35% improvement in performance and a 40% boost in overall efficiency compared to previous generation chipsets. With 512GB UFS 4.0 storage and 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, this device guarantees a true flagship gaming and multitasking experience. Thanks to OPPO’s Dynamic Computing Engine, the Find N3 can also handle over 40 apps running simultaneously in the background.

Equipped with a large 4805mAh battery, the Find N3 ensures reliable day-long power. Moreover, its 67W SUPERVOOC™ fast charging technology results in 80% charge in 30 minutes, and 100% in just 42 minutes.

Find N3 Flip
The Find N3 Flip introduces groundbreaking features, setting new standards in its category. It proudly stands as the first flagship triple-camera flip phone, boasting a remarkable 50MP wide, 48MP ultra-wide, and 32MP 2x zoom equivalent telephoto camera system. This innovation includes the pioneering integration of a telephoto lens, a noteworthy first for flip phones.

Beyond its impressive camera capabilities, the device’s vertical cover screen has been upgraded to support third-party apps, enhancing its versatility and user experience. OPPO’s innovative Flexion Hinge for Flip technology enables a shallow screen crease and a zero-gap hinge, providing a seamless and durable design.

Furthermore, the Find N3 Flip is powered by the flagship MediaTek Dimensity 9200, guaranteeing exceptional speed and reliability. It features the largest and thickest graphite layer of any flip phone, ensuring efficient heat dissipation to maintain optimal performance. With its substantial 4300mAh battery capacity and cutting-edge 44W SUPERVOOC fast charging technology, the phone offers comfortable day-long usage and ensures quick and convenient recharges.

Coupled with the refined ColorOS 13.2, the Find N3 Flip combines premium design, flagship performance, and user-friendly software, setting a new standard for flip phones in the market.

OPPO believes in fostering long-term relationships and providing exceptional customer service and care for its current and future consumers. This commitment is reflected in the exclusive benefits offered through the OPPO Premium Service, designed to provide hassle-free support to OPPO Find N3 series’ users.

Customers can benefit from a comprehensive two-year warranty service, subject to local terms and conditions. Additionally, the service includes a 12-month Screen Protection Plan that allows for a one-time free screen replacement in case of accidental damage within the first year.

The Find N3 series from OPPO is available for pre-order on OPPO’s websites and partner retail stores, with official sales commencing on 23rd November. The Find N3 is priced at AED 7,999, while the Find N3 Flip comes at a price of AED 3,999. For early birds, both devices come with an exclusive pre-order promotion. Customers who pre-order the Find N3 will receive the OPPO Pad Air, green OPPO Enco Air3 Pro earbuds, an additional OPPO phone cover, along with two-year warranty, one year of screen protection, and one year of battery warranty – a package valued at AED 2,999.

Likewise, customers pre-ordering the Find N3 Flip will enjoy the purple OPPO Enco Air3 earbuds, an extra OPPO phone cover, and the same two-year warranty, one year of screen protection, and one year of battery warranty – an added value of AED 1,599.

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