Gadgets
ZTE Launches the new Blade V9
Following the Blade V8 series, ZTE is offering the next-generation of devices within the Blade family — the Blade V9 and the Blade V9 Vita. The company made the announcement on Sunday at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. In addition to the Blade V9, ZTE also introduced its first Android Go smartphone, called the Tempo Go. Here’s everything you need to know about the ZTE Blade V9 and Tempo Go.
The ZTE Blade V9 has a 5.7-inch Full HD+ display with an 18:9 aspect ratio, which provides a longer screen for viewing more content. The edges around the screen have been minimized for a more full-screen design, a trend every smartphone manufacturer is following.
The back of the phone is glass, giving it a more expensive feel. It’s slim, and despite its large size, it feels fairly compact. The back is incredibly minimal, with just the ZTE logo, a fingerprint sensor, and a dual-camera system.
There’s a 3.5mm headphone jack at the top, and sadly, ZTE opted for a MicroUSB charging port on the bottom. The company said since this phone is primarily meant for markets outside the U.S., there’s not much demand to see USB-Type C in an affordable smartphone.
Under the hood, the Blade V9 is powered by the Snapdragon 450 processor, which performed well in our brief hands-on time with the phone. Apps opened quickly, and moving throughout the operating system was fluid.
Perhaps what’s more impressive, however, is how the Blade V9 does not come installed with ZTE’s MiFavor user interface. No, it runs stock Android 8.1 Oreo. Why did ZTE dump its own software? Because its customers — specifically from the Z Community forum — preferred the bloatware-free, pure version of Android. It’s a big change, and ZTE told Digital Trends it will use stock Android in all its future smartphones, including those in its higher-tier Axon range.
There’s hardly any apps pre-installed on the phone, except for a few core Google apps. The user interface is simple, but it’s likely why it’s so fast to react. The Blade V9 also packs a 3,100mAh battery, and comes in a variety of storage options. With the 2GB RAM model, you’ll get 16GB of storage; 3GB of RAM comes with 32GB; and 4GB offers 64GB. There’s a MicroSD slot for expandable storage of up to 256GB, as well.
Components
CORSAIR Intros MP700 ELITE Series PCIe 5.0 M.2 SSDs
CORSAIR has announced the immediate release of the MP700 ELITE series of PCIe 5.0 SSDs. These new drives bring the next generation of storage technologies to mainstream markets, offering incredible performance and reliability at a more affordable price point.
The MP700 ELITE boasts incredible sequential read speeds of up to 10,000MB/sec and sequential write speeds of up to 8,500MB/sec, powered by the cutting-edge PCIe 5.0 x4 controller. This leap in performance ensures users can experience faster boot times, quicker game loads, and seamless file transfers, taking their overall computing experience to new heights.
Featuring High-Density 3D TLC NAND, the MP700 ELITE series provides the perfect blend of performance and endurance, keeping your system running smoothly for years. With support for Microsoft DirectStorage, these drives can communicate directly with your graphics card, significantly reducing load times for compatible games and enhancing gameplay.
Utilizing the compact M.2 2280 form factor, the MP700 ELITE is available both with a heatsink for desktop motherboards, and also without a heatsink for use with integrated motherboard cooling and in compatible laptops. Moreover, backward compatibility with PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 3.0 platforms ensures that a wide range of users can benefit from this advanced technology. A PCIe 5.0 platform, such as Intel’s 800-series or AMD’s 800-series is required for the highest throughput.
With a comprehensive five-year warranty and the CORSAIR SSD Toolbox software for advanced drive management, the MP700 ELITE series stands as a testament to CORSAIR’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The CORSAIR MP700 ELITE series is available in 1TB and 2TB capacities.
Components
Cooler Master Releases the MasterLiquid 360 Ion White
Cooler Master, a leading provider of PC components, gaming peripherals, and tech lifestyle solutions, has today announced the release of the MasterLiquid 360 Ion White, an all-new colourway for their premium liquid cooler. This flagship AIO cooler features the company’s first LCD display and showcases the most advanced cooling technology to date.
Key features and benefits of the MasterLiquid 360 Ion White include:
- Gen X Dual Chamber Design: Dual chambers work together for the most efficient cooling.
- 2.1-inch IPS LCD Screen: The pump features a 2.1-inch LCD screen, fully customizable via the MasterCTRL software.
- Mobius 120P ARGB Fans: Equipped with three white Mobius 120P ARGB fans for unmatched cooling performance.
- Personalization and Compatibility: Built-in features such as controllable ARGB lighting and automatic PWM adjustment are compatible with all major motherboards and allow for in-depth personalization.
- Easier Installation: Preinstalled Mobius 120P ARGB fans and a simplified bracket design make installation simpler and faster.
The MasterLiquid 360 Ion White is the liquid cooler to watch for in the next generation of PC building. With the ideal combination of flagship performance and customization possibilities, as well as an all-white aesthetic for an entirely different look, the Ion is a cooling powerhouse you just can’t look away from.
Artificial Intelligence
LG Launches New AI-Powered OLED TVs
LG Electronics is once again pushing the boundaries of OLED technology with its 2024 lineup of OLED TVs. This year’s models, including the C4, M4, G4, and B4 OLED evo series, promise to deliver unparalleled picture quality, personalized content, and seamless interactivity. At the top of the range, the LG G4, available in sizes up to a stunning 97 inches, offers a gallery-design aesthetic that seamlessly blends into any living space. This model delivers breathtaking visuals, thanks to LG’s advanced OLED technology.
The LG C4, available up to 83 inches, strikes a balance between performance and value. It offers vibrant colours, deep blacks, and incredible detail, making it the perfect all-around OLED TV. For those seeking a truly wireless experience, the LG M4, also available up to 97 inches, eliminates cable clutter with its innovative Zero Connect Box. This allows for a cleaner and more minimalist setup. The LG B4, available up to 77 inches, provides an immersive cinematic experience at an exceptional price point.
Powered by the latest α11 and α8 AI processors, LG’s 2024 OLED TVs offer a range of intelligent features:
- Personalized Content Recommendations: The TVs analyze viewing habits and preferences to curate tailored content recommendations.
- Multiple User Profiles: Create up to 10 individual profiles for a truly personalized experience.
- AI Concierge: Get personalized content recommendations based on your viewing history.
- AI Picture Pro: Experience unparalleled realism with AI-enhanced picture quality.
- AI Acoustic Sound: Enjoy immersive audio with AI-optimized sound performance.
LG’s 2024 OLED TV lineup sets a new standard for home entertainment, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology, stunning design, and intelligent features.