Weekly News: New Pixel 9 Shade, Samsung Gadgets Leak Ahead of Unpacked, and More – The UBJ

An early preview of Samsung’s upcoming foldable devices has arrived, courtesy of leaked marketing images of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is expected to weigh 239 grams, being lighter than its predecessor, and feature the same 7.6-inch foldable screen along with an improved aluminum frame, sharper corners, and a larger 6.3-inch screen. In addition to IP48 dust and water resistance, this smartphone is expected to feature three rear cameras: a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, a 10-megapixel telephoto camera with optical zoom, and a 50-megapixel main lens.

The external screen is expected to feature a 10MP selfie camera, while the foldable screen will have a 4MP under-display camera. The potential upgrades suggest Samsung is focusing on improving the hardware to provide a solid and comprehensive user experience. The integration of these advanced camera systems indicates a focus on photography, catering to users who prioritize high-quality photos and videos.

Marketing images of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 have also surfaced, showing off a blue color scheme and highlighting its specs. The design appears similar to its predecessor, with a 3.4-inch external screen and a 6.7-inch foldable screen. It is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, with a 50MP main lens, a 12MP secondary camera, and a 10MP selfie lens. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is also rumored to feature an IP48 rating and is expected to debut with a vapor chamber for improved thermal management.

This can improve device performance by dissipating heat effectively, making it more suitable for long-term use and demanding applications. The continuity of the design suggests Samsung’s confidence in the original layout, while internal improvements are designed to keep pace with technological advances and consumer expectations.

Images of the Galaxy Buds Pro 3 have surfaced on Reddit, showing off a new stem design and a metallic grey finish, with the charging case sporting a semi-transparent top design. The Reddit user who posted the images praised the noise cancellation and sound quality, noting the increased bass. These new earbuds are compatible with both the Samsung Z Flip4 and the iPhone. The Galaxy Buds Pro 3 are expected to offer improved sound quality and improved connectivity features.

The design shift towards a more refined and stylish look indicates Samsung’s intention to appeal to a wider audience, while the performance improvements suggest a focus on delivering a better listening experience. This combination of aesthetic and functional improvements positions the Galaxy Buds Pro 3 as a competitive option in the crowded wireless earbuds market.

The new color scheme for the Pixel 9 series was revealed earlier this week. Hani Mohamed Bioud shared images on social media, showing off a pink Pixel 9 device with 256GB of storage and a design with rounded corners and a square shape. The new camera lens features dual cameras with a matte finish, while the rest of the back has a glossy finish.

Bioud’s posts have sparked mixed reactions regarding the color, with some users asking about other color options and what type of fingerprint sensor the device uses. Bioud promised to share more details in the coming days. The introduction of the new color option reflects Google’s efforts to diversify its product offerings and cater to different aesthetic preferences. The focus on storage capacity and design tweaks suggests a continued commitment to innovation and user satisfaction.

Netflix is ​​making headlines by discontinuing its cheapest ad-free plan, forcing users to pay more for an ad-free experience. According to several posts on Reddit, Netflix’s $11.99 ad-free plan will be discontinued on July 13, leaving customers with a choice between a $6.99 plan with ads, a $15.49 ad-free plan, or a $22.99 4K ad-free plan. The streaming giant’s move appears to be part of a strategy to entice customers to use more expensive or ad-supported plans, as mentioned in its Q4 earnings call earlier this year.

This change will likely impact many subscribers, who will now have to reconsider their subscription options and potentially opt for ad-supported or higher-cost plans. This strategic decision underscores Netflix’s focus on increasing revenue and profitability, although it may turn off some users who prefer ad-free content at a lower price.

On July 1, Google announced that a new update would be rolling out to the Pixel Watch that improved the July security patch for the Pixel Watch 1 and Pixel Watch 2. The update is available in software version TWD9.240705.001.A1. The following day, Google released the monthly software update for Pixel phones running Android 14.

This update includes carrier bug fixes, camera stability improvements, and system stability improvements for Pixel 5a (5G) through Pixel 8a devices, including Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. Additionally, Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro received UI bug fixes to address issues with the back gesture navigation. These updates reflect Google’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the usability and security of its devices, providing a better user experience, and quickly resolving any issues that arise.

Google wants to use music to train its AI models, working with record labels to access the music for “other experiments.” YouTube is reportedly in talks with Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Records to secure the rights to use their songs to train AI music. YouTube’s Dream Track feature, based on the work of nine artists, is part of that initiative.

But the move has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that creativity cannot be priced and that AI-generated music cannot compare to that made by human musicians. The push to integrate AI with music underscores the tech industry’s fascination with AI’s potential to revolutionize creative fields.

But it also raises philosophical and ethical questions about the authenticity and value of AI-created work. The ongoing debate underscores how difficult it is to balance technological advancement with preserving cultural heritage and human ingenuity.

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