Roku’s new feature will turn your TV into a fancy art delivery system

When you’re not watching Barkitecture or the Weird Al movie on your Roku, the device turns on its familiar scrolling, purple city-scape. Now you don’t just have to settle for a Flintstones-esque background of neoclassical buildings and the occasional billboard for PlutoTV when your Roku goes into rest mode. The TV viewing platform is introducing a new screensaver feature called Backdrops.

The new viewing feature turns your TV or viewing device into an Amazon Echo Show 8 Photos Edition, except Roku hasn’t taken away the only feature that gave it its name. Backdrops will show pictures of classic works of art by masters like Claude Monet and beautiful photos of landscapes that you can choose to display on your Roku device. The new Backdrops feature will start appearing on Roku-branded TVs and third-party Roku TVs in the next few weeks while customers with Roku streaming players and streambars will have to wait until the fall.

Roku's new Backdrops feature offering thousands of images of landscapes from around the world.
Roku

There are thousands of works of art and photos to choose from and even include descriptions so you can learn a little art history and geography while you’re vegging out in front of your TV. It’s not like you were doing anything important anyway on your couch on those sweatpants you don’t even wear outside when you’re taking out the garbage.

Roku’s Backdrops doesn’t just limit your choices to what it has to offer. You can also upload your own photos to your Roku account on the website from your computer and connect your Google Photos collection to your Roku. Backdrops can basically turn your boring wall into a museum if the entire museum could move around you to each work of art instead of the other way around.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/rokus-new-feature-will-turn-your-tv-into-a-fancy-art-delivery-system-214841525.html?src=rss

Lunar Lake Power-Revolution: Intel Unveils the Core Ultra 200V at IFA 2024

At IFA 2024 in Berlin, Intel made a significant announcement with the launch of its latest processor, the Intel Core Ultra 200V, based on the Lunar Lake architecture. This new chip marks a pivotal advancement for the tech giant, as it promises not just improved performance but also vastly superior power efficiency, addressing a key industry trend.

DELL, Samsung, and LG have unveiled new laptop models equipped with Intel’s new Core Ultra processors (Series 2), including the XPS 13, Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, and LG Gram 16.

The Lunar Lake architecture represents a substantial evolution from its predecessor, Meteor Lake. With it, Intel has doubled the number of CPU cores and cache memory, a move designed to enhance both processing power and efficiency (and per-core die area).

This increase in core count is particularly noteworthy as it reflects a broader industry shift towards higher core counts, with applications and operating systems increasingly optimized to leverage multiple cores for better performance. By removing hyper-threading in favor of more physical cores, Intel is betting on a strategy that aligns with current software development trends.

A key feature of the Lunar Lake architecture is the integration of RAM directly into the processor package. This design significantly reduces the energy required for data transfer between the CPU and RAM, contributing to the chip’s overall power efficiency. Intel claims that this architectural change allows the Core Ultra 200V to achieve power efficiency levels comparable to Qualcomm, a company traditionally known for its energy-efficient mobile processors. Intel presented benchmark results showing that its Core Ultra 200V is on par with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite Series in terms of performance and power efficiency.
If this claim holds, it could represent a game-changing achievement for Intel, particularly in a market where power efficiency is increasingly critical, especially for mobile and portable devices.

Beyond the CPU, Intel has made significant strides in enhancing the GPU (graphics processing unit) and NPU (neural processing unit) units. The company reports a 58% improvement in AI performance compared to the previous generation, highlighting the growing importance of AI processing in modern computing tasks.

Additionally, the GPU’s gaming performance is reportedly strong enough to be competitive with leading alternatives, which could make the Core Ultra 200V an attractive option for casual gamers and content creators.

Intel’s claims about the Core Ultra 200’s performance are supported by promising internal benchmarks, but the true measure of its capabilities will be seen once verified independently. If these performance gains are confirmed, the Lunar Lake architecture could signify a significant leap forward for Intel in terms of raw power and efficiency.

The competitive pressure within the semiconductor industry has driven considerable innovation. Intel’s latest offering demonstrates how this rivalry continues to benefit consumers, who stand to gain from more powerful, efficient, and versatile computing solutions.

Lunar Lake Power-Revolution: Intel Unveils the Core Ultra 200V at IFA 2024

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Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus 8-core Brings Microsoft Copilot+ to Premium PC Laptops

Qualcomm is launching the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core processor at IFA 2024 in Berlin, Germany.

The goal is to bring AI features introduced with previously announced, more expensive, Snapdragon X processors to more affordable PC laptops in the $700-$900 range. 

As seen in the specifications, the NPU (Neural Processing Unit, or AI processor) is just as performant as other SnapDragon X chips that are already available. This enables Microsoft Copilot+ to run as fast and efficiently on upcoming laptops. In fact, Acer, ASUS, Dell Technologies, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung should immediately announce Snapdragon X Plus 8-core products.

The GPU (graphics processor) performance is noticeably lower than on higher-end Snapdragon X processors with a higher core count (see image below). As such, this product is aimed at the productivity and entertainment market, where 3D graphics and video editing are not heavily used. 

It can power three external monitors for productivity applications, including video conferencing. Entertainment on the go should also be a breeze, and thanks to Qualcomm’s platform’s extreme power efficiency, you can watch movies for long hours.

Thanks to its smartphone business, Qualcomm can offer some of the best wireless connectivity in the industry, whether via 5G, WiFi 7, or both. Not only that but users can also benefit from lesser-known features such as high-quality audio with Snapdragon Sound or excellent camera and video software inherited from advanced smartphone platforms.

We previously attended the San Francisco media event where Qualcomm unveiled the more powerful Snapdragon X Elite. Since then, Qualcomm and its partners have kept rolling out new always-connected PC products at increasingly more affordable prices.

 

Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus 8-core Brings Microsoft Copilot+ to Premium PC Laptops

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You can finally fish in No Man's Sky as its Aquarius update rolls out today

Worlds Part I, the No Man’s Sky update that rolled out in July, made waters in the game more responsive to wind, depth and weather conditions. An artist drew fan art of their character fishing while perched on the wing of their boat after the update went out, which in turn inspired Hello Games to add a fishing mechanic to No Man’s Sky. If you look at No Man’s Sky communities online, you’ll see a lot of people talk about wanting a fishing feature. Make sure to be on the lookout for the the game’s latest update called Aquarius that’s going out today if you’re one of them.

Aquarius is packed with new features, all centered on fishing. You can either fish on your own or fish with friends if that would make it easier to wait for a bite. While you can sit, cast your line and wait for a catch on the shore, you can also set up automated traps. It’s also possible to fish in deep water from an “Exo-Skiff” platform, which can be personalized with colors and comes with an inventory for storing your catches. Ocassionally, you’ll pull up non-aquatic items like messages in bottles and technology upgrades. The Aquarius update also arrives with a new expedition, Expedition 15. Completing the various quests over the six weeks the expedition runs will unlock customization options like a deep-sea diving suit, a special fishing rod and a nautical-themed Aquarius jetpack.

The developer says it’s releasing a huge array of fish in the game, “from common minnows to wild alien catches,” and some can only be caught using fishing pots that can bait and trap rare catches. And while you can fish to relax, you can also challenge yourself by completing the fishing logs and taking part in expedition quests to find the biggest catch of the day. 

Finally, you can cook whatever you catch using new recipes that you can discover around the No Man’s Sky universe. It sounds like Hello Games intends to expand the game’s fishing mechanic, though, so we may get more equipment, competitions and species to catch in the future. For now, if you enjoy fishing mini-games like I do, you may want to grab some snacks and prepare for hours of virtual angling. 

Update, September 4, 5:50PM: This story was updated after publishing with more details on the Aquarius update and the expedition unlocks.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/you-can-finally-fish-in-no-mans-sky-as-its-aquarius-update-rolls-out-today-130042560.html?src=rss

Dell Unveils Inspiron 14 and Latitude 5455 Laptops with Snapdragon X Plus 8 Core Processor

Dell Technologies is advancing its position in PC innovation with new laptops that emphasize cutting-edge AI experiences. Yesterday, the company unveiled the XPS 13, powered by next-gen Intel Core Ultra processors Series 2, and today, DELL launched two Snapdragon-powered models, the Inspiron 14 and Latitude 5455, which were previously announced earlier this year.
At IFA, Qualcomm unveiled the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core processor, which will power a range of devices, including Dell’s latest offerings, the Inspiron 14 and the Latitude 5455.

Inspiron 14 

This model will be available with Snapdragon X Plus 8-core and 10-core options, featuring an integrated GPU and NPU that deliver up to 45 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) of performance. The laptop boasts a vibrant 14-inch FHD+ display and includes features like voice commands for enhanced usability. It will be available starting September 24th, with prices starting at $899 (US).

Specs

  • Display: 14.0-inch 16:10 FHD+ (1920×1200) 300 nits WVA, IPS, Display
  • Processor Options: Snapdragon X Plus, X1P-64-100, 10 cores up to 3.4GHz, NPU up to 45 TOPS Snapdragon X Plus, X1P-42-100, 8 cores up to 3.24 GHz, NPU up to 45 TOPS
  • Graphics: Qualcomm Adreno GPU
  • Memory Options: 16 GB, LPDDR5X, 8448MT
  • Storage Options: 256 GB/512 GB/1 TB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive
  • Connectivity Options: Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 Wi-Fi 7 2×2, Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Card
  • Battery Options: 3-Cell Battery, 54 Whr (Integrated)
  • OS: Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro
  • Dimensions: H/W/D — 0.59” – 0.70” x 12.36” x 8.81” (15.14 mm – 17.90 mm x 314 mm x 223.75 mm)
  • Starting Weight:  1.49 kg (3.3 lbs)

Latitude 5455 

Designed for business users, the Latitude 5455 features a slim design and is powered by the same Snapdragon X Plus 8-core and 10-core processors. It offers impressive battery life of up to 27 hours and includes dual speakers with AI noise reduction, along with a 16:10 FHD+ display for optimal productivity and collaboration. 

The device is also set to be available on September 24th, though pricing has not yet been announced.

Specs

  • Display: 14.0” 16:10 FHD+, (1920×1200), IPS, Non Touch, 300 nits, sRGB 100%, Anti-glare
  • Processor Options: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 (10 cores up to 3.4GHz, NPU up to 45 TOPS) or Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 (8 cores up to 3.4GHz, Single Core Boost up to 3.8 GHz, NPU up to 45 TOPS)
  • Graphics: Next Gen Adreno 740 UMA Graphics GPU
  • Memory Options: Up to 16 GB LPDDR5x SDRAM 8448 MT/s (on board)
  • Storage Options: up to 1 TB, M.2 2230, PCIe Gen4 NVMe, SSD
  • Connectivity Options: Microsoft Modern Standby Compliant, Wireless LAN Options, Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 Wi-Fi 7 WCN7851, 2×2, 802.11ax, MU-MIMO, Bluetooth 5.4 wireless card
  • Battery Options: 3 cell 54 Wh, Li-ion, Express Charge 1.0
  • OS: Microsoft Windows 11 ARM Home 64-bit, Microsoft Windows 11 ARM Pro 64-bit
  • Dimensions: H/W/D — 0.70” x 12.36” x 8.81” (17.9 mm x 314 mm x 223.75 mm)
  • Starting Weight:  1.53 kg (3.37 lbs)

These new models highlight Dell’s commitment to integrating advanced AI capabilities into its laptops, providing users with powerful, efficient, and versatile devices for both personal and professional use.

Dell Unveils Inspiron 14 and Latitude 5455 Laptops with Snapdragon X Plus 8 Core Processor

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Acer Unveils Project DualPlay: Gaming Laptop With Detachable Controllers

Acer has introduced Project DualPlay, a groundbreaking gaming laptop concept, at its next@acer global press conference in Berlin. This innovative Predator concept is designed to enhance portable gaming experiences by offering versatile and shared gameplay options in a single, powerful device.

The product, which will be unveiled at IFA 2024, features a large touchpad that doubles as a detachable wireless controller, enabling dynamic transitions between keyboard and controller use—The controller, secured by an electromagnetic lock, can be easily released, transforming the laptop into a portable gaming hub.

This device also includes dual pop-out 5-watt speakers, which activate when the controller is released, providing immersive, high-fidelity audio that enhances the gaming atmosphere.

The concept offers gamers flexibility, enabling them to switch between different gaming styles and genres. It is particularly suited for multiplayer gaming, allowing a second player to join in with the detachable controller, which can split into two joysticks for head-to-head combat in games like Capcom’s Street Fighter 6.

Adding to the visual appeal, Project DualPlay is equipped with 360-degree dynamic RGB lighting across the keyboard, screen bezels, and trackpad area, creating an “electrifying atmosphere” during gameplay. The lighting extends to an infinity mirror lighting bar on the back and the joysticks of the detachable controller, further enhancing the immersive experience.

Project DualPlay arrives as a significant innovation in the gaming laptop market, promising unique and engaging experiences for gamers, pushing the boundaries of gaming technology, catering to both solo and multiplayer enthusiasts. 

Acer will unveil more details about the Project DualPlay at their press conference at IFA on Sept. 4th at 2:30 PM; Hopefully we will have access to more details and, with the best of luck, get our hands on the prototype/concept so, stay tuned for more about this innovative device.

Acer Unveils Project DualPlay: Gaming Laptop With Detachable Controllers

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Verizon is reportedly near a deal to buy broadband provider Frontier Communications

Verizon is reportedly near a deal to buy fiber provider Frontier Communications. On Wednesday, The Wall Street Journal said that an announcement could come as early as this week, provided discussions don’t “hit any last-minute snags.”

Frontier has a market value of over $7 billion and provides broadband to around three million locations in 25 states. The company would help Verizon boost its Fios fiber network and better compete with AT&T. The carrier has seen slowing wireless revenue and views fiber investment as a growth area. Acquiring companies with existing infrastructure, like Frontier, is potentially less expensive and time-consuming than rolling out its own network.

Based in Dallas, Frontier is currently upgrading its copper landline system to fiber — enabling it to offer a 5Gbps symmetrical plan. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020. It pivoted to a “leaner business,” as the WSJ describes, before running into concerns that it would run out of money before it finishes its current upgrades.

The FTC sued the company in 2021 for misrepresenting its speeds. Under a 2022 settlement, Frontier was required to stop lying about its internet performance, dole out over $8.5 million and install fiber service in 60,000 California homes over four years.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/verizon-is-reportedly-near-a-deal-to-buy-broadband-provider-frontier-communications-210317747.html?src=rss

ASUS Unveils Ultra-Slim Zenbook S 14 With Intel Core Ultra Series 2 Processors

ASUS has unveiled the new Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) at IFA 2024 in Berlin, showcasing significant advancements in ultraportable laptop design. Measuring just 1.1 cm in thickness and weighing 1.2 kg, it stands as ASUS’s slimmest 14-inch laptop to date, catering to users who require mobility without compromising on performance.

The Zenbook S 14 features an outer lid crafted from ASUS’s exclusive Ceraluminum material, which combines the tactile warmth of ceramic with the strength of aluminum. This design not only enhances durability but also provides a premium aesthetic appeal.

The keyboard area is engineered with a geometric grille design containing 2,715 CNC-machined cooling vents, optimizing airflow and heat dissipation to maintain peak performance during intensive tasks.

Powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 288V processor, the laptop delivers high-performance computing with up to 48 neural processing unit (NPU) tera operations per second (TOPS), enabling advanced AI experiences that enhance productivity and efficiency. The device boasts a 3K 120 Hz Lumina OLED display, offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals suitable for professional work and entertainment.

Audio quality is elevated through a four-speaker sound system that provides immersive sound experiences. For video conferencing, the Zenbook S 14 is equipped with an FHD AiSense IR camera supporting AI effects, along with AI noise cancellation technology to ensure clear communication. Despite its slim profile, it houses a substantial 72 Wh battery, offering extended usage without frequent charging.

Connectivity options are comprehensive, featuring a full range of I/O ports to accommodate various peripherals. An enlarged 16:10 touchpad with intuitive smart gestures allows users to easily adjust display brightness and audio volume, enhancing user interaction and convenience.

Specs

ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406SA) Specifications
ModelUX5406SA
ColorScandinavian White
Operating SystemWindows 11 Home (ASUS recommends Windows 11 Pro for business)
ProcessorIntel Core Ultra 7 Processor 258V, 1.8 GHz (12MB Cache, up to 4.8 GHz, 8 cores, 8 Threads); Intel AI Boost NPU up to 47
GraphicsIntel Arc Graphics
Neural ProcessorIntel AI Boost NPU
Display14.0-inch, 3K (2880 × 1800) OLED, 16:10 aspect ratio, 0.2ms response time, 120Hz refresh rate, 500 nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, 1.07 billion colors, PANTONE Validated, Glossy display, 70% less harmful blue light, SGS Eye Care Display, Touch screen, 90% screen-to-body ratio, Stylus support
Memory32 GB LPDDR5X on board
Storage1 TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Expansion Slots1x M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0×4
I/O Ports1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
2x Thunderbolt™ 4 (supports display / power delivery)
1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS
1x 3.5 mm Combo Audio Jack
Keyboard & TouchpadBacklit Chiclet Keyboard, 1.1 mm Key-travel, Precision touchpad, With Copilot key
CameraFHD camera with IR function to support Windows Hello
AudioSmart Amp Technology, Built-in speaker, Built-in array microphone, harman/kardon (Premium)
Network and CommunicationWi-Fi 7(802.11be) (Tri-band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.4 Wireless Card
Battery72WHrs, 2S2P, 4-cell Li-ion
Power SupplyTYPE-C, 65W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W, Input: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz universal
Weight1.20 kg (2.65 lbs)
Dimensions (W × D × H)31.03 × 21.47 × 1.19 ~ 1.29 cm (12.22” x 8.45” x 0.47” ~ 0.51”)

Availability and Price

The ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) will be available for pre-order starting September 6th in Canada through the ASUS Store, with shipping commencing on September 24th, 2024. Multiple configurations are offered:

  • Intel Core Ultra 5 processor 226V, 16 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM, and 1 TB storage, starting at CA$1,799 (~$1,331), available exclusively on the ASUS Store and Best Buy.
  • Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 256V, 16 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM, and 1 TB storage, starting at CA$1,999 (~$1,479), available on the ASUS Store and selected retailers.
  • Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 258V, 32 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM, and 1 TB storage, priced at CA$2,199 (~$2,219), available exclusively on the ASUS Store and Best Buy.

ASUS Unveils Ultra-Slim Zenbook S 14 With Intel Core Ultra Series 2 Processors

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Samsung Launches Enhanced AI Food Platform With Personalized Meal Plans

Samsung has introduced new features and updates for its AI-powered food and recipe platform, Samsung Food, at IFA 2024, marking the platform’s first anniversary. Samsung Food, which now boasts over six million users, simplifies meal planning and cooking by offering personalized recipes, shopping lists, and meal planners. The latest enhancements focus on improving user convenience and supporting health and wellness goals.

A key new feature is Samsung Food+, a premium subscription service ($6.99 p/ month) that integrates Vision AI technology. This feature allows users to add items to their Food List by simply taking a photo with their smartphone, even if they don’t have a Family Hub refrigerator with AI Vision Inside.

The service also automatically adds purchased ingredients to the Food List and offers recipe recommendations based on the list’s contents, helping to reduce food waste by prioritizing items nearing their use-by dates.

Samsung Food’s Search with Items from User’s Food List

Samsung Food+ further personalizes meal plans to align with users’ health goals. It provides nutrition-focused meal plans that track caloric and macronutrient intake, with options to customize targets based on individual health objectives. Users receive tailored weekly recipe recommendations, with Samsung Food+ subscribers getting a full week of personalized suggestions.

Samsung Food’s “Tailored for You” Meal Plan Service

The platform’s new “Search with Your Food List” feature enhances the cooking experience by prioritizing recipes that use ingredients already in the user’s Food List. This intelligent approach not only helps maintain an organized inventory but also ensures fresh and healthy meals, supporting sustainable food practices.

Samsung Food’s new features underscore the company’s commitment to integrating AI with kitchen technology, making meal preparation more efficient and personalized, while promoting health and reducing food waste.

Samsung Launches Enhanced AI Food Platform With Personalized Meal Plans

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LG Unveils ThinQ ON AI Home Hub At IFA 2024

At IFA 2024, LG Electronics introduced the LG ThinQ ON AI home hub, designed to be the centerpiece of a connected smart home ecosystem. Powered by LG’s Affectionate Intelligence, this innovative hub offers easy connectivity and personalized experiences by learning from individual usage patterns and trends. The ThinQ ON enables users to control their AI appliances and IoT devices with natural, conversational voice commands, enhancing convenience and comfort in the home.

The compact and lightweight hub features a cylindrical design in muted colors, allowing it to blend with any décor. Equipped with an AI speaker, it facilitates interactions with LG’s AI voice assistant and supports a range of audio content. The ThinQ ON is powered by a high-performance AI chipset, ensuring scalability for future enhancements.

The hub’s generative AI capabilities allow it to understand the context of conversations and tailor experiences based on user preferences. It also autonomously monitors the smart home ecosystem, notifying users when tasks are completed or if issues arise. Users can easily check or change appliance settings using voice commands and configure routines to automate operations.

Certified by Matter, the ThinQ ON supports various network connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Thread, ensuring easy setup and compatibility with a wide range of devices. LG plans to expand its open platform by incorporating more brands and devices, following its recent acquisition of smart home platform company Athom.

Security and privacy are safeguarded by LG Shield, which encrypts and securely stores user data, preventing external tampering. The ThinQ ON represents a significant step toward LG’s vision of the “Zero Labor Home,” offering an AI-driven lifestyle that prioritizes customized comfort, care, and convenience.

Visitors at IFA 2024 can explore LG’s latest AI Home solutions, including the ThinQ ON, at the company’s booth in Berlin.

LG Unveils ThinQ ON AI Home Hub At IFA 2024

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