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Tech

The Smartphones of the Future: The Out-of-This-World Shapes That Our Beloved Gadgets May Have in the Near Future

Regardless of how much we love our smartphones, we all need to admit that the vast majority of them look pretty much the same. Otherwise, we have good reasons to love our smartphones, considering that these gadgets are capable of numerous tasks such as waking us up in the morning, showing us the calendar, giving us the opportunity to take notes, taking photos, recording videos, scrolling through social media, and so on and so forth. 

Of course, some smartphones have the volume buttons placed in different places, as well as the ports for headphones and chargers and so on and so forth. Smartphones are a huge trend now in 2024, considering that it’s very hard to find a person who doesn’t have one. Whether we’re talking about elders, adults, teenagers, children, or even toddlers, they all have smartphones these days. But soon enough, in just a few years, we may all witness a radical change in the appearance of smartphones, not to mention that they will probably be a lot more powerful than they already are. Let’s speak about some of those possible changes, shall we?

Foldable and rollable displays

Perhaps each of us has to admit that one of the most interesting developments in smartphone design is the emergence of foldable and rollable displays. Considering the advancements in flexible OLED technology, manufacturers have begun experimenting with devices that can transition between a compact form factor and a larger display that looks more like a tablet. How about imagining a smartphone that falls out into a full-sized screen for exciting multimedia experiences and then falls back into a normal size that would make the device fit very well into a pocket? In a similar way, rollable displays offer the possibility for devices to expand or retract, adapting to the needs of the user. 

Holographic and transparent designs:

It’s true that this point holographic and transparent smartphones sound more like science fiction scenarios, but recent advances in augmented reality as well as transparent display technology are bringing that concept. How about imagining a smartphone that projects holographic images and interactive virtual elements into the world we all see today? Transparent smartphones, on the other hand, could offer us a glimpse into the inner mechanisms of the device, showing its components to anyone who is curious enough to look. 

Curved and wraparound displays:

While curved displays have already made their Mark in the smartphone industry, if we look ahead, we can realize that designers are exploring the possibilities of wrap-around displays that extend beyond the front-facing surface of the device. Such wraparound screens could incorporate secondary displays on the sides or back of the smartphone, providing extra functionality such as quick access to notifications, interactive controls, and shortcuts. Such scenarios come true in the near future, and we believe that the odds are pretty high they will redefine how we interact with our smartphones,

Could we even imagine our life without a smartphone? Could we live without one? Smartphones these days are even more popular than computers such as laptops or desktop PCs and a lot of folks all there are seriously addicted to these portable devices. We should be the ones owning smartphones not vice versa.

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Tech

The NoxPlayer Android Emulator for PC: How Good Is the Software?

Even though Windows 11 has made it a lot easier for users to run Android games and apps directly on their laptop or desktop PC, that’s not a strong enough argument for people to make the upgrade to Microsoft’s latest operating system. Windows 11 still has its flaws, and plenty of folks out there are concerned about their privacy if they use the operating system.

That’s why third-party apps might represent a better option when it comes to emulating your favorite Android games and apps on a Windows laptop/PC. Luckily, there are lots of options out there, and you are free to choose the one that suits your needs and desires the most. However, NoxPlayer managed to catch our attention, as it seems like a very good option for anybody who’s looking for a powerful and straightforward Android emulator. Let’s see why:

A friendly and intuitive user interface

NoxPlayer should be able to install smoothly and rapidly on any device. It has a very friendly and intuitive interface, although all those buttons on the right might pose a few challenges if you’re not used to the icons. But as soon as you hover over the mouse a bit and find out what each of the buttons can do, you should easily remember that info. For instance, there are buttons for making print screens and opening multiple instances at once.

All of the Android games and apps you install will appear on the front page of the emulator, similarly to how programs/apps appear as desktop icons in Windows. In other words, you won’t have trouble while trying to locate those apps in NoxPlayer, as the emulator was built in such a way that it showcases the apps easily.

If you don’t like to see the Android apps and games in the NoxPlayer emulator itself, you can easily add them to your desktop as well, in exactly the same way you keep your other programs from your computer. When you click on those apps/games on your desktop, the NoxPlayer app will automatically launch and open the software. This simple operation can be done by first opening the app/game you need in your NoxPlayer, and hitting the last button from the low right side of NoxPlayer that says Create an app desktop shortcut. 

How’s the emulation

The emulation that NoxPlayer is capable of is smooth and efficient. It runs very well, and transparent buttons will appear on the display, matching those from the Android version. Personally, I’ve tested the eBay app on NoxPlayer, as I prefer using it over the desktop version due to the possibility of filtering the search results by the location of the products. I was surprised at how well NoxPlayer does its job, and I’ve also put the emulator to the test on SnapSeed and World of Tanks Blitz. Some freezes occurred at some point with these apps, but I assume it was a problem with the apps themselves, not the emulator. I’ve also tested the EZVIZ app which allows me to see my room through my surveillance camera, and it works as it does on my Android device.

Probably the best part about the NoxPlayer emulator is that it’s free to use. It won’t cost you a dime to use it, and you will have the chance to emulate pretty much all your favorite Android apps and games.

Categories
Games Tech

Orange Pi Neo: The Upcoming Handheld Console Comes Equipped With Manjaro Linux

Who said that Linux distributions weren’t made for gaming? Many of the popular Linux operating systems out there have managed to demolish that myth in recent years, and Manjaro is one of them. You can easily run many of your favorite games on various Linux distributions due to programs such as Lutris or Proton.

Orange Pi Neo is the designation of a new handheld console for gamers that’s being built by the Manjaro Linux team in partnership with the Orange Pi hardware vendor. We’ve seen instances of the Orange Pi Neo gaming machine during the FOSDEM 2024 event.

Orange Pi Neo will be featuring Manjaro Linux

The forthcoming Orange Pi Neo handheld console will run on the Manjaro Linux distribution, and perhaps nobody could possibly complain about that. The guys from the Manjaro Linux team posted a few photos on the X platform.

The rest of the specs for the Orange Pi Neo handheld console don’t look bad at all, as they clearly indicate a solid product for hardcore gamers.

Orange Pi Neo specifications

The Orange Pi Neo handheld console is a true powerhouse of portable gaming. The machine is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor and it features a 7-inch FHD+ display that boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1200 that offers vivid visuals with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a refresh rate of 120Hz. If you buy the console, you can even choose between 16GB or 32GB of lightning-fast LPDDR5 RAM memory, running at 7500MHz in dual channel configuration and paired with a generous storage capacity that ranges from 512GB to 2TB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD.

The console was built with portability in mind, as it measures 259mm107mm19.9mm and houses a 50WHrs 3-cell Li-polymer battery, providing extensive gaming sessions while you’re on the go. As for the connectivity options, the console also stands well by including 2x USB 4.0 Type-C ports, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a TF card slot, catering to various peripherals and expansion needs.

The rich audio experience delivered by dual 1W panoramic speakers is also worth mentioning, while the innovative cooling system, comprising a turbo large fan, dual copper pipes, as well as aluminum alloy cooling fans, and custom air ducts, ensures enough heat dissipation even during intense gaming sessions. With Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, dual trackpads, dual 6-axis gyroscopes, and dual thumbsticks adorned with RGB lighting, the Orange Pi Neo handheld console redefines portable gaming with uncompromised performance and immersive features.

Gaming consoles running on Android or Windows don’t represent anything unusual, but it’s sure great to see that Linux distributions are getting more love. Recently, Microsoft even made an announcement that managed to piss off a lot of users: the Redmond-based giant will halt support for Windows 10 in 2025, similarly to how the company did in the case of Windows 7. This means that users will have to either upgrade to Windows 11 or the forthcoming Windows 12, or look for alternatives that don’t have the Microsoft logo on them. In other words, migrating to Linux distributions is an option that more and more Windows users consider, and for good reasons. Windows 11 still has its flaws, as it doesn’t seem to be a stable and reliable operating system.

It will be interesting to see how the Orange Pi Neo handheld console will compete against the Nintendo Switch device, but we’ll soon find out the answer to that dilemma.

 

Categories
Tech

Mach Speed Marvels: Exploring the World’s Fastest Jet Planes

If someone had dared to claim back in the nineteenth century that it is possible for a machine heavier than air to fly, that would have been considered an insane idea or even blasphemy. But since Orville and Wilbur Wright, two American brothers from Dayton (Ohio) invented the very first successful powered airplane, it became clear that humanity is capable of much more wonderful stuff than anybody would have dared to dream.

As for nowadays, there are lots of jet planes out there that are capable of fabulous velocities. Their inventors clearly pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the skies, which is why we need to check out a little list of some of the fastest jet planes out there:

North American X-15 (Mach 6.72):

 

X-15 is the fastest manned aircraft that was ever built by the human mind. This rocket-powered aircraft is capable of an astonishing speed record of Mach 6.72, meaning 4,520 miles per hour. The record was set during a flight in 1967, as the aircraft paved the way for future hypersonic research.

Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird (Mach 3.3):

The SR-71 Blackbird remains an icon of the espionage from the Cold War era. This aircraft was designed for high-speed and high-altitude reconnaissance, and it could cruise at speeds higher than Mach 3.3 (2,193 miles per hour). This aircraft is capable of flying from New York to London in less than two hours, which is absolutely mind-boggling!

Lockheed YF-12 (Mach 3.35):

The Lockheed YF-12 was developed as a high-speed interceptor, as it was an experimental aircraft related to the SR-71 Blackbird, as you might have already guessed. YF-12 is capable of reaching speeds of Mach 3.35, or, to be more precise, 2,275 miles per hour during test flights.

MiG-25 Foxbat (Mach 2.83):

The MiG-25 Foxbat is a Soviet interceptor, and it was designed to counter high-speed threats. Being able to reach a top speed of Mach 2.83 (meaning 1,929 miles per hour), the Foxbat became rapidly renowned for its insane speed and altitude capabilities during the Cold War.

North American XB-70 Valkyrie (Mach 3.1):

The XB-70 Valkyrie is a testament to 1960s aeronautical innovation, as it was a prototype strategic bomber capable of reaching speeds up to  Mach 3.1 (2,056 miles per hour). However, it’s important to mention that the Valkyrie never entered full protection, but even so, it remains an indelible mark on aviation history due to its speed and design.

Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor (Mach 2.25):

The F-22 Raptor represents a fifth-generation fighter jet, and it’s known for its speed and agility. This jet plane is capable of speeds up to Mach 2.25, meaning 1,500 miles per hour. The F-22 Raptor gains air superiority by combining stealth and speed.

Bell X-2 Starbuster (Mach 3.196):

The X-2 Starbuster was a rocket-powered research aircraft that broke speed records back in the 1950s. This beauty was capable of a maximum speed of Mach 3.196, meaning 2,094 miles per hour before it was retired. Even so, it contributed valuable data to the understanding of high-speed flight.

Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker (Mach 2.35):

The Su-27 Flanker is a Russian superiority fighter, and it’s celebrated for its speed and maneuverability. It can reach a top speed of Mach 2.35, meaning 1,550 miles per hour. This jet plane has been a stalwart of the Russian Air Force since it was introduced.

Believe it or not, humanity wants even greater speeds than what the jet planes mentioned in this article are capable of. That’s precisely what will determine advancements in the field of aeronautics.

 

Categories
News Tech

2023’s Top 5 NBA Streaming Services: Your Gateway to Live Basketball Action

If you’re an NBA fan looking to catch all the live action this season, you’re in luck. 2023 brings a lineup of streaming services that are game changers. Here, we highlight five key players in the NBA streaming arena. And for an even deeper dive into the world of NBA streaming, including insights on Reddit’s NBA streams, make sure to check out the features on Digital-Overload, where they’ve got you covered with all the insider details.

1. DIRECTV STREAM: The All-Encompassing Choice

  • Extensive Coverage: Offering ABC, ESPN, TNT, and NBA TV for national games and various regional networks, DIRECTV STREAM caters to all your NBA needs.
  • Why Pick DIRECTV STREAM?: It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of national and regional NBA broadcasts​​.

2. FuboTV: The Sports Fanatic’s Dream

  • Diverse Sports Content: FuboTV provides ABC, ESPN, and NBA TV for national games, along with a range of regional sports networks.
  • Top Feature: Known for its sports diversity, it’s ideal for fans who crave a broad sports viewing experience​​.
  • Additional Note: Recognized for its extensive range of sports options, fuboTV is a frontrunner for sports enthusiasts​​.

3. Sling TV: Affordable and Versatile

  • Cost-Effective Streaming: Sling TV is your go-to for budget-friendly NBA action, offering ABC, ESPN, and TNT.
  • Best Suited For: Average sports fans seeking an economical yet comprehensive NBA viewing option​​​​.

4. Hulu + Live TV: Entertainment and Sports Combined

  • A Complete Package: With ESPN, NBA TV, and additional entertainment options like ESPN+ and Disney+, Hulu + Live TV is great for the whole family.
  • Why Hulu + Live TV?: It blends sports with entertainment, catering to a wide audience​​.

5. YouTube TV: Tailored for the Modern Sports Fan

  • Focused Sports Coverage: It offers NFL Network and NBA TV, making it a cost-effective choice for dedicated sports followers.
  • Ideal Choice For: Those seeking a comprehensive, budget-friendly national sports package​​.

6. ESPN+: For the Dedicated Basketball Aficionado

  • Exclusive NBA Content: ESPN+ provides a unique perspective on the NBA, perfect for die-hard fans looking for in-depth coverage.
  • Why ESPN+?: It’s the go-to for exclusive NBA analysis, documentaries, and more, adding depth to your NBA experience​​.

Making the Right Choice

  • Your Preferences Matter: Whether it’s comprehensive coverage, budget consciousness, or a blend of sports and entertainment, there’s a service for you.
  • Regional Game Coverage: Ensure your service covers your favorite team’s regional games.
  • Take Advantage of Trials: Use trial periods to test out services and find your perfect match.

The 2023 NBA season is all about choice and quality in streaming. From comprehensive coverage to budget-friendly options, these services ensure you won’t miss a beat of the action. Dive into these top picks and gear up for an exhilarating season of NBA basketball, streamed right into your home!

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