Technology News

1679878837 iOS 17 would have new features users have been waiting

iOS 17 would have new features users have been waiting for – iGeneration

iOS 17 could be a much more significant update than expected. Mark Gurman today retracted his January prediction that the next major operating system release will focus on bug fixes and performance improvements. Apple would then do it again for Mac OS X Snow Leopard (2009), which refined the previous version of Mac OS – to the delight of error-weary users.

iOS 17 would have new features users have been waiting

Honestly, many would have been happy about this substantive work, not necessarily visible of course, but life-saving to tighten the screws of iOS. But the Bloomberg snooper finally announces in his newsletter that Apple has changed its strategy: iOS 17 (codename “Dawn”) should finally integrate major new features that were expected.

Unfortunately, Gurman doesn’t elaborate on these new features, but we do know – or think we know – that iOS 17 will lay the groundwork for the system that will allow applications to be installed outside of the App Store, as required by the European DMA.

Apple will allow that

According to Bloomberg, Apple allows apps to be installed outside of the App Store

However, you shouldn’t expect anything as spectacular as lock screen customization. “The goal of the software is to tick several boxes on the list of features most requested by users,” Gurman writes. Tell us what you would like to see in iOS 17!

iOS 17 would have new features users have been waiting for – iGeneration Read More »

Whatsapp strikes Windows, preparing for a post-mobile revolution – La Nouvelle Tribune

Whatsappthe instant messaging application of Metarecently introduced a group feature for Video and audio calls in the Windows version of the app. This update allows users to join group calls of up to 8 people for video and up to 32 people for audio, bringing the Windows version on par with the mobile version of the app. Previously, WhatsApp users could only make video calls with one person on PC.

Now they can use group calling, which is great news for business and personal users who want to keep in touch with colleagues and friends. This latest app update continues the history of WhatsApp, which has seen many improvements over the years. Since its launch in January 2009, the application has evolved to meet the needs of its users. New features such as voice calls, video calls, GIFs, and stickers were added over time.

The feature to automatically delete messages has also been introduced to the app, although this feature is not yet available in the Windows version. However, Meta has been working to tweak the Windows version’s UI to make it more similar to the mobile app, which is an important step towards a more consistent user experience.

Read all our articles on WhatsApp

In addition to the update for Windows, WhatsApp has also launched a beta version for Android tablets. Although users still need to sign in with their phone, this update allows Android tablet users to take full advantage of the messaging app.

For Mac users, WhatsApp has also released a version for some models and a beta for others. Although the connection is still through the phone, Mac users can enjoy a smoother experience.

With over 2 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps. Although Meta plans to expand the app to other operating systems, adding group capabilities for video and audio calls to the Windows version is an important step towards a richer user experience. Ultimately, Whatsapp could compete with apps like Teams or Google Meet.

Whatsapp strikes Windows, preparing for a post-mobile revolution – La Nouvelle Tribune Read More »

1679873577 If you bought these cars ten years ago you would

If you bought these cars ten years ago you would be a lot richer – Caradisiac.com

It’s often assumed that the subprime crisis of 2008 marked the beginning of a surge in collector car prices. For what ? Because they played the role of safe haven. Also, unlike in the late 1980s, we were not dealing with a speculative bubble as levels have remained at generally high levels since then, despite a drop seen in some stars since 2016. So the market is solid and structured.

In detail, we can still observe impressive increases in value in recent years, so that one regrets not having dared to take the step to collect. They mainly affect cars from the 90s/2000s, partly because of the rejuvenation of the clientele, partly because of the rejection of electric cars. As a result, this is fueling renewed interest in newer and powerful but mechanically still relatively traditional models such as the BMW 6-cylinder atmo. The same phenomenon occurs with small sports cars, because these are on the way to extinction.

We are interested here in cars that were initially dug up for less than €50,000 ten years ago, not machines at insane prices like the Ferrari 250 GTO….

Ferrari Testarossa (1984 – 1991)

The most desirable Ferrari Testarossa, the one with a single wing mirror and centrally mounted rims.  Here in 1984.
The most desirable Ferrari Testarossa, the one with a single wing mirror and centrally mounted rims. Here in 1984.

But yes, in 2013 you could still find Ferrari Testarossas in very good condition for €45,000. A spectacular supercar with the Prancing Horse and a fabulous 12-cylinder boxer engine with 390 hp, almost a gift at this price. In particular, the “monospecchio” variants with raised individual mirrors and “monodado” (rims with a central nut) that are coveted today cost little more: €50,000.

Current quota: €120,000, i.e. +€70,000

Toyota Supra IV (1993-2002)

A 330 hp monster, the Toyota Supra Mk IV, here in 1994, took on exceptional value.
A 330 hp monster, the Toyota Supra Mk IV, here in 1994, took on exceptional value.

In the 1990s, Japanese manufacturers dedicated their fabulous technological rise by launching a line of supercars: Honda NSX, Nissan 300 ZX and Toyota Supra Biturbo (330 hp). The latter, given the capacity of its engine to collect enormous preparations, has become the star of the “tuners”. For better or for worse, its rating has fallen drastically. In 2013, a nice car cost 15,000 euros.

Current price: €80,000, i.e. + €65,000.

BMW 850 CSI (1992 – 1996)

Very rarely (approx. 1,500 units), the BMW 850 CSI has reached a value that is inaccessible to mere mortals.  Here in 1993.
Very rarely (approx. 1,500 units), the BMW 850 CSI has reached a value that is inaccessible to mere mortals. Here in 1993.

BMW’s flagship, the 8 Series, demonstrated the Bavarian manufacturer’s desire to meet with the world of hyper-luxury. This extremely refined coupe was initially unreliable, which eventually earned it a huge discount. Almost an M8 even for its CSI version with its 380 hp V12. In 2013 it was still available for 15,000 euros.

Current price: €75,000, i.e. + €60,000.

Audi Quattro (1980 – 1989)

The Audi Quattro was dug up ten years ago for the price of a used Clio.  It's over
The Audi Quattro was dug up ten years ago for the price of a used Clio. It’s over

The Audi Quattro made a lot of noise when it was released. He introduced four-wheel drive to Group 4 rallying, where he won the world championship. With its 200 hp 5-cylinder turbo, the production version was on the rise! Expensive and exclusive, it also contributed enormously to the brand image of its manufacturer. Commercial success so it’s plentiful and in 2013 we found some nice ones for €15,000.

Current quota: €60,000, i.e. + €45,000

BMW M3 E30 (1986 – 1991)

Long despised, the BMW M3 E30 achieved tremendous value here in 1987.
Long despised, the BMW M3 E30 achieved tremendous value here in 1987.

Originally designed to homologate a race car on the road, the BMW M3 is content with a 4-cylinder atmosphere. There’s nothing ailing about that, as the cubant 2.3L still puts out 195 hp. Because the chassis is nicely tuned, the M3 is very efficient. And ultra reliable! Ten years ago it was exchanged for 15,000 euros.

Current quota: €60,000, i.e. + €45,000

Renault Clio V6 (2000 – 2005)

Rare and insane, the Renault Clio V6, here in 2002, costs as much as many exceptional cars today.
Rare and insane, the Renault Clio V6, here in 2002, costs as much as many exceptional cars today.

Last Delirium Renault, following the R5 Turbo, left the Clio V6 with its 2.9 l and 230 hp in the rear middle position speechless. Poorly done at first, it gets really homogenous in phase 2 when the cavalry ramps up to 255hp. Record performance for a city car! In 2013 you had to pay 30,000 euros for a beautiful second series car.

Current price: €65,000, i.e. +€35,000.

Ferrari 456 GT (1993 – 2003)

The Ferrari 456 GT was put off for a long time because of its huge maintenance costs.  But their beauty and pedigree lead to a sharp increase in prices.
The Ferrari 456 GT was put off for a long time because of its huge maintenance costs. But their beauty and pedigree lead to a sharp increase in prices.

Diva line, incredibly efficient and musical V12 atmosphere, four real seats for family trips: the Ferrari 456 GT reconciles the irreconcilable. However, its stratospheric maintenance costs initially limited its increase in value. In 2013, for example, there were nice ones with a manual transmission for 35,000 euros. But it’s over…

Current price: €65,000, so + €30,000.

Porsche 996 Turbo (1999-2005)

Ten years ago, the Porsche 996 Turbo made 300 km/h possible for the price of a compact diesel.  it's over
Ten years ago, the Porsche 996 Turbo made 300 km/h possible for the price of a compact diesel. it’s over

Yes, ten years ago you could afford a Porsche 996 Turbo for €25,000, which accelerated to over 300 km/h with its 420 hp and rewarded breathtaking acceleration. And that, without sacrificing driving comfort, the beast adorns itself with an all-wheel drive. Supercar performance at the price of a Clio RS…

Current price: €55,000, i.e. + €30,000.

Citroën SM (1970 – 1975)

A 1970s rolling spaceship sort of thing, the Citroën SM has - in part - forgotten its bad reputation for reliability to get quite a review.
A 1970s rolling spaceship sort of thing, the Citroën SM has – in part – forgotten its bad reputation for reliability to get quite a review.

She had everything that spoke for her, this beautiful Citroën. Incredible line, incomparable road characteristics, cutting-edge technology, noble and efficient engine… Except reliability! Sales plummeted quickly, a phenomenon exacerbated by the 1973 oil crisis. The rating remained low for a long time, until foreigners rediscovered this extraordinary French woman. As a result, the value began to rise in the 2010s, and in 2013 there were still nice specimens around 15,000 euros.

Current quota: €45,000, i.e. + €30,000

Lancia Delta Integrale (1987 – 1991)

The Lancia Delta Integrale, here in 1988, took a long time to present its record and incredible performance.
The Lancia Delta Integrale, here in 1988, took a long time to present its record and incredible performance.

The Lancia Delta Integrale, which became a legend thanks to its 5 consecutive World Rally Champion titles, can be considered the first of the super compacts. Equipped with a 2.0L turbo with 185 hp and four-wheel drive, the Italian is more efficient than ever. In 2013, a very nice car cost 9,000 euros …

Current quota: €35,000, i.e. + €26,000

Peugeot 405 T16 (1993 – 1995)

Rare, beautiful and powerful, the Peugeot 405 T16 is currently experiencing an increase in value.
Rare, beautiful and powerful, the Peugeot 405 T16 is currently experiencing an increase in value.

you forgot that, didn’t you? With a 2.0 liter turbo with 220 hp, all-wheel drive and hydropneumatic rear suspension, the Peugeot 405 T16 combines very high performance with exceptional road holding. It even inaugurated the variable geometry turbo on a petrol engine. It was found in 2013 for €8,000, in very good condition…

Current quota: €30,000, i.e. +€22,000.

Renault 5 Alpine Turbo (1981 – 1984)

Even more so than the Peugeot 205 GTI, the Renault 5 Alpine Turbo benefited from a surprising, almost exaggerated, financial appreciation, even if the market is always right.
Even more so than the Peugeot 205 GTI, the Renault 5 Alpine Turbo benefited from a surprising, almost exaggerated, financial appreciation, even if the market is always right.

The ultimate evolution of the road Renault 5 (ie not the turbo), the Alpine Turbo is characterized by its 110hp 1.4 liter turbo. Capable of 190 km/h, it’s no longer a joke to climb back up against the clock on the VW Golf GTI. Only it turns out that it is difficult to drive. It attracted little attention in 2013 and was sold in very good condition for €4,000.

Current quota: €20,000, i.e. +€16,000.

Citroën Xantia V6 Activa (1997 – 2001)

Hurry, the value of the Citroën Xantia V6 Activa is exploding.
Hurry, the value of the Citroën Xantia V6 Activa is exploding.

Under its fine and pleasing line, the Xantia hides very high technology, especially in the Activa version. In fact, its hydraulic suspension is equipped with the impressive SC-CAR anti-roll bar that allows exceptional cornering speeds. And with the V6 ES9 it passes 230 km/h. Ten years ago, a nice car with less than 100,000 km cost 4,500 euros.

Current quota: €20,000, i.e. +€15,500.

Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6 (1984 – 1992)

The Peugeot 205 GTI has taken a great value and is holding it: so it's not a bubble phenomenon.
The Peugeot 205 GTI has taken a great value and is holding it: so it’s not a bubble phenomenon.

A phenomenon when it was launched in 1984, the Peugeot 205 GTI threw itself into the fashion of small sports cars like no other in the 1980s and finally collapsed in the 1990s. Recently we became interested in it again, as the beautiful specimens had become rare. But in 2013, 5,000 euros was enough to afford a very nice car.

Current quota: €16,000, i.e. +€11,000.

Fiat Ritmo Abarth (1981 – 1987)

The Fiat Ritmo Abarth has recently seen its rating skyrocket, and it doesn't seem to be over yet.
The Fiat Ritmo Abarth has recently seen its rating skyrocket, and it doesn’t seem to be over yet.

We have long despised the Fiat Ritmo Abarth because of its coat of arms and its unattractive line. But under the hood, sorry, sits an anthology engine, a 2.0L Twintree with 125-130 hp. The result is lap times that rival a VW Golf GTI and a bewildering mechanical fury. It was dug up ten years ago for 4,000 euros.

Current quota: €15,000, i.e. +€11,000.

If you bought these cars ten years ago you would be a lot richer – Caradisiac.com Read More »

Artificial intelligence Bing draw me a sheep Le Soir

Artificial intelligence: Bing, draw me a sheep – Le Soir

Presented to the public for the first time in 2021, DALL-E, the artificial intelligence of image generation, arrives on Bing.

Article reserved for subscribers

The AI ​​is able to create four images in a few seconds based on the user's request.  An arrival that does not happen without questions.

Thomas Casavecchia

Journalist in the field of multimedia By Thomas Casavecchia Published on 03/26/2023 at 22:30 Reading time: 3 min

If artificial intelligence has taken center stage in recent months, it is mainly due to the very rapid arrival of conversational robots in our search engines. Driven by Microsoft, which integrated ChatGPT into its Bing browser a few weeks ago, Google has just made Bard, its conversational robot, available in the US and UK.

But there is another area where artificial intelligence is making inroads like thunder: image generation. Creating an image from scratch has never been easier. This week Microsoft integrated the latest version of DALL-E, an image generator built by OpenAI to which we already have ChatGPT to thank, into BING searches. The tool is accessible to everyone. Limited to the English language for now, the AI ​​is able to create four images in a few seconds based on the internet user’s request. An arrival that does not happen without questions.

This article is for subscribers only

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Promo This 43 inch 4K gaming monitor is 31 off

Promo: This 43-inch 4K gaming monitor is 31% off! – jeuxvideo.com

Did you just gear up with an Nvidia graphics card like the RTX 4090 or an AMD RX 7900 XTX? Then surely you are looking for a 4K PC screen to accompany him and play in exceptional conditions. Today, on Rue du Commerce, you can find an excellent monitor on sale that perfectly meets your expectations and is available at a fairly decent price for its quality!

Instead of €859, it is currently being offered for €589, a whopping 31% reduction and a saving of €270.

Shop the G-Master G4380UHSU for €589 on Rue du Commerce

43-inch Iiyama G-Master: an ideal model for high-end gaming PCs

4K UHD resolution is gaining more and more space in the tech world. If it was reserved only for the most powerful configurations, today it is possible to find cards like the RTX 3080 or the RX 6900 XT that can offer it, allowing you to take advantage of this resolution without having to choose the cards. the high-end like the RTX 4090.

Of course, the more powerful the card, the better suited it is to 4K gaming, and in this way you can make the most of the latest games and, in particular, ray tracing with technologies such as Nvidia’s DLSS 3 or AMD’s FSR. However, a graphics card is nothing without a well-matched screen. And that’s exactly what you get here with this G-Master G4380UHSU-B1 from Iiyama.

With an impressive size of 42.5 inches, it offers excellent gaming properties on its VA panel. When the 144Hz refresh rate is perfect, on the response time side, it’s truly exceptional! However, this is less than a millisecond response time at just 0.4 ms on the counter.

FreeSync Premium compatible, allows you to avoid any in-game image tearing or stuttering, even at high frequency. It has 2 DisplayPort 1.4 ports as well as 2 HDMI 2.0 ports. You cannot therefore enjoy the perfect console experience, although it is important to note that not all games on Sony and Microsoft consoles are capable of reaching 120 frames per second.

Promo: This 43-inch 4K gaming monitor is 31% off! – jeuxvideo.com Read More »

1679861434 Technological wink The Press The Press

Technological wink | The Press – The Press

Overview of the news of the week in the world of techno.

Posted at 4:00 p.m

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year 1800

Technological wink The Press The Press

SCREEN PHOTO

Once reserved for PC gamers, Anno 1800 has seamlessly made the leap to next-gen consoles from Sony and Microsoft.

Anno 1800 is a kind of hormone-bloated Sim City that allows you to manage your villages-turned-metropolises while forging alliances and launching expeditions. Anno 1800 is the continuation of a franchise born 25 years ago. Reserved for PC gamers, it has made the jump to next-gen consoles from Sony and Microsoft. The transition is flawless: tried out on a PS5, Ubisoft’s game adapts well to a console’s more limited controller, with simplified menus leading to sub-menus. You can be innovative or aggressive, but you’ll need to be inventive to manage the hundreds of factors that make your kingdom thrive. Probably the best console game of its kind.

alpaca

1679861429 442 Technological wink The Press The Press

PHOTO LIONEL BONAVENTURE, FRANCE PRESS AGENCY

A team from Stanford University managed to build a chatbot as efficient as ChatGPT 4.0 for only $600.

A Stanford University team has accomplished a remarkable feat: building a chatbot as efficient as ChatGPT 4.0 for only $600. The trick: Use ChatGPT to refine and develop another, much less powerful robot called LLaMa 7B, whose source code was released by Meta. It is estimated that ChatGPT’s training cost $4.6 million; all indications are that the Stanford team’s robot called Alpaca is just as effective. But there’s a catch: ChatGPT’s commercial terms of service specifically forbid using it to develop a competing product. The experts state that this would obviously not prevent cybercriminals from doing so anyway.

Luna

1679861430 964 Technological wink The Press The Press

SCREEN PHOTO

Amazon’s most popular subscription is Luna+, which currently offers access to 108 games for $12.99 per month.

Will Amazon succeed where Google lost? The cloud-based video game platform Luna, which has been available in the United States with limited access since October 2020, has been operational in Canada since Wednesday. Remember that Amazon opened its own studio in Montreal in March 2021. The experience is best with the Luna controller, which retails for $89.99 but is compatible with other controllers on phones, computers, or Fire TV. The most popular subscription is Luna+, which currently offers access to 108 games for $12.99 per month. The selection is honest, but cannot be compared to the more extensive catalogs of the competitors. Interesting option, we have access to Luna’s Ubisoft games purchased for PC.

Technological wink | The Press – The Press Read More »

1679858923 Razer Leviathan V2 Pro review our full review Soundbars

Razer Leviathan V2 Pro review: our full review – Soundbars – Frandroid

The Razer Leviathan V2 Pro gaming soundbar, accompanied by its imposing subwoofer, intends to bring the surround experience to PC gamers. This new iteration is THX certified and now includes an infrared camera aimed at adapting sound reproduction to the position of the ears.

The promise is simple: to simulate the use of a headset and improve immersion by offering dynamic virtualized surround sound that adapts to the user’s movements. Offered at the recommended price of 400 euros, the Leviathan V2 Pro does not forget its gaming DNA and also integrates RGB lighting.

Technical worksheet

This test was conducted using a rental product from the brand.

Design and ergonomics

There’s no revolution in sight when it comes to the design of the Razer Leviathan V2 Pro Soundbar. In fact, it uses a similar body as the standard version, decorated with some extra buttons and the elements necessary for face tracking. Above all, she is more imposing than her big sister.

So we benefit from a relatively imposing soundbar, although it’s low enough to slide easily under a screen, provided the foot doesn’t get in the way. In principle, the bar has a width that corresponds to that of a 27-inch screen.

Razer Leviathan V2 ProSource: Edouard Patout for Frandroid

In our case, the bar was installed under a 35-inch screen mounted on an ergonomic arm. If your screen has a “regular” foot you will have to make sure it slides under the bar, otherwise it will have to be moved forward. In fact, the bar is always mounted at two feet high enough to pass cables or the base of a screen like the Razer Raptor.

The front features a beautiful full metal grille with the Razer logo in the center paired with THX branding on the far right. Slightly elevated thanks to the feet mentioned above, the Leviathan V2 Pro scatters subtle RGB lighting at its base, giving it the impression of floating.

Razer Leviathan V2 ProSource: Edouard Patout for Frandroid

In the upper part we find the infrared camera accompanied by its projectors aimed towards the user. This combo itself is surrounded by eight green indicator LEDs that serve as visual feedback when interacting with the bar. For example, we can know the output volume or the tracking mode.

The overall ergonomics are simplified by the presence of five buttons at the top of the bar. There’s an imposing volume control that’s also used to turn it on. A first button allows you to navigate between the different EQ profiles, while the 3D button is dedicated to switching between audio modes associated with head tracking.

Razer Leviathan V2 ProSource: Edouard Patout for Frandroid

Finally, the last two buttons are dedicated to RGB lighting and source selection. Connectivity is also relatively limited with this Leviathan V2 Pro. If you look at the back of the device, you will find a power connection, a USB-C connection for connecting to the PC, a jack connection for connecting to the subwoofer and a headphone output. The only other connection option is therefore Bluetooth.

Razer Leviathan V2 ProSource: Edouard Patout for Frandroid

Let’s not forget the imposing subwoofer that is an integral part of this Leviathan V2 Pro soundbar. With its five kilos and its imposing 25cm speaker, you’ll have to find a place for it, ideally on the floor, to take full advantage of it. However, it is not wireless and therefore needs to be connected to the bar in addition to its power supply.

All in all, the Leviathan V2 Pro bar convinces with its design, even if it might be a bit too big for our taste. If we really had to find a fault, we would have liked the buttons on the top to follow the RGB lighting and not be limited to Razer Green.

characteristics

The Razer Synapse software suite is logically compatible with the new iteration of the Leviathan. Apart from the power options and equalizer common to the brand’s other audio products, the application offers different settings for this Pro version. The different functionalities incidentally repeat those of the different buttons presented above.

Razer Leviathan V2 Pro - Synapse

First off, it’s possible to customize how face tracking works. By default, the bar works in classic stereo. It is also possible to configure it in “Filling” mode, in case of group listening during an evening or a meal.

Rather, we are interested in the two central options here. The first aims to simulate a helmet by adapting the sound reproduction to the movements of the head. The second is dedicated to THX Spatial and is therefore better suited for 5.1 sources or more.

Razer Leviathan V2 Pro - Synapse

As is often the case, Razer is very didactic in describing the various settings present in the application. That’s a good thing and allows you to quickly understand the operation of the bar and its audio modes. The volume of the subwoofer is also adjustable, which isn’t bad since it’s powerful.

Performance

aside

Before proceeding further in this test, we need to specify the conditions of the latter. The most observant will have noticed: our review comes late in relation to the release of the Leviathan V2 Pro. However, the product has been in our hands since December 2022. This delay is explained by the fact that the first copy we received had a serious bug in the management of low frequencies.

Razer Leviathan V2 ProSource: Edouard Patout for Frandroid

We received a second example from the same series, which also had the same problem. Finally, in February, a last bar from another series arrived and this presents no problems. After some testing and investigation, it turned out that the subwoofer was causing the problem and that at least one other French editorial team had to deal with the problem. According to Razer, there is nothing to report in other countries.

Razer hasn’t given us an official answer to this issue, but we seem to be heading towards a buggy pre-production issue. Because we were among the first in the world to have the bar in our hands and the models now available (according to the batch number) are no longer affected. In our opinion, there is no longer any risk in affording this bar.

sound experience

After these few issues in the first few weeks, it’s hard not to praise the sound performance of the Leviathan V2 Pro. The bar delivers a powerful sound, even too powerful. For example, knowing that it controls the system volume, we didn’t exceed 10% of the general volume to ensure comfortable listening. In addition, the neighbors would not have appreciated anything, especially because of the subwoofer.

Aside from the high volume that the bar can deliver, the box is also a bit too present. While it’s possible to turn down the volume within Synapse, even on the lowest setting, it still felt a little too present to us. However, we appreciate its presence in the game, which immediately becomes more important than with a classic sound installation.

Razer Leviathan V2 ProSource: Edouard Patout for Frandroid

In stereo, the bar defends itself perfectly and we appreciate both listening to music and playing a video game title. The activation of face tracking modes is quickly heard and for once we really feel the difference and how this technology works.

Normally, when using the “Headphone” mode, moving from left to right has almost no effect on our perception of sound. The bar constantly adjusts its rendering and manages to make people forget it’s setting the tone. This is the mode we prefer to use, as it’s best for listening to music in particular. Playback is a little less convincing in THX spatial mode. Although the sound is more enveloping, the effect is less deceptive and remains similar to what living room bars achieve.

Razer Leviathan V2 ProSource: Edouard Patout for Frandroid

The main advantage remains above all the consistency in the distribution, which makes it possible to forget the sound source and in fact lets the bar simulate the presence of several loudspeakers arranged in the room. In short, the experience is nice, but it doesn’t really revolutionize our use of the device.

price and availability

The Razer Leviathan V2 Pro Soundbar is available at a recommended price of 400 euros.

Where can you buy that
Razer Leviathan V2 Pro at the best price?

Razer Leviathan V2 Pro review: our full review – Soundbars – Frandroid Read More »

Big suspicion of internal disagreements over Apples mixed reality headset

Big suspicion of internal disagreements over Apple’s mixed reality headset – WatchGeneration

Since 2018, Apple has organized an annual presentation of its mixed reality headset for its “Top 100” employees and managers, reveals Mark Gurman in his Sunday newsletter. For the manufacturer, it’s a way of maintaining enthusiasm for this new product for a handpicked audience that should be kept in its workforce.

Images: Foster + Partners

One such presentation, dubbed “Fight Club Demos” (the first rule of “Fight Club Demo” is we don’t talk about it), was reportedly held at the Steve Jobs Theater in Apple Park last week. And unlike previous years, the lucky ones appeared entitled to a “sophisticated, lush and exciting” demonstration similar to what might happen in public during WWDC.

Five years ago, when Jony Ive was at the helm of Apple’s design studio, the annual Top 100 presentation captivated audiences. As described by the New York Times, the staff present saw video of a man in a London taxi wearing an augmented reality device. He calls his wife in San Francisco and asks her if she wants to come to London. No need to fly for 15 hours: thanks to this device, the couple can travel together virtually.

Although the video would have had its small effect, the initial enthusiasm seems to have turned to skepticism among some Apple employees. Three points of contention would arise internally: the expected price of the device, around $3,000; Doubts about the usefulness of the machine; and concerns about the current market.

A solution in search of a problem

For this last point, it is true that the situation in the virtual and augmented reality market does not really speak for a newcomer. Unlike iPod, iPhone or Apple Watch launched in promising and growing markets, Apple will enter a sector that is collapsing: several attempts have failed (Google Glass, Magic Leap), others are still at the stage of untapped potential (HoloLens, Quest 2, Quest Pro). According to the NPD, sales in this market fell by 12% last year.

Concept: Marcus Kane.

Still, one could argue that the tablet segment wasn’t at its best when the iPad was launched either. And that AirPods were also a bet before truly wireless headphones weren’t widely available. However, at this $3,000 price point, there’s no doubt that the general public is left out. Rumors suggest Apple aims to sell 1 million units in the first 12 months, an estimate Counterpoint is halving.

Don’t say metaverse, say “copresence”

Employees would wonder if the mixed reality headset wasn’t a solution to a problem. Apple would top the package on features like video calls and the ability to spend time together in a virtual world. This is reminiscent of the famous metaverse of meta, a word banned by Apple executives.

Tim Cook obviously doesn’t want an Apple Metaverse

According to the NYT, Apple has developed a “signature” application called “Copresence” for this experience of sharing a virtual or real space with other people. The manufacturer would also target the device at artists, designers and engineers. The hand motion detection capabilities would be accurate enough to edit and edit virtual reality movies… Finally, there would also be video content designed specifically for the headset.

Hollywood content for Apple’s mixed reality headset?

Not enough to convince several employees who would have left the project because of their doubts. Others have been canceled due to a lack of progress on aspects of the headset, including Siri. This is reminiscent of leaks heard a few weeks ago regarding the design studio’s concerns:

Tim Cook wants his mixed reality headset against the advice of Apple’s design studio

This first headset probably won’t be as sophisticated as other Apple products. Gurman reiterates that the device would need to charge or replace an external battery fairly regularly, every few hours. Testers would also find the device uncomfortable. But it would be a first step towards more advanced and cheaper models (a future model would cost half as much).

Gurman compares this first mixed reality headset to the Apple Watch. When the connected watch came out, Apple didn’t know who this product was for or what features it was actually going to use. We’d have to wait for the Series 3 to get a clearer idea of ​​the device’s interest, which is health and exercise monitoring. Apple has enough pockets to get a product for quite a while and find its usefulness and market for it.

Big suspicion of internal disagreements over Apple’s mixed reality headset – WatchGeneration Read More »