AndroidGuys

Xreal unveils the first AR-ready Android smartphone with Qulacomm’s spatial companion processor

News

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June 18, 2024

Xreal unveils the first AR-ready Android smartphone with Qulacomm’s spatial companion processor

Xreal, a popular yet reliable name in the AR smart glasses industry, today has launched its first AR mobile device – the Xreal Beam Pro globally at AWE 2024. Last year in May 2023, Xreal launched the first generation Beam. It became an immediate hit for Andorid users, allowing them to connect the Xreal Air smart glasses to their Android phones effortlessly, and offers a range of features such as expanding screen projection up to 330 inches and virtual screen modes. However, there were plenty of complaints such as limited apps support and media sharing issues.

Now, to make AR (augmented reality) more accessible to everyone, the company’s new AR-ready mobile device is finally here, which lets you create FHD spatial videos straight off to the cameras, connects the device to the Xreal glasses for a 3DoF spatial environment, and more. The successor to the first generation Beam brings major upgrades and improvements.

Xreal has collaborated with some of the biggest tech giants in the industry such as Qualcomm, NVIDIA, and Amazon Web Services (AWB) to empower the Xreal Beam Pro smartphone with a powerful Qualcomm processor, high-performance rendering with NVIDIA’s GPU power, and industry-leading cloud capabilities of AWS.

Let’s start with the display, Xreal Beam Pro features a stunning 6.5-inch (2400 x 1080 px) 2K display with a standard 60Hz refresh rate support. The device has support for all popular streaming apps and games available on the Google Play Store, such as Hulu, Prime Video, Netflix, HBO, Disney+, and more, which takes your streaming and gaming experience to the next level.

The interesting thing is that the Xreal Beam Pro also supports popular cloud gaming services which means you can able to enjoy big-screen gaming on the Xreal glasses through Xbox cloud gaming, Amazon Luna, Steam Link, and other cloud gaming services. Users can also enjoy their social media content on a massive virtual screen, along with gaming and streaming content.

Under the hood, the Beam Pro is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Spatial Companion processor with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of expandable storage. Xreal also incorporated NVIDIA’s advanced CloudXR technology, which harnesses the power of NVIDIA RTX GPUs, ensuring high-performance rendering while playing high-end graphics games and watching high-quality content. Xreal claims the smartphone’s processor is powerful enough to run multiple applications smoothly and simultaneously.

Xreal collaborated with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to empower Beam Pro with AWS’s industry-leading cloud capabilities. Xreal Beam Pro will leverage AWS’s infrastructure and tools to enhance the processing power and functionality which enables developers to create versatile mobile AR experiences.

The Beam Pro smartphone runs on Xreal’s fully customized NebulaOS based on Android 14 out of the box. Xreal’s new spatial UI lets you enjoy millions of 2D apps in an optimized 3DoF and 6DoF spatial environment by connecting Xreal’s AR glasses. Further, the UI also allows you to open up to two mobile apps in a spatial canvas where you can position them side-by-side in a notebook array and place them in 3D space.

Xreal also enhanced Body Anchor Mode and Smooth Flow Mode from the first-generation Beam to further enhance the virtual screen experience with the latest Beam Pro.

The Beam Pro has dual 50MP 3D cameras on the back that record videos up to 1080p at 60fps. These are not normal cameras that you see on any affordable devices, the Beam Pro’s cameras are designed to create spatial content. Yes, you heard right, you can create your own high-definition spatial videos and 3D images with Beam Pro’s 3D camera and enjoy all the recorded content on a massive virtual screen and in 3D.

As for connectivity, the smartphone has dual USB ports; one for the Xreal glass and the other for charging. It supports 27W fast charging, which means you can enjoy extended gaming sessions without worrying about battery life.

Other highlights of the Beam Pro include the latest WiFi 6, Bluetooth v 5.2, and integrated speakers. You can also easily connect Bluetooth headphones, keyboards, and gamepads to the Beam Pro, thanks to the Bluetooth v5.2 support.

Xreal Creating an Ecosystem

The latest Beam Pro is compatible with all the Xreal devices such as first-gen Xreal Air, last year’s announced Xreal Air 2, Xreal Air 2 Pro, and Xreal Air 2 Ultra. The device is designed to get the most from the Xreal smart AR glasses. You can experience 3DoF with Xreal Air, Air 2, and Air 2 Pro smart glasses, while the full-featured 6DoF experience is only available on the Xreal Air 2 Ultra glasses. The 6DoF features 3D environment sensors similar to the Apple Vision Pro including gesture controls, like pinch to select when operating Xreal Beam Pro.

Pricing and Availability

Xreal Beam Pro starts at $199 and comes in base 6GB/128GB variant and 8GB/256GB high-end variant options. The Beam Pro will be available in both WiFi and 5G models. Pre-orders for the Beam Pro are open now at Xreal.com for the United States, UK, Germany, France, China, and Japan. The open sale for the Beam Pro is expected to begin on Amazon in July while shipping will start in August.

Xreal also announced an Xreal Beam Pro Enterprise Edtion. However, the pricing and availability for this are yet to be revealed.

There is also a great offer for first-generation Beam owners, Xreal will offer a $50 off limited-time offer for those who purchase the Xreal Beam Pro by July 10th via Xreal.com.

Weekend Recommender: Our Picks for Tech Lovers and Gadget Gurus

Scott Webster

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June 15, 2024

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Weekend Recommender: Our Picks for Tech Lovers and Gadget Gurus

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Weekend Recommender! We’ve got a great lineup of products for you to check out, from high-tech gaming controllers to smart home solutions and innovative pool maintenance devices.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a serious gamer, or simply looking to upgrade your outdoor lighting, there’s something for everyone in this week’s curated collection.

So sit back, relax, and discover the latest products that we think you’ll truly appreciate.

HOZO M-CUBE

The HOZO M-CUBE Pro offers a comprehensive package for anyone in need of a portable and efficient laser measuring tool, suitable for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Its compact size and magnetic accessory system make it a versatile and user-friendly choice. The device features a full-colored IPS display, a wide range of add-on modules, and an internal rechargeable battery with excellent battery life.

The M-CUBE Pro delivers accurate measurements, quick calculations, and easy floor planning with its modern design and intuitive operation.

Priced accordingly, the device offers great value and convenience, thanks to its portability and included accessories like the tripod and carrying case. $75

UGREEN 300W 48,000mAh Portable Charger Power Bank

The UGREEN 300W 48,000mAh Portable Charger Power Bank is the solution for anyone who needs reliable and powerful charging on the go. With fast charging capabilities and a massive 48,000mAh capacity, this power bank provides ample power to keep your devices running longer, offering nearly 11 charges for modern flagship devices.

The battery pack uses high energy-density Lifepo4 batteries, ensuring improved safety and longer life, with a capacity that remains over 80% after 3,000 battery cycles. The thoughtful design includes a built-in LED light with three modes, a convenient carrying handle, and a clear smart display.

Whether you’re traveling, working, or enjoying outdoor activities, the UGREEN power bank is a reliable and convenient power solution to have on hand. Get yours now and never be held back by a low battery again. $140

GameSir Kaleid Flux Xbox Wired Controller

If you’re a serious gamer in the market for a high-quality, customizable gaming controller, the GameSir Kaleid Flux Xbox Wired Controller is definitely worth a look. This officially licensed controller is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows 10/11, and Steam, offering a wide range of gaming options.

With the free GameSir Nexus app, you can customize the lighting effects, joystick and trigger ranges, motor vibration intensity, and more. The controller boasts a 1000Hz polling rate, providing ultra-responsive gameplay on PC.

The GameSir Hall Effect sensing sticks enable anti-drift sliding, and there are 2 customized back buttons and 16 buttons that can be set as back button functions. With four actuators for realistic vibrations, joystick wear-resistant ring design, and a laser-texture grip and trigger design, this controller offers a comfortable and secure gaming experience.

Aiper Scuba S1 Pro

The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro is a reliable solution for maintaining pool cleanliness with minimal effort. Designed for busy professionals, environmentally-conscious homeowners, and those who enjoy hosting gatherings, this robotic pool cleaner offers a range of features aimed at providing thorough and efficient pool care.

With caterpillar tracks and large filtration system, it promises a thorough clean throughout the pool. Features such as app-controlled functionalities, eco mode, and battery life up to three hours on a single charge make it ideal for homeowners with a pool.

The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro is competitively priced at $949.99 for a limited time, offering advanced features, efficient cleaning performance, and a user-friendly app control. With a two-year warranty, the Scuba S1 Pro is a valuable addition to any home with a pool. $950

Govee Outdoor Motion Sensor

An innovative addition to any smart home setup, the Govee Outdoor Motion Sensor offers a convenient and hands-free way to control your outdoor lighting. With the ability to detect motion up to 8m, this IP65 waterproof sensor is perfect for ensuring your lights react to your presence.

Easily adjustable sensitivity and DIY commands make it versatile for various needs, and the smart app control allows for seamless integration into your existing Govee home system. Powered by replaceable CR123A batteries, the sensor is easy to install wirelessly and is suitable for a range of outdoor applications.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply arriving home after dark, the Govee Outdoor Motion Sensor is an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor lighting and security system. $24

Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver Review

Luke Gaul

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June 14, 2024

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A laser engraver is a precision tool used to etch designs, patterns, or text onto various materials such as wood, metal, acrylic, and more.

Utilizing a high-powered laser, it can create intricate details and deep engravings with remarkable accuracy. Typical users of laser engravers include hobbyists, artists, small business owners, and professionals in industries ranging from manufacturing to creative arts.

These devices cater to those who require precise, high-quality engravings for projects like custom jewelry, signage, decorative items, and prototypes.

The Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver promises to meet these needs with its blend of advanced technology, speed, and user-friendly features. Having spent a few weeks using it, I’d like to share my review of the device, looking at its design, features, general performance, value, and more.

Design and Features

The Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver comes with a Quad-Core Diode Laser, providing a powerful 22-24W output. This strength allows for exceptional cutting capability across various materials. The ultra-fine 0.08 x 0.1mm focus point ensures precision and detail in every engraving project.

This laser engraver can perform multi-color engravings on metal surfaces, offering versatility for complex and colorful designs. The Ray5 includes Air Assist Nozzles to maintain clean cuts and engravings, though a pump is not included. A laser protection lens is provided to enhance safe operation.

Safety features include X/Y-axis limit switches and five integrated safety measures to protect both the user and the machine. The 3.5” touch screen supports multiple connectivity options such as WiFi, an app, USB, and TF cards, making it easy to operate and transfer designs. These features make the Ray5 a robust and versatile tool for professional and creative use.

Key features include:

Speed: With a speed of 20,000mm per minute, the Ray5 reduces engraving time, allowing for a higher volume of projects.
Material Compatibility: It handles various materials, including wood, acrylic, pine board, and even colored metal, offering broad creative possibilities without needing multiple machines.
Safety: Equipped with a safety lock, active position protection, and voltage and current safety control systems, the Ray5 prioritizes user safety.
Connectivity: It supports multiple connection methods like WiFi, USB, SD card, and an app, ensuring flexibility and convenience. Compatibility with software like LightBurn and LaserGRBL adds to its versatility.

Setup

Setting up the Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver is a straightforward process, thanks to the clearly illustrated instructions that guide you through each step.

The user-friendly touch screen enhances navigation, making it easy to operate and adjust settings as needed. This simplicity in setup and operation makes the Ray5 accessible for both beginners and experienced users.

General Performance

The working size of around 15″ x 15″ is decent for most engraving tasks, providing ample space for various projects. The focus system, which utilizes a simple tension screw, is easy to use but may introduce user error if not handled with care. This minor drawback does not overshadow the overall ease of use the machine offers.

Performance-wise, the Ray5 impresses with its speed, running at up to 10,000 mm/min. This rapid pace allows users to complete projects quickly, increasing productivity. The engraver’s ability to handle a wide range of materials, including metal with some color, adds to its versatility, making it suitable for a variety of creative and professional applications.

Value

The Ray5 offers excellent value, balancing precision and efficiency. While the rotary attachment is sold separately, its support for this accessory opens up additional customization possibilities. The high-speed operation and batch production capability boost productivity, making it ideal for small business owners and creative professionals.

However, the design does limit the size of objects that can be engraved without significant structural additions. While this may be a constraint for some larger projects, it doesn’t diminish the Ray5’s overall functionality for most users. The combination of ease of setup, efficient performance, and material versatility makes the Longer Ray5 a valuable tool for many engraving needs.

Warranty

Longer provides a comprehensive warranty, ensuring that users are covered for potential issues. The warranty details typically include coverage for defects and malfunctions, providing peace of mind for purchasers.

Conclusion

The Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver is a top choice for enthusiasts, those new to engraving, and folks looking to pick up a side hustle.

Its high-power laser, advanced technology, impressive speed, and material versatility make it a reliable tool for both creative enthusiasts and professionals. While the need for structural additions for larger objects and the separate purchase of the rotary attachment are considerations, the Ray5’s overall performance and features make it a compelling option in the laser engraving market.

Availability

You can purchase the Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver in a Basic bundle for $499.99 right now; other options are available with various accessories. Moreover, there are 5W and 10W models offered with slightly different features.

Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.

Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.

Cricket Rings up Moto G Stylus 5G (2024)

News

Scott Webster

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June 14, 2024

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Cricket Rings up Moto G Stylus 5G (2024)

The new moto g stylus 5G (2024) is now available, both in-store and online, for $229.99. This device brings improved features that enhance both creativity and productivity, making it an attractive option for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.

The new moto g stylus 5G (2024) is an excellent choice for prepaid customers, especially those with Cricket Wireless. Its blend of advanced features, robust performance, and stylish design make it a perfect fit for those seeking value without compromising on quality. Cricket’s flexible plans and network reliability complement the phone’s capabilities, ensuring users get the most out of their mobile experience without the hassle of long-term contracts.

Features Overview

Enhanced Stylus

The moto g stylus 5G features a new built-in stylus, perfect for jotting down notes, editing photos, sketching artwork, and navigating apps with ease. The updated software complements the hardware, making it an indispensable tool for on-the-go creativity.

6.7″ pOLED Display and Dolby Atmos

Users can enjoy a cinema-quality entertainment experience with a 6.7-inch pOLED display that supports over a billion shades of color. Paired with Dolby Atmos sound, the visual and audio experience is top-notch, ideal for binge-watching shows or enjoying a movie night.

50MP Ultra Pixel Camera with OIS

The 50MP Ultra Pixel camera, equipped with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), allows for sharper low-light photography and smoother video recording. It’s a reliable choice for capturing life’s moments without worrying about shaky hands or poor lighting conditions.

30W TurboPower Charging and Long Battery Life

With 30W TurboPower charging, the moto g stylus 5G can gain hours of battery life in just a few minutes. Once charged, the device promises over a day’s worth of usage, keeping up with even the most demanding schedules.

Stylish Design

The phone features a standout design with a modern color palette and a soft, vegan leather finish, ensuring it looks as good as it performs.

128GB Storage and RAM Boost

Storage won’t be an issue with 128GB available for all your photos, songs, movies, and apps. Additionally, the extra storage can be used to boost performance, ensuring a smooth and responsive experience even with heavy multitasking.

Cricket Wireless Offers

tryCricket App
Cricket offers a 14-day trial via the tryCricket app, available for eligible iOS and Android devices. This allows users to test Cricket’s network quality and service without any cost or commitment.

Streaming MAX with Ads
Customers on Cricket’s $60/month Unlimited Plan can enjoy Streaming MAX with ads included, offering a variety of content without additional charges.

Refer-A-Friend Program
Cricket’s Refer-A-Friend program allows customers to earn up to $250 in account credits each year. With up to 10 referrals per year, it’s a great way to share the benefits of Cricket’s service with friends and earn rewards.

Acorns Partnership
Cricket customers can also benefit from a partnership with Acorns, the saving and investment app. New Acorns users receive a $20 initial bonus investment, and Cricket will add $0.75 to the user’s Acorns account each month when paying their Cricket bill with the linked card.

Optoma Launches Two New Premium 4K UHD Fixed Laser Projectors

News

Abhinav Fating

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June 14, 2024

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Optoma Launches Two New Premium 4K UHD Fixed Laser Projectors

The premium laser projector brand Optoma has unveiled two new fixed lens 4K UHD laser projectors – the Optoma ZK810T and Optoma ZK810TST at InfoComm 2024. Both laser projectors aim to offer cutting-edge image quality with high brightness, accurate color reproduction, and immersive and lifelike viewing experiences.

Optoma ZK810T and ZK810TST have a 4K telecentric fixed lens design with full motorized lens shift and focus. The projectors are engineered with DuraCore laser technology, and offer massive 8,500 lumens of peak brightness, ensuring 24/7 high-performance operation capabilities.

Both devices project a maximum 4K UHD (3840 x2160px) stunning image quality at image size up to 300 inches with a 1:26:1 to 2:1 throw ratio. Optoma claims 30,000 hours of light source life for the Duracore laser. You get all the standard connectivity options in the ZK810T projector series including 2 x HDMI, USB A port, HDBaseT, LAN, and RS-232 control.

Furthermore, the ZK810T and ZK810TST are compatible with Optoma Management Suite, an intuitive display management that streamlines operations for IT technicians and administrators. You can easily monitor, diagnose, and control multiple audio/visual displays in real time with the help of OMS. Optoma packed HDR and HLG color compatibility in both projectors for stunning and crisp image production.

“The latest additions to our DuraCore laser projector lineup are tailored to meet the diverse needs of our ProAV clients,” said Jeffery Perry, Product Manager at Optoma. “

Optoma ZK810T and ZK810TST retails at $10,999 and $13,499 respectively. For more information head to Optoma’s official website.

Optoma ZK810T and ZK810TST in a Nutshell:

Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
Brightness: 8,500 lumens*
Contrast ratio: 3,000,000:1
Color: HDR and HLG compatibility
Throw ratio: ZK810T 1.26:1 to 2:1 / ZK810TST: 0.65:1 to 0.75:1
Light Source: DuraCore laser with up to 30,000 hours of operation (Eco mode)
Image size: Up to 300″
Flexible installation features:1.15x zoom (ZK810TST) and 1.6x zoom (ZK810T), 24/7, 360-degree and portrait mode operation, full motorized lens shift and four-corner correction
I/Os: 2x HDMI in/ 1 HDMI out, USB-A, HDBaseT, D Sync in and out, 12V trigger, LAN, RS-232 control and 2x 10W speakers with audio out

YouTube Music is now officially supported by Garmin Watches

News

Andrew Allen

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June 14, 2024

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YouTube Music is now officially supported by Garmin Watches

Many of Garmin’s smartwatches have support for playing and syncing your music locally. This allows you to carry your tunes and play them directly from your Garmin, even without being connected to your smartphone. Previously, this has been limited to only a few services including Spotify and Deezer, but that changed this week. You can now utilize your favorite playlists from YouTube Music as well.

To get YouTube Music on your Garmin make sure you have the company’s app store, ConnectIQ installed. From here you should be able to search and find the new app. After installed, you should have access to your playlists, history, and podcasts from Google’s streaming services.

It’s a welcome addition from both Garmin and Google to get YouTube Music included. While Garmin notes they are working on expanded support to other devices, the new app currently only supports installation on some of the top tier model from the Fenix, Venu, and Forerunner lineups. You can hit the full link below for access to the app and full compatibility list.

Get YouTube Music for Garmin Watches

Hozo Design M-Cube Review

Luke Gaul

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June 13, 2024

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The M-CUBE Pro by HOZO DESIGN offers a comprehensive package for anyone in need of a portable and efficient laser measuring tool. Available as a standalone unit or in the full Pro Kit, this device includes various accessory modules that expand its capabilities, making it a versatile choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Design

The M-CUBE Pro features a cube rectangular form factor that enhances its usability. Its compact size, measuring just 2.2×1.7×1.3 inches and weighing only 2.8 ounces, allows it to be easily handled with one hand.

The space grey finish and premium aesthetic align with HOZO DESIGN’s ecosystem, including the NeoRuler and MEAZOR 3D. The modular nature of the M-CUBE Pro allows users to attach additional accessories using a magnetic system that ensures secure attachment and easy integration.

Display Screen

The M-CUBE Pro boasts a nearly all-display front with a 1.89-inch diagonal screen, reinforced by tempered glass. This full-colored IPS panel supports both single-touch inputs and swipe gestures, offering a resolution of 240 PPI.

With a brightness of 400 nits, the display remains clear in well-lit environments. While the touch UI may exhibit some lag compared to modern smartphones, it still provides a user-friendly interface for most functions.

Features

The M-CUBE Pro excels in its versatility, packing numerous features into a small package. The main unit alone offers laser distance measurement, auto-area calculation, volume measurement, min/max/average distance, section measure/divider, angle measurement, indirect height and length measurement, and a dual-axis digital level.

Scale Roller Module: Adds tape measure, rolling ruler, and scale measure functionalities.
Bilateral Laser + Module: Provides dual laser distance measurement, area and volume calculation, cross-line laser level, and bubble level.
Smart Planner Module: Facilitates floor planning with a 360-degree joystick and auto-leveling function for accurate measurements.

Construction and Build

The M-CUBE Pro and its addons are constructed from ABS plastic and polycarbonate, with metal components for durability. Despite not being made entirely of metal like the MEAZOR 3D and NeoRuler, the M-CUBE Pro feels rugged enough for daily use.

The included accessories, such as the leather construction case and metal tripod, monopod, and ball head, further enhance its usability and portability.

Operation and Control

Each addon module has dedicated controls and buttons, while the touch screen complements these physical controls for comprehensive operation.

The main unit features two buttons (power and record measure), the Scale Roller has three (main laser on/off, roller measure on/off, back), the Bilateral Laser + has two (level laser on/off, back), and the Smart Planner includes a joystick, back button, measure record button, and a 360-degree switch.

The M-CUBE Pro’s internal rechargeable battery powers all modules, with the Smart Planner having an optional compartment for two AA batteries to extend battery life.

The device pairs with the MEAZOR mobile app via Bluetooth, allowing users to send measurements wirelessly, create projects, save them in the cloud, and export files in industry-standard formats.

Performance

The M-CUBE Pro delivers excellent performance across its various functions. The Smart Planner module simplifies floor planning, ensuring precise measurements with its auto-leveling function.

The Bilateral Laser + module offers quick and accurate area and volume calculations, saving time and effort.

The Scale Roller module provides precise measurements with a visible laser crosshair and dedicated buttons to avoid accidental errors.

Battery Life

The M-CUBE Pro’s 900mAh battery provides up to 12 hours of continuous use and 90 days of standby time. Charging is straightforward via the USB-C port, taking around two hours for a full charge. This impressive battery life ensures that the device is ready for extended use without frequent recharges.