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Tag: Smartphone

  • Three Days Without a Smartphone alters Dopamine and Serotonin Levels

    Three Days Without a Smartphone alters Dopamine and Serotonin Levels

    A new study from the University of Heidelberg, Germany, published in Computers in Human Behavior, suggests that cutting smartphone use for just three days triggers chemical changes in brain regions linked to reward and addiction.
    Image Credits:freepik

    A new study from the University of Heidelberg, Germany, published in Computers in Human Behavior, suggests that cutting smartphone use for just three days triggers chemical changes in brain regions linked to reward and addiction.

    The researchers note that excessive smartphone use resembles certain addictive disorders, with evidence pointing to various psychosocial and physical effects, yet the underlying brain mechanisms remain poorly understood.

    Limiting Cell Phone Use for 72 Hours

    Researchers investigated the effects of limiting cell phone use for 72 hours. They recruited 25 young adults aged 18 to 30 and instructed them to use their phones only for essential tasks, like communicating with family, during this period.

    To monitor brain changes, participants underwent MRI scans at the start and end of the study while viewing three types of images: neutral scenes (e.g., landscapes) and photos of phones both turned on and off. They also completed questionnaires about mood and phone usage habits.

    After three days of restricted phone use, brain regions linked to the reward system showed noticeable changes. Exposure to smartphone images activated areas associated with intense cravings, including the anterior cingulate gyrus and the nucleus accumbens—regions also involved in addictions such as smoking and drug use. “This may indicate a stronger desire to use a cell phone,” notes psychiatrist Gabriel Garcia Okuda from Einstein Hospital Israelita.

    Brain Chemistry and Mood Improvements from Phone Abstinence

    Dopamine and serotonin pathways—key neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation and addiction—were also activated. “This may suggest a connection, as these pathways responded to viewing phone images after the abstinence period,” explains Okuda. The findings further indicate that reducing phone use for three days could improve sleep quality and mood.

    The study, however, has several limitations, including a small sample size, no control group for comparison, and no verification that participants fully adhered to the phone restriction.

    Additionally, assessments of phone use and mood relied on participants’ self-reports, and information on other health conditions or substance use was not collected. “Thus, the study doesn’t provide definitive conclusions,” notes Okuda, “but it offers a starting point for further exploration.”

    Read the original article on: Cnnbrasil

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  • Samsung Introduces its First Special Edition Triple-Fold Smartphone

    Samsung Introduces its First Special Edition Triple-Fold Smartphone

    On Tuesday, Samsung released its first triple-folding phone, a special-edition model with a staggering price beyond the reach of most consumers.
    Image Credits:The Galaxy Z TriFold will go on sale on December 12 and is more than twice the cost of the n

    On Tuesday, Samsung released its first triple-folding phone, a special-edition model with a staggering price beyond the reach of most consumers.

    The $2,443 Galaxy Z TriFold, over twice the price of the iPhone 17, goes on sale December 12.

    Expansive 10-Inch Display for Enhanced Creativity and Productivity

    Ultra-thin, it unfolds into a 10-inch (25.4 cm) display, which Samsung says “expands possibilities for creating and working.”

    Samsung isn’t the first to offer a triple-fold phone; China’s Huawei launched a similarly priced model last year.

    With growth in the competitive smartphone market uneven, manufacturers are seeking bold, attention-grabbing innovations to stand out.

    Samsung’s new all-black device weighs 309 grams and is under 0.2 inches thick.

    It features generative AI capabilities, offering real-time assistance via screen or camera sharing.

    Limited Edition Galaxy Z TriFold Designed for Exclusivity

    Samsung acknowledged that the Galaxy Z TriFold is “not intended for mass sales,” with executive vice president Alex Lim describing it as a “special edition” product.

    The launch arrives as Apple may overtake Samsung as the world’s top smartphone maker by 2029. Rumors also suggest Apple may release a foldable iPhone as soon as next year.

    Counterpoint Research projects Apple will hold a 19.4% global smartphone share in 2025, slightly above Samsung’s 18.7%, signaling a potential market shift.

    Read the original article on: Techxplore

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  • All the Details So Far on Google’s Upcoming Smartphone

    All the Details So Far on Google’s Upcoming Smartphone

    Google will officially unveil its next-generation smartphone, the Pixel 10, at the Made by Google event on August 20 in New York.
    Image Credits: cnnbrasil

    Google will officially unveil its next-generation smartphone, the Pixel 10, at the Made by Google event on August 20 in New York.

    In a teaser released on Monday (4), Google took a jab at Apple, highlighting the long wait users often face for features promised in new iPhones.

    Google Teases Apple Over Delayed Features in Promo Video

    The video’s caption reads: “If you buy a new phone for a feature that’s ‘coming soon’… but end up waiting a whole year, you can either redefine ‘soon’—or just switch phones.”

    Google plans to include several models in the Pixel 10 lineup: the standard Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

    Design-wise, the Pixel 10 sticks closely to the Pixel 9 Pro, keeping the camera bar and temperature sensor. One of the showcased models appears in a grayish blue shade called “Moonstone.”

    For the first time, the base Pixel 10 will include a triple rear camera setup, adding a telephoto lens. To cut costs, Google may use smaller Pixel 9A-like sensors in the base model, possibly reducing low-light performance.

    The Pro and Fold variants will deliver higher performance with more advanced camera sensors. While they retain the same sensors as the Pixel 9 Pro, they come with targeted upgrades for enhanced results.

    Pixel 10 Lineup Debuts with Vibrant Colors, While Pro Models Opt for Softer Tones

    Google offers the Pixel 10 in bold colors like Obsidian, Indigo, Frost, and Limoncello, while the Pro, XL, and Fold models come in softer tones such as Moonstone, Jade, Porcelain, and Obsidian (except the Fold).

    These new devices are expected to debut with Qi2 magnetic wireless charging, supporting up to 25W power. Accessories like Pixelsnap (magnetic chargers and cases) will complement this new feature.

    Additionally, the phones are slightly thicker and heavier, likely to accommodate larger batteries and the Qi2 magnetic system.

    The Pixel 10 will introduce several new AI-driven features, including:

    • Speak-to-Tweak: voice-controlled photo editing,
    • Sketch-to-Image: converting simple drawings into realistic visuals,
    • Pixel Sense: a smart assistant that uses data from Google apps to anticipate tasks, suggest actions, and tailor the user experience.

    All of these functions are processed directly on the device, without cloud dependence.

    Pixel 10 to Launch with Android 15, Material 3 Redesign, and Desktop Mode

    The phone launches with Android 15, featuring Material 3 Expressive and a Samsung DeX-like desktop mode. The interface will emphasize adaptability, productivity, and seamless cross-device integration.

    Pixel 10 buyers can expect added benefits like faster Android updates, free trials of services such as Google One and YouTube Premium, better connectivity with other Google devices (headphones, watches, etc.), and high-quality cameras—even on the entry-level models.

    Read the original article on: Cnnbrasil

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  • Rugged Smartphone Debuts with 150-Lumen Autofocus Projector

    Rugged Smartphone Debuts with 150-Lumen Autofocus Projector

    The Ulefone Armor 34 Pro rugged smartphone packs in a lot of useful tools, including an industry-leading pico projector
    Ulefone

    Rugged smartphones aren’t exactly known for their looks — they tend to be bulky, heavy, and plain. But they make up for it with extreme durability, large batteries, and practical features. The latest release from Ulefone brings all of that, plus a touch of portable cinema.

    Meet the Maker: Ulefone’s Rise in the Rugged Market

    Founded in 2012 in Shenzhen, China, Ulefone presents itself as one of the world’s largest manufacturers of high-quality mobile devices. The brand is best known for its Armor series of rugged smartphones and tablets, which have earned positive reviews in the tech world.

    The newest member of the family is the Armor 34 Pro, a device that combines a massive battery, a cutting-edge integrated projector, a powerful flashlight, and a night vision camera.

    Its 25,500 mAh battery isn’t the largest in the rugged phone market, but it still offers impressive endurance — up to 1,380 hours on standby, 138 hours of talk time, or 33 hours of video playback. The 6.95-inch FHD+ screen (1,080 x 2,460 pixels) displays all this content with a 120 Hz refresh rate, 600 nits of peak brightness, and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.

    Power Sharing and Fast Charging

    The phone can also charge other devices using 10-W reverse charging and supports 66-W wired fast charging (but doesn’t include wireless charging).

    Powered by a huge battery, the Ulefone Armor 34 Pro pico projector puts out up to 150 lumens at 854 x 480 pixels
    Ulefone

    Although rugged phones have featured projectors before, most only reach about 100 lumens. Ulefone broke that limit by designing its built-in projector to deliver 150 lumens. They also added autofocus, manual vertical keystone correction, and an upward projection angle, enabling the device to display visuals up to 100 inches diagonally—even though its 854 x 480 resolution is more appropriate for smaller screens.

    A dedicated side button activates the projector, which can turn the phone into a mobile movie theater or serve practical functions — like showing presentations or sharing digital documents with teammates in the field. Audio plays through a 98-dB built-in speaker, though users can also connect a Bluetooth speaker (optional).

    Built to Survive Harsh Environments

    Living up to its Armor name, the 34 Pro meets MIL-STD-810H and IP68/IP69K standards. It can be submerged in water up to 2 meters for 30 minutes, survive drops from 1.5 meters, resist dust, and operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -30°C to 55°C. It even includes dual 1,300-rpm internal fans to keep components cool.

    The Ulefone Armor 34 Pro is certified to military durability standards, as well as being dust-proof and waterproof
    Ulefone

    Powering the phone is a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 octa-core processor with an integrated GPU and AI capabilities, backed by 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM (with an additional 16 GB available as virtual memory), 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, and microSD expansion up to 2 TB.

    The rear camera setup includes a 50-MP main camera with a 1/1.3″ sensor and f/1.95 aperture, a 50-MP ultra-wide camera, and a 64-MP night vision camera using four infrared LEDs and Ulefone’s NightElf 3.0 algorithm to deliver clearer low-light shots — though they’re in black and white. For color night vision, users would have to look at other brands like FossiBot.The display houses a 32-MP front-facing selfie camera.

    Powerful Flashlight and Full Connectivity

    Rounding out the features is a 1,000-lumen camping light made up of 585 LEDs, offering different modes and an emergency red/blue warning light. Connectivity includes 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.4, with support for GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, and NAVLC for global positioning.

    The Armor 34 Pro runs Android 15 out of the box, and Ulefone promises a clean system free of unnecessary apps. Rare these days, it also includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and there’s a uSmart expansion port for use with accessories like endoscopes and microscopes.

    The Armor 34 Pro will officially go on sale starting June 16, and while Ulefone hasn’t announced the final price yet, AliExpress currently lists it at around US$1,200.

    Introducing Ulefone Armor 34 Pro: Autofocus Projector Phone with 25,500mAh Battery!

    Read the original article on: New Atlas

    Read more: The World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone Debuts Internationally

  • The World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone Debuts Internationally

    The World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone Debuts Internationally

    Huawei introduced the world's first tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT, in September 2024, though it was initially limited to the Chinese market. Now, the company has announced its global release—though finding one may still be a challenge.
    The first tri-fold smartphone was launched in China last year, but its global release has now been confirmed
    Huawei

    Huawei introduced the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT, in September 2024, though it was initially limited to the Chinese market. Now, the company has announced its global release—though finding one may still be a challenge.

    Samsung is also rumored to be expanding its foldable lineup with a tri-fold model expected to launch in the third quarter of this year. However, Huawei has taken the lead, beating the mobile giant to market with the Mate XT.

    This design provides users with three layout options on the go. Huawei describes the Mate XT’s Multiview in One feature as a breakthrough in smartphone displays, allowing seamless transitions between single, dual, and triple-screen modes.

    From Tablet to Smartphone in a Fold

    When fully unfolded, the device reveals a 10.2-inch tablet display with a resolution of 2,232 x 3,184 pixels. Folding one hinge back creates a 7.9-inch dual-screen setup at 2,232 x 2,048 pixels, while closing both hinges results in a compact 6.4-inch smartphone with 2,232 x 1,008 pixels. Regardless of configuration, the OLED display supports a 90 Hz adaptive refresh rate and up to 240 Hz touch sampling.

    The dual hinge mechanism caters for three different display options: a single screen mode for “quick tasks such as calling or photography,” a dual screen for “information browsing, such as reading articles and checking emails,” and a triple-screen tablet mode that “delivers immersive viewing and makes multi-task management a breeze”
    Huawei

    The hinge mechanisms are built with ultra-high-strength steel for durability, while Huawei’s multi-drive technology ensures smooth folding action.

    Versatile Photography and 4K Video

    On the back, the raised triple-camera system includes a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12 MP periscope telephoto, all equipped with optical image stabilization.

    A 10-size adjustable physical aperture adapts to different lighting conditions, while 5.5x optical zoom and 50x digital zoom help capture distant subjects. The Ultra Speed Snapshot feature enhances clarity when photographing fast-moving objects. Both the rear cameras and the 8 MP front-facing camera support 4K UHD video recording.

    Power and Connectivity

    The Mate XT runs on Huawei’s proprietary operating system, featuring 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of internal storage. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and connects via USB-C, though it lacks both an audio jack and storage expansion. Powering the device is a slim 5,600-mAh battery with 66-W fast charging and 50-W wireless charging capabilities.

    That triple camera array sticks out too much for flat tabletop usage, so the Mate XT comes with a built-in kickstand
    Huawei

    The device is encased in an ultra-thin vegan leather exterior, crafted from aerospace-grade fiber for a balance of strength and lightness. It comes in black or red and weighs 10.5 oz (298 g).

    Unsurprisingly, entering Huawei’s tri-fold ecosystem comes at a premium—€3,499 (approximately $3,650 USD). However, an official U.S. release remains unlikely.

    Read the original article on: New Atlas

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  • A $35 Lens Turns Any Smartphone Into a Powerful Microscope

    A $35 Lens Turns Any Smartphone Into a Powerful Microscope

    Six years after introducing the first iMicro smartphone microscope, the team has launched its newest innovation: the iMicro Q3p. This compact, fingertip-sized device is lightweight and brings affordable, portable microscopy to anyone with a phone camera. The latest model also includes polarization capabilities, enabling users to capture stunning details in materials like crystals and minerals—at a fraction of the cost, less than 1% of traditional equipment needed for such observations.
    This little gadget gives you instant, inexpensive access to the microscopic world 
    Kickstarter

    Six years after introducing the first iMicro smartphone microscope, the team has launched its newest innovation: the iMicro Q3p. This compact, fingertip-sized device is lightweight and brings affordable, portable microscopy to anyone with a phone camera. The latest model also includes polarization capabilities, enabling users to capture stunning details in materials like crystals and minerals—at a fraction of the cost, less than 1% of traditional equipment needed for such observations.

    The iMicro Q3p Joins the Fingertip Microscope Family

    The iMicro Q3p is the latest impressive addition to the fingertip microscope lineup, which has already gained a loyal following worldwide. Once again, the creators have ensured it remains highly affordable, launching it through crowdfunding at a price of CA$49 (approximately US$35).

    The polarizing function brings birefringent materials into view
    Kickstarter

    Key Features at a Glance

    • Resolution: Sub-micron level
    • Magnification: Up to 1,200x
    • Polarizing capability
    • Stable focus: Includes a stand for precision
    • Minimal distortion: Comparable to desktop microscopes
    • Compact design: Measures just ½ inch (1.3 cm) and weighs ~1/60 oz (0.42 g)
    • Portable: Comes in a card-sized PP case
    • Affordable: Costs about 1% of a desktop microscope’s price
    • User-friendly: Compatible with any smartphone camera

    The iMicro easily attaches to most smartphones using a reusable nano-suction pad and maintains a slim profile to avoid adding bulk. As demonstrated in the accompanying video, attaching the lens is straightforward. Place the stand over your subject, adjust the focus as you would with a traditional microscope, and explore a range of magnification options. From single fibers to leaf cells, the device provides sharp, clear views.

    Focusing with the focusing stand

    The stand, a new addition inspired by customer feedback, is an essential tool for maintaining stability, especially at the highest magnification of 1,200x. Both the stand and lens fit neatly into a card-sized package, making it easy to carry alongside your phone in a pocket when not in use.

    High-Quality Imaging at an Affordable Price

    What truly stands out is the imaging quality, rivaling much pricier equipment while costing about the same as a good phone case. Its portability is another major advantage, offering accessible microscopy to anyone with a smartphone. Whether you’re out in the field, working on a factory floor, or simply exploring everyday objects at home, the iMicro Q3p opens up a world of possibilities.

    A tiny example of the structures this lens can zoom in on 
    Kickstarter

    For a deeper dive into the technology behind this impressive device, the campaign page offers detailed insights. Essentially, it achieves its powerful magnification through a three-stage process enhanced by digital technology. Polarization is simulated without relying on the intricate light-filtering hardware typically required.

    Precision Tools and Easy Control with the iMicro Q3p Kit

    The kit also includes a stage micrometer, a crucial tool for professionals and students to accurately measure the scale of magnified objects, such as cell widths, though it may be less relevant for casual users. Additionally, a dedicated app lets you adjust magnification and toggle the polarization feature with ease.

    Just some of the various phone cameras it can be attached to
    Kickstarter

    The iMicro Q3p has already attracted nearly 2,000 backers, with the campaign far surpassing its fundraising goal. The Q3p kit is available in limited quantities for CA$49 (approximately US$35) and includes the iMicro Q3p lens, focusing stand, ruler, i-Seeing app, and instruction sheet. For those interested in the full range, the “ultimate” pack is priced from CA$88 (around US$63) and features all iMicro lenses—Q3p, Q3, Q2p, Q2, and C—along with the additional accessories.

    For more options, visit the Kickstarter campaign page. Keep in mind there’s a bit of a wait, as global shipping is scheduled to begin in April 2025, assuming everything stays on track. Be sure to check out the gallery for examples of the incredible details this compact device can reveal and capture.

    Read the original article on: New Atlas

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  • $35 Lens Transforms Any Smartphone into a High-Powered Microscope

    $35 Lens Transforms Any Smartphone into a High-Powered Microscope

    Six years after introducing the first iMicro smartphone microscope, the team has launched the iMicro Q3p, a compact and affordable device that brings high-powered microscopy to any smartphone camera. This latest model includes a polarization feature, enabling users to see and photograph detailed structures in materials like crystals and minerals for less than 1% of the cost of traditional equipment.
    This little gadget gives you instant, inexpensive access to the microscopic world 
    Kickstarter

    Six years after introducing the first iMicro smartphone microscope, the team has launched the iMicro Q3p, a compact and affordable device that brings high-powered microscopy to any smartphone camera. This latest model includes a polarization feature, enabling users to see and photograph detailed structures in materials like crystals and minerals for less than 1% of the cost of traditional equipment.

    The iMicro Q3p builds on the popular line, combining the polarizing feature of the iMicro Q2p with the advanced magnification and resolution of the iMicro Q3, and is available at a crowdfunding price of CA$49 (around US$35).

    The polarizing function brings birefringent materials into view
    Kickstarter

    Highlights:

    • Resolution: Under one micron
    • Magnification: Up to 1,200x
    • Polarizing function
    • Stand for stable focus
    • Minimal distortion, rivaling desktop microscopes
    • Lightweight, at 1/2 inch and ~0.42 grams
    • Portable in a card-sized case
    • Compatible with any smartphone camera

    The iMicro Q3p attaches to most smartphones using a reusable nano-suction pad, keeping a slim profile. Once attached, users can place the stand over an object and adjust focus for clear views of details like fibers or cells. The new stand, based on user feedback, stabilizes the microscope at maximum magnification, and the entire kit easily fits in a pocket.

    Focusing with the focusing stand

    A Portable Device with Advanced Imaging for Versatile Use

    This device combines excellent imaging with portability, making it perfect for fieldwork, factory inspections, or casual exploration. It achieves its powerful magnification through a three-stage digital enhancement process, simulating polarization without complex light-filtering hardware.

    A tiny example of the structures this lens can zoom in on 
    Kickstarter

    The kit includes a stage micrometer for scale measurements, valuable for students and professionals. A dedicated app also lets users control magnification and toggle the polarization feature. With almost 2,000 backers, the campaign has surpassed its funding goals, with shipping expected in April 2025.

    For more details, visit the Kickstarter page, and check out our gallery for sample images captured by this impressive pocket microscope.

    Read Original Article: New Atlas

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