Category: News

Xiaomi Launch QLED TV in India On December 16th

Previously, Xiaomi gave a vague teaser with the ‘Quantum Leaps Ahead’ tagline. Now, the Chinese company has officially assured that a brand-new product will be launched, which is a QLED 4K TV. The launching will take place on December 16th. A new post shared on the Twitter profile of Mi India makes sure of it. It also has officially announced the date, time, and location. Though the product name has not been revealed yet, many people guess that it will likely be the Mi TV 5 Pro that was released in China back in almost the end of 2019. This Smart TV features a quantum-dot LED display.

Up to now, no details are figured out yet. But Xiaomi announces that it leads into the more sophisticated television era. Offering the next level of ordinary panels of LED display, QLED TVs are equipped with a quantum dot layer. Such a feature is reported to be able to enhance colors and brightness. So that it offers better entire picture performance. With this launching, Xiaomi will compete with its competitors, such as Samsung, OnePlus, and TCL. Those brands already have QLED TV models sold in India. For example, the TCL 55C715 QLED TV that costs Rs. 55,990 or around $760.68.

But, Xiaomi’s approach to pricing means that the brand has an option to offer its QLED models at cheaper price.

Specifications and Price of Mi TV 5 Pro

As it is said before, the Mi TV 5 Pro was previously launched back in late 2019 in China, exactly in November 2019. The TV comes in 3 different sizes, which are 75 inches, 65 inches, and 55 inches. All of the size options feature an Ultra-HD QLED screen with a resolution of 3840×2160-pixel. The Mi TV 5 Pro is priced at CNY 3,699 or approximately $565.67.In India, this TV could be priced at Rs. 49,999 or around $679.64 for the 55-inch variant. This is proposed to obtain a price benefit within the competition.

There is also a possibility that the Mi TV 5 Pro will be supported by the HDR feature. Moreover, the TV models that will be launched in India by adding the PatchWall launcher. The Mi TV 5 Pro is equipped with 64GB of storage and 4GB of RAM. This is way higher compared to most advanced smart TVs sold in India. This means that the Mi TV 5 Pro will be Xiaomi’s most premium TV in India. It is also expected to be positioned higher than the 4X series which is currently the most pricey series in India.

Featured by the size of the bezels that are 47% thinner than the Xiaomi Mi TV 4, the Mi TV 5 Pro smart TV looks even more elegant. This newest Smart TV from Xiaomi is supported by the Amologic T972 chipset so that it is able to play videos with a 8K resolution. The Mi TV 5 Pro uses a 4K QLED display panel which makes the brightness level up to 4000 nits and covers the 108% NTSC color space and offers MEMC and HDR10 + motion technology. Moreover, Xiaomi also equips it with 3 HDMI ports, 2 USB ports, Ethernet, and also Bluetooth.

There are two 8W stereo speakers with DTS Audio and Dolby Audio support as well. The 75-inch variant of the Mi TV 5 Pro was officially in the market in March 2020. This smart TV is a full-screen TV with an ultra-thin design. It adopts a full-screen design and a curved metal frame that is 5.9mm thin. Its 4K color gamut density has a 97% screen ratio. The main difference between the Mi TV 5 and Mi TV 5 Pro is that the Pro variant has a QLED screen instead of just a regular LED screen in the first one.

When it comes to designs, the Mi TV 5 Pro features an aluminum frame. It also comes with a screw-less design. Xiaomi claims that this Smart TV is just 5.9mm thick, which is ultra-thin. Moreover, the bezels are 47.1% thinner compared to the previous model, the Mi TV 4.

That is about the specifications and alleged price of the Xiaomi Mi TV 5 Pro and its launching event. The launching of this Smart TV also coincides with the release of Xiaomi’s latest smartphone, namely the Mi CC9 Pro or Mi Note 10. After knowing the price and specifications of the Mi TV 5 Pro, are you interested to buy this Smart TV?

The US Turns Up Heat on China’s Biggest Chipmaker

The United States of America has added Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), China’s biggest chip-maker, to a list of ‘Chinese military companies.’ This adds more pressures on the company. This move from the US Department of Defense means that US investors are now forbidden to hold or trade shares in SMIC. It is said that the Chinese government was using the ability of ‘civilian entities’, such as universities and companies in order to modernize their military capabilities. However, SMIC disputed any military relations.

China’s biggest chip-make is now under an executive order that is signed by President Donald Trump in November. This is proposed to prevent the US capital from funding the modernization of China’s military. Previously, according to SMIC, letters made some of their US suppliers getting issued. The letters also said that the suppliers will be subject to new export restrictions. This shows that the US Department of Commerce probably adds the chip-maker company to its trade blacklist, which is also known as the entity list. However, such a decision has not been published yet.

It could cause an impact on chip production if such a decision happens. The founder of research firm Radio Free Mobile, Richard Windsor, said that this current restriction places the SMIC to the hands of the US Department of Commerce, given the thought that the Chinese company relies on resources from US companies to be capable of producing silicon chips. He also added that the additional designation of the Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation as being controlled or owned by the Chinese military does not change any situation besides make it more difficult to have a license and make it more possible to get added to the list of entities. 

This restriction is like another sign that the Trump administration wants to maximize their final days to keep increasing pressures on China. It is also a sign that they give it a try to lock a hard-line policy for the approaching Biden administration. It is open to argue and interpret about the definition of what supports the military. However, it is utilized by Washington as a lever in the battle over chips, which is a key field of technological competition.

China is relatively behind in this one area and Washington knows that. China is also desperate to catch up. The Trump administration will be also relying on it being difficult for the Biden administration to be seen to cancel measures for fear of being accused of going “soft” on Beijing.

Restrictions

Since it was founded in 2000, SMIC has been the most leading chip-maker company in mainland China. But, the company’s most sophisticated products are said to be left 2 generations behind what its competitors are capable of, including TSMC or Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company and South Korea’s Samsung. Currently, SMIC is not able to manufacture transistors as small as those are made by its rival manufacturers.

So, SMIC cannot produce advanced processors for the newest smartphones and other sophisticated gadgets. The reason for this is partly due to the existing restrictions that the United States of America has applied to the company. Right now, the only way to produce the most sophisticated logic chips is by using equipment that is made by a Dutch company, ASML. SMIC has ordered a lithography machine that values $150 million or £111 million.

The lithography machine uses lasers in 2018. However, Reuters reported that the White House managed to convince the Dutch government to block the export for security reasons. A spokesman for the Dutch company, ASML, refused to make any statements when the BBC asked whether the deal was still in limbo. “SMIC manufactures semiconductors and provides services solely for civilian and commercial end-users and end-uses.” SIMC also told BBC that they had nothing to do with the Chinese military nor manufacture any military weapons.

SMIC claimed that they were completely shocked and confused after the Pentagon revealed that it had proposed the company to be added to the government’s blacklist. This restriction would restrict suppliers from providing the company with American-based technology without special permission. Moreover, the stock of the Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation sank after this event. This is why Beijing said that it totally opposed such a decision from the US government. A spokesman from a ministry even accused Washington of bullying and using security concerns to break trade rules. What do you think about this current event?

Those “Sonic” attacks in US Diplomats during 2017, it may be microwave attacks

You may still remember mysterious diseases caused by suspected “sonic” back then in 2017 that attacked some US spies and diplomats in China, Cuba, Russia, and maybe other countries. A report released on Saturday, commissioned by the Department of State and written by external experts, has found a possible culprit, and it is technology frightening.

Many experts have identified that the directed and pulsed radiofrequency energy used as the most make sense explanation for the symptoms of the constellation which have been experienced by diplomats along with their families as well. It includes microwaves as the electromagnetic waves in the specific spectrum – this is not a food heater or heating machine at all. 

So, repeated short blows of waves in specific frequency will attach the inner part of ears, it can cause severe effects, and it can last long effects – without leaving any physical sign. 

The common symptoms of “dozens” affected include hearing a loud sound followed by pressure, pain, and kind of head vibrations. Suddenly, they will get short and long-term dizziness, fatigue, hearing loss, vertigo, memory loss, and get some issues related to balance. The symptoms occur in both embassies and some homes as well. Some of them have reported as forcing to get a permanent retirement as well. 

The experts state that some high frequencies can damage ears, but they can be seen by many people. The inner ear of a human is so sensitive to sound. Once a person is over 18 years old, they mostly cannot hear anything above 8,000-hertz range of sound. Although you cannot hear that sound, the frequency can affect some cells which line the inner ears. 

So, when someone gets exposed to continuous high-frequency sound, then it can damage the tissues. If someone has been exposed in a long term to high-frequency sound, then it can damage or kill soft sensory cells called cilia without any symptom until they start to experience some permanent hearing issues. So, this case should be a concern since it can treat a person’s life. They should get proper treatments to handle that condition.

Some studies referred to experts who stated that the energy of radiofrequency needs to be well-directed and pulsed (not continue pulse) to explain these spread symptoms. That’s why they explain it as the most consistent symptom related to the attack of radiofrequency energy. 

Many experts also warned that they have been disturbed by a potential which has been shown by a disinhibited malevolent actor and a new advanced machine which causes harm to other people or bad people who did dangerous acts in newer ways. 

However, that report does not go into detail about a “new tool” or talk about bad people. However, there are device classes which are called directed energy weapons that may include. That report refers to one device which was used in a study along with a bunch of names straight out of a Cold War movie known as Transformer Energized Megavold Pulsed Output or TEMPO. 

Many countries are developing this new weapon. However, New York Times reported that some affected diplomas have focused on “countering Russia operations with the foreign intelligent agents. It comes with some facts that Russia is very productive related to sources of research in these weapons. No wonder that it also leads to “suspicion”, according to Times that Russia may be behind these attacks. You can check the New York Times as a reference. 

The report also suggested that more proactive steps need to be taken to fight these attacks. But the first step to take is taking victims seriously, and hard to find the systematic record and investigate some symptoms – this is something that Trump has failed to do and make victims feel angry who are now suing the government. 

Times also reported that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has received this report since August, but no one acknowledges it when being asked about the illness during October. The State Department also made that report public on Saturday after the news outlets got and reported the existence during this weekend. 

So, it may include futuristic weapons in those attacks, whether it is microwave, sonic, or something else that we never know before. More horrible thing is that the government may not take any action when facing these attacks toward American citizens, because it is a hard phenomenon and it is hard to understand.

Launch of Bronco SUV has delayed due to Covid issue and Supply Chain

The latest news about the newest Ford’s SUV series, Bronco SUV has been delayed from spring into summer of 2021 due to a problem in the supply chain because of the Covid issue. Ford’s customer needs to wait again after the ordering process is expected to order on Monday 7/12/2020. Recently, the launch was delayed into mid January 2021.

Ford spokesman Jiyan Cadiz in his interview with CNBC said that their company commits to building Bronco with the best quality as their customers expect and deserve. The supply chain, he said, is just only a specific problem to handle.

Ford’s shares have fallen at 1% in Monday morning trading related to the problem of Bronco.

Last spring, automakers decided to delay their several products as the virus has spread rapidly across North America. The delay is done for months and even in a year, due to the conserve capital or supplier issue problem. The domestic factories also have been shut down for two months due to the condition.

Bronco Ford 2021 is one of the most wanted vehicles from Ford company for years. Bronco is the first SUV from Ford offered to the general public. It was manufactured in 1965 and continued till June 1966.  

From Credit Suisse, they expected that Bronco would contribute nearly $1 billion to Ford’s pretax earnings sales if the car sales achieved 125.000 units. The original Bronco was built from 1966 to 1977 and became the hottest item among automobile collectors. The classic bronco price has increased by 76% over the last three years. The increasing price could be due to the reintroduction of the brand that leads to attraction to the old model. However, long before it becomes a general public matter, the classic Bronco has become the leader in collectible SUVs.

The company itself claims that there are more than 150.000 people who have made their reservation to buy the vehicle. Finally, the customer will need to wait for more. The order is previously set for December 7 and delayed into January. The reservation will be held on March 19 to finalize the dealer and builder selection, price agreement, and place the order. The other most wanted is the “sasquatch package” that featured with manual transmission has been introduced as the 2022 model year. The two and four models will arrive at least at the end of summer. 

However, Bronco Sport, the other vehicle from Ford that has arrived in the dealership currently has not been impacted by supplier problems. As a cousin of the Bronco series, it is another alternative for Ford’s consumers. Bronco is a truck-based vehicle platform and the Bronco sport is a smaller one with a less powerful 4 cylinder engine. The smaller car is based on a car or crossover that presents a smoother ride. Bronco Sports come with 181 horsepower, 1.5-liter turbo 3 that standard on all trim. For top trim, it is available 2.0-liter turbo 4. All trims standard come with all-wheel drive and the twin-clutch version available to the top 2 turbo litter 4. The seat comes with 5 passengers.

Both of the SUV share many common designs, inside and outside. Both take the inspiration from the early generation of 1966’s boxy Broncos. Both have a round headlight, straight body sides, and blunt front grille that stretch in the bumper and tip of the hood. The bumper was designed as similar as originally featured with a trapezoidal shape. The design is quietly vintage. How much bronco 2021 and Bronco Original differences?

Bronco 2021 goes further with the specification but still gets inspiration from the classic one. The original ford Bronco 1966 was compact with modern standards. How much is the modification to the 2021 model? The Bronco 2021 will be longer than the classic. It will be compact more from the Big Broncos generation that reigns from 1978 into 1996. The key is, while the 2021 Bronco Ford looks alike as redesigned from 1966’s model, but in terms of dimension, it is similar to the roomy full-size Broncos that reign in 1978-1996. The 2021 Broncos generation is a genius tribute to the original generation. The base engine comes with 270 horsepower and a 2.3-liter turbo 4. It comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission or 7-speed manual transmission. Passenger capacity capable of 4 or 5 depends on the door number. The rear end in the 2021 Bronco is familiar as the area under the windows changes into a little bit wider. The shape comes originally with a rectangular but modern aspect added by increased size and chrome in the area.

Cyber Attacks to Trick Biologists and Researchers to Produce Toxins Unconsciously

SciTech Daily currently reports that the ‘end-to-end cyber-biology attack’ is possible to happen. It is a phenomenon where biologists are unconsciously tricked to generate dangerous toxins in their own laboratories. The phenomenon is discovered by a group of cyber researchers from Ben-Gurion University in Negev.

Based on the latest study in the area of Nature Biotechnology, it is believed that bio-criminals need to make physical contact with the elements by themselves to produce and send the toxins. However, due to the development of technology, another way to send the toxin is highly possible. Nature Biotechnology also explains an alternative of sending toxins without making direct contact.

The report also mentions the technology of Wanware that can replace the short substring of DNA on the biotechnology computer. This way, some biologists may simply create toxins with sequential orders. Of course, those biologists don’t realize that and they can just share their products without knowing damages and risks that can happen in the future.

The Control of the Production of Dangerous Substances

The head of the complex network analysis of Ben-Gurion University, Rami Puzis describes that the production and spreading of dangerous substances unconsciously can be experienced by all the researchers who deal with biology. However, the control of the production is possible to manage also. One of them is by checking the DNA sequence by synthetic gen suppliers. It is considered one of the most effective methods to control and to survive from any attack.

For this matter, California becomes the role model as it is considered very innovative this year. The state has regulated a new policy about the gen transaction. California’s step to prevent their areas from the toxin attack needs to be followed by other states to improve safety and security.

Although what has been done by California needs to appreciate, Puzis adds another possibility for the criminal to make further attacks. It is particularly if businesses and laboratories that buy DNA are not aware and don’t put effort to check DNA products after buying them. In other words, there are so many things to do to prevent and control the production of dangerous substances unconsciously.

Screening Protocols

Sadly, there is a weakness that is known well to have by the US Department of Health and Humanity Service. Currently, the guidance to provide DNA still enables criminals to avoid screening protocols by using generic disguising procedures. It causes screening software to find it more difficult to identify DNA that produces toxins.

According to Puzis, by applying such an approach, research that is conducted by his team finds that around 16 from 50 DNA samples are blurred. They cannot be identified based on the basic guide implemented by the HHS department.

Furthermore, the accessibility and automation of the synthetic gene engineering workflow are found. It is added by inadequate controls for the cyber world’s safety. Some matters above enable malware to burden the biology process in the laboratory where the loop is closed by various possibilities in DNA molecules.

The Danger of Some Biology Codes

The attack of DNA that is not realized by biologists also gives some bad effects or is dangerous significantly. It may produce dangerous codes that can change the biological procedure. No matter how simple the attack is, the biologists cannot have another option. They must choose to provide a scenario with some vulnerability in three levels of biotechnology. Those three levels include software, biosafety research, and biology protocols.

The special scenario also emphasizes a chance to implement knowledge of cyber safety in a new context including some biosecurity procedures and the absence of coding. In the same opportunity, Puzis also explains that the scenario highlights the importance of the synthetic DNA chain along with extra protections toward the threat of cyber-biology.

Fortunately, many researchers have realized that such an unconscious attack may be experienced by them also. Therefore, they suggest the method of screen algorithm improvements. Sure, but it is by considering some other aspects including the process of gene editing inside the gen. 

Besides, the researchers also expect that the phenomenon and further studies related to it will provide more facilities to avoid the attack to experience in the future. One of the facilities is to sequence DNA faster and more strongly as well as the availability of production services related to the synthetic cyber security genes. It needs support from many realms including governments and people, not only in the US but also from all around the world. Yes, the attack can be experienced by any researcher no matter where he or she is from, can’t it?

Approximately 150 U.S. Cadillac Dealers decide to Exit Brand Than Swift to Electric Cars

There are around 150 General Motors Co dealers that have decided to split with Cadillac. It is taken due to the higher cost for upgrading the car into electricity. It indicates that the skeptical views about replacing them to be battery-powered vehicles.

Then, GM gives an option to Cadillac dealers. They have to take a buyout offer so that they can be out of the brand. Otherwise, they should spend approximately $200,000 for upgrades.

The upgrades include the charging stations as well as the repair tools. Those things are necessary to prepare their stores in selling electric vehicles.

The buyout offer ranges are varied, starting from $300,000 to over than $1 million. Because of that, around 17% of Cadillac U.S. dealerships accept the offer. They stop the franchise agreements for Cadillac as the luxury brand.

According to the survey, most dealers who accept it have other brands. They own more than one brand, such as Buick and GMC, or Chevrolet. Besides, they only sell a few Cadillacs in a month. 

Although some Cadillac dealers have skepticism due to investors valuing the electric vehicles, it may bear interest from the consumers. Yet, it can endure questions from the retailers who assist the customers as well.

Tesla Inc. becomes the leading electric-vehicle as they can sell it directly to customers. They require no franchise dealers. This method should be a sample model that has to be followed by several startups.

Meanwhile, many traditional auto producers are forced to cover their electric-car projects on dealer networks. So, they can make their money by selling vehicles with gasoline-powered cars.

Many dealers say that they are considering the expensive facility investment. They will require electrical-system upgrades and make them compare with the needs in the market. It is approximately 2% of vehicle sales in the U.S. 

This small amount makes the retailers worry about selling. They suspend the electric vehicle model orders because they don’t want to keep it too long in their shop.

Furthermore, the pandemic causes more decrease in vehicle selling demand. This issue can be seen from the popular area with electric vehicles like San Francisco. 

The Cadillac buyout offers to the dealers are confirmed by Rory Harvey. He is the chief of Cadillac global brand. However, he denied mentioning how many they have valued the offer to dealers. 

He added that future dealers require the same vision as them. They have to be logical and able to follow a similar path toward electrification. For those who are not able to commit, they can exit the brand and receive compensation from Cadillac.

A plug-in car will need more space in the showrooms. They would like to re-establish the economics of operating a dealership as the electric vehicle has simpler components. 

Aside from its fewer components, it also needs less regular maintenance. This reason may cause a slight threat to the dealers’ components parts. 

The dealer will sell an electric one differently if you compare it with the vehicles having combustion engines. Thus, it becomes a great opportunity. The automakers can rethink the franchise models. 

Cadillac becomes the central role in pushing the electric vehicle. It happens because it becomes the most energetic company in producing legacy automakers. 

It can boost electric vehicle sales, including the development of driverless-car. The plan is bigger than the previous one as it takes up to  $27 billion in sales by mid-decade.

The above amount signifies the majority of GM’s planned. From that, we know that it is only 2% of electric car global sales recently. 

Cadillac prepares electric designs that will be available in showrooms for the coming years. Mr. Havey adds that Cadillac will be able to broaden its network and become competitive in the market. 

This statement is supported by one of Minnesota Cadillac dealers, Todd Snell. He sees electric cars as a future investment due to the costs, although he can not be sure how fast the market will respond, especially for those who live in the farming area. 

An electric car may not be 100% effective in the automaker industry. However, it will be an essential part of the vehicle business. They are looking forward to growing it bigger and wider. 

The dealers do not have many options for this change. Moreover, the state’s government supports the development of electric cars. Take, for example, California will ban the sales of gas-powered vehicles in 2035. 

Thus, this regulation forces the dealership to accept the offer. The dealerships have to electrify those vehicles and shops by not considering the dealership owners’ feelings.

Supernovae carry a positive result in generating carbon in new science

Supernovae or also called Supernova is quite well known for someone who learns about aerospace. It can be familiar to you. Although you have heard about it before, you are not sure what it is about and how to define it. 

What is Supernova?

In the universe, there are numerous stars. They have two methods for stars to die. Some are fading away while some others burn.

There are several ways of how the star ends its evolution. It happens in the massive cosmic explosions called a supernova. You can record it to be the greatest explosion that occurs in space.

You can experience Supernovae in other galaxies. It is quite challenging to see from our Milky Way galaxy as dust prevents our vision. 

What causes Supernova?

A supernova happens because of the transformation that occurs in the core of the star. The change may occur in two different ways. However, both share the same result that is Supernova.

The first type of it occurs in the binary star systems. In this system, two stars are orbiting a similar point. 

One of the stars has a carbon-oxygen in the form of the white dwarf. It can steal matter from the second star that makes the white dwarf gain too much matter. It can cause an explosion and then result in Supernova.

The second type occurs at the end of a star’s lifetime. This single star runs out of its nuclear fuel. 

Then, some mass moves into its core and causes it to collapse. This process results in the biggest explosion called a supernova.

Why do scientists study Supernovas?

Lately, there is a piece of good news from Supernova. The study carried out by Michigan State University found out that Supernova can create much faster life-giving carbon atoms.

Although it is such an amazing discovery, it brings us to another mystery. This puzzle could transform the recent theories of element creation. Moreover, it can improve new science, especially in the fields of fusion and astronomy.

Our planet has multiple components. You will find that carbon as one of its most various elements. It is created from the fusion reaction of triple-alpha as a result of a Supernova stars explosion.

Thus, what does alpha describe us? It is defined as a helium atom core that is composed of two neutrons and two protons. If you have triple-alpha, it means the alpha is three times larger. 

A triple-alpha is the fusion of six protons and six neutrons. The fusion brings six electrons. Thus, the carbon will consist of six protons, six neutrons, and six electrons.

The fusion may give you an inefficient reaction. It can be efficient if there is something that can help it. Thus, the researchers use a supercomputer model to support their research on it.

It presents a surprising result among scientists. They found out the exceeding protons in the Supernova’s innermost reaches. As a result, it can stimulate the fusion reactions of triple-alpha.

The reaction gives us surprising information too. It can generate carbon ten times more than the expectation. Of course, it is a remarkable discovery. 

The above explanation can assist you in understanding why more carbon occurs in the universe. To reveal another mystery, scientists do more research.

In the beginning, they thought the exceeding protons create more particular isotopes of ruthenium and molybdenum that are heavier. Both particles consist of the greatest amount on Earth. 

Those elements are only created in Supernova. You will not find it in the other place outside it. This statement is carried by Luke F. Roberts as an MSU professor and the co-authored study. 

This study becomes a memorable discovery, especially among scientists. It guides them to maximize the use of the Supernova element.

They found that the isotopes might be created in different forms. Unfortunately, they can show us how this form exactly happens. So, this remains another mystery.

Of course, it takes more time to do more study and research to reveal another way. The alternative ways will not be easy to come up with. They need further studies for that. 

According to co-author Hendrik Schatz, the favorite theory has been destroyed. Hence, none can help to support its explanation. 

To describe more about this discovery, it requires the creation of some unusual new science. Of course, it becomes another progression in science. 

Although this can be a development in new science, scientists should be ready with the contradiction. As science inventions can be both, it may give a positive or negative result.

The Way Police Department in California Uses Drones

It seems that the US has accepted the use of drones. The government starts to accept drones since this device is getting smarter. A better drone regulation by the Federal Aviation Administration is one of the signs that the government starts to accept drones. 

The Use of Drones 

A drone is not only a gaming device but it is also a supportive device. Nowadays, policies even use drones for 911 calls or emergency calls. One of the incredible usages is when California officers known as Chula Vista run after a suspect using a drone. At that time, the police used a drone to monitor a man with a gun and a bag of heroin. The drone caught everything through its camera. At the same time, the police watched the live video and found the right time to take the man down. 

Drones help the Chula Vista police department a lot. Nowadays, this department accepts up to 15 emergency calls a day and even has a specific program known as Drone as First Responder. The incredible thing is the program achieves over 4.100 flights within two years. The good news came in July in which this department approved to fly Skydio drones in emergencies with conditions. Due to this new regulation, California becomes the first area that adopts this type of program. 

Nowadays, two cities in California and one in Georgia adopt this program to help its police department. California is not the first area that uses a drone to help the police department. Hawaii and New York have done the same thing for years in a simpler way. The officers in Hawaii and New York bring a drone in the trunk of a patrol car. Then, they will fly the drone over the park or inside a building.  

The Rules to Fly Drones 

Indeed, people can’t fly drones freely without rules. The government still gives some rules to fly a drone. The Chula Vista police department in California even can fly their drones with conditions. For example, they can fly this device as long as it is not higher than 50 feet above the nearest obstacles. The drones also have to stay within 1.500 feet and come back as soon as possible. Based on the approval, the police departments can cut their budget. Drones are a more effective option compared to the use of helicopters and pilots. In the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, drones follow the social distancing guidelines. 

The Benefits of Applying the Latest Drone Technology 

Drones are smarter than before. You can’t only fly and see objects from the camera. Nowadays, people can use a drone to support the latest car technology, package delivery, inspection, and reconnaissance. Because of that, police departments don’t have to spend millions of dollars on buying large helicopters or pilots. The departments even don’t need a large police force to operate drones. Then, they can collect and store more videos in a certain area to detect any suspicious activities. 

Drones are even more beneficial in the pandemic season. Police or people don’t have to go outside or meet each other too often. They only need to request something and let a drone deliver it. In the case of the police department, the police only monitor the area by flying a drone. They can stay in a place where there are no other people. The police only move when they see any suspicious things from the camera. Indeed, this method limits the exposure to other people. The police department can send a drone without sending an office anytime they receive an emergency or 911 call. A drone can cover about one-third of a specific area. This device also helps police to handle up to 70% of all emergency calls.   

The Biggest Issue of Using Drones for A Law Enforcement 

The use of drones has a lot of advantages to law enforcement. Indeed, it doesn’t mean that there is no problem at all. A policy analyst explains that the use of drones triggers privacy concerns. The analyst says that a drone allows law enforcement to pass through any area they want and see anyone in the area. It means that people seem don’t have privacy when drones fly around their area. The camera on the drones will record the activities in the area live. Due to the issue, the government needs to make a regulation related to privacy protection. 

The strict regulation makes police can’t fly drones as they want to get clear visions. Another issue is that the area can only use drones from two launch sites. It hopes that the government approves a third launch site. This request helps the local police to cover the entire city or about 52 square miles area.     

Oppo Reno 5 Pro+ 5G is About to Feature Snapdragon 865 SoC, Oppo Reno 5 4G May Come With Snapdragon 720G

It cannot be denied that Oppo is today’s one of the most popular smartphone brands. Quite many people use smartphones produced by Oppo. This brand accentuates great camera specifications as its specialty. Recently, it is reported that Oppo’s new smartphones will be equipped with advanced features. According to a leak from a known tipster, Oppo 5 Pro+ will feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 SoC. The tipster also leaks information that the launching of the smartphone will take a day on December 10th.

It is also alleged that Oppo Reno 5 5G and Oppo Reno 5 Pro 5G will be launched on the same day. The smartphone will also be equipped with a IMX7 series sensor for the main camera at the back, as mentioned by the tipster. Moreover, another tipster also seems to reveal the specifications. Specifications of Oppo Reno 5 Pro+

A post shared by WHYLAB on Weibo mentions that the Oppo Reno  Pro+ has a design that is similar to the design of the Reno 5 Pro. However, there are differences in the camera capabilities. The shared post also says that Oppo will equip the primary rear camera of this smartphone with the world’s first 50-megapixel IMX 7-series. It also mentions that the smartphone will feature a 16-megapixel ultra wide-angle camera and a 12-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom.

As a comparison, the lists of the Reno 5 series mention a 64-megapixel primary sensor. Oppo Reno 5 Pro+ is also allegedly powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 under the hood. On the other hand, the Oppo Reno 5 is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 765 5G SoC. The 5 Pro is expected to feature MediaTek Dimensity 1000+ SoC. As it is said before, the smartphone is tipped to be launched on December 10th. Tipsters have also revealed the price of the Reno 5 series.

Specifications of Oppo Reno 5 4G

The specifications of the alleged Oppo Reno 5 4G have also been revealed by a different tipster. This smartphone is also included in the Oppo Reno 5 series. As tweeted by TheLeaks, the Oppo Reno 5 4G will feature a 6.43-inch full-HD+ AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. It is also said that the smartphone will feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G SoC under the hood as well. Such a feature is the same as the Oppo Reno 4 4G that was launched back in July.

As claimed by the leak, the Oppo Reno 5 4G will also come with 4 rear cameras, including two 2-megapixel sensors, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide shooter, and a 64-megapixel primary camera. It is also said that the smartphone will feature a 44-megapixel front sensor for video calls and selfies. When it comes to a battery, the Oppo Reno 5 4G is expected to come with a 4,310mAh battery with 50W fast charging support. It is also reported that the design of the smartphone will feature a plastic frame and a plastic back.

More About Oppo Reno 5 Series

It is expected that the Oppo Reno 5 will feature a curved screen on each side. For the Oppo Reno 5, the smartphone will come with a 6.43-inch screen. In comparison, the Oppo Reno 5 Pro and Oppo Reno 5 Pro+ will feature a 6.55-inch screen. The Oppo Reno 5 Pro 5G is reported to have a 6.55-inch screen, 4.250 mAh battery, and dimension of 159.7mm x 73.2mm x 7.6mm. And it weighs less than 5 grams. While the dimension of the Oppo Reno 5 is 159.1mm x 73.4mm x 7.9mm and it weighs 180 grams.

In the front part, both Oppo Reno 5 and Oppo Reno 5 Pro use an OLED panel with a 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution. There is also a punch-hole shaped camera selfie with a 32MP resolution placed at the top left corner. It can be ensured that the Oppo Reno 5 series will be launched with Android 11 and powered by a 4.300 mAh battery with Oppo 65W fast charging speed. The Oppo Reno 5 series is said to come with some regular variants, which are Pro and Pro+. Each will come with Snapdragon 765G chipset, Dimensity 1000+, and Snapdragon 865.

For the price, the Oppo Reno 5 variant 12/256GB will be sold at $570.47. While for the Oppo Reno 5 Pro variant 12/256GB will cost $663.17. Are you excited to welcome these smartphones?

The Development of iGenomics, the World’s First DNA Sequencer on iPhone

One of the scientists from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CHSL), Aspyn Palatnick, has successfully developed a tool to analyze the series of cellular genomes. The tool is claimed to be the first in the world and it is currently available on Apple’s app store with the name iGenomics. To operate it, the users only need to install the iPhone with a DNA sequencer cellular device. As a result, you can create your own cellular genetics lab. Yes, it may remind you of the “Tricorder” that appears in Star Trek movies.

iOS devices are chosen for the main media to install and use the app. The main reasons are practicality and mobility. Sure, it is possible to use it on bigger devices like a PC or laptop. However, it sounds less easy. Moreover, the app is intended for those who are in the work fields during pandemics. 

Purposes of the App

The app is developed to complete the device of small DNA sequencing produced by Oxford Nanopore. Palatnick said that because of the sequences that are getting smaller and smaller, there is no technology available to learn about DNA on cellular devices. Currently, there are only some major studies about the DNA. They are the DNA arrangement and analysis that are done in a big server cluster. Those activities also can only be done on a laptop with more complex programs.

Meanwhile, there is still no similar app that can be operated via smaller mobile devices like the iPhone. This is what makes Palatnick become really enthusiastic to create one. Additionally, the users of Smartphones have increased very rapidly in these recent years. The development of the app is expected to ease the users more in learning about and analyzing DNA sequencing.

The same reason is also stated by Schatz. There are many scientists who learn about pandemics and they must fly from one place to another surrounded by high risks for the sake of doing analysis in the remote area. iGenomics is expected to help them by making the genome study more portable, accessible, and affordable.

Functions and Benefits of iGenomics

The users can manage the AirDrop data from one to another. It enables DNA analysis even in a very remote location. You can also do it in an area without any internet access. So, it is not exaggerating if iGenomics later can also be used by astronauts in outer space.

Interestingly, there are indeed so many interests in DNA sequencing in space. Palatnick said that he tries to see whether there is a way so that they can get iGenomics there. So many people have been interested in doing this. it is proof of the impossibility to do the same analysis on a conventional computer. Yes, it is impossible to bring your computer or laptop to outer space or other remote areas on the earth. Your smartphone is more possible to be carried anywhere.

Furthermore, in the Gigascience journal, Palatnick and Schatz report that the algorithm of iGenomics can map DNA sequences faster than some virus pathogens including influenza and Zika viruses. The app can also more easily identify important mutations for diagnosis and treatments. To ease the users in using the app, online guides are available currently.

Although the app has not been used widely yet, Schatz dreams about iGenomics to help workers in fields as well as engineers more in the future. In one of his statements, he said that currently, almost all people have professional cameras in their pockets. it should not be too difficult to imagine that some years later, we can bring our own DNA sequencer in our same pockets also, in our smartphones. There will be more opportunities to measure our environments to look for and find pathogens and even do our own diagnoses.

Who is Palatnick?

iGenomics was programmed by Aspyn Palatnick. It is not a short period of time to see the product is perfectly done. Yes, he needs 8 years to complete it and Palatnick started the development in high school when he was still 14 years old.

Palatnick is indeed interested in the world of software aside from his ability in the area of DNA and genome. His ability has improved well as currently, he is no longer a student but a professional software engineer who works on Facebook. It makes him more experienced in developing apps for the iPhone. With support from Prof. Schatz and his laboratory, it seems reasonable if he can develop something incredible like iGenomics.