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Meta is Offering Horizon OS to Competitors

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Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is making bold strides in the virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) space, aiming to establish itself as the Microsoft of headsets. By offering its Horizon OS, initially developed for its Quest headset, to competitors like Lenovo and Asus, Meta is laying the groundwork to dominate the AR/VR market in a manner reminiscent of Microsoft’s dominance in the PC realm.

In a significant move toward openness, Meta has embarked on licensing its operating system for the Quest headset to other hardware manufacturers, commencing with partnerships with Lenovo and Asus. Moreover, Meta is collaborating with Xbox to introduce a limited-run, gaming-focused Quest headset. This strategic expansion could position Meta as a key player in the AR/VR industry.

In line with its commitment to fostering innovation and accessibility, Meta is advocating for increased avenues to explore alternative app stores. The company is amplifying the visibility of its experimental App Lab store and extending invitations to Google to integrate the Play Store into its Horizon OS. Additionally, Meta is developing a spatial framework to facilitate developers in porting their mobile apps seamlessly to Horizon OS.

A pivotal component of Horizon OS is the Horizon social layer, a dynamic 3D platform reminiscent of Roblox blended with The Sims. Despite encountering initial challenges, Meta has diligently enhanced Horizon, recently introducing a web version for a broader user experience. By extending Horizon OS to other hardware manufacturers, Meta aims to expand the reach of its social network, which it plans to monetize through advertising and commerce.

Regarding the business terms of the Horizon OS license, Meta has not disclosed details beyond the social network integration and the requirement for Qualcomm chips. Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, envisions a future where lightweight headsets enhance productivity and entertainment experiences seamlessly. Notably, Zuckerberg is positioning Meta’s Horizon OS as the Android counterpart to Apple’s Vision Pro, underscoring his ambition for Meta to be a more open platform than Apple.

Comparisons to Microsoft’s approach in the early PC market are apt, with Meta leveraging its OS to drive widespread adoption and innovation in the AR/VR space. While Microsoft explored VR initiatives with Windows Mixed Reality, it also supported Meta’s Oculus Rift, recognizing the potential for collaboration in the burgeoning VR landscape.

As Meta continues to expand its horizons, the company’s strategic partnerships and open-platform approach signal its ambition to shape the future of AR/VR technology, akin to Microsoft’s transformative role in the PC industry.

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Apple Pencil Pro Unveiled with Standout Features

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Apple enthusiasts and digital artists alike have reason to celebrate as Apple unveils its latest innovation: the Apple Pencil Pro. Packed with a suite of exciting features and upgrades, the Apple Pencil Pro promises to revolutionize the way users interact with their digital creations.

One of the standout features of the Apple Pencil Pro is its new barrel sensor, which enables users to activate a tool panel with a simple squeeze of the pen. This intuitive gesture, reminiscent of controlling AirPods, allows for seamless navigation between tools, line weights, and colors, enhancing the creative workflow.

Gone are the days of wielding a static plastic stylus; the Apple Pencil Pro boasts unparalleled responsiveness thanks to the integration of haptic feedback. This tactile feedback system provides users with a subtle tap when executing commands, further immersing them in the creative process.

Additionally, the inclusion of a gyroscope empowers users to precisely control shaped pen and brush tools by simply rotating the Apple Pencil Pro. This newfound level of precision opens doors to a realm of possibilities, from intricate drawings to detailed 3D models.

In a nod to convenience and peace of mind, the Apple Pencil Pro is the first of its kind to support the Find My app, enabling users to locate their misplaced accessory with ease. This feature, coupled with the device’s magnetic charging and storage capabilities, ensures that users can keep track of their Apple Pencil Pro at all times.

During the announcement, James Cuda, CEO of the popular art tool Procreate, highlighted the seamless integration of the Apple Pencil Pro with Procreate software. From layer management to advanced brush control, the Apple Pencil Pro enhances the creative experience for both novice and seasoned digital artists.

However, the Apple Pencil Pro’s compatibility is limited to the latest M2 iPad Air and M4 iPad Pro models, leaving some users with older devices out of the loop. Despite this limitation, the impressive array of features and enhancements may tempt existing users to consider upgrading to the latest iPad models.

With a retail price of $129 in the United States, the Apple Pencil Pro may seem steep compared to its predecessors. Nevertheless, the device’s status as a ‘Pro’ accessory, coupled with its myriad of innovative features, justifies its position as a premium offering in Apple’s product lineup.

In conclusion, the Apple Pencil Pro sets a new standard for digital creativity, empowering users to unleash their artistic potential with unprecedented precision and convenience. Whether you’re a professional illustrator or a hobbyist, the Apple Pencil Pro is poised to elevate your creative endeavors to new heights.

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Meta Unveils Exciting New Features for Instagram Stories, Including Secret Sharing and Creative Tools

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Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has unveiled a groundbreaking feature that promises to revolutionize the way users interact with Stories on the popular social media platform. This latest innovation, dubbed “Reveal,” empowers users to share secret Stories that can only be unlocked by sending a direct message (DM) to the poster.

Alongside this game-changing addition, Instagram is rolling out several other exciting features aimed at enhancing user engagement and creativity. Among these is the “Add Yours Music” sticker, which enables users to share songs that reflect their current mood while encouraging their followers to do the same. Building upon the success of the “Add yours” sticker, this new functionality fosters a deeper sense of connection and musical expression within the Instagram community.

Furthermore, users will now have access to the “Frames” feature, which transforms photos into virtual Polaroids that can be revealed by shaking the phone or clicking a button. This nostalgic twist on traditional Stories offers a unique way for users to showcase cherished memories while adding a touch of retro charm.

Another exciting addition is the “Cutouts” feature, allowing users to transform any part of a video or photo from their camera roll into a custom sticker for their Stories or Reels. Similar to Apple’s image cutout tool, this feature empowers users to personalize their content and express themselves in new and creative ways.

These enhancements come at a pivotal time for Instagram, as the platform recently announced changes to its ranking systems aimed at promoting original content from smaller creators. By prioritizing authenticity and creativity, Instagram seeks to foster a more inclusive and vibrant community where users can share their unique perspectives and stories.

In summary, Meta’s latest updates to Instagram represent a significant step forward in the evolution of social media storytelling. With features like “Reveal,” “Add Yours Music,” “Frames,” and “Cutouts,” users now have more tools than ever to engage, express themselves, and connect with others in meaningful ways on the platform.

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Oukitel WP35 set to launch with a 11,000 mAh Battery

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Setting a new standard in rugged smartphone technology, Oukitel unveils the WP35, touted as the world’s thinnest 5G rugged smartphone equipped with a colossal 11,000 mAh battery. Unlike its predecessors, the WP35 seamlessly blends durability with style and performance, making it a versatile companion for adventurers and professionals alike.

Traditionally, rugged phones have been synonymous with bulky, uninspiring designs and mediocre specifications. However, Oukitel breaks this stereotype with the WP35, offering a sleek and robust device that packs a punch in both looks and capabilities.

Designed to excel in challenging environments, the WP35 boasts a sleek profile measuring just 14.9 mm thick, making it remarkably slim for a rugged device. Despite its slender build, it doesn’t compromise on durability, featuring military-grade drop resistance and impressive IP68 and IP69K waterproof ratings.

Under the hood, the WP35 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC, delivering unparalleled performance and exceptional battery life. With configurations ranging from 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage to a staggering 24 GB RAM and 2 TB storage, users can expect seamless multitasking and ample space for data storage.

The WP35’s 6.6-inch 2.4K display provides an immersive viewing experience with crystal-clear visuals and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection for added durability. Whether navigating rugged terrain or capturing breathtaking moments, the display ensures optimal clarity and resilience.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the WP35’s triple camera setup, featuring a 64 MP Sony IMX682 sensor for stunning high-resolution images. Additionally, an 8 MP IR Night Vision camera and a 32 MP selfie camera enhance the device’s imaging capabilities, allowing users to capture exceptional photos in any lighting condition.

Launching on May 13, the Oukitel WP35 will be available for purchase on AliExpress and the official Oukitel Store, with prices starting from US$296.99. With its unparalleled combination of ruggedness, performance, and style, the WP35 sets a new benchmark for rugged smartphones, catering to the needs of modern adventurers and professionals alike.

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