Tech News Roundup: Major Updates from Xiaomi, Apple, Samsung, and More

Tech News Roundup: Major Updates from Xiaomi, Apple, Samsung, and MoreSunday, November 17th, 2024 saw a flurry of significant news in the tech world. This article provides a detailed overview of these key events, covering various sectors including smartphones, chip technology, autonomous driving, and cybersecurity

Tech News Roundup: Major Updates from Xiaomi, Apple, Samsung, and More

Sunday, November 17th, 2024 saw a flurry of significant news in the tech world. This article provides a detailed overview of these key events, covering various sectors including smartphones, chip technology, autonomous driving, and cybersecurity.

1. Redmi to Debut MediaTek Dimensity 8400 Chip

Digital blogger @Zhihui Pikachu revealed that MediaTek's latest mid-range chip, the Dimensity 8400, will be exclusively launched by Redmi. This announcement is sure to generate significant interest among smartphone users, with anticipation building for both the Dimensity 8400's performance and the specifications of the upcoming Redmi device. This signifies MediaTek's continued push into the mid-range chip market, intensifying its competition with Qualcomm. Redmi's choice to debut the chip underscores its strategy to maintain its lead in the value-for-money market, suggesting a new competitive landscape for mid-range smartphones and promising more cost-effective, high-performance options for consumers. Specific chip parameters and the release date of the new Redmi phone are yet to be announced, making future updates highly anticipated.

2. Apple Declares iPhone XS Max and iPhone 6s Plus "Obsolete"

Tech media outlet MacRumors reports that Apple has added several older iPhones and Apple Watches to its "obsolete" or "vintage" product list, including the iPhone XS Max and iPhone 6s Plus. This means Apple will no longer provide repair services or parts support for these devices. This is significant news for users still using these models, prompting them to back up their data and consider upgrading. The move reflects the rapid pace of technological updates and Apple's strategy of optimizing and adjusting its product line. While these models have been discontinued for years, a substantial number of users still rely on them, and Apple's action might accelerate the migration to newer iPhones.

3. Samsung's Tri-Foldable Phone Leaked: Potential 2025 Release

Korean media outlet ETNews reports that Samsung is developing a tri-foldable phone with an inward dual-folding design. The unfolded screen will reportedly measure 10 inches, offering both single-screen and triple-screen usage options, with an anticipated release in 2025. This represents a bold venture for Samsung in the foldable phone market and signifies the further development and maturation of foldable screen technology. The large 10-inch screen promises a more immersive user experience, while the dual usage modes offer greater choice and flexibility. Whether Samsung can stand out in the fiercely competitive foldable phone market with this device remains to be seen.

4. Xiaomi's Chen Bo: NAS is a New Professional Category; Patience Requested

Chen Bo, general manager of Xiaomi's ecosystem, stated that Network-Attached Storage (NAS) represents a new professional category, and Xiaomi is developing a home storage product tailored for MiJia users. The team is currently defining the product and conducting core technology pre-research, aiming to create the ideal home storage solution for Xiaomi MiJia users. This demonstrates Xiaomi's proactive expansion of its smart home ecosystem and its attention to user needs for home storage. The development of NAS products requires time and technological accumulation, and Chen Bo's call for patience reflects Xiaomi's commitment to product quality and user experience.

5. Lei Jun: Xiaomi's Elite Driving Training to Open to Users

Lei Jun announced that Xiaomi's elite driving training program will gradually open to users, beginning with early adopters of the SU7 Ultra, with recruitment starting in December. Meanwhile, Xiaomi's city navigation assistance system has accumulated over 80 million kilometers of driving data and commenced targeted internal testing of end-to-end intelligent driving on November 16th, with a pioneer version rollout planned for the end of December. This showcases Xiaomi's progress in autonomous driving technology and its commitment to its application. Xiaomi's intelligent driving system aims to provide users with a more convenient and safer driving experience, further enhancing the competitiveness of Xiaomi automobiles.

6. Third-Party Case Maker Teases "Huawei New Friend" Case: Large Camera Module Cutout, Rounded Corners

Manufacturer PITAKA teased a phone case for a "Huawei New Friend" on Xiaohongshu (a Chinese social media platform), showcasing a large camera module cutout and rounded corners, hinting at the potential release of the Huawei Mate70 or another new model. This has sparked speculation and anticipation for a new Huawei phone. The large camera cutout suggests a high-pixel camera system, while the rounded corners reflect Huawei's design philosophy.

7. TSMC Receives $6.6 Billion in US CHIPS Act Funding

The US Department of Commerce announced that it has awarded $6.6 billion in government subsidies to TSMC's Arizona subsidiary for semiconductor chip production. This is the largest single grant under the CHIPS Act, further bolstering TSMC's chip manufacturing in the US and strengthening America's position in the semiconductor supply chain. This substantial investment reflects the US government's commitment to developing its semiconductor industry and ensuring its chip supply security.

8. Shanghai Clarifies "First Self-Driving Licenses" Misunderstanding

Relevant departments in Shanghai's Pudong New Area clarified that the reported "issuance of the first self-driving licenses" was a misinterpretation. The licenses were actually for low-speed, wheeled unmanned delivery equipment, not passenger vehicles. This prevents public misunderstanding of autonomous driving technology and highlights the government's rigorous approach to information dissemination. The application of unmanned delivery equipment will bring new convenience to city life, but safety and legal regulations must also be considered.

9. Worst Passwords of 2024: "123456" Tops in China

Cybersecurity company NordPass released a report showing that "123456" was the worst password in China in 2024, with "111222tianya" ranking tenth. This serves as a reminder of the importance of strong passwords and increased cybersecurity awareness. Simple passwords are easily cracked, leading to personal information leaks and financial losses. Users should choose complex and unique passwords and change them regularly to protect their online security.

10. Chery Chairman Yin Tongyue: Willing to Sacrifice Chery Production Capacity to Ensure Zhijie Delivery

Chery Chairman Yin Tongyue stated that he will resolutely cooperate with Huawei to ensure the delivery of the Zhijie R7, even if it means sacrificing Chery's production capacity. This demonstrates Chery's commitment to the Zhijie R7 and its collaboration with Huawei, showcasing its determination in the new energy vehicle sector. The delivery of the Zhijie R7 will directly impact Chery's competitiveness in the new energy vehicle market, and Yin Tongyue's statement reflects Chery's confidence in market competition.

11. Musk on Zuckerberg "Cage Match": "Anytime, Anywhere, Any Rules"

Responding to questions about a potential "cage match" with Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk stated he's ready "anytime, anywhere, any rules." This renewed public interest and anticipation for the potential "fight of the century." While the match remains unconfirmed, Musk's response adds uncertainty and provides some entertainment to the tech world.

In conclusion, this week saw a whirlwind of activity in the tech world, from new smartphone releases and autonomous driving advancements to cybersecurity concerns and international collaborations. These events reflect the ever-evolving nature of the tech industry and their profound impact on our lives.