If you take a look at the personal audio scene these days, you’ll find it filled with true wireless earbuds. There’s no denying the convenience of true wireless earbuds, from their form factor to their wireless connectivity. But more often than not, the sound from these earbuds leaves us wanting more. Suppose you’re looking for something that takes you into audiophile territory. In that case, you might be interested in a new company called Dark Matter Audio Labs (DMA Labs), which is kicking in the door to the market with four IEMs under its belt.
Four models to choose from
DMA Labs is wasting no time at launch. The company has announced four models that will be part of its initial offerings. This includes the entry-level DM2H IEMs. These pair of IEMs feature a hybrid dual-driver design consisting of a single dynamic driver and one balanced armature (BA) driver.
If you prefer IEMs with pure BA drivers, then the DMA3 is a good start. It has three BA drivers in each earpiece. It goes even higher after that with the DMA6 and DMA8, which, as their names suggest, will feature 6 and 8 BA drivers, respectively.
For those unfamiliar, the majority of commercially-ready headphones and earbuds feature the use of dynamic drivers. There’s nothing wrong with dynamic drivers, especially if you favor more bassy sounds. But for audiophiles or listeners who want to enjoy the subtleties and nuances of their music, that’s where BA drivers come in.
BA drivers are known for producing more precise and detailed sound. Their size also allows manufacturers to combine multiple drivers into a single earpiece and tune each to specific sound profiles.
In addition to using BA drivers, DMA Labs have also designed the IEMs to be durable, from the drivers, housing, and cables. They also come with protective carrying cases.
Drawing from experience
It helps if a company is founded by people who have experience and are passionate about their products. DMA Lab has no shortage of that. Tal Kocen and Dave Friesema founded the company. Both founders have decades of experience under their belts in the audio industry.
Kocen has worked as a front-of-house and monitor engineer for touring artists. His experience working with musicians gave him invaluable insight into what music professionals genuinely need regarding IEMs. Friesama has 20 years of experience working in acoustic engineering. He has helped develop various audio technologies for both custom and universal IEMs.
Combined, both Kocen and Friesema have a solid foundation and understanding of audio technology, which should hopefully translate into some exceptional-sounding IEMs.
Pricing & availability
So, if you’re keen on picking up and trying any of DMA Labs’ custom IEMs, the DM2H model is priced at $599. The DMA3 will retail for more at $899. If you have some extra money, the DMA6 could be for you at $1,499. The top-of-the-line model DMA8 will retail for $1,699. All of the company’s IEMs will be available from its website starting 21st January 2025.
Dark Matter Audio Labs unveils new custom IEMs for audiophiles
The best Android apps for sports fans
If you live and breathe football, basketball, soccer, or another sport, you will likely want to remain up to date on the latest news, scores, and signings as they happen. Rather than constantly checking the news, it is smarter to download a handy app designed to keep you updated on the world of sports. If you are unsure about the best options available, here is a handy rundown of the best Android apps for sports fans.
Bet777
The Bet777 Android app will ensure you never miss a moment of an exciting game again, as it features a live match tracker and push notifications to deliver the latest scores to your device. Also, you will have the option to put your knowledge to the test, as you can place a bet on over 25,000 live events from across the world every month. Plus, the app’s detailed sports statistics will help you stay abreast of the latest news, helping you make smarter predictions when discussing an upcoming game with your friends or co-workers.
ESPN
ESPN is a top choice when looking for a dependable sports app, which you can download via Google Play. It will allow you to stream a game live from an Android device, which is ideal if your partner is watching TV, or you don’t want to miss a game when on the go.
You can stay updated on the latest happenings in the NBA, NFL, MLB, or another top sport, allowing you to make more informed decisions when playing in a fantasy league. Also, you can listen to expert commentary, gain a deeper understanding thanks to in-depth match analysis, and watch the video highlights to catch up on the action or replay your favorite moments.
Bleacher Report
If you only want to receive news about your favorite team or players on your Android device, download the Bleacher Report from Google Play. You will skip the noise by creating a personalized feed for one or more of your much-loved teams and players, ensuring you only see news and updates you are interested in each time you click on it.
30 million sports fans have downloaded the app, as it will provide breaking sports news and a detailed analysis. Plus, you can stream interviews and games on your device, meaning you never need to miss your team in action. Once a game is over, you can even participate in your favorite community on the app to discuss a game, the latest news, or a player signing with like-minded sports fans.
Yahoo Sports
There are many reasons why 75 million people have downloaded the Yahoo Sports app. The handy Android app will allow you to dig deeper into the game, as it provides detailed analysis from expert editorial sports writers. For this reason, it is the perfect way to gain more informed opinions on one or more sports.
The app provides news, updates, analysis, and commentary for many sports leagues, such as the NHL, NFL, NBA, Premier League, PGA, F1, boxing, MMA, and more. Plus, you can customize it to deliver the content and updates you prefer to see when staying up to date on your favorite teams.
Sky Sports
If you are looking for an app that allows you to stream your favorite sports, express your opinions, and follow the latest news on your preferred teams or leagues, don’t overlook the Sky Sports app.
It is the perfect way to check on a team’s scores as they are happening or look up upcoming fixtures to ensure you never miss an important game. Plus, it regularly provides interactive polls, helping you express your opinions during a live stream.
Featured image source
Credible iPad Air leak contradicts M4 chip rumor, points to M3
Ryan Haines / Android AuthorityTL;DR
A rumor recently suggested that 2025’s iPad Air would pack Apple’s high-end M4 chipset.
A more credible leak now indicates that the upcoming iPad Air will likely pack the M3 chip.
Apple will likely name its forthcoming budget phone the iPhone SE 4, not the iPhone 16E.
Last week, a Bloomberg report stated that Apple may skip the M3 chip and directly upgrade the iPad Air from M2 to M4. However, a more plausible leak has now contradicted the previous rumor, suggesting that the M4 SoC will remain exclusive to the latest iPad Pro and Mac computers.
Reputable leaker Evan Blass has found official references to some of Apple’s upcoming products, revealing some of their potential names, display sizes, and processors. For starters, the iPad Air will seemingly pack the M3 chip rather than the M4. So, those seeking a tablet fueled by Apple’s latest chip may still need to opt for the highest-end Pro variant. Otherwise, like its predecessor, the iPad Air M3 will likely offer 11-inch and 13-inch variants.Similarly, the shared references suggest that Apple’s budget phone will be called the iPhone SE 4 instead of the iPhone 16E. This indicates that the company may want to maintain a clear distinction between its iPhone lines and not associate its entry-level model with the flagship iPhone 16 series.Beyond that, the image mentions an unreleased iPad 11, suggesting that Apple may launch it with the iPad Air M3 and iPhone SE 4. This isn’t particularly surprising, but it adds more weight to previous leaks.Apple will likely reveal the entry-level and mid-range iPads, along with the next-gen iPhone SE, in March. It remains to be seen whether the company will deliver the announcements via press releases or hold a dedicated media event.
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The European Commission wants Elon Musk to reveal the secrets of the X recommendation algorithm (don’t we all?)
Elon Musk — or his company, X, at least — has been given until mid-February to provide the European Commission with details of how its recommendation algorithm works.
The request is part of a wider investigation by the EC to ensure that X is complying with the Digital Services Act (DSA). Many would be interested to learn something about how the recommendation system of this and other social media platforms works, and the Commission has further demands as well.
See also:
Citing a desire to “make the online environment fair, safe, and democratic for all European citizens”, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, stressed the importance of ensuring X’s compliance with European legislations.
In all, there are three new measures being added to the existing investigatory proceedings into X:
First, the Commission is requesting the company to provide internal documentation on its recommender systems and any recent changes made to it, by 15 February 2025.
In addition, a ‘retention order’ requires the platform to preserve internal documents and information regarding future changes to the design and functioning of its recommender algorithms, for the period between 17 January 2025 and 31 December 2025, unless the Commission’s ongoing investigation is concluded beforehand.
Finally, the Commission issued a request for access to certain of X’s commercial APIs, technical interfaces to its content that allow direct fact-finding on content moderation and virality of accounts.
The latest additions put X under further scrutiny in a probe which has been going on since 2023.
Image credit: L9871456 / Dreamstime.com
MALAYSIAN INTERNATIONAL COCOA FAIR (MICF) 2025 PRE-LAUNCH AND MEDIA SESSION
“MyCocoa Delight: Indulge, Meet & Connect”
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025 will be held for the first time in Sabah from May 24 to May 27, 2025, at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). The pre-launch ceremony was officiated by YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, at the Hilton Hotel, Kota Kinabalu.
YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin and Director General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board, Datuk Dr. Ramle Hj Kasin, together with industry leaders on stage at the Pre-Launch Ceremony of MICF 2025, marking a significant journey towards global recognition of the nation’s cocoa industry.
According to YB Datuk Chan, Sabah was chosen as the location for MICF 2025 due to its critical role in Malaysia’s cocoa industry, contributing 60% of the country’s total cocoa production. He emphasized that MICF 2025 serves as a platform to promote Malaysia’s cocoa internationally, discuss key industry issues, and strengthen global collaboration in the sector.
With the theme “MyCocoa Delight: Indulge, Meet & Connect,” MICF 2025 will feature a variety of activities, including:
Cocoa Product Exhibition: Introducing innovations from local and global producers, including premium and artisanal chocolates.
International Conference: Discussing cocoa processing technology, premium cocoa production, and global market trends.
Business Networking Program: Creating collaboration opportunities for industry players.
Field Visits: Offering participants an understanding of the cocoa value chain.
YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ramle Hj Kasin, Director-General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB), announced the three main components of MICF 2025: Malaysian International Cocoa Conference (MICC), Malaysian International Cocoa Exhibition (MICE), and Malaysian International Cocoa Dinner (MICD). The event is expected to draw over 1,000 conference participants, 25,000 trade and public visitors, and more than 100 exhibitors from around the globe.
YB Datuk Chan also highlighted Malaysia’s potential, particularly Sabah, to reclaim its position as a leading cocoa cultivation hub in Asia. He stated, “Sabah was once a major player in cocoa production, and now, with cocoa prices at a historic high, we have an opportunity to revitalize this industry.”
MICF 2025 not only emphasizes the development of the cocoa sector but also provides an opportunity for tourists to explore the natural beauty of Sabah. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as Mount Kinabalu, pristine islands, and local cultural experiences, making MICF 2025 a unique blend of trade and tourism.
Supported by international organizations like the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) and the Cocoa Association of Asia (CAA), MICF 2025 aims to establish Malaysia as a regional cocoa hub and strengthen the country’s position in the global market.
AI is helping firms feel optmistic in 2025, but lack of skills is not helping
More businesses are optimistic about 2025 compared with 2023Cash, skills shortages and trade wars are all causes for concernThree in four leaders see AI as a top-three priority technologyThree in five (62%) global business leaders are optimistic about their organization’s outlook this year, which is an six percentage point increase over 2023, new research from Capgemini has revealed.In the year ahead, companies are set to continue investing in new projects despite market uncertainty, with exactly half of global organizations set to up their spending, its report found.Despite the initially positive outlook, some key hurdles remain. Thankfully, though, they are many ofthe same hurdles businesses have been facing for several years, which puts them in good stead to overcome them.Business optimism is climbingTop investment areas for 2025 include customer experience, engineering, research and development, innovation, and supply chain transformation, with artificial intelligence set to revolutionize each of these areas.That said, troubling economic conditions continue to restrict the free flow of cash – 56% are planning to reduce costs even further, rather than grow revenue in order to tackle limited funds.The ongoing skills shortage also continues to present its own challenges, with three in five (61%) UK leaders citing tech skills shortages as a competitive barrier, even though they want to increase investments in tech by up to 13% this year.Newer challenges are also bubbling to the surface, with four in five businesses seeking to diversify supply chains in order to reduce their reliance on China amid the US-China trade war that continues to play out – nearly three-quarters are now worried about potential trade tariffs and other measures.Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!“As we look to 2025, business leaders are navigating uncertainty with an attitude of confidence and resilience – two qualities that our research shows they are looking to instill in their organizations through technology investment,” noted Capgemini CEO Aiman Ezzat.Looking ahead, three in four execs globally ranked AI in their top three priority technologies for the year ahead, with the tech showing now signs of slowing down.You might also like
Sungrow Hydrogen Won The Largest Supply Contract For The 320MW Green Ammonia Project In Oman!
HEFEI, China, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On January 18th, Sungrow Hydrogen signed supply agreement with ACME Group and will provide water electrolysis hydrogen production equipment for the 320MW green ammonia project in Oman. It also marks the official start of the cooperation between ACME Group and Sungrow Hydrogen in the Middle East.
Signing ceremony between ACME Group and Sungrow Hydrogen
According to the agreement, Sungrow Hydrogen will provide multiple sets of 1000Nm³/h ALK hydrogen production equipment and flexible green hydrogen production solutions for the project. The delivery will be completed within 2025.
The project is the core part of ACME’s green energy strategy in the Middle East is anticipated to begin operations in 2026. Upon commencement, the initial capacity for green ammonia production will be 300 tonnes per day. Undoubtedly, it has the potential to greatly strengthen Oman’s position in the global green hydrogen industry in the future.
Sungrow Hydrogen’s competitiveness in the global green hydrogen industry is on the rise. In 2024, its electrolyzer products were set to receive prestigious certifications from CE and TÜV and its 20MW Water Electrolysis Hydrogen Production Empirical Platform (the largest one worldwide) has been granted with Laboratory Accreditation Certificate by China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment (CNAS). Additionally, Plant No.2 of the Sungrow Hydrogen Intelligent Manufacturing Centre has recently become operational. This facility features China’s first automated assembly line for ALK electrolyzers, which is expected to boost production efficiency by 60%. As a result, Sungrow Hydrogen’s annual production capacity has now increased to 3GW.
With advanced technology and efficient service, Sungrow Hydrogen actively participates in multiple large-scale integrated green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol demonstration projects worldwide. In the future, Sungrow Hydrogen will continue to collaborate with global partners to jointly advance the development of green hydrogen projects, powering up the global green hydrogen industry.
OPPO teases Find N5’s unreal thinness & unexpected water resistance
The OPPO Find N5 will become the world’s thinnest foldable, as per OPPO’s CEO. Its thinness appeared online before, and now the chief of OPPO Find series, Zhou Yibao, has decided to add more fuel to the fire. He shared images that tease the Find N5’s unreal thinness, while an unexpected water rating has also been reaveled.
The OPPO Find N5 will offer unreal thinness and unexpected water resistance rating
If you check out the four images in the gallery below, you’ll see what we’re dealing with. The phone, in its unfolded form, is stacked next to two coins, four credit cards, and an iPhone. Needless to say, it will be immensely thin.
The coins and credit cards are very revealing, but the fact that this phone will essentially be half the thickness of the iPhone (we’re presuming that the iPhone 16 Pro or Pro Max are used here), is truly stunning.
If we do some math, that puts its thickness when unfolded at 3.5-4mm. As a reminder, the HONOR Magic V3 is the thinnest book-style foldable these days, it’s 4.35mm thick when unfolded. The OPPO Find N3 aka OnePlus Open, is 5.8mm thick when unfolded. So this will be quite the difference.
All of this points to true thinness when folded too
Considering how thin the phone will be when unfolded, it can’t exactly be thick when folded either, can it? That phone will definitely feel like a regular slab phone in the hand when folded.
Another detail that Yibao revealed is the phone’s water rating. As a reminder, the OPPO Find N3 aka OnePlus Open offered only IPX4 rating for splash resistance. Well, the OPPO Find N5 will arrive with an IPX8 and IPX9 certification.
In other words, that means that this phone will become the only foldable to offer protection against high temperature and pressure water jets. Needless to say, that’s quite surprising, but certainly a welcomed addition.
The OPPO Find N5 will become official next month, though we still don’t know the exact date.
Why IPads Stand Out | Premium Build, Powerful Processors & More
Tablets have become indispensable for work, entertainment, and creativity, offering versatility in a portable package. Among the myriad of options available, Apple’s iPads consistently lead the market, renowned for their premium design, seamless performance, and robust ecosystem. iPads remain a favorite for their unmatched reliability and long-term value. Here are five key reasons why iPads stand out in the crowded tablet market.
Why iPads stand out?
1. Premium Build Quality
One of the key reasons why iPads stand out is their premium build quality. Apple ensures every iPad, from the base model to the high-end iPad Pro, features a sleek aluminum body that feels both sturdy and luxurious. Unlike most Android tablets, where premium materials are reserved for flagship models, Apple maintains this quality across its entire lineup. This consistency in design and build is a major factor for Apple’s reign in the tablet market.
2. Regular and Long-Term Software Updates
Another reason why iPads stand out is Apple’s commitment to regular and long-term software updates. These updates not only keep the devices secure but also introduce new features that enhance the user experience. While Android tablets often struggle with short-lived update cycles, Apple provides years of reliable support, ensuring that even older iPads remain functional and up-to-date. This long-term support is a crucial aspect of why iPads stand out among competitors.
3. Seamless Ecosystem Integration
The seamless integration within Apple’s ecosystem is a significant factor on why people favor ipads. Features like Handoff, AirDrop, and Universal Control make multitasking across Apple devices effortless. Whether you’re transferring files, continuing tasks, or using the same peripherals across devices, iPads work flawlessly with iPhones, Macs, and Apple Watches. While Android has made progress in cross-device connectivity, Apple’s ecosystem remains a prime example of why iPads stand out.
4. Top-Tier Performance
Performance is yet another reason why iPads stand out in the tablet market. Apple’s custom A-series and M-series processors deliver exceptional speed and efficiency. Whether you need a tablet for everyday tasks, gaming, or professional work like video editing, there’s an iPad to suit your needs. This powerful performance ensures why iPads stand out when compared to other tablets, many of which lack the same level of hardware optimization.
5. Better Resale Value
The resale value of iPads is a testament to why iPads stand out as a long-term investment. Thanks to their premium build, regular software updates, and Apple’s brand reputation, iPads retain their value far better than most Android tablets. Selling a well-maintained iPad can significantly offset the cost of upgrading, which is another reason why iPads stand out for budget-conscious users looking for a durable and reliable device.
Conclusion
From premium build quality to top-tier performance, it’s easy to see why iPads stand out in the tablet market. Their seamless integration within Apple’s ecosystem, years of software support, and better resale value make them a preferred choice for users worldwide. While Android tablets are catching up in certain areas, the unmatched reliability, quality, and longevity of iPads consistently show why iPads stand out as the top option for both casual and professional users alike.
iOS 19 leak shows off visionOS-inspired Camera app redesign
TL;DR
According to a YouTuber, iOS 19 will overhaul the Camera app by adopting glassy UI elements resembling visionOS.
He also suggests that the design language could extend to other parts of the system, such as the home screen and other first-party apps.
Apple will likely unveil iOS 19 during WWDC25 in June and release the OS update to all users in September.
Last year, a rumor stated that iOS 18 would overhaul the built-in Camera app and introduce a visionOS-like design. That did not materialize, though. A different source is now making a similar claim, declaring that the Apple Camera app on iOS 19 would adopt the alleged translucent UI.
YouTube channel Front Page Tech claims to have viewed a verified video of the never-before-seen iOS 19, showcasing a completely redesigned Camera app. The new look mirrors visionOS, featuring glassy buttons and round icons. While the YouTuber hasn’t shared the leaked video itself, he allegedly created a comparable mockup based on the real deal.Beyond the revamped Camera app, Front Page Tech suggests that the translucent user interface could expand to more parts of iOS 19, including the home screen and other Apple applications. However, such a significant change is unlikely to occur through a single OS update, as credible reports indicate that Apple is already struggling to develop announced features on time.iOS 19 beta will likely debut to registered developers during WWDC25 in June. If Apple sticks to its release schedule, users with compatible iPhone models can expect the public launch towards mid-September. Besides the questionable Camera leak, iOS 19 is rumored to introduce more Apple Intelligence features. These could include a smarter Siri that can handle more complex queries like ChatGPT.
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