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Apple Retires MacBook Pro with Touch Bar: Vintage Models Left in the Dust

UNITED STATES: Apple has officially bid farewell to the era of MacBook Pro models equipped with the controversial Touch Bar. The technology giant recently added the 2016 MacBook Pro models to its vintage product list, marking the end of an era for this particular innovation.

This move implies that users of these devices will no longer receive official support or repairs from Apple, leaving them with the alternative of seeking third-party repair solutions.

The Touch Bar, introduced in 2016, was initially touted as a revolutionary feature that would redefine user interaction with laptops. However, Apple’s decision to retire the Touch Bar hints at its inability to capture the imagination of users and developers.

Subsequent MacBook Pro models reverted to traditional function keys, signalling a shift in the company’s approach to laptop design.

While Apple envisioned the Touch Bar as a game-changer, the industry never embraced it as anticipated. Instead, the Windows laptop market saw a surge in dual-screen designs, with brands like Lenovo and Asus leading the charge. 

This shift further marginalized the Touch Bar’s relevance in the evolving landscape of computing.

Moving these vintage MacBook Pro models to the “vintage” category also means that users will no longer be entitled to official repairs at Apple Stores or authorized service centres.

Those who wish to keep their devices running may have to turn to third-party repair centres, albeit at their own risk.

Apple’s practice of categorizing products as “vintage” provides users with crucial information to make informed decisions about whether to continue using their devices or upgrade to newer models. 

This transparency is particularly important for Apple’s dedicated Mac user base, which values ecosystem continuity.

In a similar vein, Apple has recently retired other products, including the iPad Mini, iPod, older MacBooks, and iPhones, as it continues to evolve its product lineup. 

Even the first-generation Apple Watch has been removed from Apple’s official offerings as the company continually shapes the future of consumer technology.

As Apple closes the chapter on the Touch Bar, users are left to ponder the ever-changing landscape of innovation and the direction technology will take in the years to come.

Also Read: Apple’s September Spectacle; Will Launch iPhone 15 and iOS 17 at Cupertino Event

Max Verstappen Makes History with 10th Consecutive Victory at Italian Grand Prix

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ITALY: Max Verstappen clinched his 10th consecutive victory at the Italian Grand Prix, breaking a long-standing record and dashing the hopes of Ferrari’s Tifosi. In a thrilling race that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Red Bull driver showcased his dominance and cemented his status as the reigning world champion.

Max Verstappen’s journey to victory was not without its challenges. He started the race behind pole-sitter Carlos Sainz, and for the first 15 laps, he relentlessly pursued the Ferrari driver, making several attempts to overtake. 

The tension on the track was palpable as Max Verstappen finally made his move through the Della Roggia chicane, securing the lead and setting the stage for his historic win.

The race witnessed some intense battles, with Verstappen’s teammate Sergio Perez making a late surge to claim the second spot on the podium, completing a Red Bull 1-2 finish. Sainz, despite a spirited performance, had to settle for third place after a late-race skirmish with his fellow Ferrari driver, Charles Leclerc.

The Italian Grand Prix was not without its share of drama, with only 19 drivers lining up on the grid due to Yuki Tsunoda’s early exit with an “engine failure.” A series of formation laps preceded the main event, creating anticipation among fans.

Max Verstappen’s victory was not just another triumph; it marked a significant milestone in Formula 1 history. With his 10th consecutive win, he surpassed the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who had managed nine wins in a row. 

As the dust settled on Monza, Verstappen basked in the glory of his remarkable achievement, while Red Bull celebrated their continued dominance in the sport. The Formula 1 world now eagerly awaits the next chapter in this thrilling season, wondering if anyone can halt Max Verstappen’s relentless march to another title win.

Also Read: Max Verstappen Triumphs in Rain-Drenched Dutch Grand Prix, Gasly Grabs Unexpected Podium

SpaceX Breaks Records with 62nd Orbital Mission in 2023, Launches 21 Starlink Satellites

UNITED STATES: SpaceX, the pioneering space exploration company led by Elon Musk, achieved a historic milestone on the night of September 3, 2023, as it launched its 62nd orbital mission of the year. The mission, which set a new record for the most flights in a single year, involved sending 21 Starlink internet satellites into orbit atop a Falcon 9 rocket. 

The launch took place from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at precisely 10:47 p.m. EDT, marking another triumph for SpaceX’s relentless pursuit of space exploration and satellite deployment.

The previous record for the most missions in a year was established in 2022, but SpaceX’s remarkable achievement in 2023 eclipsed that mark, highlighting the company’s commitment to advancing space technology and connectivity services. 

SpaceX has been at the forefront of the satellite internet revolution through its Starlink constellation, providing internet access to underserved and remote areas around the world.

The launch was executed flawlessly, with the Falcon 9’s first stage returning to Earth as planned and touching down on the drone ship “Just Read the Instructions” in the Atlantic Ocean.

Impressively, this marked the 10th successful launch and landing for this particular booster, underscoring SpaceX’s dedication to reusability and sustainability in spaceflight.

The Falcon 9’s upper stage continued its journey, scheduled to deploy the 21 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit approximately 65 minutes after liftoff. This deployment will contribute to the expansion of Starlink’s global internet coverage, which has already made significant strides in connecting communities worldwide.

Additionally, the day held another momentous event for SpaceX as it brought home the four astronauts of the Crew-6 mission, who had been residing at the International Space Station (ISS) since March. 

The Crew Dragon capsule, named Endeavour, successfully departed the ISS, and its scheduled splashdown in the ocean off the Florida coast is expected to occur around 12:17 a.m. EDT.

SpaceX’s achievements in 2023 continue to demonstrate its leadership in space exploration, satellite technology, and human spaceflight, reinforcing the company’s vision of making life multi-planetary and advancing connectivity solutions for a rapidly evolving world.

Also Read: India’s Aditya-L1 Soars to the Sun, Shines Bright in Space Endeavors

OnePlus Unveils OxygenOS 14 Launch Date, Promises Intelligent and Innovative Experience for Users

CHINA: Global Tech Sensation OnePlus has set the tech world abuzz with its latest announcement. The Chinese tech giant has officially revealed that its much-anticipated operating system, OxygenOS 14, will be unveiled on the global stage on September 25, marking a significant milestone in OnePlus history.

OnePlus enthusiasts and Android aficionados are eagerly awaiting the release of OxygenOS 14, which will be among the first operating systems based on Android 14. The brand has promised a range of innovative features aimed at delivering an unparalleled user experience.

Kinder Liu, President and COO of OnePlus, expressed the company’s commitment to providing users with a seamless and intelligent operating system. Liu declared, “Powered by OnePlus’ latest innovations, OxygenOS 14 will be the most intelligent and intuitive software product in OnePlus history.”

A highlight of the OxygenOS 14 launch is the introduction of the ‘Trinity Engine’ performance platform, designed to bridge the gap between hardware and software. This groundbreaking technology aims to tackle industry-wide challenges related to power efficiency, multitasking, and sustained performance. 

The Trinity Engine incorporates six pioneering technologies, including CPU Vitalization, RAM Vitalization, ROM Vitalization, HyperBoost, HyperTouch, and HyperRendering. 

When combined, these advancements promise a lightning-fast and smooth user experience, particularly in scenarios such as multitasking and intensive mobile gaming.

While the specific OnePlus devices slated to receive the OxygenOS update remain undisclosed, it is widely speculated that the OnePlus 11, the brand’s latest flagship, will be among the first to benefit from this groundbreaking operating system.

In parallel, OnePlus is preparing to make its entry into the foldable smartphone market with the OnePlus Open. This foldable device is generating considerable excitement and is set to rival Samsung’s foldable lineup. 

However, OnePlus is charting a distinct path in terms of pricing, with leaked reports suggesting that the OnePlus Open could be available for under Rs 1.2 lakh, making it significantly more affordable than Samsung’s recently introduced Galaxy Z Fold 5, which comes with a higher price tag. 

As foldable phones become increasingly accessible, OnePlus appears poised to challenge the competition by offering a compelling mix of innovation and affordability.

Also Read: Google Bids Farewell to Pixel Pass; Axes All-in-One Subscription Service for Pixel Phones

Motorola Unveils Moto G84 5G: A 5G Powerhouse at Just Rs 19,999

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INDIA: Motorola has made a splash in the Indian smartphone market with the launch of its latest offering, the Moto G84 5G. Packed with top-notch features and an attractive price tag, this smartphone is set to redefine the mid-range segment.

The Moto G84 5G marks the successor to the popular Moto G82 5G, which made waves in 2022. One of its standout features is the stunning 6.55-inch full HD+ pOLED screen, boasting a silky smooth 120Hz refresh rate and an impressive peak brightness of 1300 nits. This ensures an immersive and vibrant visual experience for users.

The Snapdragon 695 5G processor, which powers the Moto G84 5G, ensures quick performance and seamless multitasking. With a generous 12GB of RAM and a capacious 256GB of storage, you won’t find yourself running out of memory anytime soon. Motorola also offers a premium touch with a vegan leather finish, adding a touch of sophistication.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the dual rear camera setup featuring a 50MP main sensor and an 8MP ultrawide sensor, while the 16MP front-facing camera captures stunning selfies. Motorola has also equipped the phone with Dolby Atmos speakers, delivering an unparalleled audio experience through Moto Spatial audio.

Running on Android 13, the Moto G84 5G is powered by a robust 5,000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging, ensuring you stay connected all day. Plus, it comes with an in-display fingerprint sensor and boasts dust- and water-resistant construction for added durability.

Starting from noon on September 8, the Moto G84 5G will be available for purchase on Motorola. in and Flipkart. For a limited time, ICICI Bank credit cardholders can enjoy an exclusive discount of Rs 1,000, making the smartphone an irresistible steal at just Rs 18,999.

With its impressive specifications, sleek design, and unbeatable pricing, the Moto G84 5G is set to disrupt the Indian smartphone market. Motorola has once again delivered a winning combination of value and performance, making it a must-have for tech enthusiasts and budget-conscious consumers alike.

Also Read: Motorola Unveils Upgraded Moto E13: 128GB Storage Variant Hits Shelves for Rs 8,999

Hamilton Questions Verstappen’s Competition at Red Bull as Dutchman Nears Third Title

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UNITED KINGDOM: Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, has raised concerns about the level of competition within Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Racing team, suggesting that Verstappen has not faced a true challenge from his teammates during his career with the team.

As the 2023 F1 season unfolds, Max Verstappen seems well on his way to securing his third consecutive championship, currently holding a commanding 138-point lead over his Red Bull teammate, Sergio Perez, with nine races remaining.

The possibility of Verstappen claiming a historic 10th consecutive victory looms large at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, potentially breaking the record for the most consecutive wins by a single driver.

Hamilton, a motorsport legend who recently extended his contract with Mercedes until the end of the 2025 season, has faced stiff competition throughout his illustrious career. He has partnered with drivers of the calibre of Fernando Alonso, Nico Rosberg, Jenson Button, and George Russell, all of whom have held the title of World Champion at some point.

Hamilton assesses that Verstappen’s dominance, while impressive, is not substantially different from other drivers’ achievements in the past. Hamilton went on to praise the overall strength of the Red Bull team, acknowledging their outstanding performance on all fronts.

Hamilton emphasized that his Red Bull counterparts, including Daniel Ricciardo, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and Sergio Perez, do not match the quality of his previous teammates in terms of strength and consistency.

While Lewis Hamilton remains the most successful driver in F1 history, his last win dates back to the penultimate round of the 2021 season in Saudi Arabia.

Verstappen’s relentless dominance in 2023 has ignited the debate over the level of competition within the Red Bull Racing team, with fans and experts eager to see if anyone can truly challenge the Dutchman’s supremacy in the seasons to come.

Also Read: Max Verstappen Triumphs in Rain-Drenched Dutch Grand Prix, Gasly Grabs Unexpected Podium

Lenovo Unveils Trio of Gaming Devices, Including Legion Go

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INDIA: Lenovo, a prominent name in the tech industry, has announced its latest foray into the world of gaming with the introduction of three exciting new devices aimed at catering to the needs of gamers seeking versatile and top-notch gaming experiences. 

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Lenovo Legion Go, a groundbreaking Windows gaming handheld. This bold move represents Lenovo’s dedication to expanding its Legion ecosystem and providing gamers with innovative options to enhance their gaming adventures.

The Lenovo Legion Go stands out with its impressive features. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z1 Series processor and an 8.8-inch QHD+ 16:10 Lenovo PureSight gaming display, it offers users the flexibility to adjust resolutions and refresh rates according to their preferences and the game they’re playing. 

With up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, the Legion Go promises enhanced gaming performance and faster load times. The inclusion of a 49.2Wh battery and Super Rapid Charge technology ensures extended gaming sessions without frustrating interruptions. Lenovo’s Coldfront thermal technology and innovative controllers contribute to the overall appeal of this device.

One of the standout features of the Lenovo Legion Go is its detachable Legion TrueStrike controllers. These controllers boast hall effect joysticks, an integrated trackpad, a large D-pad, an angled mouse wheel, and 10 mappable buttons, all adorned with eye-catching RGB lighting that indicates fan mode and controller pairing status. 

Additionally, the device features Legion Space, a platform designed to simplify access to various game platforms and stores, offering users convenience and customization options.

The Lenovo Legion Go is set to hit the market in November 2023, with a starting price of €799 (~Rs 72,000). Gamers eagerly awaiting this unique gaming handheld can anticipate fierce competition in the form of the Asus ROG Ally.

Accompanying the Legion Go are two more gaming accessories from Lenovo, Legion Glasses and Legion E510 7.1 RGB Gaming In-Ear Headphones, providing gamers with even more options to enhance their gaming experiences. 

The Legion Glasses deliver FHD resolution for each eye and a 60Hz refresh rate for an immersive viewing experience. Meanwhile, the Legion E510 headphones offer balanced audio with powerful bass and stylish RGB lighting.

Gaming enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the expected availability of these accessories in October 2023, with the Legion Glasses starting at €499 (~Rs 45,000) and the Legion E510 headphones at €49.99 (~Rs 4,500). Lenovo’s commitment to delivering high-quality gaming products continues to make waves in the gaming community.

Also Read: Lenovo Yoga Book 9i Launches in India with Dual OLED Displays, Detachable Keyboard

India’s Aditya-L1 Soars to the Sun, Shines Bright in Space Endeavors

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INDIA: Fresh off its success on the moon, India is now headed for the sun. On September 2, the nation achieved another remarkable milestone by launching its first-ever solar observatory, the Aditya-L1 probe, into the cosmos. This historic event marked a significant leap in India’s space exploration journey, adding a new chapter to its growing list of accomplishments.

The Aditya-L1 probe embarked on its celestial journey atop a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at 2:20 a.m. EDT, 11:50 a.m. local India time. About 63 minutes after liftoff, the PSLV successfully deployed Aditya-L1 into low Earth orbit (LEO), eliciting applause and jubilation in mission control.

This triumph followed India’s recent success with the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which became the first to softly land near the moon’s south pole on August 23. Although the Chandrayaan-3 lander-rover duo is expected to hibernate when the harsh lunar night falls, Aditya-L1’s journey has just begun.

Aditya-L1 will not remain in LEO indefinitely. After undergoing a series of checkouts, it will utilize its onboard propulsion system to journey to Earth-sun Lagrange Point 1 (L1), a gravitationally stable location about 1 million miles from Earth in the direction of the sun.

The mission’s name holds a simple yet profound meaning, with “Aditya” translating to “sun” in Sanskrit. The 3,260-pound observatory is anticipated to reach L1 approximately four months from now, providing continuous views of the sun without any occultation or eclipses.

Once at L1, Aditya-L1 will employ its array of scientific instruments to study the sun’s particles, magnetic fields, photosphere, and atmosphere. This research will aid scientists in unravelling the mysteries of solar activity, including solar flares, coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and the enigmatic coronal heating problem.

In addition to these scientific objectives, Aditya-L1 aims to deepen our understanding of the solar wind, the constant stream of charged particles emitted by the sun. All of this groundbreaking work comes at a surprisingly cost-effective price of 3.8 billion rupees, demonstrating India’s commitment to space exploration and scientific discovery on a budget-friendly scale.

As Aditya-L1 embarks on its journey to unlock the secrets of our closest star, it serves as a shining example of India’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and scientific research, solidifying its position as a formidable player in the global space community.

Also Read: Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram Lander Detects Natural Seismic Activity on Lunar Surface

Krafton Set to Expand Gaming Portfolio and Investment in India

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INDIA: South Korean video game developer Krafton, known for its popular title Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), is gearing up for a significant expansion in the Indian gaming market, with a focus on launching new games and increasing strategic investments in the country.

CEO of Krafton India, Sean Hyunil Sohn, announced exciting developments, including potential game releases shortly. Sohn stated, “We have a few games in our publishing pipeline. I think there could be one or two games we could even launch within this year.”

These forthcoming releases align with the company’s dedication to creating mobile gaming experiences tailored specifically for the Indian audience.

Since March 2021, Krafton has invested $140 million in 11 Indian startups, including NODWIN Gaming, Loco, Pratilipi, and Kuku FM. Additionally, they have recently committed to investing an additional $150 million over the next 2-3 years in India’s gaming ecosystem.

Sohn emphasized that BGMI is more than just a game; it’s a cultural and social experience, and Krafton is committed to building a fan-centric community.

To strengthen their ties with India, Krafton is hosting a friendly India-Korea invitational match, where 8 winning teams from BGIS will compete against 8 Esports teams from South Korea. Furthermore, the company plans to release a documentary chronicling the development of the ‘Indian Faction in Road To Valor: Empires.’

This expansion comes two years after the Indian government banned PUBG, Krafton’s flagship game, citing national security concerns. BGMI was introduced as an exclusive Indian version of PUBG Mobile, developed and published by Krafton. 

Following server location and data security compliance, BGMI was granted a three-month trial approval and returned to both Android and iOS platforms on May 30, marking a significant milestone in the business’ commitment to the Indian gaming community.

Krafton’s continued investment in India’s gaming landscape and its dedication to creating culturally relevant gaming experiences are expected to further cement its presence in the Indian market. Players and fans can anticipate exciting announcements from the company in the lead-up to the Diwali festival.

Also Read: AMD Unveils Radeon RX 7800 XT and 7700 XT GPUs at Gamescom 2023

Lewis Hamilton Inks Historic Mercedes Extension Until 2025, Eyes Further Records

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UNITED KINGDOM: Lewis Hamilton has officially signed a contract extension with Mercedes, ensuring his stay with the Silver Arrows until the conclusion of the 2025 season. This momentous agreement comes after months of speculation and negotiations, as the racing legend’s previous contract had reached its final year during the winter break of 2022.

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion and one of the sport’s most iconic figures, expressed his enthusiasm for the extended partnership. He emphasized his commitment to the team and his determination to secure more victories.

This extension solidifies Hamilton’s status as a Mercedes driver for an unprecedented span, surpassing even the legendary Michael Schumacher’s record for the most seasons spent with a single constructor. 

Lewis Hamilton’s 323 Grand Prix starts to date have all been powered by Mercedes engines, and by the end of 2023, he will equal Schumacher’s 11 seasons with Ferrari, ultimately surpassing that milestone by the close of 2024.

Mercedes also announced the continuation of their partnership with George Russell, who will remain with the team until the end of 2025. Team boss Toto Wolff expressed his delight in retaining both drivers, asserting that they form the strongest pairing on the grid and are pivotal to the team’s future success.

Hamilton’s journey with Mercedes, which began in 2013 when he left McLaren for the Silver Arrows, has been nothing short of legendary. Under the guidance of the late Niki Lauda and powered by Mercedes’ groundbreaking engines, Hamilton secured multiple World Championships and shattered numerous records. 

His dedication to winning, leadership qualities, and contributions to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability make him a cornerstone of the Mercedes team.

As the 2023 season unfolds, Formula 1 enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate the continued success of Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes, a partnership that has evolved into a story of historic triumph and resilience in the face of adversity.

Also Read: Ferrari Team Principal Squashes Lewis Hamilton Contract Speculations