To create offerings that truly resonate with users, tech companies need to prioritize empathy and human-centered design.

The global power expansion demands a balance between energy innovation and reliability.

TL;DR: The Linux Foundation has announced the formation of a new group, the "Supporters of Chromium-Based Browsers," aimed at funding and advancing the development of browsers built on the open-source Chromium codebase. Founding members of the alliance include Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Opera. The Linux Foundation said the new group will provide a "neutral space" for developers, software vendors, and the broader open-source community to better contribute to the Chromium ecosystem and collaborate on Chromium-based projects.The foundation emphasized that existing Chromium projects will remain under their respective developers' control and will not be absorbed by the new alliance. Instead, the new group will operate under the Linux Foundation to "remove barriers to innovation, expand adoption, and ensure that projects within the Chromium ecosystem receive the resources they need to thrive."Google explained that the Linux Foundation was selected to manage the alliance and its funding due to its proven track record of "open governance, prioritizing transparency, inclusivity, and community-driven development." The company also expressed its enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that it was "thrilled" to have garnered support from Meta, Microsoft, and Opera.Google's contributions to ChromiumGoogle claimed to have contributed more than 100,000 commits to the Chromium codebase in 2024, representing approximately 94 percent of total contributions. The company assured the community that it has no plans to scale back its efforts and intends to continue investing in the Chromium project to drive further development. Additionally, Google called on its partners to "step up" and increase their own contributions to the project. // Related StoriesMicrosoft and Opera also released statements praising the new initiative and reaffirming their commitment to the Chromium ecosystem. Microsoft stated that it would continue contributing to the Chromium codebase "to improve Edge and other Chromium-based browsers." Opera expressed optimism that the alliance would allow it "to take an even more active role in Chromium's development and future direction."Many popular modern browsers, including Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Brave, and Vivaldi, are built on the open-source Chromium codebase. In contrast, the two most widely-used non-Chromium browsers are Mozilla Firefox and Apple's Safari. Firefox relies on Mozilla's proprietary Quantum/Gecko engine, while Safari is powered by Apple's WebKit.The implications of the new alliance for non-Chromium browsers remain unclear. For browsers such as Firefox, which lack the backing of tech giants like Apple, the alliance could pose significant challenges. If the Supporters of Chromium-Based Browsers initiative enables Chromium-based browsers to capture even more market share, Mozilla may face increasing pressure. This is particularly concerning given Mozilla's heavy reliance on funding from Google to sustain the development of its open-source browser.

What just happened? Lenovo Group has announced plans to establish a major PC and server assembly factory in Saudi Arabia. This decision marks a notable expansion of the company's production capacity outside of China and into the Middle East, a region experiencing rapid technological growth. The project, backed by a $2 billion investment from Alat, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, is expected to go into operation by 2026. Once operational, the facility is expected to employ thousands of workers and produce millions of PCs annually, positioning it as one of the largest high-tech manufacturing plants in the region and a significant player in the global computer production landscape."Through this powerful strategic collaboration and investment, Lenovo will have significant resources and financial flexibility to further accelerate our transformation and grow our business by capitalizing on the incredible growth momentum in KSA and the wider MEA region," said Yuanqing Yang, Chairman and CEO of Lenovo.This factory is an opportunity for Lenovo to strengthen its foothold in the rapidly expanding Middle East and African markets. The firm plans to set up a regional headquarters in Riyadh, further cementing its commitment to the area. Additionally, by manufacturing servers in Saudi Arabia, Lenovo can potentially circumvent US restrictions on supplying high-performance hardware for AI and HPC applications to China, as well as diversify its production capabilities beyond Asia.From Saudi Arabia's perspective, a world-class manufacturing facility specializing in cutting-edge technology dovetails perfectly with its Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at diversifying the country's economy beyond oil while fostering modernization.Lenovo's plans extend beyond mere assembly. The company intends to establish local research and development operations, potentially tailoring products to meet regional market needs. // Related StoriesThe scale of this venture is noteworthy. A $2 billion investment in a computer assembly factory suggests a facility of considerable size and capacity. Industry experts anticipate that this will be one of the most extensive high-tech facilities in the region and a major player in global computer manufacturing.Lenovo's move is part of a broader trend among leading PC makers to reduce their reliance on manufacturing in China. By adding Saudi Arabia to its list of production locations, which already includes Argentina, Brazil, China, Germany, Hungary, India, Japan, Mexico, and the US, Lenovo further diversifies its global manufacturing footprint.Other tech firms are increasingly looking to Saudi Arabia for similar reasons. Huawei, for example, received a 100% investment license in Saudi Arabia for developing telecommunications infrastructure supporting the country's 5G rollout. In partnership with local entities, Alibaba Cloud created a presence in Riyadh to deliver high-capacity cloud services. SoftBank Group has formed a strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia to develop next-generation industrial robots, and in 2023, Human Horizons, a Chinese EV maker, signed a $5.6 billion deal to establish a research, development, and manufacturing joint venture in the Middle-Eastern nation. Similarly, Enovate, another Chinese EV start-up, entered into a joint venture with Saudi Sumou Holding to set up a $500 million manufacturing plant in the Kingdom.

In brief: Identifying which USB standard is being used can be a pain for users looking to purchase cables or docking stations. Terms like "USB 3.2 Gen 2" leave people scratching their heads due to their ambiguity. Thankfully, those names are finally being phased out, thanks to a new USB labeling system. The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) has rolled out updated logos that ditch the perplexing nomenclature, according to a report by PCWorld, offering more straightforward speed ratings.For instance, if you spot a USB4 hub labeled "USB 80Gbps" on the side of the box, you'll know you're getting the latest and greatest USB technology with a blistering 80 gigabits per second transfer speed.A step below that will be marked "USB 40Gbps," which is still quite fast. The approach also extends to older USB specs, so you might see a "USB 20Gbps" logo for USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 devices, or "USB 10Gbps" for USB 3.2 Gen 2 gear.The new labeling extends to cables, too the new logo will indicate both data transfers and charging speeds, which will go up to 240W. That's exactly the kind of power you'll need for massive 500W bricks capable of charging five laptops at the same time.Furthermore, laptop manufacturers are expected to start printing these labels across their devices. USB-IF representatives informed PCWorld that Dell may begin to label its USB ports. // Related StoriesUltimately, it's great that users won't need to squint to read the fine print or cross-reference spec sheets once the labels gain popularity.For the uninitiated, the USB naming debacle reached peak absurdity back in 2019 with the unveiling of "USB 3.2". Instead of simplifying things, the new spec piled on more inscrutable labels like "Gen 2x2" and "SuperSpeed USB 20Gbps". Distinguishing between USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps), Gen 2 (10Gbps), and Gen 2x2 (20Gbps) was enough to make anyone's head spin. To make matters worse, these new monikers replaced the already confusing terminology from older USB versions. The new, simpler system is a welcome one.

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: specsOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: design and displayOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: performanceOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: camerasOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: battery lifeOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: software and supportOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: price and availabilityOnePlus 13R versus iPhone 15: verdictAre you looking to purchase a great phone that wont break the bank? Great! Now you just have to decide between an Android-based phone and an iPhone. Why not consider the newly released OnePlus 13R and 2023s iPhone 15? If it seems odd to pitch a high-powered flagship against a $600 midrange phone, well, you mustnt know much about the OnePlus 13R. Which one is right for you? Where does each phone shine? Lets take a closer look.OnePlus 13RiPhone 15Size6.36 x 2.98 x 0.32 inches5.81 x 2.82 x 0.31 inchesWeight7.27 ounces6.02 ouncesScreen size and resolution6.78-inch AMOLED2,780 x 1,264 pixels1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED2556 x 1179 pixels at 460 pixels-per-inch60Hz refresh rateOperating systemAndroid 15OxygenOS 15iOS 18Storage256GB or 512GB128GB, 256GB, 512GBProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Apple A16 BionicRAM12GB or 16GB6GBCamerasRear: 50-megapixel (wide), 8MP (ultrawide), 50MP (telephoto)Front: 16MPRear: 48MP primary camera, 12MP ultrawideFront: 12MP TrueDepthWater resistanceIP65IP68Battery and charging6,000mAhVideo playback: up to 24 hoursUp to 80W fast chargingUp to 50% charge in 20 min3,349mAhVideo playback: 16 to 20 hours20W fast chargingUp to 50% charge in 30 minutesColorsBlack Eclipse, Midnight Ocean, and Arctic DawnBlue, pink, yellow, green, blackPriceFrom $599.99From $699ReviewOnePlus 13RiPhone 15Recommended VideosJoe Maring / Digital TrendsThe OnePlus 13R and iPhone 15 have distinct design languages that cater to different user preferences. The OnePlus 13R showcases a sleek, modern Android aesthetic with a curved glass back that feels premium and enhances grip. Its prominent circular camera module adds a touch of sophistication and innovation, while the punch-hole front camera seamlessly integrates into the display, maximizing screen real estate. The device boasts a larger 6.74-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and a more responsive gaming experience. This size and refresh rate make it ideal for multimedia consumption, offering an immersive experience for videos and games.RelatedIn contrast, the iPhone 15 retains Apples signature minimalist design, featuring flat edges that evoke a sense of elegance and durability. The devices smaller 6.1-inch display is cushioned by premium materials that give it a sturdy feel. The distinctive Dynamic Island notch replaces the traditional notch and introduces interactive elements that enhance the user experience by displaying notifications and background activities more engagingly. The iPhone 15s display boasts higher pixel density despite the smaller size, leading to sharper images and text. Additionally, it excels in brightness, providing vibrant colors and excellent outdoor visibility, making it a strong contender for users who often use their phones in bright sunlight. Unfortunately, the iPhone 15 is suck with an embarrassing 60Hz refresh rate.Ultimately, the choice between these designs comes down to personal preference regarding size, aesthetics, and display features. Whether one leans towards the futuristic, larger design of the OnePlus 13R or the classic, refined look of the iPhone 15, both devices showcase their unique strengths that cater to different users in the competitive smartphone market.Winner: OnePlus 13RChristine Romero-Chan / Digital TrendsThe OnePlus 13R and iPhone 15 feature older chipsets than the OnePlus 13 (with the Snapdragon 8 Elite) and iPhone 16 series (A17 Pro), respectively.The OnePlus 13R and the iPhone 15 have different approaches to performance. The OnePlus 13R is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and offers up to 16GB of RAM, delivering impressive performance for Android users. It efficiently handles demanding games and multitasking, while its 120Hz refresh rate display enhances the overall smoothness of the experience.In contrast, the iPhone 15 is powered by Apples A16 Bionic chip, which provides fast processing speeds and outstanding graphics performance. It particularly excels in graphics-intensive tasks and augmented reality applications. Thanks to Apples seamless hardware and software integration, the iPhone 15 benefits from enhanced efficiency and responsiveness.Regarding benchmarks, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 outperforms the A16 Bionic in CPU and gaming performance. However, the A16 Bionic leads in battery performance.Winner: TieJoe Maring / Digital TrendsThe OnePlus 13R features a triple-camera setup on the back, consisting of a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 50MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide camera. We generally appreciate the performance of these cameras, though we found the 2x optical zoom somewhat lacking and noticed that the ultrawide camera has a lower resolution than is ideal. Additionally, there is a 16MP front camera.The iPhone 15 features an improved camera system compared to the iPhone 14 from the previous year. It includes a 48MP primary camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens with a 120-degree field of view on the rear. The front has a 12MP TrueDepth camera. One notable aspect of the iPhone 15 camera is its larger sensors, which allow for 2x optical zoom even without a dedicated telephoto lens, which is quite impressive.Youll likely be pleased with both phones camera systems. However, other smartphones, such as the OnePlus 13 and the 2023 iPhone 15 Pro, which are probably the main competitors to these devices, could offer a better experience.Winner: TieJoe Maring / Digital TrendsThe OnePlus 13R boasts a significantly larger battery capacity than the iPhone 15, featuring a 6,000mAh battery compared to the iPhone 15s 3,349mAh. This difference results in noticeably longer usage times, especially under heavy use. In real-world tests, we found that the OnePlus 13R can last up to two days on a full charge, and with lighter usage, it can even be considered a three-day smartphone.The OnePlus 13R also supports 55W charging speeds, allowing it to reach over 50% charge in just 15 minutes. A full charge takes just under an hour. While impressive, this is actually a downgrade on the 80W charging available on its predecessor, the OnePlus 12R.In our initial review of the iPhone 15, we noted that it lasted just over a day during regular use before needing to be recharged. Regarding charging capabilities, the iPhone 15 can achieve a 50% charge using a 20W adapter in under 30 minutes, which falls short when compared to the charging speed of the OnePlus 13R.Winner: OnePlus 13RChristine Romero-Chan / Digital TrendsThe OnePlus 13R operates on OxygenOS, which is based on Android 15. This platform offers a high level of customization, allowing users to personalize their home screens, app icons, and even system-level functions. Overall, it provides a more open and flexible experience compared to iOS.In contrast, the iPhone 15 runs on iOS 18, which is known for its simplicity, user-friendliness, and focus on privacy. iOS delivers a more curated experience with tighter integration between hardware and software, resulting in smooth performance and a cohesive ecosystem.The OnePlus 13R includes several AI features such as unblur and resolution boost photo editing tools, note summarization, and Googles Circle to Search. Unlike the iPhone 15 Pro series, the iPhone 15 does not have Apple Intelligence support. However, iPhone 15 users can still utilize third-party AI tools like Googles Gemini.Regarding software updates, OnePlus promises four years of Android OS updates and six years of security updates. In comparison, Apple promises at least five years of iOS updates for the iPhone 15. However, this period began with iOS 17 in 2023, meaning the guarantees will end in 2028 with the release of iOS 22.Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference: Android offers flexibility and customization, while iOS prioritizes ease of use and a streamlined experience. When comparing software support, the difference is minimal.Winner: TieThe OnePlus 13R is available globally, with a starting price of $600 for the 256GB model, making it an attractive option for those seeking a high-performance smartphone without breaking the bank. It features three striking colors: Black Eclipse, which offers a sleek and sophisticated look; Midnight Ocean, which adds a touch of depth with its rich blue tones; and Arctic Dawn, a refreshing light color that stands out.In comparison, the older iPhone 15 starts at $699 for the 128GB version, which can feel limiting for users who need more storage. The iPhone 15 comes in five vibrant colors: blue, pink, yellow, green, and black, appealing to a wide range of personal styles. While the iPhone offers a strong ecosystem and brand loyalty, price-wise, the OnePlus 13R clearly reigns supreme for those on a smaller budget.Winner: OnePlus 13RJoe Maring / Digital TrendsThe OnePlus 13R and the iPhone 15 offer unique advantages tailored to different user preferences. However, the OnePlus 13R is over a year newer than the iPhone 15, significantly impacting its appeal and features. This age difference can be crucial for users looking for the latest innovations.A more relevant comparison would be between the OnePlus 13R and the iPhone 16. By comparing these two devices, consumers can make a more informed decision based on the latest offerings from each brand.For individuals deeply immersed in Apples ecosystem utilizing services like iCloud, Apple Music, and seamless device integration between iPhones, iPads, and Macs the iPhone 15 remains the better choice. The brands cohesive ecosystem enhances the user experience, providing convenience and continuity across Apple devices.Buy the OnePlus 13R:Buy the iPhone 15:Editors Recommendations

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsSuicide Squad: Kill the Justice LeagueThe Stanley Parable: Ultra DeluxeNeed for Speed: Hot Pursuit RemasteredA new batch of monthly PlayStation Plus Essential games dropped earlier this week. Differing from the mid-month PS Plus Extra and Premium Catalog drops, this is a group of three games available from now until February 4 that PS Plus subscribers from all tiers can redeem. Its one of the more eclectic PS Plus Essential months in some time, as it features a disappointing shooter based on the Suicide Squad comics from DC, a remaster of a 2010 racing game from EA, and a hilarious pseudo-sequel to an infamous indie game from the early 2010s. If youre wondering what you should be playing on your PS4 or PS5 this weekend, these are the games that you should be starting with.Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League - Season 4 - "Meet Deathstroke"Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League was an ambitious live-service shooter from Rocksteady, the developer behind the Batman: Arkham games. Its now infamous for flopping hard upon its release; revisiting the game one year later, I still have mixed feelings about it. As the game gets its final content update this month, WB Games offers Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League for free to any PS Plus subscriber who wants it. While I wouldnt recommend playing this game because its good, its a gaming curiosity worth claiming and having as part of your game library in case you ever want to check it out.Recommended VideosThe PS5 version of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice Leagueis available to all PS Plus subscribers until February 4. Its also on PC and Xbox Series X/S.RelatedThe Stanley Parable originally released in 2013 and was one of the earliest comedic games to go viral on YouTube as people loved watching players break free of the commands of a narrator trying to navigate a man named Stanley through a dull day job. Originally thought to be a remaster of the original game, 2022s The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxeis actually more of a sequel to the original. I dont want to spoil much, but go into this game blind and not afraid to defy the narrator, and youll have a fantastic time experiencing one of the funniest games ever made.The PS4 and PS5 versions of The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxeare available to all PS Plus subscribers until February 4. Its also on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch.Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered is a 2020 remaster of the first Need for Speed game that Criterion Games ever worked on. Its based on the version of Hot Pursuit released for PC, PS3, and Xbox 360 in 2010, a well-received open-world street racing game. This remaster enhances the visuals to bring them up to PS4-generation standards, includes all of the DLC ever released for the original, and even has cross-platform multiplayer. Its a racing game densely packed with content, so it should keep you entertained, as no new Need for Speed, Forza, or Gran Turismo games seem to be on the horizon right now.The PS4 version of Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remasteredis available to all PS Plus subscribers until February 4. The remaster is also on PC, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.Editors Recommendations

Earlier today, a massive leak revealed all of the technical specifications for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 series. That news is wild enough on its own, but another leak suggests the beloved S Pen might also receive a particularly unwelcome downgrade: the loss of Bluetooth. If thats true, it means users wont be able to use gesture control with the pen.The news comes from Ishan Agarwal on X. The tipster says he doubts it will improve the battery life by more than a few minutes and implies its most likely a cost-cutting measure. The full impact of removing Bluetooth from the stylus isnt clear, but unless Samsung has built an alternative into the device, any features that rely on Bluetooth will be unavailable.Recommended VideosWe should still see features like pressure sensitivity available on the S25 Ultra, but things like remote camera activation could be lost. The feature came to the S Pen in 2018 when Samsung first introduced Bluetooth.Please enable Javascript to view this contentExclusive: S Pen on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra will no longer feature Bluetooth according to retail sources!Which means you will lose certain features like gestures & remote control.How do you feel about this downgrade? #GalaxyS25Ultra pic.twitter.com/ASDKB06nsx Ishan Agarwal (@ishanagarwal24) January 10, 2025The S Pen is a popular feature among a more niche set of users, but the majority of Samsung customers dont use most of its functionality. Its a great tool for signing a PDF or taking a few notes (or for giving kids something to doodle on when no paper is available), but it already comes only with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Removing potentially useful features to cut a few dollars from the price of a flagship feels unnecessary.While the S25 Ultra is going to have a tremendous amount of non-stylus functions, the added benefits arent something to scoff at. Being able to quickly navigate between functions makes the phone more convenient to use.Again, this is a leak. None of these rumors have been confirmed by Samsung, so maintain at least some level of skepticism with regard to accuracy.Editors Recommendations

The commission said that the companies offer to sell two business units to a rival fully addresses its concerns.

The justices are hearing arguments to decide whether the Chinese-owned app must shut down by Jan. 19