Nothing confirms phone (1)'s mid-range Snapdragon 778G+ processor

Source: Nothing

Ahead of the July 12 launch, Nothing has confirmed the chipset powering its first device. The phone (1) will run on a custom-tuned mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G+ processor. This means it's not built to be comparable to flagship devices from its competitors. The processor's performance will be similar to the regular 778G chip, with an eight-core CPU composed of four performance (ARM Cortex-A78) and four efficiency cores (ARM Cortex-A55), Adreno 642L GPU, and an X53 5G modem.

What's different is it brings wireless charging and reverse wireless charging to this mid-range processor. Qualcomm typically reserves that capability for its flagship mobile chipsets, but it looks like it wanted to make an exception for Nothing. It's expected to be more power-efficient, which should extend battery life. The company says it's 30% "better performing from a heating, saving, etc." point of view.

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Apple launches Community+ global program to recognize top contributors in its Support Community

Source: Apple

Apple wants to recognize the top contributors in its Support Community. The company launched the Apple Community+ program that provides "access to special perks, white-glove experiences, and more." This is an invitation-only program. Apple is looking for high-level community members who "embody the quality that make our space warm and welcoming." They are looking for engaged and active community members who share quality content and helpful answers to technical questions.

You can earn points, levels, and awards and grow your reputation in Apple Support Communities. Here's a breakdown of the levels and perks available on its support site.

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Spotify adds a new karaoke feature

Spotify already has a lyrics feature, so it's not surprising that it's introducing a new related feature. The app adds a Spotify Karaoke feature, which now seems to have a limited release. It is expected to come to users globally in the coming months. It will evaluate you singing your favourite tracks, judging you lyric-by-lyric. It could make for a great party game or just something to do on your own.

It doesn't look like the feature would be limited to Premium users. You can check if you have it by heading into the Lyrics section on your mobile device. There should be a microphone button with the word Sing in the top right corner. Once you open that, you'll see the lyrics and an audio analyzer. It will use your device's microphone to hear/analyze your singing.

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Airbnb permanently bans house parties and events

Source: Airbnb

Airbnb will no longer allow its users to hold house parties and events. It started as a temporary ban in 2020 as a way to better follow social distancing restrictions, but now it says it has "developed into a bedrock community policy to support our Hosts and their neighbours. The ban prohibits "all disruptive parties and events," with a focus on open-invite gatherings (those shared on social media) and "party house properties." These disruptive parties are basically the kinds of parties that attract complaints from neighbours. 

Aside from this ban, the company plans to lift the 16-person occupancy limit set in 2020, with the change expected to take effect "in the coming months."

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