Google tipped to launch Pixel 5a on Aug. 17

If the rumours are accurate, we might be a few hours away from seeing the Google Pixel 5a. Android Police got their hands on what it claims are repair shop photos of the Pixel 5a. According to the site, it'll be launched on August 17. It will have a similar dual rear camera setup and size as the Pixel 4a 5G, but it'll reportedly get a larger 4,680mAh battery (up from the Pixel 4a's 3,800mAh), a headphone jack and a grippier plastic body. It looks like it has a ribbed power button.

We don't know the processor, but it's expected to use a Snapdragon chipset instead of a variant of the upcoming Tensor chip for the Pixel 6. Past rumours claim the Pixel 5a will get an August 26 release in stores with a price tag of USD 450 (around CAD 565).

Via: Engadget

Facebook Messenger finally gets end-to-end encryption on voice, video calls

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Facebook Messenger had end-to-end encryption in its messages before. But now, Facebook is bringing this security feature to voice and video calls, too. These types of communication became especially important during the pandemic, with Facebook citing over 150 million video calls a day. It isn't available in group voice, chats, and video calls yet, but the company said it would test this out with some users in the coming weeks.

End-to-end encryption offers the assurance that only you and the recipient will get access to what's in your calls and messages. Facebook won't be able to read or listen to your calls. But you can report an end-to-end encrypted message to the company if "something's wrong," which presumably refers to situations involving harassment.

Click to read more ...

Xiaomi now has a 100W wireless charging stand

Source: Xiaomi

Xiaomi continues to advance its wireless charging tech with this newest product. The company just launched a 100W wireless stand in China, following last year's 80w version. 

Carrying the model name MIDY-13-EL, it has a similar appearance as that option, but it comes in a black and bronze design instead of the white and gold motif of its predecessor.

Click to read more ...

Warner Bros. lets you be part of a 'Reminiscence' trailer with deepfake tech

Source: Engadget

Warner Bros. wants you to be part of promoting Hugh Jackman's new film, Reminiscence. The company uses deepfake technology to turn a photo of your face, or anyone's, into a short video sequence with Jackman. Media startup D-ID built this promo for the film with a website where you can try it out. To make the effect possible, it'll ask for your name and photo. If you want to try it out yourself, you can check it out here.

Reminiscence is a sci-fi thriller about Nick Bannister, a "private investigator of the mind." This promo makes it look like you're a client looking into your memories to solve a case. 

Source: Engadget