Category: 4. Technology

  • Ultra Comfort, from Sleep to Workout – Samsung Mobile Press

    Ultra Comfort, from Sleep to Workout – Samsung Mobile Press

    Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic merge an iconic design with new, personalized wellness insights to motivate you on your health journey


    NEW YORK – July 9, 2025 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today introduced Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic1, establishing an iconic design identity across the entire Galaxy Watch lineup. Building upon the foundation of the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s cushion design, this series boasts the thinnest, most comfortable Galaxy Watch ever2 for continuous health tracking. The Galaxy Watch8 series suits diverse lifestyles and provides advanced capabilities, setting a new standard for style and personalized health experiences.

    “We are committed to empowering billions of people to live healthier lives through our innovative technology,” said TM Roh, President and Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “By combining purposeful design with advanced sensor technology and an intuitive AI-powered experience, the Galaxy Watch8 series serves as a starting point for a healthier, more connected life, making it easier than ever to take meaningful steps toward users’ well-being.”

    News Body image for
    News Body image for

    Redesigned Inside and Out for Ultimate Wellness


    By reimagining both form and function, the Galaxy Watch8 series delivers unmatched comfort alongside industry-leading performance, making it the ultimate companion for everyday wellness. The distinctive cushion design, which debuted with Galaxy Watch Ultra, now defines the entire Galaxy Watch lineup. To achieve the thinnest design yet, the internal structure of Galaxy Watch8 was completely reengineered and its component mounting capability has been improved by 30%, resulting in an 11% thinner design. Combined with the Dynamic Lug system, this design moves naturally with the wrist, providing greater comfort and improved stability2 for a better fit and enhanced health-tracking accuracy. 

    Galaxy Watch8’s sleek profile is complemented by its exceptional performance. Even when you are outdoors under bright sunlight, the display is 50% brighter2 with a peak brightness of 3,000nits for easy visibility, and the enhanced battery2 ensures the watch can keep up with an active lifestyle. Moreover, the dual-frequency GPS provides more detailed and precise location results2 while our most powerful 3nm processor delivers faster performance and greater power efficiency. With the groundbreaking BioActive Sensor that enables deeper and more accurate health insights, the Galaxy Watch8 series helps provide a holistic view of your health.

    Motivation for Lasting Health Changes


    Sleep is a window into your overall health and each restful night allows your body and mind to recover immediately the very next day. That’s why Samsung is continuously advancing the sleep experience, offering tailored sleep coaching, helping to create an optimal sleep environment, and even detecting moderate to severe signs of sleep apnea. On top of that, the Galaxy Watch8 series comes with new unique health features on the Samsung Health app3 that help you build healthier habits through instant, motivational insights – from sleep to nutrition and workout.

    Bedtime Guidance4 can measure your circadian rhythm to suggest the optimal time to go to bed so you wake up refreshed the next morning. Vascular Load5 helps monitor the stress levels on your vascular system during sleep. Providing insights on various lifestyle factors including sleep, stress and activity, it helps you adopt a more comprehensive approach to managing your health.

    Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch8 series introduces Antioxidant Index6 for the first time in a smartwatch, enabling you to measure carotenoid levels in just five seconds and make informed lifestyle choices for healthy aging.

    Whether you’re a novice or experienced runner, the Galaxy Watch8 series delivers personalized fitness insights to keep you motivated when you need it most. Running Coach7 calculates your fitness level from 1 to 10 and develops a tailored training plan complete with real-time guidance and motivational insights. With the updated Together feature, which now supports running, you can gamify your fitness journey by challenging friends and family.

     If high level of stress persists, High Stress Alert will immediately signal so that you can take a break to help manage your stress levels in real-time. With Mindfulness Tracker, you can record your mood and receive guidance on breathing exercises to relieve your stress – all at once on your wrist.

    Plus, the AI-powered Energy Score8 gives you a snapshot of your energy level, combining physical and mental energy metrics so you can have a healthier day, every day.


    Easier Watch Interaction with Wear OS and Gemini


    Developed in close collaboration with Google, the Galaxy Watch8 series is the first smartwatch to come out of the box with Gemini9, Google’s AI assistant, and be powered by Wear OS 6. Go hands-free using natural voice commands to get things done on the go with your Galaxy Watch apps like Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, and Clock. For example, you can ask Gemini to find a nearby cafe and text a friend to meet you there, all in one go. Or, if you’re ready to start your workout and you have a goal in mind, simply say, “Start a 30-minute run.” The watch seamlessly initiates the workout in Samsung Health..

    In addition, thanks to the new One UI 8 Watch, the user interface is optimized for the size and shape of the watch face. The new Multi-Info Tiles provide easy access to health metrics, weather, events and more – all in a single, quick look. Moreover, the new Now Bar and depthless notifications ensure key activities are front and center.

     


    Tailored to Match Every Lifestyle


    Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Watch8 Classic and the new Galaxy Watch Ultra are available for pre-order in select markets starting today, with general availability starting July 25th10.

    Featuring a sleek and minimalist design, Galaxy Watch8 is designed for everyday wellness. Available in 44mm or 40mm sizes and in Graphite or Silver, it provides comfort and style for daily activities. Meanwhile, Galaxy Watch8 Classic brings timeless sophistication to the wrist with modern features such as a rotating bezel and a quick button for added convenience. The Classic model measures 46mm and comes in Black and White. Plus, both models can be matched with a range of stylish bands11 designed to suit diverse lifestyles.

    For those who love outdoor adventures, Galaxy Watch Ultra is the most advanced and durable Galaxy Watch model yet. Available in four titanium finishes including the new Titanium Blue, it offers the longest battery life and the most robust performance in the lineup.

    If you’re looking for a more discreet wearable that offers continuous health tracking, Galaxy Ring boasts superior comfort and up to seven days of battery life. Available in Titanium Black, Titanium Silver and Titanium Gold, the Galaxy Ring comes in sizes 5-1511.

    To learn more about Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Ring, please visit: www.samsungmobilepress.com, news.samsung.com/global, www.samsung.com/galaxy-watch or http://www.samsung.com/galaxy-ring.

    Galaxy Watch8 Series Specifications

     



















      Galaxy Watch8 Galaxy Watch8 Classic
    Color

    – 44mm: Graphite, Silver


    – 40mm: Graphite, Silver

    46mm: Black, White

    Dimensions12 


    & Weight13

    – 44mm: 43.7mm x 46mm x 8.6t (34.0g)


    – 40mm: 40.4mm x 42.7mm x 8.6t (30.0g)

    46mm: 46.4mm x 46mm x 10.6t (63.5g)

    Display

    Sapphire Crystal


    – 44mm: 1.47-inch (480×480)


    Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display


    – 40mm: 1.34-inch (438×438)


    Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display

    Sapphire Crystal


    – 46mm: 1.34-inch (438×438)


    Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display

    Processor Exynos W1000 (5 Core, 3nm)
    Memory

    & Storage
    2GB memory + 32GB storage 2GB memory + 64GB storage

    Battery


    (typical)14

    – 44mm: 435mAh


    – 40mm: 325mAh

    445mAh

    Charging15 Fast Charging (WPC-based wireless charging)
    OS16 Wear OS Powered by Samsung (Wear OS 6)
    UI One UI 8 Watch
    Sensors Samsung BioActive Sensor (Optical Bio-signal Sensor + Electrical Heart Signal + Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis), Temperature Sensor, Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro Sensor, Geomagnetic Sensor, Light Sensor Samsung BioActive Sensor (Optical Bio-signal Sensor + Electrical Heart Signal + Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis), Temperature Sensor, Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro Sensor, Geomagnetic Sensor, Light Sensor, 3D Hall sensor
    Connectivity LTE17, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 2.4+5GHz, NFC, L1+L5 Dual-Frequency GPS (GPS, Glonass, Beidou, Galileo)
    Durability18 5ATM + IP68 / MIL-STD-810H
    Compatibility Android 12.0 or higher and with more than 1.5GB of memory19

    About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.


    Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.

     

    1 Availability and features may vary depending on market, model and the smartphone paired. All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice.

    2 Compared to the previous Galaxy Watches.

    3 Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health-related information accessed through the device and/or application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek any medical advice from a physician. Certain features may vary by market, carrier, or the device paired.

    4 Based on 3 days of sleep analysis of user’s circadian rhythm and sleep pressure.

    5 Wearing a compatible Galaxy Watch is required when sleeping for at least 3 of the most recent 14 days.

    6 To measure, the user should place the center of their finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Antioxidant Index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to different results.

    7 Prior to starting the coach program, taking a running level test and receiving a level designation is required.

    8 Only available when user register a compatible Galaxy Watch or Galaxy Ring at least once.

    9 Gemini mobile app available on select devices, languages, and countries. Requires compatible Wear OS watch to be connected to a compatible device. Check responses for accuracy. Internet connection and set up may be required. Features may differ depending on subscription and account. Results for illustrative purposes and may vary. Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC.

    10 Color and size availability may vary by market.

    11 Sold separately. Availability of watch bands may vary by market or carrier.

    12 Measured without health sensors.

    13 Measured without band.

    14 Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model, network environment and other factors. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory conditions. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among battery samples tested under the IEC 61960 standard.

    15 Testing conducted by Samsung using pre-released version of Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic (BT & LTE), each paired to a Samsung phone; all devices tested with prerelease software, Galaxy Watch Magnetic Fast Charging USB C Cable (EP-OL300), and Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800). Charge time varies according to region, settings, usage patterns and environmental factors; actual results may vary. Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800) sold separately.

    16 Wear OS Powered by Samsung works with phones running Android 12 or later with more than 1.5GB of memory. Compatible devices may vary by market, carrier or device brand.

    17 LTE connectivity only available in LTE models.

    18 Galaxy Watch8 series has obtained MIL-STD 810H Certification: It has undergone a test that repeats from -20°C (1Hr) to 50°C (1Hr) for a total 6 hours.

    19 Device activation is only available after connecting to a smartphone that supports Google Mobile Services. Compatible devices may vary by market, carrier or device brand.

     

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  • Samsung’s bet on foldable phones faces major test with slimmer new model

    Samsung’s bet on foldable phones faces major test with slimmer new model

    By Hyunjoo Jin and Heekyong Yang

    SEOUL (Reuters) -Samsung Electronics on Wednesday unveiled thinner, lighter new foldable phones as it aims to fend off Chinese competition in the higher-margin, premium segment that remains untapped by arch rival Apple.

    The stakes are high. The South Korean company lost its global smartphone crown to Apple in 2023, and faces growing competition from Chinese rivals like Huawei and Honor.

    Meanwhile, Samsung’s mainstay chip business has suffered a profit slump stemming in part from its delayed supply of artificial intelligence chips to Nvidia.

    Samsung’s mobile president and chief operating officer, Choi Won-joon, said his most important mission was to make Samsung a leader in AI-powered smartphones.

    “I believe that foldable phones, integrated with AI features, are ready to become mainstream by offering unique, differentiated experience,” he told Reuters in his first media interview since being promoted in March.

    He said Samsung aims to take a leadership position in AI by enhancing cooperation with external partners like Google, unlike Apple, which has been using in-house AI technology that has faced delays in adding key features.

    Samsung also in New York unveiled its first smartwatches equipped with Google’s AI voice assistant, Gemini, which can make recommendations to the owner such as good locations for a run, as an example.

    PREMIUM HALO

    Samsung said in April that it was pushing ahead with a premium product strategy, as U.S. tariffs threatened to dampen demand and raise component costs.

    The smartphone maker increased the U.S. price of Galaxy Z Fold 7 to $1,999 by 5% from its predecessor Fold 6, while introducing a less expensive version of its Galaxy Z Flip 7 clamshell phone, Flip 7 FE, priced at $899.

    Galaxy Z Fold 7 is equipped with Qualcomm’s fast processor, Snapdragon 8 Elite, while Galaxy Z Flip 7 is powered by Samsung’s in-house Exynos chips.

    Analysts said Samsung’s new models tackled some of the issues with foldable phones such as bulkiness, and would create a premium halo around the brand. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 weighs 10% less than its predecessor and is 26% thinner.

    But high prices and a lack of use cases mean foldable phones are likely to remain a niche segment, the analysts said, with data from research firm IDC showing they account for just 1.5% of the total smartphone market.

    Research firm Canalys predicts Samsung’s foldable shipments, which peaked in 2022, will remain flat or slightly declining in 2025, in line with the broader market’s flat growth, according to data provided to Reuters.

    Samsung’s foldable smartphones account for 4% of its total phone sales but 16% of those priced over $800, Canalys said.

    Its data shows Samsung’s dominance of the foldable phone segment is being eroded by Honor and Huawei, which are enjoying strong sales, especially in China.

    Samsung, which held its unveiling event in New York on Wednesday, will focus on the United States, Europe and South Korea for foldable phone sales, Choi said.

    Choi said Samsung is “working hard” to develop tri-foldable phones, which users can fold three ways, without elaborating on the launch date.

    (Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin and Heekyong Yang; Additional reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Jamie Freed)

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  • Google Unpacks Another Round of AI Features, Starting With Gemini On Wear OS – PCMag

    1. Google Unpacks Another Round of AI Features, Starting With Gemini On Wear OS  PCMag
    2. 4 new AI updates on Android coming to Samsung Galaxy devices  Google Blog
    3. Your Smartwatch Is About to Get More Productive Thanks to Gemini AI  CNET
    4. Galaxy Z Flip 7, Flip 7 FE get a major cover screen widget upgrade  Android Authority
    5. Google brings Gemini to Wear OS watches, adds AI Mode to Circle to Search  Yahoo Finance

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  • Diva Mezza Utopia from Focal Engineered to Serve as Benchmark Smart Home Speakers

    Diva Mezza Utopia from Focal Engineered to Serve as Benchmark Smart Home Speakers

    Meeting the growing market demand for an audiophile level speaker capable of delivering smart-home functionality, Focal has introduced its DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA loudspeaker.

    The new wireless, active loudspeaker is said to embody the pinnacle of the company’s craftsmanship and technological expertise. Focal points out that its latest speaker is larger and more powerful than its predecessor, the Diva Mezza Utopia and it incorporates four 8-inch ‘W’ cone woofers (at 20.5cm, they are 4cm larger than Diva Utopia) that are configured in a push-push layout to help the DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA speakers produce deep, dynamic, and controlled bass.  Further elaborating on the the speaker, Focal says its new product’s low-end response lays the foundation to allow the full capabilities of the ‘M’-shaped Beryllium tweeter and ‘W’ cone midrange driver to perform.

    DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA Offers Everything Necessary for Modern Listening

    Focal emphasizes that as an active loudspeaker the Diva Mezza Utopia integrates a completely reengineered Naim Audio electronics package. Delivering 500 watts per speaker, the system features a dual-stage power supply to help deliver dynamics and precision power management across the frequency range. At the rear, the sculpted, high-efficiency heat sink provides thermal stability and long-term reliability.

    Designed to perform in rooms up to 100m² (1,076 feet) DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA offers homeowners state-of-the-art features such as Ultra Wideband (UWB) to enable the wireless transmission of uncompressed, high-resolution signals up to 96kHz/24-bit. Focal suggests that UWB delivers the clarity of a wired connection without the physical constraints of cabling. For listeners seeking absolute fidelity, a direct wired connection is also available to deliver up to 192kHz/24-bit high-resolution performance.  The DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA complements these connectivity options with its Intelligent Dynamics Clocking (IDC), which it says is a precision clock-control system that ensures exact synchronization between channels for a coherent, stable soundstage.

    Additionally, the inclusion of Focal’s ADAPT (Adaptive Acoustic Personal Tuning) technology uses a sophisticated algorithm to calibrate the system to both room acoustics and user preferences. Accessible via the Focal & Naim app, ADAPT helps integrators to deliver personalized listening experiences to their customers.

    Like the Diva Utopia, Focal assets the DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA benefits from the Focal and Naim ecosystem through the advanced Pulse Platform. Through this platform, the audiophile smart home speakers offers extensive wireless connectivity with support for Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and UPnP, enabling access to streaming services including Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz Connect, and QQ Music (China). The system supports high-resolution multiroom streaming and is compatible with smart home platforms such as Control4, Crestron, Savant, and RTI to provide integrated control options for integrators. Users can also control the DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA system from the Focal & Naim app, the included remote control, or voice assistants like Google Assistant and Apple Siri.

    The global audio company also emphasizes the speaker’s enclosure is crafted from high-density polymer using a low-pressure molding process, ensuring precise construction, efficient material use, and acoustic optimization. The speaker rests on a double-level, beveled base and features signature floating side panels.  These panels are made from felt, an eco-friendly material, presented in a new ivory hue that highlights the speaker’s contours. Additionally, the design is further elevated with touches such as a dual red and black grille on the tweeter and a brushed aluminum band encircling it.

    The $69,000 DIVA MEZZA UTOPIA speakers are rated to produce a frequency response of 27Hz to 40kHz, and the 192 pound speaker’s dimensions are 50 inches (H) x 18.125 inches (L) x 24.375 inches (D).

    More news from CE Pro: Bond Adds Smart Control to Infratech Outdoor Heating Systems via Wi-Fi Switches

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  • Samsung Frame TV Deals 2025

    Samsung Frame TV Deals 2025

    If you’re shopping Amazon Prime Day in search of a TV upgrade, you might take a look at these Samsung Frame TV deals. One of Samsung’s best-selling and most popular TVs, the Frame TV offers a vivid viewing experience for movies and more and turns into a stunning and customizable art display when not in use. As the consumer tech editor at Forbes Vetted who has personally tested many TVS, I’d recommend looking at the 75-inch The Frame QLED 4K TV, which is currently marked down nearly 50% in the Samsung store right now, as well as on Amazon and other retailers.

    These Samsung Frame TV deals include discounts on multiple models both directly on Samsung’s site and on Amazon for the retailer’s four-day July Prime Day event.

    The hype around Samsung’s The Frame TV is well deserved. Not only can you watch your favorite movies and shows in vivid color and 4K resolution, but the TV transforms into a stunning display for artwork (or your own photo slideshows) when not in use. A matte coating helps reduce glare, so the display looks like a true masterpiece in your living room. You can also add on a customizable bezel—either in rose gold, white or brown—for an extra cost.

    Another perk is the Samsung Tizen operating system. You can access your favorite shows as well as get plenty of free channels, thanks to the Samsung TV Plus service. That’s also where you can access the Samsung Art Store, which features a collection of artworks—many in collaboration with world-renowned museums like New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art and Paris’s Musée d’Orsay.

    Samsung The Frame QLED 4K TV (75-Inch)

    Save nearly 50% on this gorgeous and massive Samsung TV that is top-tier in terms of display. Watch your movies in 4K and when you turn the television off, it turns on an artwork display of your choosing that you can personally select from within the TV’s menu. You’ll save more than $1,500 in this Prime Day deal both on Samsung’s site and Amazon, as well as other retailers.

    Why It’s A Good Deal: This particular markdown is the lowest price we’ve seen on this panel—just note that this deal includes only the TV itself without bezel customizations. While the 75-inch model has the largest price cut, there are similar savings on the other models, which you can find below on Amazon or directly on Samsung’s site like 40% off the 65-inch Frame TV. You can also shop more of our favorite Prime Day TV deals if The Frame isn’t quite right for your needs.


    Prime Day Samsung Frame TV Deals


    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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  • Robert Wun unveils theatrical silhouettes at Haute Couture Week

    Robert Wun unveils theatrical silhouettes at Haute Couture Week

    Paris – Hong Kong designer Robert Wun presented his new collection with cinematic accents in Paris on Wednesday, the third day of Haute Couture Week.

    Entitled “Becoming”, this AW25 collection is “a nostalgic exploration of the ritual of dressing and the profound role fashion plays in life’s most important moments,” the designer explained in a statement.

    Through surreal and theatrical silhouettes, sculptural volumes and a cinematically accented staging, the designer said he wanted to “translate the ritual of dressing into a story. From waking up on the big day to the blurred memories of the night before.”

    Robert Wun AW25. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight

    Held on the stage of the Théâtre du Châtelet, the show opened with a model with a bloodied mouth. She wore a thick white dress, as if still wrapped in her duvet, with red sequinned handprints, like a testament to a troubled night.

    This was followed by a white coat splashed with sequins; highly structured dresses with bodices detached from the outfit; and a flowing violet dress with artificial arms placed on the shoulders to hold the veil above the head.

    Robert Wun haute couture FW25.
    Robert Wun haute couture AW25. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight

    The show concluded with a bride in a sand-coloured gown, with a sculpted bustier and an imposing skirt with a train. On the head of the bride, a small figure supported her veil.

    Born in Hong Kong in 1991, Wun founded his label in 2014. Winner of the ANDAM special prize in 2022, he showed for the first time during Haute Couture Week in January 2023.

    This article was translated to English using an AI tool.

    FashionUnited uses AI language tools to speed up translating (news) articles and proofread the translations to improve the end result. This saves our human journalists time they can spend doing research and writing original articles. Articles translated with the help of AI are checked and edited by a human desk editor prior to going online. If you have questions or comments about this process email us at info@fashionunited.com

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  • How Active Video Games Could Benefit Children With Obesity

    How Active Video Games Could Benefit Children With Obesity

    One in five children in the United States have obesity. New research shows that, if used in the right way, exercise-based video games might help encourage physical activity in obese children.

    Hands holding an X-Box gaming remote.
    Active video games, or exergames, when combined with a compelling story could help motivate people to exercise. Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University

    New research shows that, contrary to the fears of many parents, video games might be able to help children with obesity exercise more.

    A study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity aimed to see whether active video games, which involve physical activity from the player, when combined with a narrative throughline like an animated TV show, would keep children engaged in exercise. Amy S. Lu, an associate professor of communication studies and public health and health sciences at Northeastern University and lead author on the project, was inspired by her own experience with active video games.

    “I was surprised that almost none of [these active video games] had any story element,” Lu says. “What if we actually tried to combine the story and active video games so that people will continually play that with a better motivation?”

    In a country like the United States where almost one in five children and adults are obese, the answer to that question could be a necessity, she explains. Lu worked with dozens of mostly Black and Hispanic children in Boston and created a six-season animated children’s show to figure out whether adding stories to active video games could make them more engaging and, thus, more useful in tackling obesity.

    She admits her intervention was affected by pandemic-related disruptions, but the findings still show that active video games combined with a narrative can have an impact. 

    Portrait of Amy Lu, wearing a printed scarf and red lipsticks.
    “If you want to make people exercise more to combat this obesity problem around the country and around the world, maybe we should make these exercise games more interesting and engaging,” says Northeastern’s Amy S. Lu. Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University

    Children who played active video games with a completely custom-made animated story interspersed throughout their playtime over the course of three months of a six-month period had about seven minutes more daily moderate to vigorous physical activity than children who didn’t. Those same children also did more “brisk walking” during the same period.

    “If you want to make people exercise more to combat this obesity problem around the country and around the world, maybe we should make these exercise games more interesting and engaging,” Lu says.

    In order to conduct this research, the researchers had to design a story that could be woven into the six preexisting active video games used in the study. They turned to Fablevision Studios, a Boston-based children’s media company, and ended up essentially creating a 72-episode, six-season animated TV show specifically for the study.

    Lu says creating the show was also an exercise in what on-screen representation means practically for children. Designed with input from children, the serialized show featured a racially ambiguous cast of characters who shared the same overweight or obese body type as the children in the study. Those creative choices made it easier for children to get invested in the story and games, Lu explains.

    The 79 children who took part in the study were recruited from several Boston neighborhoods and randomized into three groups.

    One group was provided with an Xbox that came pre-installed with the first three episodes of the show and the first of six active video games and would experience the narrative and active video games. They would then download the remaining seasons and games as they continued in the study. A second group was also provided with an Xbox but only played the games, and a control group had neither games or the show. 

    For those who both played active video games and experienced the narrative Lu and her collaborators created, the increases in exercise time and steps were modest and occurred primarily in the first three months of the study. However, Lu notes that even small daily gains in physical activity can contribute meaningfully to the development of long-term physical activity habits. In that same period, the group that only played active video games also experienced a slight decrease in mass gain and cholesterol levels compared to the control group.

    Perhaps more notable is the fact that every child in the study who played active video games –– with or without a narrative component –– showed no signs of worsening obesity. Lu hopes this, along with future studies she does in this area, can potentially shift the broader perception of video games as a one-way ticket to becoming a couch potato.

    “When you give children something that can be used for both active and sedentary behavior, will they use it to become couch potatoes and sit there playing ‘Need for Speed’ all the time? The answer is no,” Lu says. “That also helped to reassure people that game consoles like these can have positive uses.”


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  • 2027 Lexus LFR: Everything We Know

    2027 Lexus LFR: Everything We Know

    Toyota is building a new race car. We saw the first GR GT3 concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon in 2022, and all the spy videos and patent images since then preview a vehicle similar to that original concept. But it won’t be limited to the track.

    Toyota will offer a road-going version of the GR GT3 that will almost certainly wear a Lexus badge in the US. It will likely be called the LFR, with the race version expected to debut early in 2026 and the road-going model to follow shortly thereafter.

    Lexus has been dropping subtle hints over the past few months, which means the car isn’t a complete mystery. We’ve rounded up as many of those details as we can; Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming Lexus LFR.

    What Will It Be Called?



    The GR GT3 name comes from Toyota’s 2022 concept, but the official name should change when it launches. The road car should wear a Lexus badge in the US, and it will likely be called the LFR—acting as somewhat of a successor to the beloved LFA. The LFR will also fill the gap left by the RC and LC coupes, which are both likely to be discontinued after the 2025 model year.

    What Will the Lexus LFR Look Like?



    Lexus LFR Spy Photos Pikes Peak

    Photo by: Nick Lynch / Instagram

    The many spy videos and patent images (below) show a long, sleek coupe similar to the GR GT3 concept. The test vehicles in those videos featured massive lower bumper openings with aggressive splitters, canards, wings, and a huge hood vent with radiators—all the necessary hardware for tearing up the track.

    The patent images, uncovered in June 2022, make no direct mention of the GR GT3. But it’s hard not to believe that they preview the production model. It looks like what one would expect of a street-legal version of the concept.

    The car retains the front splitter and hood vent, which are much less aggressive. The racer’s big wing is missing from the car in the patent, but it still has a sizeable rear diffuser, taillights with triangular accents, and vents reminiscent of the LFA.



    Toyota GR GT3 Patent Images


    Toyota GR GT3 Patent Images

    It’s also long, with the cabin pushed back on the body just ahead of the rear wheels; It looks like a Mercedes-AMG GT with a squished roof and body kit in profile (fitting, given that the company is testing the LFR alongside the AMG GT). The massive front fenders, with vents, appear to house side-exit exhaust tips that are well out of the way of burning anyone’s calves.

    The rendering pictured here imagines what the LFR could look like when it reaches the road.

    What Engine Will the Lexus LFR Have?



    Lexus RC F Enthusiast And Emotional Touring (JDM)

    Lexus hasn’t provided any hint as to what might power the LFR. However, a recent spy video captured the car’s exhaust note, and it sure sounded like a V-8—at least on the track. It could use an evolution of the naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V-8 engine that powers the Lexus RC F GT3, which makes over 500 horsepower. 

    The Lexus RC F you can drive to work every day also has a naturally aspirated V-8 engine, but it only displaces 5.0 liters while making 472 hp. That’s enough power to get the RC F Track Edition to 60 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds, but it’s unclear if a V-8 will power the production car. There’s certainly enough room ahead of the windshield for one.

     

    While the hard-hitting F-badged version of the car will likely have pure combustion power (and hopefully eight cylinders), the model’s more pedestrian trims could adopt smaller engines and even hybrid setups. Lexus offers the 2024 RC with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 241 hp and a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6 with 260 hp.

    But, it all depends on where the car will fall in the lineup.

    When Will the Lexus LFR Debut?



    Lexus LFR Prototype Caught Testing In Colorado

    Photo by: u/Viper287 / Reddit

    Toyota Racing President David Wilson suggested earlier in 2024 that the GR GT3 race car could debut at the 2026 Daytona 24 Hours in January. But the road car won’t show up until later.

    The Lexus-badged sports car is one reason we won’t see the GR GT3 race until 2026. It was supposed to be ready for the 2025 season, but Toyota reportedly had to delay it by a year due to hurdles in developing the road-going model homologation. We expect Toyota to introduce it in mid-to-late 2025 before going on sale the following year.

    How Much Will It Cost?



    Lexus LFR

    Photo by: CarSpyMedia

    The outgoing Lexus RC F Final Edition starts at $94,120, while the entry-level RC with the turbocharged four-cylinder costs $46,915 (both prices include the destination fee). Lexus’s current lineup also consists of the LC500, which has a $101,200 starting price for 2025.

    That said, we expect the LFR to be pricier than both of those models still. Lest you forget, the LFA started at a whopping $375,000 when new, and cost up to $445,000 for the Nurburgring trim. The LFR likely won’t be that expensive, but we’ll have to wait and see.


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  • Kindle: Prime Day 2025 deals

    Kindle: Prime Day 2025 deals

    Save big by joining Prime today

    Remember, you need a Prime membership to shop all the deals during Prime Day. If you haven’t already, sign up for savings, convenience, and entertainment all in one membership. More than 200 million paid Prime members around the world enjoy access to Amazon’s enormous selection, exceptional value, and fast delivery.

    Anyone can join Prime for $14.99 per month or $139 per year, or start a free 30-day trial if eligible at amazon.com/prime. Additionally, young adults can try Prime for Young Adults with a six-month trial at amazon.com/joinyoungadult, then pay a discounted rate of $7.49 per month or $69 per year for a membership. Qualifying government-assistance recipients and income-verified customers can get Prime Access for $6.99 per month at amazon.com/getprimeaccess. For more information about Prime, including discounted memberships, visit aboutamazon.com/prime.

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  • Dallmeier presents the MK4 revision of the DMS 2400 with significantly increased recording capacity

    Dallmeier presents the MK4 revision of the DMS 2400 with significantly increased recording capacity

    The new DMS 2400 (MK4) now enables the recording of up to 40 channels. Photo credits: Dallmeier electronic

     

    Even more powerful and efficient

    With the new MK4 revision of the DMS 2400, Dallmeier introduces an even more powerful version of its proven video appliance. The MK4 variant enables the recording of up to 40 high-resolution video streams, thereby offering significantly increased capacity.

    A powerful recording system for a wide range of applications

    The DMS 2400 (MK4) appliance combines the software SeMSy® Recording Server with compact server hardware. The appliance is ideally suited for video security systems in stores, petrol stations or private properties that require the highest recording quality within a small footprint.

    Thanks to perfectly matched components, the system achieves a high storage speed, allowing the recording of up to 40 high-resolution video streams at a frame rate of 30 fps. Two lockable 3.5″ hard disk bays at the rear provide a storage capacity of up to 48 TB. The compartmentalized Linux operating system and the SeMSy® Recording Server application are installed on a separate flash module.

    Flexible platform and intelligent functions
    The pre-installed SeMSy® Recording Server software is designed as an open platform. In combination with the according licences, third-party cameras can be recorded with motion detection and configured via the ONVIF protocol. In addition, the appliance is equipped with a database for the analysis results of Dallmeier cameras and Panomera® systems with EdgeAnalytics technology. The received events, objects and classes are stored with the relevant metadata almost in real-time and can be specifically analysed using the SmartFinder function in SeMSy® Compact.

    Efficient Panomera® recording
    A particular cost advantage becomes apparent when recording Panomera® cameras: “Only one licensed recording channel is required for the first sensor of a Panomera® multifocal sensor system. All additional sensors only require free channels that do not need to be licensed. This reduces licensing costs and enables particularly economical system planning,” explains Christian Linthaler, Chief Sales Officer at Dallmeier.

    Mobile access with SeMSy® Mobile Client
    Like all Dallmeier recorders, the DMS 2400 (MK4) supports mobile access via the SeMSy® Mobile Client. This solution allows security personnel to access live images and recordings from various locations. AI-based object classification pre-selects relevant events and presents them clearly. Operation is intuitive via sliders or the innovative “trackwheel” with haptic feedback. The SeMSy® Mobile Client is available for both smartphones and tablets.

     

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