Pkrevenue.com

Category: World

This section brings you news reports from around the world, covering global events, politics, economy, and more. Stay informed with the latest international updates and developments.

  • Xiaomi unveils CyberOne – first ever humanoid robot

    Xiaomi unveils CyberOne – first ever humanoid robot

    BEIJING: Xiaomi on Thursday August 11, 2022 launched CyberOne its first ever humanoid robot.

    As the newest member of Xiaomi’s Cyber series, joining last year’s quadruped robot Cyberdog, CyberOne is fitted with advanced arms and legs, supports bipedal-motion posture balancing, and reaches a peak torque of up to 300Nm.

    Also demonstrated was the ability to detect human emotion, advanced vision capabilities, and functionality allowing it to create three-dimensional virtual reconstructions of the real world, alongside a host of other advanced technologies.

    READ MORE: Xiaomi launches ultra slim MIX Fold 2 smartphone

    New self-developed breakthroughs in Xiaomi Technology Ecosphere

    “CyberOne’s AI and mechanical capabilities are all self-developed by Xiaomi Robotics Lab. We have invested heavily in R&D spanning various areas, including software, hardware, and algorithms innovation,” says Lei Jun, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Xiaomi Group.

    “With AI at its core and a full-size humanoid frame as its vessel, this is an exploration of possibilities of Xiaomi’s future technological ecosystem and a new breakthrough for the company.”

    READ MORE: Samsung launches all new Galaxy Z Flip4

    CyberOne is a humanoid robot measuring 177cm in height and 52kg by weight, with an arm span of 168cm. Compared to a quadruped robot, this humanoid robot is more mechanically complex, requiring more powerful motors, more degrees of freedom, and complex humanoid biped control algorithms. CyberOne supports up to 21 degrees of freedom in motion and achieves a real-time response speed of 0.5ms for each degree of freedom, which allows it to fully simulate human movements.

    A robot’s motion performance is dependent on the performance of each joint motor. The technological requirement for building such motors is extremely high as it is necessary to generate more kinetic energy without increasing the size of components. In order to ensure the flexibility of CyberOne’s upper limbs, Xiaomi has developed a high-efficiency motor weighing only 500g with a rated output torque of up to 30Nm for the upper limb joint motor. The hip joint motor is similarly capable of an instantaneous peak torque of up to 300Nm. Thanks to the self-developed humanoid bipedal control algorithm, CyberOne’s walking posture has been programmed to be both natural and stable. On top of that, CyberOne is capable of holding up to 1.5kg in weight with a single hand and programming by demonstration. Altogether, CyberOne is a humanoid robot with well-developed coordination and exceptional motion capabilities.

    READ MORE: Xiaomi further improves rank to 266 in Fortune Global 500 list

    Humanoid robots rely on vision to process their surroundings. Equipped with a self-developed Mi-Sense depth vision module and combined with an AI interaction algorithm, CyberOne is capable of perceiving 3D space, as well as recognizing individuals, gestures, and expressions, allowing it to not only see but to process its environment. In order to communicate with the world, CyberOne is equipped with a self-developed MiAI environment semantics recognition engine and a MiAI vocal emotion identification engine, enabling it to recognize 85 types of environmental sounds and 45 classifications of human emotion. CyberOne is able to detect happiness, and even comfort the user in times of sadness. All of these features are integrated into CyberOne’s processing units, which are paired with a curved OLED module to display real-time interactive information.

    READ MORE: Samsung unveils toughest foldable Galaxy Z Fold4

    Keep exploring, and bring robots into people’s lives

    Robotics is considered the “crown jewel of manufacturing” with humanoid robots being the ultimate goal for many across the industry. Compared with industrial robots that are valued for their specialized mechanical capabilities, the main challenge in building humanoid robots is to perfectly simulate human processes of perception, cognition, decision-making, and execution under various scenarios. Interestingly, a large number of new technologies that have emerged in the process of trying to solve this challenge have already been serving the general public in positive ways.

    The development of CyberOne is a symbol of Xiaomi’s dedication to incubate a technological ecosystem centered in a single point, and connect it with the world in ways never seen before. Spanning from smartphones, wearable devices and smart homes, to smart manufacturing, smart electric vehicle and bionic robots, Xiaomi has been constantly exploring and extending its innovations in various scenarios so as to better connect people and the world, eventually building an ever-evolving Xiaomi Technology Ecosphere.

    READ MORE: Samsung launches One UI 5 open beta program for Galaxy S22 series

    Lei Jun notes that humanoid bionic robots require the highest degree of technical integration and present the largest challenge in the field of intelligent robotics. Xiaomi is making its first steps in the field, and CyberOne is constantly adding new capabilities. “We think that intelligent robots will definitely be a part of people’s lives in the future,” said Lei Jun.

    CyberOne’s research and development process combined cutting-edge technologies from a variety of sectors, including bionic perception and cognition, biomechatronics, artificial intelligence, big data and cloud computing, and visual navigation. These technological breakthroughs are also expected to give birth to more application scenarios in other fields, such as industrial robots with improved mechanical performance, companion robots with emotion recognition, and public service robots powered by big data and cloud computing. CyberOne’s technology will also be applied to more and more Xiaomi products in the future.

  • Samsung unveils toughest foldable Galaxy Z Fold4

    Samsung unveils toughest foldable Galaxy Z Fold4

    South Korea: Samsung Electronics on August 10, 2022 unveiled the toughest foldable, Galaxy Z Fold4. The smartphone combines Samsung’s collective mobile technology expertise with increased functionality whether opened, closed or in Flex mode.

    It is the first device to ship with Android 12L, a special version of Android created by Google for large-screen experiences, including foldables.

    The phone is available in an elegant combination of a unique form factor with naturally classic hues with every unfold in Graygreen, Phantom Black or Beige.

    READ MORE: Samsung launches all new Galaxy Z Flip4

    The press release issued by the company stated that multitasking on Z Fold4 is easier than ever, so users can get more done on the move. The new Taskbar provides a layout similar to your PC, offering access to your favorite and recent apps.

    Multitasking is also more intuitive, thanks to new swipe gestures. Instantly switch full-screen apps to pop-up windows or split your screen in half for more ways to multitask.

    Samsung’s partnerships with Google and Microsoft take multitasking to the next level. Google apps, including Chrome and Gmail now support drag-and-drop, allowing users to quickly copy and paste links, photos and more from one app to another. With Google Meet, users can now connect with more people while enjoying virtual co-activities, including co-watching videos on YouTube or playing games together on a video call.

    Microsoft’s full Office suite and Outlook take advantage of the foldable display, providing more information on the screen and faster ways to interact with the content. The multitasking experience is complete with S Pen functionality, enabling on-the-go drawing and notetaking with streamlined storage inside the Standing Cover with Pen case.

    Galaxy Z Fold4 takes stunning photos and videos with an upgraded 50MP wide lens and 30X Space Zoom lens. A variety of camera modes, including the larger Zoom map activated on Capture View Mode, Dual Preview and Rear Cam Selfie are custom-built to take advantage of the unique form factor for increased capturing flexibility. And with the larger pixel size, a 23 percent brighter sensor, and enhanced processing power, users can capture clear images even at night.

    READ MORE: Samsung launches One UI 5 open beta program for Galaxy S22 series

    Content is even more immersive and distinctive on the 7.6-inch Main Screen with a brighter screen, a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and a less visible Under Display Camera (UDC) featuring a new scatter-type sub-pixel arrangement.

    Popular social media apps like Facebook are optimized for the large-screen experience to make content more enjoyable. Or open your favorite streaming entertainment service apps like Netflix21 and watch hands-free with Flex mode.

    For non-optimized apps, users can even control the device without disrupting the content with the new Flex Mode Touchpad, offering accuracy while pausing, rewinding and playing videos or zooming in and out of content while the device is in Flex mode.

    Games are snappier too thanks to the powerful Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform and hyper-fast 5G. With a slimmer hinge, lighter weight and even narrower bezels, the wider screen enables easier one-handed interactions while using the Cover Screen.

    Samsung continues its barrier-defying innovation journey to deliver the level of durability consumers expect, both in and out. With our Armor Aluminum frames and hinge cover along with exclusive Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ on the Cover Screen and rear glass.

    Durability of the Main Screen panel is also enhanced thanks to the optimized layer structure, helping to reduce damage from external shock. In addition Z Fold4 is equipped with IPX825 water resistance, so users can worry less if they get caught in the rain. 

  • Xiaomi launches ultra slim MIX Fold 2 smartphone

    Xiaomi launches ultra slim MIX Fold 2 smartphone

    BEIJING: Xiaomi on Thursday August 11, 2022 revealed its advanced foldable flagship smartphone, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 launched in China.

    Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is a giant technological leap in the ultra-slim foldable smartphone space. Measuring just 5.4mm¹ unfolded, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 offers a consistent viewing experience on both its inner and outer displays. Additionally, it delivers an authentic Leica imagery experience and outstanding power efficiency with the latest Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 mobile platform.

    READ MORE: Samsung launches all new Galaxy Z Flip4

    In addition to Xiaomi MIX Fold 2, Xiaomi also announced Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro, Redmi K50 Ultra, and a host of ecosystem products.

    Self-developed Micro Waterdrop Hinge

    Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 boasts a revolutionary design. It is one of the thinnest foldable smartphones on the market with a folded body just 11.2mm¹ thin—significantly slimmer than many other foldable devices. Both edges measure just only 5.4mm¹ unfolded, offering a pleasant in-hand feel experience.

    To achieve these breakthroughs in form factor, Xiaomi focused on refining the hinge – the core component of the foldable smartphone. Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is equipped with a self-developed Micro Waterdrop Hinge which features a smaller bending radius, thinner screen modules, customized mini rotating hinge, and utilized an integrated solder-free precision process to create a carbon fiber double-wing floating panel. Together, these highly integrated components reduced the number of parts to only 87, enabling a lighter and thinner hinge design than ever before.

    READ MORE: Samsung launches One UI 5 open beta program for Galaxy S22 series

    In addition, both sides of the hinge use space stacking technology, and use large hidden spaces on both sides of the hinge for soft boards, achieving a 20% increase in space utilization and thereby offering the 5.4mm¹ flat design with balanced weight distribution.

    Two displays, one exceptional viewing experience

    Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 sports an inner folding design, with two AMOLED flagship screens of two different sizes on two respective sides. The outer display adopts a 21:9 classic ratio design, allowing for excellent compatibility with most applications and taking into account user experience when handling. The 6.56″ display features Samsung E5 material, a resolution of 2520×1080, and supports 120Hz high refresh rate and P3 color gamut, with a brightness of up to 1000nit–giving it an edge over other common displays thanks to its outstanding user experience.

    READ MORE: Xiaomi further improves rank to 266 in Fortune Global 500 list

    On the inside Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 flaunts an 8.02″ Samsung Eco² OLED display. It adopts POL-LESS technology, replaces the traditional polarizer with an ultra-thin color filter, and uses a black matrix material to reduce reflection on the screen. Compared to traditional displays, light transmittance has been increased by 33%, with power consumption reduced by 25%. This screen has a resolution of 2160×1914, supports P3 color gamut and LTPO 2.0 1-120Hz AdaptiveSync Pro. The ultra-low anti-AR film allows the display to reduce reflectivity to less than 2%, resulting in more detailed viewing experience and pleasing aesthetics.

    The two displays offer an exceptionally consistent user experience, both supporting 120Hz refresh rate, professional screen calibration on primary colors, 1,000nit brightness and Dolby Vision. Regardless of which screen is used, the device supports dual ambient light sensing on the front and back, providing for natural and smooth automatic brightness adjustment.

    MIUI Fold 13, the new standard for foldable displays

    Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 runs on the latest MIUI Fold 13 operating system. Developed as a permutation of the classic MIUI interface, it is perfectly adapted to foldable form factor, with screen interaction optimizations offering advancements in user experience.

    The smart screen desktop design adapts to the foldable display and doubles the viewing area of the smartphone. As well as maintaining visual consistency, it allows for the hundreds of available MIUI widgets to be used without deformation, increasing both aesthetics and usability.

    Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 system applications are customized for its large screen, and a large number of app interfaces have been redesigned for a better on-screen experience. Calendar, file management, voice recorder, notes, and other applications apply a new column design to take full advantage of the large screen. Third-party application adaptation will be conducted according to solutions available in Android 12L, providing more native support capability for third-party apps.

    Additional Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 innovations include updates in smart screen interaction. Users can now three finger swipe to split screen. Floating windows can be quickly accessed through the sidebar, which can also be used to exit split screen mode. The design of floating windows and notifications has also been adjusted, and multitasking on a smartphone has never been quite this efficient.

    Authentic Leica Imagery, dual-quality approach

    Xiaomi has set a new imaging standard for smartphone photography, combining Leica’s imagery expertise with Xiaomi’s rich experience in the field of computational photography.

    To ensure optical excellence, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is equipped with a 50-megapixel IMX766 main camera, with 7P lenses all using ALD low-reflection coating. Also featured are a 13MP ultra-wide angle camera and a 8MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom and portrait capabilities.

    In addition to the Leica-certified Summicron lens, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 offers access to two photographic styles: The “Leica Authentic Look” and “Leica Vibrant Look”, both offering enhanced creative freedom to the photographer.

    With the Xiaomi ProFocus support, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 offers fast camera startup, quick captures, and continuous shooting support up to 30 frames per second.

    In regards to video, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 supports Dolby Vision HDR recording, as well as both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for video viewing. Videos shot on Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 will look amazing, particularly when utilizing UGC platforms which support Dolby Vision, allowing users to share exceptional visuals online.

    Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 and flagship performance packed in an ultra-slim body

    In addition to its revolutionary thin and light foldable screen design, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 takes advantage of the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 mobile platform for snappy performance. TSMC’s 4nm manufacturing process enables a significant increase in energy efficiency while integrating tens of billions of transistors, into an area the size of a fingernail. The advanced process allows both CPU and GPU to receive a 10% boost in performance, while simultaneously improving CPU and GPU energy consumption by 30%. This upgraded design allows the ultra-slim smartphone to maintain higher speeds and efficiency at the same time.

    Excellent power efficiency allows for a long lasting battery, with a full day of use being possible even when the inner screen is frequently used, with extended use when using primarily the outer display.

    Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 also packs a cooling system equipped with a large-area VC, rarely seen on foldable smartphones. The high-quality VC offers a surface area of up to 2,520mm², enabling 50% improvement in thermal conductivity compared to typical VCs. The inner layer of the battery is covered with second-generation boron nitride heat dissipation film, with an area of up to 3715mm². Finally, multi-layer high-density graphite sheet creates a solid foundation for Xiaomi MIX Fold 2’s excellent sustained performance.

    Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 comes in two colors: Black and Gold, with three storage variants.

    12GB+256GB – priced at RMB 8,999

    12GB+512GB – priced at RMB 9,999

    12GB+1TB – priced at RMB 11,699

  • Samsung launches all new Galaxy Z Flip4

    Samsung launches all new Galaxy Z Flip4

    South Korea: Samsung Electronics on August 10, 2022 launched the all new Galaxy Z Flip4, flipping the script on mobile experiences, packing more of what makes foldables great into a compact clamshell design to offer the most unique device experiences yet.

    The mobile comes with the latest operating system of Android 12, One UI 4.1.1 and charges upto 50 percent in just 30 minutes.

    The mobile phone is launched with the storage capacity of 8GB RAM and 512GB internal storage. The phone is also available with 8GB RAM with 256GB internal storage and 128GB internal storage.

    Allowing you to set up shots at any angle, the Z Flip4’s FlexCam lets you live and create truly hands free. You can also harness Quick Shot to capture moments and selfies without opening your phone — or start a video on Quick Shot and transition to FlexCam without interruption.

    The Z Flip4’s upgraded cameras and a brighter sensor bring every scene to life in crisp color — whenever and wherever moments happen. 

    Customization on the Z Flip4 is unlike that of any other device, offering Cover Screen designs and functions that pair across your devices. Z Flip4’s redesign also gives you a more comfortable grip on your smartphone, with the edgier slimmer hinge and straightened edges offering a refined look and feel that matches seamlessly with its four iconic shade options — Graphite, Pink Gold, Blue and the signature Bora Purple.

    The 6.7-inch display unfolds a beautiful view thanks to Ultra Thin Glass. Advanced durability makes it stronger than ever — staying tough through up to 200,000 folds.

    From the inside out, Galaxy Z Flip4 is made to be durable. These are our toughest foldables ever with exclusive Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+. And the hinge is protected by Armor Aluminum — our toughest aluminum frame.

    This phone is the world’s first water-resistant foldable smartphone. It can hang out in 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes without breaking a sweat.

    The night just got brighter with Nightography on the Rear Camera. Details are brought to light even in the dark with bigger pixels on the Wide Camera.

    Nightography isn’t just for stills — it’s also got video skills. When the action gets going, recordings stay smooth, not shaky, with enhanced OIS and VDIS. Powerful processing allows Super Night Solution to minimize noise so clips of the crew stay clear well into the night.

    Introducing FlexCam, a versatile, hands-free camera experience. Take advantage of your phone’s agile angles to capture group shots, selfies and videos from mind-blowing perspectives and impressive true-to-life detail — even in your go-to social apps.

    Take selfies with the Rear Camera while the Cover Screen gives you a real-time preview. Check yourself from afar with a full-screen view finder, or tap to see the original ratio to make sure everyone is in frame. And with new software upgrades, Quick Shot is ready for even more action at all the angles between folded and FlexCam.

    With this much juice, you can let every call go into overtime. An upgraded 4nm processor works with the long-lasting 3700mAh (typical) battery to power through the hours.

    When it’s low, plug in for Super Fast Charging or bypass the cord with Fast Wireless Charging 2.0. With all that power to spare, you can even share a charge with your friend or your earbuds with Wireless PowerShare.

    With a customizable 1.9-inch Cover Screen, you get yet another canvas to play with.16 Change it up as much as you want using your videos, photos or your own AR emoji to personalize the clock face. With this much control, you can easily update it with your mood, the weather or to match your outfits.

    Your daily digital regulars, right on the Cover Screen. Control your phone with taps and swipes on the 1.9-inch Cover Screen. Access Quick Settings, reply to texts and add widgets to keep apps at your fingertips — no Main Screen necessary.

  • US Treasury sanctions virtual currency mixer Tornado Cash

    US Treasury sanctions virtual currency mixer Tornado Cash

    WASHINGTON: The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) Monday sanctioned virtual currency mixer Tornado Cash, which has been used to launder more than $7 billion worth of virtual currency since its creation in 2019.

    (more…)
  • Toyota Motors suspends production at Tsutsumi plant

    Toyota Motors suspends production at Tsutsumi plant

    JAPAN: Toyota Motors Corporation on Monday announced to suspend production at Tsutsumi Plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan after detection of Covid-19 cases.

    The company apologized for the anxiety and concern that this news may cause to people in the surrounding regions. The virus is an issue that has the potential to affect all Toyota locations and company is still working to further enhance communication and health checks with staff at all locations.

    READ MORE: COVID-19 cases reported at Toyota work sites

    Toyota is actively implementing measures to prevent the further spread of the virus and remain committed to provide timely updates as the situation requires.

    Announced on August 8, 2022

    Location, Worksite

    Tsutsumi Plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

    Type of worker

    Line workers (two males in their 30’s, a male in his 40’s.)

    Affect to production operation

    Suspended operations on production line #1 at Tsutsumi plant for the second shift on August 8.

    Date tested positive

    August 5 and 6, 2022

    Last date at work

    August 5, 2022

    Date work site was disinfected

    August 5, 2022

    Others

    Due to difficulties in ensuring the safety and security of our employees and in having the necessary personnel for operation, we have decided to suspend operation.

    Announced on July 27, 2022

    Location, Worksite

    Takaoka Plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

    Type of worker

    Line workers (three males 20’s, a male 30’s, three males 40’s, a female 30’s.)

    Affect to production operation

    READ MORE: Global car manufacturers agree to introduce electric mini-commercial vans

    Suspended operations on production line #1 at Takaoka plant for the second shift on July 27.

    Date tested positive

    July 24, 25, and 26, 2022

    Last date at work

    July 23 and 25, 2022

    Date work site was disinfected

    July 25 and 26, 2022

    Others

    Due to difficulties in ensuring the safety and security of our employees and in having the necessary personnel for operation, we have decided to suspend operation following the decision announced on July 26.

    Announced on July 26, 2022

    Location, Worksite

    Takaoka Plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

    Type of worker

    Line workers (two males 20’s, a male 30’s, two males 40’s.)

    Affect to production operation

    Suspended operations on production line #1 at Takaoka plant for the second shift on July 26.

    Date tested positive

    July 24 and 25, 2022

    Last date at work

    July 23, 2022

    Date work site was disinfected

    July 25 and 26, 2022

    Announced on January 20, 2022

    Location, Worksite

    Tsutsumi Plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

    Type of worker

    Line workers (4 males each in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and 50’s.)

    Affect to production operation

    Suspended operations on production line #1 at Tsutsumi plant for the second shift on January 20.

    Date tested positive

    January 17, 18, and 19, 2022

    Last date at work

    January 17, 2022

    Date work site was disinfected

    January 17, 18, and 19, 2022

    Announced on January 19, 2022

    Location, Worksite

    Tsutsumi Plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

    Type of worker

    Line workers (ten males in 20’s, one male in 30’s, and three males in 40’s.) 

    Affect to production operation

    Decided to suspend operations on production line #2 at Tsutsumi plant for the first shift from January 19 to 22.

    Date tested positive

    January 18 and 19, 2022

    Last date at work

    January 18 and 19, 2022 

    Date work site was disinfected

    January 18 and 19, 2022

    Location, Worksite

    Tsutsumi Plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan 

    Type of worker

    Line workers (eight males in 20’s and 40’s.) 

    Affect to production operation

    Production line #2 at Tsutsumi plant halted operation for the first shift on January 19. 

    Date tested positive

    January 18, 2022 

    Last date at work

    January 18, 2022 

    Date work site was disinfected

    January 18, 2022

  • Xiaomi further improves rank to 266 in Fortune Global 500 list

    Xiaomi further improves rank to 266 in Fortune Global 500 list

    Beijing, CHINA: Xiaomi Group has been ranked No. 266 on the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list announced on Wednesday.

    The company, which is the world’s third largest smartphone manufacturer, moved up the list for the fourth year in a row.

    READ MORE: Jazz announces free calls to calamity hit Balochistan

    Xiaomi first appeared on the Fortune Global 500 list as No. 468 in 2019, just nine years after its founding. The fast-growing company has improved its ranking every year since – to 422 in 2020 and to 338 last year.

    According to Fortune Magazine, Xiaomi, which first entered the Fortune Global 500 List in 2019, has advanced more than 200 positions in four years, making it the fastest rising Chinese technology company.

    Xiaomi’s revenue and adjusted net profit hit new highs in 2021. Total revenue of Xiaomi Group in 2021 reached RMB 328.3 billion, a year-on-year increase of 33.5 per cent. Its adjusted net profit reached RMB 22 billion last year, a year-on-year increase of 69.5 per cent.

    READ MORE: Careem customers donate Rs10.3 million

    Xiaomi Group’s overseas-market revenue in 2021 increased by 33.7 per cent year-on-year, accounting for 49.8 per cent of its total revenue. In the first quarter of 2022, this proportion increased to 51.1 per cent.

    Thanks to its “Smartphone × AIoT” strategy, Xiaomi’s global smartphone shipments hit a record high in 2021. Its AIoT products also expanded rapidly, building a rich product ecosystem around smartphones.

    According to Canalys, Xiaomi ranked third in the global smartphone industry with a market share of 14.1 per cent in 2021. Its smartphone sales ranked first in 14 markets and was in the top five in 62 markets.

    READ MORE: Forbes China includes Xiaomi in best employers list

    As of December 31, 2021, more than 434 million smart devices were connected to its platform (excluding smartphones, tablets and laptops), a year-on-year increase of 33.6 per cent. The number of its global MIUI monthly active users reached 509 million, a year-on-year increase of 28.4 per cent.

    In 2021, the share of Xiaomi’s high-end smartphone shipments increased to about 13 per cent of its total smartphone shipments, nearly doubling from the previous year.

    Meanwhile, Xiaomi has continued to increase its investment in research. In 2021, Xiaomi’s R&D expenditure was RMB 13.2 billion, a year-on-year increase of 42.3 per cent. In the next five years, Xiaomi’s investment in research is expected to exceed RMB 100 billion. As of March 31, 2022, Xiaomi has been granted more than 26,000 patents; its global patent applications exceeded 53,000.

    READ MORE: Xiaomi joins hands with SELECT for phone production

    Going forward, Xiaomi is committed to building amazing products with honest prices so that everyone can enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

  • Hyundai’s heavy duty trucks to be exported to Germany

    Hyundai’s heavy duty trucks to be exported to Germany

    SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Company announced on Tuesday to export XCIENT Fuel Cell heavy-duty trucks to Germany, the biggest commercial vehicle market in Europe.

    Seven companies of Germany in logistics, manufacturing and retail will put 27 XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks into fleet service with funding for eco-friendly commercial vehicles from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV). 

    READ MORE: Hyundai Motors announced 4% growth in July global sales

    Mark Freymueller, Senior Vice President and Head of Commercial Vehicle Business Innovation of Hyundai Motor Company said:

    “We are glad to now also officially enter the German commercial vehicle market with our heavy-duty fuel cell electric truck, the XCIENT Fuel Cell. Hyundai Motor, which is recognized as the leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology, will leverage this opportunity to expand our business into the wider European market by successfully supporting Germany’s efforts to achieve its carbon neutral goals,”

    READ MORE: Hyundai, Kia sign pact to develop mobility to explore moon

    In August 2021, BMDV rolled out its funding guidelines for commercial vehicles with alternative drive systems upon approval by the European Commission. The funding is available for battery, fuel cell and (overhead line) hybrid electric vehicles, corresponding to refueling/charging infrastructure and related feasibility studies. BMDV will have a budget of 1.6 billion euros available until 2024 to purchase eco-friendly commercial vehicles. 

    The aforementioned seven German companies initially applied for the funding with Hyundai’s XCIENT Fuel Cells and successfully received approval from BMDV, again proving XCIENT Fuel Cell’s product competitiveness. 

    READ MORE: Hyundai announces second quarter financial results

    Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Company and Swiss company H2 Energy, has also established Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility Germany GmbH (HHMG) to actively expand its entry into the hydrogen-powered commercial vehicle market in Germany. In order to establish a hydrogen ecosystem in the country, HHMG will operate local market sales and customer service as well as upfitter management in the market. HHMG also plans to actively participate in the second funding program.

    XCIENT Fuel Cell Specifications

    The XCIENT Fuel Cell to be delivered is equipped with a 180-kW hydrogen fuel cell system with two 90-kW fuel cell stacks. The system’s durability and the vehicle’s overall fuel efficiency are tailored to the demands of commercial fleet customers. The 350-kW e-motor with maximum torque of 2,237 Nm enables dynamic driving performance.

    READ MORE: Chevrolet unveils all-electric 2024 Blazer EV

    XCIENT Fuel Cell’s seven large hydrogen tanks offer a combined storage capacity of around 31 kg of fuel, while a 72-kWh-powered set of three batteries provides an additional source of power. The maximum driving range is 400 km per charge. Refueling a full tank of hydrogen takes about 8 to 20 minutes, depending on the ambient temperature. 

    Launched in 2020 by Hyundai Motor, XCIENT Fuel Cell is the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen electric heavy-duty truck. The company has already deployed 47 units in Switzerland where they have accumulated more than four million kilometers in driving as of July 2022. The trucks are servicing 23 different customers in Switzerland.

    READ MORE: Pakistan reintroduces capital value tax on motor vehicles

  • Hyundai Motors announced 4% growth in July global sales

    Hyundai Motors announced 4% growth in July global sales

    SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Company on Monday announced that its July 2022 global sales registered an increase of 4 per cent to 325,999 units.

    READ MORE: Hyundai, Kia sign pact to develop mobility to explore moon

    In markets outside of Korea, Hyundai Motor sold a total of 269,694 units, a 6.3 percent increase from a year earlier.

    Despite global component shortages and ongoing geopolitical issues, the sales in global markets have recovered steadily this year.

    READ MORE: Hyundai announces second quarter financial results

    Sales in Korea were down by 5.9 percent year-over-year to 56,305 units. However, the company maintained solid sales of SUV models and Genesis luxury brand vehicles, selling 15,371 units and 10,512 units, respectively.

    Amid fiercer competition in the global electric vehicle (EV) market, the company is solidifying its position as an EV leader. In July, Hyundai sold over 16,000 EVs on a retail sales basis, a 24 percent increase from a year earlier, with more than 8,000 units of IONIQ 5 leading the way.

    READ MORE: Chevrolet unveils all-electric 2024 Blazer EV

    In spite of unfavorable external conditions, including ongoing components shortages and cost fluctuations of raw materials, Hyundai will continue to alleviate business uncertainties by optimizing production and inventory status while diversifying business strategies tailored for each region.

    READ MORE: Pakistan reintroduces capital value tax on motor vehicles

  • Amazon declares $2 billion net loss for second quarter

    Amazon declares $2 billion net loss for second quarter

    SEATTLE, Washington: Amazon.com, Inc. has announced net loss of $2 billion for the second quarter against the net income of $7.8 billion in the second quarter of 2021.

    (more…)