Welcome to the latest edition of our tech news blog, where we bring you the hottest updates in the technology world. This week, we’re delving into NBCUniversal shows, landing on Amazon’s Freevee, Instagram’s Threads, and more! Stick around for these exciting stories from the world of tech and media.
NBCUniversal Adds New Free Channels to Amazon’s Freevee
NBCUniversal has announced that it will make past seasons of shows such as Saturday Night Live, Keeping Up With the Kardashians, and Top Chef available on new free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels. The channels will be accessible on platforms like Amazon Freevee and Xumo Play starting this summer. These new channels will not only offer popular shows but also a range of entertainment, news, sports, and Spanish-language content, adding to NBCUniversal’s current offerings like Dateline 24/7 and NBC News Now. The viewing experience on FAST channels differs from traditional on-demand streaming services; for instance, viewers may not be able to start a show from the beginning or pause it. Despite these differences, platforms like Amazon Freevee remain popular for providing free, ad-supported content alongside other subscription-based services.
Oppo Leverages Sports Events such as Wimbledon to Expand into Europe and Globally
Chinese smartphone manufacturer Oppo has strategically utilized high-profile sports events like Wimbledon for brand exposure in the global market, especially in Europe. Despite being relatively unknown outside of China, Oppo has rapidly risen to the ranks of the top five global smartphone makers, demonstrating the increasing capability of Chinese manufacturers to create products with worldwide appeal. Oppo, unlike Apple, primarily drives sales through its affordable entry-level and midrange phones, shipping 27.4 million units in the first quarter of this year alone. However, while its local competitor Huawei grapples with US sanctions, Oppo seeks to evolve its image from a low-cost phone maker to a more upscale brand.
Redesign Video Showcases LED Evolution in Nothing Phone 2
The design of the upcoming Nothing Phone 2, due for release in a few weeks, was recently unveiled by YouTuber Marques Brownlee. In his reveal video, Brownlee compares the new design to the original Nothing Phone 1 launched in June 2022, highlighting the similar flat-sided aesthetic and light-up glyph design on the phone’s back. The notable alterations in the Nothing Phone 2 include a change in the rear cover color to gray and a significant evolution in LED design. The new phone features 33 LEDs, compared to the previous model’s 12, with 16 LEDs forming a long arc at the top of the back cover. This LED arc can be programmed to act as a progress bar for functions like volume control and timer, with plans to extend this functionality to third-party notifications.
Threads by Instagram: Updates on the New Rival to Twitter
With Twitter facing challenges under Elon Musk’s leadership, Instagram’s newly launched platform, Threads, is drawing attention as a potential substitute. Released on July 5th for iOS, Android, and the web, Threads emerged ahead of schedule, following months of speculation about Meta’s plans to explore a decentralized text-based social network. Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri spoke with The Verge about the company’s ambition to compete with Twitter, recognizing an opportunity to create a platform open to Instagram’s existing community. Threads, described as Instagram’s text conversation app, fosters community discussions on various topics and is closely integrated with Instagram, allowing users to utilize the same username and easily follow existing Instagram accounts.
Aqara’s Initial Matter Sensor for Doors and Windows Doubles as a Programmable Button
Aqara has released its first Matter-over-Thread sensor, the Door and Window Sensor P2, which is now available for purchase. This sensor, priced at $29.99 / £29.99 / €32.99, can integrate seamlessly into any Matter-enabled smart home without needing an Aqara hub. However, pairing the sensor with Aqara’s upcoming Hub M3 unlocks additional features, such as a built-in programmable button. The Door and Window Sensor P2 use a magnet to detect the opening and closing of doors or windows, contributing to various smart home automation. The sensor, powered by a large-capacity 1,400mAh CR123 battery, is discreet in design and compatible with any Matter-enabled Thread border router, facilitating integration with ecosystems like Amazon, Apple, and Google.