What is Happening in the Tech Industry?
Samsung Launches Self-Service Repair Program
Samsung has introduced a self-service repair program, allowing users to purchase phone components and repair their devices themselves. Partnering with iFixit, Samsung supplies components and tools for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S20 series phones, and Galaxy Tab S7+ tablets. These components and tools will also be available at Samsung’s 837 retail experience stores and standard Samsung retail and service locations.
Samsung’s official website lists available accessories, including screens, charging ports, and back covers. To promote environmental sustainability, users are encouraged to send replaced old screens back to the official office. Additionally, Samsung offers free online repair guides, complete with step-by-step instructions and detailed images to help users with repairs.
India Accuses Vivo of Tax Evasion of Rs 221 Crore
In early July, India’s financial crime-fighting agency raided Vivo’s offices and blocked 119 bank accounts related to Vivo’s India business and its affiliates, which were unfrozen a week later. The Indian Tax Intelligence Service claimed to have discovered tax evasion by Vivo, involving 22.1 billion Indian rupees (about $278 million), and issued a notice of reasons to Vivo India. Vivo has not yet responded to the allegation.
Apple Arcade’s First Games Removed from Shelves
Apple announced the removal of some games from Apple Arcade, adding a “Leaving Arcade Soon” section in the Arcade area of the App Store. The first batch of 15 games to be removed includes titles like Spelldrifter, Projection: First Light, and Lifeslide. These games are no longer searchable in the App Store. Users who previously downloaded the games can continue to play them for “at least two weeks” before receiving a “No Longer Available” message.
Apple Watch Series 7 Edition Sold Out Worldwide
Ahead of the expected release of the Apple Watch Series 8 in September, Apple Watch Edition models are sold out in many places around the world. Several Apple Watch Series 7 models with titanium casings are listed as “currently unavailable” in Apple’s online store in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and select other countries. Some 41mm models of the Apple Watch Edition on Apple’s official China website are also no longer available for purchase.
The Apple Watch Series 8 is rumored to feature a fever detection capability and will be equipped with an S8 chip, maintaining the same processor specifications as the S7 chip in the Series 7.
AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss Coverage Now Available in More Countries
Apple has expanded its AppleCare+ service, which includes accidental damage insurance, to include theft and loss coverage in France, Italy, and Spain. Previously available in the U.S., Australia, Germany, Japan, and the U.K., this service allows users to get official after-sales repair or replacement for a reduced fee in case of accidental damage.
For instance, purchasing this service for an iPhone 13 costs $219 for two years, and if the phone is stolen or lost, users only need to pay an additional $149 to get a replacement. This service covers two incidents of theft or loss every 12 months.
Power Bank for iPhone and Apple Watch
Power banks have become essential for on-the-go charging. Traditional power banks can charge an Apple Watch using a special charging cable, but carrying such a cable can be cumbersome.
UUKONE offers a portable charger that can charge both an iPhone and an Apple Watch simultaneously, solving this problem efficiently. This power bank includes a built-in Apple charging cable and can wirelessly charge the Apple Watch. It also supports charging other devices simultaneously with its three-output charging function. The 9000mAh high-density battery can charge the Apple Watch Series 6 about 23 times and the iPhone 12 mini about 2.7 times (note: it is not suitable for the Apple Watch Series 7).
The integrated design is compact and convenient, eliminating the hassle of carrying multiple cables. This portable charger for iPhone and Apple Watch can easily fit into pockets and bags, making it an ideal travel companion. Many users rely on their Apple Watch 24/7 for tracking exercise during the day and sleep quality at night. Therefore, having a charger that can handle both devices is crucial. Additionally, the UUKONE portable charger comes with a 180-day warranty, ensuring peace of mind with options for return or repair if needed.
