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Samsung Electronics today announced the global launch of its 2024 Odyssey OLED gaming monitor, Smart Monitor and ViewFinity monitor lineups.
 
These new and updated models bring features that people want — as well as some they don’t expect — to deliver new experiences, no matter how they use their monitors. The Odyssey lineup brings a next-level OLED experience and new AI capabilities1 to the Odyssey OLED G8; the Smart Monitor lineup heightens joy with more enhanced entertainment features, plus the Smart Monitor M8 powered by AI; and the ViewFinity lineup boosts connectivity to create a complete workstation.
 
“Our latest monitor lineups deliver a breadth of options to users globally and create better experiences, no matter how people use them,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “From the groundbreaking AI-powered Odyssey OLED gaming monitor to multi-device experiences in the Smart Monitor and ViewFinity lineups, Samsung remains committed to redefining the market and delivering cutting-edge technologies to users everywhere.”
 
 
Odyssey OLED Series: Visual Excellence With New Burn-In Prevention Features

 
The 2024 Odyssey OLED models expand Samsung’s offerings of next-generation OLED performance with the new Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SD model) and Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SD model).
 
The Odyssey OLED G8 is the first flat 32” Samsung OLED gaming monitor with 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio. It has a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms gray-to-gray (GtG) response time for ultra smooth and responsive gameplay. The Odyssey OLED G6 is a 27” QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution monitor, supporting a 16:9 aspect ratio. Its 360Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms GtG response time make it easy for gamers to keep up with fast-moving gameplay.
 

 
The new Odyssey OLED G8 is Samsung’s first OLED gaming monitor powered by AI. The NQ8 AI Gen3 processor, which is the same processor Samsung uses in its 2024 8K TV, upscales content to nearly 4K when using Samsung Gaming Hub2 and the monitor’s native Smart TV apps for higher resolution in gaming and entertainment.3

 
Both new OLED models feature Samsung OLED Safeguard+, a new proprietary burn-in protection technology. This technology is the first in the world to prevent burn-in by applying a pulsating heat pipe to the monitor. Additionally, the Dynamic Cooling System evaporates and condenses a coolant to diffuse heat five times more effectively than the older graphite sheet method, which prevents burn-in by reducing temperature at the core. The monitor also detects static images like logos and taskbars, automatically reducing their brightness to provide another means of burn-in prevention.4
 
The Odyssey OLED G8 and OLED G6 both deliver unmatched OLED picture quality with a brightness of 250 nits (Typ.), while FreeSync Premium Pro keeps the GPU and display panel synced up to eliminate choppiness, screen lag and screen tearing.
 
Samsung’s new OLED Glare Free technology5 also preserves color accuracy and reduces reflections while maintaining image sharpness to ensure an immersive viewing experience, even in daylight. The OLED-optimized, low-reflection coating overcomes the trade-off between gloss and reflection thanks to a new, specialized hard-coating layer and surface coating pattern.
 
Both monitors feature a super slim metal design that gives them a distinct identity, while Core Lighting+ enhances entertainment and gaming experiences with ambient lighting that synchronizes with the screen. The ergonomic stand also makes long sessions more comfortable with adjustable height, plus tilt and swivel support.
 
The new Odyssey OLED monitors are the next entry to expand Samsung’s OLED monitor market leadership. Their release comes after Samsung achieved the top position in global sales in the OLED monitor market within only one year of launching its first OLED model.6 This achievement underscores Samsung’s rapid ascent in the competitive landscape of OLED monitors while reinforcing its commitment to diversifying its gaming monitor lineup with models that leverage the company’s proprietary OLED technology.
 
 
Smart Monitor M8: AI Processing for Crystal Clear Video and Audio

 
The updated Smart Monitor lineup brings together a complete multi-device experience into one hub for smarter entertainment and greater productivity. The upgraded 2024 models include the M8 (M80D model), M7 (M70D model) and the M5 (M50D model).
 
The upgraded 32” 4K UHD Smart Monitor M8 introduces new features powered by AI with the NQM AI processor, taking entertainment experiences to the next level. AI upscaling brings lower resolution content up to nearly 4K,7 and Active Voice Amplifier Pro uses AI to analyze background noise in the user’s environment to optimize dialogue in the user’s content.8 360 Audio Mode9 is available on the M8, which pairs with Galaxy Buds to create an immersive sound environment. The built-in SlimFit Camera also makes it easy to conduct video calls through mobile applications with Samsung Dex.10
 
New to the entire line of Smart Monitors is a Workout Tracker,11 which pairs with a Galaxy Watch to enable real-time health data on the screen, even while streaming content. This makes it easier to track workout goals and can make working out more enjoyable.
 
These new features enhance the already impressive Smart Monitor functionality. Smart TV apps and Samsung TV Plus12 provide instant access to a wide range of streaming services and live content, without needing to boot up a PC or connect to other devices.13
 
The M7 is available in 32” and 43” with 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution, a brightness of 300 nits (Typ.) and a gray to gray (GtG) response time of 4ms. The M5 is available in 27” and 32”, with FHD resolution (1920 x 1080), a brightness of 250 nits (Typ.) and a GtG response time of 4ms.
 
 
ViewFinity Series: Maximizing Creativity and Ease of Use

 
Optimized for creatives and professionals and built with responsible practices, the latest ViewFinity lineup includes the ViewFinity S8 (S80UD and S80D models), ViewFinity S7 (S70D model) and the ViewFinity S6 (S60UD and S60D models).
 
The updated 2024 ViewFinity monitors14 help recycling efforts by being made with a minimum of 10% recycled plastic and not applying chemical sprays to the plastic components.15 The packaging also uses glue instead of staples for easier disassembly.
 
The Easy Setup Stand is put together with one quick click, requiring no tools or screws, making it fast and easy to set up and enjoy the ViewFinity’s vibrant display. Every 2024 ViewFinity monitor supports HDR10 and the display of 1 billion colors, ensuring accurate color representation, while also integrating TÜV-Rheinland-certified Intelligent Eye Care features to alleviate eye strain during prolonged work periods.
 
The ViewFinity S8 offers 27” and 32” screen options, each with 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution, a refresh rate of 60Hz and a brightness of 350 nits (Typ.). They also feature a USB hub for easy connectivity and a height-adjustable stand. The S80UD model includes a new KVM switch for easy connection and switching between two different input devices, as well as a USB-C port that allows users to charge devices with up to 90W of power.
 

The ViewFinity S7 is available in 27” and 32” options, each with UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution, a brightness of 350 nits (Typ.) and a refresh rate of 60Hz. The ViewFinity S6 is available in 24”, 27” and 32” options, each with QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution, a refresh rate of 100Hz and a brightness of 350 nits (Typ.), including a USB hub and height-adjustable stand. The S60UD model also includes a built-in KVM switch and a USB-C port (up to 90W charging).
 
For more information on Samsung’s 2024 monitor lineups, please visit www.samsung.com.
 
 
Product Specifications
Odyssey OLED Series
  Model
G80SD G60SD
 Display Screen Size 32”/ 16:9 / Flat 27” / 16:9 / Flat Panel Type OLED OLED Brightness (Typ.) 250 cd/m2 250 cd/m2 Refresh Rate 240Hz 360Hz Resolution 3840 x 2160 2560 x 1440 Glare Type OLED Glare Free OLED Glare Free Response Time GtG 0.03ms GtG 0.03ms  Interface
Interface 2 HDMI (2.1), 1 DP (1.4), 3 USB 3.0 (1 Up, 2 Down)
2 HDMI (2.1), 1 DP (1.4), 3 USB 3.0 (1 Up, 2 Down)
 Features Smart Yes – Built-in Speaker Yes – Sync Tech AMD FreeSync Premium Pro AMD FreeSync Premium Pro Burn-in Protection Yes (Samsung OLED Safeguard+) Yes (Samsung OLED Safeguard+)  Design
Stand Type HAS/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot/VESA HAS/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot/VESA  
Smart Monitor Series
  Model
M80D M70D M50D
  Screen Size 32” 43”, 32” 32”, 27”   Panel Type VA, Flat VA, Flat VA, Flat Brightness (Typ.) 400 cd/m2 300 cd/m2 250 cd/m2  Display
Refresh Rate 60Hz 60Hz 60Hz Contrast Ratio 3,000:1 (Typ.) 32”: 3,000:1 (Typ.) 43”: 5,000:1(Typ.)
3,000:1 (Typ.)   Resolution 3840 x 2160 3840 x 2160 1920 x 1080   Response Time 4ms (GtG) 4ms (GtG) 4ms (GtG)   HDR Yes (HDR 10+) Yes (HDR 10) Yes (HDR 10)  AI Technology 4K Upscaling Yes – – Active Voice Amplifier Pro Yes – –  Smart
VOD (Netflix, YouTube, etc.) Yes Yes Yes Gaming Hub Yes Yes Yes IoT Hub Yes (Built-in) Yes (Dongle Support) Yes (Dongle Support) Voice Assistant Yes (Far Field Voice) Yes (Far Field Voice) – Workspace Yes Yes Yes Multi View 2 screens (Full Screen) 2 Screens 2 Screens  MDE feature
Multi Control Yes Yes Yes 360 Audio Mode Yes – – Workout Tracker Yes Yes Yes  Interface Mouse & Keyboard control (with ESB) Yes Yes – Interface 1 HDMI (2.0), 2 USB-A, 1 USB-C (65W) 2 HDMI (2.0), 3 USB-A, 1 USB-C (65W) 2 HDMI (1.4), 2 USB-A Camera In-Box (Slim Fit Camera) Compatible Compatible Speaker 5W x 2 43”: 10W x 2 32”: 5W x 2
5W x 2  Eye Care
Adaptive Picture Yes Yes Yes Eye Saver Mode / Flicker Free Yes Yes Yes  Design
Iconic Slim Design Yes – – Color Warm White Black/White Black/White Stand HAS, Pivot, Tilt Simple Simple

 
ViewFinity Series
  Model
S80UD S80D S70D S60UD S60D
  Screen Size 27”/32” 27”/32” 27”/32” 24”/27”/32” 24”/27”/32”   Panel Type IPS (27”) / VA (32”) IPS (27”) / VA (32”) IPS (27”) / VA (32”) IPS IPS Brightness (Typ.) 350 nits 350 nits 350 nits 350 nits 350 nits  Display
Refresh Rate 60Hz 60Hz 60Hz 100Hz 100Hz Resolution 3840 x 2160 3840 x 2160 3840 x 2160 2560 x 1440 2560 x 1440   Color Gamut sRGB 99% sRGB 99% sRGB 99% sRGB 99% sRGB 99%  Interface
Interface 1 USB-C (90W) 1 HDMI (2.0)
1 DP (1.2)
USB Hub (Up/3Dn)
1 HDMI (2.0) 1 DP (1.2)
USB Hub (1Up/3Dn)
1 HDMI (2.0) 1 DP (1.2)
1 USB-C (90W) 1 HDMI (2.0)
1 DP (1.4)
1 DP out (1.4)
USB Hub (1Up/3Dn)
1 HDMI (2.0) 1 DP (1.4)
HDMI, DP, USB Hub (1Up/3Dn)
 Feature LAN Yes – – Yes – Daisy Chain – – – Yes – KVM Switch Yes – – Yes – Intelligent Eye Care Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes  Design Stand Type HAS Easy Setup Stand
HAS Easy Setup Stand
Simple Easy Setup Stand
HAS Easy Setup Stand
HAS Easy Setup Stand
VESA 100 x 100 100 x 100 100 x 100 100 x 100 100 x 100  
1 AI features available in G80SD, M80D only.
2 Gaming Hub is available in limited countries, with app availability differing by country.
3 AI upscaling works only when using the built-in Smart TV apps and Samsung Gaming Hub (PQ priority mode).
4 Logo detection is active in AV mode only.
5 UL’s verification validates the ‘OLED Glare Free’ claim by assessing the products against Unified Glare Rating (UGR) testing standard set by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) and testing standard set by the International Organization for Standardization.
6 IDC Q4 2023 Worldwide Quarterly Gaming Tracker
7 AI upscaling works only when using the built-in Smart TV apps and Samsung Gaming Hub (PQ priority mode).
8 Active Voice Amplifier Pro is only available in the built-in Smart TV apps.
9 360 Audio and head tracking support may vary depending on the application and content. Supported devices include the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro / 2 / Pro / Live and can be updated without notice.
10 SlimFit Camera compatibility with Samsung DeX requires a USB-C connection to a Galaxy S23 or later, Fold 5, or Tab S9 with One UI 6.1.1 or above.
11 Supported devices include Galaxy Watch 4 or later with Galaxy Mobile (One UI 4.1.1 and above) with latest software version. Devices must be logged into the same Samsung account. Place your watch and mobile device near your screen to use Workout Tracker.
12 Samsung account required for Samsung TV Plus. Supported Samsung devices and channels may vary by region and are subject to change without prior notice. Additional settings may be required to use these functions. Ads may appear on Samsung TV Plus.
13 Internet access is required.
14 S60UD, S60D, S70D, S80UD, S80D only.
15 The percentage of recycled material, which may vary by component, is calculated based on the total weight of the plastic used on the product. (weight of recycled materials/total weight of plastic).
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Samsung will take the stage in its home country later this week to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 foldables. This marks the first time the summer Unpacked event is being held at home rather than in an international market. It’s also the first time the mid-summer Unpacked press conference will take place in July rather than August or September.
I thought the arrival of Google’s Pixel Fold might have scared Samsung into moving up the launch event. But what if Samsung is really looking to deal with the iPhone ticking time bomb at home by looking to launch the new foldables as soon as possible?
Until this year, Samsung has had virtually no competition in the foldables space since the first Galaxy Fold. Samsung could take its time to upgrade the Fold and Flip each year without delivering massive redesigns. But Chinese vendors started putting pressure on Samsung in previous years. And some of those devices launched in Europe and other international markets in early 2023.
The Google Pixel Fold is perhaps the biggest threat to Samsung’s dominant position in the industry despite some of its obvious faults.
Samsung is responding to these threats with the kind of big Fold and Flip design updates we’ve been waiting for. The Fold 5 will be slimmer than before, thanks to a no-gap hinge. The Flip 5 will feature a large external display occupying almost the entire surface of one of the phone’s halves.
Google Pixel Fold smartphone unfolded. Image source: Jonathan S. Geller, BGR On top of that, Samsung set its Unpacked press event for July 26th, the earliest date ever. As a reminder, this Unpacked event used to be the home of the Galaxy Note series. And it used to happen in early September before Samsung detached it from the German IFA tradeshow. The reason Samsung went to early August was the iPhone’s early September launch which would routinely obliterate Note sales.
All that is to say that Samsung might be worried about increased competition in the foldables space. But the iPhone might be the real reason it’s focusing on the Korean market.
The big iPhone problem
Samsung might want to make an impression on a specific category of smartphone buyers in its home market. Per The Korea Herald, a new Gallup survey shows that young adults in the country prefer the iPhone overwhelmingly to a Samsung phone.
The study indicates that Samsung is the main smartphone vendor in Korea, with 69% of adults owning a Galaxy phone. Only 23% of respondents have an iPhone.
But younger millennials and Gen Z like the iPhone increasingly more than Samsung phones. In the 30-39 age group, 41% of respondents have an iPhone. The percentage goes to 60% in the 18-29 group.
Samsung vs. iPhone market share in Korea for different age groups. Image source: Gallup Korea via The Korea Herald This is a major problem for Samsung. These young adults are growing with the iPhone and the entire ecosystem of apps and hardware. Switching from iPhone to Android becomes increasingly difficult the more you use the products.
As a longtime iPhone user, I can attest to that. I’ve been on iPhone and Mac for over a decade, and there’s nothing to make me switch to a different combo. And I was in the 18-29 group when I started using Apple for my main computing needs.
The young adults who bought iPhone over Samsung cited Apple’s premium branding as one of the reasons. They’d buy the iPhone even if the same storage device is more expensive than the Galaxy S equivalent. For example, the 128GB iPhone 14 costs 1,250,000 won in the country, or $980. The Galaxy S23 is 100,000 won ($78) cheaper.
Various Galaxy Fold 4 and Flip 4 foldable phones. Image source: Samsung Apple Pay, which arrived in Korea earlier this year, is another factor that convinces young adults to buy iPhones.
The study also says that 85% of respondents say they are likely to stick with their current brand. That’s great for Samsung in the older groups. But if young adults stay with iPhone, we might be looking at decades of problems for Samsung. Especially if the teenage generation in Korea positions itself in favor of the iPhone. That wouldn’t be a surprise if their parents also use iPhones.
The unsung heroes in this survey are the older smartphone users who still have LG phones. LG is no longer making Android handsets, of course.
Samsung is apparently aware of the iPhone problem. The Herald says the Korean giant opened a flagship retail store in Gangnam last month, branding it a “playground for millennials and Gen Z.” The store is less than a kilometer away from Apple Gangnam store.
Don't Miss: Proton Pass finally lets you save credit card info with a new updateThe post The iPhone is a ticking time bomb in Samsung’s home market appeared first on BGR.
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Samsung Electronics today announced the global launch of the Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor (G95SC), which has been enhanced with next-level AI upscaling technology.1 Building on the success of last year’s Odyssey OLED G8 (G85SB), the new monitor joins the lineup to open a new era of OLED gaming.
 
“Last year, Samsung addressed the demands and expectations of even the most experienced gamers with the launch of the Odyssey OLED G8,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “With the introduction of the Odyssey OLED G9, equipped with unrivaled picture quality, we are excited to offer our customers these powerful gaming monitors and raise the bar for OLED gaming.”
 
Measuring 49 inches in size with a 1800R curvature, the Odyssey OLED G9 is the first OLED monitor to offer Dual Quad High Definition (DQHD; 5,120 x 1,440) resolution with a 32:9 ratio. The large and wide screen ratio enable users to lose themselves in super-ultrawide vistas — equivalent to two QHD screens side by side. At the same time, its rapid 0.03ms gray-to-gray (GtG) response time and 240Hz refresh rate offer players a competitive edge.
 
The addition of the Neo Quantum Processor Pro sets the Odyssey OLED G9 apart from other OLED gaming monitors. Using a deep learning algorithm, it intelligently analyzes images and automatically upscales to adjust brightness while amplifying contrast. This enables the monitor to restore each detail and deliver the most brilliant images, pixel by pixel.
 
AMD FreeSync Premium Pro further enhances the Odyssey OLED G9’s super smooth gameplay experience. With DisplayHDR True Black 400, the monitor delivers incredible details and vivid colors regardless of the game being played or the content the user is watching.
 
The Odyssey OLED G9 features a slim design housed within a sleek metal frame. On the back of the monitor is the much-loved CoreSync and Core Lighting+ which uses advanced lighting technology to match the colors on-screen, making content more immersive and bringing the gaming experience to life. Built-in stereo speakers complement on-screen content with crisp sound.
 
 
Unrivaled Choice on a Detailed, Vivid Display
Equipped with Samsung Gaming Hub2 and smart TV apps, the Odyssey OLED G9 provides access to streaming, gaming services and entertainment all in one place. Users can watch their favorite shows from leading OTT (over-the-top) service providers without a connection to a PC or mobile device.3 Samsung Gaming Hub also enables users to discover and play games from partners such as Xbox Game Pass and NVIDIA GeForce Now — all without downloads or storage space requirements.
 
The Multi View offering allows users to take full advantage of the large display by enabling game play on up to two screens at once. This means that gamers now can enjoy multitasking without the hassle of a multiple-monitor setup.
 
The Odyssey OLED G9 offers a variety of convenient functions and features that provide an optimized experience whether gaming or viewing. Versatile connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1 and Micro HDMI 2.1, Display Port 1.4 and Auto Source Switch+, create cleaner connections from one central USB hub while providing a seamless experience regardless of the content source. The Height Adjustable Stand (HAS) enables users to find the perfect gaming or viewing position, regardless of what they are playing.
 
To offer a well-rounded lineup that meets users’ various needs, the Odyssey OLED G9 series also includes the G93SC model, which features the same powerful OLED performance while catering to those who prefer a solution without the Gaming Hub or smart TV offerings.
 
The Odyssey OLED G9 (G95SC) will be available for purchase worldwide from June 12, 2023, with launch schedules varying by region. The G93SC model will be available globally from Q3 2023. For more information about Samsung’s Odyssey OLED monitors and the full Odyssey lineup, please visit Samsung.com.
 
To celebrate the launch of a new model, Odyssey Cup will be held on Samsung Odyssey Twitch channel on June 22, bringing 100 global gamers to Fortnite tournament.
 
 
Specifications
Model Odyssey OLED G9 G95SC G93SC Display Size 49-inch, 32:9 ratio Resolution Dual QHD (5,120 x 1,440) Panel OLED Curvature 1800R SoC Neo Quantum Processor Pro – HDR VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 Brightness (Typ.) 250nits Gaming Response Time 0.03ms (GtG) Refresh Rate 240 Hz Sync Tech AMD FreeSync Premium Pro + VESA Adaptive Sync Gaming Hub O – Game Bar O – Smart Smart TV Apps O – IoT Hub O – Voice Assistance O – Design Color Silver Metal Lighting CoreSync & Core Lighting+ Stand HAS / Tilt / VESA Usability Interface 1 DP(1.4) / 1 HDMI(2.1) / 1 Micro HDMI(2.1) / USB Hub 1 DP(1.4) / 1 HDMI(2.1) / 1 Micro HDMI(2.1) / USB Hub Built-in Speaker Yes (5W x 2) Yes (5W x 2) Multi View O – Remote Control In-Box (USB-C charging) –  
 
1 Launch schedule will vary by region.
2 Samsung Gaming Hub only available in select countries: Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Spain, the U.S. and the U.K. In other European countries, cloud games can be accessed through the Samsung Smart Hub. Service and content availability may vary by region and partners.
3 Internet connection required.
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Select Samsung Smart TV and Smart Monitor owners will now gain access to nearly 3,000 games as Antstream Arcade and Blacknut have been added to the Samsung Gaming Hub partner lineup, with the rollout starting today. Samsung makes it easy for players of all ages to find content and choose apps from industry-leading game streaming partners: Xbox, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Amazon Luna, Utomik, and now over 1,400 games with arcade classics from Antstream Arcade, and over 500 premium family titles and exclusive games from Blacknut.1
 
“Samsung Gaming Hub offers players more ways to access the titles they love and discover new ones to play from our game streaming partners, no console required,” said Mike Lucero, Head of Product Management for Gaming at Samsung Electronics. “With Antstream Arcade and Blacknut, we’ve made games even easier to jump into. Now all you need to do is pick up your Samsung TV remote to enjoy great games like ‘Pac-Man’ and ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire?’, or pair your Bluetooth controller to access thousands of world-class games across genres. With more games and more ways to play, there has never been a better time to play games on Samsung Gaming Hub.”
 
Antstream Arcade is the world’s largest cloud retro gaming service that provides players access to over 1,400 classic games and 500 mini-challenges. Play classic arcade games like “Galaga,” “Dig Dug” and “Double Dragon” through your Samsung Smart TV or Monitor via the Samsung Gaming Hub.
 
Antstream Arcade is currently offering 12 months of access to the platform for $12 (or £12 or €12 depending on the region), a significant discount to play the platform’s extensive catalog of retro games.
 
“Antstream Arcade delivers the best retro arcade video game streaming experience, and we’re proud to align with strong partners like Samsung Gaming Hub that can help us reach more players,” said Steve Cottam, CEO of Antstream Arcade. “We’ve experienced firsthand the excitement people have playing the games of their youth and sharing those games with the next generation of gamers.”
 
In celebration of the launch, Antstream will be running a Samsung global tournament on the classic platformer spin master for a chance to win a lifetime subscription of Antstream and enter a prize draw to win one of three annual subscriptions. Anyone can enter the tournament at antstream.com.
 
Blacknut is an online video game streaming service that offers instant access to hundreds of games. With a monthly subscription, players can choose from more than 500 premium games for the whole family, five simultaneously accessible player profiles and a game library available on a variety of screens.
 
Curated and equipped with optional parental controls, the Blacknut gaming catalog also offers a wide range of options for younger users. A separate pin-protected profile allows junior gamers to delight in options such as Outright Games’ great adventures based on the most beloved children’s TV Shows including “PAW Patrol”2 and the “Gigantosaurus” series.
 
Exclusively for Samsung consumers, thanks to its incorporation into the Samsung Gaming Hub, Blacknut will offer new users a 15-day free trial3 to explore the catalog and play any of its 500+ premium video games on select 2022 and 2023 Samsung TVs.
 
“Blacknut is thrilled to partner with Samsung Gaming Hub and introduce our catalog to the popular game streaming platform,” said Nabil Laredj, VP, Business Development & Licensing at Blacknut. “With over 500 games and options for everyone, we are excited to be able to bring cloud gaming to the whole family in a whole new way.”
 
Samsung Gaming Hub returns to Summer Game Fest in Los Angeles next week with more games, more screens and more ways to pick up and play than ever before — giving players a wider variety of choices in how they want to play. Antstream Arcade and Blacknut will be featured at the Samsung Gaming Hub booth, alongside Samsung Gaming Hub game streaming partners Xbox, NVIDIA GeForce Now, Amazon Luna and Utomik.
 
 
1 Service availability for partners may vary by region. Antstream and Blacknut will be available in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Germany, France, Spain, Italy and Brazil.
2 PAW Patrol and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Spin Master Ltd.) Nickelodeon and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. — GIGANTOSAURUS TV SERIES. © CYBER GROUP STUDIOS. All trademarks and copyrights are property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
3 Until August 30, 2023, only available for new subscribers to Blacknut joining on the Samsung Gaming Hub.
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The global smartphone market suffered its fifth consecutive quarterly decline, falling by 12% YoY in Q1 2023, according to a Canalys survey. That said, iPhone sales have grown year over year from 18% to 21% due to the solid demand for the iPhone 14 Pro series after supply constraints made the company sell fewer models during the last holiday quarter.
Another interesting piece of information regards Samsung, which was the only leading vendor to achieve a quarter-on-quarter recovery and struggled back to number one with a 22% market share. That said, the South Korean company still sold fewer phones than last year when it had 24% of the market share.
“The smartphone market’s decline in the first quarter of 2023 was within expectations throughout the industry,” said Canalys Analyst Sanyam Chaurasia. “The local macroeconomic conditions continued to hinder vendors’ investments and operations in several markets. Despite price cuts and heavy promotions from vendors, consumer demand remained sluggish, particularly in the low-end segment due to high inflation affecting consumer confidence and spending.”
While Canalys predicts the inventory of the smartphone industry can reach a relatively healthy level by the end of the second quarter of 2023, it’s still too early to predict the recovery of overall consumer demand.
Image source: Canalys Of all the top vendors, only Apple and OPPO had a YoY increase with their flagship phones during the first trimester. Samsung and Xiaomi had a decrease in market share, and Vivo retained its 8% from last year.
“The sell-in volume of the global smartphone market is expected to improve due to the reduction in inventories in the next few quarters. In addition, vendors have focused more on innovations and raising production and channel efficiencies after a round of fluctuations, shifting from growing for volumes and shares to growing for quality. 5G popularization and foldable phones are also becoming the new driving forces in the industry,” said Chaurasia.
For Apple, the company could be preparing for new highs with the iPhone 15 series. Without the fear of supply constraints for another quarter, the company is still selling iPhone 14 models while preparing a solid lineup of four new iPhone versions.
With a new design, better cameras, and processors, the Cupertino firm could see a new high during the holiday quarter later this year, which could also positively impact the first quarter of next year.
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