Total Solar Eclipse 2024: A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light completely or partially.
Total Solar Eclipse on April 8 Time, Duration, and How to Watch Live Online Viewing Options and Online Streams
An astronomical extravaganza is likely to enthrall skywatchers on April 8, when a total solar eclipse will transform day into darkness across North America. Total eclipses are stunning and darken the sky, but they can only be seen from a few sites. This is why seeing an eclipse is frequently described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomena in which the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light completely or partially.
When the moon totally eclipses the sun, it throws a shadow on Earth, creating a “path of totality.” This path is a small band that travels across the surface. People standing inside this ring can see a total solar eclipse if the weather and clouds coincide. The sky will darken as if it were day or dusk along the path of totality, where the Moon totally covers the Sun.
Unless they are on the path of totality, they will only observe a partial eclipse. The sky will appear slightly darker to them after the eclipse, depending on how much the Moon blocks the Sun in their position.
Total Solar Eclipse Date and Timing:
The total solar eclipse of 2024 will take place on April 8. The total darkening of the sky, commonly known as totality, will be visible throughout a 185-kilometer area between Mexico, the United States and Canada. It will be shown in up to 18 different states in the United States. However, skywatchers in India would be unable to see it.
According to Indian Standard Time (IST), the total solar eclipse will begin at 9:12 p.m. on April 8, totality at 10:08 p.m., and terminate at 2:22 a.m. on April 9, 2024. Totality will initially occur on the Pacific coast of Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PDT, and it will exit Maine about 1:30 p.m. PDT.
Duration of the Total Solar Eclipse
Although totality will only persist for around four minutes, the entire process will take roughly two and a half hours. According to NASA, during the period of complete darkness, the greatest spectacle might endure up to 4 minutes and 27 seconds.
“The Great American Eclipse of August 21, 2017,” states that “the duration of totality will be up to 4 minutes and 27 seconds, almost double that.” The length of totality for most locations along the centerline (path of totality) will be between 3.5 and 4 minutes.
How Can I Watch the Eclipse Safely?
The brightness of the Sun’s surface is so great that staring at even a little fraction of it can cause individual retinal cells to be damaged. During its partial stages, skywatchers worldwide are encouraged to wear protective eyewear, such as authorized eclipse glasses. If you don’t, you risk burning the retinas of your eyes, causing irreversible damage or maybe blindness.
How Can I Watch a Total Solar Eclipse Online?
If you are unable to see the solar eclipse in person, you may watch the live feed from NASA. Beginning on April 8 at 5:00 p.m. GMT (10:30 p.m. IST), the space agency will broadcast live till 8:00 p.m. GMT (1:30 a.m. IST).
In addition, NASA will be conducting expert chats and offering telescopic views of the eclipse from several locations along the eclipse path during the program.
Additionally, you may see the live broadcast that the McDonald Observatory in Texas is hosting. On April 8, at 4:30 p.m. GMT (10:00 p.m. IST), the skywatching website timeanddate.com will also broadcast live coverage of the total solar eclipse on its YouTube page.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series is available in two variations.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 to Launch in Three Variants with 32GB Internal Storage
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 7 series is expected to be released with the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6 smartphones in the second part of the year. The flagship wearable lineup will replace last year’s Galaxy Watch 6 series. According to a recent media source, Samsung plans to introduce three variants of the Galaxy Watch 7. Each variation is planned to be available in Wi-Fi and eSIM variants, and the study specifies their model numbers. Samsung might fit 32GB of storage in the Galaxy Watch 7 series.
According to Sammobile, Samsung plans to release three variants of the Galaxy Watch 7 this year. These handsets will allegedly be offered in both Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi plus eSIM configurations. The Galaxy Watch 6 is available in only two models: the basic and the Classic.
According to reports, the first Galaxy Watch 7 version would have two model numbers: SM-L300 and SM-L305. The model numbers for the medium variation are claimed to be SM-L310 and SM-L315, while the top-end form of the wearable has model numbers SM-L700 and SM-L705. Model numbers ending in five might indicate cellular connectivity and eSIM capability.
Furthermore, the rumor says that the Galaxy Watch 7 will include 32GB of internal storage. This would be a substantial enhancement over its predecessor. The Galaxy Watch 6 series has 16GB of internal storage.
The new Galaxy Watch 7 series is expected to be unveiled during the upcoming Samsung Unpacked presentation, alongside the next-generation foldable phones. The event is scheduled to take place in July in Paris.
According to previous reports, the Galaxy Watch 7 would operate on a 3nm processor and feature a new version of Wear OS and One UI Watch. It is supposed to be 50% more power-efficient than the Galaxy Watch 6.
The current Galaxy Watch 6 is priced in India at Rs. 19,999 for the base Bluetooth edition, while the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic starts at Rs. 36,999.
In the face of Patent Battle Against Blood Oxygen Sensor Technology, Apple Looks to Shut Down Sales for New Watch Models
Part of the suspension, which begins on December 21, is due to a patent battle over the blood-oxygen sensor included in the two most recent Apple Watch models.
Apple Will Stop Selling the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Apple Watch Series 9 Watches
Try to purchase the newest Apple Watch for your loved ones before December 21 if you wanted to give them one for the holidays.
In anticipation of a US International Trade Commission ban, Apple has stated that it will suspend sales of the Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2, its two most recent Watch models. Due to a disagreement over a patent for the technology Apple utilizes in the blood-oxygen sensor of the most recent Watch models, the federal government is thinking of banning the device.
According to 9to5Mac, starting on December 21 at 3 p.m. Eastern, sales on Apple.com will halt, and on December 24, in-store inventory will be removed from retail locations. The watches will still be available for purchase for the time being on websites like Amazon and Best Buy, as the ITC’s restriction only applies to Apple. Both watches will still be accessible in other nations since the proposed prohibition only applies to watch imports into the US.
The suspension comes after a protracted disagreement with Masimo, a medical technology business. Apple was sued by Masimo in 2021, as reported by Engadget. The business claimed that Apple had violated one of its blood-oxygen monitoring patents, which was based on light. In October, the ITC affirmed a judge’s decision that Apple had violated the patents. Following the ruling, the president was given a sixty-day period of review, which ends on December 25. Apple is preparing for compliance in advance.
Apple has a few choices for reintroducing its wearables to consumers. The business plans to file an appeal with a federal court. It can also deactivate the blood-oxygen detecting characteristics in order to come to an agreement with Masimo. After the evaluation period ends on December 25, further details regarding the Watch 9 and Ultra 2’s future plans should become accessible.
apple watch ultra 2 and apple series 9 watch
Since most smartwatches are similar in appearance and functionality, it is uncommon for a business to effectively use patent infringement to stop a competitor’s sales. Fitbit filed a lawsuit in 2016 to prevent the import of Jawbone goods, but it was later dismissed after it was discovered that, well, Jawbone doesn’t actually sell that many fitness trackers. It is quite an accomplishment to witness this happen to a Goliath firm such as Apple, the world’s best-selling watch manufacturer.
The Watch SE is unaffected by the verdict since it lacks blood-tracking sensors. In our guide to the Best Apple Watches, Apple’s reasonably priced entry-level model is our top choice overall. No watch made prior to Series 9 is impacted by the prohibition either. In 2020, Apple debuted the blood-monitoring capabilities of the Watch Series 6; the Series 7 and Series 8 will remain in production.
In addition, Masimo said that the FDA has just approved the Masimo W1, its own wristwatch for tracking health.
After the Sales Pause: Consequences and Apple Watch’s Future
Apple Will Stop Selling the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Apple Watch Series 9 Watches
Let’s examine the larger ramifications of this patent issue and its possible influence on the future of the Apple Watch, going beyond the recent announcement of the sales halt:
1. The Changing Wearable Technology Landscape:
This ruling may establish a standard for upcoming patent battles in the wearable technology sector, which might make it harder for businesses to develop without violating already-issued patents.
In talks with industry titans like Apple, smaller businesses like Masimo may be able to exert more influence and shape the course of wearable technology development in the future.
2. Apple’s Reaction and Possible Fixes:
Apple has demonstrated its dedication to safeguarding its technology and continuing to sell its flagship product through its appeal and possible settlement choices.
To comply with the order, the business may investigate substitute blood-oxygen sensor methods or create software solutions.
Even if the present deployment is put on hold temporarily, this might spur more innovation and breakthroughs in wearable health monitoring technologies.
3. Market dynamics and the impact of consumers:
Customers’ access to the newest Apple Watch models may be momentarily hampered by the sales hold, particularly for those who want the blood-oxygen functions.
For those looking for a new Apple Watch, there are still alternatives available in the form of the Series 7, 8, and SE.
The market for smartwatches may become more competitive as other companies may try to take advantage of the Series 9 and Ultra 2’s brief absence.
4. The Prospects for Masimo and the Future of Health Monitoring:
Masimo is becoming more well-known in the health-tracking industry because to its successful patent defense and FDA approval for its own wearable.
This would encourage more rivalry and cooperation with other businesses, which would eventually benefit customers by giving them access to a greater selection of cutting-edge wearable health monitors.
The patent battle encourages further research and development in this vital area by highlighting the rising significance of intellectual property in the healthcare technology sector.
In summary, the sales halt for the Apple Watch is only one part of a greater tale including innovation, rivalry, and legal issues in the healthcare and wearable technology sectors. Although the short-term effects on customers are minimal, the long-term effects could have a big influence on how we use technology to track and manage our health in the future.
Sales of Apple Watches Paused: FAQs
Q: Why are sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 on hold?
A: An import restriction on Masimo blood-oxygen sensor technology was being considered by the US International Trade Commission (ITC) due to a patent dispute. Apple has decided to proactively halt sales until the end of the review period on December 25th.
Q: I want to get an Apple Watch for Christmas, is it possible?
A: Indeed, but only through December 21st for purchases made online and December 24th for purchases made in-person. After that, you might have to wait for Apple to announce its next move or try searching for them at stores like Amazon or Best Buy.
Q: Does this impact other models of Apple Watches?
A: No, only the Series 9 and Ultra 2 are impacted. There are still devices like the Series 7, 8, and SE that are older and do not have the blood-oxygen sensor.
Q: What’s going to happen on December 25th?
A: Apple has a few options: it can find another piece of technology, settle with Masimo, or appeal the decision. By then, probably more details will be accessible.
Q: Does this affect other brands of smartwatches?
A: No, at this time, only Apple watches are impacted. On the other hand, this decision could establish a standard for upcoming patent challenges in the wearable technology sector.
Q: What about the smartwatch that Masimo owns?
A: Because of this situation, Masimo’s W1 wristwatch, which just got FDA authorization, may get more attention.
Q: What implications does this have for the Apple Watch’s future?
A: The difficulties with patent law and innovation in the wearable technology and healthcare sectors are brought to light by this circumstance. Though it’s too soon to tell for sure, it may encourage the creation of new health-tracking technologies and have an impact on next Apple Watch models.
Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm) Review: A Attractive Combination of Form and Functionality in Smart Fitness Tracking
Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm) Review
Huawei has a strong track record of producing dependable and reasonably priced smart activity trackers. My experience with their products began with the Watch GT 2 days, and I have continued to explore their range, starting with the Watch Fit series and ending with the Watch 3 Pro, the brand’s first full-fledged smartwatch.
But as everyone knows, Huawei’s journey took an unforeseen detour that brought them full circle to their origins. When we go back to 2023, we finally get to see the Watch GT 4. Most of the hardware, menus, icons, and user interface are similar to the GT 3. It brings to mind the Samsung Galaxy Watch series, from Watch 4 to Watch 6, where every new model seems to be an improved version of the one before it.
According to Huawei, the GT 4’s new features include a “new” TruSeen 5.5+ heart rate sensor. Upon closer examination, though, the sensor setup is still the same as my GT 3 Pro. The user interface is now Harmony OS 4. Although there are some minor UI adjustments and new watch faces, the basic functionality and overall user experience are still quite comparable to the GT 3 Pro. With the GT 4, Huawei claims to have upgraded the GPS array and has achieved a 30% faster connection time. In fact, the GT 4 demonstrated a faster GPS lock than the GT 3 Pro in our real-world test.
The Watch GT 4 has a 466 x 466 pixel 1.4-inch AMOLED display. It may not be as brilliant as the newest products from Samsung and Apple, but it does the job.
Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm)
During a three-week testing period that included running, working out at the gym, and tracking sleep, the GT 4 and GT 3 Pro produced almost comparable findings. The variations were minimal at best when examining heart rate zones, running statistics, or other parameters. It’s possible that the GT 4’s sensor hasn’t improved all that much, but this consistency highlights Huawei’s mastery of sensor technology, providing a feature-rich fitness watch at a price that can compete with more costly models.
Excellent battery life is still a feature of Huawei watches. Even with the always-on display turned on, the GT 4’s battery life lasts an average of two weeks, giving you about seven or eight days of use.
Unfortunately, the GT4 is essentially just a Bluetooth activity tracker; it does not allow third-party apps, LTE, or Wi-Fi like true smartwatches do. Nevertheless, it serves a wider user base and runs smoothly on both iOS and Android platforms. The GT4 is positioned as a desirable substitute because to its universality and extensive array of integrated notification functionalities.
Review of the Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm)
A break from the typical circular cases of its predecessors, the new case’s tilted octagonal shape makes it stand out in terms of design. With this new look, the GT 4 is positioned as a multipurpose piece of gear that goes well with both formal events and exercises. Please take notice, though, that the larger 46mm version is the basis for my review. The 41mm variant features a spherical jewelry-inspired appearance and a more traditional feminine shape.
With the GT4, a new StayFit app offers a novel approach to calorie tracking. It goes beyond the typical calorie counter by letting users create weight-related objectives and accounting for daily exercise and activity records for a more sophisticated approach to food and activity levels.
And now for the cost. The GT 4 (46mm) is priced in the same range as its predecessor, starting at S$298. The strap choices are where there is a warning, though. The only version available in black with an elastomer strap costs S$298. The green hybrid nylon (reviewed) and leather versions cost an additional S$50 apiece. Choosing the stainless steel strap made entirely of metal drives up the cost to S$498. It’s interesting to note that the Watch GT 4 41mm models start at S$298 and have the same price premium for leather, metal, and elastomer straps.
Sure, you can simply get the black model and install aftermarket straps that fit a typical 20mm lug, but the case design has a subtle difference that is worth mentioning. The black version of the case keeps its outside all-black, but the green version incorporates a green line into the top half of the case.
Nestled in Huawei’s portfolio, the Watch GT 4 strikes a harmonious balance between cost and functionality. It might not satisfy the most demanding customers, like the die-hard sportsman searching for a Garmin or the frugal user content with a S$50 National Steps Challenge fitness band. However, I believe it takes up a majority space that is occupied by a small number of gadgets. The GT 4 is a worthy addition to any Huawei user looking to upgrade, or for anyone looking for a fashionable and dependable smart activity tracker.
The Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm) series retails for S$298 at Huawei’s official Lazada and Shopee stores. Alternatively, you can purchase the Watch GT 4 41mm version by clicking on these links: Shopee and Lazada.
Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm) Review
Expanding upon your review of the Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm):
Advantages:
Clearly defined structure and organization: The blog has a logical flow between sections and is written with ease of comprehension.
Content that is educational: You go over every important detail about the watch, such as its features, performance, specifications, and design.
Sincere and impartial viewpoint: You point out the watch’s advantages and disadvantages, providing readers with a realistic understanding of what to anticipate.
Conclusion that captures interest: You succinctly restate your key arguments and restate the reasons that the GT 4 is a good option for most people.
Potential extras:
Comparison with particular rivals: Give a quick rundown of the GT 4’s features and compare it to other well-liked smartwatches in its price range, like the Fitbit Versa 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. This would assist readers in determining whether the GT 4 is the best option for them.
More thorough explanation of particular aspects: You may go into greater depth about the features of the StayFit app or examine how accurate the new GPS array is in comparison to previous iterations.
User testimonials: Take into account including brief comments or statements from other people who have used the GT 4. This can strengthen your review’s social proof and increase its relatability.
Visuals: The blog can be improved and made more aesthetically pleasing by including pertinent photos or screenshots.
FAQs for the Huawei Watch GT 4 (46mm)
Q: Is the 46mm Huawei Watch GT 4 a worthy successor to the GT 3 Pro?
A: It is dependent upon your priorities and needs. The GT 4 might not be worth it if you’re searching for a substantial feature or performance boost. But, the GT 4 can be a decent choice if you’re content with the GT 3 Pro and simply want a slightly more sophisticated experience with better GPS and a new design.
Q: How precise is the new heart rate sensor, the TruSeen 5.5+?
A: We haven’t had a chance to thoroughly test the new sensor, but Huawei claims it is more accurate than earlier iterations. Our first testing indicates that it is comparable to the GT 3 Pro’s sensor, though.
Q: Is LTE and WiFi supported by the Watch GT 4?
A: No, the Watch GT 4 can only connect over Bluetooth. This implies that without your phone close by, you won’t be able to use it to download apps or make calls.
Q: Can I connect my iPhone to the Watch GT 4?
A: Indeed, the Watch GT 4 is compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones.
Q: What is the Watch GT 4’s battery life?
A: The Watch GT 4 from Huawei is said to have a two-week battery life. We were able to use the always-on display for about seven or eight days throughout our testing in real-world scenarios.
Q: What is the price of the Watch GT 4?
A: The black elastomer strap version of the Watch GT 4 (46mm) is priced at S$298. However, if you choose the metal strap, the cost would increase to S$498.
Q:Where can I get the GT 4 Watch?
A: The Watch GT 4 is available for purchase from Huawei’s official shops on Shopee and Lazada.
Q: Does the Watch GT 4 justify purchase?
A: The Watch GT 4 is unquestionably a smartwatch to take into consideration if you’re searching for a fashionable, reasonably priced device with decent fitness tracking capabilities. You might want to search elsewhere, though, if you want an LTE or Wi-Fi smartwatch or if you want the newest and finest features.
