Latest news with #Dirac
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
27-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Asus ExpertBook P3 review: Enterprise-focused Windows 11 laptop on budget
Taiwanese electronics manufacturer Asus has recently expanded its enterprise-focused laptop range in India with the introduction of the ExpertBook P-series, powered by 13th Gen Intel Core H-series processors. The series includes three models, with the ExpertBook P3 – the unit under review – occupying the mid-range segment. It strikes a balance between functionality and affordability. Configurable in terms of RAM and storage, this business-centric laptop places emphasis on privacy, security, and durability. Complementing the hardware is a suite of proprietary Asus software utilities aimed at enhancing the user experience, particularly for online meetings. Asus ExpertBook P3: Security and enterprise features Security is a primary requirement in enterprise laptops, and the ExpertBook P3 offers more than the basics. It features a built-in TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), which is a dedicated chip for maintaining system integrity and enabling secure user authentication as well as remote access to corporate networks. In addition, a Kensington Nano lock slot is provided to safeguard the device from physical theft in unsupervised settings. On the biometric front, the laptop includes a fullHD infrared camera and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for Windows Hello-enabled login. A physical privacy shutter further enhances webcam security. Other business-oriented features include a built-in RJ45 LAN port, supporting MAC binding – a requirement in certain enterprise environments for access to specific data or networks. Asus ExpertBook P3: Ports The ExpertBook P3 offers a versatile selection of connectivity ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (with support for DisplayPort and power delivery) 1 x HDMI 2.1 (TMDS) 1 x 3.5mm combo audio jack For a compact device, this combination of legacy and modern ports distinguishes the ExpertBook P3 in its category. Asus ExpertBook P3: Display Asus has given due attention to the display. The ExpertBook P3 is equipped with a 14-inch, anti-glare full-HD IPS screen featuring a 60Hz refresh rate and a productivity-centric 16:10 aspect ratio. The panel is bordered by thin bezels on the sides, with reasonably sized top and bottom borders. The display is sufficiently bright and colour-rich. The anti-glare coating ensures legibility across varied lighting conditions. The hinge allows the screen to open a full 180 degrees, facilitating collaboration and flexible usage. Asus ExpertBook P3: Audio The device incorporates dual stereo speakers located on the underside of the chassis. Tuned by Dirac, the speakers deliver a well-rounded sound. The bottom surface also features rubber padding, slightly elevating the laptop to aid airflow for thermal management and to reduce audio obstruction. Asus ExpertBook P3: Keyboard and touchpad The ExpertBook P3 comes with a backlit, full-sized keyboard that includes dual-purpose function and arrow keys. In alignment with its business focus, the first four function keys are dedicated to video conferencing utilities – such as volume and microphone controls – and are visually distinguished with blue accents. Key spacing is adequate, and the keyboard is spill-resistant to guard against minor liquid exposure. The keys offer satisfactory tactile feedback and travel. Supporting the keyboard is a generously sized touchpad. It has a physical press mechanism, though the click is slightly rigid. In addition to Windows-native gesture support, Asus includes its own gesture controls: swiping vertically on the left side adjusts volume, while the same on the right adjusts brightness. Asus ExpertBook P3: Performance The ExpertBook P3 is suitable for routine office tasks, although it does not compete with newer AI-enabled PCs powered by Intel Core Ultra (2nd Gen), AMD Ryzen 8000 series, or Qualcomm platforms. Nonetheless, it boots quickly, remains cool under regular loads, and operates silently – even when the internal fans are running at full speed. The laptop features dual-channel 16GB DDR5 RAM as standard and is upgradable to 64GB via an additional slot. Similarly, the storage is configurable, with support for PCIe 4.0 solid-state drives. Asus ExpertBook P3: Software and utilities The ExpertBook P3 runs on Windows 11 Home and includes a suite of Asus utilities – some pre-installed and others available through the Microsoft Store. While the core Windows experience is unchanged, the value-added Asus applications offer meaningful enhancements. For instance, the MyAsus app allows customisation of nearly every aspect of the system—from performance tuning to audio and connectivity settings. Another application, AI ExpertMeet, must be downloaded separately (approximately 6GB). This smart meeting utility offers features such as AI-generated meeting minutes, translated subtitles, and watermarking. However, the current limitations in language support and functionality affect its overall utility. Asus ExpertBook P3: Battery Battery life on the ExpertBook P3 is modest, even when operating in balanced mode. It does not match the longevity of modern Windows PCs. However, the battery performance is sufficient for occasional mobile use. Charging is relatively fast; the included 65W USB-C charger replenishes the battery in just over an hour. Asus ExpertBook P3: Verdict At Rs 64,990 onwards, the Asus ExpertBook P3 offers a comprehensive feature set tailored for enterprise users on a budget. It combines a robust build, a practical display, a spill-resistant backlit keyboard, and ample connectivity options. However, its standout feature remains the integrated software utilities that enhance the video conferencing experience, reinforcing its business-centric focus. Asus ExpertBook P3: Unboxing
GSM Arena
22-05-2025
- GSM Arena
CMF Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus in for review
Nothing recently launched three new pairs of wireless earbuds under its budget-friendly CMF brand, and we have two of them in-house today. We got the two ends of the trio here, the top of the line Buds 2 Plus and the cheapest Buds 2. This leaves the middle Buds 2a model, which hopefully we get to look at at some point in the future. Starting with the base model, the new CMF Buds 2 comes with a custom 11mm PMI (polymethacrylimide) driver. The sound is tuned by the Swedish brand Dirac, which has worked on other products with Nothing in the past. You also get 6 microphones (three on each earbud), which work with the Hybrid ANC to deliver 48dB of claimed noise cancelation. The Buds 2 come in three colors, Light Green, Orange, and the Dark Grey featured here. The case design is similar to previous CMF and Nothing products and features a rotating dial on the lid in clear plastic. However, unlike the functional dial on the CMF Buds Pro 2, the dial here is merely ornamental and at best can house a lanyard. The Buds 2 Plus have a custom 12mm LCP (liquid crystal polymer) driver. The sound is tuned in-house by Nothing and you also get LDAC and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification. You also get 6 microphones but with a higher 50dB of noise cancelation. The Buds 2 Plus come in Blue and the Light Grey featured here. The Plus model has a metal rotating dial on the lid but is just as ornamental otherwise as the one on the 2 and also the 2a models. Both models are IP55 rated for the earbuds and IPX2 for the case, have Bluetooth 5.4 with dual connection, low latency mode, and around 14 hours of continuous playback. As you read this, we are working on the reviews for both models and they should be out very soon.
Business Wire
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Business Wire
Asahi Kasei Microdevices and Dirac Partner to Meet Growing Demand for High-Fidelity In-Car Audio Performance
TOKYO & NOVI, Mich. & DÜSSELDORF, Germany & UPPSALA, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Leading semiconductor manufacturer Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) and Swedish digital audio pioneer Dirac have announced a partnership to integrate Dirac's suite of software-defined smart acoustics solutions, AudioIQ, into AKM's line of automotive audio digital signal processors (DSPs), including its flagship AK7709, to significantly reduce tuning time while enhancing sound quality within vehicle interiors. This collaboration brings a new level of audio precision to automotive amplifier systems, delivering a more natural, immersive sound experience for drivers while dramatically reducing the need for complex manual tuning. The partnership also enables AKM to embed Dirac's proprietary algorithms into its next generation of audio DSPs. As indicated in Asahi Kasei's 2023 automotive survey, as driverless vehicles become more prevalent, passengers increasingly emphasize in-cabin experiences. Together, the two companies aim to meet the rising demand for immersive in-car entertainment while addressing OEMs' pain points of taxing tuning processes. 'With the electrification of vehicles and growing demand for premium passenger experiences, high-quality in-cabin sound has never been more critical,' said Takeshi Fujita, General Manager for ES Project at AKM. 'Our partnership with Dirac allows us to pair our industry-proven DSPs and proprietary audio technologies with Dirac's cutting-edge smart acoustics software to create a more natural and immersive acoustic environment for every seat in the vehicle.' Over the past 20 years, AKM has shipped more than 200 million units of its audio DSPs, which have been widely adopted in vehicle infotainment systems and other audio and voice solutions. By integrating Dirac's smart acoustics software directly into its proven DSP portfolio, AKM enhances its ability to deliver lifelike audio in the face of challenging cabin acoustics and speaker placements. The partnership further elevates the performance of AKM's proprietary software solutions, including Dynamic Sound Control (DSC), which automatically optimizes music balance in response to changing road and driving conditions, and Karaoke Mode, which delivers enhanced in-cabin entertainment through low-latency echo cancellation and howling suppression. 'Our partnership with AKM reflects our shared commitment to making premium in-car audio more accessible and efficient to implement,' said Ramzi Khalaf, Director, Strategic Partnerships at Dirac.'By embedding Dirac AudioIQ solution into AKM's leading DSPs, we're empowering automakers to deliver best-in-class sound performance that adapts to any cabin configuration – without the cost and complexity of traditional tuning methods.' Dirac AudioIQ is a fully scalable audio optimization platform for vehicles. It combines measurement-based tuning with advanced signal processing to deliver consistent, high-quality sound across every seat. AudioIQ minimizes manual calibration and supports all levels of system complexities, helping manufacturers improve audio performance while significantly reducing tuning time and overall time-to-market. Looking ahead, Dirac and AKM plan to expand their collaboration to support future generations of AKM audio DSPs, creating a scalable platform for automotive audio innovation. Learn more about AKM's audio DSPs here and Dirac's automotive audio technologies here. About Dirac Dirac develops digital software solutions that create a significantly improved sound experience for all types of sound systems. Our customers include enterprises, such as sound system manufacturers and streaming services, as well as consumers. Dirac is a global company with headquarters in Uppsala, Sweden and R&D facilities in Copenhagen, Denmark and Bangalore, India, with representation in Greater China, Germany, Japan, Korea, and the USA. To learn more, visit About Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) AKM, a Japan-based company, operates an electronic components business as a member of the Asahi Kasei Group's Material sector. AKM provides customers with unique products by combining the compound semiconductor technology used in magnetic sensors with the ASIC/analog circuit technology used in silicon semiconductors. AKM's unique products and solutions are featured across a wide range of markets, including mobile communication devices and consumer products, as well as automotive electronics devices, household equipment, and industrial equipment. Additional information is available on About Asahi Kasei The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with an ammonia and cellulose fiber business, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 49,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to sustainable society by providing solutions to the world's challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Healthcare. For more information, visit Asahi Kasei is also dedicated to sustainability initiatives and is contributing to reaching a carbon neutral society by 2050. To learn more, visit
The Citizen
17-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
It's next level comfort in a BYD Sealion 6
Renowned for its electric vehicles, BYD, is also one of the largest EV battery manufacturers in the world, with its innovative, durable, and safe blade battery found in a variety of passenger, commercial, and rail vehicles. The brand is hoping to build its presence in South Africa and as it stands order books are filling up fast. The BYD Sealion 6 is now available at BYD South Coast in Margate, a plug-in hybrid SUV in three variants – Comfort, Dynamic and Premium AWD. Customers can choose from four exterior colours, and premium trim between full-black or brown-and-black combination of synthetic leather upholstery for the interior. All models feature LED headlights, tail lights and a panoramic sunroof. Complementing the trimmings is a 15.6-inch rotating infotainment screen and audio system that consists of either 6-speakers Dirac or 10-speaker infinity audio system. All models support Android Auto and Apple Car Play. There are seven airbags and a host of advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist and automatic collision avoidance braking. Visit BYD South Coast and speak to a friendly sales executive. HAVE YOUR SAY Like the South Coast Herald's Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Nikkei Asia
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Nikkei Asia
Asahi Kasei's auto chips to slash audio-tuning time by 70%
TOKYO -- Japan's Asahi Kasei will cut the time that automakers need to fine-tune in-vehicle sound systems by 70% using its semiconductor devices. The company has partnered with Swedish audio technology developer Dirac to make such adjustments as noise reduction easier. Asahi Kasei has an estimated roughly 20% share of the global market for audio-processing semiconductors for vehicles. By partnering with other companies, Asahi Kasei aims to shorten vehicle development times and expand its own sales.
