Top Stories: Apple's Plans for 2023, AirPods Tips and Tricks, and More - MacRumors

It's the final day of 2022, which means many Apple fans around the world are enjoying some newly unwrapped gifts while also looking forward to what's coming in 2023.

In addition to our roundup of expectations for 2023, this week also saw some more specific news and rumors about both current and future Apple products, so read on for all of the details and have a Happy New Year!

What to Expect From Apple in 2023: AR/VR Headset, iPhone 15 Pro, MacBook Pro, Mac Pro and More

By all indications, Apple is expected to have a busy year of hardware and software updates in 2023. From the long-rumored mixed-reality headset to USB-C iPhone models to an array of Macs, the list of updates is a lengthy one and we've summed all of it up in our annual preview guide.

On the software side, we'll of course be seeing iOS 17 and macOS 14 mid-year at WWDC, but even before that we'll be getting some new features. We've put together a list of five new iOS features set to launch or expand next year, including a security keys feature for Apple IDs, an Apple Card savings account option, Advanced Data Protection and Emergency SOS via Satellite in additional countries, and more.

Eight Useful Tips for New AirPods and AirPods Pro Owners

Were you gifted AirPods or AirPods Pro during the holidays? If so, we've rounded up a handy list of tips, tricks, and features that you may not know about to get you acquainted with your new earbuds.

We have also shared tips and tricks for the iPhone 14, iPad, and Apple Watch. If you received an Apple gift card instead, we've put together a list of products and services to spend it on, with everything priced under $100.

Apple Reportedly 'Seriously' Concerned About iPhone 14 Plus Sales

A report this week claimed that Apple is "seriously" concerned about weak sales of the iPhone 14 Plus following the device's launch.

Introduced in September, the iPhone 14 Plus features a 6.7-inch display like the iPhone 14 Pro Max, but lacks some higher-end features like ProMotion, the Dynamic Island, and a telephoto lens. The device effectively replaced the 5.4-inch iPhone 13 mini.

New iPad Mini Expected to Launch as Early as 2023

Apple is working on a new version of the iPad mini, with mass shipments expected to start towards the end of 2023 or in the first half of 2024, according to reputable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

The current iPad mini was released in September 2021 and features an 8.3-inch display, A15 Bionic chip, USB-C port, Touch ID power button, 5G support on cellular models, and more. Pricing for the device starts at $499.

Early 2024 may also see our first OLED iPad Pro models with slightly larger 11.1-inch and 13-inch display options.

iPhone 14 Pro Faced 'Unprecedented' Setback Leading to Removal of New Graphics Processor

Apple planned a major update for the iPhone 14 Pro's graphics capabilities, but was forced to scrap plans for the new GPU late in development after "unprecedented" missteps were discovered, according to a report this week from The Information.

The report reveals how Apple's chip design team has been forced to contend with a loss of talent in recent years, with the company having lost dozens of key employees.

Apple Launching All-New CarPlay Experience in 2023 With These 5 Key Features

At WWDC 2022 in June, Apple previewed the next generation of CarPlay, promising deeper integration with vehicle functions like climate controls and FM radio, support for multiple displays across the dashboard, personalization options, and more.

Apple says the first vehicles with support for the new CarPlay experience will be announced in late 2023. Ahead of time, we've outlined five key features to expect.

Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view.

So if you want to have top stories like the above recap delivered to your email inbox each week, subscribe to our newsletter!

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Top Stories: Apple's Plans for 2023, AirPods Tips and Tricks, and More - MacRumors
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Save $30 on this multi-device, Qi-compatible charging station - Mashable

TL;DR: As of Dec. 31, you can snag the OMNIA Q3 3-in-1 Charging Station with Power Adapter(opens in a new tab) for only $109.95 instead of $139 — that's 20% in savings.

---

If you're looking for a way to keep your Apple products or other Qi-compatible devices powered up in the new year, look no further than the OMNIA Q3 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station with Power Adapter.

This charging solution lets you charge multiple devices at once(opens in a new tab), all with the dock's claimed triple-fast wireless charging power...and it's even designed to be prepared for dual charging standards of 7.5W for Apple and 10W for Android. If you've been looking for an easy way to quickly charge your gadgets, the OMNIA Q3 could be a great choice. And right now you can snag one for $109.95, 20% off the usual $139 price tag. 

The OMNIA Q3 is ready to charge your must-have electronics in a new and improved way. This sleek black charging station lets you simultaneously power up your electronics(opens in a new tab) on one simple device, letting you leave the tangle of cords and messy nightstands in 2022. 

If you've got an Apple Watch, Apple AirPods, and an Apple iPhone, it makes sure you don't have to prioritize who gets powered up first — there's even a dedicated charging spot for the AirPods charging case. It also includes a foldable Apple watch charging pad that you can fold down for maximum portability, because you're going to want to take this charging station everywhere. 

Aside from the wireless charging capabilities, there's a 24W fast wall charger that comes equipped with US/EU/UK travel plugs. The charging pad can be adjusted to your preferred angle, for maximum flexibility. And you can have peace of mind as your devices power up, as it offers protection against overcharging and overheating, and detects foreign objects. 

Make charging your devices more convenient in the new year. Get the OMNIA Q3 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station with Power Adapter(opens in a new tab) for just $109.95 (reg. $139) today. 

Prices subject to change.

Credit: Adam Elements

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Save $30 on this multi-device, Qi-compatible charging station - Mashable
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Redmi 12C announced with Helio G85 SoC and 50MP camera - GSMArena.com news - GSMArena.com

Xiaomi's Redmi unveiled the Redmi K60 series smartphones, Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed Edition, and a bunch of accessories a few days ago. And before 2022 comes to an end, Redmi announced a new entry-level smartphone today, dubbed Redmi 12C.

The Redmi 12C is built around a 6.71" HD+ screen with a notch for the 5MP selfie camera. Its back panel - having a non-slip texture and diagonal stripes - sports a fingerprint scanner and a dual camera setup headlined by a 50MP unit. Redmi doesn't tell us anything about the second camera, but we believe it could be a depth sensor.

The 12C has the Helio G85 SoC under the hood with up to 6GB LPDDR4X RAM and up to 128GB storage, which is expandable up to 512GB. The smartphone boots MIUI 13 (likely based on Android 12), but you won't get all MIUI 13 features on the 12C since it runs an "exclusive optimized version" of MIUI 13.

The rest of the Redmi 12C's highlights include a 5,000 mAh battery, a microUSB port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It supports 4G networks and has a dedicated microSD card slot.

The Redmi 12C comes in four colors and has three memory options - 4GB/64GB, 4GB/128GB, and 6GB/128GB priced at CNY699 ($100/€95/₹8,385), CNY799 ($115/€110/₹9,585), and CNY899 ($130/€120/₹10,785), respectively. It will go on sale in China starting January 1 through Xiaomi's official Chinese website, but there's no word on its availability in other markets.

Xiaomi Redmi 12C

Source (in Chinese)

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Redmi 12C announced with Helio G85 SoC and 50MP camera - GSMArena.com news - GSMArena.com
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Poll: What improvements do you want to see from smartphone cameras in 2023? - Android Authority

Robert Triggs / Android Authority

The camera experience is one of the biggest considerations when buying a smartphone, at least according to the results of an Android Authority poll back in 2021. In fact, roughly three-quarters of respondents said it was one of several key considerations at the very least.

But what specific improvements do you actually want to see from smartphone cameras in 2023, though? That’s the topic of our featured poll today. So go ahead and make your decision via the poll below.

What do you want to see from smartphone cameras in 2023?

545 votes

There’s still some room for improvement when it comes to daytime snaps, low-light capture, and selfie shots, whether that’s via noise reduction, improved HDR, reduced motion blur, or increased levels of detail. We can also understand why you’d want better video, as iPhones still have a reputation for offering superior video quality to Android devices.

Me? I’d love to see improved zoom in 2023, as several brands like OnePlus, Oppo, and Apple have neglected long-range zoom despite the likes of Google and Samsung streaking ahead. Nevertheless, you can give us your answer via the poll above.

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Poll: What improvements do you want to see from smartphone cameras in 2023? - Android Authority
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Save $30 on this multi-device, Qi-compatible charging station - Mashable

TL;DR: As of Dec. 31, you can snag the OMNIA Q3 3-in-1 Charging Station with Power Adapter(opens in a new tab) for only $109.95 instead of $139 — that's 20% in savings.

---

If you're looking for a way to keep your Apple products or other Qi-compatible devices powered up in the new year, look no further than the OMNIA Q3 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station with Power Adapter.

This charging solution lets you charge multiple devices at once(opens in a new tab), all with the dock's claimed triple-fast wireless charging power...and it's even designed to be prepared for dual charging standards of 7.5W for Apple and 10W for Android. If you've been looking for an easy way to quickly charge your gadgets, the OMNIA Q3 could be a great choice. And right now you can snag one for $109.95, 20% off the usual $139 price tag. 

The OMNIA Q3 is ready to charge your must-have electronics in a new and improved way. This sleek black charging station lets you simultaneously power up your electronics(opens in a new tab) on one simple device, letting you leave the tangle of cords and messy nightstands in 2022. 

If you've got an Apple Watch, Apple AirPods, and an Apple iPhone, it makes sure you don't have to prioritize who gets powered up first — there's even a dedicated charging spot for the AirPods charging case. It also includes a foldable Apple watch charging pad that you can fold down for maximum portability, because you're going to want to take this charging station everywhere. 

Aside from the wireless charging capabilities, there's a 24W fast wall charger that comes equipped with US/EU/UK travel plugs. The charging pad can be adjusted to your preferred angle, for maximum flexibility. And you can have peace of mind as your devices power up, as it offers protection against overcharging and overheating, and detects foreign objects. 

Make charging your devices more convenient in the new year. Get the OMNIA Q3 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station with Power Adapter(opens in a new tab) for just $109.95 (reg. $139) today. 

Prices subject to change.

Credit: Adam Elements

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Save $30 on this multi-device, Qi-compatible charging station - Mashable
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Israeli Meta exec says Israel will play 'major role' in VR industry - Ynetnews

The interview we scheduled with Israeli Meta executive was postponed due to Mark Zuckerberg's dramatic announcement that 11,000 company employees were going to be fired.

It hasn't been the best of years for Meta, formerly known as Facebook, to put it mildly. Zuckerberg's insistence on focusing efforts on the virtual reality world we're supposed to be living in soon, dubbed the Metaverse, seems like an unsafe bet at the moment, especially in light of the tens of billions of dollars invested into the project.

3 View gallery

The Metaverse/ Illustration

(Photo: Facebook)

Facebook itself was supposed to be the backup in case the Metaverse dream doesn't fully materialize, but Zuckerberg wasn't counting on TikTok gaining the kind of popularity it did - causing Meta to lose on even more revenue. Meta's stock lost 65% of its worth since January, with no signs of the avalanche coming to a stop anytime soon.

Still, Zuckerberg isn't slowing down. He's putting all his chips into the virtual Metaverse basket, with his "reality labs" division continuing to dump massive amounts of money on it. This division has offices around the world, one of which is Israel.

Now, for the first time, Meta is allowing one of it workers to be interviewed. Meet Dadi Gadot, manager of the Reality Labs division in Tel Aviv.

"Before cars were invented, no horse rider said anything about a motorized carriage," he says. "They spoke of a more efficient, less demanding horse. When it comes to the Metaverse, there's a vision at play and we're focused on the Tech to bring it to life."

Gadot is a 38-year-old father of two, residing with his family in Tel Aviv. He served in the Air Force and up until today, still loves to make time for virtual flying simulators. He joined Meta two years ago and was one of the founders of Magic Leap, where he worked on designing the company's second generation VR set.

The software division Gadot now manages stretches from Western Europe to the United States. "While we mostly focus on software, we work with closely with hardware as well, on things like sensors and processors."

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Dadi Gadot

(Photo: Yuval Hen)

What is Metaverse, anyway?

"It's a 3D internet environment, as opposed to our computers and phones, which is 2D. It means that if someone joins in on a conversation virtually, it'll look and feel like he's right next to us, even if he's on the other side of the world. Even if I'm here and you're in San Francisco, you can invite me to a round of golf. We call it "Presence Platform."

"Meta is already selling those long distance workout routines for its VR headset called Quest. You can workout from home even if your instructor is in the Philippines, because it feels like he's right next to you. It's all done through wearables."

Are you referring to those clumsy headsets that block out the eyes?

"No. Our vision speaks of tiny, thin glasses, so you won't need anything on your desk other than space to place your hands. Since they're transparent, it means you'll be able to interact both with people next to you and those thousands of miles away, and it'll feel exactly the same. That's the future."

So you're saying we should forget about VR headsets because it's all about thin AR (augmented reality) glasses.

"I'm not saying you should forget, since VR headsets do and will have value, even after our final vision materializes. They're an additional product you can use. They have plenty of users and more applications are being developed for them. In Herzliya, for example, there's a company that bought its workers all VR headsets and they make it work."

What's the difference between AR and VR?

"VR is simply virtual reality, like the Quest headsets we already have. Through them you can see a virtual world in a 360-degree field-of-view."

Mark Zuckerberg presents the Metaverse vision

"MR, which is mixed reality, are headsets that have cameras and sensors on them that interpret the world around you as well as your facial expressions.

"AR is augmented reality. Those headsets are transparent and combine the physical world with virtual elements.

"The Quest headsets are VR and our Quest Pro headsets are MR (mixed reality). Our vision, as I've said, is AR headsets where you can see the real world right along with virtual elements in the same space. In our software group we actually work on all three."

Give me a specific challenge you're dealing with.

"We're working on the system being able to identify and calculate objects in the virtual space, so if for example, a virtual monster comes in the room, her ability to maneuver would take those objects into account.

"We're also working on avatars. We track facial expressions and alterations like blinking, speaking, smiling etc. 3D avatars will look exactly like you. It'll work on all platforms, including your phone. Another challenge is expanding the functionality of the kind of controllers you see on gaming consoles."

Honest, though. Are you focusing on a need that doesn't exist? I get along fine without playing virtual golf with my Hawaiian friend.

"New technologies always face those kinds of questions. Smartphones didn't seem necessary when we had computers. We need different tools for different applications all the time. We're trying to connect people in every way we can."

So we could use AR goggles all day for navigation and stuff like that, and in the evening, use our VR headsets to disengage from the physical world.

"If you'd like to make a presentation in peace, you could use VR headsets to work on that while sitting on a beach of a deserted island."

Isn't it just a fantasy? You seem far away from that utopian vision. Zuckerberg spoke about endless challenges in development, and none of the models he presented came anywhere near the AR goggles you speak of.

"The tech to enable all this has been around for eight years. We're working on personalizing the experience for people's homes, not just organizations. That distinguishes us from others in the market."

But Google already tried Google Glass and Microsoft already tried Hollow Lens. It didn't work. It's too clumsy and expensive, and it's not consumer friendly either.

"Remember the first cellular phones? Those Motorolas looked like a suitcase. From there it went into our cars and from there to our pockets. It's all about perfecting miniaturization over time. We're doing the same. Eventually it'll work as intended."

What about physical limitations? Our phones have cameras that could never compete with high-end DSLRs because there's simply no room for a large quality lens.

"There are no physical limitations for out five-year goal. I know that for a fact. There are challenges, to be sure. Miniaturizing with losing energy or overheating. Stuff like that. The AR goggles we want will be a major breakthrough for humanity. We already have a prototype called ARIA."

3 View gallery

Quest Pro MR headeset

(Photo: Meta)

In VR, location matters. Aren't you annulling the physical dimension?

"No. The point of what we're doing is to have the virtual correspond with the physical. It's about identifying objects and how they behave from a physics standpoint. We can already do that within the context of a room. Soon it's a house, mansion, city and eventually the whole world."

"Let's say Habima Theatre is putting on a virtual play. You'll be able to see it on the AR goggles as if it's right in front of you. Virtual characters running around your living room."

And AR goggles will also let me know the rent for an apartment I worked by or the menu of a restaurant I breezed through.

"It's all about layering information and modeling the real world. Like Waze and Google Maps model the real world in 2D with roads, we're working on modeling the world in 3D, and adding layers of information on top."

How do I interact with the goggles? With the phone I use a finger, for example.

"The biggest challenge is coming up with tech that integrates with human physicality, but there are options - recognizing the point you focus on with your pupils, moving virtual objects with your fingers. There are bracelets that identify the signals our mind send to our extremities."

So I get how the Metaverse connects with gaming and workouts, but what about things like Microsoft Office? How do I engage with those?

"We're aiming for a 3D office, not confined by space. Your laptop and phone have a screen limitation. With the goggles I'll have as many screens as I want. The space around me is my playground. Along with wearable tech and 3D tech, you'll be able to engage everything in various ways."

You're assuming the goggles will be comfortable enough to wear all the time. Without it, Metaverse isn't going to happen.

"It's a mission, not an assumption. If before smartphones I'd have told you you would be spending a sizable chunk of your day staring into a tiny screen, you would laugh at me, but that's what happened. We're trying to make the value of wearing these goggles so high, that it will be worth wearing them."

So why is there so much mistrust in Meta? Even employees and investors are speaking against some of Zuckerberg's decisions.

"We've gotten use to a lot of innovations coming quickly, but some revolutions take time. Especially with hardware. The idea of Metaverse has been around for 30 years. We've come accustomed to a rapid pace of inventions coming out, but our plans are fairly aggressive and will not take too long."

But someone needs to foot the bill. Zuckerberg has been pouring money into your Reality Labs, with not a single dollar in return so far.

"Our sales data gives us confidence. Latest projections say that by 2031 Metaverse will comprise 2.8% of global GDP. That's trillions a year, and the lion's share will go to the company that comes out with the product that is ripe for release, not a half-baked attempt."

Where is Israel in all of this adventure?

"Israel has the three main components required for this sort of companies. Content experts that know how to build apps, engineers that can plan chips and sensors and people who can do both. We're putting a lot of money working with Israeli startups on the Metaverse. We're priming Israel to play a major Metaverse role right from the get go, and it's happening."

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Israeli Meta exec says Israel will play 'major role' in VR industry - Ynetnews
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How to set up medication reminders on your iPhone - Pocketnow

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How to set up medication reminders on your iPhone  Pocketnow
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A Review of the Impressive New Viltrox AF 75mm f/1.2 XF Lens - Fstoppers

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A Review of the Impressive New Viltrox AF 75mm f/1.2 XF Lens  Fstoppers
A Review of the Impressive New Viltrox AF 75mm f/1.2 XF Lens - Fstoppers
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Why 2023 is expected to be another big year for smartphone cameras - The National

Smartphone cameras have not only played a large role in defining the legacy of one of the most important consumer products available today, but have also served as a microcosm of what is possible, cramming as much technology as possible into a confined space.

It is not surprising, therefore, that cameras are among the top features users continue to watch out for before purchasing a smartphone.

“The camera comes within the top three features of smartphones … it is very important to establish that a phone has a fantastic camera,” Ahmad Boarki, a UAE-based reviewer of consumer technology, told The National.

“There are times that I hold on to a phone longer and there are times when I can't wait to remove my SIM card out of the phone because it takes terrible pictures.”

Judging smartphone cameras can prove to be tough, especially with the innovation lines continuing to be blurred by a similar set of features across all devices.

In The National's reviews of the Apple iPhone 14 line-up, Samsung's Galaxy S22 and foldables, we took into consideration camera functionality, image quality, ease of user experience and how much of an improvement they are from their predecessors.

Pricing is relative, since this takes into consideration what additional features a smartphone has or lacks.

DxOMark, one of the top smartphone aggregators globally, combines smartphone performance and the quality of the user experience. Their scores are backed up by “exhaustive protocols”.

The good number of ties in the top 10 — and throughout its list of more than 100 devices — are an indicator that smartphones apparently share similar features, albeit delivered differently.

“Smartphone cameras have turned everyone into a photographer … reliance on a smartphone camera means that image quality must be good in various usage conditions, from the easiest to the most challenging one, helping to capture the moment without any difficulty,” researchers at DxOMark said.

The number of photographs taken worldwide is expected to hit about 1.72 trillion in 2022 — up more than 43 per cent from last year's 1.2 trillion. And of this, about 1.6 trillion, or 92.5 per cent, will be taken on smartphones, according to data provider Photutorial.

There are times that I hold on to a phone longer, and there are times when I can't wait to remove my SIM card out of the phone because it takes terrible pictures

Ahmad Boarki, consumer technology reviewer

Smartphone camera capabilities have equal importance to businesses, helping teams to co-ordinate complex tasks to keep operations running smoothly, said Abhay Ganesh, B2B category management lead at Samsung Electronics, the world's largest mobile phone manufacturer.

“Many enterprise teams rely on smartphones to quickly capture and share images and video … remote colleagues can see a more detailed view of everything they are collaborating on, whether it is a project site or an event space,” Mr Ganesh said.

Mr Boarki said smartphone manufacturers were expected to use more cameras that have triple-digit sensor counts — 100 megapixels and above — and combine them with even more advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning.

“I do not believe that smartphone cameras have peaked … we are going to see the best of [both] worlds in 2023,” he said

How we rated cameras on smartphones we reviewed in 2022

Samsung took the camera fight to Apple with the Galaxy S22 series, which was launched in February. Andy Scott / The National

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G: The details on lights are good and the overall results aren't overexposed. If you look closely, however, there is some blur with moving subjects or objects. A sample video also shows that it can hold up pretty well at night, although there is some grain in some of the darker areas.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 was launched in August and features an improved outer camera system. Victor Besa / The National

Samsung Galaxy Flip 4: There are no veritable upgrades on this front but the Flip 4's cameras are up to the task, with clean, crisp shots. However, night or low-light shots tend to be grainy.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, introduced in August, processes lights very well. Victor Besa / The National

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4: In well-lit situations, colours are bright and rich, with clear details. At night, it also retains clarity — albeit with smudges — and one particular thing we like about it is how it processes lights, preventing scattered results and reflection. In either situation, there tends to be a little overexposure.

Apple added its Photonic Engine technology on the iPhone 14, which was unveiled in September. Antonie Robertson / The National

Apple iPhone 14: The device's Photonic Engine technology results in outstanding images. You will be able to control your focus with a few taps on the screen but, overall, the brightness, white balance and exposure blend in well with each other. Exposure is equal to the actual environment. The same goes for night shots, which are true to form.

The Apple iPhone 14 Pro models, which were launched in September, have cinematic mode, which the company touts as being Hollywood-grade. Antonie Robertson / The National

Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max: The camera really stands out during night time. Video is also unquestionably good. A major reason for the iPhone's success in the past couple of years has been its cinematic mode, which Apple touts as being Hollywood-grade. The improved stabilisation offered by the device is also a big plus.

Images taken on Apple's iPhone 14 Plus, released in September, look natural. EPA

Apple iPhone 14 Plus: The results are at par with the 14, with images looking natural and not overexposed.

Updated: December 29, 2022, 7:00 AM

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US doctors offer drug-free migraine relief from Israeli startup - The Times of Israel

Anna Williams, a digital creator from New Albany, Indiana, began suffering from migraines as a child. She also has chronic cluster headaches as well as atypical facial pain. In June 2021 she saw an offer to try out a new, drug-free migraine treatment device called Nerivio, with an insurance co-pay of just $10.

Soon after, Anna woke up with a visual aura she recognized as the onset symptoms of a migraine. She grabbed the device, which transmits small electronic signals, and strapped it to her arm as instructed.

“The aura lasted the normal 20 minutes. The head pain never came,” she says. “I still felt tired, but the difference is amazing.”

Two years on, she is still using it to manage the attacks and she has become a prominent patient advocate on behalf of migraine sufferers.

“It helps,” she says. “On bad attacks I will often use it and take my meds so it will reduce the pain levels during the time it takes my meds to kick in. I love how Nerivio is so easy to use.”

Anna’s 14-year-old daughter also suffers from episodic migraines. In 2021, Nerivio was cleared by the FDA for children aged 12 and older so they decided to try it.

“She went from being unable to concentrate and work on her schoolwork to feeling like she can go back to work again,” Anna says. “Her light sensitivity and pain levels are both drastically reduced.”

Migraine affects at least 37 million people in the US and around 1 billion people worldwide – more than 10 percent of the global population. Nerivio, the first drug-free wearable device cleared by the FDA to treat migraine, was created by Theranica, an Israeli startup based in Netanya. It is producing remarkable results for thousands of patients like Anna Williams and her family.

Nerivio, worn on the patient’s arm, emits electric stimulation that triggers a pain-killing response from the central nervous system to the neural pathways of migraine symptoms in the brain. It was selected as one of Time magazine’s 100 best inventions for 2019.

During a migraine attack, the system, which is connected to a smartphone app, monitors the intensity of the patient’s pain and releases electronic pulses that stimulate subcutaneous nerves, which reach the brain stem and trigger a response that causes the release of analgesic neurotransmitters, reducing the intensity of the pain.

In December, Highmark Health in Pennsylvania, one of America’s leading health insurance organizations, became the latest US provider to offer Nerivio to its members as part of a pilot program.

“With more than 37 million Americans suffering from migraine, a debilitating disorder that significantly impacts quality of life, we are glad to be able to offer Nerivio, a drug-free, clinically validated treatment option,” says Andrea Synowiec DO, FAAN, System Vice Chair, Department of Neurology, Associate Professor of Neurology and Assistant Director of the headache center of The Allegheny Health Network, owned by Highmark Health.

“Nerivio is an excellent treatment option for our patients with migraine, especially those who do not respond to medications, or cannot tolerate their side effects,” Dr. Synowiec says. “It’s also effective for teenagers who struggle with migraine and gives them a drug-free treatment option.”

Many standard pharmaceutical treatments for migraine have unfavorable side effects, leaving some patients without a remedy to this often-debilitating condition. Nerivio has been granted FDA De Novo clearance and CE clearance for acute treatment of migraines and is under FDA review for preventive treatment.

Theranica has established a network of over 2,500 US physicians who have prescribed Nerivio to over 35,000 patients who together have used it more than 300,000 times.

Nerivio utilizes remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) to trigger a pain inhibition mechanism, known as conditioned pain modulation (CPM) which eases or completely blocks migraine headaches and associated migraine symptoms. It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other therapies.

Point 32 Health, the parent organization of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan, is conducting a year-long pilot of Nerivio for its members.

“Many of my patients have found Nerivio to be highly efficacious for them,” says Sait Ashina MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology and headache specialist in Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School in Boston. “Given the multifaceted complexity of migraine, it’s essential that patients have access to a wide range of therapies, both pharmacological and drug-free.”

In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multi-center clinical trial conducted by Theranica in the US in 2021-2020, subjects who used Nerivio every other day experienced a reduction of 4.0 migraine days per month from baseline, compared to a reduction of 1.3 days in the placebo group.

The results suggest that Nerivio was effective even when patients are also taking pharmaceutical treatments for migraine prevention, including oral medications and injections of Botox or CGRP monoclonal antibodies, reducing the effects of migraine beyond the relief offered by these drugs.

“These data demonstrate Nerivio’s potential to provide a new non-pharmacological preventive treatment option for people with migraine,” says Brian Grosberg, MD, Director of the Hartford Healthcare Headache Program in Connecticut and primary investigator of the study. “The high efficacy of Nerivio compared to placebo, with favorable safety and tolerability, suggests that remote electrical neuromodulation could be a beneficial non-pharmacological therapy option for both preventive and acute treatment of migraine, subject to FDA approval of the preventive indication.”

Theranica, recently selected to be part of Google’s Startup Growth Lab accelerator, was founded in 2016. In August 2022, the company announced a first $45 million closing of its Series C funding round led by Philadelphia-based New Rhein Healthcare Investors, with the participation of existing investors aMoon, Lightspeed Venture Partners, LionBird, Takoa Invest, and Corundum Open Innovation. The round is still open and funding via the OurCrowd platform.

“There is a growing recognition that certain chronic pain diseases, such as migraine, may be treated with therapies other than pharmacological agents, or in combination with those. This is validated by clinical evidence from randomized controlled studies,” says Alon Ironi, Theranica CEO, who says the company is raising investment “to unleash the huge potential of Nerivio in the US.”

Dr. Shimon Eckhouse, chairman and co-founder of Theranica, is a serial medical entrepreneur involved in founding several Israeli startups including cosmetic surgery company Syneron Medical, medical laser company Lumenis, and RealView Imaging, creator of a 3D holographic medical visualization system.

Theranica is currently funding on the OurCrowd platform. For more information, click HERE.

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US doctors offer drug-free migraine relief from Israeli startup - The Times of Israel
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Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi Released – Powerful Bi-Color COB LED Light - CineD

The company’s most powerful COB LED bi-color fixture, the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi, is now available to pre-order. The light offers a 2,800-6,500K CCT range, 0.1% dimming increments, 78,800 lux at 3 meters, a mount system with electronic pins to recognize accessories, IP54 rating, and professional connectivity.

While the company’s KNOWLED lineup already includes two bright models, the M600D and M600Bi, the advent of a more powerful 1200W bi-color variant was first teased at IBC 2022 back in September. During the show, another high-output bi-color COB LED spotlight, the NANLUX Evoke 1200B, was launched.

The two fixtures have very similar specs, but the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi, which is clearly here to engage in a head-to-head challenge, is slightly more affordable. So let’s take a look at what is has to offer!

Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi: features

The Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi is a bright COB LED fixture that promises to offer a stable 1200W output across its whole CCT spectrum, which ranges from 2,800 up to 6,500K. The light source can be dimmed from 0.1 up to 100% in precise 0.1% steps, using 4 different dimming curves (Linear, S-curve, Exponential, Logarithmic).

Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi fixture. Image credit: Godox

According to the manufacturer, the light (set at 5,600K) can output a maximum of 78,800 lux at a distance of 3 meters using the optional Fresnel lens. For reference, the NANLUX Evoke 1200B is claimed to reach a maximum brightness of 61,030 lux at the same distance when paired with the 26° reflector.

Ballast of the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi. Image credit: Godox

Moreover, the light output should be pretty color accurate, as Godox claims CRI 96+, TLCI 96+, R15 92+, and TM-20 RF 92+ ratings. The fixture packs 11 built-in lighting effects and is kept cool by a heat dissipation system that integrates four different fan modes. A film light has to be quiet, so let’s hope it’s always quiet enough for shooting with sound when the fan kicks in.

Fresnel attachment on the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi. Image credit: Godox

The light body features a proprietary G mount system that is capable of recognizing the type of light modifier in use. This feature is clearly inspired by ARRI’s Orbiter, but now comes at a fraction of the cost. The company already offers a series of accessories for the KNOWLED MG1200Bi, including a 14” Fresnel lens, four reflectors (15°, 30°, 45°, 60°), a projection attachment, as well as softboxes in all sorts of shapes (lantern, strip, square, octa) and sizes.

Various light modifiers available for the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi. Image credit: Godox

Design, power and control

Both the light body and the control box of the KNOWLED MG1200Bi are IP54 rated, meaning that the fixture is not afraid of inclement weather. The lamp head measures 378x579x354mm/14.8×22.8×13.9” in size for a total weight of 16kg/35lbs.

Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi being splashed with water. Image credit: Godox

The KNOWLED MG1200Bi requires a separate ballast to be fired up. This control box comes with a dedicated clamp to easily attach it to C-stands, and the cables that connect it to the light body and wall power are both 7.9m/26ft long.

The ballast of the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi in the rain. Image credit: Godox

When it comes to adjusting settings, you are spoiled with choice. Indeed, along with offering onboard controls, the light supports DMX512/RDM, LumenRadio CRMX, Ethernet (sACS and ArtNet), and Luminair control. Moreover, the fixture is controllable using the Godox Light App (iOS /Android) as well as the optional RC-11 panel and RC-A6II/RC-R9II remote controllers.

The remote controller (optional) for the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi. Image credit: Godox

Price and availability

The Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi is now available to pre-order from B&H and is expected to hit the shelves towards the end of February 2023. Its official retail price is set at $3,490, which makes it a little more accessible than the NANLUX Evoke 1200B (currently $3,895).

Image credit: Godox

Pricing for the dedicated accessories is as follows:

• 35” Lantern Softbox – $249
• 47” Lantern Softbox – $299
• 35” Parabolic Softbox – $249
• 47” Parabolic Softbox – $299
• 59” Parabolic Softbox – $349 
• Square Softbox (35.4 x 35.4”) – $239
• Rectangular Softbox (35.4 x 47.2”) – $249
• Square Softbox (47.2 x 47.2”) – $299
• 47” Octa Softbox – $299
• 59” Octa Softbox – $349
• 30° Reflector – $149
• 45° Reflector – $125
• 60° Reflector – $119
• 15° Reflector – $259

For more information, please visit Godox’s website here.

What do you think of the Godox KNOWLED MG1200Bi? Would you pick up this or the NANLUX Evoke 1200B? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

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