Lexar has introduced the Lexar JumpDrive D500, a new high-speed solid-state USB drive featuring both USB Type A and USB Type C connectors with super-fast speeds. It is designed for users seeking fast storage that works across smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers.

Specifications and Performance

The JumpDrive D500 uses the USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface and is available in four storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. Lexar states the drive can reach maximum read speeds of up to 400MB per second and write speeds of up to 400MB per second.

The 128GB and 256GB models offer read speeds of 400MB per second and write speeds of 360MB per second. The 512GB variant delivers 400MB per second for both read and write. The 1TB model records read speeds of up to 390MB per second and write speeds of 400MB per second.

Design and Build

The drive features a compact swivel design with a metal housing constructed from aluminum alloy. It supports 360-degree rotation and includes a lanyard loop for portability. Lexar states the device is built to withstand daily use and can operate within a temperature range of 0°C to 50°C.

Mobile App Support

Lexar has integrated compatibility with its dedicated mobile application, available on Android, iOS, and HarmonyOS.

The app enables automatic offline backup of photos and videos from smartphones and supports Live Photo backup on iPhones. It does not support iCloud backup or devices running HarmonyOS Next.

The dual connector setup allows file transfers between devices without requiring adapters. Lexar claims the 1TB version can store more than 300,000 photos, 18,000 minutes of HD video, or over 110,000 songs.

Availability

The JumpDrive D500 is backed by a five-year limited warranty and is expected to be available through retail and online channels globally.

Facebook announced new AI-powered features on Tuesday aimed at helping users express themselves in more playful ways across the platform. The updates include animated profile pictures, AI-driven photo restyling tools for Stories and Memories, and animated backgrounds for text posts.

Here’s how to use these new features.

Animated Profile Pictures

Facebook is introducing animated profile pictures that apply motion effects to static images. The feature can make subjects appear to wave, form a heart shape, or wear a virtual party hat.

For best results, the company recommends using a clear image of a single person facing the camera. Users can upload photos from their camera roll or choose existing images already shared on Facebook.

Meta said additional animation options will be added throughout the year. The GIF below shows how it’s done.

Restyle Stories and Memories

Facebook is also expanding its Stories and Memories features with a new AI tool called Restyle.

Stories are short photo and video posts that disappear after 24 hours, while Memories resurface content shared on the same date in previous years.

With Restyle, users can upload a photo to Stories or select a Memory, then enter a text prompt or choose from preset themes such as anime, illustrated, glowy, or ethereal. Users can also adjust lighting, colors, and mood, and replace backgrounds with scenes such as a beach or a cityscape.

Animated Backgrounds for Text Posts

To enhance text posts, Facebook is gradually rolling out animated backgrounds. By selecting a new rainbow “A” icon, users can choose from still or animated backgrounds, including falling leaves and rolling ocean waves.

Seasonal backgrounds are expected to be introduced in the future.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has outlined a set of transparency measures and system safeguards for the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, addressing bidder concerns related to data access, system reliability, and auction continuity.

PTA confirmed that bidders will have access to detailed round-by-round information through the Electronic Auction System. This includes data on aggregate demand, excess demand, processed prices, and indicators for prices in future rounds. The authority said that historical data from previous rounds will remain accessible throughout the auction and can be downloaded in CSV format.

The regulator also clarified rules regarding bidding extensions. Each bidder will be allowed two extension rights during the allocation stage. No extension rights will be available by default during the assignment stage, although PTA said it may extend bidding rounds at its discretion if required.

In response to concerns about potential system outages or login issues, PTA pointed bidders to the exceptional circumstances provisions outlined in the Information Memorandum. These provisions describe the contingency measures that will apply in case of technical disruptions during the auction process.

PTA added that additional clarifications, worked examples, and live system demonstrations will be provided during the information session, bidder seminar, and mock auction scheduled ahead of the formal bidding.