Steve Wozniak unveils Dreame's modular Aurora Nex smartphone

Dreame Technology unveiled two new smartphones, the modular Aurora Nex and luxury Aurora Lux, at its NEXT event in San Francisco. Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak joined global president Xinwei Chang to introduce the devices. The Aurora Nex features detachable modules for cameras and satellite communication.

Dreame Technology, known for robot vacuums and air purifiers, entered the smartphone market with the Aurora Nex and Aurora Lux during its NEXT event in San Francisco this week. Xinwei Chang, the company's global president, presented the devices alongside Steve Wozniak, Apple's co-founder. CNET staff attended and examined the phones on site, though hands-on time was limited. No pricing or release dates were announced, and a Dreame representative did not immediately respond to comment requests. The Aurora Nex stands out with its modular design, allowing users to attach components via magnetic points. Modules include a stabilized action camera, telephoto lens for low-light shots, satellite communications for emergencies, and an AI smart module that adapts to habits. It boasts a 200-megapixel full-focal-range camera supporting 8K/60fps video, 3D spatial modeling, and 14-bit raw compositing for professional imaging. The phone runs Aurora AIOS 1.0, a proprietary OS with proactive 'intelligent mode' using touch, voice, and vision interactions. The non-modular Aurora Lux targets luxury buyers, incorporating hand detailing and 3D engraving inspired by fine jewelry. It will launch with five designs. Patrick Holland, CNET managing editor, noted, 'Outside the US, there are folks who buy posh phones like these. To them, it's like getting the fridge with doors that can be made to match their kitchen cabinets, and it's less about brand.' Modular phones have faced challenges before, with Motorola's Project Ara scrapped pre-launch and LG's G5 underperforming before LG exited smartphones.

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