Chinese Startup MiniMax Unveils AI Models Rivaling US Tech Giants
MiniMax, backed by Alibaba and Tencent, debuts three AI models that outperform US-based companies, sparking concerns over China's growing AI capabilities

Sophia Steele
Murena, a French privacy firm, has expanded its lineup of deGoogled devices with the launch of a Pixel Tablet, running on the /e/OS open-source operating system. This move marks a significant step in providing users with a privacy-focused Android experience, free from Google's services and data tracking.
The Murena Pixel Tablet boasts a 10.95-inch LCD display and comes with 128 GB of internal storage and 8 GB of RAM. Available for purchase on Murena's online shop, the device is priced at €539 (or $549 in the U.S.). The company's decision to release a deGoogled tablet stems from "significant demand" for a privacy-centric alternative to traditional Android devices.
By opting for /e/OS, users can enjoy a more secure experience, minimizing data tracking and eliminating Google's collection of personal information. The operating system offers an app marketplace called App Lounge, where users can download apps anonymously, although accessing paid apps requires signing in with a Google account. This workaround has its trade-offs, which were explored in our earlier review of /e/OS.
In addition to the App Lounge, Murena has been developing privacy-focused alternatives to standalone apps like Google Drive and Office 365. The company's Workspace offering provides users with a freemium file storage, backup, and office suite, featuring up to 1 GB of free storage and paid plans thereafter.
The launch of the deGoogled Pixel Tablet marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of privacy-centric devices. As users become increasingly aware of the importance of data protection, Murena's offerings provide a viable alternative to traditional Android devices. While recreating a full app marketplace experience without any links to Google remains a challenging task, Murena's efforts demonstrate a commitment to providing users with a more secure and private Android experience.
As the tech industry continues to grapple with the implications of data privacy, Murena's deGoogled devices are likely to resonate with users seeking greater control over their personal information. The success of the Pixel Tablet will be closely watched, and its impact on the Android ecosystem remains to be seen. One thing is certain, however: Murena's commitment to privacy-focused innovation is a welcome development in the world of technology.
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