Chinese Scientists Showcase World’s Thinnest Optical Crystal for Lasers in a Remarkable Breakthrough

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Apr 26, 2024

There has been a significant breakthrough in laser technology! Chinese scientists have unveiled the world’s thinnest optical crystal, a key component for lasers. This revolutionary material is a rhombohedral boron nitride crystal, just micrometers thick, and boasts dramatically improved efficiency. Lasers play a crucial role in various fields like micro-nano processing, healthcare, and quantum technologies. Their miniaturization is a key development goal.

The research team used lightweight boron nitride as the base material

The research team at Peking University achieved this breakthrough by using a novel “corner phase matching theory” and lightweight boron nitride as the base material. This “corner rhombohedral boron nitride” crystal exhibits an energy efficiency increase of at least 100 times compared to traditional crystals of similar thickness.

The ultra-thin crystal achieves a remarkable 8% efficiency in optical frequency doubling conversion across a wide range of spectrums, making it 100 to 10,000 times more efficient than conventional crystals at the same size.

This innovation goes beyond efficiency gains. Corner phase matching grants boron nitride crystals the ability to control the polarization of light, paving the way for a new generation of lasers with extreme wavelengths, sizes, and stability.

Professor Liu Kaihui, part of the research team, predicts this technology could miniaturize lasers to the micron level and potentially revive previously unsuitable materials for creating optical crystals. This discovery holds immense potential for the future of laser technology.

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Epic Games is Bringing Two New Free Games for Your Library This Week

By

Anubhav

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Apr 26, 2024

Gear up for some free games this week, courtesy of the Epic Games Store! Here’s what you can add to your library at no cost:

INDUSTRIA is a first-person shooter that takes you on a mind-bending trip. Set against the backdrop of the falling Berlin Wall, you find yourself inexplicably transported to a parallel universe while searching for a missing colleague. Explore a hauntingly beautiful world that blends the familiar Cold War-era East Berlin with a strange, industrial landscape. Brace yourself for a suspenseful narrative as you uncover the secrets of this mysterious place. Expect to encounter deadly enemies in every corner, so be prepared to defend yourself with a variety of weapons – there are four at your disposal. The unique soundtrack adds to the atmosphere, with a blend of synthesizers, acoustic instruments, and melancholic vocals that will stay with you long after you finish the game. With an estimated playtime of around 4 hours, INDUSTRIA offers a concise but impactful narrative experience.

LISA: The Definitive Edition – With this game, players will get to delve into the dark and twisted world of Olathe in this narrative-driven RPG. LISA: The Definitive Edition brings together both LISA: The Painful and its sequel, LISA: The Joyful, offering a complete story for new and returning players alike. Brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster as you explore the harsh realities of Olathe and uncover the secrets buried beneath the surface. This isn’t your typical RPG – be prepared for a dark and mature story with plenty of tough choices to make.

Don’t forget to grab these free titles before they’re gone! And keep your eye out next week, because Orcs Must Die 3 will be the free game of choice, offering some tower defense action to your Epic Games library.

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Xiaomi 14 vs iPhone 15: Which Phone Offers Better Value?

By

Soumyakanti

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Apr 26, 2024

Two of the biggest names in the smartphone industry, Xiaomi and Apple, launched their current base flagship models last year, the Xiaomi 14 and the iPhone 15. Both phones boast impressive features, but which one reigns supreme? This deep dive explores their strengths, weaknesses, and what sets them apart.

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1. Display

The Xiaomi 14 boasts a slightly larger 6.36-inch C8 OLED panel compared to the iPhone 15’s 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. The iPhone 15 comes with a resolution of 2556×1179 while the Xiaomi 14 has a 2670×1200 resolution.

Both panels support HDR and True Tone, but the Xiaomi 14 takes the lead with a significantly higher peak brightness of 3000 nits, exceeding the iPhone 15’s 1600 nits. Additionally, the Xiaomi 14 offers a wider range of refresh rates, ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, while the iPhone 15 remains fixed at 60Hz.

2. Design and Build

The Xiaomi 14 adopts a flat design with rounded corners, while the iPhone 15 retains its familiar curved edges. The Xiaomi 14 boasts an ultra-narrow body (71.5mm) for easier one-handed use, compared to the iPhone 15’s slightly wider frame. Both phones offer IP68 water and dust resistance, but the Xiaomi 14 introduces a unique Pink color with a high-tech nano leather material, offering a softer touch.

3. Performance

The Xiaomi 14 packs the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, promising top-notch performance. It offers RAM options ranging from 8GB to 16GB, paired with high-speed LPDDR5X memory. This combination ensures smooth multitasking and handling of demanding applications.

The iPhone 15, on the other hand, relies on Apple’s proprietary A16 Bionic chip with 6GB RAM. Apple‘s processors are known for their efficiency and raw power. So both phones deliver exceptional performance.

Storage options are similar, with both phones offering 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants. However, the Xiaomi 14 goes a step further with a 1TB option for those needing massive storage space.

4. Camera

Xiaomi 14 comes with a triple rear camera setup while the iPhone 15 features a dual camera setup. The Xiaomi 14 boasts a 50MP (OIS) main sensor with a larger 1/1.31″ size, potentially capturing more light and detail. It also offers a 50MP ultra-wide and a 50MP 3.2X telephoto camera, all utilizing Leica Summilux lenses.

The iPhone 15 features a 48MP main sensor with 2x telephoto and second-generation sensor-shift optical image stabilization, promising sharper, clearer images. It also includes a 12MP ultra-wide camera. Both phones offer 4K video recording capabilities, with the Xiaomi 14 even supporting 8K video recording.

5. Battery and Charging

The Xiaomi 14 packs a 4610mAh battery, much larger than the iPhone 15’s 3274mAh capacity. However, the iPhone 15 boasts a more efficient processor, potentially resulting in comparable battery life in daily usage.

The Xiaomi 14 shines in charging speed, offering 90W wired charging for a full charge in 31 minutes, compared to the iPhone 15’s 20W wired charging for a 50% charge in around 30 minutes.

Both phones offer wireless charging, with the Xiaomi 14 reaching 100% in 46 minutes with 50W charging and the iPhone 15 supporting 15W MagSafe wireless charging.

6. Operating System and Features

The Xiaomi 14 runs on the latest Android 14 with HyperOS on top, offering a lot of customization features. The iPhone 15 utilizes iOS 17, known for its intuitive interface and seamless integration with other Apple devices. It incorporates additional features like Face ID facial recognition and a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip while the Xiaomi 14 comes with an in-display fingerprint scanner. Both phones feature Dolby Atmos and USB Type-C.

7. Pricing

The Xiaomi 14 boasts a significantly lower starting price at $552 compared to the iPhone 15’s $799. This price difference is particularly noticeable for higher storage options, with the Xiaomi 14’s 16GB + 1TB model costing $690 compared to the iPhone 15’s 512GB option at $1099.

8. Conclusion

Choosing between the Xiaomi 14 and the iPhone 15 depends on your priorities. If you prioritize raw power, a larger display, and fast charging, the Xiaomi 14 is a compelling option. However, if you value a sleek design, a user-friendly interface, and seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 15 might be the better choice. Ultimately, both phones offer premium features and impressive specs, making the decision a matter of individual preference and budget.

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Oppo Reno 12 specifications leaked, reveals display, chipset, RAM, storage, cameras, battery, charging details

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Apr 26, 2024

In June, Oppo may unveil the Reno 12 series of smartphones in China. The lineup is expected to face competition from the Vivo S19 series, the Honor 200 series, and the Huawei Nova 13 lineup. It was reported at the beginning of this week that the Reno 12 may arrive with a newer Dimensity 8300 chipset. Today, tipster Digital Chat Station released a new Weibo post to leak almost everything about the Reno 12.

Oppo Reno 12 specifications (rumored)

DCS reports that the engineering prototype of the Oppo Reno 12 features the Dimensity 8200 chipset. The Reno 11, which debuted in November 2023, also packs the same D8200 chip.

The leak further reveals that the Reno 12’s engineering prototype has 16 GB of RAM, 512 GB of internal storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 80W rapid charging support. The device will likely run on the ColorOS 14-based Android 14.

The Reno 12’s latest leak has no information about its front camera. However, it states that the rear camera setup will be headlined by a 50-megapixel camera with an f/1.8 aperture. It could feature a custom-made Sony lens as the primary snapper, according to a previous report. An 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with an f/2.0 aperture and 2x optical zoom support will join it.

The design of the Reno 12 will be one of the main highlights. DCS claims that it will sport a thin and lightweight design, featuring a micro-curvature display on the front. Previous leaks have claimed that the screen will support a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The device is also said to offer IP65-rated dust and water resistance.

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Surface Laptop 6 appeared on GeekBench with Snapdragon X Elite

By

Debasish

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Apr 26, 2024

Qualcomm is working on two new chips, the Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus to offer Windows users a reason not to switch to MacBooks with Apple Silicon.

It was previously rumored that the Surface Laptop 6 will use Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X Elite chip. In the latest revelation, a mysterious device codenamed “OEMBR OEMBR” (which is claimed to be the Surface Laptop 6) running on the Snapdragon X Elite X1E80100 has emerged on GeekBench listing.

For those unaware, the “X Elite” chip has three different versions – X1E-84-100, X1E-80-100, and X1E-78-100. These are mostly similar with slight differences in CPU and GPU frequencies.

A total of four test results of the Snapdragon X Elite X1E80100 on the alleged Surface Laptop 6 have been revealed. The single and multi-core scores are as follows

As you can see from the images, the device scored around 2700 and 14000 in single and multi-core tests respectively. The listing notes that the power plan was set to “Balanced”. So with proper cooling, it may go even higher. However, we don’t really know what was the exact setup for performing the tests, where factors such as cooling or just ambient temp can influence the result. So it’s better not to keep high hopes for the performance mode.

Based on the numbers we can see representing the Surface Laptop 6, it could be able to Apple MacBook Pro with M3 Pro chip.

The listing shows the CPU as “snapdragon (1m) 8cx gen 3”, which is reportedly an anti-leak measure. Microsoft has reportedly done it before. Windows Latest claims the chip to be the Snapdragon X Elite. The model number of the device was previously known to be associated with the Surface Laptop 6. The Snapdragon X Elite is equipped with 12 Qualcomm Oryon CPU cores and the device comes with 16GB RAM.

Microsoft has previously launched the Business edition of the Surface Laptop 6 and Surface Pro 10 with Intel Core Ultra 5 and Core Ultra 7 chips.

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Alienware debuts x16 R2 gaming laptop with 16″ QHD+ 240Hz display, Core Ultra 9 185H CPU & RTX 4090 GPU in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 26, 2024

Dell has launched its new Alienware x16 R2 laptop in India. The latest model features the new Intel Core Ultra CPU from the X series, enhancing AI capabilities and overall performance.

Alienware x16 R2 (2024) specs:

The Alienware x16 R2 sports a full metal chassis made from anodized aluminum and magnesium alloy, ensuring durability.

This laptop is equipped with a 16-inch QHD+ display that supports a 240Hz refresh rate. The 16:10 aspect ratio provides a broader view.

Performance is a key highlight, with configurations available up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU. This setup is not only powerful but also efficient, improving battery life by nearly twice that of previous models. The Alienware x16 R2 includes a 90Wh battery and a 360W adapter.

Dell has also focused on thermal management with its Cryo-tech technology, incorporating Vapor Chamber technology and Element 31 thermal interface material, which helps keep the laptop cool during extended use.

The model features impressive connectivity options including Intel Killer 1750 2×2 and Bluetooth 5.4, with Wifi 7 readiness. As for audio, the laptop has a speaker setup with dual tweeters and four woofers, ensuring clear and powerful sound.

The laptop includes an Alienware cherry keyboard with per-key RGB LED AlienFX lighting and N-key rollover technology.

Pricing & availability

The Alienware x16 R2, priced at Rs. 2,86,990, is now on sale in Lunar Silver. It can be bought at Dell Exclusive Stores, Dell.com, Amazon.in, and other select retail stores.

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Honor 200 Lite 5G arrives in France with a 6.7″ AMOLED display, Dimensity 6080 CPU & 4500mAh battery

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 26, 2024

Honor has introduced the Honor 200 Lite 5G in France, the first model from its new 200 series. The smartphone bears similarities to the previously launched Honor X50i Plus in China but features a different camera design and retains the same MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor.

Honor 200 Lite 5G specs:

The Honor 200 Lite 5G has a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 2412 x 1080 pixel resolution. It also has a TUV Rheinland flicker-free certification for reduced eye strain. The brand has not specified the refresh rate of the display.

The Dimensity 6080 chip comes paired with 8GB RAM, with the option for an additional 8GB virtual RAM, and 256GB storage. It runs on MagicOS 8.0 based on Android 14, incorporating Honor’s AI-enhanced applications, Magic Portal and Magic Capsule.

A significant upgrade in this model is its 50MP front camera with 2D facial recognition, improving selfie capabilities. It also has a 108MP primary camera, paired with a 5MP ultra-wide sensor and a 2MP macro camera. The camera system is capable of shooting 1080p videos. It also supports many capture modes like portrait, night, slow motion, panorama, HDR, time-lapse, super macro, and more.

It has a lightweight design at 166 grams and a thickness of 6.78mm. The device is powered by a 4500mAh battery with 35W fast charging and offers multiple connectivity options including 5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.1.

Pricing & availability

The Honor 200 Lite 5G, priced at €329.90, is now on sale in France, offering three color options: Starry Blue, Cyan Lake, and Midnight Black. As part of a promotional deal, buyers will receive a complimentary HONOR Band 9 and HONOR CHOICE Earbuds X5 with their purchase.

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Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Lite (2nd Gen) now available in France for €299

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 25, 2024

Xiaomi has introduced the updated Electric Scooter 4 Lite (2nd Gen) in France, with plans for future availability in other European countries like Spain and Sweden. Detailed on Xiaomi’s global website, this new version of the folding e-scooter maintains several features from its 2023 predecessor but introduces enhancements for improved usability.

Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Lite (2nd Gen)

The Electric Scooter 4 Lite (2nd Gen) features an increased battery capacity that extends its range beyond the previous model. It can reach a top speed of 25km/h and offers three-speed modes, including a walking mode for easier manual transport. While the 300W electric motor remains unchanged, the maximum power output has been slightly reduced to 390W. The scooter now has a range of 25km, approximately 25% more than the previous model’s 20km range.

This model is equipped with a 9,600mAh battery that requires eight hours to fully charge. It includes E-ABS, drum brakes, 10-inch pneumatic tires, and a headlight for enhanced safety. The scooter’s integrated display shows speed and battery status, which can also be monitored through the Mi Home/Xiaomi Home app. The new version weighs 16.2kg, a slight increase from its predecessor, and continues to support a maximum load of 100kg.

Pricing & availability

The Electric Scooter 4 Lite (2nd Gen) is priced at €299.00 and is now available in France, with consistent pricing expected in other markets like Spain. Details about availability and pricing in Sweden and other European countries will be announced soon.

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Samsung is Likely to Launch the First-ever Foldable “Ultra” Smartphone, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra

By

Anubhav

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Apr 25, 2024

Galaxy fans (especially the Galaxy Fold fans) must be squealing with excitement. As per the latest report by Android Headlines, Samsung is expected to be releasing the first-ever foldable “Ultra” device – the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra. This follows the successful “Ultra” line introduced with the Galaxy S series. Specific Z Fold 6 Ultra details are under wraps, but rumors suggest the standard Z Fold 6 might retain the familiar triple-camera system and get a slimmer, lighter design. An S Pen slot similar to the S24 Ultra is also a possibility.

Samsung traditionally uses “8” for Ultra devices, and the leaked model number has it

The real evidence for the Z Fold 6 Ultra comes from a leaked model number (SM-F958N). Samsung traditionally uses “8” for “Ultra” phones, and this number wasn’t used in past Fold models (ending in “6”).

While the launch date is unknown, expect the Z Fold 6 Ultra to be unveiled alongside the standard Z Fold 6 at the July Galaxy Unpacked event. There’s a chance, however, that the Z Fold 6 Ultra might be a Korea-exclusive due to the current limited model number info. The standard Z Fold 6 (SM-F956N) is expected in Korea though.

One confirmed detail: the Z Fold 6 Ultra will pack the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipset. We’ll have to wait for more info on the specific differences between the Z Fold 6 and Z Fold 6 Ultra, but the foldable phone future is definitely looking “Ultra” exciting!

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Xiaomi TV A Pro 2025 4K QLED smart TV makes its European debut with attractive price offers

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 25, 2024

Xiaomi has launched its latest iteration of the Smart TV A Pro for the European market. The Xiaomi TV A Pro 2025 series comes with a 4K QLED screen and a slew of new features. The model is offered in four sizes namely 43”, 55”, 65”, and 75 inches. The Xiaomi TV A Pro 2025 lineup was launched alongside the Xiaomi TV Pro which is a cheaper model. Xiaomi also unveiled the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X20+ in the European market.

Features

The new Xiaomi 4K QLED model runs on Google TV OS MEMC and supports Dolby Atmos. It has a native display refresh rate of 60Hz, with a DCI-P3 color space coverage of 95%. The TV also features the MEMC motion smoothing technology that can be deployed while gaming or watching sports. There are several streaming apps available with the model including Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+. Voice assistant support is provided by Google Assistant and Chromecast or Miracast is supported for wireless screen casting.

The Xiaomi TV A Pro comes with built-in speakers that support Dolby Audio and DTS Virtual:X with varying power outputs about the size. The smallest model in the lineup comes with dual 8W speakers while the top model in the lineup offers two 10W speakers.

Pricing & Availability

The Xiaomi TV A Pro 2025 series is now available in Spain, Italy, Germany, and France. It is offered in some of the markets with a couple of complementary gifts namely a smart home gadget or a Xiaomi wearable device, the Smart Band 8. The retail prices of the four models are €299 ($345), €449 ($517), €599 ($690), and €799 ($856) respectively. The new Xiaomi TV A Pro 2025 series is expected to be subsequently available in other markets outside Europe.

Gigabyte Aorus CO49DQ 49″ Curved Gaming Monitor with 144Hz QD-OLED panel launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 25, 2024

Gigabyte has recently launched its new Aorus CO49DQ gaming monitor in India. This monitor features a 49-inch curved screen with a high resolution of 5120 x 1440, aiming to provide an immersive viewing experience for both gamers and professionals.

Gigabyte Aorus CO49DQ monitor specs and features

The Aorus CO49DQ supports a 144Hz refresh rate and a fast 0.03ms response time, which makes it great for fast-paced games. It also comes with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro to help eliminate screen tearing during gaming. The monitor provides excellent color quality with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio and covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space, making it suitable for tasks that require precise color detail.

One of the special features of this monitor is the “OLED Care” technology, which uses AI to try to prevent screen burn-in, though its effectiveness is still to be tested independently. It’s also built for multitasking, with capabilities like Picture-in-Picture (PiP) and Picture-By-Picture (PbP), which allow users to work on different tasks simultaneously on the same screen.

Connectivity options include HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB Type-C, alongside ergonomic features like tilt and swivel adjustments. However, it doesn’t offer height or pivot adjustments. The monitor also has built-in speakers and a KVM switch for easily switching between devices.

Pricing & availability

The Aorus CO49DQ is priced at Rs. 1,29,000 and will be available starting April 31st, 2024, at online stores and authorized Gigabyte dealerships in India. Gigabyte provides a three-year warranty that includes coverage for panel burn-in, promising quality and durability.

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iPhone Sales Slowing Down, Android Gaining Ground

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Apr 25, 2024

The battle between iOS and Android rages on. While Apple releases new iPhone models annually, manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo relentlessly pursue increased market share. This has been going on for a while but the tide seems to be turning. A recent report indicates iPhone activation market share has hit a new low, with Android dominating the landscape. Here are the details…

iPhone Activation Rates Plummet in the US, Android Share Soars

CIRP has released a report revealing a significant decline in iPhone activations within the U.S. compared to Android. Activation, the process of registering a new phone with Apple, is a key indicator of market share. This latest data shows Apple’s share of new U.S. smartphone activations has fallen to levels not seen in six years.

According to the report, the rate of new iPhone activations in the United States has taken a sharp downturn over the past year. The rate, previously at 40% in the first two quarters of 2023, plummeted to 33% in the first quarter of 2024. This decline signals a growing market share for Android devices, which now account for 2 out of every 3 new activations. This marks Apple’s lowest rate since 2017. CIRP suggests several possible factors behind this downward shift.

The first is the perceived lack of new features in recent iPhone models, which hasn’t provided enough incentive for consumers to upgrade to a new iPhone. Another reason is that the phones people are already using are still quite adequate; even an iPhone 11 owner can use their phone without any major issues. The stability in design has also discouraged people from changing phones.

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OPPO Find X7’s unreleased white color shows up on leaked hands-on images

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Apr 25, 2024

OPPO Find X7 was already introduced together with OPPO Find X7 Ultra on January 12th. OPPO introduced the Find X7 in purple, brown, blue, and black colors initially, and it appears that in addition to these color options, OPPO will also offer the white edition.

OPPO stops manufacturing purple Find X7, and offer the white instead

OPPO Find X7 is a very stylish phone and we can say it is a true flagship device with the solid camera sensors. While the Find X7 is stylish, we can’t say it to be a compact device as the phone is 8.7mm thick, packing a 5000 mAh battery and supporting 100W charging and OPPO seems to be adding a fifth color option to the 4 different color choices. Note that the Find X7 comes with two different back covers: leather and glass.

A user on Weibo asked Zhou Yibao, who is in charge of the OPPO Find series, if there really is a white version of the Find X7, and Zhou Yibao confirmed that the white variant of the Find X7 will actually be introduced. It was previously rumored that a white version of the OPPO Find X7 might be introduced, and now it has been confirmed after a post by an OPPO executive. Additionally, rumors suggest that production of the purple color variant of the Find X7 has been discontinued and will be replaced by the white color variant instead.

While the potential end of the Purple Find X7 might be a bummer for some, OPPO introducing a White version is a smart move if the Purple option isn’t getting much love from buyers. It seems we will be having fewer purple OPPO phones in the future.

Meizu Launches Two Noise Cancelling Earphones, The Blus 3 and Blus 3 Pro, Starting at 279 Yuan ($39)

By

Anubhav

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Apr 25, 2024

Meizu is making a splash with two new noise-canceling earphones, the Blus 3 and Blus 3 Pro! The Blus 3 starts at 279 yuan ($39 USD) and boasts an AI noise reduction algorithm with a -50dB depth. It also features AI smarts for wind noise reduction, voice assistance, and call noise reduction.

The Blus 3 have a 32-hour battery backup, while the Blus 3 Pro have 38 hours

Music lovers will appreciate the 12mm crossover super-dynamic coils and 360° immersive surround sound. Battery life is a generous 32 hours on a single charge (with the charging case), making it perfect for long journeys. Theoretically, the battery life can be likely extended by turning noise cancelling off, but the company hasn’t said anything regarding the same.

The Blus 3 Pro takes things up a notch with a Qualcomm S3 audio chip, support for various lossless audio codecs, and a swanky 38-hour battery life. It also boasts the same -50dB noise reduction depth and AI features as the Blus 3, along with additional perks like wireless charging, IPX5 water resistance, and an ultra-low latency mode. The Blus 3 Pro will be available in mid-May for 369 yuan ($51 USD).

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iQOO Z9 Turbo is now available at Giztop for $329

By

Joane

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Apr 25, 2024

The iQOO Z9 Turbo is a flagship smartphone packed with cutting-edge features and boasting unparalleled capabilities. You can now buy IQOO Z9 TURBO for a starting price of $329 only at Giztop.

WHERE TO BUY

iQOO Z9 Turbo at $329 @Giztop

At the heart of the iQOO Z9 Turbo lies the formidable Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, delivering unparalleled performance and blazing-fast speeds. With up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, multitasking becomes seamless, allowing you to effortlessly switch between applications and tasks without any lag or slowdown.

With 256GB or 512GB of UFS 4.0 internal storage, the iQOO Z9 Turbo offers ample space to store all your photos, videos, apps, and more. Say goodbye to storage constraints and hello to endless possibilities.

Experience visuals like never before on the 6.78-inch LCD of the iQOO Z9 Turbo. Featuring a vibrant FHD+ resolution and a buttery-smooth 144Hz refresh rate, every image comes to life with unparalleled clarity and fluidity. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or browsing, the immersive display ensures an unparalleled viewing experience.

Equipped with a dual rear camera setup comprising a 50MP main sensor and an 8MP macro camera, the iQOO Z9 Turbo lets you capture every moment with stunning clarity and detail. From breathtaking landscapes to intricate close-ups, unleash your creativity and capture your moments. Plus, with the 16MP front cam era, taking captivating selfies has never been easier.

Say goodbye to battery anxiety with the massive 6000mAh battery of the iQOO Z9 Turbo. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or multitasking, rest assured that the battery will keep up with your demands. With support for 80W fast charging, refueling your device is quick and convenient, ensuring you’re always ready to go.

Running on OriginOS Ocean based on Android 14 OS, the iQOO Z9 Turbo offers a seamless user experience with intuitive navigation and lightning-fast performance. Stay connected, productive, and entertained on the go, with a platform that’s designed to keep up with your lifestyle.

iQOO Z9 Turbo’s powerful performance, stunning display, versatile cameras, and long-lasting battery life is the ultimate companion for those who demand nothing but the best.

Lenovo’s Lecoo launches a 4K 160Hz gaming monitor for $220

By

Soumyakanti

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Apr 25, 2024

Lenovo‘s Lecoo has unveiled its latest gaming monitor called Space Fox 27 Predator with model number N2721U in the Chinese market. This 27-inch display packs a punch with a stunning 4K resolution, and an attractive price tag starting at just 1599 Yuan ($220). Let’s check out its key specs.

Lecoo N2721U Specifications:

The N2721U boasts a 4K IPS panel (3840 x 2160) that offers a 160Hz refresh rate and 1 ms gray-to-gray (GtG) response time, supporting smooth motion in fast-paced scenes without noticeable motion blur.

It also features a 10-bit color depth, though it’s unspecified whether this is native or achieved through 8-bit + FRC (Frame Rate Control). The panel covers 98% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and reaches a brightness of 400 nits. For gamers seeking a tear-free experience, the monitor includes AdaptiveSync technology.

The monitor is equipped with a variety of gaming-oriented features. It supports HDR400, which promises improved visibility in dark or overexposed areas, essential for spotting hidden enemies.

It also includes game-enhancing functionalities such as a crosshair overlay and multiple game modes (FPS/RTS), designed to enhance precision and strategy. Furthermore, the monitor is built with eye care in mind, featuring DC dimming, flicker-free technology, and a low blue light mode to reduce eye strain during extended use.

Additionally, the N2721U offers enhanced functionality with PIP/PBP (Picture-in-Picture/Picture-by-Picture) capabilities, allowing for the simultaneous display of dual signal inputs. Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, one Type-C port, and one audio/headphone output.

The design includes a metal base and offers cable management solutions to keep gaming setups neat. It supports VESA mounting and features a minimal bezel on three sides for a more immersive viewing experience.

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The Meizu OpenBlus 2 Open-ear Bluetooth Headset has a Unique Design, Pre-Sale Starts at 169 Yuan ($23)

By

Anubhav

-

Apr 25, 2024

Unveiled today, the Meizu OpenBlus 2 open-ear Bluetooth headset boasts a unique design inspired by Zhuhai’s “Sun and Moon Shell” Grand Theater. The charging compartment resembles a seashell, cradling the ear hooks that connect like “golden pearls.” Crafted from a lightweight aluminum alloy, the entire headset weighs just 86 grams and is 23mm thick. Skin-friendly silicone ear hooks with inner titanium wires ensure a comfortable and secure fit.

The headset has a 16.2mm dynamic coil driver for superior quality sound

The OpenBlus 2 packs a punch with its 16.2mm dynamic coil driver, promising high amplitude and clear sound. A dynamic bass algorithm and bio-conforming diaphragm enhance the listening experience with rich bass and crisp details. Meilan’s Accurate Transmit technology focuses sound for directional listening and privacy protection.

For clear calls, the OpenBlus 2 features an omnidirectional microphone with AI noise reduction, effectively eliminating background noise. Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity ensures a stable connection with low latency, while multipoint pairing allows you to connect two devices simultaneously.

Battery life is rated at 9 hours for continuous use, and the charging case extends that to a total of 36 hours. The Meizu OpenBlus 2 is currently in pre-sale stage starting at 169 yuan ($26 USD).

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Could Google Launch Pixel Watch 2a? FCC Listing Hints At A Mysterious Smartwatch

By

Viraj Gawde

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Apr 25, 2024

A mysterious Google smartwatch has been spotted on the FCC certification website. It is speculated to be the Google Pixel Watch 2a. This is because the Pixel Watch 3 is not expected until the search giant’s annual October event.

Mysterious Pixel Watch appears on FCC

The mysterious smartwatch from Google is listed on the FCC certification website (spotted by 9to5Google) with the model number being identified as G4SKY. It does not explicitly mention the name of the device. The listing suggests that the upcoming offering will most likely run WearOS. It will feature Bluetooth, WiFi, and LTE in a single model. Additionally, this mysterious smartwatch does not have an enabled ultrawide-band connection that is rumoured to be on the Pixel Watch 3.

It’s unclear whether Google plans on launching an affordable A-series smartwatch just like the Pixel A-series phones. If that indeed turns out to be true, then the device would be dubbed the Pixel Watch 2a. We can expect more details about the wearable device in the near future. It also remains to be seen if Google will announce any info about its mid-range smartwatch at the upcoming I/O Developer conference next month.

There’s also a possibility that the smartwatch could be Fitbit-branded running on WearOS.

As for the Google Pixel Watch 3, leaks and rumors suggest that it will be offered in a larger size. A regulatory filing revealed that it may be backed by a slightly larger battery of 307mAh compared to its predecessor. Google might tease the smartwatch at the upcoming I/O.

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OnePlus 12R vs iQOO Neo 9 Pro: It’s a close competition

By

Sean

-

Apr 25, 2024

Under the $500 price range, we enter the affordable flagship or flagship killer territory. The OnePlus 12R and the iQOO Neo 9 Pro fall in this same category. Both of these models are great offerings for those looking for top notch hardware and features, while not breaking the bank. But which one is better? How do they compare? The competition is fierce, so let’s have a look.

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1. OnePlus 12R vs iQOO Neo 9 Pro: The Performance

When comparing two phones, the specs usually give us a fair idea about what kind of performance we can expect. Hardware doesn’t directly showcase a device’s user experience, but the newer and faster chips makes the devices more future proof and ensure no lags or delays. However, both the OnePlus 12R and the iQOO Neo 9 Pro are practically identical in this regard.

Being budget flagships, these are equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, which is paired with up to 256GB of storage and at least 12GB of RAM. So, the overall performance of these devices in terms of gaming and other day to day use will be mostly similar, with the differences coming down to the software. Although, the OnePlus 12R does max out at a higher 16GB option.

2. Bigger battery or faster charging?

The battery is a crucial aspect that determines what phone you spend your money on. No one likes having to charge their phones more than once or twice a day. But both of these devices have you covered with large enough batteries. Although, the OnePlus 12R has an edge with a larger 5,500mAh capacity, compared to the Neo 9 Pro’s 5160mAh battery pack. But the iQOO model edges out in charging speeds.

It offers 120W wired fast charging that promises to hit 1-50% charge in just 11 minutes. On the other hand, the 12R comes with 100W wired fast charging, which can hit 1-100% charge in 26 minutes. So while it’s a matter of preference, these devices should be evenly matched with their overall battery life experience.

3. Photography

The two devices features a 50-megapixel primary camera and an 8-megapixel ultra wide angle lens on the back, while the front houses a 16-megapixel selfie shooter. However, the main camera is a Sony IMX890 on the 12R and a Sony IMX920 on the Neo 9 Pro. The OnePlus model even has a third 2-megapixel depth sensor on the rear. This third camera doesn’t give a major edge to the photography experience, but both of these have proved to be decent in terms of photography.

4. Pricing

The pricing of the two phones is where things gets interesting. The OnePlus 12R starts from 39,999 INR and goes up to 45,999 INR for the 16GB + 256GB variant. Meanwhile, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro’s price of 34,999 INR for the base model, while the top end 12GB + 256GB version costs 38,999 INR. So even at its most expensive, the iQOO smartphone is still cheaper than the OnePlus 12R.

5. Verdict

Despite being cheaper, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro easily rivals the OnePlus 12R in every aspect. So for its price, it is sweet value for money device. However, there are still more aspects to take into consideration. You may prefer the OxygenOS custom skin over iQOO’s FunTouchOS. The alert slider on the OnePlus 12R is also a unique design element as well. If you wanna go for absolute value, the Neo 9 Pro is a great budget flagship device with barely any compromises.

The OnePlus 12R is more expensive, but comes with a slightly more premium (aluminum frame over plastic) and practical design. Meaning, you won’t go wrong with spending just a bit more. The new 8GB + 256GB variant hits the sweet spot with storage and pricing with bank offers, which recently went on sale. You can even check out video review of the iQOO Neo 9 Pro, which is linked below to help get a better idea.

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Xiaomi 14 vs OnePlus 12: Which should you buy?

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Apr 25, 2024

Xiaomi 14 and OnePlus 12 stand out as competitively priced smartphones featuring the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. While they share many similarities, it’s the nuances that set them apart.

If you’re in the market for one of these devices, you should know the differences between them to make the best choice. So, let’s explore these differences to simplify your decision-making process.

Here’s a quick look at the specifications of both phones side by side:

Feature	Xiaomi 14	OnePlus 12
Price	Rs 69,999 (12GB+256GB)	Rs 69,999 (16GB+512GB), Rs 64,999 (12GB+256GB)
Processor	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM	Up to 16GB	12GB/16GB LPDDR5X
Storage	256GB	256GB/512GB UFS 4.0
Display	6.36-inch OLED display with 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support	16.82 inches 120Hz ProXDR Display
Battery	4610mAh, 90W wired, 50W wireless charging	5400mAh, 80W SUPERVOOC wired, 50W AIRVOOC wireless charging
Camera (Rear)	Leica co-engineered triple camera system…	4th-gen Hasselblad Camera system for mobile…
Camera (Front)	32MP in-display selfie camera	32MP Sony IMX615 sensor
Operating System	Android 14-based HyperOS	OxygenOS 14.0 based on Android 14
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, 5G NR	Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, 5G NR
Weight (grams)	193	220
IP Rating	IP68	IP65
Colour Options	Flowy Emerald, Silky Black	Matte Black, Jade Green, Classic White

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1. Design

There’s a clear difference in the visual looks of the OnePlus 12 and Xiaomi 14. Xiaomi’s design leans towards a sleeker aesthetic, featuring a rectangular camera island on the back, whereas the OnePlus 12 opts for a circular camera hump.

As for durability, the OnePlus 12 edges ahead with its Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the back compared to the regular Gorilla Glass Victus on the Xiaomi 14.

However, the Xiaomi 14 takes the lead in terms of water resistance as it has a superior IP68 rating. That means, the phone is protected against submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes.

On the other hand, the OnePlus 12 has an IP65 rating, which only safeguards against water jets, so an accidental dip in the bathtub could harm your device.

2. Display

Both phones feature displays with excellent features and peak brightness. Xiaomi 14 offers a respectable 3000 nits, while OnePlus 12 surpasses it with an impressive 4500 nits. Despite the higher brightness on the OnePlus 12, both screens should deliver satisfactory outdoor visibility.

However, it’s worth noting that Xiaomi 14 is a more compact device with a 6.36-inch display, whereas the OnePlus 12 boasts a larger 6.82-inch screen with a higher resolution of 1440 x 3168 pixels, compared to Xiaomi 14’s 1200 x 2670 pixels.

Furthermore, the OnePlus 12 is also heavier due to its larger size, weighing in at 220 grams compared to the Xiaomi 14’s 193 grams.

3. Performance and Software

Both smartphones are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, configurable with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Xiaomi’s device operates on the latest HyperOS skin, emphasizing customization, while the OnePlus 12 sticks with OxygenOS, praised for its clean software experience.

Furthermore, both OnePlus and Xiaomi provide up to four years of OS upgrades and five years of security patches.

4. Battery and Charging

The OnePlus 12 takes the lead with its larger 5400mAh battery compared to Xiaomi’s 4610mAh. It should translate to longer screen-on time before you need to refill the device.

Speaking of which, both phones impress when it comes to charging speed. OnePlus 12 surpasses Xiaomi with its 100W SUPERVOOC charging which can refill the device in just 26 minutes.

Xiaomi’s 90W HyperCharge claims a 0-100% charge in 30 minutes. Additionally, you get a wireless charging option on both devices rating at 50W.

5. Verdict

The choice between these two phones hinges on your priorities. If you value raw battery life and a larger size, the OnePlus 12 might be the ideal choice.

On the other hand, if compactness is important to you while still seeking a flagship experience, the Xiaomi 14 could be a better fit.

It’s worth noting that these are just some of the main differences. We advise you to go through a thorough review of the Xiaomi 14 and OnePlus 12’s software and real-world performance to reach a final decision.

You can also read our individual review of the Xiaomi 14 and OnePlus 12 below: