First real-life image of Vivo X100s surfaces ahead of expected May launch

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Apr 25, 2024

Vivo is gearing up to release several new smartphones as part of its X100 series. Among these are the Vivo X100 Ultra, X100s Pro, and a base model X100s. We’ve been keeping a close eye on these smartphones, and recently, images of the Vivo X100s were leaked, courtesy of GSMArena.

Design-wise, the phone departs from the curved design of the X100, opting for a flat frame with a textured finish. The rear panel appears to be made of glass with a slight curve (2.5D). The camera island features a knurled ring design and houses four cameras.

Based on the leak, the camera system of the X100s appears identical to the X100. This means there will be a 15-70mm zoom setup with a 15mm ultrawide sensor, a 70mm periscope lens, and a primary 50MP f/1.6 sensor.

Additionally, the leak suggests that the X100s draws design inspiration from the iPhone 15 Pro, with a flat-edged display and a similar color scheme. However, it’s expected to be notably thinner, measuring just 7.89mm compared to the iPhone 15 Pro’s 8.3mm.

In terms of performance, leaks indicate that the X100s will be powered by the upcoming Dimensity 9300+ chipset. The chip will share similarities with the Dimensity 9300 but will have a higher clock speed for the main Cortex-X4 core.

As for the price, given that the X100 was priced at CNY 3,999, reports suggest that the X100s may follow suit.

The leaked information also hints at a potential May launch for the X100s, alongside its rumored counterparts, the X100s Pro and X100s Ultra.

With more details expected to surface closer to the launch date, these leaks give a preliminary look at what Vivo has in store for the X100s.

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OnePlus 8 & 8 Pro reach End of Life with final OxygenOS 13.1.0.587 update

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 25, 2024

OnePlus has rolled out the last software update for its OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro smartphones, marking the end of their support period. Launched in April 2020, these models were slated to receive four years of security updates and three major Android OS upgrades, a promise that OnePlus has now fulfilled.

The final update, OxygenOS 13.1.0.587, incorporates the April 2024 Android security patch and is currently being distributed to users in India, with plans to extend it to other regions soon. This update aims to boost system security and stability.

In a recent statement, OnePlus reflected on the four-year journey with the OnePlus 8 series, thanking users for their active participation and feedback which significantly contributed to refining the OxygenOS experience. The company highlighted the role of user feedback in creating stable and optimized software builds.

The update is being released in phases to ensure a smooth transition for all users. If you haven’t received the OTA notification on your device, you can manually check for its availability by going to Settings > About device > OxygenOS > Check for update.

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Oppo A3 images, key specifications leaked, launch imminent

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Apr 25, 2024

A forthcoming Oppo phone with model number PJT110 has received approval from China’s TENAA certification platform. The listing has revealed the images and key specifications of the device. Although the device’s moniker remains unconfirmed, speculation suggests it will be known as the Oppo A3 upon its debut in China. The rumored moniker suggests that it will be positioned lower than the Oppo A3 Pro, which went official with an IP69-rated dustproof and water-resistant body earlier this month. Here’s a look at what to expect from the Oppo A3.

Oppo A3 specifications (rumored)

To recall, the Oppo A2 from last year featured an IPS LCD panel. According to the TENAA listing, the Oppo PJT110 will have an improved display department, with a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen that produces a Full HD+ resolution.

On the front, the Oppo A3 has a 16-megapixel selfie camera. The vertical camera module on the phone’s back has a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 2-megapixel auxiliary lens. The device is expected to ship with Android 14 and a layer of ColorOS 14.

Under the hood, the Oppo A3 has an unknown 2.2GHz chipset and 8 GB / 12 GB of RAM. The phone will arrive with 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB of storage options, and it will also feature a microSD card slot.

The Oppo A3 will pack a 5,500mAh battery and support 33W fast charging. For security, it will have an in-screen fingerprint sensor. Lastly, the TENAA listing mentions that the A3 will measure 162.9 x 75.6 x 8.1mm and weigh 191 grams. The device may likely go official before the end of this month in China.

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OnePlus 12 or iQOO 12: which one is the right choice for you?

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 25, 2024

Are you struggling to pick between the iQOO 12 and the OnePlus 12? Not sure which phone is right for you? Here are some of the key differences that could help you make your decision.

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1. Design and durability

The OnePlus 12 and the iQOO 12 are both pretty-looking smartphones with attractive designs, however, some stark differences should be considered before committing to one. The iQOO 12 has an overall flat design with a flat metallic frame. That being said, the brand has made the edges slightly curvy to make it more comfortable to hold.

On the other hand, the OnePlus 12 has committed to a completely curved design, prioritizing comfort above the current trend of iPhone-inspired flat frames. As for durability, the OnePlus 12 comes with a Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protecting its screen, and the back glass is Gorilla Glass 5. The Phone is IP65 rated, which means that it can easily withstand dust as well as low-pressure water jets from all directions.

The iQOO 12 uses a more affordable Schott Xensation protective glass on the front and is IP64-rated, which means that it can withstand water spray from any direction.

2. Display & audio

The OnePlus 12 boasts a superior display compared to the iQOO 12. It features a curved Quad HD+ resolution of 1440 x 3168 pixels, a larger 6.82-inch diagonal size, and an impressive peak brightness of 4500 nits, which can be reached while watching HDR content. Additionally, it supports Dolby Vision and comes with HDR10+ certification.

While not on par with the OnePlus 12, the iQOO 12 also features an impressive 6.78-inch 1.5K (1260 x 2800 pixels) display, which has a peak brightness of 3000 nits, and an HDR10+ certification. The one advantage over it has over the OnePlus 12 is its higher refresh rate of 144Hz.

As for audio, iQOO 12 offers the louder speakers of the two, however, music sounds more detailed and clear on the OnePlus 12.

3. Which is better for gaming?

If you are looking to buy one of these smartphones with gaming in mind, then the iQOO 12 should be your choice. It simply has too much going for it when it comes to gaming. Firstly, it has a flat display, compared to the curved display on the OnePlus 12. People who have gamed on both know that a flat display is much preferable to a curved display as it allows for a more natural grip and reduces the chances of accidental touches.

Both the iQOO 12 and the OnePlus 12 future a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor which is capable of stable 80+ FPS in games like BGMI. However, the iQOO 12 has the OnePlus 12 beat in thermal management. The iQOO 12 uses a large VC liquid cooling system, which provides efficient heat management during extended gaming sessions. It does not thermal throttle as much as the OnePlus 12, which means stable FPS. Excessive heating also affects the battery life of the device, so the iQOO 12’s superior thermal management also makes it more energy efficient while gaming.

4. Which has the better camera system?

The iQOO 12 comes with a triple camera system on the back consisting of an OIS-assisted 50MP OmniVision OV50H primary sensor, a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultrawide unit with autofocus, and an OIS-assisted 64MP OV64B 3x periscope zoom shooter.

In comparison, the OnePlus 12 also features a triple camera system with a 50MP Sony LYT 808 primary sensor paired with a 48MP Sony IMX581 ultra-wide-angle sensor, and a 64MP OmniVision OV64B OIS-enabled periscope unit with 3x optical and 6x in-sensor zoom.

On paper, both of these phones have impressive sensors, however, the OnePlus 12 offers more natural and accurate color processing as well as better consistency in quality. OnePlus 12 also outshines the iQOO 12 in human shots, however, the iQOO 12 takes slightly better shots from its zoom camera.

Night mode performance on both of the smartphones is excellent, while the OnePlus 12 is better in HDR shots as well as taking selfies from its 32MP Sony IMX615 front camera. It is also worth mentioning that the OnePlus 12 can shoot up to 4K 30FPS videos with its front camera, while the iQOO 12 is limited to 1080p 30FPS.

5. Battery & Charging

Both the OnePlus 12 and the iQOO 12 come equipped with large batteries, however, the OnePlus 12 has a larger 5400mAh battery paired with 100W wired fast charging compared to the 5,000mAh battery and 120W wired fast charging on the iQOO 12.

The 120W charging on the iQOO is indeed faster on paper, but in real-life usage, you won’t actually feel that much of a difference. Both of these smartphones are capable of filling up their batteries in around 30 minutes.

That being said, the OnePlus 12 also offers 50W fast charging support as well as 10W reverse wireless charging. These features are not available in the iQOO 12.

6. Other things to consider

Both smartphones use Android 14-based operating systems with many customization options. OnePlus has promised 4 years of major updates and 5 years of security patches, while the iQOO 12 offers 3 years of software updates and 4 years of security updates.

It is also worth mentioning that the iQOO 12 comes with a USB Type-C 2.0, compared to the newer USB Type-C 3.2 port on the OnePlus 12. This makes the OnePlus 12 about 10 times faster in transferring data via its USB port.

7. Conclusion

While the OnePlus 12 offers a better display, camera performance, and battery, it is also significantly costlier than the iQOO 12.

The OnePlus 12 starts at ₹64,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB configuration and goes up to ₹69,999 for the 16GB RAM and 512GB setup.

In comparison, the iQOO 12 starts at ₹52,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB model, and its 16GB RAM and 512GB storage model costs ₹57,999.

If you’re after an all-around flagship, the OnePlus 12 is a solid pick. But for gaming enthusiasts, the iQOO 12 is recommended. Plus, considering its price, the camera performance of the iQOO 12 is noteworthy.

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PUBG is Bringing Back its Iconic Erangel Map for Two Whole Weeks, Starting Next Month

By

Anubhav

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Apr 25, 2024

PUBG: Battlegrounds is getting nostalgic! The game that started the battle royale craze is bringing back its original map, Erangel, for a two-week run in May and June.

The old map fused with new mechanics will keep the game interesting.

Erangel Classic aims to recreate the early days of PUBG. Expect the original map layout, graphics, atmosphere, and even the user interface. But don’t worry, veterans – Krafton (who bought PUBG) promises “modern tweaks” to keep gameplay smooth. Think of it like a classic game remake – capturing the original feel with some quality-of-life improvements.

This trip down memory lane is likely inspired by Fortnite’s successful return of its original map last year. Erangel Classic will double down on nostalgia with foggy weather, bench weapons on the starting island (get ready to fight for loot!), and lower weapon recoil mimicking the original experience. You’ll even find the Tommy Gun back in care packages, and a vintage UI with a “charmingly tacky” look.

The good news for multi-platform players? The rollout is staggered! Play Erangel Classic on PC from May 14th to May 28th, then on consoles from May 23rd to June 6th. During this time, the modern Erangel map will be unavailable. Keep an eye out for the May 14th patch notes for all the Erangel Classic details.

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Razer’s Blade 14 2024 (Black) is Now Available for Pre-Sale, Starts at 20,999 Yuan ($2,900)

By

Anubhav

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Apr 25, 2024

Time to gear up. Remember, Razer unveiled the Razer Blade 14 2024 at CES 2024? Now, the company has officially put the laptop out on the shelves for pre-sale today, starting at 20,999 yuan ($2,900 USD). This powerhouse laptop packs an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor (up to 5.2GHz) and your choice of NVIDIA RTX 4060 or 4070 graphics (both 8GB GDDR6).

The display has a 240Hz refresh rate, HDR 400 and FreeSync Premium

The 14-inch 2.5K (2560 x 1600) IPS display boasts a 240Hz refresh rate, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, CALMAN certification, 500 nits brightness, HDR 400, and FreeSync Premium for a tear-free experience. A vapor chamber cooling system with dual fans keeps things chill.

Dual front speakers with THX Spatial Sound and 7.1 surround sound put you in the game, while the 68.1 Wh battery and 230W power adapter keep you powered. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, two USB4-C ports with PD 3.0 charging (up to 100W), HDMI 2.1, USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, and a headphone jack.

The sleek aluminum alloy body with a CNC-machined finish is lightweight (1.84kg) and anti-fingerprint coated. The customizable RGB backlit keyboard with N-key rollover and per-key Chroma lighting adds a personal touch. A 1080p HD camera with dual microphones allows for clear video calls and supports Windows Hello facial recognition.

From powerful specs to a stunning display and a sleek design, the Razer Blade 14 2024 seems like a compelling option for gamers and creative professionals alike.

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Mechanical Revolution’s New Budget-friendly Yaoshi 16 Pro Gaming Laptop Starts at 7,799 Yuan ($1076) in China

By

Anubhav

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Apr 25, 2024

The Mechanical Revolution Yaoshi 16 Pro gaming laptop has arrived, starting at a wallet-friendly 7,799 yuan ($1076 USD). And this laptop packs a serious number of features for the asking price. Read on to find out more!

The laptop features a 16-inch 2.5K display with a 240Hz refresh rate.

This machine boasts a powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7-14650HX processor (exact wattage to be announced) and an NVIDIA RTX 4060 graphics card with dedicated GDDR6 memory to handle even demanding games. Multitasking is a breeze with 32GB of DDR5 5600 RAM in a dual-channel configuration, while a speedy 1TB PCIe 4.0 solid state drive ensures quick boot times and fast game loading.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the stunning 16-inch 2.5K resolution display. Gamers will appreciate the ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate for blur-free visuals during fast-paced action. The display boasts a peak brightness of 500 nits, 100% sRGB color gamut, and excellent color accuracy (ΔE < 2) for vibrant and realistic in-game scenes.

Keeping thermals in check is a robust cooling system that combines phase-change silicone grease with 7 ultra-thick copper heat pipes and dual 81-blade fans. This ensures your laptop stays cool even during the most intense gaming sessions.

Beyond performance, the Yaoshi 16 Pro offers several user-friendly features. The 180-degree hinge allows for maximum viewing flexibility, while Nahimic sound certification guarantees immersive audio for an enhanced gaming experience. The three-sided metal chassis exudes a premium feel, and the 240W SiC power adapter, although hefty at 550g, supports convenient 100W fast charging via USB-C.

Connectivity options are plentiful, including the latest Wi-Fi 6E enabled by the AX211 network card, along with Thunderbolt 4, RJ45 (Ethernet), HDMI 2.1, USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, and USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 ports. The laptop weighs approximately 2.2kg (4.8 lbs) and measures about 26.5mm thick, making it reasonably portable for its size.

The starting configuration comes in a sleek Star Gray color, with additional exciting options like Mirror Lake Blue, Diamond Pink, and Platinum Sand arriving soon.

If you’re a gamer in China looking for a powerful and affordable gaming laptop with a gorgeous display, the Mechanical Revolution Yaoshi 16 Pro is a sweet option, especially at its attractive starting price. Be sure to keep an eye out for the upcoming variants featuring the i9-14900HX processor, available for purchase on April 26th.

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Motorola Edge 50 Fusion will compete with these phones in India

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Apr 25, 2024

A few days back, Motorola unveiled the Edge 50 Fusion. This smartphone was announced alongside the Edge 50 Pro and the Edge 50 Ultra.

It is the most affordable of all three phones. It also comes in two variants for different markets.

One of these versions is exclusive to Latin America. This model has a downgraded chipset but a faster display.

That being said, the Edge 50 Fusion is expected to be released soon in India. Since the Edge 50 Pro is already available in the country with a starting price of ₹31,999, we can guess the price of the former.

The Edge 50 Fusion will likely cost around ₹25,000 in India. At this price, it will compete with several popular devices. Let’s have a look at some of its potential alternatives.

Prev Next

1. OnePlus Nord CE 4

The OnePlus Nord CE 4 is probably the well-balanced smartphone in this price segment just like its predecessor OnePlus Nord CE 3. It starts at ₹24,999 in the country.

At this price, it offers a more powerful Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip compared to a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 inside the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion. However, the Nord sports a flat 120Hz OLED display compared to a curved 144Hz OLED panel on the Fusion.

Further, the Nord CE 4 comes with a larger 5,5000mAh battery and also supports faster 100W wired charging.

2. Nothing Phone 2a

Nothing Phone 2a is the most unique-looking smartphone in its segment. It starts at ₹23,999 in India.

It is powered by a MediaTke Dimensity 7200 Pro chip, which is again more powerful than the silicon present underneath the Edge 50 Fusion. It has also got Glyph LED lights for personalized customizations.

The Phone 2a may have a flat OLED display but it sports a higher megapixel 50MP ultrawide camera. Finally, the battery is the same at 5,000mAh capacity but it only supports 45W wired charging, and the power adapter is not included in the box.

3. Redmi Note 13 Pro

The Redmi Note 13 Pro starts at ₹24,999 in India. It is powered by the same Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset as the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion.

The Redmi Phone also arrives with a higher 200MP primary camera and a larger 5,100mAh battery. But the charging speed is comparable at 67W.

Lastly, the 120Hz OLED display may be flat but it can play Dolby Vision content. Also, the panel is sharper as it has a 1.5K resolution (2712 x 1220 pixels).

4. Realme 12 Pro

The Realme 12 Pro also starts at ₹24,999 in India. It is the only competitor that also has a curved display and a vegan leather back.

However, the handset houses a less powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip. Anyhoo, the battery capacity and charging speed are nearly identical at 5,000mAh and 67W, respectively.

Most importantly, the Realme 12 Pro is the only device on the list with a proper three lens camera system. It arrives with a 50MP primary sensor, a 32MP 2x telephoto shooter, and an 8MP ultrawide unit.

5. Samsung Galaxy M55

Samsung Galaxy M55

The Galaxy M55 is the best option for someone looking for a Samsung alternative in this segment. It starts at ₹26,999 in India.

The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chipset. This makes it slower than the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion.

However, Samsung will offer longer software support than any other handset on this list. It will receive four Android updates and five years of security updates.

At last, the smartphone supports 45W wired charging but the power adapter needs to be purchased separately.

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Samsung releases 50W dual port PD charger for €69.90

By

Erencan Yılmaz

-

Apr 24, 2024

Samsung has unveiled a brand-new dual port USB C charging adapter in the global market, with a maximum power output of 50W. While Samsung has yet to release this dual port charger in China and Korea, it will be available for purchase in the US and Europe.

Samsung 50W PD Duo Power Adapter

Samsung’s new “50W PD Duo” charging adapter priced at €69.60 in Europe, comes with a 5A USB C cable in the box. This charger, with two ports, can deliver a maximum power of 50W when one port is plugged in, and can charge two devices simultaneously, with each port delivering a maximum of 25W. Additionally, the charger is only available in black color.

According to Roland Quandt, the charging device will be launched for sale in Europe, and currently, the Samsung US website is already active, listing the new 50W dual port charging adapter with the model number of EP-T5020.

While Samsung phones does not feature crazy fast charging solutions like Chinese smartphone manufacturers, the introduction of a 50W charging adapter from Samsung is noteworthy. This is interesting considering that the fast charging feature of the Galaxy S24 Ultra is capped at only 45W. However, for people who need to use or charge multiple devices simultaneously, a dual port USB C charging device will be quite beneficial.

Huawei Pura 70 Ultra Retractable Camera Explained

By

Soumyakanti

-

Apr 24, 2024

The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra (unboxing & hands-on) boasts a revolutionary feature: a retractable main camera. This isn’t the first phone though to feature a retractable lens.

The first commercial phone that came with this feature was the Tecno Phantom X2 Pro. Well, this innovative design offers a unique solution to the age-old challenge of balancing large sensor sizes with a sleek phone profile.

Let’s delve into the fascinating mechanism of this camera and understand how it works.

What is a Retractable Camera?

A retractable camera is a type of camera that hides its lens within the device when not in use. This allows for a sleeker design without the typical camera bump on smartphones or other devices.

These cameras can extend when needed for capturing photos or videos.

Pura 70 Ultra’s Retractable Mechanism

The Pura 70 Ultra’s main camera is housed in a hidden compartment within the phone’s body. When you activate the camera app, a precisely engineered mechanism springs into action.

Stepper Motors: The driving force behind the camera’s movement lies in a pair of stepper motors. These motors use controlled electrical pulses to rotate, smoothly extending or retracting the camera module. The stepper motor is equipped with noise-suppressing foam.

Telescopic Lens Cover: The lens itself is protected by a telescopic cover. This cover extends alongside the camera module, shielding it from dust and scratches when not in use.

Sensor Stabilization: To ensure sharp images even when the camera is moving, the Pura 70 Ultra utilizes sensor-shift stabilization. This technology moves the sensor itself to compensate for hand movements, minimizing blur.

Advantages of a Retractable Camera

The retractable design offers several key benefits:

Larger Sensor: Using this tech Huawei is able to place a large 1-inch sensor in a small space. This allows for greater light capture, resulting in sharper, clearer images, especially in low-light conditions.

Compact Design: Most phones with large sensors are bulky, and the large camera bump can be uncomfortable to hold. Huawei addressed this by placing the retractable module, eliminating the huge camera bump, and improving ergonomics. This makes Pura 70 Ultra more comfortable to hold and pocket-friendly compared to other phones with 1-inch sensors.

Additional Features and Considerations

Speed and Durability: The retraction mechanism operates swiftly, ensuring a seamless transition between camera modes. Huawei claims the system is designed to withstand over 100,000 cycles of extension and retraction.

Water Resistance: Despite the moving parts, the Pura 70 Ultra boasts an IP68 water and dust resistance rating. This is achieved through a sealed telescopic cover and careful internal engineering.

Potential Drawbacks: The moving parts introduce a potential point of failure. How well the mechanism will withstand long-term use and potential drops remains to be seen. Also, the complex engineering behind the retractable camera likely contributes to the phone’s premium price tag.

Conclusion

The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra’s retractable camera represents a significant leap forward in mobile photography. By prioritizing a larger sensor and a compact design, this technology opens doors to improved image quality and a more refined user experience.

While durability and potential points of failure require further observation, the Pura 70 Ultra’s retractable camera marks a bold step towards the future of smartphone photography.

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Bad news for Apple fans: Upcoming iPad Air will feature LCD display yet again

By

Erencan Yılmaz

-

Apr 24, 2024

iPad mini, iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro are the tablets offered by Apple and the Pro one, as you could guess from its name, has the best specs. Mini-LED technology was allegedly going to be featured in the 2024 12.9-inch iPad Air, however it appears Apple has decided against offering mini-LED screens in the iPad Air.

Apple abandons the mini-LED display for 2024 iPad Air

Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) and a well-known analyst in the display industry, had previously stated that the 2024 iPad Air might come with a mini-LED panel. However, he now explains that his new sources reveal the iPad Air will come with an LCD panel instead, due to the high costs of manufacturing mini-LED panels.

Ross Young also mentioned that Apple will introduce a brand new iPad model with a mini-LED display in the fourth quarter of 2024. The exact model is yet to be determined; it could possibly be a low-end iPad Pro or an entirely new iPad lineup. It’s already known that Apple is working on a new iPad Air, but the complete technical specs are not available yet.

Mini-LED display technology is slowly being adopted in some devices, offering richer contrast and truly black areas compared to LCD panels, but not exactly same as OLED displays. mini-LEDs can achieve better colors by illuminating the display with much smaller LEDs. Apple first used mini-LED panels in the 2021 iPad Pro, and it seems they will continue to avoid using mini-LEDs in iPads Air due to their costliness.

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Fujifilm to Release the GFX100S II Medium Format Camera & X-T50 APS-C Mirrorless Camera + Lens on May 16

By

Anubhav

-

Apr 24, 2024

Photography equipment manufacturer Fujifilm is hosting its X Summit SYDNEY event on May 16th, and they’ve got some exciting announcements planned. The star of the show will undoubtedly be the new GFX100S II medium format camera.

The GFX100S II is expected to boast a top-of-the-line 100MP sensor

But wait, there’s more! Rumors suggest Fujifilm will also unveil the X-T50 APS-C mirrorless camera alongside a new XF16-50mm F2.8-4.8 kit lens at the press conference. The X-T50 is expected to boast a 40-megapixel sensor and in-body image stabilization.

The GFX100S II has been a hot topic since rumors of its early 2024 launch surfaced last year. Priced to be more affordable than its predecessor (around US$7,499 compared to US$9,999 for the original GFX100), the GFX100S II is poised to be a compelling option for medium format enthusiasts.

Reports hail the GFX100S II as “Fuji’s medium-format camera with the most powerful focusing performance in history.” It’s rumored to sport a new 100-megapixel sensor and a 5th-generation processor, along with a next-generation focus tracking function capable of detecting and identifying animals, vehicles, and birds. Videographers will be happy to hear about the inclusion of new video features like video touch tracking for autofocus, a waveform monitor, and an anamorphic widescreen mode.

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Apple expands supplier network in China despite US-China tensions

By

Joane

-

Apr 24, 2024

In the latest fiscal year, Apple has taken significant strides in expanding its supplier base, with a notable focus on mainland China. This is the first time since 2021 that Apple has added more suppliers from China. This development comes as a surprise amidst the ongoing US-China tech war and the continued imposition of sanctions by the US on various Chinese entities.

Apple has added 8 new suppliers from mainland China while removing 4, highlighting the country’s significance in its supply chain. With 157 contractors operating in mainland China, representing over a third of its disclosed suppliers, Apple reaffirms its reliance on the region for manufacturing and assembly.

Among the newly added mainland Chinese suppliers are industry leaders such as Baoji Titanium Industry and San’an Optoelectronics. Baoji Titanium Industry, based in Shaanxi, specializes in alloy manufacturing, while San’an Optoelectronics, located in Xiamen, supplies mini-LED chips for Apple’s premium products like the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro.

While mainland China remains dominant, Apple is actively diversifying its manufacturing footprint by increasing production in South and Southeast Asia. The addition of Tata Electronics from India to Apple’s supplier list highlights the company’s commitment to broadening its global supplier network.

Apart from China, Taiwan, Japan, Norway, and India have contributed to Apple’s supplier network. This strategic approach ensures resilience in the face of geopolitical challenges and strengthens Apple’s ability to meet global demand.

Carbon Neutrality Pledges by Apple Suppliers

A notable development is the commitment of some supply chain partners to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, aligning with Apple’s sustainability goals. This underscores Apple’s dedication to reducing its environmental footprint and promoting responsible practices across its supply chain.

Apple expects its supply chain partners to align with its mission, including commitments to carbon neutrality and ethical standards. Non-compliant partners risk losing their partnership with Apple, emphasizing the importance of shared values and responsible business practices.

Tighter export controls on China, driven by regulatory changes, pose potential challenges for Apple’s operations. However, the company remains committed to compliance with trade regulations and adapting to geopolitical dynamics to ensure seamless supply chain management.

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Huawei’s new upcoming tablet visits 3C website

By

Erencan Yılmaz

-

Apr 24, 2024

Huawei is performing quite good with its MatePad tablets, and now it seems a brand new Huawei tablet is on the way. A 3C certificate must be obtained by some products ahead of their release in China, and the upcoming new tablet from Huawei has been discovered on the 3C website.

3C listing reveals a new Huawei tablet with 22.5W charging and 4G variant

Huawei offers a range of options in its MatePad series, including high-end tablets as well as more affordable options. The next Huawei tablet discovered by the ITHome team looks like an affordable option, even though the specifications are still unknown. This is because the tablet’s 3C certification demonstrates its 22.5W charging capacity. That’s quite slow compared to Huawei’s high-end tablets, considering Huawei’s flagship tablets like the MatePad Pro 13.2 boasting 88W charging, it’s unlikely that this new tablet will have beefy specs.

The 3C certification lists four different devices: TGR-W00, TGR-W10, DMG-W00, and BBG7-W00. These devices will come with Huawei’s 22.5W (10V/2.25A) HW-100225C00 charging adapter. According to ITHome, these tablets will have different model variations (models starting with “TGR”), including TGR-W00, TGR-W09, TGR-W10, TGR-W19, TGR-AL00, TGR-L09, TGRZ-W00, and TGRZ-W10. While the specs of the upcoming Huawei tablet are yet to be revealed, it is expected to come with a Kirin processor. Additionally, a cellular version of the tablet will also be released (4G).

Colorful Unveils Powerful EVOL P15 Gaming Laptop in India, Starting from INR 64,990 ($780)

By

Anubhav

-

Apr 24, 2024

Colorful has launched its powerful EVOL P15 gaming laptop in the Indian market. The starting price for the base variant featuring a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor is Rs 64,990 (approximately $780 USD). Here’s a breakdown of the pricing by configuration:

i5-12450H: Rs 64,990 ($780 USD)
i7-12650H: Rs 79,990 ($960 USD)
i7-13620H: Rs 89,990 ($1,080 USD)

It is retailing via Flipkart in India.

The company is also offering a laptop bag for just INR 99 when you buy the laptop

As an introductory offer, Colorful is including a laptop bag for just Rs 99 (around $1.20 USD) and customers can choose between an instant discount or a Rs 3,000 exchange bonus (around $36 USD) on Flipkart.

The EVOL P15 comes in three stylish colors: Blue, Gray, and White (although the White color option isn’t available with the latest 13th-gen Intel Core i7 variant).

Display options include a 15.6-inch IPS panel with either Full HD+ (1920 x 1080 pixels) or QHD (2560 x 1440 pixels) resolution, both boasting a smooth 165Hz refresh rate and 100% sRGB color gamut.

Under the hood, you can choose between powerful processors ranging from 12th-gen Intel Core i5-12450H all the way up to the latest 13th-gen Intel Core i7-13620H. Graphics options include the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 (6GB) and the top-of-the-line RTX 4080 (8GB).

The laptop comes pre-loaded with Windows 11 Home and packs a decent 1MP HD webcam with G-SYNC support. Memory-wise, it boasts 16GB of DDR5 4800MHz RAM (expandable up to 64GB) and storage options include a 512GB PCIe 3.0×4 NVMe SSD with an additional empty M.2-2280 slot that supports PCIe 4.0×4 for future expansion.

A 54Wh battery keeps the lights on, while a hefty 180W power adapter ensures quick charging. The audio experience is powered by Sound Blaster Cinemas 6+. Connectivity options are plentiful, including 1000M LAN, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. The port selection is comprehensive, featuring a mix of USB Type-A, USB Type-C, Mini DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, an audio jack, RJ45 LAN, and a DC-in jack. The laptop measures 361 x 264 x 249 mm (14.21 x 10.39 x 0.98 inches) and weighs in at 2.4 kg (5.29 lbs).

If you’re a gamer in India looking for a powerful and stylish gaming laptop, the Colorful EVOL P15 is definitely worth considering, especially with its attractive introductory offers.

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China’s Three-Person Crew will Take Off in the Shenzhou XVIII Aircraft on April 25

By

Anubhav

-

Apr 24, 2024

China is set for another exciting chapter in its space exploration journey! The Shenzhou XVIII crewed spacecraft is scheduled to launch on Thursday, April 25th at 8:59 pm from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.

The crew will conduct an orbital handover with the current Shenzhou XVII crew

Aboard the Shenzhou XVIII will be a three-person crew: Ye Guangfu (mission commander), Li Cong, and Li Guangsu. This mission marks Li Cong and Li Guangsu’s first spaceflight, while Ye Guangfu previously served as a crew member on Shenzhou XIII.

The mission has two main objectives. First, the Shenzhou XVIII crew will conduct an orbital handover with the current Shenzhou XVII crew. Second, they will carry out various scientific experiments and missions during their six-month stay aboard the space station. Their return to Earth is planned for late October at the Dongfeng landing site.

China’s space ambitions extend beyond this mission. They have announced plans to ramp up research and open doors to foreign astronauts and even space tourists for future space station flights.

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Apple’s China iPhone sales dropped by 19%, Huawei’s sales rose by 67%

By

Joane

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Apr 24, 2024

In the first quarter of 2024, Apple encountered significant hurdles in the Chinese smartphone market. Despite a global increase in smartphone shipments, Apple experienced a sharp 19% decline in iPhone sales in China, marking its lowest performance since 2020. This downturn led to a drop in market share from 19.7% to 15.7% compared to the previous year, pushing Apple to third place behind Vivo and Honor.

The decline in iPhone sales can be attributed to various factors. Notably, a government ban on using Apple devices by employees impacted the company’s sales. Additionally, Huawei Technologies’ resurgence posed a formidable challenge. Huawei’s sales soared by an impressive 69.7%, driven by the successful launch of its high-end Mate 60 series. This surge catapulted Huawei to fourth place in market share, capturing 15.5% of the market.

Furthermore, subdued demand for Apple devices contributed to the decline. Despite efforts to entice consumers with discount campaigns and subsidies of up to 1,300 yuan ($180), Apple struggled to maintain its foothold in the competitive Chinese market.

Looking ahead, there are signs of potential improvement for Apple in the second quarter of 2024. Analysts at Counterpoint Research suggest a possible shift in momentum for iPhones, fueled by the introduction of new color options and aggressive sales initiatives.

All eyes are now on Apple’s upcoming earnings report on May 2, where investors anticipate insights into the company’s strategies to address the challenges in China. Apple’s ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial as it navigates the dynamic landscape of the Chinese smartphone market.

As Apple contends with fierce competition and regulatory challenges, its response in the coming months will shape its trajectory in one of the world’s largest consumer markets. The company’s resilience and strategic decisions will be closely monitored by industry observers and consumers alike.

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Apple ‘Let Loose’ Event Set For May 7: What To Expect & Everything We Know Till Now

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Apr 24, 2024

Last month Apple announced the MacBook Air M3 laptop. Now, the Cupertino-based tech giant is gearing up to unveil new devices.

The company has scheduled a launch event in just a couple of weeks. It is titled ‘Let Loose’ and shows an artistic render hinting at the upcoming devices.

Numerous rumors in the past have revealed that Apple will unveil the next-generation iPads. These have been long overdue as last year marked the first time the company did not announce a single new tablet.

Apple Let Loose Event Date

The Apple Let Loose event is set to take place on May 7 at 7 am PT. It will be a virtual event and can be live-streamed on the company’s official YouTube channel, the Apple TV app, and the Apple Events website.

The artistic render of the event shows the Pencil along with the Apple logo in various colors suggesting the graphic design capabilities. This hints at the arrival of the next-generation iPads along with accessories like a new Pencil and Magic Keyboard.

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1. What we know so far about the upcoming iPads

The iPad Pros and iPad Air are expected to be the centre stage of Apple’s upcoming event. As per rumours, the former will arrive with major upgrades after the last one being in 2018. They will boast an OLED display, slightly larger dimensions, and a thinner design.

The seventh-generation iPad Pro models will be powered by the latest M3 processor offering a performance bump. They will reportedly support MagSafe charging.

Meanwhile, for the iPad Air lineup, Apple will introduce a larger 12.9-inch model for the first time alongside the regular 10.9-inch variant. A CAD-based leaked render revealed that the upcoming iPad Air will have a pill-shaped camera island on the rear that looks similar to the iPhone XS. The next-generation offerings are expected to be equipped with a M2 processor.

2. Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard to tag along

Although Apple does not explicitly reveal the products that would be launching, a post by CEO Tim Cook on X says ‘Pencil us in for May 7’. This confirms that the company will indeed announce a new generation that will probably be called Apple Pencil 3.

Barring the cheaper Pencil with USB-C that was released last October, the last generation Apple Pencil debuted way back in 2018. The Apple Pencil 3 is expected to come with Find My support that will enable tracking it if it gets lost.

The accessory will feature interchangeable magnetic tips. Rumours also suggest that it will have a ‘squeeze’ gesture and be compatible with the Vision Pro headset.

The Apple Magic Keyboard is also expected to get a long overdue upgrade. It will reportedly have a larger trackpad, an aluminium build, and will ditch the current floating design. This will make the iPad look more like a traditional laptop.

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US reviews national security implications of China’s use of RISC-V Chip technology

By

Joane

-

Apr 24, 2024

To address national security concerns, the US Department of Commerce has embarked on a thorough review of China’s involvement in open-source RISC-V chip technology. RISC-V, a burgeoning alternative to proprietary technologies like those from Arm Holdings, has garnered significant attention for its versatility, spanning applications from smartphone chips to cutting-edge AI processors.

With major Chinese tech firms, including Alibaba Group Holding, using RISC-V, the strategic competition over advanced chip technology between the US and China has intensified. This has prompted 18 US lawmakers to urge the Biden administration to prevent China from attaining dominance in RISC-V technology.

In light of these concerns, the Commerce Department has confirmed its commitment to evaluating potential risks and exploring appropriate measures within its jurisdiction. However, it is also striving to proceed cautiously to avoid obstructing the participation of US companies in international collaborations concerning RISC-V technology.

Previous restrictions on transferring 5G technology to China have highlighted difficulties for US companies in global standards organizations, which could endanger US dominance in the sector. In this context, the Commerce Department’s examination of China’s role in RISC-V technology emphasizes the wider geopolitical consequences of technological rivalry.

China’s military institute, the PLA’s Academy of Military Sciences, has notably adopted open-source RISC-V technology, utilizing it in patents for high-performance chips to improve reliability in cloud computing and smart cars. Chinese state entities and research institutes have made substantial investments in RISC-V projects, aiming to contest the dominance of Western architectures such as x86 and Arm.

While RISC-V has yet to surpass the dominance of x86 and Arm architectures, its advantages in cost-effectiveness, customizability, and energy efficiency have made it an attractive prospect for chipmakers and OEMs. However, the increasing adoption of RISC-V in China, supported by substantial government funding, has raised concerns about its potential impact on US technological leadership and national security interests.

As the Commerce Department continues its review, the outcome will likely shape the trajectory of US-China technological competition and influence policies regarding the transfer of advanced chip technologies.

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Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus vs Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus: What’s the better pick for you?

By

Sean

-

Apr 24, 2024

The Redmi Note series has been an immensely popular lineup from Xiaomi. These mid range devices have always been among the highest selling devices from the brand. The last two iterations that were released include the latest Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus and the Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus, which came before it. But which one is a better deal for you now? What’s the better pick? Let’s find out in this comparison.

Redmi Note 13 Pro+ vs Redmi Note 12 Pro+

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1. Note 13 Pro+ vs Note 12 Pro+: Newer & Faster

Newer never always means better, but the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ has a noticeable edge over its predecessor. It is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra SoC, while the Note 12 Pro+ features the Dimensity 1080 chipset (AKA Dimensity 7050). The Dimensity 7200 Ultra scored 739,097 on AnTuTu, which is higher than the Dimensity 1080’s 527,053 score on the same platform. Although, the storage configuration (up to 12GB + 512GB) and battery specs (5,000mAh with 120W wired fast charging) is the same on both phones.

2. Slight visual makeover

Between the two generations, not a lot has changed in terms of design. The camera placement and arrangement are almost identical, but there are slight differences overall. Redmi’s older Note 12 Pro+ only came with a glass body variant. On the other hand, the Note 13 Pro+ follows the recent trend of including a glass and eco-leather rear design. There is also a dual tone color scheme on the newer model.

3. Which one has a better screen and cameras?

Unlike the processor and design elements, there aren’t a lot of major changes between the two devices. Both models sport a tall 6.67-inch display that offers FHD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+. The only noticeable differences are the AMOLED screen on the Note 13 series and OLED on the Note 12 lineup along with a brighter screen on the newer phone.

The similarities are reflected in the photography department as well. Both phones features a 200-megapixel triple camera setup on the rear, and a 16-megapixel selfie shooter on the front. The primary sensor is a Samsung ISOCELL HPX primary camera with OIS on the Note 12 Pro+, while the Note 13 Pro+ offers a Samsung ISOCELL HP3 sensor with OIS and EIS. In other words, there isn’t a major upgrade or difference between the two.

4. Pricing: What’s more worth it for you?

When the two options presented to you are so similar, the pricing is typically a tie breaker. As of right now, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ starts from 31,999 INR. Although, it can go down to 30,399 INR with an exchange offer. There is even a bank discount of up to 2,500 on ICICI, HDFC, and SBI credit cards, which lowers its effective price to just 29,499 INR. On the other hand, the Note 12 Pro+ starts at 27,499 INR, but there’s a 2,500 INR Credit and Debit card discount on certain banks and even an exchange deal worth 1,500 INR. So this makes it more affordable.

The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ should be the easier option to recommend since its newer, faster, and will get longer software support, which is great since HyperOS is out. But if you’re on a strict budget of under 25,000 INR, then the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is an option that you won’t regret. Apart from the chipset, there is nothing major that you’ll miss out between the two generations. To help you make a decision, you can click check out our review of the Note 13 Pro+ and the Note 12 Pro+.

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