Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 vs Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2: Which Processor is Right for You?

By

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Apr 24, 2024

Qualcomm has a ton of great products, but their naming can get a little confusing. That’s where we come in. In this article, we’ll compare two popular Qualcomm processors to help you understand the differences between them: the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2. Here are the details.

Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 vs Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 Differences and Specifications

When we compare the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, we can see that both benefit from an advanced 4nm fabrication process, likely leading to better power efficiency. However, the 7 Plus Gen 2 pulls ahead in terms of CPU performance. With a maximum clock speed of 2.91 GHz, it outpaces the 2.63 GHz max clock speed of the 7 Gen 3.

Specification	Snapdragon 7 Gen 3	Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2
Fabrication Process	4 nm	4 nm
CPU Cores	1x 2.63 GHz ARM Cortex-A715 3x 2.4 GHz ARM Cortex-A715 4x 1.8 GHz ARM Cortex-A510	1x 2.91 GHz ARM Cortex-X2 3x 2.5 GHz ARM Cortex-A710 4x 1.8 GHz ARM Cortex-A510
Max CPU Clock Speed	2.63 GHz	2.91 GHz
GPU	Adreno 720	Adreno 725
NPU	Hexagon	Hexagon
Memory type	LPDDR5	LPDDR5
5G Modem	Snapdragon X63	Snapdragon X62
Peak 5G Download Speed	5 Gbps	4.4 Gbps
Wi-Fi / Bluetooth	Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth 5.3	Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth 5.3

Both chipsets feature powerful Adreno 700 series GPUs. However, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 stands out with its slightly more advanced Adreno 725, making it a superior choice for mobile gaming enthusiasts.

Additionally, the Neural Processing Unit plays a vital role in handling artificial intelligence tasks. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 demonstrate comparable performance in this area, as both use the Hexagon NPU.

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 share similar features when it comes to connectivity, but the point where they differ is in their modem. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 comes with the Snapdragon X63, while the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 has a 5G modem, the Snapdragon X62.

Although this suggests slightly faster download speeds on one of them, the difference doesn’t have a significant impact on real-world performance. So, if the technical specifications are so similar, how can you determine the performance difference?

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1. Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 vs Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 Benchmark Performance

Benchmark results are a great way to compare processor performance. While these tests go beyond everyday usage, they effectively reveal the chipsets’ capabilities. In recent benchmarks, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 demonstrates its continued superiority over its competition.

Geekbench 5 (Approximate):

Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
- Single-Core (Geekbench 5): Around 1000-1100
- Multi-Core (Geekbench 5): Around 3000-3300

Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2
- Single-Core (Geekbench 5): Around 1200-1300
- Multi-Core (Geekbench 5): Around 3500-3600

AnTuTu v10 (Approximate):
- Snapdragon 7 Gen 3: Around 850.000
- Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2: Around 1.100.000

2. Smartphones using Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 is relatively new, however, it is used by more devices than a year-old Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2.

Snapdragon 7 Gen 3	Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2
Honor 100	Redmi Note 12 Turbo / Poco F5
Vivo V30	Realme GT Neo 5 SE
OnePlus Nord CE 4
Motorola Edge 50 Pro

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 vs 7 Plus Gen 2 are both excellent mid-range chipsets, so the “best” choice depends on your needs.

RELATED:

OnePlus Pad Go finally arrives in Europe & UK with a 10% discount

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 24, 2024

OnePlus has finally introduced the affordable OnePlus Pad Go in Europe. The launch occurred on April 23, 2024, alongside the release of the Watch 2 Nordic Blue Edition. This tablet was initially launched in the Indian market back in October 2023.

OnePlus Pad Go specs:

The OnePlus Pad Go features an impressive 11.35-inch 2.4K display, certified by TÜV Rheinland, boasting 400 nits brightness, a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, and a 7:5 screen aspect ratio.

Under the hood, it runs on an octa-core Helio G99 SoC, coupled with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage. That being said, it is worth noting that the European/UK variant of the tablet is only available with 128GB storage.

Running on Android 13 with OxygenOS 13.2, the tablet offers an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP selfie camera for photography and video calls, along with face unlock for added security. It is equipped with a sizable 8,000mAh battery supporting fast charging at 33W.

Pricing & availability

The OnePlus Pad Go with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage is currently available for a 10% discounted price of €299/£269. It is available in a single Twin Mint color option.

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Is Motorola Edge 50 Pro better than Vivo V30?

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Apr 24, 2024

Recently, the Motorola Edge 50 Pro was released in India. The device starts at ₹31,999 in the country.

The smartphone competes with several other handsets in the region at this price. One of them is Vivo V30.

Both of them may seem different at first sight. However, they are similar in many aspects with a few differences that make them stand out.

So if you are confused between the two, you have come to the right place. Here in this article, we help you decide which of these phones you should go for.

Without any further ado, let’s check out what these smartphones have to offer.

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1. Thin, Light, and Curvy

The Motorola Edge 50 Pro and Vivo V30 are thin and light smartphones. Their 6.7-inch 1.5K curved OLED displays further make them comfortable to hold in the hands.

The duo weighs 186g but comes with different levels of thickness. The Motorola product is slightly thicker at 8.2mm compared to Vivo’s 7.5mm thinness.

Further, the duo uses different materials for their body. The V30 has a plastic frame which is paired with a glass back. Whereas the Edge 50 Pro comes in two finishes. Both variants feature an aluminum frame coupled with either vegan leather or wood-based acetate.

The camera layout is minimal on the two handsets compared to other expensive phones. Additionally, the Vivo V30 has a soft LED flashlight.

As far as protection is concerned, the Edge 50 Pro is IP68-rated, which makes it submersible in 1.5m of water for up to 30 minutes. While the V30 with its IP54 rating is only splash-resistant.

2. Similar Performance Different Software

Both Motorola Edge 50 Pro and Vivo V30 are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 mobile platform. The chipset is paired with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.

But the base variant of V30 is limited to 128GB storage. Whereas the Edge 50 Pro comes with 256GB storage as standard.

On the software front, the duo boots Android 14. Both of them are eligible for three generations of Android updates and four years of security updates.

However, the software experience is different between the two. Vivo uses Funtouch OS which is quite different from the near-stock Android experience (Hello UI) offered by Motorola.

Nevertheless, Vivo rolls out system updates in a timely manner and is known to keep its devices up to date. While Motorola is yet to prove itself in terms of software support.

3. Better Cameras on Vivo

The Motorola Edge 50 Pro may have three rear cameras instead of two on the Vivo V30. But the latter has better cameras.

The V30 sports an OIS-assisted 50MP primary sensor and a 50MP ultrawide with autofocus. Even its 50MP selfie camera on the front supports autofocus.

All of these cameras are powered by Vivo’s imaging algorithm, which is known for providing excellent output. The soft LED flashlight also helps in low light scenarios.

On the other hand, the Edge 50 Pro has a proper three lens system. It comes with an OIS-assisted 50MP primary sensor, a 13MP ultrawide unit, and a 10MP 3x telephoto shooter with OIS. On the front, it has a 50MP snapper with autofocus.

This camera hardware is no slouch either. But Motorola’s imaging algorithm lags behind the the competition. It is software processing that plays an important role in smartphone photography.

4. Motorola Edges in Charging

The Vivo V30 houses a larger 5,000mAh battery as opposed to a slightly smaller 4,500mAh battery inside the Motorola Edge 50 Pro. But the latter supports double the charging speed.

The V30 is limited to 80W wired charging. While the Edge 50 Pro not only supports 125W wired charging but 50W wireless and 10W reverse wireless charging standards as well.

Additionally, the Edge 50 Pro arrives with a USB 3.1 port. This not only enables display out but also a useful productivity feature called Ready For similar to Samsung DeX.

However, there’s a caveat. The base variant of Edge 50 Pro ships with a 68W power adapter as opposed to a 125W charger with the top variant. So consumers opting for the entry-level model will have to spend extra money to experience the maximum charging speed.

5. Conclusion

The Motorola Edge 50 Pro is more affordable than the Vivo V30. It retails at ₹31,999 and ₹35,999 for 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB memory configurations, respectively.

Whereas, the Vivo V30 costs ₹33,999, ₹35,999, and ₹37,999 for 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB, and 12GB + 256GB memory variants, respectively.

If cameras are your top priority, the Vivo V30 is the one for you. But if you want a feature-packed phone, the Edge 50 Pro is a clear winner.

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Itel Launches S24 with 108 MP AI Camera, Helio G91, and 8GB RAM Under 10K with Free Smartwatch

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Apr 23, 2024

Itel continues to expand its product line in India. Following the recent launch of the Super Guru 4G model, the company has now introduced the S24 model, which is drawing attention for its technical specifications and performance. So what does the manufacturer known for affordable smartphones have in store for us this time? Here are the features and price of the itel S24. Here are the details…

Itel S24 Specs

When we look at the technical specifications of the itel S24, we find MediaTek’s Helio G91 octa-core chipset at its heart. This budget-friendly processor offers a maximum CPU frequency of 2 GHz and supports LPDDR4x memory. The phone boasts a total of 16 GB of RAM (8 GB physical + 8 GB virtual) and provides 128 GB of storage.

The itel S24 features a 6.6-inch HD+ display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. Camera-wise, the phone stands out with its 108 MP main camera (the maximum resolution supported by the Helio G91), plus a secondary low-resolution depth sensor. An 8 MP selfie camera completes the package. The itel S24, which has a 5000 mAh battery, also supports 18W charging via USB-C.

itel S24 Price & Availability

The itel S24 smartphone is priced at INR 9,999 and is available on Amazon, where it comes with a free smartwatch. It will also be available in retail outlets by the end of April.

Processor: MediaTek Helio G91
RAM: 16 GB (8 GB physical + 8 GB virtual through memory fusion)
Storage: 128 GB
Operating System: itel OS 13.5
Display:
- Size: 6.6 inches
- Resolution: HD+
- Refresh Rate: 90Hz
- Style: Punch-hole
Rear Camera: 108MP Dual AI Camera with F1.6 Aperture
Front Camera: 8MP with Dual Flash
Battery: 5000 mAh with 18W Fast Charging (USB Type-C)
Audio: Dual DTS Speakers
Fingerprint Sensor: Side-mounted
Colors: Starry Black, Dawn White
Price: INR 9,999/-
Availability: Amazon, with free smartwatch; retail outlets by end of April

RELATED:

OnePlus Watch 2 Nordic Blue Edition with Scandinavian-inspired design launched in Europe & UK

By

Sudhanshu

-

Apr 23, 2024

At MWC 2024, OnePlus debuted its long-awaited OnePlus Watch 2. Initially launched in India, the model was made available in other regions such as the US, Canada, UK, and Europe last month. Now, the brand has launched a special Nordic Blue Edition of its OnePlus Watch 2 in the UK and EU.

This version features a Scandinavian-inspired design with a lighter gray case and a blue leather band with white stitching. It’s the only model that includes a blue chronograph bezel. Specification-wise, it is similar to the regular model.

OnePlus Watch 2 Nordic Blue Edition pricing:

Priced at €349/£299, the Nordic Blue Edition is more expensive than the standard versions, which are available for €299/£269. The higher price is due to its unique design and limited availability.

OnePlus Watch 2 specs:

The OnePlus Watch 2 features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, protected by sapphire-reinforced glass. It has a peak brightness of 600 nits. The watch is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 SoC and the BES 2700 MCU chips, and relies on a 500mAh battery pack to keep it powered through 48 hours of heavy use. It is also capable of lasting for around 100 hours in smart mode and takes 60 minutes to fully charge thanks to the 7.5W VOOC charging.

The main attraction of the smartwatch is its Google Wear OS 4 operating system paired with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage to enable smooth operation.

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EV company Polestar releases its first smartphone with special AI features

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Apr 23, 2024

One of the competitors of Tesla in the electric vehicle market, Polestar, just unveiled their first phone. We actually knew this one coming up as we shared a post revealing that Polestar would launch on April 23 a few days ago. Furthermore, we previously shared with you that the Polestar Phone would be a Meizu 21 Pro clone before the phone’s release. In fact, the Polestar Phone and the Meizu 21 Pro have same specifications. Let’s take a look at this AI-powered phone that works seamlessly with a Polestar electric car.

Polestar Phone: A new way to control your EV with new AI features

The Polestar Phone phone features Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, 80W wired and 50W wireless charging, and a triple camera configuration that includes a 50 MP main camera (1/1.3″), a 10 MP telephoto camera, and a 13 MP ultrawide-angle camera. We cannot say that the phone’s camera hardware is very powerful. However, we do not expect a phone introduced by an electric vehicle manufacturer to have high-end specifications.

We can say that the differentiating factor of the Polestar Phone from the Meizu 21 Pro is the user interface. The phone runs on Polestar Phone OS, which can actually be thought of as a themed version of Flyme OS. The phone’s user interface actually has similar design elements found in the Polestar EV’s user interface design.

Polestar Phone comes with some AI features, including AI image search, image generation, and text summarization, which we are familiar with seeing on some smartphones. In addition to these features, it comes with Polestar Link to control Polestar electric vehicles, allowing users to monitor the status of their EVs. Polestar Link is a very good tool in China since Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available there. Polestar Link aims to provide a seamless experience to the Chinese EV users.

The phone was launched in China and it’s not known whether it will be available globally or not, the 16GB+1TB variant costs 7,388 CNY in China which is 1,020 USD.

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Huawei CEO reveals Smart Cars sold at Loss, unveils AITO Wenjie M5 with Advanced Driving Technology

By

Joane

-

Apr 23, 2024

Huawei’s Managing Director and CEO of Consumer BG, Yu Chengdong, has revealed that the company’s high-end smart cars, priced below RMB 300,000, are being sold at a loss. This financial strain is attributed to the substantial investment in research and development, particularly in smart driving technology.

To showcase their latest advancements in this field, Huawei previewed the upcoming release of the Wenjie M5. The presentation highlighted several key features aimed at enhancing the driving experience for consumers.

The Wenjie M5 boasts a fashionable appearance, promising to appeal to style-conscious drivers. Moreover, it promises an enhanced driving experience with smarter travel features and comprehensive safety measures.

Central to the vehicle’s capabilities is Huawei’s ADS 2.0 high-end smart driving system, which has undergone significant upgrades. Among its new functionalities is the Smart Driving Pilot NCA, which offers intelligent driving assistance across various road types.

One notable improvement is making the system adaptable to all urban roads, highways, and rural routes nationwide and not relying on super-accurate maps. This is made possible through the integration of the GOD (General Obstacle Detection) network and RCR (Road Cognition & Reasoning) network 2.0 technology, achieving a remarkable 99% recognition rate of obstacle types. Furthermore, the system independently comprehends complex road conditions, contributing to better driving performance overall.

Related:

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Chinese retailers acquire NVIDIA AI Chips despite US restrictions

By

Joane

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Apr 23, 2024

Despite expanded US restrictions on the export of advanced Nvidia AI chips to China, ten Chinese entities with government affiliations have managed to procure these chips embedded in server products from prominent suppliers such as Super Micro Computer Inc., Dell Technologies Inc., and Gigabyte Technology.

According to documents reviewed by Reuters, the acquisitions took place between November 20 and February 28, following the US’s extension of export restrictions on Nvidia’s AI technology, which aimed to curb Chinese access to advanced chipmaking technology.

The buyers include prestigious institutions like the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shandong Artificial Intelligence Institute, and the Hubei Earthquake Administration, as well as universities, a tech investment firm owned by a provincial government, a state-run aviation research center, and a space science center.

The transactions were facilitated through 11 little-known Chinese retailers, raising questions about whether they had access to stockpiles acquired before the US tightened export restrictions.

Nvidia has stated that the products specified in the tenders were exported and available before the restrictions were imposed, asserting that the purchases don’t indicate violations of export control rules. However, experts suggest that chips could have been diverted to China without the manufacturers’ knowledge due to limited visibility into downstream supply chains.

The US Commerce Department is reportedly monitoring diversions of restricted chips and investigating potential breaches. Violations of US export controls can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

The acquisitions provide China with access to advanced chips that could bolster military applications, including the modernization of defense forces and the development of hypersonic missiles. Although the quantities acquired were limited, the chips could significantly aid in training models and conducting advanced research.

The potential ramifications of this development include increased government scrutiny of Nvidia and other tech suppliers to China. Additionally, it highlights the ongoing efforts by Chinese tech giants to develop their own AI capabilities and transition to locally developed silicon, though the extent of their capabilities compared to Nvidia’s remains uncertain.

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Xiaomi 15 could be the first to offer the next Oryon CPU-powered Snapdragon 8 Gen 4

By

Debasish

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Apr 23, 2024

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 was announced at the Snapdragon Summit on October 25, 2023. Xiaomi announced its flagship Xiaomi 14 series the next day in the home country and it was made available within a couple of days. Now the latest news from tipster Yogesh Brar claims that Xiaomi will again offer the next generation flagship chip from Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 before anyone else.

Xiaomi still has the exclusive first launch rights for Snapdragon 8 Gen 4

Followed by both OnePlus & iQOO

Lineup includes Xiaomi 15 / 15 Pro, OnePlus 13, iQOO 13
— Yogesh Brar (@heyitsyogesh) April 23, 2024

The tipster notes that Xiaomi still has the exclusive first launch rights for the Snapdragon flagship chip. It is followed by OnePlus and iQOO. It means that the Xiaomi 15 series could be the first to offer the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip. The next two phones, according to the information, should be the OnePlus 13 and the iQOO 13 respectively.

Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 could be a bit different

However, if you live in the US, you’ll still have to wait until January or February for the next Galaxy flagship to experience the next Oryon CPU-powered Snapdragon flagship. They may also continue to add certain changes in the clock speeds and the ‘for Galaxy’ branding just like the past two years.

Speaking of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, Qualcomm CMO Don McGuire has confirmed that the chipset will also be unveiled in October at the Snapdragon Summit 2024. Another key piece of information he shared about the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is its adoption of Qualcomm’s custom-made Oryon CPU core.

While the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is already capable enough to handle pretty much everything you through at it, the 8 Gen 4 is going to be the first to boast the new custom core from Qualcomm. The Oryon CPU cores in the Snapdragon X Elite CPU are reportedly outperforming most of the desktop processors both in terms of raw computing power and power efficiency. Nonetheless, that’s Windows-on-Arm, a completely different platform and the comparison is also with the desktop CPUs. We will have to see how it performs on next-generation Android flagships.

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Keychron launches V10 Max mechanical keyboard with Gasket, Gateron Jupiter switches & more

By

Soumyakanti

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Apr 23, 2024

Keychron, a well-known manufacturer of mechanical keyboards, has launched its latest premium offering, the Keychron V10 Max in the Chinese market. The keyboard is priced at 498 Yuan ($69). Let’s check out its key specs.

Keychron V10 Max Specifications:

The V10 Max features a 75% Alice layout which includes the functional keys and a knob on the top-right. Alice keyboards are characterized by their split layout with a curved design that follows the natural typing arc of human hands. This unique layout helps reduce strain during prolonged typing sessions and is popular among keyboard enthusiasts for both aesthetics and comfort.

The keyboard utilizes a gasket mount design, a popular choice among enthusiasts, that reduces typing noise and provides a softer typing experience. Keychron has also included sound-absorbing foam and double-shot PBT keycaps for further enhanced comfort and durability.

The V10 Max comes with extensive customizability. Users can choose from a variety of keycaps, switches, and even customize the knob to match their preferences. The keyboard comes with Windows and Mac support and offers full compatibility with popular customization software like QMK and VIA, allowing users to program macros and create unique layouts.

The V10 Max offers a versatile connection experience with both 2.4 GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. The 2.4 GHz connection boasts a 1000 Hz polling rate, ensuring ultra-low latency for competitive gaming. Additionally, Bluetooth 5.1 allows for seamless connection to up to three devices simultaneously, making it ideal for multi-tasking across different platforms.

The V10 Max comes with Keychron’s exclusive Gateron Jupiter mechanical switches. These pre-lubed switches offer a lifespan of up to 80 million keystrokes and a unique tactile bump similar to popular Panda switches. The keyboard also boasts south-facing RGB LED lights, designed to offer better illumination with the included high-quality PBT keycaps.

The keyboard features hot-swappable sockets, allowing users to easily install or change switches without soldering, further enhancing customization options. The PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches, providing compatibility with a wide variety of options.

The Keychron V10 Max comes equipped with screw-in PCB stabilizers for a wobble-free typing experience on larger keys. It also boasts a long-lasting 4000 mAh battery, offering up to 225 hours of wireless use with backlighting off. The keyboard is available in a black color scheme and is constructed with ABS plastic and a PC mounting plate.

RELATED:

Vivo X100 Ultra: All expected upgrades over the X100 Pro

By

Sudhanshu

-

Apr 23, 2024

Vivo debuted its X100 series smartphones in November last year. The series at the time featured two models: the vanilla X100 and the X100 Pro. However, Vivo has plans to launch another model in the lineup called the Vivo X100 Ultra. As the name suggests, this will be a higher-tier model when compared to the Vivo X100 Pro. If you are wondering what will be different onboard the Ultra model compared to the Pro, here’s everything we know so far.

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1. Better camera sensors

The Vivo X100 Pro has received praise from users and the tech community alike for its highly capable camera system. However, Vivo plans to dial it up to 11 on the camera hardware front with the X100 Ultra model. As per leaks, the X100 Ultra will be using the new Sony LYT-900 50 MP camera sensor, instead of the IMX989 sensor on the X100 Pro. Just like the Pro model, this sensor will also come fitted with optical image stabilization to eliminate shakiness from pictures and videos. The X100 Ultra’s primary camera will also support variable aperture.

The 50 MP Samsung JN1 ultra-wide sensor will be replaced with the 50 MP Sony IMX598 sensor, while the 50 MP telephoto sensor is rumored to be replaced with a massive 200 MP periscope telephoto camera with up to 4.3x optical zoom, up to a 200x digital zoom, and a focal length of 100mm. For comparison, the X100 Pro is capable of 3x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom.

2. Flagship Snapdragon processor

Both the X100 and X100 Pro devices were launched with the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Processor, however, the X100 Ultra is rumored to feature Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. Both of these processors are neck and neck in terms of raw performance, however, over the years, the Snapdragon chips have garnered a reputation for being more efficient and having better image signal processing. So it’s likely that we could see better battery performance and imaging from the X100 Ultra.

3. Satellite communication

Vivo has confirmed that the X100 Ultra smartphone will launch with satellite communication capabilities. That being said, it is currently unclear if it will feature one-way or two-way satellite communication.

For those unaware, one-way satellite communication is basically for sending emergency messages or SOS when cellular service is dead. Whereas two-way allows for more interactive features like texting. You can check out our detailed explainer on satellite connectivity on smartphones to know more about it.

4. Vivo’s in-house Imaging tech

As we know, Vivo partnered with Zeiss back in December 2020, and ever since then, it has used the Zeiss-designed lenses for its flagship camera phones. Recent Vivo X series flagships, including the X100 Pro, have also utilized Zeiss’s special T* coating on their lenses which reduces reflections and improves light transmission. Additionally, Zeiss also worked with Vivo to develop unique image processing algorithms that replicate the classic “ZEISS look” known for its natural colors and soft bokeh.

All that being said, the upcoming Vivo X100 Ultra is said to come with Vivo’s own BlueImage self-developed imaging branding. Although the brand has not revealed the complete details of what this branding means for the X100 Ultra, however, it could mark the end of Vivo’s collaboration with Zeiss.

This situation is quite similar to Huawei’s self-developed imaging technology XMAGE, which was introduced in 2022, after the end of Huawei’s six-year collaboration with camera giant Leica.

RELATED:

Canon’s new VR headset brings live concerts to your living room

By

Joane

-

Apr 23, 2024

Canon is breaking new ground in the realm of virtual reality with the development of a hybrid display VR headset designed to revolutionize music experiences. This new tech will transport users who are sitting in their living room, into the heart of live concert halls, redefining the way we enjoy live performances.

The headset, equipped with over 50 cameras, records live music events from multiple angles, creating an unparalleled mixed-reality experience. Users can immerse themselves in performances, enjoying dynamic views from different perspectives without being at the venue and going through the traditional venue constraints.

This groundbreaking technology builds upon Canon’s MReal X1 headset, first introduced in 2022. During demonstrations, wearers were treated to captivating scenes that mirrored their movements, replicating the thrill of attending a live concert.

According to reports from NHK World News, Canon Japan is at the forefront of this innovation, aiming to offer users a concert hall-like experience from the comfort of their own space. Canon’s Muraki Junya emphasizes that the technology breaks free from the limitations of conventional concert attendance, allowing viewers to explore different positions and interact with performances on a whole new level.

The headset, based on Canon’s MReal X1 platform, boasts an impressive 58-degree x 60-degree field-of-view, providing users with an expansive canvas for their musical adventures. While still in the prototype stage, the headset holds promise for transforming the way we engage with live entertainment.

While Canon has not yet announced a commercial release timeline, enthusiasts eager to delve into mixed reality can explore entry-level options such as the Meta Quest 3 or await the arrival of the Varjo XR-4. With Canon’s hybrid display VR headset on the horizon, the future of concert experiences is poised to reach new heights of immersion and excitement.

Lenovo’s YOGA 27 2024 All-in-one Desktop Now Available for Purchase, 32GB RAM+1TB Storage Starts at 7,999 Yuan ($1,104)

By

Anubhav

-

Apr 23, 2024

The wait is over! The Lenovo YOGA 27 2024 all-in-one desktop is now available for purchase on JD.com. This stylish all-in-one machine boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen 7 8845H processor with a maximum performance release of up to 80W. The desktop was previously released earlier this month, read the coverage here. It comes in two configurations:

32GB RAM + 1TB storage: 7,999 yuan ($1,104)
32GB RAM + 2TB storage + RTX 4050 graphics card: 11,999 yuan ($1,656)

Even in beast mode, the noise level stays low at 33 dBA

The YOGA 27 prioritizes performance cooling. It utilizes a console-like cooling system with three different fan modes accessible via a convenient Fn+Q shortcut key combination: quiet mode, balanced mode, and beast mode. Even in beast mode, the noise level stays relatively low at a maximum of 33 dBA.

The 27-inch display features a 2560 x 1440 resolution, 100% sRGB color gamut, and an impressive 95% DCI-P3 color gamut. Factory calibration ensures exceptional color accuracy with an average ΔE of less than 2. This versatile display even supports USB-C video input and can deliver up to 95W of power via PD reverse charging. It can also function as a hub, allowing you to connect peripherals like a keyboard, mouse, audio devices, and even a camera.

For added convenience, the YOGA 27 features a lifting and rotating bracket with a 73mm height adjustment range and a tilt range of -5° to 10°. This allows you to use the device in portrait mode if desired. The entertainment experience is further enhanced by a pair of integrated 5W JBL speakers.

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(Via)

ASUS’s New 27-inch Gaming Monitor, the ROG XG27UCS is Now on the Shelves for 2,999 Yuan ($414)

By

Anubhav

-

Apr 23, 2024

Asus has put out a monitor on sale that can make you even better at gaming: the ROG Jueshen XG27UCS. This is a 27-inch gaming monitor available on JD.com for 2,999 yuan. The monitor was earlier announced last month and now, it’ll be hitting the shelves.

The monitor has a 4K panel with 160Hz refresh rate for smooth, clear visuals.

This feature-packed gaming monitor boasts a stunning 4K (3840 x 2160) IPS panel with a blazing-fast 160Hz refresh rate, ensuring silky smooth visuals and rapid response times in even the most action-packed games. The 1ms GtG response time minimizes ghosting and blur, while 95% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and 450 nits peak brightness deliver vibrant colors and impressive contrast. VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification further enhances the visual experience with deeper blacks and brighter whites.

This monitor boasts a compact footprint, saving valuable desk space.

The ROG XG27UCS isn’t just about raw specifications; it prioritizes a tear-free gaming experience. Variable refresh rate (VRR) technology synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with your graphics card’s frame rate, eliminating stuttering and tearing for a buttery-smooth gameplay experience. To further combat visual artifacts, the monitor supports NVIDIA G-SYNC and ELMB Sync technology.

The design of the ROG XG27UCS prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The new space-saving stand frees up desk real estate, while a built-in groove cleverly doubles as a mobile phone stand. A USB-C port offers convenient connectivity for data transfer and even delivers up to 15W of power to your devices.

Asus hasn’t forgotten about the competitive gamer. The ROG XG27UCS boasts AI-powered GamePlus technology that analyzes the in-game scene and adjusts the reticle for improved aiming accuracy. Dynamic ShadowBoost technology selectively brightens dark areas of the image without affecting brighter areas, giving you a clear advantage in low-light in-game scenarios.

The monitor comes equipped with DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, and USB-C (with DP Alt Mode) ports, providing versatile connectivity options. For added peace of mind, each ROG XG27UCS undergoes meticulous factory calibration to ensure color accuracy. Users can even access the calibration report through the on-screen display (OSD) menu.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6 Color Options, Storage Variants Tipped

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Apr 23, 2024

Leaks and rumours have revealed plenty of details about Samsung’s sixth-generation Galaxy Z foldable. Leaked CAD-based renders reveal no changes on the Z Flip 6 whereas the Z Fold 6 will have a boxier design and sharp corners. The foldable phones have also been spotted on the 3C certification website indicating at an unchanged battery charging speed. Now, DSCC’s (Display Supply Chain Consultants) Ross Young has revealed the colour variants as well as storage options on the upcoming Samsung foldables.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Fold 6 colour options, storage variants tipped

The Galaxy Z Flip is usually offered in a fun and vibrant color options. Samsung will continue the same tradition with the Z Flip 6. As per Young, it will be made available in a total of seven colors including Crafted Black, Light Blue, Mint, Peach, Silver Shadow, White, and Yellow. It’s worth noting that four of these hues were tipped previously and the executive now says that the Light Green and Silver will be marketed as Mint and Silver Shadow. Additionally, these colors are already found on the Z Flip 5. It remains to be seen if the South Korean brand will adopt a darker or lighter hue on Flip 6.

The Crafted Black, Peach, and White options are expected to be available in select markets or in limited quantities. Notably, the Lavender/Purple color which has been a staple on the Z Flips is missing.

As for the Galaxy Z Fold 6, the colors are still the same as previously reported. But the Dark Blue will be marketed as Navy and Silver as Silver Shadow. There will also be a new Light Pink hue along with low-volume colors Crafted Black and White.

Ross Young also reports that Samsung will continue to offer the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Fold 6 in 256GB and 512GB storage options. The latter will also be available in a higher 1TB configuration.

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Microsoft aims to boost the development of AI with Samsung and other South Korean tech giants

By

Debasish

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Apr 23, 2024

Microsoft is looking forward to hosting a meeting with top executives from four big South Korean tech companies at the MS CEO Summit 2024. The summit is scheduled for May 14, 2024. It will reportedly be a closed-door discussion with the big companies – Samsung, SK Hynix, LG Electronics, SK Telecom, and Microsoft.

Microsoft could source hardware key to AI development and install its AI services into their products

Both Bill Gates and CEO Satya Nadella will be present in the discussions with the top executives of the overseas companies. Notably, Kyung Kye-hyun, the head of Samsung Electronics Device Solutions Division, Kwak Noh-jung, chief executive of SK Hynix, Cho Joo-wan, CEO of LG Electronics, and Ryu Young-sang, CEO of SK Telecom are invited to attend the meeting.

The goal of this meeting will be to explore opportunities to strengthen their partnership and boost the development of artificial intelligence. Discussions with Samsung and SK Hynix will likely center on the supply of high bandwidth memory chips (HBM) that are one of the key equipment in the development of artificial intelligence. Samsung and SK Hynix are the two biggest memory chipmakers.

Aside from memory chips, high-performance solid-state drives compute express link drives can also be a part of the deal. These are also some of the important hardware components required in the development of large language models. This is reportedly unusual for Microsoft, which goes to show how important it is for Microsoft to boost its AI capabilities.

Other than sourcing memory chips, the company may also engage in discussions with its guests such as Samsung and LG Electronics to install its AI services into their products. It will not only get them new customer and product categories for their AI technologies to operate but also strengthen the partnership.

Samsung is working on two new AI accelerators – the Mach-1 and Mach-2 that. These two new products will soon enter mass production. It could be possible that Microsoft will use one or both of the chips in the future. On the other side, even if Samsung has already been a user of Microsoft’s software products for a while, the Galaxy AI is heavily backed by Google’s Gemini. Features from Microsoft’s offering may also make their way to Galaxy going forward.

Speaking of SK Telecom, they invested $100 million in AI startup Anthropic to develop a large language model (LLM) specifically for telcos.

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Lava ProWatch Zn, ProWatch Vn With 60Hz Display, 110 Sports Modes Launched In India

By

Viraj Gawde

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Apr 23, 2024

Lava is entering the smartwatch market with two new models These include the ProWatch Zn and ProWatch Vn. The former is the more premium offering among the two. Both wearable devices pack a few health features. There are only slight differences. Read on to know what the ProWatch Zn and ProWatch Vn offers out of the box

Lava ProWatch Zn and ProWatch Vn specification and features

Beginning with the Lava ProWatch Zn, it has a circular dial with a rotating crown and a physical button on the right side. The device is IP68 water and dust-resistant. It sports a 1.43-inch OLED display bearing a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, a 60Hz refresh rate and 600 nits peak brightness. The display is shielded by Gorilla Glass 3 against accidental damage.

As for the Lava ProWatch Vn, it features a rectangular dial with a large 1.96-inch LCD screen and a resolution of 320×386 pixels. There is a 60Hz refresh rate for a lag-free experience. This one also has an IP67 rating.

Coming to the Health-centric features the Lava ProWatch Zn and Vn are equipped with a heart rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, and stress and sleep tracker. Both wearable devices are capable of tracking more than 110 sports modes.

The Lava ProWatch Zn and Vn feature a Realtek chipset for Bluetooth calling directly from the smartwatch. Software-wise both run on the company’s proprietary OS. They pack features like a notification display, camera and music control. There’s built-in games as well. The ProWatch Zn is backed by a 350 mAh battery that is claimed to offer 7 days of usage. Meanwhile, the ProWatch Vn has a 230 mAh unit with five days battery life.

The Lava ProWatch Zn carries a special launch price tag of Rs 2,999 for the metallic strap the ProWatch Vn cost Rs 1,999 as a special launch price. Both smartwatches come with a 24-month warranty and can be purchased from Amazon and retail stores starting April 26.

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Xiaomi Smart Band 9: What you need to know about the next-gen wearable

By

Sean

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Apr 23, 2024

The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is expected to be the company’s next gen wearable product. The Chinese tech giant unveiled the Smart Band 8 back in 2023, and it appears that its successor is set to launch soon. We have covered the upcoming smart band recently, so here’s what to expect from the Xiaomi Smart Band 9.

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1. Xiaomi Smart Band 9: Bigger Display & Battery?

To recall, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 was announced with a 1.6-inch AMOLED panel that offers Always on Display. The successor to this could likely offer a taller screen. While no official word is available as of right now, the Smart Band 9 may also offer an oval display. Similarly, even the battery pack might get a bump over its predecessor, which was powered by a 190mAh battery pack. This would enable it to offer long battery life. This is still just speculation, so take this information with a pinch of salt for now.

2. NFC & Non-NFC Versions

Xiaomi’s upcoming Smart Band 9 model was first spotted last month getting a radio certification. This database revealed that the Smart Band 9 will arrive in an NFC and non-NFC-enabled option. It was also seen in two model numbers, namely “M2345B1” and “M2346B1.”

3. Smart Fitness & Health Tracking

Last year’s Xiaomi Smart Band 8 launched with various trackers for health and fitness. It came with SpO2 blood oxygen mapping, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, female menstrual cycle tracking, and VO2 stress levels mapping. For fitness, it supports over 150 sports modes, which includes an Interactive Boxing Mode that lets you track data related to somatic senses or somatosensory systems while in boxing action. Xiaomi’s Smart Band 9 is expected offer these trackers as well.

4. Global Release

So far, the brand’s Smart Band 9 has been spotted on multiple regional certifications, like the UAE’s TDRA and Indonesia’s Telecom certification. In other words, the company is likely planning on releasing the Smart Band 9 across the globe. The Smart Band 8 went global months after its original Chinese release in regions like Europe. Meaning, a similar launch strategy would follow for the newer edition.

5. Is Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro in the works?

Only the brand’s Smart Band 9 has surfaced online. There has been no sighting of a Smart Band 9 Pro model. However, we suspect that it is quite likely that a higher-end variant will launch as well. Xiaomi unveiled the Smart Band 8 Pro a couple of months after the base model’s release. So we can expect more details regarding the Smart Band 9 Pro model to surface in the coming months.

6. Launch Date & Pricing

Xiaomi released the Smart Band 8 in China back in April 2023. So we can expect the Smart Band 9’s release to be right around the corner. Unfortunately, there have been no reports or announcements regarding its release date. The Smart Band 8 originally launched for 239 Yuan or roughly 34 US Dollars, so there could be a slight price hike with the next gen Smart Band 9.

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Redmi Pad SE with 11″ LCD display, Snapdragon 680 processor & an affordable price tag launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

-

Apr 23, 2024

Redmi has just launched a new affordable tablet in the Indian market called the Redmi Pad SE. This new tablet is the successor of the Redmi Pad, which launched back in October 2022.

Redmi Pad SE specs:

The Redmi Pad SE offers an 11-inch 8-bit LCD screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. It has a 90Hz refresh rate paired with a 180Hz touch sampling rate and 400 nits of peak brightness. The display comes with TUV Rheinland Blue light and Flicker Free certifications which ensures reduced eye strain over prolonged use.

The tablet is powered by a Snapdragon 680 processor, which is a slight downgrade compared to the Helio G99 available on the 2022 Redmi Pad. It has three RAM options: 4GB / 6GB / 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, paired with 128GB eMMC 5.1 storage and a microSD card slot that supports memory expansion up to 1TB.

The tablet has a large 8,000mAh battery, with the brand claiming a video playback time of more than 28 hours. It supports 10W charging via a USB Type-C port. It also has a 3.5mm audio jack. For audio, it features a quad-speaker setup with Dolby Atmos tuning as well as Hi-Res audio support.

On the software front, the device features an Android 13-based MIUI for Pad and has AI face unlock. There are two cameras on the tablet, an 8MP one on the rear and a 5MP sensor on the front. As for connectivity, it has dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) along with Bluetooth 5.0. It weighs 478 grams and measures 255.53 × 167.08 × 7.36mm.

Pricing & availability

The prices of the Redmi Pad SE in India are as follows:

4GB RAM + 128GB storage: Rs 12,999
6GB RAM + 128GB storage: Rs 13,999
8GB RAM + 128GB storage: Rs 14,999
Redmi Pad SE Cover: Rs 1,299

The tablet will be available from April 24 onwards exclusively on Amazon, Flipkart, Mi eStore, and various retail channels. As a special launch promotion, customers purchasing the Redmi Pad SE can enjoy a flat discount of Rs 1,000 when using ICICI Bank cards for transactions.

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iQOO Quest Days bring maximum savings on iQOO 12 5G, Z9 5G, Neo 9 Pro, Z7 Pro 5G, and others

By

Simranpal Singh

-

Apr 23, 2024

iQOO is bringing a few new smartphones and other electronics to the market soon. As per leaks and rumors, the company is working on the iQOO 13 series, Z9, and Z9 Turbo, the iQOO Z9X global launch, and Magnetic Cooling Back Clip. Amid all the new announcements, the iQOO is here with some good discounts on the majority of its new smartphones. The buyers can save maximum on smartphones like iQOO 12 5G, iQOO z9 5G, iQOO Neo 9 Pro, iQOO Z7 Pro 5G, and others. Below we have detailed discounts on each smartphone:

Deals at iQOO Quest Days in India

iQOO is offering up to Rs 23,000 discount on smartphones from April 22 to April 28 on Amazon India. The users can avail Rs 3000 Instant discount on SBI and ICICI Bank Cards. Moreover, there’s an option of No-cost EMIs for a 9-month tenure. Below are Dedicated Discounts on respective smartphones:

iQOO 12 5G

The smartphone which usually retails for Rs 59,999, is now available for Rs 50,999. There’s a Rs 2000 Instant Discount, and an additional Rs 2000 off on Exchange. The users can avail up to 9 months of No-cost EMIs.

In terms of specifications, the smartphone bundles SNapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, and bundles Supercomputing Chip Q1.

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	iQOO 12 5G (Legend, 16GB RAM, 512GB Storage) \| India’s 1st Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform \|…	Check Price on Amazon

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iQOO Z9 5G

The smartphone is available for Rs 17,999, inclusive of Rs 2000 Instant discount. It also brings free Vivo Earphones worth Rs 599. There’s an option of up to 3 Months of No-cost EMI. It is hard to miss such a sweet deal if looking for a good camera smartphone.

iQOO Z9 5G comes with a Dimensity 7200 5G Processor, Sony IMX882 OIS cameras, 120Hz AMOLED display, and 44W fast charging support. It is a full-package smartphone that can be yours at such an exciting price.

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	iQOO Z9 5G (Brushed Green, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage) \| Dimensity 7200 5G Processor \| Sony IMX882 OIS…	Check Price on Amazon

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iQOO Neo 9 Pro

iQOO Neo 9 Pro is now available for Rs 32,999 with a Rs 2000 Instant Discount. The users can get up to Rs 4000 additional off if you change their old smartphones. Moreover, there’s an option of up to 6 months of No-cost EMI.

The smartphone couples SNsapdraon 8 Gen 2 SOC, and supports 120W FlashCharge technology. It comes with a Q1 supercomputing chip. In the camera segment, the smartphone features a 50MP Sony IMX920 sensor, and an 8MP ultra-wide sensor.

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	iQOO Neo9 Pro 5G (Fiery Red, 8GB RAM, 256GB Storage) \| Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Processor \| Supercomputing…	Check Price on Amazon

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iQOO Z7 Pro 5G

The smartphone is retailing at the price of Rs 21,999 with a Rs 2000 Instant Discount via the ICICI and SBI cards. The users can also avail a 3-month no-cost EMI.

The smartphone comes with MediaTek Dimensity 7200 5G SoC and features a 3D Curved AMOLED display. It bundles a 64MP AURA Light OIS camera. There’s a 4600 mAh battery with 8GB RAM and 66W Flash Charge.

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	iQOO Neo 7 Pro 5G (Dark Storm, 8Gb Ram, 128Gb Storage) \| Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 \| Independent Gaming…	Check Price on Amazon

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iQOO Z6 Lite 5G

It is an affordable entry-level smartphone, which is retailing for the price of Rs 11,999. The smartphone was launched at the price of Rs 19,999.

It comes with Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 SoC, 120Hz Full HD+ display, and offers up to 6GB RAM. It ships with a Travel Adapter.

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	iQOO Z6 Lite 5G (Stellar Green, 6GB RAM, 128GB Storage) with Charger \| Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1…	Check Price on Amazon

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iQOO Z7s Lite 5G

iQOO Z7s Lite with 8 GB RAM and 128GB storage is on sale for Rs 14,999. The smartphone bundles a Rs 1000 Instant Discount via Credit cards.

It is paired with a Snapdragon 695 SoC, 64MP OIS camera, and 44W Flash Charging.

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	iQOO Z7s 5G by vivo (Norway Blue, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage) \| Ultra Bright AMOLED Display \| Snapdragon…	Check Price on Amazon

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