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Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Indian & global launch imminent, spotted on regulatory websites

Vivo‘s latest foldable phone, the X Fold 3 Pro, is confirmed for international release after certifications surfaced on regulatory websites. The device initially debuted in China last month, and it has now emerged on Bluetooth SIG, TKDN, and BIS, with model number (V2330).

Bluetooth SIG confirms Bluetooth 5.4, while TKDN details network connectivity options for global compatibility. Notably, the standard X Fold 3 is absent, suggesting a premium market focus for Vivo.

Currently, there is no official word on a launch date, however, we can expect the device to debut globally in the coming months. In the meantime, you can explore what it has to offer below.

Vivo X Fold 3 Pro specs:

The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro comes with a 6.53-inch OLED display providing a resolution of 2,480 x 2,200 pixels. The inner display measures 8.03 inches with 2,748 x 1,172 pixels. Both displays feature LTPO technology with up to 120Hz refresh rate and a 4,500 nits peak brightness. It also has an ultra-sonic fingerprint scanner for security.

Vivo X Fold3 Pro

Under the hood, the device features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor paired with up to 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. It has a 5,700mAh battery with 100W wired fast charging and 50W wireless charging. For optics, the device comes with a 50MP OV50H OIS main camera paired with a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens and a 64MP OIS periscope lens with 3x optical zoom and 70mm focal length. On the front, it has a 32MP selfie camera, and the brand has also included its self-developed V3 imaging chip on the device.

The device also offers a stereo speaker setup and Wireless Lossless Hi-Fi audio support. For connectivity, it’s Wi-Fi 7 ready and has dual 5G SIM support, as well as NFC.

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Galaxy A35 gets its first update with “4G TDD” improvements

Launched last month, Samsung Galaxy A35 is the company’s latest mid-range offering. The company has now started rolling out the first update for the smartphone in Europe. 

The update targets the Galaxy A35s bearing the model number SM-A356B and focuses on improving the phone’s 4G connectivity.

The smartphone does have 5G connectivity support, but Samsung seems to be improving the 4G connectivity aspect with the update. It specifically addresses “Regional LTE TDD band support” according to the changelog. 

TDD is a technology used by cellular networks to transmit data. So with an update to the TDD band support, Samsung is likely improving the phone’s ability to connect to and use 4G networks. It should result in improved data speeds and a more stable connection for users.

Galaxy A35 Software Update

Interestingly, the changelog has a specific disclaimer for users in Germany. Apparently, even after the update, Galaxy A35 5G models purchased in Germany will not be able to receive signals on LTE TDD bands in several European countries. 

These countries include Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. 

Here’s what the changelog read:

“Please note that models purchased in Germany cannot receive signals in LTE TDD bands in the following countries: Belgium, Denmark, Germany, France, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Switzerland, Czech Republic.”

The reason behind this limitation remains unclear though. 

Nonetheless, Europen users of Galaxy A35 should receive the update automatically within the next few days. Alternatively, you can manually check for the update by navigating to Settings > Software update > Download and install.

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WhatsApp Exit: Can India and WhatsApp Find a Middle Ground?

WhatsApp ban in India

WhatsApp threatens to shut down its services in India if it is forced to compromise its end-to-end encryption. The messaging giant and Meta (parent company of WhatsApp) filed a plea at the Delhi High Court challenging India’s 2021 IT rules for social media intermediaries. Their primary concern is the requirement to identify the initial source of information and share it with the government.

Although WhatsApp and Indian courts have had multiple conflicts in the past, the messaging giant has taken a tough stance this time. Tejas Karia, representing WhatsApp, said, “As a platform, we are saying, if we are told to break encryption, then WhatsApp goes,”.

What’s the primary reason behind this big clash between WhatsApp and the Indian government? And why is WhatsApp threatening to leave its biggest market with more than 400 million users? Let’s dive into the details.

WhatsApp’s Problem With India’s IT Rules 2021

Fake news and harmful content have been a problem with social media platforms. They can cause distress among the public and are seen as a threat to public and national security. The IT rules were established to restrict such content.

The IT Rules 2021 orders social media platforms to appoint key compliance offers and publish monthly compliance reports. The IT rules also demand that these platforms identify the first originator of messages. This is where WhatsApp disagrees.

Media files and messages sent over WhatsApp are end-to-end encrypted. This means only the sender and receiver can see them, not even WhatsApp. This end-to-end encryption would be compromised if they had to trace the first originator, and WhatsApp doesn’t want it.

Access to this data would make it easy for authorities to address harmful content and take strict against the first originator, but it also sparks debate over users’ privacy.

The messaging platform argues that breaking the encryption would violate the users’ fundamental rights to privacy.

There is no such role anywhere else in the world. Not even in Brazil. We will have to keep a complete chain and we don’t know which messages will be asked to be decrypted. It means millions and millions of messages will have to stored for a number of years,”, Karia said.

Kirtiman Singh, appearing for the central government, defended the regulations, weighing on the need to trace message originators.

Delhi High Court has set a hearing date of August 14 for the petitions filed by WhatsApp and Meta.

Only time will tell if WhatsApp will survive in India. However, India strongly needs its own data privacy law to safeguard user data and the company’s privacy practices.

Vivo’s first satellite connectivity smartphone gets necessary approval

Vivo may soon launch its most specced-out smartphone for 2024, the Vivo X100 Ultra. Though the brand hasn’t spilled the beans officially, the device earlier this week popped up on 3C certification which is now followed by Radio Certification in China.

The X100 Ultra was spotted with model number V2366GA in a 3C certification site. It’s a must-have certification for smartphones on the mainland that verifies its compliance with national safety and quality standards.

There’s also a rumor of a second variant of X100 Ultra with satellite connectivity support. Adding weight to these rumors, the satellite version of the device has now passed Radio Certification with a V2366HA model number. 

The phone will use the Tiantong satellite for communication and with this, the Vivo X100 Ultra will be the company’s first smartphone to support satellite connectivity.

Moreover, the 3C certification reveals the X100 Ultra will support 80W wired charging. It’s surprisingly lower than the X100 and X100 Pro, but Digital Chat Station in a recent Weibo post hints at a “big kind” of battery. It could be possibly around 5,500 mAh, as hinted by previous rumors. 

As Vivo’s ultimate camera offering for 2024, the X100 Ultra is expected to feature Sony’s latest Sony Lytia LYT-900 main sensor and an impressive 100mm (4.3x) 200MP periscope telephoto lens. 

It will be powered by the flagship SoC of 2024, though whether it is from MediaTek or Snapdragon is still a debate. This will be complemented by ample RAM and storage. Additionally, rumors suggest it might utilize Vivo’s recently unveiled BlueImage branding for its camera technology.

Vivo X100 Ultra is expected to launch alongside X100s and X100s Pro in China sometime in May. There are also rumors that the device may be called Vivo X100s Ultra instead of X100 Ultra. 

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Alleged Sony Xperia Ace IV render emerges online with single-camera design

Sony‘s Xperia lineup of smartphones mainly includes the Xperia 1, Xperia 5, and Xperia 10 series smartphones. However, the brand offers another entry-level model called the Xperia Ace. The latest iteration, the Sony Xperia Ace 3, was released in 2022. While there were reports about the Xperia Ace IV in December 2022, there hasn’t been much further information or excitement surrounding it since then.

Sony Xperia Ace IV

Now, an alleged render of the Xperia ACE IV has emerged online. The render comes from a user over at X (formerly Twitter) going by @mirai160525. The phone in the render has a single camera setup like the Xperia Ace 3, and also features a boxy design. That being said, the design of the phone suggests that it will have a 21:9 aspect ratio display, which is quite odd since the rest of the Xperia line is rumored to drop this aspect ratio in favor of mainstream ones like 19.5:1. With that in mind, there is a high chance that this render is fake.

A Geekbench listing from December 2022 alleged that the Xperia Ace IV with model number Sony SM4375 would feature a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 SoC, which is an entry-level 5G chip. No further details of the device are available as of yet. You can check out the specs of its predecessor, the Ace 3, to get an idea of what to expect.

Sony Xperia Ace 3 specs:

The Xperia Ace 3 comes with a HD+ resolution (720 x 1496 pixels), and Gorilla Glass Victus protection. It boasts a 5-megapixel front camera and a 13-megapixel rear camera with an LED flash. It is powered by the Snapdragon 480 5G platform and packs 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage, expandable via microSD. It debuted with Android 12. The phone has a 4,500mAh battery supporting USB-PD and rapid charging. It includes a side-facing fingerprint scanner for security. Connectivity options feature 5G, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, NFC, and USB-C. It’s IP6X dustproof and IPX5/IPX8 water-resistant.

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Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series chip: Here’s everything you need to know

Qualcomm unveiled its next-gen Windows on ARM platform, the Snapdragon X series CPU with bold claims on performance and efficiency. Essentially, Qualcomm aims to replicate the success of Apple’s M-series chip by providing a strong alternative for Windows on ARM laptops.

The Snapdragon X family includes two tiers: the high-performance Snapdragon X Elite and the more affordable Snapdragon X Plus. In this article, we’ll break down the details of these SoCs to make it easier for you to grasp.

1. Snapdragon X Elite

The X Elite is a multi-faceted chip, consisting of a central processing unit (CPU), an integrated graphics processing unit (GPU), and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) all working in concert. The integrated design offers several advantages, including streamlined performance and improved power management.

The platform comes in three variants: the X1E-84-100, X1E-80-100, and X1E-78-100. The flagship X1E-84-100 is the top-of-the-line model with a 12-core Qualcomm Oryon CPU built on a 4nm process, capable of reaching speeds of up to 3.8GHz, with a single and dual-core boost mode pushing it further to 4.2GHz.

The Qualcomm Adreno GPU handles graphics processing. It delivers up to 4.6 TFLOPS of performance and supports DirectX12, making it well-suited for running modern Windows games. This GPU performance rivals the Xbox Series S (4 TFLOPS) but falls short of the current-gen Series X (over 12 TFLOPS).

The standout feature for AI enthusiasts is the Qualcomm Hexagon NPU which has an impressive impressive 45 TOPS for on-device AI acceleration. It dwarfs the current offerings from Intel and AMD, placing the X Elite at the forefront of AI processing for laptops. When combined with other components, the total theoretical AI performance reaches a staggering 75 TOPS.

Here’s a table summarizing the key specifications of the flagship X Elite (X1E-84-100):

FeatureSpecification
CPUQualcomm Oryon CPU, 64-bit architecture, 12 cores up to 3.8 GHz
GPUQualcomm Adreno GPU up to 4.6 TFLOPS, supports DX12
NPUQualcomm Hexagon NPU, 45 TOPs
MemoryLPDDR5x, 8533 MT/s transfer rate, up to 64GB
StorageSD v3.0, NVME over PCIe Gen 4, UFS 4.0
Process4nm
DisplayQualcomm Adreno DPU, up to UHD 120Hz with HDR10
ConnectivitySnapdragon X65 5G Modem up to 10 Gbps, up to Wi-Fi 7, with Bluetooth LE 5.4

The X1E-80-100 and X1E-78-100 variants retain the 12 cores, 42MB cache, and 45 TOPS NPU, but with slightly lower clock speeds (3.4GHz) and reduced GPU capabilities (3.8 TFLOPS). However, they still offer exceptional performance and cater to users who may not require the absolute top-end power of the X1E-84-100.

Beyond raw processing power, the X Elite platform boasts several other strengths:

  • Extensive Connectivity: The Snapdragon X65 5G modem delivers blazing-fast internet speeds with peak downloads of 10Gbps, perfect for seamless cloud gaming and content downloads. Additionally, Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE 5.4 connectivity ensure smooth wireless interactions.
  • Multi-Display Support: Users can connect up to three displays simultaneously at 4K resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate, ideal for multitasking and creating expansive workspaces.
  • Advanced Security: Qualcomm emphasizes “enterprise-grade” security within the X Elite platform, crucial for protecting sensitive data.
  • Next-Gen Multimedia: AV1 encoding and decoding enable stunning 4K HDR video experiences. Additionally, Snapdragon Sound Tech Suite ensures lossless audio quality for an immersive entertainment experience.
  • On-Device Generative AI: The X Elite boasts 30 tokens per second for on-device generative AI, which could revolutionize creative workflows in the future.

These features, combined with the raw processing power, position the Snapdragon X Elite as a formidable contender in the laptop SoC market.

2. The Snapdragon X Plus

The Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64-100) caters to a more budget-conscious market. While sharing many similarities with the X Elite, it features a 10-core Oryon CPU with a maximum clock speed of 3.4GHz.

It retains the powerful Adreno GPU with 3.8 TFLOPS and the impressive 45 TOPS NPU. The key difference lies in the number of CPU cores, with the X Plus offering two fewer cores compared to the X Elite’s base variant.

The reduction in cores translates to a slight decrease in multi-threaded performance. However, Qualcomm claims the X Plus still delivers 10% faster multi-threaded performance than the Apple M3 and 37% faster performance than the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, all while consuming significantly less power.

The X Plus offers similar features as the X Elite, including LPDDR5x RAM support, NVMe storage over PCIe Gen 4, UFS 4.0 storage, 5G and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, USB4 connectivity, and AV1 encoding and decoding for 4K HDR video. It also supports dual cameras of up to 36 megapixels, a single camera of up to 64 megapixels, and 4K HDR video capture.

Here’s a closer look at the Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64-100) specifications:

FeatureSpecification
CPUQualcomm Oryon CPU, 10 cores (up to 3.4 GHz)
GPUQualcomm Adreno GPU (up to 3.8 TFLOPS, DirectX 12 support)
NPUQualcomm Hexagon NPU (45 TOPS)
MemoryLPDDR5x RAM (up to 64GB)
StorageSD v3.0, NVMe over PCIe Gen 4, UFS 4.0
DisplayUp to UHD 120Hz with HDR10
ConnectivitySnapdragon X65 5G Modem (up to 10 Gbps), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth LE 5.4

3. The Future of Windows on Arm

The debut of the Snapdragon X platform is a significant development for Windows on Arm laptops. With offerings such as the X Elite and the budget-friendly X Plus, Qualcomm is offering compelling options for manufacturers and consumers alike.

Whether it can emulate Apple’s triumph with the M-series chips remains uncertain. Nonetheless, the X Series has the features and performance to make it a strong contender to the likes of Apple, Intel and AMD.

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OnePlus Nord 3 update: Partial Screenshots, new Flashlight Shortcut, App Volume Control & more

The OnePlus Nord 3 has just received a new OxygenOS 14.0.0.510 update This update, rolling out across India, Europe, and globally, introduces several features designed to improve the user experience.

Other than integrating the April 2024 security patch, this update is all about adding features that make the user experience more smooth and convenient. The first feature added is the new “Partial screenshot” option in the Smart Sidebar, allowing users to capture specific areas of their screen. Additionally, the Photos app now supports creating collages without frames, offering more flexibility in image editing.

OnePlus has also added support for adjusting the volume for individual apps right from the volume bar. The update also enables a shortcut to activate the flashlight by holding the volume down button when the screen is off.

A fuzzy search option has been added to the Home screen search bar in Drawer mode, which allows users to start searches by typing just the first letter of an app’s name.

Initially, the update is being rolled out to a limited number of devices, with a broader release expected soon. If you haven’t received the OTA update notification on your device, you can manually check for it by going to Settings, then About Device, then OxygenOS, and finally tapping on Check for Update.

For users in India experiencing issues after the update, bug reports can be submitted through the Google Dialer by dialing *#800#.

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Google Might Become Your New Spoken English Teacher, The Experimental Feature is Called “Speaking Practice”

If you are struggling to practice spoken English without face-to-face interactions, Google Search Labs might have the solution for you. As per the source tweet, their new experimental feature, Speaking Practice, utilizes generative AI to help you improve your English speaking skills through conversation practice.

Users will first have to enable Search Labs within their Google Search app settings

To access Speaking Practice, users will first need to enable Search Labs within their Google Search app settings. Once enabled, you can find Speaking Practice by clicking “Try an example” within the feature itself. Alternatively, you can access it on your Android device by translating to or from English using Google Search.

Currently, Speaking Practice is being tested in Argentina, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and Venezuela. Stay tuned for a possible expansion to your region! Google mentioned thatIt’s important to remember that generative AI is still under development, so the quality and availability of Speaking Practice may vary.

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Google’s Pixel Tablet will Reportedly be Sold Separately – Without the Base, Starting at 446 Euros ($477)

Google’s Pixel tablet will get lighter on your wallet very soon. Reportedly, the company will offer a baseless version of the tablet, starting at 446 euros (around $477 USD) on the European retail website, which is 34% cheaper than the base version with a stand.

Google is also adding a Bluetooth keyboard and stylus for the Pixel tablet

The sources further state that the baseless tablet will come in two colors, Hazel and Porcelain, and offers storage options of 128GB and 256GB. Prices are 446 euros and 553 euros respectively (around $477 USD and $592 USD).

Pixel Tablet

If you prefer the convenience of a stand, the Pixel Tablet with base will still be available, but at a higher price point of 679 euros and 779 euros (around $727 USD and $834 USD).

Looking to add functionality? Google is also releasing a Bluetooth keyboard and stylus for the Pixel Tablet. The keyboard comes in two colors to match the tablets and is expected to cost around 100 euros (around $107 USD). The stylus price remains unknown, but was previously rumored to be around 100 euros as well. Is this something you might be interested in, to expand your Pixel ecosystem.

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Zeekr Mix EV based on the new Zeekr SEA-M architecture unveiled at Beijing Auto Show

Geely Holding Group sub-brand Zeekr has unveiled its new SEA-M architecture and its first model based on this expansive structural design. The SEA-M architecture delivers what Zeekr says is the ultimate space and this is reflected in the Zeekr Mix which graced the stands of the Beijing Auto Show.

Zeekr Mix

Features

Zeekr is the premium electric vehicle arm of Geely and the Mix is its latest flagship offering. The SEA-M architecture is an improvement of the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) that supports a wide range of products. The new SEA-M mobility solution, as with its original design, supports a wide range of EVs including robotaxis, multi-purpose vehicles, and vehicles for logistics operations.

The Zeekr Mix with SEA-M architecture comes with enhanced vehicle safety, swift handling, and the ultimate cabin space. The architecture, according to the company, supports the creation of an intelligent interior space with variable seat placement choices.

The Mix has a flat floor, high wheelbase-to-length ratio, and a capsule-styled exterior. The SEA-M imposes a turning radius of less than five meters for greater handling. Variable steering ratios are supported by the architecture and it has the potential to decouple the steering wheel for advanced intelligent driving in future models.

Zeekr Mix

The Zeekr Mix has 6.3 square meters of interior space, which Zeekr says, is the largest in its class. The Mix is 4.7 meters long and has a wheelbase of 3 meters as well as a ground clearance of 39cm. It is being showcased as the first production EV with electrically rotatable front seats that support 270 degrees of rotation.

Pricing & Availability

Although Zeekr has not released the launch date of the Mix, the announcement could be made soon, as well as the price of the model.

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Multiple certifications suggest the POCO M6 will come in a 4G variant soon

Xiaomi is reportedly set to release the POCO M6 4G to the global audience. This comes on the heels of the release of the POCO M6 5G. There have been several confirmations by regulatory bodies that Xiaomi plans to release the new POCO lineup. The regulatory bodies include the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) in Thailand. Other current models in the lineup include the Xiaomi POCO M6 Pro 4G and POCO M6 Pro 5G.

The Xiaomi POCO M6 4G is listed with another moniker on the FCC website. However, the NBTC has published a listing for the model, as well as specifying its name as POCO M6. As per the details from the Thai regulator, the Xiaomi POCO M6 will support 4G LTE connectivity. The inference is therefore that Xiaomi will sell the device as POCO M6 4G, given that the 5G version has been previously released.

The Xiaomi POCO M6 4G is referenced as 2404APC5FG on the FCC website. The G in the name confirms that Xiaomi will sell the device globally. The smartphone will run on the HyperOS operating system and come with a 4930mAh battery, according to the FCC documentation. It also supports 33W wired charging but the device will expectedly come with a battery slightly higher than 4,930mAh.

POCO M6 4G

It is noted that the direct predecessor of the Xiaomi POCO M6 4G was launched almost two years ago. It is therefore unclear whether Xiaomi plans to release the model immediately. More optics on the upcoming Xiaomi POCO M6 4G are expected subsequently from Xiaomi ahead of the launch of the product.

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Google Pixel 8a Leaked Official Promo Video Reveals Its AI Features

The Google Pixel 8a has been subject to a host of leaks and rumours leaving nothing to the imagination. Those still don’t seem to stop as the AI capabilities of the smartphone have now surfaced in a leaked official promo video. It has been shared by reliable tipster Steve Hemmerstoffer (aka Onleaks). The upcoming offering is widely expected to debut at the annual I/O Developer Conference on May 14 this year.  

Google Pixel 8a leaked promo video reveals AI capabilities

The leaked official promo video shows all the features that will be present on the Google Pixel 8a. Firstly, it will come with a ‘Best Take’ feature that will improve group photos. After clicking multiple pictures, it will let users to choose their best face and eliminate any awkward expressions. 

The Pixel 8a will ship with the Circle to Search feature that doesn’t need any introduction. It was announced earlier in January this year for the Galaxy S24 series and later arrived on the Pixel 8 and 7 series. The feature lets users search for elements/ items by simply circling on it. 

As per the promo video, the Pixel 8a will have ‘Live Translate’ which will translate voice calls and more in real time. The smartphone will get another camera-related feature called ‘Audio Magic Eraser’. It will remove any unnecessary background noises from videos. The leak also confirms Black and Blue color variants of the device. 

A recent leak revealed that the Pixel 8a will be priced 18 percent higher than its predecessor starting at CA$ 708.99 for the base 128GB variant while the higher-tier 256GB will cost CA$ 792.99.

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Huawei brings breakthrough in China’s automotive sector with Smart Car Technology

Huawei, known for its telecommunications prowess, has swiftly established itself as a major player in China’s growing smart car technology sector. Despite facing challenges in its smartphone business due to trade sanctions, Huawei has strategically shifted gears to become a key automotive supplier, unveiling its advanced driver assistance system, “Qiankun”, at the prestigious Beijing Auto Show.

The showcase of Qiankun comes after just four years of intensive development, marking a significant milestone for Huawei in the automotive industry. Seven Chinese automakers have already integrated Qiankun into their vehicles, solidifying its position as the premier advanced driver assistance system in China.

One of the most significant developments in Huawei’s automotive journey is its groundbreaking deal with Volkswagen. The China-made Audi Q6L e-tron, set for launch in 2025, will feature Huawei’s Qiankun system, marking Huawei’s first collaboration with a foreign automaker. This move underscores Huawei’s ambition to expand its footprint beyond domestic borders and compete on a global scale.

Huawei and BAIC partnership brand Stelato at Beijing Auto Show

Despite geopolitical tensions, foreign automakers are increasingly viewing Huawei as a potential ally in China’s fiercely competitive market. Huawei’s advanced ADAS technologies, coupled with its capability to produce its own chips, present an attractive proposition for enhancing competitiveness in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape.

However, Huawei’s ascent is not without its challenges. The company faced a supply crunch in 2024, delaying deliveries of flagship models. Moreover, trade restrictions, particularly from the U.S., pose risks to Huawei’s global expansion plans, raising concerns about the future of “connected” car technology.

Nevertheless, Huawei’s emergence has reshaped industry dynamics, with legacy automakers seeking tech partnerships to stay ahead in the race. Chinese state-owned giants such as Changan, Dongfeng, and BAIC have embraced Huawei’s ADAS technology to remain competitive in the fast-evolving market.

At the recent auto show, Huawei showcased a suite of cutting-edge technologies, including vehicle control units, LIDAR, telematics sensors, optical sensors, and an innovative audio system integrated into headrests for personalized music experiences.

As Huawei solidifies its position in China’s car market and expands its reach to foreign brands, the company’s journey in smart car technology promises to usher in a new era of innovation and collaboration.

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Leaked teaser confirms the DJI Mini 4K drone’s imminent launch as a cheaper Mini 4 Pro

Global drone leader DJI has revealed the upcoming DJI Mini 4K. The new offering will come with a lower price tag than its predecessor, the DJI Mini 4 Pro. The model is the second DJI consumer drone released this year after the Avata 2.

DJI Mini 4K

Expected Features

DJI had seemingly stalled on the consumer drone segment for about two years but the drone maker has come to life with two offerings in the FPV segment within the first half of the year. The Mini 4K does not require the use of a headset to operate it. Some images of the upcoming drone have been published by various sources in the last couple of days. Images of the upcoming drone have been published but there are still several missing links.

Some alleged and unverified images of the rumored DJI Mini 4K were published by @Quadro_News, the images were alleged to have emanated from the company’s Amazon storefront. The images do not confirm any device specifications for the drone although a few details are available. The upcoming drone has a lower degree of advanced stabilization system when compared with the Mini 4 Pro.

DJI Mini 4K

The expected lower price tag of the DJI Mini 4K means that it will omit some of the hardware used for omnidirectional obstacle sensing. There are indications that the new drone will be launched soon, as stated by an official DJI release. There are unconfirmed rumors that DJI plans to launch the Mini 4K on April 29 at 13:00 UTC. As with previous DJI releases, it is expected that pre-orders for the DJI Mini 4K will also go live on the rumored date. More release optics of the DJI Mini 4K are expected from the company soon.

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Boult’s Latest Soundbars, the BassBox X120 and X180 are Now Available on Flipkart

Boult, a hot tech brand in India, announced their BassBox soundbars recently. Designed to transform your home entertainment, these come in two versions: X120 for smaller rooms (120 RMS, 2 drivers) and X180 for larger spaces (180 RMS, 4 drivers). Both pack a wired subwoofer for deep bass and feature three EQ modes (Movie, Music, News) for customizable sound. Now, the soundbars are available for purchase on Flipkart.

The BassBox has DSP technology for superior quality audio

Easy to use with controls on the soundbar or remote, the BassBox also boasts Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology for refined audio. It boasts a powerful 2.1 channel setup with versatile connectivity options (Bluetooth 5.3, AUX, USB, Optical, HDMI) to connect to smart TVs, computers, phones, projectors, and more.

Boult Soundbar

Looking to level up your home audio? The Boult BassBox X120 starts at INR 4,999 ($62 USD), while the X180 goes for INR 5,999 ($74 USD). Click here to buy the BassBox X120, and here to buy the BassBox X180 on Flipkart.

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Panasonic’s New LUMIX S 28-200mm MACRO OIS Lens is Now Available for Purchase at a Discount, Starting at 4,998 Yuan ($690)

Panasonic’s new LUMIX S 28-200mm F4-7.1 MACRO OIS lens is official, and it claims the world’s smallest and lightest title in its high-magnification zoom lens category. The lens is available for purchase now at 6,298 yuan ($958 USD), but for a limited time during the first two days you can grab it for a special price of 4,998 yuan ($759 USD).

The lens also has macro capabilities for close up shots with 0.5x magnification

Here’s a closer look: the LUMIX S 28-200mm F4-7.1 MACRO OIS lens is ultra-compact, measuring φ77.3 x 93.4 mm and weighing only 413 grams. Despite its size, it offers an impressive zoom range covering wide-angle to telephoto (28mm-200mm). Macro capabilities allow for close-up shots with 0.5x magnification and a minimum focus distance of 14cm.

Optically, the lens is equipped with 17 elements in 13 groups, including specialized elements to ensure clarity and minimize distortion. A 9-blade aperture provides smooth control over bokeh for attractive background blur.

Image stabilization is a major perk. The lens features built-in OIS and is compatible with Panasonic’s 5-axis dual IS 2 system, ensuring sharp results even when shooting handheld.

The LUMIX S 28-200mm F4-7.1 MACRO OIS lens is built to withstand the elements with its dust-proof, splash-proof, and freeze-proof design, making it a great travel companion for photographers who prefer a single-lens solution for various shooting scenarios.

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Xiaomi EOS List: Redmi Note 10 Pro, Mi 11 Lite and MIX Fold won’t receive updates anymore

Xiaomi updated its EOS (End of Support) product list in April 2024, with newly added devices including the Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO X3 Pro, Mi 11 Lite, and MIX Fold models. Xiaomi periodically updates its EOS list to indicate when support for specific devices will not get the system and security updates anymore.

These devices won’t receive updates anymore

We can easily say that Xiaomi implements its update policy differently for each series of devices, and the end of support for a device typically comes as a surprise. Devices listed in the EOS will not only receive new HyperOS updates but also will not receive security patches. If you own one of these devices, you may consider purchasing a more up-to-date model if you have security concerns.

As of April 2024, POCO X3 Pro, Mi 11 Lite, MIX Fold, and Redmi Note 10 Pro will no longer receive updates. Xiaomi had already introduced two different models, Mi 11 Lite (courbet) and Mi 11 Lite 5G (renoir). The 4G variant (courbet) is the one being the model that is out of software support.

The latest system update for the Redmi Note 10 Pro is MIUI 14, which is Android 13-based. Additionally, the situation is no different for the POCO X3 Pro and Mi 11 Lite; these devices have not received HyperOS updates and will no longer receive new system updates. MIX Fold is stuck on Android 13 based HyperOS though. We will be updating the EOS list periodically and share with you if Xiaomi stops supporting just another device.

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MSI Launches the MP275Q 27-inch 2K Monitor with a 100Hz Refresh Rate, Priced at 799 Yuan ($110)

MSI‘s PRO series welcomes a new member: the MP275Q, a 27-inch commercial monitor. This budget-friendly option boasts a 2K resolution (2560 x 1440) IPS panel with a 100Hz refresh rate, offering smooth visuals for daily tasks.

For 799 Yuan, the monitor offers a solid set of features, like 100% sRGB color gamut

The panel boasts a 4ms GtG grayscale response time, 10-bit color depth (achieved through 8-bit native + FRC technology), and 100% sRGB color gamut coverage. The 1300:1 static contrast ratio and 300 nits brightness provide a decent viewing experience.

MSI PRO MP275Q monitor

For added convenience, MSI includes PC-side Display Kit software that allows for easy adjustment of settings and offers multiple factory-preset display modes. Connectivity options include 2 HDMI interfaces and 1 DP interface. The MSI PRO MP275Q is a solid choice for everyday productivity tasks and comes in at an attractive price of 799 yuan ($110 USD).

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(VIA)

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Rumoured To Have Blood Sugar Monitoring

Leaks and rumours have been picking up pace about the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 series. The lineup is expected to comprise of three models compared to two models indicating a shift in strategy. Now, a new report out of South Korea reveals a vital health tracking feature that could make its way into the upcoming wearables. The company’s SVP Hon Pak met with the Samsung Health advisory board members with the key discussion around blood sugar monitoring and the integration of AI into wearables. 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 rumored to get blood sugar monitor

As per the discussion, it is expected that Samsung may incorporate blood sugar (also called blood glucose) monitor in the upcoming Galaxy Watch 7 series. Many wearables including Apple are also reportedly working on the health tracking feature on their devices. This is because blood sugar monitors could help people with diabetes as well as those who are non-diabetic and want to pursue a healthy lifestyle. 

Earlier in January this year, Hon Pak had hinted at the blood sugar monitoring on future wearable devices. This is because they are capable of measuring the parameter continuously. Additionally, they are also non-invasive which eliminates the need for skin piercing and extracting blood making it easier for patients. Therefore, blood sugar monitoring is expected to be a significant advancement on future wearable devices. 

The Samsung press release does not mention the Galaxy Watch 7. But it increasingly seems likely that a blood sugar monitor will be present in the upcoming offering. It also remains to be seen if the South Korean brand will incorporate it on all models. The company may choose to classify the smartwatch as an electronic device instead of a medical device due to regulatory reasons.

Samsung’s next Unpacked event is expected to be held on July 10.

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Nothing Phone (1) Users Get ChatGPT Integration, RAM Booster, And More With The Latest Update

The Nothing Phone (1) was announced way back in 2022. The company has started rolling out the Nothing OS 2.5.5 for the device. It brings various new features and also improvements and bug fixes. If you’re unaware, the London-based brand also started seeding the same update to the Phone (2) and Phone 2 (a) earlier this month. 

Nothing Phone (1) gets ChatGPT integration and more with the latest update

The Nothing Phone (1) is now receiving a Nothing OS 2.5.5 update that includes the May 2024 Android security patch. It is rolled out in a phased manner meaning it should take some time to hit all units. Users can download it manually by heading to Settings > System > System Update and it download and install if it’s available. 

The headline feature of the Nothing OS 2.5.5 is the ChatGPT integration. The ChatGPT widget on the home screen allows easier and faster access to the AI chatbot. There is a new gesture option in the Nothing X app that lets the recently launched Ear (a) and Ear users to start a conversation with ChatGPT. This feature will be available on more audio products, the company confirmed. The latest update also introduces a button on the screenshot and clipboard pop-up to directly paste content in ChatGPT. 

The Phone (1) also gets a RAM Booster that can be enabled in Settings > System > RAM booster. This will ensure that the phone runs smoothly. Users also get the option to apply the Nothing Pack icon only to the home screen. There’s an option to scroll through pages on the home screen and hold app icons while reorganizing. The icons within the status bar can now be customized. 

The Nothing OS 2.5.5 for Phone (1) integrates an AI-powered algorithm for smarter lighting adjustments for auto-brightness. Quick Settings tiles are reordered for improved accessibility and widgets also get new animations. The update also fixes disconnecting WiFi issue, earbud volume not syncing with phone volume, vibration feedback, and a screenshot problem. 

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