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Vivo T3 5G design revealed, Flipkart page goes live

Vivo is all set to unveil the Vivo T3 5G smartphone in India. The reason behind it is that its landing page is now available on Flipkart. Currently, the page has no information about the specifications of the device. However, the listing does carry the below image, which reveals the rear design of the Vivo T3 5G for the first time.

Vivo T3 5G design

Vivo T3 5G
Vivo T3 5G

The Vivo T3 5G’s image shows that it features a triple camera unit with an LED flash on the back. It is unclear whether the third camera ring is a camera sensor or a flicker sensor. The image also reveals that the device has flat edges, with the right side featuring a volume controller and a power key.

At present, the company hasn’t revealed the launch date of the device. However, it appears that it may debut before the end of this month.

Vivo T3 5G specifications (rumored)

According to recent reports, the Vivo T3 5G will have a 6.67-inch AMOLED display that offers a Full HD+ resolution and supports a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen is said to offer up to 1800 nits of brightness and features an in-screen fingerprint scanner. Under the hood, the device will feature the Dimensity 7200 chipset.

The T3 is expected to arrive with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB / 256 GB of storage. The device will house a 5,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging. For audiophiles, it is said to be equipped with dual speakers.

On the front, the Vivo T3 may feature a 16-megapixel selfie camera. The back panel of the device is said to feature a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 primary camera with OIS support and a 2-megapixel bokeh lens. When it comes to pricing, it is said to be priced at around Rs 20,000. It will come in two shades, such as Crystal Flake and Cosmic Blue.

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Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 Review: Bigger, Stronger, but Costlier

It’s been a long time since we reviewed a Xiaomi Pad, last time when we reviewed the Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro, it didn’t really surprise us much. After 10 months, we’re back to see how Xiaomi’s tablet has improved. This Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 is also the first HyperOS tablet we got. I’m using a Xiaomi 14 right now, and it is HyperOS as well. So in a little while I’ll also test whether the Xiaomi Interconnectivity is any good or not.

Design

The 6S Pro keeps up the design with the Xiaomi 14 series: a flat frame, equal-width bezels, and a camera module with four circles inside a rectangle. It’s not that I have any complaints about the design, it’s just that the 50 MP AI Camera is placed in a way that makes it look cheap to me. Speaking of the camera, the main camera is 50 MP, and there’s a 2 MP depth of field camera.

The front camera is 32MP. The image quality is like this. With a top spec of 1080p 30fps, it’s certainly good enough for online meetings. After all, you can’t expect an Android tablet to have a great front camera, right?

Other specs are no different from the 6 Pro. USB 3.2 Gen 1, supports video output. Fingerprint and power 2-in-1 button, metal unibody. Does not support TF card expansion. The three contacts at the back are used to connect the keyboard. But the difference is that the 6S Pro also can connect a big accessory: the Xiaomi SU7, which is also known as Xiaomi’s first electric car. In the future, you can put it in your car and use it as a part of the Center console.

Display

As you can tell from its name, 12.4 stands for the screen size. I’ll write the specs here.

Aside from the bigger size, it’s also changed from a 16:9 ratio to a 3:2 ratio, which Xiaomi says is a more office-friendly size because you can see more content when editing Excel, PowerPoint, or viewing web pages. I don’t know how many people would use a tablet for office work though, but that’s what Xiaomi did. I do prefer the 16:9 ratio, as 3:2 will always leave black areas up and down when watching most online videos. Especially when watching movies, it can be very distracting.

Stylus

Although this stylus is not an exclusive accessory for the 6S Pro, I still want to brag a little about it. This stylus has a lot of features and a good number of them work better than the Apple Pencil. For example, when it comes to writing, in addition to converting both the Chinese and English you write into text, you can also insert text like this.

And you can also change lines like this. It even works as a Laser pointer, easily pointing out places on the tablet that you want someone to focus on. It also has low latency, I used the Apple Pencil and iPad Mini 6 to compare it to, and even I think the Xiaomi would have lower latency.

Benchmark, Gaming, Charging & Battery

The 6S Pro has an upgraded processor from 8+ Gen 1 to Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Even though the peak performance is not as good as the newest 8 Gen 3 phones, the extra large thermal area allows it to play games for long periods of time without downclocking. I played Genshin for 40 minutes without any problems at all. (Data collected from Perfdog)

So why is the framerate locked at 55 after 20 minutes? It’s not because of a lack of performance, it’s because I have turned on Picture priority mode. The maximum frame rate in this mode is locked at 55. However, the image quality gets much better when it’s turned on, which is a huge improvement to the gaming experience, especially for a tablet with a big screen.

120W of charging power coupled with a 10,000mAh battery makes it the king of battery life and charging as a tablet. About its hardware, I have nothing to complain about.

New feature

The 6S Pro software has been upgraded as well. It’s the previous PC mode that was missing for a while, now it’s back but with a different name. This new Workstation mode allows all apps to stay on the desktop as floating windows. Of course, you can change their size and position as you like, just like a PC.

There is one more fun feature, they finally updated the AI art feature. Yes, it’s a feature that has been very popular recently that can generate various images with AI. For example, if I draw a flower, it can help me generate a more beautiful flower.

At present, this function is still relatively basic, it can only generate 4 images at one time. And for complex images, such as a photo of our host, Will. The generated image is quite different from the original one. If you want to be an artist, 6S Pro can’t realize this dream for you at the moment.

HyperOS for tablet

It’s time to talk about how it works with your phone. If you have a Xiaomi phone updated with HyperOS like I do, you’ll be able to do the following things: connect to your phone’s hotspot with a click when there’s no WiFi, no matter if the hotspot is on or not.

You can transfer pictures and files by touching the NFC area. You can also use this to cast your phone to the tablet. The phone can be controlled on the tablet, and transferring photos can be done by dragging the pictures over. Want to switch playback devices? Also just drag it over and the audio output device can be changed.

If you open an app on your phone, that app will also pop up in the Dock on the tablet. Click on it and the app will jump from the phone to the tablet. But this feature is currently available on very few apps, and most of the other apps don’t work.

All in all, Xiaomi Interconnectivity is all about combining your phone and tablet into one. If you own the 6S Pro, it’s a complete replacement for your phone at home, since your phone is also in this tablet.

Conclusion

The Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 is a good tablet. If you need an 8 Gen 2 tablet with a big screen, this might just be your only option besides the expensive Samsung Galaxy Tab. With a really great stylus and HyperOS multi-device connectivity, I recommend it to everyone who owns a Xiaomi phone. But do think about whether you need a tablet that big or not, after all, a great tablet is a piece of wasted goods if you don’t use it.

OnePlus Ace 3V spotted on Geekbench before launch

OnePlus is expected to announce the OnePlus Ace 3V later this month in China. Multiple reports have claimed that it will debut as the first smartphone powered by the upcoming Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset. A Geekbench listing of the Ace 3V has emerged to not only showcase its key specifications but also the details of the new chip.

OnePlus Ace 3V Geekbench listing

Reports have revealed that the upcoming Ace 3V has the PJF110 model number. The said device was recently spotted at certification platforms, such as 3C and UCFS, in China. Now, the same device has appeared on Geekbench with 16 GB of RAM and Android 14. As far as the chipset is concerned, the listing reveals it includes one prime CPU core working at 2.80GHz, four CPU cores clocking at 2.61GHz, and three CPU cores running at 1.90GHz.

The source code of the listing reveals that the CPU features Adreno 732 graphics. In the single-core and multi-core tests, the device scored 1653 and 4596 points, respectively. The Geekbench listing is a good hint that the company could be internally testing the phone’s performance before its official announcement.

OnePlus Ace 3V specifications (rumored)

According to reports, the OnePlus Ace 3V will have an OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will have a 16-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support on the back. The device will boot to ColorOS 14-based Android 14.

The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3-powered device may offer 512 GB of storage and a 5,500mAh battery with 100W fast charging. It will come with other features, such as dual speakers, an IR blaster, and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. Globally, the device is likely to carry slightly modified specs and the OnePlus Nord 4 branding.

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Apple is Testing a New AI-powered Advertising Tool, Reports State

Apple, known for its walled-garden approach, is dipping its toes into the world of AI-powered advertising. According to a report from Business Insider, Apple is testing a new tool that leverages artificial intelligence to optimize ad placement within the App Store, similar to offerings from Google and Meta.

Apple will seemingly slowly expand its AI to other services like Maps and Books

This new system, currently being piloted with a select group of advertisers, aims to streamline the advertising process. Advertisers simply provide Apple with their budget, target audience details, and desired countries. The AI then takes the reins, automatically determining the most effective placement for their ads across the App Store’s existing ad slots. These include “Search Tags,” “Search Results,” “You Might Also Like” recommendations, and ads displayed on the App Store’s opening “Today” page.

Apple

This shift reflects Apple’s willingness to learn from industry leaders like Google and Meta, who have already established successful AI-powered ad platforms (Performance Max and Advantage+ respectively). Experts believe this is just the first step, with Apple potentially expanding its AI-driven advertising efforts to other services like Maps, Apple TV+, Books, and even their newly launched sports app.

“Any automated tool like PMax [Performance Max] will need a variety of placements to really generate value,” noted Eric Seufert, an analyst and investor specializing in mobile development. This aligns with the speculation from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who previously suggested Apple’s advertising ambitions extend beyond the App Store.

Further bolstering this theory is Apple’s recent hiring of Joseph Cady, a veteran advertising executive with extensive experience in data-driven and targeted advertising. Cady’s background in building partnerships with major players like Amazon, Google, and TikTok suggests Apple might be preparing to enter a more competitive advertising landscape.

While Apple has yet to officially comment on the AI-powered ad placement tool, Business Insider anticipates a formal launch in the coming months. This move signifies a potential shift in Apple’s advertising strategy, one that could see them leverage AI to personalize user experiences while simultaneously generating new revenue streams.

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Lenovo Unveils the “Daystar Bot GS” Robot Dog Companion

The world of robot companions just got a little more crowded – and a little more legged. While Boston Dynamics‘ Spot has dominated the robot dog scene, Lenovo has entered the ring with the “Daystar Bot GS.”

The robot dog companion has an extra leg as compared to Boston Dynamics’ Spot

This robotic canine boasts a similar design to Spot, but with a crucial difference: an extra leg. This additional appendage could potentially enhance the Daystar Bot GS’s stability and maneuverability, particularly on uneven terrain.

Lenovo Robot Dog

According to reports, the Daystar Bot GS is built for tackling challenging environments. It boasts “advanced control systems” that likely translate to precise movements and navigation. “Cutting-edge perception algorithms” suggest the robot dog can interpret its surroundings and react accordingly, while “IP66 protection” indicates a level of dust and water resistance crucial for outdoor operation.

Beyond these technical details, the official website, as reported by IT Home, reveals the Daystar Bot GS’s intended applications. Lenovo seems to be targeting the “trade, industry and public sectors,” hinting at potential uses in fields like construction, inspection, and even search and rescue.

While specific details about the Daystar Bot GS’s functionalities remain under wraps, its launch marks an interesting development in the robot dog market. Whether the extra leg translates to a significant advantage over Spot and other competitors remains to be seen. However, Lenovo’s entry into this growing field promises to spark further innovation and exploration of the potential applications for robotic companions. The official release date set for later this year will hopefully bring more information about the Daystar Bot GS’s capabilities.

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The Apple Vision Pro was Used in a Surgery in the UK, Surgical Assistant says it’s a “Game-Changer”

The world of surgical technology has taken another leap forward, thanks to Apple’s mixed-reality headset, Vision Pro. In a recent spinal fusion surgery performed in London, England, surgical assistant Suvi Verho swapped her usual Microsoft HoloLens 2 for the Vision Pro – and the results were nothing short of groundbreaking.

The assistant previously used the Microsoft HoloLens 2 headset for similar surgeries

Verho, who donned the Vision Pro headset during the operation, described it as a “game-changer.” Unlike traditional methods where assistants might need to physically locate tools, the Vision Pro eliminates the potential for human error. “Using the headset eliminates human error…it takes away the guesswork and gives you confidence in the surgery,” Verho explained in an interview.

Apple Vision Pro

This isn’t Verho’s first experience with augmented reality (AR) in the operating room. Previously, she used a HoloLens 2 headset for similar surgeries. However, Verho seems to suggest that the Vision Pro offers a significant upgrade.

The benefits extend beyond just eliminating human error. Dr. Syed Aftab, the surgeon who performed the operation, highlighted the potential for improved efficiency and knowledge transfer. “During the operation, nurses often need to work with unfamiliar equipment,” Dr. Aftab noted. “After using the Apple Vision headset, they can learn from some experience and reduce the running-in time.”

Verho’s experience and Dr. Aftab’s observations mark a promising step forward for AR integration in surgery. The ability to visualize and access tools seamlessly within the operating field holds the potential to enhance surgical precision, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency.

While this is just a single case study, it paves the way for further exploration of how AR technology like Apple Vision Pro can revolutionize the operating room and ultimately improve patient care.

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Huawei Opens Limited Beta for New Harmony OS (China Only)

Huawei is inviting a limited number of users to participate in a closed beta program for the latest iteration of their Harmony OS operating system. This program offers a chance to experience new features designed to improve user experience, including easier navigation, enhanced security measures, and faster response times.

Only 2000 testers will be chosen for the program

There are a few important things to keep in mind:

  • Limited Spots: Only 2,000 testers will be selected for the program.
  • Upgrade Commitment: Upgrading to the beta version means you won’t be able to downgrade back to the stable version.
  • China-Only: Participation is currently restricted to users in China with devices running EMUI (Huawei’s previous OS).
Huawei

If you’re a Huawei user in China with a compatible device (Mate or P60 series phones, Mate X3 foldable phones, MatePad Pro tablets, or select V and SE series TVs), you can participate in the program through the My Huawei app’s Upgrade section. The application window closes on March 30th, so be sure to apply before then.

By participating in this beta program, you’ll be among the first to experience the newest features of Harmony OS and help Huawei identify any potential issues before a wider rollout.

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Apple Secretly Developing Touchscreen iMac? New Patent Hints at a Possible Major Design Shift

Apple has long resisted touchscreen features on their Mac computers. However, a recently updated patent application has sparked speculation about a potential shift in their stance.

The focus of the patent is the stand’s adjustability and portability

The patent, originally filed in November 2023, details a design for an adjustable stand for desktop computers. Apple highlights the challenges of handling and transporting increasingly large and slim displays. Their proposed solution focuses on a stand that improves portability and reduces wasted space compared to traditional designs.

Apple Patent

While some tech blogs interpret this as a hint towards a touchscreen iMac similar to Microsoft’s Surface Studio, the patent itself doesn’t mention touchscreen functionality. The focus lies on the stand’s adjustability and portability benefits.

It’s interesting to see Apple focusing on improving the physical design of the iMac. While a touchscreen iMac is a possibility, it feels more likely that Apple is prioritizing practicality with this patent. A more adjustable stand could enhance the user experience for artists, designers, and anyone who benefits from multiple viewing angles. Ultimately, any improvements that enhance functionality and user comfort would be welcome additions to the iMac lineup.

Whether this patent signifies a future touchscreen iMac or simply an improved stand design remains to be seen. Only time will tell if Apple embraces the touchscreen trend for their desktop computers.

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Leaked Code Hints at New Standalone Photo App “TikTok Photos”

TikTok, the reigning champion of short-form videos, appears to be exploring a new avenue: photo sharing. A tech researcher decompiling the latest TikTok update discovered hidden code hinting at a new app called “TikTok Photos.”

The code hints towards a design similar to TikTok’s app color scheme

This potential new app could address some limitations of the current system where users post pictures as slideshow-like videos. “TikTok Photos” suggests a dedicated platform for sharing photos, offering a more natural experience for users.

Tiktok

The leaked code also mentions features that could help users expand their audience and streamline the process. One possibility is a system for “reaching like-minded people who enjoy photos,” potentially connecting users with broader photo-focused communities. Additionally, the code suggests an optional feature to sync existing TikTok photos to the new app, eliminating the need to re-upload pictures.

Visually, leaked icons indicate a design consistent with the original TikTok app’s color scheme, suggesting a familiar look and feel for existing users.

While the exact launch date and regional availability remain unknown, the leaked code suggests “TikTok Photos” is “coming soon” for Android and iOS devices. Whether a web version will follow remains to be seen.

This potential foray into photo sharing marks an interesting development for TikTok. It will be interesting to see how “TikTok Photos” fits into the social media landscape and if it can challenge Instagram‘s dominance in the photo-sharing world.

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Optibike RIOT electric mountain bike with up to 290km range launched

Optibike has released a new electric mountain bike with an unrivaled 180-mile (290km) range. The Optibike RIOT eMTB is available in US and EU versions with 750W and 250W motors respectively. The Optibike RIOT is an all-terrain e-bike and the company says it is the most powerful of its kind. The US version of the e-bike has a maximum torque of 190Nm. The extended range of the RIOT eMTB is due to its large 1,620Wh battery.

Optibike RIOT eMTB

Features

The new powerful Optibike e-bike is a class 1 bike in the US. Its powerful torque rating of 190Nm allows the bike to easily navigate inclines with up to 46% gradient. The top speed of the bike is limited to about 32km/h. The EU version of the RIOT eMTB has a top speed of 25km/h and this restriction is based on EU regulations. Both versions of the RIOT eMTB come with a dual-sided pedelec torque sensor and a 1,620Wh lithium-ion battery.

The Optibike RIOT has an LCD mounted on its handlebar and an optional 2,700 headlight for enhanced night visibility. The front of the bike features a RockShox ZEB Ultimate Suspension Fork, while a Fox 230 x 65 Float X Air Shock is present at the rear. Both front and rear suspensions offer 170mm of travel. An optional 14-speed Rohloff geared hub or cassette and derailleur can be utilized to personalize the bike. The RIOT eMTB has a carbon fiber frame and swingarm which makes it to be significantly light at about 31kg.

Optibike RIOT eMTB

Pricing

The Optibike RIOT electric mountain bike is now available for pre-order at a starting price of $14,400. Optibike has not provided any clear details on when customers will start receiving their purchases. However, the company says there are limited quantities of the RIOT eMTB although the actual numbers were not stated.

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Xiaomi launches the MIJIA Air Conditioner Natural Wind 2HP with temperature and humidity control

Xiaomi has unveiled the MIJIA Air Conditioner Natural Wind 2HP in China. The new MIJIA air conditioner offers level 1 energy efficiency and a compact size. The air conditioner saves space and is suitable for domestic use. Despite the compact size, the Air Conditioner offers the same performance as a 2hp cabinet unit.

Features

The new MIJIA air conditioner with natural wind comes with a classic sun-patterned appearance. It is made of weather-resistant materials and can retain its original color for a much longer period. It is also a sturdy and durable standardized black screen while the diaphragm is upgraded to a color film. The temperature of the air conditioner can be adjusted to 0.5ºC. It is equipped with dual temperature and humidity control technology and can be paired with a humidifier for optimal performance.

The Xiaomi MIJIA Air Conditioner Natural Wind 2hp has an upgraded wind deflector structure, with the air outlet fully closed without gaps. It can stretch and rotate freely while several blowing options are available. The blowing methods include Surround Wind, Canopy Wind, and Carpet Wind. The fine pores are designed to break down strong wind and allow for a more benign and healthier blowing experience for kids, mothers, and the elderly.

The MIJIA Air Conditioner Natural Wind 2hp has an APF of up to 4.69 and it can save up to 70kWh of electricity in a year. The air conditioner is equipped with reliable variable frequency drive control technology and a wide temperature range function. It accommodates a wide range of cooling scenarios and Xiaomi says it allows the user to enjoy a warm winter and a cool summer. The defrost performance of the new Xiaomi MIJIA air conditioner is top-notch with a normal defrost and anti-quench defrost adaptive control algorithms.

Pricing

The Xiaomi MIJIA Air Conditioner Natural Wind 2hp is now available at a pre-sale price of 3,399 yuan ($473). A deposit of 100 yuan ($14) further reduces the price of the air conditioner to 2,899 yuan ($404).

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Rollme R2 smart health ring with remote camera control function launched globally for $89.99

Smart Ring is becoming a trending gadget in the tech sector. Recently, we have seen several products get launched. Even tech giants like Samsung and Apple have reportedly got their models in the works. Rollme has listed its new smart health ring, the Rollme R2 on its website and is now available to the global audience. The Rollme R2 smart health ring offers up to 10 days of battery life on typical usage and comes with an affordable price tag. The smart wearable features health tracking features like SpO2 level, heart rate, and sleep.

Rollme R2 smart health ring

Features

The R2 smart health ring, according to the listing on the Rollme website will ship to countries globally. It has a close semblance with the Rollme R1 Health Smart Ring in terms of its features. You can view the health tracking data of the Rollme R2 using the companion mobile app.

One unclear aspect of the Rollme R2 is that the accuracy of the health monitoring measurements of the device has not been well ascertained. The R2 lacks temperature monitoring unlike its predecessor but it comes with remote camera control functionality. There are several sports modes on the R2 smart health ring and step counting is also featured. The battery life of the Rollme R2 can last up to 60 days in standby mode. You can wirelessly recharge the smart ring via its charging case.

Rollme R2 smart health ring

Pricing & Availability

The Rollme R2 smart ring is available in six sizes (7 to 12) and weighs about 2.9g. Three color options are available – Champagne Gold, Pearl White, and Premium Black. You can order the Rollme R2 Health Smart Ring from the Rollme website for $89.99. The price tag of the R2 is significantly lower than most health smart rings currently in the market including the Ultrahuman Ring AIR which retails for $349 and the Rollme R1 launched last year and is currently offered for $229.

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Sennheiser HD 490 PRO headphones with a 38mm dynamic unit launched in China for 3,499 yuan ($487)

Sennheiser has launched the HD 490 PRO headphones in China. The new Sennheiser HD 490 PRO has a 38mm dynamic unit for a decent audio output. The China launch of the Sennheiser HD 490 PRO is coming on the heels of the launch of the product in India last month. The HD 490 PRO is viewed as a perfect mix of clarity, comfort, and reliability. The India launch also included the Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Plus.

Sennheiser HD 490 PRO

The new Sennheiser headphones have an open architecture that delivers a wide, three-dimensional sound field and optimal sound output. The Sennheiser HD 499 PRO has an advanced neodymium magnetic core and innovative low-frequency cylinders. The model is equipped with a 38mm dynamic unit with a frequency response range of 5 to 36000Hz and an impedance of 1300. It has a maximum sound pressure level of 128dB and these features combine to deliver full, precise, and clear bass for mixing and mastering.

Sennheiser HD 490 PRO

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO has two sets of ear pads designed for mixing and production tasks. The left and right jacks have detachable cables and can be inserted on both sides of the XLR cable. Both ear cups provide Braille guidance and earpad support for enhanced ear hygiene. The headset also features Dear Reality’s DearVR MIX-SE plug-in and can transform your device into an ideal virtual mixing environment. This ensures that the user achieves balanced and consistent mix transition effects via the system.

Sennheiser HD 490 PRO

Pricing & Availability

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO professional headset is available from retail platforms in China including JD.com at an introductory price of 3,499 yuan ($487). In comparison, the introductory price of the Sennheiser HD 490 PRO in India last month was Rs. 27,590 ($333). Surprisingly, the device will retail at a higher price in China. The reverse used to be the case as Chinese models are usually cheaper than the global variant. Let us know what you think in the comments section.

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Alleged Sony Xperia 1 VI spotted on EMVCO database ahead of launch

A recent leak revealed the memory options for Sony‘s upcoming line of Xperia devices, and now, a new EMVCO listing has surfaced online, which is believed to be the Xperia 1 VI.

Sony Xperia 1 VI EMVCO certification
Xperia 1 VI EMVCO via TheTechOutlook

The database listing for a Sony device with the model number “XQ-ES54” has emerged, which is believed to be the Xperia 1 VI. It shows that the device will run on the Android 14 operating system.

Sony Xperia 1 V

Aside from the latest Android OS, details about the device are scarce. However, if the rumors about it being the Xperia 1 VI are accurate, we can expect a powerful camera system. Leaked specifications suggest the device will boast three 48MP Exmor T sensors on the back, featuring a main camera with a large f/1.4 aperture, 2x optical zoom, and dual-phase detection autofocus. It is also likely to support 1080p video recording with electronic image stabilization (EIS), ensuring high-quality video capture.

The device’s ultra-wide camera is rumored to offer a focal length between 14-18mm, along with on-chip autofocus, broadening its photography capabilities. Additionally, the telephoto lens might provide a 6x zoom function, although this is expected to be achieved through sensor cropping, with the actual optical zoom capability being 3x. More details are expected to be revealed as we get closer to the launch, so stay tuned.

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You can now play Xbox Game Pass games directly on your smartphone thanks to Boosteroid

Xbox has teamed up with Boosteroid, a cloud gaming service, to make Xbox PC games available to more people. This partnership, announced last year, is now bringing a new set of PC games to Boosteroid, including titles like “Deathloop”, “Dishonored” series, “Gears 5”, “Ghostwire: Tokyo”, and “Pentiment”. This means gamers can play these games even on their smartphones and tablets.

Boosteroid-Logo-Lock-Up-Xbox

To start playing these games on Boosteroid, players need to have the game through the Microsoft Store, which can be through a PC Game Pass, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, or a direct purchase. With a Boosteroid subscription, players log in, select the Xbox game they want to play from the Boosteroid library and start playing. This allows for playing on different devices, like PCs, smartphones, and tablets, and includes features like cross-play and cross-save with Xbox consoles and Windows PCs.

Boosteroid-Xbox-Filter
Boosteroid-Login-Xbox-Game

Boosteroid lets you play games on various devices without needing a powerful PC or lots of storage. It uses remote servers to run the games and streams them to your device. This makes it possible to play demanding games on simpler devices. To use Boosteroid, you need a good internet connection and a subscription.

The partnership with Boosteroid is part of Xbox’s larger effort to make gaming more accessible and to offer more choices on where and how to play games. Xbox is also working with other cloud gaming services (EE, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Nware, and Ubitus) around the world to allow the streaming of games from Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard.

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Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra Roundup: Specs, Camera, pricing & more

On March 14, 2024, Asus will officially unveil its Zenfone 11 Ultra smartphone in the global market. This device is a successor to the popular Zenfone 10 smartphone, however, it is quite different from its predecessor.

Asus zenfone 11 Ultra
Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra

Design & display

In the age where smartphone sizes are getting bigger by the day, Zenfones were the only flagships catering to customers looking for an actual compact device. Well, it looks like this might be the end of small Zenfones, as the upcoming Zenfone 11 Ultra is said to feature a large 6.78-inch display.

Design-wise, the device is quite similar to the ROG Phone 8, with slight changes to the rear camera module. Leaked renders suggest that the device will feature an overall similar camera layout, with one large camera cutout on the right side of the module and two smaller ones on the left. The flashy gamer aesthetics on the back have been replaced by some geometric patterns, and the sides of the device are flat with no shoulder triggers.

The display onboard the Zenfone 11 Ultra is said to be a 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with an FHD+ AMOLED LTPO panel that will support up to a 144Hz refresh rate. This is slightly different from the ROG Phone 8, which has a 165Hz AMOLED display of the same size and resolution.

Asus Zenfone 11 Europe Price

As per a previous report, the Zenfone 11 Ultra will be available in five shades, such as Eternal Black, Skyline Blue, Misty Gray, Verdure Green, and Desert Sienna.

Performance

The similarities don’t end there a Geekbench listing has already revealed that the Zenfone 11 Ultra, with model number ASUS_AI2401_H, also comes with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor that has a peak clock speed of 3.30GHz. It has scored 2226 and 6949 points in single and multi-core tests, respectively, which means that there won’t be any issues running day-to-day or even heavy tasks on this device.

In addition to that, the device is said to offer configurations with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, paired with up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage. Currently, it is unclear what kind of cooling system will be onboard the Zenfone 11 Ultra. The ROG Phone 8 uses a conduction cooling system that has a heat pipe made of boron nitride alongside copper going through the phone’s motherboard. It is possible that we might see something similar on the Zenfone 11 Ultra, however, considering the conduction cooling system is a heavy-duty cooling solution developed for the gaming flagship, Asus might opt for something a bit tamer for the 11 Ultra.

Asus Zenfone 11 Europe Price

The device is expected to pack a 5,500mAh battery with 65W wired and 15W wireless charging support. A leaked unboxing image of the device also suggests that the power brick might not be included in the box. Other than that, it is expected to have a 3.5mm audio jack, a stereo speaker system, Bluetooth 5.3, and WiFi 7 support. As for software, it will run on Android 14 out of the box. Like the ROG Phone 8, the 11 Ultra is also expected to come with some AI-driven features, such as enhanced results through the phone launcher, Gallery, and Settings apps.

Camera

The camera system is rumored to feature a 50 megapixel IMX890 main sensor, which is a significant upgrade over its predecessor’s IMX 766 sensor. That being said, the device will feature a gimbal OIS stabilization system for the main camera like its predecessor. It is also said to feature a 13 megapixel ultra-wide lens and an OIS-assisted 32 megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. For the front, the 11 Ultra will have a 32 megapixel selfie snapper.

Pricing & availability

A leak from last week suggests that the base model of the device with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage will cost CZK 24,990 (approximately $1,078 USD / €986 EUR), while the 16GB RAM and 512GB storage configuration is said to cost around CZK 26,490 ($1,143 USD / €1,045 EUR). These prices are expected to be early bird prices, which could increase by CZK 1,000 ($43 or €39), and CZK 2,500 ($107 or €98) after the end of the promotion.

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Is TV Dead? Global TV Shipments Hit a Decade Low in 2023

Technological advancements often reduce the need for multiple products. Remember when you needed a separate camera, music player, calculator, and game console? Now your smartphone does it all. The same thing is kinda happening with TVs. People might buy them less, but when they do, they want bigger screens and super high quality. Here are the details…

Global TV shipments in 2023 hit a ten-year low

In 2023, the global TV market continued its decline. Sales dropped by 1.6% compared to the year before. This is the lowest number of TVs sold in ten years. There are a few reasons why this happened. Certainly, the first reason for these trends is that people are watching less TV. In today’s world, many individuals prefer digital content platforms accessible from their phones, computers, and tablets.

Tv

TVs are now mainly the first choice for users focused on large screens and high image quality. This leads to a higher demand for resolutions such as 4K and 8K, with sizes of 49 inches and above. However, factors like global inflation are also reducing interest in these expensive models.

Shipments increased year-over-year in North America (7.5%), Latin America (2.3%), and Eastern Europe (3.4%), with the U.S. experiencing a notable rebound. However, other regions faced annual declines: Asia-Pacific (-0.2%), China (-8.4%), Western Europe (-11.5%), and the Middle East and Africa (-3.0%). Notably, both new and replacement TV sales remained sluggish across all regions. This suggests a general weakening of consumer confidence in the TV market, despite regional variations.

The decline in the Chinese TV market intensified in the second half of 2023. During the latter half of 2023, the Chinese TV market experienced a significant downturn, surpassing a monthly year-on-year decline of over 10%. In the final month of the year, the decline rate exceeded 20%. The annual market size dropped below 37 million units to 36.56 million, marking the lowest level in the past decade.

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Hongqi EH7 Electric Vehicle set to debut in Chinese market on March 20

Hongqi, a renowned brand under FAW, announced its much-anticipated electric sedan, the Hongqi EH7, marking a significant milestone in China’s electrification campaign. The sleek vehicle, part of Hongqi’s “All in New Energy” initiative, embodies cutting-edge technology and futuristic design elements.

Scheduled for launch on March 20, 2024, in China, the Hongqi EH7 boasts a fastback shape and a closed front face adorned with distinctive “L”-shaped headlights. The vehicle’s hidden door handles and five-spoke rims with red Brembo brake calipers add to its sporty appeal. Available in a range of vibrant colors including green, purple, and silver, the EH7 stands out on the road.

Inside, the cockpit features a striking black-and-white color scheme and is equipped with a 6-inch + 15.5-inch curved dual screen for the instrument panel and central control. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, the EH7 offers advanced features such as an augmented reality (AR) head-up display and autonomous driving capabilities.

Under the hood, the EH7 comes in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants. The RWD model boasts an electric motor with a maximum power output of 253 kW, offering a top speed of 190 km/h and an impressive acceleration time of 3.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. Meanwhile, the AWD variant features front and rear dual motors with a combined total power of 455 kW and peak torque of 756 N·m.

The EH7’s powertrain is complemented by ternary lithium battery packs supplied by CATL, with future variants set to include battery-swap and long-range fast-charge options, providing up to 800 km of cruising range. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with the HAP precise automatic driving assistance system for enhanced safety and convenience.

With its innovative design, advanced technology, and eco-friendly powertrain, the Hongqi EH7 sets a new standard for electric vehicles in the medium to large sedan segment. As Hongqi’s first model under its “new energy sub-brand,” the EH7 is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle market, catering to the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.

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OnePlus 12R OxygenOS 14.0.0.500 now seeding globally with Camera improvements & February 2024 security patch

OnePlus has started releasing a new update for the OnePlus 12R, labeled as version 14.0.0.500, targeting users in the India/Global regions. The update comes with build numbers CPH2585_14.0.0.500(EX01) for India and CPH2609_14.0.0.500(EX01) for the global version.

OnePlus 12R

Key highlights of this update include the integration of the February 2024 Android security patch to improve system security. The update also focuses on improving the overall system stability and performance. Users can expect a more reliable experience with fingerprint unlocking, as the update addresses and improves this feature.

OnePlus has also tackled an issue causing some applications to crash, aiming to provide a more stable app experience. Network connection stability is another area of improvement, alongside broader NFC function compatibility, which should benefit users requiring seamless connectivity and transaction capabilities. The camera is getting improvements too, with upgrades to camera performance and stability.

The rollout of this OTA update is incremental. Initially, a limited percentage of users will receive the update, followed by a wider release in the coming days. For users in India encountering any issues post-update, OnePlus offers a straightforward bug reporting mechanism through the Google Dialer by dialing *#800#. This option is currently available exclusively in India.

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Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro (2nd Gen) with a 1,000W peak power and longer range launched

Xiaomi has unveiled the Electric Scooter 4 Pro (2nd Gen) and it comes with a longer range and a more powerful motor than its predecessor. The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 has been listed on the brand’s global website. The release comes over a year after the original model was launched. However, this is the third model the company is releasing in quick succession after the Electric Scooter 4 Lite (2nd Gen) and Electric Scooter 4 Pro Max.

Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro (2nd Gen

The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro (2nd Gen) features several improvements from its predecessor. It has a 400W motor that can output up to 1,000W power, compared to the original model whose peak output was 700W. The scooter has a top speed of 25km/h, obviously pegged to meet extant regulations in some countries. There are various speed modes in the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro (2nd Gen). The scooter has an upgraded 468Wh battery pack that offers a range of 60km, higher than its predecessor.

The latest iteration of the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro has a carbon steel frame and weighs 19kg. It features an integrated display that tells users the cruising speed, battery status, and when the turn signals are activated. The Xiaomi Home app is the companion app for the scooter and offers a view of the trip information and controls. The scooter also features an auto light mode as well as wide 60mm x 10-inch tires.

Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro (2nd Gen)

Pricing

Xiaomi is yet to pull the wraps on the price and release date for the Electric Scooter 4 Pro (2nd Gen). It is however expected to be released soon and the pricing will be slightly different from the original Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro. The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro launched in the EU at a retail price of €799 ($873) but it is currently selling for €699 ($765).

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