WhatsApp Web to tighten security with secret code for locked chats

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Feb 19, 2024

WhatsApp is working on adding a new security feature to its web client, focusing on improving the privacy of chats that are locked. This upcoming feature, known as the secret code feature, is designed to secure conversations by requiring a code to access locked chats. This development follows the recent introduction of Chat Lock in Web beta, a feature that allows users to lock specific chats, extending privacy and security measures to the Web platform.

WhatsApp Web’s Upcoming Secret Code Feature for Locked Chats

The secret code feature for the WhatsApp Web is under development and is expected to be released in a forthcoming update. According to a screenshot shared by WABetaInfo, users will need to enter a secret code to access their locked chats. This move aims to ensure that sensitive conversations remain confidential and protected by an additional security layer, a PIN.

The introduction of a secret code offers significant benefits for user privacy and security. It provides an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access to sensitive conversations, especially in shared or public computing environments like cybercafes.

This feature ensures that even if users forget to log out, private communications remain inaccessible without the secret code. It is also useful for individuals who share their desktop devices or work in environments where multiple users have access to a single computer. Eventually, WhatsApp plans to roll out this feature across all devices to enhance security wherever WhatsApp is accessible.

Details about the release of this new feature will be shared in future updates. According to earlier reports, WhatsApp is also working on a revamped interface for its web client, aiming to provide a modern and visually appealing experience for users. This update includes enhancing the dark theme with a curated color scheme and adding tabs for better navigation.

Moreover, WhatsApp is also experimenting with several new features for the mobile versions, including a redesigned status tab and a file-sharing feature similar to Android’s Quick Share. Additionally, reports suggest that WhatsApp plans to enable cross-platform messaging to comply with EU regulations.

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Xiaomi starts rolling out HyperOS update to more devices

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Feb 19, 2024

Xiaomi HyperOS update is rolling out to more devices. Xiaomi has stepped up the pace and did not forget the devices that will receive HyperOS. Now Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE are receiving the expected HyperOS update. A few hours ago, the update released for Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G started rolling out to other models.

Xiaomi HyperOS update is rolling out

Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE are some of the models that attract a lot of attention. They have the best SOC of their time and these devices are extremely popular. Now Xiaomi has started rolling out the HyperOS update to these 2 smartphones. The HyperOS update is based on Android 14. It should be noted that Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE received its last major update with this update. Xiaomi 12 Pro is still entitled to one more major update.

The build numbers of the HyperOS updates are OS1.0.1.0.ULBMIXM and OS1.0.1.0.UKOCNXM. Xiaomi 12 Pro receives this update in the Global market, while the Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE receives it in the Chinese market, and it’s expected that this model will receive the HyperOS in all other markets soon.

Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE Xiaomi HyperOS Update

At the moment, the update is only rolling out to Mi Pilots, but all users will have access to the HyperOS update in the future. At the same time as this update, the smartphone has also got the February 2024 security patch, which lowers the security risks.

Also, here is an entire list of Xiaomi, Poco, and Redmi devices getting HyperOS update in India.

BenQ X300G 4K gaming projector arrives in Europe, UK & Australia

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 19, 2024

The BenQ X300G 4K gaming projector, which initially launched in the US, has expanded its availability to include Europe (Netherlands, France, Germany), the UK, and Australia.

This projector is perfect for gamers and movie fans, offering 4K high-quality images and the ability to show a big 120-inch picture from a short distance. It shines brightly at 2,000 ANSI lumens and presents colors vividly, covering a wide range of color spaces.

Gamers will like the super-fast response time of the projector. The projector has an input lag of 4.2ms with 1080p@240Hz or 16.7ms at a 4K@60Hz resolution, making it suitable for both competitive and AAA titles. It comes with several connection options including HDMI and USB, including 2.0b/HDCP 2.2/eARC, USB Type-A 2.0 and USB Type-C DP ports. It also allows for easy screen sharing from phones or tablets using Apple AirPlay or Google Chromecast.

Besides its gaming features, the projector is equipped with automatic focusing, angle correction, and zoom, plus it has two powerful speakers for a great sound experience.

Regarding pricing, the BenQ X300G is positioned as a premium product. In Europe, it’s priced at €1799, while in the UK and Australia, it’s available for £1,599 and AU$2,299, respectively. In the US, the projector retails for $1,799, with BenQ offering a complimentary video game with each purchase. Titles include popular games like Alan Wake 2, Baldur’s Gate 3, Resident Evil 4, Super Mario Bros Wonder (Nintendo Switch Exclusive), Spider-Man 2 (PlayStation Exclusive), and the Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. The games are for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.

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Xiaomi 12, 12S, 12S Pro receive HyperOS update

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 19, 2024

Xiaomi unveiled HyperOS in late October. For the unaware, it is the new branding adopted by the company for software across its products, akin to Huawei’s HarmonyOS.

The Xiaomi 14 and the Xiaomi 14 Pro are the first smartphones to ship with this new software. Ever since its announcement, the company has been rolling out HyperOS to eligible devices worldwide.

Recently, the firm started pushing the update to two of its first Leica-branded phones and one more handset.

Xiaomi 12S and Xiaomi 12S Pro along with Xiaomi 12 are the latest devices to receive HyperOS stable update. The OTA software update for these smartphones is being rolled out in China.

The 12S and 12S Pro are China-exclusive products. Therefore, there aren’t other regional firmware builds for these phones.

On the other hand, the vanilla 12 was released in several international markets. Hence, there are a handful of regional software builds for it. All those variants should get access to the HyperOS update in the coming days.

Apart from HyperOS features, the system update also bumps up the version of Android to 14. However, only Xiaomi 12S gets the latest February 2024 security patches, while the builds for Xiaomi 12S Pro and Xiaomi 12 arrive with January 2024 and December 2023 security patches, respectively.

The update comes with the following build numbers in China.

Xiaomi 12S Pro – 1.0.3.0.ULECNXM (5.5GB)
Xiaomi 12S – 1.0.3.0.ULTCNXM (5.4GB)
Xiaomi 12 – 1.0.2.0.ULCCNXM (5.3GB)

The aforementioned firmware builds are being rolled out to users in a phased manner.

Also, heres an entire list of Xiaomi, Poco, and Redmi devices getting HyperOS update in India.

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China’s AG600M Aircraft Passes Extreme Cold Tests, A Big Win for Emergency Missions

By

Anubhav

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Feb 19, 2024

The skies above Hailar District, Hulunbuir, in north China‘s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, recently witnessed a remarkable achievement. The AG600M, a variant within China’s AG600 amphibious aircraft family designed for firefighting, has successfully concluded a series of rigorous cold-weather flight tests. This milestone was announced by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the powerhouse behind the country’s aircraft manufacturing.

The temperature in the tests dropped to negative 40 degrees Celsius

Spanning roughly two weeks, the tests threw the AG600M into the depths of winter’s embrace, with temperatures plummeting between a biting minus 20 to minus 40 degrees Celsius. The extreme cold provided the perfect backdrop to evaluate the aircraft’s resilience and operational capabilities under harsh conditions. The focus was on examining how the aircraft’s critical systems – including its power, fuel, flight control, and avionics – performed in the face of severe frost and freezing conditions.

The successful completion of these tests marks a significant step forward for the AG600M. It not only demonstrates the aircraft’s robustness and reliability in unforgiving climates but also assures its effectiveness in firefighting missions across diverse environments. Moreover, the examination of the aircraft’s maintainability in such low temperatures has provided valuable insights, ensuring that the AG600M can be swiftly and efficiently serviced, regardless of the challenges it may face.

The aforementioned progress reflects China’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and its contribution to enhancing global emergency preparedness and response strategies. Stay tuned to Gizmochina for more innovation-related news!

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OnePlus 12R gets a new update with polish to performance, connectivity, and camera

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 19, 2024

OnePlus is rolling out an update for its OnePlus 12R model across India, as well as in global and European markets. This new update, OxygenOS 14.0.0.307, brings several key improvements and optimizations aimed at enhancing the device’s overall performance and user experience. The update is being released in phases to ensure a smooth transition for all users.

Key highlights of the update include improved system stability and performance, alongside optimizations aimed at reducing power consumption to extend the battery life of the device. Additionally, the update improves the stability and expands the compatibility of Bluetooth connections, ensuring better connectivity with other devices.

Network performance is also getting a boost, with improvements aimed at enhancing both stability and compatibility. This is particularly beneficial for users who rely on their device for constant internet access and connectivity.

For photography enthusiasts, the update introduces improvements in camera stability and performance, with a special focus on improving the indoor photography experience. These changes are expected to deliver a noticeable improvement in photo quality. Here’s the complete changelog of the video.

OxygenOS 14.0.0.307 Update Changelog:

System

Improves system stability and performance.
Optimizes power consumption to extend battery life.

Connectivity

Improves the stability and expands the compatibility of Bluetooth connections.

Network

Improves network stability and compatibility.

Camera

Improves indoor photography.
Improves camera performance and stability for a better photography experience.

OnePlus has made provisions for users to submit feedback about the update. Users in India can do so by dialing “*#800#” on the Google Dialer app, while users in other regions can submit their feedback directly on the OnePlus update thread.

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EU Launches Major Investigation into TikTok for Youth Safety and Privacy

By

Anubhav

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Feb 19, 2024

TikTok, one of the popular (yet controversial) social media platforms, is now under scrutiny by European regulators, raising questions about its compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA). The EU’s deep dive into TikTok’s operations centers on the platform’s impact on the safety and privacy of its younger audience, an issue that is gaining attention worldwide. Previously, Meta and Twitter (Now X) were also under attack by the US Senate for the same reason.

The probe will also explore the platform’s user-engaging algorithms

The focus of the investigation is multifaceted, targeting the addictive nature of the platform’s algorithms, which are designed to keep users engaged for longer periods. This “rabbit hole effect” is a concern because it can expose users, especially minors, to content that may be harmful to their mental and physical well-being. Europe’s concern extends to the mechanisms TikTok uses to verify the age of its users, aiming to shield minors from inappropriate content by enforcing stricter privacy settings.

Moreover, the European Commission is not just stopping at user safety. It’s also examining TikTok’s approach to advertising transparency and the availability of its data to researchers. These efforts mirror previous actions taken against other social media giants. The implications of this probe could be significant for TikTok. The platform has already made adjustments for EU users, such as offering an option to disable algorithm-driven content recommendations and enhancing content reporting features. However, with the ongoing investigations, TikTok might need to consider further changes to its operations.

This step is important because it signals a growing awareness and action against the potential risks social media poses to users, particularly the younger demographic. As digital platforms continue to evolve, the balance between user engagement and safety becomes increasingly crucial. TikTok’s journey through these regulatory challenges will be a test of its commitment to user safety, and it needs to pass with flying colors in order to secure its future growth.

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Rumors Reveal Brand New Colors for the Upcoming Apple iPhone 16 Pro

By

Anubhav

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Feb 19, 2024

We are still a fair number of months away from the launch of the next iPhone, that is, the iPhone 16. However, the rumor mill has already started churning out new information. Looks like Apple‘s iPhone 16 Pro might be getting some cool new colors. Word on the street (or rather, the internet) is that there could be a “Titanium Gray” and a “Desert Titanium” option soon. This tip comes from a social media post by Majin Bu, who’s known for sharing Apple rumors. But, keep in mind, their predictions are a bit of a mixed bag in terms of accuracy.

‘Desert Titanium’ and ‘Titanium Gray’ are the two new colors touted in rumors

The new “Desert Titanium” color is said to be a deeper, more intense version of the iPhone 14 Pro‘s gold, while “Titanium Gray” could remind you of the iPhone 6‘s space gray. “Desert Titanium” does look like a pretty unique and striking color, and if the rumors are true, it will attract a lot of attention. It’s still up in the air if these colors will replace any of the current ones or if they’re just going to be new additions.

Previously, it was revealed that the iPhone 16 series will introduce five distinct models to cater to various market segments. The lineup includes the iPhone 16 SE, 16 Plus SE, iPhone 16, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. For the first time in a while, we can expect to see a strategic merge of the iPhone SE product line into the broader iPhone 16 portfolio, hinting at Apple’s intention to offer more options to consumers at different price points.

As with all rumors, it’s good to wait for more confirmation before getting too excited. But it’s definitely interesting to think about these potential new looks for the iPhone 16 Pro. What’s your opinion on these rumored colors? Would you consider buying an iPhone in one of these new shades?

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Introducing the CZUR Shine Ultra Document Scanner: Redefining Document Digitization

By

Joane

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Feb 19, 2024

In today’s digital age, the conversion of physical documents into digital format has become imperative for seamless access and efficient management. Enter the CZUR Shine Ultra Document Scanner, a revolutionary solution designed to transform your books, notes, and study materials into easily accessible digital assets. Let’s explore the comprehensive features of this cutting-edge device and how it can elevate your document digitization process to new heights.

Compact & Portable Features :

The CZUR Shine Ultra stands out as a compact and portable document scanner packed with an array of advanced features. Its sleek design ensures portability without compromising on functionality, making it an indispensable tool for professionals and students alike.

Smart Curve Flattening Technology:

One of the standout features of the CZUR Shine Ultra is its innovative Smart Curve Flattening Technology. This cutting-edge solution addresses the challenge of curved pages during scanning, ensuring precise capture without the need to separate book bindings. Utilizing harmless lasers and advanced algorithms, the scanner corrects curve distortion, delivering impeccably flattened digital reproductions of your documents.

Fast Scanning:

Time is of the essence, especially when dealing with extensive document collections. With the CZUR Shine Ultra, efficiency is maximized thanks to its lightning-fast scanning capabilities. Each page is scanned in under 1.0 seconds, enabling rapid processing of documents with unparalleled speed and accuracy.

OCR Text Recognition:

The CZUR Shine Ultra software is equipped with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) functionality, empowering you to effortlessly convert scanned documents into editable formats. With support for over 180 languages, OCR recognizes text with precision, allowing seamless integration into your digital workflow. Say goodbye to manual transcription and hello to enhanced accessibility and usability.

Software Various Functions:

CZUR’s all-in-one software complements the scanner with smart technology for enhanced document digitization. From image cropping and trimming to rotation and tilt correction, the software offers a comprehensive suite of tools to optimize your scanning experience. Additional functionalities such as auto page turn detection and automatic page splitting further streamline the process, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.

Additional Features of CZUR Shine Ultra:

The brightness adjustment feature enhances scan quality, ensuring clarity and readability.
Capable of capturing documents up to size A3, accommodating a wide range of materials.
Compatibility with most video-sharing platforms facilitates easy sharing and collaboration.
90° Foldable and Height-Adjustable design offers flexibility and convenience in scanning various document sizes.

Additional Accessories Along With CZUR Shine Ultra:

The CZUR Shine Ultra comes complete with essential accessories to enhance your scanning experience. The inclusion of a USB cable facilitates seamless device connectivity, while the foot pedal allows for efficient scanner control. The black document pad ensures stable book placement during scanning, while specialized finger cots provide added convenience and comfort.

Set-Up Process of CZUR Shine Ultra For Trouble-Free Utilization:

Download the CZUR software from the official website and install it on your device.
Connect the Shine Ultra scanner to your device using the provided USB cable.
Place your books or documents under the scanner, ensuring proper alignment.
Capture pages using the foot pedal or in-software controls, allowing for easy page-turning detection.
Images are automatically sent to the CZUR software for OCR processing, enabling text detection in multiple languages.
Edit options are available within the software, offering flexibility in document manipulation.
Output formats include Word, Excel, TIFF, JPG, and PDF, catering to various digital needs.

The CZUR Shine Ultra Document Scanner emerges as a frontrunner in the realm of document digitization, offering unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and versatility. Whether you’re digitizing textbooks for study purposes or converting important documents for professional use, the Shine Ultra delivers exceptional results with ease.

With its advanced features, seamless integration, and affordable pricing, the CZUR Shine Ultra is poised to revolutionize your document digitization experience. Priced at $169.00 USD for the Shine Ultra variant and $279.00 USD for the Shine Ultra Pro, these scanners offer incredible value for their functionality. Additionally, with the ongoing Chinese New Year promotion, you can avail of a 20% discount, making the CZUR Shine Ultra even more accessible and cost-effective.

Samsung Eco-Friends cases for Galaxy S24 devices launched with The Rolling Stones & Hello Kitty collabs

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 19, 2024

Samsung Electronics has unveiled its latest Eco-Friends product line, featuring mobile cases made from recycled materials. This new collection, created in collaboration with SLASH B SLASH, is tailored specifically for the Galaxy S24 series, including the Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra, offering a total of 57 different cases.

Galaxy S24 Series Eco-Friends Accessories

The idea for the Eco-Friends products comes from Samsung’s Future Generation Lab. They focus on making products that are good for the environment. The cases and straps are made from recycled plastic and vegan leather, ensuring that at least 40% of the material used has been recycled.

Since it started in 2022, the Eco-Friends line has grown to include designs with famous characters and symbols from around the world, like Sanrio’s Hello Kitty, and pop culture icons such as The Rolling Stones. There’s also a special partnership with the K-pop group Stray Kids, which lets fans access exclusive content through NFC cards included with the cases.

Samsung shared a video on social media to introduce the Eco-Friends line, showing how plastic waste can be turned into eco-friendly phone cases.

The Eco-Friends cases were first available in Korea on February 6 and will soon be sold in major markets like the U.S. and Japan. People can buy these environmentally friendly accessories at Samsung’s flagship store in Gangnam, on Samsung’s website, and through SLASH B SLASH’s online store.

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Evolving Financial Landscapes and the Rise of Minimalist Wallets

By

Joane

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Feb 19, 2024

In a profound digital transformation, a significant portion of Americans (41%) reported in 2022 that none of their weekly purchases were made with cash. However, the enduring relevance of wallets persists, albeit with a modern twist.

The Federal Reserve notes that while cash usage declines, debit and credit card transactions continue to thrive, surpassing $1 trillion in balances in the United States alone by 2023. This financial shift highlights the importance of adapting to digital payments while embracing minimalist wallet solutions, such as the innovative Shuffle Wallet.

Understanding the Future of Currency:

The trajectory towards a cashless society is apparent, with a notable 25% decrease in cash payments across major global markets from 2011 to 2021. Despite this trend, physical currency remains resilient, with approximately $40 trillion in circulation worldwide. Moreover, factors such as convenience fees associated with digital transactions and the tangible nature of cash contribute to its ongoing relevance.

Where We Stand with Cash:

The World Bank estimates that 1.4 billion adults globally remain unbanked, highlighting the continued necessity of cash transactions. As Courtney Alev of Credit Karma emphasizes, cash offers a tangible means of managing finances, resonating with individuals’ preferences and spending habits. Nevertheless, the proliferation of digital payments offers unparalleled convenience, enabling seamless transactions through QR codes and credit card facilities.

Minimalist Wallets: A Modern Solution:

Even in an era dominated by digital transactions, wallets remain indispensable for many individuals. Minimalist wallet designs address concerns related to bulkiness and discomfort, offering compact and lightweight solutions tailored to modern lifestyles. Notably, these wallets integrate RFID-blocking technology to safeguard against financial and identity theft, enhancing user security.

Introducing the Shuffle Wallet:

The Shuffle Wallet stands out for its innovative features among minimalist wallet options. Developed by Jack Yao and Stephen Ng, the founders of Mobile Pixels, this ultra-slim accessory combines RFID-blocking capabilities with versatility. Its removable front card pocket facilitates convenience, while NFC-enabled contact cards enable seamless information sharing with a single tap.

Shuffle Wallet Features:

Easily Accessible Design: Dedicated card slots and organized compartments ensure easy access to essentials.
Handy Pocket-Sized: Slim and lightweight, the Shuffle Wallet fits seamlessly into pockets, purses, or bags, maximizing portability.
Minimalist Design: Streamlined and elegant, the Shuffle Wallet prioritizes essential functionality without compromising on style.

Innovative Features:

Deck-of-Cards Opening Mechanism: Effortlessly retrieve cards with a simple flick, eliminating the frustration of searching through cluttered wallets.
Built-in NFC Function: Connect with others through digital business card sharing, enhancing networking opportunities with a single tap.
RFID-Blocking Technology: Safeguarding personal information from unauthorized scanning, ensuring peace of mind in the digital age.
Slim Design: Sleek and stylish, the Shuffle Wallet reflects elegance and efficiency, offering a minimalist solution to everyday carry.
Money Clip: Keep cash neatly organized within the wallet, adding a touch of sophistication to your essentials.
Optional AirTag Holder: Track misplaced wallets effortlessly with the optional AirTag holder.
Non-RFID Silicone Pouch: Durable silicone pouch option available for added versatility, perfect for accessing various cards on the go.

Embracing the Future with Shuffle:

As we navigate the evolving landscape of financial transactions, embracing minimalism with the Shuffle Wallet presents a compelling opportunity. Interested individuals can explore its features on the official website and participate in the Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign starting February 6th.

Roborock unveils P10S and P10S Pro: Next-gen self-cleaning mopping robots

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 19, 2024

Roborock, a leader in home cleaning technology, has just announced the launch of its latest robotic cleaners, the P10S and P10S Pro, marking a significant advancement in the realm of automated home cleaning solutions. These new models are successors to the P10 and P10 Pro, which were launched last year.

Roborock P10S Pro Specifications:

The flagship model, the P10S Pro, stands out with its unique dual telescopic mechanical arms, a feature engineered to extend the robot‘s reach into edges and corners, achieving a remarkable 98.8% coverage. This innovative approach addresses one of the most common challenges faced by robotic vacuum cleaners, ensuring comprehensive cleaning across all areas of the home.

Furthermore, the P10S Pro is equipped with a self-maintaining dual spiral sweeping system that combines dual-brush inward rolling with a powerful 11000Pa suction capability.

This system is designed to provide an efficient cleaning process by suctioning, rolling, and cutting debris, making it particularly effective in homes with carpets and pets. The enhanced system aims to lower maintenance needs and offer a hassle-free cleaning solution. It also features a 99.7% sterilization rate with hot water washing at 60°C.

Roborock P10S Pro also features self-cleaning mopping technology and smart water management, achieving a 99.99% ground sterilization rate. Its compact design fits various home environments, and the Roborock SmartPlan AI optimizes cleaning plans. A versatile base station supports hot water washing, automatic dust collection, and water replenishment, enhancing the cleaning experience.

Roborock P10S Specifications:

The P10S model is designed to be both versatile and affordable, without compromising on performance. It features a 98.8% dynamic mechanical arm for comprehensive edge and corner coverage, a 7000Pa ultra-strong suction, and a soft rubber main brush to minimize hair entanglement.

It provides high-temperature sterilization and washing at 60°C for dynamic mopping and boasts a self-cleaning ability with a space-saving mini base station. The FlexiArm design ensures dynamic edge mopping with a 98.8% coverage rate. The robot also features an antibacterial system, dynamic wet mopping, and a 99.99% floor sterilization rate.

The devices also support various control methods, including voice commands and smart device integration. Both models are integrated with Roborock’s latest SmartPlan AI, which enables the robots to intelligently plan and optimize cleaning paths based on user habits and specific home layouts, such as room types and flooring materials.

This AI-driven approach ensures a tailored cleaning experience that adjusts to the unique needs of each household. Additionally, the introduction of Pet Mode 3.0 offers targeted cleaning for homes with pets, focusing on deep cleaning of pet-related areas and items, further enhancing the convenience for pet owners.

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OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G gets new update with a bunch of bug fixes & February 2024 security patch

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 19, 2024

OnePlus is rolling out the OxygenOS 14.0.0.300 update for the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G in India and Europe, featuring the February 2024 Android security patch. This update, designated as “CPH2467_14.0.0.300(EX01)” in India and “CPH2465_14.0.0.300(EX01)” in Europe, aims to fix several issues to improve the device’s functionality and security.

The update targets problems such as the screen going black when unlocking, taking scrolling screenshots, or tapping notifications on the lock screen. It also addresses issues with incoming call alerts, app-specific refresh rates, managing three-way calls, Bluetooth tethering, and recording time-lapse videos with a watermark. Here’s the full changelog.

OxygenOS 14.0.0.300 Update Changelog:

System

Integrates the February 2024 Android security patch to enhance system security.
Improves gaming experience.
Fixes an issue that might cause the screen to turn black when the device is unlocked.
Fixes an issue where you might not be alerted about incoming calls.
Fixes an issue where app-specific refresh rates might not take effect.
Fixes an issue that might cause the screen to turn black when you take a scrolling screenshot of a page that contains videos.
Fixes an issue that might cause the screen to go black when you tap a notification on the Lock screen.

Communication

Fixes an issue where you might be unable to merge or end three-way calls.

Connections

Fixes an issue where Bluetooth tethering might unexpectedly turn off.

Camera

Fixes an issue where you might be unable to record a video in Time-lapse mode when the watermark is enabled.

OnePlus is implementing the update in phases to ensure a smooth rollout. Indian users can report bugs via the Google Dialer by dialing “*#800#,” accessing a feedback menu exclusive to the region. European users are encouraged to share their feedback on the OnePlus update forum.

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Mysterious iQOO phone to feature unannounced Qualcomm flagship chip, LTPO flat display, and more

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 19, 2024

Smartphone brand iQOO is expected to launch the iQOO Z9 series next. These phones are tipped to go official in March.

Ahead of that, details have emerged about yet another upcoming iQOO handset. The source doesn’t mention the name but has revealed the key features of this product.

Based on the specs, the device seems to be an upper mid-ranger. However, surprisingly, it will house a yet-to-be-announced flagship SoC from Qualcomm.

According to Digital Chat Station, iQOO is working on a smartphone with an interesting set of specifications.

He says that this phone will be powered by a Qualcomm SM8635 chip clocked at 3.3GHz. He also adds that the clock rate could vary in the final version. This chipset is expected to be a refined version of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

Further, the tipster discloses that the handset will flaunt a 6.78-inch flat display without a plastic bracket. This LTPO OLED panel will offer a resolution of 2800 x 1260 pixels (1.5K). He does not mention the refresh rate, which should be at least 120Hz.

So far, the device’s specs match those of iQOO 12. So one might think that it could be the third model in the lineup after iQOO 12 Pro. But it doesn’t seem to be the case.

Because unlike iQOO 12 and iQOO 12 Pro, this smartphone’s flat frame will be made of plastic instead of metal. Also, it will be backed by a larger 6,000mAh battery. The source does note that the battery size could change in the final version of the handset.

Though the source doesn’t hint at it but there’s a slight chance that this phone could be part of the iQOO Neo 9 series. Either way, we expect to learn more about the product in the coming days.

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OnePlus Watch 2 Teased Officially, Launch Expected This Month

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Feb 19, 2024

OnePlus is set to make a comeback in the smartwatch segment after a long hiatus. The brand last launched a smartwatch way back in 2021. It also remains the only one to date. Now, the brand has officially started teasing the second generation of its smartwatch. Previously, it was tipped to debut at the upcoming MWC in Barcelona Spain.

OnePlus Watch 2 teased

OnePlus has shared a teaser image on its official OnePlus Community forum. The company does not explicitly reveal the name of the device. Instead, the brand is asking users to wrongly guess what the product is.

The teaser image clearly reveals a smartwatch. Although it’s not clearly visible, cranking up your device’s brightness shows a design similar to the leaked renders. A metal chassis along with a protrusion on the right side can be noticed. It also confirms the presence of a digital crown and a physical button. This is everything we know about the OnePlus Watch 2 at the moment.

24 February. https://t.co/13M97iDqOq pic.twitter.com/CGsGDJqv5A
— Max Jambor (@MaxJmb) February 19, 2024

Meanwhile, reliable tipster Max Jambor says that the OnePlus Watch 2 will debut on February 24. This is before MWC which will commence from February 26. We can expect the brand to share more teasers along with the launch date revelation in the coming days leading up to the launch event.

The OnePlus Watch 2 will reportedly feature a 1.43-inch AMOLED display. It will be powered by a Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor under the hood for a smooth and responsive performance. The smartwatch is expected to run on Google’s WearOS. The wearable device will be equipped with all necessary health sensors.

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Xiaomi and Leica announce a breakthrough for mobile photography

By

Erencan Yılmaz

-

Feb 19, 2024

Xiaomi has made significant advancements in mobile photography lately, to the extent that it is one of the smartphone manufacturers offering the first 1-inch camera sensor. The partnership between Xiaomi and Leica has led to the birth of much more powerful camera hardware and software in Xiaomi phones. Now, the two companies have announced the creation of an optical institute together.

Xiaomi & Leica’s optical institute in China

The purpose of this institute, established by Xiaomi and Leica, is stated to be designing ultra-precision optical lenses in a compact form factor, achieving ideal performance in computational photography, upholding the strictest optical standards for lenses, and conducting research and application of cutting-edge optoelectronic technology on Xiaomi’s official website.

Key contributors from both Xiaomi and Leica are involved in the establishment of this institute. Peter Karbe, an important figure in the design of Leica’s premium Noctilux and APO lenses, is one of those included in this institute and will serve as an optical expert. Zeng Xuezong, Senior Vice President of Xiaomi Group and President of the Xiaomi Mobile Phone Department, will serve as the Director. Yi Yan, Head of Xiaomi Group’s Software Technical Team, and Wang Xuanran, General Manager of Xiaomi Camera Department, will serve as Deputy Directors.

The institute created as a result of the partnership between Xiaomi and Leica has not been established yet. Currently, three major laboratories are planned in Beijing, focusing on Camera Hardware, Imaging, and Objective and Subjective Image Quality Evaluation.

It seems that Xiaomi aims to take mobile photography to a even more advanced level. While Xiaomi 13 Ultra has already a powerful camera setup, Xiaomi 14 Ultra is expected to bring even better hardware. You can check out recently shared images captured on Xiaomi 14 Ultra from our previous article.

Samsung Galaxy Book4 Series With AMOLED Displays, Core Ultra SoCs Launch In India: Prices, Launch Offers, And More

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 19, 2024

Samsung has officially announced the Galaxy Book4 series in India. The lineup comprises of three devices namely the Galaxy Book4 Pro 360, Galaxy Book4 Pro, and Galaxy Book4 360. All three laptops pack nearly the same specifications, especially, the Pro 360 and Pro models. The non-pro version is the base offering in the lineup. Read on to know all the details below.

Samsung Galaxy Book4 series launched in India

As the name suggests, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 and Book4 360 are two-in-one laptops that can be used in various form factors. On the other hand, the Book4 Pro is a traditional clamshell offering.

On the display front, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 and Book4 Pro boast Dynamic AMOLED 2x screens bearing a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 pixels. The former has a 16-inch display size whereas the latter is offered in 16 and 14-inch size options. Meanwhile, the base Galaxy Book4 360 features a 15.6-inch sAMOLED screen with FHD resolution. All three laptops support touch functionality.

Samsung says that the Galaxy Book4 series is equipped with AKG-tuned quad speakers with Dolby Atmos. The Pro 360 weighs 1.66kg whereas the 14 and 16-inch variants of the non-pro model weigh 1.56 and 1.23kg respectively. The Galaxy Book4 360 tips the scales at 1.46kg.

Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 series houses Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors. The Book4 Pro 360 is available in only the Core Ultra 7 option coupled with 16GB LPDDR5x RAM. On the other hand, the Book4 Pro and Book4 360 come in Core Ultra 7 and Ultra 5 variants. The former is offered in 16GB and 32GB RAM options whereas the latter comes in only 16GB. The Pro variants also feature Intel Arc graphics while the non-pro model has Intel Iris Xe GPU onboard. All three machines come in 512GB and 1TB storage configurations.

The Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro 360, Book4 Pro, and Book4 360 are backed by a 76Wh, 76Wh (63Wh-14-inch), and 68Wh battery cells respectively. All three support 65W charging speed.

Samsung Galaxy Book4 series pricing, availability, launch offers

As for the pricing, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 costs Rs 1,63,990 in Moonstone Grey color. The Book4 Pro’s price begins at Rs 1,31,990 in Moonstone Gray and Platinum Silver hues. The Book4 360 carries a starting price tag of Rs 1,14,990 and is offered in Gray color.

All three laptops will be available for pre-booking starting February 20 on the brand’s official website, leading online stores, and retail outlets. Those pre-bookings will be eligible for benefits worth Rs 5,000. Customers can also avail of bank cashback worth Rs 10,000 or an upgrade bonus of Rs 8,000. Additionally, those pre-booking during the Live Commerce event on the Samsung website from February 20 will get an additional instant cashback of Rs 8,000.

Related:

Xiaomi to make unlocking bootloader even harder

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Feb 19, 2024

Xiaomi‘s wide variety of devices have resulted in lots of interest from developers and users together. Following the release of many different Xiaomi devices priced at any budget, developers have sought to make custom ROMs for those devices. But Xiaomi recently implemented some very annoying restrictions on unlocking the bootloader. The most recent information indicates that you will only be able to unlock your Xiaomi phone’s bootloader between Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Xiaomi will let you unlock on Tuesday-Thurday each week

Xiaomi bootloader unlocking process was already quite challenging with the companny’s recent actions. To unlock the bootloader of your Xiaomi phone, you need to have an active Mi Account for at least 30 days. Additionally, you can only unlock the bootloader of three devices per year! While these requirements may seem annoying for you, Xiaomi has introduced yet another restriction.

Xiaomi does not want to make the bootloader unlocking process to be automatic. Instead, you need to request the unlocking of your device’s bootloader, which is then reviewed by Xiaomi employees. If your request is deemed reasonable, you can proceed to unlock your device’s bootloader.

With a new policy in place, Xiaomi will now only evaluate bootloader unlocking requests on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10:00 and 16:00. This will be the case every week, meaning you won’t be able to unlock anytime you want. However, please note that this restriction applies for only the Chinese devices, it’s still worth mentioning how Xiaomi moves on in China.

This situation is very likely to frustrate developers and smartphone enthusiasts. Previously, Xiaomi phones with unlocked bootloaders could still receive system updates. However, this is no longer possible. If you own an unlocked device, you won’t be able to receive OTA updates. You can regain access to updates by relocking the bootloader though, but it still seems that Xiaomi enjoys making certain things more challenging.

Xiaomi’s Redmi Display G Pro 27 Mini LED gaming monitor up for pre-sale for 1999 yuan ($277)

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 19, 2024

Xiaomi‘s Redmi recently unveiled the budget-friendly gaming monitor “Redmi Display G Pro 27” in the Chinese market. This 27-inch monitor boasts impressive Mini LED technology, smooth performance specifications, and a surprisingly competitive price tag. The monitor is now up for pre-sale on JD.com and Xiaomi Mall.

Redmi Display G Pro 27 Specifications:

The Redmi Display G Pro 27 sports a 27-inch 2K (2560×1440) Fast IPS panel, achieving a high refresh rate of 180Hz, which is ideal for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. It supports a 1ms GTG response time with Overdrive (OD) enabled, minimizing motion blur and ghosting.

The standout feature is its 1152-zone MiniLED backlighting system, which allows for exceptional contrast and brightness, peaking at 1000nits. This technology enables deep blacks and vibrant colors, enhancing the gaming atmosphere with lifelike images. Additionally, FreeSync technology ensures a fluid and seamless gameplay experience by eliminating screen tearing.

The monitor also boasts QD quantum dot technology, covering 100% sRGB, 99% DCI-P3, and 97% Adobe RGB color gamuts. With a color depth of 10bit (8bit+FRC) and a color accuracy of ΔE<2, it promises professional-grade color fidelity. Furthermore, TÜV low blue light certification reduces eye strain during prolonged gaming sessions.

The G Pro 27 doesn’t compromise on aesthetics either. It features a sleek, three-sided narrow bezel design, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and immersion. It includes a joystick for OSD menu control, circular RGB backlighting effects for ambiance, two DP1.4 ports, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and an audio output port for comprehensive connectivity options.

Accommodating ergonomics and flexibility, the monitor comes with an adjustable rotating stand and supports VESA wall mounting. It weighs approximately 6.8kg and includes a 65W power supply. Xiaomi is offering a 3-year warranty on this monitor.

Pricing

The G Pro 27 is available for pre-sale on JD.com at the original price of 2199 yuan ($305), with a 10 yuan deposit deductible from the total, resulting in a final price of 1999 yuan ($277).

RELATED:

Redmi Note 11 Pro starts getting the Xiaomi HyperOS update

By

Erencan Yılmaz

-

Feb 19, 2024

Xiaomi officially announced HyperOS on October 26th. Since then, the company has been testing the HyperOS update. This update was released for almost all devices and is now rolling out to the Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G is a model of the Redmi Note 11 series. The smartphone features Helio G96 and impresses with its high performance.

Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G HyperOS Update

The Redmi Note 11 Pro was released in 2021 and launched with MIUI 13 based on Android 11 out of the box. With today’s HyperOS update, the device is receiving its last major update. While this is sad, it’s important to remember that every device has a certain lifespan. It’s worth noting that the HyperOS update for the Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G has some differences.

The first one is that the update is based on Android 13 and the smartphone will not receive the Android 14 update. Redmi Note 11 series is getting HyperOS based on Android 13. Since this update is based on Android 13, it may not have some new features compared to other devices. The HyperOS update build number for the Redmi Note 11 Pro is OS1.0.2.0.TGDMIXM.

At the moment, the update is only rolling out to Mi Pilots, but all users will have access to the HyperOS update in the future. At the same time as this update, the smartphone has also got the February 2024 security patch, which lowers the security risks.