Huawei Mate 60 series gets AR measurement tool, beauty filters for portraits, and more via system update

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Feb 8, 2024

Huawei surprised everyone by unveiling the Mate 60 series with support for 5G connectivity in the second half of 2023. The company’s latest flagship smartphones helped it to regain some of its lost market share from Apple and other players.

The firm has been continuously improving the user experience of these phones through software updates. Right now, it is rolling out a new firmware update which brings further improvements and a few useful tools.

HUAWEI-MATE-60-PRO02 — Huawei Mate 60 Pro

The Huawei Mate 60 and the Huawei Mate 60 Pro are receiving an OTA system update. The latest software build for the handsets bumps up the firmware version to HarmonyOS 4.0.0.158.

According to the official changelog, the update adds an AR measurement tool. Users can use this app to measure height, length, volume, and other parameters.

Further, the update adds ‘AI Cloud Enhancement’ for portrait photos. In other words, users can now apply beauty filters to pictures shot in portrait mode.

Also, the update brings improvements to the camera app. It comes with optimizations that improve the overall user experience of using various features of the camera application.

Lastly, the new firmware also arrives with optimizations for the authentication system. Both face unlock and fingerprint unlock receive improvements.

The OTA software update weighs 881MB. It is being rolled out in batches, and therefore, some units may get it earlier than others. Anyways, every user should get access to this update in the coming days.

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Tecno Spark Go 2024 Launched In A New Variant In India

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 8, 2024

Tecno launched the Spark Go 2024 in December last year. At that time, the brand had only announced the price of the base 3GB + 64GB and 4GB + 64GB RAM and storage configurations. Now, Tecno has launched a new variant of the Spark Go 2024 in the country. It doubles the base storage capacity.

Tecno Spark Go 2024 gets a new variant

The Tecno Spark Go 2024 now comes in 4GB RAM and 128GB internal storage. The former is the same as one of the previous variants. There is also 4GB virtual RAM technology. However, the storage capacity is now doubled. The new option carries a special launch price tag of Rs 6,799 which is the same as the base model.

The Tecno Spark Go 2024 can be purchased from Amazon starting February 9. It is offered in Mystic White and Gravity Black colors.

Apart from the increased storage, the rest of the core specifications of the Tecno Spark Go 2024 remain the same. It has a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout display that can show notifications. The screen size is 6.56-inch bearing an HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. The smartphone has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button.

The Tecno Spark Go 2024 features a squarish camera module housing a 13MP primary camera paired with an AI lens. There is an 8MP front-facing selfie snapper. Internally, the Tecno Spark Go 2024 is powered by a Unisoc T606 SoC. It is backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit with 10W charging. The device runs on Android 13 OS out of the box.

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Xbox Game Pass lineup for February: Resident Evil 3 & Madden NFL 24 coming this month

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 8, 2024

The Xbox Game Pass library is set to receive a series of new games across various genres, catering to the diverse tastes of its subscribers. The lineup includes titles ranging from mythical adventures to intense survival horror and strategic simulations.

Effective immediately, subscribers can access “Anuchard,” where players are tasked with reviving a fallen kingdom using the magical Audros Bell, engaging in battles, and solving puzzles to reclaim its skyward glory.

On February 7, “Train Sim World 4” becomes available, offering a realistic train simulation experience with extensive customization options and detailed routes across the UK, Austria, and the USA. Following closely, “Madden NFL 24” launches on February 8, providing EA Play members early access and exclusive content for football simulation enthusiasts.

“Resident Evil 3,” scheduled for February 13, immerses players in the survival horror experience of Jill Valentine’s escape from Raccoon City and the terrifying Nemesis. “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night,” rejoining the Game Pass on February 14, delivers a Metroidvania-style action RPG adventure.

For puzzle game fans, “A Little To The Left” arrives on February 15, turning daily messes into engaging puzzles, while “PlateUp!” combines cooking action with roguelite progression for an innovative culinary challenge. “Return to Grace,” launching on February 20, offers a first-person narrative adventure set in a visually striking ’60s retro sci-fi world.

Additionally, “MLB The Show 24” is announced to join the Game Pass on its release day, featuring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on the Standard Edition cover and celebrating the Negro Leagues in the Deluxe Editions.

The update also includes new DLC and game updates such as “Sea of Thieves: Season 11,” along with Ultimate Perks for “Mighty Doom,” “F1 23,” “The Sims 4,” and “Smite.”

However, subscribers should note that “Galactic Civilizations III” and “Opus: Echo of Starsong” will be leaving the Game Pass on February 15, providing a final opportunity to play these titles.

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ASUS launches ROG Carnyx professional-grade condenser gaming microphone for $179.99

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 8, 2024

ASUS has recently launched the ROG Carnyx, a condenser gaming microphone that promises professional-grade audio quality for content creators, gamers, and streamers.

ASUS ROG Carnyx Microphone Specifications:

Designed to deliver high-fidelity sound with minimal setup, the ROG Carnyx features a 25 mm condenser capsule and supports a high-resolution 192 kHz / 24-bit sampling rate. This ensures that every nuance of the user’s voice is captured clearly and precisely, making it ideal for both gaming sessions and streaming.

The microphone has been engineered to enhance vocal clarity through a high-pass filter and includes a built-in pop filter to minimize vocal plosives. It boasts a sensitivity of -37dB±3dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 100dB, with a frequency response ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz.

Additionally, it incorporates a premium metal shock mount with an elastic cord to reduce external vibrations, contributing to its ability to produce crystal-clear audio recordings.

The microphone also focuses on ease of use, connecting to computers with a single USB cable and featuring compatibility with standard 3/8-inch threaded boom arms for flexible positioning. It includes a multifunctional control knob for volume adjustment and a one-touch mute button for quick muting, simplifying operation for users.

Aesthetically, the ROG Carnyx stands out with its RGB lighting, compatible with ASUS Aura Sync, enabling users to synchronize its glow with other gaming setup components. The lighting offers various effects like Rainbow, Color Cycle, Breathing, Static, Strobe, and Music. Its design features triangular elements, adding to its bold, gaming-focused appearance.

The microphone supports Windows 10 and 11, as well as MAC OS 10.12/10.13 platforms. The package includes the ROG Carnyx microphone, a 3-meter USB-A to USB-C cable, a warranty card, and a quick start guide.

The ROG Carnyx comes in black and white color options, priced at $179.99 in the US. Earlier today, Asus also launched the ROG Falchion RX 65% keyboard globally with pre-lubed RX Red and Blue switches.

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Garmin Forerunner 165 leak hints at AMOLED display, elevate V4 Sensor

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Feb 8, 2024

It’s been almost 3 years since Garmin‘s Forerunner 55 hit the market, and it seems like an upgrade is finally on the horizon. Folks at Fitness Tracker Test have unearthed details about its successor, dubbed the Forerunner 165, on the official Garmin website.

Garmin Forerunner 45 — Garmin Forerunner 55.

While we don’t have any pictures yet, the leaks reveal almost everything about the upcoming watch. Let’s dive in!

Garmin Forerunner 165 Specs (Rumored)

Reportedly, the Forerunner 165 will feature a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with 390 x 390 pixels. While it’s a notable upgrade from the 1.04-inch LCD screen on its predecessor (the Forerunner 55), looks like it will have an impact on its battery.

While the Forerunner 55 can run for two weeks, the report suggests that 165 will only last for 11 days in smartwatch mode.

When GPS is activated, this drops to 19 hours, and with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) enabled, it decreases further to 17 hours. Music playback alongside GNSS will further reduce the runtime to just 6.5 hours.

Additionally, the leak suggests that the Forerunner 165 might come in two models — the standard Forerunner 165 and the Forerunner 165 Music.

The latter includes built-in storage for music playback through Bluetooth headphones but will have a limited storage of 4GB. Moreover, only the Music model is said to support Wi-Fi connectivity.

As for health and wellness features, the watch reportedly includes the Elevate V4 PPG sensor for tracking heart rate variability and a barometric altimeter for measuring altitude. It can even track the number of floors you’ve climbed.

The smartwatch will offer other expected health features, such as an internal compass, sleep tracking with Nap Detection, and SpO2 monitoring.

Price

We’ve yet to get any details on the official price or release date of the Garmin Forerunner 165 smartwatch. But the leak suggests that the standard model could start at €280 (around $225) and the Music variant will be priced at €330 (around $355).

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Huawei Band 9 spotted on Malaysia’s SIRIM certification

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Feb 8, 2024

Huawei has a lot in the pipeline, with new devices popping up left and right. We’ve been hearing rumors about new additions to the P-series and Mate series, along with whispers about new foldables. Looks like the company is just not stopping there.

A new Huawei fitness tracker called the Band 9, has recently popped up on Malaysia’s SIRIM certification database, suggesting that the device is gearing up for a global launch soon.

SIRIM, which oversees product standards and quality in Malaysia, gave the green light to Band 9 under the model number KIM-B19 on February 6th, 2024.

While the certification doesn’t spill the beans on specs or features, the Band 9 will succeed the Band 8, which hit the shelves last year.

For a quick recap, the Band 8 boasts a big enough 1.47-inch AMOLED display for a budget tracker. It also features Huawei’s TruSleep 3.0 sleep monitoring technology for improved accuracy and personalized sleep advice.

Additionally, the band has TruSeen 5.0 heart rate monitoring technology that offers a 7-day resting heart rate graph for better insights.

Beyond sleep and heart health, the Band 8 packs over 100 sports modes, blood oxygen detection, women’s health tracking, and all-day stress monitoring. It also has an impressive 14-day battery life, paired with fast charging that refuels it from 0 to 100% in just 45 minutes.

With its appearance on certification databases, it’s clear that the Huawei Band 9’s launch is just around the corner. While we’re still in the dark about specific details, it’s only a matter of time before more information surfaces in the coming days.

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ASUS ROG Falchion RX 65% keyboard with pre-lubed RX Red and Blue switches unveiled globally

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 8, 2024

After launching the ROG Falchion RX keyboard in China last month, ASUS has brought the keyboard to global markets as well. This wireless gaming keyboard features a 65% compact design and is equipped with ROG RX low-profile optical switches.

It supports a tri-mode connection that includes ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, Bluetooth, and wired USB connectivity. The keyboard also comes with a protective cover, integrated silicone dampening foam for quieter typing, an interactive touch panel for added functionality, and is compatible with MacOS.

The ROG Falchion RX Low Profile features a sleek, slim design, incorporating arrow and navigation keys within a compact frame. The keyboard utilizes pre-lubed RX Red and Blue switches with centralized lighting, aimed at providing consistent, wobble, and rattle-free keystrokes with minimal delay.

The keyboard features an interactive touch panel that allows for easy adjustment of media playback, volume, and lighting settings. The addition of two-layer integrated silicone foam aims to reduce typing noise and eliminate echo.

Connectivity is a standout feature of the ROG Falchion RX Low Profile, offering users the ability to connect via Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless through the ROG SpeedNova technology, or a wired USB connection. The Omni Receiver facilitates the connection of compatible keyboards and mice, enhancing the overall setup experience.

Pricing & availability

Pricing & availability details for the global market are still under wraps, however, we expect these details to be revealed soon. In China, the keyboard costs 1299 yuan ($182) for the red switch model and the blue switch model costs 1399 yuan ($196).

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AI Chip Boom will soon push NVIDIA past Amazon in market value

By

Joane

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Feb 8, 2024

Nvidia is on the verge of surpassing e-commerce giant Amazon in market value, marking a significant milestone after two decades. With its market value soaring to a staggering $1.73 trillion, a mere 3% shy of Amazon’s $1.77 trillion, Nvidia’s ascent underscores the remarkable surge of AI-driven technologies in today’s digital landscape.

The company’s stock performance has been nothing short of spectacular, surging by an impressive 40% in the year 2024 alone. Currently trading at $694.48, Nvidia’s shares witnessed a further uptick of 1.8% following an optimistic report from financial heavyweight Morgan Stanley. The renowned analyst firm raised Nvidia’s price target to $750, reflecting the sustained optimism surrounding the company’s trajectory.

Fueling this remarkable growth is the insatiable demand for AI applications, pushing Nvidia to the forefront of innovation in the tech sector. As AI permeates various industries, from autonomous vehicles to healthcare diagnostics, Nvidia’s cutting-edge processors have become indispensable tools for developers worldwide. However, this surge in demand has led to significant wait times for AI developers seeking access to Nvidia’s processors through cloud-computing providers, although recent trends suggest a gradual improvement in availability.

Reflecting on Nvidia’s historical trajectory, the company’s current valuation marks a stark departure from its humble beginnings. In 2002, Nvidia’s market value was under $6 billion, a fraction of today’s astronomical figures. The remarkable journey from relative obscurity to becoming the fifth most valuable company in the US stock market underscores the transformative impact of technological innovation.

Amidst Nvidia’s ascent, the landscape of corporate titans is undergoing a seismic shift. Microsoft’s recent ascent to become the world’s most valuable company, surpassing erstwhile leader Apple, exemplifies the dynamic nature of the market. Furthermore, Saudi Aramco’s formidable presence as the third most valuable publicly listed company globally, with a market capitalization of $2 trillion, underscores the diverse array of players vying for dominance on the global stage.

Looking ahead, Nvidia’s upcoming quarterly results, scheduled for release on February 21, are eagerly anticipated by investors and industry observers alike. Analysts, remain bullish on Nvidia’s prospects, citing the relentless surge in AI demand as a key driver of future growth.

Nvidia’s imminent challenge to Amazon’s market supremacy symbolizes a pivotal moment in corporate history. With its pursuit of innovation, Nvidia will be a key player in reshaping the technological landscape for years to come.

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Vivo V30 Pro launch may be near, visits Bluetooth SIG

By

Sean

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Feb 8, 2024

Vivo is gearing up to unveil the higher `end Pro version of the V30 soon. The company recently released the Vivo V30 in its home market of China, and now, it appears that the Vivo V30 Pro is nearing its official announcement as well. This model was just spotted on a major certification platform, so here are all the details.

Vivo V30 Pro surfaces on Bluetooth SIG

The Chinese tech giant’s V30 Pro model was spotted on Bluetooth SIG carrying the model number V2319. This online listing does not reveal any finer details regarding this device like its specs or features. However, it does confirm support for the Bluetooth 5.3 standard. Just recently, the smartphone had visited the SDPPI certification as well.

For those unaware, The Vivo V29 Pro was a rebranded version of the Vivo S17 Pro, so we can expect the Vivo V30 Pro to also be a slightly tweaked version of the Vivo S18 Pro. This means that it could sport a tell 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution. Under the hood, it may offer a MediaTek Dimensity 9200 SoC that is paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

The rear will likely feature a 50-megapixel primary camera with OIS support (Optical Image Stabilization) along with a 50-megapixel ultra wide angle lens, and a 12-megapixel telephoto shooter. A large 5,000mAh battery is expected to power this device, which may support 80W wired fast charging. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stay tuned for more updates.

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Videotex launches new TVs in India with LG’s webOS Hub 2.0S

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 8, 2024

Videotex, India’s first licensed manufacturer of TVs powered by LG’s webOS, has recently unveiled its latest line of smart TVs, introducing the HD 32-inch and FHD 43-inch models powered by webOS Hub 2.0S.

The new models from Videotex boast a modern, sleek metal design with borderless screens, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any living space. They are equipped with Quantum Luminit+ Display technology and a Realtek Chipset, promising superior picture quality and vibrant, accurate colors thanks to HDR10 and HLG support. For gaming, there is an Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and MEMC technology, which ensure a smoother, more responsive gaming experience.

These smart TVs are designed for smooth operation, featuring 1.5GB of RAM and 8GB of ROM, and support for webcam-enabled remote meeting applications, making them suitable for both entertainment and work-from-home setups. The TVs operate on LG’s webOS Hub 2.0S which has support for LG’s ThinQ app. This app essentially lets users control their TVs from their smartphones, giving them the ability to turn the TVs on/off, adjust settings, Remotely monitor their status, and more. They also come with family-friendly settings, an Eye Care Mode to minimize eye strain, and seamless integration with iOS devices through Apple AirPlay.

Key specifications include a variety of features like Dolby Audio, dual-band WiFi, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

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Galaxy S24 “Vivid” display fix incoming with February update

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Feb 8, 2024

Samsung’s new Galaxy S24 series has been a hit with record-breaking pre-orders. However, some initial users have complained that the display on these devices has muted colors in the “Vivid” display mode. Well, looks like Samsung has taken note of it and will be addressing them in the next update.

As per a tip from Ice Universe, a February update will introduce a new slider in the White Balance settings of these Samsung devices. This slider will allow users to adjust the color vividness, providing more control over the display. The tipster has even shared an image of this feature.

Reportedly, the slider will offer a three-step solution. The default setting will maintain a level of vividness higher than the Natural option but not as vibrant as previous Samsung models.

Moving the slider to the middle step will bring the S24 display closer to the vivid colors of the S23 series, while the third option will push it even further, and will reportedly offer colors as vibrant as in the S21 Ultra.

This update follows Samsung’s initial stance defending the muted colors as a deliberate design choice. However, it seems that user feedback has prompted the company to reconsider its decision.

Additionally, the upcoming Galaxy S24 series update is expected to address camera issues reported by some users. Samsung has acknowledged these concerns and assured users that the forthcoming update will resolve them.

The company’s responsiveness to user feedback has been evident, with the Galaxy S24 series seeing record sales in India and Korea. As a result, their shipment target for the S24 series in Q1 2024 has been adjusted from 12 million to 13 million units.

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Ayaneo Pocket S handheld Android console with Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 Up for Pre-Orders

By

Simranpal Singh

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Feb 8, 2024

Ayaneo, the renowned brand in gaming handheld consoles, has officially opened pre-orders for its latest device, the Ayaneo Pocket S Android Console. Ayaneo revealed the full specifications and features of the forthcoming Ayaneo Pocket S retro gaming handheld console a few days ago. The handheld gaming console is now available for pre-order for a down payment of 1599 Yuan (~$225). The amount will be adjusted in the final product pricing, and if any outstanding amount remains, it will be repaid to the customer. The high-end Android handheld console offers some exciting hardware specifications and features.

Ayaneo Pocket S HandHeld Gaming Console Features

Ayaneo Pocket S Android Console comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 SoC and Adreno A32 GPU, which clocks up to 1GHz. It is a significant improvement over the Adreno 740 GPU, which clocks at 680 MHz and is present in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. In comparison with the first-gen Snapdragon G3x, the new chipset offers a 30% improvement in CPU and a 100% GPU enhancement. The chipset can pull TDP up to 15W. To offer continuous performance and dissipate heat, the console features a large-area VC thermal plater.

It would come in up to 16GB RAM variants, and we expect another 8GB RAM and 12GB RAM versions too. There will be 1 TB of storage. Details about the storage variants are not yet confirmed; however, the company only confirmed the 16GB RAM + 1TB storage variant while announcing the features. There could be an external storage expansion slot too.

It features a 6-inch IPS mirror display with 490 PPI pixel density, 120% sRGB color gamut volume, and 400 nits of brightness. In controls, it bundles an RGB Hall Sensor, Linear Hall Triggers, a D-Pad, and other gaming buttons. For haptics, it supports triple-mode vibration and SoundTAPMagic, dual-X acis linear motors, and a 6-axis gyroscope.

Ayaneo Pocket S measures 14mm in thickness and 300–400 g in weight. It is built with high-end design materials, including a matte all-metal CNC middle frame. There’s also a biomimetic design for heat dissipation. Further, the software enhancements improve the overall experience. It will be available in black and white color options.

Other Ayaneo Devices

Ayaneo is known for its gaming handheld consoles and mini PCs. It recently launched the Ayaneo FLIP handheld, which comes with an AMD Ryxen 8840U CPU, 64GB of RAM, and 2TB of storage. The company also introduced the Ayaneo AM02 Retro Mini PC, which ships with a 4-inch touch display for $499. Its predecessor, the Ayaneo Retro Mini PC AM01, was made available on Indiegogo in November 2023.

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itel P55, P55+ announced in India with 50MP camera & up to 16GB of virtual RAM expansion

By

Sean

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Feb 8, 2024

itel has just announced the brand new itel P55 and P55+ smartphone models in the Indian market. These are the company’s latest budget offerings, which offer some notable specs despite their affordable pricing. So here’s everything you need to know about these devices.

itel P55 Series Specs

The itel P55 and P55+ are quite similar in terms of specifications but feature slight differences in terms of design. The higher end Plus model offers a vegan leather back panel while the base variant has a glossy finish. Under the hood, both models are equipped with the UNISOC T606. Interestingly, the P55 comes with support for up to 16GB of virtual RAM expansion, while the P55+ offers an additional 8GB of RAM expansion. In other words, the itel P55 model is the first phone in India that technically offers 24GB RAM in this segment. For storage, the former houses 128GB of internal storage, and the latter comes with a sizeable 256GB capacity.

The lineup is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 45W wired fast charging on the itel P55+ and 18W fast charging on the vanilla P55. The front sports a 6.6-inch HD+ display that has a DOT-in screen with Dynamic bar and a 90Hz refresh rate on both models. For photography, the P55 series comes with a 50-megapixel dual camera setup on the rear and an 8-megapixel selfie shooter on the front. Other notable features include a side mounted fingerprint scanner, face unlock, and Android 13 OS out of the box.

itel P55 Series Pricing & Availability

The itel P55 is available in three color options, namely Moonlit Black, Aurora Blue, and Brilliant Gold. On the other hand, the P55+ is available in Royal Green and Meteor Black variants. The itel P55 starts from 7,499 INR for the 3GB model, while the 8GB variant costs 8,999 INR. Meanwhile, the P55+ has a 9,999 INR price tag for its lone 8GB + 256GB variant. itel is even offering a 500 INR bank discount on both models, with first sale set to kick off on 13th February 2024 at 12 PM IST.

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Vivo Y200e 5G BIS certified, could be rebranded version of this phone

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 8, 2024

Recent reports have revealed that Vivo is working on a Y-series phone dubbed the Vivo Y200e 5G. The device was recently spotted at the Bluetooth SIG certification, and now it has been approved by India’s BIS certification platform, it appears that it will be launching soon in the country.

Vivo Y200e 5G BIS certified

A Vivo phone with model number V2336 has appeared in the database of the BIS certification platform. As per the previously seen Bluetooth SIG listing, the V2336 will have the Vivo Y200e 5G marketing name.

Interestingly, the Vivo Y200e 5G appears to be a rebranded version of the Vivo Y100 5G, which recently debuted in Indonesia. The reason behind this is that the V2327 and V2336 have been found to be the same devices, as per the Google Supported Devices list (shown below).

Hence, the Vivo Y200e 5G may arrive with a 6.67-inch AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz display, a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip, 8 GB of RAM, 128 GB / 256 GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery with 80W charging. It will have an 8-megapixel selfie camera and a 50-megapixel (main) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) dual-camera system. The phone ships with FunTouch OS 14-based Android 14 and has an under-display fingerprint scanner.

Readers should note that there are three different Y100 5G phones. The first one, featuring the Dimensity 900, was announced last year in India. The second one is the Chinese edition equipped with the Snapdragon 695, which also debuted last year. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2-powered Y100 5G has just launched in Indonesia and is heading to some Asian markets like Thailand and Malaysia. This third variant is expected to be rebranded as the Vivo Y200e 5G.

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Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1 Arrives with Circle to Search and February Patches

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Feb 8, 2024

Pixel phones enrolled in the Android beta program have now started receiving the Android 14‘s QPR3 Beta 1 update. The update tackles a key issue and delivers a February security patch update to all eligible Pixel devices.

The QPR3 Beta 1 update comes with Build number AP21.240119.009 and weighs in at about 302MB. The main fix in the QPR3 Beta 1 is it resolves an oversight that left the “Circle to Search” feature unavailable in previous QPR betas.

The feature, currently exclusive to Pixel 8 devices, allows users to swipe up in a specific region to launch a Google search. Here’s the official changelog:

𝘍𝘪𝘹𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘶𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘊𝘪𝘳𝘤𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘚𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘉𝘦𝘵𝘢 𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘯-𝘉𝘦𝘵𝘢 𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘴. (𝘐𝘴𝘴𝘶𝘦 #323331515)

Beta testers can now enjoy the feature on their device after the update. Besides the “Circle to Search” fix, QPR3 Beta 1 includes the February security patches.

Eligible Pixel devices (5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, Fold, and Tablet) enrolled in the beta program will automatically receive the update within five days. You can also manually check for it in Settings > System > Software updates.

But if you’re no longer interested in beta testing and want the official Android 14 QPR2 release, you can opt out of the beta program at g.co/androidbeta without wiping your device.

However, crucially, skip installing QPR3 Beta 1 first, as doing so will trigger a data-wiping “Downgrade” update. Opting out after installing QPR3 Beta 1 will result in data loss.

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Pixel Tablet 2 might be under development, suggests codenames in Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1

By

Debasish

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Feb 8, 2024

Recent findings from the latest Android 14 QPR3 beta release suggest that Google is gearing up for the development of a next-generation Pixel Tablet 2. The discovery of two new codenames, “Clementine” and “Kiyomi,” alongside established naming conventions in Google’s internal development process, indicates a continuation of the Pixel Tablet series.

The codename “Citron” indicates a Pixel Tablet iteration under development

Previously, the Pixel Tablet project was associated with codenames like “Tangor” and “Tangorpro,” with the latter eventually becoming the released Pixel Tablet last year. The presence of additional codenames like “Citron” hinted at the possibility of other tablet iterations in development. Moreover, internal references to two versions of the tablet’s bundled dock, named “Korlan” and “Yuzu,” suggest Google’s intention to offer multiple accessories for the Pixel Tablet lineup, possibly including a charging-only dock.

The association of these codenames with fruits, particularly those in the citrus family, has been a consistent theme throughout Google’s Pixel Tablet development process. In horticulture, a tangor refers to a hybrid citrus fruit resulting from crossing a sweet orange with another citrus variety. Common examples of tangors include clementines and kiyomi, with the latter originating in Japan.

The Pixel Tablet 2 may upgrade to an OLED screen from the Pixel Tablet’s IPS LCD one

While the specifics of the new Pixel Tablet 2 remain uncertain, speculation points towards an enhanced device with potential features such as an OLED screen with a high refresh rate, support for a Pixel Stylus and Keyboard, and compatibility with a variety of accessories beyond a simple dock. These predictions align with the desires of users, including those outside of the Apple ecosystem who seek a premium tablet experience for tasks like architecture.

The unveiling of “Clementine” and “Kiyomi” in the Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1 builds anticipation for the future of Google’s tablet offerings. While there are no concrete details available yet, the citrus-themed codenames suggest that the Pixel Tablet 2 could be on the horizon. However, it’s important to approach these predictions with caution, as Google’s plans may evolve or change over time.

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Moto G04 expected to launch soon in India after latest teaser

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 8, 2024

After the recent launch of the Motorola G24 Power smartphone in the Indian market, the brand has just teased the arrival of another smartphone to the sub-continent. The company’s Indian branch has hinted at the arrival of a new device without disclosing its name, leading to speculation that it might be the Moto G04, which was recently introduced in Europe. This speculation is based on the teaser showcasing the device in Green, Blue, Black, and Orange colors, identical to the color options of the Moto G04.

The clock is ticking!!!
The time to stun the world has arrived.

Stay Tuned. pic.twitter.com/IyUzTgLq42
— Motorola India (@motorolaindia) February 8, 2024

Moto G04 details:

Should the speculations about the Moto G04 be accurate, the device is expected to feature a 6.6-inch display with HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. The smartphone is likely powered by a Unisoc T606 processor, supported by 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage, and operates on My UX based on the Android 14 OS.

For photography, the device may include a 16MP rear camera with LED flash and a 5MP front-facing camera for selfies. The Moto G04 is anticipated to come equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports 10W fast charging.

Additional features expected to be part of the Moto G04 include a 3.5mm audio jack, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio quality, an IP52 rating for water and dust resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for secure access, and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. In Europe, the device launched at 119 Euros (~$129). In India, we can expect the smartphone to arrive at a sub-₹10,000 price point.

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Samsung Galaxy A35 5G support page goes live in UAE and Philippines

By

Sean

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Feb 8, 2024

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is expected to launch soon. This upcoming smartphone has already surfaced in various certification platforms and leaks, and the latest sighting is from the official Samsung support page which hints at its imminent launch.

Samsung Galaxy A35 5G Support Page Live

The South Korean tech giant’s upcoming Galaxy A35 5G was spotted on support pages in UAE and Philippines. Looking at the official websites, we can see that the device will carry the model number SM-A356E/DS. This basically confirms its availability in these two regions. The support pages went live as the Galaxy A35 surfaced in South Korea’s RRA certification platform. The database also offered us a proper first look at the device via live images.

The device features a flat rear panel along with a triple camera setup and LED flash module. Similarly, leaked renders revealed the front design with a punch hole cutout for the selfie camera. The Galaxy A35 5G is expected to sport a 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate. A GeekBench listing confirmed that it is equipped with the Exynos 1380 SoC that is paired with 6GB of RAM.

Samsung’s Galaxy A35 will likely run on the Android 14 OS based One UI custom skin out of the box. Recently, the Galaxy A35 was spotted on the Bluetooth SIG certification platform, which confirmed support for Bluetooth 5.3. A BIS listing suggested the Indian availability. Lastly, the FCC database confirmed NFC, 5G support, and an SD card slot.

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(Via)

Honor unveils Protect Plan for Honor X9b 5G, offering screen replacement, buyback and extended warranty

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Feb 8, 2024

HTech is gearing up for the launch of its latest smartphone, the Honor X9b 5G, scheduled for next week. Ahead of its launch, the company today announced the “Honor Protect Plan”, a Rs 2,999 complimentary value-added service for Honor X9b buyers in India.

The aim is to provide comprehensive after-sales support and peace of mind to users. Here’s what the Honor Protection Plan includes:

One-time screen replacement: Users can get one free screen replacement within the first six months of purchase of the phone. The service also includes convenient doorstep pickup and delivery for repairs at authorized service centers.
Assured Buy Back option: As a part of this, Honor will be providing a 30-day window to return the phone for 90% of its invoice value, subject to certain conditions.

For instance, the company will not accept phones with broken or damaged bodies or screens. Additionally, there will be deductions of Rs 1500 for missing original accessories, 20% off for major scratches or dents, 15% for minor scratches or dents, and Rs 1000 off if the original box is absent during redemption.

Extended warranty cover: The plan extends the standard warranty by an additional 6 months, providing a total of 18 months of coverage.
Zero depreciation and zero excess: Users can benefit from full coverage without depreciation and avoid any additional payments for repairs during the warranty period.
Unlimited in-warranty support: The plan offers unlimited claims within the manufacturer’s warranty period, along with convenient door-to-door service assistance for repairs.

Availability and Launch

The Honor X9b 5G will be available for purchase on Amazon.in starting from February 15th. The Honor Protect Plan will be offered free of charge with every X9b purchase.

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TCL 505 smartphone with 6.75″ 90Hz display, Helio G36 SoC & 5010mAh battery launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 8, 2024

TCL has just launched an affordable smartphone in the global market called the TCL 505. The phone features a flat design with two cameras on the back along with a reflective finish. The phone has a 6.75-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, and 400 nits brightness equipped with technology to reduce blue light exposure and minimize reflections.

Powered by a Helio G36 chipset, the TCL 505 includes 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, with the option to expand via microSD card. Users will have the option to virtually increase the RAM by an additional 4GB, improving its performance in demanding tasks.

Photography on the TCL 505 is handled by a 50MP main camera, featuring a 1/2.55-inch sensor with 0.7μm pixels, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 5MP front camera for selfies. The phone also features dual speakers for a more immersive audio experience during media playback.

Battery life is a key focus, with a 5,010mAh battery supporting 10W charging to ensure the device can last through the day on a single charge.

The TCL 505 is available in Ocean Blue and Space Grey, continuing the design language of the TCL 50 series. While TCL has yet to announce pricing details for the 505, the device is expected to be competitively priced within the market.

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