Advertisement

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

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.

Related:

Moto G04 expected to launch soon in India after latest teaser

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.

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.

Moto G04

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.

RELATED:

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

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.

Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

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.

RELATED:

(Via)

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

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.

Related:

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

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.

RELATED:

Apple is working on two foldable iPhone prototypes: Report

Apple’s move into foldable space might still be a few years off. And it seems a foldable iPad will lead the way instead of an iPhone, as per earlier reports.

Nevertheless, Apple isn’t ignoring the idea of foldable iPhones. Recent reports from The Information suggest that Apple is still in the early stages of developing foldable smartphone prototypes. These prototypes reportedly include two designs resembling the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip models. 

According to the report, Apple is working on foldable iPhones that are only half as thick as current models, so that it doesn’t look too thick when it’s closed. The company is also exploring the idea of adding an outward screen. However, challenges with components like batteries and displays have seemingly made it hard for engineers to meet these goals.

Despite these challenges, Apple is said to have discussed ordering components with Asian manufacturers for two foldable iPhone sizes. However, there’s a possibility the project might be scrapped if it doesn’t meet Apple’s standards.

On the other hand, a foldable iPad seems to be a more manageable task. Apple is apparently focusing on an inward-folding iPad with an 8-inch screen, similar to the size of an iPad mini. The larger form factor allows for a thicker design and fewer durability concerns.

Yet, the primary challenge Apple is said to be facing with its foldable iPad is to get rid of the crease that forms with repeated folding. The company wants to make the screen completely flat which would allow seamless interaction and  Apple Pencil use. 

It’s unclear whether Apple has found an optimal solution to this issue. So, as of now, it appears that Apple’s foldable devices are still a few years away from becoming a reality.

Related:

Honor Choice Earbuds X5 teased in India with 35 hour long battery pack

HTech is gearing up to unveil the Honor X9b in the Indian market soon. But the smartphone model won’t be alone as it is set to arrive along with a new truly wireless earbuds called Honor Choice Earbuds X5 and the Honor Choice Watch. Now, the company has shared a fresh teaser that showcases its battery life. So let’s have a look.

Honor Choice Earbuds X5 Teaser

The brand’s upcoming Choice Earbuds X5 was teased on the X (formerly Twitter), with an image poster sharing its 35 hours long battery life. This teaser arrives soon after the Choice Earbuds X5 was officially confirmed to launch in India alongside the Honor X9b. As of right now, these wireless earphones have also surfaced on Amazon India, which confirms more of its specifications.

Honor Choice Earbuds X5

The Honor Choice Earbuds X5 will launch with an IP54 water and dust resistance. Each earbud weighs just 4.26 grams in weight and will offer a low latency mode for gaming. It will house a 10mm moving coil for improved sound quality as well. This model will support the Bluetooth 5.3 standard and offer up to 35 decibels of Active Noise Cancellation.

Thanks to its dual mics, the hearables offer ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) for an improved calling experience. It will also be paired with the Honor AI Space app to tweak touch controls and audio as well as receive firmware upgrades. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more updates as we will be covering the launch event on 15th February 2024.

RELATED:

Lenovo Tab Plus high-definition renders surfaced showcasing its design

We recently saw a few leaked designs of the upcoming Lenovo Tab Plus tablet, offering a high-definition rendering that showcases its aesthetic and functional features. The Lenovo Tab Plus aligns with current market trends, sporting flat edges and chamfered corners for both style and ease of handling. The front camera is positioned at the top middle of the front panel. It contributes to the device’s modern and sleek appearance.

The lower portion of the tablet is significantly thicker than the upper

The leak from WindowsReport also reveals the side profile of the tablet. It’s evident that the lower portion of the Lenovo Tab Plus is notably thicker than the upper part, almost doubling in thickness. Despite this variation, the tablet opts for a flat effect rather than a cylindrical chin, enhancing grip and usability. The left side of the fuselage houses a USB-C port, while the right side accommodates a headphone jack, volume buttons, two microphones, and a SIM/SD card slot. Notably, the device boasts large chambers for Dolby Atmos speakers on both sides, ensuring immersive audio experiences.

Turning our attention to the tablet’s back, we observe a significant upgrade in the stand mechanism, which is larger and thicker compared to previous models. When fully extended, the stand lies almost flat, providing stability in positioning. Additionally, located in the upper right corner of the rear panel is the device’s camera.

While specifications of the Lenovo Tab Plus are yet to be disclosed, it’s worth noting that the device will include a protective case within the package. Moreover, reports suggest that another accessory accompanying the tablet could be a stylus, catering to creative individuals who seek to maximize their productivity on the Tab Plus platform.

Overall, the Lenovo Tab Plus appears to offer a functional design and potential for enhanced creativity, positioning itself as a versatile option in the tablet market.

Related:

Infinix Smart 8 goes on sale in new 8GB + 128GB variant in India

Infinix has just launched a brand new model of the Smart 8 in India. The company’s smartphone now arrives in an 8GB + 128GB storage configuration. So here are all the details regarding its pricing and special offers.

Infinix Smart 8 Pricing, Availability, & Offers

The smartphone maker will sell the new 128GB version of the Infinix Smart 8 exclusively via Flipkart, a populer e-retailer in India. It is now available for purchase for a 8,999 INR price tag. The brand is even offering an instant 1,000 INR discount to SBI Credit and Debit Card holders. Another notable offer is the inclusion of Spotify Premium annual subscription at 699 INR.

Infinix Smart 8
Infinix Smart 8

Infinix Smart 8 Specs

To recall, the Infinix Smart 8 was first announced in the region a month ago. So apart from the higher RAM and storage capacity, this new model is identical to the base model. It sports a 6.6-inch IPS LCD panel, HD+ resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the phone features the MediaTek Helio G36 SoC that was paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage.

It run on the Android 13 Go edition out of the box and is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack that offers standard 10W charging. The rear packs a 50-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses an 8-megapixel selfie shooter. Other notable features include dual SIM, Bluetooth 5.0, side mounted fingerprint scanner, USB Type-C port, and DTS sound.

RELATED:

Xiaomi’s Cuktech launches a 20W GaN charger for iPhones

Cuktech (formerly ZMI) is a subsidiary of Xiaomi known for power accessories. The company sells a wide variety of chargers and power banks.

It has quietly released a new 20W GaN charger. This adapter is targeted at iPhone users.

Xiaomi Cuktech 20W GaN Charger

The latest charger from Cuktech bears model number HA716C. It supports up to 20W USB PD (Power Delivery) output.

The product uses Gallium Nitride (GaN), and therefore, it is smaller and lighter than regular silicon-based 20W chargers. The accessory weighs around 39g and measures 38 x 22.3 x 43mm in dimensions.

Cuktech claims that the adapter uses its third-gen GaN technology. The brand is so confident that it is offering an 18-month guarantee.

The charger has a single USB Type-C port. It can be used to charge an iPhone 8 to the latest iPhone 15 lineup.

Priced at just ¥19 (~$3), the Cuktech 20W GaN charger is way more affordable than Apple’s 20W power adapter. 

For the unaware, Apple’s offering retails at ¥149 (~$21) in China and carries a global (US) price tag of $19. It is not only expensive but also bigger and heavier as it still does not use Gallium Nitride.

Xiaomi’s Cuktech has a global presence and sells a handful of products. However, we are not sure if and when this new 20W GaN charger will be made available outside mainland China.

RELATED:

Oppo Reno 11F 5G launched with 120Hz OLED display, 64MP triple cameras, IP65-rated chassis

Oppo Reno 11F 5G has been launched in Thailand, marking the latest addition to the Reno 11 series. This lineup also includes the Reno 11 powered by Dimensity 7050 and the Reno 11 Pro equipped with Dimensity 8200. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the Reno 11F.

Oppo Reno 11F 5G specifications and features

Oppo Reno 11F 5G
Oppo Reno 11F 5G

The Reno 11F 5G has a 6.7-inch OLED display with a punch-hole design. The screen offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 240Hz touch sampling rate, a 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut, a 394ppi pixel density, an in-screen fingerprint scanner, and Panda glass protection.

On the front, the Reno 11F 5G has a 32-megapixel Sony IMX615 selfie camera. The back panel of the device has a 64-megapixel OmniVision OV64B main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro snapper. The device ships with ColorOS 14-based Android 14.

The Dimensity 7050 chip powers the Reno 11F 5G. It ships with 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, up to 8 GB of virtual RAM, 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging. The device offers other features, such as dual SIM, 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, NFC, a USB-C port, and a microSD card slot. The Reno 11F 5G has an IP65-rated body that measures 161.1 x 74.7 x 7.54mm and weighs 177 grams.

Oppo Reno 11F 5G price

The Reno 11F 5G has landed in Thailand with a price tag of THB 10,990 (~$307). It can be purchased in shades, such as Palm Green, Ocean Blue, and Coral Purple.

Speculations are rife that the Reno 11F 5G will also be released in some other Asian markets like Indonesia and Malaysia soon. In India, it is likely to be rebranded as the Oppo F25 5G. In addition, the upcoming OnePlus Nord CE 5 Lite is also said to be similar to the Reno 11F.

RELATED:

Samsung Galaxy A35 leaks in real-life photo from Korea’s RRA

Samsung will soon be expanding its Galaxy A-series with two new mid-range additions — the Galaxy A55 and A35. Recently, the affordable model, the Galaxy A35 made an appearance at South Korea’s Radio Research Agency (RRA), giving us a first real-life look at its design.

The live photo shows a phone with a flat back and individual camera cutouts, similar to other recent Samsung models. It also has a flat frame with the signature “Key Island” design around the buttons.

The RRA listing itself doesn’t reveal much more, but we’ve already gained insights on Galaxy A35’s design, thanks to the previous leaks and rumors

Leaked renders suggest the front will have a modern punch-hole cutout for the selfie cameras. Likewise, the phone is expected to have a 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The Galaxy A35 is said to come in icy blue, lilac, and navy blue color options 

Moreover, the smartphone has also made an appearance in the Geekbench benchmark listing, revealing that the A35 will be equipped with the Exynos 1380 chip. 

The 1380 is an octa-core processor with four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0GHz and four Cortex-A78 cores running at 2.4GHz. Its paired with Mali-G68 MP5 GPU for graphical tasks and has an AI Engine with 4.9TOPS power.

The listing also reveals it will have at least 6GB of RAM and will run on Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6 interface. But whether it will be the latest One UI 6.1 version is unknown. The benchmark scores suggest decent performance and confirm 5G connectivity.

While an official launch date is unknown, these leaks paint a clear picture of what to expect from the upcoming Galaxy A35. It appears to offer a familiar design, decent mid-range specifications, and 5G connectivity. We hope Samsung will launch it at a competitive price to make it an attractive option for users.

Related:

Disney Plus to start paid sharing similar to Netflix starting this summer

Disney is set to crack down on password-sharing for its streaming services, Disney Plus and Hulu, starting this summer. The announcement came during an earnings call where Disney’s chief financial officer, Hugh Johnston, revealed plans to offer separate subscriptions for accounts suspected of improper sharing. Additionally, Disney will introduce an option for account holders to add individuals outside their household for an extra fee, aiming to “improve” the overall customer experience and grow its subscriber base.

Existing subscribers of Disney Plus will face these changes starting March 14th.

Both Disney Plus and Hulu have recently updated their terms of service to prohibit subscription sharing with individuals outside one’s household. While these terms have already applied to new subscribers since January 25th, existing members will face these changes starting March 14th. This move follows Netflix’s implementation of a paid sharing model last year, where subscribers are charged an additional $7.99 per month to add someone located outside their home.

Disney sees paid sharing as an opportunity to expand its reach and capitalize on a strategy already employed by competitors. Johnston emphasized the company’s forthcoming actions to address this issue in the coming months, indicating a proactive approach to mitigate improper account usage.

In addition to the password-sharing crackdown, Disney Plus plans to launch a unified streaming experience with Hulu in March, following a successful beta release last year. However, Disney Plus reported a loss of 1.3 million subscribers in the US and Canada following price increases, while Hulu saw an increase of 1.2 million members.

Meanwhile, Disney-owned ESPN unveiled plans to launch a new live sports streaming service in partnership with Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery, set to debut in the fall. This service will also be accessible to Disney Plus bundle subscribers, which includes Hulu and ESPN Plus. These announcements coincide with Disney’s long-term strategy to adapt to the evolving media landscape, including the launch of a direct-to-consumer version of ESPN in August 2025, reflecting the company’s pivot away from traditional pay TV models in response to changing viewer habits and market dynamics.

Related:

Alleged Google Pixel Fold 2’s leaked image, reveals a redesigned look

In a recent report, Android Authority, citing an anonymous source, revealed key details about the chipset, RAM, and launch timeframe of the Google Pixel Fold 2. In a new report, the publication has leaked an image of what seems to be an early version of the Pixel Fold 2. The image that has been obtained from the same source reveals that the device will sport a refreshed design.

Purported Google Pixel Fold 2’s design revealed

Alleged Google Pixel Fold 2 image by AndroidAuthority
Alleged Google Pixel Fold 2 image by AndroidAuthority

The dimensions of the Pixel Fold 2 are not known yet, but the source revealed that its internal display has a squarish appeal. It means Fold 2’s form factor could be slightly narrower than its predecessor. To sum up the form factor, its dimensions could be similar to those of the OnePlus Open, which measures 153.4 x 143.1 x 5.8mm when unfolded.

Google has used the horizontal camera bar design since the Pixel 6 series debuted in 2019. The image of the early version of Fold 2 from the Engineering Validation Test EVT stage shows that it has a camera island at the upper-left corner. It appears to have four cameras, such as a main camera, an ultra-wide snapper, a periscope telephoto camera, and an unknown lens.

It is unclear whether the fourth sensor is a camera, a flicker sensor, or an FIR thermometer sensor for measuring the temperature of the skin or object. The camera island also includes a microphone and an LED flash.

The source revealed that while the overall feel of the Pixel 2 will be similar to its predecessor, its design elements could be similar to the Pixel 9 series. Like the outer screen, the inner display is said to have rounded corners and a top-right corner-positioned punch hole. In addition, it will also have an aluminium frame. The source also added that the internal screen is quite noticeable. It appears that the device will be thinner than before.

Reports suggest that the Pixel Fold 2 may launch by October this year. Since the rumored launch is a couple of months away, it is advisable to digest the leak with a pinch of salt. As far as specs are concerned, the device is expected to feature a Tensor G3 or G4 chipset, 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, 256 GB of UFS 4.0 storage, and Pixel AI assistant.

RELATED:

(source)

Redmi A3 Flipkart page goes live ahead of February 14 launch

Yesterday, Redmi India confirmed that it will unveil the Redmi A3 smartphone on Feb. 14. Ahead of the launch, the device’s page, revealing key specifications and design, has gone live on Flipkart. Here is a look at the details that the brand has officially confirmed.

Redmi A3 key specifications

Redmi A3 launch date

The Redmi A3’s microsite has revealed that it will sport the all-new halo design for the rear camera module. While the predecessor Redmi A1 and A2 sported a squarish camera module, the A3 will be equipped with a round camera deco.

The brand has confirmed that the Redmi A3 will feature a 90Hz refresh rate display. While there is no word on the chipset of the device, it is confirmed to feature up to 6 GB of RAM and up to 6 GB of virtual RAM.

The A3 will pack a 5,000mAh battery and will come with a USB-C port for charging. The rest of the specs of the A3 are expected to be revealed officially in the next few days before the launch.

As per other reports, the Redmi A3 will feature a MediaTek chip. For photography, it is expected to arrive with an 8-megapixel front camera and a 13-megapixel dual-camera system. While one of the above images confirms that the A3 will be available in a green variant, it is also expected to arrive in black and blue options.

The Redmi A3 will be an entry-level offering from the brand. Hence, it is likely that the base model of the device could be priced at around Rs 7,000 (~$85).

In related news, Redmi will also announce the Redmi Buds 5 TWS earbuds in the coming week. Set to launch on Feb. 12, it will come with key features such as 12.4mm titanium audio drivers, 46dB hybrid ANC, dual-device pairing support, dual microphones with AI voice enhancement, and up to 38 hours of battery life.

RELATED:

Xiaomi Civi 4 launch timeline tipped

The Xiaomi Civi 4 is expected to launch soon. A tipster has now revealed when this device will be released.

At the same time, the leaker has disclosed the positioning of this phone. Let’s go through the details.

Xiaomi civi 3
Xiaomi Civi 3

A tipster on Weibo who goes by Smart Pikachu claims that the Xiaomi Civi 4 will launch around May. If this is true, the handset will go official the same month as its predecessor.

Further, he says that the smartphone will compete with the Honor number series. The device will arrive with improvements in performance and camera.

Lastly, he reveals that Xiaomi will continue to release co-branded gift boxes. Going by the previous Civi models, there could be multiple limited editions after the original launch.

That’s all the details the leaker has shared. Apart from this, an earlier leak had disclosed that the phone will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300-Ultra chipset.

However, the chip leak is from late November and we haven’t heard any update on it so far. Therefore, we advise readers to consider the chipset detail with a pinch of salt.

Additionally, Digital Chat Station, a reliable Chinese leaker, also shared a few things regarding the Civi 4 in late January. As per him, the handset will come with a 1.5K slightly curved display, a metal frame, and a triple camera system.

That said if the smartphone is set to release in May as the tipster claims, we expect to learn more about it in the coming days.

RELATED:

Vivo X Fold 3, X Fold 3 Pro MIIT certified in China, March launch expected

Vivo is likely to hold a major launch event in China in March. The brand is expected to take off cover from its next-generation foldable phones, the Vivo X Fold 3 and the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro. The IMEI database listings of these devices that were spotted a couple of weeks ago revealed that they have V2303A and V2337A model numbers, respectively. Ahead of the expected launch, both devices have received approval from the MIIT authority in China.

Vivo X Fold 3 series receive MIIT certification

The above screenshots show that the Vivo X Fold 3 and X Fold 3 Pro have received approval from the MIIT regulatory body. Unfortunately, the listings have no information on the specifications of these devices. However, the rumor mill has already leaked a few specifications of these devices.

Vivo X Fold 3 series specifications (rumored)

According to reports, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro will be a premium offering equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. There is a possibility that it may pack a 5,700mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging.

The device is likely to feature a 2K resolution internal display with support for a 120Hz refresh rate. For security, both the outer and internal displays will come equipped with an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner. Its rear camera setup may include a 50-megapixel OV50H main camera with OIS support, an ultra-wide lens, and a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto camera.

On the other hand, the Vivo X Fold 3 is said to be an affordable foldable phone as it is said to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. It is likely to feature a side-facing fingerprint sensor for security and pack a 5,600mAh battery. While there is no word on its wired charging capabilities, it is said to lack support for wireless charging.

The rear camera setup of the Vivo X Fold 3 is expected to include a 50-megapixel OV50H main camera. However, it may lack a periscope zoom camera. Both models are expected to ship with the Origin OS 4-based Android 14. It is likely that the X Fold 3 could be one the lightest foldable phone weighing under 230 grams.

RELATED:

Disney is Investing a Whopping $1.5 Billion in Epic Games

Disney has teamed up with Epic Games, laying down a whopping $1.5 billion to secure a stake in the gaming powerhouse. This collaboration isn’t just about money; it’s about crafting a brand-new universe where games and entertainment collide, promising to breathe new life into Disney’s cherished tales and characters.

The creative and strategic potential of this collaboration was insane

Dubbed a venture that could redefine how we play, watch, and interact with content, this partnership hints at a future where the boundaries between gaming and storytelling blur. Imagine stepping into a world powered by Epic’s Unreal Engine, a place teeming with the magic of Disney and the thrill of Epic’s gaming prowess. This isn’t just another game launch; it’s a promise of an immersive universe where fans can explore, create, and even shop within their favorite Disney narratives.

Disney

Disney’s venture into this “persistent universe” isn’t uncharted territory. Their characters have already made appearances in Fortnite, showcasing how well Disney’s stories mesh with Epic’s gaming landscape. But this new universe aims to go further, offering an integrated experience that leverages content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more, all within a space that coexists with the Fortnite ecosystem.

The financial aspect of this deal might raise eyebrows, with Disney’s $1.5 billion investment being a drop in the ocean for Epic, valued at a staggering $32 billion. Yet, it’s the creative and strategic potential of this partnership that’s truly exciting. Disney’s history in the gaming world has been a rollercoaster of investments and divestments, but this move could herald a stable and innovative presence in the industry.

Bob Iger, Disney’s CEO, sees this as more than just an investment; it’s a significant leap into the gaming world, promising growth and new opportunities. While there’s no word yet on specific TV or movie projects, the partnership makes such developments seem inevitable, especially considering the current trend of successful adaptations of video game properties. As expected, Disney’s stock soared. With Disney and Epic at the helm, we’re on the brink of entering a universe where magic can actually be Epic.

RELATED:

(Via)

Apple Unveils AI Tool for Easy Text-Prompted Photo Edits

Apple has once again pushed the boundaries of technology, this time transforming the way we think about photo editing. With the introduction of the MGIE model, a collaboration with the University of California, Santa Barbara, Apple is making it simpler for everyone to tweak photos with just a few words. Gone are the days when mastering complex software was a prerequisite for photo editing. Now, whether you want to crop, resize, flip, or add a bit of flair with filters, all you need is to describe your vision.

Apple’s software will be going up against already-established tech in the industry

The brilliance of MGIE, which stands for MLLM-Guided Image Editing, lies in its ability to understand and execute both straightforward and intricate edits through textual prompts. Imagine wanting a bluer sky in your photo; MGIE interprets this request into a specific action, like enhancing the brightness of the sky, to fulfill your request accurately.

Apple

One of the most captivating examples provided involves transforming an image of pepperoni pizza into a healthier version by simply asking the model to “make it more healthy,” which magically adds vegetable toppings to the pizza. Similarly, a dim picture of tigers can be brightened with a prompt to add more contrast, showcasing the model’s ability to bring your imagination to life.

Apple’s venture into the AI editing space with MGIE is a notable shift, especially when considered alongside giants like Adobe, which has led the charge with its own AI editing tools. While Apple has traditionally been more reserved in the generative AI arena, this innovation marks a significant step towards integrating more AI features into its products, as hinted by CEO Tim Cook. Making MGIE accessible through GitHub and a web demo on Hugging Face Spaces opens up new possibilities for creatives and tech enthusiasts alike.

RELATED:

(Via)

Tesla Boosts Sales in China and Scores a Record January

Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, has kicked off 2024 with a notable achievement in China, proving its continued dominance in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. Last January, the company reported an 8% increase in wholesale shipments of its China-made Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, totaling 71,447 units. This growth is not just a number; it’s a testament to Tesla’s enduring appeal in the competitive Chinese market.

This January was the best January on record for the company.

Operated out of the Tesla Giga Shanghai, the world’s largest all-electric car manufacturing plant, Tesla has managed to produce nearly 950,000 vehicles in 2023 alone. The plant serves as the core hub for Tesla’s operations in China, catering to local demand while also handling significant export volumes. Despite facing a dip in numbers compared to the high figures of November and December 2023, Tesla achieved its best January on record.

Tesla

The China Passenger Car Association’s (CPCA) preliminary data highlights this performance as an indicator of Tesla’s resilient market position. The introduction of the upgraded Model 3, known as Highland, alongside enhancements to the Model Y, has kept consumer interest alive and kicking. Notably, the Model Y emerged as the top-selling all-electric model in China for 2023, underscoring Tesla’s capability to innovate and lead.

This sustained success is crucial for Tesla, especially following a brief slowdown in production during the third quarter of 2023. The swift ramp-up to full production capacity for the updated Model 3 underlines Tesla’s efficiency and the strategic importance of the Shanghai factory in its global operations.

RELATED:

(Via)