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BMW iX3 electric SUV to use new battery technology and offer a range of up to 800 kilometers in 2026

BMW‘s forthcoming iX3 is set to play a pivotal role as the inaugural model in the Neue Klasse series, representing the core of BMW’s lineup for the next decade. The success or failure of the iX3 is deemed crucial to BMW’s ambitious electrification transformation. Scheduled for production in 18 months, the 2026 iX3 will join BMW’s product lineup alongside facelifted versions of its existing fuel-powered X3, marking a significant step in the brand’s journey toward electric vehicles (EVs).

Spy shots of the BMW iX3 prototype has surfaced

The design incorporates traditional BMW elements such as the Hofmeister corner on the rear window, along with features inspired by BMW’s latest concept cars like the Vision Circular and Vision Neue Klasse, evident in the wide, closed front end. Interior spy photos suggest a departure from the traditional instrument display in favor of a head-up display projected on the front windshield, resembling the Vision Neue Klasse.

The iX3 is built on the Neue Klasse platform, featuring an 800-volt electrical architecture and BMW’s sixth-generation battery. This battery utilizes a smaller cylindrical design, replacing the current prismatic battery, resulting in a 20% increase in battery energy density, a 30% boost in driving range (approximately 800 kilometers), and a 60% reduction in production-related carbon emissions. These advancements also contribute to a 30% reduction in charging time, promoting enhanced efficiency.

Expected to offer single-motor and dual-motor powertrains with rear- or all-wheel-drive options, the iX3 lineup may include an entry-level iX3 40 and a high-performance model, possibly the M60 xDrive or iX3 M, boasting up to 600 horsepower.

Currently produced in China alongside the i3 sedan, BMW plans to expand production of Neue Klasse models, including the iX3, to other global plants, including Munich, Germany, and Mexico. Additionally, BMW aims to introduce a long-wheelbase version of the iX3 tailored specifically for the Chinese market, designated as NA6.

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Itel P55+ with 45W charging, iP55 with 256GB storage launching on February 8 in India

Itel recently confirmed that it will announce as many as three P-series Power Play phones in February in India. Today, a landing page showcasing the arrival of two new phones, the itel P55 and itel P55+, has gone live on Amazon India. The listing reveals that both phones are scheduled to launch on Feb. 8 in the country. The brand has confirmed the key specifications and design of both smartphones.

Itel P55+

The major highlight of the itel P55+ is that it will offer 45W fast charging. According to the company, the phone can go from 0 to 70 percent in just 30 minutes. It will offer three levels of charging: Hyper Charge for quickly replenishing the battery, allowing users to gain 25 percent battery power in just 10 minutes. The Smart Charge option relies on AI to charge the phone based on the user’s usage pattern. There is also a Low-Temp Charge option that will charge the device without overheating. 

The device is also expected to offer up to 16 GB of RAM, including virtual RAM. It will come equipped with a 50-megapixel dual-camera system. Additionally, one of the color variants of the phone has a dual-tone finish featuring a leather-textured portion.

Itel P55

The itel P55’s main feature is that it will offer users 256 GB of built-in storage. It will also feature a dual-camera system. The other details of this phone are yet to be confirmed. 

Since these devices are already available in the African market, their specs are already known. Both phones will have a 6.56-inch HD+ 90Hz LCD panel, a Unisoc T606 chip, Android 13, an 8-megapixel front camera, and a 5,000mAh battery (18W charging on P55). The series is also expected to receive a third model named the itel P55T. This phone is likely to pack similar specs and will also offer a 6,000mAh battery as a differing feature.

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BYD introduces Seal 06: A new plug-in hybrid car in the lineup

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has unveiled BYD‘s latest addition to its lineup through the “Announcement of Road Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Products” (Batch 380). Alongside the previously reported Qin L, BYD introduces the Seal 06, a new plug-in hybrid model. Positioned as a vehicle under the existing Seal EV and Seal DM-i models, the Seal 06 stands out with a noticeably shorter body, suggesting a lower positioning in BYD’s product range.

The Seal 06 is shorter than the existing Seal EV, Seal DM-i models

The Seal 06, a plug-in hybrid car, exhibits dimensions of 4830mm in length, 1875mm in width, and 1495mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2790mm. Comparing these figures with the previously reported Qin L (4830/1900/1495mm, wheelbase 2790mm) indicates a potential interaction between the two models, suggesting a “sister model” relationship, similar to the dynamic between Qin PLUS and Destroyer 05 in BYD’s lineup.

Continuing BYD’s commitment to “marine aesthetics” in design, the Seal 06 boasts soft and smooth lines. The front grille, resembling a big grinning mouth, adds a unique touch to the vehicle’s appearance. Petal-style wheels contribute to the overall aesthetics, and buyers have the option to include a sunroof, panoramic sunroof, or small sunroof, providing customization choices for a personalized driving experience.

Under the hood, the Seal 06 is equipped with a 1498ml engine delivering 74kW of power, enabling a top speed of 180km/h. This car is anticipated to be part of BYD’s fifth-generation DM-i hybrid system, sharing the core technology with the Qin L but differentiating itself through distinctive exterior and interior design elements.

As automakers increasingly embrace hybrid technology, BYD’s Seal 06 enters the scene as a noteworthy addition, catering to consumers looking for a more environmentally friendly yet versatile driving experience. The strategic placement of the Seal 06 within BYD’s product hierarchy suggests a commitment to providing a diverse range of options for consumers seeking plug-in hybrid vehicles.

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Redmi K50 finally receiving HyperOS Update with January 2024 Security Patch

Xiaomi is finally pushing a stable HyperOS update for the Redmi K50 in China. The update with firmware 1.0.2.0.ULNCNXM is now rolling out to all users and weighs around 5.7GB in size. It is an incremental rollout and may take some time to reach each unit after successful verification with a small group of users. However, the update brings several new improvements and feature upgrades. More details are below:

The new update brings all the new features of HyperOS along with the luxuries of Android 14. With the new features and enhancements, the update also brings the January 2024 security patch. It aims to enhance the system’s performance and power efficiency. After the update, the smartphone may get overheated or have some issues for a couple of days. But it will get normal within a short time after its optimization for the new system is completed.

Redmi K50 initially received the HyperOS Developer Version and later beta builds, and now the Sable build is here. As listed in the second batch to receive the Hyper OS, the Redmi K50 is finally receiving it.

Below is the HyperOS official changelog (translated):

Xiaomi HyperOS

Xiaomi's ThePaper OS creates a "full ecology for people, cars and homes" operating system.

system

Update Google security patch (2024#01) to improve system security.

Low-level refactoring

The bottom layer of Xiaomi's ThePaper OS is reconstructed, which is the key to exerting excellent hardware performance;

Key task identification and dyeing technology dynamically controls resource allocation based on task importance, with stronger performance and lower power consumption;

Ultra-low-power rendering framework improves battery life and provides smoother animation effects;

SOC integrated frequency modulation connects the hardware resources of the whole machine in series to respond to changes in computing power requirements faster, with fewer frame drops and smoother performance;

Smart IO engine, focus IO is executed first to avoid preemption and make it smoother;

Refresh storage technology to reduce storage fragmentation, allowing you to use it as new for a long time;

The intelligent network selection capability has been upgraded, making the network in weak network environments smoother;

Intelligent signal selection engine dynamically adjusts antenna strategies to improve signal stability.

Cross-terminal intelligent connection

Xiaomi HyperConnect cross-device interconnection framework allows devices to be efficiently connected and achieve ultimate collaboration;

The new integrated device center enables dynamic real-time networking of all devices, and you can view and control surrounding devices in the control center;

The cross-device experience has been fully upgraded, supporting cross-device calls to multiple hardware capabilities such as cameras, screens, and communications;

Data and services such as applications, audio and video, and clipboard support the free flow between multiple devices.

Global security

Security and privacy architecture for device interconnection;

Devices verify mutual security through TEE, and data transmission is encrypted at the hardware level;

Cross-end privacy system, including Internet permission management, Internet behavior reminders and Internet behavior records.

Aesthetics of life

The life-sense aesthetics facing globalization creates delicate and comfortable visuals and light and coherent dynamic effects. The diverse fusion of expressions brings a new systematic aesthetic experience;

The new motion language brings a light and coherent global motion experience;

Vitality color system, natural colors full of vitality, give the interface a brand new look;

Unified system fonts, designed for the world;

New weather design and real-time weather engine create a surreal visual experience;

Global focus notification system dynamically displays changes in key information;

The new artistic lock screen turns every photo of yours into a poster. It also has dynamic glass material, making the screen look exquisite the moment it lights up;

The design of desktop icons has been upgraded, and the colors and shapes have been completely renewed;

Self-developed multiple rendering technologies present delicate and comfortable natural visual effects;

Reconstruct multi-task window management, unified interaction, efficient and easy to use.

Users can head over to Device Settings > About > Software Update > Check for Update to grab the latest firmware. Before upgrading, make sure you have an ample amount of storage and battery left on your smartphone. Otherwise, it may cause issues that may even corrupt data.

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Samsung Receives Maiden 2nm AI Accelerator Order, Including HBM and Advanced Packaging

Most chip manufacturing companies are continuously making efforts to expand, accent, and enhance chip manufacturing to meet the ever-growing demand. Samsung Electronics, TSMC, and Intel are now working on 2nm chip manufacturing, which will go live for production next year. Amidst all this, Samsung Foundry has received its first 2nm AI Accelerator Order along with HBM and Advanced Packaging Services.

In an announcement along with the Q4 2023 report, Samsung mentions the jump in demand for smartphones and PCs, which is also turning the tide for the foundry business. According to assumptions, the chip foundry market will return to the demand level of 2022 this year. With increasing demand for AI and other complex processes, chip makers are continuously increasing their efforts to start developing 2nm chipsets.

Samsung in particular is currently mass-producing 3nm GAA chips, while the 2nm process is slated for next year. The new process aims to increase performance by 25% in comparison with the 3nm GAP process. Even so, it will improve the power efficiency by 12% and reduce the size by over 5% in comparison with the 3nm 3GAP. Samsung could get a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 manufacturing consignment, which will use their 3nm GAP process.

Major players like TSMC, Intel, and Samsung are leading the charge to tackle the growing demand for the latest and most advanced semiconductor manufacturing process. Reports suggest that Apple is set to become TSMC’s inaugural customer for the 2nm process. Additionally, Intel has announced receiving orders for its 18A process, specifically for 5G infrastructure chips, from Ericsson.

Amidst this competition, Samsung is gearing up to attract customers to its 2nm process by offering competitive prices. Qualcomm, a major player in the semiconductor industry, is reportedly planning to shift some of its flagship System on Chips (SoCs) to Samsung’s SF2, indicating the company’s interest in Samsung’s 2nm manufacturing capabilities. The move towards more advanced processes reflects the industry’s continuous pursuit of enhanced performance and efficiency in semiconductor manufacturing.

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Nothing Phone (2a) live shots emerge to hint front, rear design

In the past week, Nothing announced that its upcoming smartphone will bear the name Nothing Phone (2a). Nevertheless, the brand has not disclosed details regarding its design and specifications. With the smartphone expected for a release later this month, it is probable that the company will officially confirm some specifics in the coming week. In a new development, it seems that Nothing may have unintentionally leaked images of the Phone (2a) on its Reddit handle. Although the pictures have been taken down, they have already circulated extensively on various social media platforms.

Nothing Phone (2a) live shots

The images of the alleged Nothing Phone (2a) do not provide a clear look at its design as it is enclosed in a protective case. On the front, the device can be seen sporting a display with a centrally positioned punch-hole.

The backside of the phone is rumored to feature a redesigned Glyph interface, but it is not visible because of the case. The rear does suggest that it has a horizontally arranged dual-camera system and an LED flash. Here is a look at the rumored specifications of the device.

Nothing Phone (2a) specifications (rumored)

According to reports, the Nothing Phone (2a) will feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display that supports a Full HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an under-display fingerprint sensor. Under the hood, the device is expected to feature the Dimensity 7200 chipset, up to 12 GB of RAM, up to 256 GB of storage, and a 4,920mAh battery with 45W fast charging.

The Phone (2a) may feature a 32-megapixel Sony IMX615 front camera. Its rear camera setup may include an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel Samsung GN9 main camera and a 50-megapixel Samsung JN1 ultra-wide lens. The device is expected to run on Nothing OS 2.5-based Android 14 and is likely to arrive in black and white shades.

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Vivo V30 launched with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, 50MP selfie, dual 50MP rear cameras

Vivo has quietly unveiled the Vivo V30 for the global market. The company has not confirmed the device’s price but has assured that it will be released in 30 markets in the near future. These markets include countries such as India, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the UAE. As anticipated, the Vivo V30 is a modified version of the Vivo S18, which made its debut in December in the Chinese market.

Vivo V30 specifications and features

VIvo V30
VIvo V30

The Vivo V30 features a 6.78-inch curved-edge AMOLED panel with a centrally positioned punch-hole. The screen delivers a 1.5K resolution of 1280 x 2800 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Operating on Android 14, overlaid with the FunTouch OS 14, the company has confirmed that the V30 will provide 50 months of a smooth experience, hinting at approximately 4 years of software updates.

VIvo V30
VIvo V30

It is the first smartphone to launch outside of China with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip onboard. Depending on the market, the smartphone will be available in multiple configurations, such as 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage, 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, and 12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage. The device houses a 5,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging support.

On the front, the Vivo V30 features a 50-megapixel OmniVision OV50E selfie camera with autofocus support. On the back, it showcases a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and an Aura LED flash, equipped with smart color temperature adjustment support.

VIvo V30
VIvo V30

The Vivo V30 comes with an IP54-rated chassis, measuring 7.45mm in thickness and weighing around 186 grams. It is available in shades such as Noble Black, Bloom White, Waving Aqua, and Lush Green.

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NIU KQi 300P all-terrain e-scooter goes on sale in the EU & US with early bird discounts (sold out)

Chinese e-scooter manufacturer NIU first announced the rugged KQi 300P e-scooter touted to be an all-terrain two-wheeler last month. NIU has started accepting pre-orders for the new all-terrain electric scooter. The KQi 300P is available in the US and the EU with NIU offering several discount and early bird promotions.

NIU KQi 300 e-scooter

The NIU KQi 300P has a dual suspension system with a 450W motor and a range of 30 miles. It is available in black and white color variants and was unveiled together with the KQi 300X. Apart from its dual-tube hydraulic suspension, its motor has a peak power output of 900W and the bike has a top speed of 32km/h (20mph). The e-scooter has a throttle that activates the power output while the e-scooter’s 482Wh battery delivers a range of about 48km on a single charge.

The KQi 300P e-scooter has an LED dashboard, 10.5-inch tires, LED lights, and turn signals. It is currently only available directly from NIU but subsequently, it could be ordered from e-commerce channels like Amazon.

The NIU KQi 300P e-scooter is currently priced in the US at $594.30, as NIU is shoving 30% off its original price for early bird purchases. However, the early bird discount is only available for the first 200 customers and for orders that were earlier placed on February 1. The 200-customer limit has already been achieved in the EU which has a similar early-bird deal for customers. In the EU customers are offered a 20% discount and the e-scooter is priced at €559.20 until March 20. The NIU KQi 300P will ship to US customers in March while the EU countries will get the earliest arrivals by April 2024.

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Trek Marlin+ electric mountain bike with Bosch-powered mid-drives announced with an affordable price tag

The Trek Marlin+ electric mountain bike has just been announced. The new Trek offering is a hardtails electric mountain bike that comes with the Bosch-powered mid-drive system and an affordable price tag. The Trek Marlin+ e-bike comes with a 120mm front suspension, 27.5/ 29-inch wheels and 2.6-inch tires.

Trek marlin

Features

The Marlin+ retains some of the features of the non-electric Marlin but the Bosch-powered mid-drive setup in the new eMTB sets it apart, coupled with its affordable price. The Bosch e-bike drive system consists of the Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive motor, a Bosch CompactTube 400 battery, and a Bosch Purion display. The e-bike has a maximum torque rating of 50Nm to help navigate uphill with some extra pedal effort. The battery has a capacity of 400Wh and is fully encased within the frame, providing for a more efficient performance. The battery is charged directly on the bike with a connector above the electric motor.

The Trek Marlin+ has a 250Wh auxiliary battery that extends the range of the eMTB by up to 60%. It is unclear what the original range of the Marlin+ will be and the range extension could be dependent on the ride mode implemented.

Trek Marlin

Pricing and Availability

The Trek Marlin+ eMTB is priced in the US at $2,699 and this places it as one of the most affordable Trek e-bikes in the market. It is also one of the most affordable Bosch-powered mid-drive eMTB. The fact that it is a Bosch-powered e-bike, coupled with it being a Trek offering, comes with a decent warranty and access to local bike stores to test drive the e-bike. The Marlin+ has an entry-level motor and the battery seems small as well. However, the price considerations may have warranted the chosen combination for the Trek Marlin+.

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Google Play Store 39.5.18 APK is now rolling out

Google has recently released an updated version of the Google Play Store, marked as version 39.5.18, for Android users. This latest update is part of Google’s routine enhancements, although the company has not disclosed specific details regarding the changes or improvements made.

Google-Play-Store

Compatibility and How to Download

This update is designed for Android devices running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher, ensuring broad compatibility. While the update typically installs automatically, users have the option to manually initiate the download and installation process. It’s worth noting that the download size may vary based on the device.

Play Store Search Feature Overhaul

Google is currently experimenting with a notable modification to the Play Store’s search functionality. This involves introducing a dedicated search page and relocating the search bar to the top of the Search tab, adding an additional step to initiate searches. Although this redesign aims to enhance monetization opportunities through advertising, it has received mixed feedback from users concerned about usability and the potential for more aggressive advertising tactics.

Expanding Real-Money Gambling App Support

In a strategic move, Google plans to broaden the availability of real-money gambling apps in select countries, including India, Mexico, and Brazil, starting June 2024. This decision comes with strict adherence to age and location restrictions to promote safety and legal compliance. This expansion is anticipated to increase competition among app developers while also spotlighting the significance of responsible gaming practices. This follows Google’s 2021 policy adjustments that allowed an increased presence of gambling apps in the US market, tailored to meet region-specific regulations.

Installing the Google Play Store APK

To manually install the Google Play Store APK on your Android device, follow these steps:

  • Open your device’s Settings.
  • Navigate to Applications or Security, depending on your device.
  • Enable the Unknown Sources option to allow app installations from sources other than the Google Play Store.
  • Download the Google Play Store APK.
  • Locate the downloaded APK file and tap it to start the installation.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation process.
  • Once installed, the Google Play Store icon should appear on your home screen or in the app drawer.

By following these instructions, you can ensure that your device runs the latest version of the Google Play Store, keeping you up to date with the newest features and improvements.

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Genshin Impact 4.5 update to bring quality of life features: leak reveals

Genshin Impact fans have something thrilling to look forward to in the upcoming 4.5 update. The game, known for its expansive world and engaging PvE activities, is set to receive several quality-of-life improvements aimed at enriching the player experience further.

Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact 4.5 Expected Features (Leaked)

Among the anticipated updates is the introduction of a new graphic setting labeled “highest quality,” which promises to elevate the visual experience to new heights.

The update will also introduce the “Training Guide” feature, which is designed to assist players in understanding their characters’ strengths and optimizing gameplay. This tool categorizes characters based on their abilities and provides detailed statistics on weapon usage and artifact setups. The Training Guide offers personalized recommendations to help players improve their performance in different game modes.

The update also plans to overhaul the quest navigation system, making it more intuitive by ensuring it follows the corresponding map layer. This refinement is expected to streamline the exploration process, allowing players to navigate the game’s vast world with greater ease and efficiency.

In a delightful twist for cat enthusiasts, the Serenitea Pot realm—Genshin Impact’s unique housing system—will introduce the ability to pet cats. This feature, while not directly influencing gameplay, adds a charming element of interaction, further enriching the personalization and enjoyment of the Serenitea Pot experience.

Genshin-Impact-Chiori

Furthermore, the update teases the release of a new Geo character, Chiori, who is rumored to bring a new combat style to the game as the first dual-wielding unit. While details on Chiori’s abilities remain speculative, the prospect of a new character always stirs excitement within the Genshin Impact community.

HoYoverse, the game’s developer, has scheduled the 4.5 update release for March. As the release date approaches, players eagerly await official announcements and developer discussions for more insights into these quality-of-life changes and new content.

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Huawei ecosystem brand Wiko to launch a smartphone with 40W charging support

Wiko is one of the many Huawei ecosystem brands. The company is known for selling 5G versions of 4G-only Huawei smartphones.

An upcoming handset from the firm has been certified by 3C. The certification reveals the device’s charging capabilities.

Huawei-Enjoy-70-Pro-Design
Huawei Enjoy 70 Pro

A new Wiko smartphone with model number BAL-AN20 arrives on 3C. As per the listing, the phone will carry support for 40W wired charging.

Unfortunately, that’s all the information we have on this forthcoming device. We are looking forward to learning more about it in the coming days.

This handset could be a rebranded version of Huawei Enjoy 70 Pro. The Huawei phone went official just last month.

The product arrives with a 6.7-inch centered punch-hole FHD+ (2388 x 1080 pixels) display (LCD). It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 chip and boots HarmonyOS 4.

The smartphone sports a 108MP primary camera, a 2MP depth sensor, and an 8MP selfie camera. It offers support for dual SIM, 4G, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, GNSS, and USB Type-C.

The device uses a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometrics. Last but not least, it is backed by a 5,000mAh battery with support for 40W wired charging.

The Huawei Enjoy 70 Pro comes in 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB memory configurations priced at ¥1,499 and ¥1,699, respectively. It comes in Emerald Green, Snowy White, and Obsidian Black color options.

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Noise ColorFit Vivid Call 2 smartwatch with 1.85″ display, 7-day battery life & Bluetooth Calling unveiled

Indian electronics manufacturer Noise is set to introduce another smartwatch in its ColorFit series with the launch of the ColorFit Vivid Call 2. This new addition is already listed on Amazon India, with availability expected soon. Here are all the available details.

Key Features and Design

The ColorFit Vivid Call 2 is equipped with a 1.85-inch TFT display, providing users with a wide range of over 150+ watch faces to suit different styles and moods. The smartwatch will be offered in five distinct color options: Jet Black, Forest Green, Space Blue, Sunset Orange, and Metal Black, each paired with a metallic strap.

Battery Life and Connectivity

The battery life was one of the key selling points of the smartwatch, which can last approximately 7 days, reducing the need for frequent charging. The ColorFit Vivid Call 2 includes Bluetooth calling capabilities, improved by Noise Buzz. This feature allows users to add favorite contacts, access recent call logs, and utilize a dial pad directly from the watch.

Health Monitoring and Additional Functions

The watch is equipped with various health monitoring tools as part of the Noise Health Suite, including a Heart Rate Monitor, SpO2 monitor, Sleep Tracking, and Stress Monitor. Additional functionalities include AI Voice Assistance, a calculator, and support for voice commands like ‘Hey Siri’ and ‘Okay Google.’

Durability

The ColorFit Vivid Call 2 is designed to be durable, boasting an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, making it a reliable companion for daily use.

Pricing Details

While the exact price on Amazon India is yet to be disclosed, the official Noise website lists the ColorFit Vivid Call 2 at a price of Rs 3,499.

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Xiaomi Watch S3 gets WeChat app via firmware update

The Xiaomi Watch S3 is the company’s latest flagship smartwatch. It was announced alongside the Xiaomi 14 series in late October.

A little over three months after its release, the wearable is receiving an important software update. The latest firmware for the accessory brings the most used app in China.

Xiaomi Watch S3

The eSIM variant of Xiaomi Watch S3 is receiving a new firmware update with version number 1.11.11. This update adds WeChat application.

The app supports almost all the commonly used functions. Users can perform voice replies, quick replies, and emoticon replies from their wrists. The app also supports picture messages and other functions.

However, all the aforementioned features only work when the wearable is paired with an Android phone. The WeChat app does not work if the watch is paired with an iPhone.

At launch, the accessory had support for WeChat Pay. This functionality is now built into the WeChat app. Thus, users need to log into their account again to make payments.

The official changelog for the software update also mentions optimizations for some system functions. 

The Xiaomi Watch S3 is the company’s first smartwatch with replaceable bezels. It is also the firm’s first wearable to shio with HyperOS software.

The accessory sports a 1.43-inch circular OLED display. The screen has a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, 326 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits peak brightness level.

The watch has an aluminum alloy middle frame and a stainless steel bezel. The straps come in rubber and leather variants.

The wearable arrives with all common features, such as fitness modes, health tracking functions, 5ATM water resistance, calling, and others. Last but not least, it can last up to 15 days on a full charge.

Note that you can get the Xiaomi Watch S3 globally via retailers like Aliexpress.

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Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 with Qi2 support now on open sale

Last month, Xiaomi launched a power bank with support for Qi2 wireless charging. The accessory officially goes by Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2.

This product is now up for open sale in China. Earlier, it was only available through Xiaomi’s crowdfunding program.

Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2

The accessory carries a price tag of ¥229 (~$30). In other words, its retail price is ¥10 more expensive than its crowdfunding price.

It can be purchased from almost all official online retailers across China. It can be availed in either Porcelain White or Clear Sky Blue color options.

The Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 has a 6,000mAh battery capacity. It measures 104.8 x 68 x 15.1mm in dimensions and features a leather finish.

The battery pack supports up to 15W wireless output for Qi2-compatible devices. Currently, only iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15 lineup of smartphones use this standard.

The product sports a single USB Type-C port. It supports 18W output and up to ~20W input.

Additionally, the power bank has a built-in stand and a lanyard. Therefore, it can be used as a wireless charging stand and can be carried easily. Lastly, it is compatible with official MagSafe cases.

At present, the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 only makes sense for iPhone users. It is still not clear when Android OEMs will introduce Qi2. Also, it is not known whether this accessory will be made available in global markets.

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Huawei Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese version launched in Malaysia with offers & freebies

Huawei Malaysia has just released the new Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese version, and it’s now available for purchase nationwide.

Huawei Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese

Huawei Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese specs:

The Gold Milanese variant of the Huawei Watch GT 4 features a 41mm 1.32-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and 352 PPI. It has a battery life of up to two weeks and comes with a range of features.

What makes this variant special is its design. It has a bold, classy look, providing a comfortable fit. The watch supports over 25,000+ watch faces and includes features like Geometric Aesthetics, Pro-level health statistics, interconnectivity, and various workout modes.

Pricing, availability, and offers:

The Huawei Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese is priced at RM1299, and you can buy it directly from Huawei’s official website. To give more value to customers, Huawei is offering free gifts worth RM516 with the purchase of the Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese. This includes a 1-year extended warranty, a Huawei EasyFit Fluoroelastomer Strap 18mm in Glacier White, and a pair of FreeBuds SE in white.

Huawei-Watch-GT-4 Gold Milanese

Buyers will also earn double Huawei Member points for future shopping. There’s also an RM 100 voucher available, but you need to claim it before February 5, 2024.

Get Huawei Watch GT 4 on Amazon 

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Redmi A3 image & specs revealed via retail posters ahead of launch

Xiaomi‘s Redmi A3 is gearing up for its official release, positioned as a successor to the Redmi A2, and is expected to bring notable upgrades in both design and performance. Ahead of the official launch, the smartphone has been listed on a bunch of African retail outlets, revealing some key information.

Redmi A3

Design and Display

As per the listings, the Redmi A3 showcases a significant design overhaul compared to its predecessor. It features a glass back and a new circular camera module, a style reminiscent of the Realme 11 Pro series. The smartphone is tipped to have a 6.71-inch LCD display with HD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 400 nits. The phone will be launched in three color options: Black, Blue, and Forest Green.

Camera and Battery Specifications

Camera-wise, the Redmi A3 is expected to house a 13MP primary rear camera and an 8MP front camera. The device maintains a 5000mAh battery unit with 10W charging support.

Hardware and Software

Under the hood, the Redmi A3 is powered by a MediaTek processor, coupled with 4GB LPDDR4X RAM and an additional 4GB Virtual RAM. It offers 128GB eMMC 5.1 storage, expandable via a dedicated microSD card slot. The device runs on Android 13 (Go Edition), tailored for efficient performance in budget smartphones.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The device supports dual-SIM, 4G, WiFi 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, and various satellite navigation systems. It retains the 3.5mm audio jack and uses a USB Type-C port for charging.

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(via: PassionateGeeks)

Lenovo Xiaoxin 2024 Laptop Chip and Performance Revealed Before February Debut

Lenovo is scheduled to release its Xiaoxin 2024 series notebooks, equipped with AMD Ryzen processors, after China’s Spring Festival, set for February 10. The lineup includes the Xiaoxin Pro14/16 2024 Ryzen Edition, Xiaoxin 14/16 2024 Ryzen Edition, and Xiaoxin 27 2024 All-in-One Ryzen version. A key feature across these models is the AMD Ryzen 7 8845H processor based on AMD’s Zen4 architecture. Ahead of the launch, Lenovo has revealed a bunch of key details of the Xiaoxin 2024 lineup, more specifically how it benefits from the new Ryzen 7 8845H processor.

Lenovo Xiaoxin Pro 2024

Power Consumption and Battery Life Improvements

The Ryzen 7 8845H processor is reported to reduce power consumption by approximately 30.7% compared to the Ryzen 7 7840HS. This reduction contributes to increased battery life, with the Xiaoxin Pro 16 2024 Ryzen Edition offering around 9.5 hours of runtime, a 40% improvement from previous models.

Computing and AI Performance

The Ryzen 8040 series shows improvements in AI computing power, with a reported 60% increase over the previous Ryzen 7040 series. Additional improvements include a 36% boost in video encoding, 16% in file compression, and 10% in 3D performance. The Ryzen 7 8845H processor features 8 cores, 16 threads, and utilizes TSMC’s 4nm FinFET process, with a Radeon 780M independent graphics card.

Gaming Performance

Lenovo Xiaoxin Pro 2024

Gaming capabilities of the Xiaoxin Pro 16 2024 AMD Edition are highlighted by its ability to run games like Cyberpunk 2077, Baldur’s Gate, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, and Elden’s Ring at medium settings with satisfactory frame rates, as demonstrated in Lenovo’s benchmarks. More details about the Xiaoxin 2024 lineup are expected to be revealed as we get closer to the launch window, so stay tuned.

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Apple’s iPhone revenue hits new record in US and India

Apple has surpassed Samsung in phone shipment rates for the first time in history, which is a curious change in the company’s iPhone sales. For many years, Samsung was the top phone shipper, mostly because of its long history in the smartphone market and ability to manufacture phones in various series for every budget. Apple on the other hand, continuously employs high-quality materials and doesn’t hold back when it comes to offering the newest processor tech they have even in the budget “iPhone SE” series and the smartphone owners are happy about it.

Apple sells well in the US and India

Apple’s rise was uninterrupted even though global annual phone sales actually fell by 4% over the previous year. For the first time ever, Apple topped the ranking for smartphones sold in a year. Counterpoint’s research director Jeff Fieldhack noted:

“Apple displaced Samsung as the biggest player in shipments for the first time in a full year. While the US made the biggest volume contribution to Apple’s growth, it also received a major boost through double digit growth in emerging markets including India, Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) and Middle East and Africa (MEA). This growth offset any challenges Apple may have faced in China due to the resurgence of Huawei. With an accompanying ASP growth of 2%, it can be seen to be in a revenue super cycle, buoyed by its ecosystem stickiness coupled with the premiumization trend, crossing an annual revenue of $200 billion.”

Apple’s strong market share in phone sales comes mainly from the US and India but Apple’s position in China is still not in a good state. With Huawei’s great comeback in China, Apple seems like to be defeated by other Chinese OEMs.

The reason behind Apple’s surge could be the increasing desire of users to acquire a more premium device over time, actually statistics confirm this. There are declines in both the shipments and sales rates of Samsung’s low-end devices. Apple’s annual revenue reached $203 billion in 2023, setting a new record.

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Samsung is confirmed to re-release the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite in 2024

Just a few days ago there were some rumors that Samsung might be re-releasing the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite. Now GSMChina has some information to confirm this and they reveal the existence of the Tab S6 Lite 2024 models with the IMEI database. Samsung will officially launch the new tablet again in 2024. We also learned that this tablet has received some upgrades.

Samsung is re-releasing Tab S6 Lite in 2024

The first Tab S6 Lite was introduced in 2020. This model had an Exynos 9611 chip and attracted everyone’s attention with high sales numbers. That’s why Samsung re-released the same tablet in 2022 with a different processor. This time it arrived with the Snapdragon 732G SOC. Now Samsung has decided to relaunch the Tab S6 Lite. The new Galaxy Tab S6 Lite will have an Exynos 1280. This will significantly improve performance compared to the previous generation S6 Lite.

  • SM-P625
  • SM-P627

The IMEI database reveals 2 different Tab S6 Lite 2024 models. The model number SM-P625 belongs to the Tab S6 Lite 2024 which will be sold globally. The second model number is SM-P627. This model number belongs to the model that will be sold in Turkey.

There is also a Wifi version of Galaxy Tab S6 Lite 2024. The Wi-Fi version has the model number SM-P620. We already came across this model a few weeks ago. The Geekbench result confirms that the new Galaxy Tab S6 Lite 2024 will have an Exynos 1280 SOC.

Samsung surprised everyone and probably thought it’s a good idea to reintroduce their most selling tablet with the same name. We expect the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite 2024 to delight users and at the same time, hopefully, Samsung will be able to achieve the desired success again.

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