Huawei has launched its latest FreeBuds earbuds, the FreeBuds 4E 2024, as an upgrade to the previously released FreeBuds 4E in 2022. The new model maintains most of the features of its predecessor but comes with improved battery life. So let’s get into the details here.
Huawei FreeBuds 4E 2024 specifications
The FreeBuds 4E 2024 continues with the same 14.3mm dynamic driver, 40KHz frequency, and semi-open style design as its predecessor. It also retains the Active Noise Cancellation 2.0 technology and uses three microphones with ENC (environmental noise cancellation) for clear audio during calls.
The notable improvement from the 2022 model is in the battery life. With the charging case, the earphones can now offer up to 26 hours of playback with noise reduction off, compared to the previous model’s 22 hours.
Even with active noise reduction on, the case provides 17 hours of use which comfortably surpasses the earlier version’s 14 hours. However, the earphones themselves have a similar battery life of 4 hours without noise cancellation and 2.5 hours with it on.
Charging times remain consistent as well. The earphones take about 40 minutes to fully charge while for the case alone, it takes around 60 minutes.
There’s support for Bluetooth 5.2 for connectivity and you can pair it with two devices simultaneously.
Besides many similarities in specifications and design, we didn’t see the mention of the IP64 dust and water resistance rating of its predecessor. Additionally, the FreeBuds 4E 2024 is available in only two colors — Frost Silver and Ceramic White — compared to three on its predecessor.
Price and Availability
Huawei FreeBuds 4E 2024 earbuds are available for purchase in China at 699 yuan. However, there’s currently a limited-time offer where you can grab it for just 499 yuan. You can purchase the earbuds from Huawei Mall.
Noise has launched its new TWS earbuds called the Buds Xero in India, featuring three color options: Chrome Black, Chrome Beige, and Chrome Blue.
Pricing and Availability
These earbuds are initially priced at Rs. 3,999 (original price Rs. 4,499) and will be accessible for purchase from February 8th through Noise’s website, Flipkart, and Amazon.in. Pre-orders are currently available, offering exclusive discounts and a chance to win a Noise smartwatch.
Product Aesthetics: The sleek chrome finish in a variety of shades featuring a lightweight design is not just light on the ears but easy on the eyes as well.
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Noise Buds Xero Specifications:
Coming to the specs, the Buds Xero boasts a stylish and lightweight design with a premium chrome dual-tone finish. It utilizes 12.4mm drivers made from PEEK (Polyether ether ketone) and titanium materials to deliver high-fidelity acoustics, ensuring clear and balanced audio performance.
The earbuds offer Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with up to 50dB noise reduction. It provides three ANC modes (Transparent, Light, and Deep) for personalized sound control based on the surroundings. Additionally, the earbuds feature a Sound+ algorithm that improves call quality, ensuring clear communication.
For gamers and video enthusiasts, the Buds Xero offers a low latency mode of up to 50ms, minimizing audio delay for a seamless audio-visual sync. Additionally, the in-ear detection support enhances usability, pausing and playing audio automatically when the earbuds are removed or inserted.
Connectivity is facilitated through Bluetooth v5.3, ensuring stable and quick pairing with devices. Users can control music playback and calls with intuitive touch controls. The earbuds also support AI Voice Assistant for hands-free commands. It also features Hyper Sync technology that lets the earbuds go into pairing mode as soon as the charging case is opened.
The earbuds offer impressive battery life, with up to 50 hours of total playback time. It features Instacharge fast charging, providing 6 hours of playback in just 10 minutes. Additionally, they come with an IPX5 rating for splash and sweat resistance and a 1-year warranty.
Noise also launched the Vortex Plus smartwatch recently in India featuring a 1.46-inch AMOLED display and Bluetooth calling.
Xiaomi has been working on an electric vehicle for a long time and the brand new Xiaomi SU7 EV is equipped with some exciting features. Xiaomi is not only a smartphone manufacturer, Xiaomi has wide range of products, not only smart devices, Xiaomi produces air purifiers, hair trimmers, and even mousepads, and now they have entered the automotive sector.
Xiaomi CEO shifts his focus to cars
Xiaomi created a buzz in the automotive industry with the SU7 model, marking the brand’s first foray into electric vehicles with two models, Xiaomi SU7 and SU7 Max. Xiaomi’s CEO, Lei Jun, seems to have made a remarkable decision based on his statement on Weibo, indicating that automotive is now his main focus.
Lei Jun’s statement on automotive
This surely doesn’t mean Xiaomi will stop making phones and become a solely electric vehicle manufacturing company, but Lei Jun’s actions suggest a shift in focus. Lei Jun also announced that William Lu will become the general manager of Xiaomi and Wang Teng will be the general manager of the Redmi brand.
New managers in Xiaomi
This actually means that we will miss Lei Jun’s presence at Xiaomi’s product introduction events, as William Lu will now be the speaker at the Xiaomi 14 Ultra launch event, based on his post.
Lei Jun should have found the potential in the electric car sector to make such a decision. Lei Jun’s statements actually provide some insight into what Xiaomi could turn into in the future. A few years ago, Xiaomi was not among the top smartphone brands, but now it is the third-largest phone manufacturer in Asia. Xiaomi might become one of the top players in EV sector and only time will reveal what happens next.
Just a month after the global launch of the Reno 11 series, rumors about Oppo‘s next Reno smartphones, the Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro are already swirling online. Based on an alleged internal document, folks over at MSPowerUser have revealed some specs of the upcoming devices.
The leaked details suggest that the Reno 12 may be equipped with a MediaTek processor called MTK 24M, though the exact processor name is unknown. It is expected to come with 12GB of RAM and storage options reaching up to 256GB.
On the other hand, the Reno 12 Pro is expected to come with a MediaTek Dimensity 9200 (MTK DX-2) processor, accompanied by 12GB of RAM and 256GB and 512GB of storage.
Likewise, both phones are rumored to sport 6.7-inch FHD OLED displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, featuring curved edges on all sides.
As for the camera specifications, the Oppo Reno 12 series is said to feature a 50MP main sensor with OIS, along with an 8MP and a 50MP lens offering 2x optical zoom. However, there may be slight variations in specifications between the vanilla and Pro model. For the selfie camera, the smartphones could come with a 50MP lens with autofocus support.
Additionally, the rumored features include a 5000mAh battery with 67W charging support and an IP65 rating.
According to the leak, the launch timeframe for the Reno 12 smartphones is expected to be in June 2024. Details about prices are still in the air, however, the publication suggests the Reno 12 could cost around $499 and the Reno 12 Pro may have a price tag of $799.
Xiaomi 15 leaks are around, but the Xiaomi 14 Ultra awaits its global launch. However, it is reported to debut by the end of this month, as the Xiaomi Group President posted a teaser that hints at the phone’s upcoming launch. Even Xiaomi India teased Leica and Xiaomi branding teasers a few days ago. The global variant is also doing the rounds on public certifications, including BIS India, 3C and now it has surfaced on Singapore’s IMDA certification.
Xiaomi 14 series
The listing doesn’t reveal anything evident but confirms the upcoming launch in Singapore. Even a Chinese leaker who has a decent history claims the smartphone’s launch this month. So, concluding from different sources, it is highly likely that the Xiaomi 14 Utra will be launched soon.
Recent reports indicate that the primary camera of the device will boast a variable aperture range from f/1.63 to f/4.0. The main camera is expected to be the Sony LYT-900 50-megapixel camera with a one-inch sensor. Additionally, the 14 Ultra is anticipated to sport a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera offering up to 120 mm of focal length. The quad-camera system may also include a 50-megapixel IMX8-series ultra-wide lens and another 50-megapixel telephoto camera.
While there have been leaks hinting at the presence of an under-display camera, precise details about the additional cameras are yet to be confirmed. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset under the hood of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra will enable two-way satellite connectivity. The device is expected to house a 5,180mAh battery that supports 50W wireless charging and 90W wired charging.
The smartphone could debut during the MWC 2024 tech exhibition alongside the Xiaomi Pad 7 by the end of February.
In 2023, the global gaming market witnessed significant growth, reaching 1,173.79 billion yuan ($166B) with a 6.00% increase from the previous year. Within this expansive industry, the mobile gaming sector stood out, amassing 606.27 billion yuan ($85.76B), half of which was dominated by Chinese companies. Their dominance in the global market is attributed to the creation of high-quality games, ongoing innovation, and aggressive global expansion strategies.
Chinese Dominance and Diversification in the Growing Global Mobile Gaming Market
Despite this success, Chinese developers encountered a setback, as their self-developed games’ overseas revenue dipped by 5.65% to $16.366B. The major markets for Chinese mobile games, including the United States, Japan, and South Korea, still contributed to more than half of China’s overseas revenue, underscoring the international appeal of these games.
This widespread acceptance is the result of continuous improvement in game quality, the introduction of innovative features, and effective market and brand expansion strategies. Although strategy games continue to lead Chinese mobile game exports, the casual gaming sector is witnessing rapid growth, with its overseas market share jumping from 0.6% to 5.1% in just three years.
The landscape is further reinforced by the presence of 52 Chinese firms among the top 100 global revenue generators in the industry, with Tencent Games standing out with revenue surpassing 100 billion yuan ($14.13B).
However, challenges persist, notably a declining revenue share from self-developed Chinese products, fierce international competition, rising user acquisition costs, and the struggle for effective localization due to a shortage of local talent.
To overcome challenges in expanding their products overseas, over 60% of surveyed Chinese companies are emphasizing long-term product operations, and about two-thirds are using brand or IP partnerships to attract international users. These strategies, combined with a focus on regional preferences and the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI and improved game engines, are essential for Chinese developers looking to maintain global dominance and succeed in the global market.
Google is rolling out a new update to the Pixel Watch. It focuses on the camera app on the smartwatch. The latest update arrives after the December update that brought DND and Bedtime modes. It has been spotted by the folks at 9to5Google. The update to the camera app on the Pixel Watch brings several features apart from the basic ones that were previously present.
Google Pixel Watch’s camera app gets a significant update
Prior to the latest update, the Google Pixel Watch offered basic features including a photo mode, zoom slider, three-second timer, and the ability to switch between front and rear cameras.
Now, the Pixel Watch’s camera app is gaining more capabilities. Users can switch between camera modes – Night Sight and Portrait while clicking pictures. Additionally, mode switching ability is also while recording videos. These include standard, slow-motion, time-lapse, or portrait blur video. Before this update, users had to choose different modes in their Pixel phone’s camera app. Hence, the new features on the smartwatch eliminate the inconvenience of reaching the smartphone.
Additionally, the timer functionality also gets a new option. In addition to the existing 3-second timer, the latest update now offers a 10-second timer duration.
9to5Google adds that the main list is now called Settings and the camera switcher is now a menu instead of previously just been a single tap to change between them. Ensure that the camera app on your Pixel Watch is up to date if you don’t see the new features yet. The latest build can be checked from the Play Store. Additionally, it’s worth noting that users may not see the features if the Pixel Watch is paired with non-Pixel phones.
Nine new HMD smartphones have been spotted on the IMEI database. Initially, two HMD-branded phones had surfaced. Now 9 more models have been revealed, indicating that the brand is working on 11 products in total. Although the exact specifications of the smartphones are not known, their appearance on the IMEI database confirms the existence of the products.
9 HMD smartphones coming soon
Recently, the NokiaMobile account was renamed HMD, signaling an end for Nokia. A few days after this change, there was an important development. The folks at GSMChina spotted 9 new HMD phones. The IMEI database does not provide information on specifications, but it reveals the existence of 9 HMD-branded products.
HMD branded products model numbers are indicated above. These products are tested internally by HMD Global Oy. HMD can regain Nokia’s former popularity with new smartphones. But first, they need to launch models that suit the needs of every user.
HMD stands for Human Mobile Devices. The brand’s goal is to create useful mobile devices for humanity. Let’s hope that HMD will achieve significant success with the new HMD phones and that Nokia’s old title can be reclaimed with HMD. We’ll take some time to see, but it’s important to remember that HMD still has a good chance.
Although not much is known about HMD’s new phones, it was revealed earlier that an HMD-branded phone will have a 108MP triple camera with OIS. Also, codenames were leaked by Evan Blass. We will probably learn the details of the devices at MWC.
Koorui has introduced the P5, a 27-inch gaming monitor in the Chinese market. The monitor is currently on sale on JD.com for an initial promotional price of 649 Yuan ($91). Let’s check out the key specs of this monitor.
Koorui P5 Monitor Specifications:
The P5 monitor boasts an IPS panel with 2K resolution (2560×1440) and a 100Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals for work and gaming. Its sleek, modern design features a narrow three-sided bezel, enhancing aesthetics, while offering wide 178-degree viewing angles without sacrificing color accuracy or clarity.
The monitor offers impressive color capabilities, covering 100% of the sRGB spectrum and 90% of DCI-P3, making it suitable for tasks demanding precise color accuracy. It also features technical specifications such as a dynamic contrast ratio of 20,000,000:1 for deep blacks and vibrant whites, a brightness level of 300 nits for clear visibility in various lighting, 8Bit color depth supporting up to 16.7 million colors, and a standard 16:9 aspect ratio for versatile use in multimedia and productivity applications.
For those concerned about eye strain, the P5 monitor includes several features aimed at reducing discomfort during prolonged use. Its “e-book mode” mimics the appearance of paper, creating a comfortable reading experience similar to that of an e-reader. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with blue light filtering and flicker-free technology, further protecting the eyes from fatigue.
The monitor also features FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync technologies, ensuring smooth and tear-free gaming experiences. These adaptive sync technologies synchronize the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card’s output, reducing screen tearing and providing a more enjoyable and immersive gaming environment.
Koorui P5 is also equipped with a range of connectivity options, including two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DP1.4 port, and a 3.5mm audio port, making it compatible with a wide array of devices from computers to gaming consoles.
The monitor offers adjustability with a tilt range of -5° to 20° for customizable viewing angles and supports VESA mounting for wall-mounted setups. With the stand, the dimensions are 613.49mm (W) x 457.76mm (H) x 205.3mm (D), balancing screen size with desk space efficiency.
MWC 2024 is scheduled for February 26-29. However, most smartphones will likely go official ahead of that. Gone are the days when Mobile World Congress used to be the destination of hot new phone releases.
Around 12 brands are expected to announce new phones. Only a couple of them fall under the premium category. While the rest of them are either mid-rangers or budget models.
Almost all of these handsets will be unveiled for global markets. The companies that will debut new smartphones are Xiaomi, Huawei, Oppo, Vivo, Realme, iQOO, Nothing, HMD, Honor, Tecno, Infinix, and Itel.
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is tipped to launch by the end of February at either MWC or earlier. Unlike its predecessors, it is expected to see a wider global release.
The device is said to arrive with a quad 50MP camera system. The primary camera will be a Sony LYT-900 with variable aperture. It will be paired with an ultrawide unit, a telephoto shooter, and a periscope telephoto snapper.
The phone will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and draw energy from a 5,180mah battery. It will support 90W wired and 50W wireless charging standards.
The Huawei Pocket S2 is rumored to launch on February 27. It could get announced at MWC.
The device is said to be powered by an underclocked version of the HiSilicon Kirin 9000s chip. Unfortunately, that’s all the information we have on this handset.
The Pocket S2 will succeed the original Pocket S from late 2022, which was introduced as the company’s most affordable foldable smartphone at the time.
The phone is expected to arrive with a 6.7-inch FHD+ 120Hz OLED display with an in-screen fingerprint sensor and a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chip. It will draw energy from a 5,000mAh battery and support 67W wired charging.
The handset will sport a 64MP (wide) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro) triple camera setup and a 32MP selfie camera. It will be IP65-rated for splash resistance.
4. Vivo V30 Series, V40 SE, and V40 Lite
The Vivo V30 series is officially set to launch in February. The lineup is expected to include two devices, namely Vivo V30 and Vivo V30 Pro. They are anticipated to be accompanied by Vivo V40 SE (aka Vivo V40 Lite).
The Vivo V30 is said to be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip. It will flaunt a curved OLED display and support 80W wired charging.
On the other hand, the Vivo V40 SE will succeed the Vivo V30 Lite. Its specs are not known, just like those of Vivo V30 Pro.
5. Realme 12 Series
The Realme 12 series will debut in China in February. Apart from Realme 12 Pro and Realme 12 Pro Plus, the region will also get the vanilla Realme 12 and Realme 12 Plus.
The Pro models will be the same as the ones sold in international markets. You can learn about them here.
As for Realme 12 Plus, it will feature a similar design as the Pros but will arrive with downgraded specs. It is expected to come with an unnamed 2.6GHz chip, a 50MP (wide) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro) triple camera setup, a 16MP selfie camera, and a 5,000mAh battery.
Unfortunately, we have no info on the vanilla Realme 12.
6. iQOO Neo 9 Pro
iQOO Neo 9 Pro
The iQOO Neo 9 Pro is scheduled to launch in India on February 22. The pre-bookings for the phone start from February 8.
The handset will succeed the iQOO Neo 7 Pro. It will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and draw energy from a 5,160mAh battery with support for 120W wired charging.
The device will sport a 6.78-inch OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It will come with a 50MP Sony IMX920 primary sensor, an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a 16MP selfie camera.
It is expected to cost around ₹30,000.
7. Honor X9b
Honor X9b is set to launch in India on February 15. Since the handset is official in several markets, everything about it is already known.
The phone arrives with a 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz curved display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip, a 108MP primary camera, and a 16MP selfie camera. It is backed by a 5,800mAh battery and supports 35W wired charging.
The product is expected to compete with the Redmi Note 13 series and Realme 12 Pro lineup in the region.
8. Nothing Phone 2a
The Nothing Phone 2a is anticipated to go official at MWC. It will be the brand’s first budget smartphone.
The handset is tipped to come with a 6.7-inch FHD+ OLED display and a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 SoC. It will feature a circular camera module headed by a 50MP primary sensor surrounded by Glyph LED lights.
The product will support 45W wired charging and is expected to cost under €400.
9. HMD Smartphone
Recently, HMD (Human Mobile Devices) confirmed to introduce its self-branded phones. At least one of them is expected to go official at MWC.
This device is tipped to sport a 108MP primary camera. Nothing else is known about this product.
10. Tecno Pova 6 Series
The Tecno Pova 6 series is confirmed to go official at MWC. The handsets will support Dolby Atmos.
The Pova 6 Pro is expected to be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 chip. It will sport an FHD+ display and boot Android 14.
Unfortunately, that’s all the information we have on the lineup.
11. Infinix Note 40 Series
The Infinix Note 40 series is anticipated to go official at MWC. The lineup is expected to include vanilla and pro models.
Interestingly, both of them will be powered by the same chipset — MediaTek Helio G99. They will sport a centered punch-hole FHD+ display on the front and a triple camera system on the rear.
The pro variant will support 70W wired charging while the standard variant will be limited to 40W. However, both of them will support 5W wireless charging.
12. Itel Power Series
Itel is tipped to launch three Power series smartphones in India in February.
The first one is said to ship with Android Go Edition. The second model will support fast charging. Finally, the third handset will arrive with an exclusive India-first memory feature.
The wait for the Apple Vision Pro is finally over, and it is now available in the United States. Following massive pre-orders of around 200,000 units, the Apple Vision Pro is already off to a good start. Apple Vision Pro allows consumers to experience the next evolution in spatial computing. The New Headset introduces groundbreaking features that promise to refine how users interact with technology.
Apple Vision Pro is much-anticipated and aims to set a new standard in the realm of personal computing. It immerses users in a three-dimensional digital environment. It is going to revolutionize the way individuals engage and interact with smart devices. The Apple Vision Pro headset offers a more intuitive and immersive computing experience.
Along with the one million compatible apps on the App Store for the new AR/VR headset, the Cupertino tech giant introduced 600 new apps and games specifically designed for the Apple Vision Pro. These new apps are fully designed to take advantage of the device’s capabilities and offer an advanced experience for users. Apple Vision Pro introduces an augmented reality canvas, allowing users to interact with the device using their eyes, hands, and voice. Several popular apps, such as Zoom have already jumped to capitalize on the Apple Vision Pro hype. Meanwhile, Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube remained at bay to bring native apps for now.
New Ways to Interact using Apple Vision Pro
It changes the way we interact with our devices, consume media, and do work. Below, we have detailed each advantage and how it is going to affect our basic interactions with technology. The Apple Vision Pro display is capable of delivering a resolution equal to that of a 4K TV. It lets users watch content from an equivalent distance of 100 feet.
Media Consumption: Transforming living spaces into personalized theaters, the Vision Pro enhances the way users consume media. From sports events to TV shows and films, the device creates an immersive environment, offering a new dimension to entertainment. The Vision Pro brings forth a range of game-changing apps tailored to provide unique and immersive experiences across various domains.
Sports Experience: Users can enjoy the PGA Tour with features like real-time shot tracking using 3D golf course models. The multiview supports up to five different broadcasts for streaming NBA. Meanwhile, it enables one to enjoy the MLB game with an immersive baseball stadium view with pitch stats. There will be 3D maps of races, high-quality video, and immersive environments for racing events.
Streaming Experience: An elevated streaming experience is part of the package with the Disney+, Warner Bros, and Discovery’s Max platforms. While Apple TV brings spatial audio for immersive video.
Enhanced Productivity: Apart from entertainment, the Apple Vision Pro is to have multitasking and collaboration with the 3D user interface. Several apps, like Box, MindNode, and others, are easily available for file management and project visualization. It even supports integration with Microsoft 365 productivity apps and offers a Virtual Display for elevated Mac capabilities.
Gaming on visionOS: Apple Vision Pro is currently supported by over 250 game titles with no in-app purchases or ads. There are certain spatial games like Super Fruit Ninja, Synth Riders, and Game Room.
Apart from these improved experiences, the Apple Vision Pro is bringing a 3D tour of historical locations, museums, and others. It even supports 3D weather maps for immersive forecasts.
Apple Vision Pro signifies a paradigm shift in personal computing, offering not just a device but an entirely new way to interact with technology. With its innovative features, diverse app ecosystem, and immersive experiences, the Vision Pro is set to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in the digital realm.
Lenovo‘s Lecoo brand has unveiled a new projector, the LK210, aimed at both homes and offices. The projector boasts 1080p resolution and a brightness of 4800 lumens, making it suitable for displaying presentations, movies, and other content in various lighting conditions. Let’s talk about it in detail here.
Lecoo LK210 specifications
As aforementioned, the LK210 is a 1080p projector with 4800 lumens of brightness. It offers a versatile range of screen sizes ranging from 50 to 200 inches.
The projector also features fully automatic functionalities, including autofocus for consistently crisp images regardless of placement and automatic keystone correction to eliminate distortion caused by tilted angles.
One of the key features of the LK210 is its cooling system. Lecoo claims to have used what it calls a combination of a “Yamato thermal magnetic semiconductor” mechanism, a 100mm large turbine fan, and copper heat pipes to ensure quiet operation and a long lifespan. There’s also support for dynamic temperature control and fan speed adjustment.
The LK210 is powered by a HiSilicon 352 chip and comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. Lecoo touts the projector’s “true 1080p ultra-clear image quality,” which it claims is superior to “shimmering 1080p.” The projector also supports 4K decoding and image quality improvement technologies.
In terms of connectivity, the LK210 offers a variety of options, including Ethernet, HDMI (version unspecified), USB-A (version unspecified), AV, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Not to forget, there’s also support for Bluetooth 5.0.
Additionally, it features a 15W speaker for audio output. And in terms of dimensions, it measures approximately 302 x 265.9 x 143.8mm and weighs around 3.8 kg.
The Lecoo LK210 is currently available for pre-order on JD.com in China, with a price tag of 2,619 yuan (approximately USD 400).
Yesterday boAt launched the Rockerz 255 ANC neckband. The homegrown brand also announced two new TWS earphones in the country. Now, this time, boAt has launched a new smartwatch dubbed the Ultima Select. It has a stylish design with a large display and various health-centric as well as convenient features. Read on to know more what it offers out of the box.
boAt Ultima Select specifications and features
The boAt Ultima Select has a squarish dial with curved edges that make it look like a hexagonal shape. There is a functioning rotating crown on the right side. The device sports a metal unibody offering a premium look. It is IP68-certified dust and water-resistant.
The boAt Ultima Select has a large 2.01-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 410 x 502 pixels and 1,000 nits peak brightness. There is Always-on display mode and wake gesture.
On the fitness front, the boAt Ultima Select is equipped with a heart-rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, sleep tracker, and stress monitor. It also offers guided breathing sessions. The wearable device is capable of tracking more than 100 sports modes. The smartwatch also comes with sedentary alerts.
The boAt Ultima Select is claimed to offer up to 5 days of battery life. It packs convenient features like payment QR, camera and music control, built-in games, DND, find my phone, and more. The smartwatch is also equipped with a built-in mic for Bluetooth calling functionality.
The boAt Ultima Select carries a price tag of Rs 2,999 and is offered Steel Black, Deep Blue, Cool Grey, and Active Black colors. The smartwatch will be available for purchase from Amazon and the brand’s website starting February 9.
Samsung introduced the Galaxy S24 series with a range of exciting new features. The standout highlight was the suite of AI capabilities bundled under the umbrella term “Galaxy AI.”
Among the array of new AI features included in the latest Galaxy smartphones, one notable addition is Circle to Search. Developed in collaboration with Google, this tool allows users to highlight text or images on their screen and seamlessly search for related information without switching apps.
After the Galaxy S24 series made its debut, Google also started rolling out this feature in Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones. However, for Android users not within the Samsung and Google ecosystems, there’s a bit of disappointment.
The Circle to Search feature will remain exclusive to these brands until at least October 2024, as confirmed by Samsung’s Arm in the Netherlands:
“Circle to Search may become available on Android devices from other brands from 5 October 2024, but there are no active developments underway for this.”
For those eager to try out this feature, this news might be disappointing. I feel this feature is particularly useful since it doesn’t require opening any apps.
But it’s important to note that Circle to Search isn’t a groundbreaking tech by any means. Google Lens and Assistant have offered similar functionality for quite some time now.
There’s still hope on the horizon though. While the exclusivity is disappointing for now, I’m optimistic that it won’t be permanent. In the meantime, users of Google and Samsung devices are enjoying the benefits of Circle to Search.
This isn’t the first instance of exclusivity by these prominent Android players. Similar limitations exist with the latest Wear OS updates, which are currently restricted to Samsung and Google smartwatches.
The two new flagship smartphones in town, the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the OnePlus 12, come with powerful specs and a premium price tag. However, the S24 Ultra demands a steep price from you as compared to the OnePlus flagship model. Does it make sense to spend so much on the Samsung model?
We check that out in this OnePlus 12 vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra comparison.
Galaxy S24 Ultra vs OnePlus 12: Design and colors
Galaxy S24 Ultra:
The new Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with a ton of design upgrades from its predecessor. These updates place it inches ahead of the OnePlus 12 in this comparison. For its design, this new device comes with Gorilla Glass Armor on the front and Gorilla Glass on the back as well as titanium frame which is a new feature. This device weighs 232g and its dimensions are 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm (6.39 x 3.11 x 0.34 in).
A standard feature on ths Samsung S Ultra entries is the S Pen which is great for productivity. This flagship device comes with a ton of color options which are very impressive. The colors available are Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Violet, Titanium Yellow, Titanium Blue, Titanium Green, Titanium Orange.
OnePlus 12:
For the OnePlus 12 it comes with a few design upgrades from its predecessor as it keeps the circular camera cutout. It comes with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for front protection, Gorilla Glass protection on the back, and an aluminum frame. For its weight this device comes in at 220g making it lighter than the other device in this comparison.
The screen on this device is curved, a feature that Samsung dropped with the S24 Ultra. In terms of its design finish, users of this device can get it in either Flowy Emerald, Silky Black, or Silver. In terms of its looks, this device is way up there with some of the competition in the Android flagship class.
Major differences:
S24 Ultra is heavier than the OnePlus 12.
S24 Ultra has an S Pen while the OnePlus 12 doesn’t.
The OnePlus 12 comes with a curved screen design.
Galaxy S24 Ultra vs OnePlus 12: Display
Galaxy S24 Ultra:
When it comes to the design, the new S24 Ultra is at the top of its game when it comes to its display. This new device features a 6.8 -inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X panel which supports 120Hz refresh rate. The display supports HDR10+ and maxes out at a display brightness of 2600 nits.
For protection this device comes with the Corning Gorilla Glass Armor which protects it from damage in case of a scratch or a drop. Users will also benefit from the new Always-On display that this device comes with. Samsung also puts to use the new anti-reflective screen coating that makes this device very usable even under bright light.
OnePlus 12:
While the OnePlus 12’s display might be a simple one for a flagship device it brings all the necessary features. It comes with a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED screen display, if the 0.02 extra inches on this device means something to users then this device has an upper hand in display size. Users also get 120Hz refresh rate on this device which is a great feature when gaming or scrolling through the device.
In close comparison with the S24 Ultra the OnePlus 12 comes with a better screen to body ratio. For protection this device comes with the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 which protects the device against scratches and drops. For some users they’ll also prefer the curve on this device’s display to the flat display found on the S24 Ultra.
Major differences:
S24 Ultra features a special anti glare coating not found on the OnePlus 12.
OnePlus 12 features a larger screen to body ratio.
OnePlus 12 comes with a curved screen display.
Galaxy S24 Ultra vs OnePlus 12: Cameras
Galaxy S24 Ultra:
The camera setup on the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra features 200MP, 50MP, 10MP, and 12MP sensors. Some of the features it packs include Multi directional PDAF sensor, AI picture enhancement feature, enhanced AI object-aware engine. Up front it features a 12MP sensor that supports up to 4K video recording.
The rear camera on this device supports8K video recording at 30fps. The entire camera system brings a ton of AI features and abilities that users can benefit from. These AI features and abilities help step up the photography experience that this device comes with.
OnePlus 12:
OnePlus uses a50MP, 64MP, and 48MP rear camera setup for the new flagship 12 device. Up front this device also features a 32MP selfie camera sensor for taking crisp selfies. For video recording the rear cameras support 8K video recording while the front facing cameras support 4K video recording.
Unlike the competition the OnePlus 12 comes with Hasselblad camera enhancement features. These enhancements make this smartphone take pictures like a Hasselblad professional camera. This is a welcome photography feature that this smartphone comes with.
Major differences & Upgrades:
S24 Ultra features a higher resolution main camera.
S24 Ultra features an extra camera
S24 Ultra comes with a ton of AI features.
OnePlus 12 comes with Hasselblad camera features.
Galaxy S24 Ultra vs OnePlus 12: Performance
Galaxy S24 Ultra:
This new device comes with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor as well as the Adreno 750 GPU chip. It features a ton of performance improvements in comparison with its predecessor.
Users can get this new device in the following storage configurations: 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAM.
The storage on this device is not expandable as it offers more than enough storage for most users. Speaking of its performance , a benchmark review will be great to actually see how well this device holds up against the competition. ForGeekbench 6 this device secured a single-core score of 2297 and a multi-core score of 7142. As for its AnTuTu score this performance behemoth secures a score of 1,780,568.
OnePlus 12:
The OnePlus 12 comes with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and also features the Aderno 750 GPU chip. For storage this device gives users 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM, 1TB 24GB RAM configurations. Now 24GB is exceptional for a smartphone and this amount of RAM will make the OnePlus 12 perform exceptionally well.
Just like the S24 Ultra this new smartphone doesn’t offer expandable storage. Coming to its performance the new OnePlus 12 comes with 7116 multicore scores on the Geekbench 6 platform. Moving over to AnTuTu this device flaunts a 1,821,801 score.
Major upgrades & differences:
24GB available on the OnePlus 12.
Galaxy S24 Ultra vs OnePlus 12: Software
Galaxy S24 Ultra:
This new flagship smartphone from Samsung launches with Android 14 out of the box. Following this is Samsung One UI 6.1 software which brings some features that are exclusive to the S24 Ultra. Amazingly this smartphone will be able to boast of seven years of OS update on this device.
OnePlus 12:
OnePlus loads up their latest flagship device with Android 14 out of the box just like we see on the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Internationally this new flagship device will use the OxygenOS 14 software which helps to step up user experience. Unlike the Samsung flagship device the OnePlus 12 offers users four years of OS update.
Major upgrades & differences:
Samsung offers more years of OS upgrade.
Samsung offers more exclusive AI features on the S24 Ultra.
OnePlus offers a more stock Android experience on their smartphone.
Galaxy S24 Ultra vs OnePlus 12: Battery life and charging
Galaxy S24 Ultra:
Sasmung gives 5000mAh battery capacity on this new device which is enough for daily usage on a single charge. On a single charge this device can last for hours of heavy usage as proven by various testings. For its wired charging Samsung equips this device with 45W fast charging to get the device from 0-65% in 30 minutes. For those that use wireless charging they get 15W as standard and 4.5W reversed wireless charge.
OnePlus 12:
Moving over to the OnePlus 12, this flagship entry comes with a massive 5400mAh battery capacity. On active daily usage this device gets users up to 14 hours on a single charge. Speaking of charging, this device supports 100W fast charging which gets the device from 0-100% in just 26 minutes. Wireless charging on this device is 45W and wireless is 15W with 10W reverse wireless charging.
Major differences:
Larger battery capacity on the OnePlus 12.
Faster wired, reversed wired, and wireless charging on the OnePlus 12.
Larger battery capacity on the OnePlus 12.
Faster wired, reversed wired, and wireless charging on the OnePlus 12.
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Galaxy S24 Ultra vs OnePlus 12: Final Verdict
Both devices in this comparison are impressive in their various areas and it’s hard to pick which is the better looking device. However buyers will need to make a choice when shopping for either of these devices so here is our verdict. This will help you make a well informed choice on which of these flagship devices that you should pick when shopping for a new smartphone.
If you’re short on cash then the better pick for you is definitely the OnePlus 12. Either devices will serve well in terms of photography and performance and they feature the similar processing powers. For those that live in areas where power supply is limited then the OnePlus 12 is the better pick thanks to its larger battery and faster charging speeds.
But if you want to buy a device with a more solid build quality the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the way to go as it features a titanium frame. For longer usage thanks to OS updates the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra wins as it offers buyers a seven years OS upgrade. Asides from these factors the choice for most buyers will boil down to personal preferences.
Automotive innovation takes a giant leap as China‘s Geely Holding Group makes headlines with its latest venture into space technology. This past Saturday, the company, known for its bold strides in the auto industry, announced the successful launch of 11 low-earth orbit satellites. This marks Geely‘s second significant foray into the cosmos, aiming to revolutionize how we navigate and connect, not just on the road but in various sectors of our digital lives.
By 2025, the company plans to launch 72 satellites
From the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan, these satellites soared into the sky, signaling Geely’s ambition to stitch a high-tech canopy overhead. By 2025, the company envisions a constellation of 72 satellites, with long-term goals stretching to 240. These aren’t just any satellites; they’re equipped with AI and capable of delivering crisp remote sensing images from space, promising to redefine precision in autonomous driving and beyond.
The move is not just a leap for Geely but a significant stride for China’s burgeoning private space sector. Since opening its doors to private investment in 2014, China has seen a surge in commercial space ventures. Geely’s satellite network, although ambitious, is part of a larger narrative of innovation and competition in the heavens above.
As these satellites orbit overhead, they offer more than just advanced navigation for self-driving cars. They promise enhanced connectivity for consumer electronics, painting a picture of a future where our cars, phones, and devices are more interconnected than ever.
Revolt Motors is a name that’s getting more associated with innovation in India‘s electric vehicle (EV) sector each day. The company has taken a bold step to democratize electric mobility. By launching the RV400 BRZ, the company has introduced an electric motorcycle that combines affordability with performance, making it an enticing option for a broader segment of Indian consumers.
The bike delivers a top speed of 85 kilometres per hour
The RV400 BRZ, priced at approximately $1,662, stands out as the most budget-friendly option in Revolt Motors’ electric motorcycle lineup. This move is a testament to the company’s commitment to making sustainable transportation accessible to more people. The RV400 BRZ doesn’t compromise on quality or performance for its price. It shares the same technical underpinnings as its higher-end counterparts, featuring a 3.24-kilowatt-hour battery and a 5-kilowatt motor. This setup delivers a top speed of 85 kilometers per hour and a range that varies from 80 to 150 kilometers depending on the riding mode, balancing efficiency with the thrill of riding.
However, the RV400 BRZ simplifies its feature set to achieve its affordable price point. It skips on advanced tech like smartphone connectivity and keyless ignition but retains essential safety features like regenerative braking, a combined braking system, and a sidestand motor cutoff. A fully digital instrument cluster keeps the rider informed of the bike’s speed, battery status, and selected ride mode. Charging the RV400 BRZ is fairly quick, with a full charge achievable in 4.5 hours.
In terms of aesthetics, the RV400 BRZ doesn’t stray from the sporty, naked bike design that has become a hallmark of the Revolt brand. It’s available in five vibrant colors, ensuring there’s a style to match every rider’s preference.
Revolt Motors’ latest offering is more than just a new model; it’s a leap towards sustainable urban mobility in India. By making electric motorcycles more accessible, Revolt Motors is not just selling a product; it’s contributing to a cleaner, greener future on India’s roads.
Apple‘s new Vision Pro headset might be fragile-looking, but new drop tests show it’s tougher than some expected. The tests, conducted by Sam Kohl of Apple Track, reveal the headset can withstand bumps and even falls from significant heights, though with some caveats.
You can watch the full drop test video below, but we will try to quickly summarize the results here.
Apple Vision Pro Drop Tests
So in regular usage, typical wear and tear such as accidental bumps against walls or doors caused minor scratches to the Vision Pro’s glass, but no significant damage.
Even intentional bumps against walls didn’t shatter the glass. However, the light seal, which helps block out ambient light, popped off easily throughout the testing.
The headset also survived multiple drops onto the carpet from a low height, although the speakers did take a hit. Specifically, the right speaker stopped working after the third drop because of an internal break in the band connection. Despite this, the headset remained in good overall condition and was fully usable.
But a significant fall from 10-12 feet finally resulted in shattered front glass. Even then, the glass didn’t break into pieces, and the headset continued to function normally.
Vision Pro with shattered front glass after 10-12 feet drop. Image: AppleTrack
Interestingly, the front glass can be peeled off to expose the display layer, which, although still functional, is likely very delicate and prone to damage.
Apple Vision Pro front glass peeled off. Image: AppleTrack
All in all, the Vision Pro demonstrated better-than-expected resilience in everyday usage scenarios. The only weak point seems to be the speakers and light seal becoming loose. While this may warrant some caution, if you’re not a clumsy guy dropping off your gadget here and there, the headset should offer good durability.
Apple Vision Pro is now officially available for purchase with a collection of nearly 600 apps designed specifically for the headset. Although this number may seem substantial, it falls short compared to the extensive app stores of the iPhone and iPad.
In an effort to support developers, Apple has introduced a “Developer Strap” for the Vision Pro, priced at $300. It essentially functions as a USB-C dongle allowing developers to make a direct connection between the headset and a Mac.
The strap is exclusively available through the Apple Developer website and is targeted at developers who can use this USB-C dongle to “accelerate the development of graphics-intensive apps and games.”
This likely means compiling and debugging apps directly on the device, bypassing the need for a wireless connection. However, Apple hasn’t confirmed if file transfer is also possible (via 9to5Mac).
While development options are available for other Apple devices like Apple TV and Watch, transferring VisionOS apps with 3D features can be cumbersome over Wi-Fi. Hence, the Developer Strap can be particularly valuable for developers working on Vision Pro projects involving these advanced features.
However, it’s important to note that Apple is strictly positioning this accessory for developers and not for consumers. Thus, it’s not available through the regular Apple Store. Instead, it can only be ordered via the Apple Developer site and currently by only US-based developer account holders.
Interestingly, the Developer Strap includes a built-in speaker, as developers need to replace the right audio strap that comes with Vision Pro.
Separately, Apple Stores in the US are now providing 25-minute Vision Pro demos, showing the device’s capabilities, available content and apps, and more. The headset might launch in additional countries later this year.
The Dangbei Atom compact laser projector has finally been launched for the global market. The projector was first unveiled in December 2023 and was also showcased during CES 2024 last January. The gadget is available on Amazon meaning that it can be purchased online from several countries.
Features
The Dangbei Atom has a laser light source that delivers a maximum brightness of 1200 ISO lumens and 1080p resolution. It supports Google TV and Google Assistant voice commands. The 1080p variant of the Atom is the first laser projector to support Google TV and offers a wide array of streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney++. The projector has an ALPD laser light source and it can throw images up to 180 inches wide. It also supports HDR10+ video format.
Image perfection tools available include autofocus, keystone correction, obstacle avoidance, and screen fit. It also features Chromecast wireless screencasting while its built-in 10W speakers support Dolby Audio. The Dangbei Atom laser projector weighs 1.28kg and is 1.87 inches thick. It is lighter than the average laptop which underscores the compact design and versatility of the laser projector.
Pricing & Availability
The new Dangbei Atom projector is available for purchase via Amazon. It is on sale in the US for $749 due to a $150 coupon. The original price of the Dangbei Atom is thus $899. The price of the projector is also the same on the Dangbei online store. A discount coupon is also available for customers in European countries like France and Germany, reducing the price of the projector to €849 from €999. The product has also been listed in the UK although it is currently unavailable. There are no indications at this time when the discount regime for the Dangbei Atom will end.
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