Recent U.S. Senate hearings put the spotlight on the pressing issue of child safety online, dragging CEOs from major social media platforms like Meta, TikTok, and X into the hot seat. The emotional testimonials from parents and children, detailing exploitation and harm, set a grave tone for the proceedings. Lawmakers and children’s advocates argue that these tech behemoths are not doing nearly enough to protect young users from the darker facets of social media, including bullying, addiction, and exposure to harmful content.
The testimonials from parents and children set a grave tone at the proceedings
The Senate Judiciary Committee’s session revealed a stark reality: the very design and operational choices of these platforms contribute significantly to the dangers faced by children online. Despite Mark Zuckerberg‘s apology to affected families and promises of continued investment in safety measures, skepticism remains high. The exchange between Zuckerberg and Senator Josh Hawley underscored a critical disconnect, highlighting the question of profit over safety.
Snapchat’s proactive stance, advocating for legal measures to hold platforms accountable, stands out as a beacon of hope. Yet, the collective voice of the industry seems hesitant, often defaulting to assurances of existing safety features rather than committing to substantial change.
This hearing, while showcasing a rare bipartisan agreement on the issue, also underlines the complex challenge of regulating a space as vast and varied as social media. The CEOs’ testimonies and the heart-wrenching stories of impacted families underscore the urgent need for a balanced approach that safeguards children without stifling the positive aspects of these platforms.
As debates over regulation and corporate responsibility continue, the clear consensus is that the status quo is unacceptable. The path forward demands not only technological solutions but a fundamental reevaluation of the role social media plays in the lives of the youngest members of society. The call for action is loud and clear: it’s time to prioritize the well-being of children in the digital age.
The latest financial report released by Japanese tech giant Canon indicates the brand grew its revenue by 3.7% from 2022. The 2023 full-year revenue was about 4.18 billion yen ($28.335 billion). Canon’s net profit for the year 2023 increased by 8.4% from the previous year, the report also showed.
The revenue was spread between Canon’s four main businesses namely printing solutions, imaging, medical solutions, and industrial equipment/ other products. The printing business accounted for 2.346 trillion yen ($15.90 billion) in revenue, with a YoY increase of 3.2%. The report indicates that the printing business accounted for about 56.1% of the overall revenue of the Canon brand for 2023. The products from this arm include digital printing systems with some recent innovative offerings like the color digital printer image PRESS V1350.
The imaging business of Canon in 2023 had a revenue profile of 861.6 billion yen ($5.81 billion) with a 7.2% year-on-year increase. The sales in this segment were fueled by Canon’s new interchangeable lens digital cameras, network cameras, and diverse products from the lineup. Some of the new products were the EOS R6 Mark II, the EOS R8, and the EOS R50 cameras. There is a huge market demand for network cameras with diverse applications.
The medical business field revenue for Canon in 2023 was 553.8 billion yen ($3.75 billion) with a 7.9% increase in revenue. Canon’s medical business field continued to enjoy strong sales, driven by demand for MRI equipment, X-ray equipment, and ultrasonic diagnostic equipment. The sales have been heavily situated in Japan and Europe and this year’s output surpassed the previous year’s record.
The industrial equipment arm of Canon got a revenue of 314.7 billion yen ($2.13 billion) which reflected a year-on-year decline of 4.4%. The demand for power equipment continues to be strong but FPD exposure equipment experienced market investment fluctuations. Overall, Canon expects the outlook for 2024 to be bright despite some setbacks, especially in the industrial equipment business.
Gogoro is the global leader in battery-swapping electric scooters and the company is making inroads into the Americas. The Gogoro scooters will soon berth in Latin America, with other countries including the US to follow later. Gogoro has just announced its expansion to South America and will deploy its e-scooters and battery-charging networks in Chile and Colombia.
Gogoro will partner with Copec, a Latin American energy company to deliver its first lineup of e-scooters in South America. The partnership between Gogoro and Copec will see to the development of charging stations in the two countries in addition to the release of the Gogoro Smartscooters. The first scooters and battery-swapping stations (GoStations) will become active in Q2 2024, according to Gogoro. The scooters will be available both for commercial use and private use. The commercial option will include delivery riders.
Gogoro says its partnership with Copec is an important milestone in its mission to transform urban transportation globally. Gogoro also stated that the partnership with Copec will provide an accessible path for both consumers and delivery riders to adopt sustainable urban mobility and contribute to the fight against climate change. Gogoro’s CEO and founder, Horace Luke estimated that on average, last-mile delivery riders ride more than six times the distance a consumer rider rides. Therefore, enabling delivery riders to adopt sustainable and smart electric transportation is bound to have an accelerated impact on cities.
Since 2015 when it first rolled out its battery-swapping system, Gogoro has expanded beyond its home market of Taiwan to China, Indonesia, India, Israel, Singapore, South Korea, and the Philippines. The first GoStation units will be unveiled in Santiago, Chile utilizing Copec service stations. Gogoro will partner with Colombia company, Terpel to operate battery-swapping stations in Bogota, Colombia. The entry of Gogoro into South America holds lots of promise for the company, as the continent has a growing population of riders.
A recent report shows that Xiaomi Mobile Software Co. Ltd has obtained a patent for anti-peep prompt methods, devices, electronic equipment, and storage media. The new patent indicates that Xiaomi could be developing a wearable device that can give the user a prompt whenever he is being secretly photographed. The details and the method include obtaining environmental image data through a camera device and determining the shooting angle of the shooting device.
When the user is within the shooting range of the shooting device based on the shooting angle, it provides an anti-peep prompt via the attached wearable device. This prevents the user from being snooped at when in the range of a secret camera or other shooting devices. The new patent serves to secure the privacy of the user from unauthorized capturing. According to the patent, the wearable device achieves the anti-peep function only when it has an in-built camera. It is unclear whether the user can accurately pinpoint the position of the shooting device. This will help try to act on the anti-peep prompt by moving away from the range of the shooting device.
Current Xiaomi smartwatches and bracelets do not have cameras. However, the Mi Rabbit children’s watch has a camera, so it is unlikely that that device will feature this anti-peep functionality. MIJIA smart glasses are equipped with cameras and could be products that are capable of providing anti-peep prompt functionality.
Xiaomi may be preparing to launch a new lineup of wearable devices that will support the anti-peep function. Therefore, the next Xiaomi smartwatches and bracelets could come with in-built cameras.
Audio accessories brand Audio-Technica has released the ATH-AWKG black persimmon wood-limited headphones in China. The new pair of headphones are made from the traditional Japanese wood called black persimmon. The release of the new model marks the first time Audio-Technica will be using black persimmon material as an independent audio tuning element. The product, though, resembles the model the company launched in 2022 to mark its 60th anniversary.
The choice of black persimmon in the design of the ATH-AWKG headset has resulted in the exclusion of the traditional all-cavity LOGO painting. Rather, the model adopted the same Muji design that was used in the Narukami series. The Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG comes with a 53mm moving coil unit and uses a 6N-OFC (99.99%) oxygen-free copper coil. The driving part uses Permendur Iron-cobalt alloy units while titanium alloy flange rings are used in the inside of the earphones. The headphones also feature Audio-Technica’s Dual Air Damping System (DADS) in the cavity.
The ATH-AWKG headset is equipped with headphone pads made of lambskin, while the cables use the A2DC pluggable interface by Audio-Technica. The package also includes two 3.0m detachable braided shielded wires which correspond to 6.3mm single-ended and XLR (4-pin) balanced dual output specifications. The model reflects some of the functionality of the KG-NARU headsets. There are suggestions in some quarters that the natural sounding effects of black persimmon wood yield a more pleasant sound output to the ears.
The Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG black persimmon wood-limited headphones are available in China at a retail price of 32,800 yuan ($4,582). It is understood that this limited-edition model is the Chinese version of the Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG black persimmon headsets. The pricing of the model clearly indicates the premium nature of the gadget and it could well be a collector’s item. There are no indications at this time how many units of the Audio-Technica ATH-AWKG black persimmon wood-limited headphones were produced.
Two Urbn MagTag magnetic wireless power banks have been launched in India. They are the Urbn MagTag 5000mAh and Urbn MagTag 10000mAh power banks. The two power banks are part of the Urbn premium black edition range.
Both models come with a lithium polymer battery and are capable of fast charging via Power Delivery (PD) protocol. The MagTag comes with a unique ring to seamlessly wirelessly recharge an iPhone or Android device. The 10000mAh power bank offers 15W wireless and 20W wired charging for quick and efficient recharging of devices. The 5000mAh MagTag power bank is more compact than the bigger model but shares the same premium features. It offers 12W wired charging is BIS-certified and offers MagSafe compatibility and MagTag ring for secure charging.
Urbn says the MagTag wireless power banks are a reflection of the brand’s dedication to overcoming technological challenges with efficiency and convenience. The latest magnetic wireless compact power banks series, according to Urbn, exemplifies its commitment and addresses daily concerns about smartphone battery life. The power banks are versatile and are compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Urbn says it recognizes the significance of seamlessly integrating technology into the lives of users of Urbn products.
Pricing & Availability
The Urbn MagTag wireless power banks are available in black, blue, and purple color options. The bigger model (10000mAh) is priced in India currently for Rs. 2,999 ($36) but its original price is Rs. 3,499 ($42). The 5000mAh Urbn MagTag power bank is priced at Rs. 2,499 ($30). The models can be purchased from e-commerce platforms in the subcontinent including Amazon India, and Flipkart, and directly via Urban’s D2C platform.
Popular battery-swapping electric scooter manufacturer Gogoro has unveiled the Pulse electric scooter. The new Gogoro Pulse utilizes the same swappable battery architecture of previous Gogoro models but comes with high-performance specs. The Gogoro Pulse has a pretty modern design and features sharp angles in place of the traditional bubbly curves of previous models.
Features
The Gogoro Pulse is joining a long list of well-crafted electric scooters from the Gogoro repertoire. Gogoro has been widely recognized for its contribution to the transformation of the urban electric two-wheeler market over the years. It has integrated cutting-edge innovation with performance to deliver beautifully designed e-scooters with a smart user experience. In the view of Horace Luke, founder, and CEO of Gogoro, the Pulse e-scooter introduces a new and exhilarating Gogoro riding experience that utilizes Gogoro’s latest innovations in electric performance and aerodynamic efficiency. It also comes with advanced lighting tech and an immersive interactive user experience, according to the Gogoro CEO.
The Gogoro Pulse is equipped with a Gogoro-developed motor that powers its Hyper Drive powertrain. The new 9kW H1 motor works with the Gogoro Hypercore smart system. This allows the scooter to deliver top-notch traction control with a maximum torque of 378Nm at the rear wheel. The Gogoro Pulse goes from 0 to 50km/h in just 3.05 seconds but its top speed has not been stated yet. The acceleration of the Pulse puts it in an exclusive class as it surpasses that of any 125cc-equivalent scooter, gasoline or electric. It is noteworthy to state that the Pulse has up to 50% more power than Gogoro’s current scooters with a top speed of up to 100km/h. Therefore, the Pulse is expected to be a tad higher than 100km/h in terms of its top speed.
Gogoro seems to have incorporated traction control into the Pulse so that some new ride modes could be implemented on the scooter. These include Range, Dirt, City, Touring, Track, and a Custom mode. The Pulse also features Gogoro’s new Smart Cockpit dashboard with a 10.25-inch panoramic HD touch display with Gogoro’s iQ Touch HD user interface. The Smart Cockpit dashboard also features turn-by-turn GPS navigation with real-time traffic information and Gogoro Go stations for a quick swap of batteries.
Pricing & Availability
The Gogoro Pulse will roll out sometime in Q2 2024 but the pricing and availability details are lacking at this time. It is expected that the full specs of the Gogoro Pulse will be out soon and it could come with a decent price rating due to Gogoro’s swappable batteries which may be on a rental basis.
The Lenovo Yoga True Wireless Stereo Earbuds were unveiled earlier this month at CES 2024. The earbuds are tailored to the Lenovo Yoga device ecosystem and are a perfect audio accessory for your Yoga tablet or Laptop. These earbuds have recently been spotted on the TDRA certification website, pointing to an imminent launch.
The Lenovo Yoga TWS earbuds have emerged on the TDRA certification database with model number LT310. Although the certification hints at a future launch in the UAE, it does not reveal any specifics. That being said, June this year is the anticipated time frame for their arrival.
Lenovo Yoga TWS earbuds: What we know so far
Each Yoga TWS earbud is equipped with three microphones, ensuring clear sound quality and communication. A standout feature of these earbuds is the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which is complemented by touch-sensitive controls and quick charging support. With an IPX4 rating, they are resilient against splashes, making them suitable for workouts.
In terms of technical specifications, the earbuds will utilize 12.2mm drivers, offering a frequency range of 20-20,000 Hz and 16 Ohm impedance, ensuring high-quality audio. The charging case, which houses a 500 mAh battery, can sustain the earbuds for up to 6 hours and 30 minutes when ANC is turned off. Priced at $69.99, the Lenovo Yoga True Wireless Stereo Earbuds will be available in a stylish Blue color variant.
Recently, OnePlus quietly launched an entry-level smartphone for select global markets. This product officially goes by the OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G. It succeeds the OnePlus Nord N20 SE from 2022.
The latest model arrives with a couple of major upgrades. It houses a 5G-enabled more powerful chipset and flaunts a higher-resolution display.
Anyway, like the last-gen device, the current-gen phone is also a rebranded Oppo handset.
The newly introduced OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G is a rebadged Oppo A79 5G. The smartphone is also known as Oppo A2 5G. These two products went official between late October and early November.
The Nord N30 SE 5G is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 SoC. Whereas its predecessor comes with a slower 4G-only MediaTek Helio G35 chip.
Further, the phone flaunts a larger 6.72-inch FHD+ (2400 x 1080 pixels) centered punch-hole display (LCD) with a 90Hz refresh rate. While the last-gen handset has a smaller 6.56-inch LCD panel that offers an HD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a dewdrop notch.
The rest of the specs are more or less the same on both devices. They arrive with a 50MP (wide) + 2MP (depth) dual camera setup, an 8MP selfie camera, dual stereo speakers, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 5,000mAh battery, and 33W wired charging support.
There’s no official word on the pricing and availability of the OnePlus Nord N30 SE as of writing this article.
After a successful launch in China and the United States, the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD monitor has finally made its way to Europe. The monitor boasts a 49-inch QD-OLED panel with 5120×1440 dual 2K resolution and 32:9 aspect ratio. Its 1800R curvature is intended to increase immersion and reduce eye strain during extended use.
Key to the ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD’s appeal is its focus on speed and precision. The monitor boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and a rapid 0.03 milliseconds response time, aiming to provide smooth gameplay and reduce motion blur. This is particularly beneficial for fast-paced games where quick response times are crucial.
In terms of visual quality, the monitor achieves a peak brightness of 1000 nits and supports DisplayHDR True Black 400. With a 99% DCI-P3 color gamut and 10-bit color depth, it promises accurate color reproduction.
AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support is another feature of this monitor, targeting users with AMD graphics cards. This technology is designed to synchronize frame rates, providing a tear-free and smooth gaming experience.
In terms of connectivity, the ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD includes multiple options such as DP1.4, HDMI2.1, and USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. Notably, it also offers a USB-C interface with a 90W power output, enabling device charging and laptop power supply.
Pricing & availability
The monitor’s entry into the European market comes with a price tag of €1,499. Some European retailers have offered minor discounts to remain competitive.
Xiaomi is preparing to introduce a series of self-developed chips that aim to improve imaging, charging speed, battery management, and communication in their upcoming smartphones. The new chips include the Imaging Chip Surge C4, Charging Chip Surge P3, Battery Management Chip Surge G3, and the Communication Chip Surge “xx,” and are expected to be featured in upcoming Xiaomi flagship devices.
Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station has reported an expansion in Xiaomi’s self-developed chip segment, covering imaging, fast charging, battery, and communication. Speculation suggests that these chips will likely be integrated into an upcoming Xiaomi flagship. As we know, Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, likely in the next month. That being said, these new chips could also emerge on the Xiaomi 15 series which is said to go into mass production this September.
While not much is known about the Xiaomi 15 series smartphones, we expect them to arrive with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip onboard. In addition to that, previous leaks have also mentioned that the Pro model could feature thinner bezels, with a 1400 nits bright 2K 120Hz LTPO display that could save up to 15-20% battery life. If the new battery management chip proves effective in power conservation, this combination has the potential to significantly enhance the device’s screen-on time.
On the other hand, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is rumored to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and is expected to feature a curved-edge OLED display screen with a 2K resolution. The device might sport a quad-camera setup, housing four 50MP lenses, including a 50MP Sony LYT-900 primary shooter with a Leica-branded camera module. Powering the device is a sizable 5180 mAh battery, supporting both 90W wired and 80W wireless fast charging capabilities.
HMD Global CEO Jean Francois Baril had officially confirmed earlier that the first HMD models would be launched. Now the NokiaMobile account has been renamed to HMD (Human Mobile Devices), which means we can say goodbye to Nokia. Nokia lovers should know that this change is significant.
HMD is coming with new phones
HMD’s first two smartphones were leaked by people at GSMChina.
Now, the renaming of Nokia Mobile accounts to HMD is a sign of an important change. Nokia is no more, and the new name is HMD. This not only confirms the availability of new products from HMD in the future but also gives some insight into what the brand is capable of.
HMD (Human Mobile Devices)
HMD stands for Human Mobile Devices. It’s defined as Human Mobile Devices and this is an indication that Nokia can regain its former success with HMD. Nokia has launched some really successful products, but some mistakes over the years caused the brand to lose its former popularity.
Nokia’s name change to HMD confirms the rebirth of a powerful brand.
HMD Phone Render Image
Recently, 91mobiles revealed render images of some HMD models. The new HMD model is expected to have a 108MP OIS camera. The triple camera lineup and 1 flash do not go unnoticed. Read more about the leaked HMD smartphones here.
But, HMD will not be limited to just 2 smartphones. Some models have not yet been revealed. We expect other models to come to light in the coming days.
Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), a prominent player in the electric vehicle (EV) battery industry, showed substantial growth in 2023. Anticipating a net profit between 42.5 billion yuan and 45.5 billion yuan, the company expects a robust expansion ranging from 38.3% to 48.1%, building on its impressive 92.89% net profit gain in 2022.
CATL’s optimistic outlook is rooted in the global surge in electric car adoption, with the company commanding a remarkable 37.4% market share in 2023, producing 233.4 gigawatt-hours of batteries. Despite a 4.3% dip in Q3 2023 profits due to a currency exchange loss, the company projects a strong Q4, estimating a profit of 11.35 billion yuan to 14.35 billion yuan, attributed to increased sales volume and lower production costs.
In the ever-expanding Chinese EV market, where approximately 40% of new cars are battery-powered, CATL faces challenges from smaller rivals and the deceleration of demand, especially in the wake of a 37% year-on-year increase in EV deliveries in 2023. However, the company remains at the forefront, holding a 43.11% market share in China, though slightly down from 48.2% in 2022.
source: CATL
Notably, CATL’s global significance is underscored by 40% of its products being sold outside mainland China. As the electric vehicle industry experiences a shift in dynamics, with BYD emerging as a formidable competitor, CATL’s market share in China dipped slightly. BYD, China’s second-ranked EV battery maker, is forecasted to experience an 86.5% net profit increase in 2023, surpassing even Tesla in sales.
Looking ahead, CATL is set to introduce groundbreaking technological advancements, including the Shenxing battery with a 400km driving range in 10 minutes. Moreover, the collaboration with Didi on battery-swapping technology reflects the company’s commitment to innovative solutions in response to evolving market demands.
Despite challenges such as slowing demand and stiff competition, CATL remains a pivotal player in the global EV landscape, with its performance and strategic moves echoing far beyond the Chinese market.
Back in 2017, Xiaomi began working on a new operating system (OS) designed to cope with the problems caused by different device operating systems and problems with interoperability in the Internet of Things (IoT). This OS was developed to bring all Xiaomi ecosystem devices together, ensuring top performance, a consistent user experience, and easy connectivity within the Xiaomi ecosystem.
In 2023, they introduced it as HyperOS.
What is HyperOS from Xiaomi?
HyperOS is an operating system that is focused on people and was made for a smart ecosystem that includes people, cars, and homes. It advocates complete refactoring to make the most of the hardware capabilities of devices, ensuring smooth performance and effective resource scheduling. HyperOS lets powerful devices do computing faster, gives important tasks quick scheduling, and lets lightweight devices perform flexible distributed computing.
The operating system employs an extremely lightweight file system for continuous performance and reduced storage occupancy. It also enhances OTA upgrades and boasts superior heterogeneous compatibility, supporting various file systems and processor platforms.
HyperOS focuses on an “Alive Design Philosophy” with comfortable, fluid, and diverse graphics subsystem restructuring, enabling high-quality rendering and dynamic visuals. It also focuses on end-to-end security, featuring hardware-level protection, self-developed TEE (Trusted Execution Environment), and strengthened system app security.
HyperOS differs significantly from MIUI as it’s built on AOSP (Android Open Source Project) and Xiaomi’s Vela system, in contrast to MIUI’s reliance on Google’s Android. This change allows it to efficiently run on devices with varying RAM sizes and grants Xiaomi more flexibility in selecting features, free from Google’s service constraints.
Android 14-based HyperOS offers improved performance, faster boot times, and smooth background operations. It’s compatible with a wide range of Xiaomi ecosystem devices, such as smartphones, watches, and TVs, making it a promising choice for those seeking innovative features.
What are the new features of HyperOS?
HyperOS introduces a suite of innovative features:
User Interface Enhancements:
Design Philosophy
HyperOS maintains a similar design to MIUI but offers a more refined and clutter-free interface. It stands out by having fewer pre-installed applications and less bloatware, resulting in a cleaner and more streamlined user experience.
Animation Quality
HyperOS boasts smoother, more refined animations, offering a sophisticated touch compared to MIUI’s more dynamic and whimsical style.
Customization Approach
HyperOS introduces numerous customization options within both system settings and individual apps. For instance, users can now easily extract a portion of an image by tapping on it, allowing them to use it as a sticker or simply copy it.
Additionally, when accessing WiFi or Bluetooth settings via the command center, HyperOS displays a separate tab presenting available devices, mirroring the user-friendly approach seen in iOS. Now the Weather app provides not only essential weather information but also conveys the real feel of the current conditions outside.
HyperOS also introduces a Dynamic Island-like animation for phone charging. It elevates multitasking with improved floating window and split-screen functionalities. Additionally, the lock screen is more customizable, offering various styles and effects for a personalized user experience.
Performance Upgrades:
Storage Efficiency
HyperOS is remarkably more storage-efficient than MIUI, using about 30% less space than MIUI 14, which contributes to a smoother and more fluid performance.
Enhanced RAM Management
HyperOS improves RAM utilization, allowing applications to remain active longer and reducing the frequency of app reloads.
Advanced System Operations
HyperOS has optimized resource allocation and power management, potentially extending battery life.
AI-Driven Features:
HyperOS integrates cutting-edge AI capabilities, such as AI-enhanced text recognition from images, advanced speech generation, and intelligent image search.
The operating system enhances device interconnectivity through Xiaomi’s HyperConnect and Hypermind technologies, augmenting the functionality of smartphones, smartwatches, and smart home devices within the Xiaomi ecosystem.
HyperOS supports seamless device switching, remote data, and app access, and offers faster app loading times.
Which Devices Will Get HyperOS Update?
Here is a list of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones eligible for the HyperOS update:
Xiaomi 11 series, 11T series, 11X series, 11i series, 12 series, 12T series, 12S series, and 13 series are expected to receive the update in the first quarter of 2024
Xiaomi Mix Fold series and Civi series are expected to get the update in the first quarter of 2024
Xiaomi Pad 6 series started receiving the update in January 2024, while the Pad 5 series will get it in the first quarter of 2024
Redmi K40 series, K50 series, K60 series, and 11 series are set to receive the update in the first quarter of 2024
Redmi 11 Prime, 12 series will also get the update in the first quarter of 2024
Surprisingly Redmi 12C started getting the update in January 2024
Redmi Note 13 series is expected to receive the update in the first quarter of 2024
Redmi Pad and Pad SE will get the update in the first quarter of 2024
POCO M6 Pro 5G will also get the update in the first quarter of 2024
POCO C51 and C55 will receive the update in the first quarter of 2024, while various POCO X, F, and M series devices are expected to get the update in the same timeframe
POCO F5 has already got the update in January 2024
Update: Official update timeline for the Indian smartphones:
Xiaomi 13 Pro, Pad 6, Redmi 12 5G, Redmi 12C, Redmi 11 Prime, and Redmi Pad have received the update
Xiaomi 12 Pro, Redmi Note 12 5G, Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G will receive the update in March in India
Mi 11 Ultra, Xiaomi 11T Pro, Mi 11X, 11i HyperCharge, Mi 11 Lite, 11i, Mi 10, Pad 5, Redmi K50i, Redmi 13C series, Redmi 12, Redmi 11 Prime 5G, Redmi Note 11 series will receive the update in Q2 2024
Since there are a lot of devices getting this update we might miss one or two. If your device is not mentioned here I will ask you to research through our news section to get more info.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
What is HyperOS?
HyperOS is Xiaomi’s latest operating system, based on a fusion of Linux and Xiaomi Vela, featuring a compact firmware size and designed for a human-centric, smart ecosystem.
How do I get HyperOS?
Currently, availability is limited to specific devices with future OTA updates planned for eligible models.
When HyperOS is released in India?
Xiaomi has started to roll out HyperOS in India starting from January 2024. POCO F5 is the first device to receive the update.
Is HyperOS better than MIUI?
It’s subjective. HyperOS prioritizes clean design and performance, while MIUI offers a wider range of features and customizations. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences.
Will older Xiaomi phones get HyperOS?
Xiaomi plans to release HyperOS based on Android 13, for older Xiaomi devices in the second quarter of 2024. However, it’s important to note that these devices may not have all the features of the full HyperOS package.
Kia Motors is redefining the compact sedan, merging a traditional design with future-forward SUV elements in its upcoming EV4. Set to enter production in early 2025, the EV4 offers a refreshing take on electric vehicles. The concept, revealed last year, showcases the classic sedan’s three-box design and SUV-like features such as a higher ride height and distinctive wheel arch cladding.
The car will enter production in early 2025
Initially slated for an earlier debut, the EV4’s production has been pushed back by a few months, as reported by The Korean Car Blog. This delay, though not explicitly explained, hints at Kia’s commitment to perfecting the vehicle’s quality. During a recent conference call, Kia’s CFO & Vice President Woo-Jeong Joo emphasized the critical role of electric vehicles like the EV4 in Kia’s future, underlining their strategy to adapt to market shifts over the medium to long term.
Kia’s EV4 is expected to be a game-changer in the electric sedan market, potentially challenging popular models like the Tesla Model 3. Unlike the rear or all-wheel-drive Model 3, the EV4 might feature front-wheel drive. While technical specifics remain under wraps, there’s speculation that it could either utilize the existing E-GMP platform or adopt the new Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA). The latter, an evolution of the E-GMP, could reduce production costs and introduce more affordable battery options.
This electric sedan embodies Kia’s vision of blending the past and the future. The EV4 not only symbolizes a step forward in electric vehicle technology but also represents a unique fusion of sedan comfort and SUV practicality. With the automotive world keenly awaiting its debut, the EV4 could potentially attract a wide range of customers, especially those who appreciate a mix of sedan and a modern SUV design.
As the electric vehicle (EV) market heats up, Chinese automakers partnering with Huawei face an unexpected hurdle. The issue lies with Huawei’s MDC 810 computing unit, essential for advanced driver assistance systems. Changan Auto and Chery Auto, two major players in China‘s EV industry, have felt the brunt of this challenge. Both companies, in collaboration with Huawei, have been forging ahead in the premium EV segment. However, these plans have hit a snag due to the component shortage, causing disruptions in their production schedules. Even smaller carmaker Seres has not been spared, underlining the widespread impact of this issue.
Huawei’s reliability as a supplier is under fire right now
This setback comes at a critical juncture for Huawei. The tech giant is in the midst of spinning off its Intelligent Automotive Solution business and is actively seeking investors. The timing of these production issues could not have been worse, as it raises questions about Huawei’s reliability as a supplier in the highly competitive EV sector.
Among the affected models are Changan’s Avatr 12 sedan and Chery’s Luxeed S7 sedan, both of which had garnered significant customer interest. The delays have forced these companies to offer compensation to their customers, a move that reflects the intense competition in China’s EV market. In such a landscape, even a minor delay can have major implications, not just in terms of financial costs but also in customer trust and brand reputation.
Huawei’s current predicament highlights a broader challenge in the EV industry: the reliance on complex, cutting-edge technologies that can be vulnerable to supply chain disruptions. As automakers race to integrate more intelligent features into their vehicles, similar challenges may become more common.
The ongoing dispute between TikTok and Universal Music Group (UMG) has taken center stage in the music industry. It’s not just about the songs of popular artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish possibly disappearing from TikTok; it’s a larger conversation about the value of music in the digital age.
Popular artists such as Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish can disappear from TikTok
ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, has accused UMG of prioritizing profit over the interests of artists and songwriters. TikTok argues that UMG is missing out on the promotional benefits offered by its billion-user platform, which serves as a key discovery tool for new talent.
The heart of the matter lies in compensation. UMG claims TikTok’s offer for their new deal is significantly lower than fair market value, highlighting that TikTok’s massive user base and rising ad revenues don’t translate to adequate returns for music creators. UMG emphasizes that despite TikTok’s popularity, it contributes a mere 1% to their total revenue.
The timing couldn’t be more critical, as the existing licensing deal is set to expire soon. TikTok prides itself on having reached favorable agreements with other labels and publishers, but this standoff with UMG could change the dynamics.
Adding another layer to the dispute is the role of artificial intelligence (AI) on TikTok. UMG is concerned about the increasing use of AI-generated content on the platform, suggesting it could dilute the royalties for human artists. TikTok dismisses these claims, defending its use of AI as an enhancement to user experience, not a replacement for artists.
iQOO is gearing up to launch the iQOO Neo 9 Pro on February 22 in India. The performance-focused smartphone will launch with last year’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. Ahead of the launch, the brand has slashed the price of its iQOO Neo 7 Pro model in India by up to Rs. 7,000.
iQOO Neo 7 Pro discount:
The 8/128GB model of the Neo 7 Pro, originally priced at Rs. 34,999, and the 12/256GB variant, initially Rs. 37,999, are now available for Rs. 30,999 and Rs. 33,999, respectively. Additional discounts include a Rs. 2,000 coupon and a Rs. 1,000 card discount for select banks, bringing the effective price down to Rs 27,999 for the 8/128GB variant and Rs 30,999 for the 12/256GB variant. This offer is available on Amazon India.
iQOO Neo 7 Pro specs:
The iQOO Neo 7 Pro boasts a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+, 120Hz refresh rate, and 360Hz touch sampling. It runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, Adreno 730 GPU, and an independent gaming chip for robust performance. With options for 8GB or 12GB LPDDR5 RAM and 128GB or 256GB UFS 3.1 storage, it runs on FunTouchOS 13, upgradeable to Android 14 and 15.
Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform adopts TSMC 4nm Process & has Superior Flagship Grade Performance with LPDDR5 RAM & UFS 3.1 Storage
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The camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. Selfies are captured by a 16MP front camera. A 5000mAh battery powers the device with 120W FlashCharge support. Stereo speakers with Hi-Res Audio enhance the audio experience. Security features include an in-display fingerprint scanner, and the device supports dual-SIM, 5G, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and GPS.
Coolpad has released a new feature mobile phone called the Golden Century Y60. What makes this phone special is that it mixes the 5G with a classic-style keypad. The phone is primarily designed with older people in mind.
Coolpad Golden Century Y60 Specifications:
The Golden Century Y60 stands out with its 3.5-inch touchscreen display and a classic nine-key numeric keypad. The back of the device is Golden while the front is Black. The phone’s dimensions are 146mm in length, 61.5mm in width, and 12.5mm in thickness, and it weighs 176g.
Under the hood, the phone is powered by an octa-core processor and supports 5G connectivity, which ensures fast internet speeds. The operating system is CoolOS 3.0, based on Android, and includes several features tailored for elderly users.
These features include an AI voice assistant, a one-touch SOS emergency button, a flashlight, a loudspeaker, and voice announcements for incoming calls. Users can also switch to a simplified mode, which offers large fonts and icons and amplified volume, making it easier for senior users to navigate and use the phone.
The device comes with a 3100mAh battery providing a standby time of 5-7 days on a full charge, and it charges via a Type-C interface. The phone also features dual cameras (main and front-facing), 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage. While details about the chipset are not fully disclosed, it’s rumored to be the UniSoC T157, an octa-core chip designed for 5G keypad phones.
Pricing and Availability
The pricing and availability of these phones are uncertain right now. Also, the availability outside China remains uncertain.
When Apple launched the iPhone 15 Pro and touted its AAA gaming capabilities, the company named three such titles as showcases: Resident Evil 4 remake, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, and Death Stranding. After the iOS launch of Resident Evil: Village and Resident Evil 4 Remake were both received well by Critics and Users alike, this month marks the launch of another such game; Death Stranding Director’s Cut.
The vanilla version of the game was originally released for other platforms in 2019 and was an instant hit. The game’s director’s cut edition brings with it new tools and equipment for players to experience, a firing range, racetrack, enhanced melee moves, extra missions, and more stories.
One thing to note is that even though both Resident Evil: Village and Resident Evil 4 came to iOS as a “try before you buy” model which allows you to get a taste of the game and test its performance on your device; a feature much appreciated by customers. This one appears to be buy-upfront only, which might be an issue for some people.
The game is compatible with iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max along with all Macs and iPads with M-series chips. While the game requires around 70GB of storage space, it is now available with a 50 percent discount offer that is live till the 20th of February pushing the price to $19.99 down from the pre-order price of $39.99 on the App Store.
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