Vivo T2 5G, Vivo Y27 prices slashed in India

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Feb 2, 2024

Vivo has introduced the Vivo Y200 5G’s new variant in India. Apart from the existing 8GB+128GB edition, it now comes in an 8GB+256GB version, which is priced at Rs 23,999 (~$289). In addition, the brand has also slashed the prices of the Vivo Y27 and Vivo T2 5G. Here is a look at the revised prices of both phones.

Vivo T2 5G

Vivo unveiled the Vivo T2 5G last April in two variants with 6 GB and 8 GB of RAM. Both models, equipped with 128 GB of storage, were priced at Rs 18,999 (~$229) and Rs 20,999 (~$253), respectively, at launch. The T2 received a price cut in December last year, and now both of its models are available with revised prices of Rs 15,999 (~$193) and Rs 17,999 (~$217), respectively.

To recall, the Vivo T2 5G offers a 6.38-inch AMOLED FHD+ 90Hz display with up to 1300 nits of brightness and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. The Snapdragon 695 powers the device with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. It houses a 4,500mAh battery with 44W rapid charging. It has a 16-megapixel front camera and a 64-megapixel (main, with OIS) + 2-megapixel (macro) + 2-megapixel (depth) triple camera unit.

The T2 is now available with revised pricing through Flipkart and Vivo India’s online store. It appears to be a permanent price cut, as the Vivo T3 5G’s arrival seems to be drawing near.

Vivo Y27

The Vivo Y27, which went official in July 2023, has received a price cut of Rs 1,000. Instead of Rs 12,999 launch price, the device is now available for Rs 11,999 through Flipkart, Vivo India’s online store, and offline stores. In addition, buyers can also benefit from up to Rs 1,000 (~$12) cashback using SBI, Yes Bank, IDFC First Bank, Bank of Baroda, DBS Bank, Federal Bank, and IndusInd Bank cards, along with other benefits such as V-shield.

Sale

Vivo Y27 (Burgundy Black, 6GB RAM, 128GB Storage) with No Cost EMI/Additional Exchange Offers

Camera: Dual 50MP+2MP Rear Camera | 8MP Selfie Camera with rear flash, night mode

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

In terms of specifications, the Vivo Y27 features a 6.64-inch IPS LCD FHD+ display, an 8-megapixel front camera, a 50-megapixel + 2-megapixel dual-camera setup, an Helio G85 chip, up to 6 GB of virtual RAM, a 5,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging, and FunTouch OS 13-based Android 13, a side-facing fingerprint sensor, and an IP54-rated chassis.

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iQOO Z9 5G, Vivo T3 TG, Vivo Y18, Y18e, Y03 receive Bluetooth SIG certification

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 2, 2024

In January, a couple of new Vivo phones, such as the Vivo V40 SE 5G, Vivo V30 SE, and Vivo Y200e 5G, were spotted in the database of the Bluetooth SIG certification. Now, another set of upcoming Vivo phones has emerged in the Bluetooth SIG’s database. The new certifications reveal the existence of a new iQOO phone as well as a few Vivo phones.

Upcoming Vivo / iQOO phones

iQOO Z9 5G Bluetooth SIG — iQOO Z9 5G / Vivo T3 5G Bluetooth SIG certified

The above screenshot reveals the existence of the iQOO Z9 5G and the Vivo T3 5G. Both have been spotted with model numbers I2302 and V2334, respectively. The specifications of these smartphones are not known yet.

The Chinese edition of the iQOO Z9 is expected to feature the Dimensity 8300. However, it is unclear whether the same device will be released in India. The Vivo T3 5G is expected to replace the Snapdragon 695-powered Vivo T2 5G, which debuted in India with a price tag of Rs 18,999 in April last year. The certification reveals that the iQOO Z9 and Vivo T3 will support Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.

Vivo Y03, Vivo Y18, Vivo Y18e — Vivo Y03, Vivo Y18, Vivo Y18, Vivo Y18e Bluetooth SIG certified

The above screenshot shows the existence of three other devices. Devices bearing model numbers V2332, V2333, and V2350 will have marketing names, such as the Vivo Y03, Vivo Y18, and Vivo Y18e, respectively. The model number V2345 is also associated with the Vivo Y18. All these devices support Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. Unfortunately, the rumor mill is yet to leak the specifications of these devices.

Devices that receive Bluetooth SIG certification are known to go official in around one month. Hence, there is a possibility that some of these devices may go official later this month or in March.

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Redmi Note 12 Turbo starts receiving HyperOS update

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 2, 2024

The Redmi Note 12 Turbo was released almost a year ago in China. The device goes by Poco F5 in global markets.

It continues to be one of the most powerful mid-range smartphones on the market. Before it hits a year old, Xiaomi is rolling out the first major software update for this handset.

The Redmi Note 12 Turbo is now receiving HyperOS update based on Android 14 in China. For the unaware, the device debuted with MIUI 14 based on Android 13.

The new software is currently limited to beta testers. It arrives with build number 1.0.2.0.UMRCNXM and weighs 5.5GB.

The same build should roll out to all users in the coming days if there are no major bugs. Else, the company might seed a new build with fixes. We expect the Poco F5 to also get the HyperOS update soon.

The main highlight of the Redmi Note 12 Turbo is its chipset — Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2. It is the only phone other than Realme GT Neo 5 SE to use this chip. This SoC is paired with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage.

The handset flaunts a 6.67-inch centered punch-hole OLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels (FHD+) and a 120Hz refresh rate. The panel has minimal bezels and supports Dolby Vision.

The smartphone arrives with a triple camera system comprising a 64MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a 2MP macro snapper. On the front, it has a 16MP selfie camera.

The phone not only comes with dual stereo speakers but also a 3.5mm headphone jack. Finally, it draws energy from a 5,000mAh battery and supports 67W wired charging.

Get the Global Redmi Note 12 Turbo (POCO F5) on Amazon

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Meizu 21 Pro tipped to launch in March, key specifications leaked

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 2, 2024

Last month, the alleged Meizu 21 Pro was approved by the 3C authority of China. A leak that appeared in quick succession revealed that the camera specifications of the device. Now, new leaks have emerged on Weibo to reveal its launch timeframe and key specifications.

Meizu 21 Pro key specifications (rumored)

According to a Chinese leaker, the Meizu 21 Pro will maintain an impressive design similar to the Meizu 21. He disclosed that the Pro variant features a thin and lightweight design, providing a comfortable feel in hand. It will boast an IP68-rated chassis, seemingly incorporating a titanium frame.

The device is outfitted with a 2K OLED display, sourced from a local manufacturer. The display is bordered by white-colored bezels, uniform on all four sides. The screen will house an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint scanner with a generously sized scanning area.

While it is not mentioned in the leak, it is likely to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. The highest variant of the device may offer 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. It is expected to pack a 5,000mAh battery with 80W wired and 50W wireless charging.

The Meizu 21 has a 200-megapixel + 12-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 5-megapixel (macro) triple camera unit. The new leak suggests that the Pro variant will have a different camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel OV50H OmniVision main camera and a telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. It is likely that the setup may also include an ultra-wide camera. As per another leaker, the Meizu 21 Pro is tentatively scheduled to launch in March of this year.

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A Modular E-Scooter and Rickshaw Combo? This is Hero MotoCorp’s New Surge S32 Concept

By

Anubhav

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Feb 2, 2024

Hero MotoCorp is a dominant force in India’s motorcycle industry. The company recently showcased the Surge S32 at Hero World 2024. This unveiling presented a modular electric vehicle that doubles as an electric scooter and a three-wheeled rickshaw. The Surge S32 stands out not just for its dual functionality but also for its swift transformation capability, changing from a scooter to a rickshaw in merely three minutes.

The Scooter will have a 6 kW motor and the rickshaw module will sport a 10 kW motor

Designed for versatility, the S32 is a marvel of modern engineering, offering the convenience of personal mobility and the practicality of cargo or passenger transport. Its unique design comprises a detachable electric scooter and a rickshaw module, lacking a front wheel, which integrates seamlessly with the scooter. This innovative approach to vehicle design is complemented by the model’s robust performance specs, featuring a 6 kW motor for the scooter and a more powerful 10 kW motor for the rickshaw module, catering to heavier loads with ease.

Hero MotoCorp’s venture into electric mobility with the Surge S32 concept not only underscores the company’s commitment to eco-friendly transport solutions but also highlights its role in shaping the future of urban transportation in India. By collaborating with India’s Ministry of Road Transport to establish a new vehicle registration category, Hero paves the way for the legal recognition and adoption of hybrid vehicles like the S32, setting a precedent for future innovations in this space.

Although the Surge S32 remains a concept with no defined launch date, its introduction at Hero World 2024 signals Hero MotoCorp’s serious intentions towards making this versatile vehicle a reality. With plans to release different variations of the rickshaw module, Hero aims to cater to a diverse range of needs and preferences, further demonstrating its dedication to pioneering solutions that meet the demands of modern urban life.

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Here’s Everything You Need to Know About the New Resident Evil 4 Gold Edition

By

Anubhav

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Feb 2, 2024

Gamers, mark your calendars! February 9th is the day Capcom rolls out the Resident Evil 4 Gold Edition, a package that brings together the critically acclaimed base game along with all its downloadable goodies.

Capcom will release the new edition on February 9

What’s in the box? For starters, the Gold Edition packs the Separate Ways expansion, adding layers to the game’s narrative with extra gameplay. But that’s not all. Players will also get their hands on a slew of bonus content that was previously exclusive to the Deluxe Edition. This includes a variety of outfits for the game’s protagonists, Leon and Ashley, giving them a fresh look with Casual and Romantic styles. Weapon enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of the Sentinel Nine and Skull Shaker firearms, alongside an original soundtrack, exclusive charms, and more treasures to enhance the gaming experience.

While Capcom has kept the price tag under wraps for now, anticipation is building, and details on preorders are expected to surface soon.

Since its launch in March 2023, the remake of the 2005 classic Resident Evil 4 has been a blockbuster success, quickly selling over three million copies in its opening days and reaching six million in the following months. Its blend of horror, action, and meticulously crafted gameplay has not only won the hearts of long-time fans but also attracted new ones, earning it a perfect score in reviews for revitalizing the franchise.

The Resident Evil series, developed by Capcom, made its debut in 1996, setting a new standard for the survival horror genre. Originally titled “Biohazard” in Japan, the franchise has expanded significantly over the years, evolving from its roots in fixed camera angles and pre-rendered backgrounds to embrace first-person and over-the-shoulder viewpoints. The saga is renowned for its blend of action, puzzle-solving, and horror elements, revolving around the sinister Umbrella Corporation and the outbreak of the T-virus, leading to widespread zombie and monster infestations. Over decades, Resident Evil has grown into a vast universe, including video games, movies, novels, and more, maintaining its status as a cultural icon in horror and video gaming.

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The New Miloo Xplorer Beast Electric Bike is Crafted from Recycled Coffee Pods

By

Anubhav

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Feb 2, 2024

Gone are the days when going green meant sacrificing performance or style, especially in the world of electric bikes. The Miloo Xplorer Beast is a shining example of this new era, marrying high-end performance with sustainability. What sets this electric mountain bike apart is not just its capability to tackle both city streets and rugged trails, but the innovative use of recycled materials in its construction.

The bike is as eco-friendly as it is powerful

Swiss company Miloo has turned heads by partnering with Nespresso to introduce a version of their Xplorer Beast that’s as eco-friendly as it is powerful. Instead of relying solely on traditional carbon fiber, this special edition bike incorporates recycled Nespresso coffee capsules for its frame and rims. It’s a creative solution to a common environmental issue, as these aluminum capsules are known for being difficult to dispose of responsibly.

The collaboration between Miloo and Nespresso doesn’t stop at aluminum frames. The bikes also feature components made from recycled rubber and other materials, showing that every part of the bike has been considered from an environmental perspective. The use of recycled content extends to the bike’s paint and packaging, highlighting a comprehensive approach to sustainability.

Miloo’s initiative is more than just creating eco-friendly bikes; it’s about inspiring change within the soft mobility sector. The company envisions a future where vehicles like the Xplorer Beast can serve as viable alternatives to cars, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable world. With advanced features like a 1,000-watt electric motor and options for dual-battery setups, the Xplorer Beast doesn’t compromise on power or range.

The bike’s pricing remains under wraps, but its launch in spring 2024 is eagerly anticipated. It’s an example of what’s possible when companies think outside the box and prioritize the planet.

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Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Dehumidifier 22L with a five-layer noise reduction design launched for 1,199 yuan ($167)

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 2, 2024

Xiaomi has unveiled the MIJIA Smart Dehumidifier 22L in China and it is already on sale in the country. The MIJIA Smart Dehumidifier 22L has a five-layer noise reduction design and features a 4.5L water tank. It also features a dehumidification capacity of 22L per day.

Features

The MIJIA Smart Dehumidifier can operate continuously round the clock and its capacity implies that it can remove the equivalent of 44 mineral bottles of 50cl in a day. The device uses a Panasonic dual-rotor compressor that makes it operate smoothly with small vibration and strong noise control. It also offers a strong core force and higher energy efficiency. The gadget has a vertical air outlet at the top that allows for fast air circulation and continuous dehumidification. It also delivers rapid drying of clothes which is great for clothes durability, as dampness is eliminated.

The five-layer noise reduction design of the MIJIA Smart Dehumidifier means the machine operates at low noise of around 35.5dB. It is therefore non-disturbing to use the dehumidifier even at night. It has a large digital display and dual light reminders. The dehumidifier also supports touch button operation and a single click can be used to switch modes and set target humidity. The working modes in the dehumidifier include smart mode, drying mode, and sleep mode.

The Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Dehumidifier can be operated by the MIJIA app, as well as Xiaoai voice control and integration with the MIJIA smart home ecosystem. The dehumidifier can be connected to an external drainage pipe to discharge dehumidification water to waste channels. This allows the gadget to work continuously without needing to shut down to empty the tank.

Pricing

The MIJIA Smart Dehumidifier 22L is available from online retail channels like JD.com and it is priced at 1,199 yuan ($167). There are no indications yet when the gadget will be available in overseas markets. The older versions of the MIJIA Dehumidifier are available on retailers like Aliexpress.

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Unihertz Jelly Star getting a controller adaptor soon that’ll transform it into a gaming handheld

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 2, 2024

Sugar Cubes Jelly has converted a unit of the Unihertz Jelly Star smartphone into a handheld game console. The Unihertz Jelly Star features a 3-inch display with a resolution of 854 x 480 pixels. Its compact properties, together with its Android 13 OS architecture have aided Sugar Cubes Jelly in the transformation of the smartphone to a compact gaming handheld.

The Unihertz Jelly Star is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage. It comes with a 2,000mAh battery and is priced at $210. The smartphone was promoted by its manufacturer as the world’s smallest Android 13 smartphone. The specs of the Jelly Star make it more powerful than several of the existing handheld game consoles. This fact may have motivated developers at Sugar Cubes Jelly to construct a set of controllers/ cases that essentially transforms the compact smartphone into a tiny game console. When the smartphone is slid into the upcoming Sugar Cubes Jelly case, the user is offered a new way to use the smartphone as a game console. The built-in controllers and buttons include a D-Pad, analog stick, shoulder triggers, and action buttons.

There will be two versions of the Sugar Cubes Jelly case for the Unihertz Jelly Star – a horizontal version that places the controllers below the display and a vertical model that puts the display at the center while the controllers are at the left and right sides. The installation of the Jelly Star into the Sugar Cubes Jelly case will be a simple process of just sliding it in with the horizontal version. However, a disassembly of the smartphone could be required in the installation of the vertical case model. The cases are reportedly made from metal and could come in several color options.

There are still some details lacking for the new Sugar Cubes Jelly cases for the Unihertz Jelly Star smartphone. The company has neither released any price nor the exact release date for the cases.

Get the Unihertz Jelly Star Smartphone on Amazon

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MIJIA Thermos Cup Ti 2 with double-layer titanium vacuum tech launched under crowdfunding at 179 yuan ($25)

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 2, 2024

Xiaomi has opened a crowdfunding campaign for the MIJIA Thermos Cup Ti 2. The Xiaomi MIJIA Thermos Cup Ti 2 comes with a double-layer titanium vacuum technology that keeps heat and locks cold.

Features

The MIJIA Thermos Cup Ti2 comes with a simpler design than previous MIJIA Thermos cup products. While the entire body is made of titanium, the lid adopts an all-titanium rotating design. The titanium rotating lid design is an improvement from the traditional plastic pop-up lid in previous MIJIA thermos cups. The outer bladder of the new MIJIA thermos cup is coated with metallic paint offering a smooth, wear-resistant, and scratch-resistant veneer. The cup also has a silicone floor mat which is non-slip and silent.

The MIJIA Thermos Cup Ti 2 is not prone to chemical reactions with its high (99.99%) titanium content. It can be used to retain liquids like tea, coffee, milk, and juice without any unhealthy chemical reaction. It also has antibacterial properties. The built-in titanium tea filter in the thermos cup comes with double-layer titanium vacuum insulation technology. The capacity of the thermos cup is 480ml and it weighs 196g. It is thus larger than previous MIJIA thermos cup iterations but lighter. Xiaomi says that the thermos cup can keep content hot at 58ºC and cold at 10ºC for up to six hours.

Pricing & Availability

The crowdfunding campaign for the MIJIA Thermos Cup Ti 2 has been launched on the Xiaomi Youpin website. The offer price for the new Thermos cup is 179 yuan ($25). There are no details on the duration of the crowdfunding campaign and the global availability of the Thermos Cup Ti 2.

Note that you can get MIJIA Thermos cup from retailers like Aliexpress.

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Nothing Phone 2a leaked wallpapers surface, indicating imminent launch

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 2, 2024

Nothing has recently confirmed that the Nothing Phone 2a is coming soon and it is a cheaper version of the Phone 2. However, the launch date is not known even though there has been a lot of leaks surrounding the model. Popular tipster Steve Hemmerstofer also has now posted wallpapers seemingly coming from the Nothing Phone 2a, an indication that the launch is close by.

The images and the full gallery of the wallpapers were also released by the tipster. The latest leak is yet another of the numerous leaks and speculations surrounding the Nothing Phone 2a. It is rumored to be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 chipset with 8GB/128GB or 12GB/256GB configurations. It could also come with a 120Hz OLED screen and a dual main camera setup including a 50MP sensor.

A community update post by Nothing on X confirmed that the Nothing 2a smartphone is coming. Nothing was also stated in the X video posting that the Aerodactyl name that had been mentioned previously on its social media platforms was the code name of the new smartphone. Nothing says that the motivation behind the development of the Phone 2a was that some community users desired the latest and greatest tech while others were interested in core features while still retaining Nothing’s trademark features. The Nothing 2a therefore satisfies the yearnings of a segment of the Nothing community.

Nothing co-founder Akis Evangelidis says that with the Phone 2a, the company has doubled down on the core user needs – performance, camera, and such. It also leverages the premium features of the Nothing Phone 2 while ensuring it is an upgrade of the Phone 1. There is no launch date yet for the Nothing Phone 2a. It is however speculated that the Phone 2a could be unveiled during this month’s Mobile World Congress (MWC).

There are also hints that Nothing is also planninng to unveil two new wearables – a pair of earbuds and a neckband.

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Oppo Find X7 with Dimensity 9300 chip tops AnTuTu list in January 2024

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 2, 2024

AnTutu releases its updated monthly top lists for January 2024. As per them, MediaTek chips lead both the flagship and flagship killer lists.

The Oppo Find X7 aces the flagship chart. While the Redmi K70E retains its position as the top player on the flagship killer roll.

The Oppo Find X7 is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC. The chipset is paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.

The 16GB + 1TB variant of the handset leads the AnTuTu January 2024 flagship list. It scores 2209832 points.

The Dimensity 9300 is the world’s first flagship smartphone mobile platform to solely use ARM big cores. It consists of 4 x Cortex-X4 and 4 x Cortex-A720 cores.

The chip is fabricated on TSMC’s 3rd gen 4nm process. It comes with a 12-core Immortalis-G720 GPU that supports hardware-level ray tracing,

On the other hand, the Redmi K70E houses a MediaTek Dimensity 8300-Ultra chipset. This SoC is also coupled with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. The 12GB + 512GB variant of the phone tops the AnTuTu January 2024 flagship killer list by scoring 1382150 points.

The Dimensity 8300 mobile platform uses the traditional ARM big.LITTLE architecture. Its CPU includes 4 x Cortex-A715 and 4 x Cortex-A510 cores. The graphics are taken care of by Mali-G615 MC6 GPU.

The chip uses TSMC’s 2nd gen 4nm manufacturing process. The Ultra in the name denotes customization by Xiaomi.

When we look at the top 10 lists, it is clear that MediaTek leads the flagship killer chart with 8 devices while Qualcomm competitively retains its crown with 6 devices on the flagship roll.

AnTuTu Benchmark Top Flagship Smartphones January 2024

Oppo Find X7
iQOO 12 Pro
Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro
Oppo Find X7 Ultra
iQOO 12
OnePlus 12
Red Magic 9 Pro Plus
iQOO Neo 9 Pro
Vivo X100 Pro
Vivo X100

AnTuTu Benchmark Top Flagship Killer Smartphones January 2024

Redmi K70E
Realme GT Neo 5 SE
Redmi Note 12 Turbo
Oppo Reno 11
iQOO Z8
iQOO Neo 7 SE
Redmi Note 12T Pro
OnePlus Ace Racing Edition
Redmi K60E
Realme GT Neo 3

Get the OPPO Find X7 Ultra at Giztop.

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Microsoft Edge Enhances Android Experience with Extensions to Beat Google Chrome

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 1, 2024

Microsoft is working hard to increase Edge’s popularity, but claiming success might not be entirely accurate. According to 2023 data, Google Chrome leads the browser market with 66.39%, while Microsoft Edge holds the third position at 11.09%, behind Safari. Despite being preinstalled on all Windows PCs, Edge faces challenges, especially on mobile, where it has less than 5%. However, there’s potential for a game-changer as Microsoft Edge for Android is gearing up to support extensions. Here are the details…

Microsoft Edge’s Game-Changing Move: Extensions Coming to Android

Microsoft Edge for Android is gaining support for extensions. This means you can install various extensions, just like you would on desktop browsers. Moreover, this feature is something almost none of its mainstream competitors offer. According to information revealed by Twitter user Leopeva64, this feature is currently in the testing phase and will soon be available for Android users to enjoy.

Microsoft is in a much worse position in the mobile browser market than it is on PC. However, this move could truly propel the company ahead, positioning it differently from its competitors. While beneficial for useful add-ons, it also comes with some challenges. For instance, many users employ ad blockers on their PCs. Yes, nobody likes seeing ads, but almost all digital content you encounter online relies on these ads for revenue.

If Microsoft Edge becomes more popular by adding extensions, it might prompt competitors like Google Chrome and Safari to follow suit. This could impact digital content creators who rely on ads, especially since mobile users often don’t use ad blockers. It’s important to note that just because a feature is available on mobile doesn’t mean it should be misused.

When Edge introduces extension support, you can explore various functional extensions, while ad blockers could be handy for websites with excessive ads. Keep in mind that the release timing for this feature is currently uncertain, so some patience might be needed.

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Sony Announces Disappointing PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for February with a Spider-Man 2 Surprise

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 1, 2024

Sony continues to gift free games to PlayStation Plus subscribers every month. These titles can be permanently added to players’ libraries and enjoyed without any additional cost as long as the subscription remains active. Now, the company recently revealed the monthly games for February 2024 for both PS4 and PS5 owners. Here are the details…

PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for February: Foamstars, Rollerdrome, Steelrising

Sony has revealed the free PlayStation Plus games for February, featuring Square Enix’s vibrant online party shooter, Foamstars. Alongside it, Rollerdrome and Steelrising have been included in this month’s lineup. All three games will be available to PlayStation Plus members from Tuesday, February 6, to Monday, March 4. Now, let’s explore each game in more detail.

Sony PlayStation Plus Games for February

In February, PlayStation Plus users can enjoy Foamstars, a 3D platform game available on both PS4 and PS5. The game lets players guide a group of cheerful aliens on an exciting interstellar adventure. Using foam balls, players can jump between platforms, take on enemies, and solve puzzles. Foamstars has garnered acclaim for its vibrant graphics, creating a lively atmosphere, and its engaging gamepla

Rollerdrome is an exhilarating 3D roller derby game where players can engage in fierce competition on challenging tracks. Using agility, speed, and skills, players aim to conquer opponents and achieve objectives. Praised for its fast paced gameplay and distinctive graphics design, Rollerdrome will be accessible on both PS4 and PS5, just like Foamstars.

Steelrising is a 3D action RPG that unfolds in 18th century Paris amid the French Revolution. Players guide Aegis, a steel-made robotic creation of French King Louis XIV, in a mission to suppress the revolution and free the French people. The game is acclaimed for its challenging gameplay and immersive setting, and it’s exclusively accessible to PlayStation Plus subscribers with a PS5.

Unfortunately, the entirety of PlayStation Plus’s February games is like this. To put it mildly, using the expression of disappointment is possible for the list, especially considering the games given to players in previous months. Still, if you have a PlayStation Plus Premium or Deluxe membership, there is a small consolation. If you don’t want to buy Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 without trying it, you’ll have access to a 2-hour time-limited trial starting February 6.

Get the PS5 Console from Amazon

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SpaceX Will Launch Starlab Private Space Station into Space with Starship to Fill the Void of ISS

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 1, 2024

The International Space Station, the most expensive structure built by humanity, has long served as a space base for astronauts from Earth. However, as technology has transformed the space race into a competition beyond a few countries, the number of people with the potential to use this station is increased. For this and other reasons, the search for alternatives has already begun. For example, despite being one of the architects of the ISS, Russia is developing its own space station. Meanwhile, SpaceX plans to launch the Starlab private space station with Starship ahead of others. Here are the details…

Introducing Starlab, the Next Frontier in Private Space Stations

The ISS is expected to be replaced by private space stations around 2030. The first one, Starlab, is set to launch by 2028. Developed by Voyager Space and Airbus, Starlab is a private space station measuring 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width, consisting of two modules. The main module will house the crew’s living and working space, while the additional module will be utilized for scientific research and commercial activities.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX will undertake the mission to send the station into space. Starlab will be launched into orbit when the Starship rocket is ready. Many see Starlab as a significant step for space tourism and private space research. As you know, SpaceX has the capability to send almost anyone who can afford it into space. However, there is currently no space beyond the ISS where these individuals can spend time. Starlab has the potential to change this by creating a new commercial space activity.

Voyager CEO Dylan Thomas explained that launching Starlab in a single mission was always the plan. Starship, currently the only heavy-lift rocket in development, can accommodate the station’s 8-meter diameter in one go. Taylor emphasized that launching in one mission reduces on-orbit risks, avoiding the high costs and execution risks associated with assembling hardware on orbit for stations requiring multiple launches

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BYD expands its Electric Vehicle dominance in Singapore and Philippines

By

Joane

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Feb 1, 2024

Chinese EV giant BYD is set for an aggressive expansion in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, with a particular focus on Singapore and the Philippines. The company, having recently entered the Indonesian market, plans to double its sales outlets in Singapore and the Philippines in 2024.

James Ng, BYD’s Managing Director for Singapore and the Philippines, highlighted the company’s strategy to establish a stronger presence in the ASEAN market. The cultural alignment between the ASEAN market and China has played a crucial role, with consumer behavior in the region reflecting recognition of BYD’s products.

BYD unveiled a new compact electric SUV, Yuan Up, poised for mass market appeal. BYD’s recent launch of three passenger models in Indonesia marked a significant milestone in its ASEAN journey. The company has formed local partnerships to facilitate the sale of its EVs, collaborating with Sime Darby Motors in Singapore and the Philippine conglomerate Ayala. In the Philippines, BYD aims to expand its network by adding more than 20 sales points, while in Singapore, plans include opening two or three additional outlets.

BYD has been leveraging its success in Singapore, where it registered over 1,400 cars in 2023, making it the top EV brand in the country, surpassing even Tesla. Singapore’s EV market has seen substantial growth, with over 18% of new cars registered in 2023 being electric, a significant increase from the 2021 levels.

To support the growing demand for skilled technicians in Singapore, BYD has collaborated with NTUC LearningHub to launch a facility for EV mechanic training. The goal is to train 500 people annually in EV maintenance, aligning with BYD’s commitment to the region.

BYD’s Managing Director, James Ng, emphasized the company’s dedication to learning from its successes in Singapore and applying best practices for localization when expanding in the Philippines. With plans to open more than a dozen passenger car sales outlets in Singapore and the Philippines in 2024, BYD aims to strengthen its market position and contribute to the booming EV landscape in ASEAN.

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Samsung will soon fix the display issue in Galaxy S24 series

By

Erencan Yılmaz

-

Feb 1, 2024

The Galaxy S24 Ultra has become one of the most popular phones recently with its beefy specs. Samsung has been offering high-quality screens on their phones for quite a long time, and with the S24 Ultra model, they have made a significant improvement in brightness as well.

While the Galaxy S23 Ultra had a screen brightness of 1750 nits, the Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with a screen brightness of 2600 nits. Additionally, the S24 Ultra comes with an anti-reflective screen protector, enhancing the of colors. All of these are substantial improvements, but some users claim that the screen of the Galaxy S24 Ultra is faulty.

Galaxy S24 Series Display Issues

According to some users on Reddit, Galaxy S24 Ultra’s screen is not bright enough, and the colors do not appear as they should. Furthermore, this issue is not visible on the Galaxy S24 Ultra but also affects the Galaxy S24 and S24+.

Users report that the screen of Galaxy S24 Ultra lacks sufficient brightness and fails to accurately represent colors. For instance, you may experience distorted colors on the home screen or with any app open, but during video playback, the display of the Galaxy S24 Ultra works as expected. Apparently, this is not a hardware defect, and Samsung needs to release an update promptly. Note that this issue is happening only when you turn on the vivid mode on settings.

Forbes revealed that Samsung is working on this issue through an online chat screenshot of a user and a Samsung employee. The user also asked about when Samsung would resolve this problem, but Samsung cannot provide a specific timeframe for the display issue of Galaxy S24 Ultra.

They have replied with “I understand that you want a time and date for this coming software update, but please we need your patience on this matter. Rest assured that the developer team will work on this as soon as possible. For now please keep your device connected to your Wi-Fi, so that the automatic update can enter to your device software.”

Get the Galaxy S24 Ultra on Amazon

ByteDance Unveils Coze, A Leap into Custom AI Chatbots

By

Anubhav

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Feb 1, 2024

ByteDance is taking a giant leap forward in the artificial intelligence (AI) space with the launch of Coze, a platform that mirrors OpenAI‘s GPT models but with a twist. This innovative platform is set to revolutionize how businesses and individuals create and deploy AI chatbots, making it a game-changer for those without coding skills.

The new custom chatbots can be used across ByteDance’s entire ecosystem

Coze has made its debut in China, a market untouched by OpenAI’s services, presenting itself as an accessible AI development platform. This strategic move allows users to craft their AI bots swiftly, tailor-made for various tasks, without delving into the complexities of coding. This initiative is not just about simplification but also about integration, as these customized chatbots can be shared across ByteDance’s ecosystem, including the enterprise tool Feishu and even on WeChat, Tencent Holdings’ colossal app with a user base exceeding 1.3 billion.

This development is part of ByteDance’s broader strategy to pivot towards AI, also affected by its recent decision to shut down its gaming platform and a healthcare encyclopedia. These closures signal a sharpened focus on AI, spurred by the burgeoning popularity of generative AI tools like ChatGPT.

At the heart of ByteDance’s AI enthusiasm is CEO Liang Rubo’s call to action for his team to embrace and innovate with new technologies more proactively. This comes amidst the company’s ongoing success with its AI-driven content recommendation system, which personalizes user experiences in apps like TikTok and Jinri Toutiao.

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Hideo Kojima is Returning with “Physint,” A New Stealth-based Action Game

By

Anubhav

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Feb 1, 2024

Renowned video game creator Hideo Kojima is at it again, this time taking the wraps off an exciting new venture in the action espionage genre, as announced at the State of Play 2024. The project, currently known by its working title “Physint,” aims to blur the lines between gaming and cinematic storytelling, showcasing Kojima’s vision for the future of interactive entertainment.

This might be the next big Metal Gear Solid game when it launches (or not)

This novel venture is set to bring together the best of both worlds, with Kojima Productions leading the charge in merging the narrative depth of cinema with the interactivity of video games. “Physint” represents a groundbreaking step towards creating experiences that are as immersive and engaging as they are visually stunning, thanks to the utilization of state-of-the-art technology.

Kojima, the visionary behind the groundbreaking Metal Gear Solid series, is no stranger to the stealth genre. However, “Physint” is set to upgrade the action espionage category to new heights, offering a fresh take on stealth mechanics and storytelling. The game promises to deliver an unparalleled level of realism, with graphics that push the limits of current gaming hardware.

The collaboration with Sony and the utilization of next-gen technology underscore Kojima’s commitment to innovation. “Physint” is just one of several projects currently in development at Kojima Productions, alongside anticipated titles like “Death Stranding 2” and collaborations with other major studios. Kojima’s exploration into the film industry, including a film adaptation of “Death Stranding,” further exemplifies his interest in converging different forms of storytelling.

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Paytm’s Market Value Drops After RBI Orders Halt on New Customer Onboarding

By

Anubhav

-

Feb 1, 2024

Paytm, a leading Indian digital payments firm, recently encountered a significant regulatory challenge that led to a sharp decline in its market value. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed Paytm Payments Bank to stop onboarding new customers and halt accepting fresh deposits, sparking concerns over the company’s future profitability and its expansive app ecosystem.

Paytm’s stock price dipped by a whopping 20% after this news

This move by the RBI, which follows a history of non-compliance issues including customer due diligence and technology infrastructure, has cast a shadow over Paytm’s operations. The immediate effect was a 20% plummet in Paytm’s stock price, wiping out approximately $1.2 billion in market value and bringing the shares to a six-week low. This drastic drop indicates the general gravity of regulatory challenges and their impact on investor confidence. When it happens, there’s a big blow to the companies involved.

Paytm’s response to the situation has been one of cautious optimism. CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma described the RBI’s order as a temporary setback and outlined plans to forge new banking partnerships to ensure the continuity of its services. This strategic pivot aims to mitigate the repercussions on Paytm’s wallet accounts, essential to its payment and financial services ecosystem.

The broader implications of the RBI’s scrutiny are significant. Analysts speculate on the potential hesitancy of banking and financial partners to engage with Paytm, given the regulatory concerns. This situation places additional pressure on Paytm to address compliance issues swiftly and effectively to restore trust among its partners and customers.

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