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Netflix to hold its app development for Apple Vision Pro, says co-CEO

Apple’s Vision Pro headset enjoyed robust pre-order sales, estimated by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo to be between 160,000 and 180,000 units. However, potential buyers hoping to watch Netflix on their new device will be disappointed for now.

In an interview with Stratechery, Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters confirmed that the streaming giant has no plans for a dedicated Netflix app on the Vision Pro. The reason, according to Peters, is purely practical — the current user base of the headset isn’t large enough to warrant the resources required for app development.

Netflix Vision Pro App

“We have to be careful about making sure that we’re not investing in places that are not really yielding a return, and I would say we’ll see where things go with Vision Pro,” Peters responded. “Certainly we’re always in discussions with Apple to try and figure that out but right now, the device is so subscale that it’s not really particularly relevant to most of our members.”

This doesn’t necessarily mean Netflix will permanently snub the Vision Pro. Peters left the door open for a future app, depending on how the VR market evolves.

Netflix isn’t alone in choosing to sit out the initial round of native Vision Pro apps. YouTube and Spotify have also opted not to develop dedicated applications, though both can be accessed through the headset’s web browser.

Meanwhile, Apple’s own streaming service, Apple TV+, is embracing the VR scene with its launch of “Apple Immersive Video,” a format offering 180° 3D footage in 8K resolution with Spatial Audio.

While Netflix has experience in the VR space, having launched a VR app in 2015 and even producing a 360° video based on “Stranger Things,” it appears the Vision Pro won’t be adding its platform to its lineup anytime soon. However, the possibility of a future app remains on the table.

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Upcoming Hogwarts Legacy Update will Bring Sony-Exclusive Content to All Platforms

Big news for Hogwarts Legacy fans: the game is breaking its PlayStation exclusivity. Warner Bros. Games and Avalanche Software are bringing Sony-exclusive content to other platforms like PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X | S. This change is scheduled for this summer, just in time to celebrate the game’s first anniversary.

The game is still massive, with 22 million units being sold last year.

The game, set in the Harry Potter universe, made a splash last year. It sold 22 million units, beating out major titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. This success shows the game’s wide appeal and sets the stage for its expansion.

Hogwarts

The expansion includes the Haunted Hogsmeade quest. Completing this quest opens up the Hogsmeade Shop and gives players the Shopkeeper cosmetic set. The exact release date for these features on new platforms isn’t confirmed yet, but they’re expected soon.

As the game’s anniversary approaches, the developers promise more than just expanded platform availability. They’re also planning new updates and features for Hogwarts Legacy. The details are still under wraps, but they’re sure to add to the game’s experience.

This move is significant for gamers. It’s not just about new content; it’s about making the game accessible to a wider audience. By moving beyond PlayStation exclusivity, more players can dive into the world of Hogwarts. And with hints of more projects in the Harry Potter universe, the excitement around this magical world continues.

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Microsoft Teams Overcomes Brief Service Disruption

Microsoft Teams users experienced a temporary service interruption, with a notable decrease in reported issues over the day. Initially, more than 14,000 incidents were reported on Downdetector.com, a website that monitors online service disruptions. By the evening, this number had dropped to around 1,600, indicating a significant recovery.

Most users affected were from North and South America

The problem stemmed from a networking issue that affected a part of the Teams service. Microsoft acknowledged the challenge in their failover operation, aimed at quick recovery for users, particularly in North and South America.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams, part of the Microsoft 365 suite, is crucial for professionals for online meetings, chatting, and file sharing. The outage highlights our dependence on such digital tools for business communication. The company’s response, involving a switch to a backup system, points to the importance of preparedness in digital infrastructure. While the quick resolution was effective for most users, the incident emphasizes the need for robust backup systems and plans.

This event in the digital realm underlines the importance of constant evaluation and improvement of digital tools to ensure business continuity. As digital reliance grows, such interruptions are a reminder of the need for enhanced digital resilience in our professional lives.

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Fairphone 5’s battery survives just two hours of camera use in DxOMark’s battery test

The Fairphone 5 smartphone is highlighted by its 4,200mAh battery which can be easily replaced in seconds. However, the Fairphone 5 has failed the DxOMark battery analysis which indicates that the battery is a weak link in the model. The smartphone’s camera was used for two hours and the battery went dead within that time, underscoring the weakness of the battery.

Fairphone 5 repairability

Thankfully the Fairphone 5 features a removable battery

Previous reviews had highlighted the inferiority of the Fairphone 5 battery. The DxOMark battery analysis returned a score of 83 points for the mid-range smartphone. The score places the Fairphone 5 in an abysmal 165th place, just above only five smartphones. The analysis showed that the smartphone’s Qualcomm QCM6490 processor based on Snapdragon 778G is largely inefficient in power optimization. While the battery lasts only two hours on usage of the camera, it lasts about 5.5 hours while gaming.

The Fairphone 5 only achieves an improved battery life under light loads like making calls and streaming music. The battery analysis indicates that battery life is reduced to around 5 hours with the usage of social media apps, while GPS navigation reduces battery life to four hours. The battery life of the Fairphone 5 under medium usage can reach a day. The smartphone is recharged via USB-C and reaches a maximum of 30W output. A full charge takes under 2.5 hours and this is also underwhelming in some sense. The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G can be fully recharged in 1.67 hours (100 minutes).

Despite the highlighted limited battery life of the Fairphone 5 under heavy usage, it is still a decent smartphone. It is a sustainable smartphone that was offered with 5 years of warranty and 8 years of software updates. It comes with more recycled elements, a higher degree of modulation, and a fairer trade than its predecessor, the Fairphone 4. The sustainability credentials of the Fairphone 5 could significantly stimulate demand for the product even with the highlighted poor battery life.

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Kawasaki launches the 2024 RIDGE Limited side x sides with an 8-inch touchscreen powered by Garmin

Kawasaki has partnered with accessories maker Garmin on the touchscreen of its new RIDGE Limited. The Kawasaki RIDGE Limited will be part of Kawasaki’s 2024 lineup and is designed as an off-road vehicle for work, recreation, and trail riding.

The 2024 Kawasaki RIDGE Limited will come with a sporty look and uses a 999cc in-line four-cylinder engine with a WARN VRX 45-S Powerspot Winch. The center console solution provided by Garmin in the EV will be similar to the Tread Powersport navigator. Some of its features include preloaded maps, a communication tool, turn-by-turn trail navigation, and a Group Ride Tracker. The Tread powersport system provides the driver access to OpenStreetMap (OSM) and USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps. The system also provides information on public and private land, satellite images, and topographic maps to aid seamless navigation. Currently, the Garmin Tread Powersport Off-Road Navigator is available on Amazon for $542.29.

The 8-inch touchscreen of the Kawasaki RIDGE Limited side x sides is supplied by Garmin and can be operated even while wearing gloves. Information on display on the touchscreen includes RPM, battery voltage, engine temperature, and CVT.

Pricing & Availability

The retail price of the Kawasaki RIDGE Limited is $33,499 in the US. The off-roader is assembled in the US and comes with a 3-year limited warranty. The model comes with heavy-duty specs including a payload capacity of 1,499/ 1,000 lb CA model and a towing capacity of 2,000 lb. It features all LED lighting and has a ladder-type, tubular steel frame. The instrument cluster of the Kawasaki RIDGE Limited includes a digital speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, and dual trip meters, among others. The model will be available in metallic shadow gold color. There are no indications yet whether the RIDGE Limited will be available in other markets subsequently.

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Huawei SuperCharge Max 100W charger with dual ports launched

Huawei has quietly launched a new charger in its home country China. The product officially goes by ‘Huawei SuperCharge Max 100W.’

The accessory is listed on the company’s official website. However, there’s no price on it so far.

Huawei SuperCharge Max 100W Charger

As the name suggests, the power adapter supports Huawei’s proprietary charging standard — SuperCharge. It can output up to 100W.

Huawei markets this product as an all-in-one charger. Because it also supports other charging standards, such as USB PD (Power Delivery), PPS (Programmable Power Supply), Qualcomm QC (Quick Charge), and UFCS (Universal Fast Charging Specification).

It features a USB Type-A port along with a USB Type-C port. But only one of them can be used at a time.

The power adapter arrives with 12 layers of protection. These include short circuit, electromagnetic field, over current, over temperature, under voltage, electrostatic, lightning strike, over voltage, intelligent power response, plug, leakage, and insulation.

Huawei claims that this charger can fill up 60% of Nova 12 Pro’s 4,600mAh battery in just 10 minutes. While 30 minutes of charging is capable of bumping up the batteries of Mate 60 Pro, Mate 60, Mate X5, and P60 Pro to 98%, 93%, 86%, and 97%, respectively.

Last but not least, the accessory arrives in light pink weighing about 125g. We are not sure if and when it will be available in other colors.

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Upcoming Smartphones: Realme 12 Pro, Tecno Spark 20, and more

The first month of 2024 is about to end, however, smartphone releases don’t seem to stop. A couple of brands are expected to introduce new phones in the last week of January as well.

The company that has confirmed to unveil new handsets in Realme. It will take wraps off its latest numbers series for global markets. These products will compete with the Redmi Note 13 lineup.

On the other hand, Tecno is tipped to launch a budget smartphone in India. Let’s take a look at these devices one by one.

Upcoming Smartphones Next Week

1. Realme 12 Pro Plus

Realme 12 Pro Plus

Realme has scheduled to launch the Realme 12 Pro Plus on January 29 (Monday). It will be announced alongside the Realme 12 Pro.

As per leaks and teasers, the device will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip. It will sport a FHD+ curved OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

The main highlight of this phone will be its 64MP OmniVision OV64B 3.2x periscope zoom camera. This zoom camera will be paired with a flagship-grade 50MP Sony IMX890 sensor. 

As for the look, the product will retain the leather-back design from its predecessor with some slight tweaks resembling premium watches.

2. Realme 12 Pro

Realme 12 Pro Series India

The Realme 12 Pro will be announced on January 29 (Monday). It will be accompanied by Realme 12 Pro Plus.

The handset is said to house a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC. It is anticipated to feature a 32MP 2x telephoto camera.

The device will be built around an FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Its back will feature a leather finish like the Pro Plus.

Finally, the phone is expected to draw energy from a 5,000mAh battery and support 67W wired charging.

3. Tecno Spark 20 

Tecno Spark 20

The Tecno Spark 20 is tipped to launch in India in the first week of February. Thus, it could go official as early as the end of next week.

The handset is expected to cost around ₹10,000 in India. Despite being this affordable, it is said to offer 256GB of storage.

The phone will arrive with a 6.6-inch HD+ 90Hz display, a MediaTek Helio G85 chip, a 50MP rear camera, a 32MP front-facing camera, a 5,000mAh battery, and 18W charging support.

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Oppo K10 5G and Oppo A77 5G Receive Stable ColorOS 14 Update

After the Early Access and Open Beta build, the Color OS 14 official version is now rolling out for both the Oppo K10 5G in India and the Oppo A77 5G in Australia. The ColorOS 14 stable update for the Oppo A77 5G is already available in India. Interested users need to hurry, as the update is available on an invite basis. The user needs to apply to get the official version of ColroOS 14 on either of the devices.

Some massive new features and fixes are part of the latest update. Along with the luxuries of Android 14, Oppo is bringing some exciting additions to the ColorOS 14. The new Aquamorphic design and the Drag-and-Drop functionality are surely set to elevate the user experience. Below is the official changelog for ColorOS 14:

Aquamorphic Design:

Enhanced sound effects, color systems, and interactions.
Introduction of ten new Aquamorphic-themed ringtones for calls, alarms, and notifications.
Dynamically adjusting Aquamorphic Coloring System for a more intuitive experience.
Aqua Dynamics design simplifies interactions, extending to the Status Bar.

Revamped Always-On Display (AOD):

Homeland AOD showcases nature scenes, including a Go Green AOD for climate change awareness.
Environment Vision pages linked to daily step counts.

Smart Touch and Seamless Content Sharing:

AI-powered Smart Touch streamlines daily tasks.
File Dock on Smart Sidebar for seamless content sharing, supporting split-screen and floating windows.

Smart Image Matting and Trinity Engine Upgrade:

Smart Image Matting separates subjects from images or paused video frames.
Trinity Engine upgrade boosts device smoothness and stability.

AI-powered Smart Charging and Privacy Assurance:

Smart Charging adjusts charging current based on usage conditions, reducing unnecessary battery wear.
Prioritizes safety and privacy, integrating Android 14’s capabilities.
Picture Keeper prevents apps from misusing permissions.

Snapchat Integration:

Integration with Bitmoji AOD for faster app navigation and updates on messages and friend activities.

How to apply for an update:

Prerequisites:

  • The user should backup important data, as the update may erase all the important personal data.
  • Some apps may have compatibility issues with the latest Android 14-based update. You should update all the apps.
  • For the Oppo K10 5G and Oppo A77 5G, both must be running Firmware C.44/C.43/C.41/C.40/C.39 to get the Android 14 update.

Note: Some applications may not work properly, and your device may heat up for a couple of days. Due to after-upgrade optimizations, the smartphone may consume more battery, resulting in heating and fast battery drain.

Steps:

  1. Navigate to Settings > About device > Tap the top of the page > Tap the icon on the top right > Trial versions > Official version > Apply Now. Fill in your information, and then the Oppo employees will verify and approve your device for the update.
  2. After a successful application, proceed to update your device by going to About Device and selecting “Download Now.”

The update for both smartphones will be live on January 25. We advise the users to check the prerequisites and check the announcement thread (Oppo A77 5G here and Oppo K10 5G here).

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Honor Launches Magic V2 in Europe As the World’s Thinnest Foldable Smartphone

Honor continues to expand its product family and indirectly grow its market share in the smartphone industry. In line with this, the company today announced the availability of the Honor Magic V2 in Europe. The foldable phone, introduced in China in late 2023, set sail into the European market at an event attended by over 400 press members in Germany. What are the pricing and features of the Honor Magic V2 in Europe? Here are the details…

Honor Magic V2 Europe Price & Availability

As mentioned above, the Honor Magic V2 is not a very new phone. Therefore, it’s more appropriate to discuss its European price before looking at its features. The long-awaited foldable phone will be available starting from January 26th in Purple and Black, priced at £1,699.99 / €1,999.

Honor Magic V2

If we compare, the 256 GB version of the Honor Magic V2 was priced at 8,999 Yuan in China, which is approximately $1,250. Based on this, it’s possible to say that the device is more expensive in Europe. However, this is not surprising, as smartphone prices are generally lower in China due to logistics and other expenses.

FeatureSpecification
Display (Main)7.9-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
Display (Cover)5.45-inch OLED
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 1 Plus
Rear CameraTriple-lens, 50MP main sensor
Front Camera50MP
Battery4610mAh, 66W fast charging
OSAndroid 12, Magic UI 6.1
Price (China)¥8,999 (16GB + 256GB), ¥9,999 (16GB + 512GB)
Price (EU)£1,699.99 (Purple, Black)

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OnePlus Nord 2T and OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G receiving OxygenOS 14.0.0.300 Firmware Update

OnePlus is seeding a new firmware update for the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G and OnePlus Nord 2T smartphones. Surprisingly, the firmware version of OxygenOS 14.0.0.300 for both smartphones is quite familiar. The similarity is also evident in the changelog, but still, there are slight differences in the changelog of both smartphones.

OnePlus Nord CE 3

The new update brings the latest January 2024 security patch along with some other improvements, which in turn enhance the system’s stability and performance. There are certain improvements to enhance connectivity and even fix some issues.

The updates for the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G and OnePlus Nord 2T are currently seeding in India. Below are the changes for the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G update:

Changelog

System

Integrates the January 2024 Android security patch to enhance system security.
Improves system stability and performance.
Extends battery life in some scenarios.
Removes the Background stream feature in Smart Sidebar.

Connections

Improves the stability of Wi-Fi connections.

Apps

Fixes an issue that might cause Play Store to crash.

The OnePlus Nord 2T is receiving an update with a fix for some apps that were crashing earlier. It also enhances the battery life along with the stability improvements. Below is the official changelog for the OnePlus Nord 2T:

Changelog

System

Integrates the January 2024 Android security patch to enhance system security.
Improves system stability and performance.
Extends the battery life in some scenarios.
Fixes an issue that might cause some apps to crash.
The Background stream feature in Smart Sidebar has been removed.

Communication

Improves the stability of mobile network connections.

Both smartphones are receiving incremental updates, which may take some time to reach each unit. Moreover, users can check for the update manually by heading to Settings > About > Software Update > Check for Update.

In case of bugs or any other issues, users can submit feedback by dialing *#800# on Google Dialer. For more information about the updates, users should head over to the OnePlus Nord 2T announcement thread and the OnePlus Nord 3 CE 5G thread.

OnePlus is already seeding OxygenOS 14 for its compatible smartphones, including the OnePlus 11 SeriesOnePlus 10 ProOnePlus 10ROnePlus Nord 3, and OnePlus Pad. We expect the remaining smartphones to receive the Android 14-based update soon.

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Sony Unveils New Deep Earth Shades for DualSense Controllers and PS5 Console Covers

Today marks the exciting release of Sony‘s Deep Earth Collection, another optional upgrade for PlayStation 5 enthusiasts. The collection, featuring metallic hues for DualSense controllers and PS5 console covers, is now fully available, adding a dash of color to every Console player’s life.

The newly released Sterling Silver is the latest addition to the list

Sony’s latest collection introduces three striking colors: volcanic red, cobalt blue, and the newly released sterling silver. These colors are not just limited to the controllers; they extend to the console covers as well, catering to all PS5 models including the fat, slim, disc, and digital versions.

Sony PS5

What sets the Deep Earth Collection apart is its aesthetic appeal. The controllers, in bold red and blue, add a splash of vibrancy to your gaming setup. The sterling silver option offers a more subdued yet elegant choice. While these controllers maintain the same features as the standard PS5 DualSense controller, their fresh look brings a new energy to gaming.

As for the console covers, Sony has chosen to exclusively offer them through the PlayStation Direct store. These covers mirror the controllers’ colors, allowing gamers to coordinate their devices or mix and match according to their personal style. Each color, whether chosen in tandem or as a standalone accessory, enhances the visual appeal of the gaming setup.

The collection’s availability extends beyond Sony’s store, with major retailers like Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart also stocking these items. This broad availability means that gamers have easy access to give their consoles a personalized touch.

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Alibaba’s Quark Reinvents Slide Presentations with AI PPT

Alibaba is changing the game in business presentations with the launch of AI PPT, a new feature from its Quark platform. Quark, known for web search and cloud storage, is now stepping into the secotr of artificial intelligence with a tool that’s all about making slide deck creation a breeze.

AI PPT can generate a full slide deck within mere seconds

Here’s what makes AI PPT stand out: it’s not just another slide-making software. It’s built on a large-language-model (LLM), similar to what drives OpenAI‘s ChatGPT, but tailored for crafting presentations. Users can either start from the ground up or choose from a set of themes like marketing campaigns or business plans. The real magic happens when AI PPT generates a full slide deck within seconds, based on the user’s choice of template.

Alibaba

But it’s not all about automation. AI PPT also offers users the chance to put their personal touch on the presentations. You can tweak the outlines, add or delete elements, and adjust the templates to fit your style. This mix of AI efficiency and human creativity is what could make AI PPT a go-to tool for many professionals.

Zhang Fan, the head of Quark’s search product, sees AI PPT as a productivity booster, merging smart content creation with user-friendly tools. This is a big step for Alibaba and reflects the wider trend in China‘s tech industry, where AI applications are being developed rapidly for practical use.

Following the debut of its self-developed LLM in November, Quark is now pushing the boundaries of what AI can do in everyday tasks like making presentations. The service is initially free for trials and then available for a small fee, making it accessible for regular users.

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Elon Musk is Looking to Raise $6 Billion in Funding for xAI, Values it at $20 Billion

Elon Musk is now steering his innovative prowess towards artificial intelligence with his latest venture, xAI. The ambitious project is not just another addition to his futuristic portfolio but more like a challenging move in the competitive world of AI. Musk’s xAI is reportedly in discussions to secure a colossal $6 billion in funding, aiming at a valuation of $20 billion.

Everyone seems to be keen to invest in the AI hype train

xAI’s fundraising efforts stretch across the globe, from family offices in Hong Kong to sovereign wealth funds in the Middle East, a nod to the international appeal of cutting-edge AI. Everyone is on the AI train, and this train isn’t slowing down anytime soon. This approach is a clear indicator of the universal interest in AI’s potential and Musk’s reputation, even though Twitter/X is going through a hard time right now.

X Elon Musk

The world of AI has seen a flurry of activity recently, with substantial investments flowing into the sector. xAI’s expected funding far exceeds its initial $1 billion target, underscoring the immense potential investors see in AI. With a valuation poised to rival some of the big names in the industry, Musk’s latest venture is setting the stage for a new chapter in AI development.

Musk, who played a pivotal role in founding OpenAI, is no stranger to the AI world. His departure from OpenAI‘s board in 2018 didn’t diminish his interest in the field; rather, it seems to have spurred him to create his own path in AI with xAI. Last year, xAI made headlines with “Grok,” a chatbot that challenges OpenAI’s ChatGPT. AI is definitely a competitive field right now

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Nintendo Switch 2 To Feature 8-Inch LCD Display, Arriving This Year As Per Omdia Analyst

Rumors have been swirling around for a while about the Nintendo Switch 2. The Japanese game maker is widely expected to launch the successor to the Switch that was released way back in 2017. Handheld gaming consoles are increasingly gaining traction with devices like Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, MSI Claw, and more. This has left Nintendo far behind in the competition. Now, an Omdia analyst Hiroshi Hayase has revealed new information on the Switch 2. 

Nintendo Switch 2 display leaked, launch later this year

Nintendo Switch 2

The latest information was shared by Bloomberg citing the Omdia analyst. Hayase conducts research based on company’s supply chains of small and medium displays. As per the report, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be equipped with an 8-inch LCD screen. This is expected to be a big upgrade from the 6.2 and 7-inch displays on the original Switch’s standard and OLED variants. 

The analyst adds that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be the force behind doubling in the shipments of amusement displays in 2024. The report does not reveal any additional details. Bloomberg says that this is a credible source. 

Last year, Nintendo reportedly showcased the Switch 2 to fellow publishers and developers for the first time at Gamescom. As per leaks, it will pack Nvidia Tegra 239 chipset but lack DLSS support. Rumors also have it that the upcoming console will support 1080p gameplay with Ray Tracing. There have also been speculations that the device may be equipped with a processor based on 5nm or 8nm node. 

Today’s leak on the Nintendo Switch 2’s arrival this year isn’t the first time we are hearing. Another analyst earlier this month claimed that it could debut this year priced around the $400 mark.

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Gotta Catch ‘Em All! Pokémon Scarlet & Violet’s Limited-Time Mass Outbreak Event Now Live

Pokémon stands out as one of the most beloved series ever. Knowing that Nintendo keeps the series fresh with new games like “Pokémon Scarlet & Violet” which released for the Nintendo Switch in November 2022. However, the company doesn’t stop there and supports the game with various events. Now, a new event has started in the game. Here are the details…

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet Mass Outbreak Unleashes Rare Pokémon Galore

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet continues to regularly host new events. These events provide players with the opportunity to catch new Pokémon, find rare marked Pokémon, or earn special rewards. Recently, a new mass outbreak event started in the game featuring Gulpin, Stunky, Skrelp, and Clauncher. Mass outbreaks involve multiple instances of the same Pokémon appearing in a specific region, allowing players to catch more than one Pokémon simultaneously.

This event will last until January 28, 2024, at 23:59 UTC. Gulpin, Stunky, Skrelp, and Clauncher are relatively rare Pokémon in the game. This event provides a great opportunity to capture these Pokémon. Additionally, during the event, there is an increased chance of capturing rare marked Pokémon. Rare marked Pokémon have a special designation and are usually more powerful and durable.

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boAt Immortal 201 With RGB Lights, 40-Hour Battery Launched In India

boAt has announced a new audio device in India. It is the Immortal 201 TWS earphones. The latest offering is aimed at gamers with its design. To recall, the homegrown brand had launched the Immortal Katana Blade with a unique case last November. The newest Immortal 201 is an affordable TWS earphones. Earlier this month, boAt also launched the Lunar Pro LTE smartwatch. Read on to know what the latest TWS earphones offer out of the box. 

boAt Immortal 201 specifications and features 

The boAt Immortal 201 has an in-ear design with a stem and silicone ear tips. The former also features two RGB lights appealing to gaming enthusiasts. The TWS earphones of course have capacitive touch controls for various functions. The audio device is IPX4-rated sweat and splash-resistant. 

In terms of audio, the boAt Immortal 201 is equipped with 10mm drivers and boAt signature sound. There are quad mics with ENX technology for superior and clear quality on calls. The TWS earphone has a 40ms super low latency mode ensuring no lag during gaming. 

The boAt Immortal 201 comes with Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with a transmission range of 10 meters. It has a ’Insta Wake N Pair’ technology that connects the earbuds instantly to the connected device once the case is opened. The audio device is powered by a 380mAh battery unit with each earbud backed by a 40mAh cell. It is claimed to deliver up to 40 hours of life on a single charge. The storage and charging case also features RGB led lights in a circular pattern. 

The boAt Immortal 201 is priced at Rs 1,299 and offered in Black Sabre and White Sabre colors. It is available for purchase from the brand’s website and Flipkart. 

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OnePlus Pad gets OxygenOS 14.0.0.300 update with bug fixes, improved battery life & January 2024 Security Patch

OnePlus has initiated the rollout of the OxygenOS 14.0.0.300 update for the OnePlus Pad in India. This update is being released incrementally, starting with a small percentage of users and gradually expanding to more in the upcoming days.

OnePlus Pad India

Update Features:

  • January 2024 Android Security Patch: The update includes the latest Android security patch, aimed at improving system security.
  • System Stability and Performance Improvements: Enhancements have been made to the system’s stability and performance, aiming for a smoother user experience.
  • Extended Battery Life: The update contains adjustments that are expected to improve battery life under certain conditions.
  • Bug Fixes: It addresses a specific problem causing some apps to crash and fixes issues related to the ‘Theme Store’ app and the photo editing Eraser tool.
  • Removed Feature: The Background stream feature in the Smart Sidebar has been removed.

OnePlus has stated that this Over-The-Air (OTA) update will be released to a limited number of users initially, with a broader distribution planned shortly. The company will provide ongoing updates about the rollout progress on their forum. If you have not received the OTA notification yet, you can manually check for it by heading to Settings > About device > tap up to date > check for update.

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Honor Magic V2 RSR Porsche Design smartphone clears IMDA certification, global launch expected soon

Today, Honor will launch the Honor Magic V2 foldable smartphone in Europe, starting its global journey after being released in China last year. The phone, which also came out in China with a special RSR Porsche Design, is now expected to be available worldwide as it has received IMDA certification.

Spotted on the IMDA certification website, the Honor Magic V2 RSR Porsche Design, listed under the model number VER-N49DP, indicates that Honor is considering a wider release. While an official confirmation is still pending, the device’s existing debut in China provides us with a detailed look at its specifications.

Honor Magic V2 RSR Porsche Design specs:

The Honor Magic V2 RSR Porsche Design is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and runs on Android 13-based MagicOS 7.2. It offers a single storage option, boasting an impressive 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage.

Honor Magic V2 RSR Porsche Design

Display-wise, the device features a 7.92-inch LTPO OLED foldable inner screen with a resolution of 2156 x 2344 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Additionally, it has a 6.43-inch LTPO OLED cover display, offering a resolution of 1060 x 2376 pixels and the same 120Hz refresh rate.

Camera capabilities are a strong suit of this model. It houses a 50MP primary camera, complemented by a 20MP telephoto and a 50MP ultrawide lens on the rear. For selfies, there’s a 16MP front camera. The device’s power needs are met by a 5000mAh battery, supporting 66W wired and 5W reverse wired charging.

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Xiaomi Exec may have teased Xiaomi 14 Ultra release ahead of launch

Xiaomi is gearing up to release the long rumored Xiaomi 14 Ultra, but no official announcement has been made thus far. Now, a Weibo post (a Chinese microblogging website) from a company executive hints that the launch might be near.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Launch Timeline

Based on earlier reports, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra was expected to launch near the end of the first quarter of 2024. This meant that it would be released sometime near or in March. But with the MWC 2024 (Mobile World Congress) event coming up, the Chinese tech giant may use this major conference to showcase its latest flagship smartphone. For those unaware, the MWC event will be hosted between the 26th to 29th of February.

However, before any official announcements, Xiaomi Group President and Partner Lu Weibing shared his plans to use a new smartphone that will offer a strong photography experience. To recall, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is expected to offer various improvements in camera technology, so it seems likely that he’s talking about this model. Just recently, we covered a tip that revealed the camera module and image sensor specs of this upcoming flagship phone.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra

The wireless Camera Kit accessory to enhance photography was also spotted on China’s 3C certification. Similarly, it was even spotted on BIS, which confirms the Indian availability. There have already been rumors regarding cutting edge features and even an under display camera for selfies as well. So stick around for more, as we will be providing updates when more leads surface soon.

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ASUS ROG Ally 2 Confirmed To Launch Later This Year

ASUS launched the ROG Ally gaming console debuted in the global markets in May last year. The handheld gaming console segment is increasingly becoming competitive with Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go, Nintendo Switch, and the recently announced MSI Claw. Now, along the sidelines of the ZenBook 14 OLED launch in India, ASUS’s VP Arnold Su has confirmed key details in an interview. 

ASUS ROG Ally 2 confirmed to launch later this year

ASUS

In an interview with Techlusive, Arnold Su revealed that ASUS is planning on bringing a successor to the ROG Ally sometime this year. The Taiwanese brand will most likely launch the second-generation offering. The company will continue to keep the Windows features along with focussing more on gaming, the executive quoted. 

Su also said that ASUS sold around 70,000 to 80,000 units of the ROG Ally less than a year since its launch. The buyers in India were mostly early adopters of the gaming console compared to developed markets that have a high PC penetration rate. 

The ASUS executive also shared another insight about the gaming laptops getting more attention. It has outpaced the gaming desktop segment in India and globally. Hardcore gamers still prefer desktops but not casual gamers. ASUS is also expanding its manufacturing capabilities in India. The brand will start making gaming PCs in India from this year. 

The ASUS ROG Ally has a 7-inch FHD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits peak brightness. It is powered by a AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor coupled with Radeon Navi3 graphics onboard. The console packs 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB storage. The device is powered by a 40Wh battery with support for 65W fast charging. 

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