Xiaomi 14 Ultra camera module & sensor specs revealed

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Jan 25, 2024

Apple may be the first company to utilize TSMC’s upcoming 2-nanometer chip technology, according to DigiTimes.

TSMC, a major chip manufacturer, is expected to begin production of 2nm chips in the second half of 2025. The smaller transistor size associated with this technology allows for more transistors to be packed onto a single processor, which could mean faster performance and less power use.

Apple has a history of being an early adopter of TSMC’s leading-edge chip technologies. This year, for example, both the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro and the M3 series chips in Macs utilize TSMC’s 3-nanometer process.

Apple is again expected to be the first to try TSMC’s new 2nm process. The new node will also adopt a new manufacturing process known as gate-all-around field-effect transistors (GAAFET) with nanosheets.

The technology should enable faster speeds and lower power consumption compared to the FinFET transistors used in current chips.

However, the shift to GAAFET comes with its own set of challenges. Specifically, TSMC will need to build new fabs and invest heavily in adapting its production process.

Apple, as a key TSMC customer, will also likely need to make adjustments to its chip designs to accommodate the new technology.

Besides the up-and-coming 2nm node, TSMC is also refining its current 3nm process. The company has already improved its fabrication process in the new N3E and N3P chips, while it’s also working on other chips like N3X and N3AE for high-performance computing and automotive applications, respectively.

Looking even further ahead, rumors suggest TSMC is already exploring even more advanced 1.4-nanometer chips. They are expected to arrive as early as 2027. Apple, unsurprisingly, is reportedly interested in securing early access to this cutting-edge technology as well.

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(VIa)

Google Pixel 8 & Pixel 8 Pro launch in Mint Color option

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Jan 25, 2024

Google has launched a new Mint color variant for its Pixel 8 series smartphones. This addition follows the original launch of the Pixel 8 in Obsidian, Hazel, and Rose, and the Pixel 8 Pro in Obsidian, Bay, and Porcelain. The introduction of the Mint color was unveiled as part of the ‘Fresh year, fresh drop’ campaign.

In comparison, the Mint shade is slightly deeper than the Lemongrass color of the Pixel 7. In terms of design, it maintains the same glass body and glossy finish that characterize the series, along with the existing specifications.

Presently, the Mint variant of the Pixel 8 is available in India through Flipkart, ahead of its global release. There is no confirmation yet on whether the Mint color will be extended to the Pixel 8 Pro in India.

Speaking of specifications, the Pixel 8 Pro boasts a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display, powered by a Google Tensor G3 chip, 12GB RAM, and 128GB of storage. Its camera system includes a 50MP primary rear camera, a 48MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The device is fueled by a 5050mAh battery, supports 30W fast charging, and features security measures such as an in-display fingerprint scanner and face unlock.

The standard Pixel 8 model comes with a 6.2-inch OLED display, 8GB RAM, and options for 128GB or 256GB storage. Its camera setup includes a 50MP primary rear camera and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. This model is equipped with a 4575mAh battery and shares the security features of the Pro model. Both variants are IP68-rated for dust and water resistance and are available in various color options, including the new Mint.

RELATED:

Tecno Spark 20 teased ahead of India launch

By

Sean

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Jan 25, 2024

Tecno has just shared a fresh teaser for the upcoming Spark 20 smartphone model. The latest teaser hints at the imminent launch of this device in India and also showcases some of its design elements. So let’s have a look.

Tecno Spark 20 India Launch Teaser

To recall, the smartphone maker is gearing up to unveil the Spark 20 lineup in the region. This series will include four new models that consist of the Spark 20, Spark 20 Pro, Spark 20 Pro+, and Spark 20C. Now, the latest teaser showcases the vanilla model. Looking at the tweet, the Spark 20 will offer “uncompromised” large storage along with an enhanced front camera for selfies and video calls.

Unfortunately, the brand did not reveal any finer details like the specifications, launch date, or pricing of this new phone. Tecno states that more information should follow soon. The launch details may be revealed next week. Based on its previous release, the Spark 20 sports a 6.56-inch LCD panel that offers HD+ resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G85 SoC that is paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which runs on the Android 13 OS based HiOS 13 custom skin. The rear packs a 50-megapixel primary camera and an AI lens, while the front houses a 32-megapixel selfie shooter. Other notable features include Dual SIM, side mounted fingerprint scanner, and leather back on one of its color variants.

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Lenovo launches M20 5G tablet in China with MediaTek Kompanio 900T processor

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Jan 25, 2024

Earlier this week, Lenovo launched the K11 tablet in Japan without much fanfare. They’ve continued this low-key approach for another tablet launch, the Lenovo M20 5G, in China.

The M20 5G is a mid-range tablet with a high-resolution display and 5G connectivity, among other features. Let’s dive into more details about it.

Lenovo M20 5G Overview

The M20 5G features a 10.4-inch LCD screen with a 2K resolution (1200 x 2000 pixels). However, it has a surprisingly low brightness level of just 280 nits.

Under the hood, the tablet is equipped with the MediaTek MT8791, also known as the MediaTek Kompanio 900T processor.

This chipset, announced in 2021, targets sub-premium tablets. It’s built on a 6 nm process from TSMC and includes an eight-core CPU (2 high-performance Arm Cortex-A78 cores and 6 efficient Arm Cortex-A55 cores), along with an Arm Mali G68 GPU and a MediaTek APU.

The tablet comes with various memory and storage options: 6 GB, 8 GB, or 12 GB of RAM and 128 GB, 256 GB, or 512 GB of storage, which can be expanded by up to 128 GB using a microSD card.

A notable feature of the M20 is its support for 5G networks, which Lenovo claims can deliver speeds up to 1Gbps and a low latency of 1ms. You also get WiFi (5) support with a peak speed of 866Mbps.

Other key features include a dual-camera setup with 13MP and 8MP sensors on the back, four high-quality speakers, and a 7200mAh battery. Lenovo claims the battery can last between 8 to 10 hours and supports PD charging.

Pricing and Availability

The Lenovo M20 5G is now available for purchase in China via JD.com. The pricing starts at 2399 yuan for the 6GB RAM/128GB storage model. The versions with 8GB/256GB and 12GB/512GB are priced at 2799 yuan and 2899 yuan, respectively.

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Vivo Y100 5G Makes Its Debut in Indonesia with Impressive Features

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Jan 25, 2024

Vivo has officially launched the Vivo Y100 5G in Indonesia, expanding its reach with a feature-packed smartphone. The device, already making waves in other regions, promises an immersive and high-performance smartphone experience. It features a 6.67-inch AMOLED Full HD+ Display, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC, and a triple-rear camera sensor. Let’s dive deeper for specifications and other details:

Vivo Y100 5G Features and Specifications

Vivo Y100 5G boasts a stunning 6.67-inch AMOLED FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 1,200 nits of brightness. A plastic or leather back complements the sleek design, giving users options based on their preferences. Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC. With 8GB LPDDR4x RAM and 256GB UFS 2.2 storage, users can expect a smooth experience, further expandable via the microSD card slot.

The smartphone features a triple-rear camera featuring a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a flicker sensor on the rear. On the front, an 8MP camera ensures stunning selfies. It bundles a 5000 mAh battery with support for 80W fast charging. In terms of connectivity, the smartphone features WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC.

Further, it houses an in-display fingerprint sensor and dual speakers and runs on Android 14-based FunTouch OS 14. The smartphone is available in two storage options: 8GB RAM and 128GB storage for IDR 3,899,000 (~Rs 20,470; ~$245) and the 8GB+256GB model priced at IDR 4,199,000 (~Rs 22,050; ~$265). The users can choose between two color options: black onyx and purple orchid.

Vivo’s commitment to meeting diverse market needs, the Y100 5G is available in different variants globally. The Dimensity 900 powers the Indian model (V2239), the Chinese variant (V2313) uses the Snapdragon 695, and the Indonesian model (V2327) uses the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2. Meanwhile, the smartphone is already available in China for the starting price of 1,399 Yuan.

The Indonesian launch signifies Vivo’s dedication to offering innovative and accessible smartphones globally.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 series is already on sale in India via Amazon & Blinkit; Check offers

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Jan 25, 2024

The AI-driven Galaxy S24 series smartphones from Samsung have been globally launched and are currently open for pre-orders. Surpassing expectations, the Indian market has witnessed over 250,000 pre-bookings in just three days. Consequently, Samsung has decided to shorten the pre-order duration and has commenced direct sales through online retailers. The Galaxy S24 series is currently available to buy through Amazon India as well as Blinkit. Keep reading for more details.

Galaxy S24 series Amazon offers:

The Galaxy S24 has a starting price of Rs 79,999 (8GB + 256GB). On the other hand, the Galaxy S24+ is currently being sold in a single 12GB + 512GB storage variant with a price tag of Rs 1,09,999. That being said, the Galaxy S24+ has a Rs. 10,000 coupon available, knocking its price down to Rs. 99,999.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra 12GB RAM + 256GB storage model has a price tag of Rs 1,29,999. All three models in the Galaxy S24 lineup have a Rs 5,000 discount if you use an HDFC Bank credit card to mark the purchase.

Galaxy S24 series Blinkit offers:

Interestingly enough, Blinkit is offering the Galaxy S24 Ultra 12GB RAM + 512GB storage model for Rs 1,29,999, and offering an additional discount of Rs 5,000 for purchases made through HDFC Bank credit card.

The platform also has the Galaxy S24 in both 256GB and 512GB storage options, with a special discount while using an HDFC Bank. The best part about ordering through Blinkit is that the phone will be in your hands within 10 to 15 minutes.

RELATED:

Apple and Honor Secures Top Spot in China’s Smartphone Shipments for 2023, Reveals A New Report

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Jan 25, 2024

Apple is sustaining its top position in China’s smartphone shipments for the year 2023 after excelling in global smartphone shipments. A new report from IDC reveals that Apple and Honor managed to secure ~ 35% of the market share in China for the last quarter of 2023 and the whole year if we conclude. Alongside the market share, the new reports also shed light on the industry’s trends throughout the year.

In the final quarter of 2023, Apple maintains its stronghold, capturing a 20.0% market share despite a slight 2.1% YoY dip. Honor, securing the second spot with a 16.8% share, navigates the market with a marginal 0.9% YoY decline. However, Vivo faces an 8.4% YoY decrease, holding onto a significant 15.7% share. The standout performer is Huawei, with a remarkable 36.2% YoY growth, claiming a 13.9% share. OPPO faces challenges with a 16.1% YoY drop, while the collective share of other players sees a noteworthy 20.0%, reflecting a diverse market.

For the entire year, Apple and Honor secured the top positions, with 17.3% and 17.1% market shares, respectively. Apple, despite a 2.2% YoY decrease, maintains its influence, emphasizing brand loyalty. Honor faces a 10.3% YoY decline, grappling with challenges while sustaining a formidable market presence. OPPO, Vivo, and Xiaomi navigate through market shifts, adapting strategies to retain their positions. The collective share of other players witnesses substantial 19.0% YoY growth, underscoring a vibrant ecosystem.

Chinese brands like Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo are more popular globally than in their home countries. Among these, Xiaomi has managed to rake in 145.9 million sales in the global shipments chart, consolidating its third position.

The figures from Q4 2023 and the full year depict a market in flux, with established players adapting to dynamic consumer preferences. While Apple and Honor maintain their prominence, the rise of Huawei and the resilience of other players highlight the industry’s diversity. Amidst a contraction in the annual market, the smartphone landscape remains vibrant and multifaceted.

The trends seem to change with the onset of generative AI features, customization options, and AI-powered performance improvements. It would be interesting to see what the future holds for the tech industry with these magnanimous upcoming AI changes.

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Meizu teams up with Geely Galaxy for limited-edition Meizu 21

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Jan 25, 2024

Meizu has partnered with car manufacturer Geely Galaxy to launch a limited-edition version of its Meizu 21 smartphone.

The phone, sporting a stylish gray and blue color scheme, is currently only available for purchase through the Geely Galaxy App Auto Mall, with a price tag of 3,999 yuan (approximately USD 615) for the 12/256GB model.

The special edition phone features a design inspired by the Geely Galaxy brand. The right side of the phone boasts a color block pattern that mirrors the Geely Galaxy logo, while the lower right corner displays the logos of both Meizu and Geely Galaxy.

In terms of specifications, it’s similar to that of the standard Meizu 21. That is, it comes with a 6.55-inch OLED FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1.74mm thin symmetrical bezels.

Under the hood, the Meizu 21 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. To keep thermals under control, Meizu has fitted in a 37345 mm² vapor chamber cooling system inside the phone.

On the back, the phone features an OIS-assisted 200-megapixel Samsung S5KHP3 main sensor, joined by a 12-megapixel Samsung S5K3L6 ultrawide lens, and a 5-megapixel Samsung S5K5E9 depth sensor. For selfies, it has a 32-megapixel Samsung S5KJD1 front-facing camera.

Likewise, the phone gets its juice from a 4,800mAh battery and supports 80W charging. It comes preinstalled with Android 14 with Flyme 10.5 and there’s also Aicy personal assistant feature powered by GPT.

Other notable features include an Aicy smart RGB-LED ring on the rear, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, an IR blaster, dual speakers, and an IP54-rated chassis.

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Honor Magic V2 European launch set for January 26

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Jan 25, 2024

Honor introduced the Magic V2 foldable smartphone in China China in July 2023. The brand later showcased the device at IFA Berlin 2023, without revealing any details about the global price or availability. Now, the company has scheduled a detailed announcement on January 26 for Europe, revealing the pricing and availability of the device.

Honor Magic V2 specs

The Honor Magic V2 features a 7.92-inch foldable LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 2156 x 2344 pixels. It also boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 1,600 nits. A secondary 6.43-inch LTPO OLED cover screen is present on the front, offering a Full HD+ resolution and a brightness of up to 2,500 nits.

At the core of the Magic V2 is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, providing robust performance. The device is available in various configurations, offering up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, at least in the Chinese market. It is powered by a 5,000mAh battery, which supports 66W fast charging, and includes a side-facing fingerprint scanner.

Photography capabilities are a key feature of the Magic V2. It includes a 16-megapixel front camera and a rear camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens with autofocus, and a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with OIS and 2.5x optical zoom.

RELATED:

Vivo V30 Pro Hits Indonesia’s SDPPI, Launch Nearing

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Jan 25, 2024

Following a poster leak and its appearance on the GSMA IMEI database, the Vivo V30 Pro has arrived on Indonesia’s SDPPI. The listing confirms the upcoming launch of the Vivo V30 Pro but fails to confirm any specifications or features of the smartphone. As per previous leaks, the smartphone seems to debut alongside the Vivo V30 and Vivo V30 Lite. Surprisingly, among the trio, the Vivo V30 has already been launched in Mexico.

Any other details about the Vivo V30 Pro are missing on the SDPPI listing. However, the Vivo V30 Series was recently leaked in a poster, confirming some design aspects. The front design features a center-aligned punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera and a curved display panel with thin bezels on the sides. The back showcases a squarish camera module. The presence of a curved display, noticeable bezels, and other design elements are highlighted in the leaked poster.

Vivo V30 Series Specifications (Rumored)

The Vivo V30 series was spotted on various certifications, including NBTC, TDRA, NCC, Bluetooth SIG, and GeekBench, indicating an imminent launch.

Details about the Vivo V30 Pro specifications are scarce at the moment. However, its younger sibling, the Vivo V30, is anticipated to feature a 6.78-inch curved-edge AMOLED panel with a 1.5K resolution of 1260 x 2800 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Running on FunTouch OS 14-based Android 14, the device is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, offering up to 12 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and up to 256 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. The smartphone is likely to house a 5,000mAh battery with 80W charging support and features an under-display fingerprint scanner for security. Camera specifications include an autofocus-enabled 50-megapixel front camera with dual-LED flash and a rear camera setup comprising an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and an Aura LED flash unit. As of now, there is no information available regarding the price of the Vivo V30.

The Vivo V30 series is going to succeed the Vivo V29 and Vivo V29 Pro which were launched last year.

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Surprise January Pixel Feature Drop delivers Galaxy S24 features and more

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Jan 25, 2024

Google has released a surprise January Pixel Feature Drop today, bringing several new features to Pixel devices. These include some previously seen on the recently launched Galaxy S24. So let’s take a closer look at what’s new for Pixel users.

Here’s what new on January Pixel Feature Drop

Enhanced Pixel 8 Pro Temperature Sensor:

The Pixel 8 Pro’s previously enigmatic temperature sensor can now be used for human body temperature measurement. Users can point the phone at themselves or others to acquire readings, with optional integration for tracking within the Fitbit app.

Circle to Search Arrives on Pixel Phones:

With the January feature drop, one of the Galaxy S24’s lauded features, Circle to Search, has made its way to Pixel devices.

This Google AI-powered tool allows users to draw circles around elements on any screen (video, image, text) to trigger information searches. However, it will only be available on Pixel 8 and 8 Pro smartphones

Photomoji:

Users can now press and hold on a message in Google Messages, select a picture, and have their phone automatically transform it into a unique emoji for instant reactions. It will be available on Pixel 3a and later.

Magic Compose:

The previously announced Magic Compose is finally rolling out to Pixel 8 and 8 Pro users. Magic Compose suggests personalized and creative response options to text messages.

Quick Share:

Samsung announced its collaboration with Google for Android’s default file-sharing service, now called Quick Share. The feature is now rolling out to the Pixel devices with the new Quick Share icon.

Pixel Buds Pro Gain Seamless Audio Switching:

Pixel Buds Pro users have gained improved connectivity with the addition of automatic device switching. The earbuds will seamlessly transition audio playback between connected devices, such as switching from music on a tablet to calls on a phone.

These new features are rolling out now, so Pixel users can keep an eye out for updates.

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Realme 12 Pro series: Realme teams up with Oscar-winning cinematographer for cinematic portraits

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 25, 2024

The Realme 12 Pro series is set to be unveiled globally, including in India, on Jan. 29. While the company has already revealed the Realme 12 Pro+ will feature a 64-megapixel OV64B OmniVision periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, leaks suggest the Realme 12 Pro will sport a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 telephoto lens. This combination suggests that the Realme 12 Pro series will deliver exceptional photography. To further elevate the camera experience, Realme has partnered with Oscar-winning cinematographer Claudio Miranda, aiming to deliver a cinematic portrait experience.

Realme 12 Pro series to feature movie filters for cinematic portrait shots

Realme 12 Pro - Claudia Miranda — Realme teams up with ClaudioMiranda fo Realme 12 Pro series

Realme 12 Pro cinematic portraits — Realme teams up with ClaudioMiranda fo Realme 12 Pro series

Claudio Miranda is a prominent figure in the film industry. He is well-known for his work on Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi,” which earned him the Academy Award for Best Cinematography. His collaboration with David Fincher on “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” the first film shot entirely digitally and nominated for an Academy Award, solidified his status as a cinematic visionary.

The collaboration of Mirana and Realme for the upcoming 12 Pro series results in the inclusion of three movie filters, such as Journey, Memory, and Maverick. These filters, which draw inspiration from classic movies like “Life of Pi,” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and “Top Gun: Maverick,” aim to evoke various atmospheres—dreamy, calm, capable, and retro with a cinematic feel.

Additionally, the Realme 12 Pro series allows users to capture moments in the 2.39:1 movie-wide format ratio. This capability allows photography enthusiasts to create cinematic-style portraits in a classic movie format. The 12 Pro series is also equipped with the Cinematic Bokeh Algorithm for an enhanced experience while shooting portrait shots with natural blurring and captivating light spots. Users can fine-tune aperture settings in real-time to achieve the ideal blur effect for portraits, ensuring the subject stands out distinctly with enhanced keying effects.

RELATED:

Xiaomi 15 series mass production kicks off in September, could launch earlier than expected

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Jan 25, 2024

Popular Weibo tipster DigitalChatStation claimed that Xiaomi is in the process of testing a new smartphone with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor. Developed by Qualcomm, this new chip is expected to be featured in the upcoming Xiaomi 15 series. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 showcases a fully self-developed architecture by Qualcomm and is reported to have notable performance improvements.

According to the tipster, there are indications that the Xiaomi 15 series is set to commence mass production in September. Typically, Xiaomi unveils its flagship smartphones in China in late Q4, suggesting a potential launch for the Xiaomi 15 series around November or December. That being said, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip is expected to debut earlier than usual this year, so there is a chance that we can see the Xiaomi 15 series launching early as well.

Previously, a leak revealed that the Xiaomi 15 model will retain the 6.36-inch display size like the Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 14. The Xiaomi 15 Pro on the other hand will sport a slightly curved display that will offer 2K resolution with just 0.6mm bezels. For reference, the Xiaomi 14 Pro features 0.9mm bezels. The display will offer a peak brightness of 1400 nits and a power-saving 1 to 120Hz LTPO refresh rate technology that can potentially save 15-20% of battery life. Other specs of the upcoming flagships are currently under wraps. With that in mind, you can take a look at the specs and features of the Xiaomi 14 series to get an idea of what to expect from their successors.

Xiaomi 14 series specs:

The standard Xiaomi 14 is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, LPDDR5X, and UFS 4.0. It features a 6.36-inch 1.5K OLED flexible straight screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and 3000nit peak brightness. The device houses a 4610mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging, as well as wireless reverse charging. The camera setup includes a 50MP Leica main camera, 50MP Leica ultra-wide-angle lens, and 50MP Leica 75mm floating telephoto lens.

The Xiaomi 14 Pro, powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, features a 4880mAh battery and a 6.73-inch 2K AMOLED super visual sense screen with 3200 x 1440 resolution. The Mi 14 Pro supports 120W wired, 50W wireless, and wireless reverse charging. It incorporates a Sony LYT-900 custom image sensor and a 1024-level variable aperture for advanced imaging.

RELATED:

IQOO Neo 9 Pro’s 12GB+256GB variant achieves remarkable score on AnTuTu

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 25, 2024

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro is scheduled to debut on Feb. 22 in India. Reports have revealed a lot of information about the device. With nearly a month remaining for the launch, the company is busy teasing out the device’s key features. In the latest teaser, the brand confirmed details about one of the configurations of the Neo 9 Pro. In addition, it has also revealed the AnTuTu score of the device.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro AnTuTu score

According to the brand, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro, equipped with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, has achieved a score of over 1.7 million on AnTuTu benchmarks. At present, it is unclear how many variants of the Neo 9 Pro will be released in India. To recall, the Neo 7 Pro came in 8GB+128GB and 12GB+256GB variants and carried a starting price of Rs 34,999.

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro is expected to rival the OnePlus 12R in India. For those who don’t know, the 12R comes in two options, such as 8GB+128GB for Rs 39,999 (~$481) and 16GB+256GB for Rs 45,999 (~$553). The Neo 9 Pro is expected to ship in two colors, such as Conqueror Black and Fiery Red.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro specifications

iQOO Neo 9 Pro Fiery Red, Conqourer Black — iQOO Neo 9 Pro

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro heading to India is said to be a rebranded version of the Neo 9 available in China. Therefore, it is expected to feature a 6.78-inch OLED 1.5K 144Hz display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, and a 5,160mAh battery with 120W fast charging.

On the front, the Neo 9 Pro will have a 16-megapixel selfie camera. Its back panel will feature an OIS-assisted Sony IMX920 50-megapixel main camera and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. Other features that the Neo 9 Pro will offer include an in-display fingerprint sensor, FunTouch OS 14-based Android 14, dual speakers, and an IR blaster.

RELATED:

Samsung confirms Galaxy AI rollout for older flagships, but S22 owners left in the dark

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Jan 25, 2024

Samsung‘s Galaxy S24 series introduced a suite of AI-powered features promising a more enhanced user experience. While these features are exclusive to the new phones, for now, there’s good news for owners of older flagships.

In an interview with TechRadar, Patrick Chomet, Samsung’s Head of Customer Experience, confirmed that select 2023 flagship device will receive the new Galaxy AI features.

The list of devices includes the Galaxy S23, S23 FE, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5, and Tab S9. They will receive the new AI features via the One UI 6.1 update in the first half of 2024.

A surprising exception is the company’s 2022 devices including the Galaxy S22 series, despite being eligible for the One UI 6.1 update. Samsung remains tight-lipped on the reason for this omission.

However, when questioned, Chomet simply stated they’re “limiting” the initial rollout to last-gen devices “for now.” This leaves S22 owners in limbo, unsure if they’ll eventually experience the full potential of their devices.

Further adding to the confusion is that the Galaxy S23 FE, equipped with the same chipset as the S22 in some regions, is included in the rollout. While it’s possible that S22 owners may eventually get their hands on Galaxy AI, Samsung has offered no concrete timeline or guarantee.

Here’s a quick rundown of the Galaxy AI features coming to more Galaxy devices:

Circle to Search: Use your finger to draw a circle around an object or text on the screen to instantly learn more about it.
Live Translation: Translate spoken and written content in real-time, both on and offline. Chat with people in different languages, understand signs and menus abroad, and translate documents on the go.
Chat Assistant: Translate messages automatically while you chat, without switching between languages.
Note Assistant: Summarize and organize your notes, making them easier to review and find what you need.
Voice Recording Assistant: Turn your voice recordings into text with speaker identification. Get transcripts, translate recordings, and even summarize key points.

Related:

(Via)

Realme 12+ 5G Surfaces on MIIT with Photos, Resembles Realme 12 Pro Series

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Jan 25, 2024

Realme 12+ 5G is nearing launch, along with Realme 12 Pro + 5G. Both smartphones have made it through several public certifications and benchmark apps. In addition, the Realme 12+ 5G (RMX3866) has made it to China’s MIIT certification with photos. Interestingly, the Realme 12+ 5G global model code RMX3867 slightly differs from the Chinese variant’s model code RMX3866. However, alongside the global launch of the Realme 12 Pro Series on January 29, we expect the Realme 12+ 5G to debut.

The MIIT listing with photos unveils design details for the upcoming smartphone. The smartphone seems to feature a quad-rear camera with an LED flash, quite similar to a Realme 11-like camera module design. A vertical line with a metallic color seems to divide the rear side into two exact portions. Realme branding is visible on the rear-bottom side of the smartphone. Further, there are volume rockers and a power button on the right side of the smartphone.

The Realme 12+ 5G design is quite familiar with the upcoming Realme 12 Pro series.

Realme 12+ 5G Specifications (Expected)

Realme 12+ 5G has already made it to Thailand’s NBTC, Malaysia’s SIRIM, TKDN, SDPPI, TDRA, TUV Rheinland, and FCC certification.

Concluding the specifications, the Realme 12+ 5G includes a 16-megapixel front camera and a rear camera setup with a 64-megapixel primary camera and an 8-megapixel auxiliary lens. The device is expected to feature a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging support. It may run on Realme UI 5 based on Android 14, and offer NFC connectivity. Additional details about the device are yet to be revealed.

On the other hand, the Realme 12 Pro+ was spotted with a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset and 12 GB of RAM on Geekbench. It is speculated that the Pro model may feature the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset. Both devices are expected to come with a 6.7-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display and a 5,000mAh battery supporting 67W fast charging. The Realme 12 Pro will have a 16-megapixel front camera and a triple camera setup on the back, while the 12 Pro+ is rumored to feature a 32-megapixel selfie camera and a more advanced triple camera setup on the rear.

Related:

Redmi Note 13 Pro New Year special edition goes on sale in China

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 25, 2024

Redmi has recently launched the Redmi Note 13 Pro New Year Edition phone in China. This special edition device is available in a distinct “Good Luck Red” color, aligning with the symbolism of the Year of the Dragon. Here is a look at the specifications and price of the limited-edition version.

Redmi Note 13 Pro New Year Special Edition

As can be seen, the Redmi Note 13 Pro New Year special edition is basically the same as its regular version. Being a special edition version, it features a red rear panel and a black frame. It comes in a special box, which is likely to include a special theme, wallpapers, ringtones, and other customizations.

The new variant comes in configurations such as 8GB+128GB priced at 1,399 Yuan (~$197), 8GB+256GB priced at 1,499 Yuan (~$211), 12GB+256GB priced at 1,699 Yuan (~$239), 12GB+512GB priced at 1,799 Yuan (~$254), and 16GB+512GB priced at 1,899 Yuan (~$268).

Redmi Note 13 Pro specifications

The Redmi Note 13 Pro is equipped with a 6.67-inch OLED display that offers a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 1920Hz PWM dimming, and up to 1800nits of brightness. The screen is also equipped with an in-screen fingerprint sensor and Gorilla Glass Victus. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 powered the device, along with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. It comes equipped with the MIUI 14-based Android 13.

The Note 13 Pro has a 16-megapixel front camera. On the back, it has an OIS-assisted 200-megapixel primary camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro. It has a 5,100mAh battery with 67W fast charging. The device is equipped with other features, such as dual speakers, an IR blaster, and an IP54-rated chassis.

WHERE TO BUY

Redmi Note 13 Pro New Year Special Edition start from $259 @GeekWills

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Google settles patent lawsuit over Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) technology

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Jan 25, 2024

Google reached a settlement on Wednesday in a patent infringement lawsuit over the TPU chips powering its artificial intelligence (AI) technology, just hours before closing arguments were set to begin.

The lawsuit, filed by Massachusetts-based Singular Computing, sought $1.67 billion in damages, alleging Google used their technology for its Tensor Processing Units (TPUs).

For those unaware, a TPU is a specialized hardware accelerator designed for machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) workloads. TPUs are optimized to perform the complex calculations involved in AI tasks.

They are significantly faster and more efficient than traditional CPUs or GPUs for these types of tasks. This is because they are designed specifically for the mathematical operations used in AI algorithms.

Details of the settlement remain confidential, with both Google and Singular only confirming the agreement and declining further comment. Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda maintained the company’s innocence, stating they were “pleased to have resolved this matter.”

Singular, founded by computer scientist Joseph Bates, claimed Google used their technology in TPUs, driving AI features in popular services like Google Search, Gmail, and Translate. Bates allegedly shared his ideas with Google between 2010 and 2014, and the 2019 lawsuit argued later TPU versions (2 and 3) infringed on two of his patents.

Google introduced TPUs in 2016 to power AI functions like speech recognition, content generation, and ad recommendations. Bates argued versions 2 and 3, released in 2017 and 2018, infringed on his patents.

Internal Google emails presented at the trial’s opening revealed the company’s now chief scientist Jeff Dean discussing with others how Bates’ ideas were “well-suited” for their development.

However, Google countered that employees who had designed their chip never met Bates and created the technology independently, claiming it differed significantly from Singular’s patents.

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Hasselblad Launches 907X & CFV 100C: A New Standard in 100MP Medium Format Photography

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