The HP Fortis G11 is among a raft of HP Chromebooks unveiled on January 11, 2024. The Fortis G11 is a rugged Chromebook with a 14-inch display. It comes with solid internal features for enhanced productivity. It also offers rapid charging of its battery. This is coming at the same time the company unveiled the Fortis X360 G11.
Features
The HP Fortis G11 has a similar outlook as the Fortis G10 and is focused on a solution for students, office and frontline workers. The Chromebook is rated MIL-STD-810 and has gone through a battery of durability tests successfully. The chassis of the Fortis G11 Chromebook has an IP51 rating, as added protection for the device.
The Fortis G11 Chromebook’s 14-inch display is expansive enough to accommodate many productive tasks as well as for entertainment purposes. The screen is configurable to fit the user’s taste and the options include an FHD touchscreen panel with 250 nits of brightness or a non-touch FHD with 300 nits. The vanilla version of the laptop has an HD panel with 250 nits of peak brightness. There are several RAM and storage options for the Fortis G11 Chromebook ranging from 4GB LPDDR5-4800 to 16GB of RAM. Up to 128GB of UFS onboard storage could be gotten for the Fortis G11 Chromebook.
In terms of connectivity, the Fortis G11 Chromebook supports WiFi 6E and 4G LTE. It comes with an Intel N-Series processor but it is unclear whether it is the N200 or the N95. The Fortis G11 comes with several ports including USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1 (x2), USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 (x2), HDMI 1.4, and a headphone and microphone combo jack. The new Fortis Chromebook also comes with a SIM card slot.
Pricing & Availability
The HP Fortis G11 Chromebook with a 14-inch display is already on sale in the US with a starting price of $319. There are no details yet on the global availability and pricing of the Fortis G11 Chromebook at this time.
Chinese tech company Oukitel has always been known for its rugged smartphones. the company has now announced a new smartwatch – the Oukitel BT50 rugged smartwatch. As the name implies, the smartwatch is a rugged model designed with a military-grade ethos. It also comes with a budget-friendly price tag.
Features
Despite the ruged build, the Oukitel BT50 features a robust design which includes a chunky strap and a striking round watch face housing a vivid 1.43-inch AMOLED display with an impressive 466 x 466-pixel resolution. The combination of durability and style makes it an ideal companion for both outdoor enthusiasts and urban warriors.
While simplicity is key, the BT50 does not compromise on health tracking. Monitor your heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and sleep health effortlessly. The reliability of the sensor data ensures that you stay informed about your well-being, even in the most challenging environments.
The Oukitel comes with essential health-tracking features
With over 100 sports modes, this smartwatch empowers you to log your exercises comprehensively. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a fitness novice, the Oukitel BT50 supports a wide range of activities. Additionally, connect your Android or iOS phone for accurate GPS data during your workouts.
Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity enables seamless phone calls, notifications from popular apps like WhatsApp and Instagram, and convenient music control. The inclusion of an AI voice assistant adds a touch of sophistication to your daily interactions, making tasks easier and more enjoyable.
A 400mAh battery propels the BT50 to impressive heights, offering up to 15 days of typical use or an astounding 45 days in standby mode. Quick two-hour recharging ensures that you spend less time tethered to a power source and more time on the go.
Rated IP68 waterproof, the Oukitel BT50 fearlessly withstands water exposure, allowing you to explore without limits. Choose from the bold black/green or the vibrant silver/orange color options to match your style.
Pricing & Availability
The Oukitel BT5 is presently available for $55.99/£49.99/€69.99. The price is even more enticing with a $10 coupon at Amazon US, bringing the price down to $45.99.
Weibo CEO Gaofei Wang, known on the platform as “Between coming and going” (来去之间), recently voiced his frustrations on Weibo after an unusual experience with his mobile service.
Gaofei shared that his mobile SMS receiving function was suspended because he missed a call from 96110, a number designated for anti-fraud alerts. This action was taken after his number received overseas calls, leading to a missed anti-fraud reminder call.
Weibo CEO Confronts SMS Suspension Over Missed Anti-Fraud Call
Seeking answers, Gaofei questioned the logic behind this decision by tagging China Mobile in his post. He inquired about the rationale for such a measure and the process for restoring his SMS service. This incident highlights the sometimes rigid policies telecom companies may have in place for fraud prevention, even affecting high-profile individuals like the CEO of a major social media platform.
The incident resonated with many netizens, with some humorously sharing their own negative experiences. One user commented, “Tell me how to complain about Weibo customer service, and I will tell you how to complain about the SMS suspension.” This sentiment resonated with Wang, who acknowledged the struggles many face with customer service, stating, “10086 (China Mobile’s customer service hotline) said they noted it, but couldn’t resolve it, just like our customer service…”
In addition, Weibo influencer “Granny from Jiangning” (江宁婆婆) joined the conversation by retweeting Gaofei’s post and playfully advising him to check Weibo more often. This was accompanied by an image urging people to always answer calls from 96110.
Gaofei acknowledged the reminder but pointed out the impracticality of always being available to answer calls, especially during meetings. He questioned the reasonableness of the business logic that led to the suspension of his SMS service for missing a call.
The number 96110 is part of a broader initiative to combat telecom and network fraud. It serves as a crucial tool for warning and prevention, making it imperative for users to respond to calls from this number. It also acts as a helpline for reporting suspicious activities, playing a significant role in fraud prevention efforts.
The online debate surrounding Wang’s experience is likely to continue, prompting further discussion about the effectiveness of anti-fraud strategies and the need for customer-centric approaches in the telecom industry. It remains to be seen how China Mobile will respond to the concerns.
Titan Army Unveils Cutting-Edge P27A6R: A 27-inch Gaming Monitor with Mini-LED Display and 180Hz Refresh Rate
The Titan Army P27A6R features a 27-inch FAST IPS panel with a 2K resolution (2560 x 1440) and a 180Hz refresh rate. This provides smooth, sharp visuals for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks.The P27A6R also features a mini-LED backlight with 384 dimming zones. This allows for better contrast and HDR performance than a traditional LED backlight. The monitor also supports HDR 1000, which provides a peak brightness of 1000 nits.
In terms of color reproduction, the P27A6R covers 97% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. This is a wide range of colors that is ideal for color-critical work. The monitor also has a 1ms response time, which is excellent for gaming. The P27A6R is also versatile, thanks to its adjustable stand. The stand allows you to tilt, swivel, pivot, and adjust the height of the monitor. The monitor also supports VESA mounting, so you can attach it to a wall or other mounting bracket.
The P27A6R is currently available for pre-order on JD.com for 1,999 yuan (about $290). Here are the full specifications of the TITAN ARMY P27A6R:
Model: P27A6R
Screen size: 27 inches
Color: White
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Panel type: FAST IPS
Dimensions: 613.9 x 518.7 (Max)/398.7 (Min) x 228.8 mm
Fans eagerly awaiting the U.S. premiere of “Pokémon Horizons: The Series” on Netflix will have to hold on a little longer, as its debut has been pushed to March 7. This delay, though short, has sparked a mix of anticipation and frustration among the Pokémon community.
The new series will move beyond the beloved Ash Ketchum
Unlike previous series, “Pokémon Horizons” breaks new ground by moving beyond the familiar face of Ash Ketchum. The spotlight now shines on Liko and her partner Pokémon, Sprigatito, along with a host of other characters including Friede and his unique Captain Pikachu. Set in the vibrant Paldea Region from the games Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the series promises to offer a fresh narrative and exciting adventures.
This delay comes as a surprise, especially since the series has already been released in the UK, where fans have been enjoying it since December 2023. U.S. audiences, who are more accustomed to simultaneous releases, find themselves in an unusual position of waiting while their counterparts across the pond discuss the latest episodes.
The series’ plot revolves around Liko, a new character who arrives at Indigo Academy and quickly becomes embroiled in a mysterious plot involving a pendant necklace and a group known as the Explorers. She is not alone in her journey, as she is joined by Friede and Captain Pikachu, alongside other companions. Meanwhile, a boy named Roy dreams of becoming a Pokémon Trainer, unaware of the secret within his Ancient Poké Ball.
What makes “Pokémon Horizons” particularly interesting is its departure from the formula that has defined the franchise for decades. The introduction of new characters and settings, while still retaining the essence of the Pokémon world, is a bold move that could redefine how future series are approached.
In a groundbreaking move, a Chinese court recently recognized the copyright of an AI-generated image, setting a precedent that could significantly impact the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence and creativity. This decision, made by the Beijing Internet Court, revolves around a picture created using Stable Diffusion, a text-to-image software. The court’s recognition of the image as a protected artwork underlines the increasing significance of AI in the realm of artistic creation.
Acknowledging the human element in AI is a big deal for the future
The core of this ruling lies in the court’s understanding that the human creator’s originality and intellectual input played a crucial role in the creation of the AI-generated image. This perspective shifts the focus from the AI itself to the creative process and decision-making of the human behind the AI. By acknowledging the human element in AI-generated content, the court opens new doors for artists and creators who are exploring this novel domain.
This decision is particularly noteworthy as it diverges from the stance in other countries, like the United States, where the debate over copyright protection for AI-generated content remains unresolved. It emphasizes the need to view such creations on a case-by-case basis, considering the unique blend of AI and human input.
The dispute that led to this ruling began when an individual, identified as Li, used Stable Diffusion to create an image of a young Asian woman. After Li’s work was allegedly used without permission on Baijiahao, a Chinese content-sharing platform, he initiated an intellectual property infringement lawsuit. The court’s ruling in Li’s favor reinforces the idea that AI-generated images, when infused with human creativity and judgment, can be seen as personal expressions deserving of copyright protection.
This landmark ruling is a significant step for China’s growing interest in generative AI. It not only acknowledges the potential of AI in creative industries but also sets a legal precedent that could encourage more innovation and exploration in this field. As AI continues to evolve and find its place in various sectors, decisions like this will be crucial in shaping its role and the rights of those who harness its power for creative expression.
The Halo series, known for its innovative gameplay and storytelling, has been a cornerstone of the Xbox gaming experience. The concept of a Halo Battle Royale emerged after the release of Halo Infinite in 2021. With battle royale games like Fortnite and PUBG dominating the gaming landscape, it seemed like a natural step for Halo to explore this genre.
Halo Infinite received mixed reviews as well, which might explain this decision
Certain Affinity, a support studio, was reportedly at the helm of Tatanka’s development. In 2022, Paul Sams, the president of Certain Affinity, hinted at a major Halo project, sparking further speculation about the battle royale mode. This was a tantalizing hint for fans, suggesting a significant evolution for the franchise.
However, the gaming community has seen little to no concrete information about this project since then. Bloomberg’s report in early 2023 suggested that the project might have taken different directions, moving away from the typical battle royale format.
The decision to potentially shelve this project comes at a crucial juncture for Halo. The recent performance of Halo Infinite didn’t quite meet expectations, and there’s news of the franchise shifting to Unreal Engine for future developments. This indicates a desire for change and innovation within the series.
In the midst of this, Certain Affinity seems to be focusing on an original project, codenamed Project Loro. This shift could be a strategic move to diversify and expand the studio’s portfolio.
For Halo fans, this news brings mixed feelings. On one hand, the cancellation of a Halo battle royale may be disappointing for those eager to see the franchise enter this popular genre. On the other, it suggests that the creators are not afraid to change direction and innovate, keeping the Halo series fresh and exciting. As we look forward, the future of Halo remains a topic of great interest. With Season 2 of the Halo TV series set to release soon, the franchise continues to expand its universe in new ways, promising more intriguing developments for its loyal fanbase.
The Infinix Smart 8 was announced on Jan. 13 in India and is already available for purchase via Flipkart. For those seeking a phone around Rs 6,000 (~$72), the company offers the Smart 8 HD, and in the Rs 7,000 (~$84) segment, it provides the Smart 8. These offerings mirror Redmi’s A2 and A2 Plus, which are nearly identical phones with only a few differences. The Smart 8 and Smart 8 HD (hands-on) are powered by different chipsets, feature distinct primary cameras, and come with varying amounts of RAM. Here is a hands-on post on what to expect from the Smart 8.
Infinix Smart 8: Unboxing and First Impression
Infinix Smart 8
Undoubtedly, the Infinix Smart 8 stands out as a remarkably designed phone within its price range. The Rainbow Blue color variant, as depicted in the images, appears light blue at a cursory glance. However, when viewed from various angles, it reveals an array of shades, including pink, purple, yellow, and light green. The back panel of the phone features a timber-textured finish, while the front showcases a punch-hole screen with a noticeable bottom bezel. Notably, the overall design of the phone closely resembles that of the Smart 8 HD.
The top edge of the phone has “Designed by Infinix” branding, whereas its opposite end features a 3.5mm audio jack, a microphone, a USB-C port, and a speaker. The left spine has a SIM slot, while the right edge is equipped with a volume rocker and a power key. It weighs 189 grams and has a thickness of 8.5mm.
Display
Infinix Smart 8Infinix Smart 8
Starting from the front, the Infinix Smart 8 sports an LCD panel measuring 6.6 inches diagonally. It supports an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. The screen is shielded by a layer of NEG glass. Distinguishing itself from most other phones in the same price segment, the Smart 8 opts for a contemporary punch-hole display design instead of the conventional waterdrop notch screen. In terms of visibility, it is optimal for indoor use; however, under bright sunlight, users might encounter difficulties viewing the display contents even when the brightness is set to the highest level.
Performance
Infinix Smart 8
The Smart 8 features the MediaTek Helio G36, also found in devices like the Poco C51, Redmi A2, and Redmi A2 Plus. The device offers 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 4 GB of virtual RAM for efficient multitasking while handling apps. There’s 64 GB of UFS 2.2 storage onboard and a dedicated microSD card slot for additional storage. In comparison, the Smart 8 HD has the Unisoc T606 chip, 3 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of storage.
The availability of the Magic Ring feature via XOS 13 (based on Android 13 Go) makes the phone capable of showcasing animated notifications around the display punch-hole for face unlock, background calls, charging, charging completion reminder, and low battery reminder. While there are around 40 preloaded apps on the device, it does not have unnecessary or shady apps despite being a low-priced device.
The Smart 8 packs a 5,000mAh battery but does not have a microUSB port like the above-mentioned competing phones. Instead, it offers a USB-C port, providing more convenient charging in line with modern connectivity standards. As far as charging speedi is concerned, it takes around two hours to achieve a full charge.
Camera and Other Features
Infinix Smart 8
On the back, the Smart 8 features a 50-megapixel main camera (compared to the 13-megapixel camera on the Smart 8 HD), an AI lens, and a quad-LED ring flash. While expectations may be modest for a Rs 7,000 (~$72) phone in terms of photography, the Smart 8 endeavors to provide a decent photography experience, particularly in well-lit conditions. An 8-megapixel camera with an LED flash that boosts brightness for selfies in low light is located on the front.
1x2x zoom
For security, the Smart 8 features a side-facing fingerprint scanner and face unlock, both functioning flawlessly. There is a single bottom-firing speaker with DTS Audio processing, providing decent output only when the volume is set at 70 or 80 percent. Higher volume results in a noticeable slight distortion in sound output.
Overall Impression
Infinix Smart 8
The Infinix Smart 8 is a good option to consider if you are looking for a phone priced around Rs 7,000 (~$84). It is good to see the brand offering an impressive design, a high refresh rate display, a 50-megapixel camera, a big battery with USB-C charging, and a side-facing fingerprint scanner on such a low-priced device.
Price and Availability
The Smart 8, priced at Rs 7,499 (~$90), costs Rs 1,200 (~$14) more than the entry-level Smart 8 HD. Buyers can benefit from a 10 percent discount using ICICI debit and credit cards, and can get it for Rs 6,749 (~$81). Like other Infinix phones, the Smart 8 can be purchased through Flipkart. Apart from Rainbow Blue, the Smart 8 can be bought in shades, such as Galax White, Timber Black, and Shiny Gold.
Disclaimer: All opinions in this Infinix Smart 8 hands-on post are mine and based on my own experiences. There has been no editorial input from Infinix.
TP-LINK, a renowned manufacturer in the network equipment industry, announced three new Wi-Fi 7 routers last year: the BE3600, BE5100, and BE6500, with prices ranging from 229 Yuan ($32) for the BE3600 to 559 Yuan ($78) for the BE6500. These routers are now available for purchase in China from JD.com.
TP-LINK’s New Wi-Fi 7 Router Series
The BE3600 is priced at 229 Yuan ($32) and offers dual-band capabilities with a speed of up to 3600Mbps. It includes four Gigabit Ethernet ports and supports both dual WAN and LAN port aggregation, making it a versatile choice for standard home networking needs.
At 279 Yuan ($39), the BE5100 model steps up in performance with dual-band speeds of 5100Mbps. It features one 2.5G Ethernet port and three Gigabit Ethernet ports, also supporting dual WAN and LAN port aggregation. This model is suitable for users needing higher speeds and more robust connectivity options.
The BE6500, priced at 559 Yuan ($78), is a high-end option offering up to 6500Mbps speed. It is equipped with four 2.5G Ethernet ports and includes six high-power independent FEM amplifiers. This router is particularly well-suited for users with advanced networking requirements, such as gaming or high-bandwidth streaming.
Key features shared across these routers include MLO dual-band stacking, Xtra Range 2.0 technology (excluding the BE6500), which enhances the 5GHz band’s coverage, built-in gaming accelerators, support for frequency band and routing binding, and compatibility with remote PC wake-up and EasyMesh 3.0 networking.
Meanwhile, Xiaomi is also set to launch its most affordable Wi-Fi 7 router, the BE 3600, on January 30th in China, with a price expected to be below 299 yuan ($43). The router features a 2.5Gbps high-speed network port, a 4-core chip, and IoT connectivity for managing smart home devices, expanding Xiaomi’s Wi-Fi 7 router lineup.
Intel continues to expand its product family. In this regard, the company recently showcased its new 14th-Gen mobile and desktop CPU lineup at CES 2024. However, competition with AMD is more intense than ever. Consequently, Intel aims to achieve success in different markets through diverse marketing strategies and products. The latest example of this is the release of the Core i7-14790F and i5-14490F processors, available exclusively in China. Here are the details…
Unveiling the Core i7-14790F and i5-14490F Processors for China
Intel recently released a new processor, the Core i7-14790F, featuring 16 cores and a maximum frequency of 5.40 GHz. It’s specifically available in China and can be identified by its black packaging. Despite its higher numerical designation compared to the i7-14700F, it has 4 fewer CPU cores. The cache increases by 3MB in line with the usual series. On the JD platform’s official store, these processors are priced at 2,909 yuan.
In addition, Intel also released the i5-14490F with a lower configuration, which has 10 cores and 16 threads, a turbo frequency of 4.9 GHz, and 24 MB of cache. It is priced at 1,659 yuan. The i5-14400F with a turbo frequency of 4.7 GHz and 20 MB of cache is also priced at 1,659 yuan.
The Core i7-14790F has a base frequency of 3.60 GHz and a TDP of 125 W
The Core i5-14490F has a base frequency of 3.20 GHz and a TDP of 65 W
Both processors are based on the Alder Lake-S architecture and use the LGA 1700 socket
The release of these processors is a sign that Intel is continuing to invest in the Chinese market. The company has been facing increasing competition from AMD in recent years, and these new products could help it regain market share.
The Redmi Watch 4 debuted in China alongside the Redmi K70 series in late November, One and a half months later, the wearable has made its way to international markets today as scheduled.
The latest Redmi-branded wearable brings numerous upgrades in terms of hardware. In China, it even ships with HyperOS but that’s not the case for global markets.
Even without Xiaomi’s latest software, the Redmi Watch 4 is still an exciting product outside mainland China.
Redmi Watch 4 Specifications
The Redmi Watch 4 features an aluminum alloy frame. It also comes with a stainless steel crown and a quick-release strap.
The wearable sports a 1.97-inch rounded rectangular AMOLED display. The LTPS 5Hz screen offers a 60Hz refresh rate and 600 nits peak brightness level. It supports over 200 watch faces and auto brightness via an ambient light sensor.
The watch arrives with a 4-channel PPG sensor for heart rate and blood oxygen level monitoring. It also houses an accelerometer, gyroscope, and GPS for over 150 sports modes.
It offers all the standard features, such as sleep tracking, stress monitoring, weather, stopwatch, app notifications, and others. There’s also a built-in microphone and a speaker for Bluetooth calling.
The wearable is water resistant up to 5 ATM. Lastly, it is backed by a 470mAh battery, which is rated to last for up to 20 days on normal usage.
Redmi Watch 4 Price
The Redmi Watch 4 carries a suggested retail price of $107. It comes in two colors, such as Silver Gray and Obsidian Black.
Customers can opt for different-colored straps separately for an additional price.
Redmi recently introduced a new range of devices globally, including the Note 13 Pro 5G series, the Note 13 4G series, the Redmi Watch 4, and the Redmi Buds 5 Pro. Adding to the mix is the budget-friendly Note 13 5G, offering an appealing hardware package.
Redmi Note 13 5G specs
The Redmi Note 13 5G showcases a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1000 nits. The screen’s contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1 and TÜV Rheinland certifications for Circadian Friendly, Flicker-Free, and Low Blue Light contribute to a comfortable viewing experience. The display resolution is 2400 x 1080, and it is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
Underneath, the device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC, featuring an octa-core processor with speeds up to 2.4GHz. Storage options include 6GB+128GB or 8GB+256GB, with expandable storage up to 1TB.
The Redmi Note 13 5G is equipped with a large 5,000mAh battery, supporting 33W fast charging via the included USB-C charger. The camera setup includes a 108MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, and a 16MP front camera. The device has a 3.5mm headphone jack and offers Dolby Atmos support. Security features include a side fingerprint sensor and AI Face Unlock.
Connectivity options encompass SIM 1 + Hybrid (SIM or microSD), Wi-Fi at 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC for wireless communication, and an IR Blaster for added convenience.
Pricing & availability
The Redmi Note 13 5G is available in Graphite Black, Ocean Teal, and Arctic White, with pricing starting from a suggested retail price of USD 229, making it a compelling choice for users seeking an affordable yet feature-rich device.
Mchose has introduced a new mechanical keyboard, the G98, in the Chinese market, which is currently available for pre-order at a price of 199 yuan ($28). Let’s check out the key specs of this keyboard.
Mchose G98 Specifications:
The G98 keyboard features a unique 98-key layout that includes numerical keys for practical daily use. It offers hot-swappable keys, providing flexibility for users to easily change switches. It provides a wide range of switch options, including TTC Ice, Kailh custom Nightfire, KTT Kangtong special Wisteria, and LEOBOG Greywood switches, accommodating different typing preferences and styles.
The keyboard also boasts an impressive array of technical specifications. It includes the Gasket structure and five layers of sound-dampening padding for reduced noise and improved typing experience. It features a 1.2mm single-slot PCB design for durability and attractive underglow lighting. The keyboard comes with dual-color PBT keycaps known for their durability and style, with an option to upgrade to MDA high-profile keycaps for a more personalized touch.
In terms of connectivity and performance, the G98 is a powerhouse. It offers three modes of connection: Type-C wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth, providing versatility for different user needs. The keyboard has a low wireless latency of just 3ms, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Additionally, it’s equipped with a substantial 10,000mAh battery, which is quite large for a keyboard, offering extended use without frequent charging.
Aesthetic appeal is not overlooked in the G98. It features customizable RGB backlighting with an impressive range of 16 million colors, allowing users to create their desired ambiance or match their gaming setup. The keyboard’s dimensions are 389.2mm x 129.2mm x 41.9mm, making it a substantial yet manageable size for most desks.
The Mchose G98 keyboard boasts an ergonomic design with double-level adjustable feet for comfortable extended use. It also includes a magnetic nameplate for personalization and style.
Xiaomi is reportedly working on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. The device has surfaced in leaks and rumors plenty of times along with hands-on images recently. The top-of-the-line flagship smartphone from the company is expected to debut in April. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has already bagged EEC and IMEI certifications. Now, the device has been spotted on the Bureau of Indian certification website.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra passes BIS
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is listed with model number 24030PN60G on the BIS certification website. The model number is the same as the one found on the EEC and IMEI database. The BIS listing suggests that the Xiaomi 14 Ultra could debut in India. If this indeed turns out to be true, the brand may make a comeback with the Ultra model after nearly three years since it launched the Mi 11 Ultra way back in 2021.
Alongside the BIS certification listing, the X (formerly Twitter) user has also shared the Geekbench scores of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra codenamed Xiaomi Suiren. It logs 2,267 and 6,850 points in the benchmarking platform’s single-core and multi-core test results respectively.
As per leaked images, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra will have a huge protruding square camera bump. The upcoming flagship is rumored to feature an under-display camera technology, satellite communications, and an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. It is tipped to come with a 1440p quad-curved display. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is expected to come with four 50MP camera sensors with the primary lens featuring Sony LYT 900 sensor. Since the device will be a flagship offering, it will be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.
We often talk a lot about Apple products, not just because of their features but also because they can be quite expensive. Because Apple is famous for making high-quality products so they usually charge higher prices. However, Apple occasionally surprises everyone by offering discounts during special occasions, with the latest being a rare Lunar New Year promotion in China, featuring reduced prices on all its major products, including the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, AirPods, and more. Here are the details…
Apple’s Lunar New Year Discounts in China Revealed
Apple’s Lunar New Year promotion offers a fantastic chance to get a new device at a discounted price. If you’re living in China and looking to purchase a new Apple product, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, or iPhone 13, customers can benefit from discounts of up to 500 RMB (about $70). Similarly, if you buy a 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air (M2 chip model) or a 13-inch MacBook Air (M1 chip model), you can save up to 800 RMB.
Apple didn’t forget users who want an iPad. You can save up to 400 RMB when you purchase iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad (10th generation), or iPad mini. Those buying Apple Watch SE can enjoy a discount of 200 RMB, while AirPods unfortunately only have a 100 RMB discount, making it the least discounted Apple product. If you want to take advantage of these discounted Apple products, simply click here to access the company’s Chinese website.
Discounts available from January 18 to 21. So, if you want to buy an affordable iPhone, you must act quickly. Apple, despite not favoring the term “discount,” made this decision due to competition. As you know, China is the world’s tech hub, and due to local manufacturers, there is unprecedented competition in the smartphone market. So, the company needs to do promotions during events like Lunar New Year to increase sales because of tough competition. Even Apple bows to consumers when market conditions are favorable, underscoring the importance of a competitive environment.
Redmi has debuted its Note 13 Pro 5G series smartphones on the global stage, after launching these devices earlier this month in India. The global lineup has two Pro series 5G models, namely the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G and Note 13 Pro 5G. Keep reading to learn about their specs and features.
Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G series specs:
The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G features a 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a bright 1800nits peak brightness. The screen resolution is 2712 x 1220 (1.5K), protected by tough Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. It supports Dolby Vision and holds certifications from TÜV Rheinland for viewer comfort. Compact at 161.4mm x 74.2mm x 8.9mm and lightweight at 204.5g, it has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra, the phone comes with two storage and RAM options: 8GB+256GB or 12GB+512GB. The battery is quite large at 5,000mAh and supports 120W HyperCharge technology, with a 120W charger included in the box and a USB-C connection.
The camera setup is quite impressive, with a powerful 200MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, and a 16MP front camera. The audio features include dual speakers and Dolby Atmos support, providing a high-quality sound experience. Security is taken care of by an in-screen fingerprint sensor and AI Face Unlock. Connectivity options cover dual SIM (nano SIM + nano SIM or nano SIM + eSIM), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC for wireless communication, and an IR Blaster for added convenience.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G shares the same 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display with similar specifications. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 and comes with two storage and RAM options: 8GB+256GB or 12GB+512GB. The battery is 5,100mAh and supports 67W turbo charging, with a charger included in the box and a USB-C connection.
Redmi Note 13 Pro
The camera setup and audio features are similar to the Pro+ variant, providing a good photography and audio experience. Connectivity options include dual SIM (nano SIM + nano SIM or nano SIM + eSIM), Wi-Fi at 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and an IR Blaster, ensuring comprehensive connectivity for various needs.
Pricing & availability
The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G is available in Midnight Black, Moonlight White, and Aurora Purple color options, offering two storage choices. The starting retail price (for 8GB+256GB) will be $400.
As for the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G, it comes in Midnight Black, Ocean Teal, and Aurora Purple color variants, also providing two storage options. The starting retail price (for 8GB+256GB) begins at $304.
As scheduled, Xiaomi took wraps off the Redmi Note 13 series for international markets other than India today. The lineup adds two more devices bringing the total count to five.
The series gets two 4G-only devices called Redmi Note 13 and Redmi Note 13 Pro. Both these phones are almost the same as their 5G counterparts with their chipsets being the major differentiators.
Let’s go through these LTE handsets in this article. You can learn about the original three 5G models here.
Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G
Redmi Note 13 4G Series Specifications
The 4G-only Redmi Note 13 duo flaunts a 6.67-inch centered punch-hole AMOLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
The panel on the vanilla model can touch a peak brightness level of 1800 nits and is protected by older Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Whereas the screen on the pro variant gets Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection and its peak brightness level is lower at 1300 nits.
The standard version has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 chip as opposed to a MediaTek Helio G99-Ultra inside the pro model. Anyways, both use LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. As for software, they boot MIUI 14 based on Android 13.
Talking about cameras, the phones arrive with an 8MP ultrawide unit, a 2MP macro snapper, and a 16MP selfie shooter. The primary camera is a 200MP unit on the pro version, while the vanilla variant has a 108MP sensor.
Both of them come with a 3.5mm headphone jack, Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers, a MicroSD card slot, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and an IP54 rating.
The duo gets its energy from a 5,000mAh battery. But the pro variant charges faster at 67W compared to the slower 33W charging support on the vanilla version.
Redmi Note 13 4G
Redmi Note 13 4G Series Price
The Redmi Note 13 starts at a suggested retail price of $179 for the base 6GB + 128GB memory configurations. It also comes in 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB variants.
The device can be picked up in either Midnight Black, Mint Green, Ice Blue, or Ocean Sunset color options.
On the other hand, the Redmi Note 13 Pro is offered in 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB memory variants. The suggested retail price of its base version is $250.
The phone can be availed in either Midnight Black, Lavender Purple, or Forest Green hue options.
Xiaomi held a global launch event today where it unveiled various devices under its Redmi sub-brand. These include the Redmi Note 13 5G series, Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G, and more. The company also announced the Redmi Buds 5 series which comprises of standard and pro variants. Both TWS earphones debuted in China last year and the global variants come with the same specifications.
Redmi Buds 5 series specifications and features
The Redmi Buds 5 and Buds 5 Pro have the same semi-in-ear design with a stem and silicone ear tips. They feature in-ear detection that pauses playback automatically when the earbuds are removed. The audio devices are IP54-rated dust and water-resistant.
In terms of audio, the Redmi Buds 5 is equipped with 12.4mm and 1.6mm drivers. On the other hand, the Pro has an 11mm subwoofer and a 10mm tweeter. The standard and pro models pack three levels of active noise cancellation up to 52dB and 42dB respectively. Both TWS earphones also pack three transparency mode for staying aware of surroundings. The Buds 5 Pro also features an LHDC 5.0 codec and an immersive listening experience. The Buds 5 is equipped with two microphones whereas the Buds 5 Pro has three microphones with both capable of resisting wind noise for a clear quality on calls.
The Redmi Buds 5 series come with Bluetooth 5.3 and can connect to two devices simultaneously. They also feature Google Fast Pair. Both the TWS earphones are claimed to offer 10 hours of usage and 40 hours of battery life with the case.
The Redmi Buds 5 series is offered in Black, White, and Sky Blue colors. The standard and pro models are priced at $46 and $78 respectively.
Infinix has announced a new laptop in India. It is a new lineup in the brand’s laptop portfolio. The latest offering is the Infinix INBook Y4 Max. Last month, the brand announced the INBook Y2 Plus (review). The INBook Y4 Max sports a large display and 13th-generation Intel processors. Read on to know what the device offers out of the box.
Infinix INBook Y4 Max specifications and features
The Infinix INBook Y4 Max has a large 16-inch display surrounded by thin bezels. It bears an FHD resolution, an 83 percent sRGB space, 300 nits peak brightness, and an 87 percent screen-to-body ratio. The laptop features a backlit keyboard and a 7.06-inch AG Glass touch panel.
Design-wise, the Infinix INBook Y4 Max features an aluminum alloy metal chassis and a dual-finish design on the lid. It weighs 1.78 kg. On the audio front, the machine is equipped with dual 2W speakers.
Under the hood, the Infinix INBook Y4 Max can be configured with 13th-generation Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors. There is an integrated Intel Iris Xe GPU onboard. The laptop packs up to 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage. The machine is backed by a 70Wh battery cell with support for 65W fast charging. It runs on Windows 11 OS out of the box.
Connectivity options on the Infinix INBook Y4 Max include a USB-A port, USB-C ports, a microSD card slot, a 3.5mm jack, and an HDMI 1.4 port.
The Infinix INBook Y4 Max carries an introductory price tag of Rs 37,990 for the base configuration. It will be available for purchase starting January 22 from Flipkart.
A fresh leak has revealed the poster of the Vivo V30 series, which hints that the launch of the upcoming devices is imminent. The new lineup will include the V30 and V30 Pro and the leaked poster revealed design elements as well.
Vivo V30 Series Poster Leaked
The leak was shared by known tipster Paras Guglani, who shared the poster of the Vivo V30 series on X (formerly Twitter). To recall, the lineup consists of the V30, V30 Pro, and V30 Lite. Although, the V30 Lite was announced by the brand last month. Looking at the leaked poster, we can see the rear and front design of the upcoming smartphone. The front houses a center aligned punch hole cutout for the selfie camera, while the back has a squarish camera module.
Another notable aspect that can be observed is the inclusion of the curved display panel, with the screen also surrounded by thin bezels on the side. However, the top notch and chin at the bottom are fairly noticeable. Earlier this month, the Vivo V30 model was spotted on the NBTC certification in Thailand as well as UAE’s TDRA platform. Both of these sightings also point to the launch being right around the corner.
Back in December 2023, the Vivo V30 surfaced on NCC certification as well. This listing reveals the design of the smartphone and also reveals some of its key specifications. The design seen on NCC is in line with the latest image poster. Other sightings include Bluetooth SIG and GeekBench. So stick around for more as we will be providing updates when additional information is available regarding the new devices.
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