In the rapidly growing automotive industry, Audi‘s recent success in electric vehicle (EV) sales is worth noting. In 2023, the prestigious car manufacturer saw a significant 51% increase in EV sales, reaching 178,000 units worldwide. This surge reflects a growing consumer shift towards environmentally friendly transportation options and Audi’s commitment to electrification.
Audi sold 55,400 electric cars in the 4th quarter of 2023
Central to Audi’s success are its popular electric models: the Q4 e-tron and Q8 e-tron. These vehicles have captured the market’s attention, balancing luxury with eco-friendliness. The upcoming launch of the Q6 e-tron in 2024, based on Volkswagen Group’s new Premium Platform Electric (PPE), is eagerly anticipated and is set to further bolster Audi’s position in the EV market.
In the fourth quarter of 2023, Audi achieved an impressive feat, selling approximately 55,400 electric cars. This marked a 34% increase compared to the previous year, with electric vehicles making up nearly 11% of Audi’s total sales volume. These numbers are not just statistics; they are a testament to a significant shift in consumer preferences and Audi’s ability to adapt to these changes.
Interestingly, Audi’s electric car sales in the United States also saw a substantial rise, with a 74% increase in the last quarter of 2023. This growth is indicative of the wider acceptance of electric vehicles in the U.S. and Audi’s growing popularity in this market.
While Audi’s progress in electric cars is commendable, it’s crucial to note the absence of data on plug-in hybrid models. This gap suggests a possible area for future development and transparency.
Audi’s journey towards electrification has been steady over the past few years, aligning with its goal to introduce only all-electric cars by 2026. This commitment to sustainability and innovation positions Audi as a leader in the EV market, ready to meet the challenges and demands of a greener future.
Apple has officially announced that its much-anticipated mixed reality headset, Vision Pro, is scheduled to hit all U.S. Apple Stores and the official website on February 2nd, with pre-orders kicking off on January 19th. As the launch date approaches, more details about the product are emerging, revealing the innovative interactive solutions Apple has in store for game developers.
Powered by Apple’s M2 and R1 chip, Vision Pro tracks your hand and eye movement for the showcased gesture control
According to reports from Jiemian News, Apple is providing two interactive solutions for game developers in its Vision Pro headset. The first solution involves a full-gesture game experience, allowing users to simulate touching virtual buttons through sound feedback. The second option offers full compatibility with a joystick controller, enabling users not only to perform button operations but also to visually track and position the device with a degree of freedom. This joystick solution bears similarities to the joystick solution found in the PS VR system.
While the exact shape of Apple’s Vision Pro controller remains unclear, demonstrations have showcased control methods utilizing eye control, finger selection operations, and voice communication with Siri. However, it is noted that this control method may lack some precision, particularly for games that demand high response speeds.
The Vision Pro headset was initially unveiled by Apple at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June of the previous year, with a price tag of $3,499 (~25,000 Yuan). The headset boasts a single-eye resolution of 4K, allowing users to switch between augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) modes using a knob on the side of the display. Powered by Apple’s M2 chip and the new R1 chip, the headset processes data from built-in sensors, cameras, and microphones.
As Apple enters the mixed reality market, the Vision Pro is expected to offer a unique and immersive experience, combining cutting-edge technology with interactive gaming solutions.
In November 2023, OPPO introduced the Reno 11 premium-midrange series in China, and it has recently expanded to international markets such as Malaysia and India. Despite only three months passing since the initial launch of the Reno 11 series, there are already emerging leaks about the upcoming Reno 12 series.
OPPO Reno 11 Pro 5G
Popular tipster DCS has hinted at some key details about the upcoming Reno 12 series in a recent Weibo post. As per the tipster, the Reno 12 series will feature a Snapdragon 8 series sub-flagship platform. Currently, the flagship chin in Qualcomm’s camp is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. So, it is highly likely that the Reno 12 series debuts with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC onboard.
Additionally, the tipster hints at an enhanced periscope camera for the Reno 12 series. This development is noteworthy considering the impressive telephoto sensors featured in previous Reno models like the Reno 10 Pro+ (Review) and Reno 11 Pro. However, these devices offer only 3x and 2x optical zoom, raising the possibility of an increase in optical zoom capabilities in the upcoming Reno 12 series.
While there’s currently no official information about the release date for the Reno 12 series, we can speculate based on past patterns. Considering the Reno 9 series debuted in November 2023, followed by the Reno 10 series in May 2023, and the Reno 11 series in November 2024, it seems plausible that the Reno 12 series might be unveiled around May 2024.
Samsung Pass, the recently rebranded mobile wallet app for Galaxy smartphones in India, has expanded its mobile payment capabilities. Users in India who have the Samsung Pass feature can now make UPI transactions using their RuPay credit cards.
Previously, UPI payments through Samsung Pass were limited to bank accounts and specific debit cards. This update opens up a new payment method for RuPay credit cardholders, allowing them to enjoy the convenience of contactless transactions and potential benefits like rewards points and purchase protection offered by their credit cards. Linking the card is also straightforward, and done within the Samsung Wallet UPI.
For those unfamiliar, UPI is a popular Indian payment system enabling instant inter-bank transfers through virtual payment addresses. Transactions are secured by a PIN, similar to ATM withdrawals.
Beyond payments, Samsung Pass serves as a versatile digital wallet. Users can store various documents like driver’s licenses, loyalty cards, membership cards, and even boarding passes and movie tickets.
While this update offers a new payment option for RuPay credit cardholders, it’s important to note that the feature is currently limited to them. Mastercard and VISA credit cardholders, for now, can only utilize UPI payments through linked bank accounts within Samsung Pass.
In summary, Samsung Pass has expanded its mobile payment options in India by integrating RuPay credit cards into the UPI platform. This move offers Galaxy smartphone users with RuPay credit cards an additional way to make convenient and potentially rewarding contactless payments.
Though we have REVIEWED a lot of phones, every time when I REVIEW Nubia phones, I get excited. Because they always have something different and often surprise us with their eye-catching features. This Nubia Z60 Ultra is supposed to be the last flagship phone released in 2023, and as the curtain call phone for 2023, I wonder if it can live up to our expectations. And. Although it’s a bit late, Happy New Year!
Design
Whenever we marvel at how beautiful Redmagic phones are, we also sigh: if it wasn’t a gaming phone, I’d definitely buy it. Of course, Nubia knows what we expect, so here’s the Redmagic 9 Pro that’s more suited for most people. Like the Z50 Ultra, the Z60 Ultra still has that super-square design.
There’s also the alert slider at the side, and it’s moved to a position below the power button, making it easy to use. It’s a shame that the camera is still bulging, but at least you get three really great cameras, which we’ll talk about later. As you can see, we got them in their most special colorway: The Starry Night. it’s the colorway that was created using Van Gogh’s famous painting as inspiration, and it’s very pretty in the light.
The IP68, which is a basic feature of this year’s flagship phones, is not absent either. If I had to say the downside of this phone, I’d say it’s still a bit big and heavy. But I’m totally okay with it because its battery life is just mind-blowingly great!
Battery & Charging
Usually, we talk about the charging and battery life part at the end, but with this phone, I’m going to tell you how great it is right now. If 5,500mAh is considered a really big battery, the Z60 Ultra’s 6,000mAh battery is simply massive. It has the longest battery life we’ve ever tested in a non-gaming phone. We did unboxing shorts, gaming, camera, and Benchmark tests and it still didn’t need to be charged, which proves how impressive its battery life is.
Unfortunately, the Z60 Ultra doesn’t have big charging power, it’s only 80W, and it does not have wireless charging, which is probably to balance out the big battery.
Camera
The Nubia Z60 Ultra still uses the same 35mm main camera and 85mm telephoto, but the ultra-wide camera has become 18mm.
Let’s start with what I think is the best ultra-wide camera in this phone. This camera has autofocus, which means the Nubia Z60 Ultra is capable of taking macro photos. Other than the field of view, which does tend to be a little narrower than other phones, it’s pretty much a perfect camera. It even has OIS, so it ensures excellent image quality in very dark conditions. Without a doubt, it should be one of the best ultra-wide cameras I’ve used in 2023.
The telephoto camera takes great pictures most of the time. But there are times when it will inexplicably ……Em…… not work as well. For example, on other phones, it is popular to use the telephoto camera as a macro camera, but the closest focusing distance of Z60 Ultra’s telephoto is over 60cm. So you want to use the telephoto camera to get a close-up shot of the food? No way. But Lens Flare? It must be somewhere. Plus it has the strongest sharpening algorithm of the three cameras, the Z60 Ultra’s telephoto camera doesn’t work as well as you’d expect. So 7/10.
The Z60 Ultra’s 35mm main camera is also one of my favorite cameras of 2023. In addition to better composition, it takes incredibly sharp photos. There’s no sharpening algorithm, it’s real physical hardware-created sharp. And it has a super shallow depth of field, it’s like a DSLR shot.
Of course, the downside of the 35mm main camera is bad performance in shooting video. Because to use EIS, the footage will be cropped, you can see that the footage is very much smaller. So, the ultra-wide camera is recommended for daily recording. Here is the good news and bad news. The good news is that all three cameras support 4K 120fps video recording. The bad news is that you can’t switch between cameras in 4K recording, not even at 30fps.
To be honest, as a photography enthusiast, Nubia’s flagship phone has always been my favorite. Apart from the reasonable focal lengths of the three cameras, it also gives us many switches to let us make good use of the camera freely.
For example. The buttons here show the focal lengths rather than how many times of zoom. alert slider also turns on Street mode by default. so Nubia’s head of the camera department must be a photography expert, otherwise, there is no way to explain why it has so many features that photography enthusiasts love.
It would be nice to see a collaboration between Nubia and a camera brand in the future. The current color science is rather average and not impressive enough.
Benchmark & Gaming
Everyone knows that phones with good cameras don’t usually perform well. But the Z60 Ultra is an exception. Since Redmagic and Nubia are brothers, it makes sense that the Z60 Ultra is a strong performer. While the CPU Throttle Test scores don’t look as good as the K70 Pro’s, the maximum and average performance are both stronger.
If you’re looking at these two screenshots and worrying that it’s not strong enough, take a look at this graph. You should know very well what this so-straight line means. It makes miracles with a little higher power consumption and temperature in Genshin, becoming my dream gaming phone, even though they said it is not a gaming phone.
Thanks to its large, perfectly straight screen, the gaming experience is also great. And there are a lot of features that are very similar to its brother, such as Bypass Charging. You can understand it like this: the Z60 Ultra is actually a Redmagic 9 Pro without the built-in fan. I think it should be the best regular phone for a good gaming experience in 2023.
Display
Looking at the spec, the Z60 Ultra’s screen isn’t exactly outstanding, which is why I didn’t talk about its screen until now. There are just 2 words you need to remember about this screen: straight, and complete. While the selfies will take you back to 20 years ago, because of this under-display camera, the impact of a full screen is really impressive. It’s one of the things that gives Nubia’s flagship phone an edge over other phones.
Conclusion
I guess after watching this video, the Z60 Ultra should perform much better than you guys thought. There are a lot of things that only the Z60 Ultra can do, such as a 35mm main camera, a full straight screen, and a 6,000mAh battery, that other phones simply can’t do. For those of you who like selfies, smaller phones, and need wireless charging, I wouldn’t recommend you buy it. Others I think can buy it with no worries, especially since it’s really not expensive either.
Realme‘s founder and CEO, Sky Li, teased the arrival of the new Note series via X/Twitter today. There’s not much to go on in terms of official details, but the teaser suggests that the new line is coming soon.
Furthermore, Francis Wong, CEO of Realme Europe, outlined plans for 2024 in a recent online post. One key aspect mentioned is the introduction of a new product line, separate from the existing GT, Number, and C series. This move, according to Wong, is to “face the competition more straightly.”
By launching a new product line besides GT, Number and C series. One important part of realme's product strategy in 2024: face the competition more straightly. #realmeNotepic.twitter.com/T2MwCkYAej
While the teaser doesn’t reveal which device is coming first, leaks and certifications suggest that the first device in the lineup could be the Realme Note 50.
This phone has appeared on Geekbench with a Unisoc T612 chipset, which is typically used in budget smartphones. It’s an octa-core processor with a peak clock speed of 1.82GHz. The Note 50 has also been certified by the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) and Thailand’s NBTC, with model number RMX3834.
Leaker Paras Guglani has also shared some insights into the Note 50’s features. The device is said to sport a 6.67-inch HD+ LCD display with a water-drop notch. Camera specifications include a 13MP primary and a 0.8MP secondary camera, with a 5MP selfie shooter on the front.
In terms of battery capacity, the TUV Rheinland certification indicates a 4890mAh battery with only 10W charging support.
Pricing details are yet to be officially disclosed, but speculations suggest a price point of around Rs 8,000 in the Indian market.
In a related post, Realme today also confirmed the launch date for the Realme 12 Pro series. The two smartphones under this line — Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ — will be launched globally on January 29th.
The limited edition color variants for the Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro are now available on Geekwills store, with sales starting at 10 o’clock today (January 15). The limited edition models are exclusively offered in a single configuration of 16GB RAM + 1TB storage, priced at $949.00 (4,999 yuan) and $1,049 (5,999 yuan), respectively.
Xiaomi 14/14 Special edition matches the Xiaomi SU7 in color
These unique color variants, inspired by the Xiaomi SU7 EV, feature a sleek design with a black high-gloss metal middle frame and a glass back panel, resembling the aesthetics of the SU7 car. The two available colors are Gulf Blue and Olive Green, adding a touch of exclusivity to the Xiaomi 14 series.
Introduced for the first time on December 28, the limited edition Xiaomi 14 series draws design inspiration from the Xiaomi SU7, providing users with a distinctive visual appeal. The Gulf Blue and Olive Green color options reflect the elegance and sophistication associated with the SU7 car.
In terms of specifications, the standard version of the Xiaomi Mi 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 powerful 4610mAh battery and supports rapid charging with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging, and wireless reverse charging.
The camera setup on the Xiaomi 14 includes a 50-megapixel Leica main camera, a 50-megapixel Leica ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 50-megapixel Leica 75mm floating telephoto lens. This comprehensive camera system ensures impressive photography capabilities.
For the Xiaomi 14 Pro, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor powers the device, complemented by a 4880mAh battery. The Pro model offers an enhanced display experience with a 6.73-inch 2K AMOLED super visual sense screen, boasting a resolution of 3200 x 1440. Additionally, the Mi 14 Pro supports 120W wired, 50W wireless, and wireless reverse charging. The device incorporates Sony LYT-900 custom image sensor and also supports a 1024-level variable aperture for advanced imaging.
A Samsung smartphone with the model number SM-C5560 received approval from China’s TENAA regulatory body the previous week. Although the device’s official name remains unconfirmed, speculation suggests it could be named the Galaxy Y55 upon its debut in the Chinese market. While the initial TENAA certification provided comprehensive information about the phone’s specifications, details regarding its design were initially withheld. However, the listing has now been updated to include images of the device. Furthermore, the purported Y55 has gained approval from China’s 3C certification platform, revealing additional details about the smartphone.
Alleged Samsung Galaxy Y55’s design
Alleged Samsung Galaxy Y55’s TENAA images
According to the images released by TENAA, the Samsung SM-C5560 exhibits a minimalist design. Although the presence of a punch-hole or a waterdrop notch is not explicitly clear, the smartphone is observed to feature a straightforward design. On the rear, a triple camera setup is apparent, with individual camera sensors arranged vertically along with an LED flash. The right edge of the phone has a volume rocker and a power key. For security, it has an in-screen fingerprint sensor.
Alleged Samsung Galaxy Y55’s 3C certification
The above screengrab shows that the SM-C5560 has also been certified by the 3C authority. The listing reveals that the device may support 45W fast charging via the EP-TA200 power brick. However, it appears that the retail package of the phone will not include the charger.
As per the TENAA certification, the purported Galaxy Y55 will have a 6.67-inch OLED panel that offers an FHD+ resolution and possibly a high refresh rate. The device is powered by an unknown 2GHz chipset, 8 GB / 12 GB of RAM, and likely a 5,000mAh battery.
For photography, the alleged Galaxy Y55 may feature a 50-megapixel + 8-megapixel + 2-megapixel triple camera unit on the back and a 13-megapixel camera on the front. The device is expected to run on Android 14, support 5G connectivity, and offer a microSD card slot for more storage.
The Redmi A3, an upcoming entry-level smartphone, has been steadily acquiring certifications, with the latest approval coming from the UAE’s TDRA authority. With several certifications already secured, it suggests that the official launch of the A3 is imminent, possibly within the next few weeks.
Redmi A3 TDRA certified
The above screenshot reveals that the Xiaomi device with the 23129RN51X model number will be dubbed the Redmi A3 when it debuts in the UAE. The device has also been approved by other certification platforms, such as Thailand’s NBTC, Singapore’s IMDA, Indonesia’s TKDN and SDPPI, and Europe’s EEC.
The Indian edition of the Redmi A3, which bears the 23129RN51H model number, was certified by the country’s BIS authority in December. Unfortunately, none of these certifications have shed concrete details about the core specs of the device. The moniker of the device suggests that it will succeed the Redmi A2, which went official in March 2023. Therefore, it is likely that the A3 may debut in Q1 of this year. Here’s a look at what was made available on the A2.
Redmi A2 specifications, price
Redmi A2
The Redmi A2 has a 6.52-inch IPS LCD panel with a waterdrop-notch design. It offers an HD+ resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. On the front, it has a 5-megapixel camera, and its back panel has an 8-megapixel dual-camera system.
Under the hood, the Redmi A2 features the Helio G36 chip, 3 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging via a microUSB port. The device runs on Android 13 Go edition and offers a microSD card slot for additional storage. It comes in multiple shades, such as Aqua Blue, Classic Black, and Sea Green. In India, the device is currently available with a starting price of Rs 5,299 (~$64).
Chinese smartphone manufacturer OnePlus has officially launched its latest flagship device, the OnePlus Ace 3, on January 4, 2024. Boasting an array of impressive features and a stylish design, the phone is available in three colors: Sand Gold, Star Black, and Moon Sea Blue.
While the latter two color variants were released on January 8, the Sand Gold one is set to hit the market today. OnePlus has strategically positioned the Ace 3 as a high-performance device with a focus on aesthetics, offering three configurations to cater to diverse user preferences.
The OnePlus Ace 3 comes in three RAM and storage variants
12GB RAM + 256GB storage: Priced at 2,599 yuan
16GB RAM + 512GB storage: Priced at 2,999 yuan
16GB RAM + 1TB storage: Priced at 3,499 yuan
Li Jie, President of OnePlus China, emphasized the unique features of the “Mingsha Gold” color scheme, describing it as the industry’s first “fused” gold glass craft. This innovative approach not only enhances the flagship metal middle frame but also introduces a distinct metallic feel different from traditional glass. Jie highlighted the meticulous attention to detail and the cost involved in achieving this artistic interpretation of light and shadow.
Under the hood, the OnePlus Ace 3 is equipped with powerful hardware, including the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, LPDDR5X memory, and UFS 4.0 flash memory. The device incorporates a Tiangong cooling system featuring a 9140mm² VC vapor chamber, ensuring efficient heat dissipation during extended usage. A noteworthy addition is the Pixelworks X7 independent graphics chip, supporting an impressive 1.5K super resolution and 120Hz super frame for an enhanced gaming experience.
The phone features a 6.78-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2780×1264 pixels, offering a bright and vibrant display. The display supports a 120Hz refresh rate, a 360Hz touch sampling rate, and a 2160Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate. Additionally, OnePlus has implemented its “Bright Eyes and Eye Protection” technology, incorporating features like DC-like dimming and 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming for eye comfort.
Camera-wise, the OnePlus Ace 3 includes a 16MP front camera and a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro lens. The device packs a substantial 5500mAh battery and boasts a cutting-edge 100W fast charging capability, enabling a full charge in just 27 minutes. The OnePlus Ace 3 combines performance, aesthetics, and innovation, aiming to make a mark in the competitive smartphone market.
Last year, the HTech brand in India resurrected the Honor brand by announcing the Honor 90 5G. Last week, the company started teasing the arrival of a new smartphone in the country. While the company did not reveal the name of the device, it is quite evident from its look that it is the Honor X9b, which debuted in some markets in October 2023. Madhav Sheth, HTech CEO, has recently released a teaser showcasing drop tests of the Honor X9b at various heights. This demonstration aims to highlight the durability of the smartphone’s display.
Honor X9b India launch teased again
Do you need something eXtra? The X's curved display effortlessly conquered the gravity challenge. Come with me to establish the latest trend. Retweet and seize the opportunity to personally encounter it. pic.twitter.com/sR0x6PIGaY
Although Sheth hasn’t explicitly revealed the phone’s name in the latest teaser, the “X” in the post strongly suggests it will be an X-series phone. The teaser showcases the Honor X9b, with its distinctive curved-edge display, undergoing rigorous drop tests from various heights, including waist level, shoulder height, 8 feet, and even an extreme height. Remarkably, the display emerges from the tests completely unscathed, with no visible damage.
Honor has employed similar teasers in other markets where the X9b has been released to highlight the impressive durability of its screen. Here is a look at the expected specifications of the X9b.
Honor X9b specifications (expected)
Honor X9b
The Honor X9b has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display that offers a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. The device runs on Magic OS 7.2-based Android 13 and ships with the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset. The device has 8 GB / 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage. It houses a 5,800mAh battery with 35W fast charging.
The X9b has a 16-megapixel camera on the front. The back panel of the device has a 108-megapixel primary camera, a 5-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera. It has other features, such as dual SIM, 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
Realme is all set to unveil the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ on Jan. 29 globally. So far, reports have revealed the model numbers of the global and Chinese variants of both smartphones. A newly spotted SIRIM certification suggests that the brand is also working on the Realme 12 series of smartphones. Here is a look at the details that have emerged about the new device.
Realme 12+ 5G launch imminent
Realme 12+ 5G receives SIRIM certification
As can be seen in the above screengrab, the Malaysian certification platform has approved a new Realme device that is identified by the RMX3867 model number. The listing confirms that the device will be called the Realme 12+ 5G when it arrives in the Malaysian market.
The arrival of the Realme 12+ 5G seems imminent because it has been previously spotted on other certification platforms, such as Indonesia’s TKDN and SDPPI, as well as the FCC. The latter revealed only a few details, such as that it will run on the Realme UI 5 and come with features like 5G, dual SIM, and NFC.
The CameraV5 listing suggests that the Realme 12+ 5G will have a 16-megapixel front-facing camera, and its back panel will have a 64-megapixel + 8-megapixel dual-camera system. The other details of the device are under wraps.
Last week, a Realme phone identified with the RMX3866 model number was approved by China’s 3C certification platform. The listing revealed that the device may support 67W fast charging. In all likelihood, the RMX3866 appears to be the Chinese variant of the Realme 12+ 5G.
With Realme 12+ 5G multiple certifications, it seems that it will not take too long for it to break cover. It remains to be seen whether it goes official alongside the Realme 12 Pro series Jan. 29 globally.
After weeks of leaks, Realme has officially confirmed the launch date for the Realme 12 Pro series. The company has revealed that it will be announced globally on Jan. 29.
Realme 12 Pro series: What to expect?
Realme 12 Pro series to launch on January 29 globally
The launch date poster released by the brand gives a look at the Realme 12 Pro+, which features a periscope telephoto camera. In addition, the brand reiterated that the 12 Pro series will feature the Sony IMX890 50-megapixel camera. With two weeks remaining for the launch, the brand is expected to confirm more details about the 12 Pro lineup in the coming weeks.
Reports have revealed that the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ will have the same primary camera and an 8-megapixel Sony IMX355 ultra-wide lens. While the 12 Pro will feature a 32-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, the Pro+ variant will be blessed with an OmniVision OV64B periscope telephoto camera with support for 3x optical zoom. The 12 Pro+ is confirmed to support up to 6x lossless zoom and a 120x digital zoom. For selfies, the 12 Pro will have a 16-megapixel front camera, whereas the 12 Pro+ will be equipped with a 32-megapixel selfie snapper.
The Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ will be powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 and Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chips, respectively. Both devices are expected to pack a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging support. In the global market, the lineup is expected to ship with up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of built-in storage.
The Realme 12 Pro duo will have a 6.7-inch curved-edge AMOLED display that offers an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Both devices are expected to run on Realme UI 5-based Android 14, and they will feature an in-screen fingerprint sensor for security. The 12 Pro duo will come in Submarine Blue and Navigator shades, whereas the 12 Pro+ will also come in Explorer Red edition.
South Korea’s SK On is set to initiate mass production of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries as early as 2026, eyeing collaborations with major traditional automakers to deliver a more cost-effective battery chemistry. SK On’s Chief Administrative Officer, Choi Young-chan, revealed the company’s plan to supply LFP batteries, a move in line with the strategy adopted by its Chinese counterparts.
SK On is actively engaged in supplying electric vehicle (EV) batteries to major automakers such as Ford, Volkswagen, and Hyundai
While the automaker has not disclosed the names of the OEMs it is in talks with, Choi emphasized that mass production will commence once discussions are finalized.
The automotive industry is witnessing a surge in the adoption of diverse battery chemistries, including LFP, as manufacturers aim to reduce costs and ensure a stable supply chain. This marks the first time SK On has provided details on its LFP battery strategy and outlined a timeline for mass production. Rivals LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI have also announced their plans to target mass production of LFP products in 2026.
SK On, a battery unit of South Korean energy group SK Innovation, is actively engaged in supplying electric vehicle (EV) batteries to major automakers such as Ford, Volkswagen, and Hyundai. Choi disclosed that the company is exploring the possibility of manufacturing LFP batteries in Europe or China, acknowledging the challenge of competing with Chinese LFPs on cost. The focus, however, remains on energy density, charging time, and efficiency rather than on price alone.
Despite having production sites in the United States, South Korea, Hungary, and China, SK On is not currently in talks with its U.S. automaker customers regarding LFP supply. Choi explained that the high cost of building LFP factories in the United States makes it less feasible, with the company primarily concentrating on the European market.
Chinese battery manufacturers, including CATL and BYD, dominate global LFP production, benefiting from strong demand in their home market. LFP batteries from Chinese manufacturers are approximately 20% cheaper than nickel-based counterparts, providing an economical option for EVs, albeit with slightly reduced range compared to nickel-based alternatives. SK On is simultaneously working on developing prismatic and cylindrical-type EV batteries, making notable progress in the latter used by Tesla and other automakers.
First of all, if you have watched our smartphone awards 2023 video, you will know that this one in my hand has won the title of the best rugged phone, and the reason is very simple, this is a well-rounded one among the rugged phones we have tested, with upgraded camera system.
Camera
We all know regular smart phones have started the camera competitions years ago, and I feel that rugged phones are doing the same thing right now. We have seen 64MP, 108MP, all the way up to this 200MP here on a rugged phone like this. Now Let’s get straight to the photo shots.
You might have seen this kind of ultra high pixel camera before, the advantage of this 200MP is about the detail the photos can have, if with good lighting. So as you can see, the photos taken by this camera has good dynamic range, the colors are vivid, and you can also zoom in to see many details. Moving to a more complicated scene, it can capture different colors accurately, it is just as good as those on the flagship regular phones. When it comes to the night shooting, the super night mode will come up to help, in this mode, it will brighten up the whole scene and have better control of the highlight , to make sure you see more when our own eyes can’t.
The other two fun shooting modes are the Wide Angle and Macro Mode. This is enabled by another camera at the side, it can take a wide building like this, and a super macro photo like this. Also the Night Vision camera will help with some photos like this, if you are constantly out there camping.
However, the experience of using this camera is not that perfect. For example, it’s a bit difficult to use the zoom, I mean you can use two fingers to zoom in, but it lags a little bit, if you use the button at the right, you wouldn’t be able to see the times of zoom, you get what I mean, I hope this can be fixed. The other thing is that, you can add watermark in the photo under normal 12MP mode, but it’s not available on the 200MP mode. These things are all software experience, given time, I hope they will be fixed in the future system update.
Screen
So this phone has a 6.58″ IPS Waterdrop Screen, FHD+ resolution, 480 nit Peak brightness, and 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass. This screen is as good as it can get on a phone like this, the 120Hz refresh rate alone should be getting a round of applause. In daily use, swiping back and forth is buttery smooth.
FHD+ resolution is also good for watching some video content, paired up with the large battery, you can really do it all day.
SpeakerAnd Battery
This time, the V30 Pro also comes with Hi-Res certification, so you can enjoy high-quality audio, such as watching videos or play games. And these experience can be prolonged by this massive 10800mAh battery. With that 33W fast charger, it will still take a long time to charge however. I always imagine, if you can, you could be taking photos all day, watching videos all day, go travelling to places without any battery anxiety at all, with this kind of battery built in the phone.
This phone also support reverse charging, so taking this phone out with your other devices, you can charge them without any problem.
System And Other Features
Again, the operating system in this phone is original Android 13, the apps came along with it are really simple, you won’t be getting any unwanted pre-installed ones, just very clean experience. And there are also some field work tools like soundmeter protractor and so on, which also means there are a lot of sensors built in to maximize the potential of this phone, so if you want to build your own house, use this phone please.
Some other features that worth mentioning are the Side fingerprint recognition, Dual 5G Sim support, Advanced Navigation System, Custom Button Control. These are like features that are in Doogee phones for some time now, sure you will take advantage of them a lot.
Verdict
To sum up the Doogee V30 Pro, it is the best regular rugged phone for 2024 so far. It made a leap on the camera system, they do perform like a charm, but the system UI and peak performance still needs to be improved I would say, that would take some serious tuning and time, and I think Doogee will put more effort into it, let’s just wait for a bit.
If you want to get this phone, here is a discount you can use: 12%OFF Code: Xmas12
Lexar has introduced a new addition to its storage solutions with the Lexar SL500 Mobile SSD, now available in a 2TB version. This compact, high-speed portable SSD is designed to cater to the needs of professionals and everyday users alike, offering a blend of performance, portability, and security. Let’s check out the key specs of this SSD.
Lexar SL500 Mobile SSD Specifications:
The Lexar SL500 boasts a remarkably thin profile, measuring just 4.88mm in thickness and weighing a mere 43g, making it as portable as a bank card and as light as the first-generation AirPods. Despite its small size, it does not compromise on performance.
It features dual USB 3.2 Gen2 interfaces and is equipped with GoodDie chips, ensuring a maximum read speed of up to 2000MB/s and a write speed of up to 1800MB/s. This speed is approximately twice as fast as regular portable SSDs and significantly quicker than traditional SATA HDDs, providing users with efficient work and data transfer capabilities.
The SSD is housed in a durable metal casing and comes with 256-bit AES encryption software for enhanced data security. Users can create password-protected data safes on the drive, allowing them to hide and encrypt specific files. This feature is particularly useful for protecting private data.
In terms of compatibility, the Lexar SL500 is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of devices. It supports external recording and is directly connectable to iPhone 15 Pro/Max, making it a handy tool for content creators who need fast, reliable storage for large file transfers. The device is also compatible with smartphones having Type-C ports, laptops, cameras, and gaming consoles.
Lexar offers the SL500 in various storage capacities ranging from 512GB to 4TB, catering to different storage needs. All Lexar products undergo rigorous testing for durability and stability, ensuring quality and reliability. Additionally, the company provides comprehensive customer service, including worry-free returns, online technical support, and national warranty services.
Pricing and Availability
Lexar SL500 is available for pre-order in China on JD.com at an initial price of 1069 Yuan ($150), although the launch price might vary.
beatXP has introduced the Eva smartwatch, a Bluetooth-calling device designed specifically for women. The smartwatch comes with a round dial featuring a metallic body, a rotating crown, and metal straps, providing a premium look.
beatXP Eva smartwatch specs:
Key highlights of the beatXP Eva include a 1.2-inch AMOLED screen supporting over 200 watch faces, allowing users a wide range of customization options. It is equipped with Bluetooth calling support, an in-built mic, and an interactive dial pad that seamlessly syncs contacts from the user’s smartphone.
In addition to that, the beatXP Eva prioritizes comprehensive health monitoring, including heart rate, SpO2 tracking, and sleep monitoring. With an extensive selection of 100+ sports modes, it can aid in tracking the calories burned while performing physical activities. The smartwatch also features IP68 water and dust resistance, meaning it can survive submersion in fresh water to a maximum depth of 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.
The smartwatch can use the AI voice assistant onboard the paired smartphone allowing hands-free interaction with the device. Additionally, the smartwatch includes essential features such as real-time weather updates, music control, and instant notifications for daily convenience.
In terms of battery life, the beatXP Eva impresses with up to 5 days of usage on a single charge, providing practicality for users seeking a reliable device with less frequent charging requirements.
Available in Rose Gold and Silver, the beatXP Eva is competitively priced at Rs. 4,499. It i currently available to purchase via the company’s official website.
Cult.sport has recently launched the Cult Shock X smartwatch, a new addition to their lineup specifically designed for sports and fitness enthusiasts. The smartwatch features a rugged design and a 1.43-inch always-on AMOLED screen boasting a peak brightness of 850 nits. Notable functionalities include Bluetooth calling support and quick dial pad access, offering users convenient communication directly from the watch.
The Cult Shock X focuses on health monitoring with features tracking heart rate, SpO2, and sleep. It goes a step further by offering an extensive selection of sports modes—more than 70 in total—and includes a BMI calculator.
In terms of battery life, the Cult Shock X is equipped with a 420mAh battery, ensuring an impressive longevity of up to 10 days on a single charge.
Available in Camo, Black, Green, and Red color options, the Cult Shock X is competitively priced at Rs. 2,999. The smartwatch is currently accessible for purchase on the cultsport website, and it is also available on Flipkart.
In related news, Boat has recently launched the Lunar Pro LTE smartwatch that comes with eSIM support, enabling users to make and receive calls directly on their smartwatches, without relying on their smartphones.
OnePlus Ace 3, available in Desert Gold, Starry Black, and Lunar Blue colors, will have its Desert Gold variant go on sale from tomorrow (Jan 15) at 10 AM. However, it’s already available for purchase now, with shipping set for January 15th at 10 AM.
The phone comes in three configurations: 12GB RAM with 256GB storage at 2599 Yuan ($365), 16GB RAM with 512GB storage at 2999 Yuan ($422), and 16GB RAM with 1TB storage at 3499 Yuan ($492). The Starry Black and Lunar Blue colors have been on sale since January 8th.
OnePlus Ace 3 Specifications:
OnePlus unveiled the OnePlus Ace 3 (Check out our full review of OnePlus Ace 3) on January 4th in China. The device features a 6.78-inch 1.5K BOE X1 LTPO AMOLED display with an impressive 1-120Hz refresh rate, peak brightness of 4500 nits, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection.
It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, with options for 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and storage capacities ranging from 256GB to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device runs on Android 14 with ColorOS 14 and supports dual SIM cards. It utilizes the Tiangong cooling system with a large 9140mm² VC vapor chamber.
In the camera department, the OnePlus Ace 3 features a 50MP primary camera with a Sony IMX890 sensor and OIS, accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro camera.
The device packs a 5500mAh battery, the largest ever in a OnePlus phone, and supports 100W SuperVOOC fast charging, capable of fully charging the device in just 27 minutes.
OnePlus Ace 3 comes with USB Type-C audio, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, and robust connectivity options including 5G, dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC. It also supports various satellite navigation systems.
OnePlus has also retained its iconic three-stage alert slider, relocating it to the left-hand side to introduce an integrated antenna and enhance gaming performance.
Curved displays, though visually striking, often pose practical problems. They are prone to accidental touches, and easily shattered, and applying screen protectors is often a frustrating experience. In many cases, durability takes a backseat to aesthetics.
Galaxy S24 Ultra – DISPLAY LEAKS!!!
Broguth to you by Ice Universe, you get to see an early preview of the flat display, along with detailed specifications on the front!
However, Samsung isn’t the only player in this flat-screen revolution. Google’s Pixel series has also embraced the flat design, leaving the curved display trend mainly in the hands of Chinese smartphone makers like Vivo, Oppo, and OnePlus.
On the other end of the spectrum, brands like Xiaomi are taking things even further with quad-curved displays. These displays curve not just on the sides but also on the top and bottom, creating an almost waterfall-like effect.
So, where does the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra fit into all of this? With its flat display and minimal bezels, it appears that Samsung is putting practicality and usability ahead of the aesthetic appeal of curved screens. This could be a welcome change for many users who value functionality over form.
Galaxy S24 Specifications (Rumored)
Now, let’s talk about the expected specs of the upcoming S24 Ultra. It’s rumored to sport a 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display with a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate and a crisp 3120 x 1440 pixel resolution. Under the hood, it will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor with various clock speeds and storage options ranging from 256GB to a whopping 1TB, paired with 12GB of RAM.
In the camera department, the device is expected to feature a quad-camera setup with a stunning 200 MP wide-angle lens, two telephoto lenses (50 MP and 10 MP), a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 12 MP front camera. Notably, it’s said to support up to 100x digital zoom.
The S24 Ultra is geared up with a robust 5000mAh battery that supports fast charging. It also offers versatile connectivity options, including USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 7, NFC, and UWB technology. You can expect it to come in various Titanium color options.
Furthermore, the Galaxy S24 Ultra will run on the One UI 6.1 software, built on the Android 14 operating system. This software packs in a slew of AI and Generative AI features from Galaxy AI, aiming to enhance the user experience through advanced algorithms and machine learning. Additionally, reports indicate that Samsung is considering extending software update support for the Galaxy S24 series to 7 years.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
