Realme recently unveiled the Realme GT 5 Pro Year of the Dragon Limited Gift Box in China. The gift box includes three items: Realme GT 5 Pro in Red Rock (16GB + 1TB), Realme Buds Air 5 in Whale Blue, and Year of the Dragon Cards. The gift box is now available to purchase in China.
It is available to buy through Chinese online retailers like Jingdong for 4,399 yuan ($614). Customers outside of China can also get their hands on the gift box via GeekWills.
Realme GT 5 Pro specs:
The Realme GT 5 Pro offers a 6.78-inch curved LTPO OLED display with 1.5K resolution, up to 144Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 4500 nits. Under the hood, it features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. It has an Android 14-based Realme UI 5.0 operating system.
The rear camera configuration includes a primary 50MP sensor from Sony (LYT-808), an 8MP ultrawide unit from Sony (IMX355), and a 50MP periscope telephoto shooter with 3x zoom from Sony (IMX890). Additionally, the phone features a 32MP front-facing camera for selfies.
Power is supplied by a 5,400mAh battery, and the device is compatible with both 100W wired and 50W wireless charging standards. Moreover, the gadget comes equipped with IP54-rated protection, dual stereo speakers, an IR blaster, and an in-screen fingerprint sensor.
Realme Buds Air 5 specs
The Realme Buds Air 5 comes equipped with Active Noise Cancellation up to 50dB, utilizing a 4000Hz ultra-wideband for effective noise reduction. For an immersive sound experience, these earbuds are fitted with a 12.4mm titanized driver. Using Bluetooth 5.3, thee earbuds support both AAC and SBC codecs. The earbuds ensure crystal-clear calls, thanks to their six microphones and AI-powered ENC noise reduction technology. For gaming, the earbuds offer a 45ms low latency response time. Additionally, the earbuds can connect to two devices simultaneously, making switching between devices easy.
They are also water-resistant, with an IPX5 rating, making them suitable for use during workouts or in light rain. In terms of battery life, the Realme Buds Air 5 deliver 7 hours of playback without ANC and 4.5 hours with ANC. The charging case extends the total battery life to up to 38 hours. Moreover, they feature a quick charge capability, providing 7 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging.
The users of Oppo Find N3 Flip in India and Oppo Find N3 in Indonesia can now participate in the 2nd batch of the ColorOS 14 Open Beta test. Interested users can opt for the program and enjoy the latest features of ColorOS 14 before others. Bringing the Open beta program across different countries confirms that the stable update is not so far from the rollout. Let’s dive deeper into the details of the new open beta program.
Along with participation, there’s equal-level responsibility for the participants, as they have to report on bugs. The users should have ample time to let the company know about the problems causing instability in the system. Below are the features of ColorOS 14:
Aquamorphic Design with enhanced sound, colors, and interactions.
Revamped Always-On Display with nature scenes and climate change awareness.
Smart Touch for streamlined tasks, and File Dock on Smart Sidebar for content sharing.
Smart Image Matting and Trinity Engine Upgrade for improved device performance.
AI-powered Smart Charging prioritizing safety and privacy.
Snapchat integration with Bitmoji AOD for faster app navigation.
Steps to be part of the Second Batch of ColorOS 14 Open Beta
The program is now live until January 22 for both smartphones. It is limited to the first 5000 users or participants. Other details are listed below:
Prerequisites:
The Oppo Find N3 Flip must be running CPH2519_13.2.0.300 (EX01) firmware, and the Oppo Find N3 should be on CPH2499_13.2.0.203 (EX01) firmware.
Back up personal data before updating the smartphones, as there are chances of data loss.
Incompatibility with third-party apps could affect overall usage.
Note: The device may overheat to optimize the hardware with a new system for a couple of days. It could affect the battery life for those those.
Steps:
Go to Settings > About device > Tap the top of the page > Tap icon on the top right > Trial versions > Beta> Fill in your information > Apply Now
Update About device > Download Now (after the application is successful).
After success within 5 days, the users would be able to get the update.
It is advised for the users to head over to the respective announcement threads (Find N3, Find N3Flip) for more information.
Xiaomi is gearing up to unveil the Xiaomi 14 Ultra flagship smartphone in the Chinese market soon. But ahead of any official announcement, a new certification listing has also confirmed the wireless camera kit that could be offered alongside this peripheral.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra Camera Kit surfaces on 3C certification
For those unaware, the top end Xiaomi 14 Ultra model is expected to launch sometime near the end of Q1 2024. Now, a 3C certification has listed the Xiaomi Wireless Camera Kit that could launch alongside this flagship smartphone. Looking at the listing, the camera kit carries the model number 2402CPS69C. This peripheral will be manufactured by Xiaomi’s Lens Technology and is a peripheral for the 14 Ultra model to help improve the photography experience.
The 3C certification confirms support for 5V charging and a 1,500mAh battery pack. The listing also reveals that the camera kit won’t launch with a power adapter. To recall, the last gen Xiaomi 13 Ultra launched with a wireless camera kit as well. It featured a case along with a 67mm adapter ring, a camera handle with a built in shutter button, and a lens cover. This peripheral supports Bluetooth 5.0 support.
This iteration went on sale for 799 Yuan (roughly 111 US Dollars), but it wasn’t exclusive to the Ultra and was compatible with other Xiaomi smartphones. So we can expect a similar price range for the latest variant. It is unclear if the new Xiaomi 14 Ultra Camera Kit will be released in the global market since last year’s model didn’t debut overseas. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is expected to be announced globally (including India), so the camera kit will likely follow along.
A few days back, Motorola launched its first phone of 2024 for India. The device, which goes by Moto G34 5G, is a budget 5G smartphone.
The handset comes with a high refresh rate display, a Qualcomm chip, the latest Android 14, a high-megapixel camera, and a large battery.
A week after its announcement, the product is now up for sale in the country.
The Motorola Moto G34 5G arrives in two memory configurations. It is priced at ₹10,999 and ₹11,999 for 4GB + 128GB and 8GB + 128GB variants, respectively.
The device can be availed in either Ocean Green (vegan leather), Ice Blue, or Charcoal Black color options. It can be purchased from Flipkart and leading retail stores across India.
Talking about specs, the phone sports a 6.5-inch centered punch-hole display. The LCD panel offers a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
The handset is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC. The chipset is paired with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. It ships with Android 14 and will receive one major Android update.
On the back, there’s a dual-camera system comprising a 50MP primary sensor and a 2MP macro snapper. For selfies and video calls, there’s a 16MP shooter on the front.
The smartphone not only has a MicroSD card slot but also a 3.5mm headphone jack, in addition to Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers. The 8GB RAM variant also supports ‘Ready For’ to connect seamlessly with PCs and displays.
Last but not least, the IP52-rated phone is backed by a 5,000mAh battery and supports 18W wired charging.
Vivo is simultaneously working on multiple upcoming smartphones, including the Vivo V30 Series and the Vivo V40 Lite, aka Vivo V40 SE 5G. These smartphones have been in the news as part of some leaks, rumors, or listings for public certification. The routine seems not to end, as the Vivo V40 SE 5G with model code V2337 and the Vivo VS30 SE with model V2349 appeared on Bluetooth SIG. Both smartphones seem to feature Bluetooth 5.0, as per the listing.
The listing misses out on the other details about both smartphones. However, the launch of both smartphones seems imminent, as the official teaser image of the Vivo V30 Series was leaked a couple of days ago. The whole series, consisting of the Vivo V30, Vivo V30 Pro, and Vivo V30 Lite (launched in Malaysia), also appeared on the NCC certification, Bluetooth SIG, and Geekbench. The Vivo V40 Lite made it to the IMEI database with the same model code V2337 as the Vivo V40 SE 5G, which carries Bluetooth SIG.
Vivo V30 SE and Vivo 40 SE 5G Specification Details (Speculated)
A separate leak unveils the poster for the Vivo V30 series, providing a sneak peek into the design elements of the upcoming devices. The poster reveals a squarish camera module on the back and a center-aligned punch-hole cutout for the front selfie camera. The curved display panel, thin bezels, and noticeable top notch and chin are apparent from the leaked poster.
Moreover, the Vivo V30 Lite 5G was already launched in Malaysia a while ago, and now eyes are on the Vivo V30 and Vivo V30 Pro. For a glimpse into what the Vivo V40 Lite 5G might offer, we can turn to the recently launched V30 Lite 5G. This model offers a 6.67-inch curved-edge AMOLED E4 display with Full HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an impressive peak brightness of 1,150 nits. Under the hood, the V30 Lite 5G is powered by the Snapdragon 695 processor, paired with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
Running on Android 13 with FunTouch OS 13, it relies on a robust 4,800mAh battery with 44W fast charging support for sustained usage. The camera setup on the V30 Lite 5G features a 64MP main sensor leading the rear trio, accompanied by an 8MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro lens. There’s a 50MP front camera housed in a punch-hole cutout that ensures striking selfies.
Adding to the excitement, the Vivo V30 surfaced on multiple certifications, with the latest from NBTC in Thailand indicating a potential launch by the end of this month or in February. The device, expected to feature a 6.78-inch curved-edge AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, could be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset. Other sightings, including Bluetooth SIG and Geekbench, contribute to the growing speculation around the V30 series, suggesting a noteworthy addition to Vivo’s smartphone lineup.
Realme has finally confirmed the Realme Note 50’s launch date. While it is expected to launch soon in Indonesia, the brand has confirmed that it will be unveiled on Jan. 23 in the Philippines. The official teaser shown below reveals that the Note 50 will be available in black and blue shades. Here is a look at what to expect from the device.
Realme Note 50 specifications (expected)
First in the series. First in the world. 🌏 This is the realme Note 50.
The Relame Note 50 has a familiar design, indicating that it could be a rebranded version of an exciting phone. The leaked specifications of the device suggest that it could be a tweaked version of the Realme C51.
The Note 50 is expected to feature a 6.74-inch IPS LCD panel that offers an HD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and up to 560 nits of brightness. It will run on Realme UI T-based Android 13 and feature a side-facing fingerprint sensor.
The device will feature a Unisoc T612 chipset, 4 GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery with 10W fast charging support. It may arrive with up to 128 GB of storage. On the front, it may feature a 5-megapixel camera and a 50-megapixel dual-camera system on the back. At present, there is no information available about the price of the device.
In related news, it is speculated that Realme will announce the Realme Note 50 and Note 1 smartphones on Jan. 24 in Indonesia. A recent leak revealed that the Note 1 will have a 6.67-inch OLED FHD+ 120Hz display, a Dimensity 7050 chipset, a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging, a 16-megapixel front camera, and 108-megapixel triple rear cameras.
Realme has kicked off 2024 with the announcement of a new smartphone line called the Realme Note series. So far, reports have revealed two devices in the lineup called the Realme Note 1 and the Realme Note 50. While the Note 1 seems to be a new device, the Note 50 appears to be a rebrand of the Realme C51 meant for the global market.
Tipster @passionategeeks over at X has revealed that the device will debut with a 4GB RAM + 64GB storage model on January 24. A leaked poster previously revealed that the device will have a 6.7-inch 90Hz HD+ display, 7.99mm thickness, and IP54 dust and water resistance. The design of the device has also been confirmed through unboxing videos, confirming that it will be available in a blue color variant.
Based on the assumption that the device does turn out to be a rebrand of the Realme C51, it will likely feature a Unisoc T612 chipset under the hood, paired with the Android 13-based Realme UI T operating system. We can also expect a 5,000mAh battery onboard, along with 33W fast charging support. That being said, the unboxing video has revealed that the device will ship with a 10W charger in the box.
Additionally, the smartphone could offer support for a microSD card slot for expandable storage and a 3.5mm audio jack. The camera system will likely offer a 50-megapixel primary sensor, along with an auxiliary camera. On the front, it will likely offer a 5MP sensor. These details will likely be confirmed before the January 24 launch date, so stay tuned.
The FiiO KA17 stands out as a miniature powerhouse, delivering a robust audio experience in a compact design. Boasting two flagship ESS ES9069Q DACs, THX AAA 78+ amplification, and the XMOS XU316 USB SoC, this DAC is engineered to handle the most demanding audio files with finesse. With support for 32-bit/768kHz, MQA, and native Hi-Res DSD512, the KA17 ensures a premium audio experience for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.
You can now get FiiO KA17 for $ 199 only at GeekWills. The device is available in Black and blue color variants.
Despite its portable size, FiiO integrates both single-ended (3.5mm) and balanced (4.4mm) headphone outputs into the slim body. This thoughtful design provides users with maximum flexibility, accommodating various headphone preferences. The 3.5mm output even doubles as an SPDIF output, enhancing its versatility.
One of the standout features of the KA17 is its impressive output power of up to 650 mW. This power, coupled with the independent power supply, makes it an ideal choice for on-the-go audio enthusiasts seeking a high-quality audio experience from their mobile sources. The DAC also offers a “tabletop mode,” allowing users to manually boost the output power for an even more immersive listening experience.
Navigating through the KA17’s settings is a breeze, thanks to the built-in display. Additionally, users can take advantage of the FiiO Control multimedia app for Android and iOS, enhancing the user experience by providing remote control functionality. The settings cover a range of options, including gain (high or low), filter (with 8 modes), SPDIF output, parametric equalizer, screen brightness adjustment, and volume control.
The DAC’s core features include the advanced ESS ES9069Q DAC, THX AAA 78+ amplification, and the USB XMOS XU316 chip. The USB-C input not only facilitates data transfer but also allows for additional power, ensuring a consistent and reliable performance across various systems.
FiiO KA17 is a testament to engineering excellence, offering a compact and versatile DAC solution for audiophiles seeking premium audio quality.
Oppo is known for releasing a couple of F-series phones in a year in India, took a different approach last year by introducing only the Snapdragon 695-powered Oppo F23. According to a recent leak from tipster Abhishek Yadav, the upcoming Oppo F25 is set to make its debut in India as soon as next month (February). However, the company’s broader plans for launching additional F-series phones in the country this year remain uncertain. Here’s a look at what to expect from the F25.
According to Yadav, the Oppo F25 will be a rebranded version of the Reno 11F 5G. A recent report revealed that the Reno 11F 5G is currently open for pre-orders in Indonesia and is slated for an official unveiling on Feb. 24. The specifications of the Reno 11F 5G have already emerged, and it appears that the Oppo F25 will share identical internals. Here is a look at the specifications of the Reno 11F 5G.
Oppo Reno 11F 5G specifications (rumored)
The Oppo Reno 11F 5G will arrive with a 6.7-inch AMOLED panel that offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 2160Hz PWM dimming, and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. The device will feature the Dimensity 7050 chipset, 8 GB of RAM, 256 GB of storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging.
The Reno 11F 5G will arrive with a 32-megapixel front-facing camera. Its rear shell will have a 64-megapixel OmniVision OV64B primary camera, an 8-megapixel IMX55 ultra-wide camera, and a 2-megapixel macro snapper.
The Reno 11F 5G will run on ColorOS 14-based Adnroid 14. It will have an IP65-rated chassis and come in shades such as pink, green, and blue. At present, there is no information about the price of the device.
Recently, Xbox fans experienced a roller coaster of emotions due to a mix-up with the highly anticipated game, Final Fantasy 14 Online. Early on a Tuesday morning, an official post on Xbox Wire briefly announced the availability of an open beta for the game on Xbox Series X/S. However, the excitement was short-lived as the post was removed within an hour, leaving fans puzzled and a bit disappointed.
Xbox posted an apology on Twitter/X shortly after
Xbox acknowledged the mistake via a Twitter/X post from the Xbox Wire team. They admitted to prematurely sharing the news and assured fans that a correct release date for the open beta would be announced in due course. This incident highlights how easily misinformation can spread in the digital age and the importance of accurate communication from big brands.
The initial post had shared some exciting details about the beta version, like its support for 4K resolution on Xbox Series X, and the ability for players to transfer their progress to the full game once released. This news was particularly notable since Final Fantasy 14, first launched in 2013, has been a long-standing favorite on other platforms like PS3, Windows, PS4, MacOS, and PS5, but had never been available on Xbox consoles.
The game, developed by Square Enix, has seen considerable growth and popularity, with four expansions released since its initial launch and a fifth one, Dawntrail, in development, slated for a Summer 2024 release. The game’s storytelling and expansion, particularly the Endwalker expansion, has been critically acclaimed, further fueling the anticipation for its Xbox debut.
This mix-up, though minor, stirred quite a buzz among the gaming community. It serves as a reminder of the eagerness and passion of the gaming community, always on the lookout for the next big thing, and how a small slip can set the community abuzz with excitement.
The electric mountain bike (e-MTB) scene is witnessing a remarkable new entrant: the Finna Wind Peak. Finna, a relatively unknown name outside of Europe, is stepping up its game with this model, which not only marks its debut in the electric bicycle segment but also its first venture into mountain biking.
The bike is priced at $8,300 USD, which might be a little too much for some
At first glance, the Wind Peak appears to be a familiar high-end e-MTB, featuring a carbon fiber frame, advanced suspension, and a 12-speed drivetrain. However, it’s the unique blend of components that sets it apart. It sports a full-suspension frame, primarily made of carbon fiber, with a rear suspension setup that promises robust performance. The inclusion of Formula’s enduro geometry and long travel suspension, with a 170 mm front fork and 185 mm of wheel travel at the back, is designed to handle rugged terrains with ease.
The heart of the Wind Peak is its motor, the Polini EP3+ MX, a divergence from the usual suspects in e-MTB motors. Known for high-performance parts for gas-powered scooters, Polini brings its expertise to e-bikes, delivering a motor that competes with the best, offering 600 watts of peak power and 90 Nm of torque. Complementing this is a 630-watt-hour battery, promising up to 130 kilometers of range on a single charge in Eco Mode – a significant feature for long rides.
The drivetrain, another critical aspect of any e-MTB, gets the royal treatment with Sram’s GX Eagle, a 12-speed setup that is as reliable as it is efficient. Stopping power is equally impressive, featuring Formula Cura four-piston calipers and large discs. The bike’s 29-inch wheels, outfitted with knobby tires, ensure a stable and gripping ride across various terrains.
Despite its impressive features, the Wind Peak doesn’t come cheap, priced at around $8,300 USD. This places it among the higher tier e-MTBs like those from Giant and Trek, but it stands out with its unique combination of components and performance. For those seeking a top-tier e-MTB experience, the Finna Wind Peak is certainly a contender worth considering, especially for those who value a blend of performance, style, and innovation.
The recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to not review the ongoing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple marks a significant turning point in the tech industry. At the heart of the dispute was Epic Games’ introduction of a direct payment system in Fortnite, bypassing Apple’s App Store fees. This move led to Apple banning Fortnite, prompting Epic to file a lawsuit alleging that Apple’s policies violated antitrust laws. While Apple and Google both counter-sued, the focus has remained on the broader implications of Apple’s control over its App Store.
Epic games is going to suffer because of the new Supreme Court decision
The legal journey saw Epic Games facing mixed outcomes. In 2021, a U.S. District Court Judge ruled that Apple was not a monopoly, a decision largely upheld by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. However, Epic did gain some ground in its battle against Google, with a jury ruling in December that Google held an illegal monopoly in the app store domain.
The Supreme Court’s recent refusal to hear the case essentially upholds the lower court’s decision, a blow to Epic’s efforts to open iOS to competing stores and payment systems. This outcome is a reminder of the uphill battle smaller companies face when challenging the entrenched practices of tech giants like Apple.
Despite this setback for Epic, the case has shed light on Apple’s restrictive policies. The courts noted Apple’s anti-competitive behavior in preventing developers from informing users about alternative payment methods. This scrutiny has broader implications, as seen in the European Union‘s Digital Markets Act, which may force Apple to allow alternative app stores on its devices from March 2023.
In August 2022, OnePlus unveiled the OnePlus Nord N20 SE 5G, featuring the Helio G35 chipset. The brand did not launch a Nord SE-branded phone in 2023, but it appears that the new model may break cover in the coming days. The reason behind it is that the OnePlus Nord 30 SE 5G, which was spotted at the UAE’s TDRA certification a couple of months ago, has now surfaced on Geekbench. The Geekbench listing, which reveals the chipset, RAM, and Android version of the device, suggests that the company could be internally testing it before its official announcement. In addition, it has also received TUV certification in the recent past.
OnePlus Nord N30 SE spotted at Geekbench, TUV
OnePlus Nord 30 SE 5G Geekbench listingOnePlus Nord 30 SE 5G TUV listing
To recall, the OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G appeared with model number CPH2605 in the database of TDRA certification in October 2023. The same device has now surfaced on Geekbench with what appears to be the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 chipset. To recall, the predecessor model was a 4G device, but its successor will offer 5G connectivity.
The inclusion of the D6020 chip is a good hint that it will be one of OnePlus’ most affordable 5G phones. The One Nord N30 SE 5G Geekbench listing further reveals that it has 4 GB of RAM and Android 13. It scored 703 in the single-core and 1781 in the multi-core tests of Geekbench.
The OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G also appeared in the database of the TUV certification platform a couple of months ago. The listing revealed that it has a 4,880mAh rated battery, suggesting that its typical size could be 5,000mAh. In addition, the certification also reveals that it will support 33W fast charging. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the other specifications of the device.
Oppo A79 5G
To recall, the OnePlus Nord N20 SE was a rebranded version of the Oppo A77. There is a possibility that the Nord 30 SE 5G could be a rebranded version of the Oppo A79 5G, which was announced in October 2023.
iQOO is all set to unveil the iQOO Neo 9 Pro on Feb. 22 in India. The early teasers of the phone have already confirmed that it will come in a red-white dual-tone finish. Now, the brand has released a new poster to officially confirm the black variant of the device.
iQOO Neo 9 Pro Conguorer Black
The above poster confirms that the upcoming iQOO Neo 9 Pro will also be available in the Conqueror Black edition. The black variant features a textured matte finish on its plastic back panel, while the red-white version boasts a leather finish. It remains uncertain if additional color options will be offered for the Neo 9 Pro. Shown below is a real-life image of the black variant of the device.
According to reports, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro will sport a flat AMOLED display that measures 6.78 inches. The screen will produce a 1.5K resolution and support up to a 144Hz refresh rate. It will also be integrated with a fingerprint sensor.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip will be present under the hood of the Neo 9 Pro. It is the same chip that powers the OnePlus 12R, which is set to go official on Jan. 23. While the Neo 9 Pro will debut around a month later, it will rival the 12R. The iQOO phone is expected to ship with up to 12 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 256 GB of UFS 4.0 storage.
On the front, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro will have a 16-megapixel camera. The rear camera setup of the device will comprise a 50-megapixel Sony IMX920 primary camera with OIS support and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The device will run on the Android 14 OS with a layer of FunTouch OS 14 on top. It will also offer other features, such as a 5,160mAh battery with 120W fast charging, dual speakers, and an IR blaster.
The iQOO Neo 7 Pro was launched with a price of Rs 37,999 (~$456) in India. The Neo 9 Pro may likely arrive with a sub-Rs 40,000 (~$480) starting price.
Samsung continues to expand its product family. While the company works on models like the upcoming Galaxy S24 series set to be unveiled tomorrow, it also ensures not to forget its existing products in the market. In line with this, the Korean tech giant recently released the January security patch update for Galaxy S21, S22, and S23 in Europe. Now, Samsung has rolled out the Android 14 update for the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite. Here are the details…
Samsung Rolls Out Android 14 for Tab A7 Lite
Samsung has released the Android 14 update for the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite. Currently available only in South Korea, the update comes with firmware version T225NKOU6DWL9 and has a download size of over 1.5GB. The company is expected to roll out this update to users in other regions shortly.
It is quite important that Samsung has provided an update for the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite. It’s worth noting that this is a budget-friendly tablet. While smartphone and tablet manufacturers are making efforts to improve their update records, entry-level devices are often easily overlooked.
Moreover, the fact that the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite was introduced at the beginning of 2021 and is receiving an Android 14 update three years later is not very common. This situation indicates that Samsung’s OS update performance, improving each year, might even surpass Apple. Of course, it’s still early to say this, but seeing positive steps in that direction is encouraging.
Creative has released the Zen Air ProTWS earbuds in the Chinese market. These earbuds are now available on JD.com at an introductory price of 499 yuan ($70).
Creative Zen Air Pro Specifications
The earbuds feature custom-tuned 10mm dynamic drivers, emphasizing mid-to-high frequencies for high-quality audio. They support various audio codecs like LC3+ (ULL), LC3, AAC, and SBC, combined with Bluetooth 5.3 LE audio, ensuring high-quality and uninterrupted audio streaming.
The earbuds also feature hybrid active noise cancellation for an immersive audio experience by effectively reducing ambient noise. They also offer an ambient mode for users who want to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music.
For clear communication, the Zen Air Pro earbuds are fitted with six microphones. This setup includes four microphones dedicated to active noise cancellation and two for capturing the user’s voice. They also use Deep Neural Network (DNN) noise reduction technology to enhance voice clarity and reduce background noise.
The earbuds are exceptionally lightweight at 5.3 grams per earbud and have IPX5 certification, making them sweat and splash-resistant for active users. They offer customizable touch controls through the Creative app, allowing users to manage noise cancellation, ambient mode, and equalizer settings for a personalized audio experience.
Coming to the battery life, the earbuds provide up to 9 hours of playback on one charge and extend to 33 hours with the charging case. The case supports Qi wireless charging for added convenience, and they also offer quick charging, giving an hour of playback with just a 5-minute charge.
Zen Air Pro is also compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhones, iPads, Android devices, Windows 10 and 11 computers, and Apple computers. They also support voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant.
Earlier today, Creative also launched an over-ear wireless headset called Zen Hybrid 2, priced at 399 Yuan ($56).
IKEA is fast expanding its scope beyond furniture making with a raft of new products unveiled. The foremost furniture maker has entered the smart home monitoring turf with three new safety sensors. The new products are named VALLHORN, PARASOLL, and BADRING and are offered as affordable home monitoring gadgets. All three new IKEA smart home monitoring sensors use the Zigbee software for its companion app communication and connectivity protocol. The sensors are designed to work within the fast-expanding IKEA Home smart ecosystem. Each product connects to the DIRIGERA Hub for a seamless experience
IKEA has previously released its first set of smart home equipment including light bulbs, speakers, and air purifiers. The new home monitoring gadgets are easy to install and underpins the IKEA philosophy. The IKEA PARASOLL is a discreet sensor mountable on windows and doors and helps to monitor whenever an entry point is opened or closed. The slim sensor fits well and offers updates via app notifications. The PARASOLL has a direct comparison with some smart home monitoring sensors from SimpliSafe and SmartThings.
The IKEA VALHORN is a wireless motion sensor that can be used both indoors and outdoors. It is equipped with lights to illuminate the environment when movement is detected. The user can also adjust the light colors and intensity. The IKEA BADRING is designed to monitor water leakage around any area it is placed. It notifies the user via app notification or alarm when a leak is detected.
Pricing & Availability
IKEA has not provided the pricing details for the new smart home monitoring sensors. The PARASOLL and VALHORN are expected to be available at IKEA stores within this month while the BADRING will be available by April 2024. IKEA expects a decent reception for the three new smart home monitoring sensors when they debut.
Researchers at the prestigious Harvard University may have achieved a breakthrough in their research on solid-state battery technology. The research findings have been published in the latest edition of Nature Materials and point to how a solid-state battery can be developed to fully recharge within 10 minutes.
The lithium metal battery researchers are at Harvard’s John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). The lead writer in the Nature Materials published article is Xin Li, an Associate Professor of Materials Science at SEAS. The newly developed battery has an estimated charging cycle of 6,000 times, more than any other pouch battery cell.
According to the researchers, Lithium metal anode batteries are considered the top-draw choice of batteries because they have ten times the capacity of commercial graphite anodes and could drastically increase the driving distance of EVs. The researchers say that their research findings mark an important step toward more practical solid-state batteries with great ramifications for industrial and commercial applications.
Electric Vehicles may be getting faster charging batteries shortly
The formation of dendrites on the surface of the anode is a major challenge in the development of solid-state batteries. These can build up on the lithium surface and grow like roots into the electrolyte. Their growth helps to damage the barrier that separates the anode and cathode, resulting in short-circuiting or possibly fires. The research team designed a multilayer battery that sandwiched different materials of varying stabilities between the anode and cathode. This 2021 design prevented the penetration of lithium dendrites although it didn’t stop their growth altogether.
The breakthrough by the Harvard research team is that they successfully prevented dendrites from forming by using micron-sized silicon particles in the anode to constrict the reaction to a shallow surface without penetrating any further. The lithium metal gets wrapped around the silicon particle, like a hard chocolate shell around a hazelnut core, according to lead author Li. Because plating and stripping can occur rapidly on an even surface, the developed battery can recharge fully in about 10 minutes.
The developed battery cell retained 80% of its capacity after 6,000 cycles which was far better than that of any pouch cell battery in the market. The tech has been licensed to Adden Energy by the Harvard Office of Technology Development. Adden Energy is an offshoot of research efforts at Harvard and was co-founded by Xin Li and three others – all Harvard alumni. The tech is being scaled up to build smartphone batteries that are much bigger than the pouch cell battery. There are still challenges in the evolution of the ultimate solid-state battery before it becomes a commercial product. Mass production of such tech offers its dynamic challenges.
URBAN has recently unveiled the Zippy, a new smartwatch that combines practical technology with a fashionable design. This device features a round dial and a dual-color silicone strap, giving it a sporty appearance that appeals to the younger crowd.
Equipped with a 1.3-inch always-on AMOLED screen, the Zippy offers customizable watch faces for personalization. Notably, the smartwatch includes Bluetooth calling capabilities with an in-built microphone, dial pad, and contact-saving options.
In terms of health and fitness features, the Zippy provides monitoring tools for heart rate, blood oxygen levels (SpO2), and blood pressure. With over 120 sports modes, it caters to a wide range of physical activities.
The smartwatch prioritizes entertainment and practicality, featuring built-in games and AI Voice Assistant support. Additional features include a calorie meter, sedentary alerts, drink water reminders, and standard smartwatch notifications.
The Zippy is designed to be durable, offering resistance to water and dust. Its battery life is a key attraction, lasting up to 7 days on a single charge, reducing the need for frequent charging.
Pricing & availability
Available at an introductory price of Rs. 2,399, the URBAN Zippy smartwatch can now be purchased in pink, blue, and white colors. The smartwatch is available on the brand’s website and leading e-commerce platforms.
Poco has kicked off the new year with a bang, introducing the high-performance Poco X6 5G and Poco X6 Pro 5G in India. While I haven’t experienced the distinctive yellow color variant of a Poco phone before, I was fortunate to receive the Poco Yellow version of the X6 Pro this time. I have used the Poco X5 Pro and the Poco X3 Pro (owned it) in the past, and now here I am reviewing the Poco X6 Pro.
The Poco X6 Pro indeed excels in performance, positioning itself on par with flagship-level smartphones, particularly when you explore its impressive specs sheet. In practicality, too, the X6 Pro stands out as an almost flawless device. For those who don’t know, the X6 Pro is a tweaked version of the Redmi K70e, which is exclusively available in the Chinese market.
The Poco X6 Pro 5G is the first smartphone to come equipped with the Dimensity 8300-Ultra chipset in the global market. In addition, it is also the first phone to ship with the HyperOS onboard in the global market. To top it off, the gaming-friendly phone comes with an OLED panel with slim bezels around. Now, let’s take a closer look at the review to analyse its key features and overall performance.
Poco X6 Pro 5G review: What’s in the box?
Here is a list of items that are included in the retail package of the Poco X6 Pro 5G:
The Poco X6 Pro 5G review unit that I have has a striking dual-tone finish. The back panel features smooth yet textured yellow vegan leather, contrasting with the sleek black camera island. Despite the textured finish, the rear shell offers a secure grip. The durable plastic camera island prominently displays the “Poco” brand with a subtle patterned backdrop, alongside “64MP OIS” on the right and three cameras with an LED flash in the remaining area. Thanks to the rectangular camera module, the phone doesn’t wobble when placed flat on a surface.
Poco X6 Pro 5GPoco X6 Pro 5GPoco X6 Pro 5GPoco X6 Pro 5G
The X6 Pro’s plastic frame houses a volume rocker and a vibrant yellow power button on the right side. The left side is bare, while the top edge features a speaker, an IR blaster, and a microphone. The bottom edge houses a hybrid SIM slot, another microphone, a USB-C port, and a speaker grille. Thankfully, the X6 Pro’s IP54 dust and water resistance rating means it can survive a downpour. Measuring 8.35mm thick and weighing 190 grams, the X6 Pro feels comfortable in hand.
Poco X6 Pro 5GPoco X6 Pro 5GPoco X6 Pro 5GPoco X6 Pro 5G
The Poco X6 Pro’s front is dominated by a stunning 6.67-inch OLED panel shielded by durable Gorilla Glass 5. Supporting Dolby Vision, HDR, and a peak brightness of 180 nits, the display delivers an exceptional viewing experience. The 1.5K resolution, 68 billion colors, and smooth 120Hz refresh rate further enhance visuals, whether you’re watching shows or playing games. The loudspeakers also impress with their clear and powerful sound. For even richer detail in shadows and highlights, users can activate Pro HDR within the Gallery app.
Performance and Software
MediaTek Dimensity 8300-Ultra
5,000mAh battery
8GB / 12GB of LPDDR5x RAM
67W charging
256GB / 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage
Android 14 OS, HyperOS
6GB of virtual RAM
5,000mm² vapor chamber cooling unit
The Poco X6 Pro 5G is designed to deliver exceptional performance for a non-flagship phone, and it lives up to its promise thanks to the inclusion of the Dimensity 8300-Ultra chipset. This chipset, MediaTek’s latest offering built on a 4nm architecture, ensures reliable performance free from lags and stutters, whether you are gaming or using the phone for everyday tasks. I can say that it is the only mid-range phone available on the market with flagship-grade LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. My review unit has 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of built-in storage. The device came preinstalled with the December 2023 security update.
Poco X6 Pro 5G
The Redmi K70e features a 5,500mAh battery with 90W fast charging support. The Poco X6 Pro, on the other hand, has a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging. These are the only major differences between the two phones. The 67W fast charger took around 50 minutes for the phone to go from 0 to 100 percent. As far as battery life is concerned, it can easily last for 1.5 days with typical use.
I enjoyed extended gaming sessions (around an hour each) on the Poco X6 Pro, playing demanding titles like Call of Duty: Shadow Fight 4, Mortal Kombat, Genshin Impact, and Asphalt 9, all at the highest graphics settings. The device warmed slightly but remained comfortably within acceptable limits (under 45 degrees Celsius), though room for improvement in heat dissipation remains, despite the company’s touted flagship-level 5,000mm² unit. The x-axis linear motor and dual stereo speakers further accentuate the gaming experience.
Poco X6 Pro impresses in the software department as it ships with the latest Android 14, which is layered with all-new HyperOS instead of MIUI. Apart from the user experience, Poco promises decent software support, including three years of Android OS upgrades and four years of security updates.
HyperOS – Control CenreHyperOS – LockscreenHyperOS – AI features in Gallery app
The HyperOS experience might feel familiar to MIUI users while introducing innovative elements. Most notably, HyperOS sports a redesigned Control Center for intuitive access to settings. The lockscreen also receives welcome upgrades, showcasing diverse designs with unique clock styles and matching Always on Display options. Other noteworthy features include an enhanced multi-window interface, the all-new MiSans font, new fingerprint scanning animations, hidden apps, AI object detection, and more. However, the bloatware presence can’t be ignored. While most pre-installed apps can be uninstalled, a cleaner app drawer out of the box would’ve been ideal.
Poco X6 Pro: AnTuTuPoco X6 Pro: GeekbenchPoco X6 Pro: CPU Throttle
Shown above is how the Poco X6 Pro 5G performed in the AnTuTu, Geekbench, and CPU Throttle benchmark tests:
Given the Poco X6 Pro 5G’s primary focus on performance, photography might not be its primary strength. Nevertheless, the device has a respectable primary camera equipped with an OIS-enabled 64-megapixel OV64B lens, a camera sensor found on some flagship phones as well. Accompanying this is an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 2-megapixel macro camera. For selfies, the phone is equipped with a 16-megapixel front camera. While the primary camera performs well in capturing quality shots, it’s worth noting that the performance of the other cameras may not be as outstanding. The camera app offers photography modes such as Pro, Documents, Video, Photo, Portrait, Night, 64MP mode, Panorama, Short Film, Slow Motion (up to 1080p / 960fps), Time-lapse, AI Watermark, Long Exposure, and more.
Ultra-wide1x2x1x2xmacromacro
In well-lit conditions, the Poco X6 Pro stands out by delivering impressive results with vibrant color reproduction and a dynamic range that is deemed acceptable. The main camera’s 2x in-sensor zoom feature produces decent outcomes with preserved details. The device does well in subject detection and blur effects when using the Portrait mode, albeit lacking a zoom selector. In low-light situations, the camera performs adequately, although with a slight reduction in details. The night mode, while effective in reducing light glare, doesn’t bring about significant improvements in overall image quality.
NIght modeNight modeNight mode2x zoomUltra-wide
The 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera occasionally deviates in color reproduction compared to the main camera, but the dynamic range remains satisfactory. In low-light conditions, it manages to deliver acceptable results. To access the macro mode, users are required to tap the small arrow in the camera app or swipe down in the viewfinder to reveal various options, including flash, aspect ratio, HDR, gridlines, AI camera, voice shutter, motion tracking focus, assist cam, teleprompter, video resolution, frame rate, Steady Video (OIS), and macro mode. The 16-megapixel front camera performs in well-lit conditions, and it offers filters and HDR support. However, I did not like the fact that it automatically beautified the selfie shots.
For video recording, the Poco X6 Pro 5G provides OIS support when shooting at 30fps in 1080p resolution. Additional video options include 720p (30fps), 1080p (30fps/60fps), and 4K (24fps/30fps) modes, with EIS support stepping in when OIS is not available. The ultra-wide camera can capture 1080p videos at 30fps. While videos recorded using the main camera are acceptable, it’s important to note that the performance tends to be less impressive in low-light conditions.
Regarding other features of the Poco X6 Pro 5G, the x-axis linear motor stands out for its strength, accuracy, and responsiveness, notably enhancing the gaming experience and overall system usage. The IR blaster and in-screen fingerprint sensor perform reliably and as expected, further contributing to the device’s overall functionality.
Verdict
The Poco X6 Pro 5G delivers top-tier performance in a non-flagship package, thanks to its powerful Dimensity 8300-Ultra chipset, LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, a smooth 120Hz OLED display with an impressive screen-to-body ratio, and an appealing design. Its snappy performance, coupled with in-game vibrations and immersive audio, make it a gamer’s paradise. The primary camera shines, and the new HyperOS overlay on Android 14 adds fresh customization options along with extended software support, which is the icing on the cake. While some bloatware lingers and the auxiliary cameras could be better, these are minor gripes. For sheer performance at a wallet-friendly price, the Poco X6 Pro 5G is a compelling choice.
Variants, Price and Availability
In India, the Poco X6 Pro 5G is available for:
8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage: Rs 26,999 (~$325)
12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage: Rs 28,999 (~$350)
Colors: Poco Yellow, Racing Grey, Spectre Black
Offers: Rs 2,000 off on HDFC / ICICI / SBI bank credit card, debit card transactions
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