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Apple’s Limited-Time iPhone Discount for Lunar New Year in China, Starts Soon!

We often talk a lot about Apple products, not just because of their features but also because they can be quite expensive. Because Apple is famous for making high-quality products so they usually charge higher prices. However, Apple occasionally surprises everyone by offering discounts during special occasions, with the latest being a rare Lunar New Year promotion in China, featuring reduced prices on all its major products, including the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, AirPods, and more. Here are the details…

Apple’s Lunar New Year Discounts in China Revealed

Apple’s Lunar New Year promotion offers a fantastic chance to get a new device at a discounted price. If you’re living in China and looking to purchase a new Apple product, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, or iPhone 13, customers can benefit from discounts of up to 500 RMB (about $70). Similarly, if you buy a 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air (M2 chip model) or a 13-inch MacBook Air (M1 chip model), you can save up to 800 RMB.

Apple didn’t forget users who want an iPad. You can save up to 400 RMB when you purchase iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad (10th generation), or iPad mini. Those buying Apple Watch SE can enjoy a discount of 200 RMB, while AirPods unfortunately only have a 100 RMB discount, making it the least discounted Apple product. If you want to take advantage of these discounted Apple products, simply click here to access the company’s Chinese website.

Discounts available from January 18 to 21. So, if you want to buy an affordable iPhone, you must act quickly. Apple, despite not favoring the term “discount,” made this decision due to competition. As you know, China is the world’s tech hub, and due to local manufacturers, there is unprecedented competition in the smartphone market. So, the company needs to do promotions during events like Lunar New Year to increase sales because of tough competition. Even Apple bows to consumers when market conditions are favorable, underscoring the importance of a competitive environment.

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Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G series with 6.67″ 120Hz AMOLED display, Dimensity 7200/Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC launched globally

Redmi has debuted its Note 13 Pro 5G series smartphones on the global stage, after launching these devices earlier this month in India. The global lineup has two Pro series 5G models, namely the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G and Note 13 Pro 5G. Keep reading to learn about their specs and features.

Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G series specs:

The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G features a 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a bright 1800nits peak brightness. The screen resolution is 2712 x 1220 (1.5K), protected by tough Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. It supports Dolby Vision and holds certifications from TÜV Rheinland for viewer comfort. Compact at 161.4mm x 74.2mm x 8.9mm and lightweight at 204.5g, it has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra, the phone comes with two storage and RAM options: 8GB+256GB or 12GB+512GB. The battery is quite large at 5,000mAh and supports 120W HyperCharge technology, with a 120W charger included in the box and a USB-C connection.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G

The camera setup is quite impressive, with a powerful 200MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, and a 16MP front camera. The audio features include dual speakers and Dolby Atmos support, providing a high-quality sound experience. Security is taken care of by an in-screen fingerprint sensor and AI Face Unlock. Connectivity options cover dual SIM (nano SIM + nano SIM or nano SIM + eSIM), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC for wireless communication, and an IR Blaster for added convenience.

The Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G shares the same 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display with similar specifications. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 and comes with two storage and RAM options: 8GB+256GB or 12GB+512GB. The battery is 5,100mAh and supports 67W turbo charging, with a charger included in the box and a USB-C connection.

Redmi Note 13 Pro
Redmi Note 13 Pro

The camera setup and audio features are similar to the Pro+ variant, providing a good photography and audio experience. Connectivity options include dual SIM (nano SIM + nano SIM or nano SIM + eSIM), Wi-Fi at 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and an IR Blaster, ensuring comprehensive connectivity for various needs.

Pricing & availability

The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G is available in Midnight Black, Moonlight White, and Aurora Purple color options, offering two storage choices. The starting retail price (for 8GB+256GB) will be $400.

As for the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G, it comes in Midnight Black, Ocean Teal, and Aurora Purple color variants, also providing two storage options. The starting retail price (for 8GB+256GB) begins at $304.

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Redmi Note 13 4G series launched: 120Hz AMOLED display, 5,000mAh battery, MIUI 14, and more

As scheduled, Xiaomi took wraps off the Redmi Note 13 series for international markets other than India today. The lineup adds two more devices bringing the total count to five.

The series gets two 4G-only devices called Redmi Note 13 and Redmi Note 13 Pro. Both these phones are almost the same as their 5G counterparts with their chipsets being the major differentiators.

Let’s go through these LTE handsets in this article. You can learn about the original three 5G models here.

Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G
Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G

Redmi Note 13 4G Series Specifications

The 4G-only Redmi Note 13 duo flaunts a 6.67-inch centered punch-hole AMOLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. 

The panel on the vanilla model can touch a peak brightness level of 1800 nits and is protected by older Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Whereas the screen on the pro variant gets Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection and its peak brightness level is lower at 1300 nits.

The standard version has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 chip as opposed to a MediaTek Helio G99-Ultra inside the pro model. Anyways, both use LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. As for software, they boot MIUI 14 based on Android 13.

Talking about cameras, the phones arrive with an 8MP ultrawide unit, a 2MP macro snapper, and a 16MP selfie shooter. The primary camera is a 200MP unit on the pro version, while the vanilla variant has a 108MP sensor.

Both of them come with a 3.5mm headphone jack, Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers, a MicroSD card slot, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and an IP54 rating.

The duo gets its energy from a 5,000mAh battery. But the pro variant charges faster at 67W compared to the slower 33W charging support on the vanilla version.

Redmi Note 13 4G
Redmi Note 13 4G

Redmi Note 13 4G Series Price

The Redmi Note 13 starts at a suggested retail price of $179 for the base 6GB + 128GB memory configurations. It also comes in 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB variants.

The device can be picked up in either Midnight Black, Mint Green, Ice Blue, or Ocean Sunset color options.

On the other hand, the Redmi Note 13 Pro is offered in 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB memory variants. The suggested retail price of its base version is $250.

The phone can be availed in either Midnight Black, Lavender Purple, or Forest Green hue options.

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Redmi Buds 5, Buds 5 Pro With ANC, 10 Hours Battery Debut Globally

Xiaomi held a global launch event today where it unveiled various devices under its Redmi sub-brand. These include the Redmi Note 13 5G series, Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G, and more. The company also announced the Redmi Buds 5 series which comprises of standard and pro variants. Both TWS earphones debuted in China last year and the global variants come with the same specifications. 

Redmi Buds 5 series specifications and features 

Redmi Buds 5 Pro

The Redmi Buds 5 and Buds 5 Pro have the same semi-in-ear design with a stem and silicone ear tips. They feature in-ear detection that pauses playback automatically when the earbuds are removed. The audio devices are IP54-rated dust and water-resistant. 

In terms of audio, the Redmi Buds 5 is equipped with 12.4mm and 1.6mm drivers. On the other hand, the Pro has an 11mm subwoofer and a 10mm tweeter. The standard and pro models pack three levels of active noise cancellation up to 52dB and 42dB respectively. Both TWS earphones also pack three transparency mode for staying aware of surroundings. The Buds 5 Pro also features an LHDC 5.0 codec and an immersive listening experience. The Buds 5 is equipped with two microphones whereas the Buds 5 Pro has three microphones with both capable of resisting wind noise for a clear quality on calls. 

The Redmi Buds 5 series come with Bluetooth 5.3 and can connect to two devices simultaneously. They also feature Google Fast Pair. Both the TWS earphones are claimed to offer 10 hours of usage and 40 hours of battery life with the case. 

The Redmi Buds 5 series is offered in Black, White, and Sky Blue colors. The standard and pro models are priced at $46 and $78 respectively. 

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Infinix INBook Y4 Max With 16-inch Display, 13th Gen Intel SoCs Launched In India

Infinix has announced a new laptop in India. It is a new lineup in the brand’s laptop portfolio. The latest offering is the Infinix INBook Y4 Max. Last month, the brand announced the INBook Y2 Plus (review). The INBook Y4 Max sports a large display and 13th-generation Intel processors. Read on to know what the device offers out of the box. 

Infinix INBook Y4 Max specifications and features 

The Infinix INBook Y4 Max has a large 16-inch display surrounded by thin bezels. It bears an FHD resolution, an 83 percent sRGB space, 300 nits peak brightness, and an 87 percent screen-to-body ratio. The laptop features a backlit keyboard and a 7.06-inch AG Glass touch panel. 

Design-wise, the Infinix INBook Y4 Max features an aluminum alloy metal chassis and a dual-finish design on the lid. It weighs 1.78 kg. On the audio front, the machine is equipped with dual 2W speakers. 

Under the hood, the Infinix INBook Y4 Max can be configured with 13th-generation Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors. There is an integrated Intel Iris Xe GPU onboard. The laptop packs up to 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage. The machine is backed by a 70Wh battery cell with support for 65W fast charging. It runs on Windows 11 OS out of the box. 

Connectivity options on the Infinix INBook Y4 Max include a USB-A port, USB-C ports, a microSD card slot, a 3.5mm jack, and an HDMI 1.4 port. 

The Infinix INBook Y4 Max carries an introductory price tag of Rs 37,990 for the base configuration. It will be available for purchase starting January 22 from Flipkart. 

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Vivo V30 series poster leak hints at an imminent launch

A fresh leak has revealed the poster of the Vivo V30 series, which hints that the launch of the upcoming devices is imminent. The new lineup will include the V30 and V30 Pro and the leaked poster revealed design elements as well.

Vivo V30 Series Poster Leaked

The leak was shared by known tipster Paras Guglani, who shared the poster of the Vivo V30 series on X (formerly Twitter). To recall, the lineup consists of the V30, V30 Pro, and V30 Lite. Although, the V30 Lite was announced by the brand last month. Looking at the leaked poster, we can see the rear and front design of the upcoming smartphone. The front houses a center aligned punch hole cutout for the selfie camera, while the back has a squarish camera module.

Vivo V30 series

Another notable aspect that can be observed is the inclusion of the curved display panel, with the screen also surrounded by thin bezels on the side. However, the top notch and chin at the bottom are fairly noticeable. Earlier this month, the Vivo V30 model was spotted on the NBTC certification in Thailand as well as UAE’s TDRA platform. Both of these sightings also point to the launch being right around the corner.

Back in December 2023, the Vivo V30 surfaced on NCC certification as well. This listing reveals the design of the smartphone and also reveals some of its key specifications. The design seen on NCC is in line with the latest image poster. Other sightings include Bluetooth SIG and GeekBench. So stick around for more as we will be providing updates when additional information is available regarding the new devices.

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Belkin Manufactures Battery Clip for the upcoming Apple Vision Pro

Belkin is set to release an official external battery clip for Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro headset. The accessory specifically addresses a problem that users who want to use the Vision Pro on the go but don’t have access to convenient storage options like pockets or backpacks face.

The Vision Pro headset is designed in a standalone configuration, featuring an external battery pack connected by a cable. To ensure user comfort and manage the device’s weight, Apple has opted for an external battery, requiring users to carry it while in use. The Belkin battery clip provides a practical solution by allowing users to attach the battery pack to their clothing.

The Vision Pro headset, a new product category for Apple, is set to arrive on February 2, with pre-orders starting shortly. In a report, Bloomberg highlighted Belkin’s development of the Apple Vision Pro battery clip. As the Vision Pro prioritizes user comfort by keeping the device weight manageable, the external battery pack introduces its own set of challenges. The clip addresses a key inconvenience associated with the bulkiness of the device, allowing users to keep their hands free for gestures and interactions with the Vision Pro while eliminating concerns about accidentally misplacing the battery.

The source quotes, “Belkin, will begin selling the clip alongside the Vision Pro when the headset debuts next month. Apple stores will stock the item, and, so far, it appears to be one of the only authorized accessories that will be available as early as launch day.”

Apple Vision Pro and Belkin Battery Clip Availability

This official accessory will be available for purchase starting from the Vision Pro’s launch date on February 2, and both Belkin and Apple will offer it. Belkin, known for its range of Apple-endorsed accessories, including iPhone screen protectors and MagSafe charging stands, has collaborated with Apple to develop this accessory.

While additional accessories for the Vision Pro are expected post-launch, Belkin’s battery clip stands out as the first official non-Apple accessory available for purchase on launch day. The pre-orders for Apple Vision Pro will start on January 19.

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Red Magic Realm 49-inch QD-OLED ultrawide gaming monitor now available for 9499 Yuan ($1335)

Red Magic, a subsidiary of Nubia, specializes in gaming-focused smartphones and accessories. Their products feature advanced technology like efficient cooling, high-refresh-rate screens, and gaming optimizations. They also offer gaming monitors, controllers, and audio devices, catering to gaming enthusiasts.

Last year in November, Red Magic revealed their “Realm” gaming monitor, though it hadn’t hit the market. The monitor is now listed for pre-order on JD.com, starting at a price of 9,499 Yuan ($1,335), which is slightly higher than the initial price of 8,999 Yuan ($1,265).

Red Magic Realm monitor

Red Magic Realm Specifications:

The highlight of this monitor is its 49-inch QD-OLED panel, supplied by Samsung. This panel boasts a 32:9 aspect ratio and an 1800R curvature, providing an immersive ultra-wide gaming experience. With a resolution of 5120×1440, the display delivers crisp and detailed visuals. One of the most notable features of this monitor is its impressive 240Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth and fluid motion in fast-paced games.

In terms of response time, this monitor is ahead of many competitors with a 0.03ms response time, making it an excellent choice for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. Additionally, it supports both AMD’s Free-Sync and NVIDIA’s G-Sync, eliminating issues like screen tearing and stuttering for a smoother gaming experience.

The monitor boasts excellent color performance, with 99% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and ΔE<1 color accuracy. It also offers a peak brightness of 1000 nits for a vibrant display.

The gaming monitor also offers extensive connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4, and a 90W USB-C interface, ensuring compatibility with various devices, including the latest gaming consoles. Additionally, it comes with 5W stereo speakers for enhanced audio-visual immersion.

Ergonomically, the monitor is designed with an adjustable tilt and swivel angle and supports a 100x100mm VESA wall mount. The monitor also incorporates advanced features like high-frequency PWM dimming, reducing low-frequency flicker for a more comfortable viewing experience, especially for those sensitive to flicker or spending long hours gaming.

Additionally, it includes a directional noise reduction microphone, enhancing in-game communication and online meetings. Its ultra-slim, sleek design adds a modern touch to gaming setups, while the integrated cable management system ensures a tidy and organized gaming area.

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MSI Confirms It Is Playing The Long Game With Claw, Future Iterations In Pipeline

At CES 2024, MSI announced the Claw handheld gaming console. It competes against the ASUS ROG Ally, Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go, and more in the market. In an interview with IGN, MSI revealed its future plans in the handheld gaming segment along with few more details. The company is playing the long game. Read on to know everything below.

More iterations of MSI Claw confirmed

MSI Claw

MSI confirmed that it will announce more iterations of the Claw handheld in the future. The company’s System Product Managing Director Clifford Chun revealed that they focussed on a 120Hz display on the device instead of OLED. The executive added that MSI may adopt an OLED panel on future versions of the Claw. The MSI Claw was in development for two years because the brand wanted to deliver a two-hour battery life and the Intel Core Ultra helped in achieving that. 

Commenting on the lifespan, Chun said that the MSI Claw aims to offer support for two to three years just like laptops. This is because game titles demand a lot more. The device can last for 10 years if users play retro games. The executive also added that MSI is anticipating version 2, version 3, version 4 of the Claw down the road and they are already said to be in the pipeline. The release window for future iterations is attributed to the CPU or graphic upgrade. 

The MSI Claw is also confirmed to feature Hall Effect joysticks and triggers for the best user experience. The handheld gaming console also has an AI engine just as MSI laptops. It changes the game mode to higher performance for higher frame rate and lower state while watching videos and preserving battery life. 

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Via

Apple silently removes “Open Sky” feature of Vision Pro from introductory video and website

Eagle-eyed observers have noticed a change in Apple‘s promotional materials for the upcoming Vision Pro mixed reality headset. When Apple first showed a video about this headset at the WWDC 2023, it was a bit longer at 9 minutes and 22 seconds. 

They have now subtly shortened the video with a key 11-second segment removed, so the video is now 9 minutes and 11 seconds. Notably, this missing clip showcased a feature called Open Sky Environment, which promised to virtually replace users’ ceilings with open skies.

Interestingly, references to Open Sky have also vanished from the official Vision Pro website, as spotted by X/Twitter user @M1Astra. In their place, Apple has placed renewed emphasis on the existing “Cinema Environment” that transforms rooms into personal movie theaters.

Apple Vision Pro Open Sky feature
(Left) Old text on the web page  | (Right) Updated text on the web page

So it looks like the Open Sky, for all its exciting potential, may not have made the final cut. We’re not sure why, but maybe Apple decided to focus on features that were easier to make sure worked well, to avoid disappointing people if Open Sky couldn’t be ready when the headset launches.

While Open Sky’s fate remains uncertain, the Vision Pro’s February launch date is still on track. The pre-orders will kick off on January 19, a few days later, while its pre-order process is a bit interesting. 

Apple says you will need an iPhone or iPad with Face ID to scan your face to order Vision Pro. This is done to determine the right size Light Seal and headbands to give a precise fit for users. 

Also, if you’re planning to order a Vision Pro, make sure your Apple store app is updated since only the latest version released on January 11 supports the Vision Pro face scanning feature.

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(Via)

OnePlus Buds 3 confirmed to launch on January 23 in India; Here are all the details

OnePlus is preparing to introduce the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R in India, scheduled for January 23. Following the recent debut of the OnePlus Buds 3 in China alongside the OnePlus Ace 3, the brand has officially announced that the OnePlus Buds 3 will also make its way to India on January 23.

OnePlus Buds 3 specifications:

As the earbuds have already launched in China, we already know all about the specs and features. The Buds 3 come with an in-ear with stem design, weighing 4.8 grams each. It features a 10.4mm composite diaphragm bass unit for detailed highs and deep bass.

With 49dB active noise cancellation, facilitated by a three-microphone AI system, these earbuds achieve up to a 99.6% reduction in background noise. LHDC 5.0 Hi-Res support ensures high-quality audio transmission, boasting a 96kHz sampling rate and 1Mbps wireless transmission speed.

For gamers, the OnePlus Buds 3 offers custom game sound effects, a new sound field expansion, 3D spatial sound effects, and 94ms low latency, making in-game sounds clearer and more immersive.

The earbuds offer an impressive 44 hours of usage with noise cancellation turned off and provide fast charging – a mere 10 minutes of charging delivers 7 hours of music playback. Moreover, the earphones are IP55-rated for dust and water resistance and use Bluetooth 5.3 for connectivity.

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iQOO Neo 7 Pro receives Android 14 OS based FunTouch OS 14 update

iQOO is rolling out the Android 14 OS update for the iQOO Neo 7 Pro model. The device is receiving the FunTouch OS 14 update that is based on Android’s latest iteration. So here is everything you need to know regarding the software upgrade.

iQOO Neo 7 Pro FunTouch OS 14 Update

The Chinese smartphone maker has released the FunTouch OS 14 based Android 14 custom skin in the Indian market. The latest software update arrives with the firmware version PD2232BF_EX_A_14.1.6.6 and carries an update size of around 6.33GB. With Android 14 OS, the Neo 7 Pro adds various new features, which include a fresh clock layout style and font adjustment. It brings a Smart Color inversion, Smart Color picking, and other forms of customizability.

The update adds custom resolutions when editing and exporting original quality video in video editing. It even supports a maximum of 4K videos at 60fps. To recall, the iQOO Neo 7 Pro sports a tall 6.78-inch E5 AMOLED display that offers Full HD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and 1500 nits of peak brightness. The rear packs a 50-megapixel triple camera setup, while the front houses a 16-megapixel selfie shooter.

The company announced the Neo 7 Pro last year. Under the hood, it features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC that is paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which also supports 120W wired fast charging. Notably, one variant of this device also offers a faux leather back panel while the other versions have an AG Glass coated panel.

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Xiaomi launches Mijia Smart Eye Massager in China for 449 Yuan ($63)

Xiaomi has launched its newest product, the Mijia Smart Eye Massager, in the Chinese market. This product is now available on Xiaomi Youpin, with crowdfunding set to commence at 10:00 on January 17th. The Mijia Smart Eye Massager is priced at 449 Yuan ($63).

Whether you’re a digital warrior battling screen fatigue, a stressed professional seeking downtime, or simply someone wanting to pamper your eyes, the Mijia Smart Eye Massager presents a compelling proposition. Let’s delve into the key specs of this massager.

Xiaomi Mijia Smart Eye Massager

Xiaomi Mijia Smart Eye Massager Specifications:

Mijia Smart Eye Massager is designed with a focus on the human eye structure, featuring a unique partitioned design with seven regions and four independent air valves. These valves effectively target eight significant acupressure points around the eyes, providing a comprehensive and tailored massage experience.

The massager includes five sets of large airbags and four smaller ones, offering three levels of adjustable massage intensity. This design emulates eye exercise techniques, enhancing the massage’s effectiveness. Additionally, the massager’s hollowed-out inner structure reduces pressure on the eyeballs and includes a transparent window for improved visibility of the surroundings.

The device uses skin-friendly protein leather, ensuring a soft and comfortable fit. The adjustable buckle design and elastic straps accommodate different head sizes. Moreover, the device boasts a high-quality, low-noise air valve system, ensuring a quiet operation at less than 50dB(A). Its foldable design makes it portable and convenient for on-the-go use.

Equipped with NTC temperature control technology, the Mijia Smart Eye Massager provides a three-level temperature adjustment. This feature, controllable via the Xiaomi Mi Home App, enables real-time monitoring and adjusting of the heat levels for a soothing experience.

Xiaomi Mijia Smart Eye Massager

The device’s smart connectivity with the Xiaomi Mi Home App allows users to control the massager’s working status and massage modes directly from their smartphones. It also features NFC quick connect for easy operation. With seven preset modes and the ability to store three custom modes via the app, the massager offers a variety of options to cater to different needs. These modes can also be used offline.

In terms of specifications, the massager has a battery capacity of 1200mAh, a charging time of approximately 2.5 hours, and dimensions of 234 × 115 × 76mm. It weighs around 370g and comes with a Type-C charging cable, a storage bag, and user manuals.

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Infinix Smart 8 goes on sale in India with a 50MP camera & 90Hz display

Last week, the Infinix Smart 8 was announced in the Indian market. The budget grade smartphone has officially gone on sale in the region. So here are all the details like its specs, pricing, color options, and availability.

Infinix Smart 8 Pricing and Availability

The smartphone brand will be available in multiple color options, namely Galaxy White, Rainbow Blue, Shiny Gold, and Timber Black. This model is a budget grade device that has a price tag of 7,499 INR (roughly 90 US Dollars). The Infinix Smart 8 went on sale in the country earlier today (15th January 2024) and is listed on Flipkart, a popular e-retailer in India.

Infinix Smart 8: Shiny Gold

Infinix Smart 8 Specs

The handset sports a 6.6-inch display that features an HD+ resolution, 500 nits of peak brightness, 90Hz refresh rate, 180Hz touch sampling rate, and 1500:1 contrast ratio. Under the hood, the Smart 8 is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G36 SoC that is paired with 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 64GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. Users can further expand storage by up to 2TB via a microSD card slot and also enhance the RAM by another 3GB via virtual memory expansion.

The smartphone runs on the Android 13 GO Edition based XOS 13 custom skin. The rear packs a 50-megapixel primary camera on the back with an AI lens and a quad LED ring flash, while the front houses an 8-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. Other notable features include a large 5,000mAh battery pack, side mounted fingerprint scanner, 189 grams in weight, Bluetooth 5.0, Dual SIM, and GPS.

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Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro discounted by up to $45 for Chinese New Year

The Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro were launched in China in August of 2022. They were announced alongside the Xiaomi Mix Fold 2.

The earbuds made their global debut half a year later at MWC 2023. Almost one and a half years after their launch, the wireless buds are available at a hefty discounted price in China right now.

Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro

Ahead of the Chinese New Year, Xiaomi has slashed the price of its flagship TWS in its home country. The accessory was originally priced at ¥1,099 (~$155). But now, it can be availed at just ¥779 (~$110).

It is worth noting that for the last few months, the product has been sold at ¥999 (~$140). So the new offer brings down its price by ¥320 ($45).

However, there’s a caveat. Anyone can get the ¥300 (~$40) discount coupon. But for the additional ¥20 (~$5) discount coupon, the cart value must be above ¥400 (~$55).

Even without the additional discount, the deal is still a good one for the features offered by the product. The offer is valid from January 12 to February 17.

The Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro house 11mm drivers. They connect via Bluetooth 5.3 and support quick pairing with Xiaomi smartphones and tablets.

The buds are Hi-Res Audio Wireless-certified. They also support Sony LDAC high-bitrate audio codec.

Just like any other premium wireless earbuds, the Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro also arrive with ANC (active noise cancellation) and transparency modes.  They are claimed to reduced external noise up to 48dB.

The buds offer touch gesture controls and can be connected to two devices at the same time. They are IP54-rated for splash resistance and their audio profiles can be customized through a companion app.

Last but not least, the earbuds with a head tracking-based 3D sound feature.

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WhatsApp is testing polls in channels

WhatsApp‘s feature set is expanding again, with polls arriving in Channels on Android as part of a recent beta update. This beta release (version 2.24.2.11) allows some testers to create polls within Channels, similar to existing functionality in individual and group chats.

The new “polls” option, accessible through the paperclip icon in Channel chats, lets users create questions with up to 12 options.

WhatsApp polls

Notably, the polls icon displays in green instead of the usual yellow, but the core functionality remains consistent: votes are anonymous, and even the poll creator won’t see individual responses.

While access to this feature isn’t guaranteed for all beta testers, its presence suggests a wider rollout could be approaching soon. Users on the Android beta program who want to gauge opinions within their Channels should keep an eye out for the green polls icon.

Right now, we don’t know exactly when this feature will be available to everyone. It’s still early days for this feature, so it will go through more testing and improvements in future beta versions. Although it’s exciting to think about using Polls in Channels, it could be a while before it’s available to all users.

Separately, another beta update (version 2.24.2.12) addresses a recent bug fix for Android users. A previous update had inadvertently broken the display of Status update thumbnails next to contact names. This new update restores that functionality, bringing back a familiar convenience.

These developments, along with the recent beta testing of advanced text formatting and themes on Android, indicate a flurry of activity from WhatsApp at the start of 2024.

With more features and improvements in the pipeline, the popular messaging app appears focused on keeping users engaged and anticipating future updates.

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(Source | Via)

OnePlus 12R global variant’s full design revealed in new leak

The OnePlus 12 series is set to be announced globally later this month. Now, a fresh leak has revealed the design of the OnePlus 12R that confirms that it is a rebranded Ace 3 model, which was recently unveiled in the brand’s home market of China.

OnePlus 12R Design Revealed

OnePlus 12R

The Chinese tech giant is gearing up to announce the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R in the global market on 23rd January 2024. But ahead of the official release, tipster Roland Quandt shared images of the 12R. These high res images offer us a full look at the 12R model in Blue and Black color options. The rear houses a large circular camera module that features a triple camera setup and an LED flash module. Meanwhile, the front houses a curved display with a center aligned punch hole selfie cutout for the selfie camera.

OnePlus 12R

The volume rockers and power buttons are situated on the right, while the alert slider is found on the left. To recall, the OnePlus 12R sports a tall 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 4500 nits of peak brightness, and 1.5K resolution. Under the hood, the smartphone is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC that is paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

OnePlus 12R

A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports 100W wired fast charging. Other notable features include 5G, WiFi 7, IR blaster, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC, and a USB Type C port. The OnePlus 12R live event is set to kick off on January 23 at 7:30 PM IST. So stay tuned for more as we will be covering the launch event.

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Apple could equip regular iPhone 16 and 16 Plus with 8GB RAM and Wi-Fi 6E

The upcoming iPhone 16 lineup might see a significant shift in Apple’s strategy for its standard models. Rumors suggest the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus could receive hardware upgrades previously reserved for their Pro counterparts, possibly narrowing the performance and feature gap.

Tech analyst Jeff Pu shared some insights about these changes in a recent investor note. Pu suggests that all iPhone 16 models will have 8GB of RAM.

This is an upgrade for the standard models since the current iPhone 15 and 15 Plus only have 6GB, which means the new phones could handle multiple tasks and demanding apps better.

iPhone 16 RAM Wi-Fi 6E

The analyst also expects the base iPhones to come with Wi-Fi 6E support which uses 6GHz frequency for faster download and upload speeds, though a compatible router would be necessary. Right now, only the iPhone 15 Pro models have this feature.

Another interesting change might be in the camera design. Pu says Apple is testing a new layout for the cameras, similar to the iPhone 12, moving away from the diagonal design seen in recent models.

We’ve already talked about these possible changes in a previous report, which included early renders of the new phones. Pu’s information seems to match what we knew before.

These changes would make the standard iPhone 16 models a lot more like the Pro versions. The Pro models will probably still have some unique features, but the difference between them might not be as big.

However, remember that all of this is still just speculation. Apple’s final plans for the iPhone 16 could change before they officially announce it later this year. So, while these updates sound great, it’s best to take them with a pinch of salt.

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Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW400 Pro Set with 132° viewing angle, 2.5K resolution & IP66 water proofing unveiled

After recently debuting the Xiaomi 360 Home Security Camera 2K in India, Xiaomi is set to launch the new Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW400 Pro Set, a smart surveillance camera with several advanced features on the world stage.

Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW 400 Pro Set

Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW400 Pro Set specs:

Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW 400 Pro Set

The Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW400 Pro Set features a solar-powered battery alongside a high-capacity 10000mAh battery, a wide 132° field of view, multi-level data encryption, and an IP66 rating for waterproof and dust-resistant properties. It also includes 2.5K ultra-clear night vision, AI detection, and precise recognition. Designed for easy installation and use, the camera ensures clear imaging in various environments, thanks to a larger f/1.6 aperture that enhances light sensitivity.

Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW 400 Pro Set specs

Tailored for outdoor usage, the camera has high-power infrared lights, full-color LED lights for effective night vision, and an impressive 180-day battery life under normal usage conditions. The Xiaomi Solar Outdoor Camera BW400 Pro Set is equipped with an AI chip for smart computing, facilitating two-way voice calling. Its professional outdoor design includes dust and waterproof features. The camera supports wireless connectivity, local SD card storage, and cloud storage as well. Additionally, it is compatible with popular voice assistants Google Assistant and Alexa.

Pricing & availability

Although the camera is already listed on Xiaomi’s global website, pricing and availability details are yet to be unveiled. Stay tuned for updates on the matter.

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Asus Rog RX Eva Edition Keyboard/Blade 3 EVA Edition Mouse Launched for 599/799 Yuan (~$84/112)

Asus took to CES 2024 with plenty of new devices and technology that promises major advancements over the present hardware. The company also introduced a new Asus Rog RX keyboard and an Asus Blade 3 mouse. Surprisingly, the EVA Edition of both the accessories, the Asus Rog RX Keyboard and the Asus Blade 3 Mouse, is now official in China for 599 Yuan (~$84) and 799 Yuan (~$112). Interested buyers can grab the package for 198 in China, which is presently exclusive to Rog members.

The Asus Rog RX Keyboard and Blade 3 Envagelion models bring changes in design and acoustics and come with a 104-key layout. Further, the keyboard bundles RX Red and Blue switches, with a promising lifespan of 100 million times. It is built on an aluminum alloy panel and features ABS keycaps for smooth tap. It uses USB 2.0 connectivity and is IP57 waterproof and dustproof. The keyboard also supports light synchronization with other compatible hardware.

Talking about the Asus Blade 3 EVA Edtion Mouse, bundles a 36K high-quality sensor along with Speed Nova wireless connectivity. The mouse weighs around 79 grams and supports three different connectivity modes: WiFi 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, and wire. It also supports Shenguang sync with other hardware. There are certain design changes too; the mouse comes with ROG-textured anti-slip stickers. It offers up to 143 hours of battery life.

Additionally, the standard Asus Rog Blade 3 Wireless Mouse retails for 499 Yuan, and the Asus ROG RX keyboard is available for 549 Yuan from JD.com in China. The company recently introduced a new innovative Ergo Air Gaming Backpack, ROG Falchion RX Low Profile keyboard, a new ROG Keris II Ace ultralight gaming mouse, ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova gaming headphones and earbuds, and a ROG Tessen Mobile Controller. The company also introduced the latest Asus Rog Phone 8 at CES 2024. A few new OLED gaming monitors and laptops were also introduced.

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