Xiaomi is steadily expanding its presence in Europe’s home appliance market, and its latest move brings a connected washer-dryer combo to the UK.
The Xiaomi Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer Pro 9kg is now available for £599. The washing machine has been rolling out across parts of Europe since late last year, and it’s already been spotted in markets like Germany and France at slightly lower prices. Now it’s officially landed in the UK as well.
At its core, this is a 9kg front-load washer that also handles drying, aimed at people who don’t have space (or patience) for separate machines. It supports a range of programs, including a 36-minute Smart Wash and a shorter 12-minute cycle for lighter loads. Xiaomi also claims it can wash and dry 3kg of laundry in around three hours. That’s not lightning-fast, but for a combo unit, it’s reasonable.
Steam cleaning is part of the package too. The company says it can eliminate up to 99.99% of bacteria, which is increasingly becoming a standard claim in this category. The machine carries a Class A energy rating and is said to be more efficient than the minimum requirement for that tier.
Where Xiaomi really leans in is the smart functionality. Through the Xiaomi Home app, users can start or pause cycles remotely, check remaining time, schedule washes, and even receive firmware updates.
There’s also automatic detergent dosing for up to two products. The machine adjusts the amount based on the selected program and load size.
One detail that stands out is the self-cleaning system. Washer-dryer combos are known for collecting lint and residue over time, and maintenance can be a chore. Xiaomi says this model uses high-pressure water to rinse parts of the drying system and periodically cleans the drum and detergent drawer at high temperatures. In theory, that means less manual upkeep.
At £599, it’s not exactly entry-level, but it’s competitive for a smart washer-dryer with these features. For households already invested in Xiaomi’s ecosystem, it makes a certain kind of sense.
Motorola has started teasing its next Edge series phone in India, and all signs point to the upcoming Motorola Edge 70 Fusion.
The company hasn’t explicitly named the device in its initial X posts, but the hints are hard to miss. One teaser cleverly played around with the word “fusion,” alongside images of a new handset in bright, textured finishes. Shortly after, Flipkart went live with a dedicated promo page carrying the tagline, “a fusion that gives you the edge.” At that point, the identity was pretty clear.
Color options confirmed
Flipkart’s microsite confirms three color options for India: Pantone Blue Surf, Pantone Country Air, and Pantone Silhouette. All three appear to feature Motorola’s now-familiar leather-inspired textured back, which has become a signature look for the brand’s recent Edge devices.
Earlier global leaks suggested as many as five Pantone shades, including Orient Blue and Sporting Green, but it looks like India may be getting a trimmed-down selection at launch.
The overall design sticks to Motorola’s recent formula: curved display edges, slim bezels, and a distinct camera module that blends into the back panel.
One confirmed detail is the presence of a “LYTIA camera,” which likely refers to a Sony LYTIA sensor. Leaks suggest the main camera could be a 50MP unit, with improved low-light performance.
As for the processor, earlier rumors pointed toward the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. However, more recent leaks, including marketing renders and benchmark listings, suggest the phone may instead use the newer Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. If true, that would bring modest CPU and GPU improvements, along with better efficiency compared to the previous generation.
The rest of the spec sheet hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, but leaks paint a fairly ambitious mid-range picture. The Edge 70 Fusion is rumored to pack:
A massive 7,000mAh battery
68W fast charging
A 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate
Up to 12GB RAM
Android 16 out of the box
Launch timeline
Flipkart has promised more details on February 23, while subtle hints in the promo page URL suggest February 26 could be a key date — possibly for launch or availability. Motorola hasn’t officially confirmed the timeline yet.
Choosing between two phones that look almost identical but promise very different experiences can be surprisingly tricky, and that’s exactly the case with the Vivo V70 and Vivo V70 Elite. On paper, both share the same premium design, display, and camera hardware, yet their real difference lies in performance and positioning. One focuses on balanced value, while the other pushes toward flagship-level power. This comparison matters because the price gap isn’t huge, making it important to know whether the extra money truly changes the everyday experience or just adds numbers on a spec sheet.
Amazon Pre-Sale Discounts (Vivo V70 Series)
Amazon’s pre-sale for the Vivo V70 series is live, with official shipments starting from February 27. The Vivo V70 base variant is priced at ₹50,000, but the pre-sale discounted price brings it down to ₹46,000. The Vivo V70 Elite base variant, originally priced at ₹55,000, is available at a discounted pre-sale price of ₹52,000. Buyers can also combine these price cuts with additional launch offers, including bank discounts, EMI options, exchange bonuses, and other deals listed on the Amazon product page.
Both Vivo V70 and V70 Elite follow a premium design approach with a glass front, aluminum alloy frame, and either glass or fiber-reinforced back finishes. The overall styling feels modern and refined, giving both phones a flagship-like presence in daily use. Water and dust resistance adds a practical layer of durability, making them feel reliable beyond just looks. Since the design language is shared, the difference here is more about positioning than appearance; the Elite feels like a performance-focused variant rather than a visual upgrade. This similarity can actually be a positive, as buyers don’t have to compromise on aesthetics when choosing the more affordable model.
Display Quality
Both devices use the same AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and very high peak brightness. Colors look vibrant, contrast remains deep, and smooth animations make scrolling and gaming feel premium. Outdoor visibility is excellent, and the display experience feels equally polished on both models. In real-world use, there is virtually no separation between them visually.
Verdict
Design and display are essentially tied. The V70 stands out as the smarter pick here since it delivers the same premium viewing experience without paying extra.
2. Specifications Including Battery
Performance
The main difference between these two phones appears under the hood. Vivo V70 runs on the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, which handles daily apps, multitasking, and moderate gaming smoothly. Vivo V70 Elite steps up to the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, offering noticeably stronger performance for demanding games, heavier editing tasks, and longer-term performance stability. The Elite feels faster under pressure, especially when pushing graphics or multitasking heavily. Still, the standard V70 proves that upper mid-range chips now deliver a very polished everyday experience without feeling slow.
Battery and Charging
Both phones pack a large 6500mAh battery with 90W fast charging, reverse wired charging, and bypass charging. Endurance should comfortably last a full day, even with heavy use, and charging speeds remain equally impressive. The V70 may feel slightly more power-efficient due to its chipset, while the Elite focuses more on raw speed and sustained performance.
Verdict
Performance clearly favors the V70 Elite, but battery experience remains equally strong on both. The choice depends on whether raw power or balanced efficiency is more important.
3. Camera
Main and Secondary Lenses
Camera hardware is nearly identical across both devices, featuring a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with 3.7x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide camera. Image output should be very similar, delivering sharp details, balanced colors, and strong zoom versatility. The V70 Elite adds a color spectrum sensor and slightly improved HDR video processing, which can help with more consistent tones in complex lighting scenes. In everyday photography, however, differences remain subtle rather than dramatic, making both phones strong camera performers in their segment.
Selfie Camera
Each model uses the same 50MP autofocus selfie camera capable of 4K video recording. Selfies are expected to look detailed with natural skin tones, and autofocus helps maintain sharpness in both photos and video calls. Social media creators and casual users alike will find the front camera experience consistent across both models.
Verdict
Camera performance is nearly equal, but the V70 Elite takes a slight lead due to small processing improvements. The V70 still delivers flagship-style results without clear compromises.
4. Pricing
Vivo V70 is priced at around ₹50,000, while Vivo V70 Elite comes in at approximately ₹55,000. The almost ₹5,000 difference mainly reflects the jump to a more powerful processor and small imaging refinements rather than major hardware changes. For buyers comparing pure features, the pricing gap feels narrow enough to make the decision more about usage style than budget limits.
Is the Price Justified?
The V70 offers stronger value because it delivers the same design, display, battery, and almost identical camera experience at a lower price. The Elite justifies its higher cost for users who want extra performance headroom for gaming or long-term heavy usage. The pricing strategy feels balanced, but the benefits of the Elite are more performance-focused than all-around upgrades.
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and may vary based on country, region, and applicable taxes.
Verdict
Vivo V70 wins on value for most users, while V70 Elite makes sense for buyers prioritizing performance and future-proofing.
5. Conclusion
Both smartphones offer premium AMOLED displays, large batteries, fast charging, and Zeiss-tuned camera systems, creating a flagship-like experience regardless of choice. The real separation lies in processing power; the V70 Elite targets users who want stronger gaming performance and longer-term speed consistency, while the V70 focuses on delivering a balanced experience at a more accessible price. This makes the lineup easy to understand, as buyers are essentially choosing between value and extra performance rather than completely different devices.
Verdict
Vivo V70 is the smarter all-round choice thanks to its pricing and balanced specifications. Vivo V70 Elite is the better option for power users who want higher performance ceilings and slightly refined imaging performance without changing the overall experience.
Gemini 3.1 Pro is the company’s most capable LLM with stronger core reasoning and better performance on complex, multi-step work. It outperforms the best from Anthropic and OpenAI across many benchmarks. Here, I’ll show you the top 5 ways to access Gemini 3.1 Pro for free with all the steps.
Image credit: Google
How to use Gemini 3.1 Pro for free (5 methods)
1. Google Gemini
This is the easiest and quickest way to test the capabilities of Gemini 3.1 Pro. Simply go to gemini.google.com, choose the “Pro” option, and get things done.
Step 2: Log in to your Google account (if not logged in).
Step 3: Tap the mode selector and choose “Pro”.
Step 4: Type your prompt and hit Enter.
If you’re using a smartphone, it’s best to download the Google Gemini app from Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone). The steps remain the same.
Please note that the free version of Google Gemini allows only a few messages per day for Gemini 3.1 Pro. That’s best for the testing purpose. However, you can upgrade to the Pro or Ultra plan to increase your limits. Luckily, there are ways to get Google Gemini Pro for free for a year. Comment below if you want a detailed post on that.
2. Google’s Vertex AI platform
Google is offering $300 in free credits to use Google Cloud services, including the Vertex AI platform, which allows us access to Gemini 3.1 Pro, Google Veo, and many other AI tools. Note that free credits are available for 90 days. After which, they expire.
Step 2: Choose your Google account and your country.
Step 3: Fill in your contact information, then verify a payment method.
[Note: You won’t be charged automatically even after the free trial ends unless you do a manual activation. You can verify the same in the screenshot below.]
Step 4: In your Google Cloud dashboard, tap the menu button and choose “Vertex AI”.
Step 5: Click “Try now” below Vertex AI Studio.
Step 6: Click “Agree & continue” to enable the required APIs for using Vertex AI Studio.
Step 7: Choose “Gemini 3.1 Pro” and start using it.
The $300 free credit gives you very high usage limits to Google’s top AI models for 90 days. You can even create videos, build tools using coding, and do a lot more stuff without paying a penny.
3. Try That LLM
This is an easy and free tool for comparing responses from various LLMs. The platform offers dozens of LLMs to test your prompt, including Gemini 3.1 Pro, Claude Opus 4.6, and ChatGPT 5.2.
This is super easy to use. Just sign up on the website (it takes less than a minute), choose your model, and start using it. The best part is you don’t need to fill in payment details.
Step 1: Go to trythatllm.com and click the “Sign up” button.
Step 2: Fill in basic details to create your account.
Step 3: Verify your email.
Step 4: Tap “New Prompt Group”.
Step 5: Click “Choose an LLM” and select Google > Gemini 3.1 Preview.
Step 6: Click “Confirm LLM + Start Prompting”.
Step 7: Enter your message in the prompt section and click “Confirm Prompt”.
You get 1000 free credits when you create an account. Note that these are one-time credits and are not added every month.
4. Arena AI
Arena AI also lets you compare different LLMs for free. The best part is that you don’t need to sign up on the platform to use Gemini 3.1 Pro or any other LLM. Just open the website, choose your AI model, and start messaging.
Step 1: Go to Arena.ai and make sure side-by-side mode is selected.
Step 2: Tap on the first LLM field.
Step 3: Search for “Gemini 3.1 Pro” and choose the right LLM from.
Step 4: Write your message/prompt in the Ask anything section and enter.
Arena AI is completely free to test LLMs, but it doesn’t offer unlimited responses. The platform provides pretty generous limits, which should be more than enough for small use cases.
5. ChatPlayGround AI
ChatPlayGround AI also offers access to dozens of LLM models, including Gemini 3.1 Pro, Claude Opus 4.6, and ChatGPT 5.2. Unlike Try That LLM and Arena AI, this AI tool lets you use images and PDFs with your message. But what’s the catch here? It doesn’t have a free plan; instead, it offers a 3-day free trial, and for that, you’ll need to link your bank cards.
So, if you only need access to Gemini 3.1 Pro and other LLMs with better capabilities, you can go for the free trial, but make sure to cancel the plan before three days to avoid any charges. Simply go to chatplayground.ai, tap “Sign Up”, and fill in the required details to get started.
Be sure to visit the AI section on Gizmochina regularly for the latest updates.
Casio has launched two limited-edition models, the Oceanus OCWSG1000CN1A and OCWS7000CN1A, in the United States. These watches, part of Casio’s premium Oceanus Manta series, first debuted in global markets last year and are now available in limited quantities in the US.
Design Details
The OCWSG1000CN1A costs $4,800 and is limited to only 600 pieces worldwide. Casio engraved each watch with a unique serial number to highlight its exclusivity. The watch design takes inspiration from a Calm Night theme, evoking the look of a moonlit sea.
Casio used Edo Kiriko craftsmanship for the sapphire glass bezel, with each cut handcrafted by third-generation Edo Kiriko artisan Toru Horiguchi. The titanium case features a DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, which enhances durability and gives the watch a sleek, polished appearance.
Casio equipped the OCWSG1000CN1A with Gallium Tough Solar technology, which significantly improves power generation efficiency. The watch includes advanced timekeeping features such as Bluetooth connectivity, multi-band radio-controlled timekeeping, and automatic time adjustments. It also offers water resistance up to 10 bars and a textured dial that resembles the moon’s surface.
The OCWS7000CN1A is priced at $2,200 and features a similar Calm Night design theme. Casio crafted this model with an all-black titanium case and an Edo Kiriko sapphire glass bezel. The dial incorporates a silver and black gradient, creating depth and a dynamic aesthetic. The blue accents on the watch reflect light differently depending on the angle, mimicking the ocean’s natural movement.
Casio designed the OCWS7000CN1A to be slimmer and lighter, measuring just 9.8 mm thick and weighing 81 grams. The watch includes Bluetooth connectivity, multi-band timekeeping, and a solar-powered battery with an operating life of up to five months on a full charge. It is limited to only 1,600 pieces worldwide.
Both models provide additional features like 100-meter water resistance, smartphone connectivity via the Casio Watches app, and support for over 300 world time cities.
With the rollout of One UI 8.5 Beta 5 for the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung has quietly introduced a major refresh to Bixby. The changelog only mentions an applied Bixby version upgrade, but early testers are reporting much bigger changes under the surface.
The update is currently rolling out in regions including the US, UK, Germany, India, Korea, and Poland, with a download size of around 550MB and the February 2026 security patch.
According to beta users, the assistant now delivers noticeably faster and more detailed answers. It can generate longer, structured content, such as poems, essays, and in-depth explanations, directly on device.
There are also signs of deeper web integration. Bixby appears to pull real-time information from online sources, and some testers have noticed a small Perplexity icon appearing in certain search results. Samsung hasn’t officially confirmed the integration in this beta, but the visual cue strongly suggests backend support from Perplexity AI.
Image: SammyFans
In practical terms, that means Bixby is starting to feel less like a basic voice command tool and more like a conversational assistant.
Better device control
Beyond web queries, Bixby seems more responsive when controlling the phone itself. Natural-language commands such as “Set display brightness to 30 percent” or “Change system sound to level 3” execute instantly, without requiring users to navigate through menus. That may sound minor, but smoother system-level control is exactly where voice assistants often fall short.
The assistant now appears to better understand both the device and online context, blending hardware control with web-powered intelligence.
Samsung has also updated the visual experience. When activated, Bixby now displays a cleaner, pill-shaped animation bar at the bottom of the screen. The Bixby icon sits on the left, the microphone on the right, and the edges glow subtly while listening. The overall design feels more modern and less intrusive.
Bixby has long struggled to compete with Google Assistant and, more recently, Gemini. But this update suggests Samsung is taking its assistant more seriously again. With the stable version of One UI 8.5 expected to debut alongside the Samsung Galaxy S26 at Galaxy Unpacked on February 25, this beta may be laying the groundwork for a broader AI push.
Sony’s next flagship earbuds, the Sony WF-1000XM6, are drawing attention for more than just sound quality. A recent teardown based on FCC filings suggests Sony has quietly made the new model easier to repair, particularly when it comes to battery replacement.
That may not sound flashy, but for long-term owners of these expensive earbuds, it’s a big deal.
The analysis, published by The Walkman Blog, pulls from internal photos and schematics included in US FCC documentation. One key change stands out: Sony has removed the ribbon cable that previously connected the top cover to the main internal components.
Why does that matter? Ribbon cables are fragile. During disassembly, especially when trying to replace aging batteries, they’re easy to tear. Removing that component simplifies the process and reduces the risk of accidental damage. For a product category often criticized for being difficult to repair, that’s a meaningful step.
Inside the earbuds
Internal photos reveal Bluetooth antenna contacts, touch sensor connectors, microphone openings, and a MEMS mic mounted directly on the board. There’s also a transparent plastic layer on top, a small design touch that visually separates this generation from earlier leaks.
The battery is listed as model Z55FA, rated at 3.85V. Multiple suppliers are mentioned, including Springpower, Highpower (TH), VDL, and Zhuhai ZeniPower Battery Co., Ltd., with signs pointing to ZeniPower as a primary source. Capacity isn’t disclosed in the FCC paperwork.
On the silicon side, the teardown confirms an updated system-in-package module labeled GSBR-005 (version 3-2), integrating an MT2833 Bluetooth chip. Although resin coating obscures some details, component sizing suggests the new QN3e noise-canceling chip is noticeably larger than the previous QN2e.
Sony’s XM series has long been considered among the best in the noise-canceling true wireless category. By improving internal design for easier servicing, without compromising premium hardware, Sony seems to be addressing one of the biggest long-term pain points in wireless earbuds: battery degradation.
Of course, real-world performance will ultimately decide how compelling the upgrade is. But on paper, the WF-1000XM6 look like a refinement in more ways than one. It’s already available for $329.99 on Sony’s US website.
Apple’s March 4 “special Apple Experience” event is almost here, and a fresh macOS update may have just revealed more than the company intended. Digging through macOS 26.3, developers have found references to three unreleased device identifiers hidden inside kernel extensions.
While Apple hasn’t officially announced anything yet, the codenames strongly suggest new hardware is on the way, possibly including a more affordable MacBook and updated Studio Displays.
A lower-cost MacBook could finally be coming
The most talked-about codename is J700, which many believe refers to a new entry-level MacBook. Apple hasn’t seriously targeted the sub-$800 laptop segment in years. The MacBook Air still starts around the $849–$999 range depending on configuration, and while that’s competitive, it’s not exactly “budget.”
Reports suggest this new model could land somewhere between $599 and $799. To get there, Apple may skip its usual M-series silicon and instead use the Apple A18 Pro, the same chip expected in the iPhone 16 Pro lineup.
That might sound like a downgrade, but early benchmarks indicate the A18 Pro slightly outperforms the original M1 in certain tasks, while offering excellent power efficiency. For everyday tasks on macOS — web browsing, streaming, document work, even light creative tasks — it should be more than enough.
Rumored specs point to a 12.9-inch display (roughly 13 inches), an aluminum build, and a range of brighter color options. If accurate, this would mark Apple’s most aggressive push into mainstream laptop pricing in quite some time.
Two additional identifiers, J427 and J527, appear to reference updated versions of the Apple Studio Display. Details are still fuzzy, but speculation suggests Apple could be preparing refreshed 27-inch 5K models, possibly with mini-LED backlighting. That would bring better contrast, improved HDR performance, and potentially higher brightness.
There’s also talk of higher refresh rates — maybe 90Hz or even 120Hz — bringing ProMotion-style smoothness to Apple’s standalone displays.
Apple’s New York event, with parallel sessions in London and Shanghai, is being described as a “special experience” rather than a traditional keynote. That wording suggests this may be more of a hands-on preview for media than a big livestream presentation.
Samsung has already released five One UI 8.5 beta builds for the Galaxy S25 trio, and it appears the brand is still not done with the beta testing. Just recently, a new beta build was spotted on the test server, which could be the sixth for the S25 series. Now, if you’re wondering whether a new beta will cause a delay to the stable release or when the stable update will arrive, then stick to the post as we dig deeper to find those answers.
The One UI 8.5 beta program went live in early December for the Galaxy S25 series. At regular intervals, Samsung continued to push more beta builds to fix bugs and enhance the software experience. The Beta 3, in particular, brought some hope of a quicker, stable release, as the build reportedly had a near-stable smoothness with no obvious bugs. However, Samsung wasn’t convinced.
The fourth beta landed in early February, and then the fifth one arrived this week. While these builds primarily aimed to improve software smoothness and squash previously discovered bugs, they also introduced a couple of new features. Beta 4 added Direct Voicemail, and Beta 5 debuted AI-powered Bixby.
Samsung might release another One UI 8.5 beta soon, as a new build has just been spotted on the server (via Alfaturk) with firmware version ZZB7. This could go live next month as the sixth beta update for the Galaxy S25 series. We don’t know how many more are on the way. Last year, Samsung released seven One UI 8.0 beta builds before pushing the stable update. So, there could be one or two more beta builds for One UI 8.5 in the queue before we actually start receiving the stable update.
Samsung hasn’t announced when it will start rolling out the stable One UI 8.5 update. However, if past rollouts are anything to go by, we can expect the rollout to begin in late March 2026, starting with the Galaxy S25 series.
It’s been surprising to see that Samsung didn’t expand the One UI 8.5 beta program beyond the Galaxy S25 series. The brand has not confirmed if more devices will get the beta update. This could mean a direct stable release for other Galaxy models. That shouldn’t be concerning if Samsung quickly rolls out the One UI 8.5 update to its eligible devices. That seems more likely as the brand is reportedly gearing up to release the next-gen foldable devices with One UI 9.0 (Android 16) around July or August. Samsung would be looking to wrap up the One UI 8.5 rollout before that.
We’ll continue to update you with the latest developments around One UI 8.5 in the Samsung section on this website. Remember to visit that regularly. Also, join our Telegram channel to get instant notifications about the breaking news and software rollouts.
The Vivo V70 and Realme 16 Pro+ 5G are two of the latest smartphones competing in the mid-to-high-end segment in India.
Both devices bring strong specifications, including premium displays, powerful processors, and advanced camera systems, making them direct competitors in this space.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which phone meets your needs better.
The Vivo V70 features a flat-edge design with an aerospace-grade metal frame. Vivo has focused on making the phone ergonomic with its Golden Grip size, which ensures comfortable one-handed use. The phone comes in color options like Passion Red, Lemon Yellow, Sand Beige, and Authentic Black.
The Realme 16 Pro+ uses a unique Urban Wild design with a back panel made of bio-based organic silicone. Realme offers a wheat-grain texture on its Camellia Pink variant, which is exclusive to India. Other options include Master Gold and Master Grey.
The Vivo V70 has a 6.59-inch flat 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 5000 nits peak brightness. The Realme 16 Pro+ offers a slightly larger 6.8-inch flat 1.5K OLED display with a faster 144Hz refresh rate. The Realme display reaches up to 6500 nits peak brightness, making it better for outdoor use.
While both displays are HDR10+ certified, Realme’s higher refresh rate and brighter screen give it an edge in this category.
2. Performance
The Vivo V70 and Realme 16 Pro+ are both powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, built on a 4nm process. While both devices feature LPDDR5X RAM, the Vivo V70 uses UFS 4.1 storage, offering faster read and write speeds compared to the UFS 3.1 storage in the Realme 16 Pro+.
Both phones feature vapor chamber cooling systems and perform well for gaming and heavy tasks. Vivo includes 4D game vibration with an X-axis linear motor for an immersive gaming experience, while Realme adds AI Gaming Coach features, which provide useful insights and tools for gamers.
The performance is nearly identical, but the V70 takes the lead in this round due to its inclusion of UFS 4.1 storage.
3. Cameras
The Vivo V70 boasts a Zeiss-engineered triple camera setup. It includes a 50MP OIS main sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide sensor.
The Realme 16 Pro+ uses a 200MP primary camera featuring a Samsung HP5 sensor. It also includes a 50MP 3.5x periscope telephoto lens with up to 120x digital zoom, along with an 8MP ultra-wide sensor.
Realme offers stronger on-paper camera hardware, but Vivo may deliver more consistent real-world results, especially in low-light scenes and color accuracy.
4. Battery and Charging
The Vivo V70 packs a 6500mAh battery with 90W fast charging. The Realme 16 Pro+ has a larger 7000mAh battery with 80W fast charging. Both phones offer excellent battery life and quick charging speeds.
5. Software and Others
The Vivo V70 runs OriginOS 6 based on Android 16, while the Realme 16 Pro+ runs Realme UI 7.0. Vivo promises four major OS updates and six years of security patches, whereas Realme offers three major Android OS updates and four years of security patches.
The Vivo V70 is equipped with a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which offers faster and more accurate recognition, even with wet or oily fingers. The Realme 16 Pro+ uses an optical fingerprint sensor, which is reliable but not as advanced as Vivo’s ultrasonic solution.
6. Pricing
The Vivo V70 is priced at ₹45,999 for the base 8GB + 256GB variant, while the 12GB + 256GB model costs ₹49,999.
The Realme 16 Pro+ initially launched at ₹39,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant, but a recent price hike has raised the starting price to ₹43,999.
7. Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
To be honest, both the Vivo V70 and Realme 16 Pro+ are extremely competitive at their respective price points. Both devices offer balanced performance and well-rounded camera setups, making it difficult to choose between them. However, if you ask me, I would pick the Vivo V70 for its strength in camera tuning. While the Realme 16 Pro+ comes with a 200MP sensor, Vivo’s expertise in camera optimization gives it a slight edge, especially in consistency and low-light performance.
When it comes to gaming, both phones are solid performers, but Realme offers a slight advantage with its gaming-focused features, such as AI Gaming Coach. If you’re someone who’s nitpicky about software tools and gaming-specific specs, Realme might be the better option for you.
Ultimately, it all comes down to pricing. If we compare the two in terms of value for money, Realme is the clear winner here, offering many flagship-level features at a more affordable price.
For more daily updates, please visit ourNews Section.
With the Nothing Phone (4a) series set to launch on March 5, the company has now confirmed at least one important detail: the new phones will run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets.
Nothing Phone (4a) series chipset teaser
The confirmation came via a teaser post on X, where Nothing shared an image featuring the Snapdragon logo and made it clear that both the Phone (4a) and the Phone (4a) Pro will use Qualcomm silicon. That continues the trend from the Phone (3a) series, which used the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. What hasn’t been confirmed yet is which Snapdragon chip we’re getting this time.
Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 looks likely
Leaks and benchmark listings strongly suggest that at least the base model could be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4. The chip is built on a 4nm process and features a Cortex-A720 prime core clocked at 2.7GHz, alongside additional performance and efficiency cores, paired with an Adreno GPU.
On paper, it should deliver modest performance and efficiency gains over the previous generation, nothing dramatic, but enough to keep the (4a) competitive in the mid-range segment.
As for the Pro variant, things are less clear. Some reports suggest it could use the same 7s Gen 4, while others hint at a step up, possibly a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4.
Beyond the processor, both models are rumored to share some core specs. A 5,400mAh battery with 50W wired charging is expected across the lineup, along with a 50MP telephoto camera offering 3.5x optical zoom.
Nothing Phone (4a) Glyph Bar
Where they may differ more noticeably is in the rear lighting setup. The standard Phone (4a) is confirmed to feature a simplified “Glyph Bar” with nine individually controlled LEDs for cleaner lighting effects. The Pro model, meanwhile, could adopt a more advanced “Glyph Matrix” system, potentially inspired by the higher-end Phone (3) and its expanded rear lighting interface.
With the launch scheduled for March 5 (4 PM IST in India), we won’t have to wait much longer for official confirmation. For now, the real question is how much separation the Pro model will get, and whether the chipset choice brings a noticeable jump over last year’s (3a).
iQOO is set to launch the iQOO 15R 5G smartphone in India on February 24. The company has already revealed key details of the device, including that it will be powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip. Now, a fresh leak has revealed the price of the phone just ahead of the launch.
According to tipster PassionateGeekz on X, the iQOO 15R 5G could start at Rs 45,999 for the 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. The 12GB + 256GB model could launch at Rs 47,999, while the top-end 12GB + 512GB option may retail for Rs 52,999.
iQOO 15R 5G Specifications
At the center of the iQOO 15R 5G is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, paired with OriginOS 6 based on Android 16. The company has promised four years of Android updates along with six years of security patches on the software.
Moreover, the phone is said to pack a massive 7,600mAh battery with 100W FlashCharge support. To keep thermals in check, iQOO is reportedly including a 6.5K IceCore VC cooling system.
On the display side, the iQOO 15R 5G features a 1.5K AMOLED panel with a 144Hz refresh rate. The company is also marketing it as an “EyeCare” display, which also supports HDR10+ and reaches up to 5,000 nits of local peak brightness.
The iQOO 15R carries a dual rear camera setup led by a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-700V primary sensor with optical image stabilisation, supported by an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The details about the front camera aren’t out yet.
Additional features include IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, and an IR blaster. The device will launch in Triumph Silver and Dark Knight colour options.
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Xiaomi‘s sub-brand POCO is expected to launch two new mid-range smartphones globally, the POCO X8 Pro and POCO X8 Pro Max. Both devices were previously spotted in certifications and Geekbench listings. A new leak now shows the design of the two phones in multiple colors.
Poco X8 Pro MAX 5G
Poco X8 Pro MAX 5G
The renders were shared by X user @passionategkeez and show both models in black, white, and blue. The phones have a similar look with a pill-shaped camera module that includes a dual-camera setup. One clear difference is the flash. The Poco X8 Pro Max has a dual LED flash, while the Poco X8 Pro uses a single LED. From the front, both phones look almost identical with uniform bezels and a center punch-hole display.
Poco X8 Pro 5G
Earlier leaks also revealed detailed specifications. The Poco X8 Pro Max is tipped to use a 6.83-inch 1.5K TCL M10 OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 2000 nits brightness, and 3840Hz PWM dimming. It may run on the Dimensity 9500s with an Immortalis-G925 MC12 GPU, LPDDR5x Ultra RAM, and UFS 4.1 storage. The rear camera setup could include a 50MP Light Hunter 600 sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide camera, along with a 20MP OV20B front camera. Other features may include dual stereo speakers, LHDC 5.0 audio, a 3D ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings. The phone is also tipped to measure 8.15mm thick and weigh 219 grams.
The Poco X8 Pro is expected to feature a 6.59-inch 1.5K TCL M10 OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2000 nits brightness. It may run on the Dimensity 8500 Ultra with a Mali-G720 MC8 GPU, LPDDR5x Ultra RAM, and UFS 4.1 storage. The camera system could include a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 20MP selfie camera. It may pack a 6,500mAh battery with 100W wired charging and 27W reverse charging.
The Poco X8 Pro is also expected to include IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, a metal frame, NFC, an IR blaster, and an optical in-display fingerprint sensor. Connectivity may include Wi-Fi 6. Both phones are expected to launch with Android 16 and HyperOS 3 out of the box.
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Leaked internal emails indicate that Amazon-owned Ring may be planning to expand its AI-powered camera network far beyond its current use cases, raising fresh concerns about large-scale neighborhood surveillance.
According to emails obtained by 404 Media, Ring founder Jamie Siminoff told employees that the company’s controversial “Search Party” feature was introduced “first for finding dogs,” but could eventually evolve into technology aimed at reducing crime across neighborhoods. Search Party launched in October as an on-by-default feature that connects Ring cameras within a local area and uses AI to identify lost pets, effectively creating a shared detection network across participating homes.
“This is by far the most innovative that we have launched in the history of Ring,” Siminoff wrote in an email to staff shortly after the feature’s rollout. He added that the underlying system could become a key part of Ring’s long-term mission, describing a future where the company might help “zero out crime in neighborhoods” through AI-enabled tools.
The feature drew backlash during the Super Bowl after Ring promoted the concept in an advertisement. Critics argued that technology capable of scanning for lost animals could easily be repurposed for broader surveillance, particularly given Ring’s history of partnerships with police departments across the United States.
Recent product launches appear to reinforce those concerns. Ring has introduced “Familiar Faces,” a facial recognition feature designed to identify known individuals captured on cameras, as well as “Fire Watch,” which uses AI to alert users about nearby fires. While these tools are marketed as safety features, privacy advocates warn they could contribute to an increasingly interconnected surveillance ecosystem.
Additional emails obtained by 404 Media also highlight Ring’s growing law enforcement integrations. The company launched a “Community Requests” feature in September, allowing police to request footage directly from camera owners through a partnership with public safety technology firm Axon. Siminoff described the feature internally as “foundational” to Ring’s mission of making neighborhoods safer.
In response to the reports, a Ring spokesperson said the company focuses on providing context about local events such as lost pets or fires and emphasized that footage sharing remains optional. The spokesperson also stated that Search Party does not process human biometrics or track individuals.
Despite those assurances, the leaked emails suggest Ring’s ambitions may extend well beyond pet recovery, potentially reshaping how residential surveillance technology is used in the future.
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With Samsung Galaxy Unpacked just days away, leaks are starting to fill in the remaining gaps, including how much Samsung’s next earbuds might cost.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro render
According to tipster Roland Quandt, the Galaxy Buds4 are expected to retail for $179.99 in the US, while the Buds4 Pro could come in at $249.99. If accurate, that’s identical to the launch pricing of the Buds3 lineup last year.
That’s notable. With component costs fluctuating and many brands quietly raising prices year over year, Samsung appears to be holding the line, at least this time.
In Europe, early retailer listings are pointing in the same direction. Italian retailer Euronics has already shown the Buds4 Pro at €249, while the standard Buds4 are tipped to land at €179. Other listings, including on Amazon in select markets, have surfaced ahead of schedule, although not all of them display final pricing.
Still, the consistency across multiple sources suggests these numbers are likely locked in.
Same price, new design?
Recent dummy units and renders indicate that Samsung is refreshing the design. Both models are expected to adopt a flatter stem look. The distinctive Blade Lights seen on the Buds3 Pro appear to be gone, signaling a shift toward a cleaner, more understated aesthetic.
At $249.99, the Buds4 Pro would go head-to-head with Apple AirPods Pro 2, which also retail at $249 in the US. Sony and Google’s premium offerings occupy a similar range.
The Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro are expected to debut alongside the Galaxy S26 lineup at Unpacked on February 25 in San Francisco. As usual, pre-orders should follow shortly after.
Nothing is official until Samsung takes the stage, but if these leaks hold, the Buds4 series may deliver an updated design without asking buyers to pay more.
Titanium is one of the most desirable materials in watchmaking thanks to its lightweight strength, corrosion resistance, and premium look, but it often appears on pricier timepieces. So here’s a list of some watches that manage to bring true titanium builds with a $500 budget without sacrificing quality or features. Below, we’ve rounded up the best affordable titanium watches you can buy this year
A standout in the affordable titanium space is the Citizen Zenshin Three-Hand Titanium Watch, which is a modern and stylish everyday timepiece with a brushed titanium case and a textured dial that adds subtle character. Powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive solar technology, it never needs a battery change and offers reliable timekeeping with solid build quality. This is a great pick if you want a lightweight watch that looks refined enough for both work and weekend wear without crossing the $500 mark.
2. Citizen Promaster Diver
Citizen Promaster Diver
For sporty watch lovers who appreciate durability and outdoor readiness, the Citizen Promaster Diver with Super Titanium case is a rare gem under $500. Featuring 200 m water resistance, a robust rotating dive bezel, and solar-powered Eco-Drive movement, it offers serious functionality in a lightweight package. The Super Titanium coating also helps resist scratches, making this diver ideal for everyday wear and weekend adventures alike.
3. Casio Oceanus Titanium Series
Casio Oceanus Titanium Series
Casio’s Oceanus titanium watches are often overlooked but pack excellent value for under $500. These models combine precise solar-powered quartz movements with a sapphire crystal and lightweight titanium cases, making it perfect if you want a reliable and versatile daily watch with a slightly refined, dress-friendly aesthetic. Their understated design pairs easily with casual or business attire, while titanium ensures comfort during long hours on the wrist.
Casio’s Lineage series combines traditional analogue styling with modern tech perks. The titanium version tends to have radio-controlled timekeeping (Wave Ceptor), ensuring accurate time worldwide, plus a solar quartz movement for maintenance-free power. You also get radio-controlled accuracy, solar charging, sleek, and an everyday design. For those who want precision and practicality in a classy, lightweight titanium package, this model offers serious value under $500.
What Makes Titanium Watches Special
Titanium is lighter and more corrosion-resistant than stainless steel, often making watches more comfortable for long-term wear, especially for those with active or daily-wear needs. It also holds up well against scratches and daily knocks while still looking refined.
Finding a titanium watch under $500 is more feasible than ever, thanks to improved manufacturing and wider adoption of lightweight alloys in mid-tier watches. Options range from rugged divers and precise radio-controlled timepieces to classic everyday watches and sophisticated chronographs. Whether you prioritise sport features, solar power, or everyday elegance, there’s a titanium watch on this list that offers comfort, durability, and style without the premium price tag.
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In the latest iOS 26.4 developer beta, Apple has quietly enabled early support for end-to-end encrypted RCS chats. On paper, that sounds like a big deal. RCS has long been one of the most debated topics in the iPhone vs Android messaging saga. But if you were hoping this means secure iPhone-to-Android texting is here, not quite.
For years, Apple avoided adopting Rich Communication Services, better known as RCS, arguing that the standard lacked proper end-to-end encryption. In the meantime, iPhone users had iMessage (fully encrypted, blue bubbles), while conversations with Android users dropped down to plain SMS. That divide became part technical limitation, part ecosystem strategy.
Apple finally introduced RCS support with iOS 18, but encryption wasn’t included. Now, in iOS 26.4 beta, there’s a new toggle in Settings that enables encrypted RCS for supported users. Encrypted chats show a lock icon, similar to iMessage, indicating messages are secured in transit.
Here’s the limitation
Right now, encrypted RCS only works between Apple devices. The feature does not yet enable encrypted messaging between iPhones and Android phones. In other words, the green-bubble security issue remains unresolved.
There’s another interesting detail: encrypted RCS activates only when iMessage is turned off. If iMessage is enabled, Apple’s own messaging system continues to take priority for Apple-to-Apple chats.
Google has offered encrypted RCS in its Messages app for compatible devices for years. But true cross-platform encryption requires every major player, including Apple, to fully implement the same specification.
So when will Android-to-iPhone encryption arrive?
That’s the big question. This beta confirms Apple is actively working on encrypted RCS. But full cross-platform support doesn’t appear ready yet. It’s also absent from the stable iOS 26.4 release roadmap. Realistically, widespread encrypted RCS between iPhone and Android users could still be far away.
For now, this update is progress, just not the breakthrough we have been waiting for. Apple is moving forward on RCS encryption, but it’s doing so carefully and, at least for now, still within its own ecosystem boundaries.
The sub-Rs 25,000 segment remains one of the most competitive in the Indian smartphone market. Devices in this price band now offer strong performance, capable cameras, fast charging, and refined software, blurring the lines with pricier mid range models. Whether you’re a gamer or just someone who wants a balanced daily driver, we’ve rounded up the 5 best smartphones under Rs 25,000 that deliver the most bang for your buck right now.
The realme P4 Power 5G starts off our list as a phone that aggressively targets power users with battery-hungry needs. What sets it apart is its massive 10,001mAh battery, making it one of the largest you’ll find in any commercially available smartphone right now. Pair this with an 80W wired fast charging, expect to spend less time charging your phone and more time using it.
Apart from the battery, it sports a 6.8-inch 144Hz HyperGlow curved display that gets impressively bright for outdoor visibility. The MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultra chipset delivers smooth performance for daily tasks and gaming, and the 50MP + 8MP + 2MP camera setup handles everyday photography well enough.
2. Nothing Phone (3a)
Nothing Phone (3a)
Next up, the Nothing Phone 3a is one of the most exciting options in this price bracket thanks to its clean design and polished software experience. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset and a 6.77-inch AMOLED display, it offers smooth visuals and capable performance for everyday use.
It offers a strong triple camera setup, with all three sensors actually being usable (main, telephoto, & ultra wide). A sizeable 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports 50W wired fast charging. Nothing’s unique Glyph Lighting (and transparent construction) and refined Nothing OS give this phone a premium vibe normally reserved for higher-end devices, making it a strong contender if you value both aesthetics and performance.
3. Redmi Note 14 Pro+
Redmi Note 14 Pro+ in Sand Gold
The Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G also brings some capable features to the Rs 25,000 price range. It packs a 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with vibrant colors and a high refresh rate, paired with a massive 6200mAh battery supported by 90W fast charging.
You also get a versatile camera setup with the inclusion of a dedicated telephoto lens in this segment, giving it an edge over its rivals. This Xiaomi device delivers balanced performance, strong visuals, and a versatile camera setup, making it a compelling choice for those who want a more complete smartphone experience.
4. Realme 14 Pro+
Realme 14 Pro+
The realme 14 Pro+ is another notable pick that blends performance with imaging prowess. It features a 6.83-inch curved OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, promising an immersive viewing experience, whether you’re gaming or streaming content.
On the camera front, the 14 Pro+ leans into capable imaging hardware, which also includes a telephoto shooter. With reliable battery life and fast charging, it’s one of the best balanced phones under this price range if you want rounded performance across use cases. Some of its notable features include Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, a big 6,000mAh battery pack, and 80W wired fast charging.
5. OnePlus Nord CE 5
OnePlus Nord CE 5
Rounding up the list is the OnePlus Nord CE5, which strikes a great balance between performance, design, and long-term software support. It sports a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It doesn’t lag behind in performance either with the Dimensity 8350 Apex SoC, offering dependable responsiveness for social apps, multitasking, and even gaming.
Battery life is solid, and OxygenOS (based on Android) remains one of the cleaner software experiences you’ll find at this price, with buttery smooth UI animations and impressive customization options. If you’re looking for a phone that feels premium in day-to-day use without the premium price tag, the Nord CE5 makes a strong case.
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Just months after launching the T4 Pro, vivo already appears to be working on its successor. The upcoming vivo T5 Pro has now surfaced in a global IMEI database, marking its first public appearance. The listing reveals the model number V2568. While the database doesn’t disclose any hardware details, it does confirm that the device is in development and likely inching closer to launch.
That timing makes sense. The vivo T4 Pro, which debuted in India in August 2025, carved out a strong position in the sub-₹30,000 segment.
To recap, the T4 Pro featured a 6.77-inch quad-curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a claimed 5,000-nit local peak brightness. Under the hood, it ran on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, paired with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.
Cameras were a key highlight. The phone packed a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, a 50MP periscope telephoto offering 3x optical zoom (also with OIS), and a 2MP auxiliary sensor. On the front, a 32MP shooter handled selfies. Add to that a sizable 6,500mAh battery with 90W fast charging and IP68/IP69 ratings, and it’s easy to see why the device attracted attention.
Now the question is: what does the T5 Pro improve?
It’s too early for confirmed specs, but a chipset upgrade feels likely, possibly a newer Snapdragon 7-series chip or a MediaTek Dimensity alternative. Refined camera hardware and tuning are also on the table.
The IMEI listing doesn’t reveal much beyond the model number, but it’s usually one of the first signs that a launch cycle has begun. Given vivo’s cadence in India, a release in August 2026 wouldn’t be surprising.
With brands like Realme, Redmi, and Nothing continuing to push aggressive mid-range offerings, vivo will need to bring meaningful upgrades, not just incremental tweaks, if it wants the T5 Pro to stand out.
Google has shared new details about how it is strengthening security across the Android ecosystem, focusing on AI-driven protections, stricter developer policies, and expanded real-time defenses to protect users from malware, fraud, and privacy risks.
In 2025, Google prevented more than 1.75 million apps that violated policies from being published on Google Play. The company also banned over 80,000 developer accounts linked to harmful activity. Google says measures such as developer verification, mandatory pre-review checks, and testing requirements have made it harder for bad actors to enter the platform while helping legitimate developers build compliant apps more easily.
Apps listed on Google Play go through extensive safety reviews. Google runs over 10,000 checks on every app before publication and continues monitoring apps after they are released. During 2025, the company integrated its latest generative AI models into the review process, allowing human reviewers to detect complex malicious patterns faster.
Privacy protection was another major focus. Google prevented more than 255,000 apps from gaining unnecessary access to sensitive user data by enforcing stricter policies. Developer tools such as Play Policy Insights in Android Studio and the Data Safety section helped developers reduce permission requests and meet policy requirements earlier in the development process.
To maintain trust in app ratings, Google blocked 160 million spam reviews and ratings, including attempts to inflate or deflate scores. The company says its protections also prevented an average 0.5-star rating drop for apps targeted by review bombing.
Google Play Protect continues to operate as Android’s main malware defense. It now scans more than 350 billion apps every day, including apps installed from outside Google Play. In 2025, real-time scanning detected over 27 million new malicious apps from external sources. Enhanced fraud protection, now available in 185 markets covering more than 2.8 billion devices, blocked 266 million risky installation attempts linked to 872,000 high-risk apps. Google also introduced in-call scam protection that prevents users from disabling Play Protect during suspicious calls.
For developers, Play Integrity API now supports hardware-backed signals and new tools such as device recall to identify repeat offenders. Android 16 also introduces tapjacking protection that developers can enable with minimal code.
Google says it will continue investing in AI defenses and developer verification programs to strengthen trust across the Android ecosystem.
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