Xbox Game Pass January 2024 lineup revealed: 8 new games including Assassins Creed Valhalla

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Jan 7, 2024

Xbox Game Pass is set to kick off the new year with a lineup of fresh games and updates. Here’s a straightforward rundown of what’s coming your way this month:

New Games:

Close to the Sun (Available Now) Embark on a steampunk adventure as Rose Archer searches for her sister, Ada, aboard Tesla’s Helios. Navigate dangers in international waters in this narrative-driven experience.

Hell Let Loose (January 4) Immerse yourself in 100-player battles of World War II in this hardcore first-person shooter, where teamwork is crucial.

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (January 9) Explore England’s Dark Ages as Eivor, a legendary Viking warrior, in this acclaimed entry in the Assassin’s Creed series.

Figment (January 9) Embark on a surreal adventure in Figment, an action-adventure game filled with music, humor, and a multi-layered narrative.

Super Mega Baseball 4 (EA Play – January 11) Experience arcade-inspired style and immersive gameplay depth with Super Mega Baseball 4, coming soon via EA Play.

We Happy Few (January 11) We Happy Few returns to Game Pass, offering an action-adventure experience in a drug-fueled, retro-futuristic city.

Resident Evil 2 (January 16) Survive a mysterious viral outbreak in Raccoon City in Resident Evil 2, featuring modern visuals and gameplay mechanics.

Those Who Remain (January 16) Confront psychological horrors in Those Who Remain as darkness descends on the town of Dormont.

DLC / Game Updates:

Dead by Daylight: Chucky (Available Now) Experience a new Killer with Chucky in Dead by Daylight and grab the exclusive Charm: Good Guys Box.

Hello Neighbor 2 Anniversary Update (Available Now) Explore the new forest area on the outskirts of Raven Brooks in the Hello Neighbor 2 Anniversary Update.

Sea of Thieves: Season Ten (Available Now) Sail into Season Ten of Sea of Thieves, featuring Safer Seas mode for uninterrupted adventures.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks:

Sea of Thieves: Nightshine Parrot Pack (Available Now) Enhance your pirate style with the Nightshine Parrot Pack, featuring exclusive in-game items and 10,000 gold.

Leaving Soon: Don’t forget to use your membership discount to save up to 20% on these titles leaving soon.

January 5:

Grand Theft Auto V (Cloud and Console)

January 15:

Garden Story (Cloud, Console, and PC)
MotoGP 22 (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Persona 4 Golden (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Persona 3 Portable (Cloud, Console, and PC)

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Tecno Megabook T1 laptop becomes #1 best-selling traditional laptop on Amazon India

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 7, 2024

Tecno, the Chinese consumer electronics brand, is celebrating a milestone as its Megabook T1 claims the top spot as the best-selling laptop on Amazon India. Launched in September 2023, the Megabook T1 has swiftly risen in popularity, securing its position as the go-to choice in the traditional laptop category.

The Megabook T1 boasts impressive specifications, making it a standout in the market. It features a 15.6″ display that showcases a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, a 60Hz refresh rate, a brightness rate of 350 nits, and a 100% sRGB color gamut. The screen comes with TUV certification and the keyboard has LED backlighting.

It is powered by an 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, offering three storage options, featuring up to 16GB of LPDDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIE 3.0 SSD. It comes with Integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics and is preloaded with Windows 11 Home.

With a 70Wh battery, the Megabook T1 promises an impressive usage time of up to 17.5 hours and supports a 65W PD ultra-fast charging feature. Design-wise, the laptop maintains a sleek and lightweight profile, measuring 14.8 mm in thickness and weighing 1.56 kg. Available in three color variants – Denim Blue, Moonshine Silver, and Space Grey – Tecno ensures that style meets functionality in the Megabook T1.

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Casio G-SHOCK RANGEMAN smartwatches with health tracking & inbuilt GPS launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 7, 2024

Casio has introduced two new models in its RANGEMAN series, the GPRH1000-9 in vibrant yellow and the GPRH1000-1 in sleek black, designed for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. These watches are built to endure extreme conditions, featuring resistance to shocks, dust, mud, and water, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

The RANGEMAN watches are equipped with GPS, solar-assisted charging, and Bluetooth connectivity, offering a blend of durability and advanced technology. They support a variety of activities such as trekking, running, biking, and swimming, and come with six sensors, including a heart rate monitor, to provide real-time data and health metrics. This data can be analyzed through the Powered by Polar suite and synced with the CASIO Watches App for comprehensive activity tracking.

The inclusion of USB and solar charging options ensures the watches’ timekeeping functions remain operational even when the battery is low. The Super Illuminator LED backlight guarantees visibility in dim conditions.

Focusing on comfort and eco-friendliness, the watches feature a urethane band suitable for water activities and use bio-based resin components, reflecting G-SHOCK’s environmental commitment. The design also includes metal components to protect the GPS antenna and sensors, enhancing the watches’ versatility for different physical pursuits.

Available from January 19th, the G-SHOCK GPRH1000-9 and GPRH1000-1, offered in vibrant yellow and black colorways, retail for $500. Purchase options include select jewelers, gshock.com, and the G-SHOCK Soho store. For more information, you can visit G-SHOCK’s webiste.

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Clicks releases a physical QWERTY keyboard for the iPhone Pro models

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 6, 2024

The latest iPhone Pro models have received an exciting new accessory that’s perfect for those who miss the tactile feel of physical keyboards: the Clicks Creator Keyboard. This innovative product from Clicks offers iPhone users a full QWERTY keyboard as a phone case, bringing back the satisfying sensation of typing on a real keyboard, reminiscent of the Blackberry era.

Clicks Keyboard Specifications:

Clicks Creator Keyboard is a precision-designed and stylish addition to modern smartphones, aimed at enhancing the user’s typing experience. It is compatible with multiple iPhone models, including the iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

The keyboard boasts several impressive features. It maximizes screen space, allowing users to enjoy their apps and content without on-screen keyboard interference. The tactile typing experience is a major draw, offering the familiar “clack-clack” sound with each keystroke, which many find satisfying and more efficient for typing. Moreover, the keyboard provides easy access to iOS shortcuts and voice input, making it a practical tool for everyday use.

In terms of design, it has a sleek unibody design that fits snugly on the iPhone, with precision-tuned buttons for fast and accurate typing. The layout includes additional keys for voice input and commands, enhancing functionality.

It’s also equipped with a backlight for typing in low-light conditions and supports pass-through charging via Lightning or USB-C connections, depending on the iPhone model. Furthermore, it’s compatible with wireless charging, adding to the convenience.

Style-wise, the keyboard is available in two colors: BumbleBee Yellow and London Sky Grey. The materials used in its construction, like liquid silicon, polycarbonate, vegan leather, and plated nickel, ensure durability and comfort.

Clicks Keyboard is priced at $139 for both the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro models, while it costs $159 for the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Shipping for the iPhone 14 Pro units will begin on February 1st.

The keyboard case might seem a bit costly. However, for those who have been longing for the return of a physical keyboard on their smartphone, this could be a worthy investment. It’s a blend of retro charm and modern convenience, offering a unique typing experience for iPhone users.

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POCO M6 Pro 4G confirmed to feature 64MP OIS camera & 120Hz AMOLED display

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 6, 2024

POCO is gearing up for the global launch of its X6 series and M6 Pro 4G at an online event scheduled for January 11th at 20:00 GMT+8. Ahead of the official unveiling, the company has shared key specifications of the M6 Pro smartphone.

The M6 Pro is equipped with a 120 Hz AMOLED display, 12 GB LPDDR4X RAM, and 512 GB UFS 2.2 storage for a responsive user experience. The smartphone features a 67W turbocharging-supported battery and a 64 MP triple camera setup with OIS for photography enthusiasts.

Think twice before you spend a lot on an expensive smartphone, #POCOM6Pro is here to popularize the flagship features to mid-range devices!👀
Unmask the fascinated flagship features on #POCOM6Pro on January 11th at 20:00 GMT+8! pic.twitter.com/SgYazS4pEb
— POCO (@POCOGlobal) January 6, 2024

As previously confirmed, the M6 Pro runs on the Helio G99-Ultra chipset. Additional details from an Amazon UAE listing reveal that the device will launch with Android 13 and house a 5000 mAh battery. The front side is expected to sport a 16 MP selfie camera, with a listed price of AED 899 (~Rs 20,000).

In related news, POCO has disclosed the AnTuTu score for the upcoming POCO X6 Pro, which is a global rebrand of the Redmi K70E. Recognized as the current top-performing mid-range smartphone on Antutu, the POCO X6 Pro aims to offer budget-conscious gamers an affordable, high-performance option.

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Sony’s latest patent aims to boost game loading speeds and enable play during downloads

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 6, 2024

Sony has filed a patent that could revolutionize the way we play video games. The patent, which was filed in August 2023 and made public last week, describes a technology that would allow players to start playing a game before it has finished downloading.

Sony’s Innovative Approach to Seamless Game Access and Reduced Wait Times

The core idea of this patent revolves around a technology that optimizes the startup speed of games. Traditionally, players often have to wait for the entire game to download before they can start playing. However, Sony’s new method proposes a significant change to this process. It involves a comparison between the time it takes for a player to complete a specific part of a game and the overall time required to download the entire game. If the game’s download time is longer, Sony’s technology prioritizes the installation of that specific game part first. This enables players to begin experiencing portions of the game while the rest of it continues to download.

The patent describes a method to speed up application startup times by utilizing what are referred to as ‘application chunks.’ These chunks are essentially discrete parts of a game. The system associates these chunks with game time information, which estimates how long it takes a user to reach a certain point or milestone within the game.

To optimize the download process, the system predicts how long it will take to download these chunks based on the chunk information and the user’s network data. It then compares this predicted download time with the previously recorded time it takes to play through these chunks. If the download time is shorter than the gameplay time, the system proceeds to install that chunk of the game first.

It’s not clear yet when or if Sony will implement this technology in its products. However, if the company does, it could have a significant impact on the way we play video games. It would allow players to jump into their favorite games more quickly than ever before.

Sony is also actively developing technology to enhance mobile gaming controls, focusing on precision and smoother gameplay. They are also exploring lifelike NPC reactions to improve gaming immersion.

These patents suggest that Sony is committed to making gaming loading times as fast as possible. And with the company’s focus on cloud gaming, we may see even more advancements in this area in the years to come.

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Snapchat is Being Accused by Families, Alleging their Kids Bought Fentanyl on the Platform

By

Anubhav

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Jan 6, 2024

Snapchat, faces a significant legal challenge in California. The company, Snap, is being sued by families alleging that their children used the app to buy fentanyl, leading to fatal overdoses. This case, overseen by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Lawrence Riff, could have profound implications for how social media platforms operate and are held accountable.

The California judge has let the lawsuit proceed this time

Traditionally, tech companies like Snap have been shielded by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. This legal immunity has been a cornerstone in the development of the modern internet, allowing platforms to grow without the constant threat of lawsuits over user-generated content. However, Judge Riff’s decision to let the lawsuit proceed signals a potential shift. The case isn’t targeting Snapchat for the content posted by third-party drug dealers but rather focuses on the platform’s product and business decisions.

This lawsuit is part of a growing trend where tech companies are being scrutinized for their role in public safety and wellbeing. For instance, Google, Meta, Snap, and TikTok are currently facing a lawsuit alleging they contributed to a youth mental health crisis. These cases bring to light the increasing concern over how social media platforms influence users, especially the younger demographic, and the responsibilities these platforms should bear.

Snap’s response to the lawsuit has been to highlight their cooperation with law enforcement and the use of technology to detect and prevent illegal activities on their platform. However, the core issue remains: how much responsibility should social media companies have for the actions of their users, and where is the line drawn between protecting users and censoring content?

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VinFast Invests $500 Million in India, Expanding its Global EV Footprint

By

Anubhav

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Jan 6, 2024

VinFast is a subsidiary of Vingroup, one of Vietnam‘s largest privately-held conglomerates. Founded in 2017, VinFast quickly gained attention for its rapid development and ambitious global expansion plans. The company marked a significant milestone by starting EV production in 2021, showcasing a range of electric cars and scooters. The company recently announced a significant move into the Indian market. Vinfast, known for its ambitious global expansion plans, is set to establish its first manufacturing facilities in India. This decision aligns with India’s growing interest in EVs and marks a major step for VinFast in tapping into one of the world’s largest vehicle markets.

The total investment will be around $2 billion

The agreement, forged with the southern state of Tamil Nadu, involves an investment of up to $2 billion, with an initial commitment of $500 million over the first five years. Tamil Nadu, often referred to as the ‘Detroit of Asia’, is an ideal location for VinFast, considering the region’s existing cluster of EV players such as Ola Electric and Ather, and international brands like China’s BYD.

VinFast’s foray into India isn’t just about expanding its global footprint; it’s a strategic move in a nation where electric vehicles are still a nascent but rapidly growing market. With electric models accounting for approximately 2% of India’s car sales last year, the potential for growth is significant, especially in light of the Indian government’s target of achieving 30% electric car sales by 2030.

The new facilities, which include an EV and battery manufacturing plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, are expected to create 3,000 to 3,500 local jobs. This not only underscores VinFast’s commitment to contributing to the Indian economy but also reflects the broader trend of job creation in the green technology sector.

Interestingly, while VinFast is a relative newcomer in the EV industry, having started producing electric vehicles only since 2021, its aggressive expansion strategy has quickly positioned it as a notable player. The company’s plan to establish a nationwide dealership network in India further demonstrates its intent to become a major competitor in the EV market.

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Poco X6 5G Finally Makes It To FCC, Ahead of Next Week Launch

By

Simranpal Singh

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Jan 6, 2024

A few days before its official launch, the Poco X6 5G finally passes the FCC certification. Unlike the Poco X6 5G, the Poco X6 Pro 5G made it to the FCC a month ago, along with the specification details. Despite the already-present Poco X6 5G’s design and specification details, the FCC listing seems like confirmation of the existing information.

Well, the listing confirms the presence of a 5020 mAh battery with model code BM5V. In terms of connectivity, the listing confirms the presence of dual-band WiFi and NFC. Surprisingly, the Poco X6 5G seems to feature MIUI 14.0 if we go with the listing, which is quite opposite of the Poco X6 Pro 5G, which is officially teased to feature HyperOS.

The smartphone is already doing the rounds on the web, and below we have concluded the specifications from different leaks, public certifications, and rumors.

Poco X6 Series Specifications and Features (Expected)

Poco X6 Series is launching on January 11 in India, featuring the Poco X6 5G and Poco X6 Pro 5G. The Poco X6 Pro 5G will run the new HyperOS, Xiaomi’s UI replacement, paired with a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra processor and a stainless steel vapor cooling chamber. Leaks reveal a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 64MP OIS-enabled primary camera, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging. Moreover, the Poco X6 Pro was recently spotted at the AnTuTu benchmark, where it scored 1,464,228 points, emphasizing high performance.

The Poco X6 5G, seen in leaked unboxing videos, boasts a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC, a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, 64MP + 8MP + 2MP triple camera setup, and a 5,100mAh battery supporting 67W fast charging, running Android 13 on MIUI 14. Official renders hint at various color options for both models, and there’s speculation about the Poco M6 Pro 5G smartphone, which is a modified version of the Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G, with a 64-megapixel primary camera.

As the Poco X6 Series gears up for its grand launch, these leaks and teasers have certainly stoked the curiosity of smartphone enthusiasts. Even a recent teaser from Poco confirms the new smartphone series as a significant phone in the competitive smartphone market, carrying combination of powerful features, innovative design, etc.

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New Tecno CL6 Smartphone Arrives on FCC With Upto 12GB RAM

By

Simranpal Singh

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Jan 6, 2024

Tecno recently unveiled the Tecno Spark 20 Pro+ and Tecno Pop 8 for different market segments. If we believe the recent FCC listing of a new smartphone that carries up to 12GB of RAM, the company seems to be moving into a different market segment. The new smartphone comes with model code CL6 and features 4G connectivity support.

Further, it will carry a 4900 mAh battery with 70W fast charging support. The smartphone will come with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. However, there could be other storage variants too, but presently only this model is confirmed. The label diagram sheds some light on the Tecno CL6’s design, which is quite familiar with the recently launched Tecno Spart 20 Pro+. The smartphone appears to bundle a quad-rear camera with an LED flash.

There’s a slight change in the rear design of the Tecno CL6, if we compare it with the Tecno Spark 20 Pro+. The dual-LED flash position is now In terms of connectivity, the new smartphone appears to feature support for dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth, and NFC.

It is quite early to conclude the device name and other details, we expect more details in the coming some time via official and unofficial sources.

Additionally, the Tecno Spark 20 Pro+ is launched with the MediaTek Helio G99 Ultimate chipset, which pairs up to 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. It measures a 6.78-inch curved display with full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate with 1000 nits of peak brightness. The smartphone houses a triple rear camera, a 108 MP primary sensor, and a dual LED flash. The smartphone appears to have an IP53 rating for dust and water resistance, along with a 5000 mAh battery with 33W fast charging. It runs Android 14 out of the box and is available in four different colors: Temporal Orbits, Lunar Frost, Radiant Starstream, and Magic Skin 2.0 Green.

Related:

Samsung rolls out January 2024 security patch for Galaxy S22 series

By

Soumyakanti

-

Jan 6, 2024

Samsung has started rolling out the January 2024 firmware update for its Galaxy S22 series, which includes the Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22 Plus, and Galaxy S22 Ultra smartphones.

This update, initially available in North American countries, is expected to expand to other regions soon. Users can identify the update through specific One UI build versions for each model: S901EXXS7DWL8 for Galaxy S22, S906EXXS7DWL8 for Galaxy S22 Plus, and S908EXXS7DWL8 for Galaxy S22 Ultra.

What’s New in the January 2024 Update?

The key feature of the January 2024 firmware update is the inclusion of the January 2024 security patch. This patch addresses a total of 75 vulnerabilities in the Android OS, consisting of one critical, 68 high-risk, and several moderate-risk vulnerabilities.

In addition, Samsung has resolved more than 80 security issues specific to Galaxy devices. Among these fixes is a vulnerability that permitted users to view notifications of other users in multi-user settings (only for tablets). The update also addresses security gaps in the My Files app that could potentially allow attackers to create files or pair Bluetooth devices without user consent.

Samsung has decided to withhold certain vulnerability details in their January 2024 firmware update to prevent potential exploitation by attackers.

How to check if the update is available for you:

The update can be accessed and installed through the “Software Update” section in the device settings. It’s an initial rollout, so the availability might vary, taking hours or days to reach all Galaxy S22 smartphones. Users who have received the update notification are advised to install it promptly to benefit from the enhanced security and functionality improvements.

Samsung is also rolling out the January 2024 security patch to many other Galaxy devices, including the Galaxy Z Flip, Z Fold series, and more. You can check the official Samsung website or your phone’s settings to see if the update is available for your device.

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Cooler Master G2711 mini-LED gaming monitor unveiled ahead of CES 2024

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 6, 2024

Cooler Master, a renowned brand in the gaming peripherals and components sector, has recently unveiled its latest addition to the monitor market: the Tempest G2711 Mini LED monitor. This monitor, which is set to make an appearance at the CES 2024 event, marks a significant step for Cooler Master in the competitive gaming monitor industry.

Cooler Master G2711 Specifications:

The G2711 features a 27-inch VA panel with a 2K resolution (2560 x 1440), providing sharp visuals for gaming and professional tasks. The monitor stands out due to its use of Mini LED technology, offering improved contrast and reduced halo effects. It includes 576 zones for local dimming, enhancing image depth and clarity. With a 3000:1 contrast ratio, HDR support, and a peak brightness of 1500 nits, it ensures an immersive viewing experience. The monitor is also compatible with VESA DisplayHDR 1000.

Cooler Master G2711 boasts a 165Hz refresh rate and a quick 1ms (MPRT)/<4ms GTG response time, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Additionally, it is AMD FreeSync Premium Pro certified, guaranteeing tear-free gaming performance.

In terms of color accuracy and range, the G2711 covers 93.5% of the Adobe RGB and 95% of the DCI-P3 color gamuts, making it a suitable choice for color-sensitive work. It’s factory-calibrated with a Delta E ≤ 2, ensuring accurate color reproduction right out of the box.

Cooler Master has also emphasized eye comfort in this model, incorporating TUV-certified low blue light mode and flicker-free technology. These features are essential for reducing eye strain during prolonged use.

Another highlight of the G2711 is its cooling design. Cooler Master uses a unique passive cooling technology, featuring a specialized heatsink and thermal back cover. This design eliminates the need for fans, thereby reducing noise and improving heat dissipation. As a result, the core chip’s temperature is lowered by 5°C, which, according to Cooler Master, enhances the monitor’s durability by 30%.

For connectivity, the monitor is well-equipped. It includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, a USB Type-C with video output and 15W power delivery, and additional USB 3.0 ports. The ergonomic stand offers considerable adjustability, including height, swivel, pivot, and tilt options, catering to a range of user preferences.

Cooler Master Tempest G2711 is expected to be priced at approximately $449 and will be released in Q1 2024.

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Real photos of Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra leaked ahead of Jan 17 launch

By

Soumyakanti

-

Jan 6, 2024

Just weeks before its official launch, real-life photos of the highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra have surfaced, courtesy of Twitter user @WorkaholicDavid. These images provide a clear look at the phone’s new design, moving away from marketing materials and blurry leaks.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Leaked Photos

The S24 Ultra has departed from its predecessor’s slightly curved edges, opting for a fully flat display with ultra-thin bezels. On the rear, you’ll notice a familiar quad-camera setup with distinctive rings for each lens, although they appear slightly larger, hinting at potential sensor upgrades.

While the camera setup might catch your attention, leaks suggest a whopping 200MP main sensor under the hood, known as the Samsung ISOCELL HP2SX. This powerful sensor promises exceptional detail and clarity, especially in low-light conditions. In addition, there are rumors of the phone supporting 4K120fps video recording, pushing the boundaries of mobile videography.

Moving beyond the camera capabilities, the S24 Ultra is expected to equip with a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering a QHD+ resolution (1440p) and a peak brightness of 2600 nits.

Galaxy S24 Ultra will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for high-performance multitasking and gaming. It will run on One UI 6.1 software, based on the Android 14 operating system. The software includes several AI and Generative AI features, originating from Galaxy AI, which are expected to enhance the user experience through advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities.

Under the hood, the Galaxy S24 Ultra will feature a robust 5000mAh battery. This battery supports fast charging, allowing it to go from 0% to 65% charge in just 30 minutes.

Galaxy S24 Ultra is rumored to come in multiple color options including Titanium/Grey, Black, Yellow, and Violet. The device is also expected to come in online-exclusive shades, such as Orange, Green, and Blue.

Samsung is set to launch the S24 Ultra on January 17, alongside its siblings, the S24 and S24 Plus, making it one of the most anticipated smartphone releases of the year.

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Samsung tipped to launch new 50W/45W chargers alongside the upcoming Galaxy S24 series

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Jan 6, 2024

Samsung is gearing up for the launch of the Galaxy S24 series and the tech giant could also launch a few new chargers alongside the S24 lineup. Two new chargers are reportedly being set for unveiling although these are not expected to be bundled together with the S24 models. The first charger is believed to deliver 50W power with its two USB-C ports. The second charger delivers 45W output and is an updated version of the Samsung 45W adapter.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series includes the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 Plus, and Galaxy S24 Ultra. The launch of the new Samsung Galaxy S24 lineup is rumored to take place on January 17, 2024, with the Galaxy S24 Ultra the pick of the pack. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra will reportedly come with a flat-screen and some upgraded cameras. It is also rumored that the Galaxy S24 Ultra will be more expensive than its other siblings.

Samsung Charger Duo 50W (2x USB-C wired fast charger) EP-T5020 incoming.

and they'll have an updated 45W charger as well, EP-T4511 (old one is EP-T4510)
— Roland Quandt (@rquandt) January 4, 2024

Samsung has continued to offer chargers for its smartphones separately for a few years now. The details about the upcoming new Samsung fast chargers were provided by WinFuture journalist, Roland Quandt via X (formerly Twitter). The first charger is reportedly the Samsung Duo 50W for fast wired USB-C charging. The second 45W charger is reportedly a refreshed version of the current Samsung 45W charger. Both upcoming Samsung chargers fall below the expectations of customers who are yearning for higher-capacity chargers for the S24 lineup in the range of 65W to 100W.

The new Samsung 45W charger will expectedly come with improvements over its predecessor but it is unclear what areas of improvement have been made. Possible improvements could relate to its heat management system, performance, form factor, and also its price. It is also reported that the Samsung Galaxy S24 base model will not be compatible with the new 45W charger. This is because the smartphone is tipped to offer only 25W charging.

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Noise Buds Combat X With RGB Lights, Spatial Audio Launched In India

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Jan 6, 2024

Noise has launched a new TWS earphone in India. It is dubbed the Noise Buds Combat X and the latest offering is an addition to the brand’s Combat series which already includes the Combat and Combat Z. The newest Combat Buds X appeals to the gaming enthusiasts with its design. It also packs a long-lasting battery. Read on to know what the audio device offers out of the box,

Noise Buds Combat X specifications and features

The Noise Buds Combat X flaunts a dual-tone in-ear design with the stem in one hue and earbuds in the Black shade. The stem of the earphones also has RGB light along with the squarish-shaped charging and storage case. This makes them ideal for gamers. The audio device is IP5X certified water-resistant.

In terms of audio, the Noise Buds Combat X is equipped with 10mm drivers for rich audio. The earphones feature spatial audio for an immersive listening experience. The audio device also has quad microphones along with environmental noise cancellation for clear quality on calls. The Buds Combat X pack 50ms low latency mode for lag-free gaming.

The Noise Buds Combat X features Bluetooth 5.3 along with HyperSync. It is claimed to deliver 60 hours of total battery life. A 10-minute charge is said to offer 180 minutes of usage.

The Noise Buds Combat X carries a price tag of Rs 2,499. It is offered in Shadow Grey, Thunder Blue, Covert White, and Stealth Black colors. The TWS earphones can be purchased from Amazon and the brand’s official website.

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Sony starts rolling out Android 14 update to Xperia 5 V

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jan 6, 2024

The Sony Xperia 5 V, launched in September 2023, has finally begun receiving the Android 14 update. This update brings Google’s latest software features to the compact flagship phone, along with some Sony-specific additions.

Sony Xperia 5 V Android 14 update rolling out

The update includes all the standard features introduced in Android 14, such as improved privacy controls, enhanced customization options, and performance optimizations. As a part of the Sony add-on, users can now use the rear LED flash as a notification light, an alternative to traditional notification LEDs.

The Xperia 5 V can also seamlessly integrate with the Find My Device app, allowing users to locate, lock, or erase the phone remotely. Likewise, sharing files between your Windows PC and Xperia 5 V is now easier with the expanded Nearby Share functionality. And, users can also personalize their lock screen with quick access to their favorite apps and features.

The Android 14 update for the Xperia 5 V is likely rolling out gradually, so it might not be available to everyone immediately. Expect to receive the update within the next few days.

To recap, the Sony Xperia 5 V boasts a 6.1-inch OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and HDR support. Powered by the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, the device comes with 8GB of RAM and expandable 128GB storage.

For photography, the Xperia 5 V features a versatile triple-lens setup. It has a 48MP main sensor with a 1/1.35-inch sensor size that captures 12MP photos by default and offers 2x optical zoom. It’s accompanied by a 12MP ultrawide lens. For selfies, there’s a 12MP front-facing camera.

Keeping the lights on is a 5,000mAh battery, with 30W wired and 18W wireless fast charging options. Durability is ensured by IP68 water resistance and Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

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(Via)

Microsoft’s beloved PC accessories get a second life with Incase

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jan 6, 2024

Microsoft may have stepped back from the PC accessory market last year, but its popular keyboards, mice, and headsets are getting a new lease on life thanks to Incase. The laptop bag and sleeve specialist has struck a deal with Microsoft to revive the beloved Microsoft accessories under the new “Incase Designed by Microsoft” banner.

This means you will now be able to purchase your favorite Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard or Wireless Desktop 850 mouse, albeit with a subtle Incase logo replacing the familiar Microsoft branding. The lineup of devices that are confirmed for release under the new “Incase Designed by Microsoft” branding are:

Sculpt Ergonomic Desktop (keyboard, mouse, number pad)
Sculpt Comfort Desktop (keyboard, mouse)
Wireless Comfort Desktop 5050 AES (keyboard, mouse)
Wireless Desktop 850 (keyboard, mouse)
Wireless Desktop 900 (keyboard, mouse)
Wired Desktop 600 (keyboard, mouse)
Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard
Ergonomic Keyboard
Wired Keyboard 600
Bluetooth Keyboard
Designer Compact Keyboard
Bluetooth Number Pad
Mobile Mouse 1850
Bluetooth Ergonomic Mouse
Bluetooth Mouse
Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse
Modern Mobile Mouse
Modern Wireless Headset
Modern USB Headset
Modern USB-C Headset
Modern USB-C Speaker
Audio Dock
Modern Webcam

This is a welcome development for fans of Microsoft’s practical and often ergonomic PC peripherals. They get to keep their trusted gear, while Incase gains access to a well-established product line without the burden of developing entirely new products.

For Microsoft, it also means the return of cost-effective accessories priced below the Surface brand on its online and retail store shelves. However, it’s important to note that specific release dates and pricing of the products haven’t been announced yet, but you can expect to see these “Incase Designed by Microsoft” products roll out sometime in 2024.

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(Via)

Honor Magic 6 RSR pre-reservations kicks off in China

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 6, 2024

Honor yesterday revealed that its first smartphone co-branded with design house Porsche Design will be named RSR. The company has now quietly opened pre-reservations for the phone in China starting today.

Interested buyers can now reserve the Honor Magic 6 RSR Porsche Design by paying a 911 yuan deposit at the Porsche Store. This deposit will give them early access to the first round of online pre-orders on January 11th and 12th. Plus, they’ll receive a special surprise gift box.

However, this deposit is just for early access and will be refunded on January 13th; it doesn’t count towards the phone’s full price. This means the full payment for the Honor Magic 6 RSR will begin only on January 11th, 2024.

There’s not much we know about the Honor Magic 6 RSR edition phone, except the story behind the RSR suffix. The “RSR” in the phone’s name draws inspiration from Porsche’s racing history. It stands for “RennSport Rennwagen,” meaning “racing sport racing car” in German, typically reserved for track-only versions of the iconic Porsche 911.

Though specific details about the Magic 6 RSR are unavailable, Honor has already revealed the standard Magic 6 and Magic 6 Pro.

The Magic 6 Pro boasts a powerful 100x digital zoom periscope camera, while the Magic 6 features a still impressive 50x zoom. Both phones are expected to have 50-megapixel main and ultrawide cameras. The Pro model might also include a unique satellite connectivity feature.

Both phones will be powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and run Magic OS 8.0 based on Android 14. Storage options start at 256GB and go up to 512GB, with the Pro model offering a 1TB option.

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iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max early renders show off a new Capture button

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 6, 2024

Apple‘s upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models, expected in September 2024, have leaked through early prototypes, courtesy of MacRumors. While the overall design remains familiar (unsurprisingly), several changes are said to be in the works.

The most immediately evident alteration is said to be a bigger screen for both models. The Pro is expected to jump to 6.27 inches, while the Pro Max might boast a sizable 6.85-inch display. With the increase in overall screen real estate, the device will also have larger dimensions.

The iPhone 16 Pro is said to measure 149.6 x 71.45 x 8.25mm and will weigh 194 grams, while the 16 Pro Max will have 163 x 77.58 x 8.25mm dimensions with 225 grams of weight.

The smartphones are also said to get a new addition in the form of a Capture button. It is rumored to feature a force sensor and will be flush with the phone’s frame on the right below the power button. The new button is expected to be exclusive to the Pro model iPhones and will function as a shortcut for the camera app.

The camera department might also see an upgrade. Both Pro models could feature 48MP ultrawide lenses, a significant leap from the current 12MP sensors. Additionally, the smaller Pro might join the Pro Max in offering the impressive 5x tetraprism zoom lens, enabling closer views of distant subjects.

While internal specifications remain under wraps, the 16 Pro series is likely to be powered by Apple’s next-generation A18 Bionic chip.

It’s important to remember that these are merely leaks and rumors, and the final design and features of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max could differ. However, these early leaks offer a glimpse of what Apple might have in store for its upcoming flagship models

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Huawei’s 5nm Kirin 9006C chip is made by TSMC, not SMIC

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 6, 2024

Huawei recently launched a laptop in China called Qingyun L450. It is powered by the HiSilicon 9006C chip, which is made using advanced 5nm technology. This has led to rumors that China’s chip giant SMIC from which Huawei is sourcing processors, is finally achieving a 5nm breakthrough in chip manufacturing technology.

But, a detailed look into the laptop by TechInsights, a tech analysis firm, showed something different. The chip wasn’t made by SMIC in China, but by TSMC in Taiwan.

Kirin 9006C is made by TSMC, not SMIC

Why is this significant? China has been pushing hard to become self-sufficient in semiconductors, especially after US sanctions cut Huawei off from TSMC’s 5nm chips in 2020. The Kirin 9006C seemed to be a breakthrough, suggesting SMIC had caught up.

But the teardown shows otherwise. However, TechInsights’ disassembly of the Qingyun notebook unit confirmed that TSMC’s 5nm technology, previously used in 2020, was behind the 5nm chipset. This suggests Huawei might be utilizing older TSMC stockpiles under a new name.

SMIC’s shares saw a slight decline following the teardown, reflecting the setback in hopes of their 5nm progress. SMIC, however, is reportedly working on its own 5nm process, but using older technology that’s less efficient and more expensive. They’ve managed limited production of 7nm chips with the Kirin 9000S, but 5nm remains elusive.

The bigger hurdle for China’s chip ambitions lies in acquiring next-generation EUV lithography equipment, crucial for making advanced chips. The US has blocked ASML, a Dutch company, from selling EUV machines to China, hindering its progress.

This news likely comes as a relief for the US, and could lead to further restrictions on China’s chip industry. It also highlights the complex web of relationships and challenges China faces in its quest for technological independence.

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