Motorola India Appoints T.M Narasimhan as New Managing Director to Drive Smartphone Market Growth

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Jan 3, 2024

Motorola Mobility India has appointed Mr. T.M Narasimhan as the Managing Director of the Mobile Business Group in India as part of its plan to strengthen its position in the smartphone market. This decision aligns with the brand’s objective of securing a place among the three smartphone brands in the country.

Mr. T.M Narasimhan, who brings experience in sales operations, business and financial planning, and P&L management from his roles at FMCG and consumer tech organizations like PepsiCo, Britannia, and Samsung will lead Motorola’s operations in India. He will report to Mr. Prashanth Mani, who continues to oversee Motorola’s Asia Pacific business.

Mr. Prashanth Mani emphasized the importance of India as a focus market within the Asia Pacific region. Expressed confidence in Narasimhan’s ability to play a crucial role in achieving even greater success for the team in India.

Mr. T.M Narasimhan expressed his enthusiasm about joining Motorola and contributing to the brand’s growth journey in India. He recognized Motorola’s product strategy, business model, and strong brand presence while committing to build upon its existing foundation.

Motorola has recently experienced success in India, with double-digit premium growth compared to the market, reflecting its effective strategy.
Motorola has made an impact in the premium market with the Razr 40 and the Edge 40 series, showing impressive growth in the first half of fiscal year 2023-2024.

The brand currently appears to be working on the launch of its affordable Moto G34 5G’s in India. Reports say that it could be unveiled as soon as January 9 in the country.

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Xiaomi Patents Hidden Car Door Handle for Future EVs

By

Simranpal Singh

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Jan 3, 2024

It’s only been a few days since Xiaomi announced its first electronic vehicle, i.e., the Xiaomi SU7 Car. The company took the wraps off the C-class high-performance sedan, featuring impressive performance, exceptional technology, and a sleek design. After a wait of over a decade, Xiaomi finally jumped into the electronic vehicle market, and now the company seems to be evolving further for future vehicles.

Xiaomi’s Innovative Hidden Car Door Handle Patent

In such a step towards innovation, the company patents Hidden Car Door Handles and some other shapes that could be part of future Xiaomi cars. As per the description of the document that appeared on CNIPA, the car door handle can be opened by pulling the door handle. There are different handle shapes, including convex, semi-hidden, and hidden door handles. Apart from all other handle types, the hidden door handles are more beneficial as they reduce air drag.

Apart from the already-present hidden door handles, the new Xiaomi patent doesn’t require any complex mechanisms. It can easily be restricted without the need for any electronic motor that retracts the handle. The simple structure and automatic retracting handle component reduce the cost and weight and simplify the complex mechanism, which is easier to use.

Xiaomi’s SU7 uses the semi-hidden indoor handle instead of the new pop-up door handle. We hope that in the coming new models, Xiaomi can use the fully hidden door handles to make the design more drag-free and efficient. Even the label diagram quite evidently shows the simplified hidden door mechanism.

Additionally, the Xiaomi SU7 electric car is a high-performance, enduring sedan. A top Mercedes-Benz and BMW design team created an elegant exterior with water drop-shaped headlamps and aerodynamic features. The Max variant has 673 horsepower, a 2.78-second 0-100 km/h acceleration, and a 265 km/h top speed. Max shines with an 800km CLTC range and fast charging. The large interior has Xiaomi’s HyperOS system, smart technology, and safety measures. The self-driving Xiaomi Pilot mode makes it futuristic. Xiaomi hopes to succeed in the automobile business with its introduction and pricing details.

Old Mechanism of Hidden Door Handles Explained

Usually, the present hidden-door handles comprise three main elements, which include an electric retracting motor and two spaces on the front and rear sides of the handle so that the candle can be restricted when toggled. The front or rear space is used to push or pull the door.

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Moto G34 5G India launch date confirmed via Flipkart

By

Sean

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Jan 3, 2024

Motorola was rumored to be gearing up for the Indian launch of the Moto G34 5G. Now, we have official confirmation regarding the device’s release in the region. The official launch date for the smartphone has been revealed, so here are all the details.

Moto G34 5G Launches in India on Jan 9

The Moto G34 5G is set to be unveiled in India on 9th January 2024. This is in line with our previous report, which was based on a leak from a known tipster. The earlier report also claimed that the device would launch in the country on January 9. Now, an official Flipkart microsite Moto G04 Appears on UAE’s TDRA; Launch Seems Imminenthas confirmed this. This also confirms the availability of this model on the popular e-commerce platform.

Similar to the earlier report, the highlighting aspect of the Moto G34 5G includes the vegan leather design on the back and Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC. The brand claims that the chipset would make the handset offer the best 5G performance in the segment. To recall, Motorola had first unveiled the Moto G34 5G in China as a budget smartphone model. The device was released 140 US Dollars price tag, so we can expect the Indian model to also cost around the same (roughly about 12,000 INR).

For those unaware, the Moto G34 5G features 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The memory and storage can be further expanded via virtual RAM expansion and a microSD card slot. A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which runs on Android 14 OS out of the box. The rear packs a 50-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses a 16-megapixel selfie shooter. So stay tuned for more as we will be covering the launch next week.

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Oppo Reno 11 series landing pages go live on Flipkart & Oppo India revealing key specs

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 3, 2024

In November 2023, Oppo introduced the Reno 11 series smartphones in its home market, featuring two models: Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro. The global debut for these devices is set for January 11, starting in Malaysia. There are indications that the Indian launch is imminent, as the landing page for the Reno 11 series is now active on both the Oppo India website and Flipkart.

The landing page on Flipkart has revealed a bunch of key details about the camera system onboard the Reno 11 Pro. It confirms that the device will feature an OIS-enabled 50MP primary camera, paired with a 112-degree ultra-wide camera (likely 8MP) and a 32MP Sony IMX709 telephoto portrait camera with 2x optical zoom. The front camera will also have a 32MP sensor with autofocus.

Oppo Reno 11 Pro specs — Reno 11 Pro specs

The 32MP telephoto camera will also be onboard the vanilla model, which will offer 67W SUPERVOOC fast charging. In contrast, the Reno 11 Pro will offer 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging. Both devices are confirmed to debut with Android 14-based ColorOS 14.

No further details have been confirmed by the teasers, however, a recent leak has revealed that both the Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro global models could feature different SoCs compared to the Chinese variants. The vanilla Reno 11 is said to have a Dimensity 1080 onboard rather than the Dimensity 8200, whereas the Reno 11 Pro could feature Dimensity 8200 or a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC. We expect other specifications to remain similar to the Chinese models.

In related news, Oppo is also preparing to launch its flagship Find X7 series smartphones on January 8. Ahead of the launch, hands-on videos of the Find X7 have leaked online revealing the complete design and color options.

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Tecno Pop 8 Launched with a 6.56-inch HD+ Display, 8GB RAM, and a 5000mAh Battery

By

Simranpal Singh

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Jan 3, 2024

Following the leaks, benchmarks, and some renders, Tecno officially unveils the Tecno Pop 8 smartphone in India (as teased), which comprises competitive specifications to tackle the competition in the affordable market segment. The company’s latest budget smartphone offers a 6.56-inch HD+ display and a Unisoc T606 chipset. It comes bundled with Android 13 Go. Let’s see more details about the smartphone below:

Tecno Pop 8 Specifications and Features

The Tecno Pop 8 comes with a 6.56” HD+ Dot-in IPS display, featuring a rapid 90Hz refresh rate, which provides a visually immersive experience. The phone’s design is not only sleek, with dimensions of 163.69×75.6×8.55mm, but also robust, boasting the Splash Resistant (IPX2) feature.

It features an 8MP AI selfie camera with ƒ/2.0 aperture that delivers stunning self-portraits, while the 12MP dual AI rear camera with ƒ/1.85 aperture is present. It is powered by a Unisoc T606 Octa Core processor, up to 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and 64GB of UFS 2.2 storage. It is expandable up to 1 TB of expandable storage. Surprisingly, the smartphone scores a 240K AnTuTu score.

Further, it houses a 5000 mAh Li-Po battery, complemented with Type-C connectivity and a 10W adapter. The smartphone can withstand 38 days of standby time. It runs on HiOS 13.0, based on Android 13-Go.

Commenting on the launch, Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of TECNO Mobile India, said, “At TECNO, we hold steadfast in our commitment to bridging the digital divide, striving to make innovation accessible across our portfolio without burdening the consumer’s pocket. Our POP series epitomizes this commitment, delivering awesomeness to entry-level users. It is our way of connecting with the young, the bold and the stylish tech enthusiasts.”

In terms of connectivity, the Tecno Pop 8 hosts dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS. It is available in three color options Gravity Black, Mystery White, and Alpenglow Gold. Special features include dual stereo speakers with DTS technology for an immersive audio experience, and the smart fingerprint sensor adds an extra layer of security.

Tecno Pop 8 Pricing and Availability

Tecno Pop 8 is priced at ₹6,499 for the 4GB + 64GB variant, with a limited offer of ₹5,999, along with additional bank offers. The phone will be available starting January 9 via Amazon.

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iQOO Neo 9 Pro February launch for India officially confirmed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 3, 2024

Last month, iQOO unveiled the iQOO 12 flagship phone in India and some Asian markets. Yesterday, the brand confirmed that it will soon launch a Neo-branded smartphone in India. The brand has just released a new teaser, which confirms that the iQOO Neo 9 Pro will go on sale in India in February.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro February launch confirmed — iQOO Neo 9 Pro to launch in February in India

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro’s teaser reveals that it will sport a red-white dual-tone design. The brand has yet to reveal the key specifications of the device. In December, iQOO unveiled the Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Dimensity 9300 chipsets, respectively, in the Chinese market. According to reports, the Chinese Neo 9 will be rebranded as the iQOO Neo 9 Pro in India.

The arrival of the Neo 9 Pro variant suggests that there could be a non-Pro model in the works. At present, there is no information available about the iQOO Neo 9 for the Indian market. Here is a look at what to expect about the specifications and price of the Neo 9 Pro.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro specifications (expected)

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro will arrive with a 6.78-inch OLED display that offers a 1.5K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered device may ship with up to 12 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage.

The Neo 9 Pro will have a 5,160mAh battery with 120W fast charging support. It will have a 16-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel (Sony IMX920 with OIS) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) dual-camera system. It will run on FunTouch OS 14-based Android 14, an IR blaster, and dual stereo speakers. Considering the price of the iQOO Neo 7 Pro, it appears that the Neo 9 Pro is likely to be priced at around Rs 35,000 (~$420) to Rs 40,000 (~$480) in India.

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Dreame F9 Pro, U10, H12 Core vacuum cleaners launched in India; here’s prices, key features

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 3, 2024

Dreame Tech entered the Indian market last year by unveiling the Deame D9 Max (review) robot vacuum cleaner. Now, the brand has unveiled three new vacuum cleaners, such as Dreame F9 Pro, U10, and H12 Core in India. Here is a look at the prices and key features of each of these products.

Dreame F9 Pro

The Dreame F9 Pro is priced at Rs 24,999 (~$300) and is listed for purchase on Amazon. It is a robot vacuum cleaner that offers key features, such as 2-in-1 vacuuming and mopping, a 3200 mAh battery, 4-level powerful suction, precise navigation with accurate mapping, fast charging, and support for voice assistants like Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri. The F9 Pro utilizes a dual-action brush system to effectively capture dirt on all surfaces and features a high-efficiency filter for thorough allergen removal. Busy professionals can schedule cleaning sessions while away, returning to a clean home at the end of the day.

Dreame U10 and H12 Core

The Dreame U10 and H12 Core are cordless vacuum cleaners designed for daily cleaning needs. The H12 Core is specifically tailored for both wet and dry vacuuming.

The U10 is listed for purchase with a price tag of Rs 14,999 (~$180) on Amazon. Key features of the Dreame U10 include 100AW suction power, a 40-minute runtime on a single charge, a 7x2000mAh battery pack, a high-speed brushless motor operating at 100,000 rpm, and a multi-surface brush head with LED lights.

On the other hand, the Dreame H12 Core offers more powerful 200W suction power, coupled with a 6 x 2500mAh battery pack. The smart sensors onboard can detect dirt and adjust the suction power accordingly to facilitate deep cleaning. The H12 Core also includes a spacious 900-ml clean water tank capacity and offers versatile cleaning options with both auto and suction modes. It is listed for Rs 24,999 (~$300) on Amazon.

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Honor X50 GT’s battery size, durable design, heat dissipation capabilities confirmed before launch

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 3, 2024

Honor X50 GT will be unveiled in China tomorrow. The brand recently confirmed that it will come equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset. The new teasers released by the brand have some more details about the affordable sub-flagship phone.

Honor X50 GT’s key specifications confirmed

Honor emphasizes the Honor X50 GT’s robust build quality, similar to the X50, providing exceptional drop protection. Earning an SGS five-star drop resistance certification underscores its durability. While display specs remain undisclosed, Honor focuses on the phone’s overall sturdiness and structural integrity.

The X50 GT will arrive with a massive 5,800mAh ultra-durable battery, which Honor claims can last at least 4 years. It sports the largest vapor chamber heat dissipation unit in its class, measuring 5100mm². Two industry-first technologies, micro-channel ley lines and Bernoulli bionic fins, contribute to this impressive cooling system. The brand claims that this not only offers superior cooling efficiency but also positions the X50 GT as a leader in thermal management.

As per other reports, the Honor X50 GT will have a 6.78-inch OLED panel that supports a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is expected to arrive in multiple variants, such as 12GB+256GB, 16GB+256GB, 16GB+512GB, and 16GB+1TB, and is likely to be priced at around 2,000 Yuan (~$282).

The device is expected to feature an 8-megapixel front camera and a 108-megapixel + 2-megapixel dual-camera system. It will arrive with other features, such as 35W fast charging, LPDDR5 RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, an in-screen fingerprint scanner, and Android 14 with MagicOS 7.2 on top. It will be available in two shades, such as black and silver.

The Honor X50 GT is said to be aimed at the online market in China. The recently announced Honor X50 Pro is said to be its rebadged version for the offline market.

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OnePlus Ace 3 will be the first Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 phone with 5,500mAh battery

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 3, 2024

OnePlus is scheduled to unveil the OnePlus Ace 3, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered sub-flagship phone, in China tomorrow. In the lead-up to the launch, the company has steadily released key specs for the device. Today, it dropped some posters to confirm its battery capacity.

OnePlus Ace 3 battery size confirmed

The Ace 3 will be the world’s first Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 phone to feature a 5,500mAh battery. With a four-year lifespan, the battery is optimized for long-term usage. The inclusion of the SuperVOOC S power management chip contributes to efficient energy utilization, achieving an industry-leading discharge efficiency of 99.5 percent.

Noteworthy performance metrics of the Ace 3’s battery include 17.4 hours of video playback, 15.7 hours of Douyin short videos, and 8.7 hours of gameplay on “Honor of Kings” before requiring a recharge. The brand has also confirmed that the Ace 3 will support 100W fast charging. However, it will lack support for wireless charging.

As far as other specs are concerned, the OnePlus Ace 3 will feature a BOE-supplied 6.78-inch OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will have a 16-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel (Sony IMX890, OIS) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 2-megapixel (macro) triple camera unit. It is expected to arrive in three variants, such as 12GB+256GB, 16GB+256GB, and 16GB+1TB, which may carry a starting price of 3,299 Yuan (~$465). It will be available in three shades, such as Star Black, Moon Sea, and Sand Gold.

The OnePlus Ace 3 will be rebranded as the OnePlus 12R for markets like India, Europe, and North America. The 12R is expected to go official with the OnePlus 12 on Jan. 23 through a global launch event.

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Fox Racing Launches Dropframe Pro Helmet, a Game-Changer for E-Bike Safety

By

Anubhav

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Jan 3, 2024

Mountain biking enthusiasts have always relied on robust safety gear, and with the advent of e-MTBs, this need has only intensified. Fox Racing, a renowned name in protective gear, steps up to this challenge with its latest offering – the Dropframe Pro helmet, blending style with enhanced safety for e-bike riders.

The Helmet is NTA-8776 certified for safety

Unlike standard bike helmets, the Dropframe Pro offers comprehensive protection, extending to the sides and back of the head. It’s not just about coverage; this helmet is also about meeting high safety standards. The NTA-8776 E-bike helmet certification ensures that the Dropframe Pro is equipped to handle the unique demands of high-power e-biking.

But what sets this helmet apart? First, it borrows safety features from the Proframe RS, Fox’s premium downhill MTB helmet, known for its full-face, heavy-duty protection. Then, it adds its unique touches like the MIPS technology, recognized for reducing head injury risks, and the BOA Fit System for a snug, perfect fit. These features work in tandem, offering both safety and comfort.

The Dropframe Pro isn’t just a protective shell; it’s a statement. Its rugged aesthetics echo the power and performance of modern electric enduro and all-mountain bikes. Yet, it doesn’t compromise on comfort. Enhanced ventilation keeps you cool during intense rides, while the adjustable peak shields your eyes from the sun. The interior is just as impressive, with an Ionic anti-microbial liner and washable cheek pads, ensuring hygiene and durability.

As the popularity of e-bikes grows, so does the importance of suitable safety gear. The Dropframe Pro, priced at $280, is more than a helmet; it’s an investment in safety and confidence on the trails. It’s available in various sizes and colors, catering to diverse preferences, and can be purchased through Fox Racing’s official website and authorized retailers.

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Rivian Smashes Records with Q4 2023 EV Production and Innovation Boom

By

Anubhav

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Jan 3, 2024

Rivian has been making headlines recently with its impressive production and delivery numbers for the year 2023. The company, known for its innovative battery electric vehicles (BEVs), has shown remarkable growth, especially in the fourth quarter of 2023. In this quarter alone, Rivian produced a record-breaking 17,541 BEVs at its Normal, Illinois facility, marking a 75% increase from the previous year. This achievement is significant, not just for Rivian but for the electric vehicle industry as a whole, demonstrating the increasing demand and capability for electric vehicle production.

Rivian’s stock, however, experienced a slight decline during this period

However, despite the increase in production, Rivian’s vehicle deliveries in the fourth quarter, totaling 13,972 units, didn’t surpass the record set in the third quarter of 2023, where they delivered 15,564 units. This discrepancy raises questions about whether the issue was related to demand, which is a critical factor for both the company and its investors. Rivian’s stock also experienced a slight decline, trading around $21 per share.

Over the course of 2023, Rivian’s growth was even more evident. The company produced over 57,000 electric vehicles and delivered more than 50,000. These figures are more than double the numbers from the previous year, highlighting Rivian’s rapid expansion and its increasing role in the electric vehicle market.

Rivian’s lineup includes the R1T pickup, the R1S SUV, and the EDV commercial vans, primarily for Amazon. While the company didn’t break down the numbers for each model, the collective success of these vehicles indicates a strong market presence.

Another significant development for Rivian in 2023 was the introduction of a new 400-mile Max Pack battery option, offering customers even more range than the standard 350-mile Large Pack option. This innovation is likely to attract customers looking for long-range electric vehicles, further cementing Rivian’s position in the market.

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Steam Gamers Confused by Spontaneous Achievement, or a Possible Bug in ‘The Universim’ Game

By

Anubhav

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Jan 3, 2024

Steam, the popular gaming platform, recently witnessed a peculiar glitch involving the game “The Universim.” This incident has sparked discussions and theories within the gaming community, highlighting the intricacies of game development and the unexpected surprises in digital platforms.

The achievement showed 0/0 instead of 0/1

“The Universim,” a city builder game with God Game elements, developed by Crytivo, is known for offering players control to evolve civilizations through different ages. However, a strange occurrence has left some players baffled. Despite not playing the game, several Steam users found the “Genesis” achievement unlocked in their accounts. This achievement, which normally requires building the first civilization in the game, appeared without any gameplay recorded.

This oddity was first reported by a Reddit user, DjuncleMC, who noticed the unlocked achievement despite never having played “The Universim.” The revelation led to a flurry of speculation. While some theorized it could be an anti-piracy measure, others suggested a bug in the achievement’s conditions.

Further investigation by the community revealed an intriguing detail: the achievement’s condition was set incorrectly at 0/0 instead of the typical 0/1, leading Steam to register it as completed. This minor glitch, albeit seemingly insignificant, has stirred up considerable attention, emphasizing the complexities of game programming and the vigilant nature of the gaming community. The game, which has been in development since 2014, is set for its version 1.0 launch this month. Crytivo, while concentrating on enhancing the gameplay experience, now also faces the task of addressing this quirky anomaly.

This episode also highlights the power of community-driven problem-solving in the digital age. Steam has always relied on its user base to point out bugs and glitches, which is kind of humourous too. The collective effort of Steam users not only identified the glitch but also proposed explanations, indicating that there definitely exists some form of collaborative spirit in the gaming sector.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 series launch date officially confirmed, pre-reservations begin

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 3, 2024

Samsung has finally confirmed that its next Galaxy Unpacked event will be held on January 17 in multiple markets. The event will see the arrival of the Galaxy S24 series of flagship phones and the Galaxy AI. The landing page for the Galaxy Unpacked event confirming the pre-reservation details is now live on Samsung’s website.

Samsung Galaxy S24 series preservation benefits confirmed

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event for Galalaxy S24 series to be held on January 17

Samsung has confirmed pre-reservation benefits for the upcoming Galaxy S24 series in India. Customers can pay a fee of Rs 1,999 (~$24, refundable amount) to pre-reserve the Galaxy S24 series and unlock extra benefits worth Rs 5000 (~$60). By doing so, individuals can be among the first to own the Galaxy S24 series and may also receive early delivery through Samsung Live.

The benefits include an upgrade program for old phones with the best exchange value, getting devices in special colors, and a Smart Club membership offering a Rs 5,000 welcome voucher and 2 percent loyalty points via the Samsung Shop App. Additionally, there’s a “Buy More, Save More” promotion, providing a 5 precent discount on the total purchase when two or more eligible products are bought together.

As per reports, the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24 Plus will be available with either the Exynos 2400 or the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, depending on the market. On the other hand, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in all markets.

The Galaxy S24 series will run on One UI 6.1-based Android 14, which will bring support for Samsung’s generative AI feature, dubbed Galaxy AI. Some of the features that will be offered by the Galaxy AI include real-time language translation during voice calls, dynamic weather effects for the lock screen wallpaper, a Generative AI-powered wallpaper generator, summarization of notes within Samsung Notes, voice tagging and transliteration for up to ten individuals from voice recordings, and the use of Generative AI to fill in images.

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Controversial gaming policies result in high-level firing in China

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 2, 2024

China’s recent gaming regulations that sparked an $80 billion selloff might be getting reworked, following the removal of a key official and public outcry. The proposed laws, aimed at limiting gaming addiction and microtransactions, sent shockwaves through the industry and the government itself.

China Loosens Grip on Gaming Industry After Market Meltdown

Feng Shixin, head of the publishing unit within the Communist Party’s Publicity Department – a crucial body overseeing gaming regulation – has been removed from his position. While the government remains tight-lipped on the reason, sources link it directly to the controversial gaming laws.

The proposed regulations, unveiled in December, triggered a massive selloff in Chinese gaming stocks. Tencent, the country’s gaming giant, saw its shares plummet by 16%, and NetEase, another major player, dropped by 25%. This financial earthquake appears to have shaken the resolve of policymakers.

Amidst the industry turmoil and potential economic repercussions, China seems to be softening its stance. Just five days after the laws were announced, the National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) expressed willingness to modify them based on public feedback. This signals a potential shift towards less extreme measures.

In August 2021, strict regulations were first implemented to address video game addiction among minors, restricting their gaming hours. Additionally, new game licenses were put on hold, resulting in a substantial decline in industry revenue in 2022.

While curbing gaming addiction remains a concern, China‘s recent economic slowdown has shifted priorities. The government, aiming to boost private sector investment, might be wary of stifling a thriving industry like gaming.

As things stand, the future of these gaming laws remains uncertain. The removal of Feng Shixin and the government’s more conciliatory approach signal a possible change in direction. However, it is yet to be seen how the revised regulations, if any, will be received by the gaming industry and the broader public.

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Latest sales data of TV boxes in China places Tencent at the top with Xiaomi and Huawei among the top five

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jan 2, 2024

The latest RUNTO report indicates that Tencent was the leading smart TV box retailer in China as of November 2023. The online retail sales of smart boxes were 113,000 units with an average online sales price of 201 yuan ($). The results indicate a 44.6% decline year-on-year and comes amidst greater regulation of the online streaming apps, amongst other factors.

Several policies have been introduced that placed restrictions on startups that may have negatively affected sales of smart boxes. The RUNTO report indicates that Tencent remains the market leader with a share of about 20% and a slight increase year-on-year. The other leading brands in the smart box sales arena in China were Tmall Magic Box (19.8%), Saimini (11.5%), Xiaomi (9.4%), and Huawei making the top five.

The various smart box brands experienced a mixed bag of fortunes according to the RUNTO data. Tmall Magic Box had a 2.4 percentage points increase from the previous year, with the 7C Youth Edition driving the sales. The 7C Youth Edition has been the best-seller for several consecutive months and accounts for 30% of the market share in the sub-100 yuan category. The third-best brand Saimini has re-engineered its price regime with the average price of its models decreasing to 60 yuan, which translated to a greater volume of units sold within the period. Xiaomi accounts for up to 30% of the market share in the 200-499 yuan mid-range category, placing it in the fourth position overall.

The market outlook of smart box sales in China could continue in the same trajectory as highlighted by the RUNTO data. There are however still some strong players in the market that may continue to hold the aces even with declining demand for TV boxes in the country.

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AI PCs will dominate China’s PC market in 2024: IDC forecasts 3.8% growth amidst global recovery

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 2, 2024

Analyst firm IDC anticipates a 3.8% year-on-year increase in PC shipments in China’s mainland market for 2024. This growth is attributed to two significant trends: the increasing popularity of AI-powered PCs and a surge in cost-conscious buyers, indicating a recovery from pandemic-related setbacks.

Emerging Trends and Growth Dynamics in China’s PC Market

AI Takes Center Stage: IDC expects AI PCs to claim a staggering 55% market share in 2024, ballooning to a dominant 85% by 2027. This surge aligns with China’s ambitious AI development plans, driving a “diversification trend” in consumer ecosystems as users embrace hardware designed for AI applications.

According to a previous IDC report, prominent manufacturers such as Lenovo, HP, and Acer have plans to introduce AI-powered PCs in 2024. Lenovo has already announced the release of some AI PCs. Intel also aims to integrate AI into over 100 million PCs by 2025, collaborating with Lenovo Group and iQiyi. This shift is significant for China’s PC market and has competitive implications for tech giants like AMD, Intel, HP, Microsoft, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm, all announcing their AI PC and chipset plans.

System Upgrade Cycle: In 2024, a significant PC refresh cycle is expected due to a large number of aging commercial PCs reaching or surpassing the four-year mark. This refresh aligns with the growing need to migrate to Windows 11. As a result, the total global PC market in 2024 is projected to experience a 3.4% growth compared to the previous year.

Budget Savvy Reigns Supreme: “Savvy and independent” users seeking value will prioritize “cost-effective products” that deliver optimal performance at attractive prices. This trend will be further amplified by government and education sectors adopting “centralized procurement” of business and budget-friendly PCs, leading to lower average product prices across the market.

K-Shaped Recovery: However, the growth won’t be uniform. High-performance PCs and slim notebooks are predicted to see stronger gains, creating a “K-shaped trend” where premium segments outperform basic ones. For the first half of 2024, IDC expects a 1.5% increase in PC shipments, with a more robust growth of 5.6% forecasted for the latter half of the year.

Overall, the IDC report paints a picture of a dynamic and evolving Chinese PC market, marked by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and an increasing focus on value-for-money products.

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Huawei Watch Ultimate Design gold smartwatch headlines elite fashion magazines Esquire & ELLEMEN

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jan 2, 2024

The Huawei Watch Ultimate Design is a premium gold smartwatch that has continued to get rave reviews. The gold Huawei smartwatch has surfaced in elite men’s fashion magazine Esquire, as a very popular luxury smartwatch. The specs and materials used in the manufacturing of the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design are said to be extremely luxurious.

Huawei Watch Ultimate Design gold smartwatch

Huawei’s gold smartwatch has been frequently featured in a few first-line men’s fashion magazines. The watch is listed in Esquire’s inventory of “old money style” items, as a must-have item, which is quite an impressive achievement for the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design. The old money class refers to the upper-class gentlemen and families with a reputation, heritage, and taste that goes with their inherited wealth.

The Esquire article highlighted that the Watch Ultimate Design is the pinnacle of Huawei’s fashion technology aesthetics. The smartwatch comes in 18-karat gold with a gold bezel, a gold rotating crown, a gold PVD bezel scale, and gold PVD between gold and titanium. The strap of the smartwatch refreshes its decorative value and also greatly increases its collection value. Esquire says the Huawei’s gold watch can be described as an upgraded version of the “old money style” item.

Apart from Esquire, men’s lifestyle magazine ELLEMEN has also situated the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design as the choice of elite businessmen. The ELLEMEN article listed the gold smartwatch in its “Elite Men’s Tool of Accent”. It highlights that the meaning of a watch is much more than just being a timepiece. It is a kind of decoration and the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design is an extraordinary masterpiece. It is made with luxurious materials reflects exquisite craftsmanship and allows a smartwatch to compete with traditional premium watches for the first time.

The fashion value of the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design has been underscored by its mention in first-line men’s fashion magazines. Both the Esquire and ELLEMEN articles showcased Huawei’s gold smartwatch in their models dressed in luxury fashion items.

Pricing & Availability

The marriage between tech and a traditional premium design with luxurious materials makes the Huawei Watch Ultimate Design a significant elite timepiece. The Huawei Watch Ultimate Design was announced in September 2023 and is priced up to $3,000 currently.

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Xiaomi crowdfunds the Arkfish Smart Room Door Lock S5 with indoor fingerprint locks on the Youpin platform

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jan 2, 2024

Xiaomi has opened a crowdfunding campaign for the Arkfish Smart Room Door Lock S5. The campaign is being hosted on Xiaomi Youpin and the door lock comes with fingerprint technology. The password input button and fingerprint recognition are present on the door handle.

Features

The Xiaomi Arkfish Smart Room Door Lock S5 can be disassembled and reassembled in seconds to transform into a smart door lock. Xiaomi says it is suitable for virtually all wooden door types and supports direct replacement of ball locks, single tongue locks, and split locks. The smart door lock has an easy DIY installation using a screwdriver.

There are a variety of options to unlock the Arkfish Smart Door Lock S5. These are fingerprint, long-term password, periodic password, Bluetooth, and using a physical key. The smart door lock is equipped with a one-button lock normally open mode. This allows the smart door lock to be used in different scenarios, as the mode can be switched anytime depending on your privacy considerations. The smart door lock will be well-suited for shared apartments where multiple persons are supposed to have access to the house. The smart door lock supports MIJIA smart linkage, allowing it to be integrated into the MIJIA ecosystem. It can be managed via the MIJIA app.

The upcoming Arkfish Smart Door Lock S5 is powered by four AA batteries that are claimed to last for up to 300 days. It also supports a USB-C emergency power supply if needed.

Pricing & Availability

The smart door lock is offered on Youpin in three versions – Standard, Customized, and Upgraded. The Standard version is priced at 199 yuan ($28) and is suitable for in-situ replacement. The Customized version is offered at 249 yuan ($35), while the Upgraded version has a 249 yuan ($35) price tag and comes with an upgraded magnetic single tongue lock body suitable for new door installation. More details about the crowdfunding campaign can be obtained from the brand’s website.

OnePlus 12 is AnTuTu’s performance champion for December 2023

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 2, 2024

AnTuTu recently unveiled its final top 10 performance rankings for 2023, and there have been significant changes compared to the November list. A notable observation is that, in December, none of the devices scored below 2 million points, which is quite surprising because these are the average scores for each phone calculated based on data from all over the world. Without further ado, here are the December rankings for the top 10 flagship Android smartphones based on their performance.

AnTuTu Top 10 (by performance) in December 2023:

Rank 1: OnePlus 12, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 24GB+1TB – 2,188,135 points
Rank 2: Vivo X100, Dimensity 9300, 16GB+1TB – 2,186,019 points
Rank 3: iQOO Neo 9 Pro, Dimensity 9300, 16GB+1TB – 2,181,443 points
Rank 4: iQOO 12, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 16GB+1TB – 2,179,003 points
Rank 5: iQOO 12 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 16GB+1TB – 2,178,873 points
Rank 6: Red Magic 9 Pro+, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 16GB+512GB – 2,142,329 points
Rank 7: Nubia Z60 Ultra, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 16GB+512GB – 2,142,178 points
Rank 8: Vivo X100 Pro, Dimensity 9300, 16GB+1TB – 2,134,331 points
Rank 9: Xiaomi 14, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 16GB+512GB – 2,043,710 points
Rank 10: Xiaomi 14 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 16GB+1TB – 2,041,656 points

OnePlus 12, which launched in the first week of December has taken the first spot with 2,188,135 points. While the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip is the reason for its amazing performance, it is also worth mentioning that the smartphone has a massive 9,140mm² vapor chamber cooling system built into it to keep the temperatures in check, giving the CPU more headroom to push harder.

Trailing by just 2116 points is the Vivo X100, which was in the same position last month as well against the Red Magic 9 Pro+. This Dimensity 9300-powered smartphone is a fresh breath of air for many as it signifies that the two major players in the smartphone SoC arena are almost neck and neck when it comes to performance. We expect to see more MediaTek Dimensity-powered flagships to launch in the future.

A standout on the list is the iQOO Neo 9 Pro at number 3, not being a flagship with its $419 price tag. Still, it holds its ground with an average score of 2,181,443 points, courtesy of the Diemsnity 9300 chip. This device is likely to attract customers seeking a budget-friendly gaming option.

Speaking of gaming, the gaming flagship Red Magic 9 Pro+ which was number 1 last month has slid down to number 6. This is likely because its performance has dipped by around 40,000 points compared to last month.

The OnePlus 12 and the iQOO Neo 9 Pro are heading to the global market soon. However, it looks like the global market will be getting a different chip inside of its iQOO Neo 9 Pro.

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TSMC retreats from election debates amidst controversy over Overseas investments

By

Joane

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Jan 2, 2024

In the lead-up to Taiwan’s presidential and parliamentary elections on January 13, TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co) finds itself at the center of a heated vice presidential debate. The world’s largest contract chipmaker has withdrawn from the election campaign discussions amidst clashes between candidates regarding the company’s overseas investments and concerns about the safety of investing in Taiwan.

The withdrawal comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Taiwan and China, which claims Taiwan as its territory. The presidential campaigns have seen increased focus on issues affecting the semiconductor industry, such as power grid stability and water shortages, with occasional mentions of TSMC’s role in Taiwan.

Jaw Shaw-kong, the vice presidential candidate for Taiwan’s largest opposition party, Kuomintang (KMT), took center stage by expressing concerns raised by Wall Street financiers about the potential impact of a war on investment in Taiwan. He placed blame on the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for the tensions with China, accusing them of creating an unfavorable investment climate.

Jaw Shaw-kong proposed the “Taiwan plus one” strategy, advocating for one factory in Taiwan and another overseas. He specifically targeted TSMC, suggesting the company’s desire to relocate overseas, potentially undermining Taiwan’s economic stability.

In response, Hsiao Bi-khim, the DPP’s vice presidential candidate and former de facto ambassador to the United States, refuted Jaw’s claims. She highlighted that foreign investment in Taiwan has reached record levels under the DPP administration and emphasized TSMC’s significance as a cornerstone of Taiwan’s economy. Hsiao urged against using the company for political competition and described TSMC as a “sacred mountain protecting the country.”

TSMC, currently expanding its global footprint with factories in Japan, the U.S. state of Arizona, and plans for another in Germany, remained silent in response to the debate. However, both the company and the government consistently asserted their commitment to keeping the majority of manufacturing, especially advanced chip production, in Taiwan.

As the election date draws near, the withdrawal of TSMC from the campaign discussions adds a new layer of complexity to the political landscape, raising questions about the company’s future trajectory and its impact on Taiwan’s economic resilience in the face of external pressures.

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