iOS 17.2.1 Update is Causing Disruptions in iPhone Cellular Connectivity and More

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Jan 1, 2024

When it comes to smartphones, software is as important as hardware. Updates can make our devices better by adding new features and improving efficiency. However, operating systems such as Android and iOS aren’t easy to handle. Even the smallest mistake can lead to serious problems and cause millions of iPhone users to suffer. Unfortunately Apple experienced this firsthand when users who downloaded iOS 17.2.1 began facing problems with features like cellular connectivity. Here are the details…

iOS 17.2.1 Update Challenges of iPhones’ Cellular Connectivity and More…

Apple released iOS 17.2.1 a few days ago. The update didn’t bring any new features to iPhone’s but it finally brought a solution to the battery drain problem that have been experienced for a while. While the company solved one problem, it replaced it with something much more frustrating. It appears that iPhone users worldwide are facing cellular connectivity issues after updating to iOS 17.2.1.

Despite attempts to reset the phone, including restoring it to factory settings, hasn’t resolved the problem. Apple has not provided any statement to reassure users regarding this issue. In my personal experience, I installed the update released on December 19 on the very day it came out. It’s been over 10 days now, and I haven’t faced a similar issue on my iPhone 14 Pro Max. Based on this, it seems likely that the problem isn’t widespread.

Users who haven’t installed the iOS 17.2.1 update should proceed with caution as issues might occur with these updates. Apple is likely to address these problems by rolling out the 17.2.2 or 17.3 update soon. If you’re facing issues, a temporary fix can be found by enrolling in the iOS 17.3 public beta program. Here are the steps to follow:

Enroll in Beta Program: Apple
Backup your iPhone: Create a backup in iCloud or iTunes.
Download beta profile: Settings > General > Profile.
Install the beta: Settings > General > Software Update.
Follow instructions: Download & Install for iOS 17.3 Public Beta.

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[Update] Xiaomi 13 Pro, Pad 6 Officially Confirmed To Receive HyperOS In India This Month

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jan 1, 2024

Update: Xiaomi revealed on its official HyperOS India account on X that the Xiaomi 13 Pro (review) and Xiaomi Pad 6 (review) will be the first devices to receive the new operating system. The rollout will begin later this month.

The original story follows…

Xiaomi is gearing up to unveil the Redmi Note 13 series in India later this week. The upcoming smartphones are already available in China and also as per the brand’s teasers, the global variants are set to come with the same specifications. Now, Xiaomi has started teasing the arrival of its HyperOS in India. The new operating system which replaced the MIUI was announced in October last year.

Xiaomi teases HyperOS arrival in India

Get ready for a hyper start to the year!
Stay tuned for the excitement!#XiaomiIndia #XiaomiHyperOS pic.twitter.com/jU2WAPYABC
— Xiaomi HyperOS India (@XiaomiHyperOSIN) January 1, 2024

Xiaomi took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that HyperOS is coming to India. The brand is set to reveal more details in the coming days. Although the concrete timeline of rollout and list of eligible devices remains unclear, the teaser indeed confirms that the new operating system may launch soon in the country. It’s likely that Xiaomi may announce details about HyperOS at the Redmi Note 13 series launch event on January 4. There’s no word whether the upcoming smartphones will ship with MIUI or the new HyperOS out of the box.

Xiaomi teasing HyperOS’s arrival in India comes after the company officially announced its global rollout last month. Eight Xiaomi and Redmi devices and one POCO phone are set to receive the operating system in the first quarter of 2024.

The HyperOS relies on Linux and Xiaomi’s self-developed Vela system. It is lightweight in size and packs AI features as well as performance and security improvements. The new OS offers a refined control centre, more customization options, a dedicated TEE security system, cross-device collaboration, AI features like image search, artwork creation, and more. For detailed features and changes that HyperOS brings, head over to this post here.

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iPhone 15 Series Available At A Discounted Price For The First Time Since Launch In India (Limited Period)

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jan 1, 2024

Nearly four months after its launch, the iPhone 15 series is available at a discounted price for the first time in India. Consumer electronics retail chain Vijay Sales is conducting an Apple Days Sale from December 31 to January 7. During this period, there are discounts on various Apple devices, but the latest-generation flagship iPhones at a discounted price are the main highlight. For those waiting to purchase the iPhone 15 series, now seems to be a really good time.

iPhone 15 series discounted during Apple Days Sale at Vijay Sales

The Apple Days Sale is currently live at Vijay Sales retail stores across the country as well as on their official website. It will end on January 7. During the sale period, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus are available at starting price tags of Rs 70,990 and Rs 79,820 respectively. This means that compared to their launch price, the discount is nearly Rs 10,000 for the base models. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 Pro starts at Rs 1,25,900 which is cheaper by Rs 9,000 compared to original price of Rs 1,34,900. On the other hand, the Pro Max can be grabbed from Rs 1,49,240 instead of Rs 1,59,900.

Take a look at the detailed pricing of each configuration of the iPhone 15 series in the table below.

iPhone 15 Series	Sale Price	Regular Price
iPhone 15 128GB	Rs 70,990	Rs 79,900
iPhone 15 256GB	Rs 79,320	Rs 89,900
iPhone 15 512GB	Rs 97,990	Rs 1,09,000

iPhone 15 Plus 128GB	Rs 79,820	Rs 89,900
iPhone 15 Plus 256GB	Rs 89,160	Rs 99,900
iPhone 15 Plus 512GB	Rs 1,07,820	Rs 1,19,900

iPhone 15 Pro 128GB	Rs 1,25,900	Rs 1,34,900
iPhone 15 Pro 256GB	Rs 1,35,240	Rs 1,44,900
iPhone 15 Pro 512GB	Rs 1,51,900	Rs 1,64,900
iPhone 15 Pro 1TB	Rs 1,62,990	Rs 1,84,900

iPhone 15 Pro Max 256GB	Rs 1,49,240	Rs 1,59,900
iPhone 15 Pro Max 512GB	Rs 1,51,900	Rs 1,79,900
iPhone 15 Pro Max 1TB	–	Rs 1,99,900

It’s worth noting that the aforementioned sale prices during the duration may change anytime. HDFC Bank cardholders can avail instant discount up to Rs 5,000 on the entire iPhone 15 series. Additionally, there is also exchange offer along with up to Rs 10,000 bonus on purchasing the iPhones from retail stores.

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Realme may be launching a new “Note” series, starting with the Realme Note 50

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jan 1, 2024

Realme‘s smartphone portfolio might be getting a new addition, judging by a recent certification in Thialand’s NBTC. The listing reveals a device named Realme Note 50 with the model number RMX3834, possibly marking the start of a new “Realme Note” series.

A device with the same model number popped up on the Eurasian Economic Commission back in November 2023. However, the certification offers no further details about the phone’s specifications or features.

RMX3834 Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) certification.

Realme already caters to a wide range of price segments with their existing lineup. The C-series targets budget buyers, while the number series tackles the mid-range and upper-mid-range segments. Power users have the GT lineup, boasting flagship models like the recent GT 5 Pro. Additionally, there’s the China-exclusive V-series.

With Realme’s existing offerings covering various niches, it remains to be seen what space the Note series would occupy. So we can only wait and see what plans they have for this potential addition to their smartphone family.

In related news, Realme is teasing the arrival of a new smartphone in India. The company today dropped a hint that it might confirm the launch date of the Realme 12 series in India on January 3.

So far, two Realme 12 series devices — Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ — have been spotted on various certification sites globally. The 12 Pro is expected to come with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset along with a 32MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom capability. The Pro+, on the other hand, is said to feature a higher-res 64MP telephoto lens that will offer 3x optical zoom.

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Samsung Rolling Out OneUI 6.0-Based Android 14 Update To The Galaxy A33 5G

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jan 1, 2024

Samsung launched the Galaxy A33 5G smartphone way back in 2022. At that time, it shipped with Android 12 OS out of the box. Now, the South Korean brand is seeding the OneUI 6.0-based Android 14 update to the smartphone. The Galaxy A33 5G since its launch two years ago has now received two major Android updates with the latest version. The OneUI 6.0 brings a host of new features and is said to be a major upgrade. Read on to know all the details below.

Samsung Galaxy A33 5G receiving Android 14 update

The OneUI 6.0-based Android 14 update is rolling out to the Samsung Galaxy A33 5G in Russia. It has a firmware version number A336BXXU7DWL1/ A336BOXM7DWL1/ A336BXXU7DWL4. A wider rollout of the update is expected across more regions in the coming days.

Users are recommended to download the OneUI 6.0 update over WiFi or a strong cellular network. They can also check the update manually by heading to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install if available.

As mentioned earlier, the OneUI 6.0-based Android 14 version brings a host of changes. These include visual changes like a redesigned quick toggle area and media controller widget, a new system-wide font, lock screen customization etc. There is also an auto-blocker preventing the installation of unknown apps. The update also brings improvements to the camera and several stock apps.

As for the core specifications, the Samsung Galaxy A33 5G has a 6.4-inch sAMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. It features a 48MP + 8MP + 5MP + 2MP camera setup. The smartphone is powered by an Exynos 1280 processor coupled with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. It is backed by a 5,000mAh battery with support for 25W fast charging.

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Carl Pei confirms arrival of new phone, Nothing Phone (2a) could be launching soon

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 1, 2024

There have been reports that Nothing will launch a new mid-range phone dubbed the Nothing Phone (2a) in the first quarter of 2024. It appears that the brand has officially started teasing its arrival, as Nothing CEO Carl Pei has confirmed the arrival of a new smartphone. Hence, it appears that it will not take too long for the Nothing Phone (2a) to break cover.

New Year New Me
New Year New M
New Year New
New Year Ne
New Year N
New Year
New Yea
New Ye
New Y
New
New P
New Ph
New Pho
New Phon
New Phone

Here's to 2024 everyone! pic.twitter.com/5OLc1Ap3n3
— Carl Pei (@getpeid) January 1, 2024

There is a lot of speculation that Nothing Phone (2a) may make its debut at the upcoming MWC (Mobile World Congress) 2024 technology exhibition, which will be held by the end of February. Now that Carl Pei has released the first teaser for the alleged device, it seems likely that the company will release additional teasers in the days leading up to the anticipated February launch.

A recent leak revealed that the Nothing Phone (2a) will be offered in two configurations: one with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, and another with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. The starting price is expected to be $400, and the phone may be available in two color options—white and black. Here is a look at the rumored specs of the device.

Nothing Phone (2a) specifications (rumored)

The Nothing Phone (2a) may arrive with a 6.7-inch OLED FHD+ 120Hz display, a Dimensity 7200 chipset, and a 4,920mAh battery that may support 45W fast charging. As mentioned above, it may come with up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of internal storage. The device will run on Nothing OS 2.5-based Android 14.

The Phone (2a) will have a Sony IMX615 32-megapixel front-facing camera. Its rear camera setup will feature an OIS-enabled Samsung S5KGN9 50-megapixel main camera and a Samsung S5KJN1 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens. It is also expected to come with other features, such as an in-screen fingerprint scanner, dual speakers, and a new three-part glyph interface on the back.

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Microsoft may be developing its own version of Switch-style game controllers

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 1, 2024

Microsoft might be dipping its toes into the detachable controller pool, with a recent patent hinting at a Joy-Con-like design for its Xbox controllers. This could be a game-changer for mobile gaming, potentially offering an alternative to Sony’s popular PlayStation Portal.

Microsoft’s Detachable Controller Concept

The patent showcases a two-part controller with a unique twist: a self-adjusting grip mechanism that adapts to various devices of different thicknesses. This versatility opens up possibilities beyond just smartphones and tablets, potentially even allowing for seamless integration with foldable smartphones.

While the patent focuses on design, it’s easy to imagine the tech behind it. Bluetooth connectivity seems like the most likely candidate, making the controllers truly cross-platform. This aligns with Microsoft’s recent push towards cloud gaming, where virtually any device can become a handheld gaming powerhouse.

But is this a direct answer to the PlayStation Portal? Not quite. While the patent depicts configurations resembling the Portal, Microsoft’s vision seems broader. It’s more about expanding the reach of its cloud gaming technology and offering players a familiar, comfortable controller experience on the go, regardless of the device they choose.

However, don’t get your hopes up just yet. Microsoft files over 1,500 patents annually, and while their R&D is active, not all concepts become actual products. The Joy-Con-inspired design mentioned may remain as a patent and might not reach the market anytime soon.

Still, it’s an exciting glimpse into what the future of Xbox gaming might hold. Detachable controllers, cross-platform solutions, and cloud gaming integration – these are all pieces of a puzzle that could redefine how we play on the go. Whether this particular patent comes to fruition or not, it’s clear that Microsoft is exploring ways to make gaming more accessible and versatile, and that’s a win for gamers everywhere.

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Report details Samsung Galaxy S24 series pre-order benefits: Double storage and more

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jan 1, 2024

The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 series has been the subject of numerous leaks, revealing details about design, specifications, and even pricing for all three models – the S24, S24 Plus, and S24 Ultra. Notably, this information surfaced even before Samsung’s official announcement of the launch date, which itself has also been leaked.

Adding to the flurry of leaks, new information has emerged regarding the potential pre-order benefits customers can expect when purchasing the Galaxy S24 series early.

Samsung Galaxy S24 series pre-order benefits

According to a report from a Korean blog Naver, Samsung will be offering a free storage upgrade for all Galaxy S24 series phones pre-ordered during the launch window.

So for instance, if you order a 256GB version of Galaxy S24 you will receive the 512GB model. And, similarly, if you order the 512GB variant of S24 Ultra, you will get the 1TB model instead. This is similar to Samsung’s pre-order offers for the Galaxy S22 and S23 lineup.

The 1TB Galaxy S24 Ultra is said to be exclusive to Samsung’s online store, alongside other potentially unique color options for all three models

The report also suggests bundled discounts on Galaxy Buds FE and Galaxy Watch models alongside Galaxy S24 series purchases. Specific details regarding discount amounts or included Watch models remain unclear. However, offering the recent Galaxy Watch 6 at a reduced price would likely be well-received by users.

For a quick roundup, here are the possible specifications of the Galaxy S24 series:

Feature	Galaxy S24	Galaxy S24+	Galaxy S24 Ultra
Display	6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, FHD+ resolution	6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, QHD+ resolution	6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, QHD+ resolution
Processor	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (US and Canada) / Exynos 2400 (Global)	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM	8GB LPDDR5X	12GB LPDDR5X	12GB LPDDR5X
Storage	128GB (UFS 3.0)/ 256GB (UFS 4.0)	256GB / 512GB (UFS 4.0)	256GB / 512GB / 1TB (UFS 4.0)
Rear Camera	Triple-lens: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom	Triple-lens: 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom	Quad-lens: 108MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, 10MP periscope telephoto with 10x optical zoom
Front Camera	12MP	12MP	12MP
Battery	4,000mAh	4,900mAh	5,000mAh
Operating System	Android 14	Android 14	Android 14

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Huawei Nova Y62, Y62 Plus launched with 50MP triple cameras, 5,000mAh battery

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 1, 2024

Huawei has silently announced a new mid-range smartphone called the Huawei Nova Y62 series of smartphones in South Africa. The lineup includes two models, such as the Nova Y62 and the Nova Y62 Plus. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of both smartphones.

Huawei Nova Y62, Nova Y62 Plus specifications and features

The Nova Y62 and Y62 Plus have a 6.52-inch IPS LCD panel that offers an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio. Both smartphones are powered by an unknown octa-core processor that works at 2.2GHz.

While the Nova Y62 has 4 GB of RAM, the Plus variant ships with 8 GB of RAM. Both phones offer 128 GB of built-in storage and a dedicated microSD card slot for additional storage. It houses a 5,000mAh battery that supports 22.5W fast charging.

On the front, the Nova Y62 and Y62 Plus feature a 5-megapixel camera. The back panels of both phones are equipped with a 50-megapixel main camera and a pair of 2-megapixel cameras for depth and macro shots.

The Nova Y62 series runs on Android 12, which has a layer of EMU 12 on top. While the devices have Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) onboard, they do not have Google Mobile Services. Both devices come with usual features, such as dual SIM, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, a USB-C port, a side-facing fingerprint scanner, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Huawei Nova Y62, Y62 Plus price and availability

While the Nova Y62 series is aimed at South Africa, the exact pricing of the Y62 and Y62 Plus is not known yet. Both phones will be available in two shades, such as Sapphire Blue and Midnight Black.

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Realme may announce Realme 12 Pro series launch date on January 3

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 1, 2024

On the very first day of the year 2024, Realme’s social media handles in India and Indonesia released a teaser image, indicating an upcoming announcement on Jan. 3. Given that this date is just a day before Jan. 4, when the Redmi Note 13 series is set to launch in India, it seems likely that Realme might confirm the launch date for the Realme 12 Pro series on Jan. 3.

#StayTuned for the real update. Comment below and tell us your guess! pic.twitter.com/4ENehEu1wl
— realme (@realmeIndia) January 1, 2024

Realme 12 Pro series could be launching soon

The arrival of the Realme 12 Pro series seems imminent, as the 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ handsets have already been approved by certification platforms in India and Indonesia. Both devices have appeared with respective model numbers, such as RMX3840 and RMX3842.

Additionally, certification platforms in other nations, such as the UAE and Malaysia, have approved the Realme 12 Pro series smartphones. Unfortunately, none of the certification listings have revealed the key specifications of the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+.

It is speculated that the Realme 12 Pro series could be equipped with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset. Both phones are expected to sport a curved-edge OLED panel that offers a 120Hz refresh rate.

The 12 Pro is said to feature a 32-megapixel IMX709 telephoto camera that offers 2x optical zoom. On the other hand, the 12 Pro+ will arrive with a 64-megapixel OmniVision OV64B periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. The 12 Pro series is also expected to be released in China in the first quarter of 2024. In China, the Pro+ variant is likely to cost around 2,000 Yuan (~$282).

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VXE ATK75 eSports-grade gaming keyboard launched in China for 799 Yuan ($112)

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 1, 2024

VXE has released the ATK75 eSports-grade gaming keyboard in China, priced at 799 Yuan ($112). This keyboard is tailored for avid gamers, offering advanced features and a sturdy build. Let’s check out the key specs of this product.

VXE ATK75 Keyboard Specifications:

The keyboard features a compact 75% layout, offering a space-saving design while retaining crucial keys for gaming. It boasts second-generation Kailh magnetic switches. These switches are renowned for their durability and responsiveness, offering a lifespan of up to 150 million presses. They also allow for a fully customizable trigger range between 0.1mm and 4.0mm, providing 40 stages of customization to suit various gaming styles and preferences.

In terms of construction, the ATK75 boasts a CNC anodized aluminum alloy top cover and an aluminum alloy positioning plate, contributing to its sturdy and premium feel. The PBT translucent keycaps are high-quality and resistant to oil stains, ensuring durability and maintaining a clean appearance over time. These keycaps also allow for the transmission of RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.

The ATK75 is equipped with a Gasket structure and sound-dampening fillings, which work together to reduce noise and improve the overall typing experience. This structure ensures a balance of comfort and precision, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. The keyboard also features a multi-layer noise reduction structure to minimize cavity sounds, resulting in a purer sound output.

For customization, the ATK75 supports V HUB software, allowing users to manage multiple devices and configure various magnetic axis features like RT, DKS, TGL, and more. The keyboard also incorporates 16 million color adjustable RGB lighting, adding to its gaming-centric design.

The bottom shell is injection-molded for comfortable weight control. Internally, the ATK75 includes a satellite axis, PCB, and silicone shock pads for precision and durability. It supports wired single-mode connection and is compatible with Windows and MacOS systems.

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The OnePlus 12 is now Available for $699 on Giztop Store

By

Staff

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Jan 1, 2024

Looking for a sleek and powerful smartphone? Look no further than the OnePlus 12, which is now available for purchase on Giztop. The phone was launched with a powerful 3x periscope zoom camera, 50W wireless charging, and Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip back in December.

It is without doubt the best OnePlus smartphone till date and if you were eyeing to get the device anytime soon, now would be a good time!

The OnePlus 12 comes with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, LPDDR5x RAM, and UFS 4.0. It has a 9140mm² VC (Vapor Chamber) cooling system that can cover an area of 38,547mm². The phone has a 6.82-inch curved OLED display supplied by BOE with a resolution of 3168 x 1440 pixels (QHD+), 510 PPI, and a 1-120Hz refresh rate (LTPO). The 10-bit screen can reach up to 4500 nits of local peak brightness.

Also, the phone’s cameras are the same as the OnePlus Open (also known as Oppo Find N3). It has a 50MP Sony LYT-808 main sensor with OIS, a 64MP OmniVision OV64B sensor with an OIS-assisted 3x periscope zoom lens, and a 48MP Sony IMX581 ultrawide unit with autofocus. The front camera is 32MP, and all of these cameras offer Hasselblad-style image processing.

The OnePlus 12 is available at $699.00 via the Giztop store for worldwide shipping right now.

Buy OnePlus 12 on Giztop

Poco X6 Pro 5G, M6 Pro 4G specs and price leaks via Amazon listing

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jan 1, 2024

Poco is set to launch the Poco X6 series in India soon. While the official launch date remains undisclosed, leaked renders of both the Poco X6 and X6 Pro have recently appeared online. Additionally, renders for a previously unannounced Poco M6 Pro 4G variant have also surfaced. Interestingly, listings for the Poco X6 Pro 5G and M6 Pro 4G have now been found on Amazon UAE, revealing some specifications and price details for these devices.

Poco X6 Pro 5G specifications and price

Poco X6 Pro, as expected, will come with a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra processor, complete with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. There is a 6.67-inch 1.5K LTPS display, possibly an AMOLED, with 120Hz refresh rate support. Dimensions come in at 160.5 x 74.3 x 8.3mm, with a weight of 188 grams.

The Amazon listing suggests a triple-lens rear camera system featuring a 67MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. It will run on Android 13 OS and will be backed by a 5000mAh battery that supports 67W fast charging. Finally, the listing indicates a price of AED 1,299 (~ USD 353) for the Poco X6 Pro.

Poco M6 Pro 4G specifications and price

Moving on to the M6 Pro, it will be an affordable option while still offering a 6.67-inch FullHD+ POLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It will be powered by the MediaTek Helio G99, 12GB RAM, and 512GB of storage.

Similar to the X6 Pro, it runs on Android 13 and is powered by a 5000mAh battery with fast 67W charging. All this is warped in a body that measures 8.3mm and weighs 179 grams. The Poco M6 Pro carries a price tag of AED 899 (~ USD 245) in the UAE.

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Itel P55+ launched with 90Hz display, Unisoc T606 chip, 45W fast charging

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 1, 2024

Last month, the itel P55+ smartphone was spotted in the Google Play Console’s database. The device has now gone official in Africa. Some of its key highlights include a 90Hz display, a Unisoc processor, up to 256 GB of internal storage, and 45W fast charging. Here is all the information about the specifications, features, and price of the P55+.

Itel P55+ specifications and features

The itel P55+ has a 6.6-inch IPS LCD punch-hole display that offers an HD+ (720 x 1612 pixels) resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. The device runs on Android 13 OS and Itel’s custom UI, which brings support for Dynamic bar, a notification feature that works similar to Apple’s Dynamic Island.

Under the hood, the 4G-ready phone ships with the Unisoc T606 chipset. It comes with 4 GB / 8 GB of RAM, up to 8 GB of virtual RAM, and 128 GB / 256 GB of internal storage. It packs a 5,000mAh battery that supports 45W fast charging. According to itel, it takes around 30 minutes for the phone to achieve up to 65 percent charge and can be charged completely in 75 minutes.

On the front, the P55+ has an 8-megapixel selfie camera. Its back panel has a 50-megapixel primary camera, an AI lens, and an LED flash. The device offers other features, such as dual SIM, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, a microSD card slot, a USB-C port, a 3.4mm audio jack, and face unlock.

itel P55+ price

Itel P55+ is expected to be released in Africa with a price tag of ~$140. It will be available in shades such as Galaxy Blue, Royal Green, and Meteor Purple.

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Poco X6 Pro 5G, Poco X6 5G, Poco M6 Pro renders leaked, design, color options revealed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Jan 1, 2024

Poco is expected to unveil the Poco X6 series of smartphones in India soon. Reports suggest that the brand could be gearing up to launch the Poco X6 5G and Poco X6 Pro 5G in India. In addition, the brand could be working on a 4G version of the Poco M6 Pro. In a new report, 91Mobiles published the leaked renders of all three smartphones, revealing their design and color options.

Poco X6, X6 Pro renders

The official-looking renders show that the Poco X6 5G will come in black, blue, and white shades, whereas the Poco X6 Pro 5G will be available in black, gray, and yellow. The report further states that both devices will be available with up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of built-in storage.

Reports have claimed that the Poco X6 5G and X6 Pro 5G will be tweaked versions of the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G and the Redmi K70e, which are available in the Chinese market. One major difference between the Redmi Note 13 5G and the Poco X6 5G appears to be in the camera department. While the Redmi phone has a 200-megapixel main camera, its Poco variant is likely to feature a 64-megapixel primary camera.

As per a recent report, the Poco X6 Pro may support 67W fast charging. For those who don’t know, the Redmi K70e supports 90W rapid charging.

Poco M6 Pro renders

The Poco M6 Pro is said to be a modified version of the upcoming Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G. The Redmi variant is said to have a 108-megapixel main camera, while the Poco phone may offer a 64-megapixel primary camera. In addition, it is expected to ship with up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of internal storage. The leaked renders show that the M6 Pro will be available in black, blue, and purple. While the X6 and X6 Pro are heading to India, the M6 Pro may not be released in the country.

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(source)

WhatsApp backups to take a bite out of Google Drive storage starting 2024

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 1, 2024

Android users, prepare for a change — WhatsApp backups will soon consume storage in your Google Drive. The company’s updated terms, announced last month, bring an end to the long-standing exemption for WhatsApp data.

While no specific date has been set, users on the app’s beta version are already experiencing the change. This means backups, encompassing chat history, images, and videos, will count towards your Google Drive storage quota, regardless of your free or paid plan.

Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, confirmed the change will apply to all Android users in the first half of 2024. You’ll receive a 30-day notification beforehand, displayed as a banner in the app’s Chat Backup settings.

For those wary of their chat history bloating their Google Drive, there are alternative options available:

Direct Transfer: Utilize the built-in WhatsApp Chat Transfer tool to seamlessly migrate your data to a new device. This requires both phones to be on the same Wi-Fi network, but no internet connection is necessary.
Text-Only Backups: Opt for a more space-efficient approach by backing up only text messages, excluding media files.

This policy shift aligns Android users with iPhone users, who have always had their WhatsApp backups count towards iCloud storage. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of cloud storage usage, particularly with free plans shrinking in size.

So, Android users, plan ahead! Whether it’s transferring chats, trimming down media, or switching to text-only backups, prepare for the new landscape of WhatsApp’s Google Drive storage.

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Xiaomi’s new Mijia Health Pot S1 goes on crowdfunding for just $18

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jan 1, 2024

Xiaomi, the popular Chinese electronics brand, has launched a crowdfunding campaign for it is latest kitchen gadget, the Mijia Multifunctional Health Pot S1. Priced at an early bird price of 129 yuan (around $18), the S1 promises versatility and convenience for health-conscious individuals and tea enthusiasts.

Let’s take a closer look at the features and specifications of this multicooker to see if it’s worth your attention.

Xiaomi Mijia Health Pot S1

The Mijia Health Pot S1 boasts a sturdy build with a 316L stainless steel heating plate and a high-borosilicate glass pot body. This combination makes it suitable for various cooking tasks, from boiling water and simmering soups to brewing tea and preparing delicate herbal concoctions.

The pot’s 1.5L capacity caters to individual or small household needs, while the 1000W heating element ensures efficient cooking.

Beyond basic heating, the S1’s standout feature is its precise temperature control. It offers a range of 40°C to 90°C, adjustable in 5°C increments. This allows users to achieve the perfect brewing temperature for different types of tea or maintain specific cooking temperatures for various dishes.

Additionally, the pot retains heat for up to 12 hours thanks to its insulation technology, keeping your food or beverages warm and ready to enjoy long after cooking.

For added convenience, the S1 comes equipped with an 18-hour smart reservation function. This lets you schedule cooking in advance, ensuring a hot and freshly prepared meal when you return home from work or a long day out.

Safety features include a hidden temperature controller that automatically shuts off the pot in case of overheating, providing peace of mind while using the appliance.

As mentioned earlier, the Mijia Health Pot S1 aims to provide a versatile and functional cooking option for individuals or small households.

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Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan now showcased in Xiaomi Stores after its China launch

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Dec 31, 2023

The Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan is now available in stores in China. This is coming on the heels of the official launch of the EV on December 28. The Xiaomi SU7 is equipped with a 495kW electric motor and a 101kWh CATL Qilin battery giving a range of 800km. It arrived at its first Xiaomi store less than 24 hours after its official unveiling.

Xiaomi is a leading electronics giant but has continued to expand its business model, delving into the turf of EV manufacturing. The mass production of the model is scheduled for H1 2024 while deliveries will follow within a few months. The SU7 will be assembled in a BAIC but will bear the Xiaomi moniker. The Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan was first spotted in the Xiaomi store at the company’s headquarters in Xiaomi Science and Technology Park, Shangdi, Beijing. The model will also be showcased at other Xiaomi flagship stores across China as a precursor to its eventual sales in China.

The Xiaomi SU7 will first arrive as display cars in Xiaomi stores before release to the market. The first display cars are expected to have arrived by Q1 2024 across Xiaomi stores. Many of the Mi Stores, according to store staff, are too small and located on the first floor of the shopping complex. This makes it difficult to display the SU7 but renovations are expected to be carried out on some of the stores.

The Xiaomi SU7 will be available in three color variants namely Aqua Blue, Verdant Green, and Mineral Gray. There are Xiaomi smartphones, watches, and several other accessories that were launched with similar colors to the SU7.

The Xiaomi-developed HyperOS operating system will replace the existing architecture for all Xiaomi devices, the SU7 inclusive. This will fully integrate all Xiaomi devices into its ecosystem for seamless connectivity and a great digital experience.

There are no details yet on the pricing of the Xiaomi SU7 but some estimates indicate it could cost up to 300,000 yuan ($42,306).

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Nio tests its 1,000km range battery by live streaming a 14-hour road trip by the CEO across China

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Dec 31, 2023

Chinese EV company Nio has successfully tested its 1,000km EV battery, with its CEO William Li livestreaming a 14-hour road trip using the battery. The road trip was between two Chinese cities and achieved a range of 1,044km with 3% of the battery remaining.

Nio is a strong rival to EV giant Tesla and the newly developed battery is a groundbreaking development. The 1,044km journey between Shanghai and Xiamen was undertaken by Nio CEO Li on December 17. Nio is already being referred to in some quarters as China’s Elon Musk (Musk is Tesla’s CEO). The battery was fitted in a Nio ET7 EV for the road trip which lasted 14 hours. The car was not recharged all through the trip even with a cold snap in the region and the fact that the car operated up to 3% of its battery level.

The battery itself is called the Nio 150kWh battery and CEO Li says it has the highest energy density of any mass-produced EV battery currently available. This is at the heart of its remarkable 1,000km range. No plans to begin the mass production of the 150kWh battery in April 2024.

Pricing

The battery will not come cheap – a unit will cost about 298,000 yuan ($42,000) which is worth the price of a Tesla Model Y in China. However, Nio allows its customers to buy its cars without a battery and subscribe to its battery swap service. Nio has more than 2,000 battery swap stations spread across China. Nio has not made any market breakthrough through its current business model and reported an average of $12,000 in losses for every EV it manufactures.

It is expected that the groundbreaking Nio 150kWh battery could stimulate demand for Nio cars and result in greater financial performance by the Chinese EV giant.

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Minisforum EM780 mini PC with a compact, pocket-sized design & AMD Ryzen 7 7840U APU unveiled in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Dec 31, 2023

The Minisforum EM780 mini PC has been launched in China. The new compact mini PC can snugly fit into the pocket due to its size. The EM780 is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 7840U APU processor, which is higher than that of its predecessor. The pocket-sized Minisforum EM780 mini PC is a perfect companion on the go and also great for gaming.

The Minisforum EM780 was teased previously at Computex earlier this year and also on Minisforum’s official Weibo handle. The new model is equipped with the Radeon 780M iGPU and is capable of handling lots of games. The model also comes with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB of storage. Minisforum will also offer a 16GB RAM variant later.

Even with its pocket-sized architecture, the EM780 features the Cold Wave 2.0 heat dissipation solution. Its cooling setup consists of an active cooling fan with liquid metal. This offers a smooth and quiet operation of the tiny computer even at 28W output.

There are three USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, two USB4 Type-C ports with DisplayPort 1.4 compatibility, and a HDMI port, as well as a TF card slot. Wireless connectivity options for the Minisforum EM780 are WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The EM780 is priced in China at a starting price of 3,999 yuan ($565). There is no global availability and pricing information for the EM780 yet.

Pricing & Availability

It should be noted that the EM680 was globally available via Amazon. The Minisforum E680 is currently available on Amazon with the 32GB RAM/ 512GB storage variant retailing for $399.90. The refreshed model is therefore expected to debut in the global market at a later time.

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