China’s semiconductor industry has witnessed a staggering 1,050% increase in the value of chip-making lithography systems imported from the Netherlands in November, compared to last year. The total value of these imports reached an impressive US$762.7 million, marking a tenfold year-on-year surge. This surge is particularly noteworthy as it comes amidst tightened export rules imposed by the United States.
Of the 42 lithography systems imported by China in November, the Netherlands played a pivotal role, contributing 16 systems. ASML, the Netherlands-based company and the world’s leading exporter of lithography machines has significantly influenced China’s chip-making landscape. These advanced machines are crucial for producing integrated circuits, a technology area where China has faced challenges despite substantial government investment.
Notably, the surge in imports is a response to the United States’ expanded export control rules in October, specifically targeting the area of lithography systems. The removal of the “de minimis” rule impacted certain deep-ultraviolet tools, prompting a rush of shipments before the new restrictions took effect. ASML’s CEO, Peter Wennink, clarified that the latest restrictions primarily exclude the majority of its Chinese customers engaged in mature or legacy semiconductor manufacturing.
Chinese imports also surged from Japan, another key player in the semiconductor industry. Fifteen lithography systems, valued at US$816.8 million, were imported in November, with Canon and Nikon being notable contributors. However, Japan, like the Netherlands, had imposed export controls on chip-making equipment in response to a U.S. request in January.
Despite the challenges posed by these export controls, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC) has exhibited resilience. In the face of a 15% drop in revenue in the September quarter, SMIC increased its 2023 budget to a substantial US$7.5 billion, demonstrating a continued commitment to semiconductor manufacturing. SMIC, a major industry player, can still procure DUV systems from ASML, except its Shanghai fabs.
Chinese imports of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, as a whole, rose by over 90% year-on-year in the last quarter, amounting to 63.4 billion yuan ($8.7 billion), according to Chinese customs data. The concerns linger that the imported equipment, particularly advanced lithography tools, could potentially be utilized to manufacture high-end semiconductors, enhancing China’s manufacturing capabilities and closing the technological gap.
For years, iPhone users have enjoyed a handy feature Android lacked — a battery health screen. This simple tool displays the battery’s maximum capacity compared to its new state, offering a clear picture of its degradation. But the tide may be turning, as evidence suggests Android 15 could bring this much-desired feature.
While currently inactive, code analysis revealed that it will show the “estimated percentage of charge the battery can currently hold compared to when it was new.” In simple words, it’s the same battery health percentage feature as in iPhones.
While the availability of this feature remains a mystery, Android Authority suggests that it could arrive in Android 15, possibly as a Pixel exclusive initially. However, there’s always a chance of abandonment, though Google’s recent efforts suggest otherwise.
The latest Pixel Feature Drop already introduced a “battery information” screen, revealing the battery’s cycle count and manufacture date. Moreover, Android 14 empowered third-party developers with battery APIs, enabling apps to estimate battery health. These steps seem to pave the way for a native battery health screen.
The benefits of such a feature are undeniable, especially for those holding onto their phones for longer. Google also announced seven years of updates for the Pixel 8 lineup, so the battery health monitoring feature will come in handy for new Pixel owners.
You can expect more details about this feature to start surfacing soon. We will keep you posted on any new developments.
To jog your memory, OnePlus used to offer powerbanks a few years ago. A few days back, the brand silently revealed a new power bank developed in collaboration with SHARGE, known for its geeky hardcore-designed power banks. The Sharge Pouch power bank is a joint effort as a part of OnePlus’s Power of Community project. Read on to know all the details about the accessory below.
OnePlus Sharge Pouch power bank details
The OnePlus Sharge Pouch power bank is a compact and portable charging accessory with a 3-in-1 design. It features a sleek and premium design comprising of a power bank, charger, and cable. The distinctive charging solution has foldable plugs, magnetic connectors, snap-on cable storage, and cable head protection.
The Sharge Pouch power bank is equipped with a 10,000mAh battery capacity despite its portable form factor. It supports QC 3.0, QC 4.0, PD 2.0, PD 3.0, and SuperVOOC charging protocols. The charging accessory can be used in three ways – as a power bank + cable for on-the-go charging, a power bank + charger for effortless wireless refills, and lastly as a charger + cable for refueling laptops and tablets. The last option also frees up the power bank and lets users top up to three devices simultaneously with two USB-C ports.
The OnePlus Sharge Pouch power bank seems to be currently up for crowdfunding although the target of 3,000 supporters has been achieved. 9,107 supporters are indicating a strong interest in the accessory. The brand is giving away Share Pouch power bank to six lucky winners. It’s unclear if the device will ever make it to the market.
Redmi‘s upcoming budget smartphone, the Redmi A3, has been recently spotted on various certification platforms, including NBTC, IMDA, and EEC, and now, it has made its way to the BIS certification platform, suggesting an imminent launch in India.
In the BIS listing, the smartphone can be seen carrying the model number “23129RN51H,” which differs slightly from previous appearances. This could mean that it could be another variant of the Redmi A3 specifically intended for the Indian market.
Redmi A3 BIS listing.
Interestingly, the listing also mentions “Poco” under the brand tag, hinting at a possible rebrand of the Redmi A3. This is in line with Poco’s strategy of rebranding existing Redmi models, so nothing surprising!
However, the BIS listing remains silent on the A3’s specifications. As an entry-level device, the A3 is expected to offer basic functionalities suitable for everyday usage.
To recap, the Redmi A2 was launched with a 6.52-inch IPS LCD panel that has an HD+ resolution and 60Hz refresh rate. Internally, the device is powered by an octa-core MediaTek Helio G36 SoC, coupled with up to 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. The storage can further be expanded up to 1TB using a microSD card slot.
Fueling the device is a 5000mAh battery that supports standard 10W charging. As for the camera, the rear packs 8-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses a 5-megapixel selfie shooter.
The OnePlus Open received a software update including the November security patch not a long time ago. Now, the brand is rolling out a new update for its foldable phone. However, it’s still not the latest Android 14 version. OnePlus aims to consistently improve the software experience and the new update is no different as it brings improvements and appears to address various issues.
OnePlus Open is getting a software update
The OnePlus Open still runs on OxygenOS 13.2 based on the Android 13 OS. The newly rolling out update has been spotted by the OnePlus Open: The Chatroom channel on Telegram (via). It has a firmware version CPH2551_13.2.0.203(EX01) and it weighs just 190.66MB in size. The latest update is quite lighter compared to the previous one which weighed 508MB in size. It also brings the December 2023 security patch.
The new update brings a host of software and performance improvements to enhance the overall usage experience of the OnePlus Open. It improves the system stability, touch control algorithm, and reduces the device’s power consumption. The network stability and compatibility are also improved. The update also fixes a host of camera issues for photography enthusiasts. It reduces the shutter lag when the Nightscape toggle is disabled. Additionally, unresponsive taps on retouch, filters, resolution, and flash functions is also resolved. The update also solves the problem of the main screen freezing when using dual preview with the rear camera.
The latest update is rolling out in a phased manner and it should be available for all devices automatically. Users can also manually check by heading to Settings > About device > OxygenOS > Check for update.
Automotive manufacturer Geely has officially announced the global launch conference for its highly anticipated medium and large pure electric sedan, the Galaxy E8. The event is scheduled for January 5, 2024, following the launch of pre-orders on December 16.
A total of 5 models
The Galaxy E8 boasts five distinct configurations with tons of features: 550km PRO, 550km MAX, 665km Starship Voyage Edition, 665km Starship Intelligent Driving Edition, and 620km Starship Performance Edition. With a pre-order price starting from 188,000 yuan, the vehicle is set to make a significant impact in the electric car market.
As the flagship model of Geely Galaxy’s “Smart Pure Electric E Series,” the E8 is constructed on Geely Group’s SEA vast architecture. It offers an array of customization options, including six body colors and two interior color choices. The car’s dimensions measure 5010mm in length, 1920mm in width, and 1465mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2925mm and an impressive drag coefficient of 0.199Cd.
One of the standout features of the Galaxy E8 is its groundbreaking 45-inch smart screen, the largest of its kind globally. The screen, with an effective display area of 1130 * 138 mm, is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 flagship cockpit chip and seamlessly integrates with Flyme Link. This allows for connectivity with Meizu 21, supporting functions such as three-finger task transfer and address transfer to the car.
To cater to different preferences and driving needs, the Galaxy E8 offers 62kWh and 76kWh battery options, providing cruising ranges of 550km, 665km, and 620km.
Samsung has been busy updating many of its mid-range devices to the latest One UI 6 based on Android 14. Recently, we shared that the Galaxy M53 5G, Galaxy F54 5G, and A52 5G had all begun receiving the latest One UI 6 OS update, based on Android 14. Now, joining the list of devices to receive One Ui 6 update is the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G.
The update is already rolling out in some European countries, including the UK, France, Italy, Poland, and Portugal. So, if you’re in one of these regions, keep an eye on your phone’s settings for the update notification. Don’t worry if you’re not there yet, the update should reach other regions soon.
The firmware version for the A23 5G’s latest update is A236BXXU4DWKA, which also includes the November security patch. Users can download and install it over the air by navigating to Settings > Software update and tapping “Download and install.”
It’s also important to note that this is the final major update for the Galaxy A23 5G. While it will continue to receive regular security patches, it will not be upgraded to Android 15. Besides A23 5G, Samsung is also expected to roll out the Android 14 update for the LTE variant of the phone shortly.
One UI 6 introduces several notable UI enhancements, such as a redesigned Quick Panel, improved album art presentation in the notification shade, time-based notification sorting, clearer home screen icon labels, a repositioned clock on the lock screen, a detailed weather widget, and easier access to battery settings.
Looking ahead, Samsung is already prepping One UI 6.1, which focuses on bringing AI advancements to apps and boosting productivity. While initially rolling out for the Galaxy S23, A23 5G users can likely expect this update in the future.
Samsung‘s upcoming rugged smartphone, the Galaxy XCover 7, has been heating up the rumor mill with leaks for quite a while now. We’ve already had a glimpse of the phone’s design, and now a new leak spills the beans on its display size, memory options, and price.
According to the reliable tipster Roland Quandt, the Galaxy XCover 7 is expected to boast a 6.6-inch FHD+ display. Priced at approximately less than €400, it will come with 6GB of RAM and a generous 128GB of storage. If this leak holds true, the XCover 7 will maintain the same 6.6-inch screen size as its predecessor, the Galaxy XCover 6 Pro.
Samsung Galaxy Xcover 7 w/ 6.6in FHD+ screen, 6/128GB coming in at a sub 400 Euro price point, it seems. Def nice for a rugged device like this.
Moreover, previous reports also hinted at a 4,000mAh battery, possibly user-removable, in line with Samsung’s previous rugged phone. It will also have 25W wired charging support.
Recently, the device also appeared in the Geekbench listing recently which shows the phone with a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ processor. Naturally, being a rugged phone, an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance is expected. And the smartphone could also get the MIL-STD 810 Military standard. This standard guarantees a level of durability for a smartphone or any other device in harsh environmental conditions.
Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 renders.
While Samsung remains tight-lipped about a launch date, the XCover 7’s appearance on certification websites in Thailand, India, and Malaysia suggests an imminent arrival in these regions.
Samsung’s rugged phone journey began in 2011, and the XCover 7 looks set to continue the legacy. And it’s not alone – the Galaxy Tab Active5, another rugged device from Samsung, recently received FCC approval, hinting at a possible joint launch. We’ll keep you posted on any new developments with these devices.
Electric bikes are swiftly becoming a go-to choice for cyclists seeking both performance and convenience. A standout in this rapidly evolving market is the newly launched Van Rysel E-EDR AF Apex by Decathlon. This bike not only packs a punch with its advanced features but also manages to stay light on the wallet.
The bike claims to cover an impressive 160 miles on a single charge
What sets the Van Rysel E-EDR AF Apex apart is its dedication to lightweight design without skimping on performance. Weighing a mere 14 kilograms (31 pounds), thanks to its aluminum frame, it’s a breath of fresh air in the electric road bike category. This is Decathlon’s initial venture into the ultra-lightweight e-bike segment, and they seem to have hit the mark.
Performance-wise, the bike is equipped with a Sram APEX 12-speed drivetrain and matching hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride. It also features the versatile Mahle X35 rear hub motor, offering three assistance settings to cater to different riding styles. Keeping riders informed is the BC900 GPS computer, a nifty addition for those who like to track their journey.
The bike’s range is another highlight. Decathlon claims it can cover an impressive 100 miles on a single charge, though heavy reliance on the electric assist might reduce this distance. Its 250-watt-hour battery, complemented by a range extender, makes it ideal for longer rides.
Decathlon has conducted extensive real-world testing for six months, ensuring the bike’s performance under various conditions. This testing is crucial in proving the bike’s agility and durability.
Appealing to both men and women, the Van Rysel E-EDR AF Apex is priced competitively at 2,800 euros (about $3,080 USD). With its launch, Decathlon aims to attract performance-oriented riders who are eager to explore the world of e-biking without breaking the bank. This new addition to the e-bike market is a testament to the growing trend of accessible, high-performance cycling options, making it easier than ever for riders to enjoy the thrill of cycling with a touch of modern technology.
We live in a world where convenience is king, food delivery services like Uber Eats have become household names. They bring your favorite meals right to your doorstep, a luxury that’s become a part of our daily lives. But here’s something to chew on: how these deliveries are made is just as important as the food itself, especially when it comes to the environment.
A $30 million investment spells big things for this partnership
Enter the innovative partnership between Uber Eats and Gogoro in Taiwan. This isn’t just a business deal; it’s a game-changer for how food gets to us. With a hefty investment of around $30 million, this collaboration is shaking up the delivery scene by prioritizing sustainability.
Gogoro, known for its smart electric scooters and unique battery swapping system, is at the heart of this green revolution. This partnership gives Uber Eats couriers in Taiwan special deals on these eco-friendly scooters and easy access to battery stations. Why does this matter? Because it’s a big step toward cleaner city air and a healthier environment.
Think about it: every time a meal is delivered on one of these electric scooters, it’s one less gas-guzzling bike on the road. That means less pollution and a cleaner Taiwan. The aim is to double electric deliveries from 20% to 40% by 2025. It’s ambitious, but with over 600,000 Gogoro riders already in Taiwan and a million-plus batteries, it’s not just a dream.
This move is not only good for the planet but also makes sense for couriers. Electric scooters are easier to maintain, cheaper to run, and way friendlier to use. Plus, swapping a battery is quicker than filling up a tank. It’s a win-win.
So next time you order a meal from Uber Eats, think about the journey it’s made. Thanks to partnerships like this, your late-night snack could be helping to reduce emissions and pave the way for a greener future in food delivery. That’s food for thought!
The release date for the Samsung Galaxy S24 models is just around the corner, with indications suggesting that the highly anticipated phones will be unveiled on January 17th. As is the case every year, this series is expected to incorporate the best possible features, creating excitement both for the South Korean tech giant and its users. However, it appears that Samsung is even more optimistic about the Galaxy S24 family than we may have initially thought. Here are the details…
Samsung believes the Galaxy S24 series will be a massive success: 10% increase in shipments
Samsung is the world’s leading smartphone manufacturer in terms of sales, but the company has faced a significant challenge for nearly a decade. Despite its best efforts, it hasn’t been able to match the profitability of Apple. The primary reason behind this is that a significant portion of Samsung’s sales come from budget and mid-range models, while flagship sales, which generate more profit, have fallen short of expectations.
There are several reasons for this, with one of the most basic being fierce competition. As you may know, Android phones are assembled from a pool of similar components, resulting in devices that share many similarities. For instance, if you were to compare several flagship models released in the same year, you might find similarities in the processor, RAM capacity, and camera sensors.
Furthermore, some of these devices are priced much lower than others, leading many potential Samsung customers to turn to competitors like Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Honor, which offer similar experiences at more affordable prices. Smartphones manufacturers are aware of this situation and strive to provide unique features whenever possible.
In past models, we’ve seen cameras with 100x zoom capabilities, processors overclocked in collaboration with manufacturers like Qualcomm, and custom interfaces that enhance Android’s functionality. Samsung is no exception in this regard. The company has many plans for its Galaxy S24 series, and all of these plans come with high expectations.
According to reports, Samsung is anticipating that the Galaxy S24 family will sell approximately 35 million units in 2024, which is about 10% more than the previous S23 generation. The company’s logic behind this expectation is quite interesting. By integrating Bard and ChatGPT into the phone, South Korea’s manufacturer hopes to capture the users’ interest.
Samsung Could Lose Its Top Spot to Apple
We’ve previously seen a similar integration in the Google Pixel 8, where users could make Google Assistant more powerful and personalized. The system could also make certain changes to extend your phone’s battery life. These and similar features can be a plus for the phone you’re using, but it’s uncertain whether they alone are enough to motivate users to make a purchase.
To emphasize the significance of flagship sales, let’s compare Samsung with its biggest rival, Apple. For instance, Apple’s production and sales expectation for 2024 is 250 million units, while the South Korean manufacturer is aiming for around 253 million. However, nearly all of Apple’s sales are attributed to its latest iPhone 15 family, which means a significantly larger profit. You might also notice that the difference between the two manufacturers is minimal, indicating that Samsung could lose its top spot if the current trend continues.
Whether artificial intelligence is the key to rescuing the company from its challenging situation remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: if Samsung doesn’t take action, it won’t remain the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer for much longer.
Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle (EV) and clean energy company, is making a significant move by purchasing land in Shanghai for a new factory dedicated to producing its Megapack large-scale batteries. This development, initially reported by Xinhua, marks Tesla’s deepening commitment to China’s burgeoning new-energy market and its strategic expansion beyond electric cars.
Each Tesla Megapack battery can power 3,600 homes for one hour
The Shanghai factory, set to be located in the Lingang free-trade zone, will be Tesla’s first facility outside the US focused on energy-storage batteries. This move underscores the company’s ambition to not just lead in electric vehicle production but also in energy storage solutions. Tesla’s Megapack batteries, each capable of powering 3,600 homes for an hour, represent a crucial step in addressing energy storage needs, a key component of the renewable energy landscape.
Interestingly, this new venture comes at a time when the EV market in China is experiencing rapid growth and increased competition. Tesla has been a dominant player in China’s premium EV segment, thanks in part to its Gigafactory in Shanghai, which began operations in 2019. However, local Chinese companies like Li Auto and Xpeng are quickly catching up, breaking monthly sales records and offering stiff competition to Tesla.
The construction of the Megapack factory is a strategic response by Tesla, not only to cement its position in the EV market but also to tap into the larger new-energy sector in China. The country’s ambitious goals for peak carbon emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060 present a vast opportunity for Tesla’s energy storage products. By localizing production, Tesla can better serve the Chinese market and also export these products to other countries. As the world shifts towards renewable energy and sustainable practices, Tesla’s latest move positions it as a key player not just in EVs but in the broader green energy revolution.
Following the introduction of the OnePlus 12 (review), OnePlus has now shifted its attention to the Chinese market with the upcoming OnePlus Ace 3 series. Leaks indicate that the series will comprise two models: the standard Ace 3 and the OnePlus Ace 3V. The brand recently teased the OnePlus Ace 3, expected to be launched in the first week of 2024.
Interestingly, details about the device have surfaced on China Telecom, revealing its specifications, images, and pricing. This suggests that we may not have to wait for the official launch to gain insights into the OnePlus Ace 3.
OnePlus Ace 3 China Telecom listing details
According to a listing on China Telecom, the OnePlus Ace 3 follows a design similar to the OnePlus 12. It will come with a circular camera module, along with curved edges and an alert slider which is positioned on the left side. The device boasts a sizable 6.78-inch 1.5K 120Hz curved-edge OLED display, ensuring a high-quality visual experience. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, it comes in two RAM configurations – 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5x – and offers ample storage options, ranging from 256GB to a whopping 1TB of USF 4.0 storage.
In terms of battery life, the OnePlus Ace 3 is equipped with a large 5500mAh battery and supports rapid 100W wired charging. The camera setup features a 50MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. On the front, it will feature a 16MP selfie snapper.
The device maintains a sleek profile with a metal middle frame. It has an IR blaster, dual speakers, and NFC functionality as well. The dimensions of the OnePlus Ace 3 are 163.30 x 75.27 x 8.8mm, with a weight of 207 grams.
As for pricing, the OnePlus Ace 3 will come in three variants: 12GB+256GB priced at 3299 CNY (~$460), 16GB+512GB at 3699 CNY (~$520), and the top-tier 16GB+1TB version at 3999 CNY (~$560). The color options include Star Black, Moon Sea, and Sand Gold.
With all of these specifications revealed, we now just have to wait for them to be officially confirmed in January. The Ace 3 is expected to be rebranded as the OnePlus 12R for the global market, however, the brand may make some tweaks to the spec sheet before the global debut.
China‘s latest move to impose stringent regulations on the video gaming industry marks a significant shift in the landscape of digital entertainment. As the world’s largest gaming market, China’s decision to set spending limits and eliminate certain reward mechanisms in online games is not only reshaping the industry but also stirring discussions about consumer protection and corporate responsibility.
China aims to do so by banning the incentives that lure gamers
The new regulations, announced by Chinese regulators, aim to curb excessive spending and discourage addictive gaming behaviors. By banning rewards for daily logins, first-time spending, and consecutive purchases, the authorities are tackling the very incentives that often lure players into spending more than they intend.
The immediate impact of these rules was evident in the market, with major gaming companies like Tencent Holdings and NetEase experiencing substantial drops in their share values. This reaction underscores the significant role such incentive mechanisms play in the gaming industry’s revenue model.
Interestingly, the rules don’t just focus on monetary aspects. They also address gaming addiction, an issue that has been a long-standing concern for regulators worldwide. In 2021, China set playtime limits for minors and suspended new game approvals to combat this issue. The latest regulations are a continuation of this effort, reflecting Beijing’s commitment to safeguarding its younger population from the potential pitfalls of digital gaming.
While some view these measures as overly restrictive, they also highlight the increasing need for the gaming industry to innovate and develop more sustainable and socially responsible business models. The regulations may compel game developers to rethink how they engage players, focusing more on the quality of content rather than on monetization strategies based on repetitive spending.
The decision to regulate in-game spending is a bold move by Beijing, one that may influence global gaming practices. It’s a reminder that as digital entertainment becomes increasingly prevalent, the responsibility to protect consumers, especially younger audiences, becomes more critical. This approach might initially impact the industry’s revenue, but it could lead to a healthier, more sustainable gaming environment in the long run.
China’s stance could serve as a model for other countries grappling with similar issues, balancing industry growth with consumer protection. The world will be watching closely to see how these new rules reshape the gaming landscape, not just in China but globally.
India is stepping up its game in weather forecasting by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its methods. This move comes as the country faces an increase in extreme weather events like floods and droughts. A top official from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) highlighted that this integration aims to enhance the accuracy of weather predictions, which is vital for a nation with a vast population and a significant agricultural sector.
Over 3,000 people in India have lost their lives due to extreme weather in 2023
In recent years, India has witnessed a rise in severe weather conditions, partly attributed to global warming. These events have not only disrupted lives but also caused significant fatalities. The Centre for Science and Environment, an independent body, estimates that nearly 3,000 people in India have lost their lives to extreme weather this year alone. Given these challenges, the need for precise and timely weather forecasts has never been more crucial.
The IMD, which currently relies on supercomputers and mathematical models for weather predictions, is looking at AI as a cost-effective and efficient alternative. This approach aligns with global trends, as other countries are also turning towards AI for weather forecasting. For instance, Britain’s Met Office has acknowledged the potential of AI to revolutionize this field. A notable development in this area is a Google-funded AI model that has reportedly outperformed traditional forecasting methods.
AI in weather forecasting could be particularly transformative for India. The country, home to 1.4 billion people and a significant portion of the world’s rice, wheat, and sugar production, depends heavily on accurate weather forecasts for both human safety and agricultural planning. The IMD’s initiative to incorporate AI could lead to more precise forecasts at a lower cost, a boon for a country where many still live in poverty.
The IMD has already begun using AI for public alerts related to heatwaves and diseases like malaria. Plans are underway to expand weather observatories to provide more detailed data, which is essential for the success of AI models. The government’s support for this initiative, including setting up a center to explore AI in weather forecasting, signals a strong commitment to harnessing technology for better weather predictions.
Looking for a new laptop under Rs 30,000 (~$360)? Infinix offers a couple of them, and one of them is the latest Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus, which has just gone official in India with a price tag of Rs 27,490 (~$330). This budget-friendly laptop promises to deliver a range of functionalities and specifications that cater to everyday computing needs. As we delve into the review, let’s explore how the Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus stands out in its price segment, offering an enticing combination of design, performance, and value for the budget-conscious consumer.
The Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus has minimal content in its retail package. It includes the following items:
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus
65W Type-C charger
USB-C to USB-C cable (around 2 meters in length)
Instructions booklet
Design, Display, Speakers, and Keyboard
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus (front)Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus (rear)Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus
Infinix has established a reputation for prioritizing design excellence, even in its entry-level smartphones, and the Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus is no exception. Despite falling into the affordable category, this laptop flaunts an aluminium alloy build with a minimalist dual-tone design on the lid. When closed, the notebook has a thickness of 17.95mm. Weighing in at 1.8 kg, it may not be the lightest in its category, but it stands out as one of the most aesthetically pleasing notebooks, thanks to its slim build and minimal bezels. Flipping the laptop on the back reveals four rubber pads, dual speaker grilles, and dual air vents.
The 15.6-inch IPS LCD panel of the Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus produces Full HD resolution and offers good viewing angles, with a peak brightness of 260 nits. This makes it particularly bright and complements the laptop’s sleek design. As per the specs sheet, the screen offers an 85 percent sRGB colour gamut. The screen is bright enough for comfortable indoor use, and the thin bezels further enhance the visual experience, providing an immersive feel.
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus
The Inbook Y2 Plus’ built-in dual speakers, coupled with DTS audio processing, are noteworthy for their loud output, offering sufficient audio quality for various purposes, from casual gaming to watching movies and attending online meetings.
Regarding the keyboard, the Inbook Y2 Plus provides a pleasant typing experience. As evident in the images shared in the review, it lacks a dedicated numeric keypad, making it a compact or ten-keyless keyboard. Notably, there is considerable available space on either side of the keyboard, suggesting the potential inclusion of a dedicated numeric keypad by the company. As per the brand, the keyboard offers 1.5mm key travel and 5ms response time.
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus
To activate the backlit feature, users can make use of the Fn + F3 key combination, and the same keys can be pressed again to increase the brightness by one level. It is important to highlight that the backlit feature does not activate automatically upon laptop startup; users need to enable it manually. The generously sized (6.3-inch) AG glass trackpad is intuitive, potentially negating the need for an external mouse. With ample space for palm resting, the trackpad contributes to the overall user-friendly design.
Performance and Battery Life
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus
Powered by 11th Gen Intel Core i3 (11155G4) or i5 (1155G7) processors, the Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks. While newer 13th and 14th-generation chips exist, comparably priced laptops from other respected brands often still use these 11th Gen processors. This makes the Inbook Y2 Plus a suitable choice for activities like word processing, web browsing, and light gaming. Additionally, the NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD storage ensures fast boot times, bringing the desktop screen up within 10 seconds.
The Inbook Y2 Plus comes in two configurations: the Core i3 with 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, and the Core i5 with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. My gray-coloured review unit (Core i3 configuration) felt fast and reliable, although Windows 11 Home itself can sometimes be glitchy, not an issue specific to this laptop. There are no additional RAM or storage slots for user upgrades, so if you need more in the future, you’ll need to contact Infinix support during the warranty period. Here is how the device performs on benchmarking platforms:
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus – NovabenchInfinix Inbook Y2 Plus – GeekbenchInfinix Inbook Y2 Plus – PCMark 10
Battery life is satisfactory, with a 50Wh battery—one of the largest in its segment—taking around 1.5 hours to charge while in use. While Infinix claims up to 8 hours on a full charge, I observed an average of 6 hours. Another plus point is the included 65W Type-C charger, which is comparable in size to a smartphone charger. This compact charger is a big convenience for portability, whether at college, work or on a flight.
Connectivity, Ports, and Other Features
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus (left)Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus (right)
The Inbook Y2 Plus offers wireless connectivity options, such as such as Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 5.1. The left side of the device features a HDMI 1.4 port, a USB Type-A 3.0 port, a USB Type-C port with charging support, and an LED indicator. Its right side has a USB Type-A 3.0 port, a USB Type-C, an SD card slot, and a 3.5mm audio / headphone combo jack.
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus’ dual-LED flash can be turned by pressing Fn+Space key
The 2-megapixel webcam that comes with dual-LED flash, while functional, leaves room for improvement, and users suggest that the brand should focus on enhancing this aspect for future models. While the devices come equipped with dual microphones, there is no Kensington lock slot, Ethernet port, or fingerprint sensor on the device.
Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus price in India
In India, the Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus is priced as follows:
In summary, the Inbook Y2 Plus presents itself as a solid entry-level notebook option, offering an impressive design and decent specifications. While it may not represent a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the 10th generation Intel-powered Inbook Y1 Plus, it stands as a reliable choice for users seeking a budget-friendly laptop with modern features. The laptop’s sleek design and satisfactory performance make it a contender in the entry-level notebook segment.
Disclaimer: All of the opinions in this Infinix Inbook Y2 Plus review are mine and based on my own experiences. There has been no editorial input from Infinix.
Xiaomi is gearing up for the much-anticipated launch of the Redmi Note 13 5G series in India on January 4, featuring three variants – Redmi Note 13 5G, Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G, and Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G. Ahead of the unveiling, the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G Indian variant, identified by model number 2312DRA50I, has made an appearance on the Geekbench benchmark database.
Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G (Indian variant) Geekbench:
The Geekbench listing spilled the beans on the Redmi Note 13 Pro’s key specifications, confirming the presence of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC. This is not a surprise since the brand recently announced that the Redmi Note 13 Pro Indian variant will be the world’s first Snapdragon 7s Gen 2-powered phone. Impressively, the smartphone secured 1030 points in the single-core benchmark and 2851 points in the multi-core test.
Surprisingly, the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G, as revealed in the listing, is set to debut in the Indian market featuring a 12GB memory configuration. However, it’s noteworthy that the device will come with an Android 13-based operating system, raising concerns as Android 14 has already been available for some time.
Adding to the disappointment is the realization that the software support for the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G will be comparatively shorter. For instance, if Xiaomi commits to a 3-year update cycle for this device, it will receive major updates up to Android 16 instead of potentially benefiting from Android 17 had it launched with an Android 14-based OS.
A recent leak has revealed that the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus is expected to carry a box price of Rs 32,999 for the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage configuration. More details are expected to be revealed as we get closer to January 4.
iQOO is gearing up to unveil the Neo 9 series of smartphones in the Chinese market soon. But the phones aren’t alone, as the company will also announce the new iQOO Watch and iQOO TWS 1e. The announcement is set for next week, and now, a teaser has revealed some notable details regarding the upcoming smartwatch and truly wireless earbuds.
iQOO Watch and iQOO TWS 1e Teaser
For those unaware, the iQOO Watch and TWS 1e will launch alongside the Neo 9 series will be announced on 27th December 2023. In an official teaser, the image poster promises that the iQOO Watch offers up to 7 days of battery life in the eSIM mode. But in Bluetooth mode, the wearable can last for up to 16 days. This also confirms that the smartwatch features eSIM support. iQOO previously shared a couple of other teasers, confirming support for Vivo’s self developed BlueOS.
The iQOO Watch is also confirmed to launch with an 8 channel heart rate sensor and 16 channel blood oxygen sensor. In a separate online post, the brand also teased the iQOO TWS 1e earbuds. This confirmed that the device offers support for a full link latency of 55ms and a headset latency of as low as 25ms. The truly wireless earbuds also come with Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
The same earbuds had previously been teased with smart noise reduction technology. iQOO claims that the TWS 1e is capable of suppressing environmental noise by up to 73 percent. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more as we will be covering any new teaser and the launch event next week.
After Realme GT 2 Pro, GT 5 Pro, and other smartphones, Realme finally commenced the Realme UI 5.0 Open Beta update for the Realme GT Neo 3 and GT Neo 3 150W. The update is now live for Realme UI 5.0 Early Access participants and even for new users who would like to participate in the program. Alongside the new features, certain issues may affect the normal usage of the smartphone.
Realme GT Neo3
Realme UI 5.0 Features on Realme GT Neo 3 and Realme GT Neo 3 150W
The new update brings all the new Android 14 features and improvements, including security and privacy improvements, and much more. Apart from the luxuries of Android 14, the users would be delighted to enjoy the Relame UI 5.0-based features such as the new Aquamorphic Design, Performance Optimization, New Filedrop service to easily transfer files, and others.
It also brings, at a glance, widgets, new ringtones, system animations, and a lot of other changes. Apart from the features for end users, it also fills up the voids with new APIs for app developers. The new system brings the Grammatical Inflection API, the Regional Preferences API, and others. Some more changes are listed in the official changelog below:
How to Get Relame UI 5.0 Open Beta Update
The users can enjoy the new features, but there’s no rose without thorn, with some bugs and issues. The Glance Lockscreen is not available in the Open Beta, and the Floating Windows gets stuck while sliding. It is fixed once the user pulls the status bar.
Just before the release of a stable rollout, here’s the users’ chance to enjoy Relame UI 5.0 and its features before others. Interested users can apply; just follow some prerequisites and the steps below.
Prerequisites:
Make sure you have at least 60% battery life on your smartphone and 15GB of storage left.
The phone may get reset, so back up all important data.
Note: It is not recommended for users who don’t have prior experience or if it’s their only smartphone.
Steps:
Update your device: RMX3561_13.1.0.800(EX01), RMX3561_13.1.0.730(EX01) for realme GT Neo 3 and RMX3563_13.1.0.800(EX01), RMX3563_13.1.0.730(EX01) for realme GT Neo 3 150W.
Now Head to Device Settings and enable Developer Mode. Settings > About device > Version > Version Number > Tap version number seven times
Apply for Open Beta by heading to Settings > About device > Click on the “Realme UI 4.0” banner at the top > Click on the three dots in the top right corner > Beta program > Open Beta > Apply Now > Submit your details and complete the application.
After a slight delay, the users would receive the update with firmware RMX3561_14.0.0.92(SP01EX01) and RMX3563_14.0.0.92(SP01EX01) on their respective smartphones. For more information, users may head over to the official announcement thread.
Earlier this month, the Noise unveiled the new Voyage smartwatch in India. The wearable was a high-end model, but its pricing and availability details were not revealed at the time. Now, the pricing and release date has been officially revealed. So let’s have a look.
Noise Voyage Pricing and Availability
As of right now, the Noise Voyage is listed for pre-bookings from the company’s official website. The first sale is set to kick off from the brand’s website as well as Flipkart on 23rd November 2023. Noise has confirmed that the Voyage smartwatch will go on sale for a special introductory price tag of 9,999 INR (roughly 120 US Dollars).
Noise Voyage Specs
To recall, the new wearable sports a 1.4-inch circular Retina AMOLED display (454 x 454 resolution) that is surrounded by a stainless steel bezel. Buyers can even customize the screen with a bunch of different watch faces. Noise partnered up with Airtel and Jio to bring eSIM support to this model, offering an exclusive offer for 3 months of free calls for users that use the two service providers. Unfortunately, the Voyage lacks SIM sharing support so one needs to buy a separate SeSIM to utilize the 4G calling functionality.
It offers various health monitoring features like heart rate tracking, SpO2 blood oxygen monitoring, stress mapping, and sleep tracking along with over 100 sports modes. Other notable features include built-in GPS and GLONASS for accurate positioning, smart notifications, music control, camera controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and up to 7 days of battery life on a single full charge (2 days with calling enabled and 30 days on power saving mode).
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