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).
Last week, MSI unveiled its Prestige 13 and 16 AI Evo laptops with Intel Core Ultra processors. Now, the brand has started teasing a new laptop geared towards the gaming community. The upcoming offering confirmed to be called the MSI Titan 18 HX will be announced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas next month. Apart from officially teasing a key detail of the Titan 18 HX, it has also been spotted on several retailer sites revealing the full spec sheet.
MSI Titan 18 HX teased, specs leaked
The MSI Titan 18 HX is confirmed to sport a large 18-inch screen bearing a 4K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will also feature a Mini LED display. This will make it the first laptop in the world to come with the aforementioned display specifications. It will also be VESA DisplayHDR certified with 1,000 nits peak brightness and 3ms response time. MSI has not divulged into more details about the Titan 18 HX laptop.
Coming to the leaked specifications courtesy of the retailer listing (via), the MSI Titan 18 HX will reportedly feature a Cherry MX mechanical keyboard with per-key RGB lightning support. The product listing reveals that the upcoming offering will be powered by up to a 14th-generation Intel Core i9 processor. It will also be equipped with a Nvidia RTX 4090 graphics card with 16GB GDDR6 VRAM. Additionally, the Titan 18 HX is listed with a massive 128GB DDR5 RAM and 4TB SSD storage. We expect this to be for the highest-end configuration.
The listing does not reveal any other specifications of the MSI Titan 18 HX but it will reportedly carry a price tag of $5,237 with an MSRP of $5,399.
OPPO A77s users in India, the ColorOS 14 Global Version, announced last month, is officially accessible. Applications are now open for those eager to try Android 14 on their device. Here’s a guide on how to get the update and enhance your smartphone experience.
Key Application Details:
Recruitment Type: Official version
Application Period: From December 21st
Compatible Versions: Ensure your phone is updated to the detectable version: C.21/C.22/C.23
Important Points to Consider Before Applying:
Backup Your Data: Before diving into the update, it’s crucial to back up your important personal data to prevent any loss due to incompatibility or unforeseen circumstances.
Post-Update Optimizations: Following the update, the Operating System will automatically optimize your device, which might lead to temporary issues like heating, lagging, and fast battery draining. To address this, consider turning off the screen and charging your device overnight for normalization or continue using it for a few days until it stabilizes.
Third-Party App Compatibility: Keep in mind that some third-party applications may not be compatible with Android 14. After updating, these apps might not function correctly, experiencing issues like lagging or crashing. Check the Android 14 3rd-party APP Compatibility list and update your apps accordingly.
How to Apply:
Step 1: Go to Settings > About device > Tap the top of the page > Tap icon on the top right > Trial versions > Official version > Apply Now
Step 2: Detect the update > Download Now
ColorOS 14 features:
Aquamorphic Design:
Enhanced sound effects, color systems, and interactions.
Ten new Aquamorphic-themed ringtones for calls, alarms, and notifications.
Dynamically adjusting Aquamorphic Coloring System for a more intuitive experience.
Aqua Dynamics design simplifies interactions, extending to the Status Bar.
Revamped Always-On Display (AOD):
Homeland AOD showcases nature scenes, including a Go Green AOD for climate change awareness.
Environment Vision pages linked to daily step counts.
Smart Touch and Seamless Content Sharing:
AI-powered Smart Touch streamlines daily tasks.
File Dock on Smart Sidebar for seamless content sharing, supporting split-screen and floating windows.
Smart Image Matting and Trinity Engine Upgrade:
Smart Image Matting separates subjects from images or paused video frames.
Trinity Engine upgrade boosts device smoothness and stability.
AI-powered Smart Charging and Privacy Assurance:
Smart Charging adjusts charging current based on usage conditions, reducing unnecessary battery wear.
Prioritizes safety and privacy, integrating Android 14’s capabilities.
Picture Keeper prevents apps from misusing permissions.
Snapchat integration with Bitmoji AOD for faster app navigation and updates on messages and friend activities. Your device, your control.
We will be seeing new smartphone launches even in the last week of 2024. Three events are expected. All of them have been officially confirmed by the brands.
Two of these conferences will take place in China. They will be headed by Huawei and iQOO. Both of them will debut upper mid-range (affordable premium) handsets.
Whereas, the third event by Samsung will be held in India. The company will announce its latest budget 5G phones.
Samsung has confirmed to launch Galaxy A25 5G and Galaxy A15 5G in India on December 26 (Tuesday). The event will begin at 12:30 PM IST.
Since these handsets are already official in some markets, we know everything about them. For starters, they feature a slightly tweaked design with a raised platform for power and volume keys called ‘Key Island’.
The A15 and A25 are powered by MediaTek Diemsnity 6100 Plus and Exynos 1280 chips, respectively. Both sport a 50MP main camera and a 2MP macro snapper. But the A25 has OIS as well as an 8MP ultrawide unit compared to a 5MP ultrawide camera on the A15.
On the software front, they ship with One UI 6.0 based on Android 14. They are backed by a 5,000mAh battery with support for 25W charging.
2. Huawei Nova 12 Series
The Huawei Nova 12 series is set to launch in China on December 26 (Tuesday). As of now, the brand has only only revealed the design and colors of these phones
Rumors are strife that there will be four models. These products will be called Huawei Nova 12, Huawei Nova 12 Pro, Huawei Nova 12 Ultra, and Huawei Nova 12 Lite (aka Vitality Edition).
The first three models are said to be powered by an underclocked HiSilicon Kirin 9000s chip. Thhere’s a chance of vanilla Nova 12 housing a new unannounced Kirin 830 SoC. Whereas, the live version is rumored to feature a Snapdragon 778G chipset.
Lastly, the ultra variant is expected to sport an OmniVision OV50H primary camera with variable aperture and support satellite communication.
3. iQOO Neo 9 Series
The iQOO Neo 9 series is scheduled to launch in China on December 27 (Wednesday). Its press conference will start at 7 PM local time (GMT+8).
According to leaks and teasers, there will be two devices, namely iQOO Neo 9 and iQOO Neo 9 Pro. They will be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipsets, respectively.
The handsets will flaunt a 6.78-inch 1.5K 144Hz OLED display. They will sport a 50MP Sony IMX920 primary camera assisted by OIS.
They will draw energy from a 5,160mAh battery with support for 120W charging. Lastly, the duo will be available in Red and White Soul, Nautical Blue, and Fighting Black color options.
Google‘s Nearby Share, a built-in app for transferring files between Android devices, could be in for a change. It could soon be called Quick Share, the same name as Samsung‘s own file-sharing service.
This isn’t just a cosmetic change, though. Hints suggest that Google and Samsung might be merging their file-sharing services entirely, or at least making them work together seamlessly. This would be a big win for Android users, especially those who own Samsung devices.
Google Nearby Share could be rebranded as Quick Share
Android developer Kmila Wojciechowska spotted the change after installing a Google Mobile Services update (version 23.50.13). The update not only renames Nearby Share but also introduces a new notification explaining the change and an icon that blends the designs of both services.
However, Quick Share’s functionality remains largely unchanged, with options to share files and photos with everyone, limit to your own devices, or restrict to contacts synced from your Google account.
The update also introduces a clearer pop-up menu separating your devices from nearby devices, making selection easier. For additional privacy, users can temporarily hide themselves from others for ten minutes.
Google’s existing Nearby Share for Windows might also receive a name change if the Quick Share rebranding becomes official. This would leave only macOS as the remaining platform missing the service.
Such a move could benefit both Google and Samsung, strengthening the connection between their devices and the broader Android ecosystem.
However, Google has yet to officially comment on the potential rebranding or any future collaborations with Samsung. For now, users can expect the familiar Nearby Share functionality under the new Quick Share name, with the possibility of further developments in the future.
This month boAt launched the Airdopes 121 V2 Plus TWS earphones and the Lunar Pro LTE smartwatch in India. Now the homegrown brand has announced a new audio device. It is the boAt Nirvana Ion ANC TWS earbuds. The latest offering packs premium features and a slightly unique design. The Nirvana Ion ANC TWS earphones fall under the Rs 3,000 price segment. Read on to know more about the device below.
boAt Nirvana Ion ANC specifications and features
The boAt Nirvana Ion ANC are in-ear TWS earphones with a stem and slightly angled silicon ear tips. The earbuds have small speckle spots making them appear different and unique compared to other earphones. The audio device is IPX4-certified sweat and water-resistant. They also offer seamless in-ear detection.
On the audio front, the boAt Nirvana Ion ANC are equipped with 10mm drivers. There is a boAt signature sound technology along with an additional EQ mode called Crystal Bionic Sound for an immersive listening experience. The TWS earphones pack 32dB active noise cancellation (ANC). The audio device is also equipped with quad mics and ENx technology for ensuring clear quality on calls.
The boAt Nirvana Ion ANC features 60ms low latency mode. It can be connected to two devices simultaneously. The TWS earphones are claimed to offer 120 hours of battery life with each earbud said to deliver 24 hours of playback on a single charge.
The boAt Nirvana Ion ANC carries a price tag of Rs 2,499. It is offered in Quartz White and Crystal Black colors. The TWS earphone can be purchased from Flipkart and the brand’s official website.
Realme 10 Pro 5G users, heads up! The December OTA update is here, featuring the latest UI Version: RMX3660_11.A.46. Get ready for some impactful changes designed to enhance your device’s performance.
Key Changes in UI Version: RMX3660_11.A.46:
Realme is introducing support for VoNR in the network settings, enhancing voice capabilities. Additionally, a new Help & Feedback section has been incorporated into Settings, offering users more support and interaction options.
Beyond feature additions, the update prioritizes refining the overall system performance. Realme has diligently addressed known issues to provide users with a more stable and reliable experience. Expect a boost in performance and fewer glitches.
Ensuring your device’s security, Realme 10 Pro 5G is now equipped with the latest Android security patch for December 2023. The December 2023 Android security patch fixes a whopping 85 vulnerabilities, including a zero-click remote code execution bug and several critical privilege escalation issues.
Realme is taking a gradual approach to the update rollout. Initially, it will be randomly released to a limited number of users. This method allows the company to identify and address any critical bugs before a broader rollout in the coming days.
In related news, the brand has launched the Android 14 x Realme UI 5.0 Early access program for the Realme 10 Pro 5G in India. Since the early access has commenced, users can expect the stable Android 14 update to arrive on their device in about a month’s time if no major issues emerge.
At this year’s annual I/O Developer conference, Google announced a new feature for Google Messages. It was in beta phase with very limited access. The Magic Compose feature for Google Messages as it is called is now rolling out globally. In simple terms, Magic Compose utilizes AI to help users write text messages.
Magic Compose for Google Messages now rolling out internationally
Magic Compose is one of the many AI-powered features from Google when it comes to generative AI. Depending on the context of the conversation, the feature can be used to reply to text messages using suggested responses or improvements to what a user has written themself. Additionally, Magic Compose also allows users to rewrite the text in seven styles including remix, excited, chill, shakespeare, lyrical, formal, or short.
The Magic Compose feature is currently only available with RCS messages and it remains to be seen when it will support SMS and MMS. 9to5Google reports that the feature is being available in Frane and the UK. Users still need to be in the Google Messages beta program, carrier services, and above the age of 18 years signed in to their Google account.
Magic Compose feature: how to use
Those who have access to the Magic Compose can find the chat bubble after the emoji shortcut on the text field. To opt in the feature, select ‘Try it’ or to opt-out choose ‘No thanks’. Tapping on the chat bubble will bring up AI-generated responses from scratch. Users can also edit the suggestions they want to use.
If the user is dissatisfied with the suggested responses, the Magic Compose can also rewrite the draft based on the preferred style of the user. To perform this action, users have to tap on the pencil and sparkle icon. The message can be edited if necessary before hitting the send button.
Google says that when Magic Compose is used, up to 20 previous messages are sent to Google servers to generate suggestions. These are then discarded from the servers and not stored to train machine learning models.
Xiaomi‘s budget-friendly A-series smartphone, the Redmi A2, made its debut in the Indian market in May, creating a buzz among tech enthusiasts. Initially exclusive to Amazon and Xiaomi’s official website, the Redmi A2 has now expanded its availability to include Flipkart.
This entry-level smartphone runs on a MediaTek Helio G36 processor, rocking a 6.52-inch LCD display that screams HD+ resolution and a dazzling 400 nits brightness.
Redmi A2
The camera setup includes an 8MP AI dual rear camera and a 5MP selfie camera, while the device is equipped with a substantial 5000mAh battery supporting 10W charging through a microUSB port.
Running on Android 13 (Go Edition), the Redmi A2 ensures a smooth user experience. Connectivity features include dual-SIM support, 4G, WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, as well as GPS, Glonass, and BeiDou for navigation.
Pricing & availability
In terms of pricing, the Redmi A2 presents a 2GB + 64GB variant at Rs 5,499 and a 4GB + 64GB configuration at Rs 6,799. The smartphone is now available not only on Flipkart but also on Amazon, mi.com, and various other retail platforms. It is offered in three color options: Sea Green, Aqua Blue, and Classic Black.
If you are looking for a 5G device on a budget, the Redmi 13C is currently one of the most popular options. In a recent announcement, the brand revealed that they have managed to sell over 300,000. It is worth noting that the device has been up for sale for only a week, so this feat is quite impressive. The smartphone is offered with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, however, it starts at ₹10,999 (~$130) for the base 4GB + 128GB configuration.
Rumors about the upcoming OPPO Find X7 series are swirling, with three models expected to launch: the base Find X7, the high-end Find X7 Ultra, and a special Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication model. As previously reported, there appears to be no “Pro” variant this year.
Now, a fresh leak from a Weibo tipster dropped the full spec sheet for all three phones, filling in the blanks on what we already knew.
As previously tipped, the Find X7 will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 processor, while the Ultra models will boast the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. These SoCs will reportedly be paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.
On the front, the Find X7 will bring a 6.78-inch panel with 1.5K resolution, while the Ultra models will include a bigger 6.82-inch display with 2K resolution. All three smartphones will feature BOE 8T OLED panels with curved edges, 120Hz LTPO refresh rate, and 2160Hz PWM dimming.
The Find X7 will have a triple camera setup utilizing a 50MP LYT-808 main sensor with OIS, a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultrawide lens, and a 64MP Omnivision OV64B periscope telephoto with 3x zoom and OIS support.
Meanwhile, the Find X7 Ultra and Satellite Communication model will get a 50MP LYT-900 sensor with OIS, 50MP LYT800 ultrawide, and two telephoto lenses — 50MP IMX890 with OIS for 3x optical zoom and 50MP IMX858 with OIS for 6x optical zoom.
All three Oppo Find X7 phones will be equipped with a 5000mAh battery with 100W fast charging support. The Ultra models will also have 50W wireless charging. The upcoming devices will launch with ColorOS 14.
The Find X7 Ultra and its satellite communication sibling seem nearly identical on paper. This adds fuel to the rumor that the only real difference might be, you guessed it, the satellite communication feature. Unfortunately, the leak doesn’t shed light on the pricing of the devices.
A few days ago, Apple temporarily halted sales for its latest smartwatches, the Series 9 and Ultra 2, in the United States. This decision comes from a patent issue about the blood oxygen monitoring function of certain models. After the ban, the firm was not permitted to import blood oxygen sensor-equipped Apple Watches into the US from abroad, where they are manufactured. It took effect on December 21 on their website and will affect retail stores on December 24.
ITC declines Apple’s plea to prevent Apple Watch sales ban
As a direct result of this decision, the brand will not be able to repair out-of-warranty Apple Watch units in the US after December 25, 2023. Instead of repairing a single component, Apple Watch repairs usually include swapping out a damaged unit for a new one, and replacement watches are not easily available.
Apple Product Replacement Programs
Apple shared a memo this week informing retailers of the news. Bloomberg has shared a few parts of the message that was included in the memo: “Product replacement programs aren’t available in the United States for the watches below: Apple Watch Series 6 or later, Apple Watch Ultra or later”.
Any Apple Watch with a blood oxygen sensor that is no longer under warranty including the Apple Watch Ultra and models 6 and later cannot be replaced by Apple. Consumers who break their Apple Watch will have to wait for repairs until new hardware is released. Software-based fixes will still be accessible.
However, replacements are permitted for Apple Watch models that are covered under warranty. This covers both new devices covered by the normal one-year guarantee and devices covered by an extended AppleCare warranty. After the ban takes effect, customers won’t be able to return or exchange their Apple Watches, but they may replace their bands and other accessories.
The Apple Watch SE will continue to be sold, even though Apple has to stop selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. All models of Apple Watch will also be available for purchase in independent stores like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart as long as stocks last.
The brand is reportedly looking for options to evade the ban with modifications to the algorithms used to measure blood oxygen saturation.
POCO is back to disrupt the Indian smartphone market with the super affordable POCO M6 5G smartphone. This launch comes after the success of the POCO M6 Pro 5G model.
POCO M6 5G specs
The POCO M6 5G boasts a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ for seamless performance and a captivating 6.74″ HD+ 90Hz display, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. The display offers a 180Hz touch sampling rate and 600nits peak brightness.
Users can choose from 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM paired with 128GB or 256GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via the dedicated micro-SD card slot. It has a 5,000mAh battery that offers 18W fast charging. On the software side, the device comes with MIUI 14 based on Android 13.
The device integrates a 50MP AI dual camera setup with a wide f/1.8 aperture, PDAF, and LED flash. The waterdrop notch accommodates a 5MP selfie camera.
The phone’s dimensions measure 168 x 77.91 x 8.19 mm, weighing 195 grams. It offers additional features such as splash resistance, dust protection, and includes sensors like ambient light, accelerometer, and electronic compass. Connectivity options encompass Wi-Fi 5, Dual SIM, 5G SA & NSA, LTE, GSM, WCMDA, Bluetooth 5.3, and GPS with GLONASS, Beidou, and Galileo support.
Pricing & availability
The POCO M6 5G is set to launch on Flipkart from 12 PM on December 26, 2023, offering two color options: Orion Blue and Galactic Black. The starting price for this device is INR 9,499. As a special offer, Airtel prepaid users purchasing the POCO M6 5G will receive an exclusive bonus of 50GB of data.
The device is available at attractive prices of INR 9,499, INR 10,499, and INR 12,499 for the 4+128GB, 6+128GB, and 8+256GB variants, respectively. Customers can enjoy this pricing after availing a discount of INR 1,000 through ICICI Debit/Credit cards/EMI transactions or opt for an equivalent product exchange offer.
Infinix have just launched their newest laptop, the INBook Y2 Plus in India. The machine is the upgrade to their INBook Y1 Plus from earlier this year. It runs on powerful 11th Gen processors and comes in various memory configurations to fit your needs. Let’s dive deeper into what this laptop has to offer.
Infinix INBook Y2 Plus specs
The Y2 Plus boasts a spacious 15.6-inch Full HD display with an anti-glare coating for comfortable viewing. The display comes with 260 nits of brightness and has a 60% NTSC color gamut.
The screen bezels are also narrow on the sides, and the top bezel houses a webcam for video calls. It’s an FHD webcam with dual LED flashlights for improved video calls.
Talking about its build, the laptop is clad in a stylish aluminum body, featuring a sleek stripe running across the lid and the Infinix logo placed in the center.
Performance-wise, the Y2 Plus comes with either a Core i3-1115G4 (dual-core, 4 threads) or a Core i5-1155G7 (quad-core, 8 threads) processor. They are paired with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of SSD storage. And of course, you get Windows 11 out-of-the-box.
Fueling the device is a 50Wh battery with 65W Type-C charging. The company claims 75% charge in just 60 minutes, potentially keeping you productive throughout the day.
For comfort and productivity, the laptop includes a backlit keyboard with 1.5mm key travel and 5ms response time, as well as a spacious 6.36-inch AG glass touchpad.
You also get plenty of connectivity options, covering all the essentials. The laptop has two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, an SD card reader, and a headphone jack.
Pricing and Availability
The Infinix Y2 Plus starts at Rs 27,490 for the Core i3, 8GB/512GB variant, and goes up to Rs 34,990 for the Core i5, 16GB/512GB version. It comes in Blue, Silver, and Grey color options and is available for purchase in India via Flipkart.
Oppo has launched the A59 5G in India after teasing it a few days back. The features and the price of the phone match the leak.
The product is a budget 5G smartphone with an eye-catching design, It offers a large high refresh rate display, a MediaTek chip, two rear cameras, a huge battery, and fast charging support.
Let’s go through the specs of the device in detail along with its pricing and availability information.
Oppo A59 5G Specifications
The handset sports a flat frame design and measures about 8.12mm in thickness. It weighs around 187g and arrives in two colors, namely Silk Gold and Starry Black. It is IP54-rated for splash resistance.
Its front is equipped with a 6.56-inch display featuring a dewdrop notch. This LCD panel offers a resolution of 1612 x 720 pixels (HD+), a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 720 nits peak brightness level.
Under the hood, the phone houses a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 chip and a 5,000mAh battery. It boots ColorOS 13.1 based on Android 13 and supports 33W charging.
It has a dual camera setup on the rear comprising a 13MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. On the front, there’s an 8MP snapper for selfies and video calls.
Just like any other budget smartphone, it comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack and a MicroSD card slot. It uses a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. For biometrics, it has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Oppo A59 5G Price
The Oppo A59 5G is priced at ₹14,999 (~$180) for 4GB + 128GB memory configuration. It can be availed in either Starry Black or Silk Gold color options.
As part of launch offers, Oppo has partnered with leading banks and financiers to provide up to ₹1,500 cashback and 6 months of no-cost EMI.
The device will be sold via offline retail stores, Oppo Store, Flipkart, and Amazon starting December 25.
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