Vivo in Hot Water as Arrests and Accusations Shake Up Tech Giant in India

By

-

Dec 24, 2023

Recently, India‘s law enforcement agencies have taken a significant step by arresting two high-ranking employees of the Chinese smartphone giant, Vivo. This action, set against the backdrop of increased scrutiny of Chinese businesses in India, marks a new chapter in the complex relationship between the two countries.

Two high-ranking employees of Vivo were arrested

The arrests, made by India’s Enforcement Directorate, are linked to accusations of money laundering, a charge that Vivo vehemently denies. This isn’t the first time Vivo has faced such challenges in India. Just two months prior, the Directorate arrested four executives, including a Chinese national, from Vivo’s Indian unit on similar charges.

Vivo logo

Vivo’s response to these arrests has been one of strong opposition. The company has expressed deep concern over what it perceives as “continued harassment,” which they believe creates an atmosphere of uncertainty not just for them but for the broader industry landscape in India. Vivo has committed to using all legal means to counter these accusations, underlining the seriousness with which they are approaching this matter.

The tension between India and Chinese businesses isn’t new. It has been escalating, especially after a deadly border clash in 2020. India has since been closely monitoring Chinese investments and companies operating within its borders. These latest developments with Vivo are a continuation of this heightened vigilance.

It’s important to consider what this means for the future of Chinese businesses in India. Will this lead to a tightening of regulations for foreign companies, particularly those from China? Or is it a signal for these businesses to reevaluate their operations and compliance strategies in India?

The industry is watching closely as the situation unfolds and more variables appear. The outcomes of these legal battles could set precedents impacting the operations of international companies in India, potentially reshaping the business landscape. With the Vivo employees set to appear in court again on December 26, all eyes are on how this legal drama will unfold and its broader implications for international business relations in India.

RELATED:

(Via)

Sharge Flow Mini power bank with a 5000mAh capacity, 12W output launched

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Dec 23, 2023

Chinese company Sharge which recently changed its name from Shargeek has launched the Flow Mini portable power bank is now available in the global market. It is a compact portable charger that is the size of a film roll. It has a 5,000mAh battery capacity and features interchangeable charging plugs.

Features

The new Sharge Flow Mini weighs less than 100g and can be easily transported inside the pocket. It is a cable-free charger and features a built-in connector with a 12W output. The Sharge Flow Mini’s interchangeable plugs are for USB-C and lightning connections. You can charge a device without removing cases up to 1.37 inches thick. A second device can be recharged at up to 12W via its integrated USB-C cable, which also serves as a lanyard.

The compact Sharge Flow Mini power bank can recharge your devices for several hours of additional operation. The integrated USB-C cable can charge the power bank at up to 12W power. The dimensions of the Sharge Flow Mini are 77.8 x 33.0 x 25.2mm and the device has a transparent and silver finish with orange accents and LED indicator lights. The power bank can charge various devices including iPhone 15, Google Pixel 8, and Samsung Z Flip, as well as other models.

Pricing & Availability

The Sharge Flow Mini compact power bank is priced at $29.99 on Amazon, but the price is due to an in-page coupon. The original price of the device is $39.99 but the discount regime will run until December 25. The availability of the Sharge Flow Mini is open to various countries globally. However, shipping costs will differ across the markets. More details about the Sharge Flow Mini compact power bank can be viewed on the Sharge website.

Related:

SMIC is reportedly working on 3nm process technology despite US sanctions

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Dec 23, 2023

A new report from Nikkei says Chinese chipmaker SMIC is developing 3nm fabrication processes despite key equipment difficulties occasioned by US sanctions. The chipmaker has been prevented from accessing advanced chip production equipment from US vend

SMIC is reported to have developed its 2nd-gen 7nm-class process technology that can be used to produce smartphone processors. The new report states that SMIC is pursuing research on 5nm and 3nm-class process technologies. The research is being carried out in-house by the company’s research and development team. The team is led by co-CEO Liang Mong-Song, a renowned semiconductor scientist. The team leader has had stints at TSMC and Samsung. He is rated as one of the most brilliant minds in the semiconductor industry.

The news is quite instructive that the US sanctions regime has not been able to completely halt the progress of SMC in developing advanced chips beyond the 7nm process. It may have seriously slowed down the company, but a combination of factors is working in its favor in overcoming the challenges.

SMIC is currently the fifth-largest contract maker of chips in the industry. It lost access to leading-edge wafer fab tools that severely limited its ability to adopt new process technologies. As a result of the sanctions, SMIC was unable to get extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography tools from ASML. It however relied solely on deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography for its 2nd-gen 7nm-class node.

The ASML Twinscan NXT:2000i lithography machines are the best tools available to SMIC currently. They can etch up to 38nm production resolutions. The level of precision is adequate for printing 38nm metal pitches using double patterning for 7nm-class nodes. Metal pitches shrink to 30-32nm at 5nm and 21-24nm at 3nm, according to AML and IMEC.

Multi-patterning is another option for achieving ultra-small feature sizes that can omit the use of EUV. It is a complicated process that lengthens the cycle times and can affect yields, as well as wear down the fabrication equipment. The cost implications for multi-patterning is also quite high. SMIC is using triple, quadruple, or sometimes, quintuple patterning to achieve lower resolutions. The design of a DUV-only 3nm-class fabrication process is a significant milestone for SMIC. It remains to be seen how the chip will perform in products.

Related:

AOC launches 24E11XH, affordable 23.8-inch gaming monitor with 1080P 100Hz panel for 529 Yuan ($74)

By

Soumyakanti

-

Dec 23, 2023

AOC has launched the “24E11XH,” a budget-friendly gaming monitor featuring a 1080P resolution and a 100Hz refresh rate. The monitor is initially priced at 599 Yuan but can be purchased for a discounted price of 529 Yuan ($74). Let’s delve into the key specs of this monitor.

AOC 24E11XH Monitor Specifications:

The monitor boasts a sleek design with a slim 1mm three-sided bezel and houses a 23.8-inch 1080P IPS panel offering 1920×1080 resolution and wide 178-degree viewing angles. It’s suitable for tasks such as casual gaming, web browsing, and video playback.

The 24E11XH model covers 82% of the NTSC color gamut, offering a rich color palette with 16.7 million colors and an 8-bit color depth. This makes it ideal for professional design work, providing true-to-life and vibrant colors. The monitor’s brightness is rated at 300 nits, and it has a contrast ratio of 1000:1, enhancing the overall picture quality.

In terms of performance, the monitor boasts a 4ms GTG response time, which is optimal for gaming and other high-speed content. The 100Hz refresh rate ensures smooth and lag-free visuals, reducing screen stutter and improving the efficiency of office work. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with HDR mode, which enhances color and contrast in both dark and light areas, simulating an HDR effect for SDR content.

For eye comfort, the monitor is TUV-certified for low blue light emissions. It uses a low blue light mode and DC dimming to reduce screen flicker and minimize eye strain, making it suitable for extended use. The monitor also offers various scene modes like Energy-saving, Web, Game, Movie, Sports, and Reading, adaptable to different usage environments.

The 24E11XH supports 100x100mm VESA mounting. For connectivity, the monitor includes an HDMI 1.4 port and a D-Sub port, compatible with a range of devices like laptops and desktops. The monitor’s dimensions are 603x396x130mm, with a gross weight of 3.76kg and a net weight of 2.65kg.

Earlier this month, AOC also introduced two new monitors: the AOC U27G10 gaming monitor featuring a 27-inch 4K Fast-IPS panel with a 160Hz refresh rate, priced at 2499 Yuan ($352), and the AOC Q27E12C monitor with a 27-inch 2K IPS panel boasting a 100Hz refresh rate, available for 999 Yuan ($139).

RELATED:

Redmi Note 13 5G Series: Full Specifications Leaked for Indian & Global Variants Ahead of Launch

By

Sudhanshu

-

Dec 23, 2023

The Redmi Note 13 5G series is getting ready to launch worldwide, and it’s coming to India at the beginning of next month. Before the official launch, we got a sneak peek at the complete specs and features of three devices, thanks to a leak from tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore. Take a look at what each device has to offer.

Redmi Note 13 5G specs:

Beginning with the Redmi Note 13 5G, it packs up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM coupled with 256GB UFS2.2 internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD. The device, with dimensions of 161.11mm x 74.95mm x 7.6mm and a weight of 174.5g, features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display boasting a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. This display supports up to 120Hz refresh rate and a sampling rate of up to 240Hz.

Under the hood, it is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC. The camera setup includes an impressive 108MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 2MP macro camera. The front camera is a 16MP shooter. A 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging runs the show, and the device operates on MIUI 14 based on Android 13.

Connectivity options include 5G SA/NSA, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and dual-SIM support. Noteworthy features encompass a fingerprint sensor in the power button, AI face recognition, and an IP54 certification for water and dust resistance. Additionally, it incorporates a cooling system. In the box, you’ll find a 33W power adapter, USB-C charging cable, SIM tool, user manual, warranty card, and a protective case.

Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G specs:

Moving to the Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G, the device features a sleek design measuring 161.15mm x 74.24mm x 7.98mm and a weight of 187g. It offers a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a high resolution of 2712 x 1220 pixels. This display supports up to 120Hz refresh rate and a sampling rate of up to 240Hz, with exceptional brightness levels ranging up to 1800 nits.

Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC complemented by the Adreno 710 GPU, it comes with up to 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB UFS3.1 internal storage. The camera setup is headlined by a 200MP main camera with features like 2x/4x Lossless Zoom, supporting 4K video recording at 30fps. It has an 8MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a 2MP macro camera. The front camera is a 16MP shooter.

A large 5100mAh battery with 67W TurboCharge fuels the device, and connectivity options include 5G SA/NSA, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and dual-SIM support. It integrates a fingerprint sensor in the display, AI face recognition, and holds an IP54 certification for water and dust resistance. For audio and video, the device offers a 3.5mm jack, two stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, supporting various audio and video formats.

Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G specs:

Finally, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra SoC, paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB UFS3.1 internal storage. Without expandable memory, the device maintains a sleek design, measuring 161.4mm x 74.2mm x 8.99mm and weighing 204.5g.

The phone features a 6.67-inch AMOLED Curved Display with a resolution of 2712×1220 pixels, a 20.9 aspect ratio, and supports a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The display, with TÜV Rheinland certifications for Low Blue Light, and Flicker-free, is protected by 3D Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.

The camera setup has a 200MP main camera with features such as 2x/4x Lossless Zoom and Xiaomi ProCut 2.0. The main camera employs a 7P lens with ALDOIS EIS and supports 4K video recording at 30fps. It has an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro camera. The front camera is a 16MP shooter with 1080P video recording at 30fps.

A 5,000mAh battery powers the device, supporting 120W Hyper Charge, and comes with a 120W power adapter. The network and connectivity options include dual-SIM support, 5G SA/NSA, 4G LTE FDD/TDD, 3G, 2G, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and Wi-Fi 6E. The phone incorporates an advanced cooling system with a stainless steel and graphite thermal solution. Security features include an in-display fingerprint sensor, AI face recognition, and an IP68 certification for water and dust resistance.

RELATED:

(Source)

Garmin Fenix 7 Series and Epix Series Smartwatch receives a Live Update including Bug Fixes

By

Aditya Rasik

-

Dec 23, 2023

Garmin recently released its new public Beta version for some of the latest watches. The Fenix 6 series, the Enduro, Tactix Delta, Quatix 6, and Marq smartwatches were receiving the latest public beta update from the firm. The public beta update resolved five bug fixes.

Now, the manufacturer has released a new stable v15.77 live update for the Fenix 7 Series and Epix Series. The company has begun the rollout of the new update to the following smartwatch: the Fenix 7, the Fenix 7 Pro, and the Epix 2, the Epix 2 Pro, the Enduro 2, the Quatix 7, and the Marq 2.

The latest version, for whatever reason, has bypassed Garmin’s Public Beta program. The version is released by the firm via their forum post. It is a following update to v15.76, which was released by Garmin using the same process.

Garmin Fenix 7 Series and Epix Series smartwatch receives a new update including known bug fixes — Garmin Fenix 7 Series and Epix Series Smartwatch receives a Live Update including known Bug Fixes

To recap, the Epix 2, Enduro 2, Fenix 7, Quatix 7, and Marq 2 series have received their third stable update from the brand this month. However, the update offers a few changes compared to v15.76 and v15.74 which were released before it.

A bug that kept resulting in a map page crash when specific maps were used is considered and fixed in the latest release. But, note that Garmin has not explained what are these “certain maps”. Moreover, the company claims that v15.77 resolves a bug that prevented ski and snowboard distances from being shown in the ‘All Stats’ section for those activities.

Additionally, members of the public beta can still request for v15.77 update without leaving the program itself. To check for the latest updates on your watch, Go to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.

Related:

(Source)

Thok launches the MIG e-S e-MTB designed for urban commute & off-road movement

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Dec 23, 2023

The Thok MIG e-S electric bicycle has been released. The MIG e-S is an electric mountain bike (e-MTB) that can also seamlessly be used for daily urban movement. The powerful e-bike is powered by a Shimano motor and can be used on rough terrain.

Features

The MIG e-S is equipped with a Shimano STEPS E7000 mid-drive motor with up to 60Nm of torque. The motor offers pedal assistance up to 25km/h which is in tandem with European e-bike regulations. The MIG e-S has a low-slung downtube battery with a capacity of 630Wh. Thok is yet to provide the assisted range estimates for the e-bike. The bike also comes with a 12-speed SRAM SX Eagle gear set to offer the rider flexible ride choices.

The Thok MIG e-S has a 6061 alloy frame that is designed to deliver optimal comfort to the rider. It has a stretched top tube, a slack head-tube angle, and a straight seat tube. The frame design offers what Thok claims is perfect traction and optimal control in the most technical routes both urban and off-road. There are four size options for the frame to cater to various rider types. The medium size of the MIG e-S weighs about 23.8kg.

The bike is equipped with a RockShox suspension fork with 150mm of travel, in addition to a RockShox Deluxe Select R Air shock with Horst linkage at the rear. These enable the bike to absorb uneven terrain during urban or off-road trips. There is also a Thok telescopic dropper post for taking the seat out of the way in demanding situations. Thok says the MIG e-S is available in a mullet configuration with a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch roller at the rear. Both wheels are covered by puncture-resistant Schwalbe tires with a reflective strip for improved visibility in traffic. Control of the MIG e-S is achieved via the SRAM disc brakes with 200mm rotors.

The Thok MIG e-S has a front light with 600 lumens brightness while the rear light is 30 lumens bright. The e-bike ships with corrosion-resistant full fenders, a folding lock, and a side kickstand.

Pricing & Availability

The Thok MIG e-S is priced in Europe at €4,290 ($4,700). There are no indications yet whether the Italian-made MIG e-S will be available in other markets outside Europe.

Related:

Oukitel WP33 Pro rugged smartphone with 5G, loudspeakers, and a 22,000mAh battery unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Dec 23, 2023

Oukitel has released the WP33 Pro as its latest rugged smartphone offering. The Oukitel WP33 Pro comes with a monster 22,000mAh battery and supports 5G connectivity. The smartphone is also equipped with loudspeakers that can be used for music outdoors.

The Oukitel WP33 Pro is robustly designed with a 6.6-inch display that is claimed to be protected by Gorilla Glass. The display has a resolution of 2408 x 1080 pixels and a 60Hz refresh rate. Its design as an outdoor phone is also reflected in its reinforced corners. The WP33 Pro is protected from water, dust, and water drops because of its robust design.

The 22,000mAh battery of the WP33 Pro can sustain the smartphone for a week. The phone can be recharged at up to 33W and because of its large battery, it can function as a power bank, outputting up to 18W. The Oukitel WP33 Pro is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset. The SoC offers high performance of the WP33 Pro with high working speeds and support for 5G mobile networks. The phone has a dual SIM architecture and the physical RAM is 8GB but expandable. The internal storage of the Oukitel WP33 Pro is 256GB.

The new Oukitel rugged smartphone is 27.2mm thick and weighs 577.5g. This is due mainly to its large-capacity battery. The WP33 Pro is equipped with a 64MP main camera and a 20MP night vision camera. The maximum volume of the smartphone’s speaker is 136dB and the power is 5W.

Pricing & Availability

Oukitel will officially launch the WP33 Pro on January 8, 2024, for $240. It will be available directly from the manufacturer and could also find its way to Amazon. The rugged features, large battery, and loudspeakers are some of the major talking points of the Oukitel WP33 Pro. These are in addition to its seemingly competitive pricing.

Related:

Apple’s $50 Million AI Push: Negotiations with News Giants raise stakes in Tech’s Neural Network Race

By

Joane

-

Dec 23, 2023

Apple is currently in talks with major news and publishing giants, including Condé Nast, NBC News, and IAC, in a bid to secure permission to utilize their content in the development and training of generative AI systems. The tech giant’s proposed multiyear deals, valued at a minimum of $50 million, aim to license the extensive archives of news articles from these renowned organizations.

The crux of Apple’s technological endeavor lies in the application of neural networks, a sophisticated form of artificial intelligence that learns intricate patterns through vast datasets, such as digital text and photos. This strategic move aligns with the broader industry trend, as Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, Meta, and other tech behemoths have already introduced products leveraging similar neural network technology, including innovative chatbots.

However, the negotiations have not been without their fair share of challenges. Executives from the publishing world have expressed reservations about the expansive terms put forth by Apple. The initial proposal included broad licensing of publishers’ archives, raising concerns about potential legal liabilities stemming from Apple’s utilization of their content. The lack of clarity regarding how generative AI would be applied to the news industry has also left some stakeholders uneasy.

Sources close to the discussions, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that Apple’s intentions were met with skepticism. Some publishers questioned the competitive risks associated with Apple’s significant news audience on its devices. Apple seems to have encountered difficulties in assuaging these concerns, leading to an air of uncertainty surrounding the negotiations.

Despite these challenges, the potential impact on the news industry is substantial. The integration of generative AI has the power to reshape traditional workflows, offering the promise of significant revenue generation. Apple’s move aligns with a broader trend within the tech industry, where major players are aggressively investing in AI technologies.

In response to media inquiries, Apple has remained tight-lipped, refraining from immediate comments on the reported negotiations. The company’s recent product releases, including the unveiling of new MacBook Pro and iMac computers with specialized chips designed to enhance AI applications, underscore its commitment to advancing artificial intelligence research. Apple asserts that these chips, by addressing limitations on data storage in computer memory, hold particular promise for AI researchers, especially those working on cutting-edge creations like chatbots.

Related:

(via)

Humane’s AI Pin, a screenless wearable projector, will start shipping in March 2024

By

Soumyakanti

-

Dec 23, 2023

Humane, founded by former Apple engineers Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, unveiled the AI Pin wearable earlier this year and launched it in November with a price tag of $699.

The company has now revealed through X (ex-Twitter) that the device will commence shipping in March 2024. Shipments will be prioritized based on the order of user orders, ensuring those who ordered first receive their products first.

We are thrilled to announce that Ai Pin will start shipping in March 2024.

All of us here at Humane can’t wait for you to experience your Ai Pin, the world’s first wearable computer powered by Ai. We’re incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm and support, especially from our… pic.twitter.com/kTe4d3Jee7
— Humane (@Humane) December 22, 2023

Humane AI Pin Specifications:

The AI Pin is a compact, square-shaped device designed to be worn on clothing. It’s equipped with OpenAI’s GPT-4 and Microsoft’s AI models, and it requires a $24 monthly subscription for cellular data and AI model usage. This subscription is necessary for the device’s operation and includes a phone number along with data coverage through T-Mobile’s network.

What sets the AI Pin apart is its unique “laser ink display” feature. This innovative technology projects a green, monochrome user interface onto the user’s palm at a 720p resolution. The device allows interaction through various gestures and voice commands, enabling functionalities such as photography, translation, and calorie recognition. This screenless wearable device operates without the need for manual app downloads, thanks to its Cosmos operating system, which automatically directs user queries to the relevant tools.

The AI Pin is lightweight, weighing about 34 grams, with an additional 20 grams for its battery booster. It boasts a 13-megapixel camera and a “Personic Speaker,” which adjusts volume for personal or group settings. Additionally, it can connect to Bluetooth headphones.

The device is designed to offer an array of AI tools conveniently and intuitively. The company’s vision with the AI Pin is to provide a futuristic and seamless integration of AI into everyday life, potentially transforming how we interact with technology.

RELATED:

Global outage of Elon Musk’s X app creates waves across China

By

Joane

-

Dec 23, 2023

Elon Musk’s X app experienced a widespread outage, impacting users globally and sparking a flurry of complaints and memes, particularly in the United States. What set this outage apart was its unexpected influence on users in China, a nation known for its stringent internet regulations and restrictions on accessing Western social media platforms.

The incident led to an intriguing turn of events on China’s microblogging site, Weibo, where “Twitter down” swiftly became the top trending hashtag. This unexpected focus on a platform not directly accessible in mainland China raised eyebrows and dominated discussions for over two hours. The hashtag amassed a staggering 190 million views, with Weibo users contributing 50 pages of posts and thousands of comments.

Despite the longstanding ban on Twitter in China, the platform, alongside X, remains popular among the Chinese public. The country’s dominant social media players, Weibo and WeChat, enforce strict registration requirements and censorship algorithms to control content, fostering an environment where freedom of expression is stifled.

The Chinese government’s tight grip on internet regulations is evident in its restriction of access to Western social media apps, viewing them as potential challenges to its narrative. WeChat, boasting 1.3 billion monthly active users, reigns supreme in China’s online landscape, while complaints on Weibo highlight the public’s desire to bypass the “Great Firewall” using official VPNs.

The outage of X, previously known as Twitter, in mainland China left many Chinese netizens surprised. Financial influencer Xiyangsimu, with 1.4 million Weibo followers, humorously questioned the focus on a platform inaccessible in China, pondering the need to investigate those bypassing the Great Firewall.

During the outage, X displayed a placeholder message, welcoming users and highlighting its features, earning praise from Weibo CEO Wang Gaofei. Gaofei commented on the message’s superiority over Weibo’s version in similar circumstances, showcasing a light-hearted acknowledgment of the competition.

In response to inquiries about the outage, X sent a brief email stating, “Busy now, please check back later.” The platform was eventually restored globally, affecting users in the United States, Canada, Britain, France, and other countries. Over 77,000 U.S. users faced issues during the peak of the outage, contributing to the global impact of the incident.

Elon Musk’s ownership of X, acquired in 2022, added a layer of intrigue to the outage. Musk recently boasted about the platform’s “strong growth,” citing a 22.3% increase in site traffic in November compared to the previous year. The outage of X, though temporary, has once again brought to the forefront the complexities of internet regulations, censorship, and the global impact of social media disruptions, leaving both users and industry experts pondering the resilience of digital platforms in an era of constant connectivity.

Related:

(via)

MSI launches Trident Titanium 14th Gen desktops with up to Intel Core i9+RTX 4090, starting at 5,899 yuan ($831)

By

Soumyakanti

-

Dec 23, 2023

MSI has launched the Trident Titanium 14th Gen desktop series, featuring the latest Intel 14th Gen Core processors and NVIDIA RTX 40 series graphics cards. These high-performance desktops are designed with a sleek white exterior and offer a variety of configurations to cater to different user needs, from high-end gaming to office design tasks.

MSI Trident Titanium 14th Gen Desktop Series

MSI Trident Titanium Desktop Series Specifications:

The series includes options ranging from the Intel Core i9-14900KF processor paired with an MSI Z790 motherboard and RTX 4090 graphics card to more mainstream setups like the Core i5-14600K with a B760M motherboard. All models come with 32GB of DDR5 memory and offer storage choices between 1TB and 2TB. The desktops are backed by a 3-year warranty and on-site service policy.

Performance-wise, the Intel Core i9 14900KF processor in these desktops boasts 24 cores, 32 threads, and a 6.0GHz single-core boost, promising around a 20% improvement over its predecessor, the 13th Gen Core i9 13900KF. The RTX 4090 24G graphics card enhances gaming and design experiences with its 24GB GDDR6X VRAM and 2K high-resolution support, offering about 30% better performance than the RTX 3090.

The MSI Z790 motherboard in these desktops includes features like superior power supply, armored cooling, smart power supply routing, and support for D5 memory and PCle 4.0.

Storage is handled by a 32GB DDR5 6000MHz memory and up to 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD, ensuring quick booting and efficient handling of heavy workloads. The desktops also come with Windows 11 pre-installed, featuring a new interface, multi-window layout, and a rich application ecosystem.

Physically, the Trident Titanium case measures 472.5mm in length, 210mm in width, and 498mm in height, supporting ATX, M-ATX, and ITX motherboards. The case design includes HDMI/DP ports, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A front interfaces, multiple hard drive bays, and a comprehensive cooling system with several ARGB fans.

Pricing and Availability

The desktops are now up for pre-sale on JD.com. Here are the prices for various desktop configurations available:

i5-14600K + 32GB+ 1TB is priced at 5,899 yuan ($831)
i5-14600KF + RTX 4060Ti + 32GB + 1TB is priced at 8,999 yuan ($1,268)
i7-14700KF + RTX4060Ti + 32GB + 1TB is priced at 9,999 yuan ($1,409)
i7-14700KF + RTX4070 + 32GB + 1TB is priced at 12,799 yuan ($1,804)
i7-14700KF + RTX4070Ti + 32GB + 2TB is priced at 15,799 yuan ($2,227)
i9-14900KF + RTX4080 + 32GB + 2TB is priced at 20,799 yuan ($2,932)
i9-14900KF + RTX 4090 + 32GB + 2TB is priced at 29,799 yuan ($4,201)

MSI is also set to unveil the MSI Titan 18 HX laptop, featuring a groundbreaking 18-inch 4K 120Hz Mini LED display, making it the world’s first laptop with these specifications. Leaked specs include an Intel Core i9 processor, Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU, 128GB DDR5 RAM, and 4TB SSD, with an expected price range of $5,237 to $5,399.

RELATED:

AOHi Youth Edition GaN charger with PD3.1 140W fast charging launched in China for 169 Yuan ($24)

By

Soumyakanti

-

Dec 23, 2023

AOHi has recently unveiled the AOC-C017 Youth Edition GaN charger in the Chinese market, featuring the PD 3.1 fast charging standard. This charger is currently available for pre-sale at an introductory price of 169 yuan ($24). Let’s delve into the key specifications of this charger.

PD 3.1, introduced in 2021, brings a significant upgrade by enabling the delivery of up to 240W of power through a USB-C cable. It introduces three new fixed voltage options (28V, 36V, and 48V) in addition to the existing ones, making it suitable for various high-power applications like monitors, servers, power tools, and security POE power supplies. PD 3.1 also introduces an adjustable voltage mode, offering a range from 15V to one of the new maximum voltages, providing more flexibility in power delivery.

AOHi Youth Edition GaN Specifications:

Coming to the GaN charger‘s specifications, the AOC-C017 offers a robust 140W power delivery capability and features a 2C1A port design. This includes a USB-C1 with PD 3.1 140W, USB-C2 with PD 3.0 100W, and USB-A with 22.5W multi-protocol fast charging. This versatility makes it compatible with a wide range of devices, including popular smartphone brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Vivo.

One standout feature of this charger is its dynamic charging speed adjustment for multiple devices, ensuring efficient power distribution. Despite its powerful capabilities, it’s impressively compact, being 24% smaller than typical 140W chargers and 5% smaller than some 100W models, all while delivering a full 140W charging performance.

Furthermore, the charger places a strong emphasis on safety with its three-stage current regulation feature, offering low power, fast charge, and trickle charge modes for a secure and transparent charging experience.

The charger boasts a distinctive yellow color and is lightweight at just 306g, with dimensions measuring 73×66.5×31.5 mm. It accepts a wide input voltage range of AC 100-240V at 50/60Hz with a maximum current of 2A. It provides multiple output options, including 5V 3A, 9V 3A, 12V 3A, 15V 3A, 20V 5A, 28V 5A, and PPS 3.3-21V 5A, catering to a broad spectrum of charging needs.

Earlier this year, AOHi also unveiled a transparent design 65W GaN+ charger, featuring a magnetic folding plug, and it’s priced at 198 Yuan (approximately $27).

RELATED:

Leaked image of Galaxy S24 Ultra’s camera module pretty much confirms a 50mp 5x instead of 10mp 10x

By

Debasish

-

Dec 23, 2023

After the emergence of High-Res renders and an entire specification leak of the Galaxy S24 Ultra, now a tipster @chunvn8888 has shared a real-life image of the camera module, confirming the fact that the Galaxy S24 Ultra will indeed switch from the 10mp 10x telephoto to a high resolution 50mp 5x one.

The shorter periscope of the S24 Ultra compared to the predecessor implies a reduction in focal length

Leaked camera module image of Galaxy S24 Ultra (periscope is shorter)

Previous rumors about the zoom capabilities have been a bit confusing, switching back and forth in terms of the resolution and zoom range of the telephoto. Now this image above shows that the telephoto lens size is significantly reduced, indicating a reduction in focal length (that confirms the switch from 10x to 5x).

As you can see in the image of the Galaxy S23 Ultra above the 10x telephoto at the bottom of the camera system was a lot bigger than the one on the shared images by @chunvn8888. If the images are authentic, we can pretty much confirm that the upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra, scheduled to be launched in January, will bring a 5x telephoto instead of 10x. Building on previous rumors and industry trends, the resolution of the sensor seems to be 50mp, up from the one on the last three generations of the Ultra flagship.

Speaking of the specification, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is likely to come with the titanium branding for the middle frame and of course, the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. Notably, the standard Galaxy S24 and the Galaxy S24 Plus are reported to house aluminum frames.

On the flip side, the Galaxy S24 series is being marketed as an “AI Phone”. However, the final name isn’t confirmed yet, as this branding fails to fully depict the AI capabilities of the upcoming series, according to a Samsung official.

Related:

(Source)

Huawei Nova 12 series price leaked, real-life image surfaces

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Dec 23, 2023

The Huawei Nova 12 series is launching in China on December 26 — this Tuesday. We are expecting a total of four devices — Nova 12 Lite, Nova 12, Nova 12 Pro, and Nova 12 Ultra. Only a few days ahead of the launch, an online listing has now revealed the prices for all the models except the base Nova 12 Lite.

Huawei Nova 12 / Nova 12 Pro / Nova 12 Ultra price leaked

The listing reveals that the standard Nova 12 will start at 3299 Yuan, while the Nova 12 Pro will begin at 4499 Yuan. And the top-of-the-line Nova 12 Ultra carries a price tag of 5499 Yuan. These prices are likely for the base storage options, with higher configurations potentially costing more.

Furthermore, real-life images of the Nova 12 Ultra and Pro models have also been circulating on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. The images show the Nova 12 Ultra sporting a luxurious leather or glass back design.

Huawei has officially confirmed three colors for the phone — Signature Blue, Black, and White, and it seems the latter will have both leather and glass finish options.

The leather version of the Nova 12 Ultra stands out with a unique design that features embossed “nova” branding on the back. And, if you look closely, you’ll notice that the leather design also extends to cover the entire camera module.

Meanwhile, the Nova 12 Pro can also be seen in its purple color with a camera design similar to the Ultra model.

Going by rumors so far, both the Nova 12 Pro and 12 Ultra are expected to feature a 5G-enabled Kirin 9000s chipset. It’s the same SoC that is present under the hood of the Mate 60 lineup. There’s also speculation that the Ultra variant may support two-way satellite communications.

Moreover, both devices are expected to come with a curved OLED display with a 1.5K resolution. Camera-wise, the Nova 12 Pro and Ultra will come with a triple camera setup consisting of a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS, an ultra-wide lens, and a telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom support. For selfies, we might expect a 60MP sensor on the front.

Related:

China’s November spike: Over tenfold increase in Semiconductor imports from Netherlands

By

Joane

-

Dec 23, 2023

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.

Related:

(via)

Android 15 could introduce battery health percentage feature, just like iPhones

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Dec 23, 2023

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.

Android Authority and Google News Telegram editor Nail Sadykov stumbled upon a hidden “battery health” screen in the Android 14 QPR2 beta 2 update released recently.

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.

Related:

OnePlus Sharge Pouch Is A 3-in-1 Portable Power Bank That You Unfortunately Cannot Purchase Yet

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Dec 23, 2023

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.

Related:

Redmi A3 spotted in BIS certification, hinting at India launch

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Dec 23, 2023

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.

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.

Related:

(Via)

OnePlus Open Receiving An Update With December Security Patch And Plenty Of Fixes

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Dec 23, 2023

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.

Related: