Vivo X100 Series Teaser Hints at Imminent Indian Launch

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Dec 15, 2023

Vivo has recently introduced its most recent flagship series—the vivo X100 Series in the global market.

Now, the most anticipated smartphone series is heading towards the Indian region.

Recently, the brand has released a new teaser of the upcoming Vivo X100 Series in India, which hints that the product is launching in the region very soon. Moreover, the landing page of the products has also appeared on the e-commerce site, revealing its availability on Flipkart.

Vivo X100 Series Specifications

To recap, common characteristics across the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro include a 6.78-inch curved-OLED LTPO display with up to 3000 nits of brightness, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and 1.5K resolution.

The X100 series, which runs on Android 14 with OriginOS 4, has optical in-display fingerprint sensors, LPDDR5x RAM, and UFS 4.0. It is outfitted with the Dimensity 9300 processor. Wireless 7 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C (USB 3.2), NFC, an IR blaster, and an X-axis linear motor are among the connectivity choices.

The X100 series features a 32MP front-facing camera for selfies. The phones are water and dust-resistant, with an IP68 designation, and have two stereo speakers.

To differentiate the two variants, the X100 has a rear camera configuration that consists of a 50MP Sony IMX920 VCS primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultra-wide lens with a 150-degree field of view, and a 50MP periscope telephoto using OIS.

While, the X100 Pro has a rear camera setup that consists of a 64MP customized OmniVision OV64B 100mm periscope telephoto with OIS, a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultra-wide with a 150-degree field of view, and a 50MP 1-inch Sony IMX989 VCS primary camera.

It weighs 225 grams, measures 164.05 x 75.28 x 8.91 mm, and is powered by the Vivo V3 processor. It also includes a 5,400mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging capabilities.

It weighs 206 grams and has dimensions of 164.05 x 75.19 x 8.49 mm. It has a 5,000mAh battery that can be charged at 120W.

The company has not disclosed any information about its launch date for the Indian region. However, we expect the launch of the product by mid-January of 2024 in India.

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ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED Unveiled With Intel Core Ultra Processor, 120Hz Display

By

Viraj Gawde

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Dec 15, 2023

Yesterday, Intel announced the Core Ultra processors. A host of OEMs launched laptops powered by the said chipset. Taiwanese brand ASUS also unveiled the Zenbook 14 OLED. It packs powerful specifications for a top-notch performance. To recall, the machine had first debuted at last year’s CES in January and the latest offering comes with some upgrades. Read on to know everything below.

ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED specifications and features

The ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED is military-grade certified and sports a metal chassis. It is lightweight and thin measuring just 1.4kg and 14.8mm respectively. The laptop has a backlit keyboard and an ErgoSense touchpad that also doubles up as a number pad. The ZenBook 14 OLED features a 1080p IR camera.

The ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED boasts a 14-inch OLED display bearing a 3K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 600 nits peak brightness. It is offered in-touch and non-touch options as well as an FHD resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate variant. The screen is also DisplayHDR True Black 500 certified. On the audio front, the ZenBook 14 OLED is equipped with super-linear built-in speakers powered by Harman Kardon and supports Dolby Atmos.

Under the hood, the ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED is offered in 14th-generation Intel Core Ultra i9, Core i7, and Core i5 processor options. There is Intel Arc graphics onboard. The device packs up to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage. The machine is backed by a 75WHr battery unit with support for 65W charging.

Connectivity options on the ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED include WiFi-6E, Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A port, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm jack.

The ASUS ZenBook 14 OLED carries a starting price tag of $1,299 for the base variant. It can be purchased from the ASUS e-shop in the US, Portugal, and other select regions.

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Google Announces the End of Tracking Cookies on Chrome

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Dec 15, 2023

The security of our personal data is facing unprecedented challenges. In today’s world, nearly every technological device we use be it an application or a gadget is gathering our data. These collected data are then processed and used to show us targeted advertisements. Ironically, Google, one of the companies making money through this strategy, is taking a step to make our lives a bit more secure, at least against others. Google is finally eliminating tracking cookies in Chrome. Here are the details…

Google Takes a Step Towards Enhanced Privacy, Phasing Out Tracking Cookies in Chrome

Google has announced that it will soon begin phasing out support for third-party cookies in its Chrome web browser. But let’s start from the beginning, what are cookies? Cookies are small text files that allow websites to identify and track users. Third-party cookies are not created by the website you are visiting, but rather by another website when you visit that particular site.

These cookies are commonly used by advertisers to track users’ online activities. Google removing these cookies can help reduce the tracking of users’ online activities. This may result in users being less targeted with ads and could help them maintain online privacy. Actually, this is not something new. Google had announced a long time ago that it would phase out third-party cookies. However, the exact date for this move was not specified.

Now, the company has revealed in a recent statement that they will commence the process in January 2024. But don’t panic. What will happen if a website relies on cookies and needs them to function properly? If Chrome is convinced that a site won’t open without cookies and you’re experiencing issues, it will allow you to re-enable cookies for that site. However, you may need to perform actions like refreshing the page multiple times for the system to detect this.

You don’t need to worry either. Because Google will initially apply this policy to only 1% of Chrome users. Therefore, we most likely won’t be in the affected group. However, the goal is to completely block third-party cookies for all users by the second half of 2024. It’s worth noting that Google Chrome is not the first browser developer to restrict third-party cookies. Competitors like Safari, Firefox, and Brave have been blocking trackers in this way for a long time, making them among the safest browsers you can use.

Nevertheless, we need to point out that there is some hypocrisy involved. As mentioned above, Google collects every possible piece of data about its users. The company utilizes this information to mimic what third-party cookies do, creating advertising strategies and offering everyone the opportunity to benefit from this data. In fact, some users perceive this move by the company as merely eliminating competition. The company, which claims to do everything for user security, remains silent about the matter.

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Giztop’s Christmas Holiday Savings: Unwrap Joy with Exclusive Discount

By

Joane

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Dec 15, 2023

Unwrap the magic of Christmas with Giztop, your ultimate destination for cutting-edge tech and gadgets! Embrace the spirit of giving and let Giztop be your Secret Santa this season. Enjoy a festive 3% discount across the entire site when you use the coupon code: SANTA23 at checkout.

Whether you’re eyeing the latest smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, or accessories, Giztop has you covered with a global selection of top-notch tech products. This special offer lasts until December 26. Elevate your holiday shopping experience and treat yourself or your loved ones to the gift of innovation. So let’s check out some of the top trending gadgets available on Giztop.

Xiaomi 14 Pro: Redefining Mobile Excellence

Xiaomi 14 Pro redefines mobile excellence with a 6.73-inch 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and up to 16GB RAM. Capture brilliance with a Leica-powered 50MP camera system. A 4880mAh battery supports 120W wired, 50W wireless, and 10W reverse wireless charging. Enjoy 5G connectivity and WiFi 7. Unlock effortlessly with an in-display fingerprint reader and share your connection with mobile hotspot capability. The device features dual nano SIM slots, NFC, dual-frequency GPS, an IR blaster, and advanced cooling for optimal performance

BUY NOW

OnePlus 12: Tech Marvel Unleashed

OnePlus 12 5G has a 6.82-inch QHD+ 120Hz Fluid AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and Adreno 750 for high performance. Choose from 12GB to 24GB RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. The camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor, 48MP ultra-wide, and 32MP telephoto, along with a 16MP front camera. A robust 5400mAh battery supports 100W Super Warp wired and 50W AirVOOC wireless charging. OxygenOS, based on Android with ColorOS 14, offers Dark Mode 2.0. The in-display fingerprint reader ensures secure unlocking

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Redmi Watch 4: Your Comprehensive Health and Fitness Companion

Redmi Watch 4 features a vibrant 1.97-inch AMOLED display, 24/7 health monitoring with heart rate and SpO2 tracking, and over 150 sports modes. The long-lasting 470mAh battery provides up to 20 days of normal usage. Stay connected with Bluetooth 5.3, voice calling, and NFC for contactless payments. With a waterproof design (5ATM), the watch is suitable for water activities. Additional functions include XiaoAI voice assistant, multi-functional NFC, and daily life enhancements like sleep tracking and stress monitoring.

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Experience Magic with Redmi Buds 4 Harry Potter Edition – Save 20%

Unveil the enchantment with the bestseller Redmi Buds 4 Harry Potter Edition at a 20% discount! Immerse yourself in quality sound with a 10mm dynamic driver and enjoy AI-intelligent noise cancellation up to 35dB. Benefit from dual transparency mode and low latency through Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. With an impressive 30-hour battery life in the charging case, stay connected seamlessly. The package includes earphones, a charging case, a cable, a protective pouch, a sticker, and instructions.

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Unwrap Savings on ALLDOCUBE IWORK GT 12 – Limited Time Offer!

Score $100 off on the powerful ALLDOCUBE IWORK GT 12 using coupon code: WGT12. Immerse yourself in a 12.6-inch 2.2K display driven by the 7th Gen AMD R5 7520U processor and AMD Radeon 610M. With 16GB LPDDR4X RAM and a spacious 512GB PCIe3.0 storage, experience seamless multitasking. Enjoy the convenience of 45W Rapid PD Fast Charging and the pre-installed Windows 11 OS.

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OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite receives Android 14 based OxygenOS 14 update in India

By

Sean

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Dec 15, 2023

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G has finally received the Android 14 OS based OxygenOS 14 update in the Indian market. The company’s mid range model is now getting the stable build of the latest Android iteration, so here are all the details.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite OxygenOS 14

The Chinese smartphone maker has officially rolled out the OxygenOS 14 update, which carries the firmware version CPH2467_14.0.0.201(EX01). This update is currently being released in the Indian market only. If you were a part of the closed and open beta, the update will be pushed directly. Looking at the changelog, the new update adds Aqua Dynamics, brings File Dock, improves the clone phone, enhances Shelf, improves photo and video related permission management, and much more.

Changelog

Security and privacy

Improves photo and video-related permission management for safer access by apps.

Performance optimization

Improves system stability, the launch speed of apps, and the smoothness of animations.

Aquamorphic Design

Upgrades Aquamorphic Design with a natural, gentle, and clearer color style for a more comfortable color experience.
Adds Aquamorphic-themed ringtones and revamps the system notification sounds.
Improves system animations by making them even smoother.

It is recommended that you keep your device above 30 percent charge and have a minimum of 5GB of internal storage space before updating to OxygenOS 14. To recall, the Nord CE 3 Lite sports a tall 6.72-inch IPS LCD panel that offers a 120Hz refresh rate, 550 nits of peak brightness, and FHD+ resolution.

Under the hood, the mid range smartphone is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC that is paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports 67W fast charging. The rear packs a 108-megapixel triple camera setup, while the front houses a 16-megapixel selfie shooter.

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Nothing Phone (2) slated to receive Nothing OS 2.5 update over the “next few days”

By

Simranpal Singh

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Dec 15, 2023

Nothing is a bit late to join the stable Android 14 party, but it is always better late than never. After the consecutive Nothing OS 2.5 Closed Beta and a couple of Open Beta 2 builds, the company is set to launch the stable version of Android 14-based Nothing OS 2.5 for Nothing Phone (2) in the coming “few days.” The company informed us about the development via its official handle on X.com.

Nothing OS 2.5 incoming.

Coming to a Phone (2) near you over the next few days. With new features and improvements to enhance your experience even further.

Open Beta for Phone (1) will kick off before the end of the year. pic.twitter.com/2Wtui7LJ7a
— Nothing (@nothing) December 15, 2023

Along with Nothing Phone (2), Nothing Phone (1) will get the first Open Beta build before the end of this year. The Phone (1) is currently on the Nothing OS 2.5 Closed Beta build. There have been several new features and enhancements that will be part of the latest OS iteration. Along with Android 14’s enhanced features, improved security, and refined privacy settings, Nothing has added several OS-based features like icing on the cake.

Nothing OS 2.5 Features and Improvements

There’s a redesigned Home Screen and Lock Screen interface that offers even more customization options. Several new wallpaper effects have been added, which make the home screen look cleaner and more tidy. A major change to the Glyph Interface is part of the package, the company improved the logic of Flip to Glph and added direct access to the Glyph Timer from the lock screen. Further., the Glyph Time supports time presets for quick duration settings.

Several other improvements to the gestures and other parts of the phone have been made. Below are some other changes:

Gesture:

Customizable double-press power button for quick access to chosen features.
Additional Lock Screen shortcut options, including Do Not Disturb, Mute, QR code scanner, and video camera.
Three-finger swipe gesture for quick screenshot capture.
New screenshot editor and menu for advanced editing features and quick deletions.

More Improvements:

Optimized Weather app experience with improved weather alert notifications.
Predictive back animation and refreshed back gesture arrow visual in line with Nothing’s style.
Separate settings for ringtone and notification sound volumes with an updated control interface.
Updated Quick Settings layout with support for more device icons.
Improved stability of the Camera.
Enhanced overall system stability for a reliable and smooth experience.

All these features will be part of the Nothing OS 2.5 beta. The official rollout may start seeding in the next couple of days for the Nothing Phone (2). Users can manually check for updates by heading to the Phone Settings > System > System Update.

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Lenovo launches new ThinkPad X1 Carbon, X1 2-in-1 & IdeaPad Pro 5i laptops with Intel Core Ultra CPUs

By

Sudhanshu

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Dec 15, 2023

With the announcement of Intel’s Core Ultra series CPUs earlier today, OEMs have started showing their hand as well. The latest to join the growing list is Lenovo, which has unveiled its ThinkPad X1 Carbon 12th Gen and the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 9th Gen laptops along with the IdeaPad Pro 5i. Here are all the details:

ThinkPad X1 Carbon 12th Gen/ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 specs & features:

In terms of performance, both the ThinkPad X1 Carbon 12th Gen and the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 9th Gen are equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors. However, there are notable differences in memory specifications, with the X1 Carbon supporting up to 64GB of LPDDR5X memory, while the X1 2-in-1 accommodates up to 32GB of LPDDR4X memory. Both laptops offer impressive storage options with up to 2TB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage. The X1 Carbon features Intel Arc Graphics, whereas the X1 2-in-1 is equipped with Intel Iris Xe graphics.

In the display department, both laptops sport a 14-inch narrow bezel display. The X1 Carbon stands out with its 2.8K OLED touch display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, while the X1 2-in-1 features a 1920×1200 IPS touch display. The X1 Carbon’s display offers Dolby Vision HDR and 400 nits of brightness, while the X1 2-in-1’s display provides 300 nits of brightness.

For audio, both laptops deliver Dolby Atmos audio with Dolby Voice enhancement. In terms of the camera, both devices feature an up to 8MP MIPI computer vision camera with a privacy shutter. Both laptops also include a tactile keyboard, a larger TrackPad, and a glass Haptic TouchPad.

In the battery department, the X1 Carbon boasts a 57Wh battery, while the X1 2-in-1 comes with a slightly smaller 50Wh battery. Both laptops prioritize security with a dTPM 2.0 chip and a fingerprint reader, with the X1 2-in-1 adding an extra layer of security through a camera privacy shutter.

Connectivity features are consistent between the two laptops, offering 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4) ports, 2x USB-A (5Gbps) ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The X1 Carbon provides the option of Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, while the X1 2-in-1 is equipped with Wi-Fi 6. Both laptops include Bluetooth 5.3, but the X1 2-in-1 stands out with additional connectivity options like 5G sub-6 (CAT20), 4G LTE (CAT16), 4G LTE (CAT4) for the China market, eSIM, and Nano SIM support.

In terms of design, the X1 Carbon is lighter and thinner than the X1 2-in-1. The X1 Carbon starts at 2.42 lbs and has a thickness of 14.96mm, while the X1 2-in-1 starts at 2.92 lbs and is slightly thicker at 15.49mm.

IdeaPad Pro 5i specs:

The IdeaPad Pro 5i is available in both 16-inch and 14-inch models, offering powerful performance with up to Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 processors. Running on the Windows 11 operating system, it boasts a maximum memory capacity of 32GB LPDDR5X and storage options of up to 1TB Gen 4 PCIe NVMe SSD. The graphics capabilities include integrated Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon graphics, along with the option for discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti or RTX 4050 Laptop GPU.

The display choices cater to various preferences, with the 16-inch model featuring a 2.5K IPS screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, or an enticing 2K OLED alternative. The 14-inch version offers either a 2.8K OLED or IPS display, both with a 120Hz refresh rate. All displays adhere to a 16:10 aspect ratio, ensuring a vivid visual experience. Audio quality is enhanced with 2 x 2W speakers and Dolby Atmos Audio technology.

The laptop is equipped with an IR FHD camera featuring a ToF sensor and a privacy shutter, along with a dual-microphone array for improved video conferencing. The device packs an 84WHr polymer battery for extended usage. Connectivity options include a Thunderbolt 4-enabled USB-C port, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C with Power Delivery and DisplayPort support, HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Wireless connectivity is facilitated by WLAN WI-FI 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.

In terms of dimensions, the 16-inch model measures 356mm x 251mm x 22.1mm and weighs in at 1.95kg (4.30lbs), while the 14-inch variant is more compact at 312mm x 210.8mm x 15.99mm and a lighter 1.46kg (3.22lbs). This range of specifications makes the IdeaPad Pro 5i a versatile and powerful choice for users seeking a premium laptop experience.

Pricing & availability

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12, with limited configurations, will be available in December 2023, starting at $2,989. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9, set to be available from March 2024, starts at $2,639. For those seeking the Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5i in the 16-inch variant, it is currently available starting at $1,149.99.

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Huawei’s design patent for its “charging car” gets approved by CNIPA

By

Debasish

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Dec 15, 2023

The design patent of a “charging car” applied by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. has been approved today by the China National Intellectual Property Administration. It seems like the car incorporates lidar and ultrasonic radar sensors for seamless navigation.

One of the highlights of the car is its ‘cute’ design

The design focus of this patent is the shape of the car, which aims to provide an innovative mobile charging solution. The pre-production images suggest an overall rounded shape with an interactive display in the front. This car will house both DC and AC charging outlets below the interactive screen, as you can see from the image. Alongside the lidar on top, the car will also reportedly house ultrasonic radars on different sides of the car.

Not much information about the features of the car has been revealed yet. However, it’s expected that the car will incorporate Huawei’s intelligent driving functions to make better use of the sensors.

Although, this kind of charging vehicle, often referred to as a “mobile charging robot,” has already been deployed in practical applications. For instance, during this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays in China, the State Grid Wuhan Power Supply Company introduced the “intelligent mobile energy storage charging pile” at various locations, including vehicle charging stations and service areas. This system boasts a total power capacity of 60kW, with an energy storage capacity reaching a full load of 184kWh. It offers users the option of both 60kW fast charging and 7kW slow charging.

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Upcoming Smartphones: Honor 90 GT and more

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Dec 15, 2023

The second last week of 2023 will not be as busy as the last few weeks in terms of smartphone launches. Only two brands have scheduled events and both of them will take place in China.

The brands that will hold press conferences are Nubia and Honor. The former will unveil its flagship phone. Whereas, the latter will debut a performance-focussed handset.

We have been hearing about these devices for quite a while from multiple sources. As we are nearing the official announcement, even the companies themselves have started teasing the features recently.

Let’s check out these forthcoming phones one by one.

Upcoming Smartphones Next Week

Prev Next

1. Nubia Z60 Ultra

The Nubia Z60 Ultra is scheduled to launch in China on December 19 (Tuesday). It will be presented at an event, which will begin at 2 PM local time (GMT+8).

As mentioned earlier, the Nubia Z60 Ultra is the brand’s latest flagship smartphone. It comes with several high-end features, such as a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, IP68 rating (dust and water resistant), and a 16MP under-display selfie camera.

The device also arrives with a 6,000mAh silicon carbon anode battery, 80W wired charging support, USB 3.2, Android 14, and a 50MP (wide) + 50MP (ultrawide) + 64MP (3x periscope telephoto) triple camera system.

2. Honor 90 GT

The Honor 90 GT is set to launch in China on December 21 (Thursday). Its press conference will start at 7 PM local time (GMT+8). The handset will be accompanied by Honor Pad 9.

The Honor 90 GT is the successor of Honor 80 GT. The brand has only revealed its design so far, however, we know some of its specs from leaks.

The device will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset paired with up to 24GB RAM. It will flaunt a 1.5K flat OLED display with 3840Hz PWM dimming.

The phone will sport an OIS-assisted 50MP primary camera and will support 100W wired charging. It is expected to come in at least three colors with a flat frame design.

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Indian Govt Warns of High-Risk Vulnerabilities in Samsung Galaxy Phones

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Dec 15, 2023

The Indian government’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a high-risk warning for Samsung mobile phone users, highlighting critical security vulnerabilities in various Android operating systems running on Samsung phones. These vulnerabilities, if exploited, could allow attackers to steal sensitive information, take control of your phone, and even install malware.

According to CERT, the vulnerabilities affect Samsung phones running Android 11, 12, 13, and 14. This means it affects both old and new smartphones, including popular models like the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Flip 5, and Galaxy Fold 5.

CERT-In has identified several vulnerabilities in Samsung products, arising from issues such as:

Improper access control in Knox features.
Integer overflow flaw in facial recognition software.
Authorisation issues with the AR Emoji app.
Incorrect handling of errors in Knox security software.
Multiple memory corruption vulnerabilities in various system components.
Incorrect data size verification in the softsimd library.
Unvalidated user input in the Smart Clip app.
Hijacking of certain app interactions in contacts.

The exploitation of these vulnerabilities could lead to severe consequences. This includes triggering heap overflow and stack-based buffer overflow, accessing device SIM PIN, broadcasting with elevated privilege, reading AR Emoji sandbox data, bypassing Knox Guard lock by changing system time, accessing arbitrary files, gaining sensitive information, executing arbitrary code, and compromising the targeted system, the agency says.

So what can you do? Users can install the latest security patches from Samsung as soon as they become available. Also, make it a habit to install security updates as soon as they are released. This helps keep your phone protected from the latest threats.

Meanwhile, be careful when installing apps, clicking links, and visiting unknown websites. These are common ways for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities.

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Nothing Phone 2a design elements tipped, may feature horizontally aligned dual rear cameras

By

Sean

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Dec 15, 2023

Nothing is reportedly working on a new smartphone model, which could be a mid range handset. This device is rumored to be called the Nothing Phone 2a. The latest leak hints at its design elements, so here are all the details.

Nothing Phone 2a may feature a refreshed design

Known tipster Yogesh Brar claims to have seen a working prototype of the Nothing Phone 2a. He stated that the brand is making some interesting design choices with the upcoming handset. The front will retain the center aligned punch hole cutout, while the rear will apparently see more obvious changes. The back still features a dual camera setup, but the layout has now moved to a horizontal alignment that is situated in the center and not the left side.

To recall, the company faced some criticism for its Phone 2 being too similar to the Phone 1. But with the Phone 2a, the design is seeing a slight refresh. Although, the tipster adds that the upcoming smartphone will still borrow elements from the Nothing Phone 1 and Phone 2. Interestingly, one of our earlier reports also shared an image on the back panel of the Phone 2a. But this image shows the device with a vertically stacked dual camera setup, which is similar to Nothing’s previous phones.

This report also confirmed that the Phone 2a will sport a 6.7-inch AMOLED display and carry the AIN142 model number. Its LED Glyph Interface lighting can also be seen on the rear. Lastly, the Nothing Phone 2a was also recently spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) carrying the AIN142 model number. This confirms that the smartphone will be launching in the Indian market. Keep in mind that this is still just an unconfirmed report, so take this news with a pinch of salt for now.

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European Commission initiates probe into Apple and Google over Digital Services Act Compliance

By

Joane

-

Dec 15, 2023

European Commission has formally requested information from tech giants Apple and Google regarding their risk management practices within their app stores. Both the App Store and Google Play have been designated as “Very Large Online Platforms” (VLOPs) due to their massive user bases, subjecting them to compliance with the recently enacted Digital Services Act (DSA).

The European Commission is focusing its inquiry on identifying and mitigating “systemic risks” associated with these platforms. Concerns include disseminating illegal and harmful content, and potential negative impacts on fundamental rights, public security, public health, and minors. The Commission has expressed interest in understanding how both companies address these issues within their app ecosystems.

The transparency aspect of the inquiry zeroes in on recommender systems and online advertisements linked to app stores. The request for information highlights the need for clarity in areas such as the assessment of app safety before it goes live and the evaluation of targeted advertisements based on the anticipated audience.

One noteworthy challenge outlined in the request is the ambiguity surrounding the term “illegal and harmful content.” The lack of a clear definition leaves room for interpretation, potentially encompassing aspects such as pre-launch app safety assessments and the determination of appropriate advertisements based on the audience.

Google and Apple have been granted until January 15 to comply with the European Commission’s request for detailed information. Failure to do so could lead to formal proceedings under Article 66 of the DSA, reflecting the Commission’s commitment to enforcing the new regulations.

This latest development comes in the wake of previous controversies, with Apple facing criticism in October 2022 for prominently featuring gambling apps in its App Store. The proximity of these ads to content aimed at children and apps related to gambling addiction recovery sparked concerns and raised questions about the effectiveness of the platform’s content moderation.

The inquiry is not limited to Apple and Google alone; it encompasses over a dozen of the world’s largest tech companies, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the scrutiny under the DSA. The potential initiation of formal proceedings against Apple and Google could set a precedent for other companies facing similar scrutiny, emphasizing the global impact of the DSA on major players in the technology sector.

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Meizu 21 Full & True Review: A New “Eye Candy” From Meizu

By

Sern Wen

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Dec 15, 2023

While last year’s …… oh sorry, this year’s Meizu 20 leaves a lot to be desired, it was cheap enough to entice some people on a budget to buy it. So with the Meizu 21 going up in price 8 months from now, what’s it got to offer that would make me shell out that $470 to pick it up? I guess the biggest reason would be its looks.

Design

The phone gives me a bit of a strange feeling, it looks like the bastard child of Samsung and NOTHING phone. But I have to say, it does look quite good. Maybe it’s because all the other phones are so flashy in design, that it looks like the Meizu 21 is particularly minimalistic.

And they’ve put a little more thought into the flash: R! G! B! It beats to the music and can also be used to check the current volume level, quite an interesting little design. The vibration motor, which Meizu has always been proud of, is as good as ever, and the IR blaster and NFC are not absent. If only the IP54 could be replaced with an IP68, this phone would be perfect.

Display

With most cell phones, you can tell at a glance what brand it is when you look at the back of them. People like us who have reviewed a lot of phones can even accurately name the model number of each one. But I believe nobody can recognize a phone by its front, except for the Meizu 21 white version.

This white bezel will let you know it’s a Meizu phone without lighting up the screen, and the bezels aren’t equal width by the looks, they’re truly equal width. The front camera will also be a little smaller than other phones. All in all the Meizu 21 from the front is both unique and beautiful.

Well, when you tap on the screen, you might be a bit disappointed. I didn’t expect to see this 1080p Samsung E6 panel in a world where 1200p and 1440p screens are everywhere. Although the Meizu 21 will be a little smaller than other phones, the actual PPI of 321 is still more painful for literature lovers.

Combined with the PWM dimming, the peak brightness and viewing angle are not as good as other phones in the same price range, I’d hardly say this is a good screen. Since current technology hasn’t been able to get rid of the black matrix completely, the black line also makes it look less than perfect on the front panel.

All in all, this screen isn’t great in terms of display, and anyone looking to buy the Meizu 21 shouldn’t expect too much from this screen.

Benchmark & Gaming

Unsurprisingly, the Meizu 21 uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. But surprisingly, the performance of the Meizu 21 looks good and the thermal dissipation is quite better than last year’s Meizu 20. Does this mean that gaming isn’t as bad as it used to be either?

Yes, the gaming experience is much improved on the Meizu 21 as well. While it consumes more power and gets hotter than other 8 Gen 3 phones, it at least lets you keep your frame rates high for long periods of time. Well, shortcomings in performance Meizu has finally made up for, I guess.

Camera

There are three cameras on the Meizu 21, and minus the useless depth of field camera, there are really only two cameras on the Meizu 21 that you’ll use regularly.

As you know, the 200 MP primary camera is there to make up for the lack of a telephoto camera, and the zoomed-in photos can still have good clarity, not exactly a gimmick. But Meizu doesn’t seem to think so. The Meizu 21 photo seems to be 20MP instead of 200MP, and not as sharp as the 50MP Redmi K70.

Maybe the 200MP mode Meizu hasn’t been debugged yet? So let’s zoom in with auto mode to take a look. It doesn’t win over the K70 either at 2x or 4x. I’m pretty sure my hands aren’t shaking and in focus. Just …… I am speechless. You can just use this 200MP main camera as a normal 12MP one.

But hey, without zooming in, both cameras are not bad. The front camera can also record 4K 60fps video with image stabilization. If you don’t need much in the way of cameras, the Meizu 21 will barely meet your needs.

Battery & Charging

Charging and battery life aren’t the Meizu 21’s strong points, so you guys can see what it’s probably at by looking at the graphs.

Conclusion

Meizu is still the same as ever. it’s always been different from other phones and has its own unique strengths, like the white front panel, Home Indicator with 3D Touch, and Flyme OS. I appreciate their personalities, but I wouldn’t recommend the Meizu 21 to the non-fanbase because there are just too many phones out there that are more desirable to buy recently, like realme GT5 Pro.

Google introduces Repair Mode for Pixel smartphones

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Dec 15, 2023

After successful beta testing, Google has finally introduced the Pixel Repair Mode feature for Pixel smartphones. This feature aims to enhance user data privacy during the repair process. Alongside this addition, the company has announced a few new updates to streamline the Pixel repair experience.

Google’s new Pixel Repair Mode is now available on Pixel devices running Android 14. And, to use this feature, your phone must have at least 2GB of available storage. You can activate the Repair Mode on your Pixel phone by going to Settings > System > Repair mode.

Activating repair mode creates a secure environment on your phone, locking away all your data like messages, photos, calls, and more. Repair technicians can still test all the phone’s features in a separate space without peeking at your private info.

Google has also released a new diagnostic app that users may access from their Phone dialer. Google claims that the new diagnostic feature will assist you in understanding the problems with your phone before you send it in for repair. To use the diagnostic on your Pixel phone, type #*#7287#*# on the Phone dialer’s keypad.

Furthermore, whether you’re under warranty or not, Google wants repairs to be simple. Google has previously worked with iFixit, which provides consumers with legitimate parts and repair guides so that they may fix their devices themselves through their self-service program.

They’ve now also teamed with uBreakiFix to provide speedy fixes at over 700 sites around the United States, with most repairs finished in 2-4 hours. With this, Google claims that over 80% of Pixel device owners are within 10-20 miles of an authorized repair center.

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Some Motorola Razr+ Units Are Unable to Fetch the Firmware Updates

By

Simranpal Singh

-

Dec 15, 2023

Motorola introduced the Moto Razr 40 Ultra in the US under the name Motorola Razr+. The foldable smartphone is well known for its refined aesthetics and a small 2.6-inch Quick View display. But for some users, the smartphone is having an issue with not receiving the new firmware updates. There are multiple threads on Motorola’s support forum filled with complaints related to the updates.

The issue seems to have been affecting the users since summer, and even for some users, the issue has persisted since the day they made the purchase. Such users have not received a single firmware update on their respective Motorola Razr+ smartphones. The Motorola Razr+ units are stuck on the May 2023 security patch due to the issue. A user named Grethy on Motorola Forums posted, “My Razr 40 Ultra has not had an update and is still running the May security update. Is it normal to be 3 months behind on security updates, or is there an issue with my phone? I have version T1TZS33.3-62-39-1Is this the current version? Thanks!”

Motorola’s tedious support seems to be repeating for the Motorola Razr+ after the Motorola Razr 2020 and 2022. Some users are even switching to Samsung Galaxy Foldables due to the poor support from Motorola. A fine example of this is a user named Garek who posted, “I’m still on May update no update here in Australia this is a repeat of my 2020,2022 razr’s lackluster support I actually sold my ultra bought a flip5 straight away got the August security patch I have no regrets selling it,I wish you all the best just think in China it’s had its 2nd software update for the rest like playing poker luck of the draw…peace mate..”

Possible Fix for Users Using Windows Machine

Some Motorola Razr+ users are able to rectify the issue with Motorola’s Rescue and Smart Assistant utility. They were able to pull the new update after a full factory reset using the RSA utility. However, the users on the Mac and Linux are left with no working solution.

From the replies of company employees, it seems Motorola is aware of the issue and has been working to fix the bug for months. However, some lucky users get it rectified automatically with every new firmware that the company sends.

It is a major issue, and if it persists, we may suggest the users head over to Motorola Support.

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Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 visits NBTC, launch seems imminent

By

Sean

-

Dec 15, 2023

Samsung is gearing up to unveil a brand-new rugged smartphone soon. The device in question is the Galaxy XCover 7, which was recently spotted by a certification authority from Thailand. This hints at an imminent launch, so here are all the details.

Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 NBTC

The South Korean tech giant’s Galaxy XCover 7 was recently spotted on the NBTC database. Looking at the online listing, the smartphone carries the model number SM-G556B. Unfortunately, the NBTC certification did not reveal any other finer details regarding the smartphone. But it does hint that its launch is near. Furthermore, a couple of our previous reports have offered us better insight regarding this device. To recall, the Galaxy XCover 7 is expected to be a rugged version of the Galaxy A55 5G.

The Galaxy XCover 7 had previously surfaced on Bluetooth SIG, GCF, GeekBench, and BIS. This means that it will launch in the global market soon. These offered us a look at some of its specifications while a leak also revealed its official renders. Based on what we know so far, the Galaxy XCover 7 is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC that is paired with 6GB of RAM. It will run on the Android 14 OS based One UI OS out of the box. The Bluetooth SIG certification confirms support for Bluetooth 5.3.

Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy XCover 7 sometime in the first quarter of next year. Unfortunately, the finer details like its pricing and launch date have yet to be revealed. So stick around for more as we will be providing more updates when additional information is available regarding this device.

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Infinix Hot 40 Pro Free Fire Edition Launched with Some Themed Goodies

By

Simranpal Singh

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Dec 15, 2023

Infinix took the wraps off the Infinix Hot 40 Pro Free Fire Edition in partnership with Sinapore-based game developer Garena. The smartphone packs the same specifications and features as the Infinix Hot 40 Pro but packs a box of goodies and some Free Fire-themed UI elements. The pricing and availability have not yet been unveiled.

The limited-edition smartphone from Infinix bundles an additional Free Fire bundle, which houses a 33W charger, a black silicone cover, and an RGB Free Fire-branded cooler. The cooler gets connected to a USB-Type C to dissipate heat while gaming on it for a longer duration. Further, there’s also a USB-A to USB-C cable for extensive usage with old peripherals and devices.

Infinix Hot 40 Pro Free Fire edition ships with the same Horizon Gold color phone, sans any Free Fire branding. There are some Free Fire stickers, a special gift card, and a lanyard in the package. The Special Gift Card can be used to purchase in-game Free Fire items. Some unique Wallpapers, icon widgets, AR self-portrait sticks, and sound effects are also available.

“We are excited to continue our collaboration with Free Fire and announce the HOT 40 SERIES, which features unique combinations of characters and pets in our co-branded lineup. The series offers outstanding performance and an exceptional gaming experience for mobile gamers worldwide, all at a highly competitive price point. Furthermore, Infinix’s collaboration with Free Fire extends beyond product innovation, as we strive to forge deeper connections with today’s younger generation,” said Summer Yao, HOT Series Product Director at Infinix.

Infinix Hot 40 Pro Free Fire Editions Specifications

Infinix Hot 40 Pro Free Fire ships with the same 6.78-inch FHD+ display while having a 120Hz refresh rate. The smartphone comes with a Metamaterial Antenna which enhances signal reliability and improves game latency.

The smartphone bundles a triple-rear camera featuring a 108 MP portrait sensor, a 2 MP macro sensor, and an AI camera. On the front, there’s a 32MP selfie camera. The smartphone houses a MediaTek G99 SoC with UFS 2.2 storage and LPDDR4X RAM. It is available in 8GB RAM + 128GB and 256GB + 8GB RAM storage variants. It also offers expandable storage of up to 1TB using a microSD card.

To keep the smartphone running, it features a large 5000 mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging. The smartphone measures 168.6×76.6×8.25mm in size and weighs 199 grams. It runs on the Android 13-based XOS 13.5 OS.

Pricing and Availability details are not yet live, but may vary depending on the region.

Related:

Google to unveil Pixel 9 series with exclusive Pixie AI assistant: Report

By

Sean

-

Dec 15, 2023

The Google Pixel is generally considered to be one of the best Android experiences on smartphones. The Pixel experience brings a bunch of exclusive features and more. But now, it appears that an exclusive AI assistant called Pixie could also be coming for next gen Pixel phones.

Google Pixie for Pixel 9 Series

As of right now, Google Assistant already exists as a capable and smart AI voice assistant. However, it is universally available across all Android smartphones and other devices. But with AI’s recent boom, it appears that the Search Engine giant is working on something that could be a little more advanced. Google Assistant with Bard for Android and iOS was recently announced, but a new AI assistant called Pixie is reportedly under development. As the name suggests, this assistant will be exclusive to Pixel devices.

According to The Information, multiple sources close to the matter have revealed Google’s plans regarding Pixie and its developments. This AI assistant is rumored to be a Pixel exclusive feature and could debut in 2024 alongside the Pixel 9 series. It will likely be capable of doing what Google Assistant could do but with new advancements. This means that the assistant could perform more complex tasks.

The report adds that Pixie could even respond to tasks that involve suggesting the closest store where one can buy a product they have photographed. While this sounds quite simple on paper, it is quite a complex process. Another major difference between Google Assistant and Pixie could be the offline functionality. The latter might be capable of performing user requests on-device, which means no internet connectivity is required. This upcoming assistant may be powered by Gemini Nano as well. It is worth noting that the Pixie moniker has yet to be confirmed. The name could just be an internal codename ahead of its official moniker.

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Redmi Note 13 4G and Note 13 Pro+ 5G spotted on NBTC certification

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Dec 15, 2023

Xiaomi officially announced the arrival of the Redmi Note 13 family in India, launching on January 4th. While 5G versions like the Note 13 5G, Note 13 Pro 5G, and Note 13 Pro+ 5G are expected, rumors of a 4G Note 13 have also surfaced online.

Now Thailand’s NBTC confirms its existence as the device has passed the certification process. Additionally, the Note 13 Pro+ has also been spotted in NBTC.

Redmi Note 13 4G / Note 13 Pro+ NBTC certification

The listing shows that the Redmi Note 13 is certified in the platform with model number 23129RAA4G while the top-of-the-line Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G bears 23090RA98G as its model number. Besides this, the NBTC doesn’t reveal any specs of the smartphones.

As per a previous report, the Note 13 4G will be powered by Snapdragon 685 chipset with 8/12GB of RAM and 256/512GB storage. It will have a 6.67-inch AMOLED FHD+ with a 120Hz refresh rate.

For cameras, we are expecting a triple-camera setup with a 108MP primary lens, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. Likewise, rumors have it that it will boot on MIUI 14 based on Android 13 and will be available in purple and green shades.

The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G (review), on the other hand, has already been launched in China. So we know what the device has to offer.

It comes with a 6.67-inch curved OLED display with a 10-bit color depth, 1.5K resolution, and 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the device is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra chip paired with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage.

Around the back, the phone has a triple camera setup consisting of a 200MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a 2MP macro snapper. On the front, it has a 16MP shooter.

Keeping the lights on is a 5000mAh battery with support for 120W charging. Other features of the device include an in-screen fingerprint sensor, dual stereo speakers, an IR blaster, and an IP68 dust and water-resistant rating.

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POCO C65 with 6.74″ 90Hz display, 50MP dual camera & Helio G85 SoC launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

-

Dec 15, 2023

Back in November, POCO launched the C65 smartphone in the global market. The brand has now brought the smartphone to the Indian market. Here are the details.

POCO C65 specs:

The POCO C65 boasts a distinctive boxy design featuring a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and dual rear camera rings, complemented by a sizable 6.74-inch waterdrop notch display. The display offers a high-definition (1,600 x 720 pixels) resolution with a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals, and reaching up to 600 nits peak brightness, all safeguarded by Gorilla Glass protection.

Powering the device is the MediaTek Helio G85 processor, ensuring a responsive user experience. The smartphone offers versatile storage options, with configurations offering up to 8GB of RAM along with virtual RAM technology and storage capacities reaching up to 256GB, expandable further through a dedicated SD card slot. A robust 5,000mAh battery fuels the POCO C65, supported by 18W fast charging capabilities.

In the camera department, the POCO C65 is equipped with a 50MP primary rear camera along with a 2MP macro lens, while the front-facing camera boasts an 8MP sensor for capturing clear and detailed selfies.

On the software side, the POCO C65 has an Android 13-based MIUI 14 operating system. In terms of connectivity, the device includes USB-C, a 3.5mm headphone jack, WiFi, NFC, and Bluetooth support.

Pricing & availability

Priced affordably, the POCO C65 comes in two chic colors – Pastel Blue and Matte Black. The 4GB + 128GB variant is available at Rs. 8,999, while the 6GB + 128GB model is priced at Rs. 9,499. For those seeking expanded storage options, the 8GB + 256GB configuration is offered at Rs. 10,999. The smartphone is set to be released on December 18th, exclusively on Flipkart, starting at 12 noon. Customers can enjoy an instant discount of Rs. 1000 when using ICICI credit and debit cards for both regular and EMI transactions.

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