Xiaomi is testing a mysterious phone with 3.2x 75mm periscope zoom camera

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Dec 13, 2023

Xiaomi just launched its latest flagship smartphones, Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro, in China. They were later followed by Redmi’s premium handsets — Redmi K70 series.

As per leaks, the company is still not done with releasing next-gen high-end phones. We know for sure that the firm will debut the Xiaomi 14 Ultra in the first half of 2024, which could be either accompanied or followed by foldables.

According to new information, there could be yet another high-end smartphone from the company. Let’s go through the details.

Earlier today, Digital Chat Station (DCS) revealed that Xiaomi is testing a phone with a 3.2x 75mm periscope zoom camera. In the comment section of his Weibo post, the tipster clarified that this device is not Xiaomi 14 Ultra.

Unfortunately, he does not mention the name of the product. Perhaps, he is not sure about it at the moment.

As of now, all we can do is guess. We believe this handset could be Xiaomi Mix 5. We cannot rule out the possibility of it being a new Civi model too. Hopefully, we learn about this mysterious product sooner rather than later.

As far as the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is concerned, DCS had earlier disclosed that it will feature four 50MP cameras on the rear. The primary shooter will be a Sony LYT-900 sensor with f/1.6-14.0 multi-stop aperture.

The two of these four cameras will be paired with telephoto lenses, whereas the last one will be fitted with an ultrawide lens. The device will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and will flaunt a quad-curved (micro curves) display with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor underneath it.

Last but not least, the smartphone is said to be backed by a 5,180mAh battery with support for 90W wired and 50W wireless charging standards.

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Huawei MatePad Air PaperMate Edition Goes Official In Global Markets

By

Viraj Gawde

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Dec 13, 2023

Huawei held an event in Dubai yesterday where it unveiled the MatePad Pro 13.2 and FreeClip open ear buds for the global markets. The brand also announced an additional tablet called the MatePad Air PaperMate Edition. It is similar to the MatePad Air that debuted in China earlier in May this year. Read on to know all the details about the tablet below.

Huawei MatePad Air PaperMate Edition specifications and features

The Huawei MatePad Air PaperMate Edition has an 11.5-inch screen bearing a resolution of 2,800 x 1,840 pixels. It features a 144Hz refresh rate. The display has a nano-level anti-glare etching technology that is said to eliminate light interference and also offer a paper-like visual experience. The tablet is compatible with the second-generation Huawei M-Pencil with 4,096-level pressure sensitivity and is touted to offer the experience of pen on paper.

The Huawei MatePad Air PaperMate Edition is 6.5mm thin and weighs just 509 grams. The back panel has a pill-shaped camera module housing a single 13MP sensor. There is an 8MP front-facing selfie snapper. Audio-wise, the tablet is equipped with four speakers and four microphones.

Internally, the Huawei MatePad Air PaperMate Edition is powered by a Snapdragon 888 processor. It packs 12GB RAM and 256GB storage onboard. The device is backed by a 8,300mAh battery unit with support for 40W charging. Software-wise, the tablet runs on HarmonyOS 3.1 out of the box with various features.

The Huawei MatePad Air PaperMate Edition is priced at EUR 649. It ships with a bundled keyboard.

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Samsung and ASML forge $760 Million partnership for Semiconductor advancements

By

Joane

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Dec 13, 2023

Samsung Electronics and ASML Holding N.V. have committed to jointly invest 1 trillion won ($760 million) in establishing a cutting-edge research and development (R&D) facility in South Korea. This strategic move, sealed with a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at ASML’s Veldhoven headquarters, aims to propel the development of advanced memory chips leveraging ASML’s state-of-the-art extreme ultraviolet (EUV) equipment.

The R&D center, a pioneering endeavor for ASML as its first overseas facility established in conjunction with a semiconductor giant, will primarily focus on refining ultra-fine manufacturing processes for semiconductors utilizing ASML’s latest EUV technology.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s presence during the MOU signing ceremony at ASML’s head office underscores the symbolic significance of this partnership. Details such as ownership ratios and spending distribution remain undisclosed.

This collaboration is pivotal for Samsung, which targets the commercialization of 2-nanometer chips by 2025, following the mass production of 3nm chips in the previous year. ASML’s expertise in EUV scanners for the 2nm process positions the partnership strategically amid intense competition with its rival TSML.

The deal extends beyond the R&D facility, as ASML initiated the construction of a customer education and equipment support service center near Samsung’s manufacturing base in Hwaseong. This additional investment by ASML, totaling around 320 billion won, demonstrates a commitment to fostering long-term collaboration.

SK Hynix is also part of the semiconductor alliance, signing an MOU with ASML to develop hydrogen gas recycling technology for EUV machines, aiming to reduce power consumption and costs significantly.

The collaboration is not limited to business interests; it extends to education. South Korea and the Dutch government have signed an MOU to jointly nurture semiconductor talent, with three South Korean graduate schools collaborating with Dutch companies and institutions.

President Yoon Suk Yeol’s visit to the Netherlands aims to forge a “chip alliance” between South Korea and the Netherlands, emphasizing the pivotal role of semiconductors in bilateral ties. This partnership holds paramount industry significance as the semiconductor sector becomes a strategic focal point amid global competition, particularly with China. Export restrictions on advanced chip-making equipment to China have intensified competition and tensions, making Yoon stress the strategic importance of the semiconductor industry.

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OnePlus Nord N200 and OnePlus 9RT receive OxygenOS C.28 and OxygenOS 13.1.0.594, respectively

By

Simranpal Singh

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Dec 13, 2023

OnePlus is continuously seeding regular software updates for the OnePlus smartphones, alongside the OxygenOS 14 update. The company is pushing an incremental rollout for the OnePlus Nord N200 and OnePlus 9RT featuring the latest security patch and other fixes. The updates for both smartphones are region-limited.

OnePlus Nord N200 in the North American region is receiving firmware DE2117_11.C.28 with the December 2023 Android Security Patch. While the OnePlus 9RT India Variant is receiving the firmware MT2111_13.1.0.594(EX01) with the new security patch. Below is the official changelog, which is quite familiar for both the smartphones:

System

  • Integrates the December 2023 Android security patch to enhance system security.

The updates on both smartphones are rolling out in a phased manner and may take some time to reach all units across the respective regions. The December 2023 security patch update for both devices will reach other regions very soon. However, users can manually check for updates by heading to Settings > About > Software Update > Check for Updates.

Users in India can submit bugs using Google Dialer, while in North America it is only possible via the OnePlus Community.

Additionally, the OnePlus 9RT will soon receive the OxygenOS 14 stable update, as the device has already received the OxygenOS 14 Open Beta update. Its successor, the OnePlus 10R, received Android 14 Open Beta 2 a few days ago. However, the OnePlus Nord N200 won’t receive the update as the smartphone was launched in 2021 and is set to get only three years of maintenance updates.

OnePlus is also bringing stable Android 14 to smartphones or tablet devices that are compatible. Recently, the OnePlus Pad received an update. The Udapte is already out for the OnePlus Nord 3, OnePlus 11R, OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 11 Series, and others.

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Nubia Z60 Ultra 3C listing reveals 80W charging

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Dec 13, 2023

Nubia‘s next flagship phone, the Z60 Ultra, is set to hit the Chinese market on December 19th. The phone has been making headlines with recent teasers and glimpses of its design. Now, just days before its debut, the Nubia Z60 Ultra has popped up on the 3C certification website.

Nubia Z60 Ultra 3C certification

The 3C listing confirms that the upcoming Z60 Ultra will support 80W fast charging. The phone’s charger, model number NX721J, can deliver 18W, 45W, 60W, and 80W of power outputs. But more interestingly, the listing also reveals a GaN charger option for the phone.

It’s a 65W GaN charger carrying the PA202 model number. The adapter has two USB-C ports with full 65W support each, alongside a single USB-A port capable of delivering 30W.

The platform also lists the different power outputs you can get when using different combinations of ports. For example:

Using both USB-C ports together gives you 63W (45W + 18W).
Using one USB-C port and the USB-A port together gives you 63W (45W + 18W).
Using one USB-C port and both the other USB ports together gives you 60W (45W + 15W).

Specifications

Reports suggest that Nubia Z60 Ultra will come with a 6.8-inch OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The device is confirmed to be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and might ship with up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage.

The company has also teased its camera setup which will be led by a 50-megapixel main camera. Accompanying it will be a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. All three cameras are confirmed to have support for optical image stabilization.

Keeping the lights on will be a 6,000mAh battery, while the device will come pre-installed with MyOS based on Android 14.

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Toshiba aims to commercialize its wireless power supply system

By

Debasish

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Dec 13, 2023

Toshiba is breaking new ground in the realm of wireless power supply systems with the utilization of microwaves to transmit electricity over considerable distances. While conventional technologies often face challenges with interference from surrounding radio waves, Toshiba’s innovation claims to overcome these issues, offering precise control over power supply.

Toshiba’s wireless power supply system uses microwaves for remote energy transmission

The Japanese tech giant envisions commercializing this groundbreaking technology after 2025, opening doors to a future where sensors and cameras can be powered without relying on conventional batteries.

One notable aspect of Toshiba’s wireless power supply system lies in its ability to detect Wi-Fi signals, and sending a microwave beam in that direction. What sets Toshiba’s technology apart is its claim to be the sole system globally capable of seamlessly coexisting with both wireless LAN and power supply system radio waves. It mitigates the concerns related to radio interference that have plagued similar technologies.

To enhance versatility, Toshiba plans to optimize its equipment for efficient radio wave reception from any location. The miniaturized power supply system is designed for easy installation on ceilings, promising a streamlined integration process.

Toshiba’s official demo pictures reveal impressive capabilities of the microwave remote power supply system. It boasts the ability to deliver 100mW of power at a distance of 3m and still provides a notable 1mW at a distance of 10m. It goes to show the system’s future potential to offer practical power solutions for various applications, especially in industrial settings where reliable and wireless power is crucial for powering various devices.

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Realme C67 4G spotted on Geekbench with Snapdragon 685 SoC, 8GB RAM & more

By

Sudhanshu

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Dec 13, 2023

Realme is all set to drop its latest smartphone, the Realme C67 5G, on December 14. But that’s not all – the company has a 4G variant in the works too, primed for an announcement in Indonesia. Recent buzz reveals the Realme C67 4G making a cameo on the Geekbench benchmarking site, leaking some key details.

According to the Geekbench listing, the Realme C67 4G, carrying the model number RMX3890, packs a punch with an octa-core processor clocking up to 2.80GHz and the latest Android 14 OS. The processor on board is more than likely the Snapdragon 685. The benchmark scores hit 475 in single-core performance and 1,475 in multi-core performance.

Realme C67 4G teaser 1- — Realme C67 4G teaser

Realme C67 4G specs (leaked):

Previously, we covered a report regarding the leaked specifications of the Realme C67 4G. A Facebook user spills the details before the official launch in Indonesia, while a teaser from Realme Indonesia hints at an imminent release. The smartphone is likely to debut in a striking green color, mirroring its 5G sibling, with a sleek flat edge design and a centered punch-hole notch for the front camera.

Under the hood, the Realme C67 4G is rumored to pack a Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 SoC, boasting an integrated Adreno 610 GPU. Two storage options will be available – 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB. Camera-wise, expect an 8MP selfie shooter, and for power, a hefty 5000mAh battery with 33W SuperVOOC fast charging support. The smartphone doesn’t skimp on security, featuring a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, and it’s got you covered against dust and water with an IP54 rating.

In related news, Realme has recently launched the GT 5 Pro smartphone in China with a starting price of 3,399 Yuan (~US$479). It has been quite a while since we have seen a flagship killer of this caliber. Other than the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, the device features a beautiful 1.5K 144Hz AMOLED display and a flagship-tier camera setup. You can know more about the device in our detailed review of the Realme GT 5 Pro.

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Infinix Smart 8 HD goes on sale in India, check price and special offers

By

Sean

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Dec 13, 2023

Infinix finally unveiled the new Infinix Smart 8 HD last week following various leaks and teasers. Now, the first sale of the latest budget grade smartphone from the company has kicked off. So let’s have a look at its specs, pricing, and special offers.

Infinix Smart 8 HD Pricing and Special Offers

The Infinix Smart 8 HD was announced in a single storage configuration in region but it was released in multiple color options. This includes Crystal Green, Shiny Gold, Timber Black, and Galaxy White variants. It is currently on sale on Flipkart, a popular e-retailer in India, for a price tag of 6,299 INR (roughly 75 US Dollars).

However, the smartphone maker is also offering a 10 percent discount to Axis Bank, SBI Credit, and Bank of Baroda Debit card and Credit card holders. This brings down the effective price tag to just 5,669 INR (roughly 68 US Dollars). Notably, the brand is also selling the device with EMI options as well. You can even check out our hands-on with the device by clicking here.

Infinix Smart 8 HD Specs

The Infinix Smart 8 HD sports a 6.6-inch HD+ IPS LCD panel that has a 90Hz refresh rate, 180Hz touch sampling rate, an 8-megapixel selfie camera, and 500 nits of peak brightness. Meanwhile, the rear packs features a 13-megapixel dual camera setup. Interestingly, the display features what the company calls Magic Ring, which is clearly inspired by Apple’s Dynamic Island.

Under the hood, the Smart 8 HD is equipped with the UNISOC T606 SoC that is paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. This storage can be further expanded by another 2TB via a microSD card slot. The device is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack that is paired with the standard 10W charging. Other notable features include Android 13 GO OS based XOS 13 custom skin out of the box, side mounted fingerprint scanner, Bluetooth 5.0, and up to 3GB of virtual RAM expansion support.

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Samsung Galaxy S21 Receiving One UI 6 Update in South Korea

By

Simranpal Singh

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Dec 13, 2023

Most compatible Samsung Galaxy smartphones are already receiving the OneUI 6 update globally. The remaining ones will receive it very soon as the development progresses for each device. In continuation of the One UI 6 update for the Galaxy S21 Series, the company is seeding it for all South Korean users. The build versions G991NKSU4FWK7/ G991NOKR4FWK7/ G991NKOU4FWK6 and G998NKSU4FWK7/ G998NOKR4FWK7/ G998NKOU4FWK6 are rolling out to the respective smartphones.

The update for the Galaxy S21 is available in some European nations, including Switzerland, etc. The Indian variants are yet to see the latest update, which is expected soon. The update for the Galaxy S21 non-beta users weighs around 2.3GB, while the beta users are receiving only a 354MB build.

The update is already out, is rolling out in a phased manner, and may take some time to reach all devices. However, users can manually check for the update by heading to Settings > System Update > Download and Install.

The Samsung Galaxy S21 is receiving its third consecutive major update, as the smartphone was launched with OneUI 3.1 on board. The phone will also get an Android 15 update next year, as per the official promise of four years of software updates.

There are massive new changes and performance improvements that will surely enhance the user experience. Below are some major changes for the Galaxy S21 as part of the OneUI 6.0 update.

Picture and video previews in the Share panel.
More sharing options.
Multitasking improvements through a pop-up window that can remain open after you leave the Recents screen.
A lock screen clock that can be positioned freely.
Simplified app icon labels for the home screen.
A new Weather widget, more information in the Weather app — including an interactive map view — and enhanced Weather illustrations.
A wide range of camera improvements, including a new widget, more alignment options for watermarks, quick access to resolution settings, easy-to-apply filters and effects, and more.
Improvements to Calendar, Reminder, and Samsung Internet.
Quick actions for apps in Finder search results.
Recommendations in the My Files app to help you free up storage.

Apart from OneUI 6.0, the Korean giant is also working on the OneUI 6.1 version, which is currently in development. Several new changes are set to overlap the enhanced features of its predecessor. OneUI 6.1 is mainly focused on bringing AI to most of its applications and enabling users to be more productive. It is expected to roll out for the Galaxy S23 first and later take place on other compatible smartphones.

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Phone (3) Incoming? Nothing schedules event for Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Dec 13, 2023

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) is scheduled for February 26-29 next year. Although the event is a few months away, Nothing has already started sending invitations for their participation in the event.

Historically, Nothing has used MWC to build excitement around their phones before — Carl Pei showed off the Phone (1) in 2022, while Nothing announced a partnership with Qualcomm for Phone (2) in MWC 2023. So, it’s safe to say we can expect some exciting hints about their next device, possibly from the team itself or even Carl Pei directly.

Nothing invites for Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024.

Now, the new invite poster says “save the date” for February 27, with the cryptic message “Nothing to see.” We think it is a clear hint about a new phone, but specifics are still under wraps.

We do know they’re working on a new smartphone based on certifications, Details are scarce, but rumors point to a new smartphone called the Nothing Phone (2a). It’s already passed some certifications, and it could launch in India under the model number AIN142.

This phone is rumored to sport a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen with a centered punch-hole for selfies. A leaked image even reveals the familiar Glyph interface glowing on the back. Unfortunately, details about the device, including whether it’s Phone (3) or the rumored Phone (2a), are still under wraps.

Last year, Nothing started teasing the Phone (2) around this time. So far, it’s radio silence, but leaks often heat up as launch dates approach. We could be just days or weeks away from more details about this upcoming Nothing phone, whatever its name may be.

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Chinese Chip maker Changxin Memory Technologies (CXMT) makes strides in DRAM Technology amidst Global challenges

By

Joane

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Dec 13, 2023

Changxin Memory Technologies (CXMT), China’s leading dynamic random access memory (DRAM) developer, unveiled a significant technological breakthrough at the 69th IEEE International Electron Devices Meeting (IEDM) in San Francisco. The company showcased its prowess in advanced gate-all-around (GAA) transistors, a critical component for cutting-edge 3-nanometer grade chips.

CXMT’s presentation highlighted its design capabilities for GAA transistors, signaling a noteworthy achievement in the competitive landscape of memory chip production. Industry analysts have commended the company’s progress, especially its understanding of next-generation memory chip production.

Notably, CXMT faces challenges with US export restrictions, yet the company demonstrated progress despite trade limitations. Emphasizing the importance of the free flow of ideas for industry innovation, CXMT denied any violation of US sanctions or export controls.

CXMT recently announced the production of China’s first lower-power Double Data Rate 5 (LPDDR5) DRAM chip, positioning itself as a formidable player closing the gap with industry giants like Samsung and SK Hynix. The ongoing US-China tech war, marked by export restrictions on key chip manufacturing equipment, has not deterred CXMT’s pursuit of advanced semiconductor technologies.

The company, founded in 2016, has a strategic focus on high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips crucial for AI applications and is actively developing next-generation logic chips using GAA transistors. Amidst challenges, such as US-imposed export controls on semiconductor-related technologies, including Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software, CXMT’s progress indicates resilience in the face of adversity.

In financial developments, Bloomberg reported a delay in CXMT’s initial public offering (IPO) due to volatile market conditions. The company now plans to raise funds privately at a valuation of approximately 140 billion yuan ($19.5 billion). The funds will be utilized to expand production capacities, aligning with CXMT’s anticipation of a memory market revival in 2024.

However, CXMT’s success in developing advanced DRAM technology may attract increased scrutiny and potential tightening of sanctions by the United States. With CXMT having received significant financial support from the Chinese government’s investment fund, American officials may scrutinize the source of funding, potentially impacting the company’s activities.

CXMT’s strategic focus on positioning itself for growth in the semiconductor industry reflects its determination to navigate global challenges and emerge as a key player in the evolving landscape of memory technology.

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Fire-Boltt Strike smartwatch launched in India with tall AMOLED display, Bluetooth Calling, & IP67 rating

By

Sean

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Dec 13, 2023

Fire-Boltt has just unveiled a brand-new smartwatch model in the Indian market. The new wearable is the Fire-Boltt Strike, which features some notable specs and features like an alloy frame, AMOLED display, and more. So let’s have a look.

Fire-Boltt Strike Design and Specs

For those unaware, the Fire-Boltt Strike sports a tall 1.96-inch AMOLED display that has a 410 x 502 resolution and 500 nits of peak brightness. This panel is surrounded by a zinc alloy middle frame, which is paired with a strap that comes in various colors. It offers various health related sensors that offer heart rate monitoring, SpO2 blood oxygen tracking, sleep monitoring, sleep mapping, and menstrual cycle tracking. The new smartwatch houses a built-in microphone and speaker that enables it to offer Bluetooth Calling. These also work with the AI voice assistant feature as well.

On a single full charge, the company is promising a battery life of up to 8 days in the classic mode. Other notable features include a rotating crown, 123 sports mode support, Call History, Quick Dial pad, multiple watch faces, IP67 water and dust resistance, water reminder, 25 days of Standby mode, and various other smart features like smart notification, weather updates, and camera and music controls.

Fire-Boltt Strike Pricing, Color, and Availability

The Fire-Boltt Strike has just been released in the Indian market in multiple color options. This includes Black, Camo Black, Gold Black, Orange, and Came Green. It is available for purchase for a price tag of 1,799 INR (roughly 22 US Dollars) and is listed on Amazon India. Notably, the new budget smartwatch also arrives mere days after the brand unveiled the new Fire-Boltt Rise Luxe smartwatch, which also offers Bluetooth Calling.

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Ugreen Nexode 100W 20000mAh powerbank with 65W rapid self-recharge launched for $63.99

By

Soumyakanti

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Dec 13, 2023

Ugreen has launched the Nexode 100W 20000mAh Portable Charger, a high-efficiency power bank, in both global and Chinese markets. This power bank is designed to meet the power requirements of modern tech users. Let’s delve into the specs of this product.

Ugreen Nexode 100W Specifications:

The Nexode 100W stands out for its impressive charging capabilities. It offers a maximum fast charging power of 100W and can charge three devices simultaneously, thanks to its two USB-C ports (one providing up to 100W and the other up to 30W) and a 22.5W USB-A port. This configuration allows for rapid charging of various devices, such as a MacBook Pro 16″ to 42% in 30 minutes and an iPhone 15 to 60% in the same duration.

Ugreen Nexode 100W also boasts a 65W rapid recharge feature, allowing the power bank to fully recharge in just 2 hours, a considerably faster rate compared to conventional power banks. The Nexode 100W uses a 21700 battery cell, known for its durability with an 800-cycle lifespan, and is approved for airline travel.

Designed for convenience and portability, the powerbank is 20% lighter than similar models, easing the burden for users on the move. It also boasts a digital LED screen for easy monitoring of the battery level.

The power bank is versatile and compatible with a wide range of devices including MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro/Air, iPhone series, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Pixel 7 Pro, and various smaller devices like AirPods and smartwatches. It supports several charging protocols like PD3.0, PPS, QC3.0, AFC, FCP, and SCP, ensuring wide compatibility.

In terms of safety, the Nexode 100W features advanced temperature control technology and multiple safety protections, including overcharge, overcurrent, and short circuit protection.

It also includes a 240W USB-C to USB-C cable, enhancing its practicality for on-the-go charging. The charger is capable of delivering 5-7 days of battery life, charging an iPhone 15 Pro up to 4.5 times and a MacBook Air 15” about 1.1 times.

Pricing and Availability

This product is available on Amazon UK and Amazon.com for £79.99 and $79.99, respectively, with ongoing sale prices at £63.99 and $63.99. While in the Chinese market, it is available on JD.com for 299 Yuan ($42).

Earlier this month, Ugreen also launched a 160W Nexode Pro Gallium Nitride charger in China for 429 Yuan ($60).

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Honor CEO seemingly teases Porsche Design smartphone

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Dec 13, 2023

Honor’s upcoming flagship smartphone lineup is officially called Magic 6. The brand had already revealed in October that the series will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.

Over the past few months, we have been hearing about these devices from multiple sources. But still, we don’t have much info on them.

Amidst this, the company’s CEO teases a special variant of its premium phone. Let’s go through the details.

Honor CEO Zhao Ming (aka George Zhao) recently shared a few pictures of him alongside a Porsche executive on Weibo. The description of his post reads ‘the future is promising.’

George seems to be hinting at a Porsche Design variant of the forthcoming Honor Magic 6 series. For the unaware, reliable tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS) revealed the existence of this model earlier this month.

This will be the first collaboration between Honor and Porsche Design. Previously, only Huawei used to release products with Porsche branding, which has been now replaced by the company’s own premium label — Ultimate Design.

As per DCS, there will be three primary handsets in the Magic 6 lineup and a special Porsche Design variant based on the top-end model. Their exact names are not known at the moment. But going by previous generations, these phones could be called Honor Magic 6, Honor Magic 6 Pro, and Honor Magic 6 Ultimate.

All of them are said to flaunt a quad-curved display with a dual punch hole (pill-shaped cutout) at the top center. The first two models are expected to feature a circular camera island as opposed to a rounded square camera module on the high-end model.

We are looking forward to learning more about these smartphones in the coming days.

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Sony PlayStation China Hero Project announced, supports local game developers

By

Sean

-

Dec 13, 2023

Sony recently announced the new PlayStation China Hero Project that is aimed at bolstering the video game development industry in the region. The project is helping in developing multiple titles already. So here’s everything you need to know.

Sony PlayStation China Hero Project

In a new trailer, the company showcased the China Hero Project and also unveiled the nine upcoming games that are being developed. These games are from local video game developers who are using the Unreal Engine, a popular game engine. As of right now, eight of these titles are still under development. With the new initiative, Sony is looking to aid local game developers in China by allowing them to leverage Sony’s global industry resources.

The goal of the project is to allow Chinese devs to create quality games for the gaming audience. Looking at the list of upcoming games, these new titles appear to encompass various different genres. This includes third person hack and slash, horror shooters, action RPGs, 3D side scrolling games, and much more. As of right now, it is still unclear when these titles will be released in the market. One of these titles include “The God Slayer” which is an RPG title that has players explore a fantasy open world and defeat powerful foes to grow stronger.

Some of the other titles also bear some striking resemblance to popular existing games. One appears to be a destiny-like third person looter shooter, while another takes clear inspiration from Soulsborne games from the beloved FromSoftware studio. Most of these games are also derived from China’s rich history and mythology, so its interesting to see the different settings being explored in gaming. Unfortunately, it is unclear whether these games are slated for a global release or if they will remain exclusive to the Chinese region. Till then, you can check out Sony and Microsoft’s end-of-year recap for Xbox and PlayStation gamers.

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Huawei Nova 12 Ultra specs leak, to feature Kirin 9000 SoC

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Dec 13, 2023

Huawei has a busy pipeline, with a bunch of new smartphones in the works. Among them are the flagship P70 series and the upcoming Nova 12 lineup, expected to launch in China this month.

Rumors have been continuously swirling around the Nova 12 series, and a recent leak by prolific tipster Digital Chat Station sheds light on the key specifications of the top-of-the-line model, the Nova 12 Ultra.

Leak reveals Nova 12 Ultra specs

Per the informant, the Nova 12 Ultra will sport an OLED display with two small cutouts for the front-facing cameras. This dual-camera setup is rumored to include a powerful 60MP sensor, as well as a 2x zoom lens for capturing close-up shots.

Huawei Nova 12 Ultra leak — Huawei Nova 12 Ultra specs leak by DCS

Around the back, the phone is expected to flaunt a super-ceramic glass body and a 50MP main camera with a large 1/1.55-inch sensor and variable aperture support. Information on the accompanying camera sensors is still under wraps.

Likewise, the Nova 12 Ultra is said to be powered by the Kirin 9000 chipset, the same one found in Huawei’s recently launched Mate 60 flagship series. Interestingly, the leak also suggests two-way satellite communication support, which would allow the phone to stay connected in remote areas where cellular coverage is unavailable.

While the leaker remained tight-lipped about the battery size, rumors have it that it will support fast 100W charging. Details about the RAM, and storage configurations of the Nova 12 Ultra remain unclear at the moment.

The Nova 12 Ultra is expected to be the premium model in the Nova 12 series, which is rumored to include at least three other devices: the Nova 12 Lite, Nova 12, and Nova 12 Pro.

Huawei hasn’t officially confirmed the launch date for the Nova 12 series, but based on the latest leaks, we can expect to see them sometime this month.

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Insomniac Games hack leaks screenshots of upcoming Wolverine game

By

Sean

-

Dec 13, 2023

Sony‘s Insomniac Games has just been hacked by a ransomware group. The attack came from a group called Rhysida who managed to gain access to some sensitive information from the gaming studio and also leak screenshots of its upcoming Marvel title. So let’s have a look.

Marvel’s Wolverine screenshots leaked in Insomniac hack

Back in 2019, Sony acquired Insomniac Games studio to develop its first party exclusive titles for the PlayStation. The studio went on to release Marvel’s Spider-Man franchise, which was a major hit in the market. It was later revealed that Insomniac would also be working on a new superhero game from Marvel, which was Wolverine. A short trailer was released, but finer details were revealed. Now, the latest hack shared screenshots of gameplay of the upcoming Wolverine title.

Sony Interactive Entertainment has started an investigation into this hack, with CyberDaily (a cybersecurity news website) first reporting on the attack. According to an official Sony spokesperson, only the Insomniac Games studio appears to be affected by the attack and other Sony divisions weren’t targeted by the ransomware group. In a collage of screenshots shared on Rhysida’s website, private information of the studio was revealed. This includes emails between Insomniac staff, employment documents, Marvel’s Wolverine screenshots, and what appears to be passports or other government documents from Insomniac Games staff.

This attack even affected the Spider-Man 2 voice actor, Yuri Lowenthal. For those unaware, Rhysida is the same group which claimed responsibility for attacks on UK healthcare companies earlier this year. The hackers have also targeted firms in the education, manufacturing, information technology, and government sectors as well. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more as we will be providing updates if there’s any significant developments regarding this matter.

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OnePlus Pad gets Android 14 x OxygenOS 14 update in India, Here’s what’s new

By

Sudhanshu

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Dec 13, 2023

Big news for OnePlus Pad users! OxygenOS 14 x Android 14 is making its official debut, bringing a host of exciting features and improvements. The rollout kicks off with users who’ve been rocking the Close Beta and Open Beta versions, before gradually spreading its wings to a wider audience.

Folks in India are already in luck, as the update, labeled OPD2203_14.0.0.100(EX01), is on the move. For those wondering what’s in store, here’s the rundown on the key changes.

OnePlus Pad OxygenOS 14 update changelog:

Pantanal Service

Adds Aqua Dynamics, a way of interacting with morphing forms that allows you to view up-to-date information at a glance.

Smart Efficiency

Adds Smart Cutout, a feature that can separate multiple subjects in a photo from the background for copying or sharing.

Cross-device Connectivity

Improves Shelf by adding more widget recommendations.

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.
Adds support for app-specific refresh rates to improve user experience.

Aquamorphic Design

Adds Aquamorphic-themed ringtones and revamps the system notification sounds.

For users in India, if patience isn’t your strong suit, you can jump the queue by applying for the update. Ensure your tablet is running version OPD2203_13.1.0.604(EX01), head to Settings > About device > tap up to date > tap the icon on the top right > beta program > follow the steps to apply > check for updates.

For users outside India, worry not – the update will hit your devices via OTA in batches.

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Realme GT 5 Pro Special Edition announced to commemorate brand’s 200 million units sale achievement

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Dec 13, 2023

Last week, Realme unveiled its latest flagship smartphone in China — Realme GT 5 Pro. At the launch event, the brand revealed that it had sold over 200 million units of phones since its inception 5 years ago.

To commemorate this occasion, the company has announced a limited edition of its newest premium phone. However, it will not be sold to the public. But rather, the device will be given away to a random person.

The Realme GT 5 Pro Special Edition cannot be purchased

Realme’s Vice President Xu Qi Chase took to Weibo to announce the ‘Realme GT 5 Pro 200 Million Sals Commemorative Edition.’ He shared a couple of pictures showcasing the smartphone in his hand.

From the image, we can see that the handset comes in the regular ‘Red Rock’ color. The only difference is that it has the text ‘200M Special Edition’ written below the ‘realme’ logo on the vegan leather back of the device.

The executive doesn’t mention the memory configuration. But he says this is the only unit the company has produced and it will be not sold.

However, he will be giving it away to a lucky netizen on Weibo. In order to enter the giveaway, interested people have to simply repost the announcement post.

The Realme GT 5 Pro (review) is the best smartphone from the brand to date in terms of features. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.

The handset flaunts a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO curved OLED display. This panel offers up to a 144Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming, 2160Hz touch sampling rate, and 4500 nits local peak brightness level.

The phone has a triple camera setup on the rear comprising a 50MP Sony LYT-808 primary sensor, a 50MP Sony IMX890 3x periscope telephoto shooter, and an 8MP Sony IMX355 ultrawide unit. On the front, it sports a 32MP selfie snapper.

Other features include an in-screen fingerprint sensor, dual stereo speakers, USB 3.2 port, hand gestures, AI model, 5,400mAh battery, 100W wired charging, and 50W wireless charging.

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Early iPhone 16 renders hint at all possible design changes

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Dec 13, 2023

The latest iPhone 15s didn’t offer much in the way of a fresh look. They stuck with the familiar design of their predecessors. But things could shake up for the iPhone 16, with hints of a button and camera makeover in new renders.

MacRumors obtained a pre-production design for the iPhone 16, which they shared through renders while keeping their source anonymous. They shared three possible renders, each showcasing a different stage in development (so none might be the final phone).

iPhone 16 renders shows possible design changes

These renders hint at some interesting changes for iPhone 16: a vertical camera layout instead of the current diagonal one, and possibly different button placements.

iPhone 16 render (back design). Image: MacRumors

Interestingly, the colors shown (yellow, pink, and midnight) are based on prototypes Apple is testing while MacRumors also mentions that other color options originally considered for the iPhone 15 were also tested for the 16 at some point.

The yellow model is apparently the earliest design for iPhone 16. It has a single volume rocker, an “Action” button, and a camera bump reminiscent of the iPhone X. The pink one has separate volume buttons, an Action button, and a camera bump like the iPhone 12.

The midnight iPhone, on the other hand, features a larger Action button and a new “Capture” button. The source believes that the black variant is the most likely the final design for the iPhone 16.

iPhone 16 render (front design). Image: MacRumors

Something common across all the rendered models is the vertically stacked cameras. This change in camera layout will make the new iPhone recognizable as the latest model. While this setup seems confirmed, Macrumors suggests Apple is considering two different camera bump designs:

iPhone 12 style: Two camera lenses, one above the other, like the iPhone 12.
iPhone X style: A single, pill-shaped camera enclosure, like the iPhone X.

However, as seen in the above renders, current prototypes favor the iPhone 12 style. But remember, these are just early glimpses. The iPhone 16 launch is still nine months away, and any details could change before the official reveal.

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