Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) data has published the latest survey for November 2023 for the Chinese market. The research reveals that there has been a notable surge in new smartphone activations in China, totalling 28.71 million units—a substantial year-on-year increase of 12.7 percent. Here is a look at all the details that have emerged through the BCI data.
Xiaomi, Apple, and Huawei among preferred brands in China’s premium phone market
According to BCI’s latest market survey for China, Xiaomi has reclaimed the top spot among domestic smartphone brands, particularly in the high-end segment priced above 4,000 Yuan+ (~$550) . Alongside Apple and Huawei, Xiaomi now stands as one of the top three high-end brands, contributing to nearly 90 percent of the market share in this premium category.
Apple maintains its lead in the high-end market despite encountering a 21.2 percent year-on-year decline. Xiaomi, with an 18.3 percent market share, secures the top position among the Chinese brands, experiencing a significant 44.1% year-on-year increase in activations, showcasing the highest growth rate. Honor claims the third spot in activation volume, registering a 12.6 percent year-on-year increase.
Huawei ranks fourth in market share but exhibits an impressive 75.6 percent year-on-year growth in activations, leading the market in terms of growth rate. Brands like Vivo and Oppo face substantial declines in activation volume. The competition intensifies in the high-end market, which is dominated by three brands, namely Apple, Huawei, and Xiaomi, capturing nearly 90 percent of the share. Other brands collectively hold a modest 10 percent. market share.
BCI data underscores the resurgence of Xiaomi as the leading domestic brand, attributing its success to a consistent year-on-year growth of over 40 percent in new phone activations for five consecutive weeks. It has encountered the highest growth rate, increasing by 11.8 percent year-on-year. This dynamic landscape suggests that the Huawei Mate 60 series and Xiaomi 14 series have notably impacted Apple’s standing in the high-end market.
Nostalgia often plays a key role in keeping players engaged. “Call of Duty,” a household name in the gaming world, understands this well. The latest buzz suggests that the game’s 2024 edition is set to bring back the original Warzone map, Verdansk, a move that could thrill long-time fans and newcomers alike.
The map’s first appearance was in March 2020
Verdansk first appeared as the inaugural Warzone map in March 2020, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Its potential return aligns with the gaming industry’s trend of revisiting classic elements to rekindle player interest. This strategy is not unique to “Call of Duty”; other popular games, like Fortnite, have successfully revived their original maps, much to the delight of their communities.
The reintroduction of Verdansk is expected to coincide with the launch of the 2024 installment of “Call of Duty,” rumored to be titled “Black Ops Gulf War.” This new title, reportedly developed by Treyarch, is believed to be set during the Gulf War, adding a historical backdrop to the high-octane gameplay “Call of Duty” is known for. This blend of historical context with familiar gameplay could provide a fresh yet nostalgic experience for players.
The return of Verdansk is part of a larger plan by Activision, the game’s publisher, to reintroduce popular maps. Reports indicate that other fan-favorite maps like Rebirth Island and Fortune’s Keep are also slated for a comeback in 2024. This approach indicates a keen awareness of what players cherish, potentially setting the stage for a resurgence in player engagement and community excitement.
Beyond just maps, “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3” and Warzone are also preparing for a festive winter holiday event in their current season. This event is expected to feature holiday-themed maps and limited-time modes (LTMs), adding a seasonal twist to the gameplay.
China‘s luxury MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) market has flourished, mirroring the nation’s robust economic growth and the increasing affluence of its citizens. Luxury MPVs, once viewed merely as practical family vehicles, are now emerging as symbols of status and wealth, particularly in the People’s Republic of China. This shift in perception began with models like the Toyota Alphard, and has since seen numerous automakers introduce their own luxury MPVs. A standout in this evolving market is the Voyah Dreamer, produced by Voyah, Dongfeng’s premium division.
The Car can lower its rear axle when accessing the trunk
The Dreamer redefines the concept of a luxury minivan with its expansive size and unique 2+2+3 seating arrangement. Recently, automotive experts at Wheelsboy got a chance to test one of the top-tier variants of the Dreamer and their impressions were notably positive. Distinguishing itself from its competitors, such as the Denza D9 and Trumpchi M8, the Dreamer sports a more subdued front design. It sits proudly on 20-inch wheels and features an air suspension system that cleverly lowers the rear axle when accessing the trunk.
The interior of the Dreamer is equally impressive. It boasts a three-screen digital dashboard, offering a unique viewing experience through separate displays for instruments, infotainment, and passenger entertainment. The cabin’s design is minimalist, with a focus on high-quality, soft-touch materials on the door panels and dashboard, contributing to an overall sense of luxury.
However, the true essence of a minivan lies in its passenger experience, especially in the second and third rows. The Dreamer excels here, with the middle seats offering extensive adjustability, heating, cooling, and massage functions. The third row is particularly notable for its generous headroom and legroom, ensuring comfort for all passengers, each of whom also benefits from individual USB charging ports.
Performance-wise, the Dreamer impresses with its plug-in hybrid system, combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and two electric motors. This setup delivers a striking 560 horsepower and 621 pound-feet of torque, allowing an acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.9 seconds.
Finally, Voyah plans to introduce the Dreamer to select European markets by the end of the year, with a starting price of around $46,500 in China, and the top-end model priced at $64,300. While there is no confirmation yet on a U.S. launch, the Dreamer’s blend of luxury, performance, and innovative design makes it a noteworthy contender in the global luxury MPV market.
On Dec. 5, OnePlusannounced the OnePlus 12 equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset in China. As confirmed by the brand during the launch, the phone is now available for purchase for the first time, starting today in the home market. Here is a look at the price and specifications of the device.
OnePlus 12 price
OnePlus 12
The OnePlus 12 comes in four options in China, such as 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage, and 24 GB RAM + 1 TB storage. These variants are priced at 4,299 Yuan (~$598), 4,799 Yuan (~$668), 5,299 Yuan (~$738), and 5,799 Yuan (~$807), respectively. It comes in three shades, such as black, green, and silver.
OnePlus 12 specifications
The OnePlus 12 has a 6.82-inch BOE X1 OLED screen that produces a 2K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The device ships with ColorOS 14-based Android 14. For security, it has an in-screen fingerprint sensor.
On the front, the OnePlus 12 has a 32-megapixel selfie camera. On the back, the device is equipped with a 50-megapixel LYT-808 main camera with OIS support, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.
Under the hood, the OnePlus 12 has the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. It is equipped with up to 24 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device is backed by a 5,400mAh battery that supports 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.
In related news, the OnePlus 12 is scheduled to launch on Jan. 23 in the global market. It is likely that other devices, such as the OnePlus 12R and the OnePlus Buds 3 Pro TWS earbuds, will also debut alongside the OnePlus 12.
Huawei is expected to unveil the Nova 12 series of smartphones in the Chinese market this month (November). The lineup is expected to include multiple models, such as the Nova 12, Nova 12 Pro, and Nova 12 Ultra. In addition, there could be an entry-level model, which may succeed the Nova 11 SE, which debuted in October. A leaker from China has tipped some initial details about the said device.
Huawei Nova 12 Vitality Edition
According to the leaker, the Nova 12 series’ entry-level phone will not have the “SE” branding, meaning it won’t be called the Nova 12 SE. It is probably because the Nova 11 SE was announced just a few months ago. The new leak suggests that it could be called the Nova 12 Vitality Edition or Nova 12 Lite.
The tipster revealed that the alleged Nova 12 Lite will have a 60-megapixel camera on the front, and its rear panel will have a 50-megapixel primary camera. For security, it will be equipped with an in-screen fingerprint scanner. It appears that the entire Nova 12 series will come in three shades, such as White, Black, and No. 12, which seems to be a signature color.
Based on the previous release patterns, it seems that the Vitality Edition could be priced at around 1,000 Yuan (~$139). There is a possibility that the standard Nova 12 may come equipped with the upcoming Kirin 830 chip. It could be priced at around 2,000 Yuan (~$278). The Nova 12 Pro and 12 Ultra are likely to cost between 3,000 Yuan (~$417) and 4,000 Yuan (~$557). These devices may come equipped with the Kirin 9000s or the newly unveiled Kriin 9006 chip.
In related news, Huawei will be holding a launch event in Dubai tomorrow (Dec. 12). The company will unveil the MatePad Pro 13.2 flagship tablet featuring the Kirin 9000s chip and open-style headphones through the said event.
Nubia recently confirmed that it will unveil the Nubia Z60 Ultra on Dec. 19 in China. The device is designed to rival the likes of the Realme GT 5 Pro, the OnePlus 12, the iQOO 12 Pro, and the Xiaomi 14 Pro, which have recently launched in the Chinese market. Nubia recently confirmed that the Z60 Ultra will offer a better photography experience than its competitors. Today, the brand rolled out new posters to confirm the camera capabilities of the device.
Nubia Z60 Ultra camera specifications
The first poster image showcases a powerful camera setup, featuring a 50-megapixel main lens with an 18mm focal length and a wide aperture for exceptional clarity. Additionally, the device boasts a 50-megapixel high-definition optics lens with a 35mm focal length, surpassing the capabilities of a one-inch camera sensor. Notably, the phone incorporates a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto lens with an 85mm focal length. All three cameras will have support for optical image stabilization (OIS).
The second teaser highlights the device’s immersive full-screen display, integrating an under-display camera for a seamless visual experience. The device will be equipped with the BOE Q9+ display panel, which will be integrated with the company’s fifth-generation Under Display Camera (UDC) technology. It will be complemented by a dedicated display chip and ultra-large 2.8µm pixels. While the company has not revealed the megapixel count of the front camera, it appears that the Z60 Ultra has a 16-megapixel under-display camera like the Red Magic 9 Pro series.
The Nubia Z60 Ultra is confirmed to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. In addition, the device is expected to ship with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, and a 6,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging. On the front, it is said to be equipped with a 6.8-inch OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
DJI has released two outdoor power supply products under the DJI Power series in China. The series is comprised of the DJI Power 1000 and DJI Power 500. The DJI Power 1000 contains 1kWh of electricity and supports 2,200W maximum power output while the DJI Power 500 contains 0.5kWh and a maximum output of 1,000W.
The DJI Power 1000 supports dual 40W USB-C output while the Power 500 supports dual 100W USB-C outputs. The new DJI outdoor power supply can be used with other DJI accessories to carry out DJIPower SDC super-fast charging on DJI drone batteries. The recharge process could be as fast as 30 minutes, allowing the drone to be airborne quickly. The models can also be used to recharge mobile phones and other devices quickly and outdoors. The DJI Power 1000 can charge mobile phones up to 57 times on a single charge. It can also fully recharge a drone 12 times or a laptop 9 times. The device is also capable of powering electric saws, electric picks, and cutting machines for about 30 minutes or more.
The DJI Power series of outdoor power supply can be recharged via AC or using solar panels. They can be charged up to 80% of power in under 50 minutes, achieving a full charge in 70 minutes. The gadget can be fully recharged via solar charging in 1.35 hours. Inside a car, the DJI Power outdoor power supply can be recharged by the DJIPower car charger using the SDC charging cable.
The DJI Power series has lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries and has a recharge cycle of 3,000 cycles and a durability of 10 years. The models have up to 11 temperature sensors that can monitor the heat dissipation levels on the machine and enhance optimized operation.
Pricing
The DJI Power 500 outdoor power supply is priced in China at 2,099 yuan ($294) while the DJI Power 1000 retails at 3,499 yuan ($490). The two models can be purchased from e-commerce platforms in China like JD.com. There are no indications at this time on the global availability and pricing of the new DJI Power series outdoor power supply.
Lenovo has announced the recall of one of its manufactured products due to fire hazard concerns. The Lenovo USB-C Laptop Power Bank is the concerned product and its recall has been initiated. The company says the affected units of the Power Bank were manufactured between December 2021 and June 2022. The part number of the power bank is 40ALLG2WWW.
The affected Lenovo power bank was sold in multiple markets including the US when it was released. The issue with the power bank is that the internal screws of the device may become loose, which can lead to possible short circuit and overheating of the lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion batteries are integral parts of many electronic devices but they also come with fire risks. The battery can react violently with air, generating much heat that can cause fires.
The scale of the recall of the Lenovo USB-C Laptop Power Bank has not been specified by Lenovo. Users who have such a power bank are requested to have a look at their devices and stop their use immediately. Lenovo requests owners of the specified power bank to enter the serial number of the device, and if established, request for a replacement. They will have to send a clear and legible photo of the label, as well as provide shipping and their contact information.
Furthermore, the old power bank must be disposed of by the extant regulations in the locality. Lenovo advised that the old device must be disposed of at a facility that accepts lithium batteries in a manner that complies with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations and guidelines relating to the safe disposal of lithium batteries. Lenovo has provided a list of contacts for customers across North America, Latin America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. More information about the recall can be obtained from the Lenovo website.
Final Audio has unveiled the UX2000 ANC headphones and the model comes with an affordable price tag. The launch of the UX2000 ANC headphones comes on the heels of the successful release of the UX3000 in 2022. Although the Final Audio UX2000 ANC is a lower model than the UX3000, it offers a better overall performance in addition to its affordability. Also, recall that Final Audio earlier announced the ZE8000 MK2 earbuds.
Final Audio continues to ride on the crest of its fast-evolving and strong brand identity. The UX3000 was designed to compete with premium models like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones. The new Final Audio UX2000 ANC features active noise cancellation and underpins Final Audio’s commitment to excellence. It offers, what the company says, is an unrivaled performance that reflects state-of-the-art technology.
The UX2000 ANC uses an advanced hybrid active noise canceling technology that delivers an unmatched auditory experience when using the device. The headphones also feature a robust driver architecture that helps to output premium audio.
The headset can be used in several scenarios including listening to music, receiving calls, and gaming. As per gaming, the UX2000 ANC has a low-latency mode that allows gamers to enjoy a responsive audio experience. The headset however lacks support for aptX or aptX Adaptive audio.
The Final Audio UX2000 ANC features come with an exquisite build and a matte finish that protects it against smudges and fingerprints. It has multiple adjustment points that allow any user to get a comfortable fit. It also comes with sufficient padding on the headband for comfortable use.
Pricing & Availability
The new Final Audio UX2000 ANC headphones support Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and also feature an ENC microphone for greater call clarity. The battery of the headset can last up to 45 hours on a single charge. The headset is available in cream and black color options. As per pricing, the UX2000 ANC headset is priced at $119 and is about $40 cheaper than the UX3000. The Final Audio UX2000 ANC is available for purchase from several retail platforms.
The Vello Sub Titan is a compact and lightweight cargo e-bike with a titanium frame and load-carrying capacity of up to 210kg. It is being rated as one of the lightest cargo e-bikes yet on the market. Its lightweight design is thanks mainly to the use of titanium instead of aluminum in its frame setup. Titanium offers a lighter, yet sturdy outlook, allowing the bike to have a greater carriage capacity.
The Vello Sub Titan is available in four different versions. It has a minimum weight of 24kg and a maximum load capacity of 210kg. It comes with a luggage rack that can accommodate two child seats in addition to up to 100kg of cargo. It is available as a single-speed model or features a gear setup with the continuous Enviolo TR circuit. The cargo e-bike comes with a Bosch Performance Cargo Line CX motor with a 400Wh battery, expandable to 545Wh. The length of the bike is just 71 inches, allowing for easier handling and parking.
The new Vello Sub Titan e-bike comes with 20-inch Schwalbe Big Apple tires for a comfortable ride. The bike has a low center of gravity, thus offering minimal risk of tipping over while on the move. There are Supernova front and rear lights for excellent visibility at night and mudguards are also part of the package. The bike is also equipped with a two-legged stand and a bell. The Bosch Smart System allows the Sub Titan to be controlled via its companion mobile app.
Vello Sub Titan cargo e-bike is priced starting from around €6,500 ($7,000) for the single motor model in Europe. The model with gears comes with a €7,500 ($1,080) price tag. If you desire a bigger battery, than an extra €300 is required. More details about the new Vello Sub Titan can be obtained from the Vello website.
ZOTAC has just launched an interesting mini PC in the market called the ZBOX Edge CI343. What makes it interesting is the fact that it is compact yet noise-free at the same time. To achieve its noise-free status, the mini PC does not feature a cooling fan. So how does it keep the thermals under control? keep reading to find out.
ZOTAC ZBOX Edge CI343 specs
The ZBOX edge CI343 is powered by the Intel N100 processor, manufactured using advanced 10nm technology. With four cores and four execution threads, it operates at speeds of up to 3.4 GHz. Whether handling productivity tasks, using computer tools, browsing, or engaging in 4K multimedia playback, the Intel N100 ensures a reliable and seamless performance.
An innovative passive cooling system distinguishes the ZBOX edge CI343. The case functions as a heatsink, eliminating the need for a fan. This design choice minimizes noise levels, providing a quiet computing environment while maintaining efficiency.
With the integrated Intel UHD Graphics GPU, the mini PC is capable of supporting up to 4K resolution at 60fps. It has two HDMI 2.0 video outputs and a DisplayPort. For connectivity, the mini PC features Wifi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2. The mini PC offers a range of ports, including 2 USB 3.0, 2 USB 2.0, 1 USB-C, 2 3.5mm audio jacks, 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports, and 2 RS232 DB9 COM ports, ensuring adaptability to various connectivity needs. Supporting up to 16GB of RAM and offering storage flexibility with options such as NVMe PCIE3.0x2 M.2 2280 SSD, MSATA connector, and a SATA 3 interface for a 2.5-inch drive, the ZBOX edge CI343 accommodates various usage scenarios.
Currently, there is no word on the exact availability of the ZOTAC ZBOX Edge CI343. However, it is expected to emerge on Amazon soon. In the meantime, check out the ZBOX pico PI430AJ, a mini PC that uses an AirJet solid-state active cooling system.
Samsung has recently unveiled the Galaxy Tab A9 Kids Edition and Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition in Indonesia. These tablets are specifically designed with children in mind, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Galaxy Tab A9 Kids Edition:
The Galaxy Tab A9 Kids Edition is designed with a focus on a vibrant display and powerful performance suitable for children. It features an 8.7-inch IPS LCD screen with HD+ resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. The tablet offers flexibility with options for 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via the microSD card slot. Running on the MediaTek Helio G99 processor, it ensures a smooth and responsive user experience. Security is paramount with Samsung Knox and Android 13-based One UI 5.1.1 software. Tailored for kids, the tablet includes a special anti-impact casing for added protection and Samsung Kids mode, providing curated educational and entertaining content. Parents have the ability to customize the tablet with additional kids’ apps and games and set daily screen limits. The visuals are complemented by an 8MP rear camera, 2MP front camera, stereo speakers, and a 5,100mAh battery, delivering an immersive and secure experience for young users.
Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition:
The Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition elevates the tablet experience with a larger and more impressive display. Boasting an 11-inch IPS LCD screen with Full HD+ resolution and a smoother 90Hz refresh rate, it offers a visually stunning and responsive interface. Similar to its counterpart, the tablet provides options for 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via the microSD card slot. Powered by the Snapdragon 695 processor, the Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition ensures robust performance. Security features include Samsung Knox and the Android 13-based One UI 5.1.1 software. Geared towards children, the tablet includes a special anti-impact casing for enhanced durability and Samsung Kids mode, offering curated educational and entertaining content. Parents can personalize the tablet with additional kids’ apps and games, as well as set daily screen limits. The tablet’s immersive experience extends to an 8MP rear-facing camera, 5MP front-facing camera, quad speakers, and an impressive 7,040mAh battery, making it an ideal choice for young users who seek a larger and more feature-rich tablet experience.
Pricing & availability
The Galaxy Tab A9 Kids Edition is priced at IDR 3,299,000 ($212), and the Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition (5G) is IDR 4,999,000 ($321). Exclusive pre-order bonuses from December 12 to December 17 include a Puffy Cover, Crayon Stylus, Kids Stickers, a 20W charger, and a complimentary one-year Samsung Care+ plan for comprehensive device and screen protection.
HKC has announced their latest monitor, the S2716U, which is now up for sale in China. Originally priced at 1199 Yuan ($168), it will be available for an introductory price of 999 Yuan ($140). Let’s delve into the key specs of this monitor.
HKC S2716U Monitor Specifications:
This 27-inch monitor features a 4K resolution (3840×2160 pixels) IPS panel, with a pixel density of 163 PPI (pixels per inch). This higher pixel density translates to sharper and clearer images.
The monitor has a 60Hz refresh rate and offers a brightness level of 300 nits. It covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 100% of the sRGB, providing a wide range of colors and making it suitable for tasks requiring accurate color reproduction. The color depth is 10-bit (8-bit + FRC), which allows for over 1 billion color variations, enhancing the visual experience.
The monitor sports e-book reading mode, which simulates a paper-like display, reducing eye strain and making it more comfortable for extended reading sessions. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with a low blue light mode to further reduce eye fatigue.
The design of the HKC S2716U is modern, featuring three ultra-thin bezels that offer an immersive viewing experience and are ideal for multi-screen setups. The monitor is compatible with VESA 75mm x 75mm mounts, allowing for flexible installation options.
In terms of connectivity, the S2716U is well-equipped with HDMI 2.02 and DP 1.4 ports, along with audio interfaces. This makes it versatile for various devices, including gaming consoles, MACs, and TV boxes.
Physically, the monitor stands at an overall height of 465.9mm, with a screen width of 613.5mm and a stand depth of 207.2mm. Its compact base design saves desktop space, enabling a cleaner and more efficient workspace.
Last month, HKC also introduced a new gaming monitor, the HKC MG27QH, featuring a 27-inch Ultrafast IPS 2K panel. It is priced at 5999 Yuan, which is approximately $845.
Oppo recently announced the ColorOS 14 x Android 14 global launch timeline for December, with smartphones like Oppo F23 5G (India), Oppo A98 5G (Thailand) & Oppo A78 5G (India) scheduled to receive the update this week. The brand has now announced the Global Beta rollout schedule for its remaining devices, spanning till April 2024.
Global Beta Rollout Schedule: A Quick Glance
Several Oppo devices have already received the beta version of ColorOS 14 in the global market during October and November. Looking ahead, the official rollout timeline for the coming months is as follows:
December 2023:
Oppo K10 5G
Oppo A77 5G
January 2024:
Oppo A78
Oppo A58
April 2024:
Oppo Reno 8 Z 5G
Oppo F21s Pro 5G
Oppo A96 5G
What to Expect with ColorOS 14
Aquamorphic Design Boost
ColorOS 14 builds on the success of Aquamorphic Design from ColorOS 13. Expect improved sound effects, color systems, and interactions. Thanks to collaboration with experts, we’ve crafted ten new Aquamorphic-themed ringtones for calls, alarms, and notifications.
The revamped Aquamorphic Coloring System now dynamically adjusts to your device’s status, time, and on-screen content. Colors are smartly matched with context for a more intuitive experience. The new Aqua Dynamics design simplifies interactions, extending traditional modes like bubbles and panels to the Status Bar.
Revamped Always-On Display (AOD)
Homeland AOD, showcasing nature scenes, introduces a Go Green AOD to raise climate change awareness. Three Environment Vision pages with animations linked to daily step counts inform you about lower carbon emissions through walking.
ColorOS 14 introduces Smart Touch, an AI-powered feature that streamlines daily tasks. The File Dock on the Smart Sidebar allows seamless content sharing across apps, supporting split-screen and floating windows. Syncing between devices enhances productivity.
A groundbreaking feature, Smart Image Matting allows you to separate subjects from images or paused video frames. Modify cutouts easily using File Pocket, File Dock, or Split-Screen Mode.
Trinity Engine Upgrade
ColorOS 14 boosts device smoothness and stability with the updated Trinity Engine. Features like ROM Vitalization, RAM Vitalization, and CPU Vitalization optimize computational resources, memory, and storage.
Our AI-powered Smart Charging system adjusts the charging current based on usage conditions, reducing unnecessary battery wear automatically.
Safety and Privacy Assurance
ColorOS 14, approved by ISO, ePrivacy, TrustArc, and others, integrates Android 14’s privacy capabilities. Picture Keeper prevents apps from misusing permissions for personal photos and videos. Snapchat integration returns with a Bitmoji AOD, featuring a lock-screen shortcut and a Snapchat widget for Shelf. Customize access for faster app navigation and stay updated on messages and friend activities. Your device, your control.
Ugreen has recently launched its new 160W Nexode Pro Gallium Nitride (GaN) charger, a highly efficient and compact device designed to cater to the fast-paced charging needs of modern electronics. This latest model from Ugreen is a significant step up from its predecessor, the 140W charger, as it brings a slew of enhanced features and capabilities.
Ugreen 160W Nexode Pro GaN Charger Specifications:
The Nexode Pro charger features an advanced GaNInfinity Gallium Nitride chip at its core. This chip offers several advantages, including a reduction in core component size and notable improvements in temperature control and energy efficiency, achieving an impressive efficiency rating of 95%.
The charger sports a 3C1A four-port design, which includes three USB-C ports and one USB-A port. This design allows for versatile and simultaneous charging of multiple devices. The first USB-C port supports a formidable 140W of fast charging, while the second can deliver up to 100W. The total output power of the charger caps at 160W, making it highly effective for powering a range of devices, from laptops to smartphones.
The charger is compatible with a wide array of devices across various brands, including Apple, Lenovo, Xiaomi, Huawei, Dell, Asus, HP, Samsung, Vivo, OnePlus, and OPPO. It supports popular models like MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Huawei MateBook, Xiaomi Book, and many others. Its compatibility extends to a range of electronic devices beyond laptops, such as tablets, drones, cameras, action cameras, gaming consoles like Nintendo Switch, and accessories like Apple AirPods and watches.
The Nexode Pro charger also incorporates Ugreen’s proprietary AirPyra stacking technology, contributing to a 21% size reduction compared to the first-generation 140W charger. This makes it more portable and convenient for users on the go. It supports a 100V-240V wide voltage range, making it suitable for global use and travel.
Additionally, the charger comes equipped with a robust 240W fast charging cable, ensuring optimal charging performance. The device is also engineered with USC SmartCharge Technology, which intelligently identifies connected devices and allocates power accordingly, ensuring safe and efficient charging.
Pricing and Availability
Ugreen 160W Nexode Pro GaN charger is priced at 429 Yuan ($60) and it is now available to purchase in China from JD.com. We have previously reviewed the 300W Ugreen GaN desktop charger and were genuinely impressed by its performance and features.
On Dec. 8, Infinix unveiled the Infinix Smart 8 HD, an entry-level smartphone that packs a punch. It boasts a large display, a decent processor, and a long-lasting battery, making it a great option for anyone looking for a phone that won’t break the bank.
Infinix Smart 8 HD: Unboxing and First Impressions
Infinix Smart 8 HD
The Infinix Smart 8 HD’s retail package includes the phone itself, a charging cable, a power adapter, a protective case, and a SIM card ejector tool.
The Timer Green variant that I received from the brand has a turquoise appeal that reflects a golden shade when viewed from different angles. The phone itself is lightweight and comfortable to hold. Its back panel has a matte timber-textured finish that helps to prevent fingerprints and smudges. The edges of the device are flat, and, on the front, it has an LCD panel with a punch-hole design.
Infinix Smart 8 HD (left)Infinix Smart 8 HD (right)Infinix Smart 8 HD (rear)Infinix Smart 8 HD (top)Infinix Smart 8 HD (bottom)
The edges of the Smart 8 HD are flat and have a slightly dark appeal, including the volume rocker, but the power button has a brighter look. The top edge is barren, the left edge has a SIM slot, and the bottom has a 3.5mm audio jack, a microphone, a USB-C port, and a speaker grille. The device has a thickness of 8.5mm and weighs 184 grams.
Display
Infinix Smart 8 HD display
The Infinix Smart 8 HD’s display is one of its best features. The 6.6″ IPS LCD panel is bright, vibrant, and offers good viewing angles. The resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels is not the highest, but it is still sufficient for most tasks. The screen also supports up to a 90-Hz refresh rate, which is a valuable addition to the device.
Infinix Smart 8 HD
There is a noticeable chin, which is expected as sub-Rs 10,000 are unlikely to have very slim bezels. One of the issues I frequently saw on some of the predecessor low-budget phones was that they showed a blue tint on the screen. The display is quite bright for indoor use; however, outside, it’s not the best, and you may need to find a shaded area or adjust the brightness settings for optimal visibility in outdoor conditions. L3 Widevine support on the Smart 8 HD means the smartphone can stream SD content, making it suitable for basic streaming needs.
Performance
The Smart 8 HD is powered by the Unisoc T606 processor, which is paired with 3 GB of RAM. In terms of performance, the phone appears smooth and offers ample 64 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. In addition, there is a microSD card slot for additional storage.
It runs on XOS 13-based Android 13 Go, which brings access to key features such as Memory Fusion (up to 3 GB of virtual RAM) and Magic Ring. As shown in one of the images below, the Magic Ring feature can show notifications for face unlock, background call, charging animation, charge complete reminder, and low battery reminder.
The Smart 8 HD has a 5,000mAh battery that promises a good battery life, and I was able to easily get around 1 to 1.5 days of use out of a single charge. The good thing is that it comes with a USB-C port for charging, not the obsolete microUSB port. The device supports 10W charging. The overall performance of the phone is quite high for an entry-level smartphone.
Camera and Other Features
SelfiePortrait Selfie2x digital zoom
The Infinix Smart 8 HD has a dual-camera system on the back, consisting of a 13-megapixel main camera, an AI lens, and a quad-LED flash. The camera system can take decent photos in well-lit conditions. The 8-megapixel front camera captures mediocre-quality shots. There is an LED flash available on the front that assists in brighter shots in low light.
The Smart 8 HD’s rear-facing single speaker with DTS Audio processing is best usable at 80 percent volume; at 100 percent, the distortion becomes a bit obvious. For security, the device is equipped with a side-facing fingerprint sensor, which is quite fast and responsive.
Overall Impression
Infinix Smart 8 HD
The Infinix Smart 8 HD is a great budget-friendly smartphone that packs a lot of features into a sleek and stylish design. The phone has a large display, a decent processor, a long-lasting battery, and a good user experience thanks to features like Magic Ring. Another good thing about the Smart 8 HD is that despite being priced at around Rs 6,000, it manages to offer some important features like a USB-C and a fingerprint sensor. If you are looking for an entry-level smartphone that costs around Rs 6,000, the Smart 8 HD could be one of the better choices on the market.
The infinix Smart 8 HD is priced at Rs 6,299 (~$75) in India via Flipkart, and with the 10 percent Axis Bank card discount, it can be bought for Rs 5,699 (~68).
Disclaimer: All of the opinions in this Infinix Smart 8 HD hands-on post are mine and based on my own experiences. There has been no editorial input from Infinix.
Microsoft is gearing up to launch a new version of Windows, tentatively codenamed “Hudson Valley,” potentially to be marketed as Windows 12. This new update, as per multiple sources, is expected to be released in the latter half of 2024 and is set to revolutionize the operating system with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI).
AI at the Core of Windows ‘Hudson Valley’
Early versions of Hudson Valley are currently undergoing testing in the Windows Insider Canary channel, with the RTM version slated for release in April 2024.
Hudson Valley’s primary focus is on enhancing the user experience through AI. Key features include an AI-driven Windows Shell and an “advanced co-pilot” Copilot AI assistant. This assistant is designed to operate continuously in the background, improving functions such as search, application launches, workflow management, and context understanding. AI will be deeply integrated across the operating system, requiring new NPU (Neural Processing Unit) hardware for optimal performance. Consequently, the hardware requirements for computers will increase significantly, potentially making older computers incompatible with some of the AI-focused features.
The assembly rate of AI PCs, equipped with NPUs, is expected to rise sharply, reaching 81% by 2027, according to IDC’s forecast. This indicates a trend towards mainstream adoption of AI in the PC market.
Recent updates in Windows 11, including the Copilot AI update and Background Removal in Paint, hint at Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to AI-powered improvements. Additionally, a new roadmap for Windows update cycles is reportedly in the works.
Besides the advanced Copilot, Hudson Valley is rumored to introduce AI-powered wallpapers with dynamic parallax effects and interaction capabilities, a Super Resolution feature enhancing image quality in photos, videos, and games, improved energy-saving mode, and a potential redesign of the desktop interface with the system tray positioned at the top. The final name and features of Hudson Valley are yet to be confirmed though.
Acemagic recently introduced its latest product, the S1 Mini PC, which is currently open for pre-orders at a price of 1099 Yuan ($154) in China. Let’s check out the key specs of this product.
Acemagic S1 Mini PC Key Features:
The mini PC stands out for its compact design, measuring 123.8 x 128 x 40.9mm, making it perfect for small spaces. It features a standout front panel with an LCD display that offers personalized content settings. Additionally, the side panel incorporates a magnetic quick-detach system for easy access to internals and is enhanced by attractive RGB lighting effects, adding both convenience and aesthetics to the device.
Under the hood, the mini PC is powered by an Intel N100 processor made on a 10nm manufacturing process, which includes 4 small cores and can reach a turbo frequency of up to 3.4GHz. This processor is paired with 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD (up to 2TB), providing ample memory and storage for most computing needs.
The Intel UHD Graphics card also supports a range of applications, from everyday tasks to more demanding graphical operations. The mini PC also boasts efficient heat dissipation, ensuring that it remains cool even under heavy use.
In terms of connectivity, the ACEMAGIC S1 stands out with its dual Ethernet ports. Additionally, it features dual HDMI ports and four USB-A interfaces, allowing for significant flexibility in connecting external devices and displays. This mini PC supports dual-screen output and can handle 4K resolution, making it a good choice for media consumption and multitasking.
Xiaomi‘s new HyperOS update is coming soon to the Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G model. This was confirmed by GSMChina, who found the HyperOS test build for the Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G in XIaomi’s internal server.
According to the source, the HyperOS builds for the Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G model have firmware version OS1.0.0.1.TGDMIXM and OS1.0.0.1.TGDEUXM. These builds are currently undergoing testing, suggesting an official rollout in the near future.
The HyperOS update for the Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G will be based on Android 13, as indicated by the code snippet “[codebase] => 13.0“. This aligns with Xiaomi’s typical software update policy for its budget Redmi Note series, which provides two years of major platform updates.
Since the Redmi Note 11 Pro 4G launched with Android 11, it has already received its two major upgrades up to Android 13. While this may be disappointing for some users, it’s still great to see Xiaomi offering the HyperOS update to the Redmi Note 11 series.
GSMChina suggests that the update is expected to roll out in Q2 2024, with HyperOS Pilot Testers likely receiving it first. If you’re interested in getting the update early, you can apply to the HyperOS Pilot Tester program.
To recap, the Note 11 Pro boasts a vibrant 6.67-inch FHD+ OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and 1200 nits of brightness. Around the back, it has a 108MP quad-camera setup for capturing photos and videos.
The phone is powered by a MediaTek Helio G96 processor and comes with up to 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, expandable via microSD. A hefty 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging keeps you going.
Likewise, it features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, dual speakers, and a headphone jack for an immersive experience. Additionally, it comes with IR blaster support.
Vivo introduced the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro featuring the Dimensity 9300 chipset in China last month. Additionally, the company has been developing the Vivo X100 Pro+, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 3 chipset. However, according to recent leaks, the launch of the X100 Pro+ is reportedly delayed from the initially rumored timeframe.
Vivo X100 Pro+ launch delayed
Recent reports have claimed that the Vivo X100 Pro+ will be announced in April, along with some other devices, such as the Vivo X Fold 3 series of foldable phones. However, a recent Weibo post by tipster Digital Chat Station reveals that Vivo’s next launch event in China will see the arrival of three products, such as the Vivo Pad 3 tablet, the Vivo 100’s flat-screen variant (likely to be dubbed Vivo X100s), and the Vivo X Fold 3 series. While the tipster did not mention it, it appears that these devices may go official in March or April 2024.
The Pad 3 and X100s are said to be equipped with the Dimensity 9300 chipset. On the other hand, the X Fold 3 series will arrive with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. He added that the arrival of the Vivo X100 Pro+ has been delayed; however, details regarding the revised launch timeframe have not been disclosed. Likely, the Vivo X100 Pro+ may still go official within the first half of 2024.
Vivo is also said to be working on the Vivo X Flip 2 foldable phone. It is unclear whether it will launch with the Vivo X Fold 3 or later with the Vivo X100 Pro+.
In related news, Vivo recently confirmed that the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro will launch on Dec. 14 in the global market. The landing page for the X100 lineup is now live, and the brand is currently receiving pre-orders for the X100 and X100 Pro.
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