Advertisement

OnePlus 12 RAM, storage variants revealed via real-life images

On Tuesday, OnePlus is set to unveil the much-anticipated OnePlus 12. The company has already revealed the smartphone’s design and essential specifications. Additionally, President Li Jie has recently shared new images showcasing the device in real-world scenarios. At the same time, Weibo users have shared live shots of the phone. Notably, one of these images has disclosed details about the RAM and storage variants of the device.

OnePlus 12 variants

The OnePlus 12 images that are being circulated on Weibo show that it will arrive in three options: 16GB RAM + 512 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage, and 24 GB RAM + 1 TB storage. As the company previously confirmed, it will be available in three colors, black, white, and green.

The About Phone image of the device confirms that it has a 6.82-inch display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, 24 GB of RAM, 1 TB of storage, a 32-megapixel front camera, a 50-megapixel + 48-megapixel + 64-megapixel triple camera unit, and ColorOS 14. It also mentions the model number of the device as PJD110.

OnePlus 12 design

The new images offer a good view of the design for both the white and green versions of the OnePlus 12. The OP12 looks quite similar to the OnePlus 11 from last year, but there are some noticeable differences.

On the back, the camera module and LED flash have shifted down slightly. The camera island features an “H” logo for Hasselblad instead of the entire branding, includes a periscope telephoto camera for the first time, and the LED flash has been moved out of the module. On the front, the device has a display with slimmer bezels and a repositioned punch-hole that is now cantered. Additionally, it has slimmer bezels and a wider aspect ratio. Other changes include an IR blaster on the top, and the alert slider has been moved from the right to the left side.

RELATED:

(source 1, 2, 3 | via)

AOC Gaming CU34G2XP/BK 34″ curved monitor with WQHD 180Hz panel launched

AOC recently unveiled the Q27G3ZN gaming monitor featuring a 27″ panel QHD resolution and 260Hz refresh rate. The brand has now unveiled the AOC Gaming CU34G2XP/BK, a 34-inch curved gaming monitor with a high-resolution, high refresh rate panel.

AOC Gaming CU34G2XP/BK

AOC Gaming CU34G2XP/BK monitor specs:

The AOC Gaming CU34G2XP/BK is a 34-inch curved gaming monitor with a curvature radius of 1500R. The display features an antiglare (AG) panel treatment to reduce reflections. With a resolution of 3440×1440, it boasts an aspect ratio of 21:9 and utilizes a VA panel type with WLED backlighting. The impressive 180 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time (GTG and MPRT) contribute to smooth and responsive gaming. The monitor supports Adaptive Sync for variable refresh rates and is Vesa Certified DisplayHDR 400 for high dynamic range.

It offers PiP+PbP multiview functionality, and the SmartImage feature enhances picture quality. The display has a static contrast ratio of 4000:1, a dynamic contrast ratio of 80M:1, and a wide viewing angle of 178/178 degrees. It supports 10-bit color, producing 1.073 billion colors. The monitor has 2W x 2 speakers, a Kensington lock, and a quick-release function. The ergonomic design includes tilt adjustment from -3.5° to 21.5°, a height adjustment of 130mm, and swivel functionality from -30° to 30°. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4 x 2, four USB downstream ports, and one audio output.

Price & availability

Priced at £339, the AOC Gaming CU34G2XP/BK is set to be available for purchase in mid-December 2023.

RELATED:

(Source, via)

SOONNOOZ SOON Mini PC with Intel and Ryzen CPU options, detachable speaker, and unique design unveiled

SOONNOOZ has announced the SOON Mini PC ahead of its release in the Chinese market. The SOON Mini PC is available in different Intel and Ryzen processor options and also features a detachable speaker setup. It sports a unique rounded design and can be carried using a shoulder strap.

SOONNOOZ SOON Mini PC

The SOON Mini PC is designed with rounded corners with a speaker grill on the front. It has a physical jog dial on the top and supports Bluetooth 5.2/ WiFi 6 connectivity. The new SOONNOOZ mini computer will be available with either Ryzen 7 7840HS, Ryzen 7 7735HS, or Intel N100 CPUs. There are two SODIMM slots for the Ryzen 7-based models for DDR5 memory. The mini computer is also equipped with a 2.5-inch SATA drive and M.2 2280 PCIe SSD for storage.

SOONNOOZ SOON Mini PC

The SOONNOOZ SOON Mini’s detachable Bluetooth speaker is one of the highlights of its unique design. It looks like an audio device with its jog dial and rounded corners. The upcoming SOONNOOZ mini PC has a 3.5mm audio jack, HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0 Type-A, and USB 3.1 Type-C ports. The SOON Mini with Intel N1000 CPU is offered for 1,499 yuan (~ $213). The more powerful Ryzen 7 7840HS model’s price has not been released while the Ryzen 7 7735HS variant will retail for 2,499 yuan (~ $354).

SOONNOOZ SOON Mini PC

The full specs and other information about the upcoming SOONNOOZ SOON Mini PC will be released ahead of its China release. There are however no indications at this time whether the model will be available in overseas markets. It is however noted that SOONNOOZ has already established its global presence, with its models still selling on the global marketplace.

RELATED:

The U.S. is Trying to Balance EV Growth and the International Trade

As electric vehicles try to break through problems associated with technology and international trade, the U.S. government’s recent decision to temporarily allow the use of Chinese-sourced critical minerals in batteries for electric vehicles eligible for federal tax credits has sparked a mix of reactions. It’s a bittersweet one too, since it seems like the best outcome in the situation right now.

The country is now allowing EVs with Chinese minerals to be eligible for tax credits

This move, part of the broader Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) aimed at addressing climate change through a $360 billion investment in renewable energy, highlights the complexity of the global EV supply chain. While the IRA initially sought to limit reliance on Chinese components, the reality is that the EV industry remains deeply intertwined with China for essential minerals and parts.

China US

The updated guidelines enable 200,000 EV buyers per manufacturer to benefit from a $7,500 tax credit. Starting in 2024, these rules will apply to completed batteries and extend to the minerals used in their production by 2025. However, companies associated with North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China – labeled as “foreign entities of concern” – are subject to scrutiny under these regulations.

General Motors has welcomed this decision, seeing it as a way to maintain consumer incentives for their EVs, citing their investment in U.S. operations and efforts to create resilient supply chains. However, the implications for the broader industry remain uncertain, with only a fraction of the current EV models qualifying for the tax credit under the new rules.

This decision has also sparked political debate. Many U.S. lawmakers, particularly Republicans, have criticized the temporary exemption for Chinese minerals, viewing it as prioritizing EV interests over national concerns. This controversy underscores the broader geostrategic competition for control over critical mineral supply chains, a contest increasingly defined by the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy sources.

RELATED:

(Via)

BMW M Division Rules Out ‘iM3’ Badge and Moves Towards an Electric Performance Future

BMW‘s M Division, renowned for its high-performance cars, has made it clear: there will be no ‘iM3’. Despite filing a trademark for the name ‘iM3’, which hinted at a fusion of BMW’s electric ‘i’ series and the performance-focused ‘M’ line, M boss Frank van Meel has firmly dismissed these speculations.

It seems that BMW wants to preserve the legacy of the M Badge

In an interview with Top Gear, van Meel emphasized the division’s philosophy, stating that the iconic ‘M’ badge will never blend with the ‘i’ of their electric series. “It’s a definite no,” he said. “For us, the ‘M’ represents a legacy of motorsports and emotion, not merely the type of drivetrain.” This stance points towards BMW’s commitment to preserving the distinct identity of its M Division, where performance and heritage take center stage.

But this doesn’t mean BMW is stepping back from the electric vehicle (EV) race. The company already boasts four M-branded EVs, including the iX M60 and i4 M50. Furthermore, in 2022, BMW showcased a quad-motor performance prototype, resembling the classic 3 Series, on its Neue Klasse electric platform. This move signals BMW’s readiness to dive deeper into the high-performance EV market.

While the idea of an ‘iM3’ might be off the table, it’s clear BMW is steering towards a future where electric power and M-badge performance coexist, albeit under different names. The company’s commitment to developing performance EVs on the Neue Klasse platform remains unwavering, ensuring that the thrill of M Division cars will evolve with the times.

RELATED:

(Via)

Google Brings Useful Feature Additions to the WearOS

The search giant is here with some exciting new features for WearOS, Google Messages, and Google TV. All Android-based smartphones, Google TV devices, and WearOS-enabled wearables will benefit from these new features. Especially for WearOS devices, Gmail and Google Calendar apps are all getting new features. Further, users can set their Google Home status to Home or Away using WearOS smartwatches with the new update.

Must See: Samsung is Rolling out Wear OS 4 Update to the Galaxy Watch 5 & 5 Pro

In a bid to add Smart Home Control at your fingertips, the users can control and dock compatible smart appliances like vacuums and mops from smartwatches. The ability to start Assistant routines is another useful addition.

Among other changes, Google added 10+ new Free TV Channels for Google TV and added Emoji Kitchen Combinations. Further, all new Messages features are set to amaze the new generation and all new Home Controls on WearOS are like an icing on the cake. It has become ecstatic to control things around you from the wrist or with your voice, automation is becoming an integral part of our daily lives.

Below we have detailed new features on WearOS.

Recent Additions to the WearOS:

Wear OS Smart Home Controls:

  • Directly manage a variety of AI devices from WearOS watches.
  • Quickly build a suitable environment for various activities.

Wear OS Google Home Status:

  • Manage the status of Google Home (Home or Away) from the WearOS device.
  • Ensure smart home devices are in the appropriate state with a quick check.

Wear OS Assistant Routines:

  • Quickly initiate Assistant Routines via voice commands on the smartwatch.
  • Maximize the efficiency of daily tasks while you’re on the go.

These features represent a significant advancement for WearOS, offering users enhanced control and convenience in managing smart devices. As the integration of automation into daily lives continues, Google’s updates aim to make interactions with smart devices more intuitive and seamless.

In addition to 10 or more Free TV Channels for Google TV and Emoji Kitchen Combinations for Google Messages, this extensive update surpasses the capabilities of WearOS. Anticipate an enhanced and intelligent user experience forthcoming from Google TV, WearOS, and Google Messages.

Related:

(https://blog.google/products/android/new-android-features-november-2023/source)

Honor Tablet 9 appears on 3C certification with 35W charging

Honor is reportedly working on a new tablet, possibly the Honor Tablet 9. This information comes from China’s 3C certification database, where two versions of new Honor tablets have been listed with the model numbers HEY-W09 and W19. This is believed to be the Honor Tablet 9. 

Honor Tablet 9 3C certification

The certification confirms that both models will support 35W fast charging. While the listing doesn’t provide any other details, tipster Wangzhai on Weibo claims that the Honor Tablet 9 will be powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor.

This processor was announced in 2022 and is based on Qualcomm’s 4nm manufacturing process. It has a maximum clock speed of 2.2GHz and comes with Adreno 710 GPU.

Wangzhai also claims that the Honor Tablet 9 will have a large battery capacity, but he did not mention the exact size. The Honor Tablet 8, which was launched in July 2022, has a 7,250mAh battery.

Information regarding the Honor Tablet 9 is still limited. However, based on the 3C certification listings, we can expect the tablet to support 35W fast charging. This is a significant upgrade from the 22.5W fast charging that is supported by the Honor Tablet 8.

The Honor Tablet 8 also features a 12-inch 2K LCD screen with a 10:6 aspect ratio, over 1 billion colors, and a resolution of 2000 x 1200 pixels. It is powered by a Snapdragon 680 processor.

The Honor Tablet 8 was launched in July 2022, so a new model is overdue. We should learn more about the Honor Tablet 9 in the coming weeks.

Related:

(Source)

Google Messages Unveils Array of New Features with Latest Update

Google Messages recently rolled out several significant enhancements in a software update that extended the functionality of the messaging platform. To further improve the overall user experience, Google has incorporated eleven additional features into the Android operating system, which will roll out via respective app updates or Play System updates. Plenty of changes were already part of the Android 14 rollout, and the incremental updates via the Quarterly Releases further improve the overall Android experience.

Must See: Google Messages gains Ultra HDR Image support for RCS chats

Google Messages Brings Voice Moods, PhotoMoji and Much More

Google Messages adds several new changes and enhancements to elevate the overall user experience. Let’s discuss each in detail:

Voice Moods—Expression Enhancement:

Google Messages users can now exhibit a variety of emotions via Voice Moods, which adds expression to voice replies.

PhotoMoji Reactions:

PhotoMoji incorporates a creative element into messaging by enabling users to convert their preferred photographs into dynamic reactions through the utilization of on-device Google AI.

Screen effects:

The implementation of Screen Effects imparts messages with vivid animations, thereby enhancing the visual appeal through the conversion of text into dynamic visuals.

Custom Bubbles:

Custom Bubbles allows users to modify the conversation background and colors, thereby facilitating a customized messaging interface that is both personalized and aesthetically pleasing.

Reaction Effects: 

One may improve messaging with Reaction Effects, which introduce vibrancy and individuality into routine discussions.

Animated Emoji:

By incorporating an array of visual effects into each message, the Animated Emoji feature enhances the visual appeal of text-based communication.

Personalization Profiles:

By configuring the profile image and name linked to their phone number, individuals can now impart a unique personal identity to their messaging persona for other users. 

Google Messages users can anticipate major enhancements to the messaging experience with the introduction of these innovative features, which continue Google’s dedication to progress within the Android ecosystem.

Related:

(source)

Nothing Phone (2a) spotted on BIS certification site

The Nothing Phone (2a) has been spotted on the BIS certification site, which suggests that it could be launched soon. The device is expected to be a more affordable version of the Nothing Phone (2).

The BIS certification site lists the model number of the device as A142. This model number is different from the AIN142 model number that was leaked earlier this week. However, it is possible that the two model numbers represent different regional variants of the same device.

The BIS certification also reveals that the Nothing Phone (2a) will have a different battery than the Nothing Phone (2). The model number of the battery is NT03.

Rumors suggest that the Nothing Phone (2a) will retain the Glyph Interface on its back panel, a signature design element of the Nothing Phone (2). The phone is also expected to be equipped with a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a center-aligned selfie camera. However, it is speculated that the display might not be an LTPO panel like the one found on the Nothing Phone (2).

Given its positioning as a more affordable alternative, the Nothing Phone (2a) is likely to feature a mid-range Snapdragon or MediaTek Dimensity processor. The phone’s battery capacity and pricing details remain unclear at this point.

It is still unclear when the Nothing Phone (2a) will be launched. However, the fact that it has been spotted on the BIS certification site suggests that it could be launched sooner rather than later.

Related:

(Via)

Lava Agni 2 5G gets the October security patch & bug fixes in a new update

After updating the Blaze 5G and Yuva 2 smartphones last week, Lava has now started pushing a new update for its most popular 5G smartphone, aka the Lava Agni 2.

Lava has officially announced the release of the latest security update for the Lava Agni 2 smartphone, aimed at enhancing the overall security of the device. This update incorporates the October 2023 security patch, addressing potential vulnerabilities and fortifying the device against security threats. It is crucial to update to this latest version as Google has fixed a total of 53 vulnerabilities with the October patch, two of which were actively being exploited.

Lava Agni 2 update

Additionally, the update includes fixes for certain bugs, contributing to an improved and more stable user experience. To ensure that your Lava Agni 2 is equipped with the latest security enhancements, you can easily initiate the update process by navigating to the Settings menu, followed by System, Advance, and finally, System Update. Keep your device up to date to benefit from the latest security measures and performance improvements.

Lava Agni 2 5G specs:

The Agni 2 5G sports a 6.78-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and a 105% NTSC color gamut. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor and runs on Android 13. Camera-wise, it features a 50MP quad-camera setup on the rear and a 16MP front camera. Connectivity options include 5G support, in-display fingerprint sensing, and a 66W fast-charging battery via the USB-C port.

In related news, Lava is said to be working on a new smartphone called the Lava Agni 2S. This device will offer similar specifications to the Agni 2 5G, however, it will have a different processor.

RELATED:

(Source)

Samsung Galaxy A55 Emerges In Leakead Renders Revealing Design From All Angles

Samsung is expected to launch its next-generation Galaxy A-series smartphones next year. So far, we have already gotten a look at the Galaxy A35 5G, Galaxy A15, and the Galaxy A25 5G in the form of leaked renders. Now, the Samsung Galaxy A55 has also surfaced in CAD-based leaked renders revealing its design from all angles. The device is expected to arrive as the successor to the Galaxy A54 that was announced in March this year. 

Samsung Galaxy A55 emerges in leaked renders

Right off the bat, the Samsung Galaxy A55 is seen with a boxy form factor. We can notice a protrusion on the right frame where the power and volume rocker buttons are located. It’s safe to say that the South Korean brand is making this design mainstream on the upcoming Galaxy A phones as it has also been spotted on the Galaxy A35 and A15. The back panel of the device has three vertically stacked triple rear cameras. 

The bottom port of the Samsung Galaxy A55  has a USB-C port and a speaker grille. There is a SIM card tray on the top edge. The renders do not reveal a 3.5mm jack. On the front, the smartphone has a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout display measuring 6.5 inches. The screen is surrounded by thin bezels. Dimension-wise, the Galaxy A55 will measure 161.1 x 77.3 / 77.9 x 8.2mm. The Galaxy A55 is seen in a Black color option. 

A report from earlier today revealed that the Samsung Galaxy A55 as well as the A35 will boast a metal unibody replacing the plastic ones from their predecessors. This will give both phones a premium look. Past reports suggest that the Galaxy A55 will be powered by the unannounced Exynos 1480 processor with support for AMD GPU. The 3C certification of the device revealed support for 25W fast charging.

Related:

Source

Poco X6 run Geekbench with Snapdragon 7s Gen 2

The Poco X6 series is expected to launch soon, with at least two phones in the lineup: the Poco X6 and the Poco X6 Pro. The phones have already been spotted on multiple certification websites, suggesting that a launch is imminent. The Poco X6 has now been listed on Geekbench, revealing some of its key specifications.

Poco X6 Geekbench listing

The Geekbench listing reveals that the Poco X6 scored 1013 in the single-core test and 2865 in the multi-core test. It also confirms that the phone will be powered by an octa-core processor with a maximum CPU clock speed of 2.40GHz. 

This is most likely the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset. The chipset is paired with Adreno TM 710 GPU. Additionally, the phone is running on Android 13 OS and packs 12GB of RAM.

Interestingly, the smartphone’s codename, “Garnet,” is the same as the Redmi Note 13 Pro, further fueling the notion that the Poco X6 could be a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 13 Pro (China).

 If that’s the case, the smartphone will have a 6.67-inch OLED panel with a 1.5K resolution of 1220 x 2712 pixels resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Redmi Note 13 Pro

The Poco X6 will likely have a triple camera system on the back, with a 200-megapixel (main, with OIS) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 2-megapixel (macro) setup. There could also be a 16-megapixel front camera. 

However, rumors suggest that the global model could have a 64-megapixel primary camera instead of the 200-megapixel sensor. Likewise, the phone will likely have a 5,100mAh battery with 67W fast charging.

The exact specifications and launch date of the Poco X6 series have not yet been announced by the company, but we expect to learn more soon.

Related:

(Source)

Oppo Find X7 Pro camera shown in leaked teaser image

Oppo is preparing to unveil its next flagship smartphone, the Find X7 Pro. Rumors about the device have been circulating for some time, and now a recent leak has revealed a teaser image showcasing the phone’s camera module.

While the leaker didn’t explicitly state that the image belongs to the Find X7 series, they alluded to it as Oppo’s upcoming flagship, leading us to believe it’s the Find X7 Pro. The teaser hints at a quad-camera setup and a continuation of Oppo’s partnership with Hasselblad for color calibration.

The leaked image suggests the Find X7 Pro will feature four camera sensors, one more than its predecessor, the Find X6 Pro. The presence of the Hasselblad logo indicates that Oppo will continue to collaborate with the renowned camera brand for color optimization.

Reports indicate that the Find X7 Pro’s rear camera setup will include an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel Sony LYT-900 primary camera, believed to be a modified version of the 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor. It is likely to be accompanied by a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera and two periscope telephoto cameras.

One periscope telephoto camera may employ a 50-megapixel IMX890 sensor with 2.7x optical zoom, while the other may utilize a 50-megapixel IMX858 sensor with 6x optical zoom.

While the device is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, its other specifications remain undisclosed. The Find X7, the standard variant of the series, is expected to be powered by the Dimensity 9300 chipset.

The Oppo Find X7 series is anticipated to debut by the end of January or early February 2024. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.

Related:

(Via)

Samsung Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35 may get metal frames build

Samsung is set to give its Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35 smartphones a premium makeover next year, with metal frames replacing the plastic ones used in previous models.

This is according to tipster Revegnus, who claims that the Galaxy A55 will feature a metallic frame, likely aluminum, while the Galaxy A35 will get the same upgrade. This is a pleasant surprise as no model in this lineup has ever featured a metallic frame.

In addition to the metal frame upgrade, the Galaxy A35 is also expected to get a design refresh. Renders of the phone have been leaked by tipster Onleaks, and they show a phone with a similar design to its predecessor. However, there are a few key changes, including a center-aligned punch-hole cutout on the front instead of a U-notch.

Leaked renders of the phone show a vertically stacked triple-camera setup with an LED flash on the rear. The phone is expected to measure 161.6 x 77.9 x 8.2 mm.

On the other hand, the Galaxy A55 is also expected to receive some internal upgrades. The phone has been reportedly spotted in testing with the unannounced Exynos 1480 chip. It is rumored that the Exynos 1480 will be supported by an AMD graphics unit.

Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S24 flagship lineup in January 2024. The Galaxy A35 and A55 are rumored to follow soon after. We’ll be sure to keep an eye out for more leaks and rumors about the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 in the coming months.

Related:

(Via)

One UI Home v15.0.05.005 Crashing on One UI 6 Beta

Samsung is leaving no stone unturned by bringing the stable One UI 6 update to most compatible smartphones. Following the update on Galaxy S23, Galaxy A54, Galaxy S22, Galaxy Z Fold/Flip 5 Series, and other smartphones, the One UI 6 Open Beta program is still up for mid-range and low-end smartphones. The users on the beta build of One UI 6 are having some issues with the One UI Home Launcher.

Must See: One UI 6.0 Rollout Timeline revealed by Samsung official

Specifically, the One UI Home v15.05.005 is crashing on the One UI 6 Beta builds. As per the official thread on the Samsung Korea Community, “Users of the first beta version have recently released “One UI Home” If you download and install the app (Launcher 15.0.05.005), you will be unable to touch the home screen and run the app through the quick panel/edge panel.”

However, the officials suggest updating their devices to the official stable version of the One UI, as most smartphones have already received it. However, in the process, the users on the Beta build may need to update multiple times to get the official stable build of One UI 6.0.

One UI 6.0 Update Program and Features

The Samsung Galaxy Smartphones are receiving the One UI 6.0 update bundling several new features. The Korean giant pushed the One UI 6.0 update for Galaxy S23, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S21 in some countries, Galaxy Z Flip/Fold 5, and several other smartphones. It is even surfacing on the mid-range Galaxy A54 and Galaxy A34 5G smartphones.

Samsung One UI 6.0 improves user interaction via numerous changes. A modern emoji design lets users express themselves with new emoticons. Sharing is easier with picture and video previews in the Share panel and more options. Pop-up windows allow seamless transitions after leaving the Recents screen, boosting multitasking. A free-standing lock screen clock and streamlined app icon labels on the home screen provide users with more options. The latest weather upgrades include a widget, interactive map view, and improved visuals.

A redesigned widget, enhanced watermark alignment options, and rapid resolution settings improve camera performance. The update improves Calendar, Reminder, and Samsung Internet. Quick actions for apps in Finder search results, storage recommendations in My Files, smarter Airplane mode, an Auto Blocker to protect against unfamiliar programs, and configurable Bixby text call greetings are also available. New magnification and cursor thickness choices improve accessibility. Samsung One UI 6.0 improves both form and function.

Related:

Apple launches new (Product) Red Apple Watch Series 9

Apple has introduced a new (Product) Red color option for its latest smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 9. The new color joins Apple’s lineup of products supporting (RED)’s global fight against HIV/AIDS.

The new smartwatch features a red aluminum case and a matching red Sport Band. Apple is also debuting new red watch faces, including Solar Analog, customized specially for World AIDS Day. These exclusive faces complement the (Product)Red Series 9’s vibrant colorway.

The rest of the smartwatch specifications are similar to the standard model. That is, it features a new S9 chip and quad-core neural engine, providing faster processing and improved performance. It has an 18-hour battery life, 25% better dictation accuracy, and 30% faster speed than the previous Series 8.

The maximum brightness is up to 2000 nits, twice that of the Series 8. The Series 9 brings a new double-tap gesture that lets wearers control Watch functions without touching the screen.

The Apple Watch Series 9 (Product) Red is available for purchase through Apple’s online store and retail stores. Pricing starts at Rs 41,900 in India and $399 in the US.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of smartwatch will be donated to the Global Fund, which provides funding for HIV/AIDS programs in sub-Saharan Africa. 

The company has been partnering with (RED) since 2006. The new Apple Watch Series 9 (Product) Red joins the existing (Product) Red variants for the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 13, and iPhone SE.

Related:

(Source)

OnePlus Open Durability Test Gives A Sigh Of Relief As The Brand Overcomes Poor Track Record With Structural Integrity On Recent Flagships

It’s been nearly two months since OnePlus announced its first-ever foldable phone. It has been well-received by critics. The device also witnessed record one-day sales in India and North America. Now, the OnePlus Open has undergone famous YouTuber JerryRigEverything’s gruesome durability test. The results should give OnePlus fans a sigh of relief because, if you can recollect correctly, the brand didn’t have success with the durability of its past number series flagships more specifically the OnePlus 10 Pro, OnePlus 10T, and even this year’s OnePlus 11. This is because the OnePlus 10 duo snapped into half with Zack’s bare hands whereas the OnePlus 11 survived but still didn’t come out unscathed completely.  

OnePlus Open durability test gives a sigh of relief

The OnePlus Open’s external screen is shielded by Ceramic Guard and is said to be 20 percent more impact-resistant compared to Gorilla Glass Victus. It gets minor scratches at level 6 with deeper grooves at level 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. The internal screen has ultra-thin glass that is commonly found on foldable phones and hence it develops scratches and deeper grooves at level 2 and 3 respectively. The display is also prone to fingernail marks. 

The OnePlus Open’s side frame is made up of aluminium and in the scrape test, it takes scratches all all sides. The foldable phone’s back panel is also quite resistant to scratches. The YouTuber proceeded to pouring a lot of dust and dirt on the internal screen and the device couldn’t fold completely flat. The dirt also gets visibly accumulated around the crease of the internal screen. In the burn test, the OnePlus Open’s external OLED screen is subjected to an open flame for 10 seconds after which the pixel turns White. However, the YouTuber says that it lasts for 25 seconds. Meanwhile, the internal display gets dead pixels in under 10 seconds after coming in contact with flame. 

The OnePlus Open’s side-mounted fingerprint scanner couldn’t authenticate properly but Zack attributes it to the minor razor scratches, accumulated dirt on the sensor, and his non-existent thumbprint which are considered to be valid reasons. 

Finally, the moment of truth. The OnePlus Open is touted to survive 1 million folds. In what is considered to be the most intense and stressful test usually, the foldable phone appears to be built solidly as it doesn’t budge a bit when bent from either direction in the folded state. Surprisingly, Zack tries bending the device from the opposite direction when it is unfolded. The OnePlus Open bends slightly but most importantly holds its ground and avoids getting snapped. 

The YouTuber adds that the OnePlus Open has certainly passed its durability test. 

Related:

Vivo T2 5G gets a price cut in India along with a limited time cashback offer

Vivo has cut down the price of its Vivo Y56 5G smartphone in India. In addition to that, the brand has also dropped the pricing of the Vivo T2 5G in the country.

Vivo T2 5G discounted pricing:

Vivo-T2-5g-discount

The Vivo T2 5G debuted with a price tag of Rs 18,999 for the 6GB/128GB variant and Rs 20,999 for the 8GB/128GB model. As part of a promotional discount, the smartphone will now be accessible at Rs 16,999 for the 6GB/128GB configuration and Rs 18,999 for the 8GB/128GB version. Additionally, customers have the opportunity to enjoy cashback of up to Rs 1,500 on the Vivo T2 when using select banks, such as IndusInd Bank, Yes Bank, Federal Bank, Bank of Baroda, and others.

Vivo T2 5G specs:

The Vivo T2 5G features a 6.38-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering clear images at 2400×1080 pixels resolution and 1300nits brightness. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC with Adreno 619GB GPU, the Vivo T2 comes with 6GB/8GB RAM and 128GB storage (expandable via microSD card). On the software front, the phone runs on Funtouch OS, based on Android 13.

The camera setup is noteworthy, featuring a 64MP primary sensor with OIS and EIS and a 2MP bokeh sensor on the back. The front camera is a 16MP snapper. For connectivity, the phone supports 5G, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and USB Type-C. Lastly, it has a 4,500mAh battery and 44W fast charging.

RELATED:

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s S-Pen Receives FCC Certification

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to arrive in January 2024, and leaks have already given us a glimpse of its design. Now, thanks to the FCC, we have a closer look at the phone’s S-Pen.

The FCC certification website now includes information about the S Pen, identified by the EJ-PS928 model number. The listing reveals that the S Pen’s design is similar to the one seen in the Galaxy S23 Ultra, featuring a left-side button and a clicky push button on the top. 

The S Pen will operate within a 2402-2480MHz frequency range, which is the specific range of radio frequencies that the S Pen uses to communicate with the Galaxy S24 Ultra. This data includes information about the S Pen’s position, pressure, and orientation. This information is used by the Galaxy S24 Ultra to provide different features, such as handwriting recognition, air gestures, and remote control.

The stylus measures 104.64mm in length, but its weight remains unknown. Additionally, its IP rating is yet to be confirmed.

A new report by Windows Report has also shed light on the phone’s specifications and design. Reportedly, The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts a sleek, squarish design with almost flat edges and a flat-screen. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and packs a generous 12GB of RAM. Storage options range from 256GB to 1TB.

Samsung has also significantly enhanced the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s cooling capabilities with a 1.9x larger vapor chamber than its predecessor.

The quad-camera setup on the back remains, featuring a 200MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom.

Likewise, the device will be fueled by a 5000mAh battery with support for 45W charging.

Related:

(Via)

Realme GT Neo 5 SE reign continues as AnTuTu’s king of Mid-range performance

Intense competition is unfolding in the premium segment, with the Red Magic 9 Pro+ fueled by Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and the Vivo X100, powered by Dimensity 9300, engaging in a close race for the AnTuTu performance crown. Meanwhile, noteworthy developments are occurring in the mid-range sector. Here are the top 10 best-performing mid-range smartphones of November.

AnTuTu Top 10 mid-range smartphones (November 2023):

AnTuTu top 10 mid-range smartphones December 2023
  1. Realme GT Neo 5 SE (Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, 16GB+1TB): 1,166,334
  2. Redmi Note 12 Turbo (Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, 16GB+1TB): 1,156,926
  3. OPPO Reno 11 5G (Dimensity 8200, 12GB+512GB): 1,021,724
  4. iQOO Z8 (Dimensity 8200, 12GB+512GB): 966,513
  5. iQOO Neo 7SE (Dimensity 8200, 12GB+512GB): 955,091
  6. Vivo S17 Pro (Dimensity 8200, 12GB+512GB): 950,981
  7. Redmi Note 12T Pro (Dimensity 8200 Ultra, 12GB+512GB): 902,805
  8. Xiaomi Civi 3 (Dimensity 8200 Ultra, 12GB+512GB): 896,514
  9. Redmi K60E (Dimensity 8200, 12GB+512GB): 895,342
  10. OnePlus Ace Racing Edition (Dimensity 8100 Max, 12GB+256GB): 892,232
Realme GT Neo5 SE

The Realme GT Neo 5 SE has retained its status as the mid-range performance king for the second month. It is followed closely by the Redmi Note 12 Turbo. Both of these devices use the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 SoC, which has been quite a rare sight on smartphones. Oppo’s recently launched Reno 11 5G has taken the third spot, with a score of 1,021,724 points.

OPPO Reno 11 - Fluorite Blue
OPPO Reno 11 – Fluorite Blue

The next three entries on the list, namely the iQOO Z8, the iQOO Neo 7SE, and the Vivo S17 Pro are all powered by the Dimensity 8200 chip. The remaining four smartphones are powered by Dimensity 8200 Ultra and the 8100 Max chips.

So by the looks of it, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 chip still appears to be dominating the mid-range segment in terms of performance. However, that might change soon a new generation of devices equipped with the latest Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Dimensity 8300 chips are beginning to arrive in the market. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3-clad Honor 100 and the Redmi K70E equipped with the Dimensity 8300-Ultra have already made their debut in the market. It would be interesting to see these new generation chips go head to head in the December 2023 edition of AnTuTu’s top 10 mid-range list.

RELATED:

(Source)