Middle Eastern Smartphone Market Grows Despite Global Downturn

By

-

Nov 28, 2023

This year, there has been a decline in the number of smartphones shipped around the world. Sales of smartphones have been falling in every major market, including those in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Following the ongoing festive sales, there’s a slight chance of improvement, but the overall year remained sluggish for global shipments. Surprisingly, the Middle Eastern smartphone market defied the global smartphone market signals and registered a 21% annual growth in Q3 2023.

Must See: Global smartphone market shows signs of recovery in 2024: Canalys

Middle-East Smartphone Shipments Details

As per a new Canalys research report, smartphone shipments in Middle Eastern countries (excluding Turkey) have registered a significant growth of 21%, with 12.0 million shipments. An increase in business growth due to local demand is one of the primary reasons behind the growth. Job and business opportunities have exceptionally increased in recent times, unaffected by falling oil prices.

The markets in Iraq and Saudi Arabia soared to historical highs, with 57% and 46% growth on a year-over-year basis, respectively. Surprisingly, despite some limitations and challenges while importing in US dollars, Iraq gained maximum growth. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates market registers only a 2% increase in shipments which is mostly fueled by increased tourist footfall. Qatar and Kuwait show a slight decline due to subdued demand in both countries.

Samsung accounts for 31% of the total smartphone shipments in Q3 2023. It is followed by Transsion with 22% share, Xiaomi with 15% share, Apple with 11% share, and Realme in 5th position with a mere 4% share.

Inclination towards Budget Smartphones in Middle-East

Unlike Southeast Asian markets, the Middle East is more inclined towards budget smartphones which translates to under $200 market. The maximum sales are garnered by Chinese brands such as Xiaomi, Transsion, and Honor.

“TRANSSION is steadily increasing its footprint in response to the expanding mass-market segment amid broader economic uncertainties. Infinix introduced exclusive models with Noon in Saudi Arabia, while Tecno promoted its Camon 20 with enhanced incentives in Iraq. While Xiaomi and HONOR strive to penetrate the premium market with enticing incentives and aggressive promotions, luring customers away from established brands demands persistent investment,” reveals Manish Pravinkumar, Dubai-based Senior Consultant at Canalys.

Motorola further increases its growth in the enterprise businesses in the GCC region. However, Samsung and Apple remained at their respective positions with their extensive distribution network and ecosystem strategy, respectively.

Further, emerging brands are working on their marketing campaigns to garner sales. While Oppo and Honor are bringing foldable to the market to compete against Samsung’s prowess. However, “consumers in markets such as Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia will still hesitate to switch brands. Affordability, aspirational value and availability will be pivotal factors for emerging players, with schemes such as Buy Now Pay Later gaining traction through platforms such as Tabby and Tamara, proving beneficial for both retailers and consumers, “said Pravinkumar.

Related:

OnePlus has worked with Oppo Find series’ imaging team for OnePlus 12’s camera system

By

Debasish

-

Nov 28, 2023

Li Jie, President of OnePlus China, now teases the camera system of the upcoming OnePlus 12 to be one of the best in the market. According to him, the phone must have top-notch hardware and software solutions to achieve the goal of being the best and that they have worked accordingly on the device. Reportedly, the company has worked with the Oppo Find series’ imaging team for the OnePlus 12 to fully equip the hardware + software package.

Li Jie claims OnePlus 12 to be the most powerful imaging flagship in OnePlus’s history

As mentioned, the device brings a “new generation of super light and shadow imaging system” with the triple camera setup. Additionally, OnePlus continued its partnership with Hasselblad to maintain its previous achievements. With all of this together in a single package, Li Jie considers the device to be strong enough to beat its Pro-level flagship competitors in the camera department.

In terms of camera hardware, the OnePlus 12 boasts the new Sony LYT-808 sensor for the main camera paired with an improved periscope telephoto, which is more expensive but adds quality to the output. Li Jie didn’t share any specifics about the ultrawide module but suggested to expect improvements here too.

He also mentions the importance of computational processing in a camera system within the smartphone form factor, stating that the phone cannot completely rely on optics due to its miniature size and low light-capturing abilities. Likely, the upcoming flagship from OnePlus has something notable in the software aspect too.

In terms of image processing software, the OnePlus 12 gets the core algorithm of the Find series, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, in terms of display technology, the phone gets an exclusive self-developed “Super Light and Shadow ProXDR Display” which will be used in its “Oriental Screen”.

In summary, OnePlus has been working with the Oppo Find series’ imaging team besides the partnership with Hasselblad to make the camera system of the OnePlus 12 stand out.

Related:

(Source)

OnePlus details camera specs for the OnePlus 12

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Nov 28, 2023

OnePlus will officially launch the OnePlus 12 in China on December 5. The company has been gradually teasing the arrival of the device, revealing the design and color options yesterday. Today, OnePlus has shared the camera details of the smartphone.

OnePlus 12 camera specifications

OnePlus 12 will feature a triple rear-camera setup with a 50MP Sony LYT-808 primary sensor, a 64MP Omnivision O64B periscope telephoto camera, and a 48MP Sony IMX581 ultra-wide lens.

The primary camera boasts an aperture of f/1.6 and a focal length of 23mm, while the ultrawide lens has an aperture of f/2.2 and a focal length of 14mm. The telephoto camera, on the other hand, has an aperture of f/2.6 and a focal length of 70mm, enabling 3x optical zoom.

OnePlus has also confirmed that the OnePlus 12 will feature the same 13-channel multi-spectral sensor as its predecessor, the OnePlus 11. This sensor is designed to capture natural colors in photos and will be used in conjunction with Hasselblad’s color calibration expertise.

These camera specifications largely align with those of the OnePlus Open. Additionally, the OnePlus 12’s cameras will also benefit from Oppo’s HDR and portrait-related technologies for enhanced image processing.

OnePlus has also revealed that the OnePlus 12 will have a 2K OLED display with curved edges, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC with up to 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

Likewise, the color options include black, white, and green. The battery is expected to come in at 5,400mAh and can be charged with a 100W adapter.

Related:

(Source)

Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro live images surface ahead of launch

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Nov 28, 2023

Xiaomi‘s sub-brand Redmi is set to unveil its latest smartphone lineup, the Redmi K70 series, on November 29th. Ahead of the official launch, live images of the Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro have surfaced on Weibo, revealing the devices’ design and key specifications.

Redmi K70, K70 Pro live images

Both the Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro feature a large camera island on the back housing three lenses and an LED flash. The camera modules also include a 50MP OIS engraving, indicating the presence of a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS).

The Redmi K70 Pro also has a 2x optical zoom engraving for the telephoto camera, while the standard Redmi K70 will get a 2MP AI cam.

The front of both devices features a centrally aligned punch-hole display with thin bezels on the sides. The settings menu shown in the picture also confirms that both phones will ship with Xiaomi HyperOS 1.0.1 based on Android 14 as well as 12GB of RAM.

Redmi is expected to offer smartphones with up to 16GB of RAM, with the K70 Pro potentially reaching 24GB. Storage options will range up to 1TB.

The Redmi K70 Pro will be powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, while the standard Redmi K70 will run on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.

Both devices will feature a 2K display with a peak brightness of 4000 nits. Additionally, both smartphones will sport a metal frame and a 1/1.55″ Light Fusion 800 sensor for the main camera.

We are just one day away from the official launch of the Redmi K70 series, where we will get all the juicy details about these devices. In the meantime, you can read a comprehensive roundup of all three smartphones in our dedicated article here.

Related:

(Source)

Nubia Z60 key specifications leaked, December launch expected

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Nov 28, 2023

Nubia has recently announced the Red Magic 9 Pro series of gaming phones featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. Reports have revealed that the brand is also working on two Z-series flagship phones, such as the Nubia Z60 Ultra and the Nubia Z50 SE, for the Chinese market in December. The Z50 SE is said to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, whereas the Z60 Ultra may feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. In a new leak, tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed the key specifications of an upcoming SD8G3 phone. It appears that the tipster may have revealed details about the Z60 Ultra.

Nubia Z60 Ultra specifications (rumored)

The leak reveals that the Nubia Z60 Ultra will arrive with a flat OLED display that seemingly supports 1.5K resolution like the Z50 Ultra.

The leak states that the device will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and a 6,000mAh battery. Another leak from the same tipster suggests that it will support 80W fast charging.

There is no word on the front camera of the Z60 Ultra. However, its rear camera setup will comprise a 50-megapixel primary camera with a 1/1.56-inch camera sensor and not the 1-inch camera sensor that was said to be present in its prototype. The main snapper will be accompanied by a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens with a 1/1.55-inch camera sensor and a 64-megapixel telephoto camera with a 1/2-inch camera sensor.

The device was spotted with the model number NX721J in Geekbench’s database in October. The listing revealed that the device will arrive with 12 GB of RAM and Android 14 OS, which will be possibly overlaid with MyOS UI.

RELATED:

(source)

Pro models in iPhone 15 series are getting even more popular, hints display shipment

By

Debasish

-

Nov 28, 2023

Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) reports a notable increase in panel shipments for the iPhone 15 series. The data reveals a 16% growth in panel deliveries compared to the iPhone 14 series during the same period through October and 21% growth than the corresponding period for the iPhone 13 in 2021.

Pro iPhone models’ dominance in panel shipments

iPhone 15 Pro Max Antutu Benchmark Score Revealed

DSCC’s findings point to the growing popularity of the iPhone 15 Pro models, particularly in October. The Pro variants secured an impressive 71% share of the total panels shipped, which is a significant increase from the 65% share recorded in September.

Notably, the higher starting price of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, priced at $1,199 with 256GB of storage, compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 14 Pro Max at $1,099 with 128GB of storage, has influenced the Average Selling Price (ASP). The ASP of the iPhone 15 series registers a 5% increase compared to the iPhone 14 series. This reflects a willingness among consumers to opt for higher-storage variants.

iPhone 13, 14, 15 series cumulative Pro share

Samsung Display (SDC) continues to be a pivotal player in Apple‘s supply chain, contributing significantly to the iPhone 15 series panel shipments. Accounting for 81% of panels shipped from June to October, SDC remains a reliable and consistent supplier for Apple. This trend aligns with previous years where SDC played a key role in delivering panels for all four iPhone models in 2023, 2022, and 2021.

However, other panel suppliers have entered the scene lately. LG Display (LGD) started shipping displays for the iPhone 15 Pro Max in September, securing an 18% share for that model through October. Additionally, China’s BOE entered the supply chain last month, contributing with a 1% share for the iPhone 15 series.

Pro iPhones are getting increasingly popular among people

DSCC Senior Research Director, David Naranjo, highlights a trend where iPhone 15 Pro models are gaining increased popularity. Naranjo states, “Panel shipments for the iPhone 15 Pro models account for a higher share versus the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro models during the June – October period.” Cumulatively, the iPhone 15 Pro models hold a 64% share, surpassing the 54% share recorded for the iPhone 14 series and iPhone 13 series during the same period.

In summary, the latest data suggests an increased demand for the iPhone 15 series, driven by the popularity of its Pro models.

Related:

(Source)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra receives NBTC certification, hints at early launch in January 2024

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Nov 28, 2023

The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has received approval from the NBTC certification platform in Thailand. Although the certification does not disclose substantial details about the smartphone, it does hint at a potential official launch in January. Corresponding reports have indicated that the S24 series is scheduled to be unveiled globally on Jan. 17, with sales anticipated to commence on Jan. 30.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra NBTC certification

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra specifications (rumored)

According to reports, the upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra will include a flat titanium frame accompanied by a titanium lens ring. The S24 Ultra’s display is said to be a 6.78-inch flat QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, departing from the curved design of its predecessor models. The display is set to achieve a peak brightness of 2500 nits.

Alleged Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra live shots

The device is expected to be powered by the customized edition of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chips. It is expected to arrive with 12 GB / 16 GB of RAM and is likely to be available in multiple storage choices, such as 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB. The device is rumored to house a 5,000mAh battery with 45W charging support, along with 25W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities.

The camera setup of the S24 Ultra is rumored to comprise a 200-megapixel primary camera with OIS support, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, a 50-megapixel 5x periscope telephoto lens, and a 10-megapixel 3x telephoto camera. On the front, it is likely to feature a 12-megapixel selfie camera. It is expected to come preinstalled with One UI 6-based Android 14 and bring first access to Samsung’s Galaxy AI.

While the Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset in all regions, the S24 and S24+ may arrive with either the Exynos 2400 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, depending on the region. Like the predecessor models, the S24 Ultra will also feature a built-in S Pen stylus.

RELATED:

Realme GT 5 Pro confirmed to feature LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 4.0, 12000mm² heat dissipation unit

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Nov 28, 2023

Realme’s next flagship phone, the Realme GT 5 Pro, will be announced on Dec. 7 in China. Like the GT 5, which features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the Pro model will be a performance-driven smartphone. Today, the brand released the below posters to reveal the performance capabilities of the Pro variant.

Realme GT 5 Pro be a performance-driven flagship

Like other Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered flagship phones, the Realme GT 5 Pro will feature LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. The device, which bears the RMX3888 model number, has already been spotted with 24 GB of RAM on Geekbench. It is likely that this variant of the device will offer 1 TB of internal storage.

In addition, the GT 5 Pro promises an impressive enhancement in heat dissipation capability. Featuring a cutting-edge 3VC iceberg cooling system, it achieves unparalleled vapor chamber cooling with a surface area of 12000mm², surpassing even professional gaming phones in power.

With six times the thermal conductivity of its counterparts, the Realme GT 5 Pro’s advanced cooling system results in a remarkable maximum reduction of 21.8°C in the CPU core temperature, claims the brand. This breakthrough allows the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 to deliver unmatched performance.

Another aspect of the performance of the GT 5 Pro is its battery size and charging capabilities. Reports have revealed that the device will pack a 5,400mAh dual-cell battery that supports 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.

As per other reports, the Realme GT 5 Pro will have a 6.78-inch curved-edge OLED display that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It is expected to feature a 32-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel (LYT-808 main camera, with OIS) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 50-megapixel (IMX890 telephoto with 3x optical zoom) triple camera unit on the back. It will run on Realme UI 5-based Android 14.

RELATED:

OnePlus 12, 12R launch date officially revealed, though inadvertently

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Nov 28, 2023

OnePlus is all set to announce the OnePlus 12 on Dec. 5 in China. The brand recently confirmed that the global launch of the device will take place in January 2024. While it is expected to confirm the global launch date by the end of December or in early January, a global marketing campaign has inadvertently revealed the date.

Global OnePlus 12 launch date revealed inadvertently

OnePlus 12 promo campaign image2 — OnePlus 12 promo campaign image

As per the support pages available on the official OnePlus regional websites for Europe, the US, and India, the promotional campaign is scheduled to run Nov. 27, until Jan. 23. Notably, a dedicated page available on the OnePlus India website states the Jan. 23 date is “the day before the OnePlus 12 launch event.”

OnePlus 12 promo campaign image1 — OnePlus 12 promo campaign image

OnePlus plans to conduct giveaways for the forthcoming OnePlus 12 across its regional divisions. Those who are interested can participate in the campaign by subscribing to the launch page using a valid email address.

OnePlus will unveil three products along with the OnePlus 12. The rumored devices that are expected to debut alongside the OP12 include the OnePlus 12R (rebranded OnePlus Ace 3 with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2) and OnePlus Buds 3 Pro TWS earbuds.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-driven OnePlus 12 in China is set to debut with configurations offering a maximum of 24 GB LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1 TB UFS 4.0 storage. The Chinese variant will be presented in three color options, namely black, white, and green. Meanwhile, for the global market, it is anticipated that the OnePlus 12 will likely come with 16 GB of RAM, 1 TB of storage, and color variations in black and green.

RELATED:

(source|via)

Redmi K70 confirmed to feature almost same specs as Redmi K70 Pro, but pack Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Nov 28, 2023

Tomorrow, Redmi will announce the Redmi K70 series of smartphones in China along with some other devices, such as the Redmi Book 14 / 16 (2024) laptop, the Redmi Watch 4, and the Redmi Buds 5 Pro TWS earbuds. Almost everything about the Redmi K70e has been revealed in recent reports, whereas the company has been confirming the key details of the Pro model for the past few days, but it has been silent about the standard K70. Today, the brand rolled out a couple of posters to confirm the key details of the vanilla model.

Redmi K70 key specifications

The below posters confirm that the Redmi K70 will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, whereas the K70 Pro will be equipped with the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

In addition, the company confirmed that the Redmi K70 has an OLED display that offers a 2K resolution, a metallic middle frame, and a 50-megapixel OmniVision Light Hunter 800 camera. The latter is said to have the OVX8000 model number and is said to be a modified version of the OV50e camera sensor.

The Redmi K70 and Redmi K70 Pro share nearly identical specifications, as per a leak from tipster Digital Chat Station. Both models are reported to feature the TCL C8 OLED display panel, a matching battery size, and equivalent charging capabilities. Hence, both phones are expected to pack a 5,120mAh battery with 120W fast charging.

Notably, the primary distinctions between the two models lie in the chipset and camera specifications. The K70 Pro is set to include a telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, a feature that will be absent in the standard K70. It is speculated that the Redmi K70 will sport a triple camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro lens. In contrast, the Pro variant is expected to house a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and an additional 50-megapixel telephoto lens.

RELATED:

Alibaba Redirects Focus from Quantum Research to AI in Healthcare and Agriculture

By

Anubhav

-

Nov 28, 2023

In a strategic move, Alibaba Group Holding’s Damo Academy is transferring its quantum lab to Zhejiang University, signaling a significant shift in the company’s focus towards artificial intelligence (AI), particularly in agriculture and healthcare. This donation marks a new chapter in Alibaba’s commitment to advancing technology.

The company wants to reap the advantages of AI at the earliest

Since its inception in 2017, Damo Academy has been at the forefront of research in areas like AI, autonomous driving, and quantum computing. However, the recent decision to prioritize AI research, especially in practical sectors like farming and medical care, reflects a broader trend in technology: the pivot from theoretical exploration to real-world application.

Quantum technology, which delves into the enigmatic world of subatomic particles, has been a key area of competition between major global powers like China and the US. However, despite significant investments and advancements, the commercialization of quantum technology remains a distant goal. This might partially explain Alibaba’s recalibration towards AI, a field witnessing rapid growth and immediate impact.

The move is also timely, considering Alibaba’s release of Tongyi Qianwen, an AI chatbot, which showcases the practical applications of AI in everyday technology. In contrast, quantum computing, although revolutionary, still hovers in a realm of future potential rather than present utility.

Alibaba’s pivot is more than a change in research focus; it’s a reflection of the shifting landscapes in global technology. By investing in AI for agriculture and healthcare, Alibaba is not only aligning with current market trends but also addressing crucial global challenges. This realignment from the abstract complexities of quantum mechanics to the tangible benefits of AI in critical sectors underscores a strategic, forward-thinking approach in technology application. The donation to Zhejiang University also signifies a strengthening of academia-industry collaboration, crucial for nurturing future innovations (and generations).

RELATED:

(Via)

Why are Prices of EVs not Dropping with the Falling Prices for Lithium-ion Batteries?

By

Anubhav

-

Nov 28, 2023

Electric vehicles (EVs) are in a fascinating phase of development. While their heart, the lithium-ion battery, has seen prices drop significantly, EVs as a whole remain costly. Let’s explore why this is happening.

Cheaper raw materials and Expanded production contributed to the reduction in prices

A decade ago, the average cost of a lithium-ion battery was $780 per kilowatt-hour. As of 2023, this has plummeted to a record low of $139/kWh, according to the Bloomberg New Energy Foundation (BNEF). This decrease is largely due to expanded production and cheaper raw materials. Yet, despite these cost reductions, EVs haven’t become significantly more affordable for the average consumer. Why?

First, the reduction in battery costs doesn’t immediately translate to cheaper EVs. Manufacturing an EV is a capital-intensive process, with numerous costs beyond just the battery. Even with cheaper batteries, automakers still face high production costs.

Second, the EV market hasn’t expanded as rapidly as anticipated. This slower growth means that the high investment in EV production hasn’t paid off as expected, leading to higher prices for consumers. For instance, in 2022, battery prices actually increased briefly due to a mismatch between supply and demand.

Furthermore, automakers are cautious in transferring cost reductions to consumers. Brands like General Motors and Ford have faced delays in their EV rollout due to market conditions and the need for technological enhancements. This indicates a larger issue: the EV industry is still finding its footing in a competitive and evolving market.

However, there’s a silver lining. North America is rapidly growing as a battery manufacturing hub, bolstered by governmental support. With increased domestic production and investment in battery technology, the future looks promising.

RELATED:

(Via)

Trek’s Powerfly Gen 4 Electric Mountain Bike Merges Technology with Traditional Biking

By

Anubhav

-

Nov 28, 2023

Where the thrill of the trail meets the rush of technology, Trek, a renowned bicycle manufacturer, is making headlines. The unveiling of the Powerfly Gen 4 electric mountain bike marks a new chapter in off-road cycling for the company, blending traditional biking elements with modern e-bike technology.

The Bosch Performance CX Motor delivers a hefty amount of torque

Trek’s legacy, stretching back to 1976, is rich with innovation and commitment to cyclists of all stripes. With the electric bicycle market booming, the company has widened its horizon, offering a variety of e-bikes, including the latest Powerfly 4, tailored for the mountain biking enthusiasts. What sets the Powerfly 4 apart is its design philosophy: simplicity blended with power.

The bike’s hardtail design, lacking a rear suspension, is a nod to traditional mountain biking. This feature appeals to purists who cherish the raw, unfiltered feedback from the trail. The Powerfly 4 enhances this experience with a robust powertrain and cutting-edge technology. Its heart, the Bosch Performance CX motor, delivers impressive torque, making uphill climbs and challenging terrains more manageable. The integration of the motor and a 500-watt-hour battery into the bike’s frame ensures a balanced ride, crucial for navigating rugged trails.

Moreover, the Powerfly 4’s aluminum frame is built for durability, accommodating the extra weight without compromising performance. The front fork suspension and a simple yet efficient Shimano Deore 1×10 drivetrain complement the bike’s electric components, offering a seamless blend of pedal and electric power.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the Powerfly 4 is its affordability. Priced at $3,650, it stands as a testament to Trek’s commitment to making electric mountain biking accessible without sacrificing quality. It may not have the flash of higher-end models, but it promises an authentic and exhilarating mountain biking experience.

RELATED:

(Via)

Red Magic 9 Pro series goes on sale in China

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 28, 2023

Last week, the Red Magic 9 Pro series, consisted of the Red Magic 9 Pro and the Red Magic 9 Pro+. These new flagship gaming smartphones feature a whole host of improvements over its predecessor, with the main one being the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. Starting today, they go on sale in China.

Red Magic 9 Pro/Pro+ pricing

The Red Magic 9 Pro series, dedicated to gaming enthusiasts, is set to officially launch today at 10 o’clock in China, offering a range of models with prices starting at 4,399 yuan. The pricing details include:

Red Magic 9 Pro Dark Knight: 8+256GB for 4399 yuan ($618), 12+256GB for 4799 yuan, 12+512GB for 5199 yuan ($730).
Red Magic 9 Pro Deuterium Front Transparent Dark Night/Silver Wing: 12+256GB for 4999 yuan ($702), 12+512GB for 5399 yuan ($758).
Red Magic 9 Pro+ Dark Knight: 16+256GB for 5499 yuan ($772), 16+512GB for 5799 yuan ($815), 24GB+1TB for 6999 yuan ($983).
Red Magic 9 Pro+ Deuterium Front Transparent Dark Night/Silver Wing: 16+256GB for 5699 yuan ($800), 16+512GB for 5999 yuan ($842).

Red Magic 9 series specs:

The Red Magic 9 Pro series smartphones feature a 6.8-inch 1.5K OLED BOE Q9+ display with a swift 120Hz refresh rate, an impressive 1600nits peak brightness, and 2160Hz PWM dimming. Powering these devices is the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. The standard RedMagic 9 Pro is available in three storage configurations: 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, and 12GB+512GB. In contrast, the Pro+ model offers three options as well: 16GB+256GB, 16GB+512GB, and an extensive 24GB+1TB variant. Both models are also offered in a Deuterium Front Transparent Dark Night/Silver Wing edition.

Operating on the Android 14-based Redmagic OS, these smartphones boast a camera setup consisting of a 50MP S5KGN5 OIS primary sensor, a 50MP S5KJN1 ultra-wide sensor, a 2MP GC02M1 macro camera, and a 16MP selfie camera.

The RedMagic 9 Pro series is equipped with a robust 6500mAh battery supporting 80-watt wired charging, ensuring ample power for extended usage. On the other hand, the Pro+ model houses a slightly smaller 5500mAh battery but compensates with an impressive 165-watt fast charging capability for rapid replenishment.

Both smartphones offer a comprehensive set of connectivity features, including WiFi 7, Bluetooth version 5.3, USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, Audio, NFC, Dual stereo speakers, a 3.5mm audio jack, an IR blaster for remote control, and an X-axis linear motor for haptics.

RELATED:

(via)

Redmi Watch 4 and Redmi Buds 5 Pro battery details teased

By

Sean

-

Nov 28, 2023

The Redmi Buds 5 Pro and Redmi Watch 4 were just recently teased by Xiaomi. The company is gearing up to launch the two devices alongside the Redmi K70 series. Now, the latest teaser revealed some of their battery specs.

Redmi Watch 4 Battery

In an official Weibo post, the company shared an image poster that claims that the Redmi Watch 4 has a total battery life of up to 20 hours. Redmi further added that the new smartwatch will sport a tall 1.97-inch AMOLED LTPS display. This panel can output up to 1600 nits of peak brightness. Previously, the brand shared another teaser highlighting the new smartwatch’s aluminum alloy frame design. It will also feature a stainless steel rotating crown and come in multiple strap options, namely metallic, leather, and fabric.

Redmi Buds 5 Pro Battery

A separate image poster shared by the Chinese tech giant showcased the Redmi Buds 5 Pro’s battery life. The upcoming TWS earbuds promise to offer 38 hours of battery life. This teaser adds that just 5 minutes of fast charging offers 2 hours of audio playback. Based on what we know so far, the Buds 5 Pro will feature a 10mm tweeter for treble and an 11mm titanium plated subwoofer for improved bass. It will even feature ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) with AI adaptive adjustment. The Redmi Buds 5 Pro arrives in three colors, namely Black, Blue, and White variants.

RELATED:

Infinix Smart 8 Pro visits GeekBench, Bluetooth SIG, and EEC ahead of launch

By

Sean

-

Nov 28, 2023

Infinix is set to launch the Infinix Smart 8 series in India soon. But prior to any official announcement, the upcoming smartphone was spotted on GeekBench, Bluetooth SIG, and EEC.

Infinix Smart 8 Pro

The new budget grade handset surfaced on the three online databases carrying the model number X6525B. The GeekBench listing showed that the device scored 148 points in the single core test and 533 points in the multi core benchmark test. This model was listed with the MediaTek Helio P35 chipset which is paired with 4GB of RAM. Furthermore, the benchmark confirmed that it will run on the Android 13 OS based XOS custom skin out of the box.

Unlike the GeekBench sighting, the EEC and Bluetooth SIG didn’t reveal any finer details regarding these devices. Although the specs are likely slightly better than the base Smart 8. For those unaware, the Infinix Smart 8 will sport an HD+ display, which is likely an LCD panel. This model is equipped with a Spreadtrum T606 SOC that is paired with 3GB of RAM. It also runs on the Android 13 based XOS custom skin.

The Infinix Smart 8 is expected to be powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack that supports standard 10W charging. The Nigerian launch of the device also came with a 6.6-inch HD+ 90Hz display with 500 nits of brightness on the front, while the rear packed an 8-megapixel front camera, and a 13-megapixel + AI lens dual-camera module.

RELATED:

(Via)

Vivo X100 Pro disappoints in stress test, the Dimensity 9300 could be to blame

By

Sean

-

Nov 28, 2023

The Vivo X100 Pro flagship smartphone was put under a stress test recently, which showed some bleak figures. Although, the issue could be rooted in the device’s SoC, which is MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300.

Vivo X100 Pro takes a massive performance hit in stress test

For those unaware, the X100 Pro is a high end device and the Dimensity 9300 is the chipmaker’s latest flagship processor. However, the smartphone was recently put through a stress test by Sahil Karoul (Via NotebookCheck), who shared the results on X. During the test, it was found that the X100 Pro faced a notable thermal throttling, with a massive drop in performance.

The Dimensity 9300 on the device throttled down to just 46 percent of its max performance after just two minutes of the benchmark. Due to this throttling issue, the performance on one of the cores dropped down to 0.6GHz (max clock speed of 3.25GHz). A separate NotebookCheck report talked about how the Dimensity 9300 doesn’t feature any efficiency cores, which could lead to throttling since the high powered cores (Cortex-X4) draws more power.

While this enables impressive raw performance, the downsize was the thermals. So this stress test might be reflecting that. But keep in mind that a stress test is just to check the CPU’s performance on high loads and does not directly reflect real world performance. Everyday users would typically never hit such extreme loads.

RELATED:

MSI G274PFDE gaming monitor with FHD IPS 180Hz panel launched

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 28, 2023

After launching the MAG 401QR 40″ UWQHD 155Hz monitor earlier this month in China, MSI has unveiled the MSI G274PFDE FHD monitor aimed at gamers.

MSI G274PFDE specs & pricing:

The MSI G274PFDE monitor boasts a 27-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, delivering Full HD visuals. With a rapid 180Hz refresh rate and a 1ms gray-to-gray response time, this monitor is optimized for fast-paced gaming, ensuring quick and accurate aiming. The color depth is 8-bit (6-bit + FRC), and the luminance reaches 250 nits. The display offers a 1000:1 contrast ratio and impressive color accuracy with 99% coverage of sRGB, 96% DCI-P3, and 90% Adobe RGB.

It comes with a three-year warranty and features G-Sync compatible Adaptive Sync for smooth gaming experiences. Additional functionalities include a Black Stabilizer for enhancing dark areas, HDR functionality, two HDMI 2.0 inputs, DisplayPort 1.2, headphone output, and a fully adjustable stand with rotation, tilt, height adjustment, and pivot capabilities.

The VESA mount compatibility (75 x 75 mm) offers flexibility in setup. Priced starting at 269 euros, the monitor also includes features such as a blue light filter, flicker-reduced backlighting, Night Vision for highlighting details in dark areas, a wide color gamut for realistic game colors, a frameless design for an immersive gaming experience, and a wide 178° viewing angle for sharp colors and details even at larger angles.

RELATED:

(Source, via)

iQOO 11 gets massive Rs 13,000 ($156) discount in India ahead of iQOO 12 launch

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 28, 2023

After the unveiling in China earlier this month, the iQOO 12 is now set to launch in India on December 12. The new smartphone will come with many improvements over its predecessor, with the main one being the brand-new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. Ahead of the official Indian launch, the price of the iQOO 11 has dropped on Amazon India.

The iQOO 11 which launched at Rs 59,999 for the 8GB+256GB model and Rs 64,999 for the 16GB+256GB model is now starting at Rs. 49,999. The 16GB RAM model is priced at Rs. 51,999, making for an amazing discount of Rs. 13,000. That’s not all as ICICI and HDFC bank card users will get offers like an instant discount of Rs. 2000, dropping the price even further down.

The device is quite a good deal at this price point since it features the flagship-grade Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, paired with a premium 50MP triple camera system and a snappy 144Hz display. Keep reading to know more details about the iQOO 11 smartphone.

iQOO 11 specs:

The IQOO 11 boasts a 6.78-inch 2K AMOLED LTPO 4.0 display with a 20:9 aspect ratio, supporting HDR10+ and offering a variable refresh rate ranging from 1 to 144Hz. Display features include 1.07 billion colors, 1440Hz PWM dimming, DCI-P3 color gamut, and an impressive brightness of up to 1800 nits. Security features consist of an in-display fingerprint sensor.

The camera setup comprises a 50MP primary Samsung GN5 sensor with f/1.88 aperture and OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide camera with f/2.2 aperture, and a 13MP 2x telephoto camera with f/2.46 aperture. For selfies, the phone features a 16MP front snapper.

Under the hood, the IQOO 11 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, coupled with an Adreno GPU for graphics. It offers up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB (256GB in India) of internal storage. The device is equipped with a large 5,000mAh battery supporting 120W fast charging. Operating on Android 13-based Funtouch OS, the phone guarantees three years of Android updates.

Connectivity options include 5G, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6 802.11, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS/GLONASS, USB Type-C, and NFC. It infrared sensor, Hi-Fi audio, stereo speakers, and USB Type-C audio. The IQOO 11 presents a comprehensive package catering to high-performance capabilities and advanced features for a seamless user experience.

RELATED:

(via: 91mobiles)

Samsung Galaxy Buds series gets Pokémon-themed cases in Europe

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 28, 2023

While Samsung has a history of collaborating with the Pokémon franchise to create themed gadget accessories, the availability of these products has been primarily restricted to Samsung’s domestic market of South Korea. However, there is a shift in this trend, as the brand has recently introduced new Pokémon-themed cases for Galaxy Buds in Spain.

The Pokémon Eco-Friends cases, featuring iconic Ultraball, Greatball, and Masterball designs, are now available in Spain. What makes these cases stand out is their compatibility with a range of Samsung Galaxy Buds models, including Buds 2 Pro, Buds Pro, Buds 2, Buds Live, and Buds FE.

The design, inspired by the beloved “Pokéball,” pays homage to the legendary Pokémon video games and anime. These cases come in three vibrant colors: blue, yellow, and purple. Not just eye-catching, the product also carries an environmentally responsible touch, being crafted from recycled materials.

These Pokéball cases are currently available in Spain for €39.91 (~US$44) and can be bought through the brand’s website. Whether you own the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Buds Pro, Buds 2, Buds Live, or Buds FE, you can now add a touch of Pokemon flair to your audio gear.

RELATED:

(Source)