iQOO Neo 9 series tipped to feature 50MP Sony IMX920 primary camera, same as Vivo X100

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Nov 9, 2023

iQOO has just launched the iQOO 12 series of smartphones featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. Next month, the brand is expected to unveil the iQOO Neo 9 series of affordable flagship phones. In a new Weibo post, tipster Digital Chat Station has seemingly leaked details about the primary camera of what appears to be the iQOO Neo 9 Pro.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro main camera details seemingly leaked

According to DCS, an upcoming iQOO phone is equipped with a Sony IMX920 50-megapixel primary camera with a 1.49-inch sensor size. The tipster did not specify the exact name of the iQOO device that will be featured. For those who don’t know, the Vivo X100 is also expected to feature the same primary camera.

Since the above-mentioned camera seems suitable for a flagship phone, it appears that the upcoming iQOO Neo 9 Pro may come equipped with it. To recall, the iQOO Neo 8 and Neo 8 Pro, which debuted earlier this year, featured a 50-megapixel Samsung GN5 and a 50-megapixel Sony IMX866 primary camera.

A recent report revealed that the iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro are tentatively planned to launch in December in China. The devices are said to have V2338A and V2339A model numbers, respectively. It is speculated that the Neo 9 will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, whereas the Neo 9 Pro may have the Dimensity 9300 onboard. The other details of the Neo 9 series are yet to be revealed.

The lineup is expected to ship with the Origin OS 4-based Android 14. It is speculated that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered Neo 9 may face competition from other rumored Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 phones, such as the Redmi K70, OnePlus Ace 3, Honor 100 series, and Realme GT Neo 6, in the Chinese market.

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CMF by Nothing expands product availability to 15 new countries

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 9, 2023

CMF, a sub-brand of Nothing, is expanding its product availability to 15 new countries. This expansion includes countries such as the US, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, and Australia and more.

CMF expands product availability to 15 new countries

The company’s product lineup includes the Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and Power 65W GaN. CMF’s products were initially only available in the UK, where they could be purchased at Nothing’s physical Soho retail store. The company then expanded availability to India at select online and offline retailers.

CMF’s goal is to deliver affordable products that don’t sacrifice on quality. As such, CMF’s three products are priced competitively. The Buds Pro cost $49, the Watch Pro costs $69, and the Power 65W GaN costs $39.

Due to the high demand for CMF’s products, the company has partnered with various retailers to ensure wider availability. Some of these partners include Amazon, Aliexpress, and Rakuten.

CMF plans to expand its product lineup to 26 more markets before the end of the year.

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Lava Blaze 2 5G goes on sale in India, Check price and specs

By

Sean

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Nov 9, 2023

The Lava Blaze 2 5G was announced in India earlier this month. Now, the company’s latest 5G enabled smartphone has finally gone on sale in the region. So let’s have a look at its specs, pricing, and more.

Lava Blaze 2 5G Pricing and Offers

The Lava Blaze 2 5G arrives in three color options, namely Glass Blue, Glass, Black, and Glass Lavender. It is being sold in two storage configurations as well, which include a 4GB + 64GB and 6GB + 128GB variant. It has a starting price tag of 9,999 INR for the 4GB model, while the 6GB version costs 10,999 INR. The device is currently available for purchase via the company’s official website, Amazon India, and offline stores as well.

Lava Blaze 2 5G Specs

The Blaze 2 5G sports a 6.56-inch IPS LCD panel that has an HD+ resolution, 90Hz refresh rate, and an 8-megapixel selfie shooter on the front. Meanwhile, the rear features a 50-megapixel dual camera setup. Under the hood, the smartphone is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 SoC and is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 18W fast charging. The Blaze 2 5G runs on Android 13 OS out of the box and houses a side mounted fingerprint scanner for security. It measures 8.5mm in thickness and weighs 203 grams in weight. It supports Bluetooth 5.0 with support for Wi-Fi as well.

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Honor 100 series with 100W fast charging receives 3C certification

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 9, 2023

Honor is working on the successor to the Honor 90 series, the Honor 100 lineup. The upcoming series is reportedly set to include three devices: the Honor 100, Honor 100 Pro, and the Honor 100 GT.

While an official launch date has yet to be announced, recent leaks suggest that the Honor 100 series could be unveiled by the end of November.

Adding to the anticipation, two potential Honor 100 series smartphones, with model numbers MAA-AN10 and MA-AN00, have received the 3C certification in China. This certification reveals that the devices will support 100W fast charging and 5G connectivity.

Apart from the fast charging and 5G capabilities, no other details have been disclosed by the 3C certification.

However, rumors suggest that the Honor 100 series will boast a 1.5K resolution display, high-frequency dimming for eye protection, and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC. Additionally, the devices are expected to feature dual front-facing cameras and a circular rear camera module.

Honor has not yet revealed the official launch date of the Honor 100 series. We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

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Realme GT 5 Pro real-life image leaked, USB 3.2, wireless charging tipped

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 9, 2023

Realme has been tight-lipped about the launch date and design of the Realme GT 5 Pro, despite teasing its key features for over a week. While it is expected that the company will officially unveil these details in the next week, a real-life image of the GT 5 Pro has surfaced on Weibo. The design of the phone is consistent with the images that emerged through its TENAA certification.

Realme GT 5 Pro live shot leaked

The leaked real-life image of the Realme GT 5 Pro reveals a white-colored back panel. As a flagship model, it is likely to feature a glass back. However, what stands out is the unusually positioned Realme logo, which appears below the round camera module.

Despite having three cameras on the back, the camera island features four camera rings with a dual-LED flash at the top. While the front of the device remains concealed, it is speculated to boast a curved-edge OLED panel with a cantered punch-hole cutout.

Realme GT 5 Pro specifications (rumored)

According to the TENAA listing and recent reports, the Realme GT 5 Pro will feature a 6.78-inch OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It will feature a 32-megapixel front camera, and its rear camera setup will have a 50-megapixel Sony Lytia LYT-T808 primary camera with OIS support. The main snapper will be coupled with an 8-megapixel OmniVision OV08D10 ultra-wide lens and a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 periscope telephoto camera with 2.7x optical zoom.

The Realme GT 5 Pro will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, and a 5,400mAh battery with 100W wired charging support. Realme has confirmed that the GT 5 Pro will come with up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

As per a leak by tipster DCS, the device will be equipped with a USB 3.2-enabled USB-C port and coe with support wireless charging (possibly, 50W wireless charging). It will come preloaded with Realme UI 5 and Android 14, and it will have a 10,000mm2 heat dissipation unit.

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Oppo and Hasselblad unveil HyperTone camera system for Find X7 series, OnePlus 12, Reno 11 series

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 9, 2023

On Nov. 8, during the annual photography forum keynote in France, Oppo and Hasselblad unveiled their collaborative project, the Hasselblad HyperTone camera system, for their flagship phones coming in 2024, starting with the Find X7 series. This initiative aims to lead the way in the realm of computational photography by leveraging aesthetic traction technology and effects.

Key features of HyperTone Camera System

According to Oppo, the HyperTone Image Engine is a revolutionary technology that employs computational photography to address common mobile photography challenges, including distortion. The HyperTone engine incorporates AI denoising in the RAW domain and offers precise pixel brightness correction using photon matrix technology. The result of these advancements is a 30 percent increase in image clarity and a remarkable 60 percent reduction in image noise. The new image processing includes tone mapping control and image fusion with digital negatives.

OPPO, Hasselblad announce the HyperTone camera system

The HyperTone camera system is a combination of hardware and software enhancements comprising three key components:

The main camera system, which offers increased zoom magnification and multiple viewing angles for creative freedom
The image engine, which employs advanced calculations to reduce noise and increase image clarity
The ProXDR display, which reaches a brightness of 12 million pixels, offers up to eight times greater dynamic range for a more realistic output

During the event, the company showcased its improved color sampling capabilities, enabling the accurate restoration of skin color characteristics and addressing issues like blooming with onboard AI. These enhancements also bring a more distinct sense of depth to portrait shots.

When it comes to portrait photography, the HyperTone camera system enhances the three-dimensional appearance of faces. By expanding the sample color blocks for skin color from 2 to 90, Oppo achieves precise restoration of skin color characteristics. Moreover, the natural portrait blurring engine simulates optical blur effects through internal gradients.

The HyperTone camera system will make its debut on the Find X7 series of flagship phones, which is expected to launch in Q1 2024. The company added that the Find X7 series features the industry’s most powerful zoom lens in its telephoto module, ensuring greater versatility in low-light conditions. For those who don’t know, the Find X7 and X7 Pro are expected to feature the Dimensity 9300 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, respectively. The HyperTone camera system will also be featured on the OnePlus 12 and Oppo Reno 11 series of mobile phones.

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Galaxy AI likely to debut on Galaxy S24 series, AI Live Translate Call feature revealed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 9, 2023

Samsung has announced the Galaxy AI, an AI-powered initiative designed to enhance the user experience on its upcoming devices. According to the company, this comprehensive AI solution leverages both on-device AI developed by Samsung and cloud-based AI-enabled through collaborations with industry partners, likely including companies like Microsoft and Google. As a result, Galaxy AI is poised to elevate various aspects of daily mobile usage, all while prioritizing security and privacy.

Galaxy AI: AI Live Translate Call

One of the key features of Galaxy AI is the AI Live Translate Call, which is expected to debut on the latest Samsung phones, potentially the Galaxy S24 series. It will seamlessly integrate a personal translator into the native phone app, eliminating the need for third-party apps. It will offer real-time audio and text translations during conversations, making communication with speakers of other languages as effortless as enabling closed captions for a TV show. To safeguard the privacy of conversations, Galaxy AI will operate entirely on-device.

Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy AI will launch in early 2024, suggesting that it could be first available on the Galaxy S24 series. A recent report indicates that the company may unveil the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 / Exynos 2400-powered S24 lineup on January 17.

Wonjoon Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of R&D at Mobile Experience Business, emphasized the transformative potential of Galaxy AI. He stated, “Mobile technology has the power to connect people, boost productivity, and unleash creativity on a global scale, and Galaxy AI represents a comprehensive step in this direction.”

Samsung is not alone in its pursuit of AI-powered smartphones. Other leading smartphone brands are also developing their own AI models. It appears that in 2024, AI integration into smartphones will become increasingly prevalent as manufacturers strive to enhance user experiences and capabilities.

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Alps Alpine’s New e-Bike Radar System Synchronizes with Your Smartphone

By

Anubhav

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Nov 9, 2023

As electric bicycles become increasingly common on our streets, ensuring rider safety is more important than ever. In an innovative leap, third-party tech creators are stepping up to enhance the security of these eco-friendly commuters. Among the latest advancements is the Ride Safety System RS 1000, a product from Alps Alpine, designed to offer riders a guardian angel over their shoulders.

The bike provides 360-degree coverage around your bike

This nifty device acts as an early warning system, alerting e-bikers to vehicles and potential hazards approaching from behind. Using AI to monitor the road, the RS 1000 serves up instant alerts, and pairs with smartphones to project real-time traffic updates right onto the handlebars. Essentially, it’s like having a rearview mirror with you, but smarter and digital.

Alps Alpine has focused on an intelligent design for the RS 1000. It not only detects danger but also shines as a multifunctional rear light, which includes a brake light feature for better visibility to other road users. The system is lightweight and unobtrusive, designed to be easily mounted without being hidden by bags or gear.

What’s truly impressive is its integration capabilities. The RS 1000 can draw power directly from the e-bike, reducing the hassle of separate charging, and it’s got a USB interface for versatility across different bikes. Plus, with at least two hours of internal battery life, it’s ready for most commutes or leisure rides.

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Chrysler may Launch a New Airflow-Powered EV in 2025

By

Anubhav

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Nov 9, 2023

Chrysler has declared its commitment to electrification by announcing plans to rejuvenate its lineup with a new electric vehicle (EV) by 2025. While the brand’s offerings have dwindled to a few models, including the venerable Pacifica and the long-standing 300 sedan, the anticipated EV could represent a pivotal shift for the company.

A new sedan from Chrysler is also expected to drop next year

At a recent automotive conference in Detroit, Chrysler CEO Christine Feuell shared that an all-electric two-row crossover is on the horizon, with a launch aimed for 2025. This move is part of a broader strategy as the brand, part of the Stellantis group, moves toward a fully electric portfolio by 2028.

What’s particularly intriguing is the inspiration behind this forthcoming model. Despite earlier statements distancing future designs from the Airflow concept revealed at CES in 2022, it appears Chrysler has reconsidered. The Airflow, which garnered positive attention for its sleek “Graphite” iteration, may influence the new crossover’s design after all. This suggests that while the company is looking forward, it hasn’t entirely abandoned the innovative spirit that the Airflow concept represented.

The new EV is expected to be built on the STLA Large platform, which is designed to accommodate a range of electric vehicles under the Stellantis umbrella. In addition to the crossover, there’s talk of a new sedan concept to be unveiled next year, although details remain under wraps. This announcement comes at a time when Chrysler’s lineup is in need of revitalization, and an electric crossover could be just the jolt the brand needs.

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China’s AI Companies will Get a New Difficulty Level to Conquer with GPT-4 Turbo

By

Anubhav

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Nov 9, 2023

The launch of OpenAI‘s GPT-4 Turbo has turned heads, especially in China, where AI researchers are setting new benchmarks in the field as well. This advancement signals a noteworthy shift, pushing AI into an era where understanding and generating human language is becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Companies will look for more cost-effective ways to develop new AI solutions

GPT-4 Turbo, the brainchild of OpenAI, has elevated the capabilities of AI, boasting the ability to recall an impressive amount of textual information and offering developers a more cost-effective way to create applications. This leap forward has not gone unnoticed in China, where tech behemoths like Baidu and Alibaba are gearing up to meet the challenge. These companies are not just playing catch-up but are rethinking their strategies to either match or surpass the features of this advanced AI model.

At the heart of the conversation is the question of how to keep up with such rapid advancements. Companies may opt to enhance their own foundational models or tailor-make AI solutions for specific industry needs. This isn’t just a competition of technology; it’s a race for innovation and application across industries.

China’s urgent need for AI talent underscores the demand for innovation in the face of international developments like GPT-4 Turbo. While the Chinese government recognizes the potential economic boost AI could provide, it remains vigilant about the technology’s governance.

Local AI endeavors, however, face hurdles due to stringent internet regulations that limit access to foreign AI tools like ChatGPT. This creates a unique space for domestic AI solutions to thrive and cater to the specific needs of the Chinese market.

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Minisforum UM480XT mini-PC with a Ryzen 7 4800H CPU, up to 64GB RAM launched starting at $189.90

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 9, 2023

Notable Chinese mini-PC manufacturer Minisforum has launched the UM480XT mini-PC. The new model is a trimmed-down version of the UM590 that was launched last year. The move may be in a bid to reduce prices and rack up sales of the model.

The Minisforum UM480XT mini PC is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 4800H CPU. The CPU is a Renoir APU that was announced in 2020. It is originally designed for larger, more powerful laptops with room for better termals. Thus, the processor is almost outdated but considering the application, it brings the power found on high-end laptops to the affordable PC.

The device comes in a barebone model which allows users to customise it as they desire. There are also three memory versions in addition to the barebone model. The three versions house 16GB, 32GB, and 64 GB of RAM respectively. The mini-PC’s storage options are limited to two – 512GB and 1 TB SSD.

The UM480XT features a compact build with a dimension of 12.76 cm x 4.82 cm. Despite the compact size, the mini-PC comes with a host of connectivity options including a USB-C port for data only, a second USB 3.2 Type-C port with DP 1.4 support, two USB 2.0 Type-A, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack and two HDMI ports. The device also houses a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port.

Pricing & Availability

The Minisforum UM480XT mini-PC is officially available on the company’s website. As for the price, the barebone unit is listed on the company’s website for $229. Curiously, the same model is listed on Amazon for $189.90 but the product is presently out of stock. The product sure offers users a bang for their buck at this price.

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Apple bows down: Will allow third-party App Stores in Europe by 2024, adapting to the DMA

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 9, 2023

Apple is reportedly preparing to make a significant policy change in Europe, aiming to allow third-party app stores on its devices by March 2024. This shift is in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which requires such adjustments to promote competition in the app distribution space.

EU’s Digital Markets Act Pushes Apple to Enable Alternative App Stores by 2024

According to Apple’s recent 10-K filing, the company expects to comply with the new EU legislation, which will directly impact the way its App Store operates. This includes changes in how Apple charges developers, manages the distribution of applications outside its App Store, and allows developers to communicate with users for alternative purchase options.

This move towards permitting third-party app stores could potentially reduce Apple’s App Store revenue, which could have a significant impact on the company’s overall business and financial performance.

Apple, historically known for its strict stance against third-party app stores and sideloading, has not made any public comments regarding these developments following the filing.

Analysts at Morgan Stanley have interpreted the updated language in the filing as a sign that third-party app store access in the EU is on the horizon. They believe that Apple can successfully navigate these changes, citing the security, centralization, and convenience of the existing App Store as factors that might discourage users from switching to third-party alternatives.

In addition to its European challenges, Apple has also faced complications related to its app guidelines in China. The company has adjusted its guidelines to comply with new regulations, which limit access to banned foreign apps. These changes align with China’s increasing internet restrictions, potentially affecting Chinese iPhone users’ access to global platforms. However, Apple’s strong brand and diverse product range, including the popular iPhone 15, are expected to help maintain its hardware sales in China.

Now if you have come this far, I highly recommend you to read our recent article on how governments are actively regulating big tech companies to align with their objectives.

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Apple’s new patent will personalize the driving experience through advanced user recognition

By

Soumyakanti

-

Nov 8, 2023

Apple is said to be developing a car project set for a late 2025 or 2026 release, and their recent patent filing related to smart cars has garnered significant attention.

Apple’s latest patent titled “Customizable System” signals a significant step in its smart vehicle initiative, with an advanced system that personalizes the vehicle experience through user identity recognition.

Enhancing In-Car Experience

This smart system will utilize various user information such as facial recognition, fingerprints, and voice biometrics, aiming to enhance security and provide individualized comfort settings, such as seat adjustments, media settings, and climate control, based on the passenger’s location inside the vehicle.

The system’s integration with portable electronic devices allows it to remind passengers about devices, items, and pets left behind.

Apple’s progress in the automotive sector has been slower than competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi. But this new patent underlines their dedication to carving out a niche in smart vehicle development. However, it’s important to note that not all patented technologies evolve into consumer products.

Apple was also granted a patent for a smart sunroof last year, indicating progress in its electric vehicle project. However, the Apple Car project has faced setbacks, leading to doubts about its timeline, with some predicting a 2026 release. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that Apple might consider acquisitions to establish a stronger presence in the automotive market. Despite uncertainties and potential delays, there is still significant anticipation for Apple’s entry into the automotive sector.

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CMF Watch Pro, Buds Pro & 65W GaN charger now available in 15 more regions

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 8, 2023

CMF, a subsidiary of Nothing, has made its product line available globally in 15 countries and regions, including the US, UK, Malaysia, Japan, and the UAE. The product line consists of the Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and Power 65W GaN charger, all designed with a focus on exceptional design and affordability. CMF plans to continue expanding its global reach to more than 26 countries by the end of the year.

To meet the growing demand, CMF has partnered with various retailers, including Amazon, Aliexpress, and Sharaf DG, to ensure broader availability. Here are all the details.

Product Availability

United Kingdom: Nothing Store Soho
United States: Amazon
India: Flipkart, Myntra, GT (General Trade), LFR (Croma), LFR (Vijay Sales)
Japan: Amazon, Rakuten
Germany (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Italy (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
France (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Spain (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Portugal (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Belgium (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Netherlands (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Sweden (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Poland: Amazon, X-KOM (Buds Pro available now, Watch Pro coming in early 2024)
Czech Republic: Alza (Buds Pro available now, Watch Pro coming in early 2024)
Romania: MAG (Buds Pro available now, Watch Pro coming in early 2024)
Malaysia: CMF by Nothing Flagship Store – Lazada Malaysia
Indonesia: Urban Republic stores, Tokopedia, eraspace.com, shopee.co.id
Philippines: Digital Walker (Coming in December 2023)
Thailand: Aliexpress
Australia: Aliexpress
New Zealand: Aliexpress
Mexico: Aliexpress
Brazil: Aliexpress
Chile: Aliexpress
Saudi Arabia: Jarir bookstore (Coming in December 2023), Amazon.sa (Coming in December 2023)
UAE: Sharaf DG (Coming in December 2023), Amazon.ae (Coming in December 2023)

CMF Buds Pro

The CMF Buds Pro is the company’s latest wireless earphones and is the most affordable TWS model in Nothing’s audio product portfolio. It features hybrid ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) with up to 45 decibels of noise reduction, clear call technology, and a powerful bass boost option. Each earbud has a 55mAh battery that offers up to 11 hours of audio playback with ANC turned off, and when paired with the charging case, it can last for up to 39 hours. Just 10 minutes of charging can provide up to five hours of music playback. The earbuds can be customized using the Nothing X app and come in gray, white, and orange colors.

CMF Power 65W GaN Charger

The CMF Power 65W GaN charger is an affordable Gallium Nitride charger that supports fast charging for smartphones, earbuds, smartwatches, and most notebooks. It features two USB Type-C ports and one USB Type-A port, making it compatible with a wide range of electronic devices. The charger supports various protocols, including PD3.0, QC4.0+/3.0/2.0, SCP, FCP, PPS, AFC, Samsung 9V2A, DCP, and Apple 2.4A, ensuring compatibility with popular electronic products. It also offers a wide voltage range from 100-240V, making it suitable for use worldwide. The charger is available in gray or orange color options.

CMF Watch Pro

The CMF Watch Pro is a smartwatch with a design reminiscent of Apple Watches. It features a polished metal frame with a side dial and a plastic back. The smartwatch boasts a 1.96″ AMOLED display with 600+ nits peak brightness and a resolution of 410×502. It offers comprehensive 24-hour health tracking, including real-time heart rate and blood oxygen saturation monitoring, sleep and stress tracking, hydration and movement reminders, and personalized fitness goals. With 110 sports modes, it caters to fitness enthusiasts. The smartwatch also features Bluetooth calling integrated with AI technology for clear mic output. It is powered by a 340mAh battery that provides up to 13 days of regular usage and is rated IP68 for water resistance.

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LG WashTower washing machine & dryer set with a compact unibody design launched in India

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Nov 8, 2023

Leading consumer electronics brand LG has unveiled its latest innovation in the laundry industry in India, the LG WashTower. The new laundry solution is yet another innovative product from the Korean tech giant that simplifies our daily routine on the home front.

Features

The LG WashTower merges cutting-edge hardware and software in an elegant unibody design. The series was first announced at IFA 2020 and has since had several improvements. This model packs a compact (600 mm x 1655 mm x 660 mm) (W x H x D) size, which makes it suitable for a diverse range of living spaces, making it an ideal choice for both compact and spacious homes.

The LG WashTower boasts a groundbreaking unibody design that seamlessly combines hardware and software to provide an exceptional laundry experience. Its Center Control Panel ensures user-friendly access and control while maximizing space utilization and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the laundry area. Additionally, it is available in a stylish Green/Beige color combination, blending seamlessly with your home decor.

Mr. Hong Ju Jeon, Managing Director of LG India, described the WashTower as a remarkable milestone in the world of laundry solutions. With AI-driven technology, the LG WashTower takes the guesswork out of laundry, ensuring that your clothes are handled with the utmost care.

The laundry appliance is equipped with advanced intelligence features that streamline your laundry tasks, including AI DD® (Auto Sense AI DD®) technology, ‘Prepare to Dry’ option, Quick Wash, Quick Dry, and TurboWash360™, allowing you to complete laundry in just one hour. The LG WashTower also provides an advanced cleaning experience, reducing house dust mites with its Allergy Care cycle.

One standout feature is Smart Pairing™, which ensures a seamless transition from washing to drying by automatically syncing the dryer’s cycle with the washer’s settings.

Pricing & Availability

Priced at 2,75,000 Indian Rupees (~$3302 USD), the LG WashTower is set to revolutionize the Indian laundry industry, offering an innovative design, intelligent features, and advanced cleaning capabilities that redefine the laundry experience while enhancing the aesthetics of your home. There is no word yet on when it will go on sale in India.

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No HyperOS updates, if you choose to unlock your Xiaomi phone’s bootloader

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 8, 2023

Xiaomi is reportedly considering stricter measures for bootloader unlocking in its smartphones, particularly in China, raising concerns among its user base. Leaked information indicates that Xiaomi may make the process of unlocking the bootloader more challenging, impacting customization, custom ROM installation, and advanced user operations.

Speculations Surrounding Xiaomi’s Bootloader Unlocking Policy

Recent leaks from Xiaomi Community China revealed a hidden “Bootloader Unlock Beta” option, suggesting the company’s intention to tighten bootloader unlocking procedures. The motivations behind these changes remain unclear, but they may be driven by concerns related to security and software integrity.

These potential complications in bootloader unlocking could adversely affect users, especially those interested in installing custom ROMs. If implemented, users may need to invest more effort in understanding and navigating the new procedures.

Xiaomi’s recent launch of the Xiaomi 14 series in China introduced the HyperOS, replacing MIUI. Xiaomi later confirmed (via Android Authority) that bootloader unlocking will be disabled by default on HyperOS smartphones, citing reasons such as security, data protection, and user experience. Users will now need to request permission to unlock the bootloader through Xiaomi’s community forum.

There are reports that for Chinese users, additional restrictions include reaching a “level five” status on the Xiaomi community forums, time-sensitive unlock permissions, and a limit of three unlocked devices annually. These restrictions specifically apply to the Chinese version of HyperOS, with global users awaiting further announcements.

Moreover, Xiaomi disclosed that users who unlock their bootloader will no longer receive HyperOS updates, impacting both MIUI 14 and HyperOS. However, users can regain access to updates by relocking their devices.

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Elon Musk’s Starlink Ushers in a New Era of Internet Connectivity for India

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Nov 8, 2023

In a move that could revolutionize internet access in India, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite constellation is poised to receive a license for satellite communications operations. This green light from the Indian government paves the way for Starlink to offer its high-speed internet services, voice calls, and messaging capabilities to individuals and organizations across the vast nation. Here the derails…

Elon Musk’s Starlink set to get licence for Satcom ops

This landmark decision comes after Starlink successfully addressed the government’s concerns regarding data storage and transfer norms. The company has committed to complying with India’s data regulations, ensuring that user information remains within the country’s borders.

Starlink’s entry into the Indian market is expected to ignite fierce competition with existing players like OneWeb and Reliance Jio. However, Starlink holds a distinct advantage with its extensive global network of satellites, promising to provide reliable and ubiquitous connectivity even in remote and underserved areas.

The granting of this license marks a significant milestone for India’s telecommunications landscape. Starlink’s satellite-based internet services will not only bridge the digital divide and empower millions of Indians but also generate new employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth. As Starlink’s constellation expands and its technology matures, it has the potential to transform India into a global hub for innovation and digital connectivity.

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ASUS Unveils New ExpertBook Laptops with 13th Gen Intel Core Processors in India

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 8, 2023

ASUS has just announced its latest ExpertBook series, featuring the ExpertBook B9 OLED, B56 OLED, and B54 laptops, all powered by 13th Gen Intel Core processors. These laptops are designed to boost productivity and offer robust performance, security, and style for modern business users.

The ExpertBook B9 OLED is remarkably lightweight, weighing only 990 grams, thanks to its premium magnesium-lithium alloy construction. It packs an up to 13th Gen Intel Core vPro processor, dual-fan cooling, up to 64 GB dual-channel RAM, and Iris Xe Graphics Active. The 16:10 OLED display is Pantone-validated for color accuracy, and it offers Dolby Atmos sound and AI noise cancellation. With a 63Wh battery and 65W USB-C adapter for fast charging, it’s perfect for professionals on the move.

The ExpertBook B5602CVA impresses with its 16-inch 4K OLED display with HDR support. It’s powered by up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 P-series vPro processors, offers optional Intel Arc A350M discrete GPU, up to 40 GB of fast upgradable Dual Channel DDR5 RAM, and Wi-Fi 6E. Security features include Intel vPro support, TPM 2.0, fingerprint login, IR HD camera, and webcam shield.

ASUS ExpertBook B5402C and B5402F offer ultraportable versatility. They come in two variants, one with a minimalist clamshell chassis and the other with a flip touchscreen and garaged stylus. Both variants are thin and lightweight, with up to 12-hour battery life. They feature up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 vPro P-series processors, Iris Xe graphics, up to 40 GB fast DDR5 upgradable RAM, Wi-Fi 6E, and dual 2 TB SSD support with RAID 0/1. Enterprise-grade security features include vPro, TPM 2.0, IR and fingerprint login, webcam shield, AI noise cancellation, and NumberPad.

These laptops offer excellent connectivity with dual USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 & USB4, triple 4K display output, fast-charging support, full-sized RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet, and HDMI. They meet MIL-STD 810H U.S. military standards and undergo rigorous ASUS internal testing.

ASUS is committed to sustainability throughout its product lifecycle. The manufacturing process reduces material waste and energy consumption, with laptops made from up to 70% post-industrial recycled metal. The packaging is eco-friendly, and the accessory box can transform into a laptop stand. These laptops are EPEAT Gold verified and exceed ENERGY STAR standards.

Pricing & availability

The ExpertBook B9403, B5602CVA, B5402F, and B5402C will be available through ASUS Enterprise Channel Partners starting from November 7, 2023, with pricing varying based on configurations.

The price list for the ASUS ExpertBook laptop models is as follows:

The ExpertBook B9403CVA is priced at ₹217,990.
The ExpertBook B5602CVA comes in at ₹188,990.
The ExpertBook B5402CVA is available for ₹157,490.
The ExpertBook B5402FVA is priced at ₹170,490.

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(Source)

Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 with a self-developed noise reduction, fully automatic lock body unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 8, 2023

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has officially launched the Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2. The new door lock comes with a price tag of 1,299 yuan (~$178) and will officially go on sale on November 10.

Features

The Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 adopts a newly developed fully automatic lock body that has noise-reduction properties. The technology is fully developed by Xiaomi. In comparison to the first-generation models of fully automatic locks, Xiaomi’s self-developed noise-reducing fully automatic locks reduce noise by 12dB when closing the door and 13dB when opening the door. Turning on the Do Not Disturb mode can also turn off the prompt sound and reduce the alarm sound.

The lock body is also integrated with multiple sensors to monitor the status of the lock body in real-time. It adopts a direct plug-in C-level lock core that penetrates the lock body structure.

In terms of unlocking methods, Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 supports AI fingerprint recognition, long-term passwords, periodic/one-time passwords, Bluetooth, Xiaomi mobile phones, Xiaomi watches, encrypted NFC door cards, and mechanical keys.

It adopts a new generation of semiconductor fingerprint recognition technology, a built-in AI algorithm, and deep training of large models. The more you use it, the better it becomes. Xiaomi also claims that the fingerprint recognition speed is ≤0.5 seconds, the false recognition rate is ≤0.001% and the authenticity rejection rate is ≤0.52%. In addition, users can also pre-set duress fingerprints. If they encounter a crisis, they can use the duress fingerprint function to make a silent call notification to the preset phone number.

Furthermore, the Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 is equipped with a MIJIA security chip which allows users to store private data such as fingerprints and passwords in encrypted form locally. In this way, the data cannot be read or decrypted externally. The door lock also supports Bluetooth + Wi-Fi dual protocols. You can remotely view the door lock’s alarm notifications and operation logs through the MIJIA app without using a Bluetooth Mesh gateway device. Users can also share door lock device management rights with family members, making it easier for family members to manage door locks.

In terms of battery life, the door lock is powered by 8 dry batteries and can be used for up to 1 year. It will also remind the user when the battery is low. Peradventure it runs completely out of battery, users can also use the Type-C external power bank to provide an emergency power supply to the door lock to complete temporary unlocking.

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Lofree Block 98 wireless retro-style mechanical keyboard launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Nov 8, 2023

Lofree‘s latest offering, the Block 98 wireless mechanical keyboard, combines a vintage look with cutting-edge technology. The Block 98 boasts a minimalist ‘Block’ design with smooth volume control knobs and a clear status panel. It offers quiet typing with self-lubricated switches and foam cushioning for comfort.

The keyboard’s two Hermès orange-accented knobs allow easy volume adjustment and switching between connection methods. The status panel displays essential information like lock status, connected devices, and remaining power. Users can choose from 14 white backlit effects.

One key feature is the hot-swappable switches, allowing users to customize their typing experience easily. Despite its classic appearance, the Block 98 supports modern connectivity standards, including Bluetooth, 2.4G, and USB-C.

Battery life is impressive, offering 10 hours of wireless typing with the backlight on and 80 hours with it off.

Pricing & availability

The Block 98 is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, priced at $169/£138.94.

In other news, Lofree is raising funds for the Lofree Flow, a mechanical keyboard they say is super smooth. If you’re on the hunt for a small mechanical keyboard with a 60% size, take a look at this one and read our detailed review.

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(via: NotebookCheck)