Anbernic RG ARC gaming handheld with a Sega Saturn-inspired design launched

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Oct 26, 2023

The Anbernic RG ARC new gaming handheld has a Sega Saturn-inspired design. The new gaming handheld will come in single OS and dual OS versions known as the RG ARC-S and RG ARC-D respectively.

Features

The RG ARC-D features Android 11 and Linux operating systems while the RG ARC-S has Linux OS. The Sega Saturn design is visible from the handheld’s six front-facing buttons. The gadget’s small display is ensconced in between the D-pad and gamepad buttons.

The Anbernic RG ARC will come with a touchscreen display for the dual OS version but both versions are powered by the Rockchip RK3566 chipset. The RG ARC-S has 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM while the RG ARC-D has 2GB of RAM. The single OS version has 16GB TF memory while the dual OS version has 16GB TF + eMMC 32GB memory. Both versions of the handheld feature WiFi online pairing and Bluetooth handle function. This new Anbernic gaming handheld has the same chipset as the earlier released Anbernic RG353PS. There are four ARM Cortex-A55 CPUR cores @ 1.8GHz and a Mali-G52 MP2 GPU in the RG ARC series.

The RG ARC has two sets of shoulder buttons for emulating some games. There are two USB-C ports and a mini HDMI connection for both versions of the Anbernic RG ARC. A microSD card reader is also present in both the RG ARC-S and RG ARC-D models.

Pricing & Availability

Availability and pricing details for the Anbernic RG ARC gaming handheld are lacking at this time. However, it is expected that Anbernic will release an official statement on the upcoming gaming handheld shortly.

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Nubia Z50 SE appears on TENAA, design revealed

By

Soumyakanti

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Oct 26, 2023

Recently, details about a new smartphone, believed to be the Nubia Z50 SE (model NX715J), surfaced on the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) website.

Nubia Z50 SE TENAA Images:

The images highlight that the phone follows the Nubia Z50 series design, showcasing a rear triple-camera setup enclosed in a rectangular module. The model certified is black with a curved screen on the front, though further specifications remain undisclosed. It features volume rocker buttons and a red-tinted power button on the right side. On the back, it sports a triple camera setup accompanied by an LED flash. As pointed out by GSMArena, the device looks a lot like Axon 50 Ultra.

The phone has also secured 3C certification recently, which indicates it’s packaged with an 80W charger. Nubia has been proactive in its lineup expansion. Evidence of two other devices, the Nubia Z60 Ultra, and Nubia Z60 Fold, bearing codenames NX721J and NX801J respectively, have been found on the GSMA IMEI database. However, these are yet to receive their 3C certification.

The standard Nubia Z50 launched last year boasts features such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, LPDDR5X RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, and a 6.67-inch 144Hz curved screen. Its rear camera array includes a 64-megapixel main camera (using the Sony IMX787) and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle macro dual lens. Additionally, it utilizes a 5000mAh battery, also compatible with 80W fast charging.

Also, Nubia recently introduced the Z50S model quietly, equipped with a 6.67-inch 144Hz curved display and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. This model also comes with 12GB RAM and a 5000mAh battery. It’s priced starting at 2,199 Yuan ($300) in China.

The official launch date for the Nubia Z50 SE remains unspecified.

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LG XBOOM XL7S & XL5S portable party speakers launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 26, 2023

LG has introduced its latest XBOOM series, featuring the XL7S and XL5S models, designed to provide a portable audio solution that combines sound quality with lighting effects. These speakers are built with convenience in mind, featuring rugged construction and ergonomic handles for easy portability.

The LG XBOOM XL7S offers an impressive 20-hour battery life, while the XL5S provides 12 hours of playtime. Both speakers are rated IPX4 for water resistance, making them suitable for various environments.

The LG XBOOM XL7S features a 20.32 cm Giant Woofer for powerful bass and a Dynamic Bass Optimizer to ensure balanced sound quality at any volume level. It also includes two 6.35 cm dome tweeters for clear high-frequency notes. The LG XBOOM XL5S comes with a 16.51 cm Giant Woofer and Dynamic Bass Optimizer, along with two 6.35 cm dome tweeters for clear sound.

In addition to their sound capabilities, the XL5S adds dynamic party lighting with double strobe lighting that synchronizes with the music. The XBOOM app’s My Pick feature allows for personalized light shows. These speakers can also be used for karaoke, with the option to plug in a microphone or a guitar. The XL7S is equipped with a telescopic handle and wheels for easy transport, while the XL5S has a handle that makes carrying easy.

Price & availability

The LG XBOOM XL7S will be priced starting at Rs 54,990, while the XL5S will start at Rs 44,990. More information about the availability will be made public soon, so stay tuned.

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Neco E-Pop Seems like The Next-Gen Compact Electric Commuter

By

Anubhav

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Oct 26, 2023

From high-end, high-performance beasts to slim urban commuters, the catalog of E-bikes and scooters is ever-expanding. One such addition to the electric scooter landscape is the Neco E-Pop. Originating from Belgium, Neco, traditionally known for their gasoline-powered scooters and motorcycles, has taken a leap into the future with the E-Pop.

The little scooter zips through the city effortlessly

At first glance, the E-Pop impresses with its moto-inspired design. The exposed frame is reminiscent of the Honda Ruckus, yet the E-Pop stands out with its compactness. It’s not just about looks; this little scooter is designed to zip through city streets effortlessly. With a power output of 1,200 watts, roughly equivalent to a 50cc moped, it can reach speeds of up to 28 mph. Its compact 48-volt battery boasts a commendable range of around 37 miles on a single charge, and the convenience of being removable makes charging hassle-free.

Beyond performance, the E-Pop is brimming with features. The transparent design approach means there’s no hiding what’s beneath – a straightforward double rear shock and a standard telescopic fork. Despite its size, it’s equipped with 10-inch wheels, efficient disc brakes, and a host of modern amenities like LED lights, keyless start, and a USB charging port. Plus, the built-in luggage rack and two-seater saddle indicate it’s ready for both solo and duo adventures, although reaching its top speed might be a challenge with an extra passenger!

Available in four vibrant colors – black, orange, yellow, and green – the E-Pop is not only a statement piece but also an affordable one. Priced at 1,999 Euros (around $2,120 USD), it’s an attractive proposition for those seeking a sustainable and stylish urban commuting solution.

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How V2X Technology Bridges the Communication Gap Between Cars and Bikes

By

Anubhav

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Oct 26, 2023

To be very fair, the emergence of electric bicycles has ushered in a new era of technological advancements and achievements. As the demand for alternative transport options grows, the spotlight is increasingly on ensuring the safety of all road users. Witness V2X – a revolutionary vehicle-to-vehicle communication technology that aims towards redefining road safety standards.

The technology simply allows vehicles on the road to communicate with each other

At its core, V2X offers a simple yet powerful solution: enabling cars and bikes to “talk” to each other. Imagine cycling towards an intersection and receiving a timely notification on your bike’s display or smartphone about an approaching car. Simultaneously, the car driver receives an alert about your presence, even before you come into their line of sight. This two-way communication system aims to drastically reduce the chances of collisions and, consequently, injuries.

However, the road to achieving this vision is not a solitary journey. A remarkable collaboration is unfolding behind the scenes, with 19 key players from the automotive, bicycle, and tech sectors joining forces. Notable names such as Bosch, Shimano, Trek, and Audi are at the forefront of this initiative, underlining the collective commitment to enhancing road safety.

The urgency of this collaboration is underscored by a sobering statistic from Bosch, highlighting over 130,000 cycling-related injuries in the US annually. Addressing this challenge head-on, the Coalition for Cyclist Safety has set its sights on introducing Vulnerable Road User (VRU) connected technologies. Brands like Audi, Bosch, and Shimano view this as a potential game-changer in saving lives.

Looking ahead, Audi envisions a future where as many as 5.3 million US vehicles will be equipped with V2X by 2025. The scope of this technology is set to expand further, encompassing communication with pedestrian crossings, school zones, and even buses by 2030. In the words of Claus Fleischer, CEO of Bosch eBike Systems, the success of V2X hinges on a united approach. He emphasizes the need for cross-industry collaboration to ensure that all road users can reap the benefits of this transformative technology.

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China’s YMTC Unveils World’s Most Advanced 3D NAND Memory Chip Amidst Challenges

By

Anubhav

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Oct 26, 2023

Despite facing stringent sanctions and being placed on the US Commerce Department’s Entity List, China‘s leading memory chip manufacturer, Yangtze Memory Technologies Co (YMTC), has showcased resilience and innovation. The company, in a recent unveiling, has produced what is being hailed as the “world’s most advanced” 3D NAND memory chip by TechInsights, a notable semiconductor analysis firm.

3D NAND Memory holds potential in AI and machine learning

This significant stride by YMTC is particularly noteworthy as 3D NAND memory holds a pivotal role in high-performance computing applications, especially in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The success of YMTC‘s chip is a testament to China’s unwavering commitment to advancing its domestic semiconductor supply chain, even in the face of international challenges.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time a Chinese tech entity has stunned industry insiders. The Kirin 9000S 5G processor, housed in the Huawei Mate 60 Pro smartphone, was another product that defied expectations, given the US restrictions it faced.

As of mid-December 2022, escalating trade and geopolitical tensions saw YMTC, alongside 21 other key players in China’s chip sector, added to the US Entity List. Yet, YMTC, based out of Wuhan, remained undeterred. Their focus was on dethroning memory chip giants like Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Micron Technology with their flagship 3D NAND flash chip, the 232-layer X3-9070. Although mass production of this chip faced obstacles, shifts in the memory chip market dynamics and an emphasis on cost-efficiency seem to have given YMTC a leg up.

Further bolstering YMTC’s position, reports in April indicated that the company had intensified collaboration with Chinese suppliers, aiming to produce its top-tier chips using its “Xtacking 3.0” architecture. This endeavor was part of a covert project, Wudangshan, which sought to rely solely on Chinese equipment.

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Xiaomi Watch S3 launched with replaceable bezels, HyperOS, and eSim connectivity

By

Anurag

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Oct 26, 2023

Xiaomi today held a mega launch event in China, which saw the launch of handful of new products. Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro were in the spotlight, boasting Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and the new HyperOS operating system. Xiaomi Watch S3 was launched during the same event and it brings several interesting features. For one, there’s a unique replaceable bezel on the watch. It is also the first watch to be powered by Xiaomi’s HyperOS. Here are the details.

Xiaomi Watch 3 Specifications

The Xiaomi Watch S3 has a round dial and comes in black and silver color options. The main highlight of this watch is its “versatile bezel,” which lets you change it to match your style. When you replace the bezel, the watch face will automatically change to match.

The Xiaomi Watch S3 features a 1.43-inch circular AMOLED display with thin bezels. The 8-bit screen offers a 60Hz refresh rate, 326 PPI, and 600 nits peak brightness level. The Xiaomi Watch S3 supports a host of health monitoring features, allowing you to monitor sleep, heart rate, stress, and more. It brings dual-band satellite positioning and has a battery life of up to 15 days.

Xiaomi Watch S3 also comes with the upcoming HyperOS system that supports eSIM independent calling and networking. This means you will be able to make calls and connect to the internet directly through the watch without needing to carry your phone. The new OS is also claimed to unify the software architecture of MIUI, Vela, Mina, and Car OS, providing users with a smoother and more convenient experience.

Pricing and Availability

Xiaomi Watch S3 has been launched with the standard version costing 799 yuan (around $109) and the eSIM version costing 999 yuan ($137).

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Vivo T2 4G with 6.62″ AMOLED display & Helio G99 SoC launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 26, 2023

After launching the Vivo T2 5G & T2 Pro smartphone earlier this year, the brand has now unveiled a 4G variant of the smartphone in Russia. It is currently unknown if this Vivo T2 4G will come to other markets outside of Russia as well. Here are all of its specifications and features.

Vivo T2 4G specs

The Vivo T2 4G features a 6.62-inch AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution. It features an in-display fingerprint scanner but lacks a 3.5mm audio jack.

Under the hood, the device is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G99 processor, equipped with a Mali G57 GPU. It offers 8GB of RAM (expandable to 8GB extended RAM), 256GB internal storage, and IP54 water and dust resistance. The smartphone is powered by a 4600mAh battery with 66W FlashCharge fast charging. It runs on FunTouchOS 13, based on Android 13.

The Vivo T2 4G also features a stereo speaker setup and a USB Type-C audio port. It supports 4G connectivity, dual SIM, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and various satellite navigation systems. Color options include Sea Green, Lavender Glow, and Black Onyx.

Pricing & availability

The Vivo T2 4G is offered in a single configuration with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, retailing at a price of RUB 27,999 ($298). Consumers in Russia can now purchase the Vivo T2 4G.

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Xiaomi Announces TV S Pro Mini LED 85-Inch With HyperOS

By

Viraj Gawde

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Oct 26, 2023

At an event held in China today, Xiaomi announced its HyperOS along with Xiaomi 14, 14 Pro, and the Watch S3 devices. The company launched the TV S Pro earlier this month. It was offered in 65 and 75-inch screen sizes. Now Xiaomi has announced a new variant of the TV S Pro. It has the same specifications as the other two models except for a different display size. Read on to know more details.

Xiaomi TV S Pro 85-inch specifications and features

The Xiaomi TV S Pro 85 now comes in an 85-inch screen size. It has a Mini LED display panel bearing a 4K resolution, 2,400 nits peak brightness, and a 144Hz refresh rate. The TV offers 1,440 high-end backlight partitions and a light sensor that is capable of automatically adjusting brightness depending on the surroundings. For an immersive and top-notch viewing experience, the Xiaomi TV S Pro 85 also features various technologies including full-stack color engine, contrast enhancement engine, color accuracy engine, dynamic clarity engine, and more. The television can also play Dolby Vision Atmos content and it is HDR10+ as well as IMAX Enhanced certified.

In terms of audio, the Xiaomi TV S Pro 85 is equipped with dual 15W stereo speakers producing a sound output of 30W. It features far-field voice technology for hands-free usage by giving voice commands.

On the hardware front, the Xiaomi TV S Pro 85 has a quad-core A73 processor. It packs 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. It has an ultra-low-latency of 2ms and features AMD Freesync Premium Pro making it ideal for e-sports. There is also a variable refresh rate for a tear-free gaming experience.

Software-wise, the Xiaomi TV S Pro 85 runs on the newly announced HyperOS. Connectivity options on the TV include WiFi 6, two HDMI 2.1 ports, an HDMI 2.0 port, USB 3, USB 2, an Ethernet port, and an NFC remote control.

Xiaomi TV S Pro pricing and availability

The Xiaomi TV S Pro 85 carries a price tag of CNY 9,999 (~$1,366). Customers who pre-order will be eligible for CNY 2,000 discount coupons. The first sales commence on October 31.

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Itel Icon smartwatch with 1.38″ display & Bluetooth calling launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 26, 2023

China-based electronics manufacturer Itel is expanding its portfolio in India with the launch of a new smartwatch called the Itel Icon. Earlier this month, the brand also introduced new affordable TWS earbuds in India called the Itel T1 Pro.

Itel Icon smartwatch specs & features

The smartwatch boasts a 1.38-inch IPS display with a resolution of 240×240 and a brightness of 550 nits. It comes with a durable 250mAh battery that offers an impressive 12 days of standby time. The watch has Bluetooth version 5.3 for connectivity and holds an IP68 rating for water resistance.

Key features of the Icon smartwatch include health monitoring capabilities like tracking your heart rate and sleep patterns. It offers a variety of sports modes for fitness enthusiasts and allows for Bluetooth calling. Users can customize their watch with a choice of over 100 watch faces.

Additionally, it provides control over music and camera functions for added convenience, and you can interact with an integrated voice assistant. The smartwatch keeps you updated with important notifications, eliminating the need to check your phone constantly. This watch is designed for those who want a practical and stylish wearable device.

Price & availability

The itel Icon is now available at select retail stores for INR 1599.

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Xiaomi launches HyperOS with a smaller size, AI features, and performance improvements

By

Anurag

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Oct 26, 2023

Xiaomi has been using MIUI to power all of its smartphones for over a decade. The company has made a lot of progress recently, and MIUI 14 was touted as being the best and lightest version yet. It even had some neat features, at least in China.

However, Xiaomi has now announced a new operating system called HyperOS, which is essentially the death knell for MIUI. HyperOS is said to have the smallest firmware size in the industry, as well as security, performance, and multitasking improvements.

The gist of the new HyperOS

Xiaomi detailed HyperOS in many words but we’ll keep it short and sweet for you. Starting off, there are changes in the user interface. You get many more customization options for the lockscreen with new templates, fonts, and widgets. The control center has seen refinement and looks more streamlined than the MIUI 14. However, the app icons in HyperOS appear similar to MIUI 14.

Security and firmware size

Xiaomi also added new security features, including a self-developed TEE security system, which processes sensitive content separately. It offers transparent and controllable internet permissions, ensuring complete visibility into every connection.

Xiaomi says HyperOS’ firmware size can be changed to fit different hardware needs. Notably, the mobile phone firmware is very small at just 8.75GB, making it the smallest in the industry.

AI features

HyperOS includes a built-in AI large model that powers features such as Xiaoai Input Assistant for text creation, WPS Document Scanning for text recognition in documents, AI Wonderful Painting for converting doodles into paintings, and AI Image Search for intuitive image retrieval. In addition, there’s a tighter device-cloud Integration.

Cross-device collaboration

Notably, the new operating system also brings seamless cross-device collaboration, letting apps use the hardware of multiple devices. For example, Camera Collaboration lets you use your phone’s rear camera in a PC video conference for better video quality.

Network Collaboration boosts connectivity by letting devices access a phone’s 5G network for fast and reliable connections. And Cross-Device Focus Notification lets you share notifications between devices, so you can see your phone’s taxi info on your TV, for example.

Performance

HyperOS is apparently the most significant overhaul of Xiaomi’s operating system to date. This transformation includes enhanced memory management, which delivers significantly faster startup speeds and improved background app performance.

The file system has been optimized to maintain I/O performance over extended periods. The graphics subsystem introduces real-time blurring for smoother motion effects.

When will HyperOS make it to your phones?

Xiaomi has announced that the official release of HyperOS will begin in December 2023 for Chinese models and in the first quarter of 2024 for international models. The Xiaomi 14 series, Redmi K60 Extreme Edition, and Xiaomi Pad 6 Max will be the first devices to run the new OS.

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Xiaomi 14 Pro Debuts As The First Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 And HyperOS Powered Phone

By

Viraj Gawde

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Oct 26, 2023

The Xiaomi 14 series comprises the standard and pro variants. The Xiaomi 14 Pro is the more premium offering among the two devices. It arrives with upgrades compared to its predecessor. Alongside the flagship smartphones, Xiaomi has also announced the Watch 5 series and the Xiaomi TV 85-inch. In this post, let’s take a look at the Xiaomi 14 Pro.

Xiaomi 14 Pro specifications and features

The Xiaomi 14 Pro is not as compact as its smaller sibling i.e. the Xiaomi 14. However, it shares the same design language including a boxy design and a large protruding square camera module on the back panel. The smartphone is IP68-certified making it resistant to dust and water. The screen is also shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 against scratches and accidental damages.

In terms of display, the Xiaomi 14 Pro boasts a 6.7-inch OLED 12-bit screen with curved edges and remarkably narrow 1mm bezels. The display bears a 2K resolution, 120Hz LTPO refresh rate, and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. It offers 3,000 nits peak brightness which is the highest on any smartphone. On the audio front, the smartphone is equipped with Dolby Atmos dual stereo speakers

On the optics front, the Xiaomi 14 Pro sports triple-rear cameras with legendary camera maker Leica’s technology onboard. The device has a Hunter 900 50MP main sensor with 23mm focal length, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens with 14mm focal length, and a 50MP telephoto unit with 75mm focal length. It has a variable aperture feature and the main as well as telephoto lens support OIS. The smartphone is touted to quickly open the camera and shoot scenes in 0.8 seconds. It is capable of recording up to 8K video. For selfies, the Xiaomi 14 Pro has a 32MP front-facing snapper.

Internally, the Xiaomi 14 Pro is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor under the hood. It packs up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. The device has a heat dissipation system onboard. The smartphone is backed by a 4,880mAh battery unit with support for 120W fast wired, 50W wireless, and 10W reverse wireless charging. Out of the box, the Xiaomi 14 Pro ships with the company’s newest HyperOS based on Android 14 with new design and features.

Other features on the Xiaomi 14 Pro include with WiFi-7, X-Axis linear motor, Bluetooth, 4-mic array, 5G, and more.

Xiaomi 14 Pro pricing and availability.

The Xiaomi 14 Pro carries a starting price tag of CNY 4,999 (~$683) for the 12GB + 256GB option. The top-end 16GB + 512GB and 16GB+ 1TB RAM and storage configuration are priced at CNY 5,499 (~$751) and CNY 5,999 (~$819). It will be available in White, Black, and Green color options.

WHERE TO BUY

Buy Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro from $699 @Giztop

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ASUS ROG 65W Charging Dock with HDMI port launched in China for 399 yuan ($55)

By

Soumyakanti

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Oct 26, 2023

ASUS‘ Republic of Gamers (ROG) has unveiled its latest accessory, the ROG 65W Charging Dock, catering to the needs of gamers. Priced at 399 yuan ($55), this charging dock offers a unique blend of functionality that sets it apart from conventional chargers.

ASUS ROG 65W Charging Dock Key Features:

The charging dock is equipped with three output interfaces. Firstly, it has an HDMI 2.0 port that can support video outputs up to 4K 60Hz. This feature enables users to connect their devices to larger screens for an enhanced viewing experience.

Secondly, there’s a USB-A port which is versatile, supporting a range of ROG gaming accessories, USB drives, and other gadgets. Lastly, there’s a USB-C port that is designed for compatibility with several ROG products, from handheld consoles and gaming phones to tablets and laptops.

The package includes a sturdy 2m braided USB-C to USB-C data cable to address common issues like cable detachment and breakage. The charging dock combines fast charging, data transfer, and display output features, making it ideal for ROG handheld consoles. It’s a powerful addition that enables intense gaming and offers various entertainment options. Notably, the dock also offers a 30W enhanced mode to ensure consistent power delivery, even when multiple devices are connected.

ROG has also recently released new products, including the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG49WDCD gaming monitor available in China for 10,999 yuan. They also launched the ASUS ROG G22 gaming desktop PC in India, featuring an Intel i7 processor and RTX 4070 graphics.

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Xiaomi 14 Is A Compact Flagship With Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 And Leica Cameras

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Oct 26, 2023

Xiaomi held an event in China today where it announced smartphones, a smartwatch, a smart TV, and more devices. The brand took the wraps off of its next-generation Xiaomi 14 series consisting of a standard and pro model. The latest flagship offerings arrive as the successor to last year’s Xiaomi 13 devices. They pack notable upgrades over their predecessors. Read on to know everything about the Xiaomi 14 in the post below.

Xiaomi 14 specifications and features

The Xiaomi 14 is a compact flagship phone with top-notch specifications. It has a boxy design with a protruding square camera module on the rear. The device is IP68-certified dust and water-resistant. It also sports a metal middle frame.

On the display front, the Xiaomi 14 has a Huaxing C8 AMOLED display which is a collaboration between Xiaomi and TCL. It features a 6.36-inch screen with a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz LTPO refresh rate, and 3,000 nits peak brightness. The screen is also integrated with a fingerprint scanner and it supports HDR 10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision. The display is shielded by Gorilla Glass Victus.

In the photography department, the Xiaomi 14 boasts Leica-branded cameras. The smartphone has a Vario Summilux aspherical lens that is said to offer enhanced imaging compared to Summicron on last year’s Xiaomi 13. The setup comprises of a 50MP Hunter 900 main sensor with OIS, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP OIS-enabled telephoto unit. Those sensors have focal lengths of 23mm, 14mm, and 75mm respectively. There is also a variable aperture of f/1.6 to f/2.2. Up front, the smartphone has a 32MP selfie snapper. The Xiaomi 14 is equipped with Dolby Atmos dual stereo speakers and a 4-mic array capturing sound in 360 degrees while recording a video.

Under the hood, the Xiaomi 14 is equipped with Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. It packs up to 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB UFS 4 storage. The smartphone features a heat dissipation system using a gas-liquid separation channel design. The device draws its power from a 4,610mAh battery unit with support for 90W wired, 50W wireless, and 10W reverse wireless charging. Software-wise, the smartphone is the first from the company to run on an entirely new operating system called HyperOS based on Android 14.

Connectivity options on the Xiaomi 14 include 5G, Wi-Fi, USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1, Bluetooth, and more. The smartphone comes with an IR Blaster, and an X-Axis linear motor.

Xiaomi 14 pricing and availability

The Xiaomi 14 is offered in Black, White, Pink, and Rock Green colors. It starts at CNY 3,999 (~$546) for the base 8GB + 256GB variant. The 12G + 256GB and 16GB + 512GB are priced at CNY 4,299 and CNY 4,599 respectively. The top-end 16GB + 1TB carries a price tag of CNY 4,999.

WHERE TO BUY

Buy Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro from $699 @Giztop

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Vivo Y100 5G With Snapdragon 695 SoC, 12GB RAM Appears On Geekbench Ahead Of Tomorrow’s Launch

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Oct 26, 2023

Vivo is gearing up to announce the Y100 5G smartphone in China tomorrow. The brand had launched the same smartphone in the Indian market earlier in February this year. However, the upcoming offering in the home country will be a different device. Vivo has teased a few features of the Y100 5G, however, its hardware details remain unknown. Now, the device has surfaced on the Geekbench benchmarking platform ahead of tomorrow’s launch event. Read on to know the details.

Vivo Y100 5G surfaces on Geekbench

The Vivo Y100 5G is listed with model number V2313A on the Geekbench database. The benchmark listing mentions a motherboard codenamed ‘holi’ and it comprises six cores clocked at 1.80GHz and two cores ticking at 2.21GHz. The setup and the codename correspond to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 695 SoC. The chipset will be paired with Adreno 619 GPU. The upcoming smartphone is listed with 12GB RAM onboard. It will ship with Android 13 OS out of the box. In the Geekbench’s single-core and multi-core tests, the Vivo Y100 5G scores 905 and 2,117 points respectively.

As per the shared teasers, the Vivo Y100 5G is confirmed to come with a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display offering a 120Hz refresh rate. It will be IP54-certified dust and water-resistant. In terms of design, the device has a slim profile and a squarish camera module on the rear. The upcoming offering is confirmed to feature a 64MP OIS-enabled main camera sensor. The teasers also revealed that the smartphone will be backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit. The charging detail has not been revealed but as per 3C certification site, it is expected to support 44W speed.

We should learn official details about the Vivo Y100 5G tomorrow.

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Honor Leads Close Race in Smartphone Market, Oppo, Apple, Vivo, and Xiaomi Follow Closely

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Oct 26, 2023

The competition in the smartphone market is still going strong. Dozens of companies like Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Honor, Oppo, and Vivo are fiercely competing in this shrinking market to secure their place and grab a larger piece of the pie. Recently, Canalys released a report showing the status of the smartphone market in China for Q3 2023. According to the report, the market closed this quarter with a 5% decline, and Honor managed to take the lead, leaving all its competitors behind. Here are the details…

China’s Smartphone Market Bottomed Out in 2023, Gradual Demand Recovery Expected for Honor, Opportunity, Apple, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Huawei

When we look at the smartphone market in China, it’s quite different from the 100 million unit boundaries of 2020. The market has shown a 5% decline compared to the previous quarter, now standing at 66.7 million units. As you may know, even entry-level and mid-range phones come with impressive features these days. This significantly enhances the user experience but also leads to a decrease in how frequently people replace their devices, especially when global economic difficulties, like those we’re experiencing today, start to emerge.

Looking at the report, what really caught our attention were the market shares. According to the data, Honor has secured an 18% market share with 11.8 million shipments. A few years ago, Honor separated from the Huawei umbrella and continued its journey as an independent company. Recently, they have managed to gain attention, especially with models like the X50 Series, Magic Vs 2 and Play 50 Plus. It seems that this interest in Honor’s products is significantly higher in China compared to other brands.

Honor, with an 18% market share, leads the pack, followed closely by OPPO (16%), Apple (16%), vivo (16%), and Xiaomi (14%). Huawei, on the other hand, has been steadily increasing its market share, reaching 13%. In contrast, vivo and Xiaomi have seen a dip in their market shares, primarily due to their cautious shipment strategies. Both companies are prioritizing profitability and avoiding inventory risks.

Huawei remains the intriguing wildcard in this market. The company continued to gain market share in Q3 2023 and is expected to play a significant role in the final quarter of the year.

China Smartphone Market Q3 2023
Vendor	Q3 2023 shipments (million)	Q3 2023 market share	Q3 2022 shipments (million)	Q3 2022 market share	Annual growth
HONOR	11.8	18%	12.0	17%	-1%
OPPO	10.9	16%	12.1	17%	-10%
Apple	10.6	16%	11.3	16%	-6%
vivo	10.4	16%	14.1	20%	-26%
Xiaomi	9.1	14%	9.0	13%	0%
Others	13.9	21%	11.4	16%	21%
Total	66.7	100%	69.8	100%	-5%

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Alphabet shares drop 9.5% despite strong earnings: Cloud Revenue concerns

By

Joane

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Oct 26, 2023

Alphabet, the parent company of Google, experienced a sharp decline in its stock value, plummeting by 9.5% after its third-quarter earnings report, despite beating overall expectations. The drastic dip was primarily triggered by the disappointment surrounding Alphabet’s cloud revenue, which fell short of projections. In contrast, Microsoft, Alphabet’s key competitor in the cloud-computing market, saw a 2.8% gain due to the success of its AI-driven services.

Alphabet’s cloud division faced challenges due to a slow growth rate, especially in comparison to Microsoft’s robust performance. Microsoft’s focus on established business clients using its software services paid off, whereas Alphabet’s emphasis on startups and a slower AI service rollout contributed to concerns among investors. The market’s response reflected worries that Alphabet might lose ground to Microsoft in the rapidly evolving cloud industry.

Analysts reassure investors over Google’s 9.5% stock drop, deeming the reaction excessive given the cloud revenue’s 11% share in Alphabet’s total revenue. Despite falling slightly below expectations at $8.41 billion, Google’s cloud revenue grew by 22% from the previous year. Experts anticipate challenges in AI infrastructure to fade by next year, while integration with advertisements may benefit Google in the long run. Despite cloud competition, optimism remains high regarding Google’s overall performance, emphasizing strengths beyond the cloud sector.

Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai pointed out that customer spending optimization impacted the revenue figures, and the company plans to introduce a series of AI models, including the highly anticipated Gemini, in the coming year. Google’s investments in AI startups and collaborations with companies like Meta demonstrate its commitment to expanding its AI offerings.

While Alphabet’s cloud business faces headwinds, its core search business remains robust, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges. Analysts caution that the cloud optimization efforts might take several more quarters to yield significant results. Nevertheless, Alphabet’s strong research and technical capabilities position it as a formidable contender, even in the face of stiff competition from Microsoft.

As the cloud market continues to evolve, both Alphabet and Microsoft are gearing up for the AI revolution expected in 2023. With the upcoming launch of Gemini, Alphabet aims to leverage large-language models to drive growth, showcasing the company’s dedication to staying at the forefront of innovative technology despite the recent market turbulence.

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Infinix Zero 30 4G Launched In Indonesia With Several Differences Compared To 5G Version

By

Viraj Gawde

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Oct 26, 2023

Infinix launched the Zero 30 5G (review) smartphone in India last month. Now, the brand has announced a new device in the Zero 30 lineup in the Indonesian market. It is the Infinix Zero 30 4G. The latest offering is a toned-down variant of the Zero 30 5G. There are various differences between the two devices. Read on to find out what the smartphone offers out of the box.

Infinix Zero 30 4G specifications and features

The Infinix Zero 30 4G retains the same AMOLED curved display as its 5G counterpart. It has a 6.78-inch centre-aligned punch-hole screen with an FHD+ resolution, 920 nits peak brightness, and an integrated fingerprint scanner. However, the refresh rate is downgraded to 120Hz from 144Hz. The smartphone is also IP54-certified against dust and water.

On the imaging front, the Infinix Zero 30 4G features a rectangular camera module on the back panel housing a 108MP main sensor paired with two 2MP lenses. Up front, the device has a 50MP selfie snapper with support for 2K video recording at 30fps.

Internally, the Infinix Zero 30 4G is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G99 processor. It packs 8GB RAM along with 8GB virtual RAM technology. There is 256GB internal storage. The device features a liquid cooling chamber for heat dissipation. The smartphone is backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 45W fast charging.

The Infinix Zero 30 4G is offered in Sunset Gold, Misty Green, and Pearly White colors. It carries a price tag of IDR 2,899,000 (~$182) and will go on sale starting tomorrow exclusively from Lazada.

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OnePlus Open gets first software update with Camera & system improvements

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 26, 2023

OnePlus recently launched its first foldable smartphone in the market called the OnePlus Open. The first sale of the device is scheduled for tomorrow in India, however, the brand has already pushed out the first update polishing out the rough edges.

The update with version number CPH2551_13.2.0.114(EX01) weighs 138.25MB. It improves upon many of the aspects of the OnePlus Open including system, communication, and camera. You can check out the complete changelog below.

System Enhancements:

Integration of the September 2023 Android security patch to enhance system security.
Improved full-screen layout for Facebook live-streaming.
Enhanced Split View experience in landscape mode.
Improved accessibility to recently used apps on the taskbar.
Enhanced experience when opening three apps in Split View.
Addressed an issue of accidental touches being falsely recognized as Screen-off gestures on the cover screen.
Optimized the touch sensitivity of the main screen.

Communication Improvements:

Enhanced stability and expanded compatibility for Wi-Fi network connections.
Improved stability and expanded compatibility for Bluetooth connections.
Enhanced user experience when using the IR Remote.

Camera Enhancements:

Now displays equivalent focal lengths for zoom options.
Allows the default wide-angle focal length to be changed in the camera settings.
Improved Dolby Vision effects.
Enhanced preview thumbnails for photos.
Improved video-taking experience through the Shutter button.
Overall improvements in camera performance and stability.
Enhanced video-taking performance.
Improved photo quality when using the rear camera.

Since the device is currently only in the hands of reviewers, the update will seed out to all the new units that ship out in the coming days. You will likely receive the promo to update as soon as you boot up the device.

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Samsung Sets Ambitious Target of 250 Million Smartphone Shipments in 2024

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Oct 26, 2023

Samsung, the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer, is continuing to expand its product lineup to maintain this title. For instance, the company has recently begun working on launching 4G and 5G variants of the Galaxy A15 in Europe. Additionally, the development of the Galaxy S24 series, expected to be introduced in February 2024, is progressing rapidly. However, the 2024 plans of the South Korean tech giant go beyond this. According to a report by The Elec, Samsung has set a target to ship 250 million smartphones in 2024. Here are the details…

Samsung Looks to Maintain Top Spot in Smartphone Market with 250 Million Unit Target in 2024

Competition in the smartphone market remains fierce in 2023, just as it does every year. Samsung, which currently holds the top position, is expected to ship between 220 million and 230 million units this year. However, the company isn’t as content with this scenario as one might think. As you may know, the Galaxy series spans a wide range from entry-level to flagship devices. Most of the models sold by the company fall into the entry and mid-range segments.

To make matters worse, the global smartphone market has also seen a decline in recent years. While many of you might assume this is just a normal decrease following the increase during the pandemic, unfortunately, the situation is not quite that simple. In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, global smartphone shipments reached 1.4 billion units. However, shipments have since dropped to 1.2 billion units, and it is expected to take several years for the market to rebound.

Samsung’s solution is to somehow sell more phones. That’s why the company has set a goal to ship 250 million smartphones in 2024. The main objective of the tech giant is to boost the sales of flagship models in order to restore profitability, which has dropped by 70%. In line with this, the company has also raised its target for foldable phone shipments in 2024 to 2 million units, up from the previous target of 1.6 million units.

Samsung currently holds a market share of around 20%. However, the company is also confronting growing competition from Chinese rivals like the resurgent Huawei and Xiaomi. In other words, it’s not an easy task. It remains to be seen whether Samsung will be able to meet its shipment targets for 2024.

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