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Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Mini With Compact Design, Immersive Audio Launched In India

Sennheiser has expanded its range of Ambeo soundbar lineup in India. The German brand had announced Ambeo Soundbar Plus and Ambeo Sub in the country in August. The latest addition is the Ambeo Soundbar Mini. As the name suggests, it is a compact soundbar at an affordable price tag compared to the Ambeo Soundbar Max and Plus. However, the newest offering also has some toned-down specifications. Let’s take a look below. 

Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Mini specifications and features

Sennheiser
Image credits: Sennheiser

The latest Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Mini is half the cubic volume of the Soundbar Plus. Hence, it can easily fit into small spaces and even on a desktop table. Dimension-wise, it measures 70 x 10 x 6.5 cm. Despite, the compact size, the Soundbar Mini does not compromise on audio. 

The Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Mini is equipped with four high-end full-range drivers and dual four-inch subwoofers and 250 watts of class D amplification. It is touted to deliver sharp fidelity, impactful bass, and crystal clear presence. The device also has a 3D audio system along with four integrated microphones that self-calibrate depending on the room size to surface textures. It also comes with Alexa built-in for voice commands. The audio device features 7.1.4 sound virtualization and is compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS;X, and also 360 Reality Audio for an immersive listening experience. 

The Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Mini is capable of streaming music from Spotify, TIDAL, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. The Ambeo OS also offers quick access to Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and TIDAL Connect. Users can also utilize Google Assistant or Siri to cast audio to the speaker with Chromecast built-in and AirPlay. There are also various modes like content-specific presets, a Voice enhancement option, and Night mode.

For more bass, the Ambeo Soundbar Mini can be connected to four more Ambeo Subs. Connectivity options on the device include HDMI 2.1 port, USB Type-A port, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.2.

The Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Mini is priced at Rs 74,990. It is already available for purchase from the brand’s website, Amazon, and retail outlets across the country. 

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HP Chromebook Plus With 144Hz Display, Chromebook Plus x360 Launched In The US

Recently, HP announced its partnership with Google to manufacture Chromebooks in India. Now, the brand has launched two new Chromebooks in the US market. Notably, other PC makers including Acer, ASUS, and Lenovo also unveiled new Chromebooks. HP’s newest offerings are the HP Chromebook Plus and Chromebook Plus x360. As the name suggests, one is a traditional clamshell model whereas the other is a 2-in-1 convertible. Read on to learn more about the devices. 

HP Chromebook Plus and Chromebook Plus x360 specifications and features

The HP Chromebook Plus has a 15.6-inch display bearing an FHD resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate for a smoother viewing experience. It features audio by Bang and Olufsen. There is a 1080p webcam with a privacy shutter and a mic-mute key. 

Internally, the Chromebook Plus is equipped with an Intel Core i3-N305 processor with integrated Intel UHD graphics. The device packs 8GB RAM and is offered in either 128GB or 256GB storage options.The Chromebook Plus is claimed to deliver up to 10 hours of battery life. It runs on the latest ChromeOS with access to the Google Play store. Connectivity options on the machine include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, two Type-C ports, Type-A port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. 

As for the HP Chromebook Plus x360, it features a 14-inch display bearing a WUXGA resolution and supporting touch and stylus inputs. It has a 360-degree hinge for using the device in various modes. The device has a 5MP FHD camera with a shutter and a mic mute key. 

Under the hood, the HP Chromebook Plus x360 is powered by a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor paired with Intel Iris Xe graphics onboard. It packs 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and up to 512GB SSD storage. Software-wise, the device runs on ChromeOS and is said to offer 10 hours of battery life with support for fast charging. The laptop has the same audio and connectivity options as the Chromebook Plus. 

The HP Chromebook Plus starts at $499 whereas the Chromebook Plus x360 carries a starting price tag of $699. It will be available for purchase in the US starting October 8. 

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Honor X50 GT may come in both flat and curved screens

Honor is reportedly working on a new variant of its X50 series dubbed as X50 GT. Now according to a Weibo tipster Wangzai jack-of-all-trades, this upcoming smartphone will be offered in two versions: one with a flat screen and another with a curved screen. The tipster suggests that the flat-screen version of the upcoming Honor X50 GT will be available for online purchase, while the curved-screen variant will be available for offline purchase.

Honor X50 GT leak

Honor X50 GT will adopt design elements from both the Mate X3 and the X50

Digital Chat Station initially said that the upcoming Honor X50 GT would merge the front design of the X50 with the rear design of the Mate X5. Wangzai jack-of-all-trades disagreed, stating it resembled the Huawei Mate X3 with a foldable screen. Later, Digital Chat Station updated the information and said it indeed resembles the Mate X3.

Now if we come to the specs, the upcoming Honor X50 GT is expected to retain some features from the original X50 model. The Honor X50 has a 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, a brightness of 1,200 nits, and a 120Hz refresh rate. The phone is powered by a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip and has configurations of up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. The camera system includes a 108MP primary sensor and an 8MP front camera. It is available in four colors, including Elegant Black and Burning Orange. The starting price for the Honor X50 is 1,399 yuan ($194) in China. However, the new model might have different color options.

Honor X40 GT
Honor X40 GT

Comparatively, the previously launched Honor X40 GT had a Snapdragon 888 chip, a 6.81-inch LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate, and a 50MP main camera. It was powered by a 4800mAh battery with 66W fast charging.

Honor is also planning to enter the online market with two upcoming smartphones, the Honor X50 GT and Honor 100 GT. These phones are set to be released soon and aim to provide high-end design to a wider consumer base.

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Oppo Find N3 leak reveals Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 120Hz refresh rate, and other key specs

Oppo Find N3, the upcoming foldable phone from Oppo, has been rumored for a while. Now, tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed some of its key specifications.

According to the leak, the Find N3 will have a 7.82-inch internal screen with a resolution of 2268 x 2440 pixels. This is a decent increase in size over the Find N2’s 7.1-inch display. The cover screen will also be larger, measuring 6.31 inches instead of 5.54 inches. It will have a resolution of 2484 x 1116 pixels. Both the cover and main screens will use OLED panels with a 120Hz refresh rate.

OPPO Find N3 specifications leaked

Digital Chat Station also revealed some information about the device’s camera hardware. The Find N3 is rumored to feature a triple-lens rear camera system with a likely 48MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide sensor, and a 64MP telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom. It will also have a 32MP and 20MP sensor for selfies.

Additionally, the previous report suggests that the device will use a dual-layer stacked Sony camera sensor. As implied by the name, this technology uses a two-layer design to separate the transistors and photodiode layers. This allows for larger photodiodes, which can capture more light and reduce noise, even in challenging lighting conditions.

In terms of performance, the Find N3 will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and offer up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. It will be fueled by a 4805mAh battery with support for 100W fast charging.

There is no official launch date, or price for the Oppo Find N3 yet. However, it is expected to be released in the fourth quarter of 2023.

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Google Pixel 7a sells for as low as Rs 31,499 during Flipkart Big Billion Day Sales

Amazon and Flipkart are holding a major sales event at the moment. Flipkart is hosting the Big Billion Day Sales and one of its best deals could be the Google Pixel 7a. The smartphone has seen a notable price drop during the sale, so let’s have a look.

Google Pixel 7a Flipkart Big Billion Day Sales

For those unaware, the Pixel 7a is exclusively available on Flipkart for the lone 8GB + 128GB option. It has a price tag of 43,999 INR, but the Big Billion Day Sales is seeing a massive price drop of 12,500 INR. On the popular e-commerce platform, the Pixel 7a can be purchased for a price of just 31,499 INR. This marks a sizeable 28 percent discount. It is worth noting that this deal includes a 1,500 additional exchange bonus.

Google Pixel 7a Self Repair Program

Currently, the device is listed for 32,999 INR as of right now, and the smartphone exchange will lower it down to 31,499 INR. Keep in mind that the 32,999 INR pricing is also available through the eligible bank discount for the Pixel 7a. Although the brand has yet to confirm these banks. Additionally, the Search Engine giant’s Pixel 7 is also expected to go on sale during the Flipkart Big Billion Day Sales as well. However, finer details are still unclear.

You can check out other Flipkart Big Billion Day sales stories by clicking on these links – Apple iPhone 12, Nothing Phone (2), Nothing Phone (1), and Apple iPhone 13.

Google Pixel 7a Specs

The Pixel 7a is the most affordable smartphone from the Pixel 7 series. It sports a 6.1-inch OLED display that has a Full HD+ resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the device is equipped with Google’s proprietary Tensor G2 SoC that is paired with the Titan M2 security chipset. On the rear, the Pixel 7a features a 64-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses a 13-megapixel selfie shooter. A 4,385mAh battery pack powers this handset, which supports 18W fast charging.

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OnePlus 11R Solar Red with vegan leather back, 18GB RAM & 512GB storage launching on October 7 in India

OnePlus recently teased that a new red color variant of the OnePlus 11R will launch in India soon. The brand has now confirmed that the new color option will debut on October 7.

OnePlus 11R 5G

OnePlus 11R red color variant details

The red color option will officially be called the OnePlus 11R 5G Solar Red Edition. It features a vegan leather back with a stitch pattern going down the sides. Back in April, OnePlus launched this color option for the OnePlus Ace 2 Genshin Impact Limited Edition. That being said, we don’t expect the 11R 5G to be customized with a Genshin-themed UI.

In addition to the design, the smartphone will feature a whopping 18GB RAM and 512GB storage. You can take a look at the spec sheet below.

OnePlus 11R specs

The OnePlus 11R 5G features a 6.74-inch curved AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 1,450 nits. It incorporates an integrated fingerprint scanner and supports HDR10+.

The camera setup includes a 50MP Sony IMX890 sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, a 2MP macro unit, and a 16MP front-facing camera.

It is powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor and features LPDDR5 RAM. To prevent overheating during intensive tasks, it incorporates an eight-channel VC cooling system. The device is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery with 100W fast charging support. It runs on Android 13 with OxygenOS 13 for a customizable user experience.

If you’re not sure about getting a OnePlus 11R, you can check out our detailed review to see how the phone works in everyday situations.

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Realme Festive Days Sale: Grab Discounts on Smartphones and AIOT

As the Festive Season is around the corner, the yearly festive sale is also here from major e-tailers – Amazon and Flipkart. The sale fiesta is set to begin on October 8, 2023, and Realme has just unwrapped its discount details on its smartphones and other AIOT products. The leading electronics maker is bringing discounts across its popular smartphone lineups – realme 11 Pro Series 5G, realme 11 Series 5G and realme C series, realme GT Series and realme AIOT.

Must See: Realme 12 Pro+ with periscope camera could be priced around 2,000 Yuan (~$273)

Realme Festive Days Sale Date:

The sale will start on October 8, 12:00 AM on Flipkart.com, Amazon.in, and realme.com and will remain till October 15 at 11:59 PM. There will be a special “Early Access Sale” via Amazon.in and Realme.com on October 7 from 12:00 AM onwards.

Realme Festive Days Sale Details:

Some deals are exclusive to Flipkart and some are for Amazon. Below we have segregated both in separate blocks.

Deals on Flipkart.com and Realme

Realme 11 Pro+ 5G (8GB/12GB RAM+256GB) Original Price – Rs 27,999/29,999 Sale Price – 24,999/28,999

  • Realme 11 Pro+ 5G
    • Original Price: Rs 27,999 / Rs 29,999
    • Sale Price: Rs 24,999 / Rs 28,999
    • Additional Offer: 6-month NCE (No Cost EMI) on Flipkart and realme.com for the 8GB variant.
  • Realme 11 Pro 5G
    • Variant: 8GB RAM + 128GB | 8GB RAM + 256GB
    • Original Price: Rs 23,999 | Rs 24,999
    • Sale Price: Rs 19,999 | Rs 23,999
    • Additional Offer: 3-month NCE (No Cost EMI) available | 9-month NCE (No Cost EMI) available
    • Note: Offer available for a limited time only.
  • Realme 11x 5G
    • Variant: 6GB RAM + 128GB | 8GB RAM + 128GB
    • Original Price: Rs 14,999 | Rs 15,999
    • Sale Price: Rs 11,999 | Rs 14,999
    • Additional Offer: 3-month NCE (No Cost EMI) available | 6-month NCE (No Cost EMI) available.
    • Note: Offer available for a limited time only.
  • Realme 11 5G
    • Variant: 8GB RAM + 128GB
    • Original Price: Rs 18,999
    • Sale Price: Rs 15,999
    • Additional Offer: 3-month NCE (No Cost EMI) available.
  • Realme C53
    • Variants: 6GB RAM + 64GB / 4GB RAM + 128GB / 6GB RAM + 128GB
    • Original Price: Rs 10,999 / Rs 9,999 / Rs 11,999
    • Sale Price: Rs 9,499 (6GB+64GB) / Rs 9,999 (4GB+128GB) / Rs 9,999 (6GB+128GB)
    • Additional Offer: Rs 1000 discount on the 6GB+64GB variant, Rs 500 discount on the 6GB+64GB variant, and Rs 1000 discount on the 6GB+128GB variant.
    • Note: Offer for a limited time only.

Offers on Amazon.in and Realme

  • Realme Narzo 60x 5G:
    • Variant: 6GB RAM + 128GB | 4GB RAM + 128GB
    • Original Price: INR 14,499 | INR 12,999
    • Sale Price: INR 11,499 | INR 10,999
    • Additional Offers: INR 1250 discount, INR 1750 discount | INR 1000 discount
    • Note: Offer available for a limited time only. Early access for Amazon Prime and realme.com on 7th October from 12 AM.
  • Realme Narzo N53:
    • Variant: 4GB RAM + 64GB / 6GB RAM + 128GB
    • Original Price: INR 8,999 (4GB+64GB) / INR 10,999 (6GB+128GB)
    • Sale Price: INR 7,999 (4GB+64GB) / INR 9,999 (6GB+128GB)
    • Additional Offers: INR 1000 discount
    • Note: Offer available for a limited time only. Early access for Amazon Prime and realme.com.

Related: Realme’s first phone with periscope telephoto camera officially teased, could it be Realme GT 5 Pro?

Realme Buds Air 5 and Realme Buds Air 5 Pro will be on sale for the discounted price of Rs 2,999 and 4,699. There’s also an interesting deal for Realme Pad 2 which will retail for Rs 16,999.

Interestingly, Realme Narzo 60 5G and Realme Narzo N53 6GB +12GB variants will start retailing from 3rd October.

Upcoming Smartphones in October 2023: Google, Samsung, Oppo, OnePlus, and More

Unlike the last few months, the smartphone launches in October are expected to be minimal. Only a trio of brands have officially scheduled events.

At the same time, only a handful of companies are rumored to debut new phones. These products range from budget to premium, such as foldables.

The most anticipated launch will be by Google. The search giant will be unveiling its next-gen flagship Pixel handsets.

Further, OnePlus is anticipated to take wraps off its first-ever foldable. Also, Huawei is expected to continue its smartphone launch spree.

With that out of the way, let’s have a look at all the phones that are either scheduled or rumored to be released in the forthcoming days.

Upcoming Smartphones in October 2023

1. Vivo V29 Series

Vivo V29 Pro

The Vivo V29 series is set to launch in India on October 4. There will be two devices, namely Vivo V29 and Vivo V29 Pro.

The duo will be equipped with an autofocus-enabled 50MP selfie camera. They will also arrive with an Aura Light (ring LED flash) for the rear cameras.

The Pro variant will feature a 50MP Sony IMX766 primary sensor with OIS and a 12MP Sony IMX663 sensor paired with a 2x telephoto lens. It will draw energy from a 4,600mAh battery and carry support for 80W fast charging.

2. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE will be also unveiled on October 4. The successor of Galaxy S21 FE will be announced for multiple markets.

It will come with either  Exynos 2200 SoC or Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip depending on the region. However, the rest of the specs will be the same across both variants.

The device will arrive with a 6.4-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a 50MP (wide) + 12MP (3x telephoto) + 8MP (ultrawide) triple camera system, a 10MP selfie camera, IP68 rating, a 4,500mAh battery, and support for 25W wired as well as 15W wireless charging.

3. Google Pixel 8 Series

Google Pixel 8 Series

The Google Pixel 8 series is yet another smartphone lineup that is scheduled to launch on October 4. The series will consist of Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Both the handsets will be powered by Tensor G3 chipset. They will be the first Android phones to be released with a promise of 7 years of software updates.

The Pro model will be the first Pixel to sport a 1-120Hz LTPO OLED display. It will be fitted with a 48MP 5x periscope camera and a 48MP ultrawide unit.

The Pixel 8 family is tipped to be $100 costlier than its predecessor. The vanilla and pro versions are said to retail at $699 and $999, respectively.

4. Huawei Nova 11 SE

Huawei-Nova-11-SE

The Huawei Nova 11 SE is expected to go official in the next few days. Though the company hasn’t hinted at anything officially, the product is listed on TENAA with entire specs and images.

The 4G-ony phone will be built around a 6.67-inch FHD+ 10-bit OLED display. An unnamed chip paired with 8GB RAM will be running it.

The device will arrive with a 108MP rear camera, a 16MP front-facing camera, and 66W charging support. It will boot HarmonyOS 4.0 and will be backed by a 4,400mAh (rated) battery.

5. OnePlus Open and Oppo Find N3

OnePlus Open

OnePlus has started teasing the launch of its first-ever foldable — OnePlus Open. This handset is expected to be sold as Oppo Find N3 in China.

As per leaks, the device will feature a boxy design. It will sport a 7.8-inch 120Hz 2K internal display and a 6.3-inch 120Hz cover screen. It will be equipped with a Hasselblad-tuned triple camera system featuring wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses.

The phone will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC. It will be backed by a 4,800mAh battery with support for 67W wired charging.

6. Oppo Find N3 Flip

Oppo Find N3 Flip

The Oppo Find N3 Flip made its debut in China at the end of August as the brand’s second clamshell foldable smartphone. It is now being teased to launch in global markets.

The product could be released outside mainland China as early as this month. The device’s main highlight is its Hasselblad-tuned triple camera setup on the rear.

The Find N3 Flip is the only clamshell foldable to have a proper three-lens camera system featuring wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses. Also, it is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chip.

7. Vivo Y200

Vivo Y200

The Vivo Y200 could launch in the next few days. All the key features of this handset have leaked recently.

The phone will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 SoC paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. It will flaunt a 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with an in-screen fingerprint sensor.

The product will come with an OIS-assisted 64MP rear camera, a 16MP selfie camera, a 4,800mAh battery, and 44W charging support.

8. Tecno Spark 20 and Spark 20C

Tecno Spark 20

The Tecno Spark 20 series is rumored to go official either this month or next. Two devices are expected as of now.

The Spark 20 will be a higher variant equipped with a MediaTek Helio G85 chipset. It is tipped to come with a 6.78-inch HD+ display, a 50MP rear camera, a 5,000mAh battery, and 18W charging support.

On the other hand, the Spark 20C with a cheaper version powered by a MediaTek Helio P35 SoC.

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Nokia 2660 Flip gets UPI Scan and Pay functionality in India

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, has announced that it has added UPI Scan and Pay functionality to the Nokia 2660 Flip phone in India. This allows users to make secure and convenient digital transactions with a simple button press.

The UPI Scan and Pay feature is already available in several Nokia feature phones, including the budget Nokia 110 2G phone. Now, the company has rolled out the software update to the existing base of Nokia 2660 Flip users. 

HMD Global launched the Nokia 2660 Flip phone in India last year and has recently released it in two new colors: Pop Pink and Lush Green. 

The Nokia 2660 Flip is a feature phone with a large, 2.8-inch display and hearing aid compatibility. The phone also has an emergency button that allows you to quickly call up to five pre-saved contacts in an emergency.

For connectivity, the device features dual 4G SIM cards and VoLTE, so you can make clear and reliable calls. The phone has a removable 1450mAh battery, which should last for several days on a single charge.

You can add a microSD card to the phone to expand the storage space. The phone runs on the Series 30+ operating system. The Nokia 2660 Flip also has a VGA camera and FM radio support. It is available for purchase in India from Amazon and other offline and online stores for Rs. 4,499.

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Motorola Razr 40 sells for just Rs 44,999 during Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale

With the Amazon Great India Festival sale kicking off, there are various smartphones that are currently available for great discounts. One of these devices is the Motorola Razr 40, which is being sold for a special discount. So let’s check it out.

Motorola Razr 40 Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale

The Great Indian Festival Sale from Amazon is bringing some notable deals and the Motorola Razr 40 is seeing an over 10,000 INR discount. During the sale, the flip phone will be available for a price tag of just 44,999 INR on Amazon. This marks a major price drop compared to its original launch price of 59,999 INR. On Amazon, the Razr 40 model will be listed for 49,999 INR.

Motorola Razr 40

Furthermore, prospective buyers can also get an additional 5,000 INR instant bank discount, which lowers the pricing down to 44,999 INR. It is worth noting that the special can be available on Amazon as well as the company’s official Indian website. For this price tag, the Motorola Razr 40 will compete with the Tecno Phantom V Flip, which was just recently unveiled. This device recently went on sale for a 49,999 INR price tag earlier this week. You can also check out the Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale deal for the Apple iPhone 13.

Motorola Razr 40 Specs

Talking about the smartphone itself, the clamshell folding device sports a tall 6.9-inch LTPO OLED primary display that has a Full HD+ resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support. Meanwhile, the cover display is a smaller 1.47-inch AMOLED display. Under the hood, the device is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 SoC that is paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The rear features a 64-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses a 32-megapixel selfie shooter.

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Acer Chromebook Plus 515 and Plus 514 notebooks launched with military grade body

Google is making a major push for Chromebooks with its Chromebooks Plus initiative. Among the various brands that have unveiled their offerings, Acer has announced the new Chromebook Plus 515 and Chromebook Plus 514 laptops. So here are all the details.

Acer Chromebook Plus 515

The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is the larger of the two models. It sports a 15.6-inch IPS display that has a Full HD resolution. Users can choose between a touch enable or regular panel and anti-glare support. Under the hood, Intel’s 13th Gen and 12th Gen Core processors are offered, up to a Core i7. The Intel processor is paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 512GB of SSD. It even supports fast charging and promises around 10 hours of battery life.

ASUS Chromebook Plus 515

Notably, the laptop comes with military grade durability with the U.S. MIL-STD 810H compliant design. Its body is also made with eco-friendly materials and sustainable packaging. For connectivity, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 offers WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1, HDMI port, USB 3.2 Type-A port, and dual USB 3.2 Type-C ports. Other notable features include energy efficient design, a 1080p webcam, DTS audio, and AI-powered Google and Adobe features.

Acer Chromebook Plus 514

Similar to the Plus 515, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 features the same military grade durability and environmentally friendly material, and sustainable packaging. Furthermore, it also sports a 14-inch display that offers Full HD resolution, 16:10 aspect ratio, anti-glare coating, and an optional touchscreen option. Under the hood, the device is equipped with up to an AMD Ryzen 7520 C-Series processor and RDNA 2 graphics. This chipset is paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 512GB of SSD storage.

Acer Chromebook Plus 514

Connectivity options include WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1, HDMI port, USB 3.2 Type-A, and dual USB 3.2 Type-C ports. It sports a 1080p webcam on the front and the body comes with MIL-STD-810H7 military-grade standard. Other notable features include AI-powered Google and Adobe features, DTS Audio, energy efficient and minimalistic design. This model also supports fast charging and offers up to 12 hours of battery life.

Pricing and Availability

The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 (CB515-2H/T) will be available in North America and the EMEA region in October. In the US, the laptop starts from 399 US Dollars while it has a EMEA starting price of 499 Euros. On the other hand, the Chromebook Plus 514 (CB514-3H/T) has a starting price tag of 399 US Dollars and 479 Euros in the US and EMEA respectively. The new Chromebooks will go on sale in October in both markets.

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Google May Be Working on a New Foldable Phone Codenamed “Comet”

Google’s first foldable phone, the Pixel Fold, was only released a few months ago. But according to a new report from 9to5Google, the company is already working on its next foldable phone.

9to5Google decompiled the latest version of the Google Pixel Buds app and found a reference to a device codenamed “Comet.” This device is believed to be a successor to the Pixel Fold, or possibly a new clamshell foldable phone.

The reason for this belief is that Comet’s codename doesn’t fit into Google’s typical naming scheme for Pixel phones. For example, the Pixel Fold was originally codenamed “Passport,” but was later renamed to “Felix” because it was updated to run on the same Tensor G2 chip as the Pixel 7 series.

Similarly, the Pixel 9 series is expected to use reptile-related codenames, such as “Komodo” and “Caiman.” Whereas, the upcoming Pixel 8 series bears dog breed as a codename—“Shiba” for Pixel 8 and “Husky” for Pixel 8 Pro.

Furthermore digging deeper into the code of the Pixel Buds app, 9to5Google found that Comet is lumped in with the Pixel Fold and is even dubbed a “fold” by the app. This further suggests that Comet is a foldable phone.

Google launched the Pixel Fold in May 2023, so it’s still early for the company to be working on a successor. However, it’s possible that Comet is a clamshell foldable phone, which Google has reportedly considered releasing in the past.

We don’t know much else about Comet yet, so we’ll have to wait and see what Google reveals in the future. In the meantime, the company is preparing for the launch of the Pixel 8 series and Pixel Watch 2 tomorrow.

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ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 with 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, FHD display & 16GB RAM launched

Last month, ASUS refreshed its Chromebook CX lineup with Intel Celeron N4500 CPUs in India. The brand has now launched a new Chromebook Plus CX34 that features a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor.

ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34

ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 specs

The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 boasts a sleek design that adheres to US MIL-STD 810H standards, ensuring durability and reliability. It also features ASUS Antimicrobial Guard protection, enhancing hygiene. The laptop sports a 14-inch Full HD 3-sided NanoEdge display with a 180° lay-flat hinge and an optional touch display for added convenience. Under the hood, it’s powered by an Intel 12th Core i7 processor, providing robust performance.

In terms of memory, this Chromebook supports up to 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM, while storage options include a choice of up to 512 GB SSD or up to 256 GB UFS storage. The device offers impressive battery life, with up to 10 hours on a single charge, and it also supports fast charging.

With Chromebooks, users can access a variety of options through the Google Play Store, including Google Docs, Google Apps, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Express. The laptop comes equipped with a 1080p FHD webcam featuring AI-powered video call tools and a retractable cover for privacy.

For input, it offers a 5.7-inch touchpad and a full-size backlit keyboard. Connectivity options include ASUS WiFi Master for ChromeOS and WiFi 6 support. The I/O ports include 2 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x HDMI 1.4, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, and an audio combo jack. Despite its feature-packed design, the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 remains portable, weighing just 1.44 kg.

Pricing & availability

The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 will have a starting price of USD 399.99, and it will be available for purchase starting from October 8, 2023. It will come in two color options: Pearl White and Rock Grey.

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Oppo Find N3 Flip triple cameras teased in India

Oppo has just teased its upcoming foldable smartphone, the Find N3 Flip, in India. The smartphone is set to launch soon, but the teaser has hinted at some of its key camera specs ahead of the official announcement. So let’s have a look.

Oppo Find N3 Flip Camera

In the latest teaser, the Chinese tech giant reveals details on the image sensors on the Find N3 Flip’s triple camera setup. The foldable smartphone will feature a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 primary camera that has a large 1/1.56-inch sensor. This camera is paired with a 32-megapixel IMX709 telephoto shooter that offers 2x optical zoom and 50mm focal length. The sensor enables the bokeh effects with optimization with renowned camera maker Hasselblad.

Oppo Find N3 Flip Camera

Portrait shots taken from this sensor appear to be similar to Hasselblad’s XCD65mm lens. The last camera is the 48-megapixel Sony IMX581 ultra wide angle sensor. The camera offers a 114 degree field of view and autofocus support. On the other hand, the front houses a 32-megapixel IMX709 RGBW punch-hole camera for selfies and video calls. This camera is capable of recording 4K resolution videos at 30fps.

Oppo Find N3 Flip Design & Display

Apart from the cameras, Oppo also teased the design and display of the Find N3 Flip. The Find N3 Flip sports a Gorilla Glass 7 on the back, which also includes a 3.26-inch cover display. The primary display is a taller 6.8-inch panel that offers TÜV Rheinland Intelligent Eye Care certification as well. It arrives in a Crem Gold and Sleep Black color option, along with an improved Flexion hinge design and an alert slider for the first time ever. The Find N3 Flip was recently spotted on GeekBench, which you can check out by clicking here.

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Samsung Galaxy A13, A21s and M02 receives September 2023 security update

According to a recent report, Samsung has started rolling out a September security update for Galaxy A13, Galaxy A21s, and Galaxy M02.

For those unaware, Samsung released this security patch for its major mid-range smartphones last month. However, a few affordable smartphones did not receive the update. It is worth mentioning the patch is currently available to download in selected countries. Those who wish to know about the update and the availability can check the details below.

Samsung Galaxy M02 All Colors Featured

Update build version and availability

The September security patch arrives on Galaxy A13 with the build version ending in CWI3. It is currently available in Afghanistan, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Tunisia, and Turkey. On the other hand, the Galaxy A21s is receiving the update with the build version ending in DWI1, and it is available to download in Australia, Austria, Cambodia, Caucasus Countries, Fiji, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Russia, Thailand, Netherlands, Philippines, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.

Lastly, the Galaxy M02 has received the update with the build version ending in BWH1. It is available to download in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Furthermore, the update fixes more than 60 security vulnerabilities found in the previous version of the update. This patch is majorly focused on the device’s security and stability. It is worth noting that the patch does not bring any new features or UI improvements. If you wish to upgrade the device to the latest version, you can head over to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.

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BenQ Unveils X500i 4K HDR 4LED Gaming Projector

BenQ revealed an upgraded X3100i gaming projector in September. It came with many features and impressive high-definition visuals. Now, according to a recent report that has surfaced online, Benq has revealed yet another gaming projector. This projector is called X500i. Those wondering what this new gaming device has to offer can check out the specifications of the X500i below.

gaming-x500i-kv
Image via Benq

Benq X500i Specifications

The Benq X500i gaming projector boasts a 4LED light source, ramping up lumens to an impressive 2200 ANSI lumens. For those who wish to play AAA games in 4K, the X500i is an ideal option. It comes equipped with 4K UHD (3840 x 2160 pixels) resolution, having a native aspect ratio of 16:9. The projector provides a 2k 120Hz refresh rate with an input lag of 8.3ms.

gaming-x500i projector
Image via Benq

The X500i offers a 600,000:1 contrast ratio (FOFO) with Lightsource dimming accompanied by its 30-bit (1.07 billion colours) display colours. The projector also supports 95 percent Rec. 709 and 84 percent DCI-P3 coverage. It has various picture modes like 3D, Bright, Cinema, FPS, HDR RPG, HDR SPG, HDR10, RPG, and SPG, all of which provide a premium feel while gaming.

In terms of connectivity, X500i arrives with 2 x HDMI ports, 1 x USB type A, 1 x USB type C, and 1 x RS-232 (DB-9pin).

Pricing and Availability

The X500i is available on the official Benq website with a price tag of $1699. The company has yet to confirm information regarding its availability. However, we expect to receive more information in the future. So stay tuned.

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The Hidden Costs of Rivian’s Record-Breaking Quarter with over 15,000 Deliveries

Rivian has become the talk of the town with its Q3 2023 performance, breaking its own records in vehicle production and deliveries. While these numbers show promise in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, a closer look reveals challenges that can’t be ignored.

Rivian manufactured over 16,000 EVs in Q3 2023

In the third quarter of 2023 alone, Rivian manufactured 16,304 electric vehicles—a staggering 121% increase compared to the same time last year. Notably, the company managed to deliver 15,564 of these vehicles, marking a year-over-year growth of 136%. Sounds impressive, right?

However, financial stability remains a significant roadblock for the EV startup. According to the Wall Street Journal, Rivian has already burned through half of its $18 billion cash reserve. Moreover, the company recorded a loss of about $33,000 per truck sold in the previous quarter. These figures suggest that the company’s rapid expansion is not without its downsides.

Rivian

Rivian’s portfolio currently includes three major models: the R1T pickup, R1S SUV, and a range of commercial vans primarily aimed at Amazon. While Rivian hasn’t broken down the sales numbers for each of these models, the losses hint at a high production cost, likely cutting into the profitability of each model.

This year, Rivian aims to produce around 52,000 vehicles, according to their latest guidance. Given their Q1-Q3 2023 performance, with more than 39,000 vehicles produced and 36,000 delivered, reaching or even surpassing this target seems plausible.

Yet, questions linger on whether Rivian can sustain its operations financially, especially considering the current cash burn rate. The company will release a comprehensive financial report for Q3 2023 on November 7, which could provide further insights into this situation.

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Is Hong Kong the Last Hope for East Asia’s Declining Crypto Market?

Despite the gloomy atmosphere surrounding cryptocurrency trading in mainland China due to regulatory crackdowns, Hong Kong is emerging as a beacon of optimism, thanks to its proactive policies. Recent data from Chainalysis highlights a decline in crypto transactions across East Asia, but a deeper look suggests a more complex narrative.

The current figure, $64 billion figure is still a dip from last year’s $70 Billion

Mainland China saw a steep drop in crypto transactions, plunging from $220 billion last year to $86.4 billion this year. Concurrently, the crypto adoption ranking for both Hong Kong and mainland China has also slipped. However, there’s a twist to the tale. Hong Kong, home to just 0.5% of mainland China’s population, reported an estimated $64 billion in crypto transactions. While this figure is a dip from the previous year’s $70 billion, it still shows a vibrant crypto scene in the Special Administrative Region.

Unlike mainland China, where retail transactions dominate, Hong Kong’s crypto landscape is skewed towards institutional transactions. A staggering 46.8% of crypto trades in Hong Kong were above $10 million, and only 4% were below $10,000, reflecting the city’s role as a hub for high-net-worth and institutional investors.

Crypto

Last October, Hong Kong signaled a paradigm shift, unveiling plans for new virtual asset regulations aimed at enhancing investor protection and enabling licensed exchanges to cater to retail traders. While skeptics argue that the region’s crypto industry faces potential damage from the ongoing JPEX scandal involving alleged theft, Chainalysis views these regulatory shifts as fostering “bubbling optimism.”

Furthermore, the dynamics that have contributed to crypto’s controversial nature, like speculative investments and the potential to move wealth offshore, continue to drive its adoption in Hong Kong and potentially in East Asia. Amid uncertainties and market slumps, Hong Kong appears to be stepping up as the region’s new crypto stronghold, subtly defying the mainland’s stringent policies.

While the larger East Asian crypto scene shows a tapering footprint, accounting for only 8.8% of global crypto activities—down from 12.9% last year—Hong Kong’s new policies may just be the tailwind this faltering sector needs. Only time will tell if Hong Kong’s efforts will serve as a lifeline for a crypto market desperately seeking resurgence.

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OnePlus Open is the Best Foldable Smartphone Right Now, Says Company CEO Pete Lau

OnePlus and OPPO, two leading names in Android smartphones, have joined forces to develop a foldable phone dubbed the OnePlus Open. This collaboration breaks new ground by pooling the strengths of both brands to create what Pete Lau, Founder of OnePlus and SVP of OPPO, calls “the best…folding phone now.”

OnePlus has a good track record of providing great hardware, so the launch will be exciting

What sets the OnePlus Open apart is its unique blend of expertise. While OPPO contributes its solid background in foldable design and camera technology, OnePlus chips in with its reputation for solid user experiences and top-notch hardware performance. Lau revealed in an interview with Unbox Therapy that the phone will have a variable go-to-market strategy, aiming to cater to different regions effectively.

The new device isn’t just about branding and strategy; it’s a tech marvel in its own right. Rumor has it that the OnePlus Open will feature the highest pixel density among foldable displays, promising crystal clear visuals. Additionally, it will boast a more streamlined hinge than its predecessor, the Find N2, making the device lighter and more durable.

The brand’s aficionados have something to cheer about too. The OnePlus Open will incorporate the brand’s signature textured alert slider, which allows users to switch between sound and vibration modes effortlessly. This feature has been a hit among its users, and its inclusion on the foldable phone is likely to be well-received.

OnePlus

However, it’s not all roses. During the interview, Lau clarified that there are no immediate plans to introduce a flip-style phone, disappointing some fans who had hoped for a greater range of options. The collaboration between OnePlus and OPPO has the potential to redefine the foldable phone market, offering consumers a device that doesn’t compromise on either innovation or user experience.

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BYD Auto surpasses expectations in September 2023, nears annual sales target

In a recent announcement, Chinese electric vehicle (EV) BYD Auto revealed impressive sales figures for the month of September 2023. The company sold a staggering 287,454 vehicles in September, surpassing its previous record and marking a substantial increase compared to the previous month.

BYD Auto

Notably, 28,039 of these vehicles were passenger cars exported to international markets, demonstrating BYD’s global appeal. One of the standout performers was the BYD Auto Dynasty and Ocean, which accounted for 273,747 units of the total sales. This particular model has gained significant popularity among consumers, reflecting the growing interest in electric and sustainable transportation solutions.

Denza Motors, a subsidiary of BYD, also made a notable contribution to the sales figures, selling 13,156 units in September.

As of the end of September 2023, BYD’s total sales for the year reached an impressive 2.07 million vehicles. While this is a remarkable achievement, the company is not resting on its laurels. BYD has set an ambitious sales target of 3 million vehicles for the full year of 2023.

BYD Auto

With a gap of 930,000 vehicles left to achieve this target in the next three months, it might seem like a challenging task. However, judging from the current growth trend, where BYD has consistently exceeded previous sales figures, it appears that the company is well on its way to meeting its annual goal. This performance underscores BYD’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning itself as a prominent player in the global EV market.

As the world shifts toward electric and eco-friendly transportation, BYD’s success in reaching its sales targets not only signifies its own achievement but also highlights the increasing adoption of electric vehicles on a global scale.

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