It’s that time of the year when e-commerce giants like Amazon and Flipkart come up with some irresistible deals on a wide range of products. Flipkart has already started to announce deals in anticipation of its upcoming Big Billion Days Sale. While more tempting offers are yet to be unveiled, the retailer has revealed how much the popular Nothing Phone (1) and Google Pixel 7 cost in India during the sale.
Nothing Phone (1) and Pixel 7 get more affordable
Flipkart is offering last year’s Google Pixel 7 at a price of Rs. 36,499 and the Nothing Phone (1) for Rs. Rs 23,999. Both these prices are inclusive of all offers. To be more specific, the Pixel 7 is listed on Flipkart for Rs 41,999 as of now. The company will be offering a flat Rs 3000 instant discount with ICICI Credit Card transactions and another Rs 2500 discount on the exchange of a smartphone, bringing the price to Rs. 36,499.
As for the Nothing Phone (1), Flipkart will give a flat Rs 3,000 discount with ICICI Bank Credit Card transactions, making the base 8GB + 128GB cost Rs 23,999. The same discount will also apply to the 256 GB variant of the smartphone, which costs Rs 28,999 in white and Rs 29,499 in black.
To remind you, Nothing Phone (1) and the Pixel 7 are both solid mid-range smartphones. The former brings a tempting design with a transparent back and the latter offers the flagship Tensor G2 chip, paired with solid cameras.
Xiaomi has just launched an exciting new product on Xiaomi Youpin – the Mijia Smart Air Fryer 6.5L Tender Roast Edition. Let’s delve into its standout features.
Mijia Smart Air Fryer 6.5L Tender Roast Edition Key Features:
This smart air fryer stands out with its intelligent misty tender roasting mode. This unique feature uses advanced 3D mist creation technology to enhance moisture retention by 23%, allowing for perfectly succulent roasting.
The fryer doesn’t stop at just tenderizing; it also comes with a high-temperature defatting mode which can reach up to 230°C. This mode optimally increases the defatting rate by 116%, ensuring that the users get to experience a diversity in cooking, enjoying crispy on the outside and tender on the inside dishes.
This air fryer uses dual-blade fan blades and a three-dimensional vortex frying basket, ensuring that your food is evenly heated without requiring any flipping. With its robust 1800W power and far-infrared heating technology, it rapidly accelerates temperature increases. To add to its precision, the NTC precise temperature control system continuously monitors and adjusts the internal temperature in real-time, giving you precise control over your cooking.
The air fryer offers user-friendly features including a spacious 7-inch viewing window, which is 138% larger than its predecessor, making it simpler for users to monitor their cooking. It integrates seamlessly with smart features like a 24-hour extended appointment and a 30-minute automatic insulation. Users can control the air fryer through three convenient methods: a rotary knob, the Xiaomi Home App, or the Xiao Ai voice assistant.
Moreover, the users won’t be short of cooking options with this appliance as it comes equipped with 12 preset menus and provides access to over 60 diverse online cloud recipes.
The air fryer is currently available for crowdfunding at a price of 449 yuan ($61). The crowdfunding campaign will end on October 4th at 10 a.m.
Xiaomi re-entered the tablet category with the launch of the Xiaomi Pad 5 series in 2021. These devices were introduced with MIUI 12.5 for Pad based on Android 11.
Right now, they boot Android 13-based MIUI 14 in all the markets. According to new findings, these products will get an update to MIUI 15 in the near future. But there’s a catch.
Xiaomi Pad 5
Xiaomiui says that Xiaomi is developing MIUI 15 builds for the original three Xiaomi Pad 5 series models. These include Xiaomi Pad 5, Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro WiFi, and Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro 5G.
However, the upcoming MIUI update for these tablets will not bump up the Android version. In other words, they will not be receiving the Android 14 update.
It is not surprising as Xiaomi did not promise three OS upgrades for them, unlike the Xiaomi 11T series and Xiaomi 11 Lite NE 5G that were released in the same year. But it still does not feel right,
Because consumers are known to use tablets for a longer period than smartphones. Anyway, the software support on Xiaomi tablets is far better than earlier but it is still not enough. For the unaware, previous Xiaomi tablets generally received a single MIUI update and no Android update.
Compared to other Chinese OEMs, Xiaomi is slow to adopt better software support, For instance, it just announced 4 OS updates for select smartphones while competitors made such changes last year.
Without a doubt, the internet is one of the most significant inventions in human history. Today, from basic communication to the finance sector, almost the entire world operates through the internet. One would think that such an entity should be managed impartially, right? Unfortunately, that’s not exactly the case.
In 2018, the Trump administration repealed net neutrality rules that had been in place since 2015. This decision was met with widespread opposition from internet users, technology companies, and public interest groups. Thankfully, after five years, the Federal Communications Commission finally announced plans to reinstate net neutrality. Here are the details…
The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of Net Neutrality
For those who may not know, net neutrality is the idea that internet service providers should treat all online data the same. This means they shouldn’t favor, block, or slow down certain websites or services, nor should they charge extra for specific content. Simply put, it’s about ensuring equal access to everything on the internet.
At first glance, it might not seem so bad that ISPs can block certain websites. However, remember that if we start compromising our principles like net neutrality for a few benefits, it could lead to further concessions. Especially, potential misconduct can seriously result in some companies going under. Thankfully, the FCC finally announced plans to reinstate net neutrality.
The FCC has shared its intention to bring back net neutrality regulations. Although the specifics of these rules are still being decided, the commission has expressed its desire to classify broadband internet as a public utility. This would provide the FCC with more control over internet providers.
In the upcoming months, the FCC will vote on a proposal regarding reinstate neutrality. If the proposal passes, the public will have a chance to give their feedback before a final vote is conducted.
European Union officials have singled out X, formerly known as Twitter, as a purveyor of fake news and disinformation. European Commission Vice-President Vera Jourova urged owner Elon Musk to adhere to EU regulations combating disinformation, emphasizing that X is obligated to comply despite exiting the voluntary code of conduct. This comes as concerns about election interference by malicious actors, including Russia, loom large ahead of pivotal elections in Slovakia, Poland, and the broader EU.
Jourova did not mince words when referring to Russia’s disinformation campaigns, dubbing them a “weapon of mass manipulation” that targets not only Russians but also Europeans and the global audience. She stressed the urgent need for major tech companies, including Google, TikTok, Microsoft, and Meta, to step up their efforts in combatting disinformation, particularly stemming from Russia.
A recent study conducted by the European Commission scrutinized the prevalence of disinformation on six online platforms in Poland, Slovakia, and Spain. Alarmingly, X emerged as the platform with the highest incidence of disinformation, drawing attention to its role in propagating false narratives. Furthermore, disinformation actors on X were found to have more followers and to have joined the platform more recently than non-disinformation users.
The concerns over disinformation have been exacerbated by upcoming parliamentary elections in Slovakia and Poland, with European Parliament elections scheduled for the subsequent year. Social media platforms, including X, were taken to task for their perceived lackluster efforts in combating the proliferation of fake news.
In response, the European Commission has called for more substantial efforts and better results from online platforms in tackling disinformation. Russian propaganda and disinformation continue to cast a shadow over the digital landscape, posing a grave threat to the integrity of the electoral process and geopolitical stability.
Vera Jourova underscored the critical importance of countering disinformation in the digital realm, particularly in the face of ongoing geopolitical conflicts. With Europe’s democratic foundations at stake, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on tech giants to take decisive action against the spread of fake news and disinformation on their platforms. As the countdown to crucial elections begins, the world watches closely to see whether these calls for action will yield meaningful results.
Realme GT 5 Pro and Realme 12 Pro+ smartphones that are expected to launch this year are expected to come equipped with a periscope telephoto camera. While the GT 5 Pro will be a flagship phone powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the Realme 12 Pro+ will be a mid-range offering. A tipster from China has shared a render of what appears to be one of these smartphones. In addition, tipster Digital Chat Station has tipped the expected price of the Realme 12 Pro+.
Alleged Realme 12 Pro+ render
Realme 12 Pro+ leak render
In the above-shown concept render, a Realme phone can be seen sporting a large round camera island. Inside it, there is an LED flash, followed by two cameras and a rectangular periscope telephoto camera. The Weibo user who shared the above image claims that it is the Realme GT 5 Pro. However, since the design aligns with the circular camera island available on the likes of the Realme 11 5G and Realme 11x 5G, it seems that the image may belong to the Realme 12 Pro+.
Alleged Realme 12 Pro+ price tipped
Based on a recent Weibo post by tipster Digital Chat Station, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered Realme GT 5 Pro will feature a high-quality periscope telephoto camera.
He also claimed that Realme will also launch a phone with a periscope in the price range of 2,000 Yaun (~$273). To recall, the base model of the Realme 11 Pro+, featuring 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, is priced at 2,099 Yuan (~$287). Hence, it appears that the tipster may have given a hint about the Realme 12 Pro+.
Apple’s latest generation iPhone 15 series is up for purchase in the global markets. The demand for Pro models is also high leading to delayed deliveries across the world. However, the latest generation Pro phones are also marred by various issues. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are suffering from overheating woes, failed durabilty test, and titanium discoloration. Now, the Cupertino-based tech giant has acknowledged one of the issues.
Apple acknowledges discoloration issue on iPhone 15 Pro models
The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max come with a titanium chassis. Several users took to the internet to highlight the discoloration and halo effect on the titanium frame of both devices. Apple has officially confirmed that the iPhone 15 Pro models without a case may discolor the titanium frame but only temporarily. This is caused by the oil from the user’s skin.
The Cupertino-based tech giant has updated its ‘Cleaning your iPhone’ support document on its official website. It includes instructions on how to clean, disinfect, and maintain the original look of the iPhone. Apple states that ‘the oil from your skin might temporarily alter the color of the outside band’ The company recommends users to wipe the frame with a soft, damp, and lint-free cloth to resotre the iPhone’s look. The device should also be cleaned immediately if it comes in contact with anything that causes stains or other damage.
For those unaware, Apple sells a premium polishing cloth on its website. It is now compatible with the iPhone 15 series. The polishing cloth features a soft, non-abrasive material to eliminate discoloration. Additionally, it’s worth recommending iPhone 15 Pro users to avail a protective case for any discoloration issues as the device would be regularly exposed to the natural oil of the skin.
After launching the Blaupunkt CyberSound G2 series TVs in June, the brand has now unveiled a new range of QLED TVs in the Indian market in 43″ and 55″ sizes. Keep reading to find out the details.
Blaupunkt 43″ & 55″ QLED TV specs
The Blaupunkt 43″ QLED TV (43QD7050) offers a 43-inch QLED 4K display with a crisp resolution of 3840 × 2160 pixels. With a brightness of 550 nits and a contrast ratio of 5000:1, it delivers clear visuals, while its 178-degree viewing angle ensures a good view from different angles. The TV features an impressive 1.1 billion colors. It supports HDR formats like HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. Additionally, it handles MEMC at 60Hz and HLG content with ease.
Under the hood, the TV is powered by the MediaTek MT9602 Quad-Core Processor, accompanied by a Mali-G52MC1 GPU, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage. It comes with built-in Chromecast and AirPlay for convenient content streaming. In the audio department, it boasts a 50W output with support for Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, and DTS TruSurround.
Running on the Google TV operating system, it offers Google Assistant for voice commands and a Kids mode for family-friendly content. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity. The TV provides 3 HDMI ports with e-ARC support, 2 USB ports, and an Ethernet port for various connectivity options. In terms of dimensions, it measures 970 mm x 620 mm x 230 mm with the stand and weighs 6.5 kg with the stand included.
On the other hand, the Blaupunkt 55-inch Google TV offers a bezel-less 4K HDR10+ display with 1 billion colors and a stylish alloy stand. It features a powerful 60W Stereo Box Speaker system with Dolby Digital Plus and DTS TruSurround technology. It boasts three HDMI ports (including ARC and CEC), two USB ports, and compatibility with DVB-C/DVB-T/T2, catering to your digital needs. In terms of dimensions, it measures 1240 mm x 780 mm x 290 mm with the stand and has a weight of 10.5 kg with the stand included.
Pricing & availability
The Blaupunkt 43-inch 4K QLED TV (43QD7050) comes at a price of Rs. 28,999, while the larger Blaupunkt 55-inch 4K Google TV (55CSGT7023) is available for Rs. 34,999. It is available to purchase on Flipkart and is available with a 10% instant discount on ICICI, Kotak, or Axis Bank Cards.
Smartphone brands have been releasing 5G-enabled handsets in India since 2020. Initially, only premium devices had support for 5G. However, starting in 2021, sub-₹15,000 5G smartphones were introduced to the market.
Back then, these budget 5G smartphones didn’t offer better value than similarly priced 4G models. Even after the country’s 5G network went live in 2022, the situation remained largely unchanged.
Fast forward a year, and we finally have a good option in the form of Redmi 12 5G. Having used this phone for the last few days, I have expressed my thoughts in this article.
I’d like to start off by letting readers know that Xiaomi India loaned me the device. However, as always, the opinions mentioned here are mine, and the brand had no early look either.
A Design that Stands Out
There have been many sub-₹15,000 5G smartphones before, even from Xiaomi. However, none of them felt as premium as the Redmi 12 5G.
Even today, there’s only a single competitor to this product in the design department. The alternative is nothing but an offshoot of this very same phone, the Poco M6 Pro 5G.
The Redmi 12 5G’s premiumness comes from its CMF (Color, Material, and Finish). It has a glass sandwich body with a plastic frame in between.
The rear glass has a glossy finish, which is not a con here unless you get the Jade Black color option. The Pastel Blue and Moonstone Silver color variants don’t show smudges.
The sides are flat and accommodate all the important ports, slots, and buttons. The two cameras on the rear and their accompanying LED flashlight sit inside the islands of their own.
All in all, the device looks not only attractive but also feels comfortable to hold.
It’s a known fact that most users put a case on their phones. But even so, design still plays a key role in choosing a smartphone.
Excels in user experience
The display is the most used part of a smartphone. The screen on the Redmi 12 5G is large, smooth, and bright enough.
The 6.79-inch LCD panel has a centered punch hole for a modern look. It offers a resolution of 2460 x 1080 pixels, a 90Hz refresh rate, and 550 nits peak brightness level.
The display outputs punchy colors which is what most consumers prefer. The color reproduction, though not accurate, is better than what I experienced on the Realme C53.
A Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage powers the device. This hardware combination is capable of driving the phone without any hiccups.
The device is even good for multitasking as it does not kill background apps, at least on the 8GB RAM variant I used. Though it also comes in a 4GB option, it is recommended to get the 6GB version or higher if possible.
On the software front, the handset boots MIUI 14 based on Android 13. Unlike in the past, you get a clean software experience without any intrusive ads or uninstallable bloatware.
This is the best MIUI experience I have had on a budget Xiaomi smartphone in years. It is well-optimized and hopefully remains this way with future system updates.
Most importantly, the 5G performance is excellent. The phone is reliable and does not throttle speeds even when it gets warm while using it as a WiFi hotspot to download large files.
Not without drawbacks
No phone is perfect, be it a flagship or a budget model. The Redmi 12 5G is no different, as it has certain shortcomings.
The first one is cameras. Though you get dual cameras on the rear, only the primary 50MP shooter is usable, as the secondary module is merely a 2MP depth sensor.
The output from the rear camera is inconsistent. You get good results only when the lighting is ideal. When the sun goes down, the image processing takes even more hit. I could say the same for the 8MP selfie camera.
Secondly, I wish the handset had dual stereo speakers, which is now common across all price ranges. The single bottom-firing unit is not that loud and is very easily blocked.
Last but not least, it would have been nice to have support for faster charging. The 5,000mAh battery easily lasts more than a day, but excessive 5G usage can deplete it quickly.
The 18W charging takes about 2 hours to fill up the cell. A 33W support could have made a huge difference.
Closing remarks
The Redmi 12 5G’s icing on the cake is its pricing. The product starts at just ₹11,999 for the base 4GB + 128GB memory variant. It also comes in 6GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB versions priced at ₹13,499 and ₹15,499, respectively.
With discounts, especially during the upcoming festive sales, you can get it at an even cheaper price.
I haven’t experienced the Realme phone personally, so I can’t comment more on it. But based on specs and design, I can say that it is a different package targeted mostly at youth.
On the other hand, the Redmi 12 5G is the budget 5G smartphone for the masses, just like how I recommend the OnePlus Nord CE 3 for most consumers under ₹30,000. It gets a huge thumbs from me as it ticks all the important boxes.
The Red Magic 8S Pro series was unveiled in China in July. These devices have been on sale in the country since then.
However, not every memory configuration has been made available. The top-end variant is up for pre-order only now.
The Red Magic 8S Pro series consists of two models, namely Pro and Pro Plus. The latter version offers faster 165W charging support and comes in higher memory configurations.
The most expensive variant in the series is the 24GB + 1TB memory version of Red Magic 8S Pro Plus Deuterium Edition, which sports a transparent rear glass panel. This specific variant of the phone is now finally available for pre-order in China more than two months after the announcement.
It is priced at ¥7,499 (~$1,025) and can be booked on JD by depositing ¥100 (~$15). The handset will be available for purchase starting October 7.
The Red Magic 8S Pro Plus is through and through a gaming smartphone. So it is not meant for everyone.
But if you still want 24GB + 1TB memory configuration for some reason, you can actually get it at much cheaper prices. The OnePlus Ace Pro with the same amount of RAM, storage, and chip (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2) costs only ¥3,999 (~$545).
On the other hand, the Redmi K60 Ultra with the same memory configuration is even more affordable at ¥3,599 (~$490). It is powered by a Dimensity 9200 Plus chip but offers IP68 dust and water resistance.
Hisense has recently introduced the E7 TV series at a product launch event in China. The E7 is the most budget-friendly option among the new releases, starting at a price of 5999 yuan ($820). Let’s check out the key features of this series.
Hisense E7 TV Key Features:
E7 series features a cutting-edge 1024-zone MiniLED display, delivering native 4K resolution with an impressive 144Hz refresh rate. This screen can reach a peak brightness of 1600nits in XDR, supports 16-bit ambient light sensing, and offers a wide 95% DCI-P3 color gamut.
The Hisense E7 TV equips a quad-core A73 and a dual-core G52 processor. It also comes with the Xinchip X image quality processor, which works in tandem with its advanced screen to provide excellent visual performance. It offers ample storage capacity, with up to 4GB RAM and 128GB storage available.
Audio needs are met by powerful 60W 2.1 channel front-facing speakers. Additionally, it includes a camera for video calls and incorporates AI smart interaction features to enhance user-friendliness.
The TV offers extensive connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.3, dual-band Wi-Fi, and two HDMI 2.1 interfaces.
Hisense E7 Series Pricing:
The Hisense TV E7 comes in four different models, each with varying specifications and pricing.
The 65-inch model, with 336 zones and 1200nits brightness, and 4GB + 64GB storage, is priced at 5999 yuan ($820).
The 75-inch variant, featuring 504 zones, 1200nits brightness, and the same storage configuration, is available at 7999 yuan ($1,094).
The 85-inch model, which boasts 512 zones and 1200nits brightness, also with 4GB + 64GB storage, has a price tag of 10499 yuan ($1,435).
Lastly, the high-end 100-inch version, equipped with 1024 zones and 1600nits brightness, along with 4GB + 128GB storage, is set at 19999 yuan ($2,734).
These models cater to a range of consumer preferences and budget considerations, offering a variety of advanced features. Hisense has also introduced a range of new TV models in India, including the U7K, U6K, and E7K series.
Redmi Note 13 Pro+ was launched earlier this month in China alongside the Redmi Note 13 Pro and the vanilla Note 13. The handset is also expected to launch globally but there’s no official confirmation as of now. While we wait, the Note 13 Pro+ has bagged Singapore’s IMDA certification, hinting at an imminent launch.
Two new Redmi smartphones with the model numbers 23090RA98G and 23016RN0DA have been spotted on the IMDA certification website in Singapore. Since model number 23090RA98C belongs to the China variant of the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, model number 23090RA98G should correspond to the handset’s global variant. IMDA did not reveal any specifications of the handset but hinted at an imminent launch.
Redmi Note 13 Pro+ Specifications
Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is a premium offering from Redmi, bringing solid specifications and even an IP68 rating. We already unboxed the handset to give you its first impressions and answered important questions that you might have about it. Design-wise, the Note 13 Pro+ is one of the better-looking Redmi Note phones. It has a curved 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1,800 nits peak brightness.
The handset packs a 200MP primary camera on the rear, paired with an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens and a 2MP third shooter. Powering the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra processor with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. It is fueled by a 5,000mAh battery, which supports 120W fast charging. Wireless charging would have made the Note 13 Pro+ an even more enticing offering. The handset starts at CNY 1,999 ($273) in China for the 12GB + 256GB option.
After launching the HAMMER Active 2.0 smartwatch back in July, the brand has now launched the Active 3.0 smartwatch. The new smartwatch comes with a bright IPS display and Bluetooth Calling.
HAMMER Active 3.0 specs
The HAMMER Active 3.0 comes with a 1.39-inch HD IPS screen with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels and a brightness of 600 nits. You can choose from over 100 customizable watch faces and three different UI menu styles.
Connectivity-wise, it’s equipped with Bluetooth 5.1 and supports Bluetooth calling. Additionally, it offers a Quick Dial Pad and emergency calling support for added convenience. The watch provides support for multiple sports modes. It’s also dust and water-resistant with an IP67 rating, making it suitable for various environments.
Health monitoring features include tracking heart rate, SpO2 levels, blood pressure, and sleep patterns. The watch also offers AI voice assistant support for voice commands. Among its additional features are inbuilt games, sedentary reminders, message notifications, weather updates, find my phone functionality, a calendar, a calculator, a stopwatch, and camera control.
In terms of battery life, the HAMMER Active 3.0 impresses with up to 5 days of usage in normal mode and up to 2 days when using Bluetooth calling.
Price & availability
The HAMMER Active 3.0 smartwatch with a metallic strap has a price tag of ₹2,299. However, it is currently selling on Amazon for ₹2,199. The silicone strap variant costs ₹1,999.
In a bid to enhance its intelligence capabilities and compete with global rivals, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is reportedly spearheading the development of an advanced AI chatbot, akin to ChatGPT, to aid analysts in managing the deluge of information they encounter daily. The chatbot, a brainchild of the CIA’s Open Source Enterprise unit, is poised to revolutionize the way intelligence agencies process data.
The need for such a groundbreaking tool was underscored by Randy Nixon, director of the CIA’s AI unit, who emphasized the escalating challenge of sifting through ever-expanding volumes of data in today’s information age. This development comes as intelligence agencies grapple with the colossal task of analyzing the vast expanse of information available on the internet.
The CIA’s AI chatbot will leverage advanced generative artificial intelligence techniques, yet the agency has remained tight-lipped about the specific model and training methods employed. What sets this initiative apart from commercial generative AI platforms is its commitment to providing sources alongside generated answers, ensuring transparency, and aiding validation.
The chatbot’s primary objective is to facilitate efficient information retrieval and summarization, enabling intelligence agents to access, summarize, and analyze large datasets swiftly. Moreover, users will have the ability to engage with the chatbot, allowing for follow-up questions and interactions to obtain more detailed responses.
While the CIA has not disclosed the names of the intelligence agencies set to benefit from this technological leap, it is expected that the tool will be accessible to the broader U.S. intelligence community, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the National Security Agency (NSA), and the U.S. military.
However, it’s important to note that this powerful tool will not be made available to lawmakers or the general public. The safeguarding of the chatbot, with a focus on preventing leaks and ensuring compliance with privacy laws, is a paramount concern given past incidents of data acquisition by federal agencies and law enforcement.
This development comes as a response to China’s ambitious drive to become a global leader in artificial intelligence by 2030. The U.S. government, cognizant of the need to keep pace, has undertaken comprehensive initiatives to address AI risks, including the definition of generative AI values, the establishment of AI research institutes, and the promotion of ethical AI development.
In the eyes of the CIA’s director of Open Source Enterprise, AI is an indispensable tool for managing the overwhelming and ever-expanding volume of collected data. The CIA’s venture into AI-driven intelligence analysis is part of a broader effort by the U.S. government to counter China’s influence and promote responsible AI development on the global stage.
Redmi made the Note 13 series available in China earlier this month. The mid-range lineup should also launch in the global market sometime this year or early next year. Before that happens, the company may also launch a budget smartphone in the market— Redmi 13C. The handset is likely to debut as the successor to last year’s Redmi 12C and a new report suggests it brings an improved design as well as cameras. Here are the details.
Redmi 13C could be a feature-packed budget phone
MySmartPrice has shared a bunch of high-resolution renders of the upcoming Redmi 13C. From the rear, the handset looks somewhat similar to the Note 13 series models. It gets a triple-camera setup, placed in a squircle-shaped module. The text in the camera module reveals that the smartphone will feature a 50MP primary camera. We see the power button and volume keys are located on the right edge of the device.
While the back looks decent, the thick bezels and the U-shaped notch on the front immediately give away the fact that this is a budget smartphone. But on the plus side, the device is pictured with a 3.5mm headphone jack, which you’d rarely see on smartphones nowadays. The device also features a speaker grille, a charging port, and a microphone. The renders shared by the outlet suggest the Redmi 13C will be offered in three color options – Light Green, Black, and Blue.
The specifications of the handset are anyone’s guess at the moment. Since the Redmi 12C was unveiled in December last year, we expect a similar timeline for its successor. More details about the handset should emerge in the coming days. Stay tuned for the updates.
After the global launch back in July, Sony has now launched its flagship WF-1000XM5 TWS earbuds in India. These earbuds mark a significant upgrade over their predecessor, the WF-1000XM4, offering users an enhanced listening journey.
Sony 1000XM5 specs
One of the standout upgrades is the enhanced noise cancellation powered by Sony’s Integrated Processor V2 and HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e. These components work together to provide superior noise cancellation, ensuring your listening experience remains undisturbed by ambient sounds. The earbuds eliminate low-frequency noise using the three built-in microphones in each earbud.
Sound quality has also received a boost thanks to Sony’s new Dynamic Driver X. This driver promises a wider range of frequencies, deeper bass, and clearer vocals. The WF-1000XM5 also supports High-Resolution Audio Wireless via LDAC and features real-time music upscaling with DSEE Extreme.
Beyond audio, these earbuds offer a range of convenient features. They include head-tracking technology for immersive listening, AI-based noise reduction for exceptional call quality, and a sleek, comfortable design. Notably, they’re 25% smaller and 20% lighter than their predecessor.
Additional features like Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, multipoint connectivity for two devices, voice assistant support, and up to 8 hours of battery life make these earbuds versatile and user-friendly. Plus, a quick 3-minute charge can provide up to an hour of playback time.
Sony is also committed to sustainability, using recycled plastic materials and eco-friendly packaging for the WF-1000XM5. These earbuds also come with an IPX4 water resistance rating and Qi wireless charging compatibility.
Pricing & availability
Priced at Rs. 24,990, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is available in both Black and platinum silver colors. However, you have the opportunity to pre-book them from September 27th to October 15th and snag the earbuds for a reduced price of Rs. 21,990, which includes a Rs. 3,000 cashback. Additionally, all pre-bookings come with a bonus: a free SRS-XB100 portable speaker worth Rs. 4,990.
The Oppo Enco Air 2 made its initial debut in January 2022 in China. Now, more than one and a half years later, the company has launched a new version of these true wireless earbuds.
The brand is officially calling the latest model Oppo Enco Air 2 New Sound Edition. It comes with several upgrades over the older version despite retaining the design and price tag.
The newer Enco Air 2 arrives with Bluetooth 5.3 instead of Bluetooth 5.2. Oppo does not mention the size of the drivers which suggests it could be the same 13.4mm units.
However, the company says that the earphones offer new sound signature and spatial sound effects. It is also Viper Atmos-certified but still lacks ANC (Active Noise Cancellation).
We have saved the best upgrade for the last. These earbuds can last up to 35 hours, which is 11 hours more battery life than what the original model offers (24 hours).
Oppo Enco Air 2 New Sound Edition arrives in Light Sea Blue and Clouds are White color options. It is priced at ¥179 ($25) but will be available at ¥149 ($20) during the pre-order period which has started today (September 27). The TWS will be up for sale from October 7.
Usually, Oppo brings most of its audio products to global markets. So there’s a chance this could be released outside mainland China.
WHERE TO BUY
OPPO Enco Air 2 NewSound Edition at $29.90@Geekwills
Last week, Acer launched the Nitro V gaming laptop in India featuring 13th Gen Intel processors and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX4050 GPU. The laptop series has now been launched in other global markets as well. Keep reading to learn more about the Nitro V series.
Acer Nitro V 15 specs
The Acer Nitro V 15 (ANV15-51) offers a 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a quick 3ms response time. The laptop boasts an 82% screen-to-body ratio for an immersive viewing experience.
Under the hood, the laptop can be equipped with up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processors. Graphics are powered by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU. Memory-wise, it supports up to 32 GB of DDR5 memory. For storage, you can opt for up to 2 TB of M.2 PCIe solid-state storage, ensuring quick loading times and boot speeds.
In terms of audio, it incorporates DTS:X Ultra technology and offers various sound modes tailored for different types of games. Additionally, Acer has included Acer Purified View and Acer Purified Voice technologies to enhance video calls.
The Acer Nitro V 15 features a cooling system with dual fans, preventing overheating during intense use. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 and a Thunderbolt 4 port.
Price and availability
Acer Nitro V 15 (ANV15-51) launching in North America in October, while European availability begins in September.
It was reported last month that Wings Lifestyle will enter the laptop segment by unveiling the Nuvobook series in September. The brand has finally launched the Nuvobook S1, Nuvobook S2, Nuvobook V1, and Nuvobook Pro laptops with a starting price of Rs 27,990. The new notebooks are available for purchase via Flipkart. According to the brand, the Nuvobook laptops are designed for first-time laptop buyers, students, and young working professionals.
Wings Nuvbook S1, S2, V1, Pro specifications and features
Wings Nuvobooks
Wings Nuvbook S1, S2, V1, and Pro models are all powered by 11th-generation Intel processors, Windows 11 Home, and a 4,825mAh battery. The notebooks offer up to 10 hours of battery life. In addition, these devices come with a 65-watt charger that can achieve 60 percent charge in 1 hour.
Wings Nuvobooks
The S1, S2, and V1 notebooks feature a 15.6-inch IPS LCD Full HD display, whereas the Pro model has a 14-inch IPS LCD FHD display. All four notebooks support up to 300 nits of brightness and a 100 percent sRGB color gamut.
Wings Nuvobooks
The Nuvobooks come with other features, such as DDR4 RAM, SSD storage, a 180-degree flexible hinge, a back-lit keyboard, quad speakers with Wings Signature Maxx audio optimization, and an HD camera with a privacy shutter. The Nuvobooks offer connectivity features, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, SD card slot, HDMI port, 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0, and 2 x USB-C, and a 3.5mm jack.
Wings Nuvobooks
The Nuvobooks have a lightweight design featuring an aluminium build and weigh around 1.60kg. The Wings laptops can be bought in multiple colors like blue, green, red, and silver.
Wings Nuvbook S1, S2, V1, Pro configurations and price in India
Wings Nuvobooks
The Nuvobook S1, S2, V1, and Pro come in the following configurations:
Apple recently introduced its iPhone 15 Pro series smartphones, featuring significant updates such as switching the stainless steel frame for a new titanium frame, a USB-C port, and a cutting-edge A17 Pro chip produced using TSMC’s advanced 3-nm process. However, reports from various sources have emerged, indicating that the iPhone 15 Pro series devices are experiencing severe overheating issues.
Initial speculations and explanations pointed towards TSMC’s challenges in achieving high yields with their 3nm chips as the root cause, suggesting that Apple had to settle for lower-quality chips for this year’s Pro lineup. Nevertheless, prominent industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has now indicated that the heating problems are unrelated to TSMC’s 3nm technology and are instead originating from a different source.
As per Kuo, “the primary cause of the heating issue is more likely the compromises made in the thermal system design to achieve a lighter weight such as the reduced heat dissipation area and the use of a titanium frame, which negatively impacts thermal efficiency.”
To elaborate further, it appears that Apple may have made trade-offs in the thermal system design to prevent the iPhone 15 Pro models from becoming too heavy. When compared to the previous iPhone 14 Pro model, Apple successfully reduced the weight of the iPhone 15 Pro model by 19 grams. The modifications to make the phone lighter could be responsible for the heating issue, especially when combined with the new titanium frame.
Kuo predicts that Apple will likely address the issue with a software update. However, this could result in a tradeoff, potentially reducing the performance of the Apple A17 Pro chip to keep temperatures in check. Kuo also cautions that if Apple doesn’t effectively tackle this problem, it could have a negative impact on iPhone 15 Pro series sales over its lifespan. The more pressing question, though, is how such an issue managed to slip through the prototype testing phase.
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