Xiaomi is reportedly working on a new WearOS smartwatch, which will be called the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro. In addition to the leaks and certifications surrounding the device, Xiaomi has also filed three new trademarks with the EUIPO: MiHealthSleep+, MiHealthCare+, and MiHealthSports+.
The trademarks are listed with their specific name logos and are described as downloadable software applications. Based on this information, it is likely that these three trademarks are related to new health and fitness features that Xiaomi plans to launch alongside its upcoming WearOS smartwatch.
MiHealthSleep+ could be an app for sleep measurement and analysis, while MiHealthCare+ could offer overall body analysis and measurement. Likewise, MiHealthSports+ could bring the ability to monitor different sports modes and evaluate health stats in a single space.
It is important to note that these are just trademarks, and there is no guarantee that Xiaomi will actually release these features. However, the fact that the company is filing trademarks for them suggests that it is at least considering developing them.
Xiaomi is set to announce the Watch 2 Pro smartwatch on September 26. Leaks suggest that it will be powered by the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor, while Xiaomi has confirmed that it will run on WearOS.
Xiaomi is working on a new line of Redmi smartphones called the K70 series. It will be Redmi’s flagship offering, and a report by Xiaomiui suggests that the device may launch in December.
The launch date of the K70 series smartphones has been tipped in the MIUI 15 builds based on Android 14. The Redmi K70 series will likely comprise three different models, each with its own model number: Redmi K70 Pro (23117RK66C), Redmi K70 (2311DRK48C), and Redmi K70E (23113RKC6C). As a result, the builds are currently being tested on the China ROM for all three devices.
The internal MIUI 15 builds spotted by Xiaomiui for these models are MIUI-V15.0.0.2.UNLCNXM, MIUI-V15.0.0.2.UNKCNXM, and MIUI-V15.0.0.1.UNMCNXM, respectively.
Besides that, each model is rumored to be powered by a different processor. The K70 Pro was recently spotted on Geekbench with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. It managed to score 1100 points in the single-core test, and 5150 points in the multi-core test.
The Geekbench listing mentions ‘Wall’ as the chipset, which could likely with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. It has a peak clock speed of 3.19GHz. The listing also shows Android 14 OS out-of-the-box, and 16GB RAM, but there could be other memory options at launch.
Xiaomi launched the Redmi Note 13 series in China yesterday. The lineup comprises the standard, pro, and pro plus variants. All three devices are expected to debut in the global markets in the future. Now as per a tipster, the Xiaomi sub-brand is reportedly working on a new device in the lineup. It will be a rebranded version of the existing Note 13 5G. Read on to know the details.
Redmi Note 13R Pro reportedly in the works
Redmi Note 13 5G will have the rebrand in China, Redmi Note 13R Pro with 64 Mpx camera. It may be also available globally. India very likely will get both 13 5G and 13R Pro (although IDK the second variant will have the same name as in China)
Xiaomi launched the Note 12R in June this year. Kacper Skrzypek reveals that Xiaomi is working on the Redmi Note 13R Pro. It is tipped to be a rebranded Note 13 5G in the home country. The smartphone is said to feature a 64MP main camera sensor. However, the rest of the core specifications remain a mystery for now.
Skrzypek also added that the Redmi Note 13R Pro will be available in India alongside the standard Note 13. However, it’s likely that the former will carry a different name in the country. As usual, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ and Pro variants will also arrive in India. The standard and pro models have already bagged BIS certifications.
The tipster also revealed that the Redmi Note 13 Pro may launch as a POCO phone in the global markets. The moniker is not known, but it is speculated to be the POCO X6 Pro.
The Redmi Note 13 Pro series arrives with significant upgrades compared to their predecessors. Both pack a 120Hz AMOLED display (the Pro+ has a curved screen) with an integrated fingerprint scanner, a 200MP main camera, and more. Meanwhile, the standard model also packs incremental upgrades including a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset and more.
Technology is an indispensable part of our lives. Today, we rely on it for everything from basic communication to financial transactions. In fact, some communities criticize people for relying too heavily on technology. Of course, as a tech enthusiast, I don’t agree with them, but what if they have a point? What if the miraculous devices that we use every day and make our lives easier could lead to our demise because we trust them too much? A court in the US is currently addressing this very question. A family is suing Google and others, alleging that the Maps app led their husband to his death. Here are the details…
The Lawsuit Targets Google Maps, Alleging Faulty Directions Caused Tragedy
In September 2022, a man named Philip Paxson tragically lost his life while attempting to cross a damaged bridge in North Carolina. The Paxson family has since filed a lawsuit against Google, claiming that despite the bridge having collapsed nine years ago, Google Maps still provided directions across it. A representative from Google stated that the company is investigating the allegations.
According to the lawsuit, Philip, a father of two, was returning home from his daughter’s friend’s ninth birthday party when the accident occurred. He was in an unfamiliar neighborhood at the time. His wife had earlier dropped off their two daughters at home and stayed back to help with cleaning, which was why Philip was alone in the car.
Notably, the warning signs indicating the bridge’s collapse had been removed by vandals, leaving no cautionary signals for drivers. In the lawsuit, three local companies were also sued, being held responsible for the bridge’s maintenance. Philip’s wife, Alicia Paxson, expressed her grief, saying, “Our daughters keep asking how and why their father died. I can’t find the words to explain it to them because even as an adult, I can’t comprehend how those responsible for the GPS directions and the bridge could show such disregard for human life.”
The Google spokesperson expressed deep sympathy, stating, “We deeply share the Paxson family’s pain. Our aim with Google Maps is to provide accurate navigation, and we are investigating this case.” The family’s lawyers mentioned that Philip trusted Google Maps for directions since he was unfamiliar with the local roads. They expected it to guide him safely back to his home, wife, and daughters.
Tragically, while driving cautiously on a rainy, dark night, Philip followed Google’s inaccurate directions without suspicion, leading him to what locals refer to as the “Bridge to Nowhere.” He subsequently fell into a stream and drowned. The lawsuit also points out that local residents had contacted Google multiple times since the bridge’s collapse in 2013, urging them to update their online maps.
Amazfit has launched its Cheetah smartwatch series in India after a teaser a few days ago. These smartwatches have all the cool features you’d expect from a top-notch smartwatch, and they also come with the Zepp Coach powered by AI, which is a helpful tool for runners to plan their training and race goals. Keep reading to learn more about these smartwatches.
Amazfit Cheetah (round/square) specs
Designed for all-day wear, the Amazfit Cheetah watch is lightweight with a fiber-reinforced polymer middle frame. It’s comfortable whether you’re at the office or working out. The Amazfit Cheetah Round has a 1.39-inch HD AMOLED display with a sharp 454×454 resolution and 326 PPI. It’s easy to read even in bright sunlight. The Amazfit Cheetah Square offers a 1.75-inch display with a remarkable 341 PPI, providing exceptional clarity.
Amazfit’s MaxTrack technology improves GPS accuracy, even in challenging environments. It supports six satellite systems and offers Offline Maps through the Zepp App for precise navigation during your runs. The Zepp Coach is your AI running coach that creates customized training plans for you and adjusts them according to your progress.
With enhanced Bluetooth connectivity through Zepp OS 2.0, you can connect to external devices and listen to music directly on your watch. Store up to 470 songs for on-the-go entertainment. You can also sync your run data with popular apps like Strava, Relive, and Adidas Running through the Zepp App. The Amazfit Cheetah Series supports over 150 sports modes, automatically recognizing various activities like running, walking, cycling, swimming, and more. The smartwatch offers a water-resistance grade of 5 ATM and is claimed to offer up to 14 days of battery life with typical use.
Price & availability
The Amazfit Cheetah is priced at INR 20,999 and comes in Speedster Grey. You can choose between Round and Square designs to match your style. Starting September 24, 2023, Indian consumers can purchase it on the company’s website and select offline stores of Helios and Just In Time.
Oraimo has announced a brand-new truly wireless earbuds in India. The model in question is the FreePods Lite model, which is a pair of budget wireless earbuds. So here are all the details regarding its specs and pricing.
Oraimo FreePods Lite Specs
Following the launch of the Oraimo FreePods 4, Oraimo has just released a new FreePods Lite TWS model. The new hearables arrive as the latest affordable earbuds from the brand, which promise to deliver an immersive audio experience on a budget. One of the most interesting aspects regarding the FreePods Lite is its 40 hours long battery life on a single full charge. Notably, these earbuds even support fast charging, with just 10 minutes of charging offering up to 2 hours of audio playback.
Talking about its design, the FreePods Lite features a sleek transparent design and a dual tone color hue. The Oraimo Sound App enhancements are also being offered, which aims to offer an improved listening experience to the user. Notably, the FreePods Lite adapts to the user’s unique hearing profile that guarantees customized audio.
Oraimo FreePods Lite Pricing & Availability
Oraimo has just been launched for an affordable price tag of just 799 INR (roughly 10 US Dollars). It has been unveiled in multiple color options, namely Icelake Blue, Nebula Blue, and Phantom Black. So for those interested, the FreePods Lite can be bought from the brand’s official website with a 12 month warranty or from Flipkart, a popular e-retailer in India.
Vertu, the luxury smartphone maker, recently unveiled the METAVERTU 2 at the Token2049 Singapore event. Like the first-gen METAVERTU, the new smartphone is designed for blockchain and Web3 enthusiasts, with a decentralized operating system (DOS) and enhanced security features. So let’s about the details here.
VERTU METAVERTU 2 Overview
The METAVERTU 2 comes with a number of new security features over its predecessor. One feature that I’m particularly interested in is the “unhackable” Secure Element (SE) chip. This chip generates bank-level encryption for signing, decryption, hardware-based random number generation, and Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZK) capability.
This means that users can be confident that their private keys and other sensitive data are always safe, even if the phone is lost or stolen.
Another important security feature of the METAVERTU 2 is its separate Decentralized Operating System (DOS). This OS is isolated from the Android operating system, which means that Web3 apps are protected from any vulnerabilities that may exist in the Android OS.
In addition to its security features, the METAVERTU 2 also offers a number of other features that make it a great choice for Web3 users. These include a built-in MPC wallet, which frees users from having to memorize mnemonic phrases and a dApp store where users can download and install the latest Web3 apps.
There’s also a new identity system called I-DID. It essentially binds the user’s mobile IMEI number with their Decentralized Identifiers (DID) which eliminates the need for repetitive registrations when accessing Web3 dApps.
Vertu has also tried to make the smartphone developer-friendly. It supports programmability through open protocols and provides access to APIs for various Layer 1 (L1) and Layer 2 (L2) protocols.
Developers can also utilize the I-DID Protocol to enhance security and combat attacks such as Sybil Attacks. Additionally, developers can publish their dApps on the dApp Store to attract users.
Besides this, Vertu has not yet announced the hardware specifications of the METAVERTU 2. Or has shared actual images of the smartphone. However, it is scheduled to be released in October 2023. Users can make a reservation for the METAVERTU 2 now and get a chance to win a Bitcoin Blind Box. No deposits are required for reservations.
Google is nearing the launch of its Pixel 8 series of flagship smartphones. The Pixel 8 lineup will be announced on 4th October 2023. But apart from just premium models, the company is also expected to launch the more affordable Pixel 8a later on as well. Now, a new leak has revealed the design of the Pixel 8a model, so let’s have a look.
Google Pixel 8a Design
The leak was shared by known tipster Abhishek Yadav, who shared live images of the upcoming device on X (formerly Twitter). Looking at the images, the Pixel 8a can be seen in a bright blue color option. In the tweet, Abhishek stated that the Pixel 8a has the codename Akita and will be powered by the Search Engine giant’s proprietary Tensor G3 SoC. The leaked live images offer us a glimpse of the device from the side, front, and back.
We can see a center-aligned punch hole cutout for the selfie camera on the front with noticeable bezels surrounding the display. Notably, the Google Pixel 8a also features curved edges. This makes its design more in line with the other models from the Pixel 8 series. The right side houses the power button and volume rockers. Similar to the previous generation devices, the Pixel 8a retains the visor camera module design as the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7a models.
Keep in mind that this is an unconfirmed leak so take these live images with a pinch of salt. Since the Pixel 8a launch is still a while away, it is likely that the device spotted on X is a prototype version. The Pixel 7a launched back in May 2023, so the Pixel 8a might have a similar launch window.
Xiaomi is preparing to launch its next generation of flagship smartphones soon. The Xiaomi 14 lineup is expected to launch in November, unveiling the new Xiaomi 14, Xiaomi 14 Pro, and the Xiaomi 14 Ultra in China. But prior to its release, the base model has been spotted on a Chinese certification platform. This revealed the fast charging rates of this device, so let’s have a look.
Xiaomi 14 spotted on 3C
The Chinese tech giant’s upcoming premium smartphone surfaced on the 3C certification recently, carrying the 23127PN0CC model number. This online listing revealed that the Xiaomi 14 will arrive with support for up to 90W fast charging and 5G connectivity. In other words, the 3C certification has confirmed that the new device will feature a noticeable upgrade in charging speeds over its predecessor, the Xiaomi 13, which only offered 67W fast charging.
Unfortunately, the finer details regarding this device weren’t revealed on 3C. But based on previous reports, we know that the handset will be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC. The smartphone will likely run on Android 14 OS based MIUI 15 out of the box. The Xiaomi 14 is expected to be powered by a 4,860mAh battery pack. In a recent report, we covered a leak that revealed the camera specs of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. The top-end model features a Sony LYT900 1-inch camera, quad curved display, and a pair of 3x and 5x capable zoom lenses.
As of right now, the official launch date of the Xiaomi 14 series has yet to be announced. Although, known tipster Digital Chat Station had previously hinted at a November 11 announcement. So stick around for more, as we will be providing updates when additional details are revealed ahead of the launch.
Today, September 22 marks the official launch of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro. Lucky buyers have already begun receiving their pre-orders, and eager fans have taken to social media to share real-world pictures of their new devices.
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are available in four sleek and stylish colors: White Titanium, Natural Titanium, Black Titanium, and Blue Titanium. The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus come in a wider range of colors, including blue, black, yellow, pink, and white.
For customers who pre-ordered their iPhone 15 for in-store pickup, the Apple Store app is displaying the status as “Ready for Pickup.” However, please note that you can only collect your order at your assigned time tomorrow.
Customers who were unable to secure a pre-order have formed lines at Apple Stores worldwide in an attempt to purchase a device in person. However, Apple has shifted to an appointment-based system for launch day purchases, meaning that only customers with appointments will be able to purchase a new iPhone. Despite this, some hopeful customers are still lining up in the hopes of walking in and grabbing a new phone without an appointment.
Pictures shared on Weibo and Twitter reveal bustling lines outside Apple Stores, particularly in Dubai, Australia, China, and India. These queues demonstrate the excitement and demand for the latest iPhone models.
The foldable smartphone market is already ushering in some exciting new devices. The Flip and Fold are currently the trending form factors in the foldable market. Several OEMs are working on these form factors to garner some market share. For instance, Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5, Motorola introduced the Motorola Razr 40 and Razr 40 Ultra, Oppo made a debut with the Find N Flip, and Vivo is here with its Vivo X Fold 2, and Vivo X Flip phone. It seems the Chinese smartphone maker – Vivo is working on a couple of new flip phones with the names – Vivo S Flip and Vivo V Flip.
The trademark of both smartphones has appeared on the European EUIPO. Both devices could likely feature a Flip form factor, but we can’t even deny the folding form factor too. The company has just filed for the trademark of Vivo S Flip and Vivo V Flip for a European Union Trademark. It is described as a trademark for “Mobile phones- Smart phones- Folding smart phones- Smartphones with foldable screens.” Other details about these new smartphones have not appeared but we expect more information about the smartphones in the coming few days.
Vivo’s Previous Foldables
Vivo recently introduced Vivo X Flip which is now retailing in the Chinese market. The smartphone bundles a 2-inch AMOLED on the Flip and it offers a 682×422 pixel resolution and 60Hz refresh rate. The primary display on the inside measures 6.7-inch in size and offers a 120Hz refresh rate and 2520 x 1080 pixels resolution. It is powered with Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, up to 12 GB RAM, and a 256/512GB internal storage variant.
The rear Zeiss camera is bundled with a 50MP primary sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. A 32MP selfie camera sits inside the display. The smartphone features a 4400 mAh battery with 44W fast charging support.
Meanwhile, Vivo also introduced Vivo X Fold 2 which houses a triple-rear camera and bundles Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC.
It would be interesting to see more details in the coming days about both smartphones.
Microsoft has officially unveiled a bunch of new Surface laptops. Alongside the Surface Laptop Studio 2 and the Surface Go 4, the company has unveiled the Surface Laptop Go 3. There are some changes to the Surface Laptop series with the latest entry, so let’s have a look.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 Pricing & Availability
The American tech giant’s latest notebook is a part of its Go series of budget laptops. However, With a start price tag of 799 US Dollars for the 8GB + 256GB model, it isn’t exactly affordable. Furthermore, the upgrade to 16GB RAM and 256GB internal storage bumps the price tag by another 200 US Dollars, reaching 999 US Dollars. The device is currently listed in the US, with its sale set to kick off on 3rd October 2023. This model is listed on the official Microsoft website as well, so it’s expected to launch in the Asian region soon.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 Specs
The company’s Surface Laptop Go 3 sports a 12.4-inch PixelSense Display, which supports touchscreen functionality. This screen has a 1536 x 1024 resolution along with 330 nits of peak brightness and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection. Despite the thin and light form factor and compact design, Microsoft has managed to offer a full sized keyboard with a large precision trackpad right below it. The laptop features a fingerprint scanner in the power button with Windows Hello and One Touch sign in as well. As per official notes, Microsoft is claiming a battery life of up to 15 hours with fast charging support thanks to its 40Wh battery pack.
Notably, the front also features a 720p HD webcam. Under the hood, the Surface Laptop Go 3 is equipped with the 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U processor. For audio, it houses Omnisonic Speakers with Dolby Audio Premium along with dual far-field Studio Mics. The laptop runs on Windows 11 Home out of the box. Connectivity options include WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1 LE, a USB-C 3.2 port, a USB-A 3.1 port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port.
Vivo has just announced the new Vivo T2 Pro 5G model in the Indian market. The company’s latest offering is the latest entry in the T series of mid-range smartphones. This device is being targeted towards the youth, so here are all the details regarding the specs and pricing.
Vivo T2 Pro Specs
The Vivo T2 Pro features a fresh new design that makes it look quite premium despite its mid-range price tag. It comes with a slim and lightweight body, which should make it comfortable to hold. Meanwhile, the front sports a tall 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display that has a Full HD+ resolution, 20:9 aspect ratio, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, 300Hz touch sampling rate, and up to 1,300 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, the handset is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 SoC that is paired with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM with up to 256GB of internal storage.
This device runs on Android 13 OS based FunTouchOS 13 custom skin. On the rear, the Vivo T2 Pro 5G features a dual camera setup that consists of a 64-megapixel primary sensor and a 2-megapixel depth lens. The front houses a 16-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. The 64-megapixel camera is a Samsung GW3 sensor that offers OIS (Optical Image Stabilization). A 4,600mAh battery pack powers this device, which also supports 66W fast charging. Other notable features include Bluetooth 5.3, IP52 water and dust resistance, Wi-Fi 6, and an in-display fingerprint scanner.
Vivo T2 Pro Pricing & Availability
The Vivo T2 Pro has been announced in two color options, namely the New Moon Black and Dune Gold. It has a starting price tag of 23,999 INR for the 8GB + 128GB model, while the 8GB + 256GB configuration costs 24,999 INR. The smartphone will go on sale via Flipkart and the company’s official website starting from 29th September 2023. Notably, there is a flat 1,000 INR discount on exchange and ICICI Bank and Axis Bank Credit card holders get access to 2,000 INR instant discount as well.
After a lot of rumors and hints for several weeks, Tecno has finally launched its first flip phone, called the Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G. Unlike most flip phones, this one is aimed at the middle price range, but it still has many of the fancy features you’d expect from a really expensive folding phone.
Design & display
Design-wise, the brand draws inspiration from the cosmos, featuring a circular cover screen known as “The Planet,” and an integrated camera module that depicts an “Asteroid Belt”. On the back, the brand has used a premium lychee-pattern classic leather (vegan leather) to enhance the luxury feel.
The cover display of the smartphone measures 1.32 inches, with a 466 x 466 resolution AMOLED panel. On the inside, the phone features a 6.9-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2460 pixels) flexible LTPO AMOLED display with a 20.5:9 aspect ratio, 1000 nits peak brightness, and up to 120Hz refresh rate. The brand claims that even after 200,000 folds, the display will remain virtually creaseless.
The right side of the upper panel will feature the volume rocker and the power button. A fingerprint sensor is built into the power button. Overall, the smartphone measures 88.77 x 74.05 x 14.95mm when folded and 171.72 x 74.05 x 6.95mm when unfolded.
Camera
One of its standout features is the 64MP (primary) +13MP (ultra-wide) camera system. The star of the show is the 64MP RGBW Ultra Sensitive sensor main camera that boasts a 60% increase in light intake, reduced noise, and enhanced color accuracy thanks to the RGBW pixel format. This camera has the highest resolution among flip phones at 64MP, along with an f/1.7 aperture and 1.6μm (4in1) pixels. Equipped with PDAF, ISOCELL Pixel Isolation, and a Pixel Fusion Algorithm, it promises to deliver exceptional night performance to illuminate even the darkest environments.
For selfie enthusiasts, the 32MP Dual-flash Autofocus Front Camera is a game-changer. It boasts an industry-first front-facing flashlight in a flip phone, offering perfect lighting for selfies, even in low-light situations. The camera’s Automatic Eye-focus ensures precise subject tracking for clear and detailed selfies and vlogs.
Its FreeCam System allows users to explore creative angles and capture unique shots. With stability at any angle from 30-150˚, it’s perfect for group shots, rear camera selfies, and low-angle shots. Plus, you can control it with gestures and voice commands, so you don’t need to touch it while taking pictures.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Phantom V Flip 5G is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 8050 5G chipset, along with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. For those not familiar, the Dimensity 8050 is essentially a rebranded variant of the Dimensity 1300 SoC, which is constructed using TSMC’s N6 (6nm) technology. This octa-core processor comprises four high-powered Cortex-A78 cores and four energy-efficient Cortex-A55 cores. Among the Cortex-A78 cores, there is one Super Core capable of running at speeds of up to 3GHz, and three Performance Cores clocked at a maximum of 2.6GHz. As for graphics, it relies on the Arm Mali-G77 with nine cores.
Additionally, the device has a 4,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging support which promises to fill up 33% of the battery in just 10 minutes. The Phantom V Flip will provide various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.3, and 5G connectivity with support for 14 different 5G bands. As for the operating system, Tecno has implemented a custom HiOS 13.5 that uses Android 13 as its base.
Additionally, Tecno promises to launch scented protective cases for the Phantom V Flip 5G soon. As per the brand, the case incorporates fragrant microcapsules into the leather production process, with scent being slowly released by pressure, friction heating, or natural diffusion. The scent can last for over a year under normal usage conditions. It will be available in a choice of Rose, Sea Shore, or Cologne.
Price & availability
Tecno is releasing the phone in two color options: Black and Purple. The Phantom V Flip 5G will be released in India first and the early bird price of Phantom V Flip 5G in India will be INR 49,999 (USD 598 est.). Pricing will vary across different markets and is subject to the price announced at the time of launch in each individual market. For European customers, the phone is priced at €700.
For so many years, using a power bank on the go has been a pain in my butt, the experience is really anti-portable and inconvenient, and the reason is that power banks nowadays are either too big to be used in that type of situation or even they are small enough, they still need to be jammed in your pocket while traveling.
Whenever you need to use it, you dig into your bag to find it, a very troublesome experience. What annoys me even more about those power banks is that you always need to carry an extra charging cable. It was all really desperate when I was out with the power bank and suddenly realized that the cable had been left at home!
So what I am trying to say is that there has to be an intuitive way to solve this problem, and there is. Now let me introduce a brand-new power bank to you, the Mchaos crossbody power bank with retractable cable. It’s the world’s first truly portable and intuitive power bank that can be attached to your backpack. After I have all the details for you, you can head to the link down below to get to know it more.
Let’s put some power banks with this one side by side, to see how it really helps you with the charging need on the road. This is the Xiaomi 20000mah power bank, it measures 153*72*28, it weighs 448g. Same as most of its kind, it looks and feels like a brick. This one is the 20W power bank, it measures 140*68*15 and weighs 218g, is very light and it is still big. These power banks have been my go-to items when it comes to business trips and daily commutes, but not until I have this one, the Mchaos power bank.
Clearly, it has a very chic design to it, the rectangular shape and skin-friendly surface make holding it extremely pleasant and intuitive. However, it is actually not quite meant to be held in hand anyway, because whenever you go out, you can just grab it and with a simple click, walah, the power bank is just on the backpack. Or if you are a true minimalist and do not carry too many items with you, it can also be attached to your sling.
Wait, it gets even better, there is a shoulder strap prepared for you. If you only need your phone and power bank with you, you can achieve that by using this item. So it really frees your hand entirely, what a genius solution! When it’s hooked here, it looks very versatile, and since it has a unique shape and the colors are bright, it’s like a fashionable item more than just a power bank.
When it comes to putting things in the backpack, every oz matters, this portable power bank measures 153*87*28 mm and weighs 180g, it is definitely very compact. By comparison, it’s smaller and lighter than the previous two we mentioned, it really does not put any extra weight on you. And because the lanyard is short and the buckle is solidly built, once you hang it onto any bags, it does not wobble too much.
Now here comes the best part of the experience: whenever you want to charge your phone or any device, you can simply pull the cable out, plug it in your phone, and there you go! Whenever you don’t need to use it, the cable will snap back and stay in position. It is just like how you would use a tape measure, isn’t it?
The cable is 28 inches or 0.7 meters long, just as long as my arm goes, so it can definitely charge any devices that can be held in your hand. I must say it is very convenient when I need to use my phone while walking, whether I need to check the navigation or take a phone call. Or even if I am waiting for the bus or the metro, and I want to have a 5-minute gaming session, it is the best companion I have ever had. And as a tech reviewer, I also need to do a lot of outdoor photography tests, this power bank supports me a lot, really a lot.
And if you are wondering, what is it like if I am a PEV lover and I want to use it while riding my electric bike? Well, we have tested them, here we have an electric scooter, a motorbike, and another moped. As you can see, all the handlebars of these PEVs are designed within your reach, so the length of the cable is more than enough for this situation. And once your phone is attached to the bikes, they are bundled nice and snug. No matter how the vehicle moves, the cable is flexible enough to keep up with it.
So in order to provide enough juice while maintaining good portability, this power bank houses a lithium cell in it, and the capacity rated at 5000mAh, it can charge most electronic devices at least 1-3 times, sustainable for a full day use in some senses. It uses a Type-C connection, and it supports 20W fast charging.
As you can see, it also has the top level of charging compatibility. With the exception of OPPO and vivo, which may charge slower, other phones can be charged at almost full power. The PD and QC protocols will also allow you to charge your tablet or laptop. However, I wouldn’t recommend MChaos to charge them as the battery capacity isn’t that big. The only thing that counts as a downside would be the lack of PPS support, but with a 20W maximum power, I don’t think PPS is that important.
For Apple fanboys, the good news is that It can charge an iPhone 14 to 50% in 30 minutes, faster than typical power banks. And you can directly use it with the iPhone 15 series without using an adaptor since the new iPhone has surrendered to the USB-C camp!
When it’s working, there are different colors showing its working status, another delightful feature you will love. What’s creative is that the cable is also an input connector, whenever you need to recharge it, just plug it into the power brick, and then it can be juiced up again.
After using this power bank for a while, I am really amazed by the functionality and convenience it brings, although the retractable cable is not a new idea, once it is combined with the charging needs, it creates a refreshing experience. This product is currently on Kickstarter campaign, with a super early bird price of just 49 US dollars, two colors for your options, if you want to buy it, you can jump to that page by clicking the link down below. Also, if you are interested in some innovative products, you can check out the creator of this product, maybe you will find some surprises.
After bringing the latest security patch to the OnePlus 10 Pro, Nord N10, and Nord CE, the update is now live for the OnePlus 11, OnePlus Nord CE 2, and Nord CE 2 Lite 5G. The update for the OnePlus CE 2 Lite series is live in India; Meanwhile, the global variant of the OnePlus 11 is receiving the September 2023 Security Patch.
OnePlus 11 is receiving OxygenOS 13.1.0.595 update in the GLO region featuring the new security patch. The update will expand to other regions in October. However, the update for carrier-locked models depends on their own timeline. It is now rolling out to a small number of users.
OnePlus Nord CE 2 and Nord CE 2 Lite 5G are receiving OxygenOS 13 F.50 and OxygenOS 13 C.32 firmware updates in India. The update is now live and may reach all the units within the next few days to weeks.
The users in India can submit bugs via Google Dialer by typing *#800#.
All the updates are staggered rollouts and may take some time to reach every unit of the respective smartphones. We suggest waiting or manually checking the update by heading to the smartphone’s settings.
OxygenOS 14 Update Program
OnePlus is rolling out OxygenOS 14 Closed Beta and Open Beta for compatible smartphones. The users who have participated in respective programs can enjoy the OxygenOS 14. However, the OOS 14 Open Beta is open to any users and it is available for OnePlus 11 currently. The Open beta program is expanding to other devices in the coming months.
The Skydio X10 drone has been launched and it comes with a few exciting features. The new drone comes with a triple-camera setup and advanced AI technology. It is equipped with the NightSense feature for autonomous flights in dark environments. The Skydio X10 is the brand’s first model after it exited the consumer business earlier.
The Skydio X10 is designed as a versatile drone with enterprise and public safety applications. Its 10x higher fidelity navigation cameras eliminate all blind spots during flights. The X10 also comes with 10x improvements in computing power and can fly in GPS-denied environments. It’s a new spatial AI engine that allows for real-time mapping and fully automated modeling. You can build 2D and 3D maps onboard in real-time.
The new Skydio drone X10 is capable of using both visible and infrared illumination to navigate through its environment. The drone is therefore capable of operating any time of the day or night. This versatility in operation, combined with its data capture capabilities is a major talking point for the model. It has a 48MP zoom camera and a 50MP wide field of view precision camera. The X10, according to Skydio, is the first-ever drone to integrate FLIR Boson+ radiometric thermal sensor. The sensor can measure temperature differences during inspection missions or find a missing person even in total darkness.
The X10 has an open and modular airframe with four payload bays. It also has a replaceable gimbal sensor package and an IP55 rating. The Skydio X10 has a multiband radio for operation in contested and jammed environments, as well as a 5G radio for infinite range using cellular networks. The maximum flight time of the drone is 40 minutes and potential applications of the drone include energy, defense, transportation, public safety, and construction. Skydio is also offering training and regulatory consulting for clients using its X10 drone.
Three carriers in Finland have suspended the sale of Xiaomi phones in the wake of the brand’s presence in Russia. Telia, DNA, and Elisa are three major carriers in Finland. A recent report monitored in Finland stated that the companies suspended sales in response to Xiaomi’s presence in Russia after the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. However, two other retailers, Gigantti and Verkkokauppa said Xiaomi is not in breach of EU laws, so their sales will not be suspended.
Earlier this year, Ukraine’s National Agency of Corruption Prevention declared Xiaomi as an international sponsor of war. This was because of Xiaomi’s active presence in Russia. The Finnish firms have decided to suspend their existing cooperation with the Chinese brand. While they have decided not to sell any new Xiaomi devices, they will sell products already in stock. One of the retailers, DNA says it is not satisfied with Xiaomi’s handling of the situation in Russia. It also affirms that it will not replenish stocks once the current batch is exhausted. The third firm, Elisa is scaling down the range of Xiaomi devices that it will be selling, going forward.
Finland has long had anti-Russian sentiments dating back more than a century. A recent poll estimated that about 76% of the Finns have a negative view of Russia. In addition, about 90% of the population believes that Russia is a threat to global peace. It is unclear what moves Xiaomi is making to shore up its market share in Finland in the aftermath of the suspensions.
According to a recent report, Nokia is rolling out a September security update 2023 for XR21 5G.
For those unaware, the company releases these security patches periodically that are primarily focused on security vulnerabilities rather than performance or stability. The release of these updates depends on the device model, region, and location. Similar to the security patches from the other companies like Samsung and OnePlus.
Nokia XR21 5G
In a recent report by Nokiamob, some of the XR21 users have started receiving the security patch. This security update addresses the issues discovered by Google in the previous patch and has mentioned it on its official security bulletin page. The company has managed to work on these issues, and with the official release, we expect the users to have an improved and safer experience.
It is worth mentioning that the update size is around 63.26 MB and is currently available in Malaysia and the Netherlands. We can expect other markets to receive the update soon. The patch should pop up on the device automatically. However, if you have not received the notification, you can go to Settings > System Update > Check for updates.
The slim mini-PCs are getting popular among users due to their compact size and power. If you are looking for a clean workspace or a PC while traveling, these devices are a great option.
Zotac, who is known for manufacturing Geforce gaming graphics cards and mini-PC, has recently revealed its latest mini workstation. This workstation is called ZBOX QRP7N3500 and comes in a compact size, having dimensions of 210mm x 203mm x 62.2mm (8.27in x 7.99in x 2.45in). Let’s go ahead and take a look at the specifications of QRP7N3500.
Image Via Zotac
Zotac ZBOX QRP7N3500 Specifications
The Zotac ZBOX QRP7N3500 comes equipped with Intel Core i7-13700HX having a 16 core 2.1Ghz up to 5.0Ghz and an RTX 3500 with 12GB GDDR6 192-bit memory. This mini-PC has 2 x DDR5-4800 SO-DIMM slots, which support up to 64GB of RAM. The QRP7N3500 features 5 x USB 3.1 GEN 2 ports and Thunderbolt 4. The workstation offers various connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and Dual LAN ports that support 2.5Gbps Ethernet speed.
In terms of display, QRP7N3500 comes with 2 x HDMI connectors and 2 x DisplayPort 1.4a, which can withstand 4K 120Hz HDR, 8K 60Hz HDR and Variable Refresh Rate. If you are looking for a multi-monitor setup, these connectors will come in handy.
Price & Availability
The Zotac ZBOX QRP7N3500 will be available in barebones configuration in selected regions. This means the users can configure or customize their mini-PC according to their requirements. The company has yet to reveal the official price of this workstation. However, we expect to receive more information in the future. So stay tuned.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
