iPhone photography kit brings up to 12x optical zoom, fill lights, SD card slot and more

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Feb 2, 2026

Oppo has officially confirmed that the Oppo K14x 5G will debut on Feb. 10 in India. Ahead of the launch, its microsite is live on Flipkart and Oppo India, revealing its design, color options, and several key features ahead of the launch. Here’s a look at what the device has to offer.

Oppo K14x 5G launch, design, and key specs revealed

The Oppo K14x 5G is set to debut in India on February 10. Design-wise, it features a flat display with a centred punch-hole cutout, while the rear houses a vertically aligned dual-camera module.

On the front, it sports a 6.75-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of up to 1,125 nits, aimed at delivering smoother scrolling and better outdoor visibility. Oppo has also added Outdoor Mode 2.0 and improved thermal management to maintain visual consistency during extended usage.

At its core, the Oppo K14x 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset and it runs on ColorOS 15. The phone comes with long-term software optimization, including up to 48-month Fluency Protection. Faster UFS read and write speeds are expected to improve app loading and overall responsiveness.

The device packs a large 6,500mAh battery paired with 45W fast charging, aimed at lasting through long days of mixed usage, including navigation, video playback, gaming, and calls. For imaging, the phone features a 50-megapixel rear camera supported by AI tools such as AI Eraser, AI Unblur, and AI Reflection Remover. It also includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and an IP64 rating for protection against dust and water splashes.

The Oppo K14x 5G is tipped to be priced around Rs 15,000. It will be available in violet and light blue color options.

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HyperOS 3 update finally arrives for Xiaomi 14 Civi

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Vicky

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Feb 2, 2026

Xiaomi has finally started rolling out the much-awaited HyperOS 3 update for the Xiaomi 14 Civi users, while the regular Xiaomi 14 models received it a month ago. Anyway, the update is finally here for Xiaomi 14 Civi, and it brings loads of exciting stuff, including a bundle of new features and dozens of improvements.

The HyperOS 3 update, based on Android 16, is initially rolling out in India with the firmware version 3.0.4.0.WNJINXM. It’s a massive update package with a download size of about 6.3GB. So, it’s best to download it over a stable Wi-Fi connection.

Since Xiaomi rolls out updates in batches, it may take a few days for all users to receive them. If you’re rocking a Xiaomi 14 Civi, check for available updates manually by navigating to Settings > About phone, then tapping the HyperOS logo. To ensure a smooth upgrade to HyperOS 3, ensure that the device has sufficient space on the internal storage and it’s charged to at least 50%. You can back up important data for added safety.

After upgrading to HyperOS 3.0, you’ll have plenty to explore and play with, including a new HyperIsland, which lets you monitor live activities without opening the app. The updated lock screen now includes AI Cinematic Lock Screen, AI Dynamic Wallpapers, and more new features, allowing greater customization for a more personalized, dynamic lock screen experience.

HyperOS 3 also focuses on AI, with new features such as AI Writing, AI Speech Recognition, AI Search, and AI Translate. The software now features Gemini integration for a more useful software experience. Additionally, Xiaomi has made over 100 improvements to HyperOS 3 to deliver a faster, smoother experience.

The company is also working on HyperOS 3.1, which would still be based on Android 16, and is expected to bring useful upgrades to the software. It has already started recruiting people for the beta program. Unfortunately, the Xiaomi 14 Civi is not on the beta list, but it should receive the update once the stable rollout begins.

To stay updated with the latest news about HyperOS, visit the Xiaomi section regularly. Or, you can join us on Telegram to get instant notifications about the latest HyperOS updates, along with the biggest tech headlines.

Redmi A7 Pro bags new certifications, launching soon

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Feb 2, 2026

Redmi is reportedly working on a new A-series phone called the Redmi A7 Pro. While the device was certified by the FCC authority in December 2025, it is only now, through the NBTC (Thailand) and TDRA (UAE) certifications, that the moniker of this device has been confirmed as the Redmi A7 Pro. Here’s a look at what to expect from the device.

Redmi A7 Pro approved in the UAE, Thailand

Redmi A7 Pro NBTC listing — Redmi A7 Pro TDRA listing

The Redmi A7 Pro has appeared with the model number 25128RN17Y in TDRA’s database, whereas it has been spotted with the model number 25128RN17A in Thailand. The latter was also seen on Indonesia’s SDPPI certification platform. These listings do not confirm anything about the core specifications of the phone, but the NBTC listing reveals that it will be a 4G LTE phone.

The appearance of the Redmi A7 Pro moniker suggests that the company has decided to skip the Redmi A6 altogether. Therefore, the A7 Pro is the successor to last year’s Redmi A5.

Redmi’s sibling brand Poco is said to be working on the Poco C81 (model number: 25128RN17G). This is expected to be a rebranded version of the Redmi A7 Pro, just as last year’s Poco C71 was a rebadged edition of the Redmi A5.

Redmi A7 Pro key specifications

As per the previously seen FCC listing, the Redmi A7 Pro will arrive with a 6.9-inch LCD panel, which may have a waterdrop notch and support an HD+ resolution. Likely, it will run on Android 15 Go edition.

The device is expected to ship with the Unisoc T7250 chip, which also powered last year’s Redmi A5 and Poco C71. The A7 Pro is expected to ship with 4GB / 6GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 64GB / 128GB of eMMC storage.

At present, there is no information about the Redmi A7 Pro’s camera details. Under the hood, it is expected to feature a 6,000mAh battery with 15W charging support over the USB-C port.

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Redmi K Pad 2 key specs leak bigger 9,000mAh battery, 165Hz 3K display, launch timeframe

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Feb 2, 2026

Redmi unveiled the Redmi K Pad, a performance-focused tablet, for China last year. The same device was rebranded as the Xiaomi Pad Mini globally. A new development reveals that the brand is reportedly working on the Redmi K Pad 2. The initial leak has unearthed a few specifications, revealing what to expect from the second-generation offering.

Redmi K Pad 2 specs leaked

Redmi K Pad 2 specs, launch timeframe leak by DCS

As can be seen, well-known tipster Digital Chat Station can be seen talking about an upcoming high-performance tablet. While he has not specified the name of the device, it is largely believed that he could be talking about the Redmi K Pad 2.

The leak suggests that the Redmi K Pad 2 may feature a custom-made 8.8-inch LCD panel offering a 165Hz refresh rate and a 3K resolution. To recall, the Redmi K Pad also featured the same-sized screen with the same resolution and refresh rate.

The leak further states that the Redmi K Pad 2 will feature a flagship-level processor, dual X-axis motors for enhanced haptics, and improved symmetrical dual speakers with co-tuned audio.

Under the hood, the Redmi K Pad 2 will house a massive 9,000mAh battery. This will be a significant upgrade considering that the first-generation model came with a 7,500mAh battery. At present, there is no information about the K Pad 2’s charging and camera capabilities.

Redmi K Pad 2 launch timeframe (rumored)

Redmi unveiled the Redmi K Pad alongside the Redmi K80 Ultra last year. DCS claims that the K Pad 2 will debut alongside a performance-focused flagship, which appears to be the Redmi K90 Ultra, within the first half of this year. So, it may launch in May or June this year. Likely, the tablet may get rebranded as the Xiaomi Pad Mini 2 globally.

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Huawei Pura X2 arrival delayed, but not too far away

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Feb 2, 2026

Huawei surprised the tech world last year by announcing the Pura X with an offbeat book-style inward fold and a wider, passport-like form factor, making it noticeably broader and more tablet-oriented than conventional horizontal foldable phones that have a taller, narrower design. Reports have revealed that the brand is working on the Pura X2, and now a new report suggests that its arrival has been slightly delayed.

Huawei Pura X2 launch timeframe (rumored)

As can be seen above, a Chinese tech blogger has revealed that while the original Pura X was announced in March 2025, the Pura X2 is expected to be unveiled around April. This puts to rest a previous claim that it would be unveiled in Q1 this year.

There is a possibility that Huawei may unveil its Pura 90 series of flagship phones before the Pura X2. It is advisable to wait for further reports on how and when Huawei plans to launch the upcoming Pura offerings.

Huawei Pura X2 specifications (rumored)

As per a recent leak, the Huawei Pura X2’s main display may increase to a size of 7.5 inches, which is significantly bigger than the 6.3-inch screen available on the original model. The display is said to offer a 16:10 aspect ratio, and the size of the outer screen is also said to increase.

The Pura X2 is said to be equipped with a total of four cameras, which probably includes a selfie camera and a triple camera setup with a 200-megapixel main camera on the back. Under the hood, the device is expected to feature the Kirin 9030 series chipset.

The Pura X2 is expected to arrive in multiple configurations, such as 12GB+256GB, 12GB+512GB, 16GB+512GB, 16GB+1TB, 20GB+512GB, and 20GB+1TB. It may arrive in different shades, such as white, green, orange, blue, black, and purple.

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iQOO 15R to pack 7,600mAh battery, to be priced under Rs 50,000 (~$550)

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Feb 2, 2026

iQOO is gradually revealing details about the iQOO 15R ahead of its official announcement, which is set to take place on Feb. 24. Its Amazon microsite is being consistently updated with fresh details. The footnotes on the page have also revealed its battery size.

iQOO 15R battery size revealed

A screenshot from iQOO 15R’s Amazon microsite

As can be seen in the above screenshot, the iQOO 15R is confirmed to pack a 7,600mAh battery. Despite housing a massive battery, the device will measure only 7.9mm in thickness.

The footnotes section also hints at its pricing, stating that the phone will be launched under the Rs 50,000 (~$550) price segment. With this, the device will emerge as a major rival to the OnePlus 15R, which starts at Rs 47,999 (~$525). Both phones are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset.

The brand recently confirmed that the iQOO 15R will receive four Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates. It will come preloaded with Android 16 and OriginOS 6. For an enhanced gaming experience, the device will feature Q2 supercomputing, which will enable a stable 144fps experience in BGMI. It will be available in two shades, black and silver, with the latter featuring a checkered design on the back.

Reports suggest that the iQOO 15R could be a rebranded version of the iQOO Z11 Turbo, which was announced earlier this month in China. Therefore, the 15R is expected to feature a 32-megapixel front camera and an OIS-enabled 200-megapixel + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) dual-camera setup.

The iQOO 15R may arrive with a 6.59-inch OLED panel that supports a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The device may ship with up to 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.1 storage. Likely, it may support 100W wired charging.

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Galaxy S26 Ultra leaks intensify as official renders, promo image, specifications emerge

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Feb 2, 2026

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is gradually coming into focus as fresh leaks shed light on its design and core hardware. Android Headlines recently shared official-looking renders along with key details, and shortly after, well-known leaker Evan Blass posted what appears to be the first promotional image, reinforcing several earlier claims.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra design and colour variants revealed

Galaxy S26 Ultra - Cobalt Violet — Galaxy S26 Ultra – Cobalt Violet

Galaxy S26 Ultra in Black — Galaxy S26 Ultra – Cobalt Violet

According to Android Headlines, the Galaxy S26 Ultra adopts a flat design language with slimmer, uniform bezels surrounding a large display. The renders show the phone in Cobalt Violet and Black, offering a closer look at what seems to be the final retail finish. The front features a centred hole-punch camera, while the frame appears flat with softly rounded corners, giving the device a cleaner and more balanced profile than its predecessor.

On the rear, Samsung appears to have moved away from individually protruding lenses. Instead, the cameras sit on a unified island positioned in the top-left corner. While the camera housing still protrudes, it looks more refined and structured. The S Pen is clearly visible in the renders, confirming that Samsung continues to position stylus support as a defining feature of the Ultra lineup. Additional colours are expected at launch, but visuals are currently limited to these two variants.

Shown below is a promotional image shared by Evan Blass, showcasing the Galaxy S26 Ultra in its signature Cobalt Violet shade.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra specifications (rumored)

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra promo image shared by Evan Blass

According to the publication, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display and ship with Android 16-based One UI 8.5. Powering the device could be Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, paired with at least 256GB storage. The phone is tipped to measure 7.9mm in thickness, weigh around 214 grams, and pack a 5,000mAh battery with wireless power sharing.

Camera hardware is said to include a 200-megapixel primary sensor, a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera, a 10-megapixel telephoto lens, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera. A 12-megapixel front camera is also expected.

Samsung is likely to unveil the Galaxy S26 Ultra along with the S26, S26+, and Galaxy Buds 4 series through the Feb. 25’s Galaxy Unpacked event.

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(source 1, 2)

Xiaomi heavily discounts battery replacements on dozens of older phones

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Feb 2, 2026

Xiaomi is kicking off February with a new round of after-sales perks. The company has announced its February Super Service Week, running from February 1st to February 8th, during which the brand is offering discounts on battery replacements, device cleaning, and appliance servicing across China.

The headline offer this time is a 20% discount on smartphone battery replacements. According to Xiaomi, the program will cover 70 phone models with replacement prices starting at 79.2 yuan after the discount.

The list goes back to 2020

What’s notable is how far back the supported models go. The list includes several older flagships, such as the Xiaomi 10 series, Xiaomi 11 Pro, and Xiaomi Mix Fold.

For instance, the Xiaomi 10 series was launched back in February 2020. At the time, CEO Lei Jun described the Xiaomi 10 as a product designed to break free from strict price constraints and push Xiaomi firmly into the high-end smartphone market.

The battery discount isn’t limited to flagships either. Xiaomi says models like the Redmi 10A, Redmi Note 9, Redmi K40 series, and even the newer Redmi K80 series are also part of the program.

Beyond phones, Xiaomi’s Super Service Week also includes double discounts on old appliances for trade-ins, 50 percent off deep cleaning and maintenance for laptops, and a fixed price of 99 yuan for cleaning and maintenance of air conditioners and washing machines.

Xiaomi Service is also using the campaign to remind users about everyday battery care, encouraging more “scientific” charging habits and avoiding extreme temperatures to help extend battery life.

Xiaomi has been running such programs regularly in China to let users make the most out of their smartphones. For now, though, these initiatives are limited to just the mainland.

It’s hard not to wish Xiaomi would bring similar programs to global users as well, especially as phones get more expensive and people hold onto their devices longer than ever.

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Casio launches Oceanus OCW-S7000F-2A with sapphire bezel and Bluetooth solar movement

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Feb 1, 2026

Casio has announced the new Oceanus Manta OCW-S7000F-2A in Japan. The watch is now available for pre-order at ¥220,000 (around $1,416) and will officially launch in February 2026. The model joins the premium Oceanus Manta line, known for its slim profile and refined materials.

Casio OCW-S7000F-2A Specifications

The OCW-S7000F-2A adopts a two-tone aesthetic, pairing a deep blue main dial with crisp white sub-dials. Casio applies high-opacity white vapor deposition to the sub-dials to enhance brightness and color definition, while blue vapor deposition on the main dial and bezel creates a rich, ocean-inspired finish. The dial is framed by a sapphire glass bezel ring with white tachymeter markings, set on a multi-faceted titanium base that adds a refined, polished touch.

The watch comes with a lightweight titanium case and bracelet, keeping the overall weight at just 83 grams. The case measures 47.5 x 42.8 mm with a slim 9.5 mm thickness. The bracelet features a one-touch triple-fold clasp with slide adjustment and supports a band fit range of 150 to 195 mm.

The watch supports both Bluetooth connectivity and Multiband 6 radio signal reception. It can automatically correct time using signals from Japan, North America, Europe, and China, or sync via the Casio Watches app. The app allows users to configure world time for 300 cities, check battery status, locate their phone, and set watch functions.

Casio equipped the OCW-S7000F-2A with Tough Solar charging, which provides about 5 months of power on a full charge and up to 19 months in power-saving mode. The watch includes features such as a full-auto calendar, a 24-hour stopwatch, a date and day display, and automatic hand-position correction.

Additionally, the design includes dual-curve sapphire glass with an anti-reflective coating, along with Neobrite luminous coating on the hands and indexes. The titanium case uses a titanium carbide treatment to enhance durability and scratch resistance. The OCW-S7000F-2A offers 10 bar water resistance and is made in Japan.

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(Source, Via)

Google may let websites opt out of AI Overviews after UK pressure

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Feb 1, 2026

Google is exploring new options to allow websites and publishers to opt out of having their content used in AI Overviews. The move comes after the UK government urged the company to provide more control to content creators, citing growing concerns about fair usage and declining traffic to news sites.

UK regulators demand more control for publishers

According to a Reuters report, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened a formal consultation on how Google manages content across its AI-powered features. The regulator wants the company to let websites opt out of having their material scraped for AI-generated summaries or used to train separate AI models like Gemini.

In a blog post published on Thursday, Google confirmed that it is working on updates that would enable websites to exclude their content from Search generative AI features. The company said it aims to protect the usefulness of Search while also giving publishers the tools to manage how their content appears across AI products.

Google introduced AI Overviews in mid-2024. The feature uses generative AI to provide quick answers at the top of search results. However, publishers have not had any mechanism to opt out of these summaries, which has led to significant drops in click-through traffic.

The CMA stated that Google holds more than 90% of the UK’s search market. It warned that this dominance could distort competition and harm news organizations that rely on visibility in search.

Google said any new opt-out control must be scalable and not create a fragmented or confusing experience for users. The company also pointed to existing tools like robots.txt and Google-Extended, but acknowledged that further updates are needed.

The CMA will spend the next year reviewing the consultation. Google said it hopes to work with publishers and regulators to find a solution that benefits both users and content creators.

In related news, you can also read our recent article exploring whether smartphones have truly reached peak innovation or if progress is now happening behind the scenes.

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iQOO 15 Ultra packs Sony 50MP 3x periscope telephoto and Vivo’s flagship imaging algorithms

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Feb 1, 2026

iQOO will launch its new flagship, the iQOO 15 Ultra, on February 4 in China. The phone targets serious mobile gamers while also packing a high-end camera system and top-tier performance hardware.

According to a new teaser posted on Weibo, the iQOO 15 Ultra will feature a 50MP Sony 3x super periscope telephoto camera with newly upgraded CIPA 4.5-level optical image stabilization. The device will also adopt Vivo’s top-tier imaging algorithms, including the NICE 3.0 Optical Reconstruction Engine and the Magic 2.0 Image Restoration Engine, to improve detail and image fidelity. These official details align with earlier leaks suggesting a powerful hardware suite: a triple 50MP rear camera system complemented by a 32MP front-facing sensor.

For connectivity, the phone integrates 29 surround antennas that automatically switch signal paths based on how the phone is held. It supports the N79 5G band and features the AI Esports Signal Engine 2.0, which enhances Wi-Fi signal strength across thick walls. iQOO is also introducing the Universe Metro Gaming Network, which enables low-latency online gaming even in underground subway environments.

The display measures 6.85 inches and uses a 2K flat LTPO panel from Samsung. The company claims the phone can run Honor of Kings at 144fps with Ultra settings and enhanced map textures. For thermal performance, the device uses an Ice Dome Air Cooling System with a built-in fan. The phone also includes capacitive shoulder triggers, a high-precision gyroscope, and a fast touch response rate for competitive gameplay.

Under the hood, the device is expected to run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, paired with the in-house Q3 gaming chip. It may offer up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, alongside 2K native upscaling, 120fps frame interpolation, and real-time ray tracing for enhanced gaming visuals.

Additionally, the device is expected to pack a 7,400mAh battery with support for 100W wired and wireless charging, stereo 1115 coaxial speakers tuned with Dolby Atmos, an advanced dual-axis haptics system, 144fps livestreaming support, and an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. It will be available in 2077 Black and 2049 Silver color options.

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Ayaneo confirms the chipset powering its first handheld smartphone

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Feb 1, 2026

Ayaneo unveiled its Pocket Play smartphone back in December, but the reveal was minimal in specs. The company showed off the hardware design, yet stayed quiet on key details like the processor, display, and battery.

Almost two months later, Ayaneo has finally confirmed the chip powering its first smartphone.

Ayaneo Pocket Play is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9300

The Ayaneo Pocket Play is powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300, a flagship processor launched in 2023 and one that’s more than capable of handling demanding games. Still, it’s a curious choice.

Ayaneo could have opted for a newer SoC — like the Dimensity 9500 or a year-old Dimensity 9400+ — to deliver more consistent long-term performance and better future-proofing.

Because a chip isn’t just about raw power. It also plays a big role in how long a device stays relevant. Older processors tend to lose manufacturer support sooner, which can affect software updates and long-term stability — something that matters even more for a niche, enthusiast-focused device like this.

Ayaneo also hasn’t backed up the announcement with any hard data. There are no frame-rate figures, no benchmark scores, and no real-world performance claims yet. For now, much of the Pocket Play’s actual gaming capability remains a mystery.

What is Ayaneo Pocket Play

What we do know is that the Pocket Play is trying to blur the line between smartphone and handheld console. It uses a side-sliding mechanism that reveals a full physical controller hidden beneath the display. Inside, there’s a familiar layout with a D-pad, ABXY buttons, shoulder triggers, and dual analog sticks.

Ayaneo has also included dual smart touchpads, which can be customized to function as virtual joysticks or standard touchpads, giving players the flexibility to tailor controls to their liking.

The Pocket Play draws inspiration from the Sony Ericsson Xperia Play, which launched in 2011 with a similar sliding controller design.

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CATL begins testing fire-resistant sodium-ion batteries in passenger vehicles

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Feb 1, 2026

After first rolling out sodium-ion batteries in commercial vehicles, CATL has now begun deploying them in passenger vehicles. The batteries fall under CATL’s sodium battery brand, Naxtra, which is preparing for public winter testing in passenger cars.

According to reports, Changan’s Oshan models are among the first to take part in these tests, with passenger cars from GAC and JAC expected to follow later.

CATL sodium ion battery in passenger vehicle

The focus on winter testing is not accidental. One of sodium-ion batteries’ biggest promises is reliable performance in extreme cold. Lithium-ion batteries, in general, tend to struggle in such conditions. More on that later.

CATL’s sodium-ion batteries have no risk of fire or explosion

CATL officially unveiled its sodium-ion battery in April last year, and on paper, the numbers are quite impressive. CATL claims an energy density of 175Wh/kg, a hybrid electric range of over 200km, and a pure electric range exceeding 500km. The battery also supports 5C super-fast charging and is rated for up to 10,000 charge cycles, which suggests a long usable lifespan.

Safety is where CATL is making its strongest case. The company says its sodium-ion batteries have passed extreme tests such as needle penetration, electric drill penetration, extrusion, and even battery sawing without catching fire or exploding. That’s a big reason why sodium-ion batteries are the next viable options for EVs.

As we mentioned earlier, the sodium-ion batteries also perform exceptionally in cold weather. In real-world tests at –30°C, CATL says the battery can charge from 30 percent to 80 percent in about 30 minutes, while retaining 93 percent of its usable capacity. Even at just a 10% state of charge, vehicles were reportedly able to maintain highway speeds of 120km/h.

CATL’s sodium-ion battery passed certification under China’s new national standard in September last year. The regulation introduces stricter safety requirements around heat diffusion, underbody impacts, and fast-charging durability. Independent testing by the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) also backed CATL’s safety claims at both the cell and battery pack levels.

Beyond safety, sodium-ion technology could help reduce reliance on lithium, lower costs, and improve sustainability.

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(Via)

Apple’s M5 Pro and M5 Max reportedly won’t launch before March

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Feb 1, 2026

Apple has uncharacteristically delayed the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. Its predecessor — M4 Pro and M4 Max — launched in November 2024, which means Apple is already past its typical window for announcing the successors. Now, a new rumor suggests the M5 Pro and M5 Max could finally arrive in March.

According to Weibo tipster Fixed-focus digital, Apple could finally unveil the M5 Pro and M5 Max about a month from now. The rumor doesn’t offer a clear explanation for why these chips are running late, especially when chatter suggests the M6 lineup could arrive earlier than previously expected.

One likely reason, however, could be supply-side limitations. TSMC, Apple’s chip manufacturing partner, has reportedly been dealing with constraints that may have slowed down production.

Apple M5 Pro and Max will use TSMC’s advanced SoIC packaging

There are also signs that Apple’s SoIC (System-on-a-Chip) packaging may have encountered production challenges. That said, the same leak claims the M5 Pro and M5 Max could end up being slightly cheaper to manufacture, though not by a dramatic margin.

Any cost reduction would still matter, especially as the industry continues to deal with ongoing DRAM supply pressures.

SoIC could also help Apple address thermal concerns. Previous reports suggest that the standard M5 chip can reach temperatures as high as 99 degrees Celsius under sustained load. Improved packaging might help manage heat more effectively in the Pro and Max variants.

More interestingly, SoIC may allow Apple to separate CPU and GPU blocks on the die. This could open the door to more flexible configurations tailored to different workloads, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

As always, it’s worth treating this information cautiously. Apple has a habit of adjusting plans without warning. Still, if the M5 Pro and M5 Max do arrive in March, they’ll likely debut alongside new hardware — possibly refreshed MacBooks or even an M5 Max-powered Mac Studio.

For now, all that’s left is to wait.

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(Source | Via)

Vivo X500 series and iQOO 16 could all feature 2K-resolution screens

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Feb 1, 2026

We have already heard a few early rumors about the Vivo X500 series. For instance, the flagship lineup is expected to pack a massive 7,000mAh battery. A new claim now suggests Vivo is also going all-in on high-resolution displays.

According to prominent tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo, Vivo has decided to make 2K resolution standard across its flagship phones. The leaker says the company is “going all in on 2K resolution.” As a result, Vivo’s upcoming flagships will likely all have 2K flat screens.

The possibility extends to the iQOO 16 as well, as it is also a flagship device from the company’s sub-brand.

Another well-known leaker, Panda is Bald, has echoed the same claim, lending some additional weight to the rumor. They also expand the discussion to other manufacturers’ upcoming devices.

According to the tipster, Oppo’s Find X10 series will feature a 200-megapixel camera, while Honor is reportedly planning to equip its mid-range phones with enormous 10,000mAh batteries.

Huawei, meanwhile, is said to be exploring new foldable screen designs, and Xiaomi’s upcoming 18 series is reportedly focusing on advancements in camera technology.

All the flagship phones are expected to use a new mobile processor based on the 2nm process. Xiaomi is likely to stick with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips, while both Vivo and Oppo are expected to use MediaTek’s upcoming Dimensity 9600.

A previous report suggests that at least one of those two brands will launch its flagship early in September. MediaTek is also rumored to unveil the Dimensity 9600 earlier than usual, which could allow manufacturers to ship devices powered by the chip sooner.

At present, it is too early to talk in detail about the X500 series, as the company has several new phones lined up for launch in China in the coming months. As such, take these details with a pinch of salt, as things could change late in development.

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Ayaneo launches Pocket S Mini retro handheld with premium build and Snapdragon G3x Gen 2

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