MIUI 15 Codebase reportedly confirms Xiaomi 14 Series launch in November

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Sep 13, 2023

Xiaomi typically launches its flagship number series towards the end of the year. The Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro made their debut in December 2022. However, this time around, the company might launch the Xiaomi 14 series earlier, with reports suggesting the flagships may arrive in early November. While there is no official confirmation, the MIUI 15 codebase has now offered evidence backing the November launch timeline for the upcoming phones.

According to Xiaomiui, Xiaomi is testing MIUI 15 based on Android 14. The code indicates that Xiaomi will release the Xiaomi 14 series models in China in the first week of November. The publication also adds that the latest internal version numbers are MIUI-V15.0.0.1.UNCEUXM and MIUI-V15.0.0.1.UNBEUXM. Based on the build number, it appears that the development of the Xiaomi 14 series is nearing completion.

Last week, tipster Digital Chat Station revealed a similar timeline, suggesting that Xiaomi aims to launch the Xiaomi 14 series before the Double Eleven sales event— a shopping event in China, also known as Singles’ Day. This event, which occurs on November 11 each year, can be considered the Chinese equivalent of Black Friday, if not even bigger.

As usual, Xiaomi has not made an official announcement yet. If the launch timelines are accurate, we can expect the company to commence teasing the new flagship next month. For those unaware, the upcoming Xiaomi 14 series will likely comprise two models— Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro. There will also be an Ultra model, but its release is expected sometime in Q1 2024. Anyways, both devices are reported to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which itself is set to launch in October.

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Acer XV242F monitor launched with a particularly extreme 24.1-inch 540Hz display

By

Anurag

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Sep 13, 2023

540Hz monitors are starting to hit the market. We recently reported that Asus is gearing up to launch the ROG PG248QP 540Hz gaming monitor in the upcoming weeks. While there’s no confirmation from the Taiwanese company, Acer has gone ahead and put its own 540Hz monitor on the shelves of Chinese e-commerce stores. The new Acer XV242F monitor brings a 24.1-inch display with a 1080p resolution. Here are the details.

This monitor features a 24.1-inch TN panel with a 1080p resolution, boasting an impressive 540Hz refresh rate and a rapid 1ms GtG response time (with the potential for an even faster 0.1ms). The resolution is not the best out there and that’s because the monitor is designed for those who prefer the speed of the panel and its low latency over high resolution.

It also offers a bright display with 400 nits of brightness and covers 99% of the sRGB color gamut. Acer XV242F is equipped with DP 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 interfaces, ensuring versatile connectivity options. Additionally, it includes built-in 2W x 2 speakers for integrated audio capabilities. It also comes with Nvidia G-Sync, a type of display technology that is used to counter screen tearing, stuttering, and juddering, especially during fast-paced games or videos.

Acer XV242F is currently listed in China on Taobao third-party stores. The monitor is available for purchase in the country for 4,999 Yuan ($686). For comparison, the Asus ROG PG248QP is reported to cost around $899. Currently, the Acer XV242F is not available for purchase in the global market. We’ll keep you posted about its future availability.

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Moto G54 5G goes on sale in India for Rs 15,999 (~$192), offers 120Hz LCD display, Dimensity 7020, 6,000mAh battery

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 13, 2023

Last week, Motorola unveiled the Moto G54 5G in India. Today, the brand will be making it available for purchase through Flipkart. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the device.

Moto G54 5G price in India

The Moto G54 5G comes in two options: 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage for Rs 15,999 (~$192) and 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage for Rs 18,999 (~$229). Customers purchasing it through an ICICI Bank credit card can avail a flat discount of Rs 1,000 (~$12). It can be bought in shades like Midnight Blue, Pearl Blue, and Mint Green.

Moto G54 5G specifications

The Motorola Moto G54 5G features a 6.5-inch IPS LCD panel that offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 20:9 aspect ratio. It has a 16-megapixel front-facing camera, and its rear shell has a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide snapper.

The phone offers 128 GB / 256 GB of internal storage and runs on Android 13, which is overlaid with Motorola’s My UX user interface. It is confirmed to receive the Android 14 upgrade and three years of security updates.

The G54 5G is equipped with the Dimensity 7020 chipset, 8 GB / 12 GB of RAM, and a massive 6,000mAh battery that supports 30W fast charging. The phone comes equipped with other features, such as dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and Moto Spatial Sound support, a 3.5mm audio jack, a side-facing fingerprint scanner, face unlock, dual SIM with 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC, a USB-C port, and an IP52-rated water-repellent chassis. It measures 161.56 x 73.82 x 8.89mm and weighs 192 grams.

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New Throttle Feature Makes Ride1Up Roadster V2 Gravel Edition a Game-Changer in Affordable E-Biking

By

Anubhav

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Sep 13, 2023

In the United States, e-bike enthusiasts are accustomed to the luxury of throttle-equipped rides, a feature less common in European and Asian markets due to stricter regulations. Keeping pace with this demand, Ride1Up has amped up its Roadster V2 Gravel Edition by integrating a thumb throttle—a move that sets it apart in the realm of budget-friendly e-bikes.

Thumb throttles may become more common in e-bikes in the future

Originally priced at $1,095 and known for its stripped-down, commuter-friendly design, the Roadster V2 now has a Gravel Edition with added features, pegging it at $1,345. While that’s a few hundred dollars more than its base version, the Gravel Edition still qualifies as one of the most affordable Gates-driven e-bikes on the market. The addition of the thumb throttle ups the convenience for urban commuters, allowing them to navigate city streets with ease.

Beyond its user-friendly throttle, the Gravel Edition is no slouch in performance either. Weighing in at just 33 pounds and framed in durable aluminum, it’s easy to see why this e-bike is gaining attention. Designed primarily for road rides but equipped with gravel tires, the bike hits a top speed of 24 mph with pedal assist. Its rear hub motor churns out a nominal power of 350 watts, peaking at 500 watts. Battery life? Expect up to 30 miles if you’re conserving power.

As for aesthetics, the Gravel Edition is offered in a new Stardust color, along with the existing Gravel Gray. Standard Tektro mechanical disc brakes add an extra layer of safety, ensuring reliable stops during your commutes.

Ride1Up’s Roadster V2 Gravel Edition takes affordability and function up a notch by including a thumb throttle, effectively reshaping what consumers can expect from budget e-bikes. With this release, Ride1Up solidifies its reputation for crafting practical e-bikes that don’t break the bank, while keeping up with the unique demands of the American market.

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Tesla is Investing a Whopping $15 Billion in GigaFactory Mexico

By

Anubhav

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Sep 13, 2023

In a recent announcement that has surprised many, the Governor of Nuevo Leon, Samuel Garcia, revealed that Tesla and its suppliers will invest a whopping $15 billion in Gigafactory Mexico over the next two years. This is a significant leap from the initial $5 billion figure floated earlier this year. What’s more, the governor implied that this “enormous amount” will necessitate additional state investments in infrastructure.

Tesla has stated that Mexico will play an important role in Tesla’s international expansion

Tesla’s decision to invest more than initially planned raises questions about the company’s long-term strategy for its Mexican facility. The increase comes after a recent announcement by Tesla to shift the initial build location for its next-generation electric vehicles from Mexico to Austin, Texas. However, the massive investment suggests that Mexico will still play an integral role in the automaker’s international expansion plans.

The revised investment figure could imply several things for Nuevo Leon and Tesla. For the state, the investment signals a need to ramp up spending on highways and public works to support the incoming industrial activity. This could be a win-win for local communities, potentially providing an economic boost and job creation.

For Tesla, the decision suggests that Gigafactory Mexico is still a key player in the company’s future. However, it does draw attention to the logistical challenges that Tesla seems to be grappling with, particularly in enticing its top engineers to relocate to Mexico for the project. Walter Isaacson, in his recent biography of Elon Musk, pointed out that convincing engineers to move south of the border “is never going to happen,” which may be part of the reason behind the initial production shift to Texas.

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Apple Bids Farewell to the iPhone 13 Mini, Leaving Fans of Small-Sized Phones Stranded

By

Anubhav

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Sep 13, 2023

Apple’s annual phone launch event is always a spectacle, featuring cutting-edge technology that shapes the smartphone market. But there’s a less-discussed aspect to these events — the discontinuation of older iPhone models. This year, Apple has not only phased out some of its previous-generation devices but has also unexpectedly ended the sale of the iPhone 13 mini. What does this mean for those who favor smaller, more manageable phones?

Everyone knew this was coming, but consumers will still be mad at Apple for this

The iPhone 15 was announced today, but the internet wasn’t expecting this. The iPhone 13 mini’s discontinuation came as a shock for many, marking the end of the “mini” line for now. With a 5.4″ screen, it was the last of the small-sized iPhones that easily fit into a pocket or purse. While technology often trends toward bigger and bolder, the 13 mini appealed to a particular audience that prioritized compactness and ease of use.

However, this discontinuation doesn’t necessarily close the door for those still wanting to buy this compact device. Retailers around the world will likely still have the iPhone 13 mini in stock for some time, and of course, there’s always eBay. But these options come with their own set of challenges, including potential price hikes and limited warranties.

So why did Apple make this move? It’s not entirely clear, but it could be a market-driven decision. Perhaps the company is focusing more on devices with larger screens and more features to stay competitive. But whatever the reason, the absence of a small-sized iPhone may signal a gap in the market that could either pave the way for Apple’s competitors or stimulate innovation within the company itself.

Time will tell whether Apple will reintroduce a new small-sized phone to meet the demand, but for now, fans of the 13 mini will have to look elsewhere for their compact-phone fix. Share your thoughts on this sudden phase-out; do you think it’s a smart move or a misstep by Apple?

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Steam Turns 20, and it’s Offering Upto 90 Percent Discount on Some Games

By

Anubhav

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Sep 13, 2023

Today marks a significant milestone in the realm of PC gaming as Steam, the iconic distribution platform by Valve, celebrates its 20th anniversary. While the platform has been recounting its history with mega discounts on its games, it’s crucial to note the adaptability and grit that got it to this landmark.

Steam is still the biggest platform for games, and it’s interesting how it got there

Sure, you can now snag classics like the original Portal for less than a dollar, but let’s not forget that Steam was initially greeted with skepticism and even disdain. When Steam launched in 2003, the concept of digital distribution was still nascent. Valve faced backlash for requiring an internet connection to play even single-player games like Half-Life 2. It felt like an imposition, an attempt to force DRM restrictions on players who were used to the freedom of installing games from CDs and DVDs.

Despite the criticism, Valve pressed on, fine-tuning their platform to better serve gamers. Steam eventually became a big storefront by not only delivering convenient updates but also introducing irresistible features like cloud save backups and a hub for player-generated content. Steam Sales, an event most gamers mark on their calendars, became another draw, offering games sometimes at 90% off, transforming hesitant buyers into committed users.

Today, Valve has even ventured into hardware, shaking off early steps like the Steam Machines to deliver successes like the Steam Deck.

While Valve’s anniversary sale takes us on a nostalgia trip, it’s essential to recognize that Steam’s true success story lies in its evolution. As the gaming world became more interconnected and digitalized, Steam evolved to meet new needs, turning skeptics into fans along the way. So, as we celebrate the 20 years of Steam, let’s also toast to its resilience and adaptability—qualities that continue to make it the cornerstone of PC gaming today.

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Elon Musk’s Leadership Style Under Fire as FTC Predicts “Chaos” at X, Formerly Twitter

By

Anubhav

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Sep 13, 2023

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has escalated its investigation into the technology giant X Corp, formerly known as Twitter, concerning the company’s apparent negligence in handling privacy and security measures. The FTC’s deeper probe follows a 2022 settlement, under which Twitter agreed to enforce stringent data protection protocols. However, under Elon Musk’s leadership, the company seems to have lost its way.

Elon Musk’s track record with X hasn’t been the best since he took control of the company

Documents recently made public by the Department of Justice (DoJ) indicate that Musk’s management style has created what they describe as a “chaotic environment.” The disorder reportedly hindered the company from meeting FTC obligations, including the rollout of Twitter Blue. Damien Kieran, Twitter’s former chief privacy officer, noted that the feature was launched hastily, bypassing the company’s standard privacy and security reviews.

Moreover, Musk’s audacious attempts to provide a journalist with unmediated access to internal systems raised eyebrows among long-serving employees. While they managed to intervene in time, the incident adds another layer of scrutiny to Musk’s controversial governance.

Perhaps the most shocking revelation involves the relocation of company servers. Contrary to X Corp’s standard policy requiring servers to be wiped clean before being moved, this crucial step was overlooked, say former employees. These issues have led to a significant workforce reduction, particularly affecting departments responsible for ensuring FTC compliance.

Elon Musk has dismissed the FTC investigation as politically motivated, arguing that it amounts to the “weaponization of a government agency.” Lawyers for X Corp are resisting Musk’s deposition, though the FTC insists on his direct involvement in what they describe as a “fundamental transformation” of the company.

These allegations underscore a critical issue: how much influence is too much for a single leader? With the FTC tightening its grip, Musk’s approach may be put to the ultimate test. X Corp has yet to comment officially on the matter, leaving stakeholders in anticipation as the regulatory body deliberates.

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Hyundai’s 2024 Kona Electric is A Practical EV with Marginal Upgrades

By

Anubhav

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Sep 13, 2023

Hyundai is ready to roll out its next-generation Kona Electric, offering a sneak peek into what’s coming in 2024. The Korean automaker aims to build on the current model’s affordability, with the outgoing generation priced at just under $35,000. However, how much of an upgrade is the 2024 version, really?

The car incorporates a lot of elements from the Ioniq 5

One of the highlights of the revamped Kona Electric is its aerodynamic design. Its nose is sleeker and the LED daytime running lights now span the full width of the car. But if you’re looking for revolutionary changes in its overall appearance, you might be a bit disappointed. The side profile has incorporated some elements from the Ioniq 5, but the resemblance is faint at best.

Performance-wise, the 2024 Kona Electric seems to have only incremental improvements. The vehicle boasts a drag coefficient of 0.27, compared to 0.29 of its predecessor, aiming for a smoother ride. The battery pack has grown, albeit slightly, from 64 kWh to 64.8 kWh, pushing the range from 258 miles to an estimated 260 miles. In terms of charging, you can now get from a 10% to 80% charge in 43 minutes, an uptick but not a game-changer.

The interior adds some new features like dual 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment and gauge cluster, as well as ambient lighting. Yet, the Kona Electric is still based on Hyundai’s K3 platform, originally intended for gas vehicles, instead of the advanced Electric-Global Modular Architecture (E-GMP) seen in newer models like the Ioniq 5.

Orders for the new Kona Electric Vehicle will open in late fall 2023, with pricing yet to be announced. It will be manufactured in both South Korea and Czechia, and it’s clear that while Hyundai’s best-selling EV remains the Ioniq 5, they hope the Kona will find its own niche.

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ROMOSS Fit Charge 40000mAh power bank with 65W two-way fast charging launched in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Sep 13, 2023

The ROMOSS Fit Charge 40000mAh power bank has been unveiled in China. The new ROMOSS power bank has a 40,000mAh capacity and up to 65W two-way fast charging. The power accessory can charge mobile phones up to 7 times.
Power banks are increasingly becoming important companions and they come in various shapes and sizes. The ROMOSS Fit Charge power bank has dimensions of 162 x 81.1 x 60.5 mm and weighs about 1.02kg. It has a rectangular design and comes with a carrying rope attached. It is equipped with a 3-level brightness light for different scenarios. The ROMOSS Fit Charge has a 40000mAh battery cell built into the gadget.

According to ROMOSS, the new 40000mAh power bank can fully recharge an iPhone 14 about 7 times. It is compatible with various smartphones, iPads, laptops, and other devices. ROMOSS also says the Fit Charge can charge a Huawei P40 6.4 times, the iPad Pro 11.5 times, and the MacBook Pro 14.2 times. The power bank’s battery has a rated energy output of 148Wh and it can be used on a plane – after getting it registered by the Airline.

As per available ports, the ROMOSS Fit Charge 40000mAh power bank has two USB-A ports, two USB-C two-way fast charging ports, and a Lightning output interface. The two-way USB-C charging interface of the power bank supports 65W fast charging. The power bank can be fully recharged in 5.5 hours.

The ROMOSS Fit Charge 40000mAh power bank is available in China at an introductory price of 299 yuan (~$38). The original price of the power bank is 329 yuan (~$42) and it is available on retail platforms like JD.com.

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OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G receives September 2023 security patch

By

Chetan

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Sep 13, 2023

OnePlus launched Nord CE 3 Lite in April 2023. After a few months of its launch, the company released an update in which the phone received camera and network improvements. According to a recent announcement, the company has released another update with OxygenOS 13.1.0.611 for this device. The patch is currently rolling out for users in India.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite September Security Patch

As per a recent announcement on the OnePlus community, the Nord CE 3 lite update will upgrade the device to OxygenOS 13.1.0.611, which will be visible with the build version CPH2467_13.1.0.611(EX01). OxygenOS 13.1.0.611 brings the September 2023 security patch, which protects the device from security vulnerabilities and improves the user experience. One thing to note is that the patch is currently available for users in India, and we expect other regions to receive the update soon.

It is worth mentioning that the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is a highly affordable smartphone. Those wondering what this device has to offer can check the specifications of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite on our website.

In related news, OnePlus 11 recently got its Android 14 public beta testing in China. Now, the company has opened beta testing for users in India and North America. Those who wish to know about this and register for beta testing can check out our OxygenOS 14 Open beta for the OnePlus 11 story.

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Apple iPhone 15 series price in India, pre-order and sale dates

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 13, 2023

Apple has finally launched the much-awaited iPhone 15 series in multiple markets, including India. Here is a look at the pricing of the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max for the Indian market.

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus price in India

The Apple iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus can be purchased in shades, such as Black, Blue, Green, Yellow, and Pink. Here is the breakdown of the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus pricing for India:

iPhone 15	iPhone 15 Plus
128GB: Rs 79,900	128GB: Rs 89,900
256GB: Rs 89,900	256GB: Rs 99,900
512GB: Rs 1,09,900	512GB: Rs 1,19,900

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, feature a unique color-infused back glass with a textured matte finish and aluminium frame. Both models come with the Dynamic Island a powerful 48-megapixel primary camera, and a new 2x telephoto camera. These iPhones also introduce advancements in portrait photography, and low-light performance, and are powered by the A16 Bionic chip. They come with a USB‑C connector, Precision Finding for Find My, and enhanced durability features.

iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max price in India

Apple iPhone 15 Pro, iPhoen 15 Pro Max — Apple iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max

The Apple iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max can be bought in colors like Black Titanium, White Titanium, Blue Titanium, and Natural Titanium.

iPhone 15 Pro	iPhone 15 Pro Max
128GB: Rs 1,34,900	256GB: Rs 1,59,900
256GB: Rs 1,44,900	512GB: Rs 1,79,900
512GB: Rs 1,64,900	1TB: Rs 1,99,900
1TB: Rs 1,84,900

The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max features aerospace-grade titanium for a lightweight yet durable design. The Pro models also offer customizable features, including an Action button. The camera system has been significantly upgraded, with a 48-megapixel primary camera, enhanced portrait capabilities, and Night mode improvements. In addition, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is exclusively equipped with a new 5x telephoto camera. The A17 Pro chip enhances gaming and overall performance, while the USB‑C connector offers blazing-fast USB 3 speeds.

iPhone 15 series availability

Those who are interested in purchasing the iPhone 15 series can pre-order the desired model from Sept. 15. All the iPhone 15 variants will be available for purchase starting Sept. 22.

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Apple Watch Series 9, Watch Ultra 2 price in India, pre-order and sale dates

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 13, 2023

In India, Apple is continuing to cater to the diverse preferences of consumers with its Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Here are the different variants of both smartwatches, along with their prices for the Indian market.

Apple Watch Series Price in India

Starting with the Apple Watch Series 9, it comes in two build options, such as aluminium and stainless steel.

The Aluminium variant with GPS is priced at Rs 41,900 for the 41mm variant and Rs 44,900 for the 45mm version. For added connectivity with cellular capabilities, the Aluminium variant with GPS + Cellular come in at Rs 51,900 for the 41mm and Rs 54,900 for the 45mm sizes. The color palette offers options like Pink, Midnight, Starlight, Silver, and Product (RED. Strap choices include the Sport Band and Sport Loop.

For those who appreciate a more premium touch, the Apple Watch Series 9 is also available in Stainless Steel with GPS + Cellular functionality. The 41mm variant is priced at Rs 70,900, while the larger 45mm option is available for Rs 75,900. These models come in elegant shades like Gold, Silver, and Graphite. Similar to the Aluminium versions, buyers have the freedom to choose between Sport Band and Sport Loop straps options.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 price in India

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is priced at Rs 89,900 for the sole 49mm variant. The strap options for the Ultra 2 include Alpine Loop in blue, indigo, and olive, Trail Loop in orange/beige, green/grey, and blue/black, as well as the Ocean Band in blue and orange.

The pre-order date for the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 smartwatches is Sept. 15, and the sale date is set for Sept. 22.

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Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition officially confirmed, launch imminent

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 13, 2023

Yesterday, tipster Mukul Sharma revealed that Infinix is planning to launch the Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition in the global market. The tipster also shared a couple of renders of the device. Now, the brand has itself released a new teaser to hint at the arrival of what appears to be a special edition version of the existing Infinix Note 30 VIP.

Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition coming soon

Are you ready to push the limits? 😎#Infinix #InfinixNOTE30VIP #RacingEdition #ComingSoon pic.twitter.com/NULpcriizK
— Infinix Mobile (@Infinix_Mobile) September 12, 2023

According to Sharma, the Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition will come with a distinctive design element—a black leather-grain back cover embellished with tri-color LED lights in blue, green, and red hues. This design distinguishes it from other high-priced BMW-branded smartphones, such as the iQOO 11 Legend BMW Edition and the Galaxy S23 Ultra BMW Edition.

While specific information about the release date remains limited, it appears probable that this exclusive edition device will be unveiled on the global market in the near future.

Infinix Note 30 VIP specifications

The Infinix Note 30 VIP offers a 6.78-inch AMOLED display that offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 10-bit colors. It is driven by the MediaTek Dimensity 8050 SoC, 12 GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery that offers 68W fast charging and 50W wireless charging.

The XOS 13-based Android 13 runs on the Note 30 VIP. It has a 32-megapixel front camera and a 108-megapixel (main) + 2-megapixel (macro) + 2-megapixel (depth) triple camera system. It offers other features, such as 256 GB of native storage, 9 GB of virtual RAM, an advanced VC cooling system, dual stereo speakers, and an under-display fingerprint scanner.

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Motorola Edge 40 Neo launch date confirmed, here’s what to expect

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Sep 13, 2023

Motorola has recently launched the Moto G84 and Moto G54 5G-enabled phones in India. Now, the brand has confirmed that it will announce an Edge series phone later this week in India. Here is what to expect from the device:

Motorola Edge 40 Neo launch date

Motorola Edge 40 Neo September 14 launch date

While the company has not confirmed the name of the device, it appears to be the Motorola Edge 40 Neo, which has been in the rumors mill for the past few days. The smartphone will be announced on Sept. 14 in India.

Motorola Edge 40 Neo specifications (rumored)

According to reports, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo is expected to feature a 6.55-inch p-OLED display with a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 144Hz refresh rate. Powering this device is the capable Dimensity 1050 chipset. MediaTek has recently renamed all its 700-series, 800-series, and 1000-series chips. It is speculated that the chip that powers the Edge 40 Neo could be marketed as the Dimensity 7030. It is expected to ship with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of native storage.

On the camera front, the Edge 40 Neo will feature a 50-megapixel primary camera equipped with optical image stabilisation (OIS). Complementing this is a 13-megapixel ultra-wide camera, while there is a 32-megapixel front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. The device will pack a 5,000mAh battery with 68W fast charging support.

The Edge 40 Neo will come preloaded with the Android 13 operating system, which will offer a near-stock experience. The device will be equipped with other features, such as an in-display fingerprint sensor, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and a USB-C port. Additionally, it will come with an IP68 rating, adding an extra layer of durability by making it resistant to water and dust.

Motorola Edge 40 Neo price in India

At present, there is no information available about the price of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo for the Indian market. The device is also expected to be released in multiple markets, including Europe. Reports have claimed that the device will be priced at 399 euros in Europe. It will come in three shades: Black Beauty, Caneel Bay, and Soothing Sea.

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Foxconn Bets on China to Meet Ongoing Demand for iPhone 15 Series

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Sep 13, 2023

Apple recently unveiled its highly anticipated iPhone 15 series at an event. The new models have already won over users with their features and the fact that price increase rumors proved to be unfounded. This will only further increase the company’s already high expectations, as Foxconn Zhengzhou plant ramps up hiring efforts in China. Here are the details…

World’s Largest iPhone Factory Hires New Workers for iPhone 15 Series

The world’s largest iPhone factory is ramping up hiring because the recent launch of the iPhone 15. Foxconn is offering signing bonuses of up to 8,000 yuan to attract new workers. The plant, which is nicknamed “iPhone City,” covers an area of 5.6 square kilometers and employs some 200,000 workers at full capacity. It is responsible for assembling the majority of iPhones sold worldwide.

Foxconn’s hiring spree comes after the company experienced labor shortages and production disruptions last year due to China’s strict Covid-19 controls. The company was forced to temporarily close the plant in Zhengzhou for several weeks, which delayed the rollout of the iPhone 14. This year, Foxconn is hoping to avoid a repeat of last year’s problems.

The company is also facing increased competition from other smartphone manufacturers, such as Huawei, which are looking to move production out of China. By ramping up hiring in China, Foxconn is hoping to ensure that it has the necessary workforce in place to meet the ongoing demand for iPhone 15 series.

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Nintendo Patents New Magnetic Joystick Tech to Prevent Joy-Con Drift

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Sep 13, 2023

If you are like me and prefer gamepads over keyboard and mouse when playing games, you have probably encountered the analog stick drift issue at some point in your life. Unfortunately, this error, which undermines the gaming experience and spoils your fun, is quite common. Whether you use an Xbox, PlayStation, or third-party gamepad, this issue will undoubtedly occur. Unfortunately, this error occurs more frequently due to structural defects in some products.

The Nintendo Switch, one of the products in question, has been driving users crazy with the Joy-Con drift issue for a long time. However, according to the information that has emerged, the company is obtaining a patent that eliminates this issue in the Switch 2. Here are the details…

Nintendo’s New Joystick Tech Could Put an End to Joy-Con Drift

The Nintendo Switch has been plagued by a problem known as Joy-Con drift. This is when the analog sticks on the Joy-Cons start to register movement even when they are not being touched. This can make it difficult to control your character or aim your shots in games. Unfortunately, this issue is quite common among Switch users. The company has even offered free repairs for Joy-Con drift, but the issue has persisted. In 2020, the company was even sued by a class of Switch owners over the problem.

However, there is hope that the Switch 2 may finally eliminate Joy-Con drift. Nintendo has filed a patent for a new type of joystick that uses magnets. The patent application describes how the magnets would help to keep the joysticks centered and prevent them from drifting. Here’s exactly how Nintendo describes their new joystick patent…

“This information processing system includes – a controller including an operation element to be displaced from an initial position by a user’s operation, a restoring force imparting section applying a restoring force for returning the displaced operation element to the initial position, a resistance section using a magnetorheological fluid whose viscosity changes with the magnetic-intensity and which becomes resistant when the operation element is displaced from/to the initial position, and a magnetic field generation section which provides the magnetic field to the magnetorheological fluid; and a circuit capable of controlling the magnetic field generation section. The circuit controls a magnetic-field intensity so the viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid periodically changes at least between a first viscosity state and a second viscosity state in which the viscosity is lower than the first viscosity state so that the operation element returns to the initial position by the restoring force.”

Of course, it is still too early to say for sure whether the Switch 2 will have this new magnetic joystick tech. Nintendo has not yet announced any details about the console. However, the patent filing is a good sign that the company is at least thinking about ways to address the Joy-Con drift issue.

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Volkswagen to start manufacturing electric bicycles in partnership with Pon Holdings

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Sep 12, 2023

German automaker Volkswagen has penned a partnership with Pon Holdings for the manufacture of electric bikes. The entry of Volkswagen into the e-bike segment is remarkable and interesting. It is yet another automaker that has diversified into e-bike manufacturing. It also underscores the importance of e-mobility offerings in several advanced markets. It is noted that virtually all traditional bicycle brands have added electric bicycles to their bouquet of products.

Volkswagen’s pursuit of e-bike presence is driven by its subsidiary, Volkswagen Financial Services. It is in partnership with Pon Holdings, itself a large mobility company. The two companies plan to collaborate to expand electric bicycle leasing in Europe and the United States. The leasing service will both cover employees and commercial customers in both regions.

The deal has seen Volkswagen Financial Services acquire a 49% stake in Pon’s Bike Mobility Services (BMS). Pon’s bike leasing company is operational in Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium and the US. The BMS brand has quietly established itself as one of the biggest bike-sharing companies in the industry.

BMS is reported to provide bikes for over 600,000 employees in 65,000 companies. The majority of the bikes on offer at BMS (90%) are electric bikes, which are appealing to a growing audience. These bikes are serviced by a rich network of up to 8,000 dealers.

The Volkswagen-Pon partnership is expected to tap from the opportunities in the US market. BMS recently opened its first US office and some large corporations have signed onto the bike-sharing model. The new partnership is not the first time both companies have collaborated. Volkswagen and Pon’s engagements span over eight decades. Pon Holdings is the largest importer of the Volkswagen Group in the Netherlands.

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Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Bluetooth speaker with 360º sound and adaptive EQ unveiled for $349

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Sep 12, 2023

The Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM rugged Bluetooth speaker has been launched. The EPICBOOM delivers 360-degree sound and also features an adaptive equalization setup. The rugged and portable speaker also offers up to 17 hours of immersive sound on a single charge.

Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Bluetooth speaker

The EPICBOOM is designed as a party and outdoor speaker. It can play loud and clear sounds using its auto EQ functionality. Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM is the second-largest member of an expansive family of Bluetooth speakers from the brand. It is noted that the new speaker omits Wi-Fi functionality, but it bears a close semblance with the Sonos Move 2. It has two 45mm mid to high-frequency transducers and one 120mm woofer. These combine to deliver 360-degree surround sound and big bass. The Adaptive EQ feature is present in the Ultimate Ears HYPERBOOM for smart sound modulation. The company says Adaptive EQ reads the room and automatically balances the sound until it is perfect.

The EPICBOOM is rated IP67 and is resistant to dust, dirt, and submersion in water up to 1 meter. Interestingly, however, the EPICBOOM floats in water which is nice for outdoor or pool parties. The speaker also comes with an Outdoor Boost button that increases the volume from 94dB to 95 dB. With up to 17 hours of battery life, the EPICBOOM can be used for all-night parties without running out of power. This is an impressive feature when compared with other speakers in the market. The speaker has a convenient handle on the rear for easier carriage and the device weighs about 2kg.

The Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM Bluetooth speaker is priced at $349 and can be purchased from Amazon. The product has stiff competition already with lots of feature-rich models in the segment.

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China’s emerging middle class shows preference for Huawei over Apple and Vivo

By

Soumyakanti

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Sep 12, 2023

A recent report by QuestMobile sheds light on the smartphone preferences of China’s emerging middle-class demographic, highlighting the choices among high-end devices priced above 5000 yuan ($685).

Market Share Breakdown: New Middle-Class Preferences

Notably, Huawei emerges as the preferred brand in this segment, commanding a significant 30% market share. Apple follows closely, with 25% of the new middle-class population opting for their smartphones, while Vivo captures a respectable 15.2% share, indicating the growing popularity of Vivo’s high-end offerings in recent years.

Huawei’s journey into the high-end smartphone market is marked by its historical evolution. It began with the inaugural Huawei Mate phone, featuring the Kirin K3V2 processor, albeit with less-than-ideal performance and power consumption. Subsequent releases, such as the Huawei Mate 20 series, powered by the Kirin 980 processor, solidified Huawei’s position in the high-end segment.

In 2019, the Huawei Mate 30 series, equipped with the industry’s pioneering integrated 5G SoC Kirin 990, established Huawei as a leader in the smartphone industry. The Kirin 9000 processor, introduced with the Mate 40 series, further cemented Huawei’s “far ahead” status.

The trend of Huawei’s high-end smartphone dominance had been unshaken until the recent launch of the Huawei Mate 60 Pro, featuring the new domestic Kirin 9000S (know more about this chip from here) processor. This release marked the resurgence of Huawei’s high-end smartphones, reaffirming their leadership in this category.

However, it’s crucial to note that this trend faced a significant disruption due to the US-China chip war and the subsequent US government ban on Huawei. This ban hampered Huawei’s ability to innovate and maintain its position as a top contender in the smartphone market.

The turning point came when Huawei found a solution to this challenge. Huawei Technologies, in collaboration with China’s leading chipmaker, SMIC, successfully developed an advanced 7-nanometer processor to power its latest smartphone lineup. This homegrown chip represented a significant breakthrough for China, reducing its reliance on US companies for crucial semiconductor technology. With this innovative development, Huawei demonstrated its resilience and determination to maintain its high-end status in the fiercely competitive smartphone market.

It is essential to highlight that the Huawei Mate 60 series currently offers three models: the standard version, Pro, and Pro+ models, with prices starting at 5499 yuan ($754).

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