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.
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 15was 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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Apple iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus
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.
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.
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
Apple Watch Series 9
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
Apple Watch Ultra 2
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.
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.
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.
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)
Motorola Edge 40 Neo color options
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Power accessories manufacturer Ego is making an entry into the electric motorbike market with the launch of the Power+ Mini Bike. The Ego Power+ Mini Bike is designed for youngsters who are learning the ropes of riding electric motorbikes.
Chevron power tools brand Ego boasts of a global presence with lots of electric power tools already in its portfolio. Ego is expanding beyond lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and other electric power tools. The new Power+ Mini Bike targets the younger demography of the electric two-wheeler market. Demand for kids-focused electric two-wheelers has been on the increase recently. The trend reflects the growing interest of the younger demography in electric mobility. The development is fostering both sustainability and enjoyment.
The Ego Power+ Mini Bike has a rear hub motor that delivers a top speed of 28mph for the bike. There are three ride modes on the Power+ Mini namely Eco, Normal, and Sport. This allows the kid’s minder to adjust the bike’s performance to a comfortable level.
The bike has a reverse mode which makes parking very easy. The bike is compatible with the Ego Power+ 56-volt ARC lithium batteries. A pair of batteries deliver up to 20 miles (~32km) on a single charge. It is noted that the batteries are part of the accessories included in the package.
The Ego Power+ Mini Bike has a digital display that provides real-time information on various ride parameters. These include speed, acceleration, range, and battery status, among others. The rugged design of the Ego Mini is also modern with contrasting gray and green colors. It has a front and rear suspension system, as well as front and rear hydraulic disc brakes. The tires of the Power+ Mini Bike are capable of off-road movement. The pricing and availability details of the Ego Power+ Mini Bike are yet to be provided.
Earlier this week, the Noise Air Buds 3 and Buds Pro 3 TWS earbuds in India. The brand has now made the earbuds available for purchase online.
Noise Air Buds 3 series price
The Air Buds 3 are currently on sale for a fantastic discount of 69%, priced at just Rs 1,399 on Amazon India and Flipkart. For those interested in the Air Buds 3 Pro, they are available at a price of Rs 1,799.
Noise Air Buds 3 & Pro 3 specs
The Noise Air Buds Pro 3 comes equipped with 13mm audio drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and utilizes HyperSync technology for seamless pairing. They offer an impressive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capability of up to 30 decibels and feature a quad-microphone setup for superior Environmental Noise Cancellation during calls. The touch controls enhance ease of use, and there’s a dedicated gaming mode with an ultra-low 45ms latency for gamers. With a remarkable 45 hours of total audio playback and fast charging support (just 10 minutes of charging provides 3 hours of playback), they are designed for extended use. Moreover, these earbuds have an IPX5 rating for splash and sweat resistance and come with a 1-year warranty.
On the other hand, the Noise Air Buds 3 share similar specs such as 13mm audio drivers, Bluetooth 5.3, and HyperSync technology for seamless connectivity. They prioritize Environmental Noise Cancellation for clearer call quality, but they lack Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Like their Pro counterparts, they offer up to 45 hours of total audio playback and support fast charging (10 minutes of charging provides 200 minutes of audio playback). These earbuds also have an IPX5 rating for splash and sweat resistance and are backed by a 1-year warranty.
In the recently released market data for the second quarter of 2023 by Counterpoint Research, MediaTek maintained its dominant position in the global smartphone Application Processor (AP) market share. This marked the 12th consecutive quarter of MediaTek’s leadership in this sector.
Analyzing the Q2 2023 Smartphone AP Processor Shares of Leading Manufacturers
During Q2 2023, MediaTek commanded the largest share with 30%, closely followed by Qualcomm at 29%. Apple secured a substantial portion of the market with a 19% share, while UNISOC held a notable 15% share. In contrast, Samsung accounted for 7% of the market, reflecting the competitive landscape and the ongoing dynamics within the smartphone AP market.
MediaTek’s continued success can be attributed to their strategic moves in the market. They experienced a slight increase in shipments in Q2 2023, primarily driven by their strong presence in the mid-low-end market. MediaTek introduced new models, such as the Dimensity 6000 and Dimensity 7000 series, along with the high-end Dimensity 9200 Plus, consolidating their position across various price segments.
Qualcomm also saw growth in shipments during the same quarter, thanks to the adoption of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor by major players like Samsung and Chinese manufacturers. The release of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 series played a significant role in boosting Qualcomm’s market presence. Furthermore, Qualcomm’s updates to its Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, Snapdragon 6 Gen 1, and Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 series contributed to their market share recovery.
Samsung, too, experienced an increase in AP shipments in Q2 2023, driven by the introduction of the Exynos 1330 and 1380 processors. These chips found success in both the low-end and mid-high-end smartphone markets. However, Apple faced a decline in sales during this period, largely due to seasonal factors.
UNISOC, after a sluggish performance in the first quarter, witnessed an uptick in shipments during Q2 2023. As entry-level 5G smartphones continue to gain popularity in regions like Europe, UNISOC is poised to capture a larger market share in the latter half of 2023.
Apple’s annual Wonderlust fall event concluded today. The Cupertino-based tech giant took the wraps off its next-generation iPhone 15 series along with other devices at the event. Notably, the latest iPhone 15 models arrive with significant upgrades since the iPhone 11 that debuted way back in 2019. This is not surprising given that Apple updates its iPhone lineup every three to four years, based on historical trends. This time too, the brand has distinguished the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus from the Pro and Pro Max variants.
Last year, Apple was widely criticized, with many people outraged when the company released the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, which were essentially the same as the iPhone 13, with a few minor improvements here and there. However, this time, the non-pro variants become more intriguing, which is great news for previous iPhone owners (making it worth upgrading to the new models).
Dynamic island, Dynamic island, Dynamic island!
Apple introduced the Dynamic Island for the iPhone 14 Pro models last year, which made every tech enthusiast go gaga over the feature. The reason – Dynamic Island is essentially a pill-shaped cutout that houses the front camera sensor and the sensors responsible for Face ID. Personally, I feel it looks ugly; however, in Apple’s case, it does more than just appear as a dormant Black cutout. The company has intelligently optimized the software UI to work with Dynamic Island. It is an interactive element that can display various information like incoming calls, notifications, turn-by-turn navigation, music playback, and more. That’s not all; Dynamic Island can also expand to a larger size to access different functions or launch applications, hence serving as a multitasking shortcut.
Coming back to the topic, Apple’s latest iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus now feature Dynamic Island. This means that the brand has ditched the traditional notch that was introduced on the iPhone X in 2017. It remains to be seen if Apple moves ahead with the Dynamic Island for all future iPhones, including the SE too.
Goodbye Lightning port, Hello USB-C
11 years! That’s how long Apple stuck to its proprietary Lightning port, introduced way back in 2012. The entire iPhone 15 lineup now has a USB-C port to comply with the norms set by the European Union. Oh, and Apple is bundling a color co-ordinated USB-C braided cable with the iPhone 15. The switch to a new connector means that the next time your iPhone runs out of juice, you just have to ask somebody for a USB-C cable, which is pretty much used for charging most devices today.
For those unaware, Apple has been working on streamlining its devices across various categories for more efficient and deeper integration within the ecosystem. The company’s custom silicon chipset is a prime example that has made its way to Macs and iPads. Apple already switched to USB-C ports on its computers and tablets in 2015 and 2019, respectively. Now with the iPhone 15 series getting the connector, the transition seems complete on the connectivity front.
Substantial camera upgrades
Another area where Apple upgrades the latest-generation non-pro iPhone 15 is in the camera department. The Cupertino-based tech giant has stuck to a 12MP main sensor on its previous devices for years. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus now feature a massively upgraded 48MP Sony sensor with an f/1.6 aperture and a 2x telephoto option that should offer higher-resolution images and improved details. The secondary ultra-wide-angle lens and the front-facing selfie snapper remain unchanged with 12 MP sensors. Machine learning will now automatically detect whether a person or pet are in frame and switch over to add the bokeh effect.
More power
Under the hood, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are equipped with Apple’s A16 Bionic processor. While this is not a newly announced chipset (the A17 has been reserved for the Pro models), it is still a welcome upgrade over the A15 that was found on last year’s variants, and it is also two years old now. The A16 Bionic that powers the iPhone 14 Pro models is said to be 7 percent faster than the A15.
Frosted glass back panel
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus now flaunt a frosted glass back panel. This was exclusively limited to the Pro models, while the non-Pro variants had a glossy finish. With the presence of frosted glass, the iPhone 15 duo will be resistant to fingerprints and smudges. It will also give a more premium look and feel.
Pricing
The first iPhone, when it came out in 2007, was priced at $499, which was a lot back then. Since then, the price of the iPhones has increased steadily, however, it is not consistent or predictable. Much of the pricing factor is attributed to improved technology and features, consumer demand, competitive pressures, etc. Additionally, the prices of the iPhones vary based on the market region.
The good news? Apple has kept the starting price tags of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus the same as their predecessors. The former starts at $799, whereas the latter retails at $899 for the base models.
Moment of Truth
Is it worth upgrading to the iPhone 15 or 15 Plus?
Absolutely, if you have been waiting to upgrade from an iPhone 13 or older. If you currently own the iPhone 14 or 14 Plus, it’s still worth considering the upgrade to the latest models. This is because you might get a good resale value or even a trade-in offer for a one-year device, which will only become devalued as it ages further.
iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus: Which is the most sensible choice?
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are nearly identical to each other. What really separates the two variants is only in terms of display size and battery capacity. Pricing is another factor to consider aside from the core specifications.
The demand for smaller phones has dwindled over time, with the base iPhone (including the SE) and the ASUS Zenfone phones remaining the last of the lot to offer a compact form factor with top-tier specifications. If you’re somebody (like me) who prefers less bulky devices and one-hand usage sans media consumption, the iPhone 15 is without any doubt a hands-down recommendation.
The iPhone 15 Plus is overall an excellent choice if the larger form factor does not bother you. It offers more bang for the buck with a larger screen estate and significantly longer battery life, which should aid in media consumption and other uses.
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