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Samsung Galaxy S23 FE leaks in Graphite color ahead of launch

Samsung is expected to launch a bunch of new Fan Edition devices before the end of this year including the Galaxy Buds FE, the Tab S9 FE series & the Galaxy S23 FE smartphone. There have been a bunch of leaks about the S23 FE smartphone including its design. Now, TheTechOutlook has leaked new renders of the smartphone in black color.

As revealed by the leaked images, the Galaxy S23 FE features a flat display with a centrally aligned punch-hole selfie camera. On the rear panel, there are three circular camera rings and an LED flashlight, along with Samsung branding at the bottom. The side profiles are rounded and curved at the corners, with the volume rocker and power button located on the right side. Although the report does not mention the color by name, a recent report suggests that this color will more than likely be called Graphite.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE specs (rumored)

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is poised to deliver a 6.4-inch Full HD+ Dynamic AMOLED display, ensuring a seamless experience with its commendable 120Hz refresh rate. The rumored SD8 Gen 1 SoC is likely reserved for the US market, with the Exynos 2200 catering to other regions. Accompanying this hardware configuration is an ample 12GB of RAM and a capacious 256GB of storage.

Turning our attention to its photographic capabilities, we anticipate a versatile triple-rear camera setup including a robust 50MP primary camera, featuring optical image stabilization (OIS) for steady shots. Additionally, an 8MP ultrawide sensor offers a wide-angle perspective, while a 12MP telephoto lens provides the ability to capture distant subjects. For capturing self-portraits, a 10MP front-facing camera is expected.

In terms of battery life, the device is projected to house a substantial 4500mAh battery with support for rapid 25W fast charging. Operationally, it will be based on the Android 13-based OneUI 5.1 operating system. An outstanding feature of the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is its commitment to extended software support, promising four years of major OS updates and an impressive five years of security updates.

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Apple Wonderlust Event: Apple Watch Ultra 2 Debuts With 3,000 Nits Display, Double Tap Gesture Feature

At Apple’s annual fall event, the company announced the new-generation iPhone 15 series, Watch Series 9, the second-generation Watch Ultra, and more. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 arrives as the successor to the last year’s model. For those unaware, it is the flagship smartwatch from the company heavily focused on adventure and outdoor enthusiasts. Apple seems to be taking the fight to Garmin with the Watch Ultra models. The newest second-generation offering packs incremental upgrades to its predecessor. Let’s take a look at what the wearable device has in store for us. 

Apple Watch Ultra 2 specifications and features

Right off the bat, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 sports a rugged design similar to its predecessor that should be able to withstand damages. It has an aerospace-grade titanium unibody with a 49mm casing and a raised shell to protect the display. The wearable device is MIL-STD 810H approved, which is military and rugged equipment standard. It is also WR100-rated water-resistant and EN 13319-certified, an international diving standard. This makes the smartwatch ideal for kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and scuba diving to 40 meters. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 also packs double-tap gesture feature (tapping the index finger and thumb) to answer calls, pause and resume timers, and more tasks without interacting with the device.

The Apple Watch Ultra retains the rotating crown and action button on the right side with the latter providing quick access to several features. It boasts an Always-on Retina display up to 3,000 nits for viewing under harsh sunlight. The smartwatch features three microphones and adaptive beamforming to improve call quality and reduce background noise. It also utilizes machine learning to cut down wind noise so that the audio is clear. 

Coming to the health and fitness features, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is equipped with a heart-rate monitor along with an ECG sensor and SpO2 tracker. There have been many instances where Apple’s smartwatches have accurately detected atrial fibrillation and saved lives of users. The wearable device packs a menstrual cycle tracker for women with thermometry for improved forecast. It also has two sensors that eliminate body bias and external bias for women. Additionally, family planning can also benefit from retroactive ovulation estimates. 

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 features a multi-band dual-frequency GPS for outdoor usage. There are pro-running features and depth gauge for professional swimmers and divers. The device has an 86 dB Siren with emergency features to help others find the user in case they are lost. The smartwatch also retains crash detection that dials emergency medical services when it senses a severe car crash and if the user is unresponsive after 10 seconds. 

Under the hood, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is equipped with a new S9 processor that is touted to deliver significant performance upgrades. It also has a second-generation ultrawide-band chip that offers improved Find My capabilities, precise location tracking, and better power efficiency. The latest smartwatch is touted to offer 36 hours of battery life under normal usage and up to 72 hours with low power enabled. Software-wise, it runs on watchOS10 which introduces new widgets, redesigned app icons, and a Modular Ultra watchface that will make use of the outer edge of the display.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 carries a price tag of $799 for the GPS + Cellular version. It will be available for purchase starting September 22.

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Lectric recalls up to 45,000 XP 3.0 E-Bikes due to brake issue

In a major safety move, Lectric eBikes has issued a recall on the XP 3.0, related to the potential failure of mechanical disc brakes. The recall involves up to 45,000 XP 3.0 bicycles in the US. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the voluntary recall of the bikes.

Lectric

The affected XP 3.0 e-bikes were manufactured and sold earlier this year and the concerns relate to the potential failure of their mechanical brake setups. The quality of the mechanical brake calipers used in the XP 3.0 e-bikes was suspect. Accordingly, the company stated that the mechanical disc brake calipers can fail resulting in loss of control, potential crash, and injury hazards to the rider. About 45,000 XP 3.0 bikes have been sold between November 2022 and May 2023 with the said mechanical brakes. Only four incidents have been reported traced to the mechanical brake failure.

Since May 2023, Lectric eBikes have stopped selling the XP 3.0 and subsequently made a substantial enhancement by upgrading to hydraulic disc brakes. It also delivered free upgrade kits to current owners of the bike. The upgrade kit is easy to install within 15 minutes. Lectric has also offered to pay for owners who opt to have the upgrade done at a bike shop.

The Lectric disc brake upgrade kit for the XP 3.0 e-bike is available and Lectric has already started contacting owners of affected units. Lectric has also sent a service notice to owners on how to inspect and adjust their brakes to prevent incorrectly fitted cables. Nearly 50% of the affected owners have already taken advantage of the disc brake upgrade policy.

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OxygenOS 14 Open Beta kicks off for OnePlus 11 users: Here’s how to apply

Last month, the OnePlus 11 got its Android 14 public beta update in China, and now, a couple of weeks out of the official OxygenOS 14 launch, OnePlus has opened beta testing for users of the OnePlus 11 in India and North America. Keep reading to learn more about how to participate in this public beta.

OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1

OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1: How to apply

To apply for OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1, you’ll want to follow a few simple steps during the application period, which begins on September 12 and will remain open until the application limit of 5,000 users is reached. First, ensure that your device is currently running the detectable version, either CPH2447_13.1.0.590(EX01) or CPH2447_13.1.0.591(EX01).

OnePlus 11R

Next, access the application form by navigating to your device’s settings menu. Start by tapping on “Settings,” then select “About device.” Look for the “up to date” option and click on it. In the top right corner, you’ll find an icon; select it. Within this menu, you should see an option for the “Beta program.” Click on it and follow the provided steps to complete your application.

Once you’ve submitted your application, OnePlus will review it within 5 workdays after the application channel’s closure. If your application is approved, you can expect to receive the OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1 version within 3 workdays. After approval, to download the version, simply go to your device’s settings, select “About device,” and look for the “Download Now” option. This will enable you to access and install the new beta version.

Oxygen OS 14 Beta: What to expect

Changelog

Security and privacy

• Improves photo and video-related permission management for safer access by apps.

Performance optimization

• Improves system stability, the launch speed of apps, and the smoothness of animations.

Aquamorphic Design

• Upgrades Aquamorphic Design with a natural, gentle, and clearer color style for a more comfortable color experience.

• Adds Aquamorphic-themed ringtones and revamps the system notification sounds.

User Care

• Adds a carbon tracking AOD that visualizes the carbon emissions you avoid by walking instead of driving.

OnePlus is bringing something exciting to OxygenOS 14 called the ‘Trinity Engine.’ This technology aims to make OnePlus phones work even better by making sure the hardware and software work together seamlessly. It’s all about making your phone use less power, handle multiple tasks smoothly, and giving you a fast and long-lasting experience. That being said, the beta build also has some known issues right now. So we suggest going through it before installing the OxygenOS 14 beta build on your smartphone.

Known Issues

  • The flight icon displays on status bar after turning off the flight mode.
  • Turning on the flight mode in control center is not responsive.
  • Flashing back issue when entering Notes in the Shelf.
  • Black screen issue when opening step tracker page through the health widget in the Shelf.
  • Dual channel network acceleration function cannot be triggered automatically.
  • Sliding finger to the icon cannot launch the app using Quick Launch.
  • Screen flashes during application startup animation.
  • Up-swipe gesture probably fails.

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Lenovo ThinkVision P49w, a 49-inch Dual QHD ultrawide curved monitor launched for $1234

Lenovo has unveiled its latest ultrawide curved monitor, the ThinkVision P49w, offering a 32:9 aspect ratio and a host of impressive features. Let’s check out the specs of this monitor.

Lenovo ThinkVision P49w key features:

This 49-inch monitor boasts a Dual QHD (2K) resolution (5120×1440) on an IPS Black original panel, delivering sharp visuals. With a 2000:1 contrast ratio, pixel density of 109 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate, and a 3800 curvature, it promises an immersive viewing experience. Users can adjust the monitor’s position with ease, thanks to its tilting and rotating capabilities.

The P49w monitor offers impressive features like PIP/PBP hardware split-screen and eKVM technology for enhanced multitasking. It excels in color reproduction, covering 100% sRGB, 100% Rec.709, and 98% DCI-P3 color gamuts, and arrives factory-calibrated with ΔE<2. It supports HDR 10 and global DC dimming and holds certifications for low blue light, flicker-free operation, and EyeSafe 2.0 for user comfort.

In terms of connectivity, the P49w is well-equipped with 13 interfaces, including Thunderbolt 4 support for high-speed data transfer and daisy chaining, 100W reverse charging, Type-C, 5×USB-A HUB, HDMI 2.1, and DP 1.4. It even features a built-in pop-up docking station and dual 5W speakers, eliminating the need for additional accessories. The monitor also supports VESA wall mounting for flexible placement options.

The Lenovo P49w is priced at 8999 yuan ($1234), offers a compelling package of features, and is well-suited for both professionals and enthusiasts looking for a top-quality display for work and entertainment. Lenovo‘s inclusion of a three-year warranty adds an extra layer of assurance for potential buyers.

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Red Magic 8 Pro+ is the Most Powerful Smartphone in the World, According to AnTuTu

Dimensity, Qualcomm, Kirin, Exynos, and many more. Almost every day we come across a new phone model, hear these processor names, and try to understand what they mean. Especially in today’s world where problems such as app and UI performance are no longer a problem, it is quite normal to be confused. AnTuTu, which wants to eliminate the confusion and rank smartphones correctly, allows us to have an idea with its lists published at regular intervals. Recently, the platform released the best flagship models of August 2023. Here are the details…

AnTuTu Releases August 2023 Flagship Smartphone Rankings

AnTuTu has released its rankings for the best flagship smartphones in August 2023. The Red Magic 8 Pro+ took the top spot, which is not surprising. The 8 Pro+ stands out with its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 16GB of RAM, as well as being a gaming phone. This means that the device has been specially designed to improve performance and cool down the hot hardware. The ASUS ROG 7 is also a high-performing device, and it also comes with a number of gaming-centric features. The top 10 devices are as follows:

  1. Red Magic 8 Pro+: AnTuTu Score: 1,632,859
  2. ASUS ROG 7: AnTuTu Score: 1,595,673
  3. Xiaomi 13: AnTuTu Score: 1,552,781
  4. Samsung Galaxy S23+: AnTuTu Score: 1,546,135
  5. Xiaomi 13 Pro: AnTuTu Score: 1,534,123
  6. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: AnTuTu Score: 1,514,502
  7. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: AnTuTu Score: 1,476,184
  8. Samsung Galaxy S23: AnTuTu Score: 1,475,220
  9. OnePlus 11: AnTuTu Score: 1,376,203
  10. Lenovo Legion Y70: AnTuTu Score: 1,322,345

The AnTuTu rankings are based on a variety of factors, including the CPU, GPU, memory, and UX performance of the devices. The higher the AnTuTu score, the better the overall performance of the device. If you are looking for a high-performance smartphone, then any of the devices on the AnTuTu August 2023 rankings are a good choice. However, the Red Magic 8 Pro+ and ASUS ROG 7 are the best options if you are looking for the absolute best performance.

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Apple Will Sell Made In India iPhone 15 On Launch Day: Report

Apple has been rapidly expanding manufacturing efforts for its iPhones in India over the last few years. The Cupertino-based tech giant has been reaping benefits of the local production in the country. Now just a few hours to go for the company’s annual fall event, the folks at Bloomberg have reported a new development about the iPhone 15’s manufacturing in India marking a significant achievement in the country’s electronics ambitions. 

Made in India iPhone 15 to be sold on the launch day

Although Apple has been making iPhones in India since 2017, there was a significant lag between the time of launched devices and the commencement of production in the country. This has already been reduced in recent years with the iPhone 14’s manufacturing starting within 10 days of global launch. Hence due to a time lag, the first batch of the latest-generation iPhones are sourced from China. The Indian-made units hit the shelves after a few months. 

However, things are changing this year with the iPhone 15. As per previous report, Apple started assembling the upcoming flagship lineup in India last month. This is much faster than the previously assembled iPhone units in the country. The iPhone 15 is being produced at the company’s largest contract manufacturer Foxconn’s facility in Chennai. 

As per Bloomberg’s latest report, Apple is expected to sell the iPhone 15 Made in India from the launch day itself. This marks the first time the Cupertino-based tech giant will offer locally-made iPhones on the launch date in India. It’s worth noting that only the non-pro models are made in India. 

Nonetheless, Apple directly offering India-manufactured iPhone 15 from day one puts the country on par with China. The company has been working on reducing its manufacturing dependency on China due to a host of issues. 

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Apple May Switch to USB-C for MagSafe Accessories, Suggests Counterfeit Battery Packs

Apple’s iPhone 15 series is set to be unveiled in just a few hours. While the company always manages to surprise us with new surprises, features, and performance improvements, the most notable new feature on the 2023 model iPhones will be the USB-C port. However, it appears that the iPhone 15 models won’t be the only Apple products to say goodbye to the Lightning port. Fake MagSafe Battery Packs with USB-C ports have appeared online, hinting at a potential Apple launch, as the iPhone 15 lineup is expected to feature USB-C and it appears that even older models will be updated. Here are the details…

Fake MagSafe Battery Packs with USB-C Ports Hint at Apple’s Future Plans

Although the Apple event has not yet taken place and USB-C is expected to be a serious claim, recent images circulating on social media platforms have sparked intrigue and speculation in the tech community. Som fake MagSafe Battery Packs with USB-C ports are appearing online. This could be a sign that Apple is planning to switch to USB-C for its future MagSafe accessories.

The MagSafe Battery Pack is a popular accessory that magnetically attaches to the back of an iPhone. It’s been a target for counterfeiters, who have created fake versions that look almost identical to the real thing. But the latest counterfeits are different. They have USB-C ports instead of the Lightning ports that are found on the original MagSafe Battery Pack and other Apple accessories.

This is significant because it suggests that the counterfeiters are expecting Apple to switch to USB-C in the future. USB-C is a more versatile port than Lightning, and it’s becoming the standard for charging devices across the industry. If Apple does switch to USB-C, it would be a major change for the company.

Lightning has been the standard port for Apple products for many years, and it’s deeply integrated into the company’s ecosystem. But the move to USB-C would make it easier for people to charge their iPhones with other devices and accessories. We’ll have to wait and see if Apple confirms the rumors about a switch to USB-C at the event.

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Boult W50 TWS earbuds with 50-hour battery & ENC tech launched in India for ₹999

After debuting the Boult W40 TWS earbuds last month, the brand has now unveiled a new pair of earbuds called the Boult W50 which features a larger battery and better fast charging. You can find more details below.

Boult W50

Boult W50 TWS earbuds specs

The Boult W50 earphones boast 13mm bass drivers, promising a powerful and immersive audio experience. Equipped with a Quad Mic AI-ENC chip, these earphones provide AI-driven environmental noise cancellation, allowing you to enjoy crystal-clear calls even in noisy environments.

Boult W50

Gaming enthusiasts will definitely enjoy the ultra-low 45ms latency gaming mode, ensuring a seamless and lag-free gaming experience. These earphones boast Bluetooth 5.3, guaranteeing a reliable and efficient wireless connection.

Boult W50

The Boult W50 earphones come equipped with touch controls, making playback and call handling a breeze. These earphones offer an impressive total battery life of 50 hours. What’s more, they include Lightning Boult Technology, which means that a quick 10-minute charge can give you an astonishing 150 minutes of playtime.

These earphones are built tough to handle the elements with their IPX5 water-resistant rating, so they’re great for outdoor adventures.

Price & availability

Priced at just Rs. 999, the Boult W50 comes in Blue Lustre, Ash Black, Ruby Bronze, and Silver Sand colors, and is already available for purchase on Amazon.in.

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Microsoft Stays True To Its Word, Drops Official Software Support For First-Gen Surface Duo

Microsoft launched the Surface Duo way back in 2020. It was followed by the Surface Duo 2 in 2021. The Redmond-based company’s first-ever foldable phone arrived with Android 10 OS out of the box. At the time of launch, Microsoft had revealed that the Surface Duo would be eligible for at least three years of updates which include Android versions and security patches. Now there is disappointing news for owners of Surface Duo as it has reached its reached its end of lifecycle on the software front. 

Microsoft Surface Duo won’t receive future software updates

The Microsoft Surface Duo was updated to Android 11 in January last year. It received Android 12L the same year in October. Since Microsoft confirmed at launch that the device will get three years of OS and security patches, it won’t be getting any future updates. The company is staying true to its word. Hence the Android 12L version is the last Android version for the foldable phone. This means that the original Surface Duo is no longer supported by Microsoft. 

The first-generation Surface Duo received only two Android version updates which is kind of disappointing for a foldable phone carrying a whopping price tag. However, Surface Duo users can keep using their devices with no issues as apps can be normally updated from the Store. But with no security patches, users will have to be cautious going ahead. Additionally, they can install a custom version of Android 13 / 14 on their devices. 

On the other hand, the Microsoft Surface Duo 2 has one more year of software support left that is set to end in October next year. It launched with Android 11 in 2021 and has only received a major Android 12L update last October. The second-generation foldable phone is expected to receive two more Android versions. 

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Goodix ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor tipped to go mass production by year-end

Goodix, a prominent player in the technology industry, is set to roll out its ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor for mass production by the end of this year, according to Digital Chat Station. The top 5 Chinese smartphone brands are currently in discussions with Goodix regarding the sensor. This development comes with the promise of cost savings compared to Qualcomm‘s similar technology.

ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor

Affordable alternative to Qualcomm!

Ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensors offer a range of inherent advantages over their optical counterparts. Most notably, they can unlock devices even when the screen is off, eliminating the need for blindingly bright screens during nighttime unlocks. Additionally, these sensors are adept at functioning underwater or with wet hands, enhancing their usability in various conditions.

The fundamental working principle of Goodix’s technology involves utilizing sound waves to scan the pores in the fingerprint area, constructing a three-dimensional model of the user’s fingerprint. When unlocking the device, the sensor compares the real-time fingerprint model with the previously recorded one, resulting in a notably higher recognition rate. This technology offers improved accuracy, making it capable of recognizing “wet” or “dirty” fingers, which are often challenging for optical solutions.

DCS ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor leak

Furthermore, the Digital Chat Station hinted at an exclusive period for a certain brand to utilize Goodix’s ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor solution.

After this exclusivity period, it is expected that other brands will follow suit in adopting this technology. While there is speculation that the exclusive brand may be from the EU+ region, specific details remain undisclosed.

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Xiaomi 13T and 13T Pro Pricing and Color Options Leaked

Xiaomi is set to launch the 13T and 13T Pro smartphones globally on September 26th in Berlin. Ahead of the launch, renders of the upcoming phones have leaked online, revealing their design. The European price of the devices has also been leaked.

The renders, which were shared by tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore, show the Xiaomi 13T and 13T Pro in three color options: black, light green, and light blue. Both phones have a similar design, with a flat display and a punch-hole camera cutout in the top-left corner. The rear camera module is also similar, with a triple-lens setup and a Leica branding.

Both phones are expected to share many features, including a 6.67-inch 144Hz AMOLED display with 1,220 x 2,712 pixels resolution and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. They will also be IP68-rated and have Gorilla Glass 5 protection for their displays. 

Apart from the display, the 13T duo will allegedly have a 50MP main (IMX707 sensor), 50MP tele camera (50mm lens), and a 12MP ultra-wide (15mm), plus a 20MP selfie module.

The rumored specs for the chipsets and charging are where the 13T diverges from the 13 Pro. The latter is expected to feature a Dimensity 9200+ chipset and a 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging. The regular Xiaomi 13T will get the Dimensity 8200-Ultra instead and a 5,000mAh battery with slower 67W charging. However, both phones will be the first in the Xiaomi family to get top-notch software support, with four OS updates and five years of security patches.

As for the pricing, the Xiaomi 13T with 8GB of RAM and 256GB storage will reportedly cost €700. Whereas, the Xiaomi 13T Pro is said to be priced at €900 for the 12GB + 512GB configuration option.

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iPhone 15 Pro Could Get Up to 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage

The upcoming iPhone 15 Pro is expected to be a major upgrade over the current generation. It is rumored to have a periscope zoom lens, a titanium frame, and a USB-C port. Now, a report suggests it is expected to come with 8GB of RAM and a storage capacity of up to 1TB.

According to a recent report from MacRumors, Apple has tested 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage configurations for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

These storage options would be the same as those offered on the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. There were some rumors that Apple might offer a 2TB storage option for the iPhone 15 Pro, but MacRumors suggests there’s no evidence to support this claim.

As for the RAM, Apple is planning to use LPDDR5 DRAM for the iPhone 15 Pro. MacRumors says that two RAM configurations were tested: 6GB and 8GB, although it is unclear which configuration Apple will choose for the final mass production units.

But the RAM configuration may vary depending on the storage capacity of the phone. However, a recent report from TrendForce suggests that Apple will offer 8GB of RAM on all iPhone 15 Pro models. This means that the 6GB configuration may have been scrapped. The RAM for the new iPhones is reportedly supplied by Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix.

Ultimately, we will have to wait until the iPhone 15 series is officially announced tonight at the Wonderlust event to know for sure what storage and RAM options will be offered. 

In related news, Spigen, a case maker, shared an image of an alleged iPhone 15 case ahead of Apple’s event. The case shows an oval-shaped button instead of the classic mute switch, suggesting that the iPhone 15 Pro will have a new Action button.

Spigen shared the photo in a tweet with the caption “something different”. This is more than a hint that the mute button will be replaced with the Action button.

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HMD Global to Launch Own Smartphone Brand After Years of Making Nokia Phones

HMD Global, the brand licensee of Nokia Mobile, has announced plans to launch its own smartphone brand. The company co-founder and chairperson, Jean-Francois Baril, made the announcement on LinkedIn, saying “We are establishing an original HMD brand.”

The new HMD-branded smartphones will be introduced alongside the Nokia-branded devices. Baril said that the new brand will also bring collaborations with “exciting new partners”, but these partners have not yet been disclosed.

The decision to establish its own brand is a significant one for HMD Global. The company has been manufacturing Nokia-branded smartphones since 2016, and the Nokia brand has a long and respected history in the mobile phone industry. However, the smartphone market is increasingly competitive, and HMD Global is likely looking to differentiate itself from other brands.

HMD Global smartphone brand

No additional information has been released about the new HMD products, including a potential release date. However, Baril’s posts suggest that HMD Global’s independent smartphones will continue to focus on a clean user experience, 5G, and easy repairability, which are common features on Nokia-branded smartphones.

Additionally, Nokia phones released in recent years have largely been budget-to-mid-range devices. It seems that future HMD devices may follow suit, as Baril has suggested that the company will continue to “design for a more sustainable and affordable future.”

Whatever the case may be, the launch of the HMD-branded smartphone brand is a major development for the company. It remains to be seen how successful the new brand will be, but HMD Global is clearly determined to make a mark on the market.

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Nintendo Switch 2: Fans May Have to Wait Longer Than They Think

Nintendo Switch 2 is undoubtedly one of the products we’ve heard the most about lately. As the release date for the Japanese gaming giant’s eagerly anticipated second-generation handheld approaches, the number of leaks about it is also increasing. For example, we recently told you that Switch 2 could be more powerful than the Xbox Series S and would have DLSS technology. Now, the latest Nintendo Switch 2 rumors suggest a possible March 2024 event, sparking speculation about whether it’s a teaser, announcement, reveal, or release date. Here are the details…

Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Could Be March 2024, But Is It a Teaser or a Reveal?

First of all, it is important to note that there is no official information about the release date of the Nintendo Switch 2. However, there have been some rumors and leaks. For example, it has been said that the console will be released in the first six months of 2024. However, there has been no concrete date. Fortunately, the latest leaks have changed that. According to the Nate the Hate podcast, which also features ModernVintageGamer, the handheld could be released as early as March 2024.

Nintendo Switch 2

However, a report from Notebookcheck suggests that this may not be good news. The original Nintendo Switch was first teased under the codename “NX” in the spring of 2016. The official announcement followed in October of the same year, with additional details like price and specs landing in January 2017. Finally, the console saw its global release in March 2017. This suggests that what we might see in March 2024 could be a teaser for a console that won’t be released until months later. In fact, it could even launch in March 2025.

So, if we want to see the Switch 2 in March 2024, Nintendo will need to show something soon. Fortunately, there is a chance of this happening. One of the biggest gaming events in the world, Tokyo Game Show, will be held in September. Nintendo’s participation in the event is very important for one of the announcements mentioned above.

If the company shows the Switch 2 here, March 2024 could really be the release date. Of course, what I am saying now is just a guess based on the past. However, let us not forget that Nintendo is a Japanese company that is very attached to its traditions. This gives our guesses a very good chance. Still, we have no choice but to wait for now to learn all the truths.

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ASUS unveils new desktops and AIO for Indian market

Asus, the Taiwanese computer hardware company, has launched its new workstations in the Indian market. The company has launched two new PCs along with one AIO in the country. The new products are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users, from professionals to home users. Here are the details.

Asus S500SE

One of the highlights of the launch is the Asus S500SE. It’s a tower PC that comes equipped with a 13th-generation CPU and has up to 64GB of RAM for lag-free multitasking. The S500SE also has plenty of storage expandability with two M.2 PCIe slots, and it features a high-efficiency 80 PLUS Platinum-certified power supply for reliable performance.

Asus also says the S500SE has a tool-free design, an innovative cooling system, and 100% enterprise-grade solid capacitors. Additionally, the device comes with all the necessary port options, including PS2 ports for legacy peripherals, 1 x HDMI and 1 x VGA port for dual display support, a LAN port, dual band Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3. It also has a free PCIe 4.0 x 16 slot for future upgrades.

Asus S501ME

Much like the S500SE, the S501 is another tower PC launched by Asus in India. It also has a 13th Gen CPU, up to 64GB of RAM, and up to 4TB of storage. As for the design, the S501 has a pretty modern look, with a 3D triangular pattern and intricate texture. The tilted chassis provides increased airflow, and the contemporary angular design features plenty of USB ports on the front panel.

The S501 has a hassle-free I/O, with a ton of ports on the front and back. This includes PS2 ports for legacy peripherals, as well as HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA ports for connecting up to 3 displays. Wireless connectivity option includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.

Asus Vivo AIO M3402

Last but not least, we have the Asus Vivo AIO M3402 with a 23.8-inch NanoEdge Full HD IPS wide view panel. The display has thin bezels which contribute to an 88% screen-to-body ratio and has a smooth 75Hz refresh rate, and 100% sRGB color gamut coverage for accurate and vibrant colors. 

It also has 250 nits brightness and a 1000:1 contrast ratio. Moreover, the monitor comes with stereo speakers for audio. The AIO M3402 is powered by an up to AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor, which provides efficient yet powerful performance for everyday tasks and light gaming. Graphics rendering is handled by the integrated AMD Radeon GPU.

Pricing and Availability

The new Asus workstations and AIOs are now available in India through authorized retailers. Here are their prices:

  • Asus S500SE: Starts at INR 41,990
  • Asus S501ME: Starts at INR 37,990
  • Asus Vivo AIO M3402: Starts at INR 49,990

The devices are available for purchase at online and offline channels, including the ASUS e-shop, Amazon, Flipkart, ASUS Exclusive Stores.

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Ant Group launches AntGuard, China’s first large model security solution

Ant Group has launched “AntGuard,” a significant development in addressing the security concerns tied to large AI models. This solution consists of two main parts: “AntScan 2.0” and “TianGuard,” with the aim of enhancing the trustworthiness and dependability of large AI models employed across different industries.

ANT Group

AntGuard: Enhancing Security for Large AI Models

The primary goal of AntGuard is to tackle security issues related to problematic training data, uncontrollable inference processes, and external malicious influences. It focuses on three essential areas: measuring large model security, intelligent risk management, and cleaning up data-related issues.

AntScan 2.0 acts as a security expert for large models. Before these models are put into action, it thoroughly checks them, identifying vulnerabilities across various aspects like data security, content security, and ethical considerations.

TianGuard, on the other hand, acts like a protective shield for large models. It uses smart risk control technology to protect models from harmful external queries and filters out potentially risky responses generated by these models. This approach ensures security throughout the entire process, from user inputs to the model’s outputs after deployment.

AntGuard

Moreover, Ant Group and TianGuard are dedicated to maintaining model security during both the training and application phases. They achieve this by implementing strategies like cleaning up problematic data sources, aligning training processes, and conducting research to improve model transparency.

Both AntScan 2.0 and TianGuard are now accessible to the public, providing a robust security framework for large-scale AI applications.

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Apple renews 5G modem deal with Qualcomm

Apple has apparently extended its agreement with Qualcomm for modems. The renewed deal will have the latter continue to supply the former for another three years. This news is in contrast to our previous report that the brand will be shifting to its own 5G modems soon.

Apple 5G Modem Delayed

For those unaware, known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had previously revealed that the Cupertino based giant is planning on shifting to its self developed 5G modems by 2025. However, the latest report from Bloomberg reveals that the proprietary modem isn’t ready for iPhones yet. Apple had acquired Intel’s modem unit in the past and has been working on its own 5G modem to move away from Qualcomm’s hardware.

Apple 5G modem

The analyst added that the iPhone SE 4th Gen will be the first to feature the new modem, with its launch expected in the first quarter of 2025. But now, it seems like Apple will still be with Qualcomm till 2026 and rely on its modem. Since the iPhone 12, Qualcomm has been the sole supplier of Apple’s 5G modems. Apple is currently the chipmaking giant’s largest client, accounting for 22.3 percent of the orders.

In recent years, the iPhone maker has been working on becoming more self reliant. It is developing technology and components, which would have it reduce its dependency on third-party suppliers. At the moment, Qualcomm basically holds a monopoly for 5G modems, offering the most advanced modems for mobile devices. Top smartphone brands like Samsung also employ its modems for wireless networking.

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iQOO Quest Days on Amazon offers big discounts on Best Selling devices

Starting today and running until 15th September, the iQOO Quest Days on Amazon is offering savings on a range of iQOO smartphones. Plus, there are additional discounts of up to Rs 5,000 available on selected cards and EMI options, including ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank.

One of the standout devices from the iQOO Quest Days is the newly launched iQOO Z7 Pro 5G. Priced at just Rs 21,999 on Amazon, this smartphone offers the perfect combination of style and performance. With its 3D curved super-vision display and 64 MP Auro light OIS camera, you’ll experience great visuals and can capture high-quality photos. And with an exclusive launch offer of a flat Rs 2,000 instant discount on select bank cards, the iQOO Z7 Pro 5G is a pretty good deal right now!

For those looking for more options, there are also special deals on bestsellers like the iQOO Neo 7 Pro and iQOO Z7s 5G. The iQOO Neo 7 Pro, starting at Rs 39,999 (Rs 32,999 with instant discount), offers the powerful Snapdragon 8 + Gen 1 processor and 120W Flash Charge for fast and efficient charging. Meanwhile, the iQOO Z7s 5G, starting at Rs 16,999, boasts the brightest AMOLED display and a 64MP OIS camera. Both devices also come with instant discounts on select debit/credit cards and EMI options.

Last but not least, the iQOO Neo7 5G is another option, starting at just Rs 26,499. With its Dimensity 8200 Mobile Platform and 120W Flash Charge, you’ll get good performance and fast charging capabilities. Plus, there’s a flat Rs 1,500 instant discount on select debit/credit cards and EMI options.

With limited-time offers and massive discounts, the iQOO Quest Days is the perfect opportunity to upgrade your smartphone if you are looking for an iQOO device. Check out the iQOO Quest Days page for more details. 

*Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition’s leaked render reveals the design, launch imminent

Infinix is set to introduce a special edition smartphone called the Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition, as revealed by tipster Mukul Sharma through a leaked render.

Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition renders

Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition render

While an Indian launch remains unconfirmed, indications suggest that the Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition will soon debut in the global market.

According to the leaked render, the smartphone boasts a distinctive black leather-grain rear cover with tri-color LED strips, targeting Gen Z consumers with its unique design.

The LED design was teased by Infinix recently (via GSMArena) and according to the company, this tech combines LED lights with translucent TPU leather in multiple layers to create a unique visual experience on the back of the phone. It can be used to display dynamic notifications and alerts, possibly with sound effects, making it an innovative feature in the smartphone industry. While similar to Nothing’s approach, Infinix‘s implementation appears distinctive and futuristic.

Infinix Note 30 VIP Racing Edition render

Notably, it’s anticipated to offer a more budget-friendly option compared to other branded BMW phones such as Galaxy S23 Ultra BMW M Edition or iQOO 11 Legend BMW Edition.

Infinix Note 30 VIP key specs:

In terms of specs, the Infinix Note 30 VIP boasts a 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz 10-bit AMOLED display and is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8050 SoC. It offers up to 12GB of RAM and an additional 9GB of virtual RAM for enhanced multitasking capabilities.

Notably, it incorporates an advanced VC cooling system with 11 layers of cooling material, providing effective heat dissipation. The Note 30 VIP includes Infinix’s proprietary UPS technology, which boosts cellular signal strength by 20% and Wi-Fi signal strength by 100%.

Its 5,000mAh battery supports 68W wired charging, capable of reaching 80% charge in just 30 minutes, and 50W wireless charging for 50% charge in the same time frame.

The phone runs on Android 13 with XOS 13 and features a 108MP rear camera, a 32MP front camera, an in-display fingerprint sensor, and Hi-Res stereo speakers by JBL. Connectivity options include 5G, dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and USB Type-C.

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(Source, Via)