Android Runtime (ART) 13 Improved App performance by 30%, now eyes on ART 14

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Aug 23, 2023

In a recent blog post, Google unwrapped some exciting achievements of the Android Runtime (ART) compiler. It detailed every bit of the ART journey, and how it improved the Android performance since the launch of Android 12. The developers shared some insights about the present system and even shared some glimpses of the future possibilities with ART 14.

Must See: Google to turn ART into Mainline module with Android 12 for quicker system updates

Android Runtime improves the updates and enhances the ability of manufacturers and Google developers to publish new compiler optimization through Google Play System updates rather than the OTA updates. Further, it improves the ability to push out upstream OpenJDL fixes more swiftly. It even helps to deliver faster updates to OpenJDK core language and fixes runtime and compiler security issues rapidly.

Apart from the above developer-based improvements, the ART results in faster app startup times, execution, and improved memory usage. In statistics, the app startup time is improved by up to 30% on some devices.

The ART Apex module further magnifies the ART benefits. “The ART APEX module is a complex piece of software with an order of magnitude more APIs than any other APEX module. It also backs a quarter of the developer APIs available in the Android SDK. In addition, ART has a compiler that aims to make the most of the underlying hardware by generating chipset-specific instructions, such as Arm SVE.”

It offers quite a strict testing process, that involves “compiling over 18 million APKs and running app compatibility tests, and startup, performance, and memory benchmarks on a variety of Android devices that replicate the diversity of our ecosystem as closely as possible.”

Following such a success with the ART 13 compiler, Google is inching towards the launch of ART 14 which is expected to carry some big improvements. It will bring “new compiler and runtime optimizations that improve performance while reducing code size,” and will support OpenJDK 17.

Some other changes are also making debut with the Android 14. “Recently, for Android 14, we refactored the interface between the Package Manager, the service that determines how to install and update apps, and ART. This moves the OS boundary from the ART dex2oat command line to a well-defined interface that enables future optimizations, such as finer-grained control over the compilation mode.“

Such large scale changes will definately further enhance the performance and stability of the system and the apps on Android.

Huawei Mate 60 series might even support voice calling through Satellite

By

Anurag

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Aug 23, 2023

Huawei Mate 50 series was released last year with support for satellite communication. However, the phones could only send messages through satellite and not make any calls. Huawei is now developing the Mate 60 series, which is also expected to have satellite connectivity. But the upcoming phones might even support voice calling thanks to new power amplifier chips.

The Huawei Mate 60 series is expected to have power amplifier (PA) chips made by Chinese chipmakers. These PA chips are specifically designed for the Tiantong-1 satellite mobile communication system. The satellite system can be used for voice communication, image transmission, precise positioning, and data reporting.

PA chips play a critical role in devices that use these satellite features. They are currently integrated into Huawei’s Mate X3 and P60 series, both of which support two-way satellite communication via SMS. These chips amplify the high-frequency signal generated by the communication integrated circuit (RF-IC) to the required output level and supply it to an antenna. This amplification process is essential for enabling effective satellite communication, including voice calls.

The PA chips rumored to be integrated into the Huawei Mate 60 series are allegedly not manufactured by Huawei; instead, the company has entrusted this responsibility to an undisclosed Chinese chipmaker. While it’s not confirmed at this point, the inclusion of these chips suggests that Huawei Mate 60 smartphones might support voice calling via satellite.

If this turns out to be accurate, it would mark the first instance of voice calling through satellite connectivity on a smartphone. To provide some context, Apple’s iPhone 14 series only supports emergency SOS calls through satellite.

Satellite connectivity on phones is an emerging technology and brands are rushing to implement this on their phones. If you’d like to learn more about it, we’ve just the explainer for you.

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Meizu patents Glasses that measure Heart Rate and SpO2

By

Simranpal Singh

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Aug 23, 2023

Several innovations are taking place in the technology and gadgets market. Major manufacturers always compete with each other and register trademarks and patents. Similarly, Meizu has applied for a Glasses patent that can measure Heart Rate and Blood Oxygen Level (SpO2).

Must See: New patent suggests Google might equip Pixel phones with an under-display camera

The patent documents reveal that the wearable device includes components such as smart glasses boy, nose pads, and health measurement sensors. Interestingly, the sensors to measure heart rate and SpO2 are placed on the nose buds aka pads where the specs rest on the nose. The method improves the detection accuracy.

Meizu has not directly filed the patent, it is published with a new company which is founded in 2021. However, the chairman remains the same for both companies. The new company goes by the name Hubei Xingji Meizu Technology Co., Ltd., and it manufactures mobile phones, ICs, electronic products, and satellite mobile phones.

Apart from this innovative design, Meizu is also working on a foldable smartphone. A recent patent filing revealed that the design follows a folding design accompanied by a pop-up mechanism. It appears to solve the major difficulty of folding and unfolding the smartphone. The pop-up utility makes the overall process convenient for the users.

(via)

Nokia 2660 Flip launched in India in new Pop Pink and Lush Green colors

By

Anurag

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Aug 23, 2023

While Nokia smartphones might be lackluster, you can’t ignore the flashy feature phones the brand releases. Earlier this year, the Finnish company relaunched the Nokia 2660 Flip in two new vibrant colors, named Pop Pink and Lush Green. Now, these fresh shades are also available for purchase in the Indian market.

The design of the phone remains the same and so are the specifications. The new phone gets 4G connectivity with a dual-display setup of a 2.8-inch primary screen and a 1.77-inch secondary screen. The phone is equipped with the Unisoc T107 chipset and supports Bluetooth 4.2, wireless FM radio, and an MP3 player. It has a 0.3MP camera and an LED flash.

The Nokia 2660 comes with a 1450mAh battery that’s supposed to give you hours of talk time and even last for weeks on standby. It’s got this emergency button that lets you quickly get in touch with up to five of the contacts you’ve set up beforehand.

The Nokia 2660 Flip has clear call quality with adjustable volume settings, making it easy to hear even in noisy environments. It is also compatible with hearing aids (HAC), so people with hearing loss can use it with ease. The Nokia 2660 Flip has been tested for tens of thousands of flip cycles.

The Nokia 2660 Flip in Pop Pink and Lush Green will be available for purchase in India starting August 24, from Amazon and the Nokia website for Rs. 4,699.

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Nothing Phone (1) to get Nothing OS 2.0 update next week

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Aug 23, 2023

Nothing released its second smartphone, the Phone (2), last month. It came with Nothing OS 2.0, the second version of Nothing’s Android customization skin. Earlier this month, the company’s founder, Carl Pei, confirmed that the Nothing OS 2.0 update for the Phone (1) would be released by the end of August.

As promised, Nothing’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle shared that the update will start rolling out to Phone (1) handsets next week. However, the company has yet to share a specific date for the release of Nothing OS 2.0 for the Phone (1), so we can expect the update to be rolled out gradually over the next week.

The wait is almost over.

We've been cooking up Nothing OS 2.0 for Phone (1), and as promised it'll be out next week. https://t.co/7UOnkTaYMP
— Nothing (@nothing) August 22, 2023

Nothing OS 2.0 update for Phone 1

While Nothing’s announcement on X did not reveal any details about the new software, we know that Nothing OS 2.0 is based on Android 13. Some of the notable features of Nothing OS 2.0 include monochrome app icons, new widgets, lock screen customizations, the ability to lock individual apps and clone app support.

More importantly, Nothing is sticking to its promise of offering a clean user interface. There is no bloatware installed, and you still get the classic dot-matrix font throughout the UI.

The update is in line with Nothing’s promise to provide the Phone (1) with three years of major Android updates and four years of security updates. This means that the Phone (1) is now due to receive Android 14 and Android 15 updates, and then security patches for an additional year.

Android 14 is expected to be released soon, and Nothing is also running the Android 14 beta program, so you can try out Android 14 on your Nothing Phone by downloading the latest beta. However, it’s important to remember that beta versions are pre-release software, so they may not be stable and could contain bugs.

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Nothing OS 2.0.2a update fixing camera issues caused by previous Phone (2) update

By

Sudhanshu

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Aug 23, 2023

Earlier this month, Nothing introduced the Nothing OS 2.0.2 update that came with a lot of changes to the camera system among other areas. Although it was meant to be for the better, however, it ended up making the quality of the pictures taken from the Nothing Phone (2) worse. Now, the brand has released a correctional update labeled Nothing OS 2.0.2a that fixes the issues caused by the previous update.

This update enhances facial clarity when capturing indoor scenes, optimizes highlight levels in low-light conditions, and introduces a user interface to display active HDR status. Additionally, it addresses the reduction of dull tones and resolves the halo effect problem experienced in portrait mode while shooting in HDR. If you have not updated to the Nothing OS 2.0.2 version, this new update includes the changes made in the previous one as well. You can check out the complete changelog below.

Nothing OS 2.0.2a changelog

Camera improvements (priority)

Improved clarity of faces in indoor environments
Optimised highlight levels in low light environments
Added an UI element to show when HDR is active
Optimised highlight exposure when shooting in HDR
Reduced dull tones when shooting in HDR
Resolved halo effect issue in Portrait Mode when shooting in HDR

New features

Feature that can shut down apps when the device reaches its temperature limit
Refined the out-of-battery visual when device is switched off
Added different icons for each of the Nothing audio products to volume control
Updated to Google’s July security patch

Front camera

Enhanced photo clarity
Improved quality in low-light settings
Faster HDR processing speed

Rear camera

Enhanced photo clarity in 50 MP Mode
Optimised stability and contrast when recording videos on the rear camera
Improved photo quality in low-light settings
Improved the contrast and Bokeh effect when shooting in Portrait Mode
Optimised the clarity of faces when shooting in Portrait Mode
Faster HDR processing speed

Improvements

Reworked haptic feedback strength when typing
Improved responsiveness of the touch panel under certain conditions
Improved reliability of network for multiple global carriers
Enhanced performance of some games when played in HDR
Improved system stability

Solutions

Amended issues with Dirac Audio
Resolved an issue affecting Google Wallet functioning in cloned apps
Fixed an issue causing ‘double tap to wake’ to be unresponsive at times
Resolved an issue causing the Bluetooth Quick Settings tile to be unresponsive at times
Other general bug fixes

If you own a Nothing Phone (2), you can check for this update by navigating to Settings > System > System Update on your device.

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Upcoming Honor phones in India will get 3 years of updates with a bloatware-free UI

By

Anurag

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Aug 23, 2023

Honor is gearing up to make its return to India, partnering with local firm PSAV Global to establish its retail network. The company will sell its phones under the HonorTech brand, with former Realme CEO Madhav Sheth at the helm. The first phone from the Chinese brand is likely to be the Honor 90. In advance of the launch, Honor has revealed that its phones launching in India will receive three years of software support, a bloatware-free UI, and access to Google Apps.

Madhav Sheth held a Q&A session on YouTube, where he revealed several details about Honor’s return to India. The CEO revealed upcoming Honor phones will get 3 years of software support in the country. This includes 2 years of major updates and 3 years of security patches. The smartphones are claimed to feature a clean user interface with more Google apps.

It’s important to remember that Honor is no longer affiliated with Huawei. The company is now independent and therefore has access to Google services. Additionally, Honor smartphones run MagicOS 7.1 software, which is completely unrelated to HarmonyOS and is based on Android 13.

Honor has been teasing a smartphone launch in India for a few weeks, but there is no official date yet. The first device to launch in India is likely to be the Honor 90, which is already available in China and Europe. The mid-range handset features a sharp display and a Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor. It has a 200MP main camera and a 12MP ultra-wide camera. The phone is powered by a 5000mAh battery and supports 66W fast charging.

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Honor 90 tipped to be priced at around Rs 35,000 in India

By

Soumyakanti

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Aug 23, 2023

Honor, after a three-year gap, is set to reintroduce itself in the Indian smartphone market with its mid-premium Honor 90 series. The Honor 90, launched in China in May alongside the Honor 90 Pro, sports a Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 SoC and boasts a 200MP primary camera.

Honor 90 is expected to be priced below Rs 40,000

While initially launched in China at a starting price of roughly Rs. 29,000 for the 12GB + 256GB model, its expected price in India, as per The Mobile Indian, is around Rs. 35,000. However last month another source IANS hinted at a potential price tag of Rs. 45,000.

At this price range, Honor will have to compete against strong contenders like the OnePlus Nord 3 5G, iQOO Neo 7 Pro, Poco F5 5G, OnePlus 11R, Oppo Reno 10 Pro, and Nothing Phone (2).

The brand’s return to India is led by former Realme CEO Madhav Sheth. Moreover, Honor has partnered with PSAV Global, leveraging their wide distribution network across 5,000 retailers in 100+ cities. This partnership aims to enhance Honor’s market presence by offering distribution, marketing, and service solutions. Honor 90 is expected to launch in India in mid-September.

Honor 90 series specs overview

The Honor 90 has a 6.7-inch FHD+ OLED 120Hz quad-curved display, and the Honor 90 Pro features a slightly larger 6.78-inch FHD+ OLED 120Hz quad-curved display.

These models are equipped with different processors: the Honor 90 has the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, while the Honor 90 Pro boasts the more powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor.

Both models boast a remarkable 200MP main camera alongside a 12MP ultra-wide camera. The HONOR 90 includes a 2MP depth camera, while the Pro version incorporates a 32MP telephoto camera for improved zoom capabilities. Additionally, both phones sport a 50MP front camera, with the Pro model offering an additional 2MP secondary front camera.

Both phones come equipped with a substantial 5000mAh battery. The HONOR 90 supports 66W fast charging, while the Pro model takes it a step further with an impressive 90W fast charging.

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Asus ROG Swift OLED PG49WDCD 49-inch 144 Hz QD-OLED monitor US pricing revealed

By

Sudhanshu

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Aug 23, 2023

The massive 49-inch curved screen Asus ROG Swift OLED PG49WDCD gaming monitor was unveiled in May. The brand has finally spoken out on how much this humongous monitor will cost.

As per the brand, the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD gaming monitor is anticipated to be available for purchase in the US starting this October, with a confirmed retail price of $1499. That being said, the exact launch date is still under wraps.

Asus ROG Swift OLED PG49WDCD specs

The Asus ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD is a large 49-inch QD-OLED gaming monitor with a resolution of 5120×1440, a wide 32:9 aspect ratio, and an immersive 1800R curvature. For gaming, it offers a 144Hz refresh rate, rapid 0.03ms response time, and support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, which ensures smoother gameplay.

It delivers true 10-bit color and covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, securing VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification for exceptional contrast and color accuracy. It also has a graphene cooling solution to keep the temperatures under control and a Uniform Brightness setting, reaching an impressive peak brightness of 1000 nits.

This monitor offers a variety of connectivity options, including DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1 ports, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, and a full-function USB Type-C port equipped with 90W power delivery.

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(via: TFT Central)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra could feature the Brightest Display

By

Simranpal Singh

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Aug 23, 2023

The Korean giant is working on multiple smartphone and tablet devices. There have been several leaks relating to the Galaxy Tab A9 Series, Galaxy S9 FE series, and the next flagship Galaxy S24 Series. Among these, the excitement for the Galaxy S24 is quite evident, and for a further push here’s a new leak that reveals some details about the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s display.

Must See: Samsung Galaxy S24, and Galaxy S24 Plus to arrive with a major design change

As per tipster itnyang, the Galaxy S24 Ultra could feature the brightest display having a brightness of 2200 nits and more. It is said that the Korean giant is testing different prototypes with display brightness ranging from 2500 nits to 2800 nits. The same is affirmed by a reliable tipster IceUniverse via a comment on the same thread that the brightness level could be more than 2200 nits.

However, it is quite early to comment on such a bright display. But in reality, such a high brightness could impact the battery consumption and can be made available only under some special feature.

The smartphone is expected to bundle the same OLED panel called M13 that will be used on the iPhone 15 Pro and the Oppo Find X6 Pro.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Specs (Expected)

Along with the display details, several other expected features have leaked. As per leaks, the smartphone is expected to bundle a 200MP primary rear sensor, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 10x Optical zoom.

The standard Galaxy S24 is expected to ship with a 4000 mAh battery, the Galaxy S24 Plus will bundle a 4900 mAh battery and the Galaxy S24 Ultra will house a 5000 mAh battery. Following this year’s pattern, the Galaxy S24 could ship with a dedicated Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC built on a 4nm process.

Asus unveils 3 new gaming Z790 series motherboards

By

Chetan

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Aug 23, 2023

Earlier, we reported that Asus would launch its Neon Genesis Evangelion-themed PC peripherals at Gamescom 2023. According to a recent press release, Asus revealed three new motherboards called the ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero, ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II, and TUF Gaming Z790-Pro, which will also be launched during Gamescom 2023. The complete specifications of the motherboards are provided below:

ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero

The ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero will support Intel 12th Gen, 13th Gen, and Next Gen Intel processors designed for the LGA 1700 socket. The board has Wi-Fi 7 support with Asus Wi-Fi Q-Antenna, PCIe 5.0, and a USB 20Gbps front-panel header which allows fast charging. Asus has exclusive features like AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, and AEMP II (Asus Enhanced Memory Profile II). These present an optimized build speed that can be adjusted to improve performance. It has one PCIe 5.0 and four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, a PCIe Slot Q-release button, and an M.2 Q-latch system allowing users to install or upgrade graphics cards and storage drives. The board will have two Thunderbolt 4 ports (USB Type C), 6 USB 10Gbps ports (5 USB Type-A+1 USB Type C), and four USB 5Gbps ports (Type-A).

ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II

The ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II also supports 12th-Gen, 13th-Gen, and Next-Gen Intel processors. It provides five M.2 slots so you can hook up enough storage. Additionally, each slot is equipped with a robust cooling system. The rear I/O section provides users with twelve USB ports ideal for an editing or gaming setup. The board has a VRM cooling system with massive heatsinks and high-conductivity thermal pads. Lastly, It comes with Wi-Fi 7 support, with Asus Q-Antenna having one PCIe 5.0, one PCIe 4.0, and one PCIe 3.0 slot.

TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi

The TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi offers Ultra bandwidth with Wi-Fi 6E support, Asus Wi-Fi Q-Antenna, and a USB 20Gbps Type-C connector with USB Power Deliver 3.0. This motherboard will allow users access to AI Overclocking to improve the build’s performance. The Wi-Fi 6E will allow users to get the full potential of their internet with the newly released 6Ghz. The Wi-Fi Q Antenna helps you catch the strongest signal for top-notch performance. The rear I/O will have seven USB ports. One will be a 20Gbps USB port, three USB 10Gbps ports, and four 5Gbps ports.

The company has yet to reveal the current price of the motherboards. There is a chance that they will introduce the products with prices at Gamescom 2023. So stay tuned.

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Xiaomi achieves significant milestone in EV manufacturing: Gets approval for 100,000 vehicle production

By

Joane

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Aug 23, 2023

In a pivotal stride towards its foray into the automotive industry, Xiaomi has secured crucial approval from key regulatory bodies to commence the production of 100,000 vehicles annually. This green light from the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) represents a noteworthy advancement for the tech giant’s ambitious venture into electric vehicle manufacturing.

While this approval signifies a significant step forward, Xiaomi’s electric cars still need the endorsement of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, which rigorously assesses technical and safety aspects before granting its consent.

Xiaomi’s founder, Lei Jun, unveiled the company’s entrance into the smart electric vehicle market in 2021. Pledging an impressive $10 billion investment over the span of ten years, Lei Jun set an ambitious target of commencing mass production of the inaugural batch of vehicles by the first half of 2024.

Amid an 18.9% year-on-year decline in first-quarter revenue, Xiaomi’s bold foray into the electric vehicle (EV) market comes as a strategic response to diversify its business beyond the smartphone sector. With smartphone demand facing a slump, the tech giant aims to leverage its extensive network of stores, planning to transform them into EV showrooms.

However, the realization of this timeline remains contingent on the progress of regulatory approvals. Comparable challenges are evident even in established companies: Tesla’s application to expand its Shanghai facility is pending approval, while the prospects for U.S. luxury electric automaker Lucid Group to commence production in China appear uncertain.

The NDRC’s cautious approach in approving new electric vehicle production plans stems from concerns about potential overcapacity and a deceleration in demand within the sector. This cautious stance has led to meticulous evaluations of each proposal to ensure a balanced market.

Xiaomi’s founder, Lei Jun, revealed that the EV venture will mark his final major entrepreneurial endeavor. In a recent Weibo post, Lei Jun shared images of Xiaomi Group executives, including partner and president Lu Weibing, displaying banners adorned with the rallying slogan, “Championing Xiaomi Cars.”

This move underscores Xiaomi’s determination to reshape its business landscape and establish a stronger foothold in the ever-evolving automotive industry. As the company confronts challenges in its traditional market, its entry into EVs showcases a resolute commitment to innovation and adaptation.

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Xiaomi to launch UniBlade Trimmer in India on September 4

By

Soumyakanti

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Aug 23, 2023

Xiaomi will introduce its new grooming device, the UniBlade Trimmer in India on September 4, 2023. According to a landing page on Xiaomi India’s official website, the trimmer is equipped with a new blade, rotary dial, modern design, and type-C charging port.

The trimmer has been globally launched and its specifications are anticipated to align closely with the global version. It trimmer is designed for diverse grooming tasks including haircuts, beard trims, and body hair management.

Xiaomi UniBlade Trimmer specifications (global variant)

The global version of the UniBlade Trimmer has a matte black design, offering a non-slip grip for comfort and safety. It is water-resistant with IPX7 certification, enabling both dry and wet shaves using gels or foams.

The UniBlade Trimmer’s key feature is its three-way blade system. The dual-edge addresses longer hairs, the central foil provides a smooth finish for stubbles, and the protective foil reduces nicks and skin irritation. The trimmer head is flexible, angling up to 40 degrees in both directions, allowing it to navigate facial contours effectively, especially around cheeks and jawline.

The trimmer offers precise hair length control through a rotary system with 14 comb settings, spanning from 0.4 mm to 8 mm. This customization ensures users can achieve their desired hair length and style.

The UniBlade Trimmer is powered by a 600mAh battery that supports wireless magnetic charging. A full charge takes 6 hours and provides 60 minutes of use. The package includes accessories like cutting attachments, a protective cover, a wall holder, and an English instruction manual. Storage becomes convenient with a wall-mounted rack that eliminates the need for drilling.

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iQOO Z7 Pro Processor Confirmed, Amazon Microsite Hints At Price Ahead Of Launch Next Week

By

Viraj Gawde

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Aug 23, 2023

iQOO is set to announce the Z7 Pro smartphone in India on August 31st. The brand has been teasing key details of the upcoming offering on its Twitter account. Amazon has also put up a microsite of the device where it will reveal more specifications leading up to the launch. The iQOO Z7 Pro will arrive as the successor to the last year’s Z6 Pro. Ahead of the launch next week, more details about the smartphone have been confirmed.

iQOO Z7 Pro processor confirmed, price teased

Unleash the Powerhouse Performance of the #iQOOZ7Pro, fueled by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Chip*, taking your smartphone journey to new heights.💪 Get ready, because the #iQOOZ7Pro is set to launch on August 31.
Know More – https://t.co/tfsaIl9h3Y #StayTuned #iQOO pic.twitter.com/dgTohTvAFx
— iQOO India (@IqooInd) August 23, 2023

The iQOO Z7 Pro is confirmed to be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 processor. It is based on TSMC’s second-generation 4nm process that is said to offer a superior energy efficiency performance. The smartphone is also teased to feature 8GB RAM along with 8GB extended virtual RAM technology.

The Amazon microsite reveals that the iQOO Z7 Pro with the confirmed processor has the highest AnTuTu score clocking 7,28,764 points. This is in comparison with the Snapdragon 782G and the Dimensity 7050. The result is based on the tested model of 8GB + 256GB RAM and storage variant. The listing also mentions under Rs 25,000 price segment of the same configuration of other devices on Amazon in 2023. This subtly indicates that the iQOO Z7 Pro will be priced under Rs 25,000 for the 8GB + 256G option.

Meanwhile, previous teasers have revealed that the iQOO Z7 Pro will arrive in a Blue Lagoon color variant that has a gradient wave-like pattern. It has OIS-enabled dual rear cameras along with a ring-LED flash housed in a squarish camera module. The upcoming offering is already confirmed to feature a 3D curved Super Vision display with a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout.

We should learn official details about the iQOO Z7 Pro next week.

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JBL Vibe Beam TWS Earphone With 8 Hours Battery Life Launched In India

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Aug 23, 2023

Earlier this month JBL launched the Bar 1300 soundbar in India. Now the brand has announced a new TWS earphone in India. It is a part of the brand’s Vibe series. The latest offering is dubbed the JBL Vibe Beam. The audio device packs specifications that are commonly found in other TWS earphones. They offer a long-lasting battery life. The Vibe Beam falls under the Rs 3,500 segment.

JBL Vibe Beam specifications and features

The JBL Vibe Beam is an in-ear TWS earphone with a stem and silicone ear tips. The stem seems to have a matte finish and users can perform various actions by tapping on it. They are said to offer a comfortable fit for extended usage. The earphones are IP54-rated dust and water-resistant.

On the audio front, the JBL Vibe Beam has an 8mm driver along with JBL Deep Bass sound for delivering high-quality audio. The TWS earphone features smart ambient technology for remaining aware of the surroundings. The TalkThru feature lets user hear themselves and those around them without having to take out the earbuds. The audio device is compatible with the JBL Headphones app where users can customize their sound and listening preferences.

The JBL Vibe Beam comes in a pebble-shaped storage and charging case. It is claimed to offer a total 32 hours of battery life with each earbud rated to deliver 8 hours of usage. It has a USB-C port that is claimed to offer 2 hours of usage with 10 minutes of charging.

The JBL Vibe Beam is priced at Rs 3,299 and it is offered in Black, White, Beige, and Blue colours. The TWS earphones will be available for purchase from Flipkart and JBL website starting August 27.

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$225 gets you Redmi K60E 512GB with QHD+ display & Dimensity 8200 chip in China

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

-

Aug 23, 2023

The Redmi K60E is the most affordable model in the Redmi K60 family. It was launched alongside the Redmi K60 and Redmi K60 Pro in December.

Back in March, the smartphone was heavily discounted for the first time. Now, five months later, it is being offered at an even more affordable price in China.

The latest deal brings the price of the device to its lowest. Let’s go through the details.

The 12GB + 512GB variant of Redmi K60E was introduced at ¥2,599 (~$355). This price tag is still affordable for the feature set the product offers.

Thanks to the new discount offered by JD, this version of the phone can be purchased at just ¥1,649 (~$225). That’s about 36% less than the original price.

For just $225, you get a whole lot of a smartphone. The Redmi K60E comes with a 120Hz QHD+ Dolby Vision-enabled OLED display, a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chip, and 67W charging.

These specs make it a flagship-killer phone. On top of these features, you also get 12GB RAM and 512GB storage.

This is probably the best deal we came across this year. But unfortunately, it is limited to China.

Also, the Redmi K60E is not sold in global markets. So the only way to get it is by importing. In case you are interested in this product, you can check it out at GizTop.

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Sony announces new Alpha camera global launch on August 29

By

Soumyakanti

-

Aug 23, 2023

Sony Imaging has stirred up anticipation in the photography community with its recent announcement: a brand-new camera reveal scheduled for August 29th at 10 PM. While Sony remains tight-lipped about specific models, leaks paint a vivid picture of what enthusiasts might expect.

Sony Alpha 7C II and Sony Alpha 7C R cameras expected

Among the potential unveils, two models stand out – the Sony Alpha 7C II and the Sony Alpha 7C R. The Alpha 7C II, regarded as the successor to the popular Alpha 7C, boasts potential enhancements that promise to captivate photographers. This includes an impressive 33-megapixel full-frame sensor, along with 4K 60P video capabilities. The camera is also expected to come with sharper autofocus, a single SD card slot, and a micro HDMI port, all packaged in a compact design that made its predecessor a favorite.

In parallel, the Sony Alpha 7C R is speculated to be a heavyweight, offering a 61-megapixel full-frame sensor. Accompanying its high-resolution capacity, it’s poised to support 4K 60P video recordings. Further sweetening the deal, the camera may feature groundbreaking AI integrations, promising smarter captures and an enriched photography experience. Essential features, such as a single SD card slot, a micro HDMI, and an enhanced display, are also on the table.

Additionally, lens enthusiasts might be in for a treat. A potential addition to Sony’s line-up could be the 16-35mm f/2.8GM II lens, expanding creative possibilities for photographers.

As for pricing, preliminary leaks hint at a price tag of around €2,300 ($2,485) for the Sony Alpha 7C II and the mentioned lens.

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(Source)

iOS 17 Beta 7 reveals new Action Button haptic feedback for iPhone 15 Pro

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Aug 23, 2023

Apple has been rumored to replace the physical buttons on the iPhone 15 Pro models with an Action Button. New code found in the latest iOS 17 beta adds weight to these rumors. According to the findings from 9to5Mac, iOS 17 beta 7 update includes new haptic feedback patterns for the rumored “Action Button”.

The new haptic feedback patterns make the iPhone vibrate more prominently when the user switches between silent and normal modes. This is especially useful for new phones with an Action Button, as it makes it easier to know which mode the phone is in.

More importantly, these patterns are triggered not only when the user activates the silent mode but also when it’s deactivated. In the earlier iOS version, there was only a brief haptic feedback when the iPhone was set to silent mode, but no feedback when it was taken off silent mode.

Interestingly, the 9to5Mac team was also able to replicate the haptic feedback for disabling silent mode, even though it’s not yet functional on existing iPhone models. They say it feels like a “single firm tap.”

Moreover, according to MacRumors, the new button that replaces the mute switch can also be assigned to a variety of actions, such as enabling or disabling Silent Mode, opening the Camera app, turning on the flashlight, triggering a Focus Mode, or recording a Voice Memo. Users can also create their own Siri Shortcuts to assign to the button.

It is also possible that there will be a new button in the Control Center for Silent Mode on the new iPhones. Additionally, Apple may add an indicator in the Status Bar to show when the phone is silenced.

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Infinix Zero 30 5G pre-order date revealed for India, key specs also confirmed

By

Sudhanshu

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Aug 23, 2023

Infinix is gearing up to launch the Infinix Zero 30 5G smartphone in India. The launch is said to take place around the end of this month. The brand has now released new specification information about the device along with its pre-order date.

According to the most recent teaser, the Infinix Zero 30 5G will open for pre-orders on Flipkart starting from September 2nd. The brand has also unveiled that this device will feature an impressive 50MP front camera, catering to selfie enthusiasts. This camera will bring eye-tracking autofocus and, notably, 4K 60fps video recording, which we reported on earlier.

Infinix Zero 30 5G specs

The teaser has also revealed that the smartphone will feature a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED 10-bit display with 144Hz refresh rate, 360Hz touch sampling rate, up to 950 nits peak brightness, and 2160Hz PWM dimming. The panel will also be TUV Rheinland certified for low blue light emission and it will feature Gorilla Glass 5 protection.

The brand has also claimed that the Zero 30 5G will debut as the slimmest smartphone in the segment measuring just 7.9mm thick. The two color options will be called Golden Hour and Rome Green (vegan leather). Details about the rear cameras will be revealed on August 28, and we can expect the confirmation on the processor on August 30.

That being said, leaks have revealed that the device will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8020 SoC, which is a variant of the Dimensity 1100 chipset. It will come with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Lastly, the primary camera is expected to have a 108MP sensor.

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iTel Smartwatch 2 Ultra With Apple Watch Ultra Design, 12-Day Battery Launched In India

By

Viraj Gawde

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Aug 23, 2023

There are a lot of Apple Watch Ultra and even the Watch Series-like clones in the Indian market from various brands like Pebble, Fire-Boltt, and more. Now, iTel is the latest brand to join the bandwagon as it has launched the Smartwatch 2 Ultra which looks identical to Apple’s premium offering. The company has also expanded its range of smartwatches with the latest device. It packs all the necessary features. Read on to know what the wearable device offers out of the box.

iTel Smartwatch 2 Ultra specifications and features

The iTel Smartwatch 2 Ultra has a ditto Apple Watch Ultra-like design. There is a rotating crown and a physical button on the right side. The dial color is also the same as Apple’s offering and the device has an Orange-colored loop strap. The smartwatch is IP68-certified water-resistant. It features a 2-inch IPS display with a resolution of 240 x 296 pixels and multiple watch faces for customization.

In terms of health, the iTel Smartwatch 2 Ultra is equipped with a heart-rate monitor and SpO2 sensor that is commonly found on most wearable devices. It also tracks the sleeping pattern of the user. The device packs support for 100 sports modes.

The iTel Smartwatch 2 Ultra comes with a built-in microphone and a speaker that lets users access Bluetooth calling directly from the wrist. It offers other convenient features like camera and music control, notification display, Find my phone, and more. The smartwatch draws its power from a 600mAh battery unit that is touted to deliver 12 days of usage on a single charge.

The iTel Smartwatch 2 Ultra is priced at Rs 2,099. It is available for purchase starting today from the brand’s websites and retail stores across the country.

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