Mysterious Vivo phone with curved display and 44W charging arrives on TENAA

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Aug 10, 2023

Last week, a mysterious Vivo smartphone with model number V2313A was certified by 3C. The listing revealed the handset to be 5G-ready and its charging speed.

Now, the device has been listed on TENAA with its images. Let’s go through what the latest certification for the phone has to say.

TENAA listings are known for disclosing the product’s design with pictures and its entire specs. But the details are not always populated before the official introduction of the device.

Hence, the listing for Vivo V2313A only has the images. As per them, the smartphone will look like the Vivo Y78 Plus from April.

This means it will sport a centered punch-hole curved display on the front and a curved panel on the back. The back of the phone will house a rectangular island on which there will be two cameras sensor and an LED flash module.

As of now, we only know that the handset supports 5G connectivity and 44W fast wired charging. Since it resembles the Vivo Y78 Plus, it could share some of its features as well.

For the unaware, the Vivo Y78+ (official branding) comes with a 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz curved OLED display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chip, a 50MP main camera, an 8MP selfie camera, Android 13, 4,500mAh battery, and 44W fast charging support.

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Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro display specs and software features revealed before August 14 launch

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Aug 10, 2023

Xiaomi will be hosting a conference on August 14 in China. The company’s CEO Lei Jun will give his annual speech at this event.

Following the speech, the company will unveil a number of new products. One of them was confirmed to be Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 yesterday.

Earlier today, the firm revealed the second device would be Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14. And now, it says the third product will be Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro.

As the name suggests, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro is the successor of the Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro from last year. It is a larger and better version of the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 (review) from a few months ago.

The company has disclosed some features of this upcoming wearable. As per the official teasers, the device will sport a 1.74-inch rectangular display compared to a 1.62-inch elongated pill-shaped screen on the regular version.

Xiaomi hasn’t revealed the panel type but it will be likely OLED. However, the company has confirmed that the screen will support 16.7 million colors, 336 PPI, and 60Hz refresh rate.

On the software front, the wearable will come with new customizable widgets and portrait watch face functionality. Both of these features are clearly inspired by Apple Watch.

We expect Xiaomi to disclose more about the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro in the next few days leading up to the launch. Finally, the product may also release in select global markets like its predecessor.

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Apple iPhone 15 Pro leak hints at an additional GPU core but retains 6GB RAM

By

Sean

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Aug 10, 2023

The Apple iPhone 15 series announcement is just around the corner. But as we edge closer to the launch event, new rumors and reports have surfaced online. Now, the latest leak hints at the iPhone 15 Pro models chipset upgrades and memory capacity.

Apple iPhone 15 Pro chip upgrades

The news arrives from tipster Unknownz21, who shared the information on Twitter. Apparently, the A17 Bionic chipset on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will feature six CPU and GPU cores. The previous generation A16 Bionic featured six CPU cores, but only five GPU cores. So, the next-gen processor will feature an additional GPU core, which will likely help in offering improved performance in various tasks like gaming.

That’s not all, the A17 Bionic will even see a rise in clock speed from 3.46GHz to 3.7GHz. The new A-series chipset will be based on the more advanced 3nm process, which brings upgrades in energy efficiency as well as overall performance. However, the tipster claims that Apple’s upcoming iPhone 15 Pro series will only feature 6GB of RAM. Previous rumors had hinted at the memory rising to 8GB RAM, but Unknownz21 states otherwise.

Apple A17 – t8130 – Coll

6 CPU Cores + 6 GPU Cores
3.70 GHz
6GB LPDDR5 DRAM – Micron/Samsung
TSMC 3nm Process

LPDDR = Low Power Double Data Rate SDRAM

The A17 is used by both the D83 and D84, also likely planned for D47 and D48 (16 series), as the D9x will use t8140 (A18).
— Unknownz21 🌈 (@URedditor) August 9, 2023

The memory is an LPDDR5 RAM module that will reportedly be supplied by Samsung and Micron. The tipster states that the bump to 8GB RAM on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max is not completely impossible but rather unlikely. Keep in mind that this is still just an unconfirmed report, so take this news with a pinch of salt for now.

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Xiaomi Pad 6 Max August 14 launch officially teased, design unveiled

By

Sudhanshu

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Aug 10, 2023

Yesterday, Xiaomi confirmed that a major launch event will be held on August 14 in China. The star of the show will be the Xiaomi Mix Fold 3, however, other devices will also likely be launching alongside it like the Redmi K60 Ultra, the Redmi Pad SE, and the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max.

The brand has now confirmed the launch of the Pad 6 Max, revealing what the tablet will look like. The new teaser shared on the brand’s official Weibo account reveals that the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max will be a 14-inch tablet. It will likely debut as a competitor to the recently launched Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra by Samsung which has a 14.6-inch display. That being said, the Pad 6 Max will likely be a lot cheaper than the Tab S9 Ultra.

Besides the difference in size, the tablet’s design closely resembles the Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro. It’s expected to share similar specifications. The battery might be larger in this case. The teaser also shows that the tablet will have a keyboard that works with it, making it function like a laptop. While more details about its features are not yet known, we already have a basic idea of what to expect.

Xiaomi Pad 6 Max specs

The upcoming device is said to sport a 14-inch LCD display, boasting a 2.8K resolution and a high 144Hz refresh rate. According to certifications, a 67W fast charging capability is present, which makes sense given the larger size of the device’s likely battery.

Beneath the surface, it’s anticipated to be powered by a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip, coupled with 12GB of RAM, as indicated by a recent Geekbench listing. Storage options are likely to extend up to 512GB. In terms of camera capabilities, we can anticipate a 50MP primary camera, accompanied by a 2MP depth sensor. For video calls and selfies, a 20MP front camera is expected.

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Lenovo Xiaoxin 365 Smart Projector with a HiSilicon 4K chip, 1500ANSI lumens brightness launched

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 10, 2023

Lenovo has unveiled its latest innovation, the Xiaoxin 365 Smart Projector. The portable projector is designed to revolutionize your viewing experience, combining state-of-the-art technology with user-centric features that redefine what a projector can do.

The Lenovo Xiaoxin 365 Smart Projector is equipped with 450CVIA brightness, equivalent to a powerful 1500 ANSI lumens, meaning image output will shine with stunning clarity even in well-lit environments. The device boasts a native 1080P resolution and compatibility with both 4K and 8K resolutions. It also features support for HDR 10 high dynamic decoding technology.

The portable projector is powered by the Hi-Imprex VI AI image quality engine bringing optimal image enhancement. It also comes with features such as automatic screen light control and color recognition that adapts to your content, providing optimal visual quality in every scenario. Additionally, the hardware-level low blue light mode takes care of your eyes, reducing strain during extended viewing sessions.

In addition, the Xiaoxin 365 features a HiSilicon Hi-V560 high-performance 4K decoding chip. The processor pairs with 2GB of RAM while there is 16GB of internal storage It also comes with dual-channel Wi-Fi, supporting both 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz frequencies, ensuring stable and high-speed connectivity for uninterrupted streaming and content sharing.

The Xiaoxin 365’s non-destructive optical off-axis design, combined with its built-in compact head, makes setup a breeze. The projection angle can be adjusted by 5 to 8 degrees to match the user’s preferences. It is also compact enough to fit into any space, providing a stunning display without the need for additional accessories.

The Xiaoxin 365 Smart Projector features a customized fourth-generation fully-sealed optical engine, designed for longevity and optimized performance. With an IP5X dustproof rating and a compound cooling system that keeps operational noise as low as 28dB, your focus remains on the content, not the hum of the projector. For audio, there is a built-in 400cc super-large sound cavity speaker that delivers powerful, rich sound, turning your living room into a home theater.

For connectivity, the Xiaoxin 365 is equipped with HDMI 2.0, USB 2.0 ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The projector effortlessly interfaces with a variety of devices. It runs on the ZUI smart projection version system, making it easy to navigate features and content.

The Lenovo Xiaoxin 365 Smart Projector is presently available in China via Jingdong (JD.com) for just 1499 yuan ($208).

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Indian price tipped again, and it’s not good

By

Sudhanshu

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Aug 10, 2023

Samsung is in the process of developing the Galaxy Tab S9 FE series tablets, anticipated for release later this year. This lineup includes the standard Galaxy Tab S9 FE as well as the Tab S9 FE+. Both models have undergone certification with the FCC database. Now, a leaked report has unveiled the pricing information for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE.

The report (by MySmartPrice) states that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE 5G will have a starting price of ₹65,000 in India. As per the report, this will be the price for the 6GB RAM + 128GB storage configuration. A previous report from Roland Quandt also stated that the WiFi-only variant of the tablet with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage will cost around ₹63,000 in India. Apart from the pricing, the report also mentions that the Galaxy Tab S9 FE will come in Silver, Light Green, and Grey color options.

The reason behind the steep pricing in India remains a mystery at this point. However, it’s evident that paying a premium for what essentially amounts to a mid-range tablet might not be a prudent decision, especially when considering that the current cost surpasses that of last year’s flagship model. Presently, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8, equipped with 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC, is priced at ₹54,999 for the WiFi-only version. Moreover, the tablet’s price occasionally drops even lower, reaching as low as ₹51,999. Conversely, Samsung has the 5G variant of the Galaxy Tab S8 listed at ₹68,999.

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China’s IC Imports display gradual recovery amidst ongoing trade war

By

Joane

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Aug 10, 2023

China’s import of integrated circuits (ICs) during the first seven months of 2023 has shown a 16.8% decline compared to the same period in the previous year. This data reveals a modestly improving trend, indicating a slow recovery in the country’s domestic chip market. Notably, this decline is less severe than the 18.5% drop experienced in the first half of the year, suggesting a potential turning point for China’s IC industry.

In a positive sign, China’s chip production increased by 5.7% year-on-year in June, contributing to the sector’s overall rebound. The contrast between the current performance and the previous year’s numbers is evident in the production of ICs during January and February. These months have seen a rise to 44.3 billion units, diverging from the mere 1.2% decrease recorded during the same period last year, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

However, despite the volume decline in IC imports, July showed a glimmer of hope. China imported 42.4 billion IC units in July, a 2.6% increase from the previous month. The trade dynamics have led to intriguing shifts in imports from different nations. Imports from South Korea and Taiwan have decreased by 24.7% and 22.8% respectively, while chip imports from Japan surged by over 40% in June.

Interestingly, the economic value of chip imports has witnessed a more pronounced decline, plummeting by 21.6% to $191.3 billion for the first seven months of the year. These intricate fluctuations between volume and value underscore the evolving landscape of China’s IC market.

In the midst of global tech trade tensions, China’s efforts to bolster chip production and reduce dependency on imports are becoming increasingly apparent. The trajectory of IC imports, coupled with the rising domestic production, could reshape China’s role in the international technology trade arena. This unfolding narrative holds the potential for significant changes in the dynamics of the semiconductor industry. As China’s chip industry navigates complex trade dynamics, the measured progress in both import volume and domestic production signals resilience in the face of adversity.

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Realme 11-series phone with 108MP dual rear cameras to debut soon in India

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Aug 10, 2023

Realme recently confirmed its plans to launch a new smartphone in India this month. As a prelude to the unveiling, the brand has released an initial teaser showcasing the phone’s design. Indications suggest that the forthcoming release will be the Realme 11 series handset.

Realme 11 5G series teased in India

Achieving excellence with every design & celebrating the 5 years of leap up with another surprise.#DoubleLeapComingSoon #realme5thAnniversary

Know more: https://t.co/j6azy23DeS pic.twitter.com/aLvBhLDHIT
— realme (@realmeIndia) August 9, 2023

As can be seen in the above teaser, the upcoming smartphone will come in two shades, such as gold and black. However, it is unclear whether the final marketing name of the device is the Realme 11 5G or the Realme 11x 5G.

A careful look at the circular camera module of the phone reveals that it has a dual-camera system, which is headlined by a 108-megapixel camera, a pill-shaped LED flash. It appears that it could be the Realme 11 5G, which recently debuted in Taiwan.

Realme 11 5G, Realme 11x 5G specifications

The Realme 11 5G has a 6.72-inch IPS LCD panel that offers an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The device is powered by the Dimensity 6100 Plus chipset, 8 GB of RAM, 128 GB / 256 GB of storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging.

As per a recent report, the Realme 11x 5G could be the other phone planned for the Indian market. It is expected to arrive in 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage configuration only and in color variants like Dawn Purple and Midnight Black. The other specifications of the Realme 11x 5G are not known yet.

Apart from launching the Realme 11 series, the company is also expected to announce the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro TWS earbuds at the same launch event. The earbuds will offer key features, such as an 11mm woofer, ANC, 40 hours of battery life, dual device connection, and IPX5 splash-resistance.

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ZTE Blade A73 5G launched with 90Hz display, Unisoc T760 chip, and 5,000mAh battery

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Aug 10, 2023

The ZTE Blade A73 5G smartphone has been announced in Malaysia. It has arrived as the successor to the Blade A72 5G, which debuted in June 2022. The major highlights of the smartphone include 5G connectivity, an HD+ display that offers a 90Hz refresh rate, a big battery, and large internal storage. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the device.

ZTE Blade A73 5G specifications and features

The Blade A73 5G has a 6.52-inch IPS LCD panel with a waterdrop notch. It offers an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels, a 20:9 aspect ratio, and a 90Hz refresh rate. For security, the device is equipped with a s side-facing fingerprint scanner. It comes preloaded with Android 13, which has a layer of ZTE’s UI on top.

The Blade A73 5G has the Unisoc T760 chipset onboard that brings support for 5G connectivity. It comes with 4 GB of RAM, 4 GB of virtual RAM, 128 GB of storage, and a microSD card slot for more storage. The device includes a 5,000mAh battery.

The A73 has a 5-megapixel camera on the front. The rear shell of the phone features a circular camera module, which houses a 50-megapixel main camera, a 2-megapixel depth lens, and an LED flash. The device offers other features, such as dual SIM, 5G, WI-FI 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, NFC, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

ZTE Blade A73 5G price and availability

The ZTE Blade A73 5G is priced at MYR 749 (~$164) in Malaysia. It comes in one color, grey. It is unclear which other markets will receive the handset.

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Infinix GT 10 Pro first sale in India today, read price, offers, specifications

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Aug 10, 2023

The GT 10 Pro debuted as Infinix’s first GT-series phone on Aug. 3 in India. It is the only gaming-focused smartphone priced under Rs 20,000 in the country. The phone has been available for pre-order through Flipkart since Aug. 3. Starting today at 12 pm (local time), the device will be available for purchase in India.

The Infinix GT 10 Pro is priced at Rs 19,999 and comes in two shades: Cyber Black and Mirage Silver. People with ICICI or Kotak bank cards can get a discount of up to Rs 2,000 on the purchase of the Infinix GT 10 Pro. Others can choose a Rs 2,000 exchange bonus. The first 5,000 buyers of the GT 10 Pro will receive a Pro Gaming Kit as a complimentary gift. This package includes shoulder gaming triggers, gaming finger gloves, and a carbon container.

Infinix GT 10 Pro specifications

The Infinix GT 10 Pro features a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is equipped with a 32-megapixel front camera and its rear camera setup comprises a 108-megapixel main, 2-megapixel depth, and 2-megapixel macro cameras.

The GT 10 Pro is driven by the Dimensity 8050 chipset. It boasts 8 GB of LDPDR4x RAM, 8 GB of virtual RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. The phone offers 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage and runs on XOS for GT-based Android 13. It offers GT theme-based live wallpapers and video-based AOD options.

The device is confirmed to receive Android 14 update and two years of security updates. For an enhanced gaming experience, the device is equipped with z-axis linear motor. It has a thickness of 8.1mm and weighs only 187 grams.

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OnePlus Ace 2 Pro to come with repositioned in-display fingerprint sensor for better user experience

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Aug 10, 2023

OnePlus recently confirmed the display specifications of the Ace 2 Pro, which is set to debut on Aug. 16 in China. The company revealed that the device will be equipped with a BOE-manufactured Q9+ panel that offers a high resolution, a smooth refresh rate, and can be used with wet fingers. In a new Weibo post, OnePlus confirmed that the Ace 2 Pro’s in-display fingerprint sensor will be repositioned to provide a better user experience.

OnePlus Ace 2 Pro to feature repositioned in-screen fingerprint sensor

OnePlus confirmed that the Ace 2 Pro will feature an ultra-thin optical screen fingerprint technology, promising a flagship-level unlocking experience. As can be seen in the image above, the fingerprint sensor will be positioned 2cm higher than what is typically seen on OnePlus phones.

According to OnePlus China President Li Jie, moving the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro’s fingerprint module 2cm higher resulted in a fourfold increase in cost. He added that the increased cost is clearly reflected in the Ace 2 Pro, which demonstrates OnePlus’ commitment to innovation and quality. Through these advancements, OnePlus continues to demonstrate its commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering unparalleled experiences to its users.

So far, the company has confirmed that the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro will have a 6.74-inch OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will have a 5,000mAh battery with 150W fast charging. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset will power the device. It is expected to come with up to 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device will run on ColorOS 13.1 based on Android 13 and come equipped with an aerospace-grade heat dissipation unit with a very large surface area. It will come in grey and green color variants.

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OnePlus announces lifetime screen warranty for users with “green line” issue

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Aug 10, 2023

OnePlus has finally addressed the persistent “green line” issue affecting some of its users by offering a lifetime screen warranty for affected users in India. Numerous OnePlus users have reported an unusual “green line” issue on their older OnePlus phones with AMOLED panels, prompting the company to take action.

OnePlus 8 Pro green line — OnePlus 8 Pro with green line issue

The problem appears to be widespread across multiple devices, but OnePlus has chosen to address it head-on by offering a lifetime screen warranty for owners of the OnePlus 8 Pro, OnePlus 8T, OnePlus 9, and OnePlus 9R. Users who are experiencing the “green line” issue on their OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 9 series devices will have the cost of screen repairs covered under this warranty. This lifetime screen warranty service is only available for users in India.

Android Authority has shared the following OnePlus’ official statement on lifetime screen warranty for affected users.

“We realize that this issue has caused a great deal of inconvenience to the affected users, and we apologize for it. In line with our unwavering commitment, we encourage users to visit the nearest OnePlus service centre for device diagnosis, and we will provide free screen replacement for all devices affected by the situation. On select OnePlus 8 and 9 Series devices, we are also offering a voucher that will provide the user with a fair percentage of the device value to upgrade to a new OnePlus device. In light of the current situation, we are now offering lifetime screen warranty on all affected devices. Thank you for your understanding and support.”

OnePlus stores offers discounts for affected users

Notices at OnePlus Exclusive Service Centres, pointed out by Telegram user @docnok63, are informing customers with the “green line” issue about potential upgrade discounts. This initiative allows users to trade in their affected devices for newer OnePlus models, provided they make the purchase online through the OnePlus India website. For those who opt to purchase the India-exclusive OnePlus 10R, they will be able to take advantage of an additional discount of Rs 4,500 in the form of a voucher.

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OnePlus 45W Liquid Cooling accessory launched in China, can reduce temp up to 34°C

By

Soumyakanti

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Aug 9, 2023

OnePlus has officially unveiled its 45W Liquid-Cooled Magnetic Wireless Charging Cooler at an introductory price of 549 yuan ($76). This cutting-edge device claims to reduce temperatures by up to 34°C at idle, making it a significant innovation in the cooling technology industry.

OnePlus 45W liquid-cooled magnetic wireless charging cooler specifications:

The unique cooler stands out with its magnetic, lightweight design (73g, 12mm thin) that supports 10W magnetic wireless charging. Notably, it integrates an innovative liquid-cooling system, providing 50 times higher convective heat transfer efficiency compared to traditional air-cooling. This is achieved through components like a liquid cooling plate, Hall sensor, TEC cooling plate, thermal conductive silicone pad, and a high-performance water pump for enhanced cooling efficiency.

For expanded compatibility with a wide range of devices, including phones, laptops, tablets, and even the Nintendo Switch, OnePlus offers a separate heat-conductive magnetic adhesive patch (available for separate purchase).

An interesting feature of the OnePlus cooler is its low noise level of just 24dB even under high power. The design is geared towards hands-free cooling without generating hot airflow, providing a seamless user experience.

Moreover, OnePlus has implemented triple condensation water protection in this cooler to tackle potential issues like condensation within the device due to excessive cooling or obstructions in the water pipe or fan. The device instantly enters a protection state under these circumstances, ensuring safety and efficiency.

This new cooler builds upon a previous model released by OnePlus in April, which lacked the magnetic charging functionality and was priced at 469 yuan ($65).

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VSC.Bike Finn Electric Cargo Bike with a lightweight design and 185kg load capacity launched

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 9, 2023

The Finn Electric Cargo Bike has been unveiled in Europe. The latest cargo e-bike offering by German manufacturer, VSC.Bike weighs just 30.5kg. However, the bike can carry loads of up to 185kg.

The Finn is VSC.Bike’s first product in the consumer cargo e-bike sector of the industry. The bike is available in both electrically assisted and non-electrically assisted options. The electric-assisted model is the most versatile of the duo, however. It is equipped with the Pendix eDrive IN motor with a 70Nm torque. This enables the cargo e-bike to have seamless movement even with heavy loads. The rear wheel hub has a gearless direct drive with three levels of support. The bike also has a noiseless and maintenance-free operation.

The Finn cargo bike is capable of carrying cargo or even children. It has a sturdy rear-wheel carrier with a 30kg load capacity. A large PVC bag in front of the handlebars provides the Finn with additional space for cargo. It has an innovative cable steering system that enables easy handling and maneuverability. The Finn has a length of 2.5 meters and is quite compact.

The Finn’s 500Wh battery is mounted on the side of the frame and resembles a bottle. The battery supports energy regeneration and this provides an extended range for the bike. The bike’s companion app is the Pendix.bike Pro and it provides data on the battery status, speed, and other essential ride information. With the raft of features, it is easier for users of the Finn to plan and enjoy a comfortable ride always.

The VSC.Bike’s Finn comes with additional features that enhance the safety and versatility of the model. These include a Shimano Acera seven-speed gear system, Shimano Deore 4-piston disc brakes, and a 40-lux front and rear light system. There are no pricing details yet for the new e-bike.

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Saudi Arabia Mandates USB-C Charging Ports for Electronic Devices from 2025

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Aug 9, 2023

Today, we use the USB-C port to charge almost all our electronic devices, except for Apple products. Thankfully, this is changing with iPhone 15. As you may know, the European Union made it mandatory for Apple and all other companies to use USB-C.Now, following in the footsteps of the EU, Saudi Arabia has also made a decision in favor of USB-C standardization. This move is expected to be a welcome change for consumers in the country. Here are the details…

Saudi Arabia Chooses USB-C Charging for All Gadgets from 2025

Previously, the European Union aimed to introduce a common charging port requirement for phones and various other electronic products sold within Europe. This decision was motivated by a goal to reduce electronic waste. As a result, starting in 2024, electronic devices, including iPhones, sold in the EU will be required to have a USB-C port as standard.

Saudi Arabia has now adopted a similar stance. As of 2025, almost all electronic devices sold in the country will be mandated to utilize USB-C charging ports. A government spokesperson spoke about this development, emphasizing its potential to enhance user experience. Moreover, this move aims to cut down on costs and e-waste, while also ensuring high-quality data transfers.

While the European Union’s recent move focuses on charging ports, they are not stopping there. They’re turning their attention towards batteries as well. A draft proposal currently under consideration could completely revamp battery use and management in electronic products sold in Europe.

One of the key aspects of this draft is its emphasis on “replaceability”. The EU intends for batteries in products like smartphones and laptops to be easily removable and replaceable by users, without the need for any special tools. If special tools are required, they should be provided free of charge.

Furthermore, the new regulations will require all companies selling batteries in the EU market to adopt a policy that addresses social and environmental risks linked with the sourcing, processing, and trade of raw materials used in battery production. The directive will also mandate that batteries contain a certain percentage of recycled materials: 16% cobalt, 85% lead, 6% lithium, and 6% nickel. This is in line with the vision to make newer batteries more environmentally friendly than their predecessors.

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Fire-Boltt Emerald smartwatch crafted for women packing a 1.09-inch display, and Bluetooth calling launched in India

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Aug 9, 2023

The Fire-Boltt Emerald smartwatch has been launched in India. The Emerald is a premium-looking Bluetooth calling smartwatch with features aligned with female needs. The new watch is the latest member of the Fire-Boltt “Jewels of Time” series.

The release of the Emerald comes on the heels of the launch of the Blizzard Ultra smartwatch. The Emerald has a circular dial with a diamond-cut glass design and a rotating crown. It has an elegant gem frame and a metallic strap.

The appropriately named Emerald with its precious stones offers a breathtaking display. The kaleidoscope of gemstones gives the Emerald an enchanting view. The smartwatch has a 1.09-inch HD display with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. It supports Bluetooth calling and an in-built microphone and speaker. The Emerald also supports voice assistants.

The Fire-Boltt Emerald offers health functionality under Fire-Boltt Health Suite. These include heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, sleep monitoring, and Women’s health tracking. The smartwatch has multiple sports modes, an IP68 rating, and up to 5 days of battery life.

Other features available in the Emerald are in-built games, smart notifications, weather updates, and camera and music control. It also has a timer, alarm, and stopwatch.

The Fire-Boltt Emerald is available in Green, Blue, and Rose Gold colors. It will be available on the Fire-Boltt website and Amazon India at an introductory price of Rs. 5,999 (~$72) from August 10th. There are no indications yet whether the Emerald will ship to other markets subsequently.

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Edifier HECATE G4K mechanical keyboard with 1ms latency launched for 598 yuan ($83)

By

Soumyakanti

-

Aug 9, 2023

Edifier has launched the HECATE G4K mechanical keyboard in China. The keyboard is now available for purchase at a price of 598 yuan ($83) from various e-commerce stores.

Edifier HECATE G4K mechanical keyboard specifications:

The Edifier HECATE G4K mechanical keyboard boasts standout Flash Speed low latency technology with an impressive 1ms latency, ensuring ultra-responsive performance for gaming and demanding tasks. The incorporation of the HECATE satellite axis enhances durability, supporting up to 80 million key presses. Additionally, the built-in metal roller enables quick adjustments of volume, lighting modes, and more, enhancing the overall user experience.

The keyboard features an appealing and functional design with a Gasket structure that combines damping and support for comfortable typing. It offers triple connectivity options: 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, and wired, adding versatility. Whether for gaming or professional use, the full-key hot-swapping, N-key rollover, and 16.8 million RGB color lighting effects with 18 preset options ensure a customizable experience tailored to individual preferences. The keyboard is compatible with Windows as well as Mac.

The HECATE G4K impresses with its strong 4000mAh battery, offering over 200 hours of use with lighting off. It features a 97+1 key layout with durable PBT injection-molded keycaps, and its ergonomic design includes a three-level adjustable stand and anti-interference adapter.

With seamless connectivity options, rapid response times, and visually captivating RGB lighting, it’s undoubtedly a powerful contender for tech enthusiasts seeking a reliable and feature-packed mechanical keyboard.

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Panasonic Takes Legal Action Against Oppo and Xiaomi Over 4G Technology Patents

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Aug 9, 2023

Panasonic has taken legal action against Oppo and Xiaomi, accusing them of using its patents in their smartphones without asking. The patents are related to 4G technology, and Panasonic wants money for damages and to stop Oppo and Xiaomi from using its patents. Here are the details…

Panasonic has sued Oppo and Xiaomi over mobile communication patents

Let’s say you own a patent, and a big tech company worth billions of dollars uses your technology without permission by breaking this patent. What would you do first? The answer to this question used to be complicated. But recently, the European Union set up the Unified Patent Court hoping to solve such issues. The UPC is a new court in Europe for patent cases. Its goal is to make enforcing patents in the area easier and less expensive. Now, its first major case is the one filed by Panasonic against Oppo and Xiaomi.

The claims relate to four patents that Panasonic says are essential to the 4G and 5G mobile communication standards. Panasonic is alleging that Oppo and Xiaomi are infringing these patents by selling mobile phones that do not comply with the standards. Panasonic and Kather Augenstein, its a German law firm, are seeking damages and an injunction against Oppo and Xiaomi.

The cases are being heard at the UPC’s local divisions in Mannheim and Munich. This is the first major Standard Essential Patents campaign to be launched at the UPC. It is a significant development, as it shows that the court is now being used to enforce SEPs in mobile communications. The case is also likely to have a wider impact on the mobile industry.

It could lead to other SEP holders filing infringement claims at the UPC, and it could also encourage mobile phone manufacturers to take steps to ensure that their products comply with SEPs. In addition to the infringement claims, Panasonic is also seeking a declaration from the UPC that the four patents-in-suit are essential to the 4G and 5G mobile communication standards.

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New leak tips the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3S to launch next month

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Aug 9, 2023

A new leak indicates that Garmin is preparing to launch the Garmin Venu 3 and Garmin Venu 3S next month. The two new Garmin smartwatches are replacements for the Venu 2 series from 2021. It is rumored that the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3S will be unveiled during IFA 2023 in Berlin.

The details about the Garmin Venu 3 and Venu 3S were released by tipster @fttest_en. The leaker says that Garmin is seemingly putting the finishing touches to the Venu 3 series with at least two variants. The Venu 2 series debuted two years ago and, last year, the Venu 2 Plus was added. The model numbers of the two upcoming models were given as A04542 (Venu 3S) and A04543 (Venu 3).

The Garmin Venu 3S will feature GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity, thus putting it in a high pedestal. The inclusion of Wi-Fi on the model means that Garmin will not release a dedicated Music variant. The Venu 3S will reportedly be available in Dust Rose and Soft Gold color variants. This is likely in terms of its strap and case color.

Garmin Venu 3 – No real learnings, but a first appearance away from the regulatory agencies. At least there is the part number.

Maybe it'll be launched around IFA 2023 – I didn't see Garmin on the exhibitor list though.

(Source: https://t.co/S2qxakqHDT)#garmin #venu3 pic.twitter.com/zdd30M6EuO
— Flo | FTT (en) (@fttest_en) August 2, 2023

The Garmin Venu 3 and Garmin Venu 3S are speculated to be released during IFA 2023 in Berlin between September 1 and 5. There is no official confirmation yet from Garmin on the release date of the upcoming models. Additionally, pricing and availability information for the two new Garmin smartwatches are lacking at this time.

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Cult.sport Ranger XR with 1.43-inch AMOLED screen, Bluetooth calling, announced in India

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Aug 9, 2023

The Cult.sport Ranger XR smartwatch has been unveiled in India. The Ranger XR sports a 1.43-inch AMOLED display and targets sports and fitness enthusiasts. The smartwatch has a rugged and sturdy design, complemented by a round dial and much functionality.

The new Cult.sport Ranger XR is coming a year after the release of the Active T in 2022. There are 100+ customizable watch faces on the gadget and it supports Bluetooth calling. The watch provides a dial pad that allows users to initiate and receive calls directly from the gadget. There is a lot of health monitoring support for the Ranger XR. These include heart rate, SpO2, and sleep tracking. There are over 70 sports modes and it also features a BMI calculator.

The Ranger XR delivers up to 10 days of usage on a single charge and supports one-tap pairing with a smartphone. The Cultsport app is compatible with the Ranger XR, offering more control and features. The Cult.sport Ranger XR is priced starting at Rs. 2,999 (~$36) and will be released on August 18. It will be available in blue, black, green, and white colors.

Interested customers can make orders for the Ranger XR directly from the company’s website or via Amazon India. Cult.sport is also offering the first 500 shoppers of the Ranger XR a complementary CultPass Elite membership for 30 days. The subscription service will grant users access to over 600 fitness centers. It is unclear whether the Cult.sport Ranger XR will subsequently arrive in other markets.

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