Razer Kraken Kitty V2 and Kraken Kitty V2 BT over-ear headphones launched in China

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Aug 9, 2023

Razer, a leading global brand specializing in gaming hardware, has introduced the Kraken Kitty V2 series over-ear headphones in China. The price of the headphones starts at 799 yuan ($110).

The Kraken Kitty V2 series has been designed with an enlarged cat ear structure that adds a cute and distinctive appearance. But the aesthetics are not limited to this design element; the headphones also feature Razer Chroma RGB technology. This offers a customizable and stylish look, allowing users to create a cool and versatile personal style that matches their gaming setup.

Responsive Lighting and Audience Engagement with Kraken Kitty V2

One of the standout features of these headphones is the Razer HyperClear technology with a directional microphone. This ensures excellent voice input performance, making it an ideal choice for gamers who require clear and precise communication during intense gaming sessions.

Sound quality is equally important for a fully immersive experience, and the Kraken Kitty V2 does not disappoint. Equipped with Razer TriForce 40mm drivers, the headphones deliver clear and powerful audio. The addition of 7.1 surround sound further enhances sound positioning, providing a more engaging and realistic experience in gaming.

For those who enjoy live broadcasting their gameplay, the responsive lighting effects offer real-time interaction with the audience. This adds an extra layer of entertainment and engagement to the gaming experience.

Comfort is crucial for long gaming sessions, and the Kraken Kitty V2 is designed with a combination of fabric and synthetic leather cushions. This ensures all-day comfort and excellent noise isolation, allowing gamers to stay focused and fully immersed in their games.

Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT: Wireless Freedom for Seamless Gaming

In addition to the standard model, Razer has also introduced the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT, featuring Bluetooth 5.2 wireless connectivity. This version supports gaming mode for smooth, low-latency performance and includes integrated beamforming noise-canceling microphones for clear voice pickup. Weighing only 325 grams and offering approximately 40 hours of battery life, this variant ensures a convenient and uninterrupted gaming experience.

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Midea Robot Vacuum Cleaner with dual-view obstacle avoidance launched in China for 3,299 yuan ($457)

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 8, 2023

Midea has launched an automatic dust collection and sweeping robot in the Chinese market. The Midea Sweeping Robot features automatic dust collection and dual-view structured obstacle avoidance. The machine can sense and avoid obstacles in real-time using AI to accurately avoid up to 55 common obstacles.

The new Midea sweeping and mopping robot is equipped with a custom-made chenille double-disc ultra-thick mop cloth. The mop cloth has a higher dust capacity and shrinks to absorb dirt. The mopping robot delivers up to 200 times of pressurized strong rubbing per minute and a 5kPa suction force. There are four cleaning modes for the sweeping robot. It supports a 55ºC hot air drying mop and comes with two drying pipes. The machine also has four 3-dimensional air paths and an overall efficient operation.

The new Midea Sweeping and Mopping robot has a full-chain circulation hot-air mop that operates synchronized with the cleaning tank and base station. This provides for an efficient manner of drying the mopped surface.

The Midea Sweeping Robot is equipped with a 5,200mAh battery that guarantees up to two hours of continuous use. An automatic water-loading model is also available for the gadget. The Midea Sweeping Robot is available for purchase from retail platforms in China including JD.com. The retail price of the sweeping robot is 3,299 yuan (~$457) and Midea has not provided any global availability details for the sweeping robot yet.

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Volkswagen Group Maintains Lead in German EV Market, with Stellantis Gaining Ground

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Aug 8, 2023

Electric vehicle technologies are becoming more popular and widespread. This has led to 100+ years old traditional car manufacturers and new EV companies competing with each other. Have you ever wondered about the situation in Germany, home to some of the world’s biggest car manufacturers? It seems that in July, 1 out of every 4 cars sold in Germany was an electric vehicle. Here are the details…

The Electric Revolution Continues in Germany, as EV Market Share Surpasses 25%

Electric vehicle technology is getting more popular worldwide. According to 2022 data, the global market share for electric vehicles rose to 14% from 8.3% in 2021. China led with a 27% market share, followed by Europe with 20.8% and the United States with 7.2%. So, what’s the situation in Germany, which makes the most cars in Europe?

1 in every 4 cars sold in Germany was an electric vehicle. That’s a little more than last year. The interesting part? More people are choosing battery-only EVs over the plugin hybrids. The Volkswagen ID.4/5 was the best-selling BEV in Germany in July, with 5,029 units sold. The Tesla Model Y was in second place with 3,781 units sold, followed by the Fiat 500 with 3,546 units sold.

The BMW i5 made its market debut in Germany in July, with 252 units sold. The i5 is a luxury electric sedan that starts at €70,000. In the overall market, Volkswagen Group retained its lead, with a market share of 28.9%. Stellantis was in second place with a market share of 13.6%, followed by Tesla with a market share of 12.0%.

Toyota group lost market share in July, falling to 0.6% from 0.9% in the same month last year. This is likely due to the company’s focus on hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, which have not yet gained traction in the German market.

The strong growth of the German electric vehicle market is being driven by a number of factors, including government incentives, increasing consumer demand, and the availability of more models to choose from. The German government offers a number of incentives for electric vehicle buyers, including a purchase subsidy of up to €9,000 and a reduced purchase tax rate.

Consumer demand for electric vehicles is also increasing, as more and more people become aware of the environmental benefits of EVs.

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Realme 11X 5G shows off its sleek design in leaked image

By

Anurag

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Aug 8, 2023

Realme 11 series made it to the global market in June. Realme 11 Pro and 11 Pro+ are already up for purchase in India and the company even announced the Realme 11 4G and the Realme 11 5G in markets like Taiwan and Vietnam. But it seems we are about to get another new model in the series, dubbed Realme 11X 5G. The launch seems imminent as the device’s image has leaked online, showcasing its sleek design.

Realme 11X 5G might be launching soon

Realme 11X 5G’s leaked image, shared by 91Mobiles, suggests it is taking inspiration from the Realme Narzo 60 5G (review). The image shows the device with a punch-hole cutout on the center and flat sides. Its back is also likely to be flat. The bezels around the smartphone’s display appear to be thin but the chin is thick, which makes the phone look cheap (which it just might be).

The outlet suggests the Realme 11X 5G will have specifications similar to the Realme 11 5G, which debuted in Taiwan recently. However, the Realme 11X is claimed to get 33W charging support while the Realme 11 5G supports 67W charging.

According to a recent report, the Realme 11x 5G will debut in India in two versions— 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage. The device could be offered in Midnight Black and Purple Dawn.

The rest of its specifications are still anyone’s guess. You can expect the device to debut as a mid-range smartphone with Dimensity 6100+ chip and a 5,000mAh battery. It might also feature a 6.72-inch LCD panel that offers a Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.

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New Lenovo ThinkStation Workstations launched in India with Intel Xeon Processors and NVIDIA Ada Generation GPUs

By

Anurag

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Aug 8, 2023

Lenovo has launched its latest unconventional desktop workstations, the ThinkStation PX, P7, and P5 in India. These workstations have been co-designed with Aston Martin, and powered by Intel’s latest processors and NVIDIA RTX professional GPUs. Here are the details.

The ThinkStation PX is Lenovo’s most powerful workstation, packing up to 120 CPU cores and up to four NVIDIA RTX 6000 Ada Generation GPUs. This bad boy can handle even the most demanding workflows, like creative finishing and CAE simulations. It’s also rack-optimized, so it can easily transition between desktop and data center environments. The ThinkStation PX has up to 2TB of DDR5 memory and PCIe Gen 5 lanes.

The ThinkStation P7 is another powerful workstation that’s great for demanding creative and technical workflows. It has up to 56 CPU cores, and three GPUs, and supports real-time rendering and AI applications. Lastly, we have the ThinkStation P5, a workhorse of a desktop workstation featuring Intel Xeon W processors with up to 24 cores and supports up to two NVIDIA RTX A6000 professional graphics cards.

Lenovo partnered with Aston Martin to create the ThinkStation PX, P7, and P5 workstations. These workstations combine excellent performance with a chic appearance that draws inspiration from Aston Martin automobiles. The tool-less chassis is easy to use and upgrade, and the cooling system ensures that the workstations can handle even the most demanding tasks. The chassis is inspired by the Aston Martin DBS Grand Tourer. There’s a 3D grill design that channels air through the workstation. It has redesigned air baffles and larger 3D hex ventilation openings.

The new ThinkStations start at Rs. 1,20,000 in India and are now available for purchase on Lenovo’s website.

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Haier Crystal dishwasher with auto drying function launched in China for 6,999 yuan ($970)

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 8, 2023

Haier launched its latest large-capacity household dishwasher a few days back. The new model is now available on the shelves in China, according to reports. The dishwasher is equipped with an ultra-wide crystal color screen with one-touch capability. This enables the user to operate the dishwasher seamlessly.

The Jingcai dishwasher has up to 80ºC double micro-stream washing which helps to rapidly disintegrate stubborn stains. It also offers deep decontamination and sterilization and an overall comprehensive cleaning process. The Auto Dry intelligent door opening and quick drying technology provide rapid drying of the dishes in about 20 minutes. It provides fresh, moisture-proof, bacteria-free, and trace-free dishes.

The dishwasher has 15 sets of luxurious capacity and it can wash 109 pieces of dishes at a time. It has excellent water efficiency and environmental protection plus energy saving. The dishwasher is also equipped with partition washing technology. The patented technology is water-efficient and energy-saving. This avoids hoarding bowls and unlocks smart energy saving.

The Haier large-capacity household dishwasher can be purchased from online retail platforms like JD.com starting at 6,999 yuan (~$970). The product supports Jiingxuan, Service Jingdong Guarantee Service, and is available on an interest-free payment of 12 installments. Haier has not yet provided any global availability information for the new dishwasher.

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Hase Gravit City E Cargo Bike with a telescoping frame unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 8, 2023

Hase Bikes has unveiled the new Gravit City E Cargo E-Bike in Europe. The new cargo e-bike comes with a versatile front cargo compartment that optimizes cargo carrying. The storage compartment of the e-bike is at the front such that the frame can telescope depending on the size of the load. The innovative design puts the Gravit City on a higher versatility pedestal than other models. The new Hase cargo e-bike can carry up to 200kg in cargo and rider.

A large cargo board is mounted in from of the suspension fork of the e-bike and it can take up to 40kg of load. It can also be fitted with other accessories for various scenarios. These include a canvas web and a waterproof fabric box with a 120L storage capacity. The Gravit City can support the kid’s carriage when you install the padded child seat to the front cargo board. The kid however should not be taller than 1.2 meters.

The expandable front storage of the Gravit City is further accentuated by its Altran Velo rear rack. This delivers an additional 25kg of cargo. A porter rack can also be fitted under the frame to carry smaller objects.

The Hase Gravit City e-bike is equipped with a Shimano Steps E6100 mid-drive motor. It delivers a top speed of 15.5 mph and features a 504Wh downtube-mounted battery. The bike also sports a Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain. There are no specific range estimates for Gravit City at this time.

The bike has a 20-inch front and 26-inch rear wheel complemented by a 1.75-inch and 2-inch Schwalbe Marathon e-bike tire for extra stability. Front and rear hydraulic brakes add to the comfort and safety of the e-bike. Release details for the Gravit City e-bike are lacking at this time.

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TSMC Arizona Plant Faces Backlash Over Hiring Taiwanese Workers

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Aug 8, 2023

TSMC is the world’s largest semiconductor maker and has factories in many parts of the world. The company is building various production facilities in many countries, including its home country, Taiwan, with billion-dollar investments. Countries like Germany and the USA offer incentives to TSMC to encourage them to set up factories there.

Local people also support these efforts for the job opportunities they bring. However, recent events show that this might not always be the case. TSMC’s factory in Arizona is facing opposition for hiring Taiwanese workers. Here are the details…

TSMC Plant Problems in the US: Why Some Don’t Want Workers from Taiwan, and Plans in Germany

TSMC Arizona plant is a semiconductor manufacturing facility under construction in Phoenix, Arizona, United States. The plant is expected to cost $40 billion and will be TSMC’s first major manufacturing facility outside of Taiwan. The plant is scheduled to begin production in 2024 and will initially produce 5-nanometer chips. A second phase of the project, which is expected to be completed in 2026, will add a second factory to the site and produce 3-nanometer chips.

TSMC’s decision to build a plant in Arizona is a major coup for the United States. The plant is expected to create over 12,000 jobs and will help to reduce the United States’ reliance on foreign sources of semiconductors. However, the plant is taking longer to build, costing more money, and there are worries about how safe it is for workers.

TSMC wants to bring in 500 workers from Taiwan to help. They say these workers know how to set up plants like this. But this has caused more issues. Many thought that the plant would give jobs to local American workers right away. So, some people are not happy about workers coming from Taiwan.

To work in the US, these Taiwanese workers need special permission, called an EB-2 visa. This visa is for very skilled people. Some are asking if the construction work really needs such skilled people. A group of workers in Arizona has even started a petition. They don’t want these visas to be given and believe the company is not respecting American workers. A website has also popped up supporting American workers, saying TSMC broke promises. It is unclear how the debate will end.

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Apple’s New Optic ID Technology Uses Your Eyes to Identify You

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Aug 8, 2023

Smartphones are a big part of our lives. We use them for many things, from talking to handling money. But keeping all this information in one place can be risky. To make them safer, phone manufacturers use things like fingerprint checks. Now, Apple has shared new ideas with the European Patent Office. Here are the details…

Apple’s New Eye-Tracking Tech: Optic ID

This week, the European Patent Office shared new patents from Apple. These are all about Optic ID, Apple’s new way of checking who you are using your devices. This technology will be part of the upcoming Apple Vision Pro computer. Eye trackers have been around for a while. They see where you’re looking on a screen.

Apple’s Optic ID does more: it looks at unique features of your eyes and face to confirm your identity. Think of it as a fingerprint, but for your eyes. Apple’s new patents talk about using two or more cameras to take pictures of your face.

They focus on many parts: your iris (the colored part of your eye), your eyelids, even your eyebrows. By looking at all these features, Apple’s system can tell if it’s really you or if someone is trying to trick it. Apple’s tech also chooses the best picture of your eye for checking. If one picture is too dark or blurry, it can use another. This means it’s more likely to work well every time.

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OnePlus Pad gets Spatial Audio and UI improvements in OxygenOS 13.1.0.602 update

By

Sudhanshu

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Aug 8, 2023

The OnePlus Pad, which was introduced a few months ago, stands out as a solid mid-range tablet due to its impressive hardware. However, as highlighted in our review, the software didn’t entirely meet our expectations for a brand like OnePlus. Nevertheless, the brand has been consistent in delivering updates to refine the user experience. In this vein, the latest OxygenOS 13.1.0.602 update effectively addresses these concerns and brings along fresh features.

According to the official update post on the OnePlus community, the OxygenOS 13.1.0.602 update for the OnePlus Pad comes with the latest Android security patch, along with improvements to Notes and Smart Sidebar. In addition to these improvements, the update also adds support for Spatial Audio. Check out the official changelog below.

OnePlus Pad OxygenOS 13.1.0.602 changelog

System

Integrates the July 2023 Android security patch to enhance system security.
Adds support for Spatial Audio to improve the audio experience when using headphones.
Improves the user experience of Notes and Smart Sidebar.
Improves system stability.

The community post mentions that the brand has finished the initial rollout and that the update has reached most of the users by now. However, if the OTA update notification has not popped up on your tablet, you can manually check for the update by navigating to Settings>System>System update>Check for updates.

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The Most Expensive iPhone Ever: iPhone 15 Pro Series Get Double the Base Storage and Starting at Over $2,000

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Aug 8, 2023

There’s not much time left for the launch of the iPhone 15 series. According to rumors, Apple’s eagerly awaited phone will be introduced on September 12 and will bring many new features. The last of these will affect the price and technical specifications of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. According to the claims, this year’s Pro series will start with a base storage of 256 GB, and go up to 2 TB. Here are the details…

iPhone 15 Pro Models to Start at 256 GB, Go Up to 2 TB

Rumors about the iPhone 15 series have been circulating in the tech world for a while now. If you remember, one of the latest ones we announced was about Apple replacing the mute switch with an action button. Now, it appears that the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will come with a change in storage space. As you know, all models of the company started with a storage option of 128 GB. However, in the new Pro series, this will increase to 256 GB.

And that’s not the only improvement; the maximum memory of the new models will not be 1 TB, but 2 TB. While this is great for content creators who frequently use their iPhone’s camera, it’s worrisome in terms of price. For instance, if you look at the table below, you can see the difference in storage options for the iPhone 15 Pro.

Storage	Price
128GB	$999
256GB	$1,099
512GB	$1,299
1TB	$1,499

iPhone 15 Pro prices

Here, it’s possible to say that the starting price of the iPhone 15 Pro will not be $999, but $1,099. Unfortunately, the updates don’t stop there. Global economic problems and rising costs unfortunately show that the price of iPhones will increase, independent of this storage space update. The claims are that the company will carry out a price increase in the range of $100. If we combine all of this, it’s estimated that the iPhone 15 Pro will cost over $2,000. To see whether this will be true or not, it seems like all we need to do is wait until September 12th.

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OnePlus Ace 2 Pro will feature 5000mAh battery with 150W super flash charging

By

Soumyakanti

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Aug 8, 2023

In a recent announcement on their Weibo page, OnePlus has officially confirmed some exciting details about their upcoming smartphone, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro. The standout feature that caught everyone’s attention is the robust 5000mAh battery, boasting support for 150W super flash charging.

OnePlus Ace 2 Pro battery specs (confirmed)

This breakthrough is made possible through an exclusive self-developed direct charging solution, which achieves an industry-leading 99% charging efficiency. Adding to the longevity, the device will utilize the SUPERVOOC S comprehensive power management chip, ensuring an enduring battery life for an extended user experience.

But that’s not all – the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro introduces the ‘150W GaN Charger’, designed for efficient on-the-go charging. It’s compact with a GaN design, supporting 45W PD for fast-charging laptops and gaming consoles. The dual Type-C interface design allows convenient use from any orientation, making it ideal for travel.

The OnePlus Ace 2 Pro also introduces the UFCS fusion fast charging protocol, a first for OnePlus devices, ensuring compatibility with third-party chargers for an efficient experience. The standard 150W charger also supports this protocol, maximizing the benefits of this innovation.

OnePlus aims to redefine fast charging with the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro, claiming that the phone can reach a full charge from just 1% in an impressive 17 minutes. The battery itself is built to last for 4 years, promising a consistent and improved charging experience even during extended gaming sessions.

OnePlus Ace 2 Pro other specifications (rumored)

Coming to the other specs, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro is expected to sport a 6.7-inch 1.5K OLED display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, along with the OnePlus alert slider for convenient control. The camera setup is rumored to include a triple configuration, featuring a primary Sony IMX890 sensor, an 8MP secondary sensor, and a 2MP depth shooter. On the front side, users can anticipate a 16MP shooter for selfies and video calls.

Mark your calendars for August 16th, as the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro is set to launch in China. While these confirmed details paint an exciting picture of the upcoming smartphone, some specs are still shrouded in mystery. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the official launch date.

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Nokia T20 finally gets Android 13 update with new features and bug fixes

By

Chetan

-

Aug 8, 2023

The Nokia T20 tablet was launched in October 2021, featuring a 1.8 GHz octa-core Unisoc T610 chip and the Android 11 OS. After getting the Android 12 update back in November 2022, the tablet is finally receiving its official Android 13 update. Here are the changes we can expect in the new version.

According to the update changelog, Android 13 introduces Material You, a design language based on the concept of ‘color extraction’ allowing users to extract colors from wallpaper and assign them to the phone’s interface. The update brings bug fixes and performance improvements to enhance the device’s stability and responsiveness.

Nokia T20 tablet Android 13 Official Changelog

New Themed App Icons

This feature will allow the user to personalize their home screen icons with the colors of the wallpaper.

Photo Picker

Users will now be able to provide access to the selected photos and videos instead of their whole media collection to their apps.

Notification Permissions

Newly downloaded apps will now require permission from the user to send notifications.

New Media Controls

Android 13 will roll out a new media player which will put album artwork on display with a dancing playback bar.

Google Security Patch 2023-07

Latest Android security patch which works with compatible apps.

Bug Fixes and performance improvements

Numerous bug fixes in the device to make it more stable and responsive.

T20 tablet users can manually check if their devices have received the update by going to Settings > System > System updates. You will see a notification if the update is available. The update is around 2.74 GB in size, which should not be a problem to download with a reliable Wi-Fi connection.

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Oppo Find N3 clears EEC certification, Find N3 Flip spotted on 3C with 67W fast charging

By

Sudhanshu

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Aug 8, 2023

Oppo is preparing to release both the Find N3 Flip and the Find N3 foldable smartphones, along with the Huawei Watch, in the near future. While initial reports suggested a launch in the fourth quarter, a recent update indicates that these devices will actually debut later this month.

The 3C certification has given the green light to the N3 Flip, while the Find N3 has made an appearance on the EEC certifications. This points toward the devices getting ready for launch both in China and around the world.

The 3C certification has given us a glimpse of what the Oppo Find N3 Flip (PHT110) can do. It’s got the power of 67W fast charging, which means it can charge up real quick. It’s also ready for 5G action. However, apart from these features, the 3C certification didn’t spill the beans on other specs. On top of that, the global version of the Oppo Find N3 (CPH2499) has also passed the EEC certification, also keeping quiet about the specs.

Oppo Find N3 & N3 Flip specs (rumored)

Rumors about the Find N3 Flip suggest it might have a 3.26-inch AMOLED cover display and a 6.8-inch inner foldable AMOLED display. Both screens offer FHD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The device is said to include a Sony IMX890 50-megapixel main camera with OIS, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 32-megapixel telephoto camera. It’s also expected to have a 32-megapixel front camera.

Beneath the surface, the phone could be powered by the Dimensity 9000 Plus chipset, paired with 16 GB of RAM. The battery is expected to be 4,300mAh with 44W fast charging. The Find N3 Flip may come with 512 GB of storage and run on ColorOS 13.1, which is based on Android 13.

Meanwhile, the Find N3 might come with an 8-inch screen with 120Hz refresh rate. There’s also a smaller screen on the outside, about 6.5 inches, also with 120Hz refresh rate. Running the show inside could be a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. The phone is thinking of having 16GB of RAM and 512GB of space for all your stuff. When it comes to pictures, it might have three cameras that add up to 50MP, and one more camera just for selfies that’s 32MP. The battery could be 4,800mAh and it could juice up super fast with 80W charging.

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WhatsApp is working on a new voice chat feature for groups

By

Soumyakanti

-

Aug 8, 2023

WhatsApp, the widely popular messaging app of Meta is making significant strides in its approach to updates, focusing on a more consistent and user-friendly experience across iOS and Android platforms. According to WABetaInfo, the latest update, version 2.23.16.19 introduces a new voice chat feature for groups.

WhatsApp’s New Voice Chats: A Silent and Streamlined Group Communication Tool

Voice chats, previously known as audio chats, are a new way for group members to engage in voice conversations seamlessly. Users will find a new voice waveform icon in their group chats, which, upon a simple tap, starts an instant voice chat session with a dedicated interface.

These chats are accessible to specific groups, typically consisting of over 32 members, with a maximum of 32 participants able to join the conversation. The voice chat automatically ends after 60 minutes if no participants join, but users can easily start another session.

One notable advantage of this feature is that it allows users to engage in voice calls without causing individual phones to ring, maintaining a silent mode. Silent push notifications inform participants when a voice chat begins, and an icon in the group list indicates an ongoing voice chat. Privacy is ensured through end-to-end encryption, guaranteeing that only participants can access the content of these voice chats.

While currently available to those who update to the latest WhatsApp beta for Android, this feature is set to roll out to a wider audience in the coming days. There’s also anticipation that this functionality will eventually be integrated into stable versions of the app.

WhatsApp is also focused on bolstering security with features like admin review and the use of email addresses. The recent beta versions also introduced animated avatars and a time-saving group creation feature.

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Huawei Mate 60 launch tipped for late September

By

Chetan

-

Aug 8, 2023

Huawei is preparing to launch its much-awaited Mate 60 series this year. While the company has tried to prevent any leaks about the smartphones, a known tipster 定焦数码 (fixed focus digital) has now leaked the launch timeline of the upcoming devices.

In a recent Weibo post by 定焦数码, the leaker revealed that Huawei may launch their Mate 60 smartphone before the Mid-Autumn Festival (September 29) and National Day (1 October) in China. The company plans to introduce the smartphone ahead of the holidays to avoid missing out on sales. This means we can expect the smartphone to land before the end of September. The leaker has also revealed that Huawei is not facing any production issues when it comes to its flagship device, meaning that there won’t be any further delays in the launch.

huawei-mate-60-series-spirit-island-1-1024x576

Previous reports have mentioned that the Mate 60 series smartphones will feature a “Spirit Island” design, which is essentially a pill-shaped front camera cutout like the dynamic island on the iPhone 14 Pro. The smartphone is said to feature a triple-camera setup with a 50MP primary camera. The display will likely be a 6.7-inch 1.5K OLED panel.

Leaks have also mentioned that Huawei may not use the previously rumored Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, but go with an alternative like a MediaTek chip. This choice is likely due to Huawei still suffering from the US sanctions imposed on them. For those unaware, In 2020, the United States government added Huawei to the Entity List, which prohibits U.S. companies from selling or exporting goods, software, or technology to Huawei without a license from the U.S. government. This included chips for 5G products, which effectively cut Huawei off from the latest cutting-edge chips it required for its smartphones.

More details on the Huawei Mate 60 and its camera can be found here.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 FCC And WiFi Alliance Certifications Reveal Key Details

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Aug 8, 2023

Samsung has already launched the Galaxy Tab S9 series recently. As per multiple reports, the South Korean brand is working on two additional models in the lineup namely the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and FE+. Apart from the flagship Tab S lineup, Samsung also has the Galaxy Tab A series in its portfolio catering to the budget segment. However, the company last launched a tablet in the Tab A lineup in 2021. Now the Galaxy Tab A9 has bagged FCC and WiFi Alliance certifications.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 appears on FCC and WiFi Alliance

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 has been spotted on FCC and WiFi Alliance certification websites with the model number SM-X115. The former reveals a host of information about the device.

As per the FCC listing, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 will measure 210.7mm in length and 124.7mm in width. The certification also shows the schematics and live images of the tablet. It has a single rear camera on the back panel, There is a USB-C port and a 3.5mm jack at the bottom whereas the power and volume rocker buttons are on the right side. The device seems to have a boxy form factor. There are bezels surrounding the display.

The FCC certification reveals that the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 will be backed by a 5,100mAh battery unit with support for 15W fast charging. Additionally, connectivity options on the device will include LTE support, WiFi, FM, GPS, and Bluetooth,.

The WiFi Alliance listing of the Galaxy Tab A8 confirms its WiFi model. It does not mention any details.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 will arrive as the successor to the Galaxy Tab A8 that debuted in December 2021.

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Fifth Generation Samsung Galaxy Z Foldables Smash Pre-Order Record In South Korea, Z Flip 5 More Popular Than Fold 5

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Aug 8, 2023

Samsung unveiled the fifth-generation Galaxy Z foldables last month. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 arrived with incremental upgrades over its predecessor but the Z Flip 5 packed significant changes compared to its last year’s model. Both foldable phones went up for pre-orders on the day of launch with shipments set to commence from August 11 in multiple countries across the globe. Now the South Korean brand has revealed that both devices have smashed pre-order records in its home market.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5 pre-order records in South Korea

Samsung opened pre-orders for its latest-generation foldable phones in its home country on August 1. As of today, the company announced that it has received 1.02 million pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5. It broke the previous record of 9,70,000 units held by the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 last year.

Samsung said that this time the Galaxy Z Flip 5 was more popular than the Galaxy Z Fold 5. The former recorded 70 percent of total pre-orders whereas its predecessor had accounted for approximately 60 percent of the pre-orders received during the one week from August 1. The latest clamshell foldable phone registered 7,14,000 units of pre-orders whereas the Fold 5 scored 3,06,000 units with still a few days to go for the closure of the pre-order window. The figures clearly indicate that more people were interested in the Galaxy Z Flip 5 which is no surprise considering that it got a significant upgrade with a larger secondary display.

Surprisingly, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 clocked 3,06,000 units in pre-order. It’s predecessor had recorded 3,88,000 pre-orders. This seems underwhelming despite the strong trade-in offers and the new Flex Hinge mechanism that leaves no gap between the two halves of the phone, smooth experience, and dust resistance.

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China’s AR market surges by 258%, while VR struggles with a 60% decline in Q2 2023

By

Soumyakanti

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Aug 8, 2023

China’s VR/AR market has seen dramatic shifts in Q2 2023, as revealed by the latest data from Runto Technology (RUNTO). In this period, the market witnessed sales of 178,000 units, marking a year-on-year (YoY) decline of 51.2%. But this broad figure hides a fascinating story of divergence between the two technologies.

AR Devices See a Slight Decrease in Average Pricing

Virtual Reality (VR) online sales endured a significant downfall, with a 60.9% YoY decrease. The factors behind this steep drop remain speculative but could be linked to shifting consumer preferences or technological advancements in other areas.

Contrasting VR’s decline, Augmented Reality (AR) devices have seen a meteoric rise, with a staggering 258% YoY growth in sales. Additionally, AR devices’ market share has increased by 38% within the overall online VR/AR sector. This growth trend is accompanied by a mild reduction in the average price of AR devices, now at 2,828 yuan.

Three brands, namely Raybird Innovation, XREAL, and Rokid, have emerged as the dominant players in China’s AR online market. They hold an extraordinary 90.2% combined market share, as per the CR3 index, for the second quarter. Raybird Innovation leads with a 39.1% share, followed by XREAL at 32.2% and Rokid at 18.9%.

The divide between VR and AR could signify a broader shift in consumer interest and technology development. While VR’s immersive experience might be losing appeal, AR’s ability to blend virtual elements with the real world is gaining traction. This shift might also be influenced by a wider range of applications and the utility that AR offers. Apple’s recently announced AR headset, Vision Pro, has already contributed significantly to boosting the AR industry, despite its unreleased status.

RUNTO’s forecast for the remainder of 2023 seems to underline this trend, projecting robust growth in China’s consumer-grade AR devices market. The expected annual total sales across all channels could range between 200,000 and 250,000 units, translating to an incredible YoY growth of 100% to 150%.

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Pixel Phones and Pixel Watch getting August 2023 update

By

Simranpal Singh

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Aug 8, 2023

It’s the first week of August and the update for Pixel devices is here with all new enhancements and improvements. Apart from minor tidbits on Pixel Watch, the August 2023 update brings the majority of changes for the Pixel Fold and Pixel tablet. Alongside the August 2023 Security Patch, the update brings a fix for the Bluetooth Connection issue on Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.

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August 2023 Update for Pixel Smartphone

Security Updates have really improved the Android Ecosystem as a whole, and the regular patches for mainstream Android devices really help in plugging security flaws. Following each month’s routine, Google Pixel smartphones are getting a new security patch. This time, Google patched over 30 security vulnerabilities.

Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold are major gainers as plenty of issues related to both devices have been fixed with the update. Especially, there’s a fix for the issue while connecting Bluetooth Keyboards, and the flicker issue on the Pixel tablet while in Hub Mode is also resolved. There are several other changes and here’s the official changelog:

Bluetooth

Fix for issue occasionally causing Bluetooth keyboards to not connect

User interface

Fix for issue causing certain Live Wallpapers to display incorrectly in different device orientations
Fix for issue occasionally causing lock screen to not respond
Fix for issue occasionally causing home screen launcher search input to not register
Fix for issue occasionally causing flickering or glitches while in Hub Mode

The update is rolling out for all the Pixel smartphones which are yet under the update cycle. Surprisingly, this is the last scheduled update for the Pixel 4a smartphone.

Pixel Watch Update

Pixel Watch is receiving another minor update bringing August Security Patch via the firmware RWDC.230805.001. The update is gradually rolling out and may take a week to full availability across the globe. It bundles a fix for eight high-severity issues.

The users can manually check for the update by heading to Settings > System > System updates.