Back in February, Lavalaunched the Yuva 2 Pro smartphone in India. The device features a water-drop 6.5-inch LCD display and a Helio G37 processor. Months after arriving in India, it looks like Lava plans to launch this smartphone in the global market as it has appeared on the TDRA certification.
TheTechOutlook has spotted the Lava Yuva 2 Pro on the TDRA certification website with model number LZX408. The certification does not reveal any details regarding the specifications, however, it does confirm that the device has been greenlit to launch in the UAE by the authorities.
Lava Yuva 2 Pro specs
The Lava Yuva 2 Pro comes with a 6.5-inch LCD panel, offering an HD+ resolution, 269 ppi pixel density, and a 60Hz refresh rate. On the front, it houses a 5-megapixel selfie camera, while the back panel features a 13-megapixel main camera and two VGA cameras.
Under the hood, the Yuva 2 Pro is powered by the Helio G37 chipset and boasts 4GB of RAM. It offers 64GB of storage, complemented by an additional 3GB of virtual RAM for enhanced performance. Keeping the device running is a robust 5,000mAh battery, capable of 10W charging through the USB-C port.
Running on a nearly stock version of Android 12 OS, the phone supports anonymous call recording. Connectivity options include dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, and GPS. The device is equipped with a 3.5mm audio jack and a side-facing fingerprint scanner for added security. Its back is made of glass, adding a touch of elegance to the design.
Oppo has quietly launched a new pair of neckband-style earphones in China. Officially called Oppo Enco M33, this pair is the successor of Oppo Enco M32 from last year.
The M32 was a downgrade over the M31 from 2020. However, at least on paper, the newer M33 is an upgrade over the outgoing M32.
Let’s go through all the features the Oppo Enco M33 neckband-style wireless earphones offer.
Oppo Enco M33 Specifications
The Oppo Enco M33 looks more like the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2. Thus, it does not sport winged ear tips like the Enco M32.
The buds house 12.4mm drivers and are claimed to deliver Hi-Fi sound output. But the earphones are neither Hi-Res Audio-certified nor support codecs like LDAC.
Anyways, the drivers are larger than the 10mm ones found inside its predecessor. Also, the latest model carries support for up to 45dB ANC (Active Noise Cancellation), which makes it the first in the series.
The product also provides AI-powered ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) for calls. It is IP55-rated for splash resistance, and therefore, can be used while working out or even in light rains.
The earphones connect via Bluetooth 5.2 and support instant pairing with devices running ColorOS (including Realme UI and OxygenOS). The buds feature magnets for pause/play functionality and quickly answer calls.
There’s an inline remote control for music playback controls and power/pairing. The accessory ships with three different-sized ear tips and a USB Type-A to Type-C cable.
The Oppo Enco M33 is rated to last for 28 hours on a full charge with ANC disabled at 50% volume. With active noise cancellation enabled, the battery life drops to 20 hours.
Last but not least, Oppo claims up to 20 hours of battery life (ANC disabled at 50% volume) with only 10 minutes of charging.
Oppo Enco M33 Price
The Oppo Enco M33 is priced at ¥249 (~$35) in China. It is offered in Obsidian Black and Cangling Green color options.
The product is currently up for pre-order in the region. It should make its way to other markets in the coming days, just like its predecessor.
After its initial unveiling back at CES 2023, the Acer Predator X45 gaming monitor has finally been launched in Europe and US markets. The monitor features a large 45-inch OLED panel with high refresh rate and 800R curvature.
Acer Predator X45 monitor pricing & availability
The Acer Predator X45 is available in the Eurozone for €1,799 and retails for $1,599 in the US. Gamers in both regions can purchase the monitor through various channels, including online and offline modes.
Acer Predator X45 specs
The Acer Predator X45 is a 45-inch curved OLED gaming monitor with a 21:9 aspect ratio and a native resolution of 3440 x 1440 (2K). It has a 240Hz refresh rate, a 0.01ms GTG response time, and a 1000-nit brightness. The monitor also supports AMD FreeSync (AMD Adaptive Sync), which helps to prevent screen tearing.
The Predator X45 has an OLED panel with a 1,500,000:1 native contrast ratio. It also supports 10-bit color depth and covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. This means that the monitor can display incredibly deep blacks and vibrant colors.
The monitor has a curved screen with an 800R curvature. It also has a KVM switch, which allows you to control two devices with a single keyboard and mouse. In terms of connectivity, the monitor has two HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, a USB-C port (90 W USB Power Delivery), and two USB 3.2 ports.
For added convenience, the monitor includes built-in speakers delivering 5W x 2 audio output power, providing decent sound for everyday use. Additionally, it is VESA-compatible, allowing easy mounting with a 100 x 100mm pattern.
This past week in the world of tech was pretty exciting with new model launches, brand unveilings, and controversial tech policies. CMF by Nothing is a brand focused on bringing affordable products with an emphasis on premium design, while Xiaomi’s Redmi 12 5G made a successful landing in India, alongside the company’s next budget-friendly tablet, Redmi Pad SE.
Elsewhere, the OnePlus Open leak revealed changes to its foldable phone’s camera module and form factor, while Nokia took a somewhat nostalgic step back with the introduction of the not-so-smart 130 and 150 models. The resilience of Huawei’s handset business amidst the US restrictions also made headlines, as did Apple’s Satellite SOS feature’s role in averting a major forest fire in Canada. Finally, India’s impending laptop and tablet import restriction, set to kick off in November, rounded off a week that bristled with both innovation and debate.
Check out all the top stories from last week below.
Nothing is introducing CMF by Nothing, a sub-brand offering affordable products with improved designs. CMF stands for Colour, Material, and Finish, and follows OnePlus’ Nord sub-brand. The brand aims to provide premium design and quality, while focusing on user experience. CMF will launch its first smartwatch and earbuds by the end of this year.
Xiaomi has launched the Redmi 12 series in India, featuring the Redmi 12 and Redmi 12 5G. Both smartphones have a similar design and build, with a 6.79-inch display and Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chips. They have dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.3, GNSS, MicroSD card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, fingerprint sensor, and IR blaster. The Redmi 12 series will be available in Jade Black, Pastel Blue, or Moonstone Silver color options.
Xiaomi’s Redmi Pad SE is set to launch as the next budget tablet, with downgraded features compared to the original Redmi Pad. The device will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 chip, LPDDR4x RAM, and feature a 10.x-inch display with 2K resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. It will be available in Europe and select international markets.
Royal Enfield, a subsidiary of Eicher Motors, reported its highest quarterly revenue in 2023, with a 21.1 percent increase in bike sales. The company’s managing director, Siddhartha Lal, announced that EVs are at the core of Eicher Motors and Royal Enfield. With Eicher Motors’ recent equity acquisition of Stark Future, Enfield is preparing to revolutionize the electric motorcycle landscape.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 SoC is expected to launch in late 2024, based on TSMC’s new 3nm process node and featuring Nuvia’s Phoenix cores. The chipset is expected to offer a significant performance leap, with Samsung, Oppo, and Xiaomi likely to use the latest Qualcomm chips in their flagships.
Xiaomi sold 300,000 units of the Redmi 12 series on the first day of sale in India, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s budget smartphone offerings. The Redmi 12 5G and 4G smartphones were well-received, with the brand likely making INR 3 billion. The phones are available in 4GB + 128GB, 6GB + 128GB, and 8GB + 256GB variants.
OnePlus has updated leaked renders of its first-ever foldable phone, the OnePlus Open, which may debut in the third quarter of this year. The updated renders reveal significant changes to the camera module and form factor, with a wider aspect ratio and a smaller, wallet-sized design. The device features a circular camera module with two sensors, a periscope lens, and an ‘H’ branding. The OnePlus Open also features a boxy form factor with power and volume rocker buttons, a fingerprint scanner, and quad speakers.
Nokia has introduced two new models, the Nokia 130 and Nokia 150, to cater to older users who prefer older phones over smartphones. The Nokia 150, a refreshed version of the Nokia 150, features a 1450 mAh battery, a 0.3 Megapixel camera, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It uses an OS called S30+ and has a 2.4-inch screen with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and a long battery life. The Nokia 130, on the other hand, has a 2.4-inch screen with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and a 1450 mAh battery. Both phones target specific groups of people and offer different features and capabilities.
Nintendo plans to launch the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2024, with an LCD display instead of OLED and backwards compatibility. The console is expected to be backward compatible with older games and will be backward compatible with digital and physical games. The Switch 2 will run digital and physical games without issues, allowing users to access their library and replay games they played in low quality. The release date is not confirmed, but more information on pricing and technical specifications is expected in the future.
Huawei’s handset business has made a remarkable comeback, with its share of the domestic smartphone market soaring by 76.1% in the second quarter. The company secured the second spot in the high-end sector, trailing Vivo and Apple. Despite US government restrictions, Huawei remains steadfast in its efforts to rebuild its smartphone business. The company’s unwavering commitment to research and development, with R&D spending reaching $23.8 billion in 2022, has contributed to its upward trajectory and remarkable recovery.
Apple’s Satellite SOS feature has been used to prevent a major forest fire on an island in Canada. Canadian residents in Missanabie, Ontario, used the iPhone 14’s SOS via satellite feature to call for emergency services during connectivity blackouts. The MNRF arrived promptly after being contacted through the satellite feature. The feature provides a lifeline in emergency situations, highlighting the revolutionary impact of technology on public safety and disaster management.
India’s controversial import policy on laptops, tablets, and personal computers has been pushed to November 1, following a three-month grace period. The move aims to promote local manufacturing in the IT hardware sector and attract global tech giants to India. The policy also includes exemption clauses for research and development purposes.
Huawei has denied rumors about launching 5G smartphones after October, stating that such information is false. The company uses 4G Qualcomm chips in its flagship phones, but rumors about a 5G phone launch persist due to US sanctions. Huawei’s CEO, Richard Yu, clarified that they should source 5G chips domestically using advanced semiconductor design tools. However, production capabilities may be limited, leading to a limited shipment of flagship models. Huawei remains determined to launch 5G models, despite a 58% surge in smartphone sales in Q2 2023.
Chinese smartphone manufacturer OPPO has halted operations in France due to Yang Technology’s discontinuing sales, making OPPO phones unavailable for purchase. This comes after OPPO’s recent patent victory against Nokia, which reduced immediate legal threats. OPPO has assured customers that after-sales service and software updates will continue.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is set to launch alongside iPhones next month, with leaked details suggesting a possible Barbie-inspired color. The aluminum variant will feature red, silver, and pink colors, while the steel version will be available in gold, graphite, and silver. The upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 2 will feature a Dark Gray/Titanium Black color option.
FOSSiBOT, a burgeoning brand in the smartphone industry, is quickly gaining prominence as a rising star and has now unveiled its latest smartphone, the FOSSiBOT F102. Designed to be the Best Camping Flagship King, this rugged smartphone is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts and those working in challenging environments. Packed with cutting-edge features, the F102 ensures you never miss a moment and capture memories like never before.
Photography enthusiasts will be delighted with the flagship 108MP primary rear camera, combined with a 20MP night vision camera and a 5MP macro lens. With the powerful Samsung® S5KHM2SP03 sensor, the F102 delivers stunningly detailed and vivid images, even in low-light conditions. AI photography enhances the experience by automatically recognizing scenes, from scenic landscapes to adorable pets, ensuring every shot is picture-perfect.
For night owls and nocturnal explorers, the F102’s Sony IMX350 night vision camera is a game-changer. It allows clear photography in the darkest of environments, with an impressive shooting distance of up to 45 meters. The camera excels in capturing the beauty of nighttime scenes, providing unmatched clarity even in pitch-black surroundings. In addition to its impressive rear cameras, the F102 features a 32MP Sony IMX616 sensor for sensational front-camera selfies, ensuring your social media game remains top-notch.
The F102 goes beyond just photography. One of its standout features is the powerful 3W ultra-bright camping light, equipped with 300 LED lights. With three levels of brightness – full brightness of 495 lumens, half brightness of 246 lumens, and 1/4 brightness of 120 lumens – the F102 can effortlessly light up the entire campsite, ensuring safety and convenience during nighttime adventures. Moreover, it serves as a reliable SOS signal light and emergency location exposure tool, providing peace of mind during critical situations.
Under the hood, the FOSSiBOT F102 boasts a Mediatek Helio G99 octa-core processor, built on a 6nm process. With a powerful combination of 2 Cortex A76 cores clocked at 2.2GHz and 6 Cortex A55 cores clocked at 2.0GHz, paired with up to 20GB of RAM (12GB + 8GB RAM expansion) and optimized Android 13.0 OS, the F102 delivers an exceptional user experience, whether in gaming, streaming videos, camping, or professional work.
Storage is never a concern with the F102, as it offers generous internal storage of 256GB and support for up to a staggering 2TB TF card. This allows users to store a vast amount of photos, videos, music, and other essential files, ensuring they have everything they need at their fingertips.
As with any rugged smartphone from FOSSiBOT, the F102 prioritizes battery life and durability. Its massive 16500mAh battery ensures an astonishing standby time of up to 50 days with a SIM card inserted. Additionally, the 33W fast charger enables users to charge the F102’s battery to 90% in just 3 hours and reach a full charge in 4 hours.
The rugged design and reinforced construction of the F102 make it capable of withstanding tough conditions, as it has passed rigorous tests for waterproofing (IP68), high-pressure and high-temperature resistance (IP69K), and military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810H).
With the upcoming launch of the FOSSiBOT F102, camping, and outdoor enthusiasts are in for a treat. This flagship smartphone is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of those who work or venture into the great outdoors.
Price and Availability:
As part of the world premiere deal of FOSSiBOT F102, the company has a special offer on their Official Store at Aliexpress. From August 21st to August 27th, customers can purchase the F102 for the exclusive price of $169.99 (limited to 500pcs) using store coupon codes. Additionally, FOSSiBOT is offering a bonus to the 8th, 88th, 188th, 288th, and so on, up to the 888th order, where these lucky customers will receive their F102 for free. To top it off, FOSSiBOT is currently conducting a promotion on its official website, giving away free sports watches. So be sure to visit their store to avail these offers.
China is at the forefront of countries trying to promote electric mobility in the long run. The country’s electric car market is on the rise, hitting an unprecedented high in June. A whopping 713,932 new passenger plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) were registered, marking a 28% year-over-year growth. Astonishingly, this pushed the market share of EVs to 38% of all new car sales, dwarfing Europe‘s 25% and the US’s 7%.
The sales of Plug-in Hybrid cars saw a rise as well, indicating a customer segment still unsure of EVs
In the global arena, China is an indisputable leader, housing almost 57% of the worldwide plug-in car share. Notably, the majority of these plug-ins are not only sold but also manufactured in China, indicating the nation’s pivotal role in the global electric revolution. Of these, all-electric models constituted 25% of China’s car sales in June, with plug-in hybrids capturing 13%.
This monumental growth isn’t just a monthly phenomenon. Throughout 2023, China has registered over 3.2 million new plug-in EVs, an increase of about 38% year-over-year. This makes up 35% of the total new cars this year, a leap from 2022’s 30%.
In the EV leaderboard, Tesla’s Model Y dominated June, becoming China’s top-selling rechargeable car. However, BYD, a homegrown brand, maintained its reign with four cars in the top five. BYD’s Song and Qin variants were the most sought after in the year’s first half, with Tesla’s Model Y trailing in third. Yet, the Model Y clinched the title of the most popular all-electric model.
Brands-wise, BYD emerges as China’s favorite, commanding a significant 35.3% share in the plug-in segment from January to June. Tesla, with a 9.1% share, stands second, followed by GAC Aion and SAIC-GM-Wuling. With such remarkable progress, China continues to flaunt its status as the global epicenter of electric vehicles.
YouTube has expanded its list of features for Premium subscribers by making its higher-quality 1080p option available to users on desktops worldwide. Paul Pennington, a spokesperson for the video-sharing platform, verified this update to The Verge. Originating from an initial test phase, this “enhanced bitrate” 1080p made its official debut in April on iOS.
YouTube has also raised the price of its Premium subscription to $13.99
Interestingly, the feature was previously observed by a non-Premium user on several videos last Friday. But, there’s a catch – on attempting to use this enhanced bitrate, YouTube nudges you to become a Premium member. For those contemplating taking the leap, be aware that the cost of YouTube Premium has seen a slight rise, and so have other services.
For those who can avail this feature, the difference in quality is unmistakable. As YouTube pointed out in an April blog, videos with a lot of intricate details and dynamic motion stand to gain immensely from this feature, appearing more sharp and vivid than usual.
The rollout isn’t limited to just the desktop versions. Pennington revealed that the enhanced 1080p experience will also be integrated into YouTube on devices centered around living room usage, such as Chromecasts and gaming consoles. Android users might have to hold on a little longer as the feature isn’t universally available. However, as per a report from 9to5Google in June, the improved resolution has made an appearance for a few Android enthusiasts.
Since data breaches and cyber attacks are becoming increasingly common, Instagram, like many other platforms, is upgrading its stance on user safety with the rollout of a new feature. It is aimed at preventing unwanted images and videos in Direct Messages (DMs). This update was unveiled shortly after its initial testing phase, signaling the platform’s commitment to user experience.
The update is aimed towards preventing unsolicited DMs within the Instagram app
This freshly-introduced feature introduces two key changes in the DM dynamic:
A user who intends to send a DM to someone not in their followers’ list will now be confined to a single message. They can only have an extended conversation if the recipient accepts the chat request. This will reduce the spam coming through, especially for bigger accounts.
Initially, DM requests can only be text-based. Multimedia messages, like images, videos, or voice notes, will only be allowed to send after the acceptance of chat request.
These changes primarily tackle the distress caused by unsought messages and media, especially for women who are often the target of unasked-for explicit content. Cindy Southworth, Meta’s Women’s Safety Head, emphasized the company’s intent: “Our primary goal is ensuring users feel both secure and empowered when they access their inbox. Feedback from our community has been instrumental in shaping this feature, reinforcing our mission to bolster safety on Instagram.”
Complementing this update are Instagram’s existing safety nets, which are getting an upgrade as well. The “Hidden Words” feature segregates potentially offensive DMs, ensuring users aren’t blindsided by abusive content. The “Limits” tool acts as a shield against abrupt increases in unwanted interactions. Furthermore, the “Restrict” option gives users a discreet method to monitor potential harassers. Activating this option ensures comments from the restricted user remain concealed from the public view, while their DMs are moved to the request section. Lastly, users can also use the blocking feature, which even provides an added layer of security by enabling the blocking of other related accounts of the flagged user. Hopefully, these new changes will contribute towards the betterment of the platform in the long run.
Innovators are exploring the capabilities of Electric Vehicles in the long run. Volkswagen, a prominent player in the EV industry, has released intriguing teaser renders of its upcoming plug-in-hybrid California concept camper. The official unveiling is scheduled for August 25 at the Caravan Salon show in Düsseldorf, Germany, with the production model slated for 2024. The new California concept is based on the extended version of the Multivan. One of its remarkable features is the pop-up roof, which, when deployed, adds an impressive 6.5 feet (about two meters) in height. To go alongside the overall camping experience, an extending awning is visible on both sides of the vehicle in the teaser images.
Another upgrade may feature a cozy sleeping area and a compact kitchen
Inside, the limited visuals hint at a carefully designed control panel overseeing functions like the thermostat, lighting, and a cooling box. As of now, this remains the only peek available into the camper’s cabin.
While the Multivan currently houses the eHybrid PHEV powertrain, with its 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and electric motor generating 215 horsepower, it’s uncertain whether the California concept will employ the same. The current battery promises up to 30 miles of purely electric drive.
Volkswagen California Concept Teaser, Image Credits: https://www.autoevolution.com/news/volkswagen-california-concept-teaser-reminds-us-of-the-great-westfalia-campers-219069.html#agal_5
CEO Carsten Intra of VW Commercial Vehicles shared insights at the annual press conference in March. “We’re looking to broaden our horizon with our camping models, delivering that unique California sensation. This includes not only digital enhancements for our Cali Community but also a range of new services post-purchase, and of course, our new California show car built on the Multivan.”
In addition to this, there’s a buzz around the anticipated 2025 launch of a California version of the ID. Buzz, Volkswagen’s electric camper. While specific details are under wraps, the expectations are high, with features like a cozy sleeping area and a compact kitchen.
Moreover, the ID. Buzz is set to make its U.S. debut in 2024, with a longer wheelbase than its European counterpart. With two available batteries and the GTX grade offering all-wheel drive, the future looks promising.
The virtual world is abuzz with the banter between two of tech’s most influential personalities – Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, and Elon Musk, who helms SpaceX, among other ventures. The important question on everyone’s mind is: will these tech titans actually face off in a ring match? As of now, the answer remains clouded.
This online banter may have the potential to turn into a Huge Event in the near future
Their online jabs started when Zuckerberg took to Threads to satirize Musk’s post about weightlifting, a supposed prep for the potential fight. The Meta CEO confidently stated he’s “always ready” for a duel with Musk. Interestingly, he mentioned a tentative date, August 26, but noted that Musk hadn’t given the green signal. “Don’t hold out too much hope,” Zuckerberg teased.
Credit: Twitter: Misha Fitton)
In a twist, Musk declared the match, if it transpires, would be broadcast “live” on X, with all earnings channelled towards a charity for veterans. Zuckerberg, not missing a beat, cheekily responded that they should “use a more reliable platform that can actually raise funds for charity.” Beyond the playful exchanges, Zuckerberg expressed his genuine love for the sport, emphasizing his readiness to face trained contenders.
The playful, and sometimes serious, differences between Zuckerberg and Musk are not new to the tech community. They’ve historically disagreed on subjects ranging from artificial intelligence and social media to space exploration. Zuckerberg, in late July, cast doubt on the actual occurrence of this much-anticipated match. As for official statements, Meta’s stance was cryptic, opting only to retweet Zuckerberg’s original post on Threads.
While it remains to be seen whether the battle will be in tweets or in the ring, the internet is eagerly watching.
Android users may soon find it easier to scan QR codes from a distance, thanks to a cutting-edge feature Google is developing. The tech giant is refining a code scanner that intuitively recognizes a QR code within the camera’s view, zooms into it, and then reads the code. Although not yet available on devices, Google has included it in their most recent APIs available to developers.
Acceleration in Artificial Intelligence has made this feature easier to implement
The innovation lies in the revamped Google QR Code Scanner API. While it powers Google’s native QR Code Scanner app, its versatility allows integration into third-party apps as well. A standout benefit for developers is the elimination of the need for camera permissions. This not only streamlines the user experience but also simplifies the development process.
A cornerstone of this feature is Google’s advancements in on-device machine learning. Instead of simply reading a QR code, the API interprets it, delivering only a Barcode object to the application, a move that fortifies user privacy. Although the intricate workings of this technology remain shrouded, the application of AI upscaling in other media sectors gives a hint of its capabilities.
Mishal Rahman, a noted Android authority, reveals that this auto-magnification trait has found its way into the latest ML Kit barcode scanning API library. This library, available through Google Play Services, hints that Android devices (version 13 and above) might soon flaunt this feature, given their reliance on the same library.
However, questions still exist. Will phones with subpar cameras leverage this feature effectively? And will it be exclusive to Google’s Pixel? As the feature’s rollout garners momentum, we’ll be watching closely, eager to witness its impact on the Android ecosystem.
Reliance has confirmed that its 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held at 2 pm (local time) in India. Here is a look at some of the announcements that the company is expected to make at its upcoming event.
Reliance AGM 2023
JioPhone 5G
Rumors are rife that Reliance Jio’s first 5G-enabled smartphone which is tentatively dubbed the JioPhone 5G will debut through the 2023 AGM meeting. According to a previous report by Android Central, the JioPhone 5G will arrive with a 6.5-inch IPS LCD HD+ display boasting a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels. Under the hood, it is expected to feature the Snapdragon 480 chipset, supported by 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage.
For selfies, it will have an 8-megapixel front camera. On the back, it will be equipped with a dual-camera system consisting of a 13-megapixel main sensor and a 2-megapixel macro sensor. Shown above are some of the leaked shots of the device that emerged in June.
Powering the device is a robust 5,000mAh battery with 18W fast charging capabilities. It is expected to support 5G bands, such as n3, n5, n28, n40, and n78 bands. It will offer other features, such as a side-fitted fingerprint sensor, a microSD card slot, and dual SIM support.
As far as price is concerned, the JioPhone 5G is likely to cost under Rs 10,000 (~$121). Hence, it is expected to arrive as the cheapest 5G phone in India. A recent report claimed that the device could be made available for purchase in the last quarter of 2023.
According to tipster Abhishek Yadav, the company confirm the availability details of the Jio AirFiber, which was announced last year. The brand is also expected to confirm its 5G plans.
HTC has quietly launched a new phone named the HTC Wildfire E Star in Africa. In terms of the design, it sports a waterdrop notch display with thick bezels all around. The rear shell of the device has HTC branding and a camera unit with an LED flash positioned at the upper-left corner. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the device.
HTC Wildfire E Star specifications and features
HTC Wildfire E Star
The HTC Wildfire E Star has a 6.5-inch LCD display that offers an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. At the heart of the device is the Unisoc SC9832E chipset. For security, it offers features like face unlock and a side-facing fingerprint sensor.
The Wildfire E Star comes with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage. For more storage, there is a microSD card slot on the device. It comes preloaded with Android 12 Go Edition. It has a 3,000mAh battery that supports 5W charging through a USB-C port.
On the back, the Wildfire E Star has an 8-megapixel camera, while its front features a 5-megapixel selfie camera. On the connectivity front, the Wildfire E Star comes with features like dual SIM, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The handset measures 164.8 x 76.5 x 9.2mm and weighs 200 grams.
HTC Wildfire E Star price and availability
At present, it is only known that the HTC Wildfire E Star will be released in Africa. There is no information on the price of the device.
In May, Realme launched the Realme 11 5G in China. The said device was rebranded as the Realme Narzo 60 5G in India. Recently, the brand announced the Realme 11 4G and the Realme 11 5G in markets like Taiwan and Vietnam. The Taiwanese variant, which features the Dimensity 6100+ chip, is a different model as compared to its Chinese edition. According to a new report by Appuals, the company is now working on a model named the Realme 11x 5G for India. The report has revealed the configurations and color options of the device for the Indian market.
Realme 11x 5G storage, color options (rumored)
Realme 11 5G
According to the report, the Realme 11x 5G will debut in India in two options, such as 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage. The device will come in two shades, such as Midnight Black and Purple Dawn.
It is unclear whether the Realme 11x 5G will sport the same design as the Realme 11 5G available in Taiwan and Vietnam. Also, there is no information about the specifications of the device.
Realme 11 5G specifications
The Realme 11 5G has a 6.72-inch LCD panel that offers a Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It has a 16-megapixel front camera and a 108-megapixel (main) + 2-megapixel (depth) dual-camera system. The device runs on Realme UI 4.0-based Android 13.
The Dimensity 6100+ chip, 8 GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging power the Realme 11 5G device. It has 256 GB of internal storage and a microSD card slot for more storage.
iQOO is reportedly working on the iQOO Z8 series of smartphones for the Chinese market. The lineup is expected to include two models, such as the iQOO Z8 and the iQOO Z8x. The Z8x was recently spotted in the database of the Geekbench benchmarking site. Now, the more powerful Z8 has appeared on Geekbench to reveal some of its key specifications.
iQOO Z8 Geekbench listing
iOQO Z8 5G Geekbench listing
The iQOO Z8 has appeared with model number V2314A on Geekbench. The listing reveals that the device is powered by the MediaTek MT6895 chipset, which is nothing but the Dimensity 8200 chipset.
The listing further states that the device has 12 GB of RAM and Android 13, which will have a layer of OriginOS 3.0 on top. It scored 1274 and 4034 points in the single-core and multi-core tests of Geekbench, respectively.
In comparison, the iQOO Z8x is expected to come equipped with the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip, 8 GB of RAM, and Android 13. Both smartphones are said to feature an FHD+ LCD panel that offers a 120Hz refresh rate.
The Z8 is also rumored to feature LPDDR5 RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging support. On the other hand, the Z8x is expected to pack a huge 6,000mAh battery and 80W charging. Both phones are said to arrive with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The other details of the Z8 series are expected to emerge in the next few days.
In related news, iQOO will soon launch the iQOO Z7 Pro 5G in India. As per reports, the device will offer key specs, such as a 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED curved-edge display, a Dimensity 7200 chipset, a 16-megapixel front camera, 64-megapixel triple rear cameras with OIS, Dimensity 7200, 8 GB / 12 GB of RAM, 128 GB / 256 GB of storage, and a 4,600mAh battery with 66W fast charging.
Xiaomi Mix Fold 3’s leaked shots have appeared to showcase its rear and internal designs for the first time. The images, which are now being circulated on Weibo, aligns with the schematic of the device that surfaced last month. While the predecessor models featured a triple camera unit, the leaked image reveals that the Mix Fold 3 will be equipped with a quad-camera unit.
Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 live shots
Xiaomi MIX Fold 3 leaked shot
The live shot of the Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 suggests that it could be equipped with a leather back. As can be seen, the protruding rectangle on the phone’s back will have four cameras on the left and the Leica branding, along with a pill-shaped unit with an LED flash on the right.
Some reports have claimed that the Mix Fold 3 will have the same quad-camera unit, that is available on the Xiaomi 13 Ultra. This indicates that the device could be equipped with an OIS-enabled 1-inch, Sony IMX989 50-megapixel primary camera, a 50-megapixel Sony IMX581 ultra-wide lens, a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with OIS with 3.2x optical zoom, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with OIS and 5x optical zoom. However, there are contradictory reports that claim that the device will have a Sony IMX800 50-megapixel main camera. Hence, it is advisable to wait for more reports to know more about its camera configurations.
The second image seemingly showcases the inner foldable screen of the MIX Fold 3. As can be seen, it offers a full-screen experience as the internal camera is not visible. The reason behind it is that it is said to be equipped with an under-display camera.
Xiaomi MIX Fold 3 leaked shot
Other reports have revealed that the Mix Fold 3 will come with a 3.36GHz Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, 512 GB / 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, and a 4,800mAh battery with 67W charging and 50W wireless charging. Several reports have claimed that the Mix Fold 3 foldable phone will launch with other devices, such as the Pad 6 Max tablet, the Redmi Pad 2 tablet, and the Redmi K60 Ultra, this month.
The newly released Lenovo Legion R25i-30 is a gaming-focused monitor in the Legion series. It boasts a high refresh rate IPS panel with wide color gamut coverage, making it suitable not only for gaming but also for creative workflows. Check out the detailed spec sheet below.
Lenovo R25i-30 gaming monitor specs
The Lenovo R25i-30 gaming monitor offers a 24.5-inch Full HD resolution display with a 165Hz refresh rate, which can be overclocked to 180Hz for smoother gameplay. Its impressive 0.5ms MPRT response time ensures minimal motion blur during fast-paced gaming sessions. The monitor boasts excellent color accuracy with 99% sRGB and 90% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage. The Lenovo R25i-30 supports 16.7 million colors with an 8-bit color depth and includes an anti-glare coating to reduce reflections and glare on the screen.
With DisplayHDR 400 certification, the monitor delivers improved contrast and dynamic range. Gamers will appreciate the AMD FreeSync Premium support, reducing screen tearing and stuttering when used with compatible graphics cards.
For audio, the integrated 2x 3W speakers offer decent sound output without the need for external speakers. To ensure eye comfort, the monitor features Natural Low Blue Light technology, reducing blue light emission during extended use.
The monitor’s peak brightness reaches 400 nits, and the typical brightness is 350 nits. The contrast ratio is 1000:1, and the dynamic contrast ratio is 3M:1. With wide viewing angles of 178° both horizontally and vertically, the monitor ensures clear visuals from various positions.
It has a power consumption of 18.5W typical and a maximum of 28W. The monitor’s voltage requirement is AC 100 to 240 V (50-60Hz), making it suitable for different power systems.
The brand is yet to unveil the pricing and availability details of the monitor, however, we expect them to be disclosed soon, so stay tuned.
Artificial intelligence technologies are spreading rapidly. For now, OpenAI leads the race with ChatGPT, while almost all tech companies are working to get a piece of the pie. However, Apple seemed to be moving slowly and not making visible strides in AI. But recent information shows that this might not be entirely true. It turns out that Apple is looking for talent in generative AI. Here are the details…
Apple looking for generative AI talent globally
It’s certainly impossible to know a company’s future plans, but if you pay attention to the clues, you can get an idea. In the case of Apple, these clues come from job advertisements. The tech giant recently posted many new job ads in the field of generative AI, an area where it seemed to have no plans before. Moreover, these job postings were not only published in the United States, but also in Europe and Asia.
One such posting highlighted, “We are seeking a candidate with a proven track record in applied ML research. Responsibilities in the role will include training large scale language and multimodal models on distributed backends, deployment of compact neural architectures such as transformers efficiently on device, and learning policies that can be personalized to the user in a privacy-preserving manner.”
Unfortunately, there is no detailed information about the company’s plans regarding artificial intelligence. However, some claims suggest that Apple will use this technology to make Siri smarter and more functional. Yes, there are many AI chatbots already on the market. But none of them have voice assistant features. If the company can prepare this technology before its competitors, it could take its already superior voice assistant experience to an entirely new level.
The Indian government recently announced controversial restrictions on the import of laptops, tablets, and certain personal computer categories, sparking immediate backlash from tech giants like Apple and Samsung. The policy, initially set to take effect immediately, has been pushed to November 1 after a three-month grace period was granted.
The move comes amid the launch of “JioBook 11 (2023)” by Reliance Jio, a company owned by India’s wealthiest individual, Mukesh Ambani. Priced at around $200, the affordable laptop mirrors a past incident when Reliance Jio introduced 4G phones during restrictions on foreign-made smartphones. Speculations arise regarding the timing and intent behind the import policy change, hinting at potential tensions between tech corporations and the Indian administration.
The primary reason for the government’s decision is to promote local manufacturing in the IT hardware sector. Major companies like Dell, Acer, Samsung, LG, Apple, and Lenovo, which rely on import-based business models for the Indian market, may face hurdles. Nevertheless, the move aims to boost domestic production and attract global tech giants to consider expanding their manufacturing units into India, away from China.
Interestingly, the DGFT’s (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) notification includes an exemption clause allowing up to 20 items per consignment to bypass import license requirements if they are intended for specific purposes such as research and development, testing, and product development.
To further boost domestic manufacturing capabilities, the Indian government launched the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) 2.0 IT hardware scheme. Notably, 44 companies, including HP, have shown interest and registered for the initiative. As the implementation deadline approaches, international companies are under pressure to secure the required licenses if they wish to maintain their market presence in India. Overall, this strategy showcases India’s ambitions to become a major player in IT hardware production and reduce reliance on imports.
Infinix recently debuted the GT 10 Pro smartphone in India, which comes equipped with a Dimensity 8050 5G processor, a Full HD+ resolution 120Hz display, and a 108-megapixel camera. The brand is also working on another smartphone called the Infinix Zero 30 5G which recently appeared on Geekbench.
The device has now emerged on the Google Play Console revealing some key specifications. The listing reveals that the device has a 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution and 480p screen density. The Infinix Zero 30 5G will run Android 13 right out of the box and offer a maximum of 8GB RAM. The Bluetooth SIG certification for this smartphone also disclosed that it will come equipped with Bluetooth 5.3.
According to the Google Play Console listing, the smartphone will be powered by an octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 1100 processor, accompanied by the 9x ARM Mali G77 GPU. Since MediaTek has renamed its chipsets, it will likely be called the Dimensity 8020 chipset. The listing does not reveal any further details.
Infinix Zero 5G 2023
The Infinix Zero 5G 2023, which was launched in February 2023 features a 6.79-inch IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2460 pixels. It runs on XOS 12-based Android 12 OS and is equipped with Dimensity 920 with 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage.
For photography, it has a 16-megapixel front camera with dual LED flash and a quad-camera setup on the back, including a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 2-megapixel macro camera, a 2-megapixel depth sensor, and an LED flash.
The smartphone is powered by a 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging support. Other features include dual SIM support, 5G connectivity, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
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