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Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 to feature “Dragon Scale Fiber” back cover

Xiaomi’s highly anticipated annual event, featuring Lei Jun’s speech and product launches, is scheduled for tonight at 7:00 PM Beijing time (11AM UTC). One of the most anticipated products of this event is the Mix Fold 3, which in the last-minute teaser shows it will have cutting-edge back cover material. 

Foldable phones are more likely to be damaged after falling than straight-screen phones because of their mechanical structure. Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 has improved its reliability to address this issue.

Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 with a “Dragon Scale Fiber” back cover

Xiaomi’s teaser for the upcoming foldable suggests that the phone will be incredibly durable. The teaser highlights the phone’s “Xiaomi Dragon Scale Fiber” body material. Made from a blend of ceramic fiber and aramid fiber composite material, the fiber undergoes a high-temperature, high-pressure composite molding process at 150℃. The result is a body material that is incredibly strong and resilient, making it much more resistant to damage from falls.

The “Dragon Scale Fiber” used in the device is said to have advantages, including high toughness, high strength, impact resistance, and puncture resistance. In fact, a ceramic fiber thinner than a strand of hair can withstand a stretching force of 1.15 kg without snapping. This is 36 times more impact resistant than glass!

Because of these advantages, the dragon scale fiber version of the Mix Fold 3 is expected to be more expensive than the standard version. The price may be 200-500 yuan more, but it looks worth it for the added durability.

In other respects, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 3 will use the keel hinge. This hinge has an integrated non-porous design on the upper surface, which allows the keel to turn in the unfolded state. This will help control the crease depth on the screen.

Likewise, the inner screen of the foldable is made of ultra-thin flexible glass that is 2.25 times stronger than the industry’s common CPI plastic film. This ensures the flatness of the screen and helps to prevent it from cracking or breaking. The screen has also been tested to withstand 200,000 folds with only a 10-micron crease change.

The internal screen also uses a Pol-less Plus low-power large display that consumes 52% less power than traditional screens. Powering the Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 is a 4500mAh battery and a battery management system composed of three surging chips. The foldable phone is launching today alongside Xiaomi Pad 6 Max and the Redmi K60 Ultra, so stay tuned.

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Top Tech News From Last Week: OnePlus Green Line Issue Fix, Panasonic Sues Oppo, GTA6 Development, & More


Last week was pretty interesting with new launches, a bunch of teasers, and some significant moves from OnePlus and Panasonic. Leading the pack of the top news, Realme teased its imminent 11-series debut in India, showcasing the prowess of a 108MP dual-camera system. In a goodwill gesture, OnePlus announced a lifetime warranty to address the notorious “green line” issue for their AMOLED panel users in the subcontinent.

On the legal frontier, Panasonic has opened a new chapter in tech patent wars, taking on giants Oppo and Xiaomi over alleged 4G tech infringements. Sony’s financial dichotomy also raised eyebrows: while their sales soared, profits took a dip. Meanwhile, in a rather audacious attempt, a Chinese smuggler’s tech treasure trove was intercepted, and Reliance Jio’s forthcoming 5G gadgetry became the talk of the town. Topping off the week, President Biden’s executive order delineated new boundaries in the US-China tech relationship, focusing on high-tech sectors.

For a breakdown of these headlines, check out our comprehensive summary of the past week’s tech news below.

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

Realme plans to launch a new smartphone in India, with an initial teaser showcasing the design. The Realme 11 series handset is expected to come in gold and black shades, with a dual-camera system. The Realme 11x 5G is also expected, with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. The launch will also feature the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro TWS earbuds.


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

OnePlus has addressed the “green line” issue on older OnePlus phones with AMOLED panels by offering a lifetime screen warranty for affected users in India. This service covers screen repairs and is only available for users in India. OnePlus is also offering free screen replacements and a voucher for upgrading to newer models.


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

Panasonic has filed legal action against Oppo and Xiaomi over 4G technology patents, accusing them of using their technology without permission. The European Union’s Unified Patent Court (UPC) is handling the case, which concerns four patents essential to 4G and 5G mobile communication standards. Panasonic and Kather Augenstein seek damages and an injunction. This marks the first major Standard Essential Patents campaign at the UPC, potentially influencing other SEP holders and manufacturers to ensure compliance.


Sony Knows How to Sell Its Products, But Doesn’t Know How to Make Money From Them

Sony experienced a 31% drop in profit in Q1 2023, but still experienced a 33% increase in total revenue. The company’s gaming division performed well, with PlayStation 5 sales up 38% year-on-year to 3.3 million units. Sony expects sales of 25 million PS5 units in the full year, and strong results from its image sensors and semiconductor businesses. However, the company expects its imaging sensors business to perform weaker due to dwindling smartphone sales and slow economic recovery in China.


Chinese smuggler caught with 837 CPUs, 10 SSDs & 900 RAM sticks in car’s undercarriage

A Chinese smuggler has been apprehended by Chinese customs officials for a massive cache of tech devices, including CPUs, SSDs, and RAM sticks. The cache was discovered during a routine search on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao bridge. The smuggler aims to make better profits on the mainland, where 13% VAT is applicable.


JioPhone 5G likely to launch by Q4 2023

Reliance Jio is set to unveil its first 5G-enabled smartphone, the JioPhone 5G, at its 46th Annual General Meeting in India. The device is expected to have a 6.5-inch IPS LCD HD+ display, Snapdragon 480 chipset, 4GB RAM, 32GB internal storage, 8-megapixel front camera, dual-camera system, 5,000mAh battery, and support for 5G bands. It is expected to be available in the last quarter of 2023.


Biden signs executive order restricting U.S. investments in High-Tech sectors in China

US President Joe Biden signed an executive order imposing restrictions on American investments in high-tech sectors like AI, semiconductors, and quantum technology in China, Hong Kong, and Macao. The order aims to prevent sensitive technology transfer to potentially adversarial nations and protect national security. China has expressed concern, but proponents argue it is necessary to prevent unauthorized acquisition of critical technologies. The Treasury Department will oversee the implementation, and public feedback is sought to ensure a well-informed execution.


Honor India shares new teaser, could be the upcoming Honor 90 series

Honor India has released a teaser hintsing at an upcoming launch in the Indian market, possibly hinting at the launch of the Honor 90 series. The teaser is a part of Honor’s comeback in the region, with a potential price tag of around 50,000 INR.


GTA 6 has reportedly been in development for nearly a decade

Rockstar Games is rumored to be in active development for Grand Theft Auto 6, a sequel to GTA 5. Work on the game began in 2008, following the same process for GTA 4. The game is expected to launch in 2024, and the studio is also working on two new games from the Bully franchise.


TSMC announces plans to manufacture 16/12nm chips in Europe by 2027

TSMC plans to manufacture 28/22nm and 16/12nm chips in Europe through a joint partnership with Robert Bosch, Infineon Technologies, and NXP Semiconductors. The European Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (ESMC) GmbH will invest over €10 billion and create up to 2,000 jobs. The fab will focus on older nodes for automotive microcontrollers.


Indian Smartphone Market Sees a Significant Shift In 2023, Premium Segment Thrives

After years, the Indian smartphone market is undergoing a significant transformation. A lot has changed over the last few quarters. The brand that used to rule the market is no longer at the top. The average selling price has risen due to consumers’ preference for more expensive devices. Although the top five brands are the same as before, their order has changed. 

Read more to find how brands are doing in the Indian smartphone market.


How to get Apple-inspired Design on Budget, ft. Realme C53 and Gizmore Cult

Realme C53 was recently released in India. Similarly, a few weeks back, Gizmore Cult, an affordable smartwatch debuted in the country. Both these products have two things in common. First and foremost, they are cheap. Secondly, they feature an Apple-inspired design. They seem like an iPhone Pro and Apple Watch Ultra at first look. But their design is not entirely Apple-like. So read this story to see how you can get an apple inspired design on a budget.


India’s Micromax reportedly bets on electric vehicles to make a comeback

Micromax, once a major player in India’s smartphone market, is now considering entering the electric vehicle market. The company has downsized its teams and eliminated jobs to support the venture. The company is renovating an office in Gurugram to start work on the EV market project.


OnePlus Ensemble Bundle Announced In India: Is It Worth Buying Over Standalone Devices?

OnePlus has announced the OnePlus Ensemble bundle, which includes the OnePlus 11 5G, Buds Pro 2 TWS earphones, and OnePlus Pad tablet. The bundle is priced at Rs. 1,13,997 and available for purchase on the brand’s website and six OnePlus Experience stores. It offers up to Rs 4,000 in instant bank discounts on ICICI Bank and OneCard, and up to 24 months of no-cost EMI on leading banks. The Ensemble bundle is significantly cheaper than buying the devices separately.


Google Pixel Watch 2 complete specs & features leaked

Google is working on a successor to its Pixel Watch, featuring a Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor and a 306mAh battery pack. The updated display will feature a 1.2-inch OLED panel with 384 x 384 resolution, allowing for battery-saving features and higher brightness. The smartwatch will run on Wear OS 4, based on Android 13. It will also support seamless updates, UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) technology, and retail animation. The watch will also double as a Digital Car key, enhancing its Find My Devices network.

OnePlus Ace 2 Pro to feature 50MP Sony IMX890 camera & Oppo’s flagship camera algorithms, image samples revealed

OnePlus is gearing up to launch the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro smartphone on August 16 in China. The device is expected to come with many exciting features like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and Wi-Fi 7 support. Now, OnePlus has officially revealed the primary camera details of the Ace 2 Pro.

OnePlus Ace 2 Pro

As per a new teaser, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro will come with the flagship Sony IMX890 sensor. The brand has previously used this sensor in smartphones like the OnePlus 11, the OnePlus 11R, the Nord 3, and the Nord CE 3. The device will feature optical image stabilization along with Oppo’s flagship image algorithm and image engine. The device will also borrow Oppo’s ProXDR photon matrix technology, which helps in achieving a more realistic dynamic range when clicking images in HDR mode.

Oppo has also provided some image samples which you can check out below.

OnePlus Ace 2 Pro specs

The smartphone is said to come with a 6.74-inch 120Hz 1.5K OLED display with HDR10+ and 450 ppi density. It will have a 120Hz refresh rate and a 1,600 nits peak brightness. Under the hood, it will feature the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC paired with up to 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and UP TO 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage technology.

The smartphone is said to draw its power from a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 150W fast charging. Cyan and Grey colors. In addition to that, the brand will also be launching a limited-edition OnePlus Ace 2 Pro x Genshin Impact smartphone soon.

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Moto E13 arrives in new 8GB RAM & 128GB storage variant in India

Earlier this year, Motorola launched the E13 model in India. The device is a budget smartphone, which launched in two storage configurations. But now, the company is launching a brand new variant that offers higher RAM and internal storage.

Moto E13 8GB + 128GB Pricing & Availability

The Moto E13’s new 8GB RAM and 128GB storage configuration is available in the same colors, namely Cosmic Black, Aurora Green, and Creamy White. It has a price tag of 8,999 INR and will go on sale starting on 16th August 2023. The smartphone can be purchased from Flipkart, the company’s official website, and leading retail stores like My Jio stores and even Jio Mart Digital. Motorola is also offering benefits worth up to 2,500 INR with the purchase of the new E13 variant.

Motorola

Moto E13 Specifications

Talking about the device itself, the Moto E13 sports a 6.5-inch LCD panel that has an HD+ resolution and 20:9 aspect ratio. Under the hood, it is equipped with the UNISOC T606 processor that is paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage that can be further expanded by up to 1TB via a microSD card slot. The device runs on Android 13 Go edition and has Dual SIM support.

On the back, the smartphone features a 13-megapixel primary camera on the back and a 5-megapixel selfie shooter. Other notable features include 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 10W charging, a 3.5mm headphone jack, Dolby Atmos support, Bluetooth 5.0, and IP52 splash resistance rating.

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Realme 11 5G charging & camera specs revealed ahead of India launch

The Realme 11 5G series is set to launch in India soon. But ahead of its announcement, the company has officially teased some of the key features related to Realme 11 5G’s camera and charging. So here are all the details.

Realme 11 5G camera

Realme 11 5G Specifications

As per official notes, the Chinese smartphone maker’s upcoming Realme 11 5G model will continue the tradition of “No leap-forward technology, no product launch”. For those unaware, it is a new mid-range handset. The device will sport a “flagship-level” 108-megapixel primary camera on the rear, which is a notable feature in this price segment.

The brand promises that the camera will deliver improved clarity along with 3x in-sensor zoom, which will use the HM6 sensor’s technology to offer shots comparable to optical zoom. Realme 11 5G will also provide great low-light photography as well thanks to the 9 in 1 binning technology. Apart from this, the HM6 sensor is capable of faster and more accurate focusing through PDAF-equipped pixels.

Realme 11 5G camera

Furthermore, the company also confirmed the charging capabilities of the Realme 11 5G. The device will feature 67W SuperVOOC fast charging, which will juice up the smartphone from 1 percent to 50 percent in just 17 minutes. A full 100 percent charge can be achieved in just 47 minutes. To ensure safety, Realme offers 38 levels of protection across the charging components to guarantee safety during fast charging.

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Fire-Boltt Marshal smartwatch with 1.43-inch” display, 123 sports modes & BT calling launched in India

After recently launching the Visionary Pro and Visionary Ultra smartwatches in India, Fire-Boltt has now debuted another wearable in the country called the Fire-Boltt Marshal. The watch has a premium look and comes with Bluetooth calling onboard. Check out the complete spec sheet and pricing below.

Fire-Boltt Marshal specs

The Fire-Boltt Marshal comes with an impressive 1.43-inch HD display that offers a clear and vibrant visual thanks to its LED panel. It comes with a large collection of watch faces that can be accessed via the cloud. The smartwatch features Bluetooth calling with call history, and a quick dial pad, making for a smartwatch-free calling experience. With its built-in mic and speaker, users won’t have to take out their phones to answer or make calls. The device is equipped with two push buttons for convenient navigation.

Fire-Boltt Marshal

On the activity front, the Fire-Boltt Marshal comes with an impressive 123 sports modes, catering to various preferences and workout routines. Additionally, it provides voice assistant support, enabling convenient access to the voice assistant on your smartphone. Health monitoring features include sleep tracking, SpO2 measurement, heart rate tracking, and even menstrual tracking.

Beyond its fitness and communication functions, the Fire-Boltt Marshal offers a variety of additional features such as built-in games, a calculator, a drink water reminder, smart notifications, weather updates, music control, and even camera control. This multifunctional device is powered by a 400mAh battery, ensuring sustained usage without frequent recharging.

Pricing & availability

The Fire-Boltt Marshal has been launched at an introductory price of Rs. 2,499 and is offered in three color options: Silver, Black, and Gold. It can be purchased from the brand’s website.

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GTA 6 rumored to feature a Dynamic Hair Growth system inspired by RDR2

Grand Theft Auto 5 is one of the most popular Open-World games of all time, having been released in 2013. The fans have been eagerly waiting for Grand Theft Auto 6 ever since. Rockstar is working hard to make the open-world games more realistic, and according to a recent report, the game is speculated to have a dynamic hair growth system much like in Red Dead Redemption 2.

dynamic hair growth

In a recent tweet by GTA 6 NEWS, GTA 6 is rumored to have a dynamic hair growth system which was featured in Rockstar’s popular open-word Western game Red Dead Redemption 2. Implementing this feature in GTA 6 could be Rockstar’s attempt to make the game more realistic.

What is a dynamic hair growth system?

For those unaware or those who have yet to get a chance to play RDR2, dynamic hair growth is a system that allows your character to grow their hair and beard over time. This will also enable the players to make their characters more customizable according to the size of their hair and beard, providing the game with a more realistic feel.

Rockstar is yet to make an official announcement as to whether this feature is truly in-game and when we can expect the launch of GTA 6. However, according to recent reports, the GTA 6 is said to be in development for nearly a decade and could launch somewhere near 2024, along with another highly expected title called Bully 2.

In related news, GTA 5 online players are advised to pick up their iFruit phone and get in touch with Lamar Davis, our most infamous deuteragonist, as you can earn up to 3x GTA$ and RP points on Lamar Davis missions and Taxi mission for a limited time.

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Realme GT 5’s latest teaser hints at Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, imminent launch

Today, Xu Qi, the President of Realme China, took to Weibo to share an update about the upcoming Realme GT 5. He released a poster asking, “Why haven’t any of the over 30 second-generation Snapdragon 8 flagship models truly reached the pinnacle of performance?” (machine translated).

Realme GT 5 SD8G2
Realme GT 5 teaser hints Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

It is now evident that the Realme GT5 will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. Furthermore, a new Weibo post by tipster Digital Chat Station claims that the GT 5 will be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 24GB of RAM, and super-fast 240W charging. He added that the device will be equipped with a 1.5K resolution display (OLED) that supports high-frequency dimming.

Realme GT 5 specifications (rumored)

Realme GT 5 leaked image
Realme GT 5 leaked image

As per reports, the Realme GT 5 is said to be equipped with a 6.74-inch OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. For selfies, the device will feature a 16-megapixel front camera. The rear camera setup of the phone will have a Sony IMX890 50-megapixel primary camera with OIS support. It will be accompanied by an 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera and a 2-megapixel macro camera.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered Realme GT 5 will come with 16GB / 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM, and 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The GT 5 will come in two battery variants, each offering a different charging capability. The GT 5 variant with a 4600mAh battery will support 240W fast charging, while its 5200mAh battery variant will offer 150W fast charging.

Realme is still silent on the launch date of the Realme GT 5. With August already halfway through and no major teaser from the brand, it appears that the GT 5 may debut by the end of the month in China.

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Noise Buds VS102 Neo with 11mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 & ENC tech launched in India

Earlier this year, Noise launched the Buds VS102 Pro in India, arriving as an affordable pair of earbuds with 25dB ANC. The brand has now launched an even more affordable version of those earbuds, calling it the Noise Buds VS102 Neo. While these earbuds do not feature active noise cancellation, they incorporate environmental noise cancellation technology, effectively eliminating background noise for clear and uninterrupted call experiences.

Noise Buds VS102 Neo

Noise Buds VS102 Neo specs

The Noise Buds VS102 Neo comes with 11mm drivers that promise rich audio quality. For connectivity, it is equipped with Bluetooth v5.3, ensuring a stable and efficient wireless connection. The earbuds offer touch controls, making navigation and control of audio playback convenient. One of its standout features is the quad microphone setup featuring Environmental Noise Cancellation Technology, optimized for crystal-clear call quality even in noisy environments.

Noise Buds VS102 Neo

In terms of battery life, the Noise Buds VS102 Neo doesn’t disappoint. It offers up to 40 hours of playback time when you combine both the earbuds and the case. The Instacharge fast charging support is particularly noteworthy, providing an impressive 120 minutes of playback with just 10 minutes of charging time.

The Hyper Sync Technology enables quick pairing, streamlining the connection process between the earbuds and your device. Additionally, these earbuds have an IPX5 rating, making them resistant to splashes and sweat, perfect for worry-free use during workouts and outdoor activities.

Price & availability

Priced at an introductory rate of Rs. 999, the Noise Buds VS102 Neo TWS is available in an array of colors such as Carbon Black, Ice Blue, Olive Green, Pearl Pink, and Soft Lilac. These earbuds can be purchased starting from August 15th at 12 p.m. on the Noise Website and Flipkart.

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Tecno Pova 5, Pova 5 Pro price in India, sale date officially confirmed

Last week, Tecno unveiled the Pova 5 and Pova 5 Pro in India. The Pova 5 Pro is Tecno’s first phone with a rear-facing Arc interface. It consists of three LED light strips that converge on each other to form a triangle. The Arc interface can glow for notifications, charging, gaming, and more. Here is a look at the price and specifications of both smartphones.

Tecno Pova 5, Pova 5 Pro price in India

Tecno Pova 5
Tecno Pova 5

The Pova 5, which comes with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, is priced at Rs 11,999 (~$145). On the other hand, the Pova 5 Pro comes in two options, 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. These are priced at Rs 14,999 (~$180) and Rs 15,999 (~$193), respectively.

Both phones will be available for purchase through Amazon starting Aug. 22. The Pova 5 comes in three shades: Mecha Black, Amber Gold, and Hurricane Blue. On the other hand, the Pova 5 Pro can be bought in colors like Dark Illusion and Fantasy Silver. 

Tecno Pova 5, Pova 5 Pro specifications and features

Tecno Pova 5 Pro
Tecno Pova 5 Pro

The Pova 5 has a 6.78-inch IPS LCD Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is a 4G LTE phone that comes equipped with a Helio G99 chipset and has a 6,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. The Pova 5 Pro has the same display, but it is a 5G-ready phone that is powered by the Dimensity 6080 chipset and has a 6,000mAh battery with 68W fast charging.

Both phones have 8GB of RAM, 8GB of virtual RAM, and 128GB or 256GB of storage. They also have a microSD card slot for expandable storage.

On the back, the Pova 5 has a dual-camera system consisting of a 50-megapixel main camera and an AI lens, with dual-LED flash. The Pova 5 Pro has a triple-camera system consisting of a 50-megapixel main camera, a 2-megapixel camera, and an AI lens, with dual-LED flash. For selfies, the Pova 5 has an 8-megapixel snapper, while the Pro version is equipped with a 13-megapixel front camera.

The Pova 5 and Pova 5 Pro are equipped with a VC liquid cooling system for heat dissipation. Other common features of the Pova 5 series include a side-facing fingerprint scanner, face unlock, dual SIM, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, a USB-C port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a z-axis linear motor. While Pova 5 Pro features the Arc interface, it is unavailable on the Pova 5.

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Vivo Pad Air with Snapdragon 870 launched in China for CNY 1,799 (~$248), packs up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage

Last week, Vivo announced the Vivo Pad Air in China but did not confirm its price and availability. Today, the brand officially confirmed that it will come in four configurations and have a starting price of CNY 1,799 (~$248) in China.

Vivo Pad Air specifications

Vivo Pad Air
Vivo Pad Air

The Vivo Pad Air features an 11.5-inch LCD screen with 2.8K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, 3:2 aspect ratio, 10-bit color, and P3 color gamut. On the front, it has a 5-megapixel front camera, while the rear shell has an 8-megapixel rear camera without flash.

The Pad Air offers a quad-speaker system and packs an 8,500mAh battery with 44W fast charging. The device is powered by the Snapdragon 870 chipset, LPDDR5 RAM, and up to 512GB of UFS 3.1 storage. It runs Android 13 and OriginOS 3.0, which is a custom skin designed for tablets.

The Vivo Pad Air supports the Vivo Pencil 2 stylus. In terms of connectivity, it offers options like up to 5GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and USB-C (USB 3.0). The rear shell is made of metal. The tablet measures 6.67mm in thickness and weighs 530 grams.

Vivo Pad Air price in China

The Vivo Pad Air comes in four configurations: 8GB RAM + 128GB storage, 8GB RAM + 256GB storage, 12GB RAM + 256GB storage, and 12GB RAM + 512GB storage. These variants are priced at CNY 1,799 (~$248), CNY 1,999 (~$276), CNY 2,299 (~$317), and CNY 2,599 (~$359), respectively. It can be purchased in three colors: Free Blue, Brave Power, and Easy Silver.

The Pad Air is available for pre-order in China and set to go on sale on Aug. 18. There is no word on the Pad Air’s availability outside of China.

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Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G renders reveal circular cover display, spec sheet also leaks

In recent years, the trend of foldable smartphones has gained significant traction, despite their relatively high cost. Earlier this year, Tecno entered the foldable market with its inaugural device, the Phantom V Fold. Surprisingly, this offering was priced nearly 50% lower than competitors like the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Now, Tecno is preparing to introduce another product: the mid-range flip phone named Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G. Notable leak source Paras Guglani has revealed images and specifications of this upcoming device.

Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G

According to a recent article on Newzonly, insider Paras Guglani has unveiled the rendered images of the upcoming Phantom V Flip 5G. The design of the smartphone is particularly intriguing due to its unique approach to the cover display. Unlike the conventional separation of cameras and the display, Tecno has chosen to integrate a circular cover display, encircled by the camera ring.

Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G specs

On the back, the device will feature a dual camera setup made up of  64MP AF + 13MP sensors. On the front, the phone is said to come with a 32MP camera.

Tecno
Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G leaked hands-on image

The outer display of the device will have a 1.32″ AMOLED panel with 466×466 resolution. On the inside, the device will feature a 6.9″ AMOLED screen along with 1080×2640 resolution. It will feature a MediaTek Dimensity 8050 chipset under the hood, paired up with 8GB of RAM and 256GB storage.

Like other foldables on the market, the Phantom V Flip 5G will also come with a dual battery configuration, made up of 1165 mAh and 2735 mAh batteries, which will likely be marketed as 4000 mAh capacity. It will boot Android 13 out of the box and will come in Minimal black, Film White, and Periwinkle Purple color options.

Additionally, the report mentions that the smartphone will support a total of 14 different 5G bands. The initial teaser for the Phantom V Flip 5G is said to be released next month. Subsequently, it is reasonable to assume that the brand will officially launch the device around the month of October.

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Mahindra e-Alfa Super Electric Rickshaw with practicality and utility launched in India

Mahindra has unveiled a new electric three-wheeler that is viewed as a utilitarian workhorse. The new Mahindra e-Alfa Super is Mahindra’s choice for modernizing the Indian three-wheeler market. The e-Alfa Super is a utility vehicle that is described as a super rickshaw – but powered by an electric motor.

Mahindra e-Alfa Super electric Richshaw

India has long had three-wheelers as part of its transportation system. Three-wheelers are used as urban mobility solutions both in private and ride-sharing scenarios. They are also capable of being deployed as cargo vehicles due to their practicality and affordability. Three-wheelers combine the mechanical simplicity of a motorcycle with the hauling capabilities of a small truck.

Mahindra is one of the leading automotive manufacturers in India and the e-Alfa Super is manufactured by Mahindra Last Mile Mobility. The new electric three-wheeler comes with a superior range and best-in-class safety and comfort features. The e-Alfa Super comes with a tougher and more durable build than the standard e-Alfa.

Mahindra has sold more than 50,000 units of the e-Alfa since it was released. The company says the e-Alfa Super can withstand rough daily usage in meeting mobility or haulage needs. The e-Alfa Super has a 140Ah lead-acid battery pack and an electric motor that outputs 1.64kW and delivers a torque of 22Nm. The upgraded Mahindra e-Alfa can achieve a range of 95km on a single charge.

Mahindra e-Alfa Super electric Richshaw

Mahindra already has more than 10,000 charging stations across India and this further enhances the utility of the e-Alfa Super. The vehicle also comes with an 18A charger although the performance of this charger was not specified. Mahindra is offering a 12-month Warranty on the charger. Furthermore, the company is also offering an 18-month warranty on the battery. Mahindra has more than 1,100 service centers supporting the EV across India.

The Mahindra e-Alfa Super is priced at Rs. 1.61 Lakh (~$1,942) ex-showroom and its availability is dependent on the local government’s approvals for e-rickshaws.

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Blaupunkt EM01 earphone with mic launched in India for Rs. 599 ($7)

Blaupunkt has launched the EM-01 Type-C wired earphone with a mic in India. The Blaupunkt EM01 features a digital Type-C connector for audio inputs from smartphones or other gadgets. The incorporation of the digital Type-C connector on the EM01 provides improvements in audio quality. The cleaner data connection provides enhanced fidelity for the audio range and the feature is being extended to other Blaupunkt audio products.

Blaupunkt EM01 earphone

The Blaupunkt EM01 wired earphones with a mic deliver clearer conversations, deeper bass, and greater clarity in music. The EM01 can be deployed excellently in gaming applications because the connection strength for games is enhanced. Blaupunkt is promising an immersive gaming experience when using the EM01 wired earphones. The EM01 also features Passive Noise Cancellation and in-line controls, together with 10mm drivers. The EM01 earphone cables are tangle-free and the earphones are wholly made in India.

The improved digital Type-C connection is also extended to the Blaupunkt SBA30 Soundbar, which provides improvements in audio quality and charging speed. The Blaupunkt EM01 wired earphone with mic is priced at Rs. 599 (~$7). However, the original price of the earphone is Rs. 1,299 ($16).

Blaupunkt EM01 earphone

Interested buyers can purchase the EM01 from Amazon India. Blaupunkt has not provided any pricing and availability details for the earphones for overseas markets. It is however expected that the EM01 wired earphones with mic could ship to a sprinkling of overseas markets later.

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OnePlus Ace 2 Pro teased to feature Wi-Fi 7, launching on August 16

The OnePlus Ace 2 Pro is set to launch on August 16 in China. According to previous reports, the smartphone is developed to be a cost-effective variant of the OnePlus 11. As the launch date draws near, a new teaser has emerged online revealing that the OnePlus Ace 2 pro will support the Wi-Fi 7 protocol. Check out the details below.

OnePlus Ace 2 Pro Wifi 7

According to the post, we have found that the new Ace 2 Pro will be equipped with Wi-FI 7 protocol which will provide a much faster Wi-Fi speed and increased bandwidth, making the device easy to run at full network speed. One thing to note is that Wi-Fi 7 has not been officially released yet, but as per the teaser, OnePlus Ace 2 Pro will be a future-proof smartphone that will support Wi-Fi 7.

What is Wi-Fi 7?

Wi-Fi 7 is the 7th generation of Wi-Fi and is said to be four times faster than its predecessor, Wi-Fi 6E, with reduced latency, increased capacity, and boosted stability. The reduced latency and improved reliability will help with emerging applications like VR / AR, online gaming, remote office, and cloud computing. According to earlier reports, Wi-Fi 7 could be launched in late 2024.

Earlier reports have revealed that the Ace 2 Pro could feature a 6.74-inch 1.5K OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate backed by its 5,000mAh battery with 150W wired charging support. Under the hood, the device is rumored to have a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip along with 24GB LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. The device is said to have a 50MP primary camera, accompanied by 32MP telephoto shooter and 48MP ultra-wide unit for a premium photography experience.

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Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 teased in a hands-on video by Lei Jun revealing a premium build, hover camera function

Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 is set to launch on August 14th. Ahead of the launch, the company’s CEO, Lei Jun has teased the Mix Fold 3 in a video, revealing an interesting time-lapse camera mode and an appealing leather rear panel.

In the post, Lei Jun showcased the first product experience video to us. According to the video, the smartphone’s build seems thin and light in weight. The leather rear panel provides the phone with a more premium feel. In addition to that, Lei Jun has also demonstrated the hover camera function, which is an interesting and convenient way of capturing time-lapse video. Through the video, we also get an idea of the camera quality coming with the Mix Fold 3. With the help of this teaser, Lei Jun proves that this foldable phone will be worth waiting for. Previous reports have unveiled the key specs of Mix Fold 3, which are provided below.

Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 Key specs

xiaomi mix fold 3

Mix Fold 3 will come with an 8.02-inch AMOLED panel with 2k resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the device is rumored to be powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC which will be backed by a 4,800mAh battery and a 67W wired charging. Xiaomi ran a test where they kept a Mix Fold 3 on with a white screen. The device’s battery lasted about 8 hours and 20 minutes in this test, which is 52% longer than the previous version. Lastly, the device will have a 50MP primary camera, including a 5x periscope telephoto lens and a 3.2x portrait lens.

At this event, we also expect the launch of the Xiaomi Pad 6 Max and the Redmi K60 Ultra, so stay tuned.

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Teclast M50 Pro lightweight and affordable tablet launched in Europe

Teclast has unveiled the M50 Pro tablet in the European market. The Teclast M50 Pro is a lightweight tablet that comes with an affordable price tag. It is priced under €200 (~$219) and features a 10.1-inch display. The new Teclast tablet is powered by a Unisoc Tiger T616 chipset with 8GB of RAM.

Teclast M50 Pro

The release of the M50 Pro is coming on the heels of the earlier launch of the T40 Air. The M50 Pro is a cheaper version of the T40 Air and also weighs less than its predecessor. The M50 Pro weighs 435g and has a thickness of 7.8mm. The M50 Pro is however slightly thicker than the T40 Air.

The Teclast M50 Pro has a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a 120Hz touch sampling rate. As per brightness, the tablet has a maximum brightness of 350 nits. It has a screen-to-body ratio of 83%, with a 5MP front-facing camera contributing to the low screen-to-body ratio.

Teclast M50 Pro

The M50 Pro offers 256GB of storage that is expandable. The tablet comes with Android 13 out of the box. It has an LTE modem and a Nano SIM card slot. The new Teclast tablet supports Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Teclast M50 Pro

The M50 Pro lightweight tablet is available in a single blue colorway. It is priced at €185.95 (~$204) in the Eurozone but sold on Amazon for €199.99 (~$219).

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Apple Watch X is in works, major overhaul and magnetic bands expected

Apple is reportedly preparing a major overhaul for its iconic Apple Watch, with the potential release of the “Apple Watch X” around 2024 or 2025, marking the device’s ten-year anniversary. This upcoming model is expected to bring the most significant changes in the watch’s history after a series of smaller updates.

Apple Watch 8 series

Apple Watch X with the biggest overhaul yet on the 10th Anniversary

According to insights from tech analyst Mark Gurman, the Apple Watch X could feature a sleeker design and introduce a new magnetic system for attaching bands. The current design, where bands are slid into the sides and locked, takes up valuable space inside the device, limiting improvements like larger batteries.

Gurman suggests that Apple is exploring a magnetic attachment method that might offer more space for enhancements, possibly impacting band compatibility. However, details about how this system will work in the Watch X remain uncertain.

Beyond the aesthetic changes, the Watch X might also introduce advanced elements like a micro-LED screen and sensors for tracking blood pressure. As per 9to5mac, this transformation could be as significant as the shift from the iPhone 7 to the iPhone X, potentially signifying a change in Apple’s approach.

Earlier reports mentioned a potential delay in launching microLED-equipped Apple Watches due to production chain reconfiguration, pushing the release from 2025 to 2026. However, this new report contradicts the earlier report.

Apple’s tradition of launching a new Apple Watch with incremental improvements has been consistent since the launch. Yet, Gurman’s insights hint at internal discussions about slowing down this rapid cycle, as new versions have shown diminishing novelty.

With the Apple Watch Series 9 expected to be a minor refresh this fall, all eyes are on the upcoming anniversary model. As Apple continues to explore radical solutions to re-engineer the Watch, fans, and industry experts will be eagerly awaiting more details on what could be a milestone in wearable technology.

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OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC neckband earbuds Indian sale set for August 17

OnePlus has recently introduced the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC earbuds in the Indian market. These earbuds are designed for individuals who favor a neckband style over true wireless earbuds and seek effective active noise cancellation capabilities. The availability of these earbuds has now been announced.

In a recent tweet, OnePlus revealed that the sale of the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC earbuds will commence starting August 17 at 12 PM. These earbuds will be available to purchase on Amazon India and the OnePlus official website.

OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC specs

The OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC earbuds boast a Hybrid Noise Cancellation capability that can effectively reduce ambient noise by up to 45 dB. This feature is supported by a 3-microphone setup, which is enhanced by AI Call Noise Cancellation for clearer calls even in noisy environments.

OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC

With a remarkable 28-hour battery life, these earphones offer prolonged usage. They also support fast charging, with just 10 minutes of charging providing approximately 20 hours of playback time for the neckband.

The earbuds employ 12.4 nm Dynamic Drivers to deliver an immersive audio experience with rich sound quality and powerful bass. In terms of durability, these headphones hold an IP55 Water and Sweat Resistance rating, making them suitable for various workouts.

For OnePlus device users, convenient quick pairing is available through the integration of Google Fast Pair2, allowing for seamless connectivity between the neckband and your device.

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Hexgears Hyeku F2 ergonomic mechanical keyboard launched for 1299 yuan ($179)

Hexgears (Black Canyon) has introduced its latest product in the mechanical keyboard market – the Hyeku F2 ergonomic mechanical keyboard. It’s now available for pre-order starting at 1299 yuan ($179) through various e-commerce platforms. The Hyeku F2 keyboard is designed to serve both casual and professional users.

Hexgears Hyeku F2 ergonomic mechanical keyboard specifications:

The F2 keyboard features an ergonomic design, built with the comfort of the user in mind. Ergonomic keyboards promote a natural wrist and forearm posture, enhancing typing comfort by minimizing wrist movements.

The keyboard is crafted from a single piece of high-quality aluminum alloy, the construction promises durability while offering a sleek appearance. It’s available in four colors: Crimson Wine, Silver Azure, Coral Twilight, and Ink Bamboo Gold.

The Hexgears Hyeku F2 mechanical keyboard offers two switch options: Deep Sea BOX Switch Pro and BlackBerry Ice Cream Switch Pro. These switches provide diverse typing experiences to suit different preferences in keystroke feel and responsiveness. The inclusion of the innovative GASKET structure and support for hot-swappable switches for all keys enhances customization and adaptability.

The keyboard comes with a magnetic wristrest and an optional full aluminum carbon fiber wristrest, improving ergonomics for extended usage. These additions cater to users like gamers, programmers, writers, and professionals who spend long hours at the keyboard.

The keyboard features triple connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (2.4G), and wired connections. The keyboard is also compatible with Windows, MacOS, and Android OS. It enhances its versatility, and compatibility across different platforms and situations, offering flexibility for both gaming and professional tasks. With a built-in 5800mAh battery, it provides extended usage without frequent charging, catering to those who prioritize mobility and consistent performance.

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