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Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus With AMOLED Display And Apple Watch Ultra-Like Design Launched In India

Fire-Boltt has launched a new smartwatch that resembles the Apple Watch Ultra. Previously also, the brand has launched smartwatches that look similar to the Cupertino-based tech giant’s wearable device. The latest offering from the homegrown brand is called Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus. It is an upgraded version of the Gladiator that was announced in December last year. 

Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus specifications and features

The Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus is pretty much identical to the Apple Watch Ultra in terms of design. It has a square dial with a rotating crown and a physical button on the right side. The smartwatch features a metal body that is said to be crack-resistant. There is an IP67 certification making it resistant to dust and splashes. 

The Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus comes with a large 1.96-inch AMOLED display bearing a resolution of 410 x 502 pixels. It offers a 600 nits peak brightness and Always-on display mode. 

Coming to the health-centric and fitness features, the Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus is equipped with a heart-rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, sleep tracker, and menstrual cycle tracker for women. The device also reminds users to hydrate themselves and the sedentary reminder alerts them to keep moving. The wearable device packs is capable of monitoring more than 115 sports modes. 

The Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus enables users to make calls directly from the smartwatch with the built-in speaker, mic, and Bluetooth calling feature. The device comes with 2048 and Flappy Bird built-in games. There are convenient features like a calculator, weather updates, social notifications, and more. 

The Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus comes in Nylon, Silicon, and Metal strap versions. The former two are offered in Black, Blue, Orange, Beige, and Green colors. These are priced at Rs 2,999. The metal strap options are available in Black, Blue, Silver, Grey, and Rose Gold hues. These cost Rs 3,499. The smartwatch is available for purchase from Amazon

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Huawei Mate 60 Renders Leaked: A Strong Rival to the iPhone 15

Huawei is undoubtedly the most unlucky company among smartphone manufacturers. It captured the attention of all technology enthusiasts in the 2010s with its great phones like Mate 20 series and aimed to be the global market leader. However, the company has been facing challenging times since 2019 due to the US embargo. Despite losing a significant portion of its market share in almost every country outside China, Huawei has no intention of giving up. The tech giant is currently working on the Mate 60, which is expected to be one of the strongest competitors of the iPhone 15. Most recently, render images of this stunning phone have emerged. Here are the details…

Huawei Mate 60 Render Leaks Show a Stunning Design

In today’s world, keeping secrets is quite difficult and Huawei is no better at this than all the other tech companies in the market. The good part of this is that tech enthusiasts like us get to learn about the products they are eagerly waiting for much before their release.

Most recently, a blogger leaked render images of the Huawei Mate 60. As shown in the images, the phone has three cameras on the back in a round design similar to the Mate 40 Pro. The flash module is located at the top.

The phone in the image appears to be matte black and looks resistant to fingerprints. This is great news for users who prefer to use their phone without a case. The golden color of the logo and around the camera island adds a stylish look. Unfortunately, there is no image showing the front of the device. However, since we know what to expect, this is not a problem.

One of the most notable features of the Huawei Mate 60 series is that it will come with a Dynamic Island type (Spirit Island) pill-shaped front camera. This area will be interactive, just like on Apple’s phones. The Huawei Mate 60 series is expected to be launched with the HarmonyOS 4.0. This new operating system, which will be revealed on August 4, is anticipated to introduce many new features and elevate Huawei phones to a new level, making it easier to compete with iOS and Android.

Huawei has not yet revealed the official release date for the Mate 60 series. However, some reports suggest it might be launched in September or October of 2023.

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The Nubia Red Magic Esports Mechanical Keyboard Goes On Presale: Comes with 1.47-Inch Display at 899 Yuan

Marketing and advertising strategies are very important for smartphone manufacturers. For this reason, companies often collaborate in various ways to increase their recognition. We recently saw one of the most tangible examples of this with products named “Xiaomi Civi 3 Disney 100th Anniversary Limited Edition”. Now, Nubia Red Magic has done a similar project for its mechanical keyboard. The company has partnered with the beloved Transformers movie series and has opened pre-sales for its keyboard inspired by Bumblebee. Here are the details…

Nubia’s Red Magic Esports Mechanical Keyboard Super Edition Now Available for Presale

The Nubia Red Magic Esports Mechanical Keyboard Super Edition is inspired by Bumblebee and features a striking black and yellow design. It is made with durable PBT keycaps and has a compact layout of 100 keys. The TTC Quick Silver V2 shafts and a unique CASKET structure work together to reduce noise and vibration from typing.

Nubia Red Magic mechanical keyboard

One of the most unique features of the Red Magic Esports Mechanical Keyboard Super Edition is its hot-swappable design. This means that you can swap out the switches on each key without having to desolder the keyboard. This gives you the flexibility to customize the feel and performance of your keyboard to your liking.

The keyboard also features a 1.47-inch display that can be used to display useful information, such as the time, battery level, and keystrokes per minute. The display can also be used to show off custom wallpapers. In terms of connectivity, the Red Magic Esports Mechanical Keyboard Super Edition can be connected to your devices via wired, 2.4GHz wireless, or Bluetooth. It also has a large 4000mAh battery that can last for up to 200 hours on a single charge.

The Red Magic Esports Mechanical Keyboard Super Edition is available for presale now for 899 Yuan. It is expected to start shipping in early August.

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Poco Pods TWS earbuds unveiled in India with complete spec sheet, sale starts tomorrow

Xiaomi’s sub-brand, Poco, has recently launched its inaugural true wireless earbuds in India, named the Poco Pods. These earbuds boast an array of appealing features, including Bluetooth v5.3 LE, sweat resistance, and large drivers, all while being budget-friendly. Let’s delve into the specifics of what they have to offer.

Poco

Poco Pods earbuds specs

The Poco Pods earbuds offer Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, ensuring stable wireless connections to your devices. The SBC codec enables high-quality audio streaming for better sound performance.

The earbuds come with Google Fast Pair, making the pairing process quick and effortless with Android devices. Designed for music enthusiasts, the 12mm drivers are intended to provide professional-level bass, offering a rich and immersive sound experience. The inclusion of Environmental Noise Cancellation technology helps block out ambient noise, allowing users to focus on their music or calls without distractions.

Poco Pods

For gaming enthusiasts, the 60ms Low-latency Gaming Mode reduces latency for a more responsive and immersive gaming experience. The earbuds also feature touch controls, allowing users to manage music playback, answer calls, and activate their voice assistant (Siri or Google Voice) conveniently.

In terms of durability, the POCO Pods have an IPX4 rating, making them splash-resistant and suitable for various outdoor activities. The earbuds house a 34mAh battery, providing up to 5 hours of playback on a single charge, while the 440mAh battery in the charging case offers 30 hours of backup power. Additionally, the fast charging feature allows for 90 minutes of music playback with just a 10-minute charge.

Pricing & availability

The POCO Pods are competitively priced at Rs 1,199 in the Indian market. Following the brand’s trend, these earbuds will be exclusively available for purchase on Flipkart. Interested customers can buy them starting from July 29.

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Pebble Revolve Smartwatch With 3 Changeable Dial Casing Launched In India

Pebble has expanded its range of smartwatches in India. The latest offering from the brand is dubbed the Pebble Revolve. It falls under the Rs 4,000 price segment and competes against other smartwatches offered by brands like Noise, boAt, Fire-Boltt, and more in the market. Read on to know what the device offers out of the box. 

Pebble Revolve specifications and features

The Pebble Revolve has a circular dial. The striking highlight is that the dial casing is changeable and comes in three options. The device is also offered in three removable strap options. This gives users the option to customize the look of the smartwatch depending on their preferences. The smartwatch features a 1.39-inch HD display with a 550 nits peak brightness and Always-On display mode. There is IP67 water-resistant rating and a rotating crown for navigation. 

In terms of fitness, the Pebble Revolve is equipped with a heart-rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, female cycle tracker, and sleep monitor. The wearable device packs support for multiple sports modes.

The Pebble Revolve comes with Bluetooth calling feature that also offers access to call logs and a dial pad. It has support for voice assistants. The wearable device packs convenient features like a notification display, weather updates, calendar, camera and music control, alarm, and more. It is powered by a 230mAh battery unit that is claimed to last up to seven days on a full charge. 

The Pebble Revolve is priced at Rs 3,499 and offered in Classic Metal, Soft Silcion, and Premium Leather strap options. It can be purchased from the brand’s website and Flipkart.

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Samsung Galaxy M44 5G With Snapdragon 888 SoC Spotted On Geekbench

Samsung is reportedly working on a new Galaxy M-series phone. It is likely expected to arrive as the successor to the Galaxy M34 5G. The upcoming M-series device could reportedly be the Samsung Galaxy M44 5G. It has been spotted on the Geekbench benchmarking website. Read on to learn what we know so far. 

Samsung Galaxy M44 5G Geekbench

The Samsung Galaxy M44 5G has appeared on Geekbench with model number SM-M446K which seems to be for the Korean market. The listing reveals a motherboard codenamed ‘lahaina’ and it comprises four cores clocked at 1.80GHz, three cores at 2.42GHz, and a prime core ticking at 2.84GHz. The setup corresponds to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor. The benchmarking database also reveals that the Galaxy M44 5G will pack 6GB RAM and we can expect more options at launch. It will ship with Android 13 OS out of the box. 

In the Geekbench’s single-core and multi-core tests, the Samsung Galaxy M44 5G scores 1,531 and 3,771 points respectively. Apart from this, the Geekbench listing does not reveal any additional details of the Samsung Galaxy M44 5G. Additionally, this is also the first listing of the device and we can expect it to bag more certifications in the coming weeks that should hopefully reveal more details. 

Samsung announced the Galaxy M34 5G earlier this month in India and it is expected to debut in more global markets. It features a 120Hz AMOLED display and a 50MP OIS-enabled primary camera. The device is powered by an Exynos 1280 SoC paired with up to 8GB RAM and 128GB onboard storage. It is backed by a 6,000mAh battery with support for 25W fast charging. 

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5 Indian Units Are Made Locally At Noida Factory

Samsung unveiled the fifth-generation Galaxy Z foldables i.e. the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 at the recent Unpacked event globally. Both devices arrive as the successors to the last year’s Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Flip 4 respectively. They are already up for pre-orders in various markets. Now Samsung India has confirmed an interesting info of the newly launched foldable phones. 

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 are made in India

Samsung India has confirmed that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 sold in India are assembled locally. The South Korean brand already has its biggest smartphone factory in Noida but the foldable phones were never made there. The previous generation Galaxy Z devices were assembled in South Korea and Vietnam. However, this changes now with the fifth-generation foldable phones. 

While it’s good news that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 Indian units are made in the country, there is no respite for customers as the phones are pricier compared to their predecessors. The company has probably received tax breaks for making the foldable devices in India but they are not passed on to the Indian consumers in the form of reduced prices. 

India is the second biggest smartphone market. The Galaxy Z Flip 5 starts at Rs 99,999 whereas the Z Fold 5 starts at Rs 1,54,999 for the base variants. Customers pre-booking the devices until August 17 will be eligible for benefits worth up to Rs 20,000 on the Z Flip 5 and Rs 23,000 on the Z Fold 5. You can go through the full specifications of the Galaxy Z Flip 5 here and Galaxy Z Fold 5 here

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Apple AirTag Used to Track Down Restaurant Burglar Who Stole $15,000 Worth of Goods

Technology continues to make our lives easier and accomplish things that were once thought impossible. For instance, GPS devices which used to be very expensive and large are now much more affordable and smaller thanks to technologies like AirTag. As a result, people are using these technologies to secure and track their valuable items. This leads to interesting stories almost every week. The most recent one occurred in South Carolina, where a thief was arrested for multiple burglaries, thanks to location tracking by an Apple AirTag.

AirTag Helps Police Track Down Restaurant Burglar

Without a doubt, the AirTag is one of the most practical products produced by Apple. This small yet effective item, which you can attach to your keychain, wallet, motorcycle, or even your pet’s collar, allows you to track the location instantly, preventing you from losing things that are valuable to you. The device is also a nightmare for thieves.

For example, not long ago, we told you a story about how a man was able to recover his valuables worth $7k that were stolen from his hotel room, all thanks to AirTag. Now, a thief was caught by the police, thanks to this technology.

The police have reported that a man from South Carolina is said to have stolen a dummy safe from the Sneaky Beagle back in July. The safe was fitted with an Apple AirTag, a device that helped the police track the man’s actions. His movements led the police to a series of other thefts in the area.

The man, named Smith, is believed to have stolen cash, money bags, and other items from four different restaurants. The total value of what was stolen is still being worked out, but it is thought to be somewhere between $15,000 and $20,000. Smith was taken into custody last Friday and is now in Horry County Jail. His court date is set for August 1.

As we previously mentioned, this isn’t the first time the AirTag technology has been used in theft cases. However, this technology does have serious drawbacks. For instance, an event that emerged at the start of July revealed that an AirTag was used by a stalker to track US actress Hannah Rose May.

The only thing that prevented the situation from escalating was a “Find My” notification on her iPhone. As you can see, the AirTag, with its advantages and disadvantages, is one of the most controversial technologies of recent years. However, it’s still possible to turn unfortunate situations around with this device. What are your thoughts on this issue? Should tracking technologies continue to be used, or are the risks greater than the benefits?

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boAt Storm Plus smartwatch with 1.78″ AMOLED display, BT calling & 7-Day battery life launched in India

After launching the Storm Connect Plus, Storm Pro, and Storm Call 2 smartwatches, boAt has now launched a new smartwatch in the series called the boAt Storm Plus. It comes with a large AMOLED display, Bluetooth calling, and long battery life.

boAt

boAt Storm Plus specs

The boAt Storm Plus smartwatch comes with a 1.78-inch HD (368 x 448 pixels) 2.5D curved AMOLED screen, a brightness of 700 nits, and an Always-on display feature. It offers more than 100 customizable watch faces. With Bluetooth 5.1, the smartwatch provides a smooth connection to your phone, and you can make and receive calls directly on the watch using its built-in microphone.

boAt Storm Plus

The watch has a Quick Dial Pad, where you can save up to 10 contacts for easy access. It offers over 100 sports modes for tracking various workouts. It is dust and water-resistant with an IP68 rating.

For health monitoring, the smartwatch tracks your heart rate and SpO2 levels. It also helps track your daily activity and menstrual cycle. Additionally, it reminds you to move if you’ve been inactive for a while.

boAt Storm Plus

Apart from fitness features, the boAt Storm Plus has other useful functions. You can control your phone’s camera and music from the watch. It provides weather updates, has an alarm, countdown timer, stopwatch, and a Do Not Disturb mode. It also helps you find your phone when needed.

The smartwatch comes with a 240mAh battery, offering up to 7 days of battery life under regular use, and up to 2 days when using Bluetooth calling extensively.

Price & availability

The boAt Storm Plus smartwatch will be sold on the boAt website and Flipkart, starting from July 29th at 12 P.M., with an introductory price of Rs. 2,299. The smartwatch offers different strap options: silicone strap variants are available in Jet Black, Gunmetal Grey, Rose Pink, and Olive Green colors; metallic strap variants come in metallic silver and black colors; and the leather strap variant is offered in Brown leather.

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Upcoming Smartphones: Redmi 12 5G, Infinix GT 10 Pro, and more

After a slowdown for a few weeks, we will be witnessing multiple phone launches in the next few days. Three of these events will take place in India and one in Vietnam.

All of these conferences are meant for budget smartphones. The Indian releases will be from Xiaomi, Motorola, and Infinix. Whereas, the Vietnam launch will be headed by Realme.

Almost all of these handsets are brand new. In other words, they will be announced for the first time publicly.

With that out of the way, let’s go through these devices one by one.

Upcoming Smartphones Next Week

1. Realme 11 4G

The Realme 11 4G is scheduled to launch in Vietnam on July 31 (Monday). It will be the device’s initial announcement as it hasn’t gone official in any other market.

However, retailers have already revealed almost everything about the product, except for the price. The phone will be offered in black and gold color options.

As far as specs are concerned, the Realme 11 4G will come with a 6.4-inch FHD+ 90Hz AMOLED display, a MediaTek Helio G99 SoC, a 108MP main camera, a 16MP selfie camera, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 5,000mAh battery, and 67W wired fast charging support.

2. Redmi 12 5G and Redmi 12

Redmi-12

The Redmi 12 5G will be making its global debut in India On August 1 (Tuesday). The handset will be accompanied by Redmi 12, which is already official in some markets.

As per teasers and leaks, the Redmi 12 5G is a rebranded Redmi Note 12R sold in China. Thus, it will arrive with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip, a 6.79-inch FHD+ 90Hz display (LCD), a 50MP primary camera, a glass back panel, a 5,000mAh battery, and 18W charging support.

On the other hand, the Redmi 12 shares most of its specs with the Redmi 12 5G. The only major differences are a MediaTek Helio G88 chipset and an 8MP ultra-wide camera.

3. Motorola Moto G14

Moto G14
Moto G14

The Motorola Moto G14 is planned to launch in India on August 1 (Tuesday). The product hasn’t gone official in any other market as of writing this article.

Thanks to teasers, we do have some information about it. The device will come with a 6.5-inch FHD+ punch-hole display (LCD), a Unisoc T616 SoC, a 50MP rear camera, Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers, a 5,000mAh battery, and 20W fast charging support.

The phone will be IP52-rated and will be available in black and blue color options.

4. Infinix GT 10 Pro

The Inifnix GT 10 Pro is expected to go official in India on August 3 (Thursday). The design of this smartphone is inspired by the Nothing Phone series.

According to teasers and leaks, it will arrive with a 6.67-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display, a MediaTek Dimensity 8050 chip, LPDDR4x RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, and XOX 13 based on Android 13.

Other features of the handset include a 108MP main camera, a 32MP front-facing camera, a 5,000mAh battery, and 45W fast-wired charging support. It will be available for pre-order on the day of the announcement itself.

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OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro is on sale in various regions, Invite-only in India

OnePlus recently introduced its inaugural mechanical keyboard, the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro, and disclosed its global availability timeline. As planned, the keyboard is now accessible for purchase in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Indian customers also have the opportunity to obtain the keyboard, but the process involves some complexity.

OnePlus

For now, OnePlus is exclusively offering the Winter Bonfire (or “optimized tactile switch”) variant of the 81-key mechanical keyboard. The alternative “linear” Summer Breeze switches option is expected to be released at a later date.

The OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro Winter Bonfire version is available at $219 in the US, €249 in the EU, and ₹17,999 in India. For Indian customers, OnePlus is currently selling the keyboard on an “Invite only” basis. Open sale in the region is expected to commence from August 7.

OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro specs

The keyboard has a lightweight aluminum body and gasket. Notable features include a built-in holder, hot-swappable switches, and open-source firmware. The keyboard is compatible with macOS, Windows, and Linux.

OnePlus

Users have the option of both Bluetooth and wired connectivity, easily switchable with a toggle key resembling an Alert Slider. Bluetooth 5.1 ensures a wireless range of up to 10 meters, and the 4,000mAh battery provides up to 100 hours of usage at the lowest brightness level. Charging and wired connection are through a USB Type-C port, with a full recharge time of about 5 hours.

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OnePlus Nord N20 SE Receives OxygenOS 13.1.1.501 Update: Flicker Issue Resolved and Fingerprint Sensor Improved

Last year, OnePlus launched the Nord N20 SE in multiple global markets. The device is essentially a rebrand of the Oppo A57. OnePlus has now released the OxygenOS 13.1.1.501 update for the device which comes with some major fixes and improvements.

OnePlus

The firmware version CPH2469_13.1.1.501(EX01) brings a variety of improvements and fixes. It addresses the occasional screen flickering problem that arises when using third-party themes. Additionally, it resolves issues related to excessive system data storage usage and the fingerprint unlock feature. Moreover, this update enhances camera stability. Lastly, it resolves the problem of the Google Calendar app failing to open in Split View. You can check out the official changelog below.

OnePlus Nord N20 SE OxygenOS 13.1.1.501 update changelog

System

 • Improves system stability and performance.

 • Fixes the screen flickering issue that might occur when a third-party theme is used.

 • Fixes the issue where system data takes up too much storage space.

 • Fixes the issue where fingerprint unlock might not work.

Camera

 • Improves the stability of Camera.

Apps

 • Fixes the issue where Google Calendar might fail to open in Split View.

Since the brand is rolling out the update in batches, the update will arrive on the devices of the global users in the coming days.

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Vivo X Fold 3 launch timeframe leaked, periscope zoom camera tipped

Vivo X Fold 3 launch timeframe has been tipped by leaker Digital Chat Station. This aligns with an earlier leak by the same tipster, suggesting that the Vivo X Fold 3 and the Vivo X100 Pro+ will debut together next year. Here is a look at what the tipster said about Vivo’s next foldable phone.

Vivo X Fold 3 launch timeframe (rumored)

According to the tipster, the X Fold 3 is scheduled for an early 2024 release, which appears to be within the first quarter. It is expected to be a slim and lightweight device, featuring a periscope zoom camera. All the predecessor X Fold models from the brand have featured a telephoto camera, but not a periscope telephoto camera. The tipster did not share any information on the core specs of the X Fold 3.

Vivo X Fold 2
Vivo X Fold 2

There are rumors circulating about the Vivo X100 Pro+ suggesting that it will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. However, this has led to uncertainty about the chipset that will be used in the Vivo X Fold 3. It is unlikely for Vivo to release both the X Fold 3 and X100 Pro+ with the same chip simultaneously, leaving the question of which chipset will eventually be chosen for the X Fold 3 unanswered.

As far as the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro’s arrival in the Chinese market are concerned, both devices are expected to debut in November this year. It is speculated that both models will come equipped with the Dimensity 9300 chip.

The recent news about the Vivo X100 5G for the global market is causing confusion. According to a report, the Vivo X100 5G, identified by the V2308 model number, is expected to feature a 120Hz AMOLED display, a Dimensity 8-series chip, and storage options of 128 GB or 256 GB. The device will run on Android 14 OS and be equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 100W charging. Additionally, it will be available in Black, White, and Purple color variants. However, further reports are needed to provide more clarity on this device’s specifications and features.

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OnePlus 11R OxygenOS 13.1.0.581 update is rolling out with Photos app fix & latest security patch

The OnePlus 11R, which launched earlier this year is getting a new software update. The latest OxygenOS 13.1.0.581 update was recently announced on the OnePlus community forums and is currently heading to Indian users.

OnePlus 11R

The update comes with firmware version CPH2487_13.1.0.581(EX01) and features the latest Android security update, a much-awaited Photos app bug fix, and general system improvements. Check out the entire changelog below.

OnePlus 11R OxygenOS 13.1.0.581

System

 • Integrates the July 2023 Android security patch to enhance system security.

 • Improves system stability.

 Camera

 • Fixes some issues that affect the Photos app.

Although the brand has started the rollout of the update, it is worth noting that many users have not received an update to their devices since Oxygen OS 13.0 (firmware version CPH2487_11_A.11). This update was launched back in May 2023, meaning that many OnePlus 11R users have not received any software updates since the last two months.

If you encounter the same problem, you can use a workaround known as the Oxygen Updater. This solution allows you to update your device to the latest available version. Nevertheless, it’s essential to exercise caution as the Oxygen Updater is a third-party application. We advise verifying its authenticity and downloading it from a reputable source if you decide to proceed with this option.

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Reddit seems to be Testing Out Verification for Brands on the Platform

Reddit is a vast online platform known as “the front page of the internet,” where users can share, rate, and discuss various types of content, from news articles to personal anecdotes. It’s divided into thousands of communities known as “subreddits”, each focusing on a specific topic. Recently, Reddit hasn’t really been in the good books of its users, considering the API changes occurring in the company. Now, reports are stating that Reddit is conducting an early stage trial for its own version of verification badges, called the “Official” label, to affirm the authenticity of certain brand accounts. The feature, currently limited to a select number of organizations, already in collaboration with Reddit, aims to distinguish genuine profiles with no special privileges or protections attached.

Reddit seems to be transitioning into a platform where advertisers will get priority

The “Official” label, appearing next to the username, is quite similar to the implementation of the present ‘flairs’ feature. However, Reddit has emphasized that this badge does not mean any sort of endorsement or promotion of the labelled accounts. Furthermore, it should not be confused with the “Promoted” label, indicating a paid advertisement on the platform.

Reddit

This method of manually verifying brand accounts draws a parallel with Twitter’s approach, differing from platforms like Instagram, where users can purchase verification badges. While the plan to extend this program beyond businesses remains uncertain, there’s speculation about a potential shift towards Instagram’s strategy in the future. The trial follows a really harsh time for Reddit. Changes in its API rules stirred discontent among the third-party developers who relied on the Reddit API to create numerous apps integrating with the platform. The move led to widespread protest, resulting in several subreddits either restricting access or shutting down entirely.

To further complicate matters, upon reopening, certain subreddits marked all new posts as NSFW, impeding Reddit’s ability to monetize them. The platform’s introduction of the “Official” label might well be a stepping stone to regaining stability and trust within the community, though this remains to be seen. What do you guys think? Will Reddit bounce back from this? Share your views in the comments below!

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Android’s Unknown Tracker Alerts will Protect Against Unwanted Bluetooth Tracking

In an era where digital privacy is taken very seriously, Android takes a significant leap forward with its Unknown Tracker Alerts. Initially announced at I/O 2023, these alerts are rolling out to users with Android 6.0 and later versions, revolutionizing how Bluetooth tracking works on Android devices.

Users can also manually scan for nearby Trackers in case they wish to do so

With this innovative feature, Android users will be automatically notified if an unknown Bluetooth tracker, disconnected from its owner, is detected moving along with them. Initially compatible with Apple AirTags, this feature will expand to other tracking tags over time. The notification not only offers information about the tracker but also displays a map illustrating the tracker’s journey with the user. A ‘Play sound’ option helps locate the tracker without alerting its owner, adding an extra layer of security.

Google Tracker

Upon receiving an alert, users can get more information about the unknown tracker and take appropriate action. Bringing the device closer to the phone might reveal the tracker’s serial number, or even the owner’s details. The feature also educates users on how to disable the Bluetooth tracker completely, preventing the owner from receiving further location updates.

Android users are not restricted to waiting for alerts. The manual scan feature allows proactive scanning for trackers separated from their owners. A simple 30-second procedure through ‘Settings → Safety & emergency → Unknown tracker alerts → Scan Now’ will provide a list of nearby trackers within 10 seconds.

Android’s commitment to user safety is embodied in these Unknown Tracker Alerts. It’s a collaborative approach, involving feedback from users, privacy groups, and device manufacturers to ensure the feature evolves effectively. Also announced at I/O 2023, the ‘Find My Device’ network rollout has been temporarily held until Apple implements adequate protections for iOS. This network, once launched, will assist in locating missing belongings via new third-party Bluetooth tracker tags.

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Indian Couple Sells 8-month-old Infant to Purchase an iPhone 14 for making Instagram Reels

In a chilling turn of events, an impoverished couple from West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district sold their infant child to finance an iPhone for creating Instagram reels, pointing to a grim crossover of poverty and digital obsession. The police have detained the child’s mother, Sathi, and the alleged buyer, Priyanka Ghosh. However, the father, Jaydev, has evaded the authorities. The couple’s conspicuous behaviour and the sudden disappearance of their infant alerted the neighbours, who then informed the police. Their financial struggles made their new iPhone purchase all the more toxic.

This incident sheds light on the human greed for technology surpassing new heights

In a distressing revelation, the mother admitted to the illicit sale, indicating they used the proceeds to travel around West Bengal to create Instagram reels. Allegations have also surfaced that the father advocated for the trade of their seven-year-old daughter as well, adding some more depth to the ongoing investigation. While parental desperation driving to child sales due to poverty is not unheard of in India, trading a child’s life for a smartphone showcases a bleak reality that blurs the line between necessity and narcissism. It’s like a dystopian future.

This unnerving incident in West Bengal is not an isolated case. Globally, similar disturbing stories have emerged. In 2016, a Chinese couple also reportedly sold their newborn to buy an iPhone. These cases offer a disturbing look into a world where the greed of technology seemingly surpasses basic human compassion, prompting a need for serious introspection as humans.

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Meta Launches Research Initiative to Gauge Social Media’s Impact on Democracy

In a much-needed step towards promoting transparency and responsibility, Meta (formerly Facebook) announced a fresh research initiative aimed at exploring the effect of its platforms, particularly Facebook and Instagram, on political attitudes and behaviour during the US 2020 elections. This new venture follows debates surrounding social media’s role and influence in the democratic process.

Social Media polarizes a lot of people, especially topics surrounding politics

Undeniably, social media platforms, notably Facebook, have turned into stages for democratic debate. They provide a platform for citizens to express their views freely, facilitating robust political discussions between citizens, candidates, campaigners, and advocacy groups. However, the rise of such platforms has been met with increasing concerns, primarily surrounding misinformation, political polarization, and potential abuse during election periods.

Meta

To address this issue and continue promoting the positive aspects of social media on democracy, Meta launched the research partnership. The endeavor is a collaboration with independent external academics led by Professors Talia Stroud and Joshua A. Tucker. Fifteen additional researchers, selected for their expertise, will also participate in this initiative.

The project is guided by three principles: independence, transparency, and consent. The research will be independent from Meta, with the external researchers neither being paid by nor answerable to the company. To ensure transparency, the researchers have committed to publishing their findings in open access format, documenting study plans, hypotheses in advance, and releasing initial commitments upon the studies’ publication. Participants in the study will give informed consent for their data to be used in the research.

Meta’s initiative signifies its acknowledgment of the potential impacts of social media on democracy and its commitment to making necessary changes. Following the controversy over the 2016 US election, the company has tripled its safety and security workforce and collaborated with government and law enforcement to combat election interference. Meta hopes that the findings from this research partnership will contribute to shaping the rules of the internet to benefit democracy and society.

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Claud Butler Unveils 2 Electric Mountain Bikes with LCD Cluster & Samsung Batteries

UK-based e-bike specialist Claud Butler is expanding its catalogue with the release of two new Wrath electric mountain bikes. These entry-level e-bikes integrate a blend of high-quality components within a sporty and dynamic hardtail configuration. The Wrath series showcases a 6061 aluminum alloy frame designed with a variety of mounts to attach luggage racks and other biking essentials. Its trail-ready geometry is headlined by a sleek, sloping top tube that smoothly transitions into the seat.

The two bikes feature a nine-speed and a ten-speed setup for hard-to-conquer terrains

Powering the e-MTBs is a Bafang rear hub motor. The base model features a modest yet robust motor with a max torque rating of 32 Newton-meters. However, the pricier Wrath 2 upgrades to a powerful 45 Newton-meter motor, along with a superior Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain. Conversely, the Wrath 1 comes with a nine-speed Shimano Altus setup.

E-Bike

The bikes are equipped with Samsung battery packs. Wrath 1 is has a 360-watt-hour unit, while Wrath 2 boasts a heftier 540-watt-hour pack. Both models employ Tektro hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power and are equipped with a comfortable Selle Royal saddle.

A unique feature of these bikes is the LCD cluster, enabling riders to access essential ride data and switch between five assist levels. Available exclusively in a 29er configuration, the Wrath series offers remarkable value for its tech specs. The Wrath 1.0 comes with a price tag of £1,799.99 ($2,330 USD), while the higher-end Wrath 2.0 is priced at £1,999.99 ($2,590 USD). With the Wrath series, Claud Butler demonstrates that affordable e-biking doesn’t have to skimp out on performance or style.

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Here is how AutoGPT is enabling Business Automation and Encouraging Side Hustles

The progressive tide of technology has stirred a wave of change in the business sector, particularly with automation. A recent study by Clarify Capital reveals that more than 10% of business owners have integrated AutoGPT to automate operations, cutting costs by an average of $2,487 and freeing up over 6 hours weekly. In this AI-powered wave, text generation (57%) and information gathering (51%) remain the primary tasks automated.

A lot of people are scared for their jobs, but people are also using AutoGPT to handle more workload

The future seems even more AI-driven, as 35% of business owners plan to adopt AutoGPT. The projected tasks to be automated chiefly involve text generation (59%), answering queries (46%), composing emails (38%), and editing or proofreading content (36%). Yet, the rise of AI has sparked concern amongst 22% of the workforce, fearful of job loss. However, a substantial majority, 74%, advocates AI application in the workplace. A misalignment exists with 23% of employees reporting that their superiors promote AI usage, but 43% lack training to effectively use these tools.

AI

Surprisingly, 1 in 5 employees already use AutoGPT for work, primarily for data entry and processing roles (49%). Additionally, more than half the employees manage side hustles, with 10% attributing their initiative to tools like ChatGPT and AutoGPT. For such endeavors, automation tasks typically involve social media scheduling (33%), email marketing (28%), data entry (27%), and content creation (27%).

Despite initial apprehensions, AI technologies like AutoGPT and ChatGPT are being accepted and integrated more than ever. AI clearly offers fresh opportunities for businesses and individuals to thrive. Appropriate training will go a long way for businesses to stay ahead of the curve.

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