A recent update on the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series reveals the possible existence of a fifth tablet, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. The tablets, including the Galaxy Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra, are expected to be unveiled at Samsung’s Unpacked Event on July 26, 2023.
Geekbench 6 Listing Reveals Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Scores and Model Number
According to reports, a tipster on Twitter, Anthony (@TheGalox), has shared a screenshot from Geekbench 6, showcasing the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ with the model number SM-X616B. The tablet’s benchmark scores indicate a single-core score of 987 points and a multi-core score of 2731 points. It is speculated that the device will feature Samsung’s own Exynos 1380 chipset and may come pre-installed with the Android 13 operating system. Additionally, the tablet is rumored to offer an 8GB RAM variant.
Comparing the multi-core score of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ with its predecessor in the Galaxy Tab S series, the Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G, the upcoming tablet boasts a 40% higher score.
Previously, display consultant Ross Young had provided information on color variants for the Galaxy Tab S9 series. According to Young, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and S9 FE+ are likely to be available in various colors, such as grey, light green, light pink, and silver. He also mentioned that the S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra devices will be offered in beige and grey color options.
Apart from these details, further information about the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ remains limited. More updates are expected in the near future. It’s worth noting that the Galaxy Tab S9 FE has also been spotted on Geekbench 6 with a similar model number (SM-X516B) and is anticipated to feature the same Exynos 1380 chipset.
Sony has recently introduced the WF-CN700N TWS earbuds in India, following their initial teaser. These earbuds are equipped with 5mm drivers that deliver robust bass and crisp vocals. Notably, users can enjoy noise cancelation and an equalizer function to personalize their audio experience. Now, let’s delve into the detailed specifications and features of the WF-CN700N earbuds.
Sony WF-C700N earbuds specs
The Sony WF-C700N earbuds come equipped with a 5mm closed-type driver unit, ensuring high-quality sound reproduction. With the support for volume control and the DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) technology, users can personalize their audio experience and enjoy enhanced sound quality.
When it comes to battery life, these earbuds offer up to 7.5 hours of music playback with noise cancellation turned on, or 5 hours of call time with noise cancellation active. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge provides approximately 1 hour of playback, allowing users to get back to their music quickly. The earbuds can be conveniently charged via USB-C, taking approximately 1.5 hours for a full charge, while the case requires around 3 hours.
The WF-C700N earbuds support multipoint connection, enabling simultaneous pairing with multiple Bluetooth devices. With Bluetooth version 5.2 and support for SBC and AAC codecs, users can expect reliable and high-quality wireless connectivity.
Featuring both Noise Cancelling and Ambient Sound modes, these earbuds offer flexibility in managing audio and surroundings. The IPX4 rating ensures that the earbuds are splash-proof and sweat-proof, providing durability and peace of mind during workouts or outdoor activities.
With the Sony Headphones Connect app, users can further customize their audio settings and take advantage of additional features. Each earbud weighs 4.6g, providing a lightweight and comfortable fit, while the case weighs 31g, making it easy to carry around.
Price & availability
The Sony WF-C700N wireless earbuds will be priced at Rs. 8,990 when they become available for purchase starting from July 15. These earbuds will be offered in a range of appealing colors such as black, white, lavender, and sage green.
New leaked hands-on images of the Nothing Phone (2) have emerged on Twitter, posted by user TechDocterz, offering insights into the device’s specifications and design. The hands-on images reveal the device comes with a robust Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, a powerful camera system featuring 50MP+50MP rear cameras and a 32MP front camera, and impressive storage options of 12GB+512GB. The phone also sports a 6.7-inch OLED display and operates on the Android 13-based NOTHING OS 2.0.0.
TechDocterz also shed light on the layout of the power and volume buttons, the images even revealing the packaging box. According to the leakster, the packaging box includes a SIM eject pin, 1m Type-C to Type-C transparent charging cable, safety information, and a warranty card.
Nothing Phone (2) specifications (rumored)
According to previous reports, the device boasts a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate on its 6.7-inch FHD+ OLED display. The device is paired with 12GB RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512GB. The dual camera setup includes a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 main camera and a 50-megapixel Samsung JN1 ultra-wide camera. A 32-megapixel Sony IMX615 front-facing camera will cater to selfie needs. Additionally, the 4700mAh battery supports 33W fast charging and 15W wireless charging, ensuring long hours of use.
The phone promises 3 years of OS upgrades and four years of security patch updates. Other notable features include an optical in-display fingerprint sensor, an aluminum frame for enhanced durability, and an IP rating indicating water and dust resistance.
MKBHD, in a YouTube video, compared the Nothing Phone (2) with its predecessor, the Nothing Phone (1). Although the dimensions of the smartphone and its design language haven’t changed significantly, the back is slightly more curved, while the front maintains a flat display. A key upgrade in the Nothing Phone (2) is the Glyph LED interface, teased in the video. The official reveal on July 11 will certainly provide more details on this anticipated device.
Earlier today (10th July 2023), pTron unveiled new products in the India to expand its smartwatch and TWS earbuds portfolio in the market. The new announcements include the new Reflex Ace smartwatch and the Zenbuds Evo truly wireless earbuds. So here are its specs and pricing.
pTron Reflex Ace
Talking about the smartwatch first, the Reflex Ace arrives with a tall 1.85 inch HD display that has an Apple Watch-like squarish design. The wearable model also arrives with IP68 water and dust resistance for protection. Being a modern day smartwatch, it offers a number of health related features like heart rate monitoring, SpO2 blood oxygen map`ping, blood pressure tracking, and even female menstrual cycle tracking.
Furthermore, it arrives with Bluetooth calling (with Bluetooth 5.0) and built in microphone as well. For fitness enthusiasts, the Reflex Ace model houses more than 120 sports modes for physical activity tracking. Other notable features include, built in games, step counter, sleep monitoring, and up to 7 days of battery life with charging taking around 3 hours.
pTron Zenbuds Evo
The company also released the new Zenbuds Evo truly wireless earbuds in India. As per official notes, these hearables offer a lightweight yet sleek and stylish aesthetic that offers snug fit from its in ear design. One of its highlight features is the TruTalk AI powered ENC technology, which seeks to ensure that users have a clear audio quality when making calls. For games, the new earbuds support 45ms low latency as well, which aids in gameplay and movie experiences.
The Zenbuds Evo can last for up to 32 hours and the charging case also houses electroplated USB Type-C for fast charging support. In other words, just a few minutes of charging can offer hours of audio playback. Other notable features include IPX5 protection rating, touch controls for volume adjustment and track switching, and voice assistant support. Notably, the latest launch also arrives a month after the brand released the pTron Playbuds 2 in India, which were a pair of gaming earbuds.
Pricing & Availability
The new pTron Reflex Ace will go on sale starting from 10th July 2023, which is today. It is being sold at a special launch price tag of 1,299 INR. On the other hand, the pTron Zenbuds Evo truly wireless earbuds will be available of purchase from tomorrow (11th July 2023). The wireless earphones will also be sold for a special introductory price tag of 899 INR.
LG has launched a new 27″ 4K monitor catered toward creatives called the LG 27BQ85U-W. This display covers a wide range of colors, comes with a certified HDR400 rating, and offers an Auto Self Calibration Sensor in the box which can be used to color calibrate the display via the LG Calibration Studio software. Let’s take a look at its specifications and features.
LG 27BQ85U-W monitor specs
The LG 27BQ85U-W monitor boasts a 27-inch screen size and a 3840 x 2160 resolution, providing a crisp and detailed 4K UHD display. Its Nano IPS panel technology offers improved color reproduction and wide viewing angles. With a brightness of 350 cd/m² and a contrast ratio of 1000:1, this monitor delivers vivid and lifelike images.
The 5ms (GtG) response time and 60Hz refresh rate make this monitor a decent casual gaming display. The monitor supports VESA DisplayHDR 400, bringing enhanced contrast and a wider color gamut to compatible HDR content.
In terms of connectivity, the LG 27BQ85U-W offers multiple options. It features two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and one USB Type-C port. Additionally, the USB Type-C port can also serve as a charging port for compatible devices. The monitor also includes a USB Type-C output for additional connectivity options.
For audio, this monitor is equipped with two built-in speakers, each with a power output of 5W, delivering decent sound quality without the need for external speakers. The ergonomic stand allows for adjustable height, tilt, and swivel, ensuring a comfortable and customizable viewing experience.
With dimensions of 24.1 x 18.9 x 8.2 inches and weighing 11.9 pounds, the LG 27BQ85U-W combines a sleek design with practical features, making it suitable for various setups and environments.
Pricing & availbility
The LG 27BQ85U-W 27-inch 4K IPS monitor is available to buy in the US for $599 dollars via LG.com and other retailers.
Oppo is one of the largest smartphone makers in the world and has launched a number of popular series that target multiple price segments. Out of these, the Reno lineup has become quite popular across the globe, with the company claiming that nearly a 100 million Reno phones have been sold so far.
Oppo Reno phones’ sales near the 100 million mark
The Chinese tech giant shared a new teaser on its official Oppo India Twitter handle. Here, they claimed that the Reno devices that have been sold so far have nearly hit 100 million units. To be more specific, the company adds that more than 67 million users across the globe have created over 2 million portrait photos using their Reno series smartphone.
For those unaware, the Reno smartphone lineup was launched as a series that will include both mid range and flagship grade models. However, these specifically have a focus on photography. Initial models had arrived with 10x magnification with newer entries having a portrait photography focus.
As per the teaser, Oppo states that “The remarkable Reno Series has inspired and elevated the smartphone photography to unprecedented heights.” Notably, this teaser also arrives soon after the brand announced its latest Reno 10 series of smartphones in India earlier today (10th July 2023), which is the newest entry in the Reno lineup. The new models include the Reno 10, Reno 10 Pro, and Reno 10 Pro+ (you can even check out our review of the Reno 10 Pro+ by clicking here).
Xiaomi has just teased the launch of the Redmi 12 model in the Indian market. In a new video shared on Twitter, the company hints at an imminent launch for the smartphone. So here are all the details.
Redmi 12 India launch is right around the corner
The Chinese tech giant shared the teaser from its official Twitter account. Looking at the video, we can see an unnamed device being teased. However, the slight glimpse that we get of the handset makes it clear that it is the Redmi 12. For those unaware, the smartphone model has already been launched in certain other regions across the globe. So, we have a good idea as to what specifications it might feature.
The device sports a tall 6.79 inch IPS LCD panel that has a Full HD+ resolution, 550 nits of peak brightness, and 90Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the Redmi 12 is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G88 SoC that is paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. Although, this storage configuration was specifically made available in Thailand. But this variant might be arriving in India as well, considering that the teaser shows Polar Silver option that was also unveiled in Thailand previously.
Other notable features include, a 50 megapixel triple camera setup on the rear, an 8 megapixel selfie shooter, Android 13 OS based MIUI 14 ucstom skin, side mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, IP53 rating, 5000mAh battery pack that supports 33W fast charging. So stick around for more, as we will be covering any new teaser or leaks regarding this phone’s India launch.
Get ready to elevate your audio experience with OneOdio’s Prime Day Deals! As a music lover, DJ, or audio enthusiast, you won’t want to miss out on these incredible discounts. Explore a wide range of high-quality headphones, from wired to wireless, studio monitors to noise-canceling options, and more. Whether you’re a professional or simply enjoy the immersive sound, OneOdio has you covered. Please note that the Prime Day Deal starts on July 11 and ends on July 12, 2023. So let’s check out some of the best deals by OneOdio.
OpenRock Pro
Retail Price: $129.99 Discounted Price: $103.99
OpenRock Pro, is the first open-ear design wearable headphones of 2023 by OneOdio. These headphones provide a unique listening experience by lightly wrapping around your ears without covering or plugging your ear canals. With dual 16.2mm dynamic drivers and TubeBass technology, they deliver superior sound quality with transparent and mellow performance, including rich and powerful bass.
Enjoy extended playtime with up to 46 hours of battery life. The 100mAh battery provides up to 19 hours of listening and call time, while the included charging case adds an additional 27 hours. This ensures you won’t have to worry about running out of battery during your outdoor activities.
The OpenRock Pro features a secure fit with patented ergonomic ear hook technology, offering comfort and enhancing adhesion during sports and workouts. It’s suitable for various activities such as running, cycling, hiking, and driving. Additionally, the headphones release pressure from the ear canals, reducing hearing loss and fatigue.
The device comes with additional features, including Bluetooth 5.2 for faster data transmission, CVC8.0 noise-canceling microphones for clear calls, aptX with low latency for audio without delays, and IPX5 sweatproof rating.
OneOdio A10 is a Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphone. With advanced ANC technology, these over-ear headphones block up to 35dB of external noise, ensuring uninterrupted sound. Enjoy Hi-Res audio with dynamic 40mm drivers, delivering precise sound reproduction. The long-lasting battery provides up to 62 hours of use, ideal for travel and everyday use.
The comfortable design features soft ear pads and an adjustable headband. Stay connected to your surroundings with the transparency mode, reducing music and amplifying speech. The A10 headphones offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity and come with a 3.5mm audio cable for wired use. Portable and convenient, the OneOdio A10 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones provide exceptional sound quality, comfort, and versatility.
The OneOdio Pro 10 Over-Ear Headphones are designed for DJs, musicians, and audio professionals. With large 50mm drivers and neodymium magnets, they deliver powerful bass and high-resolution sound. The soft padded ear cushions provide comfort and noise isolation, while the adjustable headband ensures a secure fit.
The headphones come with a detachable coiled cord and a standard cord, both compatible with devices that have a 3.5mm or 6.35mm audio jack. The 90° swiveling ear cups allow for single-ear monitoring, and the flexible headband offers a fatigue-free listening experience. These headphones work with a variety of devices, including microphones, mixers, turntables, and more. Enjoy a great audio experience with the OneOdio Pro 10 Wired Over Ear Headphones.
The OneOdio A70 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones is designed for those seeking high-quality audio and versatility. These headphones provide a remarkable listening experience with their custom-made aluminum fascia and 40mm neodymium drivers, delivering powerful bass and dynamic stereo sound.
With up to 72 hours of playtime in wireless mode and the option to switch to wired mode using the included audio jack cables, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power. The over-ear, ergonomic design ensures maximum comfort and sound isolation, while the foldable headband saves space and enhances portability.
An interesting feature of these headphones is the ability to share music or audio with others. Simply pair the main headphones via Bluetooth or connect with a 3.5mm audio cable, and then plug additional headphones into the main headphones for a seamless audio-sharing experience.
To ensure a stable connection, a jack lock system has been added to the aux plug, providing confidence that your connection will remain secure. The OneOdio A70 headphones offer a perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and superior sound quality for all your audio needs.
The OneOdio Monitor 60 Professional Studio Headphones, deliver exceptional audio quality for recording and monitoring. With 50mm drivers and a large diaphragm, these headphones provide well-balanced and accurate sound reproduction. The versatile connectivity includes a mic cable for phone calls, a coiled adapter cable for studio use, and an extra-long audio cable for TV connectivity. You can experience high-resolution audio with warm, smooth, and crystal-clear sound.
The breathable ear cushions and adjustable steel headband provide comfort and durability. Compatible with PC, laptops, phones, and Macs, these headphones also work with vocal microphones and acoustic instruments.
The Oppo Reno 10 series has now arrived in India following its initial launch in China and a recent launch in Malaysia. Oppo‘s Reno series is known for its premium mid-range smartphones that emphasize camera performance and user experience. Let’s delve into what the brand has in store with its latest series.
Oppo Reno 10 Pro+ specs
The Oppo Reno 10 Pro+ is equipped with a stunning 6.74-inch AMOLED display that offers an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth and fluid visuals. It boasts a peak brightness of up to 1,400 nits, ensuring vibrant and vivid colors even in bright sunlight. Powering this device is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, a high-performance processor that delivers flagship-grade performance.
To complement the powerful processor, the Reno 10 Pro+ offers up to 12GB of RAM, allowing for smooth multitasking and efficient performance. You’ll have ample storage space with its 256GB internal storage capacity. Additionally, this device features a custom MariSilicon X NPU, enhancing AI capabilities for improved performance in various tasks like clicking pictures and recording videos.
The camera setup on the Reno 10 Pro+ is quite impressive and practical. This setup includes a 50MP Sony IMX890 primary shooter with OIS, accompanied by an OIS-enabled 64-megapixel OmniVision OV64B periscope zoom camera, which offers 3x optical zoom and up to 120x digital zoom. The device also gets an 8-megapixel Sony IMX355 ultra-wide lens along with a 32MP front camera.
Keeping the device powered throughout the day is a robust 4,700mAh battery pack. Furthermore, the Reno 10 Pro+ supports 100W fast charging, allowing you to quickly recharge your device and get back to using it in no time.
Oppo Reno 10 Pro specs
Moving on to the Oppo Reno 10 Pro, it offers a 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals and an immersive viewing experience. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G SoC, along with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, you’ll have plenty of power and space to meet your daily needs.
The Reno 10 Pro features a 50-megapixel triple rear camera setup for capturing stunning photos. Along with the OIS stabilized 50MP primary shooter, the camera setup also has a 32MP telephoto camera (2x optical, 20x digital) and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. On the front, it houses a 32-megapixel selfie shooter, ensuring high-quality selfies. The device is powered by a 4,600mAh battery and supports 80W fast charging, enabling quick and convenient charging.
Oppo Reno 10 specs
Lastly, the Oppo Reno 10 is equipped with a 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC, which is essentially a rebranded Dimensity 1080 chip. This model comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.
The Reno 10 boasts a 64-megapixel triple rear camera setup on the back with a 32-megapixel front-facing camera ensuring high-quality imaging. It is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery and supports 67W fast charging.
Pricing & availability
The Oppo Reno 10 Pro+ 5G has been launched with 12GB of RAM and 256GB, costing Rs 54,999. It will be available in Silver Grey and Glossy Purple color variants starting July 13. The Reno 10 Pro comes with the same 12GB RAM and 256GB configuration with a price tag of Rs 39,999. This too will be available to purchase starting July 13, in Silver Grey and Glossy Purple color variants.
The pricing details for the standard Reno 10 5G variant have not been disclosed by the brand at the moment. However, they have stated that the price will be unveiled on July 20 through the online retailer Flipkart.
The Vivo Y27 5G is set to launch soon. But prior to its official release, the device’s design and specs have been revealed in a new leak. So let’s have a look at the renders shared by the known tipster Paras Guglani (@passionategeekz).
Vivo Y27 5G Specs & Renders
The tipster shared renders of the smartphone on Twitter and even shared the entire specifications of the device as well. Looking at its design first, we can see that the device will come in two color options, namely Star Purple and Obsidian Black. The black variant appears to have a matte finish, while the purple version seems to have a more shiny finish that reflects multiple colors. Notably, we just recently reported on the Y27 4G model’s design, specs, and launch date leak as well.
The rear features a flat panel that has a large camera island that houses a dual camera setup and the LED flash module. Meanwhile, the front packs a waterdrop notch for its selfie camera. The Vivo Y27 5G model sports a 6.64 inch IPS LCD panel that has a Full HD+ resolution and 600 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, the device is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 SoC that will reportedly be paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage.
The device will even support virtual RAM expansion. The rear has a 50 megapixel primary sensor and a 2 megapixel secondary sensor, while the front has an 8 megapixel selfie shooter. Other notable features include, Android 13 OS based Funtouch OS 13, IP54 rating, and a 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 44W fast charging support.
Oppo has just launched a brand new pair of truly wireless earbuds in India. The company’s latest hearables model is the Enco Air 3 Pro, which arrives with some notable premium specs and features. So let’s have a look.
Oppo Enco Air 3 Pro launched with LDAC & Spatial Audio support
The Chinese tech giant’s new Enco Air 3 Pro features an Apple AirPods-like in-ear buds design, while its charging case is shaped like a pebble. Notably, Enco Air 3 Pro is basically a rebranded version of the Enco Free 3, which had launched in China back in March 2023. In other words, it features a unique 12.4mm drivers that are made using bamboo fiber.
Furthermore, the wireless earphones comes with support for Bluetooth 5.3, LC3, AAC, SBC, and even LDAC audio codecs as well. The Enco Air 3 Pro is certified with Hi-Res audio and brings the company’s proprietary spatial audio technology. Oppo’s new earbuds features up to 49 decibels of ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and low latency of 47ms, which is perfect for gamers.
These hearables can last for up to 30 hours on a single full charge, while the earbuds offer 7 hours of battery life alone. Lastly, the Enco Air 3 Pro arrives with IP55 water and dust resistance for protection. Oppo has launched the new earbuds in two color options, namely Green and White. It has a price tag of 4,999 INR. It will go on sale on 11th July 2023.
On July 12, Honor is set to unveil the Magic V2 foldable smartphone as well as the Honor MagicPad tablet. The brand recently teased that the MagicPad will feature an IMAX Enhanced display, and now the official design of the tablet has been unveiled.
The images reveal tablet features a simple design with the inclusion of a double-ring camera module. Additionally, below the Honor brand logo, you can find the “IMAX Enhanced” emblem, indicating that the MagicPad has received certification for IMAX Enhanced. This certification ensures a high-quality audio and visual experience, comparable to the immersive standards of original IMAX theaters.
The Honor MagicPad tablet showcases remarkably slim bezels on all sides, with the top and bottom bezels being narrower than the left and right ones, creating an impressive design feature. From previous reports, we know that the tablet will sport a 13-inch, 2.8K display. It will come in cyan, gray, and warm gold color options. Lastly, the teaser reveals that the tablet will come with a detachable keyboard and a Stylus to cater to productivity and creative needs.
While specific information about the tablet remains undisclosed, it is anticipated to include a high-end processor from either Qualcomm or MediaTek. Speculations suggest the possibility of the tablet being equipped with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, similar to several recently released premium tablets.
Nintendo‘s popular game console, the Switch, has reached a significant milestone as it enters its sixth year in the market. According to a recent report by Nihon Keizai Shimbun, the Switch witnessed a remarkable surge in sales in Japan during June this year. Approximately 380,000 units were sold, marking a substantial 68% increase compared to the same period last year. This outstanding performance set a new June sales record for the console since its initial release. The credits for this achievement can be attributed to the success of the game “Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.”
The Nintendo Switch may overtake the 1989 Gameboy sales in Japan, 32.5 Million
However, the Nihon Keizai Shimbun also highlighted that Switch sales might experience a decline in the coming years. It is projected that net profits for the current fiscal year will decrease by 21%, amounting to 340 billion yen (approximately 17.278 billion yuan).
The Switch is on the verge of surpassing the 30 million mark in terms of units sold in Japan, currently standing at 29.77 million units. Industry experts predict that the console has a strong chance of claiming the top spot in the Japanese market next year, overtaking previous record holders like the Game Boy from 1989 (32.47 million units) and the NDS from 2004 (32.86 million units).
Despite criticisms directed at its hardware and quality control, the Nintendo Switch continues to captivate gamers with its unique gameplay experience and impressive library of titles. With its upcoming milestone in Japan and potential market domination amongst consoles, it demonstrates the enduring appeal and resilience of Nintendo’s gaming ecosystem. As the Switch enters its sixth year, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this innovative console.
Volvo Cars USA continues to make waves in the United States automobile market, with impressive sales figures for the month of June 2023. The renowned automaker reported a staggering 53 percent year-over-year increase in car sales, reaching an impressive total of 12,933 units. The exceptional growth trend persisted throughout the first half of the year, with a total of 59,750 cars sold, marking an 18 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
More people buying hybrids indicates a shifting trend in customer preferences
A significant highlight in Volvo’s recent success is the remarkable surge in plug-in electric car sales. In June alone, Volvo sold 3,793 units, representing an impressive 79 percent year-over-year increase. This achievement catapulted plug-in electric cars to a dominant position, comprising over 29 percent of the brand’s total sales volume. Particularly noteworthy is the surge in all-electric vehicle (BEV) sales, which experienced a staggering 284 percent year-over-year increase and set a new all-time record with 2,123 units sold.
In a surprising turn of events, all-electric car sales surpassed plug-in hybrid car sales for the first time, indicating a shifting trend in consumer preferences. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) faced challenges this year, leading industry experts to anticipate the rise of BEVs as the dominant force in the market.
During the second quarter of 2023, Volvo sold 9,778 new plug-in electric cars, slightly lower than the previous year. However, the sales of BEVs alone reached an impressive 4,821 units, marking a significant 124 percent increase compared to the previous year. Year-to-date, Volvo has sold nearly 17,500 plug-in electric cars in the US, accounting for approximately 29 percent of the brand’s total sales volume. This growth has been primarily driven by the 100 percent increase in BEV sales, effectively offsetting the decline in PHEV sales.
In a bid to further bolster their presence in the US electric car market, Volvo recently unveiled the 2024 models of the C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge. These new iterations boast enhanced specifications, making them even more appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
While imported Volvo models do not qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, the incentive may be incorporated into lease rates, providing potential customers with added benefits. Notably, Volvo’s US lineup exclusively comprises electrified models, including mild hybrids, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and all-electric vehicles. Currently, the lineup features two BEVs—the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge. Looking ahead, Volvo plans to introduce the all-new Volvo EX90 model, which will be locally produced alongside the Polestar 3, as well as the recently unveiled Volvo EX30.
Audi‘s Neckarsulm factory in Germany is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and the automaker has decided to commemorate the occasion in a unique way. The factory, which currently produces the A6 and A8 sedans, has a rich history that dates back to its days as the property of NSU, a renowned brand that manufactured bicycles, motorcycles, and cars. NSU was once the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world and later introduced the first-ever passenger car with a Wankel engine. Despite its significance, NSU was a relatively small company compared to other German car brands, leading to its acquisition by Volkswagen in 1969.
The car’s striking Yellow and Black paint job is an absolute beauty to behold
To pay homage to NSU and celebrate the factory’s milestone, Audi has chosen to resurrect and modernize one of the last NSU models ever produced—the NSU Prinz 4. The selected vehicle is a 1971 Prinz 4L, a compact two-door sedan powered by a rear-mounted 598 cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine. However, Audi’s modernized version of the Prinz 4L has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to a team of 12 trainees who were entrusted with electrifying the classic car.
The trainees replaced the original engine with a powerful 240 hp electric motor sourced from a 2020 Audi e-tron. The front hood’s traditional fuel tank was removed and replaced with a high-voltage battery pack from the plug-in hybrid Audi Q7 TFSI e quattro. The car’s underbelly was replaced with a modified floor pan from an Audi A1, complete with brakes and axles. The body of the vehicle was extensively modified and widened to ensure a perfect fit. Additionally, a large rear spoiler was bolted directly to the roll cage, making it stand out even more.
Named the EP4, short for “Electric Prinz 4,” the car received a striking paint job in Suzuka Grey and Brilliant Black. The rear wing was given a splash of Signal Yellow, adding a touch of vibrancy to the overall design. Inside, the modernized Prinz 4L features a minimalist approach with a single-board computer and corresponding screen serving as instruments and a display. Recaro Podium bucket seats provide comfortable seating, and a Signal Yellow roll cage enhances safety.
Timo Engler, Head of Training Vehicle Technology/Logistics, expressed his satisfaction with the project, stating that it allowed the apprentices to explore different techniques and materials, including 3D printing and carbon fibre for the front hood. The EP4 serves as a symbol of Audi’s technological prowess and its ability to merge the past with the future.
Lenovo debuted the Legion Y700 gaming tablet in China last year. The brand has recently started teasing its successor via its official Weibo handle. The new tablet will also be called the Lenovo Legion Y700 and will come with some key upgrades to its SoC, RAM, and software.
The Lenovo Legion Y700 (2023 model) is set to feature the Snapdragon + Gen 1 SoC, replacing the Snapdragon 870 found in the previous year’s model. This upgraded chip is expected to bring significant improvements to the tablet’s performance. Users can anticipate a boost of approximately 31% in single-core performance and 23% in multicore performance, along with nearly double the GPU performance. Furthermore, the utilization of a smaller 4nm manufacturing process will contribute to enhanced energy efficiency for the chip.
The brand has claimed that the new tablet has achieved an Antutu score of 1,393,05 points, which is quite impressive even for a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip. In addition to that, the Legion Y700 (2023) could pack up to 12GB or even 16GB of RAM which will certainly be helpful in gaming and multitasking. Lastly, the tablet is said to come with ZUI 15 based on Android 13. Other than teasing the fact that this too will be an 8-inch tablet, Lenovo has saved other details for the July 22 launch event. So let’s take a look at the previous model to get an idea of what to expect from the new model.
Lenovo Legion Y700 tablet specs
The Lenovo Legion Y700 is an 8.8-inch tablet featuring a high-quality LCD display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. It offers a smooth user experience with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 240Hz touch sampling rate. The tablet’s display supports 100% DCI P3 color gamut, ensuring vibrant and accurate colors.
Underneath its slim body, the Legion Y700 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 chipset. It is paired with up to 12GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space for storing files and running applications. The tablet is equipped with a large 6,550mAh battery, capable of fast charging at 45W to keep up with demanding usage. Additionally, it incorporates an efficient cooling system with an 8500mm² vapor chamber to prevent overheating during intense tasks.
The Legion Y700 offers photography capabilities with an 8-megapixel front-facing camera for selfies and a 13-megapixel rear camera accompanied by an LED flash. These cameras allow users to capture clear and detailed photos.
In terms of connectivity, the tablet includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, volume rocker, power button, and a dedicated switch for accessing the resource monitoring window in gaming mode. These features contribute to a convenient and user-friendly experience.
Google Calendar has been continuously evolving to meet the needs of its users, and today, it is introducing a new enhancement to the working location feature. Since 2021, users have been able to indicate their working location directly in Google Calendar, providing better context for collaboration and planning. Now, Google is taking it a step further by allowing users to set working locations for specific portions of the day, enabling them to accurately reflect their availability based on their physical location throughout the day.
Most Domains will start receiving the update from July 14 onwards
This update comes as hybrid work environments become increasingly common, with employees working from home, offices, specific buildings, or a combination of these locations. By allowing users to specify their working location for different times of the day, Google Calendar enables them to effectively manage their schedules and optimize their productivity.
Moreover, for those with delegate access to someone’s Google Calendar, the new update allows full editing of working locations for the entire day or specific portions of the day. This feature proves particularly beneficial for individuals such as executive assistants who manage multiple calendars.
Administrators have the flexibility to enable or disable the working location feature at the domain or organizational unit level, providing control over its implementation. End users will find that the feature is enabled by default, allowing them to seamlessly set sub-day working locations within their calendars. To do so, they simply need to select “Working Location” as an event type in Calendar, choose the desired location, and optionally modify the time, date, or recurrence.
The rollout of this enhanced working location feature is already underway, with rapid-release domains gaining immediate access and scheduled release domains receiving the update starting on July 14, 2023. It is available to users of Google Workspace Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Education Fundamentals, Education Standard, Education Plus, the Teaching and Learning Upgrade, and Nonprofits.
The first week of July 2023 was pretty interesting with new product releases to pivotal legislative decisions, the period was a whirlwind of activity that shaped the trajectory of various tech sectors. Twitter also saw a brand new rival in the form of Threads from Meta.
In the realm of consumer electronics, major brands like Asus, OnePlus, Fairphone, and Samsung marked their presence by unveiling innovative devices. Asus’ ROG Ally handheld gaming console found its way into the Indian market, offering gaming enthusiasts a blend of performance and convenience. OnePlus added to its Nord lineup, with the Nord 3 and Nord CE 3 capturing attention due to their impressive specs. Fairphone, known for its sustainable and ethical approach, made its much-awaited Fairphone 4 5G available in the US. Samsung quietly launched the Snapdragon variant of the Galaxy S21 FE in India, while Apple revealed more details about its 15-inch MacBook Air, illustrating how the transition to Apple Silicon made its larger format possible.
Amidst these product announcements, a significant legal development took place in France, as lawmakers passed a bill allowing police to remotely access and activate suspects’ digital devices. This move sparked intense debates about privacy rights and the potential for state surveillance.
In essence, last week exemplified the ongoing interplay between rapid technological advancements, shifting market dynamics, and evolving societal norms.
Here were the top tech news stories from last week.
Reliance Jio and HMD Global unveiled new affordable feature phones, including the Nokia 110 4G and Nokia 110 2G, all supporting UPI payments. The 4G model, offering Bluetooth 5.0 and Micro USB 2.0, is priced at Rs. 2,499, while the 2G model, with 2G network support, is set at Rs. 1,699. Both models feature wireless FM radio functionality and long-lasting batteries.
Nokia and Apple have entered a new long-term patent cross-license agreement, focusing on Nokia’s 5G technology and other critical patents. With the previous agreement set to expire by year-end, the new deal will ensure Apple’s payment to Nokia for multiple years from 2024. The partnership highlights Nokia’s contributions to cellular standards and affirms Apple’s plan to incorporate Nokia’s technology into its future 5G-enabled devices.
Xiaomi has launched its new manufacturing line, the Xiaomi Smart Manufacturing Digital Intelligence System 2.0, at its Beijing Yizhuang Smart Factory. The new system promises enhanced precision and intelligence, leading to stronger and thinner products. Xiaomi’s upcoming MIX Fold 3, scheduled for an August release, will be the first product manufactured under this new system. Featuring a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and a quad-camera setup with a 5X periscope telephoto lens, the new foldable phone will also support 67W wired and 50W wireless fast charging. The phone’s international availability remains uncertain.
Celebrating its 9th anniversary in India, Xiaomi has rolled out a new customer service initiative, the 3-Layer Escalation Matrix. Intended to streamline the resolution process for customer complaints, the system promises swift, efficient responses to issues within a specified time frame. Customers can lodge complaints via multiple platforms, including the Mi Store app, Xiaomi Service+ app, or Xiaomi’s official website. Complaints that remain unresolved within 48 hours automatically escalate to higher levels, ultimately reaching the company’s President’s office if necessary, promising a response within 12 hours. Customer complaint statuses can be tracked via the Xiaomi Service+ app.
Ahead of the Android 14 release, Xiaomi has been found testing alpha builds of its latest MIUI 15 software, hinting that development began several months ago. The new update, potentially based on both Android 13 and 14, is expected to offer improved animations and numerous other upgrades. Specific features remain under wraps, but the release timeline should mirror MIUI 14, suggesting a rollout to compatible Xiaomi phones by Q1 2024. Initial testing appears to be taking place on a device codenamed garnet, rumored to be part of the forthcoming Redmi Note 13 lineup.
Set to hit European shelves on July 10, the Xiaomi Pad 6 offers an improved tablet experience with upgraded display and audio features. The device boasts an 11-inch 2.8K LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate and HDR10/Dolby Vision support. The Pad 6 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 SoC, up to 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of storage, along with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for reliable connectivity. The tablet caters to multimedia use with a 13MP rear camera, an 8MP front camera, and Dolby Atmos-supported quad speakers. It’s also compatible with the Xiaomi Smart Pen 2nd Gen and comes with a battery life bolstered by an 8,840mAh battery and 33W fast charging.
Asus’s new ROG Ally Z1 Extreme handheld gaming console is now on sale in India via Flipkart. The device, featuring a 7-inch IPS display, AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage, offers an immersive gaming experience on Windows 11. The console is priced at Rs 69,990, with various bank offers and EMI options available.
OnePlus unveiled two additions to its Nord lineup, the feature-rich mid-ranger Nord 3, and the more affordable Nord CE 3. The latter sports a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 782G chipset, up to 12GB RAM, and a 5000mAh battery with 80W fast charging. Available in two variants, 8GB+128GB and 12GB+256GB, Nord CE 3 will be released in August, with prices starting at Rs 26,999.
The environmentally conscious and repairable Fairphone 4 5G has launched in the US, underlining the brand’s commitment to sustainability and privacy. The device, which uses 100% recycled plastics and offers easily replaceable parts, runs Murena’s privacy-centric /e/OS, devoid of Google services. The phone comes in two variants, starting at $599, and features a 6.3-inch display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G processor, up to 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.
The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, powered by the Snapdragon 888 chipset, has quietly gone on sale in India for INR 49,999, with an introductory price of INR 44,999. Replacing the Exynos processor, this model retains the same features, including a 6.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 4,500mAh battery, and a camera setup featuring a 12MP primary sensor, 12MP ultra-wide angle lens, and an 8MP telephoto camera. The device also offers water and dust resistance with an IP68 rating.
Apple’s marketing executives disclosed that they had wanted to create a 15-inch MacBook Air for years but were restricted by the high power consumption of Intel’s chips. The shift to Apple Silicon enabled the company to maintain a slim, light design without compromising on battery life or performance. This new, larger MacBook Air is not only beneficial for consumers but also serves enterprise customers who have long requested such a device. This demonstrates Apple’s commitment to its transition to Apple Silicon and its responsiveness to customer demands.
Despite lacking key features like search, hashtags, and a following feed, Threads by Instagram, Meta’s bid to challenge Twitter’s dominance, is gaining user momentum. Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, assured that these features are underway, although no timeline was given. Threads’ successful integration with Instagram has been instrumental in its initial success, having already attracted over 30 million signups and being the top free app in Apple’s App Store.
French lawmakers have passed a justice reform bill granting police the power to remotely access and activate suspects’ device cameras, microphones, and GPS systems, stirring controversy. Critics argue the measure infringes on fundamental liberties and leans towards authoritarian surveillance. Although the law restricts usage to serious crimes and requires judicial approval, privacy advocates are concerned about the potential for abuse. Justice Minister Éric Dupond-Moretti argues the law is a necessary tool for saving lives.
Instagram‘s Threads has been the hottest thing all week, and everyone is talking about it. The app launched earlier this week and created waves throughout the tech world alongside social media and entertainment. The app is designed as a direct competitor to Twitter, reigns of which are in the hands of billionaire Elon Musk. The application has experienced a remarkable surge in signups within its first 48 hours. With over 97 million accounts already on the platform, Threads is on track to reach the 100 million user milestone faster than industry giants such as ChatGPT, TikTok, and even its parent platform, Instagram. This article explores the incredible growth of Threads, its advantages for Instagram users, and the response it has elicited from social media rivals like Twitter.
Twitter is now threatening to sue Meta in an attempt to regain its glory
Threads’ meteoric rise can be easily tracked via the number badges displayed on Instagram profiles, which indicate the date of joining the app. The current user count stands over 99 Million, and if the current pace continues, Threads is expected to hit 100 million users within a few hours of this article going live. That is absolutely insane.
To put this achievement into perspective, it took ChatGPT two months to reach 100 million users, TikTok nine months, and Instagram itself took two and a half years. Threads’ accelerated growth can be attributed to its integration with Instagram, allowing the platform’s massive user base of 1.6 billion individuals outside the European Union to seamlessly transition to Threads in one of the biggest platform transitions in history, and engage with its features from day one.
In response to Threads’ rapid ascent and growing competition, Twitter has fired back with a letter threatening to sue Meta, the parent company of Instagram. The letter insinuates that Meta may have employed former Twitter employees with access to sensitive trade secrets. This move is a clear indicator of the level of concern and rivalry between the two social media giants.
Threads’ extraordinary growth within its initial 48 hours is a testament to the app’s appeal and the power of Instagram’s existing user base. With the potential to reach 100 million users faster than its predecessors, Threads has established itself as a scary contender in the messaging app arena.
Twitter users were taken by surprise as the beloved old version of TweetDeck made a triumphant return overnight, also bringing with the news of the (possibly temporary) restoration of free API access that once enabled third-party Twitter clients. This development came shortly after Twitter had disabled TweetDeck and implemented a paywall, rendering legacy APIs pretty much useless and banning third-party apps earlier this year. A lot of users were quite unhappy regarding the Tweet, so Twitter is clearly looking to make amends.
There has been no official statement from Elon Musk or Linda Yaccarino
Roberto Doering, the developer behind Harpy, shed some light on the matter, mentioning that they had temporarily revived TweetDeck by switching to the “old v1 API.” However, Doering expressed doubts about its long-term sustainability, as Twitter is likely to once again restrict access to legacy APIs and third-party apps, which still go against their Terms of Service.
Interestingly, there has been no official statement from Twitter, Elon Musk, or new CEO Linda Yaccarino regarding the return of the old TweetDeck. Notably, Twitter’s official accounts, including Elon Musk’s, remained silent, with the most recent tweet from the Twitter Support account being the announcement of the new TweetDeck launch.
Twitter’s recent introduction of the “new, improved” version of TweetDeck, which had been in preview for over two years, got mixed reactions over the globe. The company revealed that this feature would be exclusive to Twitter Blue subscribers and verified accounts, introducing a paywall to access specific functionalities. Twitter defended its decision to impose a daily limit on the number of tweets users could view, citing the need to address data scraping issues caused by AI models. However, it remains uncertain whether this limitation will be lifted once the situation is resolved.
As Twitter navigates these changes, it faces one of its biggest, most formidable rivals in the form of Instagram’s Threads app. Meta launched Threads to exploit Twitter’s vulnerability, resulting in the registration of over 70 million accounts in just two days. Interestingly, while Threads may incorporate certain elements from Twitter, Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri has indicated a lack of interest in promoting political or hard news content on the platform (at least as of now).
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