AI Is Playing an Increasingly Important Role in SoftBank’s Business, Says CEO Masayoshi Son

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Jun 21, 2023

The relationship between smartphone manufacturers and the automotive industry is growing stronger. For example, Xiaomi is gearing up to launch its own electric vehicle, and Apple is also working on a car. Other big companies are looking for ways to make more money in this space, and smaller companies are getting involved too. Most recently, Polestar and Meizu have teamed up to create an EV operating system. Here are the details…

Polestar Partners with Geely’s Meizu to Build Chinese Operating System

Although many of us know Meizu for its smartphones, the company is striving to be much more than that. The company which was purchased by Geely due to financial troubles some time ago. and it is now working with Polestar to develop an operating system for Polestar cars sold in China. This new operating system will be based on Meizu’s Flyme Auto system and will bring the latest smart technologies in Polestar vehicles.

According to the reports, Polestar and Meizu have formed a joint venture called Xingji Meizu. The venture will be funded with $98 million from Polestar and $102 million from Meizu. Polestar will own 49% of the venture, and Meizu will own 51%. Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath said that he expects the new software to be quickly integrated into Polestar vehicles and that it will put the company on a “completely different level” compared to its Chinese EV competitors. He said that Polestar “definitely struggles” to be competitive in China, but that partnering with Meizu will be a “positive step.”

The partnership between Polestar and Meizu is a sign of the growing importance of software in the automotive industry. As EVs become more popular, automakers are increasingly looking to software to differentiate their products and provide a better user experience. The new operating system is expected to be launched in China in 2024. It will then be rolled out to other markets in the future.

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Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Go with a 250W motor and 18km range is listed in Europe

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Jun 21, 2023

There are indications that the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Go may soon be available in the European market. The standing e-scooter is equipped with a 250W motor and has a range of up to 11 miles (18km) on a single charge. The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Go has already gotten an EU Declaration of Conformity and Bluetooth certifications. These are precursors to the eventual release of the scooter in the region.

The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Go has also been spotted in a few retailers’ listings in Poland and Hungary. The EU conformity listing specified three models with numbers DDHBC29NEB, DDHBC30NEB, and DDHBC32NEB. There is no differentiating feature information for the three models at this time. Earlier this year, the Xiaomi Electric Scooter Go was spotted in a Bluetooth certification listing earlier this year.

The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Go was listed in the Batna24.com and eMAG websites in Poland and Hungary respectively. The product listing indicates that the kick scooter is equipped with a 250W motor that delivers a top speed of 20km/h. It has a built-in battery that provides a mileage of 18km on a single charge.

The scooter combines an E-ABS with drum braking, while its Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KER) helps to extend the range while riding. Other features of the scooter are an integrated display, a headlight, rear light, and app connectivity via Bluetooth. You can use the companion app to monitor the ride and adjust settings.

The pricing of the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Go in the two eastern-European countries of Hungary and Poland is between €348 and €458. Xiaomi has not put out an official release date for the scooter in the EU but this could be out soon.

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Unleash Your Gaming Potential with the Sablute SG 60% RGB Gaming Mechanical Keyboard

By

Joane

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Jun 21, 2023

The Sablute SG 60% RGB Gaming Mechanical Keyboard, is the ultimate gaming companion designed to elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Packed with an array of features, this compact keyboard offers unrivaled performance and versatility, making it the perfect choice for gamers, professionals, and tech enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of the Sablute SG is its triple-mode keyboard functionality. With its Bluetooth 5.0 chipset, 2.4GHz wireless connection, and USB-C wired mode, this keyboard can seamlessly connect to a variety of devices including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and Apple Mac Computers. Say goodbye to the hassle of constantly switching keyboards between devices and enjoy fast and stable connections no matter where you are.

Designed with gamers in mind, the 60% compact form factor of the Sablute SG is ideal for FPS gaming. By eliminating the numpad, it provides more space for precise mouse movements, giving you a competitive edge in intense gaming sessions.

The Sablute SG features a hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to customize your keyboard with different switches without the need for soldering. Explore the vast range of mechanical switches available and create your own unique typing experience. Whether you prefer the satisfying click of tactile switches or the smooth linear feel of red switches, the choice is yours.

Never worry about running out of battery during those extended gaming marathons. The high-capacity battery of the SG 60% mechanical keyboard provides up to 600 hours of continuous usage with the backlit feature turned off. Additionally, it boasts an impressive standby time of up to 360 hours, ensuring that your keyboard is always ready for action.

Ergonomics play a vital role in creating a comfortable typing experience, and the Sablute SG takes it to the next level. With its stepped design, this keyboard offers an ergonomic layout that reduces hand pressure and minimizes fatigue, allowing you to game or work for extended periods without discomfort.

Personalize your gaming setup with the Sablute SG’s 20 RGB backlight effects. From vibrant colors to subtle transitions, the keyboard offers a range of customization options. Adjust the brightness and flowing speed directly on the keyboard to match your mood and gaming ambiance, creating a truly immersive experience.

Generally retailing for $69.99, you can now buy the Sablute SG 60% RGB Gaming Mechanical Keyboard for a discounted price of $44.99 on Amazon.

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Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 2 launch timeframe tipped, to arrive with different name

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Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jun 21, 2023

Several reports have claimed that Qualcomm is working on an improved version of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. The new chip is tentatively called the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 2. In recent Weibo posts, tipster WHY LAB has revealed its launch timeframe, whereas leaker Digital Chat Station has shared key details about it.

In November and December 2022, almost all the mainstream Chinese smartphone brands launched flagship phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. The Samsung Galaxy S23 series, which debuted in the first quarter of 2023, came equipped with a chip called the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, which is nothing but a custom version of the chip for Samsung.

While the regular Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip works at 3.2GHz, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy operates at 3.36GHz. According to tipster DCS, the upcoming overclocked version of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 refers to Samsung’s customized version of the chip.

The rumour mill is tentatively calling the overclocked version the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 2. The tipster claimed that it would not be its official name. Instead, the US-based chip maker may launch it with a different name. It will be built with the TSMC 4nm manufacturing process.

DCS added that the chip will offer a top-notch performance, but there are not many smartphones featuring the new chip. The reason behind it is that it is very expensive. According to tipster WHY LAB, the new chip that works at 3.36GHz will be officially announced in the next week.

A recent report revealed that the Red Magic 8S Pro, which is expected to launch by early July, could be the first phone to feature the new chip. The iQOO 11S and the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro arriving in the coming weeks will also feature the new chip.

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Tesla Sold More EVs Than The Next 18 Automotive Groups Combined in Q1 2023

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Jun 21, 2023

Electric vehicles are becoming more popular all the time. What was once an expensive and unreliable technology is now affordable and free from many technical issues. In fact, the world is more ready for an electric transformation than you might think. In 2023, Tesla sold more EVs than the next 18 automotive groups combined. Here are the details…

EV Tax Credit Fuels Tesla’s Sales Growth in Q1 2023

Tesla is still the king of the US electric vehicle market. In Q1 2023, The company sold more EVs than the next 18 automotive groups combined, such as Hyundai, Audi, BMW, Volvo, and Nissan. That’s right, 18 other companies combined couldn’t match Tesla’s sales. Tesla’s sales grew by 79% year-over-year, reaching 184,800 units. While the overall EV market grew by 74%. The Model Y was the best-selling EV in the US in Q1, followed by the Model 3. These two models accounted for over half of Tesla’s sales in the quarter.

The strong growth of the US EV market is being driven by a number of factors, including government incentives, increasing consumer demand, and the growing availability of EV models. The US government offers a tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of an EV, and many states also offer additional incentives.

In addition to being a popular choice for consumers, EVs are also good for the environment. They produce zero emissions, which can help to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. While Tesla is the leading EV manufacturer in the US, they are not the world’s largest. That title belongs to BYD, a Chinese company.

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Baidu Expands Fully Driverless Ride-Hailing Service to Shenzhen, after Beijing and Wuhan

By

Joane

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Jun 21, 2023

Baidu, Inc. the Chinese technology conglomerate renowned for its expertise in Internet-based offerings, products, and artificial intelligence (AI), has received official licensing to commence commercial operations of its fully autonomous ride-hailing service in Shenzhen. This groundbreaking development allows Baidu’s robotaxis to offer ride-hailing services without the presence of a safety operator inside the vehicle. Shenzhen now joins the ranks of Wuhan, Chongqing, and Beijing as the fourth Chinese city to experience the convenience and innovation of this autonomous service.

Following the acquisition of the latest license, Baidu’s Apollo Go autonomous vehicles will be granted permission to operate within a sizable 188 sq. km expanse in Shenzhen. Operating hours extend from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., accommodating the commuting needs of both morning and evening travelers. To access this convenient service, users can utilize various platforms such as the Apollo Go app or mini-program, in addition to Baidu Maps, Baidu App, and similar interfaces. The expansion of the commercial fully driverless ride-hailing service opens doors to a wider audience of paying users.

Having obtained China’s inaugural permit for offering commercial fully driverless robotaxi services on public roads in August 2022, Baidu’s Apollo Go service successfully launched in Chongqing and Wuhan, two bustling megacities in China. The company’s ambition for 2023 includes deploying an additional 200 fully driverless robotaxis and establishing the world’s largest fully driverless ride-hailing zone. These efforts are set to contribute to the rapid and high-quality advancement of China’s autonomous driving industry.

The meteoric rise of Apollo Go continues as it rapidly expands its active user base and experiences an upsurge in user engagement. The year 2022 witnessed a near doubling of active users compared to the previous year, demonstrating the growing popularity of the service. Moreover, the percentage of users who took rides more than 4 days per month increased by an impressive 8.06% compared to the previous year.

Notably, the cumulative number of rides taken through Apollo Go surpassed the remarkable milestone of 2 million rides by the first quarter of 2023. This achievement showcases the unwavering trust and confidence that users have placed in the world’s largest autonomous ride-hailing service provider.

The recent approval of Apollo Go’s commercial fully driverless operations in Shenzhen signifies the city’s pioneering role in the intelligent connected vehicle industry.

This PS5 Bundle Could Be the Best Deal in Gaming History

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Jun 21, 2023

The ninth generation of console gaming is in full swing, and the race is close. Sony is currently leading with the PS5, but Microsoft is making a strong push with the Xbox. Microsoft has been buying up game studios in recent years, including Activision Blizzard, and they are making all of those games available through their Game Pass subscription service.

This is making the Xbox more appealing to gamers, and Sony is looking to counter this by making the PlayStation 5 more attractive. A recent leak suggests that Sony is planning to release a new bundle package that will include the console and some popular games. This could help Sony keep its lead in the console wars. Here are the details…

New PS5 Bundle Could Include 24 Months of PlayStation Plus Premium

Are you thinking of buying a new game console? If you’re undecided between the Xbox Series S/X and the PlayStation 5, you should read this article before making your decision. Because, a Twitter user named @Zuby_Tech, who has leaked similar information in the past, recently published two images that claim to show an upcoming PlayStation Plus bundle.

New PlayStation 5 24 Month PlayStation Plus Premium Bundle:#PlayStation #PlayStation5 #PS5 #DualSense #PlayHasNoLimits #PlayStationPlus pic.twitter.com/m81TYMB2UL
— @Zuby_Tech (@Zuby_Tech) June 19, 2023

The images show a PlayStation 5 console with a white controller and a box that includes 24 months of PlayStation Plus Premium. The Premium tier is the most expensive tier of PlayStation Plus, and it offers a number of benefits, including access to a library of over 700 games, cloud streaming for PS4 and PS5 games, and exclusive discounts.

The PlayStation 5 bundle might seem ordinary at first, but it’s actually a great deal. If the leak is true, buyers will get a two-year PS Plus Premium subscription for free, which is worth $240. That means they’ll get access to both the console and a wide game library right away. This could lead to a significant increase in Sony’s sales, similar to what Xbox has achieved with Game Pass.

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Asus Launches AIO A5 Series in India with 13th Gen Intel Processor Starting at ₹94,990

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Jun 20, 2023

Asus continues to expand its product range in India. Thanks to its large population, India, being one of the world’s biggest markets, frequently sees special products and campaigns from tech brands. Most recently, the company has launched a new lineup of All-In-One computers in the country. These new AIOs showcase powerful performance, stylish design, and a range of features that make them suitable for both home and business use. Here are the details…

Asus AIO A5 Series: The Powerful and Stylish All-in-One PC

If you’re looking for a powerful computer but have limited space, an All-In-One PC might be the perfect solution. Until now, there haven’t been many AIOs on the market with powerful specs. But that’s all changed with the launch of the new Asus AIO A5 Series in India. The AIO A5 Series is powered by the latest Intel 13th Gen processors, so you can be sure it’s up to the task of handling even the most demanding tasks.

In addition to its superior sound, the A5 Series also offers spectacular performance. The A5 Series is equipped with up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM and up to 512GB of M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD storage. It also boasts an array of high-end audio components, including a premium integrated subwoofer, high-quality stereo speakers, and Dolby Atmos support. This means you’ll be able to enjoy an immersive and engaging multimedia experience. The Asus AIO A5 Series is available now in India starting at 94,990 INR.

Feature	Specification
Processor	Up to 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1340P
Memory	Up to 16GB DDR4 RAM
Storage	Up to 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD
Display	23.8-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) 16:9, IPS-level Panel, Anti-glare display, LED Backlit, 250nits, sRGB: 100%
Audio	Premium integrated subwoofer, high-quality stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos support
Networking	Wi-Fi 6E(802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2 + Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Card
Operating System	Windows 11 Home
Weight	07.20 kg (15.87 lbs)
Dimensions	54.1 x 42.6 x 5.7 ~ 20.1 cm (21.30″ x 16.77″ x 2.24″ ~ 7.91″)
Price	Starting at ₹ 94,990

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Audio-Technica introduces new Turntables for high-quality Vinyl playback in India

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Jun 20, 2023

Audio-Technica has launched three new turntable models in India. With a commitment to providing high-quality and user-friendly options for vinyl enthusiasts, Audio-Technica aims to enhance the enjoyment of cherished vinyl collections in both professional and home settings.

Leading the lineup is the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB, an upgraded version of the acclaimed AT-LP120-USB. This professional-grade turntable boasts several impressive enhancements. It features a new DC servo direct-drive motor, ensuring precise and stable playback. The inclusion of an HS6 headshell and adjustable dynamic anti-skate control further improves tracking accuracy and reduces unwanted resonances. Additionally, the damped base construction minimizes low-frequency feedback coloration, resulting in a more immersive listening experience.

The AT-LP120XUSB also offers convenient digitization capabilities with its USB output. Users can effortlessly convert their vinyl records into digital audio formats, preserving their collection for modern playback. Supporting speeds of 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPM, this turntable provides versatility for various vinyl formats. With a high-performance AT-VM95E cartridge mounted on the HS6 headshell, users can expect exceptional audio fidelity.

In addition to the professional-grade model, Audio-Technica has upgraded its entry-level turntable line-up with the AT-LP60XUSB and AT-LP60X models. These turntables feature a stylish design with rounded corners and inset control buttons, available in a variety of finishes. The redesigned tonearm base and headshell enhance tracking accuracy while reducing resonances, delivering improved audio performance. The fully-automatic operation and built-in phono preamp make these models perfect for vinyl enthusiasts, whether newcomers or those rediscovering their record collections.

The new turntables are now available in India through a network of offline dealers as well as online on Amazon.in. The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB is priced at Rs. 56,990, the AT-LP60X is priced at Rs. 22,590, and the AT-LP60XUSB is priced at Rs. 24,990.

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Apple confirms no third-party watch faces for Apple Watch in near future

By

Soumyakanti

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Jun 20, 2023

In a recent interview with Swiss media TagesAngzeiger, Apple Vice Presidents Kevin Lynch and Deidre Caldbeck shed light on the upcoming changes in the watchOS and addressed the issue of third-party watch faces for the Apple Watch. Apple enthusiasts will have to wait longer for the introduction of third-party watch faces, as the company intends to prioritize stability and consistency.

Stability Matters: Apple’s Reasoning Behind No Third-Party Watch Faces for Apple Watch

Lynch emphasized that the watch face serves as the Apple Watch’s home screen and, therefore, needs to remain consistent and stable. Apple wants to ensure that the watch face continues to function seamlessly even after major watchOS updates. By maintaining control over watch face development, Apple can guarantee compatibility with other operating system elements.

Caldbeck assured users that Apple takes responsibility for ensuring that the watch face works reliably throughout updates. While third-party watch faces may offer customization options, Apple’s focus on stability outweighs the introduction of this feature for now.

The interview also touched upon the removal of Force Touch, a feature that allowed users to access additional functions by pressing harder on the screen. Lynch explained that the initial purpose of Force Touch was to accommodate rarely-used features within the limited display space. However, the interaction proved to be less intuitive, requiring users to know precisely when and where to apply the additional force.

With the introduction of larger screens in recent Apple Watch models, the need for Force Touch has diminished. The expanded display space allows for more straightforward ways to display information and incorporate additional features, making Force Touch unnecessary.

Apple continues to prioritize user feedback in refining the Apple Watch experience. The forthcoming watchOS update will bring changes like repurposing the Digital Crown button press for easier access to the Control Center and introduction of a new widget system to enhance data accessibility.

Overall, Apple remains committed to providing a stable and consistent experience for Apple Watch users, ensuring that both software updates and the removal of features align with their vision for the product’s usability and user satisfaction.

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Honor MagicBook X 16 2023 laptop launched with Core i5 and 16:10 display

By

Anurag

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Jun 20, 2023

Honor has launched some compelling laptops in the MagicBook series recently and the newly launched MagicBook X 16 2023 is not an exception. The laptop brings a sleek design with a 16-inch display and a number pad on the keyboard. It comes powered by the Intel Core i5 processor along with a 60 Wh battery. Let’s have a closer look at its pricing and specifications.

Honor MagicBook X 16 2023 Specs and Pricing

The Honor MagicBook X 16 is a refresh of last year’s model with the same name. It is powered by the Core i5-12450H, which is a processor with four performance cores and four efficiency cores, and it has a 45 W TDP. This is an upgrade over the Core i5-1235U in last year’s MagicBook X 16. The processor is also paired with 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and two M.2 2280 slots.

The laptop gets a 16-inch Full HD IPS screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio, 100%s RGB color gamut, 300 nits of brightness, and TÜV Rheinland certified eye comfort mode. For connectivity, the machine features multiple ports including full-featured USB-A 3.1 Gen 1, USB-A 3.1 Gen 1, and HDMI. There’s a 3.5mm headset and microphone 2-in-1 jack.

In addition, the Honor MagicBook X 16 boasts a full-size keyboard with a number pad. It is touted to have a 1.5mm keystroke, Space Bar 1.6mm keystroke, millisecond key response, and strong tactile feedback. The notebook packs a 60WH battery that supports 65W Type-C charging as well as multi-device charging.

As of now, the Honor MagicBook X 16 2023 has been exclusively launched in the UK. The available configuration in the UK includes 512 GB of storage, priced at £699.99. However, Honor has not provided any official information regarding pricing or availability in other markets.

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Ducati E-Enduro Powerstage RR Limited Edition e-bike with a 250W motor released

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Jun 20, 2023

Ducati has released the E-Enduro Powerstage RR Limited Edition e-bike. The e-bike comes with a 250W Shimano EP801 motor, an integrated LCD, and a 630Wh battery. The Ducati E-Enduro Powerstage RR Limited Edition e-bike is the first model that sports a carbon fiber frame. It is an electric mountain bike with a high concentration of technology and advanced componentry.

Ducati E-Enduro Powerstage RR Limited Edition e-bike

The Ducati E-Enduro has a 12-speed electronic SRAM Drivetrain while the maximum torque from the Shimano motor is 85Nm. The e-bike features the Ohlins suspension system with 180mm front and 170mm rear travel as well as 27.5-inch front and 29-inch rear Pirelli Scorpion tires. Ducati says the bike is well-suited to deliver maximum performance on the most extreme routes. Some design aspects of the bike reflect the collaboration between Aldo Drudi and the Centro Stile Ducati. The bike’s customization of the limited units (230) enhances the unique character of the model.

Garmin Forerunner 965Ducati E-Enduro Powerstage RR Limited Edition e-bike

The Ducati E-Enduro has two-piston caliper brakes with 203mm rotors and supports micro height adjustment. You can view the ride parameters like speed and battery status on the bicycle’s built-in Shimano SC-EN600 LCD. The LCD can be remotely controlled using the Shimano Etube Project app.

Ducati E-Enduro Powerstage RR Limited Edition e-bike Price & Availability

The Ducati E-Enduro Powerstage RR Limited Edition e-bike is available in the US for $11,990. The UK and EU prices for the electric bicycle are £11,690 (~$14,881) and €11,990 (~$13,087) respectively. Ducati says only 230 units of the bicycle will be manufactured. The availability of the model is via selected dealers worldwide. The Ducati E-Enduro Powerstage RR is available in medium, large, and extra-large sizes.

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Redmi Note 12R listed online: full specs, images, and price

By

Anurag

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Jun 20, 2023

Redmi unveiled the Note 12R Pro in China earlier this year with Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor. The smartphone joins the Note 12 series, which includes devices, such as the Note 12 5G, Note 12 Pro, Note 12 Pro+, and more. The company is also rumored to launch a new model in the series, dubbed Redmi Note 12R. The handset has been listed on China Telecom with complete specifications, images, and pricing. Here are the details.

Redmi Note 12R is ready to launch soon

Redmi Note 12R shares its design with the other devices in the series. Its camera module reminds us of the Poco F5, although it may not be as polished. The China Telecom listing, spotted by TechGoing, suggests the device has a punch-hole cutout on the front with thick bezels. The handset gets a rear dual camera unit with a side-facing fingerprint scanner.

The Redmi Note 12R is listed on China Telecom with model number 23076RA4BC. As per the listing, the handset sports a 6.79-inch display with a Full HD+ resolution. Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2. In fact, it may be one of the first phones to get this processor. It will pack up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

Further, the handset will come with microSD card support to help you extend storage up to 1TB. On the software front, the Redmi Note 12R will run Android 13 based on MIUI 14 out of the box. The device has a 5MP selfie camera and 50MP + 2MP camera setup on the rear. It packs a 5,000mAh battery with 22.5W charging support. The smartphone will be offered in Midnight Black, Time Blue, and Sky Fantasy color options.

Here are the pricing details for the Redmi Note 12R:

4GB RAM + 128GB storage: 1,099 Yuan ($153)
6GB RAM + 128GB storage: 1,199 Yuan ($167)
8GB RAM + 128GB storage: 1,599 Yuan ($222)
8GB RAM + 256GB storage: 1,799 Yuan ($250)

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Realme to follow other BBK brands in exiting German market

By

Anurag

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Jun 20, 2023

Patent disputes can be really nasty, and the BBK Group learned this the hard way. In 2021, Nokia sued Oppo and its sub-brand OnePlus for patent infringement in Germany, which forced both companies to cease operations in the country. The same lawsuit is now causing Realme, another BBK-owned company, to abandon the German market, according to a report.

Realme will shift focus to other European markets: Report

Realme’s European division told Nextpit that business in Germany has slowed significantly following internal discussions and the pending Nokia lawsuit. The company is still awaiting positive news regarding license negotiations with Nokia before it can resume marketing efforts in Germany. Although Realme did not explicitly state its exit from Germany, the publication suggests that the company hinted at the possibility.

For the unknown, Nokia filed a lawsuit against Chinese smartphone makers Oppo and OnePlus for patent infringement in Germany. Nokia accused the companies of using its patented technology for processing 4G and 5G signals without paying for a license. In August 2022, a German court made a decision in favor of Nokia, instructing Oppo and OnePlus to halt smartphone sales in Germany. The court determined that the companies had violated two of Nokia’s standard essential patents (SEPs). These patents are crucial for the proper operation of 4G and 5G networks.

Nextpit points out that Realme intends to redirect its attention toward other key markets such as Italy, Poland, Spain, and the Balkans. Vivo also ceased operations in Germany recently, resulting in the entire BBK Group exiting the country. This creates an opportunity for manufacturers like Xiaomi and Honor to capitalize on the market.

Realme was never a highly popular smartphone brand in Germany, but the company did have a presence, offering consumers more options to choose from.

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Toyota moots incorporating simulated manual transmissions in future EVs to appeal to customers

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Jun 20, 2023

Toyota plans to develop a simulated manual transmission on its future EVs to catch the attention of manual-tuned customers. The automaker is gradually transiting to sustainable automotive solutions and already has a growing EV lineup. The new electric vehicles will come with fake manual transmissions and may even simulate some manual transmission features.

The new drive by Toyota is indicative of the strong attachment customers still feel for manual transmission vehicles. It would allow drivers to simulate manual-based driving through a fake clutch that sends signals to the engine and create a feeling of switching gears. Toyota has already patented the technology for this feature in its new EVs.

A clutch pedal will be included in the EVs and will support downshifting as well. The driver can use the manual transmission module to slow down the vehicle instead of depressing the brake pedal. The new Toyota EVs will be able to provide jerks and stops for drivers who never learned to handle a manual car.

The cars will simulate the consequences of using the clutch poorly but won’t however stall ensuring safety as expected. The addition of the simulated manual architecture to future Toyota EVs is just for the fun of manual transmission enthusiasts. Drivers will have the option of disabling the fake manual transmission at any time.

Toyota has not made any official statement relating to the simulated manual transmission on future EVs. There are also no indications yet on the scheduled kick-off of the technology.

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