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Google testing YouTube Playables as a new gaming feature

Google is reportedly testing a feature called “Playables” on YouTube, aimed at providing users with small gaming experiences directly within the YouTube browser or through a mobile app. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that Google informed YouTube employees about the ongoing testing of this product, which would grant users access to games on mobile devices and desktop computers.

Google’s Ambitions in the Gaming Market

While specific details about Playables are scarce due to its confidential nature, a leaked game called Stack Bounce suggests that the focus might be on simple brick-breaking games. A Google spokesperson acknowledged that gaming has been a focus for YouTube and mentioned ongoing experimentation with new features. However, no official announcements have been made regarding Playables.

This move by Google and YouTube seems to combine elements from other platforms’ gaming approaches. Facebook, for instance, previously offered games through a dedicated app called “Facebook Gaming” but later discontinued it. Nevertheless, games can still be played on Facebook’s website. The games available on Facebook’s platform typically include simple puzzle, idle, or matching games. YouTube’s Playables concept appears to align with this approach.

In contrast, Netflix has taken a different approach, allowing users to download full-sized titles and sign in with their Netflix account to play games. Google could potentially adopt either method for offering games on YouTube, although the motivation behind this move remains somewhat perplexing. Google’s previous gaming platform, Stadia, faced challenges due to scalability and the company’s level of commitment.

Google’s executives have expressed their seriousness about gaming and their desire to leverage the growing number of gamers visiting YouTube to watch live streams and other videos. However, if the games offered through Playables are not of higher quality or fail to meet the expectations of the gaming market, it may indicate a significant misjudgment on Google’s part.

While there is a possibility that Google may decide not to launch this product, if it does, there are concerns that it could meet a fate similar to other underdeveloped ideas from the company and join Google’s list of discontinued projects soon after its release.

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ViewSonic WK3000 4K projector with native 1440p 120Hz resolution launched in China

ViewSonic has launched the WK3000 4K projector in China. The new ViewSonic projector has a native resolution of 1,440p and can output 4K images. The projector has a high refresh rate of 240Hz and a response rate of 4.2ms. The new ViewSonic WK3000 4K projector is well-primed for a variety of applications from gaming to streaming content.

ViewSonic WK3000 4K projector

The ViewSonic WK3000 projector uses three-generation LED technology and a four-channel LED light source to deliver a maximum brightness of 3,100 lumens. It also offers 125% REC.709 color gamut coverage while the light source has a 30,000 hours expected life cycle. The lifespan of the projector’s light source is up to four times longer than that of conventional mercury lamps. The WK3000 has two built-in 6W JBL speakers that provide a decent audio output.

ViewSonic WK3000 4K projector

The new ViewSonic projector has a 0.65-inch 4K UHD projection system with a 3,840 x 2,160 pixels resolution. The projector natively supports 1440p 120Hz and also supports HDR10 as well as HLG. The projector can automatically detect and make adjustments and adaptations for different Xbox games. The projector supports 1.3x optical zoom, 0.8 x – 2.0x digital zoom, and a projection distance of up to 3.3 meters at a size of 100 inches.

ViewSonic WK3000 4K projector

The ViewSonic WK3000 4K projector is available for purchase in China for 24,999 yuan (~$347). Customers in China can head to retail platforms like JD.com to get the WK3000 projector. There are no global availability details yet for the projector.

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China’s Electric Vehicle Market Thrives as Domestic Models Dominate Sales

China’s electric vehicle (EV) market has defied expectations, maintaining robust growth in the first quarter of 2023, despite subsidy cuts. According to Counterpoint’s China Passenger Electric Vehicle Model Sales Tracker, EV sales in the country experienced a remarkable 29% year-on-year increase during this period. Notably, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) dominated the market, constituting nearly 70% of all sales. Furthermore, plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEVs) witnessed an astounding 88% year-on-year surge, highlighting their growing popularity among Chinese consumers.

In terms of market share, BYD emerged as the leader, securing a dominant position with a staggering 79% growth in sales and a 9.8% increase in market share compared to the previous year. Moreover, the top 10 automotive groups, encompassing 28 brands, collectively accounted for over 80% of the total passenger EV sales in China. This consolidation reflects the competitive landscape of the Chinese EV market, where established players continue to drive significant sales volumes.

Despite reductions in subsidies, the continued strong growth of China’s EV market underscores the resilience and popularity of electric vehicles in the country. With a focus on sustainable transportation solutions and a supportive regulatory environment, China is poised to maintain its position as the world’s largest market for EVs, stimulating further innovation and investment in the sector.

In a testament to the burgeoning domestic electric vehicle (EV) industry, eight out of the top 10 best-selling EV models in China during the first quarter of 2023 hailed from Chinese manufacturers. Surprisingly, no foreign models, except Tesla, managed to secure a spot among the country’s top-selling EVs. These findings highlight the strong preference for homegrown EV brands among Chinese consumers.

Impressively, the collective sales of the top 10 best-selling models alone accounted for a substantial 46% of China’s passenger EV market. This dominance underscores the fierce competition within the Chinese EV landscape, with local manufacturers driving the majority of sales.

Furthermore, when it comes to plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEVs), all of the top five best-selling models in Q1 2023 were manufactured by BYD Auto, cementing the company’s stronghold in this segment. BYD’s success in the PHEV market further solidifies its position as a key player in China’s EV industry.

The remarkable performance of Chinese EV models and the absence of foreign contenders among the top 10 best-sellers showcase China’s progress in developing a robust and competitive EV market. As China continues to prioritize sustainable transportation and expand its charging infrastructure, domestic manufacturers are poised to lead the way, fostering innovation and driving the country towards a greener future.

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Xiaomi MIJIA Electric Exercise Bike goes on sale in China for 1,099 yuan ($277)

Xiaomi launched the MIJIA Electric Exercise Bike in China via crowdfunding earlier in May. The new electric exercise bike is now on open sale in China. Xiaomi offered the gadget at a discounted price of 1,799 yuan (~$249) during the crowdfunding period but the MIJIA self-propelled electric bicycle is now priced at 1,999 yuan (~$277).

MIJIA Electric Exercise Bike

The self-propelled MIJIA electric bicycle is an indoor exercise gadget and offers the opportunity of charging your phone via power generated while working the machine. The electric exercise bike has a built-in 20W dual-coil wireless fast charging that converts cycling energy to electrical energy to charge your mobile devices like smartphones. Xiaomi says the device can charge your phone while the user is burning fat during exercise with the bike. When the cadence of the bike reaches 60rpm and above, the gadget can charge a mobile phone. The generator can reach a maximum power output above 50W when the full load is turned on.

MIJIA Electric Exercise Bike

Xiaomi says the bicycle can provide a maximum wireless charging power of up to 20W for the Xiaomi 12, MIX4, Xiaomi 11, and Xiaomi 10 series smartphones. It is also capable of charging the Xiaomi 9 Pro, as well as other smartphone brands that support wireless charging. Xiaomi recommends that the thickness of the smartphone’s case should not exceed 3mm. The MIJIA electric bicycle is equipped with the SC8701 synchronous buck-boost control chip. This enables the bicycle to have a higher output voltage than the input voltage and also improves thermal performance.

MIJIA Electric Exercise Bike

The MIJIA electric exercise bike features 32 gears of resistance adjustment and uses a hidden all-inclusive flywheel design. This prevents the risks of burn-ups or accidental contact. It has a net weight of 39.5kg and can be linked to air conditioners and water heaters. The bike features an integrated central control screen that provides information on calories and cadence during the workout.

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Motorola Moto G14 inches closer to launch, gets TDRA certified

Motorola’s G series keeps expanding as it recently launched the Moto G53j smartphone in Japan. The company also introduced the Moto G Stylus last month in the US and now seems to be ready to launch an affordable model in the series. The Moto G14 has recently bagged the TDRA certification, hinting it might launch very soon. Here are the details.

Moto G14 could be a budget smartphone

The Moto G14 has received TDRA certification with the model number XT2341-4. Although the listing itself isn’t particularly interesting, it confirms the name of the smartphone. The moniker of the device suggests that it will debut as a budget model, potentially serving as the successor to the Moto G13. Currently, no details about the handset are available. The Tech Outlook recently spotted the model number on the EEC website too, indicating that the device may be approaching its launch.

Motorola-Moto-G13

Just as a reminder, the Moto G13 is available at a price of ₹9,499 ($115) for the 4GB RAM + 64GB storage trim and ₹9,999 ($120) for the 4GB RAM + 128GB storage configuration. It comes with a 6.5-inch centered punch-hole LCD display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it is powered by a MediaTek Helio G85 chipset.

On the software front, the Moto G13 boots Android 13. It comes with a promise of an Android 14 update and three years of security updates. For photography, the device has a triple camera system on the rear with a 50MP primary shooter, a 2MP macro snapper, and a 2MP depth sensor. The front sports an 8MP sensor. The connectivity options on the handset include dual SIM, 4G, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.1, and GNSS. It packs a 5,000mAh battery with support for 10W charging.

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More phones will use Galaxy S23’s custom Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip

The Samsung Galaxy S23 series was released earlier this year with a number of upgrades, including a special Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. This processor is exclusive to the Galaxy S23 series and is clocked at 3.36 GHz, which is higher than the regular version. The overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is now set to be used in other smartphones, as the upcoming Red Magic 8S Pro has been confirmed to feature the chip.

Red-Magic-8-Pro
Red Magic 8 Pro

Red Magic 8S Pro uses an overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

Red Magic will launch its latest gaming smartphone— Red Magic 8S Pro in China on the 5th of July 2023. Ahead of the release, the company has started teasing the device and has confirmed it uses an overclocked version of Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (Via Android Authority). The chip is called the “Leading Version” and gets a higher frequency than the regular one.

RedMagic-8S-Pro-processor

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor found on the Red Magic 8S Pro will be clocked at 3.36 GHz. This is the same clock speed as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, which is exclusive to Samsung devices. The standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which is used in phones like the OnePlus 11 and iQOO 11, clocks out at 3.2 GHz. The Red Magic 8S Pro could also have a boosted GPU, which will run at 719 MHz, up from 680 MHz in the standard version.

While the Galaxy S23 series has a higher clock speed than the regular Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 phones, it does not offer any earth-shattering performance improvements. This could be due to Samsung’s inability to fully utilize the chip’s potential. Red Magic, on the other hand, may be able to do a better job with the 8S Pro, especially with its gaming-focused cooling mechanism.

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Redmi Watch 3 Active smartwatch unveiled ahead of global launch

After its initial launch as the Redmi Watch 3 Youth Edition, also known as the Redmi Watch 3 Lite in China, the brand is now is now introducing the same smartwatch to international markets with the name Redmi Watch 3 Active.

Redmi

The smartwatch has been teased on Xiaomi’s global website, revealing its design and specifications. The price is officially under wraps at this point, however, the AliExpress listings of the smartwatch reveal that it could cost $39.99.

Redmi Watch 3 Active specs

Redmi

The smartwatch boasts a 1.83-inch LCD display, which is slightly larger compared to the Redmi Watch 3 released globally in March.

Redmi

The Watch 3 Active offers various features, including Bluetooth calling, continuous blood oxygen monitoring, heart rate monitoring, sleep monitoring, and more than 100 sports modes. It also includes women’s health functions. On the software side, the Watch 3 Active supports over 200 personalized watch faces.

Moreover, the smartwatch is equipped with 5ATM waterproofing, enabling users to use it underwater. With normal usage, the battery life can last up to 12 days, but under heavy usage, it can last up to 8 days on a full charge.

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Samsung launches Pokemon-themed cases for Galaxy Buds 2 and Buds 2 Pro

Samsung is no stranger to Pokémon-themed products. Last year, the company announced its Galaxy Z Flip3 Pokémon Edition phone, which went out of stock within minutes. The brand also introduced Galaxy Buds 2 shaped like a Poké Ball. Now, it seems Samsung wants to offer consumers even more options, as it has announced three new Galaxy Buds 2 cases designed to look like Jigglypuff, Ditto, and Snorlax.

Galaxy Buds 2 get Pokemon treatment

The Galaxy Buds 2 Pokemon Pack has been launched in South Korea. The case for Buds 2 comes priced at KRW 129,000 ($98.99), while you can get the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Pokemon Pack for KRW 199,000 (around $152). As mentioned, these packs are made to look like three popular Pokemons— Ditto, Jigglypuff, and Snorlax.

Samsung-Galaxy-Buds-2-Pro-Pokemon

These new cases are only available for purchase in South Korea and interested customers can get them through G Market starting today. Further, Ditto and Snorlax versions of the Galaxy Buds 2 and the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro will also be available offline through the Samsung Gangnam store, opening on June 29.

As mentioned previously, Samsung often launches Pokémon-themed products. Earlier this year, the Korean company released a case for the Galaxy Z Flip4 and watch straps for the Galaxy Watch5. These special products consistently sell out within minutes, so it is logical for Samsung to continue launching them. In the future, the brand may also expand the availability of these products to the global market.

To remind you, Samsung is gearing up to launch the new Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 next month during the Unpacked event. The company may also introduce the new Galaxy Watch 6 series, Galaxy Tab S9 series, and Galaxy Buds 3 alongside the foldables.

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Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G Available At An Limited-Time Discount In India

Tecno launched the Camon 20 Pro 5G smartphone in India last month. It went on sale recently. The smartphone is offered in 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB RAM and storage configurations. Now the brand has announced a limited-period discount on the purchase of the device. Read on to know more about it below. 

Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G limited-time discount

Tecno

The Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G carries a price tag of 19,999 for the 128GB variant whereas the 256GB model costs Rs 21,999. As a part of the limited-period offer, interested customers can avail of flat Rs 2,000 discount on all bank cards on both variants of the phone. This makes the 8GB + 128GB option available for Rs 17,999 and the 8GB + 256GB variant can be grabbed at Rs 19,999. The Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G is offered in Dark Welkin and Serenity Blue colors. It can be purchased from Amazon. 

As for the core specifications, the Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G features a 6.67-inch center-aligned punch-hole AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. On the imaging front, the smartphone has a 64MP RGBW sensor with sensor-shift OIS, a 2MP macro unit, and a 2MP bokeh lens. There is a 32MP selfie snapper. 

Internally, the Tecno Camon 20 Pro 5G is equipped with a Dimensity 8050 processor paired with 8GB RAM and 8GB virtual memory. There is up to 256GB of storage and a heat dissipation system. The phone draws its power from a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 33W fast charging.

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Vivo V29 gets NBTC certification, launch expected in July

Vivo is yet to make any official announcements regarding the release of its highly anticipated Vivo V29 series. However, recent developments suggest that the company may unveil the new smartphones in July. Excitingly, the Vivo V29 has obtained approval from Thailand’s NBTC authority, indicating an imminent launch, potentially making its debut in Thailand next month.

Vivo-V29-NBTC-listing-leak

The NBTC’s database reveals that the Vivo V29 carries the model number V2250 and boasts 5G capabilities. While the listing doesn’t disclose further details about its specifications, the approval from various certification platforms such as GCF, IMDA (Singapore), EEC (Europe), SDPPI (Indonesia), and Bluetooth SIG hints at a multi-market release for the device.

Vivo V29 specifications (leaked)

According to recent findings on the Geekbench benchmarking platform, the Vivo V29 is expected to feature the Snapdragon 778G Plus chipset, accompanied by 8GB of RAM and the Android 13 operating system. Unfortunately, there is currently no additional information available regarding the V29’s other specifications.

In addition to the Vivo V29, the company is also anticipated to introduce the Vivo V29 Pro, which has previously surfaced on Vivo Philippines with key specifications. The V29 Pro is likely to sport a 6.7-inch OLED Full HD+ 120Hz display, along with 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, a 64-megapixel camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), and a robust 5,000mAh battery featuring 66W fast charging capability.

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Oppo K11 key specs surfaced, expected to launch soon

Oppo is said to be in the works on the K11 smartphone, following the recent launch of the Oppo K11x. Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station recently provided information on Oppo’s upcoming device, revealing the Oppo K11. Although the official release date has yet to be confirmed, leaked details and an image have surfaced, providing us with valuable insights.

Oppo K11 TENAA render

Oppo K11 specifications (rumored)

According to the leak, the Oppo K11 will sport a 6.7-inch OLED display with a Full HD+ resolution and an impressive 120Hz refresh rate. The image provided showcases a flat display design with a centrally positioned punch-hole.

Under the hood, the Oppo K11 is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 782G chipset and will pack a substantial 5,000mAh battery. Furthermore, the device will support 80W fast charging, ensuring quick and convenient power replenishment. Unfortunately, specific details about the RAM, storage configuration, and front camera are yet to be revealed.

One standout feature of the Oppo K11 is its triple camera setup on the rear. The primary camera will house a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) support. This promises enhanced photography capabilities and improved image stability. Additionally, the leak also suggests that the Oppo K11 could be a rebranded version of an upcoming OnePlus phone that will see a global launch.

Considering the leaked specifications, it is speculated that the Oppo K11 might be a variant or an altered version of the OnePlus Nord CE 3, set to debut on July 5 in India and other global markets. This implies that the Oppo K11 could potentially offer up to 12 GB of RAM, up to 256 GB of storage, and a 16-megapixel front-facing camera for capturing stunning selfies.

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MSI G2712V gaming monitor with FHD IPS 100Hz display & 300 nits brightness launched

Following the launches of the MSI G24C4 E2 curved monitor and the Optix G274QPX 2K 240Hz gaming monitor, MSI has introduced another display to the global market, the MSI G2712V.

MSI

While the previous monitors targeted gamers, particularly e-sports enthusiasts, a closer look at the specifications of the MSI G2712V reveals that it is better suited as a general-purpose monitor rather than a competitive e-sports display.

MSI G2712V specs

The MSI G2712V monitor offers a 27-inch (69 cm) IPS panel display with a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080. It features a 100Hz refresh rate and a fast 1ms (MPRT) response time, ensuring smooth and responsive visuals. The wide viewing angles of 178° (H) / 178° (V) allow for comfortable viewing from various positions.

In terms of color reproduction, the monitor boasts an impressive color gamut with 84.84% Adobe RGB, 84.14% DCI-P3, and 108.27% sRGB coverage, providing vibrant and accurate colors. With a brightness of 300 nits and a contrast ratio of 1000:1, the display delivers excellent visual clarity and contrast.

The MSI G2712V offers convenient video input options, including 1 HDMI and 1 DP port, allowing for easy connectivity with various devices. For audio output, it provides 1 Earphone out port.

Additional features include an anti-glare coating, reducing reflections, and improving visibility in different lighting conditions. The monitor is equipped with a 5-way OSD navigation joystick, enabling easy and intuitive control of settings. It also includes a Kensington lock for added security.

In terms of dimensions, the monitor measures 612.49 x 454.02 x 228.24 mm with the stand and 612.49 x 368.32 x 45 mm without the stand. It weighs approximately 4 kg (5.8 kg with the stand) and 3.3 kg without the stand, making it relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver. The pricing and availability have not been disclosed yet.

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Samsung Galaxy M34 5G launch set for July 7, FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display, 6,000mAh battery confirmed

Samsung is gearing up to launch an exciting device in the Indian lower mid-range segment called the Galaxy M34 5G. The hype surrounding this device routs from the rumors that it will be almost the same as the earlier launched Galaxy A34 5G, but with a bigger battery. Now, after the initial teaser, Samsung has revealed some key specs of the device along with the official launch date.

Samsung

According to the Amazon microsite, the Samsung Galaxy M34 5G will be launching on July 7 in India. Additionally, Samsung has confirmed exciting features for the upcoming Galaxy M34 5G. It will have a 6.5-inch 120Hz Super AMOLED display with Vision Booster technology and a notch. The phone will feature a 50MP rear camera with OIS and Monster Shot 2.0 for capturing multiple videos and photos in one shot. Nightography and Fun Mode with 16 lens effects will enhance photography capabilities. The device will pack a 6000mAh battery for up to 2 days of usage. Other features of the device have not been revealed, so let’s take a look at the leaks so far.

Samsung Galaxy M34 5G specs (rumored)

Samsung

The Galaxy M34 5G is expected to come with a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC, which is a rebranded Dimensity 1080. It is expected that the phone will be launched with configurations of up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. As mentioned in the teaser, the device will feature a 50MP primary camera. Other than that, we can expect an 8MP ultra-wide camera and a 5MP macro camera on the smartphone. Up front, we will likely get a 13MP selfie snapper.

The Samsung Galaxy M34 5G will be available for purchase on Amazon.in, as well as the official Samsung India online store and offline retail stores. The phone is anticipated to be priced below Rs. 20,000.

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Flyer Goroc TR:X e-touring bike with Pinion ET MGU motor unveiled

The new Flyer Goroc TR:X electric bike has been unveiled and it features a powerful Pinion motor. The 2023 Flyer Goroc TR:X is equipped with the Pinion ET MGU (motor gearbox unit) and a 700Wh battery.

Flyer Goroc TR:X e-touring bike

The e-Goroc TRX features a carbon and aluminum frame for a lightweight design. The bike has 29-inch wheels and a full suspension system. The medium-sized version of the Flyer Goroc TR:X weighs about 30kg and overall, the bike is a comfortable EV. Its bright headlight with a magnetic interface allows for switching between several MonkeyLink models. You can also attach luggage to the bike via the FLYER ONE Side Rail.

The 2023 Flyer Goroc TR:X e-touring bike has an automatic gear shift system and four assistance levels. The bike uses the Pinion E1 integrated motor that delivers a maximum output of 600W. It has a 12-speed gearbox architecture and a maximum torque of 85Nm. The Smart.Shift feature ensures that the bike optimizes its speed with your pedaling pace. You can also choose to use an automatic gear shift while riding the e-bike.

Flyer Goroc TR:X e-touring bike

The four assistance levels available in the new Flyer Goroc TR:X are between ECO and FLY. The top assistance speed of the e-bike is 25km/h while its estimated range is lacking at this time. However, the company will be introducing a 535Wh Range Extender next year, 2024.

Four models are on offer starting with the standard version TR:X 4.63 and also the S-Pedelec TR:X 8.63 HS. The new bike is available for purchase in the EU with a starting offer of €8,699 (~$9,509). There are five size options and Enzian Blue Gloss or Curcuma Gloss finishes for the bike. Availability information on the Flyer Goroc TR:X e-touring bike in other markets outside the EU is lacking at this time.

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Realme Narzo 60 5G, Narzo 60 Pro 5G Confirmed To Launch In India On July 6

Realme has been teasing the arrival of its next Narzo smartphone for a couple of days. Now, the brand has announced the launch date of the upcoming offering. The Narzo 60 series 5G is set to debut on July 6th, Thursday at 12 pm local time in India.  

Realme Narzo 60 Series 5G launch date announced

Realme has put up a dedicated microsite of the Narzo 60 Series 5G on its official website. Additionally, Amazon has also put up a microsite of the upcoming offerings confirming their availability on the e-commerce platform. Realme has confirmed that the Narzo 60 Series 5G will include the standard Narzo 60 5G and Narzo 60 Pro 5G. Both phones will launch next Thursday. 

As per the latest teaser shared by Realme Narzo India account on Twitter, the Narzo 60 Series 5G will feature a Martian Horizon design. It is seen with an Orange color leather textured back panel. The upcoming offering sports a circular protruding camera module housing three sensors and an LED flash. There is also a 100MP text confirming the presence of a 100MP camera sensor. 

The Narzo 60 series 5G is already confirmed to feature a curved display with a 61-degree curvature and a center-aligned punch-hole cutout. The upcoming offering is said to have the capacity to store 2,50,000 photos meaning that it could come with 256GB onboard storage. 

The rest of the details of the Narzo 60 5G and Narzo 60 Pro 5G remain unknown at the moment. They could have slightly different specifications from each other.  It seems that the upcoming devices will be a rebranded version of the Realme 11 Pro and Pro+. 

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Here’s a first look at the Realme Narzo 60 series ‘Martian Horizon’ design

Realme is gearing up to launch its latest generation of Narzo series smartphones in India soon. However, prior to an official announcement, a new leak has offered us a first look at the upcoming device’s brand new design.

Realme Narzo 60 leaked with Martian Horizon design

According to a 91Mobiles report, a source close to the matter has revealed the design of the Chinese smartphone maker’s new Narzo 60 smartphone. This leak offers us a first look at the device and showcases a design that the company calls the ‘Martian Horizon’. As the name suggests, the brand is taking inspiration from the fourth planet in our solar system, Mars. Looking at the leaked image, we can see the Narzo 60’s rear panel in all its glory.

Realme

The device features a large circular camera island on an orange rear panel. This bright color is clearly inspired by the Martian landscape, although, the design of this device looks quite similar to the Realme 11 Pro series that was recently launched in India. The designs are especially similar when it comes to the rear camera module. While finer details are unclear, the back of the Narzo 60 series also appears to feature a faux leather design, similar to the 11 Pro series.

Apart from this, the image reveals that the right side of the device houses the volume rockers and power buttons. The sides feature an aluminum frame and the corners are rounded as well. Unfortunately, key specs of the new Realme Narzo 60 series are still unclear, but it is expected to launch in at least one variant with a massive 1TB of internal storage.

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WhatsApp discontinues Electron-based desktop app

WhatsApp has recently announced the deprecation of its Electron-based desktop application, signaling the end-of-life stage for the software. Windows users who open the Electron version of the app will now be prompted to transition to the newly introduced native app for continued access to WhatsApp on their desktop devices. This move comes as WhatsApp aims to provide users with an optimized, stable, and feature-rich messaging experience on their computers.

WhatsApp desktop
Illustration: Soumyakanti Ray

Why WhatsApp Decided to Deprecate the Electron-Based Desktop App

The deprecation of the Electron app was not entirely unexpected, as WhatsApp had been notifying users for over four weeks through a countdown displayed on the app’s main screen. With this announcement, the Electron-based WhatsApp desktop application, which has served as a solution for using WhatsApp on desktop devices, officially comes to an end after years of operation based on the Electron framework.

WhatsApp old desktop app

Upon opening the Electron-based WhatsApp Desktop application, users will now encounter an expiration message, clearly stating that the app is no longer supported and encouraging them to switch to the new native app in order to continue using WhatsApp on their Windows computers. However, it’s worth noting that the deprecation currently only applies to the Windows version, as the native app has been stable since last year.

The Electron framework, utilized by the deprecated app, allowed developers to create cross-platform desktop applications using web technologies. While it provided compatibility across different operating systems, the performance was not always optimized, often resulting in resource-heavy usage. In contrast, native apps offer a smoother and more intuitive user interface, improved responsiveness, and enhanced stability. Hence, WhatsApp’s decision to invest in developing a native solution for its users.

However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the rapid deprecation, as the native Windows application currently lacks certain business features. This limitation restricts users from utilizing essential tools for effective customer communication, such as quick replies and catalog management.

To continue using WhatsApp on their Windows computers, users can download the native desktop app from the Microsoft Store. For those who rely on business tools, utilizing WhatsApp Web temporarily may serve as a viable solution. It is anticipated that WhatsApp will promptly release business features for the native app to address the concerns of users in need of essential business functionalities.

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Xiaomi 13 Ultra Photography Kit Announced In White Color

Xiaomi debuted its top-of-the-line flagship, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra (review) in April this year. It arrived in the global markets earlier this month. The device packs impressive camera performance. Notably, it comes with an accessory called Xiaomi 13 Ultra Photography Kit that turns the smartphone into a proper camera. It was available in an Olive Green but now, the accessory has got a new color option.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra Photography Kit new color option

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra Photography Kit is now available in the White color option. It has the same design as the Olive Green color with a textured pattern. The latest color option of the Kit has a Silver colored side frame. The camera handle features a two-stage shutter button and a zoom lever that is also accentuated in Silver. It comes with a lanyard, a 67mm adapter ring, and a lens cover to protect the camera optics from dust and scratches. The accessory can be connected wirelessly with the phone through Bluetooth 5.0 and charged via the USB-C port.  

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra Photography Kit features a nano-skin texture that offers a premium feel and an extra layer of protection for the device. Photography enthusiasts can expand their shooting capabilities with the accessory. The latest White color option carries a price tag of RMB 999 and it is already available for purchase. 

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra Photography Kit is reportedly also compatible with other smartphones like OPPO Find X6 Pro, Vivo X90 Pro Plus, Huawei Mate 50 Pro, and Meizu 20 Pro.  

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Flipkart now lets you exchange your non-functioning smartphones & appliances

Flipkart has just announced a brand new exchange program for electronic devices. An exchange program isn’t a new concept, however, the popular e-retailer in India is offering a new form of exchange that will even accept smartphones and appliances that are no longer working.

Flipkart launches exchange program for non-functional smartphones & appliances

As per official notes, the company will be accepting electronic gadgets like smartphones, feature phones, and other appliances that are non-functional. Typically, an exchange program from manufacturers or popular retailers lets you exchange your older devices for newer models with benefits in the form of discounts. The exchange value also depends on the condition of the old devices at times but usually requires them to function as they were originally intended and not completely non-functional.

Flipkart

But this is where Flipkart steps in with its new exchange program that is apparently being offered to help users dispose of their broken appliances. The brand is also claiming that the move will help in the reduction of electronic waste. For this, it is even partnering up with authorized vendors to dispose of these old gadgets properly, refurbish them into better condition, or even recycle them.

Furthermore, the new program also promises to offer great buyback offers along with doorstep pick-up for these non-functioning devices. Flipkart states that it will even take measures to erase data from mobile gadgets like smartphones and laptops to ensure data security as well. This is a notable offering in India, considering the fact that the region is the world’s 3rd largest in terms of e-waste generation.

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Nothing Phone (2) features an Exclusive Swedish House Mafia Glyph Sound Pack

Nothing has just shared a new teaser video that highlights the Glyph design on the upcoming Phone (2). It showcases the new Glyph Composer, which will feature an exclusive sound pack made by the Swedish House Mafia.

Nothing

Nothing joins hands with Swedish House Mafia for the Phone (2)

The company’s latest teaser shares the Glyph Composer which showcases the exclusive Glyph sound pack that was made by the Swedish House Mafia, which is a major group in the EDM genre (specifically progressive House). The music group has now created the audio for the Glyph Composer on the Phone (2), allowing users will be offered the ability to personalize and remix custom sounds offered by the Swedish House Mafia.

In the video teaser, we can see that tapping on the different pads not only lights up different parts of the LED Glyphs on the back but even offers unique new sounds from the collaboration. Meaning, you can basically create your very own Glyph Ringtone. Notably, this feature is not limited to the Phone (2) and will also be offered to the Phone (1) once Nothing OS 2.0 drops later in August 2023.

Nothing

Interestingly enough, the teaser also offers us hints at the rear design of the Phone (2). The rear Glyph design features a slight change and the corners of the upcoming device are flatter than its predecessor. Overall, the smartphone also appears to be larger than the previous iteration and will offer improved specifications as well. So stick around for more, as we will be covering its launch event that is set for July 11.

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