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Samsung teases two new color shades for Galaxy S23 Ultra in India

Samsung has recently unveiled a new color option, Lime, for its Galaxy S23 in India, and now the company has confirmed that two additional color shades will be available for the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Through an official announcement on Twitter, Samsung India has teased the launch of these two epic color variants.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra colors

Galaxy S23 Ultra’s upcoming color shades: Red and Blue

The teaser video shared on Twitter showcases the Galaxy S23 Ultra, followed by clips featuring flowers in shades of Red and Blue. Although the names of these variants have not been revealed yet, it is expected that Samsung will announce them officially at a later date.

Currently, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is available in three standard color options: Green, Phantom Black, and Cream. Additionally, Samsung offers exclusive colors, such as Graphite, Lime, Sky Blue, and Red.

While Samsung India has not provided a specific timeline for the release of these new color shades, it is anticipated that the company will introduce them within the next week. For more details, you can watch the teaser video on Samsung’s official Twitter post.

Galaxy S23 Ultra specifications:

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra features a large 6.8-inch Quad HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O display with a variable refresh rate of 1-120Hz and a peak brightness of 1750 nits. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, which boasts a clock speed of up to 3.36GHz, offering enhanced performance compared to other smartphones. The phone also incorporates vapor chamber cooling for improved heat dissipation.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra sports an Armor Aluminum frame and utilizes Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for added durability on the front and back. It includes an in-display Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanner and runs on Android 13 with Samsung’s OneUI 5.1. The device adopts sharp angles reminiscent of the Galaxy Note series and boasts an impressive camera setup.

The rear camera system consists of a 200-megapixel primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), adaptive pixel technology, super HDR, and pixel enhancer. It also features a 12-megapixel Ultra Wide Lens with a 120-degree field of view, a 10-megapixel Telephoto lens offering 3x zoom, a 10-megapixel Periscope lens enabling 10x zoom, and a 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor. On the front, there’s a 12-megapixel Dual Pixel camera with AI object awareness. The device supports 8K 30 fps video recording and employs VDIS technology for smooth footage.

Other notable features of the Galaxy S23 Ultra include Ultra-wideband (UWB) capabilities, IP68 dust, and water resistance rating, a 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging support, 10W Qi wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. It also includes a built-in S Pen Stylus with Wacom technology. The phone offers different RAM and storage options, ranging from 8GB LPDDR5X RAM with 256GB UFS 4.0 storage to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM with 512GB/1TB UFS 4.0 storage.

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Fire-Boltt Dagger Luxe smartwatch launched in India with AMOLED display, stainless steel body & BT calling

Fire-Boltt has recently unveiled the Dagger Luxe, an upgraded version of their existing Dagger smartwatch. Boasting a circular dial design, this premium smartwatch features a durable stainless-steel shockproof metal body accompanied by a sleek metallic strap.

Fire-Boltt Dagger Luxe smartwatch specs

The Dagger Luxe incorporates a 1.43-inch always-on AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, ensuring clear and vibrant visuals. With an integrated microphone and speaker, it supports Bluetooth calling functionality, allowing users to make and receive calls directly from their wrist. The watch also enables interaction with voice assistants and provides other convenient features.

Fire-boltt

Under the Fire-Boltt Health Suite, the Dagger Luxe offers an array of wellness features, including heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and sleep monitoring, among others. This comprehensive health monitoring capability enhances users’ ability to keep track of their well-being. Additionally, the smartwatch supports smart notifications, ensuring that users stay connected and informed throughout the day.

Fire-boltt

The Dagger Luxe boasts an IP68 water-resistant rating, ensuring its durability even in wet conditions. It is equipped with two push buttons for easy navigation and multiple sports modes to cater to various fitness activities. Furthermore, the smartwatch is powered by a 400mAh battery, providing up to 8 days of battery life in classic mode, 5 days with Bluetooth Calling, and 25 days in standby mode.

Price & availability

The Fire-Boltt Dagger Luxe offers two color options, black and silver, with a stainless steel finish. Starting from June 16th, interested customers can purchase the smartwatch at an introductory price of Rs. 3,499 from both Amazon.in and Fireboltt.com.

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VIRGO Cycling helmet for electric two-wheelers launched on Kickstarter

THE BEAM, a renowned innovator in cycling safety, has unveiled their latest creation on Kickstarter for the ninth time. Meet VIRGO, the ultimate cycling helmet designed specifically for electric two-wheelers. The helmet is developed in collaboration with VIRGOMOVE and VIRGO promises to deliver the perfect balance of safety and comfort, revolutionizing the way riders protect themselves on the road.

Virgo

The Virgo is a product of years of dedication and rigorous testing by THE BEAM’s engineering team resulting in a helmet tailored to meet the unique safety needs of electric bikes, scooters, and powered vehicles. With the growing popularity of these modes of transportation, it became increasingly evident that riders required enhanced protection and visibility, surpassing the capabilities of conventional bicycle helmets.

The helmet utilizes a futuristic design, seamlessly blending lightness, optimal airflow, and complete facial protection in case of frontal crashes. Its integrated flexible face protection extends in front of the face, ensuring both the head and face are shielded from potential impacts. This innovative feature provides a solid connection to the helmet liner, while still allowing for flexible shock absorption to protect the chin and jaw.

Furthermore, the Virgo helmet is equipped with the revolutionary MIPS brain protection system. By incorporating a low-friction layer within the helmet, rotational motion resulting from lateral impacts is absorbed and redirected away from the brain. VIRGO understands that brain accidents can occur not only from direct impacts but also from rotational forces due to oblique impacts, making this technology a vital addition for rider safety.

Virgo

In addition, the Virgo helmet boasts a rotative switchable front visor, offering additional protection against various weather conditions. The visor lenses are interchangeable, ensuring optimal visibility for every rider. Additionally, the helmet features a rear adjustment system and different sizes of padding, enhancing comfort and providing a personalized fit for each rider.

Virgo e-scooter helmet

To further elevate the riding experience, VIRGO comes with a detachable LED rear light. Carefully positioned at the back of the helmet, this energy-efficient light guarantees riders are always visible, even when obstructed by bags or clothing. The intelligent brake feature ensures the light automatically activates when a substantial decrease in speed is detected, enhancing safety during deceleration.

VIRGO is exclusively available for backing on Kickstarter, offering backers the opportunity to secure their very own helmet at special launch prices. The VIRGO Helmet priced at $99 while the VIRGO Helmet + MIPS bundle is priced at $129. The helmet is available in four trendy colors – Carbon Black Matte, Pure White Matte, Warm Sand Matte, and Midnight Blue Matte.

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Sony A7C II with significant spec upgrades rumored to launch in July

Sony is rumored to launch the A7C II compact E-mount camera next month. The Sony A7C II comes with significant specs upgrades and will be launched after the unveiling of the A6700 and before the A9 II. A July 12 release date has also been mooted for the unveiling of the A7C II.

Sony A7C II

The Sony A7C II is the latest upgrade to the compact A7C full-frame mirrorless hybrid camera. The Sony A7C was released in 2020 and an upgrade of the model has been long expected. The leaked spec sheet of the Sony A7C II puts the model as a top choice for still or hybrid cameras for travel or professional work. The A7C II will have an upgraded processor with AI capabilities, the BIONZ XR. This offers excellent beginner-friendly features and powerful video production.

The Sony A7C II is expected to feature an upgraded camera sensor from its predecessor. It could have the A7 IV’s 33MP sensor and five-axis image compensation. Video options in the new model could include 4K @ 60fps, 10-bit with S-Cinetone. This gives the Sony A7C II great potential as a hybrid creator camera. It is also expected that the new Sony compact E-mounted camera will feature a better IBIS than the previous model. It will be interesting to see how the improved IBIS and sensitivity impact on the body design of the gadget.

Sony A7C II

There are no pricing and global availability details yet for the Sony A7C II. Sony has not released an official statement relating to the rumored July 12 launch and other details of the upcoming camera.

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Oppo Reno 10 Pro Plus Indian variant emerges in live image ahead of launch

Oppo is planning to launch the Reno 10 series, including the Reno 10, Reno 10 Pro, and Reno 10 Pro Plus, in markets outside of China, such as India. However, there are reports suggesting that the Indian versions of Reno 10 and Reno 10 Pro might feature a Dimensity 7050 chip instead of the Snapdragon 778G found in the Chinese model, indicating a downgrade in performance.

Now, 91mobiles has shared a live image of the Reno 10 Pro Plus Indian model revealing its design. The images shared by 91mobiles reveal two color options for the device, Twilight Purple and Moon Sea Black. The smartphone’s design appears to feature the same 3D curved design as the Chinese version. So it’s more than likely that there will be no changes in the specifications as well.

Oppo Reno 10 Pro Plus specs

The Oppo Reno 10 Pro+ boasts a stunning 6.74-inch curved OLED display with a resolution of 1.5K (2772 x 1240 pixels) and a silky-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It delivers immersive visuals and vibrant colors for an exceptional viewing experience. On the camera front, the Reno 10 Pro+ features a powerful triple camera setup. It includes an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) for sharp and steady shots, and a 64-megapixel periscope zoom camera that enables impressive zoom capabilities. For selfie enthusiasts, there’s a 32-megapixel front-facing camera that captures detailed and high-quality self-portraits.

Under the hood, the Oppo Reno 10 Pro+ is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset, delivering robust performance and efficient multitasking capabilities. With up to 16 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of storage capacity, the Reno 10 Pro+ offers ample space to store your files, apps, and media content. It is backed by a sizable 4,700mAh battery that ensures long-lasting usage, and supports blazing-fast 100W fast charging, allowing you to quickly recharge your device and get back to using it in no time.

Running on ColorOS 13.1-based Android 13, the Reno 10 Pro+ provides a smooth and user-friendly interface. It offers a range of connectivity options, including dual SIM support for managing multiple numbers, 5G capability for fast internet speeds, Wi-Fi 6E for enhanced wireless connectivity, Bluetooth 5 for seamless device pairing, GPS for accurate navigation, and NFC for convenient contactless payments. The device also includes additional features such as an IR blaster for controlling compatible devices, a versatile USB Type-C port, a power management chip for optimized battery performance, and an X-axis linear motor for tactile feedback.

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Teclast T50 Pro tablet with 11″ 2K display, Helio G99 & Android 13 launched for $180

Teclast recently introduced the T50 2023 Edition tablet in the Chinese market featuring an 11-inch 2K display powered by a UNISOC T618 processor. On the other hand, the brand has launched the Teclast T50 Pro tablet for global customers.

Teclast

The T50 Pro tablet is an upgraded version of the T50, which we previously reviewed earlier this year. While maintaining the T50’s 11-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2,000 x 1,200 pixels, the T50 Pro promises enhanced performance compared to its sibling.

Teclast

The T50 Pro is equipped with the MediaTek Helio G99 processor, replacing the Unisoc Tiger T616 found in the regular T50. The Helio G99 is a TSMC-manufactured 6nm-based mid-range 4G SoC that provides a good balance of performance and efficiency. It’s the same chipset used in smartphones like the Realme 10, Moto G72, Poco M5, and the Samsung Galaxy A24 4G. Additionally, the T50 Pro boasts 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of UFS 2.2 flash storage. It also features a Micro SD card slot supporting memory expansion of up to 1 TB. The tablet is powered by an 8,000 mAh battery that can be charged at up to 18 W through its USB Type-C port.

Teclast

In terms of audio, the T50 Pro includes four speakers, while its camera setup consists of an 8 MP front-facing camera and two 20 MP rear-facing lenses. The tablet runs on Android 13 and offers cellular connectivity through a single nano SIM card slot. Currently, the Teclast T50 Pro tablet is available for $179.99 on Teclast’s AliExpress store.

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JBL Tune Buds & Tune Beam launching on June 21 in India, price revealed

Earlier this month, JBL teased the arrival of the Tune Buds & Tune Beam earphones in the Indian market. The brand also teased that these earbuds will have a starting price above Rs 5,000. Now, the brand has finally unveiled the launch date of the earbuds.

JBL

JBL is set to release its latest buds on June 21st at 12 PM, with a special launch price of Rs 5,499. To be among the first to experience them, interested individuals can visit Amazon and select the “Notify me” option to receive instant notifications upon availability.

JBL

JBL Tune Buds & Tune Beam specs & features

The Tune Buds from JBL feature a stemless, pill-shaped design with oval tubes that easily fit into the ear. With a 10mm driver and JBL Pure Bass Sound, they deliver impressive audio quality. On the other hand, the Tune Beam follows a stem design and also includes oval tubes for a snug ear fit. Apart from these design differences, both earphone models share similar specifications.

JBL

Both the JBL Tune Buds and Tune Beam earbuds provide a reliable connection through Bluetooth 5.3 and support LE audio, resulting in reduced latency and improved sound quality. The active noise canceling (ANC) feature effectively blocks out unwanted external noise, allowing for an immersive music experience free from distractions. Smart ambient technology enables users to stay aware of their surroundings without needing to remove the earbuds.

Equipped with 4-Mic technology, both earbud models ensure clear call quality even in noisy environments, minimizing background noise interference. With a battery life of up to 8 hours on a single charge and an additional 40 hours provided by the included charging case, these earbuds offer extended playback time.

Designed to withstand various conditions, the Tune Buds and Tune Beam earbuds are rated IPX5 for water and dust resistance, making them suitable for workouts and use in inclement weather. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure fit, allowing for extended periods of wear without discomfort.

To further enhance the user experience, the JBL Headphones App enables personalization of the listening experience. Users can fine-tune equalizer settings, adjust ANC levels, and control the Ambient mode, providing flexibility to customize audio settings according to individual preferences.

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Amazon Launches Prime Lite Membership in India: Here’s What You Need to Know

Amazon has recently introduced the Prime Lite membership plan in India, following a period of limited user testing. This new offering serves as a more affordable alternative to the traditional Amazon Prime membership, offering customers a range of special benefits. Now, let’s delve into the specifics of this plan.

Amazon

Amazon has introduced the Prime Lite membership plan in India, priced at Rs 999 per year, as a more affordable alternative to the regular Prime membership priced at Rs 1499 per year. While the Prime Lite membership offers significant cost savings, there are some differences in the benefits provided.

Amazon

Prime Lite members enjoy free two-day delivery and standard delivery on their purchases. They also have access to free no-rush shipping to eligible addresses and receive a cashback of Rs 25. Additionally, Morning Delivery is available for eligible addresses at a cost of Rs 175 per item. Notably, there is no minimum order value required for free standard delivery.

Customers with an Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card can avail a 5% cashback on all purchases, except for digital and gift card purchases. Prime Lite members are granted early access to Lightning deals, exclusive Lightning deals, and the Deal of the Day.

Unlimited access to Prime Video streaming service is included in the Prime Lite membership. However, there are limitations such as streaming in High Definition (HD) quality with ads and usage restricted to two devices simultaneously.

When compared to the regular Prime membership, there are a few differences in benefits. Prime Lite does not include features like one-day delivery, scheduled delivery, and same-day delivery. Morning Delivery is exclusive to the regular Prime membership and is available for items priced as low as Rs 50.

Prime Lite members do not have access to Prime Reading and Amazon Music streaming services. Prime Reading provides access to a wide range of eBooks and comics across various genres and languages. Moreover, the regular Prime membership offers Prime Video streaming in up to 4K quality, support for more devices, and an ad-free experience. Additional benefits for Prime members include No Cost EMI, a 6-month free screen replacement by Acko, exclusive gaming offers, and special family offers.

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Xiaomi 13 Ultra Global ROM is now available for $999 on Giztop

Xiaomi 13 Ultra Global ROM is now available for $999 on Giztop. This price is applicable to the base variant.

WHERE TO BUY
Xiaomi 13 Ultra Global ROM at $999 @Giztop

Xiaomi 13 Ultra Global ROM features a 6.73-inch QHD+ LTPO E6 AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, 480Hz touch sampling rate, HDR10+, peak brightness of 1900nits, 12bit colors, and Dolby Vision. It is powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and comes with 12GB / 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB / 512GB internal storage, expandable up to 1TB.

xiaomi 13 ultra global

The smartphone is fueled with a 4900mAh battery and supports 90W wired fast charging, 50W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging.

It features a quad 50MP rear camera setup with a Sony IMX989 50MP primary lens, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, a 50MP periscope lens, and  50MP telephoto lens. The camera features Leica Vario-Summicron 1-inch variable aperture, f/1.8-f/3.0, and comes with advanced tracking tech that helps you to take better snaps of fast-moving objects. For your selfies, you have a 32MP sensor in the front.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra Global

Other interesting features include Android 13-based MIUI 14, in-display optical fingerprint sensor, NFC, Wi-Fi 6, etc. Xiaomi 13 Ultra supports Google mobile services, and OTA updates, and comes with a pre-installed Google Play store. Please note that this is a Chinese version phone, but flashed with Global ROM.

You can now buy the Xiaomi 13 Ultra Global ROM for $999. Please note that the phone comes in Black and Green color variants. 

For more information on such exciting deals and offers, check out our deals hub.

New Upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch will Feature Life-Saving Tech

Smartwatches have the potential to save lives through their advanced health monitoring features and real-time data tracking, among other features. These devices can continuously monitor vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, providing early warnings for potential health emergencies. By analyzing the collected data and using sophisticated algorithms, smartwatches can detect irregularities or abnormal patterns in vital signs, such as sudden spikes or drops, and promptly alert the wearer or emergency contacts. In the past, a lot of smartwatch wearers have been saved from the brink of death because of timely information via their smartwatches. Furthermore, smartwatches often include features like fall detection, which can automatically send distress signals if a significant impact is detected, potentially helping individuals who are unable to call for help themselves. Expanding upon the same line of devices, the new Samsung Galaxy Watch might just be the ultimate life-saving piece of tech in the market.

Users wearing the watch can minimize the risk of stroke, heart failure or other problems

One notable addition to the upcoming Galaxy Watch series is the Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification (IHRN) feature, which recently received clearance from the FDA and approval from the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). This groundbreaking feature will initially be introduced in 13 markets, including Argentina, Azerbaijan, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Georgia, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Panama, UAE, Korea, and the US, with the possibility of expanding globally in the future.

Galaxy Watch

Paired with the existing Electrocardiogram (ECG) function, the IHRN feature enables users to continuously monitor their heart rhythm and receive notifications if any irregularities are detected. This functionality is particularly valuable for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, as it allows them to track their cardiovascular health more easily and minimize the risk of severe complications like stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular issues.

The Samsung Health App already offers additional health measurements such as skin temperature, blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels. While these features provide users with a comprehensive overview of their health, it is important to note that they are not meant to replace professional medical diagnosis. If you feel unwell, it is always advisable to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.

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GitHub’s Latest Survey Reveals 92% of Programmers in the US use AI Tools

In a recent survey conducted by GitHub, the leading online code hosting platform, the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on developers’ work was analyzed. This study targeted American companies with over 1,000 employees, surveying 500 enterprise developers. The results, published by IT Home News on June 15th, highlight the significant role AI tools play in the programming community. The survey findings showed that an overwhelming 92% of programmers are actively utilizing various AI tools in their day-to-day tasks. Furthermore, a staggering 70% of respondents expressed that the integration of AI tools has notably enhanced their work efficiency.

AI boosts developer productivity, efficiency and a reduced number of errors

Programmers who participated in the survey praised AI tools for their ability to improve code quality, expedite output processes, and reduce the occurrence of production-level incidents. These advancements highlight the indispensability of AI programming tools in modern business IT operations.

Developer

Inbal Shani, the Chief Product Officer at GitHub, underscored the importance of empowering developers and increasing their productivity. Shani stated, “The way to innovate at scale is by increasing developer productivity, increasing their satisfaction, and empowering them to be their best every day.”

GitHub’s survey sheds light on the evolving landscape of software development, where AI tools have become an integral component. With the vast majority of programmers leveraging AI technology, it is evident that these tools have successfully established their value and potential within the industry. The adoption of AI tools has not only expedited the development process but has also contributed to heightened code quality, resulting in more reliable and efficient software solutions. The positive impact of AI on developers’ work showcases the symbiotic relationship between human ingenuity and technological advancements.

As the programming community continues to embrace AI tools, it is expected that further innovations will emerge, revolutionizing the way developers approach their work. With the vast potential of AI yet to be fully realized, it is an exciting time for the future of software development.

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IBM may have Found a Way to Fix Unreliability in Quantum Computing

Quantum is a big word, and it has only been getting mainstream over the past decade. Four years after Google‘s claim to achieve “quantum supremacy,” quantum computing’s unreliability problem persists. However, IBM has recently announced a breakthrough in managing the reliability of quantum computing, offering promising solutions. By mitigating the effects of noise and errors, IBM researchers have devised a method to produce reliable and practical outcomes. Their findings have been published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, sparking excitement in the computing community.

600,000 calculations were performed on a 127-qubit quantum processor to showcase accuracy

Unlike classical computers that rely on binary units, quantum computers employ qubits capable of simultaneous states of 0 and 1, enabling fast data storage, multiple possibilities, and efficient problem-solving. Unfortunately, the fragile nature of qubits makes maintaining their superposition state challenging, resulting in calculation errors due to environmental disturbances. Consequently, creating a fault-tolerant, error-free quantum computer has remained next to impossible.

IBM

IBM‘s researchers have unveiled a new technique called “error mitigation,” demonstrating significant progress in managing quantum computing’s unreliability. By amplifying and varying the noise levels during calculations, the researchers can infer the characteristics of noise and correct for its impact. This approach effectively removes the effects of noise and improves the reliability of quantum computations. The team performed 600,000 calculations on a 127-qubit quantum processor, showcasing the accuracy of their methodology in solving complex problems.

While IBM’s achievement does not yet establish “quantum supremacy,” it is a vital step toward developing quantum algorithm design. With quantum computers showcasing accurate results in certain configurations, it becomes increasingly likely that quantum computing will outperform classical computing in accuracy in the near future. Although error correction methods are still in development, IBM’s error mitigation technique offers a temporary solution for solving complex problems. This advancement brings us closer to practical applications in material science, drug discovery, and simulating big-scale physical phenomena.

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Realme 11 Pro Review: Premium-looking smartphone on budget

Recently, the Realme 11 Pro was released in India alongside the Realme 11 Pro Plus. The two smartphones are almost identical with a few differences.

There’s a price difference of ₹4,000 (~$50) between them. This sum is considered high in developing nations like India but you do get some notable upgrades for the asking price.

Further, the lineup goes head-to-head with the Redmi Note 12 Pro series, which also consists of two phones. In fact, it undercuts with cheaper pricing.

This makes the Realme 11 Pro priced at ₹23,999 the cheapest of all four handsets. So the question arises whether it is worth buying as you would be saving some money that could be either spent on accessories or some other stuff.

Having used the Realme 11 Pro for the past few days, courtesy of the Indian division of the brand, I have the answer to the above question. Before I share my thoughts, I would like to let you know that Realme had no editorial input in this article.

With that out of the way, below-listed are the reasons why I think you might or might not consider buying the Realme 11 Pro.

A design like no other

Usually, budget and mid-range smartphones are known to sacrifice design and build to accommodate other features. There are only a few handsets on the market that focus more on the look part, and Realme 11 Pro is one of them.

In my view, the Realme 11 Pro is the best-designed smartphone under ₹25,000 in India right now. It succeeds the Oppo F21 Pro which was released a year ago.

It comes in two variants, one with a faux leather back and the other with a plastic rear panel. The brand sent me the former in beige color. You can get the leather version in green as well, while the plastic variant is limited to black.

The phone feels comfortable to hold and does not feel heavy despite weighing around 191g. It also does not seem thick though it has a thickness of about 8.7mm due to its curved design.

The handset not only has a curved back but also a curved display on the front. The rear is dominated by a giant circular camera island which gives it a premium look.

The power key and the volume rocker are placed on the right edge. While dual SIM card slot, primary microphone hole, USB Type-C port, and main speaker grille can be found at the bottom. Finally, the top side only has a secondary speaker grille and another microphone hole.

The only thing that takes away the premium feeling is the cheaped-out vibration motor present inside the device. The haptics are not up to the look and feel of the product.

Pleasing display and speakers

The Realme 11 Pro sports a 6.7-inch centered punch-hole curved OLED display with a reliable optical fingerprint sensor underneath it. The 10-bit panel comes with a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels (FHD+), a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 360Hz touch sampling rate.

You get five color modes, and by default, it comes with ‘Vivid’-enabled. If you are into true-to-life colors, you can either opt for ‘Natural’ or ‘Cinematic’ modes. On the other hand, if you want punchier colors than the default profile, you can select ‘Brilliant’.

The display gets enough bright under direct sunlight and very dim in a dark environment. The 2160Hz PWM dimming further elevates the experience of using the phone in different lighting conditions without straining your eyes.

The refresh rate automatically switches between 60Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz depending on the content on the screen without any stutters. You can also force the panel to refresh at either 60Hz or 120Hz.

The palm rejection for the curved screen is really good as I rarely faced any accidental touches. However, despite supporting HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG, the panel cannot play HDR content on streaming platforms, except for YouTube.

The display is paired with a good set of dual stereo speakers. They don’t support Dolby Atmos but sound fine nevertheless.

Lasts longer and charges faster

The Realme 11 Pro is backed by a 5,000mAh battery. It can easily last a day on a full charge.

If you are not a heavy user, you can use it for more than a day without any hassle. The device’s battery is well-optimized to use for a longer period of time.

At the same time, it charges quickly at a maximum rate of 67W. It takes about 45 minutes to reach 100% from 20%.

The handset ships with an 80W charger and the required cable.

Fewer yet capable cameras

The Realme 11 Pro only has a single usable rear camera though the module looks gigantic. It arrives with an OIS-assisted 100MP primary sensor paired with a 2MP depth sensor. On the front, it has a 16MP snapper.

Realme 11 Pro

The main camera can output decent pictures under good lighting conditions. The colors are punchy (non-natural) with boosted red/green. Most consumers would like these eye-catchy images that are social media-ready. 

HDR processing can be a hit or miss. You never know whether you would get balanced, overexposed, or underexposed pictures.

The image quality takes a hit under low light. However, you mostly get blur-free pictures, just like during the daytime. Enabling ‘Night’ mode can result in slightly better output.

As for the front-facing camera, it outputs good images only when the lighting is perfect. If you have a strong light source directly hitting on your face, you will get an unnatural picture.

There’s a ‘Street’ mode for the rear camera offering two focal lengths, such as 26mm (1x) and 52mm (2x). In this mode, you can enable ‘Auto zoom’ to zoom into a specific object in the frame by simply tapping on it.

But I enjoyed using the customizable aperture the more. You can click macro and product shots using this feature. The images do lack details as the feature uses digital zoom.

Simply put, Realme has tried to balance the lack of additional cameras with software. But it only works to some extent. I did miss the ultra-wide camera during my time with the product.

Finally, video recording is average like most of the mid-range smartphones on the market.

Good enough performance

The Realme 11 Pro is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC. Though the chip sounds new, it is nothing but a renamed Dimensity 1080.

This chipset is paired with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. You can check out the screenshots to know how the device performs on benchmark apps.

As far as real-world usage is concerned, I did not face any stutters. I am not a gamer but do play Pokemon Unite at times. The game plays in ‘High’ graphic settings by default, which is a step down from ‘Highest’.

The thermals are well-controlled. The phone does not heat abnormally. But the 5G reception left me wanting more. The speeds are very slow (~1Gbps) at my home compared to what I get on other devices (~2Gbps). Even the mobile hotspot performance is not up to the mark with bandwidth fluctuations.

Questionable software practices

The Realme 11 Pro boots Realme UI 4.0 based on Android 13. The brand promises two Android updates and three years of security updates. Basically, it runs a slightly customized version of ColorOS like OnePlus phones.

I personally rank ColorOS as the second-best Android skin after One UI. The software is smooth and responsive.

But the implementation of promotions (ads) in Realme UI is as shady as what I experienced on Funtouch OS-running iQOO Z7.

There is no straightforward option to turn off app scanning, which triggers after the installation of apps from the Google Play Store. When this happens, a full-screen recommendation page is thrown on the screen.

To stop this from happening, you have to disable a system app called ‘SecurityAnalysis’ under Settings. Regular consumers wouldn’t know these things and will experience unwanted ads on the product they have already paid for.

Almost all first-party applications also spam you throughout the day with multiple notifications. You have to disable the notifications and never open these apps to safeguard yourselves.

Finally, there are a ton of pre-installed applications. But thankfully, you can uninstall most of them.

Closing Remarks

As you can grasp from above, the software is the Achilles’ heel of Realme 11 Pro. If you can forego that, it is a stellar product with little to no shortcomings.

The closest competitor is Redmi Note 12 Pro, which is ₹1,000 costlier. The Redmi handset neither has an attractive design nor feels good in hands. It also has poor thermal management and average battery life.

Realme 11 Pro

But the Redmi Note 12 Pro has a better display and speakers. In fact, along with Redmi Note 12 Pro Plus, it is the best media consumption device under ₹30,000. Additionally, it offers better 5G performance as well.

Therefore, if you consume so much content on mobile devices, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is the one you should buy. Whereas, if want a sleek smartphone and save some money, the Realme 11 Pro is the one for you.

Either way, we suggest you try these phones in person before making a decision.

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Ulefone Armor 3W Watermark Found in Photos of Four Children Rescued After 40 Days Following Colombia Plane Crash

In a remarkable turn of events, four children who had been missing for an astonishing 40 days following a plane crash in Colombia have been discovered safe and sound in the depths of the Amazon jungle. This incredible news has left people across the globe astonished and relieved.

Images shared in the media have shed light on the condition of the children, revealing their visibly emaciated frames. What caught the attention of many observers was the presence of a watermark bearing the name “Ulefone Armor 3W” in the bottom left corner of these pictures. It turns out that these captivating images were captured by the Colombian Military Search Team using the Ulefone Armor 3W, a rugged phone model released by the Ulefone brand approximately two years ago.

source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-65874377

Ulefone, a prominent manufacturer of durable smartphones, has now garnered significant recognition from the Colombian Military due to the exceptional performance of their devices in challenging environments. The fact that the Colombian Military Search Team opted to employ the Ulefone Armor 3W to document this momentous discovery underscores the reliability and effectiveness of this rugged phone model.

The rescue of these four children, who endured an extended period of isolation in the unforgiving Amazon jungle, stands as a testament to the unwavering determination and resilience of both the search team and the survivors themselves. The world eagerly awaits further updates on their condition and the miraculous tale of their survival.

In the March of 2023, Armor 20WT was launched as an upgraded successor of the Armor 3W. This rugged phone stands out with its Walkie-Talkie feature and robust design. Ulefone’s rugged phones adhere to the IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H standards, ensuring their ability to withstand challenging environments and rough handling. With resistance to water, dust, extreme temperatures, drops, and impacts, these devices are not only suitable for military, security, and protection sectors but also find utility in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts and individuals seeking durable smartphones can rely on Ulefone’s rugged phones to meet their needs effectively.

Ulefone Armor 20WT
The Ulefone Armor 20WT is a rugged smartphone designed to withstand challenging conditions. It features IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H proof certifications, ensuring its durability and resilience. With a walkie-talkie function and detachable antenna, communication in remote areas becomes effortless. The device also boasts front-facing dual speakers for immersive audio. It is equipped with a powerful 10850mAh battery and supports 33W fast charging for convenience. The Armor 20WT runs on a Helio G99 Soc 6nm processor and offers up to 20GB RAM and 256GB ROM, expandable up to 2TB. It has a 50MP rear camera, 16MP front camera, and a 5.65-inch FHD+ display. The device operates on Android 12 OS and provides both face unlock and fingerprint ID for secure access.

Google Unveils Exciting Search Updates, including Skin Disease Identification

Google always strives to provide the most intuitive features for its users to experience. In a recent announcement, the company revealed a range of new search updates designed to enhance user experiences across various domains. Among the highlights are advancements in skin disease identification, virtual try-on capabilities for clothing shopping, and a host of new features to enhance travel planning.

Users can try on clothes virtually on websites such as H&M, Everlane & Loft

Google Lens, an image recognition tool, now allows users to easily identify possible skin diseases. By simply pointing their smartphone camera at their skin or uploading photos, users can find visually similar images that aid in identifying potential skin abnormalities. This innovative feature also enables users to describe specific skin conditions, such as bumps on the lip or lines on the nail, providing valuable insights and information. This may even help users to self-diagnose basic conditions without paying a visit to the doctor at all.

Google Search

Building upon its e-commerce capabilities, Google has introduced a simulated try-on function. Users can now filter and search for clothing items based on criteria like style, color, and pattern across various retailers. To assist users in making informed choices, Google’s virtual try-on tool utilizes generative artificial intelligence techniques. This feature is currently available for top purchases from select retailers like H&M, Everlane, Anthropologie, and Loft.

Google has always been ahead of innovation with Google Maps, and now, it introduces new updates to its travel portfolio. The Immersive View feature, which allows users to explore 3D models of cities, has expanded to include iconic destinations such as Florence, Venice, Dublin, and Amsterdam. Additionally, users can now enjoy close-up views of over 500 landmarks worldwide. This immersive experience adds depth and realism to virtual travel, complementing the existing city models of Tokyo and New York.

For iOS and Android users, Google has introduced an “at-a-glance” navigation feature. This convenient tool enables users to track their journey directly from the route overview or lock screen, providing estimated arrival times and directions for walking, biking, or driving. This streamlined navigation experience ensures users have easy access to essential travel information.

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Steam Unveils a Feature-Packed Update for Enhanced Gaming Experience

Steam, the renowned digital gaming platform, has released a feature-packed update that brings an array of new features and improvements to its users. The update, which has incorporated valuable feedback from beta testers, introduces a whole new framework to streamline code sharing across various Steam platforms. Let’s find out what that means.

The new menus, fonts, dialogue boxes & colours render a new, modern look to Steam

While some changes may not be immediately visible, code sharing contributes to faster implementation and iteration of new features. The update also includes a visual revamp, with updated dialogue boxes, menus, fonts, and colours throughout Steam. This fresh coat of paint enhances the overall user experience and gives Steam a more modern look than before.

Steam

The notification system has also received an upgrade, making notifications more useful and relevant to users. The green bell icon now lights up only when there is new content, and a “View all” page allows users to review past notifications. Customizable notification settings give users greater control over their Steam experience, similar to other platforms where one would receive notifications.

The in-game overlay has undergone a complete overhaul, featuring a new user interface that offers increased utility and customization options. Users now have quick access to friends chat, achievement progress, guides, discussions, a browser, and more. Personalized overlay settings are saved between games, allowing for a tailored experience.

Introducing the Notes feature, Steam enables players to jot down game-specific notes with rich text formatting and image support. These notes are saved per game and can be accessed both within and outside the in-game overlay, providing convenience and flexibility. Furthermore, notes sync across multiple devices, including the Steam Deck as well.

To enhance multitasking, Steam now allows users to pin overlay windows on top of the game screen. This feature is perfect for tracking progress, following guides, or enjoying multimedia content while playing. The overlay also includes a Game Overview panel that provides a comprehensive snapshot of game-related activities. In addition to the user interface improvements, Steam has enhanced the controller experience. The updated controller configurator from the Steam Deck is now available in the overlay when a gamepad is connected. Users can easily customize controller settings while gaming on desktop platforms.

Mac and Linux users will also benefit from this update, as Steam now lets users enable hardware acceleration on these platforms, resulting in smoother animations and a more responsive user interface.

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Google’s Settlement Amount of $23 Million to be Available for Claim for US Citizens

A proposed settlement between Google LLC and the plaintiffs involved in consolidated class action lawsuits has recently garnered attention. This settlement aims to address concerns surrounding the inclusion of Google Search queries in referrer headers and during the provision of certain Google services. If you used Google Search and clicked on a search link between October 25, 2006, and September 30, 2013, you may be eligible to participate in this settlement as a Settlement Class Member. In this article, we will explore the details of the settlement, its implications, and what it means for you as a Google user.

Users need to establish if they used Google Search between October 25, 2006 & September 30, 2013

The proposed settlement, while not an admission of wrongdoing by Google, seeks to resolve the legal claims brought forward in the Lawsuit. As part of the settlement, Google will pay $23 million to compensate Settlement Class Members who file Claims, as well as cover attorneys’ fees, litigation costs, and settlement administration expenses. Additionally, Google has committed to revising its “FAQs” and “Key Terms” webpages to provide clearer information regarding the disclosure of search queries to third parties via referrer headers.

Google

It is crucial to understand the legal rights affected by this settlement, regardless of whether the public chooses to take action. This notice serves as a means to inform the public of the proposed settlement, rights, available benefits, and options. The notice has been authorized by Judge Edward J. Davila of the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, who is overseeing this class action known as In re Google Referrer Header Privacy Litigation. The Plaintiffs, who sued Google LLC, are represented in this case, and the settlement is designed to benefit all Settlement Class Members.

To determine if you are a Settlement Class Member, you need to establish whether you used Google Search and clicked on a search result in the United States between October 25, 2006, and September 30, 2013. The Settlement Class also includes individuals who can bring claims on behalf of these users, such as representatives, heirs, administrators, and assigns. If you have any doubts about your eligibility or questions about the settlement, you can contact the Settlement Administrator through the provided contact page on the Settlement Website, www.RefererHeaderSettlement.com. The amount of compensation for each class member will depend on various factors, including the number of claims submitted and the costs associated with administering the settlement. As of now, each claimant is estimated to receive approximately $7.70 for an Approved Claim for American citizens only.

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Realme 11 Pro+ 5G goes on sale in India today for Rs 25,999, read price, offers, specifications

Realme’s first 200-megapixel phone, the Realme 11 Pro+ 5G, will go on sale today through Realme India’s website, Flipkart, and offline channels. After being open for pre-booking starting from June 8, the phone will be up for sale for the first time at 12 pm today (June 15).

Realme 11 Pro+ 5G price in India, offers

The Realme 11 Pro+ 5G offers two storage options: 8GB of RAM with 256GB of storage, priced at Rs 27,999 (~$340) and 12 GB RAM + 25 GB storage, available for Rs 29,999 (~$365). It comes in three color variants: Astral Black, Sunrise Beige, and Oasis Green.

Realme 11 Pro Plus 5G
Realme 11 Pro Plus 5G in Oasis Green

During the initial sale, customers can enjoy a flat discount of Rs 2,000 on the 8GB+256GB model by using ICICI, HDFC, and SBI bank cards. Alternatively, they can avail of a discount of Rs 2,000 (~$24) by exchanging their old devices. Additionally, buyers have the option of opting for a no-cost EMI for up to six months.

For the 12GB+256GB variant, customers can take advantage of a no-cost EMI for up to 12 months. Although there are no bank discounts available for this variant, users can still enjoy a Rs 500 (~$6) discount when exchanging their old phones.

Realme 11 Pro+ 5G specifications

The Realme 11 Pro+ 5G is fitted with a 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with curved edges. It offers a Full HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 950 nits. It comes preinstalled with Android 13-based Realme UI 4.0.

Powering the Realme 11 Pro+ 5G is the Dimensity 7050 SoC. The chip is coupled with either 8 GB or 12 GB of RAM. Both variants offer 256 GB of native storage. There is no microSD card slot on the device.

The device is equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports 100W fast charging. On the camera front, the smartphone features a 200-megapixel Samsung ISOCELL HM3 main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and a 2-megapixel macro sensor. For selfies and video calls, the device features a 32-megapixel front camera. It comes with other features, such as dual stereo speakers and an under-display fingerprint scanner.

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Huawei’s “Nova” branded foldable phone with affordable price could be in works

Huawei is reportedly planning to introduce a new foldable phone. Interestingly, this upcoming device will deviate from the usual Mate or Pocket branding that Huawei has used for its horizontally and vertically foldable phones. Instead, it is expected to arrive as a Nova series offering.

It is speculated that the Huawei Nova series foldable phone will be priced between 4,000 Yuan (~$558) and 5,000 Yuan (~$697). It is reportedly being developed with the aim of making foldable phones available to a wider consumer base.

The Huawei Nova foldable phone is expected to arrive as a vertically foldable phone like the Huawei Pocket S or P50 Pocket. It may arrive as a 4G device powered by the Snapdragon 778G chipset.

Being one of the pioneers in the industry, Huawei introduced its first foldable phone in 2018 and has since released several models in the category. The prices of the foldable phones have remained relatively high due to production costs and complex manufacturing processes.

Launched with a starting price of 4,988 Yuan(~$696), the Pocket S is Huawei’s most affordable foldable phone. It features a 6.9-inch foldable OLED panel with FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the Snapdragon 778G chipset, 8 GB of RAM, up to 512 GB of storage, and a 4,000mAh battery with 40W charging support. It has a 10.7-megapixel front camera and a 40-megapixel (main) + 13-megapixel (ultra-wide) dual-camera system. The rumored Nova-branded clamshell phone could be positioned lower than the Pocket S.

In related news, Huawei is said to be working on the Huawei Mate 60 series for the Chinese market. There are speculations that the Mate 60 series might mark the debut of Huawei’s first 5G flagship phone following the US sanctions. If all goes smoothly, Huawei might resume its tradition of launching the P-series and Mate-series flagship phones in the first and second halves of the year, starting from the next year onwards.

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Honor Magic 5 global launch soon as its receives approval from IMDA authority

Honor announced the Magic 5, Magic 5 Pro, and Magic 5 Ultimate flagship phones during the MWC 2023 tech trade show earlier this year. At that time, the company confirmed that the Magic 5 series would arrive on the global market in the second quarter of this year. In April, the Magic 5 and 5 Pro were released in Malaysia. The Pro model is also available in the UK. It appears that the Magic 5 will arrive in more markets as it has been approved in Singapore.

Honro Magic 5 IMDA certified
Honor Magic 5 IMDA certified

As can be seen, the IMDA authority of Singapore has approved the Honor Magic 5, which has the PGT-N09 model number. The certification hints that the device may be released in Singapore in the coming weeks.

Honor Magic 5 specifications

Honor Magic 5
Honor Magic 5

The Honor Magic 5 has a 6.73-inch OLED punch-hole display with curved edges. It supports a Full HD+ resolution of 1224 x 2688 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, a peak brightness of 1600 nits, and an under-display fingerprint sensor. The device comes preloaded with the Android 13 OS with MagicOS 7.1 on top.

On the front, the Magic 5 has a 12-megapixel selfie camera with a 100-degree FOV. On the back, it features a 54-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 32-megapixel telephoto camera with support for 2x optical zoom and OIS.

Under the hood, the Honor Magic 5 features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. In China, it is available with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device has a 5,100mAh battery that supports 66W fast charging. In China, the Magic 5 comes in three options: 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage for 3,999 Yuan (~$558), 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage for 4,499 Yuan (~$628), and 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage for 4,999 Yuan (~$697).

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