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Nokia launches the Nokia 106 (2023) alongside refreshed versions of the Nokia 105 & 110

Nokia has unveiled the Nokia 106 (2023) rugged feature phone together with new versions of the Nokia 105 and Nokia 110. The Nokia 106 has similar capabilities as the new Nokia 105 4G (2023) that was announced recently but with some upgraded features. The Nokia 106 features a music player and the Snake game which are missing on the 105 4G (2023). Nokia has previously held sway in the feature phones segment, with a long list of durable offerings.

Nokia 106

Feature phones ruled the market in the earliest days of mobile phones and Nokia was a big player at that time. With the advent of smartphones, feature phones have been relegated to the background. They are however still meeting the demands of a huge demographic of the global market. Their ruggedness and affordability, coupled with their extended battery lives, have continued to draw fans to these phones. A feature phone is also a useful backup device when hiking or camping.

Nokia 105

Features in the Nokia 105 include wireless FM radio, a flashlight, and the traditional call menu. The Nokia 106 has an MP3 player, a Snake game, and a flashlight. It offers up to 22 days of standby and 12 hours of calls. Users will need to have an SD card installed on the Nokia 106 in order to listen to music. The Nokia 106 comes in three colors namely red, cyan, and black.

Nokia 110

The three new Nokia feature phones have 2G network capability, although the Nokia 110 has a 4G variant which was previously released. Apart from the network capability differences, the new 2G-enabled Nokia 110 has similar features to its predecessor.

Nokia is yet to provide full pricing information for the three new feature phones. It is however expected that they will be quite affordable. Nokia also plans to release 4G versions of the Nokia 105 and 106. The Nokia 110 4G Pro could also be close to its unveiling.

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Onyx Boox Poke 5 e-reader with a portable 6-inch display, Android 11 launched

The Onyx Boox Poke 5 e-reader has been unveiled. The Poke 5 e-reader comes with a 6-inch display, warm and cool lighting, and several other features. The new Onyx Boox e-reader is ideal for reading at any time of the day or at night.

nyx Boox Poke 5 e-reader

The Poke 5 runs on Android 11 and features Google Play Services and Google Play Store. It is compatible with thousands of free and paid apps on the Play Store. Onyx also allows users to choose whichever e-books ecosystem suits their fancy. The device is suited for reading e-books, manga, and several other content.

The Poke 5 has an E Ink Carta HD e-paper screen with capacitive touch functionality. The e-reader has a display resolution of 1448 x 1072 pixels and 300PPI. The color scheme is black on the front and back of the e-reader, with a flush screen and bezel design. The Poke 5 e-book reader has a protective layer of glass.

The device is powered by the Qualcomm Quad Core 2.0GHz processor with 2GB+32GB RAM and internal storage configuration. The storage of the Poke 5 can be ramped up by 1 TB via an SD card. The device supports Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and it also has a microphone for voice communication.

The Onyx Boox Poke 5 has a 1,500mAh battery, weighs 160g, and has dimensions of 148 x 108 x 6.8mm. It has a USB-C port for charging the device or transferring data. The Onyx Boox Poke 5 e-book reader is priced at $179.99 and can be ordered from the Good e-Reader Store. The package includes a magnetic sleep cover case.

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Apple’s M3-Powered Macs Delayed Until 2024, Claims Leaker

Risi continues to create storms in the computer market with its processors. The company combines performance and efficiency, creating an excellent combination and achieving great success. Many people expected this success to continue soon with the M3 processors. However, if the rumors are true, this might not be the case. It appears that Apple’s highly anticipated M3-powered Macs and iPads may not hit the shelves until 2024. Here are the details…

Apple M3-Powered Macs Face Delay Until 2024 Due to TSMC’s 3-Nanometer Challenges

Apple’s highly anticipated M3-powered Macs and iPads may not hit the shelves until 2024. This serious claim was made by a Twitter user named @Tech_Reve, who claims to have insider information. The user shared, “Update: No M3 Mac or iPad for this year. Due to yield issues with TSMC not being able to supply enough of the M3 to Apple, Apple has delayed the release of the M3 until next year. So there will be no M3 Macs and no M3 iPads this year.”

TSMC is currently responsible for manufacturing Apple’s 3nm A17 chips for the iPhone 15 Pro models. They are also working on the Mac-series “M3” chips, which utilize the same 3nm process. These chips promise significant speed and efficiency improvements. However, TSMC’s recent challenges with 3nm tools and yield have reportedly affected their ability to meet Apple’s demand for the groundbreaking chip technology. This was also highlighted in an EE Times report last month.

If the claims are true, we will not see a new processor at WWDC 23 taking place on June 5th. However, we don’t think users would complain much because the products already available on the market have a good performance for today’s conditions. Of course, this means we won’t see a new Mac either. According to some emerging news, Apple will introduce a 15-inch MacBook Air model with an M2 processor. The new model is expected to be particularly impressive in terms of battery life.

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Motorola Envision TV Series Launched In India

Motorola has expanded its range of televisions in India. The Lenovo-owned brand has launched the Envision TV series in the country. The lineup includes four new smart TVs in different screen sizes and resolution. The latest offerings are priced affordably. Read on to know what the Motorola Envision TVs offer out of the box.

Motorola Envision TV series specifications

The Motorola Envision TVs are offered in 32, 43, and 55-inch screen sizes. The 43-inch model comes in FHD and 4K display resolution. The 32 and 55-inch variants feature HD and 4K resolutions respectively. The HD and FHD TVs have 270 nits peak brightness while the 4K models offer 330 nits peak brightness. 

On the audio front, the Motorola Envision TVs are equipped with 20W speakers. 

Under the hood, the Motorola Envision TVs are powered by a quad-core MediaTek processor. The HD and FHD variants pack 1GB RAM whereas the 4K models have 2GB RAM onboard. All four TVs have 8GB internal storage. The televisions run on Android TV 11 OS out of the box. 

Connectivity options on the Motorola Envision TVs include WiFi, Bluetooth, three HDMI ports, two USB ports, and an Ethernet port. 

The Motorola Envision TV series starts at Rs 9,999 for the base 32-inch variant. The 43-inch FHD and 4K models are priced at Rs 19,999 and Rs 21,999. The 55-inch TV costs Rs 31,999. The TVs are up for purchase starting today from Flipkart.

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Upcoming Xbox/Bethesda Showcase Sparks Rumors of Limited Edition Controller and Headset

The console wars between PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo are in full swing. Manufacturers are striving to attract gamers to their platforms and gain an edge in the competition with both powerful hardware and exclusive games. However, accessories are also crucial in convincing players. It seems Microsoft is well aware of this. The company recently began working with OPI on a special controller series called “Sunkissed Vibes Edition.” Now, rumors suggest that new limited-edition Xbox Series X|S accessories, controller “Ogden” and the “Oren” headset, are on the horizon. Here are the details…

Limited Edition Xbox Series Controller “Ogden” and Headset “Oren” On The Way

Just like in the smartphones, keeping secrets in the gaming industry is quite challenging, as there will always be “leaksters” who reveal your secrets. One of these individuals is a Twitter user named “Billbil-Kun.” Kun shared a tweet revealing new accessories that Microsoft is working on. According to the tweet, gamers can expect a limited-edition controller, codenamed “Ogden,” and a headset, codenamed “Oren,” to be released soon.

Although this is a leak, we don’t have many details at the moment. All we know for now is that we are dealing with a controller and a headset. The rumored “Ogden” controller is expected to retail for $79.99 in the US, while the “Oren” headset is said to sell for $124.99. Billbil-Kun speculates that they could be announced or released around the Xbox/Bethesda showcase, taking place on June 11th.

This isn’t Kun’s first time making headlines with a leak. The leakster has a strong track record of accurately leaking PlayStation and Xbox deals, as well as upcoming titles for PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass. The leakster has been consistently correct for over a year, which lends credibility to this latest claim.

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BYD YangWang U8: The High-Performance, Floating SUV Caught in Transit

BYD, the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, is constantly expanding its product lineup. The company aims to reach more customers and increase profitability by concentrating on various models. In accordance with this strategy, BYD started working on an off-road SUV called the YangWang U8. As the eagerly awaited launch date draws near, the BYD YangWang U8 off-road SUV was seen being transported on a trailer in a video recorded in China. Here are the details…

BYD YangWang U8 SUVs Spotted in Transit

A video filmed in China revealed eight BYD YangWang U8 off-road SUVs. The U8 began pre-sales on April 18, and deliveries are scheduled to start in September. Given that there are still a few months until the release date, we can assume that these vehicles have not yet been dispatched for delivery. The company will likely use the U8 models in the video for various tests. These tests are crucial for both allowing the press to form preliminary opinions about the vehicle and identifying any potential issues beforehand. You can watch the video below.

The BYD YangWang U8 first garnered attention in January when BYD unveiled its unique features, including its ability to perform a 360° tank turn, float on water, and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.6 seconds. When presales launched in April, customers could choose between the Premium Edition and the Off-road Master Edition, which includes a large rooftop box. An all-electric model is expected to debut later, likely requiring a battery capacity between 200 and 250 kWh.

The Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) trim of the U8 comes with a 49.05 kWh LFP Blade battery, offering a 180 km CLTC range, and a 2L Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) that acts as a generator for the battery. With a full 75-liter tank and a charged battery, the SUV boasts a total range of 1,000 km. Charging the battery from 30% to 80% takes just 5 minutes.

The U8 is equipped with an impressive array of 38 sensors, including 3 lidars, 5 MW radars, 14 ultrasonic radars, and 16 cameras, prioritizing safety and control. Onboard satellite communication ensures connectivity even in remote areas without phone signals. An optional drone docking station is also available.

Both the Premium and Off-road trims share a 3050 mm wheelbase but differ slightly in dimensions. The U8 features electric motors at each wheel, generating 220 kW of power and a maximum output of 880 kW (1,180 HP) with a peak torque of 1280 Nm. Built on BYD’s E4 platform, the U8 is outfitted with a high-end DiSus-P suspension system and 22-inch forged wheels.

The cabin is designed for comfort, offering four large screens: a 12.8-inch instrument panel for the driver, a 23.6-inch infotainment screen, and two additional screens for rear passengers. The U8 is set to compete with the Mercedes EQG and Hummer EV in the Chinese market. However, BYD has not announced any plans for export at this time.

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Huawei Mate 60 Pro render reveals Star Oreo camera design, standard variant begins testing

Chinese tech giant Huawei is reportedly working on its next-gen flagship smartphone, the Huawei Mate 60, with several rumors and leaks surfacing about the device including an odd-looking circular camera design. The latest updates suggest that the Mate 60 will feature a new ‘Oreo-esque’ design, as showcased in a preliminary leak by a well-known tipster, RODENT950. The render reveals that the rear camera housing will be split into two parts with a wide horizontal band, which is the same color as the rest of the rear panel.

Mate 60 Pro Star Oreo split camera design

According to RODENT950, the Mate 60 series will have five new devices with this updated design, including successors for the Mate 50 and a possible future RS variant. The quad rear cameras of the Mate 60 will be XMAGE-branded.

Huawei Mate 60 Render

Huawei begins testing Mate 60 standard model

According to the tipster Wangzaiknows, Huawei has begun testing the standard Huawei Mate 60 model, and the current test is being conducted with a Snapdragon 8+ chipset. The company has been using Snapdragon 8+ since the launch of the Huawei Mate 50 series, and it has also equipped this chipset in the Huawei P60 lineup. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset uses TSMC’s 4nm technology node, and it provides 30% power consumption efficiency as compared to Snapdragon 8.

However, looking at past trends, Huawei changes the core smartphone components ahead of the final release. Therefore, it is uncertain if the current processor will be used in the final device. The company may use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Pro or Pro+ version, while the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 could be utilized for the standard version.

Huawei has not announced an official launch date for the Mate 60 series yet, but it is expected to be introduced at an event in October 2023.

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Lenovo’s Xiaoxin K3 Mechanical Keyboard Goes on Sale Today, Offering Custom Switches and Advanced Features

Lenovo continues to expand its product lineup, particularly with the Xiaoxin brand, which has caught the attention of gamers. The company recently unveiled the Xiaoxin K3 mechanical keyboard, which was available for pre-orders last week and officially went on sale today. Priced at an affordable 199 Yuan (around $30), this keyboard offers an attractive option for gamers. Here are the details…

Lenovo Xiaoxin K3 Mechanical Keyboard Officially on Sale: 91-Key Layout, Custom Switch, and Multiple Device Support

The Lenovo Xiaoxin K3 mechanical keyboard comes in three color options: Misty Purple, Sky Blue, and Twilight Deep Gray. It features a compact design with a 91-key layout that optimizes the size of the numeric keypad, reducing the overall keyboard size by over 20%. The keyboard uses a step-like key arrangement, with OEM height and a two-stage adjustable footrest for enhanced ergonomics.

Lenovo’s K3 mechanical keyboard is equipped with a custom “Xin jumping switch” and features double-shot injection-molded ABS keycaps. The keyboard supports Bluetooth, 2.4G, and wired triple-mode connectivity. It has a 3000mAh battery capacity, making it compatible with both Windows and macOS systems. Additionally, it offers eight white light effects, weighs 908.5g, and measures 356.25mm x 124.75mm x 42mm.

Xiaoxin K3 Mechanical KeyboardDetails
SwitchCustom Xiaoxin switch
LEDWhite light, 8 lighting effects
Key RolloverFull-key rollover
WeightNet weight 908.5g
Connection Methods2.4G + Bluetooth + Wired
KeycapsABS material, double-shot injection molding
Number of Keys91
Dimensions356.25mm x 124.75mm x 42mm
Package ContentsKeyboard main body, user manual, power cord, receiver

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Honor 90 and Honor 90 Pro receive 3C certification, reveals 100W charger

Honor is gearing up to launch its new 90 series, and recent news reveals some exciting developments regarding the upcoming smartphones. As per China’s 3C certification, the Honor 90 (REA-AN00) and Honor 90 Pro (REP-AN00) will feature powerful charging capabilities of up to 100W. This means users can expect ultra-fast charging speeds to juice up their devices. The devices also went through MIIT certification a few weeks back.

Honor 90 series on 3C certification

Honor 90 and 90 Pro 3C certification

DigitalChatStation, a popular tipster, also leaked some information about the Honor 90 Pro, revealing that it will support the new 20V 4.5A (90) turbocharging protocol. This feature will allow users to recharge their phone’s battery at an incredibly fast speed.

The 3C certification has revealed that the Honor 90 Pro will come with an HN-200500C05/C06 model charger capable of outputting a maximum of 100W, while the Honor 90 will be equipped with an HN-110600C00/C01/C02 supported charger that can handle up to 66W. Both devices will have backward charging compatibility, making them versatile and convenient to use.

Honor 90 Pro specifications (rumored)

In addition to the charging capability, Honor has equipped the upcoming smartphones with some impressive specs. Both the Honor 90 and 90 Pro are expected to come with a high-resolution screen of 1.5K+. The devices will be powered by the latest 5G Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, ensuring excellent performance.

But perhaps the most exciting development is the Honor 90 Pro’s 200MP Samsung HP3 ISOCELL camera. This is a significant upgrade from the 160MP camera used in the previous model, and it will undoubtedly provide users with exceptional photographic capabilities. However, it remains to be seen how the company will leverage this impressive camera technology.

While Honor has not yet confirmed the launch date for the 90 series, previous leaks suggest that it may happen later this month or early next.

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Samsung beats Apple as the most repairable phone brand in 2022

Samsung has come out on top as the most repair-friendly smartphone brand in 2022, beating Apple by a large margin, according to a study by the Electronics Hub. The study aggregated data from iFixit to determine which smartphones were easiest and most difficult to repair at home, based on average repair times and the difficulty of repair guide instructions found online.

Study finds Samsung phones most DIY-repair friendly of 2022

Samsung’s Galaxy phones released in 2022 were found to be the easiest to repair, with the Galaxy S22 Ultra ranked third in terms of DIY repair-friendliness after the Galaxy A40 (2019) and the Moto G7 launched the same year. The Galaxy A40 has an average repair time of 32.6 minutes per fix, with 42.9% of repairs considered easy. While Galaxy S22 Ultra has an average repair time of 48.1 minutes, with a notable 33.3% of repairs being easy to execute.

Meanwhile, the most difficult smartphone to repair was found to be the Google Pixel 7 (2022), with an average home repair time of 60.3 minutes. The Galaxy Note 10 was also labeled as not DIY-repair-friendly, with an average repair time of 58.4 minutes and repair instructions labeled as difficult to follow.

Interestingly, Samsung was also the top brand in terms of home repair friendliness in 2013 and 2014, after which it lost the lead to other brands such as Google, Motorola, Apple, and Xiaomi. However, in 2022, Samsung regained its position as the most repairable smartphone brand in the world.

Samsung’s focus on repairability can be seen in its latest phones, including the 2023 Galaxy S23 series, which now come with battery pouches that greatly simplify battery replacements. This move is likely to further enhance Samsung’s position as the most repair-friendly smartphone brand in the market.

Overall, the study highlights the importance of repairability as a key factor for consumers when choosing a smartphone. With Samsung leading the way in this regard, other brands may need to follow suit and prioritize repairability to remain competitive in the ever-evolving smartphone market.

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Samsung to reintroduce 2x portrait mode in the next camera update

Samsung is set to reintroduce a 2x portrait mode feature in its S23 series camera through an upcoming firmware update, according to recent reports from renowned tech tipster Ice Universe. Samsung had initially removed this feature a few months ago, but the company is reportedly responding to user feedback and bringing it back.

Galay S23 Ultra

Galaxy S23 to get 2x portrait mode and HDR fix in the upcoming software update

Samsung S23 camera next update

Aside from the portrait mode, the upcoming software update will address issues related to the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s HDR performance. Several users have reported camera issues in specific lighting conditions. A halo effect around objects is observed in low-light or indoor conditions when using the HDR feature, particularly when the primary light source is present in the frame. This issue arises from a combination of negative exposure value (EV) input frames containing identical contour patterns and the application of local tone-mapping (LTM) after HDR output. Samsung has officially acknowledged and promised to fix it in the next update.

The latest May 2023 security patch update for the Galaxy S23 series does not include the HDR fixes, so it is likely that the next or second May 2023 update will bring these changes. In addition to the HDR issue, the Samsung camera team is also open to suggestions for new features.

Previously, Samsung rolled out a system update for the S23 series in April, which brought several camera improvements and bug fixes. These included optimizations to the Gallery app, autofocus mechanism, Super Steady On mode, and Camera Assistant.

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Lava Agni 2 India Price Leaks ahead of Launch

Lava is reviving its smartphone portfolio in India. Having launched some decent budget models recently, the company is now set to introduce a mid-range smartphone in the country. The Lava Agni 2 is scheduled to arrive on May 10 with a Dimensity 7050 chipset, a curved AMOLED display, and more. While we wait for the formal debut, a noted tipster has leaked the pricing of the Lava Agni 2 for the Indian market.

Agni 2 will be a Feature-packed Mid-ranger

According to a screengrab shared by tipster Abhishek Yadav, the Lava Agni 2 will launch in India with a price tag of Rs. 20,000. If true, the handset would be a good option in the mid-range category, considering it will offer a powerful processor and a good-looking design. An image of the back panel of the upcoming phone suggests it will have a curved back with a circular camera module.

Lava Agni 2

The Lava Agni 2 5G is confirmed to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chip, which is said to be a refreshed version of the Dimensity 1080. This chip was also found on the Realme 10 series and the Redmi Note 12 Pro. It will feature a 120Hz AMOLED display. The handset will sport a 50MP main camera with a 1/1.55” sensor with 1.0 µm pixels, an f/1.88 aperture, and two more undisclosed cameras.

It will run Android and will be backed by a 5,000mAh battery and carry support for 44W charging. The Dimensity 7050 chip on the handset is confirmed to get an octa-core CPU featuring 2 x 2.6GHz Cortex-A78 cores and 4 x 2.0GHz Cortex-A55 cores. There’s a Mali G68 MC4 GPU and an AI processing unit.

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Realme 11 Pro+ Gets NBTC & BIS certified, Global Launch near

Realme is ready to launch its next number series in China on May 10. The Realme 11 series will include some good-looking phones, including the higher-end Realme 11 Pro+. Leaked images suggest the handset will get a round camera module with a faux leather back. There’s no news about the smartphone’s global launch but it has recently bagged NBTC and BIS certification, hinting at a nearby launch in India and other global markets.

Realme 11 Pro+ Headed to India

The Realme 11 Pro+ with model number RMX3741 has surfaced on the NBTC website in Indonesia, confirming its cellular connectivity options including GSM, WCDMA, LTE, and NR. Additionally, the premium smartphone has also been spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website with the same model number, indicating that its launch in India could be just around the corner.

Realme 11 Pro Plus

Apart from this, we don’t get any interesting detail from the two listings. However, we already know most about the smartphone thanks to various teasers and leaks. The Realme 11 Pro+ will debut with a premium-looking design clad with faux leather on the back. Its round camera module is in line with the trend followed by most Chinese manufacturers this year.

The Realme 11 Pro+ should arrive as a premium mid-range smartphone with a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 2160Hz PWM high-frequency dimming. Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7050, the phone is likely to pack up to 16GB of RAM and a maximum of 1TB of internal storage. It is expected that the handset will get a large 5,000mAh battery with support for 100W fast charging.

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Honor to release “Giant Rhinoceros Glass” to compete with Huawei’s Kunlun Glass

Honor, the former sub-brand of Huawei, is set to release a new toughened glass panel called “Giant Rhinoceros Glass,” which is expected to compete with Huawei’s “Kunlun Glass” in terms of strength and durability. According to Digital Chat Station, the “Giant Rhinoceros Glass” panel is expected to be positioned as a premium glass panel for smartphones, similar to Huawei’s “Kunlun Glass.”

While there is currently no additional information available on the “Giant Rhinoceros Glass” panel, Huawei’s “Kunlun Glass” has been widely touted for its strength and durability. Huawei claims that the panel is created using advanced technology that involves 24 hours, 108 processes, and 1600 degrees of melting. This process creates a panel that is as hard as a rock and contains billions of high-strength nano-crystals, making it resistant to impact and preventing cracking.

In addition to its strength, the “Kunlun Glass” panel has also received the industry’s first Swiss SGS five-star anti-drop certification, which increases the Mate50 series‘ overall drop resistance by 10 times. It is expected that Honor’s “Giant Rhinoceros Glass” panel will offer similar strength and durability features, and may even exceed the performance of Huawei’s “Kunlun Glass.”

The “Giant Rhinoceros Glass” panel is expected to make its debut on Honor’s folding screen phone Magic V2. This indicates that the new panel is likely to be compatible with the latest technology and offer an improved user experience for smartphone enthusiasts.

Overall, the launch of Honor’s “Giant Rhinoceros Glass” panel is expected to increase competition in the smartphone market, particularly in the premium phone segment. With a focus on strength and durability, the new panel is expected to provide a significant upgrade to the overall user experience of smartphones, particularly in terms of resilience against impact and drop resistance. It will be interesting to see how the new panel will fare against the competition and how it will influence future smartphone design trends.

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POCO M2 Pro grabs MIUI 14 update based on Android 12

The POCO M2 Pro, a budget smartphone from POCO, has begun to receive the MIUI 14 update in India. This update adds several new features and improvements aimed at enhancing the user experience, such as a new design language and super icons. Additionally, it includes the April 2023 Android security patches to augment system security.

MIUI 14, which was unveiled in December 2022, is the latest iteration of Xiaomi’s custom Android skin. The POCO M2 Pro users in India can now avail themselves of this update and its features. It is worth noting that certain features of MIUI 14 may not be available as the update is built on the Android 12 framework.

POCO M2 Pro Out of the Blue Featured

The POCO M2 Pro MIUI 14 update bears the build number V14.0.3.0.SJPINXM, and has a file size of approximately 500 MB. The update is initially being rolled out to POCO Pilots for testing, and if no bugs are detected, it will be made available to all users via OTA (over-the-air) update. Alternatively, users can also choose to download the update manually.

Regarding the changelog, it only mentions the updated April 2023 security patch and an optimized search system in the Settings app. Moreover, the search section will now display past search histories and categories, which will enhance its accessibility and ease of use. Here is the complete changelog for the update:

System
Updated Android Security Patch to April 2023. Increased system security

More features and improvements
Search in Settings is now more advanced. With search history and categories in results, everything looks much crisper now.

The POCO M2 Pro was initially released in July 2020 with MIUI 11 based on Android 10. MIUI 14 and Android 12 are its third MIUI and second Android updates, respectively.

The POCO M2 Pro boasts a 6.67-inch FHD+ IPS LCD display with a punch-hole cutout accommodating the 16MP selfie camera. The device is powered by a Snapdragon 720G processor. Its quad rear camera module features a 48MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, a 5MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. The device also comes equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports 33W fast charging.

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Galaxy S23 to get an HDR fix via upcoming software update

The Samsung Galaxy S23 series is the latest flagship smartphone lineup by the brand. It offers some pretty good specifications with a versatile camera setup. The camera hardware is surely very strong, however, there are certain hiccups on the camera system here and there, and the brand is constantly working on upgrading the camera experience of the device.

Few users had reported an HDR-related issue on the Galaxy S23 series smartphones. The devices fail to adjust colors properly in some lighting conditions. But we have good news for them, the brand has officially acknowledged the issue and has confirmed that the upcoming software update for the device will fix the HDR issue present on the device.

Known tipster Ice Universe (via SamMobile) claims that he received a confirmation from the Samsung support team that “improvements are in progress and will be included in the next update” (translated from Chinese).

Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus

However, the brand did not mention which specific update will resolve the issue, but there are strong rumors that the upcoming security patch will finally bring a fix for this issue. The same was previously claimed in the mid-April timeline that the May patch will fix the issue, but it didn’t. Fortunately, the issue does not occur very frequently and is not prevalent among all users.

The HDR (High Dynamic Range) feature is designed to capture more details in both bright and dark areas of a scene, but some Galaxy S23 lineup users have reported observing a halo effect around objects in low-light or indoor conditions, particularly when the primary light source is present in the frame. This issue occurs due to a combination of negative exposure value (EV) input frames containing the same contour pattern and the application of local tone-mapping (LTM) after HDR output, exacerbating the problem.

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Realme 11 series roundup: Design, Specs & everything else known so far

The Realme 11 series is creating quite a stir in the tech world, with its launch just around the corner. The Chinese smartphone manufacturer has been teasing the features of its upcoming devices for the last few days, and leaks have given us a sneak peek of what to expect.

Realme

Realme’s numbered series has gained a reputation for offering feature-rich devices at an affordable price point, and the Realme 11 series is expected to follow suit. The series is expected to include three devices – Realme 11, Realme 11 Pro, and Realme 11 Pro+ – and they are set to pack in some impressive specs.

Design & display

Starting off with the design, the Realme 11 series is making a major shift in this aspect compared to its predecessor. The look of the back panel is changing quite a bit as evidenced by the official teaser image of the Realme 11 Pro+. The brand is ditching the dual camera island design of the Realme 10 series in favor of the circular camera island which is currently in fashion.

According to leaks and teasers, the upcoming Realme 11 series will feature a consistent back design for all three models, with minor differences. However, the flagship Realme 11 Pro+ model will stand out with a unique curved rear and frame co-designed with former GUCCI designer Matteo Menotto. The premium variant will have a beige faux leather back panel called “Sunrise City” featuring a vertical stripe with gold and silver stitching, and a golden-colored frame. It is expected to be a special edition, and other color options are likely to be available as well.

Realme 11 Pro

The 11 Pro and 11 Pro+ models are also rumored to feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The displays of these models will have a curved design, adding to the premium feel of the devices. The vanilla Realme 11 5G, on the other hand, is supposed to feature a 6.4-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution.

Performance

Moving on to the performance side of things, the Realme 11 Pro series is expected to come equipped with new MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipsets. While the vanilla model will feature a Different Dimensity 7-series chipset. For those unaware, MediaTek is simplifying its product portfolio and providing consumers with a more transparent naming system by rebranding its existing Dimensity 700, 800, and 900 series SoCs under the new Dimensity 6000 and 7000 series. Despite the name change, the core technology and specifications of these SoCs remain largely the same. For instance, the Dimensity 1080 is now called the Dimensity 7050.

MediaTek Dimensity logo

Manufactured using TSMC’s advanced 6nm process technology, the Dimensity 7050 SoC is equipped with a CPU that consists of two high-performance 2.6GHz Cortex-A78 cores and six power-efficient 2.0GHz Cortex-A55 cores. The GPU features a Mali-G68 MC4 and supports LPDDR5/4x memory as well as UFS 3.1/2.1 storage standards.

Geekbench’s benchmark test results show that the Realme 11 Pro+ achieves scores of 838 and 2303 points in its single-core and multi-core tests, respectively.

The Realme 11 series is expected to offer massive storage and memory options, with up to 16 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 1 TB of storage. Both the Pro and Pro+ models will house a powerful 5,000mAh battery. The Pro model is expected to come with 67W fast charging, while the Pro+ may come with a higher capacity of 80W or 100W fast charging technology. The vanilla model is likely to feature 33W fast charging according to a 3C listing. As for software, all three devices are expected to debut with Android 13 onboard.

Cameras

The upcoming Realme 11 series is expected to come with impressive camera features. According to leaked information, the Realme 11 Pro is rumored to have a 108MP rear camera and a 2MP portrait camera. Meanwhile, the Realme 11 Pro+ is confirmed to come with a whopping 200MP primary camera, along with an 8MP ultra-wide camera and a 2MP macro camera. On the front, the Realme 11 Pro is believed to have a 16MP selfie camera, while the Realme 11 Pro+ is expected to have a 32MP front-facing camera.

Realme 11 Pro Plus Camera

As for the Realme 11 5G, it is rumored to feature a triple camera setup on the rear, with a 64-megapixel primary camera. While we don’t have much information about the other two cameras in the setup, it is likely that there will be an ultra-wide camera and a depth sensor or macro camera.

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Tesla reportedly using BYD batteries in Model Y production in Germany

Tesla has begun producing the Model Y SUV with a Blade battery from BYD at its German plant, according to a recent report. The BYD battery is expected to be used in the entry-level Model Y RWD, while the imported China-made Model 3 will feature an LFP battery from CATL. BYD is a vertically integrated company that covers the entire EV supply chain, from owning lithium mines to manufacturing batteries and producing electric vehicles, as well as developing software and ADAS for its vehicles.

Tesla and BYD join forces: Blade batteries set to power Model Y production

In 2022, BYD sold 1,863,494 new energy vehicles, including 946,239 plug-in hybrid passenger cars, 911,140 all-electric passenger cars, and 6,115 commercial vehicles and buses. As a result, BYD surpassed Volkswagen as the best-selling car brand in China.

Tesla’s adoption of the BYD Blade battery in the Model Y is a significant development, as it represents the first time the company has utilized batteries from the Chinese manufacturer. BYD is the world’s second-largest battery producer and has a strong presence in the bus industry. This collaboration with Tesla further solidifies BYD’s position in the EV market.

The Blade battery is a next-generation battery that offers several advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries. It is safer, more stable, and boasts a longer life cycle. The battery employs lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, known for its stability and safety. Additionally, the Blade battery’s design is unique, featuring a blade-like structure that enhances heat dissipation, a critical aspect of battery safety.

Tesla’s choice to incorporate the BYD Blade battery in the Model Y will likely significantly influence the EV market. As one of the world’s leading EV manufacturers, Tesla’s adoption of the Blade battery could encourage other EV manufacturers to explore using this battery technology in their vehicles. Furthermore, the partnership between Tesla and BYD is anticipated to benefit both companies, enabling them to capitalize on each other’s strengths to produce superior EVs.

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(Source)

Google experiments with ad placement on Gmail including the middle of email lists

Google’s email service, Gmail, is reportedly starting to show more ads, including in the middle of email lists, which is causing concern among users. The company’s decision to inject more ads into the service has been met with criticism, with some users finding it difficult to navigate around the advertisements.

Gmail users frustrated over intrusive ad placement

According to reports, the increase in ads has been rolled out over the past week on both the web and mobile app versions of Gmail. While the service has always had ads, they were previously positioned at the top of the email list, making them easy to navigate around. However, with ads now interspersed through email lists, users are finding it harder to navigate around them.

The mobile app experience has also been affected, with ads now appearing in the Updates filter inbox, an area that was previously free from advertisements. The addition of two ads at the top of the email list has made the space look cluttered and has caused concern among users.

It is important to note that not all users are experiencing this change, as Google has been known to run targeted tests with features, service changes, and even its ads that never fully roll out to the public. However, for those affected by the increased ads, this could be a major inconvenience.

As always, it is important for users to keep an eye on any changes to the services they use and to provide feedback to the companies that provide them. Gmail is also taking a proactive approach with the new blue checkmark feature to combat email scams and improve the safety and security of its users.

(Via)

Sony Xperia 1 V Pricing In China Leaks Ahead Of Next Week’s Launch

Sony is set to launch the Xperia 1 V smartphone in Japan on May 11th. It will arrive as the successor to the last year’s Xperia 1 IV. The upcoming offering was recently spotted on a billboard revealing its design and some key information. Now, the smartphone’s pricing has been leaked for the Chinese market. 

Sony Xperia 1 V leaked price in China

As per the latest development, the Sony Xperia 1 V will carry a price tag of RMB 8,000 (~$1,160 or £919) in China. If this indeed turns out to be true, then the upcoming offering will be cheaper than the last generation Xperia 1 IV which was priced at RMB 8,499 (~$1,231). The price difference between the Xperia generations would surprisingly be near 6 percent. Xperia phones are quite popular in China, so it might be worth the risk for Sony to price the upcoming offering aggressively in the country. 

However, the aggressive pricing of the Sony Xperia 1 V doesn’t seem to be the case for global markets. It could possibly match the price of its predecessor. This would still be an attractive option for customers who wish to purchase the device since it will reportedly come with upgrades. 

The Sony Xperia 1 V is already confirmed to feature a next-generation sensor and next-generation imaging. Additionally, the billboard poster also had a text in Chinese that said ‘next-generation low-noise sensor’ (translated) hinting at the phone’s ability to shoot high-quality images under all lighting conditions. The smartphone’s design also corroborates with the leaked renders and it will arrive in White, Black, and Green color options. 

Core specifications of the Sony Xperia 1 V are expected to comprise a 120Hz 6.5-inch 4K HDR OLED display and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC with 16GB RAM. 

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