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Xiaomi 13 Ultra Repairs Come with a Hefty Price Tag

Xiaomi, the renowned smartphone manufacturer, has recently launched its latest flagship model, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, and it has been receiving great reviews (check out our review of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra) for its remarkable specifications and features. However, like any other electronic device, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra may experience issues over time, requiring repairs or replacement of its spare parts. Xiaomi has now released a list of repair costs for its spare parts that are out-of-warranty, giving users an idea of the potential costs they may incur.

One of the most important components of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is its screen. If you need to replace it, it will cost you around 1,360 yuan, which is approximately $198. The rear camera assembly is another crucial part of the device, and its replacement cost is 1,450 yuan, or approximately $210. Although these costs may seem high, they are in line with the prices charged by other manufacturers for similar spare parts.

The motherboard of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is the heart of the device, responsible for its overall performance. The cost of replacing the motherboard for the 12GB+256GB version is 2,320 yuan, or approximately $337. For the 16GB+1TB version, the cost increases to 2,560 yuan or approximately $372. These costs are relatively high and may cause concern for some users.

The battery of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is another essential component that may require replacement over time. The cost of replacing the battery is 159 yuan, or approximately $23, which is a reasonable price. The battery cover replacement price is 180 yuan or approximately $26. It is important to note that all Xiaomi 13 Ultra spare parts out-of-warranty repairs include a 40 yuan labor fee, which is approximately $6.

It is always advisable to take good care of your smartphone to minimize the need for repairs or replacement of spare parts. However, if your Xiaomi 13 Ultra requires any repairs or replacements, it is essential to consider the costs involved before making any decisions. If you have purchased the device with a warranty, make sure to check the terms and conditions, as some repairs or replacements may be covered under warranty.

WHERE TO BUY
Buy Xiaomi 13 Ultra with coupon code: 13U30 @Giztop

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Prime Video Launches Dialogue Boost for Improved Accessibility

Prime Video, the popular streaming service, has introduced a revolutionary new feature called Dialogue Boost, which is set to transform the way we watch movies and TV shows. This feature allows you to adjust the volume levels of dialogue to your preferred level, making it easier to hear conversations and understand what characters are saying. But what sets this feature apart is its innovative use of AI technology.

Prime Video implemented AI Algorithms for Dialogue Boost

Dialogue Boost uses AI algorithms to analyze the original audio of a movie or series, identifying the points where the dialogue may be difficult to hear above the background music and sound effects. The AI then isolates speech patterns and enhances the audio to make the dialogue clearer and more audible. This targeted enhancement is a significant improvement over traditional amplification methods that rely on boosting the center channel of a home theatre system. This AI-based approach ensures that customers can enjoy an immersive and accessible viewing experience, regardless of their hearing ability. While Dialogue Boost was developed with the needs of customers who are hard of hearing in mind, it can be used by anyone to customize their listening preferences.

Prime Video

The process of implementing AI into the Dialogue Boost feature was a challenging one, the blog post states. The Prime Video team had to develop a machine-learning model that could accurately identify the speech patterns in the audio and enhance them without affecting the overall quality of the sound. They also had to ensure that the feature could be implemented seamlessly across all devices that support the Prime Video experience. This innovative use of AI technology is a significant milestone in the streaming industry, as it provides a much-needed accessibility feature for viewers who struggle to hear dialogue in movies and TV shows. The introduction of Dialogue Boost reflects Prime Video’s commitment to creating an inclusive, equitable, and enjoyable streaming experience for all its customers.

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Motorola Razr+ 2023 cover screen size seemingly revealed

Motorola Razr+ 2023 is expected to launch soon in China. The company has already started teasing the flip phone in the home market. Rumors are rife that it will come equipped with the largest cover screen seen on a flip phone. It appears that Lenovo Group General Manager for Mobile Phone Business Division, Chen Jin may have revealed the actual size of its cover display.

motorola razr+ 2023 cover screen size

In the screenshot above, Jin has mentioned “3.5-inch” twice while teasing the Motorola Razr+ 2023’s cover screen size. Hence, it appears that it could be equipped with a 3.5-inch cover display. However, the company is yet to directly confirm it. In fact, the new teaser poster revealed by the brand only mentions the size as 3.x-inch, which at least confirms that it will be larger than 3 inches.

motorola razr+ 2023 screen size hint
Motorola razr+ 2023 screen size hint

Samsung is also expected to launch the Galaxy Z Flip 5 in August this year. Rumors have claimed that it will have a 3.4-inch cover display. In comparison, the Razr+ 2023 is likely to feature a slightly bigger cover screen.

Rumors surrounding the Razr+ 2023 have claimed that some markets may receive the same device with the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra moniker. The company is yet to confirm the name of the device.

As per reports, it will have a 6.7-inch OLED foldable screen that offers an FHD+ resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset will be the device’s power source.

The Razr+ 2023 is likely to ship with a 3,640mAh battery and support 33W fast charging. It will arrive with 8 GB / 12 GB of RAM. The phone will run on the UX-based Android 13 OS. At present, there is no information available about the cameras of the Razr+ 2023.

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Nokia 105 4G (2023) launched with a bigger battery & Bluetooth 5.0, costs ¥199 ($29)

Nokia has announced the launch of an updated version of its classic candy bar-style mobile phone, the Nokia 105 4G. The new version features a larger battery, promising longer battery life than its predecessor. The phone also supports Alipay and is currently available for pre-order at a discounted price of 199 yuan (~$29), down from its regular price of 229 yuan.

Nokia

Compared to the old Nokia 105 4G, the new version offers several upgrades, including a 42% increase in battery capacity to 1450mAh, 32GB storage expansion, Bluetooth 5.0, and support for Migu music and Himalaya functions. However, the voice broadcast function has been removed. Additionally, the phone now features bold button fonts and is available in black and blue colors.

Nokia

Despite the changes, the new phone retains the classic candy bar design and physical buttons, making it an ideal choice for elderly users, students, and those in need of a backup phone. Nokia 105 4G HIA remains a standout feature, providing quick access to Alipay by right-clicking or through the payment menu. The payment QR code or barcode can be accessed by clicking on “payment code”.

The Nokia 105 4G supports dual-card dual-standby and dual 4G full Netcom, with dual nano-SIM card slots enabling dual SIM dual 4G online simultaneously. VoLTE HD voice calls are also supported, making it a great option for anyone looking for a reliable phone.

Other features of the Nokia 105 4G include wireless external radio, which can be played through the speaker or without headphones. A one-button flashlight is available, with the “up direction” button used to turn it on or off. Lastly, the classic “Snake” game is pre-installed on the phone.

Powered by UNISOC’s T107 lightweight chip, the new Nokia 105 4G is a worthy successor to the original. It is set to ship on April 28th, and it is expected to be a popular choice among consumers looking for a reliable and affordable mobile phone.

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Apple Dominates Global Refurbished Smartphone Market with 16% YoY Growth in 2022

Apple excels in selling refurbished phones because of its strong brand reputation for quality and reliability. Apple has a rigorous refurbishing process that includes the replacement of any defective parts with genuine Apple components, thorough testing, cleaning, and repackaging. This process ensures that the refurbished phones are of high quality and function, just like new phones. Apple also offers a one-year warranty on their refurbished phones, giving consumers peace of mind when purchasing. Additionally, Apple’s refurbished phones often come with the latest software updates and can be easily integrated with other Apple products, making them an attractive option for Apple enthusiasts. Lastly, Apple’s marketing and sales strategies effectively communicate the benefits of buying a refurbished phone, which helps to build consumer trust and increase sales. For all these reasons, Apple was the leader in the global refurbished phone market in the year 2022.

COVID-19 affected the Market for Refurbished Devices in 2022

According to Counterpoint Research’s Global Refurb Smartphone Tracker, the global secondary smartphone market grew 5% YoY in 2022, as the demand for refurbished smartphones continued to increase. However, the growth could have been higher if not for the steep 17% decline in China’s refurbished smartphone sales, which was caused by a resurgence of COVID-19 and the introduction of “COVID-Zero” policies in the country.

iPhone Research

Apple’s global volumes grew 16% YoY in 2022, taking its secondary market share to over 49%. It is the fastest-growing brand in the used and refurbished sectors globally. However, Samsung’s share decreased to 26% in 2022 from 28% in 2021, mainly due to a small percentage shift of Android consumers to iOS, which affected Samsung refurbished sales.

The demand for refurbished smartphones is mainly coming from new smartphone buyers in mature markets, feature phone users shifting to smartphones in emerging markets, and unofficial channels dependent on C2C or hand-me-downs. Meanwhile, refurbished smartphone retailers are growing the most in terms of supply, while carriers have started offering refurbished options mainly in mature markets.

In 2022, a larger share of consumers preferred to buy premium and flagship refurbished smartphones compared to previous years, pushing up secondary market ASPs (average selling prices). The trend is expected to continue in 2023, along with an increase in 5G smartphone share, which could bring about a situation where the inventory of low-grade used smartphones may grow significantly.

Overall, the limited supply of refurbished smartphones is affecting most emerging markets like LATAM, Southeast Asia, India, and Africa. However, the business potential of dealing in refurbished smartphones remains high, as trust levels towards them have increased across markets, and consumers are shifting their focus towards sustainability and environmental awareness.

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Honor x50i smartphone goes on sale in China; pricing starts at 1,399 yuan ($203)

A couple of days back, Honor announced its latest smartphone in its home country China, dubbed Honor x50i. As the name indicates, the phone is a successor to the Honor x40i which was launched last year.

The Honor x50i is now available for purchase in the Chinese market. The base model with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage is priced at 1,399 yuan (~$203) while the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model costs 1,699 yuan (~$245).

Honor X50i
Honor X50i

The Honor X50i features a 6.73-inch IPS LCD panel with a punch-hole cutout on the top center of the screen. The display comes with support for a Full HD+ resolution of 2388 x 1080 pixels, a refresh rate of 90Hz, and a 93.6 percent screen-to-body ratio.

Under the hood, the device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor, coupled with up to 12 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and up to 256 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. It also supports up to 7 GB of virtual RAM and is equipped with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security.

In the camera department, the phone has a dual-camera setup on the back that includes a 100-megapixel primary camera sensor and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. On the front side, there’s an 8-megapixel snapper for taking selfies and video calling.

The Honor x50i smartphone runs the Android 13 operating system out-of-the-box with the company’s own Magic UI 6.1 on top. It is powered by a 4,500mAh battery that supports 35W fast charging.

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iQOO Neo 8 charging speed revealed via certification, likely to launch in May

Rumors are rife that the iQOO Neo 8 series will be unveiled in May in China. Hence, the iQOO Neo 8 and Neo 8 Pro are expected to get approved by Chinese certification platforms in the coming days. Reports have revealed that the Neo 8 and 8 Pro have V2301A and V2302A model numbers. The latter was recently seen with the highest-ever score on AnTuTu benchmarks. Now, the vanilla variant has been approved for national quality certification in China.

As per the certification revealed by TechGoing, the iQOO Neo 8 may arrive with a charger that has the V12060L0A0-CN model number. The charger supports 120W charging. The certification has not revealed any other information about the device.

iQOO Neo 8 certified
iQOO Neo 8 certified

The iQOO Neo 8 Pro is said to arrive as the first phone powered by the upcoming Dimensity 9200 Plus. On the other hand, the iQOO Neo 8 is likely to feature the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset. Here is a look at the rumored specifications of the Neo 8.

iQOO Neo 8 specifications (rumored)

Rumors have revealed that the iQOO Neo 8 will have a 6.78-inch OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will have an in-screen fingerprint scanner and run on Android 13 OS with OriginOS 3 on top.

The Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1-powered device will ship with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. It will house a 5,000mAh battery that supports 120W charging.

The iQOO Neo 8 will have a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. Its back panel will be equipped with a triple camera unit headlined by a 50-megapixel Sony IMX766V camera.

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OPPO Reno 10 Pro+ charging speed emerges via certification in China

Brands like OPPO, iQOO, Vivo, and Honor are gearing up to launch new smartphones in China in the coming month (May). These brands are expected to announce the Reno 10 series, the iQOO Neo 8 series, the Vivo S17 series, and the Honor 90 series. Ahead of the expected launch, the Honor 90 models were recently seen at the MIIT certification. Now, the Reno 10 Pro+ has received an important certification in China.

OPPO PHU110 certified
OPPO Reno 10 Pro+ certified

As can be seen in the screenshot shared by the publication TechGoing, the Reno 10 Pro+ with model number PHU110 has been approved in China. The national quality certification of the Reno 10 Pro+ may ship with a charger that supports 100W charging. The listing does not reveal anything else about the device. Here is a look at the rumored specifications of the Reno 10 Pro+ that have appeared in recent reports.

OPPO Reno 10 Pro+ specifications (rumored)

As per previous reports, the Reno 10 Pro+ will arrive with a 6.74-inch OLED panel with curved edges. It will offer a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an under-display fingerprint scanner. The smartphone will have a thin and light form factor, featuring a plastic middle frame.

The low-frequency version of the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset is likely to power the Reno 10 Pro+ The device is expected to ship with 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256 GB / 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage.

The Reno 10 Pro+ is expected to pack a 4,700mAh battery with 100W charging. It is unlikely to support wireless charging. It will run on Android 13 OS and ColorOS 13.1.

On the front, it will feature a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 selfie camera. The back panel of the device will have a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 camera with OIS support, an 8-megapixel Sony IMX355 ultra-wide lens, and a 64-megapixel OmniVision OV64B telephoto camera. For a better photography experience, the device will be equipped with the company’s MariSilicon X NPU.

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Google will Let Users Store One-time Authenticator Codes in the Cloud

Security is a top priority for online users, and Google is taking this seriously with a new update to its widely used two-factor authentication app, Google Authenticator. With this update, users can now sync their one-time codes to the cloud, making it easier to switch between devices without the risk of losing their authentication data. Previously, users had to manually transfer their codes from one device to another, a process that was cumbersome and time-consuming, especially for those who frequently switch between devices or had their device stolen. With the new update, users can store their authentication data in the cloud, allowing them to access their one-time codes on any device with the Google Authenticator app installed.

Storing Authentication Data in the Cloud boosts Resilience & Security

To enable this feature, users simply need to open the app, select “Settings,” tap “Backup to Google Account,” and follow the on-screen instructions to sign in to their Google Account and enable backup. Once backup is enabled, one-time codes will be securely stored in the users’ Google Account. If their device is lost or stolen, the codes can be restored by signing in on a new device and requesting to “Restore codes.” The new cloud sync feature is a significant improvement for Google Authenticator users. By storing authentication data in the cloud, Google has made one-time codes more resilient and secure, making it easier for users to keep their accounts secure. The feature is especially useful for users who rely on the app to access many different services that require two-factor authentication.

Google

In the past, Google has also collaborated with the FIDO Alliance to facilitate the move to using passkeys instead of passwords, which will provide users with even more practical and secure authentication options. With this update to Google Authenticator, Google is continuing to invest in new security technologies that make authentication safer and more convenient for users. As online security threats continue to evolve, it’s reassuring to know that Google is working to keep users’ accounts safe and secure.

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Apple wins appeal court ruling against Epic Games over anti-trust battle

In a new development over the legal battle between Apple and Epic Games, an appeals court has ruled in favor of Apple in regard to the App Store rules.

With the courts siding with the Cupertino-based technology giant, it is likely that there won’t be any major changes in the commission that the company charges to app developers.

Apple

Commenting about this new development, Apple spokesman said, “Today’s decision reaffirms Apple’s resounding victory in this case, with nine of 10 claims having been decided in Apple’s favor. For the second time in two years, a federal court has ruled that Apple abides by antitrust laws at the state and federal levels.”

Apple had won the initial court battle a couple of years back and now the Ninth Circuit Court affirmed that decision where it was said that the company did not violate antitrust law by banning competing app marketplaces on iPhones.

Epic Games sued Apple after the game developer had introduced its own payment system into Fortnite to avoid paying a 30% commission to Apple for each transaction. By doing so, the company broke Apple’s rules, and ultimately the developer was banned from the App Store. After that, Epic Games sued Apple and received support from a few other developers who also faced issues with Apple’s rules.

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Alleged Exynos 2400 benchmark figures swell rumor of debut on the Galaxy S24 series

The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is expected to be powered by the Exynos 2400 chipset and probably the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy. The Galaxy S24 will be released next year and some CPU performance numbers of the Exynos 2400 have emerged.

Exynos 2400

The Samsung Galaxy S23 series was powered exclusively by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy. Little is known of the Samsung flagship Exynos 2400 SoC but the new performance numbers provide some perspectives.

The Exynos 2400 is expected to outperform the current Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chips and possibly square up with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy. As per the latest leak, the Exynos 2400 could garner a single-core average score of 1530 and a multi-core average of 6210 on Geekbench 5. The corresponding Geekbench numbers for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy are not available. However, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy scored 1556 and 4987 in single-core and multi-core testing.

Samsung could limit the Exynos 2400 to some regions while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy models of the S24 will ship to other regions. There is however a rumor that it is only the base Galaxy S24 model that will feature the Exynos 2400 SoC. Samsung had previously shipped region-specific chipsets for Galaxy S series models. The rumors are therefore not definitive. Certainly, Samsung will provide greater optics on the development of the Exynos 2400 and the models of the Galaxy S24 lineup that will feature Exynos 2400 chipsets.

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Microsoft President: China to Emerge as Main Competitor of ChatGPT in AI Race

Artificial intelligence technologies continue to take the internet by storm. Once only seen in science fiction movies or used in advanced technology tasks, this technology is now at our fingertips. Anyone can use AI applications developed by companies like OpenAI and others. It’s worth admitting that many of them are doing quite impressive work.

This situation has brought about intense interest, with many companies and even entire countries seemingly preparing to compete in the field of artificial intelligence. Microsoft President Brad Smith recently assessed the situation, stating, “China will not fall behind in the AI race and is set to become a major ChatGPT competitor.” Here are the details…

Microsoft President Foresees AI Rivalry with China

Microsoft President Brad Smith recently stated in an interview that Chinese research institutions and companies, such as Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence (BAAI), are set to become major competitors to ChatGPT in the AI industry, and he believes China will not fall behind in the race for AI development.

Smith highlighted that the competition between AI leaders, including Microsoft’s partner OpenAI, Google, and BAAI, will be incredibly intense. In June 2021, BAAI released “Wu Dao 2.0,” an ultra-large-scale pre-trained model with 1.75 trillion parameters, surpassing Google’s Switch Transformer.

Generative AI technology, which powers ChatGPT, has raised concerns regarding job replacement, misinformation, and privacy issues. Smith explained that the solution is not to halt innovation but to strengthen the use and refinement of existing products. He also mentioned that AI is already being used to detect and intercept new cyberattacks in real-time and identify aggressive online influence campaigns and disinformation.

Currently, there are a few companies, such as Baidu, known to be developing chatbot competitors to ChatGPT. However, it’s too early to tell if any of them will become a serious contender. Nevertheless, we will continue to monitor the developments and keep you updated.

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Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition arrives with wireless charging support, body temperature sensor & more!

Huami, or Zepp if you like, has launched a new limited edition of its GTR smartwatch. The Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition is a more premium version of the original GTR 4, and has a classic design with dual physical buttons instead of the GTR 4’s physical crown. This change may appeal to users who prefer a more traditional watch design, while still offering modern features and capabilities.

Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition

The new Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition has comparable specs and features to the GTR 4. These features include a 1.43-inch AMOLED display and a BioTracker 4.0 PPG sensor for health-tracking. However, the Limited Edition also has the added feature of body temperature sensing, which could be especially useful in monitoring overall health during times of illness or in tracking changes in body temperature during exercise.

One notable difference between the GTR 4 and the Limited Edition is the number of available options. The Limited Edition is only available in one color option, which is silver with an “Infinite Black” fluoroelastomer strap. The original GTR 4, on the other hand, has more color options for users to choose from. Despite this, the GTR 4 Limited Edition comes with wireless charging support making it the only Amazfit smartwatch with wireless charging. The smartwatch crams a decent 475mAh battery which can deliver up to 14 days battery life.

Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition

The Amazfit GTR 4 Limited Edition is available for purchase on Amazfit’s US website for US$249.99. This price point is higher than that of the GTR 4, which can currently be found on Amazon for US$199. However, the Limited Edition offers additional features and a more premium design that may be worth the extra cost for some users.

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Apple’s Mixed Reality Headset Goes Wireless: “Power Banks” to the Rescue

Apple is preparing to revolutionize the virtual reality world. We’re sure you’ve read many similar sentences in the past year. The truth is, yes, Apple is indeed working on a headset with both AR and VR capabilities (mixed reality). If rumors are correct, the company will showcase this product for the first time at WWDC 23. Both the hardware and software of this highly anticipated product have been the subject of discussion, and as the launch is just weeks away, new information is beginning to emerge. It seems that Apple’s big solution to the energy problem is to develop power banks that only last a few hours. Here are the details…

Apple Mixed Reality Headset to Use MagSafe Batteries

According to Mark Gurman, Apple’s mixed reality headset will not require a direct connection to a power outlet. Instead, users will be able to connect a magnetic battery with MagSafe technology to the headset using a cable. The connector will apparently be magnetic, but it will be firmly attached so it doesn’t fall out while in motion. This way, you won’t face issues, especially in scenarios that require a lot of movement.

Looking at the positive side, not being tethered to a power outlet is great. Especially if you need to travel with an MR headset or use it outdoors (for reasons unknown), you’ll have the desired mobility. Additionally, you’ll experience a much freer experience without the weight of a cable leaning to one side. Also, not having the battery directly on the headset will prevent problems with weight and balance. However, this doesn’t mean everything will be seamless.

Again, according to Gurman’s claim, the battery lasts for nearly two hours under heavy use. Although users will have the option to continually replace the battery, the short battery life could cause issues. Still, two hours is quite ideal for spending time with such a product, especially considering many people experience problems like nausea after only ten minutes in VR. Nevertheless, we have no choice but to wait for WWDC 23 to see the accuracy of these claims and the validity of our comments.

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Lenovo to Launch XiaoXin K3 Mechanical Keyboard with Custom “Xin” Switches

Lenovo continues to expand its product line. The company, which has been using the XiaoXin brand for a while, has recently introduced its first Mini PC. The computer, powered by 13th gen Intel processors, has managed to attract attention with its features. Lenovo, which has already stepped outside the typical product range with the Mini PC, has also announced a accompanying peripheral device: the K3 mechanical keyboard. Here are the details…

Lenovo XiaoXin K3 Mechanical Keyboard Ideal for Gaming and Office Use

Today, Lenovo shared more details about the K3 mechanical keyboard, highlighting its use of custom “Xin” switches. These switches promise a “heart-touching” tactile experience with a soft, smooth keystroke. Designed with linear switch technology, the keyboard offers a lightweight feel and quiet sound, making it suitable for both gaming and office use.

According to previous Lenovo promotional materials, the XiaoXin K3 mechanical keyboard will be available in black and blue color options and will include a dedicated numeric keypad. As previously reported, the XiaoXin Mini PC will offer a choice between the i5-13500H and i7-13700H processors. Internally, the device features dual memory slots and dual SSD slots, with official configurations offering up to 32GB of memory and a 1TB SSD.

The Mini PC includes a built-in 150W power supply and a variety of connectivity options, such as front-facing USB 3.2, USB-C, and audio ports. On the back, users will find a 2.5G Ethernet port, dual USB-3.2 ports, USB 2.0, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and DP 1.4 interfaces. With the upcoming launch of the XiaoXin Mini PC and its peripherals, Lenovo aims to provide consumers with a compact, high-performance computing solution for gaming, work, and entertainment.

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The End of the PlayStation 5 Scalping Era: Prices Are Cheaper than Ever

The day that console gamers have been waiting for a long time has finally arrived. PlayStation 5 scalpers are now finding it difficult to sell consoles at inflated prices, as supply levels are returning to normal. These “opportunists”, who have been responsible for rapidly depleting stock and driving up prices for years, are finally facing the consequences of their actions. Here are the details…

What Happened During the Pandemic – Why PlayStation 5 Was So Expensive

The year 2020 marked a challenging time for many people worldwide. As the Covid-19 outbreak spread from China, our lives were transformed. Remote work and online education became the norm, social events were canceled, and curfews were implemented in various countries to control the virus’s spread. This led to billions of people staying at home with ample free time, causing a surge in consumption. However, people found solutions to this as well.

PlayStation 5

Digital content production and consumption skyrocketed, and sales of technological products like computers, gaming consoles, and projectors, which could either make time at home more enjoyable or aid in remote education and work, increased dramatically. Many companies experienced a golden age in sales. However, while the pandemic boosted sales on one hand, it also slowed down and increased the cost of production on the other. It was during this time of challenges that the PlayStation 5 entered our lives.

Sony had been working on the PlayStation 5 for a while, and with the pandemic ongoing, and they didn’t want to waste any more time during the pandemic. So, they introduced their new console on December 12, 2020. The technical specifications and innovations of the PS5 attracted attention, making it a highly desirable product for millions of people. As summer ended and more people gathered indoors, the pandemic’s second wave started. Remote learning and working from home continued, and the demand for technological products remained high.

PlayStation 5

However, production challenges impacted companies worldwide. The supply chain was on the verge of breaking, and even though some were less affected than others, no company could produce enough to meet customer demand. At this point, humanity’s biggest flaw came into play. While making money in a free market economy is normal, some took the situation a step further. Scalpers, who bought almost every product the moment it was released, artificially raised prices with their own hands.

Scalpers hoarded in-demand items like graphics cards, processors, and PlayStation consoles, buying them from wholesalers and retailers. They even employed software to assist them. This led to a terrible black market and significant profits for scalpers. For instance, Sony’s consoles, sold at $399 and $499, were resold for up to $1500. However, the situation has improved, with Sony’s PS5 supplies now significantly better.

PS5 Scalping Fades as Gamers Enjoy Greater Console Availability and Lower Prices

Almost three years have passed, and supplies of the Sony PlayStation 5 have improved significantly. Forced to cut prices, some scalpers are now listing the consoles at or even below the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. This development is not exactly new. Towards the end of 2021, the PS5 scalping situation began to change. Many of us witnessed this change in physical stores and online stock availability. This situation not only reduced scalpers’ sales but also led to their stockpile being left unsold.

A quick glance at eBay reveals that the days of $1500 PlayStation 5 consoles are gone. New models now range between $450 and $499, with some auctions starting as low as $380. Second-hand units are available for even lower prices. Users are quite pleased with the situation, as reported by various reputable publications such as Gizmochina. Comments like “Don’t even feel a little bit bad for them” and “I hope he has to go down like $230 for people to buy. Would be hilarious.” show how much users are enjoying the situation.

PlayStation 5

As console supplies continue to normalize, the situation could worsen for PS5 scalpers in the coming months. To make matters worse for scalpers, rumors of a PlayStation 5 Pro model are gaining strength day by day. The new “pro” console is expected to be introduced next year, featuring improved ray tracing capabilities, enhanced visual fidelity, and better overall performance. This potential release could further dampen scalpers’ prospects in the PlayStation market. As someone who experienced stock and price gouging issues during the pandemic, I must say that these developments certainly make me happy.

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Xiaomi MIJIA Underwear Washing and Drying Machine launched in China for 1,599 yuan ($232)

Xiaomi has launched the MIJIA Underwear Washing and Drying Machine in China. The machine provides all-in-one washing and drying services including 15-minute quick washing. The MIJIA underwear washing and drying machine will be open via a crowdfunding campaign from April 26.

MIJIA Underwear Washing and Drying Machine

The new Xiaomi MIJIA underwear washing and drying machine supports high-temperature washing, healthy purification, and professional stain removal. It offers a 15-minute steam cleaning, soft drying of clothes, night hosting, and smart interconnection, among other features. The sterilization methods are gentle and non-irritating on the fabrics. It can safely take care of tough stains including blood effectively.

MIJIA Underwear Washing and Drying Machine

The machine supports 95-degree high-temperature cooking and washing that eliminates viruses and bacteria from soiled underwear. It also supports 45-minute quick washing and drying, as well as 15-minute quick washing. The capacity of the washing and drying machine has not been specified. However, images of the machine show a compact design that can accommodate a limited quantity of clothes.

You can customize your laundry program using the Xiaomi MIJIA underwear washing and drying machine. You can set the water level, water temperature, and other washing and drying parameters. The washing machine runs stably and silently with its in-built shock absorption and noise reduction technologies.

1599 yuan!  Xiaomi Mijia underwear laundry washing and drying all-in-one machine is on the shelves: professional blood stain removal, high temperature sterilization

The crowdfunding price of the Xiaomi MIJIA underwear washing and drying machine is 1,599 yuan (~$232). The original price of the machine is 1,999 yuan (~$290). There are no details yet on when the earliest deliveries of the Xiaomi MIJIA underwear washing and drying machine will happen. Global availability and pricing details are also lacking for the MIJIA underwear washing and drying machine.

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Powerland Tachyon electric ATV manufactured in India unveiled; hitting the EU and US this summer

The fast-evolving electric ATV industry is expected to get a boost this summer when the Tachyon electric ATV berths in the US and EU markets. The Tachyon electric ATV was developed in India by Powerland ATV. The company props the Tachyon as one of the fastest and most powerful electric ATVs.

Powerland Tachyon electric ATV

The ATV segment of the automotive industry is undergoing a rapid transformation. Electric ATVs are all-wheel-drive powerhouses suited for heavy-duty tasks of varying hues. The Tachyon is already on the cusp of its momentous release in the EU and US markets. It has already gotten EU certification as a Tractor (T3b) and Quadricycle (L7e-B1) class vehicle.

The Tachyon uses four in-wheel motors that offer a combined maximum power of 50 hp (37kW). The electric tractor delivers a maximum torque of 210Nm per wheel. The in-wheel motor’s design implies that the Tachyon electric ATV omits a transmission, gearbox, CV joints, or differential. Powerland hopes that the additional mass on the wheels could be offset by the ATV’s excellent power delivery and minimal maintenance requirements.

The Tachyon has an 11kWh battery that can push the ATV for up to 110 km on a single charge. A higher 15.5kWh battery could also be available in the summer or later. The Tachyon can go from 0 to 60km/h in just four seconds. The speed limits of the Tachyon electric ATV will vary depending on the country. The speed could be limited to 60km/h in countries with tractor classification. However, the Tachyon can also deliver a top speed of 90km/h in jurisdictions with the L7e B1 classification.

Powerland Tachyon electric ATV

The Powerland Tachyon ATV will first launch in Germany and then spread to other countries in the EU. The price of the Tachyon ATV in Europe is €14,500 while in the US it is estimated to cost $15,000. The prices are expected to increase when the mandatory taxes are factored in.

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Nubia Red Devil Radiator 4 Pro back clip version with up to 27W cooling power launched in China for 159 yuan ($25)

The Nubia Red Devil Radiator 4 Pro back clip version has been officially released in China. The Red Devils Radiator 4 clip-back version is shaped like a small aircraft. It has a sterling silver color scheme which highlights the metal texture of the product. This is supplemented by RGB color lighting effects which electrifies the e-sports environment. The device offers both color and control for the user during gaming sessions.

The settings of the Nubia Red Devil Radiator 4 Pro back clip fully accentuate the e-sports atmosphere fully. It is equipped with mechanical buttons for gear adjustment and you can quickly switch operating modes. The gadget features the fourth-generation semiconductor refrigeration technology of the Red Devils. It has a maximum heat dissipation power of 27W. Furthermore, it has a built-in innovative suspension air duct that can blow out air simultaneously from top to bottom. The heat management mechanism of the Radiator 4 Pro back clip version ensures that the user avoids sweaty or hot hands.

Nubia Red Devils Radiator 4 Pro back clip

Overall, the Nubia Red Devil Radiator 4 is very comfortable to use and it can be used with 70-85mm mobile phones. It also comes with a new trapezoidal pad. The product is priced at 159 yuan (~$25) but a pre-sale deposit of 10 yuan ($1.5) could yield a 20 yuan ($3) discount. The Nubia Red Devils 4 Pro is available from retail platforms like JD.com in China. There are no global availability details for the product at this time. It remains to be seen how the product will compete in the market.

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Vivo Y36 4G could launch in India next month, Price & Specs tipped

Vivo has been expanding its lineup of affordable smartphones with the release of the latest Vivo Y78+. According to a recent report, the company is now gearing up to launch another Y-series device in India called the Vivo Y36 4G. This mid-range smartphone is expected to debut in the coming month and will feature a 50MP primary camera, a MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, and a 5,000mAh battery. Here are the details.

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Representative Image

Vivo Y36 4G Price and Launch timeline

91Mobiles, citing tipster Paras Guglani, claims that the upcoming Vivo Y36 4G will make its debut in India next month, in May. However, the publication did not specify the exact launch date and the company has not made an official announcement yet.

The report states the Vivo Y36 4G will be launched in India with a price range of Rs 18,000 to Rs 20,000. This price category is already crowded with smartphones that offer great value for money, with the iQOO Z7 (review) being just one example.

Vivo Y36 4G Specifications

The Vivo Y36 4G is anticipated to boast a large 6.8-inch LCD display, but it is yet to be confirmed if it will feature a high refresh rate. Under the hood, the device is said to be powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset and offers 8GB of RAM. What’s interesting is that the phone is rumored to come with an additional 8GB of expandable RAM.

In terms of camera capabilities, the upcoming Vivo Y36 4G is expected to sport a 50MP primary camera on the rear, but there is no information available about the other camera sensors. The device will come packed with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 44W fast charging.

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