I’m sure many of us dream of purchasing any tech product we want at an affordable price. However, economic conditions and the tax rates of the country you’re in, can create obstacles to achieving this dream. Unfortunately, at this point, a black market of smuggled products comes into play. Products illegally brought in from abroad are introduced to the market without being subject to any taxes in your country. While this situation may occasionally benefit consumers, it is not right, and customs authorities take measures to prevent it. One of these measures recently proved effective in China, as reported a man caught with 48 CPUs hidden in his shoes. Here are the details…
Man Caught with 48 CPUs Hidden in His Shoes
The market for unboxed CPUs continues to grow, these products are often more affordable than their boxed counterparts. However, their origins may be less legitimate. According to the latest reports, a man was recently caught attempting to smuggle 48 CPUs into China by hiding them in his shoes.
According to a report released by the authorities on the matter, a man wearing a black and white short-sleeved shirt entered a dedicated passenger inspection site. Customs officers at the scene noticed that his white canvas shoes seemed unusually large. Upon closer examination, they found the CPUs wrapped in paper tape inside the shoes, totaling 48 units.
This incident serves as a reminder of the conditions under which smuggled goods are brought into the country. Unfortunately, consumers often choose these products due to their lower prices. However, the potential damage to these sensitive technologies during such transport methods is often not taken into account.
Even when transported in factory-sealed boxes, these products can be damaged. It is also worth noting that finding someone to hold accountable in case these “seller-guaranteed” products malfunction in the future is often not possible.
OPPO is reportedly working on the Reno 10 series. Like its predecessor, the next-generation Reno lineup is expected to consist of multiple models. Now, the Reno 10 Pro variant has appeared in high-quality leaked renders courtesy of reliable tipster Steve Hemmerstoffer (onleaks). They reveal the smartphone’s design from all angles. The renders are in line with the leaked schematic design of the device.
OPPO Reno 10 Pro leaked renders
On the front, the OPPO Reno 10 Pro is seen with a center-aligned punch-hole display and curved edges. The screen is tipped to measure 6.7 inches. There is a noticeable bezel at the top and bottom chin of the screen. The device features a redesigned pill-shaped protruding camera module at the top left corner. It houses two sensors, a periscope lens, and an LED flash unit.
The OPPO Reno 10 Pro has a slim form factor. Dimension-wise, it is said to measure 163.2×74.2×7.9mm (10.2mm including rear camera bump). The power and volume rocker buttons are located at the right side. There is a USB-C port and a speaker grille at the bottom whereas the top side of the phone has a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Apart from the design, the leaked renders don’t reveal the key specifications of the Reno 10 Pro. It is expected to arrive as the successor to the last year’s Reno 9 Pro. It’s worth noting that OPPO did not launch the Reno 9 series outside China. The OPPO Reno 10 Pro is rumored to be powered by a Dimensity 8200 chipset.
Last month, the Xiaomi Pad 6 series was launched alongside the Xiaomi 13 Ultra in China. The company’s latest-gen tablets arrived almost two years after the debut of the Xiaomi Pad 5 lineup.
The Pad 6 series includes a vanilla and pro model. Interestingly, both of them share the same display but unsurprisingly, the pro variant has a better set of specs.
A couple of weeks after their release, Xiaomi reveals a compelling feature of these tablets.
Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro
Xiaomi says that the Xiaomi Pad 6 lineup comes with a deep sleep mode to extend the standby time of these devices. This mode kicks in automatically when the tablets are inactive for a longer period of time.
The company uses technologies, such as AI, Absolute Motion Detect (AMD), and geofencing to put the devices into deep sleep mode. The feature gets better with prolonged usage of the product as it adapts based on usage scenarios.
Xiaomi claims that with this new feature, the Xiaomi Pad 6 and the Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro can achieve standby time of up to 47.9 days and 49.9 days, respectively. There’s a difference between the two as the pro version has a larger 8,840mAh battery as opposed to an 8,600mAh cell inside the regular model.
Unlike smartphones, tablets are not used extensively. Thus, this new feature introduced by Xiaomi could be useful for users as they have to worry less about battery when they pick up their tablet days or weeks after the last charge.
Samsung’sGalaxy Z Flip 5 will reportedly feature a larger external screen compared to its predecessors, as revealed by popular tech insider Ice Universe. According to the tweet, the 3.4-inch external screen boasts a resolution of 720 x 748 pixels and a pixel density of 305 PPI.
The device’s cover display is much bigger than the ones found on the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 4, with a folder-shaped squarer aspect ratio that should make it more convenient to use for tasks like checking notifications and widgets.
New cover screen design will provide more features without unfolding
The larger external screen could also mean additional UI changes and software features from Samsung, though it’s uncertain if the company will allow full app usage directly on the cover display. Nevertheless, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is expected to include a 6.7-inch primary foldable OLED screen with a waterdrop-shaped hinge, reducing the screen crease visibility and eliminating the gap between the two halves of the phone.
The Galaxy Z Flip 5 is also rumored to have a 12MP primary camera sensor, a 12MP ultrawide camera, a 10MP selfie camera, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB internal storage, a fingerprint reader, and an IPX8 rating. With the larger external screen and the other rumored specs, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 could be one of the most promising foldable phones yet.
According to recent reports, Samsung is rumored to launch the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 earlier than expected. The Galaxy Z Flip 5 has also recently appeared in CAD renders, revealing a redesigned cover display. Interestingly, there’s a new render video that shows the folder-shaped cover display will not be seen when the display is turned off because it will have a black back panel.
The OPPO A98 5G has bagged multiple certifications in the last few months. It hints at an imminent launch of the device in China. Now, the smartphone’s full specifications have once again appeared in a leaked poster shared by publication MySmartPrice.
OPPO A98 5G leaked poster reveals full specifications
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The OPPO A98 5G will have an LCD display with a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout measuring 6.72 inches. It will bear an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The poster reveals a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button and the back panel has a pill-shaped camera module. The back panel is also said to be anti-fingerprint and scratch resistant.
On the optics front, the OPPO A98 5G will feature a triple rear camera setup comprising a 64MP main sensor and two 2MP lenses (with a 40X microlens). Up front, the device will have a 32MP selfie snapper.
The poster reveals that the OPPO A98 5G will be equipped with a Snapdragon 695 5G chipset. It is tipped to pack 8GB RAM along with 8GB extended RAM technology. There will be 256GB of onboard storage. We can expect more configurations at launch. The smartphone will reportedly draw its power from a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 67W fast charging. It will also feature the brand’s Battery Health Engine for a longer battery lifespan.
The OPPO A98 5G will be offered in Dreamy Black and Cool Blue color options.
The Flipkart Big Saving Days Sale and the Amazon Great Summer Sale has finally kicked off bringing some great deals for various products, especially consumer electronic gadgets. So here is a list of some of the best deals for certain Apple products.
We have also compiled a list of all Samsung products that have went on sale, which you can check out by clicking Here.
Apple iPhone 14
The iPhone 14 is a part of the Cupertino based giant’s latest flagship smartphone lineup. It is currently available for purchase for a discounted price on Amazon India. As of right now, the base 128GB model of this device is being offer for 67,999 INR, which is lower than its actual price tag of 69,999 INR. The discount is even higher on the more expensive variants, with the 256GB variant seeing a price drop of a near 10,000 INR down to 79,999 INR from 89,900 INR.
Lastly, the top end 512GB iPhone 14 model will be available for just 97,999 INR, which is noticeably more cheaper than the 109,900 INR official price tag. Keep in mind that these deals are being offered for Amazon Prime members at the moment, and regular users can find these deals live starting tomorrow (5th May 2023). The company is also offering an additional 1,000 INR discount on select credit cards, exchange offers, or on No Cost EMI.
Apple iPhone 13
The iPhone 13 is a slightly older model but still holds up as a premium phone. This is also reflected in its price tag, since it usually can be found for around 69,900 INR for its base 128GB model. The base model of the 2021 iPhone is on sale on Flipkart and Amazon during their respective sales period. On the former, the device is being sold for as low as 57,999 INR for Flipkart Plus members, while regular customers can buy it for 61,999 INR for the 128GB variant. On the other hand, the 256GB version has its price tag fall from 79,900 INR to just 71,999 INR.
On Amazon, the base 128GB model has had its price slashed to 61,900 INR, down from the original 69,900 INR. And similar to the Flipkart deal, the 256GB model can be purchase for just 71,999 INR as well during the sale. The 1,000 discount deal on select credit cards, no cost EMI, and exchange deals are being offered on this model as well, and the sale is currently available for just Amazon Prime members till tomorrow.
Apple Watch SE
The Apple Watch SE is another model that is available for a discounted deal during the Amazon Great Summer Sale. Similar to the aforementioned deals, the Watch SE deal is exclusive to Prime members till tomorrow. Looking at the online listing, the smartwatch is being offered for an impressive 33 percent discount on Amazon. The GPS + Cellular enabled 40mm variant of the Watch SE is on sale for just 22,899 INR, down from its original 33,900 price tag.
Keep in mind that this is for its Space Grey Aluminium Case with Midnight Sport Band, while the more premium Gold Aluminium Case with Starlight Sport Band is available for 30,899 INR. The larger 44mm Cellular + GPS enabled model has also seen a hefty 33 percent discount. So its price is now down to 24,899 INR from its original 36,900 INR for the Space Grey Aluminium Case with Midnight Sport Band.
Motorola Edge 40 has debuted in the European markets. Last month, the Lenovo-owned brand had launched the Pro variant. The latest offering is a toned-down version of the Edge 40 Pro. The device also arrives as the successor to the Edge 30. Read on to know what t offers out of the box.
Motorola Edge 40 specifications and features
The Motorola Edge 40 has a 6.55-inch curved OLED display bearing an FHD+ resolution and a center-aligned punch-hole cutout. It features an in-screen fingerprint scanner, an 8-bit panel, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 1,200 nits peak brightness. The device is equipped with dual stereo speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos. It is also IP68-certified water and dust resistant.
The Motorola Edge 40 features a squarish camera module on the back panel. It houses a main 1/1.55-inch main OIS-enabled 50MP sensor paired with a 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens. There is a 32MP selfie snapper on the front.
Under the hood, the Motorola Edge 40 Pro is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 8020 chipset. It packs a 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. The device is backed by a 4,400mAh battery unit with support for 68W wired and 15W wireless charging. Software-wise, the smartphone runs on Android 13 OS out of the box.
The Motorola Edge 40 carries a price tag of €550 for the sole 8GB + 256GB variant. It is available in Nebula Green and Eclipse Black color with a vegan leather finish and a Lunar Blue option with an acrylic finish. The smartphone is up for purchase starting today in Europe.
Lenovo has launched a new mini PC in its home market China. The product has been released under the company’s Xiaoxin brand.
Officially called the Lenovo Xiaoxin Mini PC, the computer comes with a good set of features. Let’s go through everything it offers along with its pricing and availability.
The newly launched Lenovo Xiaoxin Mini PC sports a compact design despite featuring a 13th Gen Intel H series processor. The volume of the metal casing is only 1 liter and it has a detachable white-colored top cover. The entire product weighs just about 1.8kg.
It resembles an Xbox Series S but can only be placed horizontally. The device is fitted with a 150W 80 Plus Platinum power supply. It has two cooling fans, one for the CPU and the other for the power supply.
The PC boots Windows 11 and comes pre-loaded with Microsoft Office. It uses DDR4 RAM and PCIe 4.0 SSD.
It offers all the important connectivity and port options. There’s support for WiFi 6, Bluetooth, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A), 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C), 1 x Thunderbolt 4, 1 x USB 2.0 (Type-A), HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, LAN, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Finally, the Lenovo Xiaoxin Mini PC retails at the following price tags in China
i7-13700H 32GB + 1TB – ¥4,999 (~$725)
I5-13500H 16GB + 1TB – ¥3,999 (~$580)
Just like most Xiaoxin devices, this one will likely remain exclusive to China. At the moment, we have no details on whether it would be released in other markets under any global brand of Lenovo.
Samsung has launched the Neo QLED TV 2023 series in India. The lineup comprises multiple models available in both 4K and 8K resolution. They arrive as the successors to the last year’s models. The televisions pack many flagship features and carry a premium price tag. Read on to know more below.
Samsung Neo QLED TV 2023 series specifications
The Samsung Neo QLED TV 2023 series features an Infinity Screen and Infinity One design with an ultra-slim frame and four-sided thin bezels. The 4K and 8K TV range are both offered in 65, 75, and 85-inch screen sizes. Additionally, there is a 50 and 55-inch variant of the former whereas the latter also comes in a larger 98-inch option. The QLED 8K packs a 50Hz refresh rate and ultimate 8K dimming pro whereas the 4K variant features up to 144Hz refresh rate. Both television series have anti-reflection, HDR10+, one billion colour, and 100 percent color volume with quantum dot.
On the audio front, the Samsung Neo QLED TV 2023 series are equipped with a 60W speaker with Q-Symphony and Dolby Atmos. There is an object tracking sound pro and adaptive sound pro. The televisions feature far-field voice recognition for voice commands.
The Samsung Neo QLED TV 2023 series is powered by a Neural Quantum Processor 8K and 4K for their respective models. There is auto-low latency mode along with Motion Xcelerator Turbo Pro for a lag-free gaming experience. The TVs pack IoT-enabled sensors for a seamless connection with third-party appliances offering complete control of smart devices.
The Samsung Neo QLED TV 2023 series has connectivity options like Bluetooth, WiFi-5, four HDMI ports, three USB ports, an Ethernet port, and USB-C.
The Samsung Neo QLED TV 2023 8K lineup starts at Rs 3,14,990. The 4K series starts at Rs 1,41,990. Customers purchasing the former before May 25th will be eligible for a free Samsung Soundbar HW-Q990 worth Rs. 99,990 and Soundbar HW-Q800 worth Rs. 44,990 with Neo QLED 4K TVs.
Poco is gearing up to launch the Poco F5 smartphone in India. This is a highly anticipated device as it is essentially a rebrand of the impressive Redmi Note 12 Turbo. Ahead of the launch, the brand recently confirmed that the base configuration will start with 8GB RAM + 256GB storage for the device. And now, Poco India head Himanshu Tandon has shared live images of the device.
Himanshu shared two images of the device in Carbon Black and Snowstorm White. This design reveal finally cements that the smartphone is indeed a rebranded Note 12 Turbo. Ahead of the May 9th launch, tipseter Abhishek Yadav has revealed that the device will debut with a price tag below Rs 30,000 in India. Additionally, there bank offers will knock the price down to as low as Rs 26,000. Let’s look at what we will be getting for this price.
Poco F5 specs (rumored)
Reports suggest that the upcoming POCO F5 smartphone will boast of a large 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a front-facing punch-hole camera. The device is expected to pack a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen2 SoC, coupled with an Adreno GPU for delivering impressive graphics and seamless multitasking. There are rumors that the device will offer up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, expandable further as per users’ needs.
On the software front, the POCO F5 is likely to run on the Android 13-based MIUI 14 custom skin, which should provide a smooth and user-friendly experience. The device is expected to be powered by a 5,160mAh battery that supports 67W fast charging, ensuring long-lasting battery life and reduced charging time.
As for the camera, the POCO F5 is speculated to come equipped with a triple camera setup on the rear panel, including a high-resolution 64MP primary camera sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. For selfies, the device could feature a 16MP front camera to capture high-quality pictures and videos on the go.
BeReal had rolled out support for sharing music with their friends on its application. However, this update only featured the popular streaming app Spotify. But now, the platform has also brought Apple Music integration as well.
BeReal now supports Apple Music for song sharing
For those unaware, BeReal is a relatively newer social media platform that has recently become quite popular across the globe. This platform was basically built to motivate its users to share glimpses of their lives in real time to their followers. This is done to ensure real and authentic content by having users share an image from the front and rear cameras at the same time without having the option to add filters or any form of editing.
The social media platform is now allowing its users to connect their Apple Music account. This update is already live on the latest build of this application. This integration will offer similar functionality similar to the Spotify support. So Apple Music subscribers can seamlessly share what they are listening to with their BeReal followers. Notably, the feature was available only for a select number of people, however, it is now seeing a wider roll out.
Furthermore, the new music sharing feature will even work with podcasts. Meaning, BeReal users can even listen to a podcasts apart from just songs on the application. Thanks to the seamless integration, the app will now be able to detect the content and add a link to it. The exact message reads “Listen to music or podcasts when you take your BeReal to share it with your friends”.
Google is gearing up for its annual I/O Developer conference. It is taking place starting May 10th. The search giant is expected to make a host of announcements at the event including the Pixel 7a, first-ever foldable phone dubbed Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Android 14, and more. The mid-ranger Pixel 7a has been leaked left, right, and center leaving nothing to the imagination. Read on to know everything we know about the upcoming smartphone.
Google Pixel 7a design
The Google Pixel 7a is confirmed to retain the same design as its predecessor and the flagship Pixel 7 series. It will feature a horizontal bridge on the back panel housing two camera sensors in a pill-shaped cutout. The front of the phone will have a center-aligned punch-hole cutout and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. The upcoming offering is tipped to come in Grey, Light Blue, Silver, and Coral color options.
Google Pixel 7a display and cameras
The Google Pixel 7a will come with a 6.1-inch OLED display bearing an FHD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. On the optics front, it will reportedly feature an upgraded dual rear camera setup comprising a 64MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. There will be a 10.8MP selfie snapper.
Google Pixel 7a hardware
The Google Pixel 7a is expected to be powered by the brand’s Tensor G2 SoC under the hood. It will be paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB onboard storage. The smartphone is tipped to be backed by a 4,400mAh battery unit with support for 20W wired as well as wireless charging.
Google Pixel 7a pricing and availability
As per reports, the Google Pixel 7a is tipped to carry a price tag of $499. This means that it will be expensive by $50 compared to the Pixel 6a which was launched at $449. The expected price hike in the Pixel 7a seems justifiable since it will reportedly come with upgrades compared to its predecessor. The Pixel 7a is also tipped to be available for purchase immediately after the announcement unlike the Pixel 6a which was available after two months.
TSMC is all set to start manufacturing chips from its latest cutting edge semiconductor site that it is situated in the US. Although, it appears that the pricing for these advanced chips will be noticeably more expensive than the ones it makes in its home market of Taiwan.
TSMC’s US made chips are more expensive than their Taiwanese counterparts
For those unaware, TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) is the world’s largest contract chipmaker and usually made chips for various tech giants from its facility in Taiwan. However, the new chips that will be manufactured in the US will be around 30 percent more expansive than its ‘home made’ counterparts, as per a DigiTimes report. The reason for this move from the company is due to the higher cost of its operations in the US.
According to the new report, TSMC’s N4 and N5 process (4nm and 5nm respectively) that will be manufactured in the US will likely be between 20 percent to 30 percent higher. This isn’t surprising since the new site will carry heftier operations costs. The same can be expected from its new plant in Japan where it setup a semiconductor manufacturing site to build less advanced N28/N22 and N16/N12 process nodes. These chips will cost around 10 to 15 percent more than the same chips made in Taiwan.
The report adds that these price hikes are being made to maintain the company’s 53 percent margin rate. In other words, it has to raise the cost to clients to ensure its own profits. It remains to be seen how the customers of TSMC, which includes the likes on AMD, Qualcomm, Apple, and others would offset this rise in cost in their own products. Notably, this news also arrives as the company eyes a 15 billion US Dollars incentive in the US.
Samsung has announced exciting news for Galaxy Watch users – the upcoming release of the One UI 5 Watch update. The update will be available later this year for select Galaxy Watches, including the Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 5, both of which currently run on Wear OS 3.
One UI 5 Watch features
The One UI 5 Watch update promises to bring significant upgrades and new features, with a focus on enhancing three main aspects of the user experience: sleep, fitness, and safety. Samsung aims to help users get a better night’s rest through features such as Sleep Insights UI, Sleep Coaching, and better connectivity between Galaxy Watches and SmartThings-compatible devices.
Fitness enthusiasts can look forward to an improved personalized Heart Rate Zone that analyzes physical capabilities and offers tailored running tools, such as real-time running analysis and a customized interval training program. One UI 5 Watch also introduces an expanded Route Workout with the addition of running and walking activities and enables Watch 5 Pro users to access GPX Files through the Samsung Health app.
One UI 5 Watch also provides improved safety features, such as an updated SOS system that enables direct communication to an emergency phone number and relays information regarding the wearer’s location and medical information. Additionally, the update enables Fall Detection by default for users aged 55 or older, making Galaxy Watches a safer option for older adults.
Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 5 users will have the opportunity to beta test One UI 5 Watch through the Samsung Members app. The beta program will be available soon, though Samsung has not yet revealed where it will be available.
Overall, the One UI 5 Watch update promises to bring exciting new features and improvements to enhance the user experience for Galaxy Watch users.
In addition to the upcoming One UI 5 Watch update, Samsung recently collaborated with Pitaka to provide a premium carbon fiber band upgrade for the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 5. Meanwhile, rumors suggest that the tech giant is planning to increase the screen size of its upcoming Galaxy Watch 6.
The Realme 11 series is scheduled to launch in China on May 10. The lineup is expected to include three devices, namely Realme 11, Realme 11 Pro, and Realme 11 Pro Plus.
The brand has been teasing the features of its upcoming smartphones for the last few days. At the same time, details about these products have been emerging via leaks and certifications.
Today, the company officially confirms the primary camera of the premium model.
According to Xu Qi Chase, the president of global marketing at Realme, the upcoming Realme 11 series will sport a 200MP main camera. Though he does not reveal it, this camera should be limited to the Pro Plus model.
This high-megapixel camera is said to offer lossless zoom. The camera app will include 2x and 4x zoom buttons.
The previous teasers revealed the display specifications of Realme 11 Pro Plus. The phone is confirmed to flaunt a centered punch-hole curved OLED display. This 10-bit screen will carry support for up to 120Hz refresh rate and 2160Hz PWM dimming.
While initial teasers had disclosed the handset’s design. The smartphone will arrive with a circular camera island and a faux leather back.
As per other leaks and certifications, the device will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset. It will draw energy from a 5,000mAh battery and will charge at the maximum rate of 100W.
Smartphones have become an integral part of modern day life with each year bringing new advancements in the technology. But due to these added features and various improvements, the average selling price of smartphones for certain brands have risen. Although, Apple takes the cake with the an average selling price of an iPhone hitting nearly a 1,000 US Dollars.
Apple iPhones costs nearly $1,000 on average
Just a decade ago, 500 US Dollars for a smartphone was already considered pretty pricey. But now, we have devices that cost more than twice this amount, with the Cupertino based giant being the first to surpass the 1,000 Dollar mark in 2017 with its iPhone X model. Now, a new survey from CIRP (Consumer Intelligence Research Partners) has found that the average selling price of the iPhones has hit an all time high of 988 US Dollars as of March 2023.
This is quite notable considering it marks an over 100 US Dollar rise over the 882 US Dollar average iPhone selling price from just last year. One of the aspects that led to the rise is the new iPhone 14 Plus model, which replaces the iPhone 13 mini variant in the latest lineup. The mini model costed around 699 US Dollars at launch, while the Plus model went on sale for 899 US Dollars. Owing to the larger screen real estate, the latter has also been better received in the market.
But regardless, the Pro iPhone models still makeup for the majority of Apple smartphone sales. This is thanks to the brand’s efforts in offering exclusive features on the higher end models, which has led to a larger gap between the vanilla and top end model. So it won’t arrive as a surprise if the average selling price soon crosses the 1,000 US Dollars mark.
WhatsApp is the world’s most popular messaging app, and almost all of us use it for daily communication. As a result, many of our conversations with loved ones are stored within the app. Therefore when we get a new phone, one of the first things we do is transfer our backed-up chat history to the new device. Up until recently, this process was done using iCloud or Google Drive. However, according to the latest information, WhatsApp now allows chat transfers to another iPhone without using iCloud. Here are the details….
WhatsApp to allow chat transfer to another iPhone without iCloud
WhatsApp has long been using cloud storage services to back up chat history. However, the developer Meta decided to make a change. Not long ago, we mentioned that WhatsApp would stop using Google Drive to back up Android users’ data. Now, WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow users to transfer their chat history to another iPhone without using iCloud.
Let’s say you’ve decided to upgrade from your current iPhone to an iPhone 14 and want to transfer your WhatsApp chat history to your new phone. The current method requires iPhone users to create a Chat Backup and upload it to iCloud before migrating their chat history and media to another iPhone. However, the upcoming “Transfer Chats to iPhone” feature eliminates this necessity.
To transfer their chat history, users will only need to download WhatsApp on their new iPhone, register using the same phone number, and then scan a QR code displayed on the new device with their old iPhone. This change will make a significant difference in the lives of users with limited iCloud storage space. Many of us may not realize it, but our accumulated chat history takes up a lot of space over time, and the free storage offered can fill up quickly.
At the moment, the chat transfer feature is available to a select group of beta testers who have installed the latest version of WhatsApp beta for iOS via the TestFlight app. The feature is expected to be rolled out to a broader audience in the coming days
The Amazon Great Summer Sale has finally kicked off with some notable discounts being offered on various products. One such good deal is the Sony PlayStation 5 gaming console, so here are all the details.
Sony PS5 console goes on sale with an attractive discount
The Japanese tech giant is offering cashback offers as well as bank discounts to help bring down the price tag of the PS5 on Amazon during the sale period. So now, the PlayStation 5 is available for 49,999 INR for the standard edition. On the other hand, the Digital version is now on sale for 39,999 INR. In other words, there is a 5,000 INR discount for both models over their actual costs.
Furthermore, there are additional offers on the Sony gaming console. There is an additional 10 percent instant discount for ICICI and Kotak bank card holders. Similarly, there are also no cost EMI for up to 12 months and even Prime members get an additional 250 INR cashback. Lastly, the e-commerce giant is also offering up to 5,000 INR discount on certain smart TV models to those that are also buying the PS5 console.
To avail this offer, customers have to purchase the PlayStation 5 and await its delivery. Once the console is delivers, the buyers can even choose from a select number of smart TVs from bands like Samsung and Sony to get the 5,000 INR discount. For those unaware, this also follows mere months after the company had hiked the price tag of the PS5 by 5,000 INR.
Realme, the Chinese smartphone brand, has announced the launch of a new color variant for its C55 model. The Realme C55 Rainforest edition has been launched to celebrate the company’s fifth anniversary. It features a unique back cover design that showcases a picturesque scene of a summer rainforest. The brand claims that the phone’s design has been inspired by the natural phenomenon of Sunshower that creates vertical microscope lines resembling rain droplets. The new variant joins the previously launched Rainy Night and Sunshower models of the Realme C55.
The C55 Rainforest edition will be sold in India from May 8 through Realme’s official Indian website, Flipkart, and mainline channels. The phone shares its specs and features with the Rainy Night and Sunshower models, with the difference being purely cosmetic. The device will be available in three memory options: 4GB/64GB, 6GB/64GB, and 8GB/128GB, priced at INR10,999, INR11,999, and INR13,999, respectively.
Realme C55 specs
Realme’s C55 smartphone comes packed with an impressive array of features that are sure to catch your eye. Its 6.52-inch LCD display boasts Full HD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 180Hz touch sampling rate, all of which combine to deliver a visually stunning experience. The punch-hole notch located at the front of the phone’s display is home to the front-facing camera, ensuring that the screen is never obscured.
Powered by an octa-core MediaTek Helio G88 processor and Mali G52 graphics unit, the C55 offers up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, expandable through virtual RAM. It runs on Realme’s UI 4.0, based on Android 13.
One of the phone’s standout features is the Mini Capsule, which allows users to quickly access important information such as battery level and data usage status, similar to the Dynamic Island feature on Apple’s iPhone 14 Pro series smartphones.
The C55’s camera setup includes a dual-rear camera with a 64MP primary sensor, a 2MP depth sensor, and an LED flash, as well as an 8MP front camera. The phone packs a 5000mAh battery with 33W SuperVOOC fast charging and features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. The device weighs 189.5 grams with a thickness of approximately 7.89mm. It comes with a dedicated microSD card slot and a 3.5mm audio jack, making it a great option for those who prefer wired headphones.
I think photography has two meanings: to create and to record. Professional photographers take their cameras and create all kinds of amazing photos. Their photos often express their thoughts. Most people don’t have cameras, so they use their phones and record their lives. I took these photos in Hong Kong with my Xiaomi 13 Ultra. Finding this phone, it is really different from all the previous phones. It can record life, and create your own works of photography.
Xiaomi 13 Ultra is a phone, but it can make people really love photography. For this review, I don’t want to zoom in on the picture to compare other phones. You must already be well aware of its pros and cons after watching many comparison videos. Let’s talk a little bit about what you don’t know, such as its user experience.
If a photo looks good at first glance, color, and light must be the main reason that makes you feel that way. As Leica’s mobile partner, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra certainly takes its cue from Leica in terms of photography style. In addition to the design being very similar to the M10R, the photo style is also. Give up the high dynamic range of traditional phones and increase the contrast and vignetting. this is one of the best options for making the subject of a photo look more prominent.
If you have used a professional camera, you will find that they actually look like these photos without post-processing. To be precise, it’s the Xiaomi 13 Utlra that’s more like a professional camera, without much AI processing. On this phone, you won’t see over-sharpening, you won’t see too strong HDR, and you won’t see oversaturated. With this camera grip, sometimes I forget I’m using a phone and not a camera.
One thing it’s even better than the camera is the “convenience”. Compared to other phones, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is big and heavy, but compared to the camera, it must be small and light. You can pull it out of your pocket when you need to take a picture and put it in when you don’t. The feeling is really good.
There are four different focal lengths to use without changing lenses. The phone is also much less invasive, allowing for more natural photos without disturbing people’s activities. Isn’t this the Street Photographer’s dream camera? I mean, a cell phone. When you’re out, the camera won’t always be with you, but the phone certainly will be. So this can be your second camera, and you won’t miss any of those great moments around you.
For the normal person, like me, the unique color style of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra can inspire a person to take photos. This time in Pro mode, you can customize the tone. to make the style more retro, I turned up the tone and the resulting photo looks more like the feeling of an old camera shot. Even if it’s just to record what you see on your travels, the photos look like they’re full of stories. You don’t have to be afraid of taking a bad photo, even the most ordinary ones look good after Leica’s processing. This is perhaps the charm of Leica.
Cons
Just because I say the Xiaomi 13 Ultra looks like a professional camera, doesn’t mean it can really replace one. The difference in their sensor area, aperture, and lens quality is still very large, so shooting at night can be very difficult. Often you can take a blurry picture. Do not get me wrong, even if the camera, taking pictures at night is actually not simple. If you learn to hold up the phone in advance and wait for the right time to press the shutter, as long as you do not zoom in, then you are actually able to take some good photos.
There are a few camera experiences that I feel Xiaomi hasn’t done well enough, the Pro mode doesn’t allow for continuous shooting, and the button to switch lenses with one hand is very far away. This made it very difficult to shoot on a rainy day when my other hand was holding an umbrella. Regardless of the mode, when the 13 Ultra detects a human face, it will automatically increase the exposure for you. I have not found a way to turn off this feature, which is really annoying to take pictures in crowded environments.
I did find that the 13 Ultra added the Auto-adjust lens switch, finally, you can not automatically switch the lens, good job. Another annoying thing is that sometimes it can’t remember your choices. For example, HDR is always on, and video recording always defaults to 1080p 30fps. even if you have changed to 4k, the next time you open the camera it will still change back to 1080p.
Variable aperture
This time, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra has some special features. For example, variable aperture. To be honest, most of the time you don’t need to change the aperture because there is not much difference between F1.9 and F4.0 on the phone. A small aperture will become a disadvantage at night, and the 13 Ultra’s aperture auto switch is almost useless, so you can just use F1.9 for everyday use.
There are only two situations where you can switch to F4.0: shooting food or text. A small aperture will allow you to see them overall, and excessive bokeh will make it difficult to see the details behind them.
Ultra Raw
It’s no shock that flagship phones nowadays shoot Raw, but the 13 Ultra uses multiple Raw photo stacks to bring out a new Ultra Raw mode. when you try to bring up the exposure in the dark areas, you’ll find that Ultra Raw photos have much less color noise. The price is that the file size is twice as large.
Video Recording
It is hard to believe that it is now possible to record 4K 30fps 10bit Log video with a cell phone. This has improved the phone’s ability to shoot video. However, only the main camera is currently supported, and you can’t shoot at 60fps, and the video bitrate is a bit low. To shoot high bitrate and 60 fps video you can choose to turn on the Dolby Vision switch. But it requires a very professional post-processing process, non-professionals who do not open this option are better.
In fact, the auto mode can also be very good for basic shooting jobs. The most impressive thing is that you can switch between four shots during recording. Seamless shooting at the ultra-long range and ultra-wide angle.
Wireless camera grip
Finally, let’s talk about the wireless camera grip, which is secured to the case by a fastener and is still very solid. The case can be fitted with a 67mm camera filter via an adapter ring, meaning you don’t need to fit those junky plastic phone filters. The biggest benefit of this camera grip is that it makes the 13 Ultra more like a camera, and operates like a camera. A firmer grip allows you to capture photos faster. The battery is also very durable, I used it the whole day also only consumed 1% of the power.
But the Zoom experience is very bad, once the operation is fast will be sluggish, or no response. Pro mode also can not switch lenses through the grip, only digital zoom within a lens. Plus the current super expensive price, I do not recommend you buy now. I think $70 should be a price I can accept.
Conclusion
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is a phone truly built for photography. And his real competition would be smaller cameras like the RICOH GR series. 13 Ultra has four fixed-focus lenses, super-fast autofocus, and excellent video recording, plus Leica’s color science. Anyone considering a RICOH might really want to consider this phone, after all, the price is about the same. the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, would have to be my favorite camera of the year. Yep, cameras, not phones.
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