New Philips Ultra Efficient LED Bulbs Offer 40% Energy Savings and 50-Year Lifespan

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Apr 13, 2023

Energy-efficient LED bulbs are becoming more and more popular each day. They use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce light. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED bulbs use less energy, produce less heat, and last longer. They are highly energy-efficient, consuming up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs, and have a longer lifespan of 25,000 hours or more. LED bulbs are also environmentally friendly, as they contain no toxic materials, such as mercury, and emit fewer greenhouse gases during their use. Philips has been in the LED bulb business for a long time now, and their latest bulbs are a testament to their commitment towards energy-efficient products.

Signify, the parent company of Philips, has released a new range of LED light bulbs that promise to be even more energy-efficient than their previous models. The Philips Ultra Efficient LED bulbs use 40 percent less energy than their usual LED options, making them a more eco-friendly choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

But that’s not all – Signify estimates that the Ultra Efficient line has an average lifespan of 50 years, which is more than three times the usage of Philips’ standard LED bulbs. This means that not only will these bulbs help you save on your energy bills, but they will also be a more sustainable option in the long run, reducing waste and the need for frequent replacements.

The Philips range is available exclusively at Walmart and starts at $10 for a 60W-equivalent A19 bulb ($17 for two) in soft white and daylight variants. While the cost may be higher than standard LEDs, Signify is banking on the lower energy costs and increased longevity, ultimately saving consumers way more money in the long run.

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Asus ZenFone 10 Geekbench listing reveals Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 16GB RAM

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Apr 13, 2023

A recent report claimed Asus will announce the Zenfone 10 in the fourth quarter of 2023. The report also revealed the key specifications of the flagship phone. It appears that the Taiwanese company could be internally testing the Zenfone 10 well before its official announcement. The reason behind it is that it has appeared with model number ASUS_AI2302 on the Geekbench 6 benchmarking platform.

The Geekbench listing of the Asus Zenfone 10 reveals that it is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 mobile platform. The name of the chipset is not explicitly mentioned in the listing. However, the CPU and GPU details mentioned in the listing have confirmed that the Zenfone 10 features the SD8G2 chip.

The Geekbench appearance of the Zenfone 10 shows that it is equipped with 16 GB of RAM. It runs on the Android 13 OS. In the single-core and multi-core tests of Geekbench 6, the Zenfone 10 scored 2008 and 5454 points, respectively.

Asus Zenfone 10 specifications (rumored)

As per a recent leak, the Asus Zenfone 10 will arrive with a 6.3-inch AMOLED panel with an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The predecessor Zenfone flagships have been compact devices with smaller displays. However, it appears that the Zenfone 10, with a display size bigger than the Galaxy S23, will no longer be a compact flagship phone.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered device is expected to arrive with 256 GB and 512 GB storage options. Both models are expected to feature 16 GB of RAM.

The ZenFone 10 will have a 5,000mAh battery that supports 67W fast charging. Its rear setup is likely to feature a 200-megapixel primary camera with OIS support. Some of its other rumored features include a liquid cooling system and an IP68-rated chassis.

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Xiaomi 13 Ultra olive green variant spotted in the hands of Leica CEO Matthias Harsch

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 13, 2023

Xiaomi has recently confirmed the upcoming launch of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra flagship smartphone. The device will be debuting in China on April 18. Ahead of the launch, the device has been spotted in the hands of Leica’s CEO Matthias Harsch.

A recent social media post by Leica’s mobile business vice president Marius Eschweiler revealed that he visited Xiaomi HQ in Beijing along with Leica’s CEO Matthias Harsch to meet with Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun to discuss their strategic cooperation in mobile imaging and future R&D plans.

Based on the pictures of their meeting, it appears that Leica CEO Matthias Harsch is holding a new green phone with a substantial rear lens module that protrudes prominently. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s back panel has curved edges. According to notable tipster DCS, this is the olive-colored edition of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra.

Based on the pictures of their meeting, it appears that Leica CEO Matthias Harsch is holding a new green phone with a substantial rear lens module that doesn’t protrude prominently. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s back panel has curved edges. According to notable tipster DCS, this is the olive-colored edition of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra.

For those who are not familiar, Leica is a German company that specializes in producing cameras and optical lenses. In 2022, the company terminated its partnership with Huawei and teamed up with Xiaomi to enhance its flagship smartphone cameras. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is anticipated to perform well in terms of camera capabilities, as it was developed with the help of Leica. In previous collaborations, Leica has contributed to producing some of the most advanced smartphone camera systems of their time, such as the Huawei P50 Pro.

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Xiaomi Pad 6 series with 50MP dual cameras to launch on April 18, design, color options revealed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Apr 13, 2023

Xiaomi’s next major launch event will be held at 7 pm (local time) April 18 in China. It goes without saying that the Xiaomi 13 Ultra will be the main highlight of the event. The company also plans to launch a couple of other products through the same event. One of them is the Xiaomi Band 8 fitness tracker, which is expected to arrive in attractive strap options. The company also confirmed that it will unveil the Xiaomi Pad 6 series alongside the 13 Ultra.

Xiaomi is advertising the Xiaomi Pad 6 series as a powerful productivity tool. The brand’s promotional poster depicts the tablet as having a sizable display with thin bezels, a keyboard accessory with NFC support, and a stylus. It will be available in black, beige, and blue.

A closer look at the camera module, which looks similar to the Xiaomi 13 series, reveals that it has a 50-megapixel dual-camera system. The tablet is also equipped with four speakers. The USB-C port that can be seen on the device is expected to support USB 3.0 data transfer speeds.

Multiple reports have revealed that the lineup will include two models, the Xiaomi Pad 6 and Pad 6 Pro. The Pad 6 is expected to feature an 11-inch LCD 2.8K 120Hz panel, the Snapdragon 870 chipset, and an 8,840mAh battery with 33W fast charging. The Pad 6 is expected to release in China, India, and global markets.

The Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro is likely to arrive with an 11-inch AMOLED 2.8K 120Hz display, the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset, and 67W fast charging. The Pro model is unlikely to release in markets outside of China.

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Vivo Y78+ image appears to reveal curved-edge display, color variants

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Apr 13, 2023

Recent reports have revealed that Vivo is working on the Vivo Y78+ smartphone for the Chinese market. The handset, which has a model number of V2271A, was recently approved by Chinese regulatory agencies, such as 3C and TENAA. The same device has been spotted in the Google Play Supported Devices list. Hence, it is expected to debut soon in China. Ahead of the expected launch, tipster Panda is Bald has released an image (via. TechGoing) that showcases the design and color variants of the phone.

As can be seen in the image below, the Vivo Y78+ will arrive in three colors: black, blue, and gold. There is a dual-camera setup with LED flash on the back, and it has a punch-hole display on the front.

The screen has curved edges, and there is no side-facing fingerprint scanner on the Vivo Y78 Plus. This indicates that the Y78+ could be equipped with an OLED panel, which will come integrated with a fingerprint scanner. At present, there is no word on the display size of the device.

The TENAA certification of the device revealed that it will pack a 5,000mAh battery. As per its 3C certification, it will come equipped with 44W fast charging.

The Vivo Y78 Plus has also been spotted at Geekbench recently. It reveals that the device will be powered by the Snapdragon 695h chipset and 12 GB of RAM. The phone will run on Android 13 OS, which is most likely to be overlaid with the OriginOS UI. The other specifications of the device are yet to be revealed.

In related news, Vivo will hold a launch event in China on April 20. It will see the arrival of the Vivo X Fold 2, X Flip, and Pad 2. It is likely that the Vivo Y78+ may get showcased at the same event. It is speculated that the Y78 Plus will be available for purchase in China starting April 23.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Camera Leak: Stuck in the Past or Still Delivering Quality?

By

Anubhav

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Apr 13, 2023

Samsung’s Galaxy S series smartphones are well-known for their high-end cameras, which are some of the best in the smartphone market. The latest Galaxy S models, including the Galaxy S23 lineup, feature cameras with a range of advanced features, such as 8K 30fps video recording, 200x Space Zoom, and a variety of different lenses for different shooting scenarios. The cameras on these phones also offer exceptional low-light performance, with large sensors and advanced processing algorithms that allow for stunning low-light photography. Samsung’s Galaxy S series cameras have earned high praise from professional photographers and everyday users alike, making them a top choice for anyone looking for a smartphone with a powerful camera. This time around, however, Samsung seems to be taking it easy with the Galaxy S24 dropping next year, since leaks surrounding its camera setup hint towards no special upgrades over the current Galaxy S23 Ultra’s camera.

According to a tipster, the two new models, Galaxy S24 and S24+, will retain the same 50MP Samsung GN3 sensor used in the previous three years. However, the larger and more expensive Galaxy S24 Ultra will continue to feature the 200MP Samsung HP2 sensor that impressed users with the S23 Ultra. While the Ultra model is set to retain its exceptional camera performance, it’s disappointing to see no major improvements for the other models. In contrast, rivals like Oppo are introducing innovative ideas like the “all cameras are equal” concept, using three 50MP sensors for periscope cameras that produce breathtaking zoom quality results, especially in low light.

The limitations of a smartphone’s form factor and the law of diminishing returns are two factors contributing to the slowdown in camera innovation for smartphones. As camera technology has improved over time, the gains in image quality and features have become smaller and less noticeable to users, which may impact manufacturers’ willingness to invest in research and development. Additionally, consumers may not want to pay for more advanced camera technology, and smartphone manufacturers may prioritize other features like battery life, processing power, and 5G connectivity over cameras. Despite these challenges, manufacturers are still making incremental improvements to their camera hardware and software to deliver better image quality and advanced features. Samsung will need to step up its camera game to compete with the growing competition in the smartphone market.

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Xiaomi Band 8 launching on April 18, Design & color options revealed

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 13, 2023

Xiaomi has announced that it will hold a launch event in China on April 18, 2023, where it will unveil its flagship Xiaomi 13 Ultra smartphone. Additionally, the company has confirmed that it will also launch the Xiaomi Band 8 smart band during the event.

A teaser poster has revealed what the gadget will look like. The Xiaomi Band 8 retains its previous long oval pill-like appearance, featuring a narrow frame runway screen. However, there will be various options for straps, including those made from different materials. The bracelet strap variant of the Band 8 will have narrower lugs compared to the wide strap variant, making for a sleeker look.

At present, it seems that the Xiaomi Band 8 will be available in three color options for the wide strap variant: Black & White, Green, and Yellow. Meanwhile, the bracelet models will come in Black and Rose Gold. While there are no further details mentioned in the teaser, the previous certifications of the Xiaomi Band 8 with model number M2239B1 suggest that it will feature Bluetooth 5.1 technology and a built-in DC 3.87V polymer lithium-ion battery. Let’s take a look at its predecessor to get an idea of what else to expect.

Xiaomi Band 7 specs

The Xiaomi Band 7 features a 1.62-inch AMOLED touchscreen display with a high resolution of 192 × 490 pixels, a pixel density of 326ppi, and a maximum brightness of 500nits. It offers over 100 watch faces and can display information continuously.

This fitness tracker comes equipped with an optical heart rate and blood oxygen sensor that provides constant monitoring of heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, sleep, and female health. It has the ability to track steps and calories and boasts 120 workout modes, including outdoor and indoor running, cycling, and more.

The Xiaomi Band 7 has a 180mAh battery that can last up to 15 days on a single charge and takes around 2 hours to charge with its magnetic charger. It is lightweight, weighing only 13.5 grams, and has dimensions of 46.5 × 20.7 × 12.25mm. Other features of the band include music control, camera shutter control, notifications, and more.

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ASUS ROG Phone 7 Series Official Images Surface Ahead of Launch

By

Anubhav

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Apr 13, 2023

ASUS ROG (Republic of Gamers) phones are a series of gaming smartphones developed by ASUS, aimed at the gaming community. These gaming smartphones are designed to provide high-performance hardware, cutting-edge gaming features, and a premium gaming experience. They come with powerful processors, high refresh rate displays, advanced cooling systems, and programmable AirTriggers that act as physical buttons for gaming. The latest model, the ROG Phone 6, has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8+, up to 16GB of RAM, and a 6,000mAh battery. The ROG Phone series has gained popularity among gamers who want a phone that can handle demanding games and provide a superior gaming experience. All the more reason for them to be excited since official images of the new ROG Phone 7 have surfaced just ahead of its official launch.

ASUS is all set to unveil the latest versions of its extreme gaming smartphones, the ROG Phone 7 and the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate. With an official launch date of April 13, 2023, the phones are expected to take mobile gaming to new heights. The phones are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the strongest octa-core SoC for Android smartphones. The devices will probably feature a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a maximum refresh rate of 165 Hertz and huge 6000mAh batteries.

While both phones are expected to have similar technical specifications, the Ultimate variant will feature an AeroActive Portal, a small flap on the back that allows for better airflow over the CPU with the attachable fan module offered by ASUS. The Ultimate version also has a second display integrated on the back, displaying animations and other content. The “normal” version has LEDs on the back that light up a dot pattern in the form of the ROG logo in different colors. With the gaming community eagerly waiting for the new ASUS phones, it remains to be seen how the phones perform in real-world usage and if they will set new standards for mobile gaming.

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Apple’s Next Move: Custom 5G Modem for iPhone SE 4 in 2025 Signals Strategic Shift

By

Anubhav

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Apr 13, 2023

The iPhone SE 2022 was the third iteration in Apple’s lineup, and it took over the rein from the iPhone SE (2020) that was launched in 2020. Thus, the product had a lot of expectations at the time of its launch. The iPhone SE (2022) came with several interesting features onboard. You got the latest flagship A15 Bionic chipset that was utilized by the iPhone 13 series at the time. This also brought 5G connectivity support to the budget iPhone. The phone was also fairly priced, starting at $429, just a tad higher than the iPhone SE 2020 which retailed for $399. As per the latest leaks out there, the Apple iPhone SE 4 could feature a custom Apple 5G modem for the first time.

Apple has long been striving for greater control over its hardware and reducing its dependence on third-party suppliers. Its recent move to design its own 5G modem for the iPhone SE is a significant step towards this goal. This new development marks a strategic shift from Apple, as it aims to become self-sufficient in developing key components of its devices, which will enable it to offer more customizations and features to its customers.

While the current iPhone SE is equipped with Qualcomm’s custom Snapdragon X57 chip for sub-6GHz 5G, Apple’s modem will offer faster 5G performance and improved power efficiency. By having its own modem, Apple will be able to tightly integrate its hardware and software, resulting in better user experience and more efficient use of battery life. Apple’s decision to move away from Qualcomm and develop its own modem also means it can reduce its reliance on a single supplier, which will give it greater negotiating power and ultimately, help reduce costs.

However, there are still questions about Apple’s modem design and whether it can match or exceed the performance of Qualcomm’s modems. Apple has a reputation for developing high-quality hardware and software, but developing a 5G modem is a complex and challenging task that requires extensive expertise and resources. The launch of the new iPhone SE with Apple’s custom-designed 5G modem is not expected until 2025, which means the company has ample time to refine its design and ensure it meets the high standards set by Apple.

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Huawei Smart Screen S3 Pro with AI smart eyes, and ultra-narrow sides announced in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 12, 2023

Embattled Chinese tech giant Huawei will release the Smart Screen S3 Pro during its product launch event on April 17. The Huawei Smart Screen S3 Pro offers smart dual-core computing power and will deliver multifunctional operations. The S3 Pro is equipped with AI smart eyes for video calls and sports/ fitness monitoring.

The Smart Screen S3 Pro has a high screen-to-body ratio with narrow frame borders on all its edges. The previous iteration of the Huawei Smart Screen series was equipped with the Honghu image quality engine together with MEMC fast and smooth technology. It also featured dynamic contrast technology and an excellent color display. The smart screen offered 92% DCI-P3 and the new model is expected to exceed its predecessors.

The Smart Screen S series is equipped with four 10W speakers and two 2W high-frequency speakers. The smart screen can perfectly output different frequencies of audio content.
Ahead of its official unveiling, there are no details yet on the price of the Huawei Smart Screen S3 Pro. The grey areas relating to the model are expected to be illuminated during the Huawei Product Launch Conference on April 17. Global availability details for the model will also be known after its launch. The full-scene new product launch conference on April 17 will also see the unveiling of the Huawei nova 11 series.

Huawei expects the new products to further push it forward as it pursues redemption from strident challenges it had grappled with over the past few years. The Smart Screen S3 Pro, despite its features, will have to compete with some established brands in the market. The pricing of the model, therefore, needs to be competitive for greater optics in the market. The affordability of the Huawei Smart Screen S3 Pro could also mean accessibility to overseas markets.

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Garmin Instinct 2X Solar with a bigger screen, solar charging and longer battery life unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 12, 2023

Garmin has unveiled its biggest outdoor smartwatch yet, the Instinct 2X Solar. It sports a 50mm dial and weighs 67g. It is a bigger version of the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar and offers an extended battery life thanks to its solar architecture. The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar will operate excellently without requiring charging in sunlit conditions above 50,000 lux. In such scenarios, even with maximum battery GPS mode, the smartwatch does not need recharging.

The Instinct 2X Solar, although bigger, has the same 176 x 176 pixels memory-in-pixel display. The new smartwatch has almost identical features to the Insinct 2 Solar. It however adds a LED flashlight which is absent in the 45mm model. The LED flashlight is capable of emitting light to match your running cadence.

The flashlight is capable of emitting a red safety light that helps the user stay visible to cars and other pedestrians or cyclists. It can alternate between red and white light for greater visibility during nighttime. The smartwatch also comes with improvements in several aspects. A new multi-band GNSS sensor provides positional accuracy in GPS and TracBack modes. There are other selectable workout profiles available with the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar.

The presence of dedicated workout profiles for lots of sports activities including running, swimming, hiking, strength training, and cycling provides an added edge for the Instinct 2X Solar. It offers 10ATM water resistance and a massive 40-day battery life when out of sunlight and uses smartwatch mode. This exceeds the performance of some of the big hitters in the industry like the Apple Watch Ultra (36 hours). In GPS mode, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar can function for 60 hours in the absence of sunlight.

The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition with green in place of red LED lighting is also available. It features Stealth and Jumpmaster modes for greater functionality. The Stealth mode enables the user to restrict sharing of GPS data while the jumpmaster mode is designed for skydivers. The Tactical Edition model automatically begins using the barometer and compass when it detects the user has jumped during skydiving. The price of the Instinct 2 is around $450 while the Tactical Edition Instinct 2X Solar could cost $500.

The Instinct 2X Solar smartwatch may be an excellent outdoor gadget. The addition of LED lighting makes the watch well suited for nighttime outdoor sports and other activities. It will also be a great buy due to its rugged and battery-extending solar architecture.

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ZMI GaN Charger 67W with a 2C1A interface and 8 protection mechanisms released in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 12, 2023

The ZMI Gallium Nitride (GaN) Charger 67W has been released in China. The Xiaomi subsidiary, ZMI incorporated several features into the new ZMI GaN Charger 67W. The charger adopts a 2C1A interface with multiple layers of protection from electric shock and damage to connected devices.

The GaN charger outputs 67W fast charging and is compatible with recent Xiaomi models like the Xiaomi 13, Redmi K60, and Xiaomi 12s Ultra, as well as other smartphones.

The ZMI GaN Charger can charge an iPhone 14 series via 27W fast charging. It can also charge several other devices like a MacBook Pro. There are three charging interfaces for the GaN charger. It can intelligently identify computer power access and give priority to such equipment. The maximum output from its USB-C port is 67W while the USB-A port outputs a maximum of 22.5W.

The charger uses third-generation Gallium Nitride technology with outstanding thermal conductivity and high-temperature resistance. It also offers higher charging power conversion than non-GaN chargers of the same power rating.

The ZMI 67W GaN charger comes in a more compact design than a conventional 65W adapter. In fact, the side area of the charger is just about 62% of the traditional charger, while its corresponding volume is about 52%. The connector pins of the charger can be folded in a 90-degree orientation, yielding a more compact device. The 67W ZMI GaN Charger can be purchased from retail platforms in China including JD.com. The current price of the charger is 129 yuan ($19). The charger comes with a 6A high current, fast charging line.

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Realme GT Neo5 SE 16GB+1TB version goes on Sale with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 SoC

By

Anurag

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Apr 12, 2023

Earlier this month, Realme launched the GT Neo5 SE in China, and the smartphone has now been available for purchase in the country for the past two days. However, the company is yet to put the higher-end 16GB+1TB version of the smartphone on the shelves. That changes today, as the top-of-the-line trim of the GT Neo5 SE is now on sale in China. Here are the details.

The 16GB RAM and 1TB storage version of Realme GT Neo5 SE will be up for purchase at 2599 yuan ($378). The smartphone comes in two colors: Final Fantasy and Extreme Black. The base 8GB+256GB storage version of the handset starts at 1999 yuan ($290). The 12GB+256GB and 12GB+512GB storage versions retail at 2199 yuan ($320) and 2299 yuan ($334), respectively.

Realme GT Neo5 SE Specifications

The Realme GT Neo5 SE arrives with a 6.74-inch AMOLED panel offering a 2772×1240 pixels resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, up to 1450 nits peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 mobile platform with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. On the software front, the handset runs Android 13 with Realme UI 4.0 on top.

The rear camera department includes a 64MP primary sensor with OIS and f/1.79 aperture, an 8MP ultra-wide unit with a 112° field of view and f/2.2 aperture, and a 2MP microscope lens with f/3.3 aperture. For clicking selfies, there’s a 16MP shooter on the front.

For security, the GT Neo5 SE gets an in-display fingerprint sensor. There’s a USB Type-C port, stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, and Hi-Res Audio support. The smartphone is fueled by a 5500mAh battery with 100W SuperVOOC charging support.

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Xiaomi tests improved Location Capabilities on Xiaomi 12T Pro with Qualcomm’s Meter-Level Positioning

By

Anurag

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Apr 12, 2023

Xiaomi 12T Pro was unveiled globally towards the end of last year and recently the smartphone underwent testing for a new feature. Xiaomi and Qualcomm today announced they successfully verified meter-level positioning on the smartphone. This new feature reportedly makes a big difference in how well the Xiaomi 12T Pro performs when it comes to mapping, driving, and other location-based mobile apps. Here are the details.

Meter-Level positioning on Xiaomi 12T Pro

As per the press release, Qualcomm and Xiaomi have successfully tested meter-level positioning in a Xiaomi 12 T Pro device powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform. This feature is said to improve the overall smartphone user experience in various scenarios, such as while using Maps, driving, and other mobile applications.

It could bring improved accuracy when using ridesharing apps, making it easier for both drivers and passengers to identify pick-up locations. Meter-Level positioning also enhances fitness apps, allowing users to track their outdoor activities such as cycling and jogging more effectively.

Furthermore, in-vehicle real-time navigation apps can benefit from increased lane-level accuracy, providing drivers with more detailed maps and accurate directions. Other applications that could benefit from this feature include augmented reality games and location-based social media apps.

The new feature that improves the location capabilities was made possible by the collaboration between Qualcomm and Trimble. Qualcomm’s Meter-Level Positioning for Mobile and Trimble RTX correction were used in combination to achieve an “unprecedented level of accuracy in a commercial smartphone.”

The companies conducted several verification tests, including driving tests, in different scenarios such as open rural roads and busy urban highways. These tests demonstrated that the Xiaomi 12T Pro can achieve meter-level positioning variance with 95% confidence.

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Google TV Unveils Over 800 Free Channels in New Live TV Experience

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Apr 12, 2023

With the increasing number of streaming services, monthly bills continue to pile up. However, there’s a growing number of free TV options offering everything from local news and popular shows to hit movies. Google TV is stepping up to make it easier than ever to find and enjoy these free channels. Here are the details…

Discover more than 800 free TV channels with Google TV

Google TV is introducing a new live TV experience that allows users to browse over 800 free TV channels from multiple providers. The service is integrating free channels from Tubi, Plex, and Haystack News directly into the Live tab, complementing the existing lineup of channels from Pluto TV. Additionally, Google TV is launching its own free built-in channels that don’t require downloading or launching an app.

Google TV’s making you reconsider the phrase “there’s nothing on TV.” 📺 Starting today, Google TV comes with over 800 free channels across multiple providers, all in one place. From breaking news to classic reruns, there’s something for everyone ↓ https://t.co/rYWpSJ5yVV
— Google (@Google) April 11, 2023

Users can now access over 800 channels and premium programming, including news channels from NBC, ABC, CBS, and FOX. The platform also offers international channels with programming in more than 10 languages, such as Spanish, Hindi, and Japanese. The new TV guide compiles all the free TV channels for easy browsing, making it simple to find the content you want to watch, whether it’s true crime, classic TV reruns, or your favorite cooking show. Users can also save their “Favorites” to the top of the guide for quick access later.

If you have a premium live TV subscription from YouTube TV or Sling TV, or access to over-the-air channels, the Live tab will display those as well, consolidating all your live channels in one place.

The new live TV experience is available on all Google TV devices in the U.S., including Chromecast with Google TV and TVs with Google TV built-in from Sony, TCL, Hisense, and Philips. Google also plans to bring the new TV guide and free channels to eligible Android TV devices later this year.

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Poco F5 Pro might not launch in India after all

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 12, 2023

Indian fans of the Poco F series smartphones are eagerly awaiting the next iteration after the success of the Poco F4. While the brand did not launch a Pro variant of the F4 last year, it is expected that the F5 series will bring both vanilla and Pro models this year.

According to leaks and certifications, the Poco F5 will likely be a rebranded Redmi Note 12 Turbo, while the Poco F5 Pro will be a rebranded Redmi K60. The Bureau of Indian Standards has already approved the former device, while the Pro model has appeared on the IMEI database. These certifications suggest that at least the vanilla version will launch in India. However, a recent leak by renowned tipster Kacper Skrzypek casts doubt on the release of the Poco F5 Pro in India.

Kacper Skrzypek claims that the Poco F5 Pro is unlikely to launch in India because there are no ROMs (MIUI builds) for an Indian device variant. He notes that there are no India ROMs for the codename “mondrian,” which is used for the Redmi K60 Chinese model and POCO F5 Pro global model. Poco separates Indian models from its global models, including the software, as India gets a distinct MIUI build. However, it’s important to note that this information is not conclusive evidence that the smartphone will not launch in India.

Therefore, readers are advised to take this information with a grain of salt and wait for further updates.

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Nokia’s Patent Crusade: After Oppo and OnePlus, Vivo Faces Sales Ban in Germany

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Apr 12, 2023

Following Nokia’s successful campaign to halt Oppo and OnePlus smartphone sales in Germany, Vivo is now facing the same fate. Last week, Nokia obtained a preliminary injunction from the court, prohibiting the sale of Vivo smartphones in Germany if they incorporate technologies patented by Nokia. The injunction comes in the wake of failed negotiations regarding licensing fees for certain Nokia patents. Here are the details…

Nokia’s Patent Crusade: After Oppo and OnePlus, Vivo Faces Sales Ban in Germany

Nokia claims that the courts decision validates Vivo’s infringement of the company’s patents, which cover a variety of mobile and 5G technologies. Vivo refused to pay the licensing fees demanded by Nokia after a previously existing agreement between the two companies expired in December 2021.

Nokia says that it took “every possible step to reach an out-of-court settlement and initiate negotiations on extending the license” before initiating legal proceedings against Vivo in May 2021. Currently, according to the Finnish company, the distribution of Vivo smartphones using Nokia’s patented technologies without the payment of appropriate licensing fees is illegal.

Vivo Prepares for the Worst

In an initial statement published on its website, Vivo announced that it would appeal the decision, asserting that Nokia has not licensed its patents on fair terms. Nokia has already countered this claim, stating that the Mannheim District Court confirmed that the company had acted fairly. Vivo has begun preparations for a possible sales stoppage in Germany, while still hoping for a resolution with Nokia on “fair” terms.

Although there have been rumors that OnePlus and Oppo may withdraw from the German market later this year due to the ongoing patent dispute with Nokia, Vivo has preemptively denied such speculation. The company intends to maintain a long-term presence in Germany, and existing customers will continue to receive full service support.

Oppo, OnePlus, and Vivo are all part of the same Chinese conglomerate, BBK Electronics. While Oppo and Vivo operate as independent brands under the BBK umbrella, Vivo’s presence in Germany has been comparatively limited, with fewer products and significantly less marketing effort. Consequently, the number of models potentially affected by a sales ban would be relatively small.

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A new Redmi 4G smartphone appears on FCC

By

Anurag

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Apr 12, 2023

Redmi has launched several new 4G smartphones in the global market recently. This includes the vanilla Redmi Note 12 4G and the Note 12 Pro 4G. These phones are great for those who are looking for a balanced option with an affordable price tag. And it seems the Xiaomi sub-brand is planning to provide consumers with more options in the 4G segment as a new smartphone has appeared on the FCC certification site. Here are the details.

Redmi 23053RN02L could be near

As spotted by GoAndroid, a new Redmi smartphone with model number 23053RN02L has appeared on US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website. While the listing did not reveal many interesting details about the handset, the documents shared by the authority suggest it will be a 4G smartphone.

According to the listing, the Redmi smartphone features dual-band WiFi, compatibility with up to a 12vdc adapter, and a 2.8Vdc Li-ion battery. It has been tested with the MDY-12-EA adapter, a 55W GaN charger. Out of the box, the device runs MIUI 14 based on Android 13. While the marketing name of the Redmi smartphone is currently unknown, further information is expected to be revealed in the near future.

Being a 4G smartphone, we can expect Redmi 23053RN02L to arrive as a mid-range or budget smartphone with decent specifications on board. The handset could feature a large display and battery with a dual camera setup.

As mentioned earlier, Redmi recently launched the Note 12 Pro 4G in Europe with an AMOLED display offering Full HD+ resolution. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. There’s a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging support.

Opera Brings Free VPN Service to iOS, Enhancing Online Privacy and Security

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Apr 12, 2023

Opera has recently announced the expansion of its free VPN service to the Opera Browser for iOS. Initially launched for Android users in 2019, the feature now extends across all major platforms, including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS. Here are the details…

Opera adds Free VPN service to Opera browser for iOS

As internet privacy concerns continue to rise, Opera built-in VPN service offers users an added layer of protection while browsing the web. The VPN service keeps personal information secure by concealing IP addresses and encrypting online activities, particularly when connected to unsecured networks.

Opera Browser for iOS becomes the first major browser with built-in free VPN – now available in early access! 🔐

Protect your online identity & browse securely with our free, unlimited & no-log VPN across all our desktop & mobile browsers. pic.twitter.com/x71JE2pYOL
— Opera (@opera) April 12, 2023

Opera VPN service on iOS provides a seamless experience, requiring no subscription, account login, or additional extensions. Users can activate the VPN with a simple toggle in the main menu, ensuring private IP addresses and encrypted traffic. With a strict no-logs policy in place, Opera ensures that no personal data or browsing history is collected, maintaining user anonymity.

Offering fast and secure access to virtual locations worldwide, users can now enjoy a private and secure browsing experience. Alongside the introduction of the free VPN service, Opera Browser for iOS boasts several new features. A Bookmarks feature lets users efficiently organize their favorite websites, while the Speed Dial functionality provides quick access to frequently visited sites. Football fans will appreciate the Live score feature on the browser’s homepage, which delivers real-time updates on matches happening around the world.

Opera’s free VPN service for iOS is currently available to a limited number of users, with a full rollout expected in the coming weeks. To begin using the VPN, users can download the Opera Browser for iOS from the Apple Store and enable the VPN feature within the app.

Jørgen Arnesen, EVP Mobile at Opera, shared his thoughts on the announcement:

“As the first browser company to offer a free built-in VPN across all major platforms, we demonstrate our dedication to providing users with a secure browsing experience. We’ve invested considerable time and effort into developing this feature, and we’re thrilled to bring this essential tool to iOS users in order to protect their online safety and privacy.”

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Apple rolls out iOS 15.7.5 update to Older iPhones & iPads

By

Anurag

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Apr 12, 2023

It was last week when Apple released iOS 15.7.4 for iPhones and iPads that are not compatible with iOS 16. The update fixed critical security vulnerabilities in these older models and now the Cupertino company is rolling out yet another software update for these dated devices, labeled iOS 15.7.5. The new update is claimed to address some important security issues. Here are the details.

iOS 15.7.5 brings security fixes

According to the official release notes, iOS 15.7.5 does not bring mention any new features but it has some important security enhancements. The iOS update, which is joined by iPadOS 15.7.5, carries the build number 19H332. It is available for iPhone 6s (all models), iPhone 7 (all models), iPhone SE (1st generation), iPad Air 2, iPad mini (4th generation), and iPod touch (7th generation).

It is impressive that some of the devices listed above are almost a decade old and still receiving updates, considering that Apple has already dropped support for all these models. Surprise updates like this are not uncommon as they address critical security vulnerabilities that may affect users’ privacy.

Apple claims iOS 15.7.5 for the above-mentioned models addresses two security vulnerabilities:

IOSurfaceAccelerator

Impact: An app may be able to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited.
Description: An out-of-bounds write issue was addressed with improved input validation.

WebKit

Impact: Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited.
Description: A use-after-free issue was addressed with improved memory management.

Along with iOS 15.7.5, Apple has rolled out macOS Big Sur 11.7.6 (20G1231) and macOS Monterey 12.6.5 (21G531). We recommend you keep your device updated with the latest security patches to stay protected.

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