Redmi Note 12S and Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G smartphones launched in Europe

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Apr 6, 2023

Xiaomi launched its Redmi Note 12 series smartphones in the European market a couple of weeks ago, and now the company has added two more phones to the lineup in Europe.

Redmi Note 12S and Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G are the two new smartphones that have been launched in the European market. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is priced at €329, while the Redmi Note 12S costs €289 and comes in Onyx Black, Ice Blue, and Pearl Green colors.

The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G was first launched in the Indonesian market a couple of days back and is now making its debut in Europe. It features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display offering a Full HD+ screen resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz, similar to other Note 12 series smartphones.

Under the hood, the phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. It comes with support for dual SIM, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, NFC, an IR blaster, and a side-facing fingerprint scanner for added security.

In the camera department, there’s a 108-megapixel primary camera sensor, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 5-megapixel macro lens, and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. On the front side, the phone features a 16-megapixel sensor for taking selfies and video calling. It runs the Android 12 OS with MIUI 13 and is powered by a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging support.

On the other hand, the Redmi Note 12S smartphone is making its debut with the launch in the European market. It features a 6.43-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ screen resolution and a smooth 90Hz refresh rate.

Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Helio G96 chipset, paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. In the camera department, there’s a 108-megapixel primary sensor, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro sensor. On the front side, it features a 16-megapixel snapper for taking selfies and video calling.

Unlike the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G, the Redmi Note 12S runs the Android 13 operating system out-of-the-box with the company’s own MIUI 14 custom user interface. The device is powered by a 5,000mAh battery and comes with support for 67W fast charging.

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Android Apps Must Allow Users to Delete Account and Data, Says Google

By

Anubhav

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Apr 6, 2023

When you delete an app from your phone, the app’s files and data are typically removed from your device, including any cached or temporary data that the app may have created. However, it’s important to note that there may still be some residual data left behind on your phone after you delete an app. For instance, some apps may create files or folders outside of their main app directory, which may not be removed when you delete the app. Additionally, certain apps may store data online in the cloud or on external servers, which would not be removed when you delete the app from your device. Furthermore, some apps may request permissions to access certain data on your device, such as your contacts, location, or photos. Even after you delete the app, the data that the app accessed may still be available to the app’s developers or third-party advertisers, depending on the app’s privacy policy and terms of use. As per the Google’s latest announcement, the company wants users to have better control of what stays on their devices after they remove an application from their device.

Google has recently announced a new policy that requires Android apps on the Play Store to allow users to easily delete an account and its associated data, both inside the app and on the web. This move is aimed at promoting transparency and trust among users while also enabling greater control over their data. It also provides more flexibility by allowing users to delete specific data, such as uploaded content, without having to completely erase their account.

The policy will be implemented in stages, with creators having until December 7th to address questions about data deletion in their app’s safety form, and store listings reflecting the changes in early 2024. Developers have until May 31st of next year to file for an extension. Google’s new policy follows a similar rule instituted by Apple for App Store software and is part of a broader trend of regulators demanding more control over services. This includes the Federal Trade Commission’s proposed rule changes requiring easy ways to cancel subscriptions and memberships. By enabling greater control of accounts, Google and other companies hope to prevent privacy violations and associated fallout, such as data breaches.

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Vivo X Fold 2 specifications tipped, here’s what to expect

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Apr 6, 2023

Vivo is all set to launch its new foldable smartphone, the Vivo X Fold 2, alongside two other devices, the Vivo X Flip and Vivo Pad 2, in China later this month. According to a leak by Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station, the Vivo X Fold 2 will be equipped with some impressive features that are sure to delight tech enthusiasts.

Vivo X Fold 2 specifications (rumored)

The upcoming Vivo X Fold 2 will feature a foldable AMOLED E6 screen that measures 8.03 inches and has a resolution of 2160 x 1916 pixels. This foldable screen will also come with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1800 nits. Additionally, the smartphone will have a 6.53-inch AMOLED E6 cover screen with a resolution of 2520 x 1080 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 1600 nits.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset will power the Vivo X Fold 2, along with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. In terms of storage, the device is expected to come with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage.

The Vivo X Fold 2 will reportedly run on Android 13 with OriginOS. The foldable phone is also expected to feature a 4800mAh battery, which will support 120W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.

According to earlier reports, the back of the Vivo X Fold 2 will have a great camera setup with a 50MP IMX866 main sensor, a 12MP IMX663 ultra-wide lens, and another 12MP IMX663 telephoto camera. It is likely that the device will continue to feature a 16-megapixel selfie camera and another 16-megapixel camera on the cover screen, which were seen on the Vivo X Fold Plus. The device will also feature the Vivo V2 ISP for enhanced photography and videography capabilities.

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Redmi Note 12 4G & Redmi 12C smartphones go on sale in India, Check price, offers & specs

By

Sudhanshu

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Apr 6, 2023

Redmi introduced two new 4G smartphones in India last week: the Redmi Note 12 4G and the Redmi 12C. These devices will be released to Indian consumers today, just one week after their official announcement.

Redmi Note 12 4G, Redmi 12C Price in India

Redmi has launched the Redmi Note 12 4G with storage options of 6GB + 64GB and 6GB + 128GB in India. The starting price of the 64GB variant is Rs 14,999, while the 128GB version can be purchased for Rs 16,999. The device comes in Sunrise Gold, Lunar Black, and Frosted Ice Blue color options.

During the launch, the company announced an offer where the Note 12 4G can be bought for Rs 13,999 with an ICICI Bank credit or debit card transaction, and the 128GB variant can be purchased for Rs 15,999 with the same offer.

For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the Redmi 12C is an ideal choice, priced at just Rs 8,499 during the initial sale. It comes with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, with a 6GB + 128GB variant available for Rs 9,499. Customers can choose from a range of colors, including Blue, Black, Purple, and Green.

Redmi Note 12 4G specs

Redmi’s Note 12 4G smartphone boasts a large 6.67-inch AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a fast refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The screen supports an impressive touch sampling rate of 240Hz, a contrast ratio of 4,500,000:1, and a peak brightness level of 1,200 nits.

Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 chipset, the phone features LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage. It runs MIUI 14 based on Android 13. The rear of the device houses a triple camera setup, including a 50MP Samsung JN1 sensor, an 8MP ultrawide camera, and a 2MP macro camera. On the front, there is a 13MP camera for selfies and video calls.

While the Redmi Note 12 5G comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chip, the 4G variant’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 chipset still packs a punch. The phone offers dual SIM support, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, GNSS, and USB Type-C connectivity. It also features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a dedicated MicroSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Unfortunately, it lacks dual stereo speakers. The Redmi Note 12 4G comes equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and supports 33W fast wired charging.

Redmi 12C specs

The Redmi 12C boasts a 6.71-inch IPS LCD display, with an HD+ resolution of 1650 x 720 pixels, a 20.6:9 aspect ratio, 500 nits of brightness, a 1500:1 contrast ratio, and a 70 percent NTSC color gamut. The phone runs on Android 12, with MIUI 13 layered on top. The device uses the MIUI dialer instead of the Google dialer.

The Redmi 12C is powered by the Helio G85 chipset, with up to 6GB of LPDDR4x RAM, up to 5GB of virtual RAM, and up to 128GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. It also has a dedicated microSD card slot for additional storage.

On the security front, the device has both face unlock and a rear-facing fingerprint scanner. It has a 5-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel main camera, accompanied by a depth sensor and an LED flash.

The Redmi 12C comes with a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging support. For connectivity, it offers dual SIM, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, a microUSB port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

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Infinix Note 30 key specifications revealed Google Play Console listing

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Apr 6, 2023

The Infinix Note 30 is expected to launch soon. The reason behind it is that it has appeared in the database of the Google Play Console. As usual, the listing has revealed the key specifications and an image of the device. Here is all that it is known about the device.

The Google Play Console listing reveals that the Infinix Note 30’s display will support a resolution of 1080 x 2460 pixels with a 20.5:9 aspect ratio. The image of the phone available in the listing suggests that it has a punch-hole display.

Infinix Note 30 Google Play Console — Infinix Note 30 image at Google Play Console

It further reveals that the device is equipped with the Helio G99 chipset and 8 GB of RAM. It will come preinstalled with the Android 13 OS, which will be overlaid with the company’s XOS UI. The other details of the smartphone are yet to be revealed.

The Infinix Note 30, which has the model number X6833B, will replace the Infinix Note 12 (2023), which debuted in October. It came with a 6.71-inch AMOLED display that offered Full HD+ resolution and was powered by the Helio G99 chipset. The device offered 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB / 256 GB of storage. It came preloaded with Android 12 OS and XOS 10.6.

The Note 12 featured a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. Its back panel featured a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 2-megapixel depth sensor, and an LED flash. It housed a 5,000mAh battery with 30W fast charging support. For security, it featured a side-facing fingerprint scanner.

The Infinix Note 30 lineup is likely to feature multiple models. One of them will be the Infinix Note 30 VIP (model number X6710), which was spotted at the Bluetooth SIG last month. So far, reports have revealed that the VIP device will come with Bluetooth 5.3, a 5,000mAh battery, and 68W fast charging support.

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Meta’s new AI Model Can Detect Never-seen-before Objects in Images

By

Anubhav

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Apr 6, 2023

AI detects objects in images by using computer vision techniques that analyze the visual features of an image. The process typically involves using a convolutional neural network (CNN) to identify patterns in the image data that correspond to different object categories. The CNN first extracts features from the image using a series of convolutional and pooling layers and then uses these features to make predictions about the presence of different objects. The network is typically trained on large datasets of labelled images to learn how to recognize objects accurately in a wide variety of contexts, and can achieve high levels of accuracy in detecting objects in new images. However, Meta is moving out of the conventional method of AI detection, as its new AI, Segment Anything, can detect never-seen-before objects in images.

As per a research paper published by the social media giant, this model can be used by selecting objects by clicking them or using free-form text prompts. By simply typing “bird,” the AI will highlight all the birds in a given photo. Furthermore, the model can work in close collaboration with other models to help reconstruct an object in 3D or draw from views from a mixed-reality headset.

While the existing model may have limitations, such as missing finer details and not being as accurate at detecting boundaries as other models, it can help in situations where relying solely on training data is impractical. For instance, a social network could use the tech to keep up with a rapidly growing volume of content. Though this AI may not be utilized in devices requiring fast and accurate object detection, models like this one demonstrate the potential to limit the need for additional AI training. Meta has made both the AI model and dataset available for download with a non-commercial license. This move will expand access to the technology, primarily for research purposes. Nonetheless, this breakthrough shows that Meta wants to generalize computer vision, and it is already planning generative AI “personas” for its social apps, demonstrating that it has a few advantages of its own.

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Garmin Forerunner 955 new beta update with bug fixes and added features rolled out

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 5, 2023

Garmin has started rolling out a new beta update for the Forerunner 955 smartwatch. The update comes with bug fixes and new features for the smartwatch. The update comes as Beta version 15.09 means that the 955 will now support sleep schedules and wrist-based running dynamics. It is noted that the new beta update is the same as what was earlier rolled out for the Forerunner 255 series although with a shorter changelog.

The Garmin 955 beta update is currently being distributed on a pre-rollout release. Garmin says this allows the installation of alpha and beta builds via OTA updates. The updates will subsequently be scaled up via Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM), also applicable to several other models.

Users can submit bug reports to the Public Beta Bug Reports section covering both alpha and beta builds. The update, apart from fixing several outstanding bugs, adds several new features to the Forerunner 955.

The new update provides workout suggestions for upcoming bike events and calculates calories from wrist-based heart rates while swimming. It also tracks short-term and long-term load ratios and shows altitude acclimation percentages. The new beta update also provides the option of disabling auto-discovery for sensors.

Some of the bug fixes covered by the beta update for the Forerunner 955 include phone connection errors, auto pause, AutoShot data failing to be detected correctly during golfing, and several others.

The new update for the Garmin 955 provides overall balance and performance enhancements. We expect to see significant improvements across the aspects of the smartwatch that were problematic previously.

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Powkiddy X55 gaming handheld with a 5.5-inch display launches starting at $139.99

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 5, 2023

Powkiddy has unveiled the X55 gaming handheld with a 5.5-inch display. The Powkiddy X55 is powered by the Rockchip RK3566 chipset with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage. The new retro-styled gaming handheld will bring retro games back to life. The X55 gaming handheld also comes with a very affordable price tag.

The new Powkiddy X55 retro gaming hardware has dimensions of 212.5 x 94.5 x 19 mm and weighs 293g. The Rockchip RK3566 has four ARM Cortex-A55 CPU cores clocked at 1.8GHz and an ARM Mali-G52 GPU. The setup is sufficient to handle most of the retro games on its 720p 5.5-inch display. The 4,000mAh battery of the Powkiddy X55 can deliver up to 4 hours of gaming on a full charge. Several gamepad buttons are also featured in the handheld with the Nintendo ABXY layout adopted.

The X55 gaming handheld has HDMI and USB-C ports for connectivity. It also has a MicroSD card slot with up to 256GB of extra storage. The minimal MicroSD storage option is the 64GB model priced at $139.99. Models with 128GB and 256GB of MicroSD storage are priced at $149.99 and $169.99 respectively.

The X55 gaming handheld can be pre-ordered directly via Powkiddy. The company expects the first deliveries of the new retro gaming handheld, Powkiddy X55, to be made on May 10. As of this moment, Powkiddy has not provided any global availability and pricing details for the handheld. It is however expected that it will subsequently enter selected markets.

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New leak details Vivo Pad 2’s storage options and charging speed

By

Anurag

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Apr 5, 2023

Vivo is ready to expand its tablet portfolio by launching the Vivo Pad 2 later this month. The device is expected to arrive as the successor to the original Vivo Pad, which debuted back in April 2022 with an 11-inch IPS LCD panel. The new tablet has been leaking a lot recently and is said to be powered by the Dimensity 9000 SoC under the hood. While we wait for its formal debut, a new leak has revealed more information about the tablet. Let’s have a look.

Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station claims on Weibo that the upcoming Vivo Pad 2 will be available in multiple storage configurations. The base model may feature 8GB of RAM and up to 128GB of internal storage while the higher-end version may be equipped with 16GB RAM and 512GB of onboard storage. Further, the tablet is tipped to support 44W wired charging. Its battery capacity still remains anyone’s guess. The original model debuted with an 8040mAh battery so we expect the new model will up the ante further.

Previously, the tipster revealed the Pad 2 will be powered by the flagship MediaTek Dimensity 9000 SoC with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. The tablet could arrive with a tall 12-inch LCD panel that supports a 144Hz refresh rate. This display will likely offer a resolution of 2560 x 1600px resolution. Recently leaked images reveal the new Vivo tablet will come with an improved design.

It could feature a dual rear camera setup with an LED flash, as well as the Vivo logo situated in the middle of the back panel. The tablet is expected to be sold with a bundled keyboard and a Vivo Pencil.

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Leaked images show Asus ROG Phone 7 Pro with Design Similar to Phone 6 lineup

By

Anurag

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Apr 5, 2023

The ROG Phone 7 Pro from Asus is near with an official launch event scheduled for April 13. As the latest gaming phone from the company, it will bring some serious hardware specs, including a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, a 165Hz AMOLED display, and more. However, it seems there will not be many cosmetic changes on the device as some leaked renders show it with a design similar to last year’s ROG Phone 6 Pro. Here are the details.

Asus has gradually simplified the design of its Republic of Gamers (ROG) phones, as seen with the ROG Phone 6 series. While the initial ROG Phone 3 and ROG Phone 4 models had a stealthier design, the later generations have been aesthetically toned down. This trend continues with the ROG Phone 7 Pro, which features a design that is almost identical to its predecessor.

Some high-resolution renders of the smartphone, shared by tipster Evan Blass, show it with a triple rear camera setup, with text that reads 8K. There is also a secondary display on the rear that can be configured to react to certain events, like receiving a call, starting a game, or charging.

The front of the ROG Phone 7 Pro is pictured with thin bezels on the sides and relatively thicker borders on the top and bottom. There’s a front camera in the top-left corner of the display. The aero cooling module, designed to cool the smartphone during prolonged gaming sessions, remains unchanged from the previous generation gaming phone. It will activate automatically to help regulate the device’s temperature during intense gameplay.

The ROG Phone 7 Pro will arrive as an upgrade over its predecessor and feature a new Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. It will run Android 13 out of the box and boast a 6.78” AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate.

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Get $100 OFF on the latest Oppo Find N2 at Giztop

By

Joane

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Apr 5, 2023

Giztop is giving a $100 discount on the latest Oppo Find N2. The smartphone which generally retails for a starting price of $1499 is now available at a discounted price of $1399 only on Giztop. Please note that this price is applicable to the base variant only.

WHERE TO BUY

Oppo Find N2 at $1399 @Giztop

Oppo Find N2 the foldable flagship, features a 7.1” E6 AMOLED inner display and a 5.54” AMOLED outer display. The smartphone runs on the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Octa-Core processor and comes with Adreno 730 GPU. It comes in multiple memory variants viz: 12GB / 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB / 512GB internal storage.

Oppo Find N2 comes with a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP main camera and 48MP and 32MP secondary cameras. At the front, you have a 32MP selfie camera on both the inner and outer display. The smartphone is fueled by a 4520mAh battery and supports 67W wired fast charging. The phone comes in three color variants viz: Green, White, and Black.

Oppo Find N2 foldable smartphone runs on Android 13 based Color OS 13 and supports Dual 5G mode. You can now get the foldable phone at a discounted price of $1399 only on Giztop. Please note that Giztop offers global shipping for its products.

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

XGIMI MoGo 2 and MoGo 3 Pro portable projectors running on Android TV 11 released

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 5, 2023

The XGIMI MoGo 2 series of portable projectors have been released. The MoGo 2 and MoGo 2 Pro run on Android TV 11. They offer resolutions of 720p and 1080p respectively. The projectors can project images up to 120 inches and deliver excellent color quality.

The release of the XGIMI MoGo 2 series projectors is coming barely three months after they were showcased at CES 2023. The series was originally announced in December 2022 and are offered at a discounted price. The XGIMI MoGo 2 series have 0.23-inch DMD display chips and the light source has a lifetime of 25,000 hours. XGIMI says both models deliver 400 Lumens of peak brightness and a 90% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage.

The new XGIMI portable projectors come with a throw ratio of 1.2:1 and XGIMI has integrated the ISA 2.0 autofocus and auto keystone for easier operability. The XGIMI MoGo 2 series projectors are designed for a better performance than its previous models.

It is easier to use the new projectors in a room. In terms of its software architecture, the MoGo 2 series projectors run on Android TV 11. The projectors are equipped with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage. The MoGo 2 series has a raft of connectivity options including HDMI 2.0, USB-A, and USB-C. They also come with a 3.5mm audio jack. The projectors do not have an in-built battery but can run on power banks.

The XGIMI MoGo 2 and MoGo 2 Pro have dual 8W speakers with Dolby Audio. The standard model is priced at $399 while the MoGo 2 Pro has a $599 price tag. A $50 discount applies to customers who order the product between April 25 and May 5. The models can be pre-ordered directly from the XGIMI website, which also provides more details about the projectors.

Apple will reportedly Ship some iPhone 15 Models from India at launch

By

Anurag

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Apr 5, 2023

Crucial supply chains strained by Covid lockdowns and threatened by rising geopolitical tension have forced Apple to move more iPhone production out of China and India has emerged as an attractive potential alternative. A new report states that India will have a significant role in producing the upcoming iPhone 15, with the Cupertino company even planning to ship some of the standard models from the country for the first time.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that Apple plans to ship iPhone 15 models from India upon the device’s launch, which is a first for the launch of a new iPhone lineup. This hints that the company is slowly progressing in diversifying its supply chain away from China. It has been reported that the casings for the vanilla ‌iPhone 15‌ are already being manufactured in India by local suppliers such as Jabil. The mentioned supplier also assembles AirPods enclosures.

Apple is said to be ramping up its efforts to move more iPhone production out of China, with India and Vietnam being the two favorable options for manufacturing and product assembly. The Cupertino company is expected to triple its production of iPhones over the next two years in India. Currently, Apple has its top three manufacturing partners—Wistron, Foxconn, and Pegatron—making smartphones in India.

However, it is expected that only the regular iPhone 15 models will be manufactured and shipped from India. The iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max will still be made in Mainland China. This is apparently because Apple is experiencing quality control issues with some Indian suppliers.

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ONEXPLAYER 2 gaming handheld to get an Intel Core i7-1370P processor version soon

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 5, 2023

One-netbook is readying an Intel Core i7-1370P processor version of the OneXPlayer 2 gaming handheld. The ONEXPLAYER 2 was originally launched with an AMD Ryzen 7 6800U processor and has been a hot-selling product since release.

The ONEXPLAYER 2 was unveiled to the market a couple of months back and the new refresh is expected to attract more customers. The original model features an 8.4-inch display with detachable controllers. It has a 2.5K native resolution, Hall effect joysticks, and a 65.5Wh battery. The basic features of the original model were expectedly retained by the new ONEXPLAYER 2 gaming handheld. However, there are no details on the specifics of the Intel processor deployed in the new model.

One-netbook has opened a beta recruitment channel for the ONEXPLAYER 2 Core i7 model. There are still lots of details lacking on the upcoming gaming handheld. There is no confirmation, as well, as to when the new ONEXPLAYER 2 will be available in the market. Pricing specifics are also lacking for the model at this time.

The Intel Core i7-1370P is from the flagship Raptor Lake-P series of CPUs. It has 6 P cores, 8 E cores, and 20 threads. The processor has a maximum boost of 2.5GHz and a 24MB L3 cache. It has Iris Xe Graphics G7 iGPU with 96 execution units. The model’s iGPU is from Tiger Lake Processors, as with its predecessors. It is unclear whether the refreshed ONEXPLAYER 2 outperforms its predecessor, but we expect it to be at par at least. However, if the original model is a better choice for gamers, then the refreshed version could come at a lower price.

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Google Now Launcher to be discontinued in April after 10 years

By

Anurag

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Apr 5, 2023

If you’re an Android user, chances are you’ve installed a launcher app on your device at some point in time, whether it’s to get rid of the unsightly user interface offered by manufacturers or to spice things up. And if you’ve used a launcher, you’ve likely heard of Google Now, which offers a relatively stock and clean experience. It arrived almost a decade ago and is now set to be discontinued in April.

The latest beta of the Google app (v14.14) revealed devices with Google Now will receive a prompt “Your launcher will change to your device’s default launcher”. This means all the devices using the Google Now launcher will automatically switch to the default launcher after the update.

The shutdown of the outdated launcher is unlikely to affect many people since phones that still have it are likely approaching their expiration date. However, if you wish to maintain the current setup, do not update the Google app.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane. Google Now was initially referred to as the Google Experience Launcher (GEL). But during the wider release in 2014, it was given the name Google Now Launcher (GNL) and was made available to all Android 4.1+ devices via the Play Store. Its major highlight was quick access to Google Now cards while providing a clean user interface.

Back in 2017, Google informed its partners that the Google Now Launcher (GNL) would be phased out since the main feature it offered, access to Google Now, was made available to other OEM launchers. Meanwhile, Google had switched to using the Pixel Launcher for its own phones. Although the GNL did receive some updates through the Google app, it was no longer a top priority for the company as they shifted their focus to developing the Assistant feature.

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TCL 2023 C64 QLED 4K TVs with super-slim, bezel-less design Launched in Europe

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Apr 5, 2023

TCL has recently launched its 2023 C64 Series QLED TVs in Europe, which come with a range of features and options to provide an immersive viewing experience. The TVs are available in six sizes, ranging from 43 inches to 85 inches, and have a slim and bezel-less design that enhances their aesthetic appeal.

The C64 Series QLED TVs have a native 60 Hz refresh rate with Motion Clarity, which provides a smoother picture. Additionally, the TVs come equipped with a 120 Hz game accelerator that optimizes the refresh rate and reduces latency, making them ideal for gaming enthusiasts. Other gaming features include HDMI 2.1 (eARC) and Dolby Vision, which provide high-quality audio and video output.

The TVs are powered by Quantum Dot technology and HDR PRO, which deliver bright colors and up to 450 nits brightness. The device also supports HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and DTS Virtual:X, providing an immersive viewing experience.

One of the standout features of the C64 Series QLED TVs is the integrated Google TV, which allows users to watch content from popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. Users can also control the TV using voice commands via Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.

For gaming, the C64 Series QLED TVs come with Game Master 2.0, AMD FreeSync, and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). The TVs also use TCL’s 120 Hz DLG (Dual Line Gate) technology, which optimizes the refresh rate while lowering latency, making them ideal for gaming enthusiasts.

The TVs are compatible with Dolby Atmos, providing high-quality audio output, and come with ports such as HDMI 2.1 (eARC), USB 3.0, Ethernet, and Audio Out.

Some TCL C64 TVs, like the 43-in model, are already available via Amazon in countries such as Germany, starting from €449.99 (~US$493). Overall, the C64 Series QLED TVs from TCL offer a range of features and options that make them an excellent choice for home entertainment and gaming enthusiasts.

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Philips Unveils 45B1U6900CH Superwide Monitor with Integrated Webcam and Microphone

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Apr 5, 2023

Philips recently launched its innovative superwide monitor, the 45B1U6900C, which aims to condense dual-monitor configurations into a single 32:9 Double QHD display. Now, the tech giant is taking it a step further by announcing the 45B1U6900CH, an upgraded model featuring a built-in 5MP pop-up webcam and noise-cancelling microphone for an all-in-one workspace solution. Here are the details…

Philips Unveils 45B1U6900CH Superwide Monitor with Built-in Webcam and Mic

The 45B1U6900CH shares several features with its predecessor, including a 45-inch panel, 5120×1440 resolution, 178°/178° viewing angles, and DisplayHDR 400 support. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with a MultiClient Integrated KVM switch, making it possible to control two computers using just one monitor, keyboard, and mouse – a great way to reduce clutter and streamline your setup.

Designed with professionals in mind, the 45B1U6900CH also includes a USB-C docking hub with an RJ45 connector, facilitating laptop connections through USB-C and providing wired network connectivity. The USB-C hub is capable of delivering 100W of power, supports DisplayPort Alt mode, and offers additional features.

To ensure comfortable usage in various lighting environments, the monitor has been certified by TUV Rheinland Eyesafe RPF 50 to safeguard against blue light-induced eye strain. The primary distinction between the 45B1U6900C and the 45B1U6900CH lies in the integrated webcam and microphone. This addition enhances the video conferencing experience, providing easy access to virtual meetings. The discreet pop-up webcam can be hidden when not in use, and also supports Windows Hello for quick and secure face-based PC logins.

Pricing and Availability

The 45B1U6900CH’s additional features come at a slightly higher price than the original 45B1U6900C, which is priced at £939.99. The upgraded model, complete with a built-in webcam and microphone, is available for £1029.99.

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Zebronics Zeb-Max Ninja 200 RGB Mechanical Keyboard launched in India

By

Sean

-

Apr 5, 2023

Zebronics has just launched a new mechanical keyboard for gamers in India. The company has released the new Zeb-Max Ninja 200, which is a 84 key RGB mechanical keyboard. So here are all the details.

The company’s latest mechanical keyboard arrives with a compact design, which is to be expected for a 84 key model. It also offers a translucent body that creates an infinity RGB effect for added customization. Furthermore, the keyboard support three different modes and can even connect with up to three devices through Bluetooth. It is compatible with the Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android platforms.

The new Zeb-Max Ninja 200 features Outemu Red Switches with Hot Swappable Switches. The company claims that the keys have a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes, which makes it suitable for gamers and professionals alike. Zebronics new mechanical keyboard’s PBT keycaps offers a premium feel and a 4.0±0.2mm key travel for an improved user experience. One can even choose to enable or disable the Windows key to avoid accidental clicks during gameplay.

The new keyboard has a built in rechargeable battery and also houses a battery level indicator. On a single full charge, the keyboard can last for months without recharging. Zebronics offers the gaming mechanical keyboard with a switch removal tool, USB to Type C cable, and a spare Z keycap as well. The Zeb-Max Ninja 200 will be available for purchase via Amazon India and is being sold for a special price tag of 4,499 INR.

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YouTube Adds Dedicated Podcasts Tab to Channel Pages

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Apr 5, 2023

The YouTube has recently introduced a dedicated “Podcasts” tab to channel pages, facilitating easier discovery and access to podcast content. This feature is now available globally. Here are the details…

YouTube App Introduces Dedicated Podcasts Tab

YouTube has introduced a dedicated “Podcasts” tab to channel pages. This new feature aims to simplify the process of discovering and accessing podcast content on the platform. The “Podcasts” tab is positioned between the “Live” and “Playlist” tabs on channel pages, making it easier for users to find podcast playlists curated by content creators. Previously, users had to search by name, show card, or manually navigate the Playlist tab that didn’t differentiate podcasts from other content.

This updated approach to podcast discovery not only simplifies the user experience but also encourages YouTube Creators to upload episodes as videos under this specific category. Channels like Electrek.co and Team Coco have already adopted the new Podcasts tab, making their content available.

Although the YouTube app now includes a dedicated Podcasts tab, YouTube Music is still working on integrating podcast support. Once implemented, podcasts marked appropriately will be displayed in YouTube Music. Currently, YouTube Music’s podcast support is in the testing phase, with a limited number of users granted access.

At the moment, the Podcasts tab in the YouTube app primarily focuses on video content. However, Google has urged podcast creators to upload square cover art for their podcasts, which will be fully integrated in the visual feature soon.

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Sony launches new pocket sized ZV-1F Vlog Camera with 20mm ultra wide lens in India

By

Sean

-

Apr 5, 2023

Sony has just launched a new camera in the Indian market earlier today (5th April 2023). The new ZV-1F is a vlogging camera model that features a compact size, which makes it perfect for vloggers and creators. So here are all the details.

The Japanese tech giant has built the ZV-1F with an eco-friendly body with recycled materials being used in the camera body and even the bundled accessories. The woven fabrics are also made with plant based fabrics. The new vlog camera is compatible with the GP-VPT2BT Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander and external microphone attachment. It sports a Vari-Angle 7.5 cm LCD touch display that has a Bokeh Switch button that offers seamless switching between background bokeh and focus on the subject.

Thanks to its compact nature, it is perfect for creators and influencers and it can even offer great stills and videos. The company had first announced the ZV-1F back in October 2022, and the model has finally made its way to the Indian market. The new Sony camera houses the Exmos RS CMOS sensor that has a 20.1 megapixel resolution. The lens is a ZEISS Tessar T* Lens. It houses high quality audio recording with Wind Screen and Directional 3 Capsule mic.

Sony ZV-1F also offers features like Soft Skin Effect, Face Priority AE, Eye AF for humans and animals, ensuring optimal brightness, clear skin tone, and precise autofocus as well. The new vlog camera has been launched in India for a price tag of 50,690 INR and it will be available across all Sony Centers, Alpha Flagship stores, Sony authorized dealers, Flipkart, Amazon, and other major electronic stores across India starting from 6th April 2023.

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