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Intel Bids Farewell to 5G and LTE PC Business, Focus Shifts to IDM 2.0 Strategy

The United States-based technology giant Intel has been a prominent player in various fields, with 5G and LTE technologies being among them. However, recent news indicates that Intel will cease its efforts in these areas. Here are the details…

Intel to Halt 5G and LTE Research: Prioritizing IDM 2.0 Strategy

Numerous sources reported a few days ago that Intel would soon stop working on 5G modems, and by 2025, it would halt research on LTE modems. Recent announcements from the company confirm these intentions.In a statement to More than Moore, the tech giant confirmed the rumors while explaining the reason behind the decision: “We made the difficult decision to exit both our LTE and 5G WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network) businesses as we continue to prioritize investments in our IDM 2.0 strategy.”

Intel 5G

The IDM 2.0 technology was announced in 2021. With this strategy aimed at expanding production, the company sought to design and manufacture the best products. Intel expressed its intention to be a leader in process, product, supply, and cost through this approach.Three years ago, Intel sold its 5G modem business to Apple for $1 billion. Subsequently, it formed a partnership with MediaTek to start producing 5G modems for computers. The first products hit the shelves in 2021.

However, the recent news suggests that the life of these products may not be very long. On the 4G side, Intel collaborated with Fibocom for 4G LTE modems. The latest statements suggest that the company may be planning to transfer its 4G and 5G businesses to these two firms. Intel is expected to exit the 5G market by July and the entire WWAN market by 2025.

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Nothing Phone (2) BIS Certified, India Launch Could be Approaching

A report that surfaced last month claimed that the model number of the upcoming Nothing Phone (2) is A065. Since Nothing’s Phone (1) came out in India last year, its follow-up is also likely to come out in the country. A new Nothing device with model number AIN065 has appeared in the database of the BIS authority. It appears to be the Indian variant of the Phone (2). The BIS listing is a good hint that the company could be planning to launch the smartphone in the coming weeks.

The BIS listing has no information on the specifications of the device. However, recent reports have revealed some of its details. First of all, earlier this month, a Qualcomm executive accidentally revealed that the Phone (2) will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset. Hence, it appears that the device will be packed with top-notch specifications.

There have been rumours that the Nothing Phone (2) will have an AMOLED screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz. It is likely to support an FHD+ resolution and feature an in-screen fingerprint scanner. It will run on Nothing OS-based Android 13.

The SoC is likely to be paired with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of built-in storage. It is expected to pack a 5,000mAh battery. However, there is no information available on the fast charging capabilities of the Phone (2). Like the predecessor, the Phone (2) is expected will support wireless charging.

Also, the rumor mill is yet to leak details about the Phone (2)’s design and cameras. It is likely to come equipped with an enhanced version of the Glyph interface that was made available in the previous generation. It is expected to launch in the third quarter of 2023.

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Apple’s WWDC 2023 Keynote Rumored for June 5: What to Expect

Apple enthusiasts and developers alike eagerly await the annual World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC), which traditionally takes place during the first week of June. According to the latest rumors, Apple is expected to hold its WWDC 2023 event on June 5. Last year’s conference occurred on June 6, making the rumored date for this year’s event unsurprising. Here are the details…

Apple’s WWDC 2023 Keynote Rumored To Take Place On June 5Apple’s WWDC 2023 Keynote Rumored for June 5: What to Expect

Rumors of the WWDC 2023 date have emerged from an unlikely source: flight app details. Flighty app developer Ryan Jones shared on Twitter the dates of several flights converging on California on June 4, with California being the home of Apple’s headquarters and Apple Park.

Following Jones’s tweet, well-known tipsters in the Twitter space chimed in with their commentary. ShrimpApplePro, who has a substantial following for accurately providing Apple product details, stated that WWDC 2023 will take place on June 5. SnoopyTech also shared the same date, emphasizing the importance of the first week of June.

Typically, Apple announces the official WWDC event date a month prior. Last year, Apple announced the WWDC 2022 on April 6, and the event took place exactly a month later, on June 6. For WWDC 2023, we can anticipate a similar timeline, with a possible press release on April 5.

While the main focus of WWDC is software, there is a chance that this year’s event could include a surprise hardware announcement. The much-speculated AR headset could make its debut at WWDC 2023. If not, attendees can at least expect a preview of a new operating system.

It is important to remember that these rumors are just that—rumors. In the past, many such speculations have proven to be unfounded. As such, we encourage readers to treat this information with caution and stay tuned for the official Apple WWDC 2023 press release.

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Realme GT Neo5 SE Black Edition Unveiled with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, and Triple Rear Camera

The Realme GT Neo5 SE Black Edition has been revealed on Weibo, showcasing a 64MP (aperture f/1.79) triple rear camera along with a large glass module. The smartphone also comes with a 5500mAh battery. The device, with the model number “RMX3700,” has had its AnTuTu benchmark score leaked. It is expected to be equipped with the second-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ flagship chip, codenamed “Godslayer” for the Realme GT Neo5 SE. Here are the details…

Realme GT Neo5 SE Black Edition Unveiled with 2nd Gen Snapdragon 7+, and Triple Rear Camera

Realme GT Neo5 SE Black Edition offers 16GB of memory and 1TB of storage, with a screen resolution of 2772×1240 and running on an Android 13-based system. The total AnTuTu score is 1,009,127, with CPU scoring 255,246, GPU scoring 360,306, MEM scoring 212,180, and UX scoring 181,395. The new device’s performance is on par with MediaTek Dimensity 9000, proving to be the strongest Snapdragon 7 series mobile platform ever.

Realme’s Vice President, Global Marketing Director, and China President, Xu Qi, shared an actual image of the second-generation Snapdragon 7+ chip. The Realme GT Neo5 SE is the first device to feature the second-generation Snapdragon 7+ flagship chip (Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 specifications: 1x 2.91GHz Cortex-X2, 3x 2.49GHz Cortex-A710, 4x 1.8GHz Cortex-A510, and Adreno 725 GPU at 580MHz, with Snapdragon X62 5G modem).

The new device will utilize a 1.5K 144Hz flexible OLED display from Tianma T7+ with a centered punch-hole design, 2160Hz PWM dimming, and a 64MP OV64M large matrix module for the rear camera. Compared to the Realme GT Neo5, the SE edition has removed the RGB lighting and transparent cover while maintaining the same lens arrangement and flash layout.

The lens information on the side is labeled “MRTRIX PORF 1.79F / EFL 25MM.” The smartphone comes with a 5500mAh battery + 100W fast charging and supports innovative battery technology. It will come pre-installed with the Android 13 operating system. Realme claims that the device will feature a seamless glass camera DECO with upgraded texture and layers, an ultra-narrow curved waistline for an exceptional grip, and a lightweight design at 193.1g. The phone employs nano-level light-dumb fusion technology for a matte, iridescent finish and incorporates a dual-stripe racing design.

Expected specs


Specification
Details
Display1.5K 144Hz flexible OLED, 2772×1240 resolution, 2160Hz PWM dimming, centered punch-hole
Processor2nd Gen Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ (Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2)
CPU1x 2.91GHz Cortex-X2, 3x 2.49GHz Cortex-A710, 4x 1.8GHz Cortex-A510
GPUAdreno 725, 580MHz
RAM16GB
Storage1TB
Rear Camera64MP OV64M large matrix module (aperture f/1.79), Triple camera setup
Front CameraNot specified
Battery5500mAh, 100W fast charging
ConnectivitySnapdragon X62 5G modem
Operating SystemAndroid 13
Dimensions and WeightNot specified, 193.1g
Design and BuildGlass camera DECO, ultra-narrow curved waistline, dual-stripe racing design
Special FeaturesNano-level light-dumb fusion technology for matte, iridescent finish

Please note that some details, such as dimensions and front camera specifications, are not specified.

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AYANEO AIR PLUS Handheld Gaming Console: Pre-Launch Deal on INDIEGOGO

AYANEO  is set to launch an INDIEGOGO fundraising campaign for its latest handheld gaming console the AYANEO AIR Plus. The device will be one of the lightest AMD 6800U handheld consoles available in the market. Please note that an early subscription will give you a chance to get a secret discount on the launch day. To know more about this offer check out the campaign page here

AYANEO AIR PLUS is the latest addition to the famous AYANEO AIR series which is known for its thin and lightweight gaming consoles. Air Plus offers a variety of optional CPUs, including AMD 6800, Intel, and Mendocino, and is equipped with the best screen in a 6“ gaming console. The device features a 6″ IPS display with 1920x1080p resolution that provides a sharp and vibrant image with excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angle so that players can enjoy crisp and clear gameplay.

It comes with 8GB / 16GB / 32GB LPDDR5 RAM options and SSD 128GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB storage options. The device features premium RGB lights that add to the excitement of your game and comes with an advanced fingerprint sensor that keeps your device secure. Other interesting features include Hall Sensing Mini Joystick + Hall trigger, RGB joystick lighting effect, X-axis motor, TF card slot, 28W heat dissipation system, etc.

AIR PLUS features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 and Type-C interface. The device is fueled by a 46wh battery that offers a long-lasting battery life and supports PD3.0 65W Fast Charge. 

Available in Glacier Blue, Starlight Black, and Classic Grey color options, you can pre-order AYANEO AIR PLUS for a starting price of $599 on the official website.

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

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 5 Get a Luxurious Carbon Fiber Band Upgrade from Pitaka

Samsung has consistently impressed consumers with its range of first-party watch bands for its Galaxy Watch series. From basic silicone straps to premium metal loop options, there’s a band for every taste and preference. With standard connectors, Galaxy Watches allow users to swap bands with ease, catering to diverse style choices. The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 5 series have now leveled up in luxury with a new carbon fiber band option from Pitaka.

Pitaka’s Carbon Fiber Watch Band Compatibility and Features

Pitaka’s Carbon Fiber watch band is designed to be compatible with the Galaxy Watch 4, Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, Galaxy Watch 5, and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. The band is lightweight, weighing only 28 grams, and offers a contemporary and stylish appearance. Made from 100% carbon fiber, this watch band is highly durable, ensuring it can withstand daily wear and tear.

One of the key features of Pitaka’s Carbon Fiber watch band is its adjustable length. The band comes with the necessary tools to modify its length, ensuring a comfortable fit for every user. The metal clasp provides a secure fit and attaches magnetically, making it easy to wear and remove the watch.

The Carbon Fiber watch band for the Galaxy Watch series is priced at $89 in the US. Customers who are unsatisfied with their purchase can take advantage of a seven-day return policy, allowing them to return the band and receive a full refund. Shipping is available worldwide, but customers will be responsible for any customs charges.

Unfortunately, the Carbon Fiber watch band is currently available only in black. While this color matches perfectly with black Galaxy Watches, it may not complement silver or other color variants as effectively. Although limited in color options, this band is a stunning addition to the Galaxy Watch lineup for those seeking a modern and stylish upgrade.

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Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 benchmarks show it will Rival the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1

Qualcomm announced the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 only recently as its latest mid-range mobile processor. The chipset is yet to make its debut on a smartphone but early benchmarking scores have revealed it offers an impressive improvement over other Snapdragon 7 series chipsets. The processor will seemingly rival last year’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, which powers many flagship phones out there.

Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 has been unveiled as the successor to Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. Now if you think the name is confusing, you are not alone. The brand did not release the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 1 and Snapdragon 7 Gen 2. The new processor promises significant performance and power efficiency improvements. Its main Kryo CPU core is clocked at 2.91GHz and has a 1+3+4 CPU architecture that delivers over a 50% increase in performance compared to the SD7 Gen 1.

Realme-GT-Neo-5-SE-AnTuTu-585x1024-1

The new Snapdragon chipset is going to make its debut on the Redmi Note 12 Turbo, and will later power the Realme GT Neo 5 SE as well. Early benchmarking scores of the two devices suggest the SD 7+ Gen 2 will offer a massive performance upgrade. An AnTuTu v9 benchmark test shows that a Realme GT Neo5 SE device has achieved a total score of 1,009,127, with CPU and GPU scores of 255,246 and 360,306, respectively. AnTuTu’s report confirms that the Adreno 725 GPU powers the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 feature Adreno 730 and Adreno 740 GPUs, respectively.

As rightly pointed out by Notebookcheck, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 goes head-to-head against even the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in CPU lead tasks. However, the publication also points out that the Adreno 725 GPU, while delivering more than twice the performance of the Adreno 642L found in the Snapdragon 778G, still lags behind the Adreno 730 GPU found in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1.

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Xiaomi S10 and S10+ Robot Vacuum Cleaners unveiled for the global market

Xiaomi has released its latest vacuum cleaners to the global market. The Xiaomi S10 and S10+ robot vacuum cleaners have been listed on the brand’s global website. The new robot vacuums can deliver suction up to 4,000 Pa and have dual functions of mopping and cleaning.

Xiaomi S10 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

The Xiaomi S10 and S10+ robot vacuums are offered in four power options. They use LDS laser navigation for an efficient route mapping of the task area. The S10 features a simple collision sensor for obstacle avoidance while the S10+ uses 3D obstacle avoidance and AI technology. Both devices can carry out mopping action but the S10+ comes with a more powerful mopping system. The Xiaomi S10 has a 3,200mAh battery while the more advanced S10+ has a 5,200mAh battery.

The Xiaomi S10 can operate for up to 130 minutes on a single charge, compared to 120 minutes for the larger battery of the S10+. The stated runtimes are in standard and quiet mode respectively for the two models. The robots are supported by the Xiaomi Mi Home app which allows users to control various settings of the robots.

Xiaomi S10 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

The models are currently available in some South East Asian countries like Malaysia, but availability in Europe is unclear at this time. It is noted that the Xiaomi E10 and X10 robot vacuums were also recently announced in the global market. The price of the Xiaomi S10 in Malaysia is RM 1,299 (~$293) while the S10+ currently retails for RM 2,099 (~$474).

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New details surface for the OPPO Find N3 foldable smartphone

The OPPO Find N3 foldable smartphone is expected to be released later this year. The next-generation foldable has been the subject of a few leaks and yet another leak has surfaced. Digital Chat Station has provided more details of the Find N3 relating to the camera setup. It is rumored that the Find N3 will be equipped with three Sony IMX890 sensors as part of its camera setup.

OPPO Find N3

The Oppo Find X6 Pro uses the Sony IMX890 sensors for its ultra-wide-angle and telephoto cameras. The smartphone deploys the Sony IMX989 sensor for its main camera. The Oppo Find N3, as per the Digital Chat Station latest leak, will come with Oppo’s MariSilicon X NPU and Hasselblad camera tunings. The front-facing camera will be the 32MP Omnivision OV32C sensor also present in the Find N2. The Find N3 will come with a 4,800mAh battery, slightly bigger than the 4,520mAh in the Find N2.

A previous leak has hinted that the Find N3 was codenamed PHN110 and will feature three 50MP rear cameras. The Find N3 is also expected to debut with the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 2 chipset. Qualcomm will release the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 2 this summer. The latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 2 comes with improvements over the Snapdragon 4 series mid-cycle iterations.

There are still lots of details lacking for the next-gen foldable smartphone, Find N3. It would be interesting to see the folding mechanism and how it compares with current foldable flagships from Samsung, Xiaomi, and others. There are no official details yet on the release date and specs of the Oppo Find N3 flagship.

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Xiaomi Promises the Flagship Smartphone Experience on the Upcoming Affordable Redmi Note 12 Turbo

Xiaomi is ready to announce its highly anticipated Redmi Note 12 Turbo series in China this week on March 28, as the mid-range Android smartphone market heats up in 2023. This time around, the smartphone brand is bold enough to claim that the upcoming affordable Redmi Note 12 Turbo will offer the “flagship smartphone experience” at a much lower price than its competitors.

Redmi Note 12 Turbo launch date-
Redmi Note 12 Turbo

Xiaomi Group President and Redmi General Manager, Lu Weibing, posted on his Chinese social media Weibo recently, announcing that the company is serious about bringing the flagship-level performance and smartphone experience to a wider and more price-conscious audience.

Alongside the announcement, the President also shared that the Redmi Note 12 Turbo series will bring much beloved features such as the 3.5mm headphone jack, the infrared IR sensor, multifunctional NFC support, and support for the latest Bluetooth 5.3. These user beloved features are typically omitted in flagships that cost almost 5 times as much as the price range that the Redmi Note 12 Turbo is competing. Other notable additions include Dolby Atmos certified stereo speakers and an X-axis linear vibration motor normally found on more expensive smartphones.

The Redmi Note 12 Turbo is also the world’s first smartphone to be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 processor, which brings significant improvements to performance and power consumption compared to its predecessor the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. In fact, the 7+ Gen 2 is comparable to the flagship Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC launched last year.

Redmi Note 12 Turbo display
Redmi Note 12 Turbo teasers, alongside comparison against iPhone 14

And according to teasers revealed by the company, the front of the Redmi Note 12 Turbo sports a 6.67-inch OLED screen that supports a refresh rate of 120Hz and Full HD+ resolution. It also supports 68.7 billion colours, 100% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut, 1920Hz PWM dimming and HDR10+ certification. It is said that its screen-to-body ratio has reached 93.45%. The chin thickness of the Redmi Note 12 Turbo is 2.2mm, which is 0.2mm slimmer than the iPhone 14. The side frame thickness is 1.42mm and the top frame thickness is 1.95mm. There is also a small hole in the centre of the screen for the front selfie camera.

To learn more about Xiaomi’s purportedly upcoming affordable flagship killer, you can read more via our roundup article here.

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Yamaha TW-E3B TWS Earbuds Unboxing & Hands-On  

At present, Yamaha sells TW-E3B, TW-E5B, TW-ES5A, and TW-E7B TWS earbuds in India. Each of them is aimed at different price segments. The TW-E3B variant is the most affordable model; it was priced at Rs 8,490 (~$103) when it debuted in June 2022. Currently, it is selling for Rs 6,490 (~$79) on Amazon. One of the attractive features that the TW-E3B offers is the audio clarity. In addition, it offers a good battery life. Here is our unboxing and hands-on post about the Yamaha TW-E3B TWS earbuds.

Yamaha TW-E3B TWS earbuds: What’s in the box?

Yamaha TW-E3B TWS earbuds
Yamaha TW-E3B TWS earbuds

The Yamaha TW-E3B TWS earbuds retail package includes the following items:

  • Yamaha TW-E3B TWS earbuds with charging case
  • Eartips (extra small / small / medium / large)
  • USB-A to USB-C cable
  • Quick Start Guide

Design and Comfort

The Yamaha TW-E3B comes in multiple colors, such as black, pink, blue (limited edition), and purple (limited edition). The black variant, of the TW-E3B, that we received has a simple yet sleek design and a matte finish. Since it is the most affordable pair of Yamaha TWS earbuds, the build quality does not feel premium, but is good enough for the price it offers. The case makes a nice snappy sound when it is closed. Each earbud weighs 5.0 grammes, and the entire thing with the case weighs 45 grams.

The TW-E3B has four LED indicators on the front, and the back has a USB-C port. The Yamaha logo can be seen on the lid of the case. Both earbuds have a microphone, a physical function key with the Yamaha logo on it, and an LED indicator for pairing. The underside of each earbud has a charging connector, which can be connected to the charging pins available inside the case. Both earbuds offer an IPX5 rating, which makes them ideal for use during workouts. As far as comfort is concerned, the earbuds fit well inside the ear canals thanks to the different-sized eartips they come with.

Connectivity and Controls

The TW-E3B comes with support for Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, which brings support for audio codecs, such as SBC, AAC, and aptX. In order to establish a connection between the TW-E3B and a phone for the first time, one needs to take out the right earbuds and long press the button available on it. This will let the TW-E3B enter pairing mode, and its LED indicator will flash blue. Next, one needs to scan for new Bluetooth devices on a phone and look for “Yamaha TW-E3B R.” The LED indicator will then glow in purple, meaning it is ready for use. Next, take out the left earbud from the case, and it will show a prompt on the phone to connect with “Yamaha TW-E3B L,” this way the left earbud can be connected. Once the device has been paired with a smartphone, the earbuds will instantly connect to the phone when they are taken out of the case.

The specifications sheet for the TW-E3B on the official website mentions that it does not support gaming mode or active noise cancellation. However, it offers a feature called Listening Care. According to Yamaha, “Listening Care provides a more sophisticated solution by using a 4-band parametric equalizer (PEQ) to apply precise settings at each level in order to produce the best tonal balance at every volume. This means that you (and earbud guy) don’t have to crank up the volume to hear the bass drops or the cymbal crashes.”  Here is how the function key on each earbud work.

ControlsFunctions
Single press on right / left earbudPlay / Pause | Answer / End call
Long press on right / left on an incoming callReject call
Double press on right earbudIncrease volume
Double press on left earbudDecrease volume
Triple press on right / left earbudAccess Google Assistant / Siri
Long press on right earbud until here a beepNext Song
Long press on left earbud until here a beepPrevious Song
Long press on right earbudPower on / off
Long press on left earbudPower on / off

I sometimes prefer to listen to music using only one earbud. Some mid-tier earbuds offer smart wear detection, which can automatically play / pause music when an earbud is removed from the ear. This feature is unavailable on the TW-E3B. However, in its absence, the Yamaha TW-E3B offers a nifty feature that allows the user to turn off / on to the left or right by long pressing the function key.

Most earbuds with smart wear detection require users to remove one of the earbuds to play / pause. On such TWS devices, once the earbud is removed, it should be placed inside the case to make sure you don’t lose it. However, on the TW-E3B, one can continue wearing the turned off earbud and turn it on whenever required. Another thing that I liked about the TW-E3B is that it provides a way to adjust the volume through the earbuds.

Sound Output and Battery Life

There is a dedicated app called “Headphones Controller” available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It shows the battery status of the earbuds, offers a toggle to turn on Listening Care, and an auto power off timer. It also lets users search for the latest firmware for the TW-E3B. The Listening Care adjusts the frequency balance, offering rich sound quality playback even at a low volume.

The TW-E3B will be liked by those who prefer to listen to every detail. The 6mm audio drivers onboard produce crisp audio output. The bass is good enough and does not appear overoptimized. One of the impressive features of the TW-E3B is that the audio sounds very clear when played at low volume.

The built-in microphone is good enough for voice memos and voice assistants. As far as call quality is concerned, it is unable to cut down noise in a busy environment since it lacks ANC. However, it is still usable for calls in scenarios with less background noise.

Coming to the battery life of the TW-E3B, the moment the earbuds are worn, they will sound one of the following battery status messages.

  • Battery High: plenty of charge remaining
  • Battery Medium: moderate charge remaining
  • Battery Low: small amount of charge remaining

In addition, if the battery is low, the LED indicator on the earbuds flashes three times in red. As claimed by the brand, the TW-E3B takes around two hours to achieve a full charge. The official page of the device states that the earbuds can last for up to 6 hours once they are fully charged. With the charging case, it can last for up to 24 hours. The charging case promises up to three charging cycles.

I used the TW-E3B for a couple of weeks. Since I used them for an hour or two each time, the earbuds could easily last for 3 to 4 hours. Hence, it required me to charge the TW-E3B once a week. I can conclude that the audio output and battery life are the strengths of the Yamaha TW-E3B.

Price and Availability

The Yamaha TW-E3B and TW-E5B debuted last year for Rs 8,490 (~$103) and Rs 14,200 (~$17), respectively. At the time of writing this review, the TW-E3B was priced at Rs 6,490 (~$79) It can be purchased through Amazon India and the Yamaha Music Store website. To conclude, the TW-E3B, which is powered by Yamaha’s decades of experience in acoustic and electric technologies, offers an impressive audio experience in the affordable price segment.

Disclaimer:  All of the opinions in this Yamaha TW-E3B TWS earbuds unboxing and hands-on post are mine and based on my own experiences. There has been no editorial input from Yamaha.

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Microsoft threatens to restrict Bing search data access to AI chatbot competitors

Microsoft is reportedly cracking down on Bing-powered search engines that are using its search data to power their AI chatbots. According to a report from Bloomberg, the tech giant has informed two unnamed search engines that if they continue to use Bing’s search data with their AI tools, Microsoft will restrict their access to the data altogether. This move by Microsoft is seen as an attempt to make its search data exclusive to Bing’s chatbot, which is powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4 language model and can answer questions, create summaries, generate code, and write social media posts.

While Microsoft licenses out Bing’s search data to several search engines, including DuckDuckGo, Yahoo, and You.com, it apparently draws the line at using its data in AI chatbots, which it views as a violation of its contract. Sources close to the situation claim that Microsoft may choose to terminate its agreements with the search engines accused of misusing the information.

Microsoft

Although it’s unclear which search engines Bloomberg is referring to in its report, it’s worth noting that DuckDuckGo recently launched a tool called DuckAssist that provides AI-generated summaries for certain searches, while You.com and Neeva both offer AI-powered tools that generate annotated summaries and provide answers to users’ questions. Microsoft’s decision to restrict Bing’s search data for use in AI chatbots could impact the functionality and capabilities of these search engines’ chatbots.

This crackdown by Microsoft is significant because it highlights the increasing importance of AI chatbots in the search engine landscape. With more companies like Google introducing their own takes on OpenAI’s ChatGPT chatbot, there is a growing demand for access to high-quality search data to power these tools. Microsoft’s decision to restrict access to its search data could potentially put it at a competitive advantage, as it seeks to make its chatbot stand out in a crowded marketplace.

This move could also have implications for the wider AI industry. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold, but it underscores the importance of access to high-quality data in the development of AI technologies.

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Redmi may mass-produce 300W super-fast charging technology

According to the popular tipster Digital Chat Station, Xiaomi is reportedly planning to mass-produce the 300W super-fast charging technology that can fully charge a smartphone in just five minutes. The company recently showcased a modified version of the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ that achieved this feat, and it seems that the technology will be applied to mass-produced models in the near future.

Redmi 300W fast-charging

The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ modified version charges its 4100mAh battery to nearly 50% in just two minutes and fully charges in just five minutes using the 300W super-fast charging technology. The technology achieves a peak power of 290W, which is close to the 300W level.

The Redmi 300W super-fast charging technology is the result of innovative design and new materials, from the charger to the phone’s charging architecture to the battery. The charger uses the fourth-generation integrated GaN (gallium nitride) solution, which maintains the same size as Xiaomi’s previous 210W charger but with a 43% increase in power, achieving a power density of 2.31W/cm³.

Redmi 300W fast-charging

The charging architecture incorporates a customized 6:2 charge pump chip with a maximum conversion efficiency of 98%. This solves the problem of large current heating in the charging input path and reduces charging temperature rise from the source. Multiple charge pumps are arranged in a decentralized layout to effectively avoid concentrated heat generation, allowing for sustained peak power for more than 2 minutes.

The Redmi 300W super-fast charging technology is a breakthrough in fast charging technology, and it could change the way we use smartphones. With the ability to charge a smartphone fully in just five minutes, users will no longer have to worry about running out of battery while on the go. This technology could also have implications for other devices, such as laptops and electric vehicles.

The launch date and which specific model will have this feature is currently unknown, but with the successful demonstration of the modified Redmi Note 12 Pro+, it is only a matter of time before we see this technology in mass-produced smartphones.

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Tecno Camon 20 Premier 5G Alleged Image And Key Specifications Surface Online

Tecno is reportedly working on a Camon 20 Premier 5G smartphone. It is expected to arrive as the successor to the Camon 18 Premier that debuted way back in 2021. Now, the Camon 20 Premier 5G has appeared in a leaked image and the key specifications of the device have also surfaced online. 

As seen in the leaked image, the Tecno Camon 20 Premier 5G has a unique rear camera island. It has a pentagonal shape and the module houses two large sensors, one small lens, and an LED flash. The upcoming offering will come with an RGBW lens and support for OIS. The smartphone features a leather back for a premium look and feel.

As for the core specifications, the report reveals that the Tecno Camon 20 Premier 5G will feature an AMOLED display bearing an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen size is said to be in the 6.X-range and it will be integrated with a fingerprint scanner. The triple camera setup on the Tecno Camon 20 Premier 5G is expected to comprise a 108MP main sensor with sensor-shift OIS, 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a macro unit. 

Under the hood, the Tecno Camon 20 Premier 5G will reportedly be equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 1200 processor. It will pack up to 8GB RAM along with 8GB virtual memory and up to 512GB internal storage. The smartphone is tipped to ship with HiOS 13 based on Android 13. 

The Tecno Camon 20 Premier 5G will be available in Pink/Burgundy and Black color options. It is tipped to be priced under the Rs 25,000 (~$305) segment. 

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TWS Earbuds From Nothing Sub-Brand ‘Particles By XO’ Spotted On Korean NRRA Certification

Back in December last year it was reported that Nothing is working on a sub-brand called ‘Particles by XO’. It was listed as made by Nothing in a firmware. We also got leaked renders of the sub-brand’s first TWS earphones. Earlier this month, the audio device was also spotted on the Bluetooth SIG certification website. Now, it has appeared on the Korean NRRA certification website which also reveals the earphone’s design. 

The Particle by XO TWS earphones are listed on NRRA certification with model number B154. They are manufactured by Nothing Technology Limited. The listing also shows the design of the earbuds and it corroborates the previously leaked renders. It has a unique peanut-shaped design and looks slightly similar to Sony LinkBuds. The earphones feature an L-shaped form factor and the design looks minimalistic. The upcoming earbuds do not look like anything that is available in the market. Apart from this, the certification listing does not reveal any additional details of the audio device.

The Bluetooth SIG certification revealed that the Particle by XO TWS earphones will support Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and will come pre-loaded with firmware version 1.0.1.20. As per a past report, the firmware from Nothing’s servers revealed that the Particles by XO TWS earphones will feature active noise cancellation and low latency high-definition audio codec (LHDAC).  

Meanwhile, Nothing recently launched the Ear (2) TWS earphones with the same transparent design as its predecessor but with incremental upgrades. They are equipped with an 11.6mm dynamic driver with a new dual chamber design that is said to enhance the overall sound quality. The TWS earphones feature ANC up to 40dB along with four modes of smart adaptive noise cancellation and a transparency mode. There is Clear Voice technology along with improved resistance to wind noise. The Nothing Ear (2) comes with Hi-Res audio, LHDC 5.0 codecs, and low lag mode.

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Samsung Galaxy A14 5G gets One UI 5.1 update

Samsung’s latest One UI 5.1 update with version number A146BXXU1BWC3 has started rolling out to Galaxy A14 5G, providing users with new features and improved stability. This update, which comes with the March 2023 security patch, fixes over 50 security issues found in Galaxy smartphones, making it a must-have update.

The update is currently available in some Asian countries, including India and Sri Lanka, but users in other countries may have to wait a few more days to receive it. If you’re eager to get your hands on the latest software, head over to Settings » Software update and tap Download and install, or alternatively, you can download the firmware file from Samsung’s database and flash it manually.

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G

Galaxy A14 5G One UI 5.1 Features

With the One UI 5.1 update, users of the Galaxy A14 5G can expect improved stock apps, including the Gallery app, which now has better search functionality and easier viewing and editing of EXIF information. The Modes and Routines app has also been updated with new options and features, such as font style, Quick Share, ringtone, and wallpaper.

Multitasking has been made even more efficient, with the ability to open split-screen mode with a two-finger swipe-up gesture. The phone also displays frequently used apps first, speeding up the multitasking process. Additionally, users can now drag an app’s window to minimize or maximize it, making it easier to navigate between apps.

Galaxy A14 5G Specifications

Galaxy A14 5G boasts a 6.6-inch FHD+ Infinity-V LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate. It is powered by an Octa-Core MediaTek Dimensity 700 7nm processor, with Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, 4GB/6GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and 64GB/128GB of storage. The storage can be expanded up to 1TB with a microSD card.

The device runs on Android 13 and it features a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP primary sensor, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 2MP sensor, as well as a 13MP front camera. The Samsung Galaxy A14 also has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 3.5mm audio jack, and USB Type-C connectivity. Under the hood, the device has a 5000mAh battery with 15W fast charging support.

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Solana Mobile Saga Launching on April 13th, 2023

Solana Mobile, a Solana Labs company, has announced the release of Saga, a premium Android phone for web3 fans. Saga is a high-end mobile device that includes the Solana Mobile Stack, a set of tools and features that allow users to engage with Solana dApps, trade tokens, mint NFTs, and play on-chain games.

Many of you will be hearing about the Solana smartphone startup for the first time. It’s a new smartphone brand founded by some of the former Essential employees. It was announced a few months ago that the company will release its first smartphone later this year. It was originally set to launch under the name “OSOM,” but the brand later changed their minds and confirmed a new name, Solana.

Solana Mobile teased the Saga release date on Twitter, saying “The wait is nearly over. Saga will be released soon.” The business also released a video highlighting the look and functionality of Saga, which features a 6.67-inch OLED display, 512 GB storage, 12 GB RAM, a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform, and an integrated security element.

solana saga

Saga was initially unveiled in June 2022 at an event in New York, where Solana Mobile also announced the Solana Mobile Stack, an Android framework that allows developers to construct sophisticated mobile experiences for Solana wallets and apps, as well as a “Secure Element” for private key management.

The Solana dApp Shop, a curated collection of the top Solana dApps in one place, is another feature of Saga. Users may discover the most exciting projects in the Solana ecosystem, use their favourite dApps on the go, and gain access to exclusive mobile features from popular dApps such as Magic Eden, StepN, Jupiter, and others.

Saga, according to Solana Mobile, is “the next chapter” in the crypto tale and “sets a new standard for the web3 experience on mobile.” The company anticipates that bringing crypto to mobile would result in increased adoption, better comprehension, and more opportunity for both users and developers.

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Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 Linux laptop launches with 12th Gen Intel CPUs, up to 64GB RAM

Kubuntu has released the second generation of its flagship laptop, the Kubuntu Focus XE. With its sleek design, high-end hardware, and pre-installed Kubuntu 22.04 LTS GNU/Linux distribution, the Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 is aimed at power users and developers who demand top-notch performance and stability.

Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2

The new Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 laptop boasts several improvements over its predecessor, the Kubuntu Focus XE. It features a choice of 28-watt Intel Core i5-1240P or Core i7-1260P processors, which are part of Intel’s latest 12th-gen Core “Alder Lake” architecture. This results in up to a 60% boost in multi-core performance compared to the previous model, without raising the starting price of $895. The laptop also sports up to 64GB of RAM, and PCIe 4 NVMe storage.

The laptop also features a larger 53 Wh battery, providing longer battery life than the previous model. However, the 120Hz display of the previous model has been replaced by a 14-inch, 1920 x 1080 pixel matte display with a 60 Hz refresh rate.

Under the hood, the Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 features two SODIMM slots for DDR4-3200 memory and a single M.2 2280 slot for PCIe 4 storage. Additionally, the laptop includes a Thunderbolt 4 port, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port (data only), two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, an HDMI 1.4b port, a Gigabit Ethernet port, a 3.5mm audio combo jack, an SD card reader.

The Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 comes equipped with a 1MP webcam with support for 720p video, stereo 2W speakers, an Intel AX201 wireless card with support for Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, and a backlit keyboard. The laptop with dual fans and heat pipes is actively cooled, ensuring reliable and efficient performance.

Measuring 325 x 225 x 17.6mm (12.8″ x 8.9″ x 0.7″), and weighing only 1.45 kg (3.2 pounds), the Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 is a highly portable notebook. It has an aluminum lid and keyboard deck, along with a “resin” bottom and screen bezel, adding to its overall durability.

In conclusion, the Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 offers an excellent balance of performance, portability, and features. With its latest hardware and software configurations, the laptop caters to the needs of power users and developers who demand reliability, stability, and top-notch performance. The Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 2 is available now from the Kubuntu Focus website.

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Redmi Note 12 Turbo Roundup: Specs, Design, and Expected Pricing

Redmi’s latest Note 12 series was introduced in China towards the end of last year, and subsequently, it made its debut in other global markets including. The lineup currently includes three phones and all of them offer a good bounce for the ounce. Soon, Redmi will top the series off with a new model called Note 12 Turbo.

The new smartphone is confirmed to debut in China on March 28 with a new Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 SoC under the hood. Although the official launch is yet to happen, several teasers and leaks have already revealed a good deal about the device. This post compiles all the details that are currently available about the upcoming Redmi Note 12 Turbo.

Redmi Note 12 Turbo launch date-
Redmi Note 12 Turbo

Design and Display

The Redmi Note 12 Turbo is going to bring some serious hardware specs out of the box, but don’t expect it to look all that different from the other phones in the same series. However, there are a few notable changes. Firstly, the company has ditched the large camera housing that’s found on the rest of the Redmi Note 12 lineup, opting for individual lenses on the Note 12 Turbo instead.

The handset has been teased in its white and silver finish but it will also be offered in a black colorway as well. The back of the phone features three camera cutouts, including a prominent 64MP main lens. In addition, the Redmi Note 12 Turbo boasts dual speakers, a USB-C port, and what appears to be an IR blaster at the top. Interestingly, the phone also comes with a headphone jack, a feature that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern smartphones.

Redmi Note 12 Turbo display

Redmi Note 12 Turbo will give the iPhone 14 a run for its money with its thin bezels on the front. According to the company, the phone will sport a 2.2 mm chin, which is 0.2 mm thinner than the iPhone 14. The side bezels will be 1.42 mm thick, while the top bezel will measure 1.95 mm. Although the bezels aren’t exactly uniform, the phone’s side bezels are even thinner than the iPhone 14’s 2.4 mm ones. Oh, and there’s a small hole-punch in the display too.

Further, the display on the device will likely measure 6.67 inches. Redmi has confirmed that the OLED panel will support 68.7 billion colors, 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut, 1920Hz PWM Dimming, and HDR10+ certification. It has been claimed to offer a 93.45 percent screen-to-body ratio.

Specifications

Redmi Note 12 Turbo will arrive as a mid-range smartphone but will rival some of the flagship phones with its specification. Its major highlight is going to be the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2, which is not a high-end SoC but has been reported to offer performance similar to that of the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor. Qualcomm says the new chip will offer substantial performance and power efficiency improvements over the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1.

The chipset has its main Kryo CPU core clocked at 2.91GHz and the whole 1+3+4 CPU architecture is claimed to deliver over a 50% jump. The processor could be paired with up to 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of UFS 3.1 storage. It will also boast a vapor chamber cooling system spanning 3,725 mm². On the software front, the Note 12 Turbo will boot MIUI 14 based on Android 13.

As confirmed by its 3C certification, the smartphone will be fueled by a 5,000mAh battery with support for 67W fast charging. We don’t expect to see wireless charging support on the handset.

For photography, the Redmi Note 12 Turbo will feature a triple camera unit on the rear, headlined by a 64MP primary camera with support for optical image stabilization (OIS). It will feature an 8MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro shooter on the back. The front may flaunt a 12MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.

Expected Pricing

The Redmi Note 12 Turbo is expected to make its debut as a true flagship killer, boasting impressive specs that are likely to give other high-end smartphones a run for their money. What’s more, it’s rumored that the phone will come with a competitive price tag. While there’s no official confirmation yet, rumors suggest the handset will be priced in the range of $350-$400. It is also reported to arrive in the global market but with a different name, likely as the long-anticipated Poco F5.

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OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G Specifications, Price Leak Before April 4 Launch

On April 4, OnePlus will announce the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and OnePlus Nord Buds 2 in multiple markets. The company has already revealed the design of the Nord CE 3 Lite through its landing pages available on its official website and on Amazon. Fresh leaks have revealed the specifications and price of the device.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G specifications (rumored)

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G faetured
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G will have a 6.72-inch LCD panel with an FHD+ resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the Snapdragon 695 chipset, 8 GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W SuperVOOC charging support.

The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G will run on OxygenOS 13.1-based Android 13. It will be treated with two years of OS upgrades and three years of security updates. The device will offer 128 GB of internal storage and a microSD card slot for additional storage.

The Nord CE 3 Lite will have a 16-megapixel front-facing camera and a 108-megapixel (main) + 2-megapixel (macro) + 2-megapixel (depth) triple camera unit. The smartphone will offer other features, such as dual SIM, 5G, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, and USB-C. The polycarbonate-bodied device will measure 165 x 76 x 8.3mm and weigh 195 grams.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G price (rumored)

The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G is speculated to cost 329 euros in Europe. It will arrive in two colors: Pastel Lime and Chromatic Gray. To recall the Nord CE 2 Lite 5G was priced at 299 euros in Europe.

As far as the Nord Buds 2 is concerned, it is said to be rebranded version of the OnePlus Buds Ace TWS earbuds that went official in China last month.

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