Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro With 1.47″ AMOLED Display, Ultra-thin Bezels Announced for £299

By

-

Feb 26, 2023

Alongside the Xiaomi 13, 13 Pro and 13 Lite, Xiaomi has launched the Watch S1 Pro at MWC 2023 which provides a classic spin on the modern smartwatch. With a silver case and brown leather strap, this wearable has a timeless look, perfect for those who prefer analogue watches over digital ones. The circular display can mimic the hands of an analogue watch, providing a seamless transition for those who want a traditional look with modern features.

The 1.47-inch AMOLED touchscreen has a resolution of 480 x 480 pixels and is protected by sapphire crystal glass to prevent scuffs and scrapes. The ultra-thin bezels give the watch a sleek and elegant appearance, while a rotating digital crown and a shortcut button allow for easy navigation through Xiaomi’s MIUI Watch OS interface.

While the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro may not look like a sporty smartwatch, it can track over 100 different sports and activities, making it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts. With 10 running programmes, including interval and endurance training, users can expect all the usual fitness metrics, including step and sleep tracking, GPS mapping, heart rate monitoring, and SpO2 records. The watch case is also 5ATM water-resistant, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.

The watch comes in two color options: black stainless steel case with a black fluororubber strap or a silver stainless steel case with a brown leather strap. The TPU strap is adjustable to fit sizes ranging from 140-210mm, while the leather strap can be adjusted from 135-205mm.

Other features of the Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro include a built-in speaker for making voice calls, NFC for contactless payments, and a seamless pairing function for anyone with a Xiaomi smartphone. The watch has a battery life of up to 14 days, depending on usage, and can be charged wirelessly in less than 85 minutes. A 10-minute top-up on the bundled charging cradle should provide an additional two days of use.

The Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro is available now through the official Xiaomi UK website and retails for £299. Overall, the Watch S1 Pro is a great option for those who want a classic-looking smartwatch with modern features and functionality.

RELATED:

Xiaomi & Google Bring New MIUI Gallery Features, Announced 6-month Google One Trial for Xiaomi 13

By

Anurag

-

Feb 26, 2023

Xiaomi has made some notable changes to the MIUI Gallery in the past. For one, the brand dropped support for the sync feature with Xiaomi Cloud and integrated the gallery with Google Photos backup functionality. Today during the MWC 2023, the brand announced it is taking its partnership with Google Photos even further to bring more features to the MIUI Gallery. Additionally, Xiaomi revealed the latest Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi Pro phones will come with a free 6-month trial of the premium Google One 2 TB plan. Let’s look at the details.

Last year, Xiaomi introduced automatic backup of photos and videos from the MIUI Gallery to Google Photos. Now, Xiaomi and Google are making this integration even smoother by allowing users to view all backed-up content from both platforms directly in the MIUI Gallery and Google Photos apps. This means that users will be able to access all of their media, including the content saved on their phones, in one place, creating a more unified experience.

The seamless integration will make it easier for users to manage their media and access their memories, regardless of where they were originally saved. Furthermore, any edits or deletions made to photos in either the MIUI Gallery or Google Photos will be automatically reflected in the other app. This means that if a user edits or deletes a photo in one app, the changes will instantly appear in the other app as well.

As mentioned, Xiaomi has also announced that the newly-launched Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro will enjoy a free 6-month trial of the Google One 2 TB plan. Additionally, select future Xiaomi phones will arrive with a 100 GB Google One Plan. The plan will include access to features like Magic Eraser, extra Google Meet time, and much more.

RELATED:

(Source)

Nokia C22 and C32 With Three-day Battery Life Announced

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Feb 26, 2023

Nokia has announced the C22 and C32 phones in the C series of affordable phones. The new phones come with some decent features on top of a three-day battery life.

The Nokia C32 is the first in the C series lineup to come with a 50MP camera and has a glass covering on both its front and back. Both the C22 and C32 are rated IP52 for dust and water spray protection. The two models feature a 6.5-inch HD+ LCD screen with curved glass. They are also both equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that can last up to three days on a full charge. The battery of the Nokia C22 and C32 support 10W charging with battery life being enhanced by AI-enabled battery management.

The Nokia C22 has a plastic rear panel with a built-in fingerprint scanner. The camera setup of the phone includes a 13MP main camera, a 2MP macro, and an 8MP front camera. The front camera of the C22 is capable of face unlock even when the owner wears a mask. The phone offers up to 3GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, expandable via microSD. It is available in two color variants namely Midnight Black and Sand.

The Nokia C32 is signposted by its 50MP main camera with Night and Portrait modes, as well as Auto HDR. It also has a 2MP macro sensor at the rear while the front 8MP camera also supports face unlock while wearing a mask, as in the C22. The C32 is equipped with a UNISOC SC9863A chipset with up to 4GB of RAM and 64GB/ 128GB of storage. It also features a microSD slot for storage expansion. The Nokia C32 runs on Android 13 and will be available in Autumn Green, Beach Pink, and Charcoal color options.

Nokia has pledged two years of quarterly security updates for the Nokia C32. The Nokia C22 is being retailed at 109 Euros (~$115) while the Nokia C32 starts at 129 Euros (~$136).

RELATED:

All-new ZTE Axon 41 Pro Listed on Official Website With Full Specifications

By

Anurag

-

Feb 26, 2023

ZTE unveiled the Axon 40 Pro smartphone in China in May last year, followed by a global launch in July. The handset brings a sleek design with a curved display and quad-camera setup on the back. It appears that the brand is now preparing to release a new smartphone as a follow-up to its previous model. This upcoming device is named Axon 41 Pro and has been listed on the official website with full specifications. Here are the details.

Before we lay down the specs, it is important to note that smartphone looks identical to last year’s Axon 40 Pro. We see a rectangular module on the rear that houses four cameras and an LED flash. The front features a curved display with a punch hole cutout on the top center. Overall, the device looks quite premium but nothing new.

The specifications of the Axon 41 Pro don’t stray far from the Axon 40 Pro either. It features a 6.67-inch AMOLED curved display with a resolution of 2400×1080, a 144Hz refresh rate, and a 360Hz touch sampling rate. The panel features an under-display fingerprint sensor and a 32MP shooter for selfies.

Under the hood, the handset is powered by the Snapdragon 870 chip, the same as the A40 Pro. There are graphene multi-dimensional cooling and stereo speakers as well. For photography, the device gets a quad camera unit on the rear, headlined by a 108MP primary sensor with a 1/1.52-inch size. The main sensor is accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide-angle camera, a 2MP camera with a 4-centimeter focal length, and a 2MP depth sensor.

The ZTE Axon 41 Pro is fueled by a 5000mAh battery with support for 66W fast charging. It weighs 199g and measures 8.46mm thick, making it thinner and lighter than the Axon 40 Pro. Currently, the pricing of the device is not known. We’ll update the article once we get an official confirmation.

RELATED:

(Via)

Xiaomi 13 Lite Launches with Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 and Two Selfie Cameras

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Feb 26, 2023

Xiaomi is continuing to expand its smartphone family by implementing different strategies for the Chinese and global markets. The company divides its products into different categories. In accordance with this policy, the Xiaomi 13 series, which was introduced in China a while ago, was recently presented to users at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. The most striking model in the series was the Xiaomi 13 Lite, which focuses on price/performance. So, what are the specs of the Xiaomi 13 Lite, and how much does it cost? Here are the details…

Price-Performance Focused Xiaomi 13 Lite Launches with Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 and Two Selfie Camera

The rebranding strategy, which is frequently preferred by Chinese companies, also appeared in the Xiaomi 13 Lite model. The smartphone is a rebranded version of the Xiaomi Civi 2, which launched in 2022. Although the design and name are different, it should be noted that they are essentially the same device based on the basic technical features.

The Xiaomi 13 Lite features a 6.55-inch Full HD AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support. Unlike its predecessor, it has a pill-shaped screen design with two front cameras. The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor, manufactured with a 4 nm fabrication process. The chipset includes a 2.4 GHz ARM Cortex-A710 (Kryo) core, three 2.36 GHz ARM Cortex-A710 cores, four 1.8 GHz ARM Cortex-A510 cores, and an Adreno 662 graphics unit.

There are two 32-megapixel selfie cameras on the front, and the rear has a triple camera consisting of a 50-megapixel main, 20-megapixel ultra-wide, and a 2-megapixel macro sensor. The device offers 8/12 GB RAM and 128/256 GB internal storage options. It also features a 4,500 mAh battery that supports 67W charging speed. Out of the box, it will run the MIUI 14 interface based on Android 13.

Xiaomi 13 Lite Specs:

Display: 6.55-inch Full HD resolution AMOLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1
RAM: 8/12 GB
Storage: 128/256 GB
Front Camera: Dual 32 Megapixel
Rear Camera: 50 Megapixel main, 20 Megapixel ultra-wide, and 2 Megapixel macro sensor
Battery: 4,500 mAh battery with support for 67W fast charging.

Price-Performance-oriented Xiaomi 13 Lite’s selling price was announced as follows:

Xiaomi 13 Lite with 128 GB Storage and 8 GB RAM: 499 Euro

RELATED:

Xiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro Makes Its Debut In The Global Market

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Feb 26, 2023

At a pre-MWC launch event in Barcelona, Spain, Xiaomi has unveiled a host of new products for the global markets. The Chinese brand has launched the Xiaomi 13 series smartphones, Watch S1 Pro, MIUI 14, Xiaomi CyberDog, CyberOne, and more. The Xiaomi 13 series comprises the regular, pro, and lite models. The former two debuted in China in December last year whereas the lite variant is a rebranded version of the Xiaomi Civi 2.

The Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro arrive as the successors to the last year’s Xiaomi 12 and 12 Pro. They pack significant upgrades over their predecessors and the specifications of the global variants are the same as their Chinese counterparts.

Beginning with the display, the Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro boast an AMOLED screen integrated with a fingerprint scanner and a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout. Both devices offer a 120Hz refresh rate, 1,900 nits peak brightness, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG support. The regular variant features a 6.36-inch flat screen bearing an FHD+ resolution whereas the Pro model comes with a 6.73-inch QHD+ display with curved edges.

Design-wise, the Xiaomi 13 sports a boxy form factor whereas the Pro variant has a slim profile. Both devices have a square camera module on the back panel and they are IP68-certified water and dust-resistant. The smartphones feature a nano-skin technology that is said to make the back panel easier to clean. In terms of audio, the Xiaomi 13 duo are equipped with stereo speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos.

On the imaging front, the Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro feature Leica-branded triple rear cameras and pack the legendary camera maker’s technology for enhancing imaging capabilities. These include Leica filters, a master-lens system with four focal lens up to 75mm, HperOIS, 4K recording etc. The Pro model has a 1-inch Sony IMX989 50MP primary lens paired with 50MP ultra-wide, and 50MP telephoto lenses. The regular variant has a toned-down setup of a 50MP OIS-enabled Sony IMX800 sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 10MP telephoto unit. Up front, the Xiaomi 13 duo is fitted with a 16MP selfie snapper.

Under the hood, the Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro are equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor coupled with up to 12GB LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB UFS 4.0 storage technology. There is a VC liquid cooling heat dissipation system onboard. The regular and pro variants draw their power from 4,500mAh and 4,820mAh battery units with support for 67W and 120W wired charging respectively. Both phones come with support for 50W wireless and 10W reverse wireless charging with the help of a Surge G1 charging protection chip.

Software-wise, the Xiaomi 13 duo run on MIUI 14-based Android 13 OS out of the box. The smartphones will receive 3 years of Android OS updates and five years of security patches. Connectivity options on the devices include 5G, 4G, WiFi-7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, IR Blaster, and USB-C port.

The Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro are offered in Ceramic White and Ceramic Black colours. The regular model is also offered in Flora Green paintjob. The former starts at EUR 999 for the 8GB + 256GB option while the latter carries a starting price tag of EUR 1,299 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. The pricing for the Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro’s 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB has not been announced. The availability dates and pricing will vary for different regions.

Related:

Motorola Rizr Rollable Concept Smartphone Showcased at MWC 2023

By

Chandan

-

Feb 26, 2023

The long-awaited MWC Barcelona 2023 event has finally started. On the first day itself, multiple brands started showcasing and launching their product. Xiaomi will also unveil the Xiaomi 13 series. In the upcoming days, we will see launches like Honor Magic 5 series, and much more. Anyway, Motorola has also showcased its rollable concept smartphone at the MWC event. The rollable phone lands in its classic Motorola Rizr branding. The device has got several exciting features to display!

The Motorola Rizr series of smartphones is a legendary vintage line from the company that mainly introduces sliding phones. The Motorola Razr Z3 was the name of the first product in this series when it was released back in 2006. The phone had a sliding keypad. When it is opened, the top section slides up to reveal the standard keys. These keys are concealed when the phone is closed, however, once the keypad is unlocked, the other keys, including the side keys, can be used normally.

Although this time it includes an automated rollable display mechanism, the new Motorola Rizr continues its legacy. This eliminates the need for us to manually stretch and roll the display, and the automated system is really cool-looking. Ben Wood, a Twitter user, posted pictures and videos of the smartphone that was showcased during the MWC 2023 event. The video demonstrates its small size while the display is in its usual state, and when it is rolled up, it resembles a typical smartphone very much.

👀 Wow! Think I've found my favourite gadget at #MWC23 before it even starts. This concept rollable is really impressive and @Moto was confident enough to let us have hands-on time. Interesting to watch the road to commercialisation on this one… pic.twitter.com/EDgkWsOm1t
— Ben Wood (@benwood) February 26, 2023

AndroidAuthority further reports that the device has a 5-inch POLED display in a 15:9 aspect ratio and a small form factor. It transforms into a 6.5-inch screen with a 22:9 aspect ratio when it is rolled up. The entire user interface varies depending on the device’s current stage. The manufacturer has included a built-in wallpaper with some interesting effects that trigger when the device is shifting.

The smartphone’s rollable display offers a variety of uses for which it has been tuned. The display rolls and extends to its expanded shape whenever a user double-taps the power button. Also, it adjusts the display size accordingly. For instance, the display will automatically adjust its size anytime you view a video in landscape mode. The smartphone has two rear cameras, a metal gold-like colour, and device branding on the back panel.

Hence, that was all we had to say about the Motorola Rizr concept smartphone. We are excited to put the device to the test in real life because it does look absolutely fantastic. It won’t be possible, though, until the product has been formally launched. As of yet, there has been no official news about the device’s commercial availability. The introduction of a product could happen soon or not. What do you think about this? Please let us know by leaving a comment below in your own words. I appreciate you reading this article all the way through.

RELATED

Iconic Nokia Logo Gets a Makeover to Change Identity of the Company

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Feb 26, 2023

It’s been a pretty busy day for Nokia. It looks like the once legendary phone maker is finally making the long-awaited changes. One of them takes place in the identity of the company. Nokia finally created the iconic iconic logo known to everyone. Here are the details…

Nokia changes iconic logo

Nokia has unveiled a new brand identity that includes a refreshed logo, as part of its efforts to accelerate growth in the market. This marks the first time in nearly six decades that Nokia has updated its logo. The new logo is made up of five different shapes that form the word “NOKIA”. Unlike the previous blue color scheme, the new logo features a range of colors depending on its intended use.

The shift in Nokia’s branding is reflective of the company’s new focus on the business technology market. CEO Pekka Lundmark explained that the previous association with smartphones is no longer the company’s main priority. “Nowadays we are a business technology company,” he said in an interview with Reuters. Based on this, we can say that the company will not return to the smartphone market.

Some of you may think that Nokia is still in the phone market, but that is not true. Phones sold under the Nokia brand are manufactured by HMD Global and the name Nokia is just a brand.

RELATED:

Startup Uses 3D Printing to Create Solid-State Batteries in Customizable Shapes

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 26, 2023

Sakuu, an innovative startup headquartered in Silicon Valley, has introduced a game-changing 3D printer that has the potential to transform battery production as we know it. By leveraging the printer’s capabilities, the company can create solid-state batteries that can fit into any shape or size. From smartphones to household appliances and e-bikes, these batteries can power a range of devices, making them more efficient and cost-effective.

Traditionally, battery manufacturing involves laminating and stacking sheets of material, which are then rolled into cylinders or other shapes. This method, however, is not feasible for solid materials that can break easily. Sakuu’s 3D printer utilizes powder to maintain thin layers and ensure optimal performance. The technology behind the printer was developed at MIT, and it minimizes material waste, making it cost-effective.

Sakuu’s 3D printer is not only cost-effective but also space-efficient, requiring only around 400 square feet to manufacture 100 megawatt hours of batteries per year. In contrast, older machinery takes up 16,000 square feet and produces only 2.5 megawatt hours. The increased efficiency of Sakuu’s 3D printer is expected to reduce battery production costs by nearly 50%.

The company is presently working with aviation industry clients to develop airplane batteries in customized shapes to manage heat. It has also demonstrated the printer’s ability to produce functional batteries using different materials and designs, and it claims to be the first company in the world to do so. Scaling up production equipment is the next phase for the company before it licenses the technology to clients in the battery, automobile, and other sectors.

RELATED:

(via)

Rumor: Pre-Order Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro and Get a Free 43-Inch Smart TV

By

Anurag

-

Feb 26, 2023

Xiaomi 13 series will be unveiled in just a few hours and we are ready to bring you all the details about it. But while we wait, some interesting information about the pre-orders of the upcoming lineup has surfaced online. According to a tipster, Xiaomi is planning to give a free 43-inch smart TV to those who’ll pre-book the vanilla Xiaomi 13 and the higher-end Xiaomi 13 Pro. The offer seems to be limited to shoppers in France. Here are the details.

Tipster @billbil_kun has managed to get the pre-order details for the imminent Xiaomi 13 series. As per the screenshots shared by the tipster, those who’ll pre-order the Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro will enjoy a free 43-inch version of the TV P1, which is listed in the Eurozone with a price tag of €449. This offer is even better than the Xiaomi 12T Pro, whose pre-order deal included a complementary Redmi Pad.

However, the offer appears to be limited to the purchase of either the Xiaomi 13 or Xiaomi 13 Pro and does not apply to the less expensive Xiaomi 13 Lite. To provide context, the Xiaomi 13 Lite is anticipated to have a starting price of €499, while the Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro are priced at €999.90 and €1,299.90, respectively.

It is worth noting that Xiaomi hasn’t officially announced the pre-order period for the two devices. According to the leaked information, Xiaomi is expected to start accepting pre-orders for the Xiaomi 13 series on the same day as its official launch. However, it seems that the pre-ordered devices won’t be shipped until after the first week of March.

RELATED:

(Source) (Via)

Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Panasonic’s Answer to Sustainable Energy Need in China

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Feb 26, 2023

Panasonic is set to launch pure hydrogen fuel cell generators in China starting from April. The aim is to develop global demand for the technology as a 24-hour alternative to solar panels for factories and offices. This move comes as the company looks to establish itself as a leader in the industry, having already started sales of stand-alone fuel cells in Europe and Japan. Here are the details…

Panasonic to sell pure hydrogen fuel cell generators in China

Shigeru Dohno, President of Panasonic Holdings’ China & Northeast Asia unit, announced the move at the company’s battery plant in the city of Wuxi. He emphasized that Panasonic is ahead of the pack in developing this technology and will continue to lead the way in sales. The factory in Wuxi will be used as a showroom for the technology.

Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The process emits no carbon dioxide and has several advantages, such as the ability to generate power at all hours and a smaller space requirement than solar panels. However, the high cost of hydrogen fuel remains a challenge, although prices are expected to fall as demand grows.

The Chinese market for hydrogen fuel cell businesses is already quite competitive, with about 100 companies operating in the industry. However, most of them are involved in automotive fuel cells rather than stand-alone types for homes or businesses, as noted by Dohno. Thus, the launch of pure hydrogen fuel cell generators by Panasonic presents a unique opportunity for the company to make an impact in the industry.

Panasonic’s stand-alone fuel cells have already begun sales in Europe, where the company is working with German heating systems maker Viessmann to bring the first systems online in April. Similarly, the fuel cells were launched in Japan in October 2021 and have been installed in a housing development in the Harumi district of Tokyo, among other facilities such as research laboratories.

Despite the high cost of hydrogen fuel, the adoption of fuel cells for power generation is growing globally. The International Energy Agency predicts that hydrogen demand could increase by a factor of 10 by 2050. Furthermore, governments worldwide are investing heavily in hydrogen technology as a clean and reliable source of energy, with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve sustainability goals.

RELATED:

(via)

Putting “Unbreakable” Huawei Kunlun Glass to the Test: The Results May Surprise You (video)

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Feb 26, 2023

Innovation is often lacking in modern smartphones. Manufacturers tend to produce similar phones and struggle to differentiate new models with innovative features. However, there are some exceptions. Recently, the Chinese tech giant Huawei introduced its Kunlun glass technology, which it claims is “unbreakable.” Now, the durability of the Huawei Mate 50 Pro, the first phone to use this technology, has been put to the test. Here are the details…

How did Huawei’s “unbreakable” Kunlun glass perform in a concrete drop test?

Huawei Mate 50 Pro has received a lot of attention for its Kunlun glass. The company claims Kunlun is “unbreakable” due to its unique manufacturing process. The glass reportedly handles impacts ten times better than other smartphone glasses and has been given a five-star rating by SGS certification company. But how does it perform in a real-world scenario?

A YouTube channel calls “PBK Reviews” put Huawei Mate 50 with Kunlun glass a drop test to see phones durability. The first drop was from waist-high on the phone’s AMOLED display, resulting in some scrapes on the corners and sides of the frame. However, the glass held up well. On another attempt to drop the phone on the screen from head-high, the glass did touch the concrete, but there was no damage to the display.

The fourth and final drop was a waist-high fall on the phone’s back, resulting in a hairline crack on the front glass. Overall, the Kunlun glass held up well during the drop test, but it wouldn’t be right to say that the screen is unbreakable. Still Kunlun is much more successful than Gorilla Glass Victus 2. For example, Victus 2 protected displays on the Galaxy S23+ and S23 Ultra. In a similar test, both phone cracked on the first drop. You can watch the videos of the tests below.

Huawei P60 series will be the next phone using Kunlun Glass

The Huawei P60 series, expected to be released next month. The phone is also to feature Kunlun glass, along with other innovations such as Huawei’s XMAGE photography system and Low battery emergency mode. Huawei’s ability to innovate and develop technologies like Kunlun glass despite the US restrictions on exports is noteworthy. However, the company still faces challenges, including the potential loss of the ability to obtain even handicapped chipsets following the Biden administration’s decision to get tougher on approving export licenses for shipments to Huawei.

RELATED:

(via)

Sony WF-1000XM5 Wireless Earbuds Spotted on FCC

By

Soumyakanti

-

Feb 26, 2023

Sony’s much-awaited WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds have finally been spotted on the FCC website, hinting at an imminent launch. These earbuds will be the next iteration of Sony’s popular WF-1000XM4 earbuds, which were launched back in June 2021. The FCC listing reveals that the new earbuds will feature Bluetooth 5.3 and Bluetooth LE, along with Qualcomm aptX Lossless support, which should help them compete with other premium earbuds in the market.

Interestingly, the Sony WF-1000XM5 will reportedly reuse the touch panel from its predecessor, which was widely praised for its intuitive controls. It is unclear if the earbuds will receive a complete redesign, like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 over-the-ear headphones. However, it is expected that the new earbuds will receive a battery upgrade and other performance improvements.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra, which was recently leaked, is expected to be a strong competitor to the Sony WF-1000XM5. Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II have already been out for a while, making it even more important for Sony to deliver a compelling offering to stay ahead in the race. While the FCC listing doesn’t reveal much about the new earbuds, it does suggest that the launch is imminent, possibly as early as July 2023.

One area of concern for potential buyers is the price point of the new earbuds. With market conditions being what they are, it is likely that the Sony WF-1000XM5 will come with a higher price tag than its predecessor. However, those on a budget can still get a pair of XM4s, which are expected to be discounted after the new earbuds are launched.

RELATED:

(Source, Via)

3 Technologies That Will Transform the Smartphone Industry in the Next 5 Years

By

Leo Wong De Quan

-

Feb 26, 2023

Smartphones have become an essential part of our lives, but they are also constantly evolving. In the next five years, we can expect some major breakthroughs that will change how we use and interact with our devices. Here are the top three technologies that will revolutionize smartphones in the near future:

1. Satellite Connectivity: Imagine being able to send and receive messages anywhere on Earth, even without a cellular network. That’s what satellite connectivity promises to deliver. Several smartphone makers, such as Samsung, Apple and Huawei have already introduced devices that can connect to satellites for emergency purposes, but some are going a step further and enabling two-way SMS messages. This means you can stay in touch with your loved ones, access vital information, and get help when you need it most, no matter where you are.

Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Satellite Connectivity

2. Solid State Batteries: One of the biggest challenges of smartphone users is battery life. No one likes running out of juice or having to charge their phone frequently. That’s why solid state batteries are so exciting. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries that use liquid electrolyte solution, solid state batteries use solid electrolyte. This means they can pack more energy in less space, resulting in longer battery life and faster charging times. Solid state batteries are also safer and more stable than lithium-ion batteries, reducing the risk of overheating or exploding.

3. Flexible Displays: What if you could fold, bend, or twist your smartphone screen without breaking it? That’s what flexible displays offer. OLED displays are used for creating flexible screens that can adapt to different shapes and sizes. Smartphones with flexible displays can transform from a compact smartphone to a larger tablet, giving you more versatility and functionality. You can also enjoy better durability, lighter weight, and more multitasking options with flexible phones.

OPPO Find N2 Foldable Smartphone — Oppo Find N2

Speaking of flexible displays, our team here at Gizmochina got the chance to review Oppo’s 2023 flagship foldable, the Oppo Find N2. The Oppo Find N2 features Qualcomm’s powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB of internal storage, alongside its large 7.1-inch 120Hz LTPO AMOLED inner display.

To know more about the Oppo Find N2, you watch our review video here on YouTube.

RELATED:

Nokia Phones Go Local: HMD’s Game-Changing Manufacturing Decision

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Feb 26, 2023

Nokia, once a legendary phone brand, is now far from its former glory. The company’s inability to keep up with the rise of smartphones and a series of panicked wrong decisions led to this point. Today, the Finnish manufacturer operates under the umbrella of HMD Global. The latest information suggests that HMD Global plans to start manufacturing Nokia phones in Europe from Q3 2023. Here are the details…

HMD to begin manufacturing Nokia phones in Europe from Q3 of 2023

HMD Global has recently announced that it will begin manufacturing 5G Nokia smartphones in Europe from the third quarter of 2023. This move is significant because it makes HMD the first major smartphone maker to manufacture 5G phones in Europe. The shift towards manufacturing in Europe will be gradual and HMD plans on investing in facilities from now on.

The company has seen an increase in demand for its smartphones in Europe and views this move as a way to reduce its carbon footprint. HMD also noted that its data centers have been located in Finland since 2019, and it believes that having the manufacturing facilities nearby will help it ensure the security and privacy of its devices.

This move is particularly important in the current climate, where data privacy and security are becoming increasingly important issues for consumers. This will undoubtedly help the company to attract more customers who are concerned about data privacy and security. Although the company will attract attention with its new move, its success is not certain.

Unfortunately, Nokia phones under the umbrella of HMD Global were not innovative products and only appealed to a limited user base. This is expected to change in the company’s new era.

RELATED:

(via)

Sony’s Chip Unit Offers Full Remote Work to Software Engineers to Attract Quality Talent

By

Soumyakanti

-

Feb 26, 2023

Sony Semiconductor Solutions, a subsidiary of Sony Group, is taking steps to attract and retain talent in priority areas such as software development and artificial intelligence. To achieve this, the company has announced a full remote work option for mid-career hires. It is looking to hire 10 to 20 engineers for remote work positions, with recruitment currently ongoing for 11 positions in AI model quality control, cloud technology development, and imaging processing technology required for edge AI.

By introducing the full remote work option, Sony is aligning its semiconductor business model beyond being just a component supplier. The division’s primary source of earnings is from image sensors for cameras in Apple’s iPhone and other devices. However, Sony wants to expand its reach by introducing the AITRIOS platform. This platform uses cameras equipped with Sony chips and AI processing to study an environment and provide ways to improve efficiency.

The AITRIOS platform debuted in Japan in November, and Sony began offering the platform in Japan and the US for big companies that want to use it with existing IT infrastructures in January. To develop applications for AITRIOS, Sony requires expertise in both advanced AI and cloud engineering since the platform sends only metadata, not actual images, to the cloud.

While the full remote work option is only currently available in the semiconductor division, Sony may expand it to other parts of the group as competition for tech talent increases worldwide. Sony Semiconductor Solutions is taking this step to cast a wider net and attract the talent required to support the expansion of its business beyond its current offerings.

RELATED:

(Source)

Investigation Shows Google Profiting from Anti-Abortion Ads Targeting Pregnant Women

By

Leo Wong De Quan

-

Feb 26, 2023

Google has been accused of profiting from misleading adverts that direct pregnant women to anti-abortion groups that offer false medical advice and pressure them to keep their pregnancies.

The Guardian reports that according to an investigation by the Observer, Google UK has been displaying adverts for crisis pregnancy centres (CPCs) run by anti-abortion organisations when users search for terms such as “NHS abortion advice”, “confidential abortion support” and “pregnant options”.

CPCs are unregulated clinics that often pose as neutral sources of information and counselling, but in reality, have a hidden agenda to dissuade women from accessing legal abortion services. Some of them have been found to use scare tactics, misinformation and emotional manipulation to influence women’s decisions.

The Guardian analysed 251 adverts shown by Google UK to a user searching 40 key phrases related to abortion in February 2023. Out of these, 117 adverts (47%) were for CPCs run by anti-abortion groups such as Life Charity in the country.

The report quotes Lisa Hallgarten, head of policy at young people’s sexual health charity Brook, who described the marketing approach as “clearly immoral” and said adverts provided to those searching terms such as “NHS abortion advice” could delay women’s access to healthcare.

“We are really concerned that people looking for impartial support are being directed to organisations and websites where they could experience the complete opposite,” she said. Pam Lowe, an expert on anti-abortion activism in the United Kingdom, said: “Anyone who puts ‘NHS abortion’ into Google should be shown a link to the NHS website as the first result. There’s a risk that people could end up with biased information.”

Google’s advertising policy states that it does not allow ads for products or services that are “deceptive” or “misleading”. It also states that it does not allow ads for healthcare services that are “unlawful” or “harmful”. However, Google has failed to enforce its own policy and remove these ads from its platform.

The report also points out that Google has a history of allowing anti-abortion groups to target pregnant women with misleading ads in other countries such as the United States, where CPCs are more widespread and influential in the conservative community.

Google’s failure to act on these ads has been criticised by pro-choice campaigners, medical experts and politicians who say that it is putting women’s health and rights at risk. They argue that Google is profiting from exploiting vulnerable women who are seeking reliable information on this sensitive issue.

RELATED:

(Via)

Gmail Gets Optimized Interface for Foldable Phones Like Galaxy Z Fold 4

By

Soumyakanti

-

Feb 26, 2023

Google has launched a new interface for Gmail that is optimized for foldable phones, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. The new interface features a 2-pane layout, which allows users to see their inbox on the left half of the screen while an open email is displayed on the right.

Gmail Gets Optimized Interface for Foldable Phones

This update aims to make multitasking easier and to save users from the hassle of switching back and forth between their inboxes and emails. The left pane shows the inbox and other folders, while the right pane shows the selected email. The search bar is located above the inbox, and the Compose button is visible on the left pane. The bottom bar extends across the entire screen.

The new interface is not limited to Gmail only. It is also available for Google Meet and Chat. Users can easily switch between apps and services without having to adjust window sizes.

Google has been focusing on foldable phones and tablets, and this new interface is a part of its efforts to provide a top-notch user experience on large-screen devices. Google has also launched a new tablet-first operating system, Android 12L, that is specifically designed for large-screen devices. It features a vertically split notification shade that provides users with more information at a glance. It also includes a taskbar that makes it easy to switch between tasks and launch apps.

Google’s renewed interest in foldable phones and tablets is likely because the company is planning to launch its own tablet and foldable phone in the future. With the new interface for Gmail, Google is showing its commitment to providing a seamless user experience on these devices and is willing to invest in new software tricks to make it happen.

RELATED:

(Source, Via)

Google Search Under Fire for Promoting Websites That Scam Customers with Fake Amex Accounts

By

Leo Wong De Quan

-

Feb 25, 2023

A shocking scam involving fake websites that impersonate real businesses and charge customers with fake Amex merchant accounts has been exposed by Cory Doctorow, a writer and activist who writes about technology and society.

Doctorow shared his story on Twitter, where he told how he was scammed when he tried to buy some takeout food from a website called kiinthaila.com. He found out that the website was actually a fake one created by scammers using Wix, a platform that allows anyone to create websites effortlessly. The scammers also created fraudulent Amex merchant accounts for real businesses and used them to charge customers who ordered from their fake websites.

Doctorow contacted Amex to report the fraud, but he was disappointed by their response. He said they did not seem interested in investigating the scam or shutting down the fraudulent accounts. He also pointed out that Google was promoting these scammers by showing their ads as the first search result instead of the official website, which is kiinthaiburbank.com.

This scam is not only harmful to customers who lose their money and trust, but also to legitimate businesses whose names and reputations are damaged by these scammers. It is alarming that Google even allows these scammers to manipulate its search results and put its users at risk.

For Illustration Purposes: Google Getting Flamed

The tweet has then since garnered over 66.9 thousand likes on Twitter as of publishing, increasing the pressure on Google to put measures in place to prevent the scams from occurring.

In other news, Microsoft is aiming for Google’s search engine market share. This month, the tech giant Microsoft announced that it is bringing OpenAI’s latest GPT-4 technology to the company’s search engine, Bing. To read more on the new Bing, you can follow our coverage here.

RELATED:

(Source)

HMD Launches Affordable Nokia G22 With a Promise of Repairability

By

Anurag

-

Feb 25, 2023

Just a day ahead of MWC 2023, HMD has launched the new Nokia G22 with an emphasis on repairability and sustainability. The company has joined hands with iFixit to provide the tools, guide, and parts you’d need to fix the display, charging port, or battery on the handset. Nokia G22 also comes with decent specifications, including an Unisoc processor, 90Hz display, and more. Read on to learn more about the newly launched handset.

The Nokia G22 comes with a key focus on sustainability. With a 100% recycled plastic back cover, up to 3 years of warranty and updates, and a 3-day battery life, it is made for those who want to keep their phones as long as possible. The handset is also self-repairable. As per the company, a battery replacement of the Nokia G22 will take around 5 minutes, and replacing the display will take about 20 minutes.

As mentioned, HMD has partnered with HMD to even provide you with official repair guides, parts, and tools to fix issues. If we talk about the specs, the Nokia G22 brings a 6.52-inch display with an HD+ resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. There’s Gorilla Glass 3 protection as well. You get an 8MP front-facing camera and a side-mounted fingerprint scanner.

Powered by the entry-level Unisoc T606 chipset, the Nokia G22 packs 4GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB storage. On the software front, the handset runs Android 12 with a promise of 2 OS upgrades and 3 years of security updates. For photography, the Nokia smartphone gets a triple camera unit with a 50MP main camera, a 2MP macro unit, and a 2MP depth sensor. Fueled by a 5,050mAh battery, the handset supports 20W wired charging.

Nokia G22 will be offered in charcoal, green and pink colors. It is priced at £130 ($155) and is available for purchase in Europe starting today.

RELATED: