Ultra-short-throw (UST) projectors have become a practical alternative to massive televisions over the last few years. Instead of dealing with ceiling mounts, running cables through drywall, or worrying about someone walking in front of the projection beam, you can just place a console-sized box on your media cabinet. Push it a few inches from the wall, and you get a 120-inch display.
Xgimi has been a consistent presence in this category, and their latest lineup, the Aura 3 series, updates their offerings with some modern hardware. The company is releasing two versions: the Aura 3 Max and the Aura 3 Pro.
At first glance, these two projectors look identical. They share the same physical design, the same underlying processing technology, and the same goal of replacing a standard living room TV. However, if you look at the specification sheet and the pricing, there is a clear distinction between the two.
Here is a breakdown of how the Xgimi Aura 3 Max compares to the Aura 3 Pro, and how to decide which one makes sense for your space.
Before getting into the differences, it is helpful to look at what both of these projectors have in common, as Xgimi has kept the core feature set largely the same across both models.
First is the light engine. Both the Max and the Pro use an RGB Triple Laser setup. This means they rely on dedicated red, green, and blue lasers, which allows them to cover 110% of the BT.2020 color space. In practical terms, this translates to accurate and saturated colors for movies and games.
Speaking of gaming, the Aura 3 series includes support for 4K resolution at a 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by dual Texas Instruments DLPC controllers, this feature is particularly relevant if you own a PlayStation 5 or an Xbox Series X.
Alongside the higher refresh rate, both models support Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and AMD FreeSync Premium, while offering a 1ms response time. This makes either projector a viable option for playing fast-paced games on a large screen.
On the optical side, both projectors feature a dual-iris system. An iris physically adjusts the amount of light passing through the lens frame by frame. This helps improve black levels and shadow detail in darker scenes without relying entirely on digital processing, which can sometimes wash out the image.
They also share a 19-element optical glass system with a 0.163:1 throw ratio, meaning you only need to place the projector about eight inches away from the wall to achieve a 120-inch image.
The everyday usability features are also identical. Both come with an 80W Harman Kardon 2.0 channel sound system that supports Dolby Atmos. They also have Google TV built-in, which includes native support for apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video, so you don’t necessarily need to plug in a separate streaming stick. Setup is handled by Xgimi’s automated tools, including auto keystone, auto focus, and wall color adaptation.
2. Main Differences: Brightness, Contrast and Price
If the two models share so many features, the decision really comes down to how much ambient light you have in your viewing room.
The Aura 3 Max is the higher-end model designed for bright living rooms and larger screen sizes. It outputs 5,700 ISO lumens. If you have a living room with large windows and you want to watch TV during the day without drawing the curtains, this model is built to handle that environment. It also has a higher native contrast ratio of 8,000:1, which helps maintain deeper black levels even with the higher brightness output.
The Aura 3 Pro is designed for more typical viewing environments. It has a lower light output of 4,100 ISO lumens and a native contrast ratio of 7,000:1. To be clear, 4,100 ISO lumens is still quite bright for a home projector and will comfortably handle a moderately lit room. However, if you are projecting onto a wall that gets direct, harsh sunlight, the Pro will show more image washout than the Max.
Then there is the pricing structure. The Aura 3 Max has an MSRP of $4,999 (with an early Kickstarter price of $2,199). The Aura 3 Pro is priced lower, with an MSRP of $3,999 (and an early Kickstarter price of $1,999).
3. Specs Comparison
Feature
Xgimi Aura 3 Max
Xgimi Aura 3 Pro
Brightness
5,700 ISO Lumens
4,100 ISO Lumens
Native Contrast
8,000:1
7,000:1
Light Source
RGB Triple Laser
RGB Triple Laser
Resolution & Refresh Rate
4K UHD @ 120Hz
4K UHD @ 120Hz
Throw Ratio
0.163:1
0.163:1
HDR Support
Dolby Vision, IMAX Enhanced, HDR10, HLG
Dolby Vision, IMAX Enhanced, HDR10, HLG
Audio
80W Harman Kardon (Dolby Atmos)
80W Harman Kardon (Dolby Atmos)
Smart OS
Google TV (Native Netflix)
Google TV (Native Netflix)
Gaming Features
VRR, ALLM, 1ms Input Lag, FreeSync
VRR, ALLM, 1ms Input Lag, FreeSync
Weight
9.4 kg
8.9 kg
MSRP
$4,999
$3,999
Super Early Bird Price
$2,199
$1,999
4. Making Your Decision
Choosing between the Aura 3 Max and the Aura 3 Pro is fairly straightforward because Xgimi didn’t restrict software or processing features to the more expensive model. You get the same 4K 120Hz gaming support, the same Google TV interface, and the same audio system regardless of which one you pick.
Your choice should be based on your room’s lighting and your budget. If you are setting up the projector in a basement, a dedicated media room, or a living room where you can easily close the blinds to control ambient light, the Aura 3 Pro is a very practical choice. It saves you money while delivering the same core features.
On the other hand, if you are replacing a TV in a bright, open-concept space and want the best possible daytime visibility, the Aura 3 Max is the better fit. The additional 1,600 ISO lumens will make a noticeable difference in keeping the image clear and visible during the day.
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After the first smaller announcement that only covered a handful of flagships, the company has now confirmed it’s aiming to push the stable HyperOS 4 update to 33 devices starting in early November 2026.
That first wave includes the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the rest of the Xiaomi 17 series, the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Ultra, a bunch of Redmi Note 15 and Note 17 models, several POCO F8 and X8 variants, the Leica Leitzphone, and the Xiaomi Pad 8 series.
A second batch of 16 devices is lined up to start getting the update from mid-November. This group covers the Xiaomi 15T and 15T Pro, the POCO F7 and F9 series, some POCO X7 Pro models, the Xiaomi Pad 7 series, the Xiaomi Pad Mini, and the Redmi Pad 2 Pro.
Then in December, a final wave of another 33 devices is scheduled. This one brings older flagships into the mix: the Xiaomi MIX Flip, Xiaomi 14 and 13 series, Xiaomi 14T and 13T models, Redmi Note 14 series, various POCO F6, X6, X7 and M-series phones, plus tablets like the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 and more Redmi Pad 2 variants.
All in, Xiaomi is talking about 82 devices (67 phones and 15 tablets) across Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO. The company has been careful to note that these are estimated timelines and can shift depending on region, carrier, specific model and how development progresses. Exact dates for individual devices still haven’t been locked in, and the order listed inside each wave doesn’t mean that’s the exact sequence they’ll roll out.
One practical detail that early reports are already mentioning: the update package itself can be over 8 GB if you’re coming from a stable HyperOS 3 build. Xiaomi hasn’t said anything yet about plans after December.
If your phone or tablet is on the list, the best thing to do is just keep an eye on the system update section. The phased rollout is already starting to move.
Redmi’s upcoming Redmi Turbo 6 Max is expected to bring a major upgrade over its predecessor, particularly in the battery department. Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station has now shared another exclusive detail about the upcoming performance-focused smartphone. It could feature an enormous battery that would set a new record for Xiaomi phones.
Redmi Turbo 6 Max battery details emerge
According to Digital Chat Station’s latest Weibo post, the upcoming Dimensity-powered performance phone with a 7-inch 2K ultra-high-refresh-rate display will feature an 11,000mAh battery rated at 40.72Wh. Although the tipster did not explicitly mention the phone’s commercial name in this particular post, the description matches the previously leaked specifications of the Redmi Turbo 6 Max.
If accurate, this would make it the largest battery ever fitted to a Xiaomi smartphone, surpassing the 10,000mAh capacities previously tipped for some upcoming devices. The substantial battery could make the Turbo 6 Max particularly appealing to users who prioritise extended gaming sessions and longer usage between charges.
This is not the first time the phone has appeared with an unusually large battery. Earlier, Digital Chat Station suggested that the device would feature a battery exceeding 10,000mAh alongside MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500s chipset. The latest information now points to a more specific 11,000mAh capacity.
Previous leaks have also suggested that the Redmi Turbo 6 Max will feature an approximately 7-inch flat OLED display with 2K resolution and an estimated 185Hz refresh rate. The panel is tipped to use LIPO packaging, allowing extremely narrow bezels of around 1mm on all four sides. Other reported features include a metal middle frame, IP68 and IP69 ratings, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and a dual-camera rear setup.
For comparison, the Redmi Turbo 5 Max launched with a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display, a 9,000mAh battery and 100W wired charging. Its successor could bring considerable improvements in both display technology and battery capacity. The Turbo 6 Max is also expected to arrive as the Poco X9 Pro Max in global markets.
Redmi has yet to confirm the device or its specifications. A China launch around January 2027 is possible, following the previous generation’s launch schedule, but more details are needed. Would an 11,000mAh battery make the Redmi Turbo 6 Max your next performance phone? Share your thoughts in the comments.
LG is strengthening its free streaming platform, LG Channels, with a broader Bollywood entertainment offering for Indian audiences. The service now provides more than 170 free channels covering movies, music, news, lifestyle and regional programming. Available on LG Smart TVs, the platform aims to offer viewers more entertainment options without requiring a paid subscription.
LG Channels expands Bollywood and regional content offerings
The expanded content lineup positions LG Channels as a destination for Bollywood movie enthusiasts, with programming available across several Indian languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Bengali, Marathi, Tamil and Telugu.
Beyond movies, the platform offers channels covering entertainment, music, news, lifestyle, children’s programming, sports highlights and devotional content. LG is also continuing to add localized programming and premium content partnerships to cater to India’s diverse viewing preferences.
The latest additions include curated movie and music FAST channels from NH Studioz, Eros Universe and PEN Music’s ALL TIME MOVIES. These partnerships bring more Indian entertainment content to Connected TV audiences through an advertising-supported streaming model.
Brian Jung, Director of Media Entertainment Solution at LG Electronics India, said the expanded Bollywood offering reflects the company’s commitment to making quality entertainment accessible to households across the country. He added that LG Channels aims to strengthen its position as a major FAST destination through its growing collection of free content.
The latest collaborations also highlight the growing role of advertising-supported streaming in India’s Connected TV market. NH Studioz Director Shreyans Hirawat said the partnership would help bring its curated movie and music channels to more Connected TV viewers.
Kumar Ahuja, Group COO at Eros Innovation, noted that the collaboration would make Eros Universe content available on LG’s smart TV platform, while creating additional opportunities for content distribution and monetization.
Meanwhile, PEN Music COO Siddharth Chopra highlighted the partnership’s potential to increase the reach of ALL TIME MOVIES among Hindi film audiences and provide advertisers with another platform to connect with Connected TV viewers.
LG Channels is available at no additional cost on compatible LG Smart TVs. Its expanding library of more than 170 channels reflects the company’s focus on making free, ad-supported entertainment more accessible to Indian households.
Dell has launched the new Dell 14S laptop in India, targeting students and young professionals looking for a lightweight everyday machine. The laptop features an aluminium chassis in four colour options and comes with Intel’s latest Series 3 processors. It also promises up to 21 hours of battery life on a single charge.
The Dell 14S features a three-piece, durability-tested aluminium chassis measuring 13.5mm in thickness and weighing 1.15kg. Buyers can choose from Linen, Dusty Rose, Washed Denim and Velvet Green finishes.
It is powered by Intel Core 5 and Core 7 Series 3 processors, featuring an integrated NPU capable of delivering up to 17 TOPS for local AI processing. Memory configurations go up to 16GB LPDDR5x RAM, while storage options include up to 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD. The laptop also features a backlit, spill-resistant keyboard.
Dell 14S
Dell offers two 14-inch, 16:10 display options. The higher-end variant features a 2.8K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate and 450 nits brightness, while the other option has a 2K resolution, 60Hz refresh rate and 300 nits brightness. Both configurations support Dolby Atmos audio.
A 750ED PNCM battery provides up to 21 hours of Netflix streaming, according to Dell. Other features include a 1080p webcam, dual-array microphones, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, Windows Hello and Microsoft Pluton security. Connectivity options include two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports with DisplayPort and power delivery, HDMI and a universal audio jack. For comparison, Dell’s XPS 14 offers a more premium display and processor configuration.
Dell 14S price and availability
The Dell 14S starts at Rs 79,990 in India. The laptop is available through Dell’s online store, with all four color options listed. The Linen finish is also available through Dell Exclusive Stores and major retail channels, while the remaining colours will reach these outlets by the end of November.
Introductory offers include zero-down-payment and zero-interest financing, instant credit card discounts of up to Rs 10,000 and one-year Accidental Damage Protection for Rs 499. The laptop also carries ENERGY STAR 9.0 certification and EPEAT Silver with Climate+ registration.
Xiaomi has launched the Mijia Electric Toothbrush 2 Pro in China with a color screen, an upgraded brush head, and a new sonic vibration motor.
The handle has a color display, similar to the one on Xiaomi’s Mijia Sonic Vibration Electric Toothbrush Pro, which was the company’s first Mijia toothbrush with a color screen. Both models have the same suggested retail price of 249 yuan, although the newer model comes with several upgrades, including two-way pressure alerts.
The new toothbrush runs on Xiaomi’s sonic vibration motor 2.0, which the company says can remove plaque efficiently. It also supports multiple vibration patterns, with each one matched to a different brushing mode.
Xiaomi has upgraded the brush head with an all-around shock-absorbing structure. The soft rubber material is gentler on teeth, while the more flexible design helps the bristles follow the contours of your mouth.
The color screen displays brushing time and coverage in real time. It can also show prompts when you miss an area or spend too little time brushing. Xiaomi’s product images show messages such as asking users to brush the lower right area again, warning when brushing time is too short, and confirming when coverage is excellent. The default brushing session lasts four minutes.
Another addition is two-way pressure monitoring. There are indicator lights to alert you when you’re pressing either too hard or too lightly. If you apply too much pressure, the toothbrush automatically lowers its vibration frequency to reduce the force on your teeth.
The Mijia Electric Toothbrush 2 Pro charges through a USB Type-C port and takes around six hours to reach a full charge. Xiaomi claims up to 190 days of battery life. It also has an IPX8 waterproof rating, so you can rinse it under running water.
The toothbrush has a retail price of 249 yuan (around $35), while the crowdfunding price is 179 yuan (around $25).
Oppo’s latest flagship lineup, comprising the Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max, is now widely available in several countries. Looking ahead to 2027, the brand is expected to introduce a more powerful model called the Find X10 Ultra. One of the biggest changes could be the inclusion of a MediaTek Dimensity chipset instead of Snapdragon, which has traditionally powered the company’s Ultra-branded phones.
Oppo Find X10 Ultra’s key details revealed
According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the Find X10 Ultra carries the internal codename Xingyun (Nebula) and is being tested with MediaTek’s 2nm Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset. If the information holds, it could become the first Ultra-class smartphone to feature this platform.
The tipster also mentions a native 10x optical zoom periscope telephoto camera and a 200-megapixel high-dynamic-range multi-camera imaging system. The phone is said to feature a 6.89-inch BOE display with 2K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The panel reportedly has rounded corners and extremely narrow, symmetrical bezels on all four sides.
Adding to these details, tipster Smart Pikachu claims that the super-sized model, referring to the Find X10 Ultra, will offer improved image stabilisation across all focal lengths. The tipster also mentions an 8,000mAh-class battery and a premium version, although further details about the latter remain unclear.
Previous leaks have pointed to a 200-megapixel primary camera featuring LOFIC technology, another 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera and a dedicated 50-megapixel 10x periscope unit. A 200-megapixel ultrawide camera and a 100-megapixel front camera have also been mentioned in earlier reports.
There is still some uncertainty surrounding the phone’s processor. Oppo has confirmed that it will launch a smartphone powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, meaning a Find X10 Ultra with the same chip cannot be ruled out.
However, there is another possibility worth considering. Following the recent restructuring and deeper integration of OnePlus into Oppo’s operations, the recently unveiled OnePlus 16 could serve as the group’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6-powered flagship offering.
Therefore, it would be advisable to wait for further reports before drawing conclusions about the Find X10 Ultra’s final chipset. Which processor would you prefer in Oppo’s next Ultra flagship, Dimensity 9600 Pro or Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Realme’s upcoming T-series phone has surfaced in a leaked photo with a different rear camera layout than its predecessor. The Realme 17T 5G retains the boxy camera island, but the lenses and flash are arranged slightly differently.
Compared to the Realme 16T, which has three separate elements in the camera island, the Realme 17T 5G groups the lenses and flash into two long, rounded strips arranged horizontally.
The camera module still has that squircle shape, but the new arrangement gives the back a noticeably different look. It also brings to mind Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which uses a similar horizontal camera bar. However, there’s no indication that Realme borrowed Google’s design, and the two phones otherwise have little in common.
The leaked image shows the Realme 17T 5G in black. Realme may introduce additional colour options, but the photo does not provide any clues about other finishes.
What we know about the Realme 17T 5G so far
Beyond the rear design, there is little information about the phone. The leak does not mention its chipset, battery capacity, display, or camera specifications. Pricing and launch details are also unknown, and Realme has yet to confirm the device.
More information could emerge through certification listings and benchmark databases in the coming weeks. The Realme 16T, for example, appeared on Geekbench before its launch, revealing its processor and memory configuration. A similar listing for the Realme 17T 5G would give us a better idea of what to expect from the new model.
Its predecessor has a 6.81-inch HD+ IPS LCD screen with a 144Hz refresh rate, a Dimensity 6300 processor, a 50MP main and 16MP selfie camera, and an 8000mAh battery with 45W charging. Expect the Realme 17T to follow a similar budget lineage.
SanDisk has updated its portable storage lineup in India with two new solid-state drives: the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD and the standard SanDisk Portable SSD. The new drives are positioned to provide faster transfer rates for modern workflows, offering updated read speeds and storage capacities that max out at 4TB.
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD Specifications
The higher-end model in the lineup, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD, is built for users who regularly transfer large files, such as video editors and photographers. It supports read speeds of up to 2,000MB/s. According to SanDisk, this bandwidth allows users to move 1,000 high-resolution photos in under a minute.
For physical protection, the Extreme model features a ruggedized exterior that provides up to three meters of drop protection alongside an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.
It also supports 256-bit AES hardware encryption for password-protecting sensitive files. The drive is available in 500GB, 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities. The 1TB version is priced at Rs. 29,599, the 2TB at Rs. 52,999, and the 4TB at Rs. 99,999. It comes with a five-year limited warranty.
The standard SanDisk Portable SSD is a step down in both price and specifications, targeted at students and office workers for general file backup and media storage. It halves the read speed of the Extreme model, capping out at 1,000MB/s, which remains a standard benchmark for modern USB-C drives.
This base model lacks the IP65 rating of the Extreme version but retains a baseline level of durability with up to two meters of drop protection. Storage options for the standard model are limited to 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB.
The 1TB model costs Rs. 18,999, and the 2TB variant is priced at Rs. 33,999. It includes a three-year limited warranty.
Both the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD and the standard Portable SSD are available for purchase now across major e-commerce platforms, including Amazon India, as well as through various offline retail stores across the country.
In related news, Samsung has recently launched its P9 and P7 USB4 portable SSDs, offering transfer speeds of up to 4,000 MB/s and storage capacities of up to 8TB.
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Lenovo has quietly released a new budget gaming monitor in China, the LOQ 25-10, which pairs a standard 1080p resolution with a very high 280Hz refresh rate. It is currently listed on JD.com for 599 yuan, which converts to roughly $90.
The monitor features a 24.5-inch Full HD (1920 × 1080) IPS panel with an anti-glare coating and a standard 16:9 aspect ratio. It also sports a native 280Hz refresh rate, delivering smoother motion and more fluid visuals during fast-paced gaming.
To complement the high refresh rate, the monitor offers a 1ms gray-to-gray (GtG) response time at its highest overdrive setting. It also features a dedicated esports mode that enables a 0.5ms MPRT response time to reduce motion blur during fast-paced gameplay and rapid camera movements.
In terms of image quality, the LOQ 25-10 covers 99% of the sRGB color gamut and uses 8-bit + FRC technology to simulate a 10-bit color depth. Brightness is rated at a typical 300 nits, and it has a static contrast ratio of 1100:1. The monitor can technically accept an HDR10 signal, but given the 300-nit peak brightness and lack of local dimming hardware, it won’t provide a noticeable high dynamic range experience.
For connectivity, the monitor includes one DisplayPort 1.4 connection and two HDMI 2.1 TMDS ports. The monitor also supports AMD FreeSync Premium and VESA Adaptive-Sync to prevent screen tearing when frame rates fluctuate.
The physical hardware is straightforward. The monitor has thin bezels on three sides and comes with a basic stand that only supports tilt adjustments from -5 to 22 degrees. It lacks height, pivot, or swivel adjustments, and there are no built-in speakers. If you want better ergonomics, the back of the monitor includes standard 100 x 100mm VESA mounting holes for use with a third-party monitor arm.
Timex has released two new Peanuts-branded versions of its T80 digital watch in the US. The new Snoopy Ski collection is available now on the company’s website. These releases are straightforward cosmetic updates to the existing T80 hardware, featuring winter-themed dial artwork and stainless steel bracelets.
Pricing and Design Details
There are two variants in this release. The first is a gold-tone model (TW2Y76800) priced at $169. It features a polished low-lead brass case, a matching gold-tone stainless steel bracelet, and a navy face decorated with retro stripes and a graphic of Snoopy.
The second is a silver-tone version (TW2Y76700) that costs $149. This model has a silver-tone finish and a lighter dial graphic showing Snoopy carrying skis alongside snowflake details. Both watches use an 18mm bracelet with a self-adjusting clasp.
Internally, the hardware remains identical to standard T80 models. The watches run on a basic battery-powered quartz digital movement using a CR2016 coin cell. The feature set includes standard digital watch functions: a chronograph for timing, a daily alarm, and a date display.
They also feature Timex’s Indiglo backlight, which lights up the LCD panel for visibility in low-light conditions when the user presses a dedicated side button.
The physical dimensions are relatively compact. Both cases measure 34.5mm in diameter, 10.5mm thick, and have a 43mm lug-to-lug distance. They weigh roughly 77 grams.
Regarding durability, these are casual everyday watches rather than actual outdoor sports gear. The display is covered by an acrylic crystal. Additionally, the watches have a water resistance rating of 30 meters. This rating is only sufficient for accidental splashes or hand-washing; the watches are not sealed for showering, swimming, or prolonged exposure to moisture in the snow.
Timex has introduced a new collaborative watch to its US lineup: the Pop & Miffy by Timex MK1. It is priced at $129 and is currently available on the Timex US website. The release takes the standard 36mm MK1 model and updates the dial with a modified layout and character branding.
The biggest change comes in the form of the dial design. Timex and Pop have moved the Arabic hour markers away from their usual positions, creating an intentionally unconventional layout.
The navy blue dial features an illustration of the Dutch character Miffy wearing an orange shirt, alongside white POP lettering. Both the hands and hour markers feature luminous material for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
Regarding hardware, the MK1 retains its standard lightweight specifications. The case measures 36mm in diameter and 10.5mm in height. It is made from a single piece of glossy blue resin, bringing the total weight of the watch to 15.5 grams. The dial is covered by a domed acrylic crystal.
The watch is powered by a standard quartz analog movement, which runs on a replaceable SR626SW battery. It comes equipped with an 18mm blue fabric slip-thru strap. The slip-thru design allows the strap to be removed and replaced without the need for spring bar tools. The band fastens with a standard buckle and is adjustable for wrist circumferences ranging from 5.6 to 8.1 inches.
For durability, it carries a 30-meter water resistance rating, which means it is protected against accidental splashes and hand-washing. The manufacturer explicitly says it is not suitable for showering, swimming, or diving, and buttons should not be pressed while the watch is wet.
Xiaomi has launched the Smart Lock 5 in China with a new push-pull design that lets users unlock the door by placing a finger on the handle. Unlike the Smart Door Lock 5C, which Xiaomi recently released with a manually operated handle, the new model automatically locks the door again once it closes.
The Smart Lock 5 comes in a starry black finish with a wear-resistant panel. Its front panel measures 400 x 76 x 21 mm, while the rear panel measures 400 x 76 x 26 mm. The complete unit weighs 3.37 kg. Xiaomi has also added an anti-pinch baffle to the inside of the front panel to protect fingers when opening or closing the door. There is a separate deadbolt button on the interior panel for manually locking the door from inside.
What you get inside
Inside, the lock uses a fully automatic lock body that Xiaomi says is quieter than its first-generation model. According to the company, closing the door produces 12 dB less noise, while unlocking it is 13 dB quieter. The lock also uses a direct-insertion C-grade cylinder.
For unlocking, the fingerprint reader can recognize a print in 0.7 seconds or less. There are several alternatives if you don’t want to use your fingerprint, including a fixed password, virtual password, one-time password, NFC card, Bluetooth, and a mechanical key.
The Smart Lock 5 supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.3, allowing users to check the lock’s status remotely through the Xiaomi Home app. You can also share temporary access with visitors through a WeChat mini-program. The lock sends alerts if the door is left ajar, someone attempts to pry open the panel, or multiple incorrect unlocking attempts are detected. It also supports a duress fingerprint, which can be used to alert others if someone is forcing you to unlock the door.
It gets its power from eight AA batteries, which is good for around 12 months of typical use. If the batteries become too weak to operate the lock, users can press the emergency start button before entering a fingerprint or password. If the batteries are completely drained, you can connect a power source through the USB-C port at the bottom of the panel to unlock the door.
Price and Availability
The Xiaomi Smart Lock 5 is priced at 1,176 yuan (around $175) in China; however, with national subsidy, buyers in China can get it for 999.6 yuan (around $149) in eligible regions.
Interestingly, the subsidized price is the same as that of the Smart Door Lock 5C Cat Eye Edition, meaning buyers pay no more for the new push-pull model than for the camera-equipped version. Pre-orders will open on JD.com tomorrow, with the first sale scheduled for November 10.
Casio is set to launch two new Baby-G watches in Japan this November under the BGA-10 series. The lineup includes the black BGA-10-1AJF and white BGA-10-7A1JF, both featuring a unique rotating color wheel beneath the dial.
Instead of a digital display, Casio is using a physical white-to-black gradient wheel to change how the watch looks. The dial has four heart-shaped cutouts of different sizes. The gradient wheel sits right below these cutouts and is mechanically linked to the watch’s date function.
Every time the date rolls over at midnight, the wheel rotates a bit, changing the shades that show through the holes. If you want a specific color combination, you can also use the crown to turn the wheel manually. Casio does note that you have to be careful when setting this up, as the date and color alignment can get out of sync if adjusted incorrectly.
To actually use the crown, you have to interact with another specific hardware feature: a removable bezel. The resin bezel acts as a bumper to protect the mineral glass and covers the crown during normal wear.
When you need to set the time, change the date, or adjust the color wheel, you have to physically pop the bezel off the case. It is designed to be removed by hand without any special tools.
The rest of the watch design is very straightforward. Both models stick to a monochrome color scheme with a few silver accents. The hour and minute hands are rounded, the seconds hand has an arrow shape, and the Arabic numerals are made of raised silicone to add some depth to the dial.
As for the basic specifications, these are standard Baby-G watches. They are shock-resistant and water-resistant up to 100 meters (10 bar). The case measures 46.6 x 42.1 x 11.4 mm.
Because the case, band, and bezel are all made of resin, the watch is very light, weighing just 34 grams. It runs on a standard SR920SW battery, which Casio says should last for about three years before needing a replacement. The timekeeping accuracy is rated at ±20 seconds per month.
Pricing and Availability
Both the BGA-10-1AJF and BGA-10-7A1JF are currently available for pre-order in Japan. They are scheduled to ship in November 2026 and are priced at ¥10,450 ($66).
Google has started pushing out a software fix after some Pixel Watch owners noticed their batteries draining way faster than usual over the past week.
According to Android Authority, a bunch of users reported that their watches were dying much quicker than normal. In some cases, devices that usually last a full day (or more) were dropping to around 12 hours even when barely used. The issue showed up across multiple Pixel Watch generations, which points to a software problem rather than a hardware one.
Google has confirmed a fix is rolling out. In a statement, the company said:
“The fix for the battery drain issue, affecting a small number of Pixel Watch users has begun rolling-out and will be complete over the next couple of days. To implement the fix, please update your Pixel Watch apps by pressing the crown on your Pixel Watch, opening the Play Store app, and tapping Manage apps > Update all.“
The update is coming through regular app updates instead of a full system firmware patch, which lines up with it being a software issue. Google hasn’t publicly explained exactly what was causing the drain.
If you’re seeing the problem, just check for updates on your watch the way Google described. Restarting the watch after the updates install can also help make sure everything takes effect. Because the rollout is phased, the updates might not show up right away for everyone, so it’s worth checking again later in the day or the next day if nothing appears at first.
The issue only seems to have hit a relatively small number of users, but Google’s quick response should get battery life back to normal for those affected. If you’re still seeing heavy drain after updating, you can reach out to Google support for more help.
Three weeks after the RedMagic 12 Pro+ launched in China, RedMagic has officially introduced the global version, called the RedMagic 12 Pro. Most of the hardware remains unchanged, but the global model comes with slower charging and a higher price than last year’s phone.
In the US, the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model costs $949, while the 16GB and 512GB version is priced at $1,049. The top-end model with 1TB of storage costs $1,199. In Europe, the three configurations cost €899, €999, and €1,199, respectively.
That’s a considerable increase over the RedMagic 11 Pro, which started at €699 last year. The new model costs €200 more across all three configurations, and RedMagic has also dropped the 24GB RAM option.
There are two color options to choose from: Nightfreeze with a transparent black finish, and Subzero, which is a transparent silver version.
The biggest differences between the global model and its Chinese counterpart are charging speed and shoulder trigger response. The global RedMagic 12 Pro supports 80W wired charging, down from 120W on the Chinese version. Its shoulder triggers are also rated at 520Hz instead of 700Hz. Wireless charging and bypass charging are still included.
The battery capacity remains unchanged at 8,400mAh, which is a 12% increase over the 7,500mAh battery in the RedMagic 11 Pro. Despite the larger battery, the new phone is slightly thinner, measuring 8.5mm compared to 8.9mm on its predecessor.
Under the hood, the phone runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset, paired with RedMagic’s own RedCore R5 gaming chip and a G1 display chip. On the software side, it runs RedMagic OS 12 based on Android 17, with built-in Gemini support, PC game emulation, and Steam access through the X-Gravity gaming center.
Keeping all that hardware cool is the AquaCore Cooling System 3.0. The dual-loop liquid cooling system now features RGB lighting, while a new micro-pump delivers up to 130kPa of pressure. RedMagic says this is 85% higher than the previous pump, despite consuming as little as 20mW of power. The cooling setup also includes a fan that reaches speeds of up to 25,500 RPM, a vapor chamber with 15% more coverage, and Liquid Metal 4.0.
On the front, the RedMagic 12 Pro has a 6.85-inch 1.5K OLED display supplied by BOE. It supports a refresh rate of up to 185Hz, with 0.96mm bezels and no visible camera cutout. RedMagic claims no other phone combines this refresh rate with a full-screen design and an under-display camera. The screen’s brightness peaks at 5000 nits, while touch sampling can go as high as 5,000Hz.
The selfie camera is a 16MP ninth-generation under-display unit developed with BOE. There’s also a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint reader built into the display.
Around the back, the phone has a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization and a 50MP ultrawide camera. It also carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for water and dust resistance, while the fan opening has a separate IPX8 rating.
Other hardware includes stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, an X-axis linear motor, an IR blaster, NFC, Wi-Fi 7, and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port.
ZTE is reportedly considering a major restructuring of its smartphone business through a new joint venture. The proposed arrangement could bring in an internet technology giant and Shanghai state-owned capital. Negotiations are said to have progressed significantly, although several financial and ownership details remain unsettled.
ZTE smartphone business joint venture reportedly in the works
According to a report citing people familiar with the discussions, ZTE plans to transfer its consumer smartphone operations into a jointly owned company involving ZTE, a major Chinese internet company, and Shanghai state-owned investors. The proposed business is valued at around 40 billion yuan (approximately $5.6 billion), while the internet company is reportedly prepared to contribute around 8 billion yuan (approximately $1.1 billion). The final valuation, equity distribution and transaction structure are still being negotiated.
Discussions reportedly began in April 2026 before gaining momentum again in July. Both sides are said to have settled on a broad cooperation model in September, with an announcement initially planned for late October. However, the disclosure has apparently been delayed. The proposed arrangement would cover ZTE’s consumer smartphone operations across domestic and international markets rather than represent an outright sale of the entire company.
What’s included in ZTE’s proposed smartphone business deal?
Notably, the proposed transfer will not cover every product handled by ZTE’s existing mobile division. Router products and home terminal devices are expected to return to the parent company’s operations, while the RedMagic gaming smartphone business will remain outside the transaction. This means the proposed joint venture would primarily focus on ZTE’s mainstream consumer smartphone operations, including its international business.
ZTE has reportedly already taken steps to prepare for the restructuring. In April 2025, it established Shanghai Shenqi Jiyuan Intelligent Terminal Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary, with Wang Xiyu as chairman and Ni Fei as a director. According to ZTE’s 2025 interim report, the company was established in April and remained fully owned by ZTE. Smartphone business employees have reportedly been transferred to this subsidiary, which could serve as the vehicle for the proposed joint venture.
The arrangement could give ZTE additional financial and strategic support for its consumer smartphone operations while allowing the parent company to concentrate on other businesses. However, neither the identity of the internet company nor the final ownership structure has been officially confirmed.
Casio has partnered with the streetwear retailer Union to release a new iteration of the standard G-Shock DW-5600. The collaboration, officially designated as the DW-5600RBG-1 in the US and DW-5600RBG-1JR in Japan, updates the familiar digital watch with a new color scheme and subtle branding changes.
Design Details
The design of this specific model utilizes a Pan-African color palette. While the primary case and band are matte black, Casio and Union have integrated red and green accents across the watch face and the LCD panel.
The standard single band loop has been replaced with three separate retaining loops, which are individually colored red, black, and green. For branding, the Union Frontman logo is engraved directly onto the metal case back. The same logo is also built into the digital display, appearing when the user activates the white LED backlight.
In terms of physical construction, the watch uses Casio’s bio-based resin for both the case and the band.
The watch maintains the exact dimensions of a standard DW-5600, measuring 48.9 x 42.8 x 13.4 mm and weighing 52 grams. The digital display is covered by standard mineral glass.
Internally, the hardware capabilities remain identical to the base DW-5600 model. It features Casio’s standard shock-resistant build and is rated for 200 meters of water resistance. The digital module is powered by a single CR2016 battery, which Casio estimates will last for five years.
The feature set includes a 1/100-second stopwatch, a 24-hour countdown timer, a multi-function alarm, and a full auto-calendar. It also includes a flash alert function, which blinks the backlight in sync with alarms and hourly time signals.
The DW-5600RBG-1 will launch in the United States on November 6, 2026, for $165. It will be sold through Union’s online store and its physical retail location in Los Angeles.
The Japanese variant will be released the following day, November 7, at Union’s physical stores in Tokyo and Osaka for ¥19,800. The watch will ship in custom packaging that matches the color scheme of the hardware.
We’ve got our first proper look at what Samsung might be doing with the cameras on the next Galaxy Z Fold 9 series.
Tipster @WalleGalaxy replied to a question on X and dropped the first specific claims about both the regular Z Fold 9 and the higher-end Z Fold 9 Ultra.
According to the tip, the standard Z Fold 9 is sticking with the same dual-camera setup as the Z Fold 8: a 50 MP main camera paired with a 50 MP ultra-wide, and no dedicated telephoto. We still don’t know the exact sensor details yet.
The Z Fold 9 Ultra, on the other hand, looks like it’s carrying over the triple-camera layout from the Fold 8 Ultra. That means a 200 MP main camera (the tipster specifically called it a “200 MP New Main Camera”), a 50 MP ultra-wide, and a telephoto with 3x optical zoom. The “new” label on the main sensor suggests Samsung might be refreshing the primary unit while keeping the overall setup familiar.
This fits the pattern we’ve seen lately: the Ultra model gets the stronger camera system. The current Fold 8 Ultra already runs a 200 MP main, 50 MP ultra-wide, and 10 MP 3x telephoto. Whether the telephoto resolution stays the same or gets a small bump isn’t clear yet.
Of course, this is still early and should be taken with a pinch of salt until Samsung confirms anything. The Z Fold 9 series is months away, and camera plans can change. For now, though, this is the clearest signal we’ve had that Samsung plans to keep the regular Fold more basic on cameras while giving the Ultra the higher-resolution and zoom treatment again.
Honor is reportedly testing phone batteries with capacities between 14,000mAh and 15,000mAh. Words for this come from tipster Digital Chat Station,who says the main goal of that bonkers of a battery is a phone that lasts a full week on a single charge.
A week-long battery would change how you carry your phone. Many people keep a power bank in their bag for long days out. A phone that lasts several days could make that habit unnecessary. Delivery riders, outdoor workers and frequent travelers would notice it first. They often charge a phone two or three times a day.
Honor keeps raising the battery ceiling
Honor’s Win line started in December 2025 with 10,000mAh batteries. In June, the Honor X80 Pro Max went on sale with an 11,000mAh battery. Honor says the phone earned a Guinness World Record for the longest live stream battery test. It ran for 26 hours, 8 minutes, and 34 seconds.
The Honor Win 2 series is the latest step. It launched in China on October 21. Both the Honor Win RT 2 and the Honor Win Turbo 2 carry 12,070mAh batteries. The Honor Win RT 2 charges at 90W over a wire. Honor went from 10,000mAh to more than 12,000mAh in under a year.
Honor Win RT 2
The tipster has been accurate about Honor’s battery plans in the past. The tipster previously reported that the company had started trial production of a 12,000mAh battery pack, before Honor introduced the 12,070mAh battery in the Win RT 2.
However, fitting a 14,000mAh or 15,000mAh battery into a phone won’t be easy. Larger batteries generally add weight and thickness, while also creating additional challenges for heat management. Honor hasn’t shared any details about how it plans to handle these issues or when a phone with such a large battery could arrive.
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