Google Pixel 6 series smartphones to pack Samsung’s Exynos 5123 modem

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Aug 27, 2021

Apart from dominating the market for smartphone processors, Qualcomm was also dominating when it comes to modem chips that enable connectivity on a device. However, the company seems to be slowly losing its grip.

Google has already announced that the company will be using its own Tensor SoC for powering the next-generation Pixel 6 series smartphones. So far, the company had relied on Qualcomm Snapdragon series processors for its mobile phones.

Now, if the latest report is to be believed, then it’s not only the mobile processor that Google is ditching Qualcomm for but also the modem chip. The report adds that instead of using Qualcomm’s modem, the upcoming flagship smartphones from Google will come packed with Samsung Exynos 5123 modem.

This is a major development given that every smartphone available in the United States packs a Qualcomm modem for wireless connectivity. If the Pixel 6 series ends up with Samsung’s modem, then it’ll break Qualcomm‘s monopoly in the market for the first time.

Another major development will be for Samsung as this will be the first time the South Korean giant’s Exynos modem chip will be used in a non-Samsung smartphone. The Samsung Exynos 5123 modem is also quite advanced, coming with support for sub-6Hz connectivity and up to 256-QAM in Millimeter Wave for uplink and downlink.

While the search engine giant has not officially revealed it but it seems that the company has partnered with Samsung for the Pixel 6 series phones given that almost every major component has a connection to the South Korean giant.

There have been reports claiming that Google’s newly announced Tensor processor is an unreleased Samsung Exynos 9855 SoC. Apart from the processor and 5G modem, the display and camera on the Pixel 6 series will be sourced from Samsung.

Google has not yet revealed the full set of specifications of the upcoming phones but has confirmed some key details. The Pixel 6 comes with a 6.4-inch Full HD+ display offering a 90Hz refresh rate while the Pro has a 6.7-inch QHD+ display offering a 120Hz refresh rate.

The standard model features a dual-camera setup on the back while the Pixel 6 Pro has a triple-camera setup — a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 4x telephoto lens. This time, the photography performance could top the charts given that the chipset is said to be focused on photo output and use artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Powered by Tensor SoC with on-device AI and ML capability, the chip is also claimed to offer a significant improvement in translation, captioning, and dictation. The Pixel 6 series will also feature the most layers of hardware security in any phone. The lineup is expected to launch in the coming weeks, so we’ll have to wait a bit longer to know its pricing as well as availability details.

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Apple iPhone 13 series to go on pre-orders from September 17th, entire launch timeline leaked!

By

Pranav Sawant

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Aug 27, 2021

Apple is expected to launch the new iPhone 13 series sometime in September this year. However, the exact launch date is yet to be confirmed by the company. Now, ahead of any announcements, the series’ launch timeline has been allegedly revealed.

According to IT Home, the iPhone 13 series is already listed on an e-commerce website in China. The listing’s screenshot was first shared on Weibo by Chinese leaker @Pandalsbald. Not just the iPhone 13 and 13 Pro, rather the entire series including the vanilla smartphone, the Pro model, the Pro max model, and the mini variants were listed. Even the rumored Apple AirPods 3 was found listed on the portal.

Additionally, the publication revealed that the series will go on pre-orders from September 17th. It is said to go on sale starting September 24th in the market. While the launch date, as well as the sale date, is revealed, we aren’t sure if the dates are legit. Previously, the Chinese publication was subject to incorrect launch dates. However, this time around, the tipster Jon Prosser confirmed that the listed date is real and indeed the launch timeline is correct.

If we go by the said launch date then Apple is expected to send invites by September 7th. This is how the entire launch timeline would look like.

Press invites on September 7th

Announcements of the smartphone series – September 14th

Pre-orders to start from September 17th

First sale on September 24th

In related news, Apple is touted to raise the prices of iPhones. Reportedly, TSMC has increased the costs of chipset production resulting in these increased prices. Rumors suggest that Apple will increase the prices of upcoming iPhones by 20% later in January 2022.

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Huawei quietly announces EMUI 12, brings a redesigned UI and new customizations

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Aug 27, 2021

Huawei’s focus has been on HarmonyOS for more than a year now. The manufacturer has been working on updating its older phones sold in China from EMUI to HarmonyOS, while newer devices run the new operating system out of the box. If you thought Huawei was done with EMUI, it appears that isn’t the case as it has quietly unveiled EMUI 12.

Yes, EMUI 12 is now official and it comes with a refreshed user interface as well as tons of customizations. The launch of the new version of its Android fork means Huawei is still keeping EMUI alive for devices launched outside China. Here are the new features and changes that EMUI 12 brings:

A Cleaner, Minimalist, and Realistic Interface

EMUI 12 brings a minimalist and realistic interface. According to Huawei, “the innovative interface design brings the digital world to life”. The interface makes use of three major colors – white, black, and blue – for a clean look.

For the animation, Huawei says EMUI 12 takes inspiration from how celestial objects move in the universe. You will notice this in the way it has designed the language selection page which has each language shaped like a sphere and in the syncing animation which mimics a celestial object rotating around another.

Font Customization

EMUI 12 will allow users to adjust not only the size of the font but also its weight just with a slider. This way you can choose the most comfortable viewing experience.

Easy Access Control Panel

With the new version of EMUI, users will be able to easily access a control panel from wherever screen they may be on by simple swipe. The control panel will allow users to control playback, get access to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi settings as well as shortcuts, and connected devices on Device+.

Device+

Device+ is a feature that allows for easy collaboration between Huawei devices. Tapping the MatePad icon gives you a multi-screen collaboration with the Matepad. Users will be able to make calls, send messages, and view the photos from their phone on the screen of the tablet.

Tapping the MateBook icon allows for editing of your phone files on your PC while tapping the Huawei Vision icon allows you to enjoy videos from your phone on the big screen. Tapping the headset icon will switch audio playback from the MatePad or Huawei Vision to the connected earbuds.

MeeTime

MeeTime is Huawei’s video calling app that was announced as one of the features of EMUI 10.1 in March of 2020. The new version of the app allows users to seamlessly shift calls to the Huawei Vision and back to their phone.

Fast and Long-Term Performance

Huawei claims EMUI 12 is fast as web pages and apps load as you scroll. It also promises that even after long-term use, response time and application startups will be smooth as always.

Security

EMUI 12 will allow users to unlock their phone from their laptop when using Multi-screen Collaboration. They will also be able to set their smartwatch as a trusted device for their phone.

There is no info yet on which devices will be getting the EMUI 12 update nor is there a release schedule. Once we have more details, we will make sure to inform you.

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Xiaomi launches the MIJIA Smart Multi-function Cooking Pot 1.5L under crowdfunding

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 26, 2021

Xiaomi’s MIJIA sub-brand has often played host to several innovative home appliances. The Chinese etch giant has now launched the MIJIA Smart Multi-function Cooking Pot 1.5L. The product is presently available for crowdfunding in Xiaomi Mall. The product carries a crowdfunding price tag of 169 yuan (~$26) but will retail for 199 yuan (~$30) after the exercise.

The MIJIA smart pot has a 1000W power rating and is capable of rapid heating which can effectively increase the cooking speed. The company claims that it only takes 6 minutes to heat 1L of water to boiling point. In addition, it supports 9 levels of firepower, which can meet different cooking needs. There is also a low power mode where the device will work within the power range of 300W-800W.

The MIJIA Smart Multi-function Cooking Pot 1.5L supports steaming, stewing, and boiling, and users have access to 50 popular recipes via the MIJIA app. Each recipe has a customized optional heating curve. All the user needs to do is to select the desired recipe and add the ingredients. The smart pot will automatically regulate the heat to the right level until the food is cooked. The MIJIA app can also be used to remotely control the device.

In terms of the design, the MIJIA smart pot adopts a convenient split structure design. It is a pot when it is turned on but it can be used as a bowl when turned off. The device has a manual knob equipped with an OLED screen. The device also has a protection against extremely high temperature while the interior of the bowl is non-sticky. It is actually manufactured using food contact-grade 304 stainless steel line.

The MIJIA Smart Multi-function Cooking Pot 1.5L is expected to start shipping in China on September 15. Unfortunately, Xiaomi has not been very consistent in releasing such smart home products outside China. Thus, we don’t expect to see this product launched outside China any time soon.

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Google Pixel 5a 5G teardown reveals the internals & a low reparability

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 26, 2021

A teardown of Google’s latest Pixel 5a 5G smartphone has been spotted and it confirms that the device is not easily disassembled and thereby pointing that it will not be an easily reparable smartphone.

The video credited to PBK reviews shows several of the internal elements of the Pixel 5a 5G. The comprehensive examination showed that that the screen could be properly extracted, of course with the right tools and expertise. The screen also has a plastic frame that is surrounded by a strong water–repellent adhesive seal.

A large black graphene film covering becomes visible when the screen is removed, and this is covering the battery of the latest affordable smartphone from Google. Several other protective coverings are observed in various parts of the internals of the smartphone.

The video reveals how the main cameras and battery were removed from the panel with the application of some alcohol solvent. A cursory look at the video shows how it will be pretty difficult to disassemble the device, and it is appropriately rated 5/10 on the reparability scale.

The Google Pixel 5a 5G was launched last week and is already available. It features a 6.34-inch screen, 6GB of RAM, and 128GB internal storage. It is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G 5G chipset, offers dust and water resistance with its IP67 rating, runs on the Android 11 operating system out of the box, and offers 18W fast charging.

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Netflix Mobile Gaming makes its debut in Poland with two Stranger Things games

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Aug 26, 2021

Netflix announced a few months ago that it plans to add game streaming to its service as early as next year. Last month, it revealed that will begin with mobile games first. Today, Netflix Gaming made its debut in Poland with two Stranger Things mobile games.

The service will be exclusive to Android for now and includes two games, Stranger Things: 1984 and Stranger Things 3. The games will appear under a new tab in the Netflix mobile app as seen in the image above. From the screenshot attached to the announcement, users will have to install these games to play and not stream them.

Let’s talk Netflix and gaming.

Today members in Poland can try Netflix mobile gaming on Android with two games, Stranger Things: 1984 and Stranger Things 3. It’s very, very early days and we’ve got a lot of work to do in the months ahead, but this is the first step. https://t.co/yOl44PGY0r

— Netflix Geeked (@NetflixGeeked) August 26, 2021

When you tap on the install button, it opens up the Google Play Store within the app. Once the download is complete, you will be able to play the game from within the Netflix app only as the games won’t appear in your app drawer.

If you are disappointed that this isn’t game streaming but just a way to access mobile games made for popular Netflix shows, the streaming service said “it’s very, very early days and we’ve got a lot of work to do in the months ahead,”.

What Netflix is offering now is a way to play games tied to its shows at no extra price. Stranger Things 3 is available on the Nintendo Switch but for $9.99. Netflix subscribers will be able to play the game for free with no ads and no in-app purchases.

It is too early to write off the service as this is just a test run. We expect Netflix has big plans in the pipeline and a true game streaming experience awaits users.

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You can now experience Windows 11 on your browser – here’s how

By

Abhinav

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Aug 26, 2021

A few months ago, Microsoft announced the biggest update to Windows operating system in over five years with Windows 11. However, the new version is not available for everyone as of now. But did you know that you can try out Windows 11 without installing it?

Yes. A developer named Blue Edge developed a web application for users to try out Windows 11 from their internet browser. Using the application, one can experience the upcoming Windows 11 without installing it on their computers. All you need is an internet connection and a browser.

“This open source project is made in the hope to replicate the Windows 11 desktop experience on the web, using standard web technologies like React, CSS (SCSS), and Js,” says the developer.

The Windows 11 on React gives users a brief look at Windows 11. The developer says that the project is mainly built on the React Javascript framework, which allowed him to recreate Windows 11 for the web. However, it is not a full-fledged recreation. The project only imitates the look and feel of Windows 11.

The project allows users to experience the desktop, new start menu and the Edge browsers. Users can also try out the new Windows Store. However, there’s no option to check out the new File Explorer but opening it shows a “coming soon” web page. It gives a sneak peek of the new Start and Search menu. Though, the performance is not as smooth as the actual operating system.

There’s a thing to remember, Windows 11 on react is not a real operating system, but it’s just a web app to show how things would look once you upgrade to the new version of Windows 11. So, you should avoid comparing the performance with the real OS since the full version of the OS will perform very differently from what is shown here.

The Windows 11 will be released later this year as a free upgrade for compatible PCs during the holidays. Meanwhile, you can check out 11 interesting features on Windows 11.

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Huawei Mate50 series won’t launch until end of Q2 2022, will come in Snapdragon and Kirin variants

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Aug 26, 2021

Huawei has had a tough year with respect to its smartphone business. The ban which is still in effect has led to delays in the release of its phones especially its flagships. Seeing as its product calendar has suffered a huge disruption, it is not surprising that it has been reported that the next-gen Mate series of smartphones won’t launch until next year. While we wait, more details of the Mate50 series have surfaced.

The source of the new details is the Weibo account 菊厂影业Fans who revealed earlier that the Mate50 series will launch next year. In a Weibo post earlier today, the account revealed that Huawei will probably announce the next-gen Mate smartphones by the end of the second quarter of next year, which is about 9 months from now.

The post also reveals that while Huawei plans to release the Mate50 phones with support for 5G, we will still see 4G variants. The new phones will also launch with a mix of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processor and Huawei’s own Kirin chipset. The Snapdragon processor will most likely be a 4G version of the yet-to-be-announced Snapdragon 898 processor.

The source also states that Huawei’s strategy, for the time being, will be one flagship series per year rather than two. This means, we most likely won’t get a successor to the Huawei P50 series next year.

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Roborock G10 Robot Vacuum & Roborock U10 Smart Dual Scrubber launched in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 26, 2021

Xiaomi‘s ecological chain company Roborock Technology has officially released its annual flagship products and they include the Roborock G10 Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Roborock U10 Smart Dual Scrubber.

The Roborock G10 Robot Vacuum Cleaner deploys the dual function of sweeping and mopping, a feature that has come to be a regular on modern vacuum cleaners. To this end, it features a water tank that sprays water through a peristaltic pump. The vacuum cleaner also automatically evacuates the receptacle when it is full.

The Roborock G10 comes with different mopping models depending on the type of floor and user preferences that can be selected from the mobile app. Users can set and choose standard backwashing, smart backwashing, manual backwashing, and manual pile backwashing according to their needs.

In terms of the hardware, the Roborock G10 adopts a high-frequency vibration design of up to 3000 rpm motor which can effectively remove dirt on the ground. With the combination of floating mopping module and high-frequency vibration, even if the surface is rough and uneven, specks of dirt can effectively be removed.

The Roborock G10 Robot Vacuum will utilize an upgraded RR Mason 8.5 path navigation algorithm. The algorithm can automatically determine whether the mop needs to be washed. It can also automatically navigate back to the charging base if there is a need to refill the water tank and also to automatically clean the mop. This offers a fully hands-free operation.

On its part, the Roborock U10 Smart Dual Scrubber features an entirely new design that improves the cleaning effect, flexibility, and corner coverage of the scrubber. The handheld device has a combination of two roller brushes. It wipes the floor more cleanly, internally rotates the dirt, and doesn’t leave the floor wet.

The Roborock U10 is equipped with two independent high-power motors to provide power, with a total power of up to 100W. In addition, the handheld can intelligently detect the degree of dirt on the ground, automatically adjust the cleaning intensity, and clean the dirty areas, increasing the water volume and suction power to enhance the cleaning effect.

In terms of battery life, the device has a built-in 5000mAh capacity battery, which can work for more than 35 minutes on a single charge.

The capacity of the clean water tank and the wastewater tank is 850ml and 600ml respectively, and the automatic mode can work for 15 minutes with a full water tank.

In terms of price, the Roborock G10 Robot Vacuum Cleaner is available for 3999 yuan (~$617), and the Roborock U10 Smart Dual scrubber is available for 3,499 yuan (~$540). The products will go on sale in China simultaneously on Tmall, JD.com, Suning, and other platforms on August 25.

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ebikeGo Rugged G1 & G1+ e-bikes are designed to survive the Indian terrain

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 26, 2021

The electric scooter industry in India is undergoing rapid growth. This is due partly to the incentive regime put by the central and state governments. India is pursuing sustainability in the two-wheeler sector, with lots of companies being attracted due to the favorable investment climate.

The two models unveiled this week to the Indian e-scooter market are the Rugged G1 and G1+ sturdy, affordable, and versatile e-scooters. Drawing from the electric vehicle incentive regime already in place in India, the two ebikeGo models are priced at Rs. 79,999 ($1,079) and Rs. 89,999 ($1,214), respectively. It is also possible that the prices will still go south when the state-level subsidies are brought on board. The rugged e-scooter models offer a range of 160km, with two 2KWh batteries that can be easily swapped without the driver dismounting. The 3kW motor offers a top speed of 70kmph, which is quite decent for models on the urban-use spectrum.

The battery of the ebikeGo G1 and G1+ can be charged fully for under 3.5 hours. The e-scooters also have app support that makes it possible to unlock the bike via the mobile app and drive the two-wheeler. With a 30L storage capacity, the two models offer some useful storage space. There are several sensors that offer some of the best technologically to give users of the e-scooter a pleasant drive experience always. The comprehensive modular sensor suite is claimed to be the most advanced 2kW IoT system in the market. A seven-year chassis warranty is also available for the G1 and G1+ e-bikes in India.

The Indian e-scooter market is experiencing some very strong growth numbers, as the world’s second-most-populous country pursues a policy of rapid transformation of its carbon-centric public transportation architecture with a greater focus on sustainable options.

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Honor shows off the Watch GS3 in new live photos

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Aug 26, 2021

A few weeks ago, Honor unveiled its latest smartwatch, the Watch GS3. While it didn’t reveal a lot of details, it did give us a look at the watch via official press renders. Now, it has followed it up with live photos.

The Honor Watch GS3 will be available in three variants – Voyager, Streamer Classic, and a Racing Edition that has silicone straps, however, these images don’t show the voyager variant.

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The Honor Watch GS3 has a round dial but the size of the screen isn’t known. Honor is keeping the specs to itself until a proper launch which is expected to be in September. However, one feature Honor has revealed is the 8-channel PPG module which works with an AI engine for a more accurate heart rate measurement.

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Reliance JioPhone Next pre-booking timeline tipped

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Aug 26, 2021

Reliance announced the JioPhone Next at its 44th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in June. It is an ultra-affordable smartphone developed in collaboration with Google. The handset was said to go on sale from September 10. Ahead of that, the device’s pre-booking details have emerged.

According to a report by 91Mobiles, the JioPhone Next will be available for pre-booking starting next week. The publication has learned this information from its retail source. Hence, the timeline could be accurate since the phone is scheduled to hit the shelves on September 10.

The JioPhone Next is unlike the older LYF-branded smartphones from Reliance. As mentioned earlier, it is developed in partnership with Google. The device is targeted at first-time smartphone buyers. Hence, it is tailored for that set of users.

Reliance is yet to reveal the entire specifications of this handset, however, most of its features are out via a tipster. According to him, the JioPhone Next has a 5.5-inch display and Qualcomm Snapdragon 215 SoC paired with 2GB/3GB RAM as well as 16GB/32GB eMMC 4.5 storage.

The phone runs Android 11 Go Edition and comes with Google Camera Go with support for HDR, Night Mode, and Snapchat filters. It has a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera.

The handset has dual SIM card slots with support for 4G VoLTE. Last but not least, it is backed by a 2,500mAh battery.

Reliance is yet to reveal the price of the JioPhone Next. Anyway, as per the tipster, the phone will cost around ₹3,499 ($47).

Amazon launches the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) in India for Rs. 11,499 (~$155)

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 26, 2021

In May this year, US e-commerce giant Amazon launched the Echo Show 8 alongside the Echo Show 5 and Echo Show 5 Kids. The Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) has now been launched for the Indian market.

The Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) packs a decent 8’-inch HD screen with adaptive color, providing an enhanced display experience. The device also packs a better 13-megapixel camera which combines with the dual stereo speakers to deliver an optimal audio-visual experience.

Just like Amazon’s previous offerings, the Echo Show 8 comes with Alexa support. The means with just a voice command, you can watch your favorite TV series or movies from Amazon Prime Video and Netflix or stream your favorite music from Amazon Prime Music, Spotify, JioSaavn, Apple Music, Hungama music, or Gaana. The Alexa voice assistant will equally now show users music playlists or recommend stations based on the song playing on Amazon Prime Music or Spotify, making it easier to discover your next favorite artist or song. It also offers on-screen lyrics while playing songs from Amazon Prime Music.

Further, the Echo Show 8 allows users to remotely monitor the home and view live video feed from either a connected smartphone or other connected Echo Show devices. The device also functions as a hub that lets users set up and control multiple Wi-Fi-connected smart home gadgets like smart bulbs, AC, smart TV, fans, and others.

Thanks to Alexa, the Echo Show 8 can be used to make hands-free video calls with other persons having an Alexa app or other Echo Show devices. You won’t have to worry about staying inside the frame while on a video call as the camera features an auto framing feature that can pan and zoom to make sure you and your family are always in frame.

The device also arrives with several layers of privacy protection such as microphone and camera controls as well as the ability to view and delete your voice recordings. You can also mechanically cover the camera.

As for the price, Amazon will retail the Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen) in India for Rs. 13,999 (~$188) but will get a limited-time discount of Rs. 11,499 (~$155). The device will be available in Black and White colors.

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Oppo AI assistant Breeno reveals ColorOS 12 release date

By

Abhinav

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Aug 26, 2021

The ColorOS 12 has been doing rounds of the internet for quite some time now. Earlier, it was rumoured to release in August. However, a new leak suggests that the next version of ColorOS might be released in September.

coloros 12 weibo comment — Source: Weibo

According to a post on Weibo, Oppo’s AI assistant Breeno revealed the exact date and time for ColorOS 12 reveal. The assistant gave the exact date and time of the release when asked, “When will ColorOS 12 will be released?”. According to the image shared by the tipster, the next version of ColorOS is all set to be released on September 13 at 3 PM (GMT +8). However, later the response was changed to “coming soon, please stay tuned~ “.

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The ColorOS 12 is expected to bring a similar feature to Huawei’s Multi Screen Collaboration. The feature is rumoured to be dubbed ColorOS Cross-Screen Interconnection. It is expected to be initially limited to China as a part of beta testing, but it could be released globally at a later stage with ColorOS 12 rollout. It supports instant connection, cross-device file transfer, clipboard sharing, image sync, and message sync.

Earlier, Digital Chat Station suggested that the ColorOS 12 would be bringing major UI design changes. The upcoming version of ColorOS is expected to bring some features from OnePlus’ Hydrogen OS.

Oppo recently hired the former Product Manager at Smartisan, Zhu Haizhou. Haizhou joined Oppo’s software development team and has been in charge of the product line at Oppo. Also, Oppo merged with OnePlus earlier this year, merging software teams of both companies. Further, it has been reported that Oppo hired several Smartisan and Meizu employees to boost its software development. So, the ColorOS 12 is being developed by a group of ColorOS engineers, FlymeOS, HydrogenOS, and Smartisan OS teams.

Meanwhile, ColorOS 11 has been doing pretty good lately. Oppo’s current software version has received pretty good reviews around the globe, and the company is also providing regular updates to the users.

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Renders of the Vivo X70 Pro+ show a curved display and L-shaped quad cameras

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Aug 26, 2021

Yesterday, we got an early look at the Vivo X70 and the Vivo X70 Pro thanks to renders posted on the web. Now, the same source has shared renders of the topmost model, the Vivo X70 Pro+.

For this leak, Steve Hemmerstoffer has partnered with the Indian blog, Price Baba. The renders show the phone from various angles, and while Vivo tries to keep the design similar to that of the Vivo X70 Pro, there are still significant differences between both phones.

The X70 Pro+ has a curved display and in the middle is a punch hole for the front-facing camera. The display will most likely be AMOLED with a 120Hz refresh rate like that of the Vivo X60 Pro+. However, OnLeaks says that the screen is now bigger at 6.7 inches.

On the back, the Vivo X70 Pro+ has four cameras – three of them are stacked vertically on top of each other while the fourth, which has a periscope zoom lens flanks the third camera on the right. The camera housing also has a pill-shaped LED flash and the ZEISS branding.

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To further differentiate the X70 Pro+ from the X60 Pro+, Vivo has covered the back of the phone next to the camera module in a gray sheet, so it looks like the camera housing extends across the whole width of the back of the phone. This additional layer is said to have a thickness of 0.4mm. We have seen a similar design on a number of phones such as the OnePlus 8T CyberPunk 2077 Limited Edition, POCO M3, Red Magic 6R, and the Nubia Z30 Pro. You can even add the Mi 11 Ultra to the list but it makes the best use of the space by putting a small display there.

The Vivo X70 Pro+ has its volume control and power buttons on the right side of the frame while the USB-C port and SIM tray are at the bottom. The phone’s dimensions are 164.8 x 75.5 x 9 millimeters (11.3mm when you add the camera module).

The Vivo X70 Pro+ is said to have a Snapdragon 888 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1080p resolution according to a Google Play listing. It has also been reported that it will have support for 65W fast charging.

Vivo is yet to announce a release date for the phone but an earlier report revealed that it will launch in India in September.

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Xiaomi will slow down Charging on phones with Unofficial Batteries in China

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Aug 26, 2021

Looks like Xiaomi is about getting in the news for the wrong reasons. Recall how Samsung and Apple were discovered to slow down their phones with ageing batteries and even sanctioned in Italy? Looks like Xiaomi is about taking a similar step, if the latest discovery by XDA Developers is anything to go by.

The guys at XDA discovered a set of code within the recently released Mi Security app version 5.6.0, bringing new battery care and charging settings. The settings contain clues that Xiaomi will start issuing a warning and lower the charging speed if the MIUI OS detects that the smartphone has an “unauthorized” battery installed under the hood. The warning prompt includes instructions that only authorized service providers should replace the phone’s battery. There is also another warning that using an “unauthorized” battery can result in damage to the device or harm the user.

The code also shows that this new warning will only be restricted to users in China and will be specific to the Mi 9, Mi 10, and Mi 10 Pro. Thankfully, the warning won’t be shown to users of the affected models or any other Xiaomi phone in other regions. However, it cannot be confirmed if the warning has started affecting users of the models in China.

We cannot say if Xiaomi won’t replicate this in the future in other markets but believe there may be legitimate reasons why the company would want to do this. The models in question are equipped with fast charging technology and the third-party battery, some of which may be substandard, may not be able to handle the fast charging speed. This could then result in battery swelling, overheating, or leakage which may result to fire and other hazards.

But then, issuing a warning is one thing, slowing down the charging speed of the phones is a different game entirely. Of course, replacing it with a third-party battery automatically voids whatever warranty the users may have. Thus, Xiaomi isn’t supposed to be liable for any damage that will occur, bearing in mind that there are good third-party accessories out there. Also, getting a battery replacement from an authorized service center may not be feasible, even in China where Xiaomi accessories are in high demand.

There is no clue on how Xiaomi will detect third-party batteries on the phones but Apple’s own warning is triggered by a micro-controller that can only be configured by authorized Apple technicians. It is possible Xiaomi is deploying the same mechanism.

We expect Xiaomi to issue a statement clarifying why they want to toe this path and if this feature will roll out outside China to other markets like Europe and India.

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realme DIZO tipped to launch 7 products in India in September

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Aug 26, 2021

DIZO is the first and currently the only brand under realme TechLife. Since its inception in late May, the brand has already released a bunch of products. According to the latest information, the brand will be launching 7 new products in India next month.

As per a report by 91Mobiles, DIZO will be announcing seven products in India in September. It’s not surprising as the brand has been testing new launches on social media for the past few days.

The report says that the company will be launching three truly wireless earphones, two smartwatches, and two unknown products. Two TWS earbuds were already tipped a few days back. One of them is even said to have support for ANC (Active Noise Cancellation).

Further, we don’t know anything about smartwatches. However, we believe that one of the two mysterious products could be a soundbar.

Having said that, like the previous DIZO products, the upcoming devices could also be rebranded realme products. Also, we expect to learn more about them before their official announcement via teasers, certifications, and leaks.

DIZO is yet to schedule a launch event for its forthcoming 7 products for India. Since September is just a week away, the brand might soon reveal the date for its next conference.

Samsung wants foldable phones to become mainstream in high end market

By

Sean

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Aug 26, 2021

With the recent launch of the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3, Samsung has lowered the prices for the new foldable smartphones even further. The company expects these devices to become more common in the high end segments of the smartphone market.

While the Galaxy Z Fold2 launched for 1,999 US Dollars back in 2020, the newly released Galaxy Z Fold3 costs 1,799 US Dollars at launch. In other words, the company is clearly working on making these devices more affordable and available to the broader audience. According to DigiTimes, the South Korean tech giant even cited a Strategy Analytics report that estimated that the global demand for foldable phones will reach 6.5 million units in 2021, which is nearly three times higher than a year prior.

Furthermore, the report added that foldable phone shipments is expected to surpass 100 million units by the year 2025. Notably, the Galaxy Z Flip3 that was launched alongside the Fold model is cheaper of the two and arrives with a price tag of around 1,000 US Dollars. This puts it in a price point similar to many premium grade flagship handsets like iPhones or even Samsung Galaxy S series models. The brand added that high end handsets are becoming more ‘demassified’ and each new model series has its own target customers.

Additionally, Jacob Chen, Samsung Taiwan Vice President, stated that the brand has doubled their budget for marketing of the new foldable phones this year, compared to that for the Note series. He added that the push in promotion seeks to elevate the new foldable devices’ sales to a level seen by the Note series last year. Chen also said that the company is confident in seeing higher sales, with sales already exceeding expectations in South Korea.

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Apple denies stealing trade secrets, while Masimo CEO accuses Tim Cook

By

Sean

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Aug 26, 2021

Back in January 2020, we had reported on Apple being accused of stealing Health Monitoring technology for its smartwatch. Now, this lawsuit battle has been waging for nearly two years with no end in sight.According to a Bloomberg report, the Cupertino based giant has denied Masimo’s accusations of stealing its trade secrets for the Apple Watch. Masimo CEO, Joe Kiani, has stated that “I’ve been through three major litigations,” but he believes that the known smartphone maker is taking this battle to another level. He further added that the company is “refusing to even play by the rules set by the court.” Meanwhile, Masimo, a signal processing technology maker for health care monitors, accused the brand of stealing its trade secrets through the hiring of one of its former executives.

The legal battle has been stalled for nearly two years, as the iPhone maker challenges the validity of the patent and disputes over access to information. Kiani said that these delays had prompted him to file a complaint with the International Trade Commission (ITC) to block the imports of the Watch Series 6 as well. For those unaware, Apple had hired Masimo’s chief technology officer, Marcelo Lamego, at Cercacor (Masimo’s subsidiary) and had allegedly filed new patents under his own name that were previously filed by Masimo.

Furthermore, Kiani also stated that Apple’s CEO Tim Cook might have been personally involved in the hiring of the Cercacor executive as well. Kiani added that “Patents began publishing with Marcelo Lamego as inventor. He had patented things, some of the things we had done 20 years ago and were in our products. This was worse than we thought. That’s when we first sued Apple.”

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Samsung may launch the next Galaxy Z Fold with a roll out display: Patent

By

Sean

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Aug 26, 2021

Samsung has just recently launched the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 foldable smartphones. Now, a new patent has revealed that the company might be working on another Galaxy Z Fold model that could feature a roll out display.

The South Korean tech giant filed the new patent for a foldable smartphone that sports an extendable display. The patent arrives with various product sketches as well, which offers us a look at what this device might look like. Looking at these images, the handset resembles the Galaxy Z Fold3 that has an inward folding design with a large primary screen. However, LetsGoDigital dubbed this device as “Galaxy Z Fold & Roll” as it also sports a roll out display.

While the design is similar to the Galaxy Z Fold3, its extendable roll out display makes it clearly distinct from any foldable phone out in the market right now. Samsung has patented two variants of this device. With Model A, the screen rolls out and extends from the right side when the device is folded, while Model B has the display extend from the left side when folded. To put it simply, this device does not have an external display, unlike the Galaxy Z Fold3, however, the extending display could fill this role by offering users the same functionality.

Although it is unknown what exact purpose this small rolled out display has, but it is likely to offer users a simple way of checking notifications and other key information like time without unfolding the smartphone completely. Keep in mind that this is still just a patent and we have knowing if the company is actually working on such a device or just covering all bases. So take this report with a pinch of salt for now.

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