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Xiaomi Mi CC10 to feature Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 chip: Tipster

A new leak has revealed that the Xiaomi Mi CC10 series of smartphone will feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor. The news arrives from a Weibo post, a Chinese microblogging website, from a known tipster.

Xiaomi

According to @禿然熊猫, the Chinese tech giant’s Mi CC10 series will sport the Snapdragn 870 chipset. This chipset is a flagship grade SoC that is mainly targeted towards high end smartphone that arrive at a relatively affordable price tag compared to ultra high end handsets. Similarly, a report from ITHome added that other leaks have surfaced that have also revealed the battery capacity of the upcoming smartphone. As per these tips, the Xiaomi Mi CC10 will be powered by a large 4,360mAh battery pack.

Xiaomi

For those unaware, the CC10 is the successor to the Mi CC9 series of smartphone that were launch back in 2019. Notably, the high end Mi CC9 Pro was also one of the first devices to sport a rear camera module with a 100 megapixel sensor. The series was well received in China and even launched in a special Meitu edition as well. Unfortunately, this is still just an unconfirmed report so take it with a pinch of salt for now, and stay tuned for more as we will be providing updates when additional information is available regarding the device.

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Xiaomi Mi 10S, Redmi K30i 5G receive MIUI 12.5 update

Xiaomi has been rolling out MIUI 12.5 stable update to its devices in China for the last few weeks. The latest recipients of this update are Mi 10S and Redmi K30i 5G. The former is an improved Mi 10, whereas the latter is a cheaper variant of the vanilla Redmi K30 5G.

Xiaomi Mi 10S
Xiaomi Mi 10S

The Xiaomi Mi 10S is a new smartphone that got released in March 2021. The device debuted with MIUI 12 based on Android 11. It is exclusively sold in China, just like the Mi 11 Pro and the Mi MIX Fold.

That said, MIUI 12.5 is sort of the first major update for this handset. This new system update arrives with build number V12.5.1.0.RGACNXM. This particular software build is currently in the ‘Stable Beta’ phase. 

This means the update is being rolled out in batches and therefore, it is only available for a select few users. Anyway, it should reach all the units in the coming days.

On the other hand, the Redmi K30i 5G is almost a year old now. This phone released with Android 10-based MIUI 11. It was updated to MIUI 12 and even got the Android 11 update early this year.

Now, Xiaomi is seeding MIUI 12.5 update for this handset with build number V12.5.2.0.RGICMXM. However, the update is marked as ‘Stable Beta’, which means it is being rolled out in batches and may take some time to reach all units.

Lastly, just like the Mi 10S, the Redmi K30i 5G is a China-exclusive smartphone. Hence, there’s no other regional software build for this phone.

 

 

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Xiaomi patents Dual Side Slider smartphone with a secondary display

Xiaomi has just patented a new futuristic smartphone design. This new handset features a dual side sliding mechanism and also sports a secondary display as well. The company filed the patent back in January 2021 and was published last week.

Xiaomi

According to a LetsGoDigital report, the Chinese tech giant patented a unique and futuristic device that has a sliding mechanism that works in two directions. To put things simply, the device has a portion of it that slides from both the left and right side of the device, hence, the dual side sliding term. Looking at the images shared within the patent, one of the most interesting aspect of this device apart from its dual side slider is the different purpose each serves.

When the user slides the device to the right, a camera module can be observed. On the other hand, the left portion of the slider mechanism uncovers a smaller secondary display. This display is narrow but as tall as the primary display. The smartphone resembles any other device in the market but with a display that covers the entire front area. No front camera or any other seams are noticeable, which is to be expected since the camera is housed on the sliding mechanism.

Xiaomi

Notably, there is no rear camera module on the back panel, but the image sensors are also housed on the slider mechanism as well. The front has three cutouts for while the rear has four cutouts. This gives a distinctly minimalistic and futuristic look to the device. Unfortunately, it is unknown if Xiaomi is actually working on such a device or is covering all bases. But, the brand has been known to unveil innovative smartphone designs, so we might see a concept sometime in the future, but that is just speculation and take it with a pinch of salt.

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Super Deal: Get Xiaomi Mi TWS Earphone Basic 2 for $9.99 (Original Price $25)

Attention Readers!

Giztop is giving a fantastic deal on Xiaomi Mi TWS Earphone, Basic 2. The earphone which generally retails for $25 is now available at a massively discounted price of $9.99 only.

WHERE TO BUY
Xiaomi Mi TWS Earphone, Basic 2 at $9.99 @Giztop

xiaomi mi tws basic 2

Xiaomi Mi TWS Earphone, Basic 2 is a high-quality earphone equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and with a built-in microphone. The earphone can easily and seamlessly switch between the single ear and double ear and gives out the high-quality digital sound with DSP digital noise reduction technology. 

xiaomi mi tws basic 2 1

Featuring 7.2mm audio drivers coupled with DSP noise reduction technology, the earphone filters out ambient noise and gives you clear and noise-free sound quality. It comes with a 300mAh charging case that gives you 12 hours of playtime with the case and 5 hours on mono mode and 4 hours on stereo mode, with just one single charge. 

xiaomi mi tws basic 2 3

Generally retailing for $25, you can now buy Xiaomi Mi TWS Earphone, Basic 2 for a heavily discounted price of $9.99 only at Giztop. This is a limited-time offer. So place your orders asap. 

 

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

Fake Apple AirPods worth $7.16 million seized by US Customs and Border Protection

U. S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Cincinnati have seized three large shipments from China that contained fake Apple AirPods which are estimated to be worth around $7.16 million.

A total of 36,000 fake AirPods have been seized, each shipment containing 12,000 units. Although each package had a declared value of $5,280, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for all the AirPods would have been $7.16 million had they been genuine.

Fake Apple AirPods Seized by US CBP

In the official statement released by the US CBP, it says that after consulting with an import specialist from CBP’s Center of Excellence and Expertise, the items were found to be in violation of CBP trademark and copyright codes and were seized on May 11 and 13.

It goes on to explain that Apple has configuration trademarks on their AirPods and has recorded those trademarks with CBP. It also adds that a company does not have to put the “Apple” wordmark or design on their products to violate these trademarks. In this instance, further inspection of the earbuds revealed that their shape and design replicated the protected Apple configuration.

Apple AirPods is one of the bestselling products from the tech giant with shipments of about 114 million units in 2020. The company has a dedicated anti-counterfeit team working which is tasked with the removal of knock-off Apple products. Last year, the team managed to take down more than a million product listings for fake Apple goods.

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Samsung to unveil S-Foldable, a multi-fold display panel at SID 2021

Samsung Display and LG Display, two of the largest display panel makers in the world, have announced that they will be showcasing their latest innovations at Society for Information Display (SID) 2021, the world’s leading exhibition for displays, which will be held virtually next week.

The innovative display panels that the companies will announce next week could pave the way for the next generation of foldable smartphones. The companies said that they will reveal S-Foldable, a multi-fold display panel.

Samsung S-Foldable Multi-Fold Display

Samsung Display, a leader in the category, will be showcasing a 7.2-inch display that has support for multi-fold patterns. With that, the device can be used as a smartphone when folded and as a tablet when unfolded.

The display, currently being called “S-Foldable,” is expected to be used in the company’s upcoming flagship smartphone. The company filed to trademark name with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) last month.

Additionally, the South Korean giant is also expected to showcase a 17-inch foldable panel with a 4:3 aspect ratio. It is following the concept of “Carry Small, See Big,” making the device work as a tablet when folded and offer a computer-like display when unfolded.

On the other hand, LG Display is also gearing up to showcase an 83-inch OLED TV panel with enhanced luminous efficacy. It will also showcase a 48-inch bendable cinematic sound OLED display that can vibrate and create sound without the use of speakers.

Apart from that, LG is also expected to showcase its rollable and transparent display panels at the event, along with automotive plastic OLED display products. Alongside, Samsung will showcase under-panel camera technology as well as a slidable display that the users can extend sideways.

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Samsung Galaxy A22 5G smartphone gets certified by Bluetooth SIG

Samsung is expected to launch its new Galaxy A22 smartphone in 4G as well as 5G variants pretty soon. In fact, some reports indicate that the official launch could take place in the month of June.

Now, just weeks ahead of the expected launch, the Samsung Galaxy A22 5G has been certified by the Bluetooth SIG. The listing, coming via Mukul Sharma on Twitter, confirms that the smartphone will come packed with support for Bluetooth 5.0.

Samsung Galaxy A22 5G Bluetooth SIG

Apart from the model number and the Bluetooth version, the listing doesn’t reveal any information related to the device. Previous reports have revealed that the phone could feature a 6.4-inch FHD+ LCD display with a waterdrop notch on top for housing the front-facing camera sensor.

On the backside, the device will come with a square-shaped camera housing that will include a 48-megapixel primary sensor in the triple-camera setup. On the front side, the device will be equipped with a 13-megapixel snapper for taking selfies and video calling.

Samsung-Galaxy-A22-5G-renders-3
Galaxy A22 5G Render, Credit: Steve Hemmerstoffer / Voice

The device is expected to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset while the 4G variant could be powered by Helio G80 SoC. The smartphone is said to have a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for added security.

Reports also hint that the 4G variant will have a quad-camera setup and could pack a 5,000mAh battery with support for 15W charging. It is expected to come in Black, White, Purple, and Green colors.

We expect to know more about the specifications and features of the smartphone in the coming days and the company could also share teasers before announcing the launch date. Let’s just wait a few more days for the official launch confirmation from Samsung.

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Infinix Hot 10S key specs and features revealed through Flipkart listing

Last Infinix confirmed that it will be announcing the Infinix Hot 10S smartphone in India on May 20. It is not an entirely new phone since it has already debuted in some other markets. Ahead of the Indian launch, a landing page of the phone has appeared on Flipkart retailer site. The listing has revealed the key specifications and features of the Hot 10S.

The Infinix Hot 10S can be seen sporting a waterdrop notch display with a slightly thick chin. The display carries support for a 90Hz refresh rate and the device is powered by the Helio G85 chipset. The company claims there will be no screen tearing or heating while playing games on the Hot 10S.

The back panel of the Hot 10S has a fingerprint scanner and a 48-megapixel quad-camera system. It will offer photography features such as video bokeh, 240fps slow-motion video shooting, and timelapse videos. The smartphone will be available in three colors such as blue, green, and violet. It is expected to arrive with sub Rs 10,000 (~$136) pricing.

Infinix Hot 10S
Infinix Hot 10S

Infinix Hot 10S specifications

The Infinix Hot 10S has a massive 6.82-inch HD+ display that supports an HD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 180Hz touch sampling rate. It has a front camera of 8-megapixel and its rear camera setup has a 48-megapixel main camera, a 2-megapixel depth sensor, and an AI camera.

The Hot 10S is backed by a massive 6,000mAh battery and it runs on Android 11 OS. In Indonesia, the handset arrived in variants like 4 GB RAM + 64 GB storage and 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage. The country received it with a starting price of $130 (~Rs 9,500).

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OPPO Reno5 A spotted at Google Play supported devices list

Last month, reputed leakster Evan Blass shared press renders of the upcoming OPPO Reno5 A. It appears that the smartphone will be launching soon as it has appeared in the list of Google Play supported devices.

The Google Play supported devices listing shows model numbers A101OP and CPH2199 are both associated with the Reno5 A smartphone. According to an S-Max Japanese publication, the Reno5 A could be heading to Japan. The A101OP model could be available through SoftBank, whereas the CPH2199 model could be a SIM-free edition. Hence, Reno5 A is expected to debut soon in Japan.

OPPO Reno5 A Google Play listing

The Reno5 A is expected to replace the OPPO Reno3 A smartphone, which debuted in Japan last year. The leaked render of the phone revealed that it has a punch-hole screen with a traditional fingerprint scanner on the back. The quad-camera setup placed on the backside of the phone has a 64-megapixel primary camera. It is expected to arrive in black and white color options.

OPPO Reno5 A render

The A101OP model (via) variant had certification from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in March. The listing has revealed that it measures 162 x 74.4 x 8.2mm and weighs 182 grams. The listing also reveals that it runs on ColorOS 11 and is backed by a 4,000mAh battery. The other specifications of this device are under wraps.

Coming back to the Google Play supported devices list, the text “OP4F1BL1” is found to be common for Reno5A and Reno5 5G in the “Device” column. Hence, there is a possibility that there could be some similarities between both handsets.

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LG announces the US pricing and availability of its 2021 Sound Bars

LG Electronics has outlined its rollout plans for its 2021 Sound Bars for the US market as it continues to deliver premium products using innovative sound technology. The 2021 lineup reflects the excellent and environmentally-friendly audio devices that the tech giant has produced. The lineup is a culmination of the impressive LG design philosophy that continues to churn out versatile, convenient, eco-compliant, and excellently packaged devices that remain affordable to a wide array of its customers.LG 2021 Sound Bars

All the products listed for unveiling feature quick connectivity, smart functionality, and high-quality audio, coupled with a general aesthetic appeal. The 2021 Sound Bars are important additions to LG TVs of different hues. The US launch list for this phase of LG’s 2021 Sound Bars includes the following models: SP2, SPD7Y, SP7Y, SP8YA, and SP9YA. LG 2021 Sound Bars

 

The LG 2021 Sound Bars enable users to seamlessly interface with their LG TVs to play audio via the TV Sound Mode share. The superior audio quality delivered via the Sound Bars, combined with the excellent visuals from the TV, provides a unique viewing and listening experience. Some of the Sound Bar models are compatible with Voice Assistants like Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri, hence they provide easy control options for the user. With support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X available for most of the models, the user is guaranteed a dynamic and refreshing audio experience wherever the products are deployed. LG 2021 Sound Bars

Some other features available in select models in the lineup include Hi-resolution audio content support, 4K pass-through with Dolby Vision support, AI room calibration. Each Sound Bar has received an Eco-Product certification rating, as the materials used were mainly recycled.  LG 2021 Sound BarsAs for the US pricing and availability, the SP2 100W Sound Bar will retail for $179, while the SPD7Y is priced at $399. The SP7Y is priced at $449, the SP8YA will sell for $799 and finally, the top-end LG SP9YA Sound Bar will retail for $999. Except for the SPD7Y which will be available in mid-June, the other models are already available on the LG US website.

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Casio launches the G Shock GBA900, its most affordable fitness-tracking smartwatch

Casio has released a new watch from its G-SHOCK series, and it is a mix of digital and analog components. The new Casio GBA900 is a fitness watch with several features that make it an all-around exercise and well-being companion.Casio G Shock GBA900+/*

With Bluetooth connectivity on the device, you can quickly transfer your workout progress to the smartwatch using the G-SHOCK Move app. The G-SHOCK Move app is compatible with Android and iOS devices. The app can display steps, running distance, and other performance metrics tracked by the watch. The watch has in-built sensors which track a few aspects of a user’s fitness regimen. The accelerometers also have several features such as 5-alarm mode, shock and water resistance, 48-city world time, and a double LED light that illuminates the device.

The GBA900 evokes a feeling of the classic Casio G Shock look but has a slim 16.6mm case. It has a large 51.3×48.9mm watch face with an analog dial on the top of the LCD interface for performance tracking, mostly running data. These include speed, running distance, calories expended, and pace. There is a daily steps tracker and an adjustable multi-timer on the LCD.G Shock GBA900

The Casio GBA900 fitness watch lacks some of the basic functionalities that have been the hallmark of smart wearable devices. It doesn’t have blood-oxygen or heart-rate sensors. The device is a low-price fitness watch and can be pre-ordered at $130 from Casio’s website and other retailers.

Casio has a long history of producing timepieces of different hues, as well as other basic electronic equipment. It is gradually making its way into the fitness devices segment of the industry. However, the company may have to expand its portfolio to have a piece of the market with top-notch products.

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Sony Xperia Ace 2 key specifications emerge ahead of launch

Sony is reportedly working on a smartphone called the Xperia Ace II. The rumor mill had leaked the case renders of the smartphone last week. Now, the Xperia Ace 2 has appeared in the database of the Google Play Console listing (via), which indicates that its launch could be close at hand.

The Google Play Console listing reveals that Sony Xperia Ace II is an entry-level phone from the brand as it is equipped with the Helio P35 chipset and 4 GB of RAM. It will come loaded with the Android 11 OS.

Sony Xperia Ace II Google Play Console

The Xperia Ace II’s image that has surfaced at Play Console reveals that its display has a waterdrop notch. The exact screen is not known, but the listing states that it supports an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1496 pixels. This phone is also listed on Google Supported Devices list with Xperia Ace II moniker and SO-41B model number.

At the beginning of this year, reliable tipster OnLeaks had shared CAD renders of a compact Sony phone. The renders revealed that the phone has a 5.5-inch display and its rear shell has a vertical dual camera setup along with an LED flash. The handset was also found to be equipped with a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a dedicated camera button, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Shown above are the case renders of the Xperia Ace II (via) that have surfaced recently Speculations are rife that this device will be exclusively available in Japan. It is expected to replace the Xperia Ace phone, which debuted back in 2019. Japanese carrier DoCoMo will be holding a launch event on May 19 to announce of new phones. The company is expected to launch the Snapdragon 888 powered Sharp AQUOS R6 flagship, Arrows Be5 F-41B, as well as the Xperia Ace II.

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Samsung partners with Hyundai Motors to develop semiconductors for cars

Samsung has joined forces with Hyundai Motor Co. to collaborate with the South Korean government and some agencies to tackle headlong the global chip shortage. The agreement recently signed by both companies and the Korean Electronics Technology Institute, the Korea Automotive Technology Institute, and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy will foster a more robust local supply chain for vital semiconductors needed for many production processes within the country.

While the local automotive industry will be the primary beneficiaries of the new collaboration between Samsung and Hyundai, there are possible global implications if the partnership is successful. Samsung and Hyundai will develop next-generation super-efficient semiconductors, battery management chips, image sensors, and application processors for in-car entertainment/ information systems.

The semiconductor industry is a long-term and capital-intensive industry. Therefore the dividends from the partnership, if sustained, could take several years to become visible. Samsung is already pursuing research in an alternative wafer production template, with a focus on 12-inch wafers. This could also revolutionize chip making across different types.

The moves by both companies are long-term efforts to shore up the development of the automotive industry. They could be a culmination of the corporate social responsibility initiatives of both companies. The goal remains to establish a strong supply base for the local production of semiconductors for the automotive industry in its home market.

In line with its desire to bridge the supply gap in global chip shortage, Samsung Electronics had announced expansion plans for its existing chip manufacturing plants. The company has also made progress in developing innovative solutions like the new PixCell LED intelligent headlight technology, which is being deployed specifically to the automotive industry.

The fine details of the Samsung Hyundai collaboration including timelines and deliverables will be unveiled soon.

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Redmi Note 8 (2021) receives Bluetooth certification, launch seems near

Xiaomi is reportedly working on a phone named the Redmi Note 8 (2021) for select markets. A variant of the phone with model number M1908C3JGG was recently spotted at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification site. The same device has now received approval from the Bluetooth SIG authority. The listing yet again reveals that it is a new device.

The Bluetooth SIG listing of the M1908C3JGG mentions it as the Redmi Note 8. The older Redmi Note 8, which debuted in 2019 carried support for Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. However, its newer version that has appeared at Bluetooth SIG is equipped with Bluetooth 5.2. Hence, it appears to be the 2021 edition of the Redmi Note 8. At present, there is no official information available on its existence.

Redmi Note 8 (2021) Bluetooth SIG

Rumors surrounding it have claimed that the Redmi Note 8 (2021) could be sporting an IPS LCD waterdrop notch screen that offers a 120Hz refresh rate. The device could be equipped with the Helio G85 chipset and 4 GB of RAM. It may arrive in the market in storage editions such as 64 GB and 128 GB.

The Redmi Note 8 (2021) could be powered by a 4,000mAh battery that may support 22.5W rapid charging. For photography, it may feature a quad-camera system headlined by a 48-megapixel camera. The FCC listing of the Redmi Note 8 (2021) will come loaded with the latest MIUI 12.5.

The Note 8 (2021) is expected to arrive in markets like the EU, Russia, and few other regions. Now that the smartphone has received important certifications, it appears that it may go official later this month or in early June.

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Google Pixel 6 to pack a Periscope camera, concept renders of the sensors leak

Google is expected to update its Pixel smartphone line with the Pixel 6 series soon. Just a couple of days back, noted tipster Jon Prosser shared some renders of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, giving us a clear glimpse of the design. The design shows the Pixel 6 series will come with a spectacular design different from the previous models. Google Pixel 6 Pro

Right now, the camera lens of the Pixel 6 models has appeared in another leak. The images are said to be concept ones but they are based on insider information that could have emerged out of the production line. The images reveal the presence of three camera sensors onboard the Pixel 6 models. One of the sensors is noticeably a periscope lens. There is what looks like a fourth sensor which the source says is a Spectral/Flicker Sensor.

Going by Jon Prosser’s renders, the Pixel 6 series camera will be housed in a wider module that extends from the left to the right sides and aligned horizontally. This is different from the square-shaped design on the previous models.

The Pixel 6 series is expected to be powered by Google’s custom-made chip codenamed Whitechapel. The models are also expected to arrive with an under-display fingerprint ready. Details of the specs are sketchy at this point but we expect the rumor mill to keep buzzing with new details concerning the Pixel 6. There is also no word yet on when the models will be officially announced.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G could be launching soon

Multiple reports have revealed that Samsung is working on a successor version for the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite. Initial reports claimed that it will be called the Galaxy Tab S7+ Lite. The Bluetooth SIG certification that appeared last revealed that it could be arriving in the market as the Galaxy Tab S7 XL Lite. Fresh information reveals that this device may launch with the Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G moniker.

A Google Play Console listing of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G has been spotted by My Smart Price. The listing reveals that its screen supports a resolution of 1600 x 256 pixels and it runs on Android 11 OS.

The Geekbench listing of the device that was spotted in the recent past suggested that it could be featuring the Snapdragon 750G and 4 GB of RAM. The Play Console corroborates the processor and RAM of the device and it also confirms the presence of a fingerprint scanner.

Samsung-Galaxy-Tab-S7-FE-5G-Google-Play-Console

There is no word on the battery capacity of the Tab S7 FE 5G. While it is expected to support 44.5W fast charging, it may ship with a 15W charger. The tablet is expected to offer other features like a 12.4-inch IPS LCD screen, S Pen support, and a dual-camera system. Other reports have revealed that the tablet will be available in 5G, 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi-only versions. It may arrive in multiple colors like black, silver, pink, and green.

In related news, Samsung is expected to hold a big event on Aug. 19 to announce three new devices such as the Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy Z Fold3, and Galaxy Z Flip3. The Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G may not launch along with these devices. Probably, it may go official with the rumored Galaxy Tab A7 Lite in June.

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POCO M3 Pro 5G’s battery capacity, fast charging. and cameras confirmed

POCO will be announcing the POCO M3 Pro 5G through a global launch event on May 19. Ahead of the launch, the company has been gradually confirming the features of the smartphone. It recently revealed information about its camera and battery.

The POCO M3 Pro 5G will be arriving with a 5,000mAh battery, which will be accompanied by 18W fast charging.  For photography, the device will be equipped with an AI-driven 48-megapixel triple camera system.

Last week, it revealed that the POCO M3 Pro 5G has a 6.5-inch FHD+ LCD display that delivers a 90Hz refresh rate. A leaked render of the smartphone that emerged last week revealed that its display has a centrally aligned punch-hole.

POCO M3 Pro 5G Render Leak 01
POCO M3 Pro 5G | Source: Ishan Agarwal

The POCO M3 Pro 5G will be driven by the Dimensity 700 5G-ready chipset. It will be arriving as POCO’s first M-series smartphone with 5G capabilities. The leaked render also revealed that it will be sporting a unique dual-tone rear design. It will be available in colors like black, yellow, and blue/green.

Several reports have claimed that the POCO M3 Pro 5G will be a rebrand version of the Redmi Note 10 5G, which was announced in global markets in March. Hence, it is expected to offer users 6 GB or 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, up to 128 GB of UFS 2.2 storage, a front camera of 8-megapixel, and its rear camera setup may include a pair of 2-megapixel auxiliary cameras for depth effects and macro shots.

There is no word on the pricing of the POCO M3 Pro 5G. However, it seems that it could be arriving in the market as one of the most affordable 5G smartphones.

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Top stories from last week: Zenfone 8, POCO UI, a new Redmi Note 8, Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro, Dimensity 900, Pixel 6 series, Meizu Watch, and more

If you missed out on the important announcements in the mobile tech industry, here’s your chance to bring yourself up to speed with our roundup of the week’s top stories.

Zenfone 8 and Zenfone 8 Flip

ASUS launches Zenfone 8 series

ASUS announced the Zenfone 8 series last week. Featuring two phones – the Zenfone 8 and Zenfone 8 Flip, ASUS is targeting two different demographics with its new phones. If you want a compact flagship device, the Zenfone 8 is for you and if you want a phone that will turn heads when you try to take a selfie in public, then the Zenfone 8 Flip is the device to go for.

POCO New Logo

POCO UI is coming

POCO started as a sub-brand of Xiaomi but is now an “independent” brand. Its phones run a slightly tweaked version of MIUI out of the box but that may change soon as the company plans to launch its own UI which will be called POCO UI. It will still be an off-shoot of MIUI but with more features exclusive to POCO devices. POCO has also revealed it has no intention to launch an Android One phone.

 

Redmi Note 8 Neptune Blue Featured

A new Redmi Note 8?

The Redmi Note 8 was a pretty popular device, selling more than 10 million units. According to new info that surfaced last week, it appears Redmi plans to launch a new version of the phone with new specs. This new version has been seen at the FCC and is expected to launch as the Redmi Note 8 (2021). It is also expected to have a high refresh rate display, a MediaTek chipset, and a 4000mAh battery.

 

Xiaomi Flipbuds Pro featured

Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro

Xiaomi announced a new pair of TWS earbuds last week and it comes with a new naming scheme. Unlike its other wireless earbuds that are sold under the Mi True Wireless line, this new one arrives as the FlipBuds Pro and it is one of its most premium ones yet.

 

MediaTek

MediaTek unveils the Dimensity 900

MediaTek has a new chipset. The Dimensity 900 is a 6nm processor with Cortex-A78 cores and Cortex-A55 cores. The 5G chipset will power mid-range 5G devices from various manufacturers including OPPO, Vivo, and Redmi.

 

First look at Google’s Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro

If you didn’t like that Google used the same design for the Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, and Pixel 5, then the Pixel 6 and the Pixel 6 Pro should excite you. We got our first look at the upcoming phones last week and they bring an entirely new design to the Pixel line.

 

Meizu Watch

Meizu Watch

We thought Meizu would launch its smartwatch alongside the Meizu 18 series but that didn’t happen. An alleged render of the wearable surfaced a few days ago and it has a familiar design.

 

OnePlus Watch Cobalt Limited Edition

OnePlus Watch Cobalt Limited Edition

OnePlus has announced a special edition of the OnePlus Watch. The OnePlus Watch Colbalt Limited Edition is made from more premium materials such as sapphire glass, a cobalt alloy frame, and leather straps. Of course, it costs more too.

 

PS5 DualSense controller

PlayStation 5′ DualSense controller gets two new colors

The DualSense 5 controller for the PlayStation 5 now comes in two new colors, bringing the available color options to three. The new colors are Midnight Black and Cosmic Red and are scheduled to go on sale next month.

 

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Poll of The Week: Zenfone 8 or Zenfone 8 Flip?

Last week, ASUS announced its new flagship phones – the Zenfone 8 and the Zenfone 8 Flip. Save for the Snapdragon 888 inside these devices, the two phones are quite different.

While the Zenfone 8 is compact and has a design similar to that of the average phone in 2021, the Zenfone 8 Flip is much bigger and keeps the flip camera design of the Zenfone 6 and Zenfone 7 series. There are other differences too such as an IP68 rating, audio jack, dual cameras, and a 120Hz refresh rate on the Zenfone 8 while the Zenfone 8 Flip has a lower 90Hz refresh rate, no waterproof rating or audio jack, but packs motorized triple rear cameras that double as the front-facing cameras, a dedicated MicroSD card slot, and a bigger battery capacity.

For this week’s poll, we want to know which of these two flagships you prefer. Is it the Zenfone 8 or the Zenfone 8 Flip? Please take the poll and also share a comment telling us why you prefer one over the other.

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LG Velvet 2 Pro with pressure-sensitive power and volume buttons appears online

LG confirmed it was shutting down its smartphone business last month. Following that announcement, we have seen some of the devices it had planned for release surface on the internet such as the LG Rollable and the LG V70. Now, it is the turn of the LG Velvet 2 Pro, a device that should have launched as the successor to the LG Velvet announced a year ago.

The LG Velvet 2 Pro (let’s hope we get to see the standard version soon) is actually a finished device that is being sold only to LG employees in South Korea according to Tron (@FrontTron) who shared images and details of the phone on Twitter. He adds that there are approximately 3000 units available and employees are limited to just two units which they can not resell.

LG Velvet 2 Pro
LG Velvet 2 Pro in Beige | Image source: Tron (@FrontTron)

The selling price for the phone is stated to be about $170 which is definitely a fraction of what the phone would have sold for if it actually launched. It will come with 2 official jelly cases.

One of the images shows the LG Velvet 2 Pro has a similar design to the original. The Raindrop camera style has been retained but now all three cameras protrude unlike the LG Velvet that has only one of its cameras protruding. The back is curved and obviously made of glass and we can catch a glimpse of the gold-plated frame. According to the leaker, this color variant is called Beige and there are two others – Black which has a gossy finish and Bimetallic Bronze which has a matte finish.

The LG Velvet 2 Pro has a curved display with a camera in the center. Sorry to (not) disappoint but it is a U-shaped notch like we have on the first-gen model. While the specs of the phone are unknown, it has been revealed that the phone ditches physical buttons (power and volume control) for pressure-sensitive ones.

The source has revealed that LG will not provide software updates for the device which is not surprising considering the device never launched. However, those who purchase it will get about 6 months of after-sales service or for the period parts are in stock.

 

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