Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P gets a Multi-Map feature via Firmware update

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Feb 3, 2021

Xiaomi is known for launching out of the world concept phones and patenting weird designs. The company has done the former through the Mi Mix Alpha and the latter via n-number of patents. For instance, we recently saw a smartphone design with a detachable camera layout. Today, yet another patent appears online and this time it’s the wrap-around display, again.

Xiaomi is not new to patenting smartphone designs with a surround display. The latest patent, which was applied by Xiaomi and approved by WIPO’s Hague International Design System, also has one. LetsGoDigital has unearthed this patent, and as it says, the design is reminiscent of an older patent.

If you recall, one of the company’s patents having a surround display with a pop-up camera at the top got published recently. Well, this one seems to have similar schematics but the difference is a display with a notch. That is, this design doesn’t have any mechanical parts but has a wide notch in the front to accommodate selfie shooters and sensors.

At the bottom, everything from Speaker, Primary Microphone, 3.5mm audio jack, Type-C port placements are the same. However, at the top, the pop-up is missing(obviously) and the power key and secondary mic are at the left instead of the right. The display, which wraps around the device, has a notch like the recent iPhones.

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It’s worth noting that the 3D renders show that the selfie arrangement is projecting slightly up(Model 2 from Image) from the display area. While the reason is unknown, this could just be to keep the phone slimmer or maybe grab the energy of the impact when fallen upright down. Either way, these are just speculations from my side.

Considering the Mi Mix Alpha didn’t even enter mass production, we can’t expect this to debut as a commercial design anytime soon. Meanwhile, Xiaomi is finally figuring out to launch a foldable device in 2021.

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OPPO starts rolling out the ColorOS 11 (Android 11) update for OPPO A9

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Feb 3, 2021

OPPO unveiled the ColorOS 11 Globally on September 14, 2020. The company has already shared rollout plans of the stable and beta versions. Accordingly, it has started rolling out the stable version of the UI based on Android 11 for the OPPO A9.

In a tweet, the company’s ColorOS division has replied to a user that the Official version of the ColorOS 11 based on Android 11 is rolling out to the OPPO A9. Originally, the OPPO A9 was supposed to start receiving from Jan. 21 as per the timeline. It’s also worth noting that this is not OPPO A9 2020. The latter is said to receive the ColorOS 11 Beta only by Q2.

The OPPO A9 launched in July 2019 with Helio P70 chipset whereas the A9 2020, which debuted in September 2019, has Snapdragon 665. With that out of the way, the new OTA(Over-The-Air) update will increment the Android version to 11.

Previously, the device came with Android 9 having ColorOS 6 on top out of the box. Thus, it has received a second major update now after the ColorOS 7 in 2020. As for features, you can expect UI customizations, Battery life improvements and Three-finger translate. To know about the goodies of the ColorOS 11, check out our article on the same.

Coming back, the update seems to be rolling out only in phases as of now. The user has replied to the tweet that despite being on the latest firmware, he hasn’t got the OTA yet. Hence, we request you to wait for a bit and if you have already received it, do let us know in the comments below.

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vivo V19 is receiving Android 11-based Funtouch OS 11 update in India

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Feb 3, 2021

Chinese smartphone maker vivo launched the vivo V19 in India in mid-May. The handset arrived with Funtouch OS 10 based on Android 10. Now, over eight months after its release, the phone is receiving its first major update in the form of Android 11-based Funtocuh OS 11.

Earlier last month, vivo revealed Funtouch OS 11 update rollout plan for India. According to the schedule, the company was supposed to release the Android 11 update for vivo V19 at the end of January 2021.

Hence, the update is finally live for certain users in the country. According to PiunikaWeb, it comes with build number vivo rev 6.71.16 and weighs a whopping 3.76GB in size.

For those unaware, the brand’s update plan clearly states that it is meant only for beta version. But interestingly, random users have begun to get the update already. This suggests that vivo’s beta builds are similar to Xiaomi’s ‘Stable Beta’ builds.

That means the currently rolling out build is basically stable but since it is being pushed in batches for safety reasons, vivo might be considering it beta. Anyway, if you happen to own vivo V19 and have received this OTA update on your device, then make sure to download and install it to experience new UI and features.

Having said that, it is a shame that vivo has reserved its brand-new OriginOS for its high-end smartphones. It would have been nice if the company had made it available for the mid-rangers as well.

Grab AirPods styled MK101 Bluetooth Speakers for $12.99

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Simranpal Singh

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Feb 3, 2021

Apple and its products are often loved by several users across the globe. However, if you’re obsessed with AirPods design and want a similarly styled speaker, then MK101 SoundBox Bluetooth Speaker is a perfect choice. The beautifully crafted speakers are built with ABS material and measures 222mm x 100mm x 90mm in size. The smartphone is on sale for the price of $12.99 via Gearbest. It is available in five different colour options of Aquamarine, Sky Blue, Black, Deep Peach and White.

Related: Apple to launch 2nd Gen AirPods Pro in the first half of 2021: Report

MK101 SoundBox Bluetooth Speaker carries a massive 1200 mAh battery with 5-8 hours of backup time. The device comes with a Bluetooth 5.0 for flawless connectivity and better reach. Moreover, the device features 9 different interfaces ranging from Power on/off button to USB, TF Card Slot.

The user can tun into FM Radio, or enjoy music by inserting a TF card and USB stick. Moreover, there’s an AUX cable port for easy and seamless accessibility. It even carries HD microphone. MK1010 SoundBox houses a 2-inch heavy low tone speaker which will produce premium sound.

It is a beautiful device that features AirPods design for better voice audibility. It is on sale for the price of $12.99 via Gearbest. You can grab it by hitting the button below.

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Must See: New Nokia phone certified by Bluetooth SIG believed to be Nokia 2.4’s successor

Xiaomi begins recruiting Pilot Testers before the Global MIUI 12.5 launch on February 8

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Feb 3, 2021

Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the next MIUI version, i.e, the MIUI 12.5 Globally. The launch, which is scheduled for February 8, will also see the 2021 flagship Mi 11’s debut. Ahead of this, it has started the Global MIUI Pilot testers program.

Xiaomi, in a community post, shared the details of the program along with the eligible devices list. You can take a look at the list below:

If you recall, the MIUI 12.5 launched on December 28, 2020, in China. The company has already started testing the Chinese version and released the first batch of updates. Amidst reports of a slight suspension in China Beta ROMs between Feb. 8-19, the company has begun the Global Pilot Testing program to test the Stable Beta builds.

If you are a Global user of any of the devices above, visit this link to apply and submit the required details including the correct IMEI number of your device and Mi Account details. To get the IMEI number, open the phone dialer and type *#06#. The last date for registration is March 1.

Xiaomi also includes a few Notes for the pilot testers. Since the update will be rolled out via OTA, you need to be on a Global Stable ROM while applying to avoid any hiccups. Further, you should be 18/18+ yrs of age, know the tricks to recover the phone (in case of flashing issues). Also, do note that devices like India’s Redmi K20(which is Mi 9T Globally) are also on the list.

While using the Beta ROMs, you can report the bugs if any on the Feedback App. To know the further whereabouts and how to do it, visit here.

Generally, MIUI China and Global Versions have few differences. Hence, let’s wait till Feb. 8 to know what Xiaomi brings for the Global audience. Meanwhile, you can look at the MIUI 12.5 China features.

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AnTuTu January 2021: Xiaomi Mi 11 loses its crown to iQOO 7

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Feb 3, 2021

AnTuTu releases its monthly report on best performing Android smartphones at the beginning of every new month. As we have entered February, the company has now published the report for January 2021. The latest report is no different from that of December 2020 except that the top performer has once again changed with a newcomer.

Just like the past few AnTuTu Benchmark’s monthly reports on Android smartphones, there’s no major change in the list of the mid-range phones this time too. The changes are only in the list of flagship handsets.

First and foremost, the Xiaomi Mi 11 no longer holds the crown for the best performing Android smartphone. It has lost its place to the new player iQOO 7 in just a single month. It is worth noting that both are powered by the all-new Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 and their high-end variants come with 12GB RAM and 256GB internal storage.

Further, the list also includes another new device in the form of OPPO Reno5 Pro+ 5G. But since it is powered by last year’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, it only manages to come fifth. Anyway, it is currently the top performer with the said chipset.

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On the other hand, the list for mid-range phones is basically the same as mentioned above. Only the rankings have slightly changed among the already included handsets.

Samsung Galaxy F62 could debut under ₹25,000($343) in India

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Feb 3, 2021

Samsung Galaxy F62 is an upcoming device that will probably bridge the Gap between Smartphones and Tablets. It will likely share a lot of specs with another device coming as Galaxy M62 in certain markets. Accordingly, the Phablet-like device could feature a bigger FHD+ AMOLED panel. Now, we have new info suggesting that the device could debut under ₹25k in India.

The latest information comes from Mukul Sharma who says that Samsung will soon launch the Galaxy F series device. He says that the device will debut under ₹25,000 in India. To recall, the Galaxy M51 has the highest price(₹24,999) for a Samsung F/M series yet. Hence, the upcoming Galaxy F(probably the F62) won’t break this norm going by the leak.

Further, Mukul also shared a picture that has what looks like a leaked marketing teaser image having a ‘Flagship level’ tagline with Exynos and four blanks( _ _ _ _ ). A comparison against Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G 5G chipset is also shown. If this is true, Samsung is clearly looking to target the performance and 5G capabilities here.

[Exclusive] Samsung is indeed launching a new F series smartphone. It's supposed to be a #FullOnSpeedy phone. The multi-core score (2401) will outperform the 765G processor. Price will be less than 25k 😍
Hey @samsungindia, which one eh?
Any guesses #stufflistingsarmy? pic.twitter.com/x0dA80sXDz

— Mukul Sharma (@stufflistings) February 3, 2021

A recent Geekbench listing shows that the Galaxy F62 will feature an Exynos 9825 flagship chipset. In case you don’t know, Exynos 9825 powers the Galaxy Note 10 Series from 2019.

Interestingly, this chipset (first Samsung SoC to be built on 7nm), although having 4G as default, also is 5G-ready when paired with an Exynos 5100 modem. Hence, it is possible that Samsung might surprise everyone by bringing the Galaxy F62 as a 5G device.

Samsung Galaxy F62 has been in the rumors for quite a while now. A listing on FCC with model number SM-E625F/DS, which is tipped to be the Galaxy F62, reveals features like NFC, 7,000mAh battery with 25W charging. Other expected specs include quad-cameras, storage up to 256GB, USB-C and 3.5mm audio jack ports, run Android 11, and more.

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Apple and Kia close to signing deal worth $3.6 billion for making electric cars: Report

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Feb 3, 2021

A new report has revealed that Apple and Kia are nearing a deal that would have the former make a 3.6 billion US Dollar investment into the latter for the manufacturing of electric vehicles in the future.

According to a DongA report (Via GSMArena), the Cupertino based giant is apparently planning on working with the Hyundai subsidiary, Kia, for its production site in Georgia, US. Reportedly, the iPhone maker is expecting that its large investment production of electric vehicles will begin by the year 2024. Apple targets on reaching 100,000 cars being produced per year, with future expansion growing the number to 400,000 units per year.

The report arrives from sources close to the matter, which have stated that Apple is leaning towards Hyundai as its primary partner to enter into car production. The main reason for this is due to the automobile giant’s electric vehicle platform, E-GMP, along with its production facilities in the US and the supposed ability to begin production by the year 2024. Kia will be responsible for handling the production and manufacturing process.

Meanwhile, Apple will be in control of the self driving or autonomous systems. This would include the software, hardware, user experience, battery technologies, semiconductors, and other aspects. Furthermore, Apple and Hyundai have been in talks for the the electric vehicle production for a while now. Currently, it is unclear if the deal is set in stone as reports claim that the automobile maker’s execs are still assessing the deal, while other news claim that the company is more than ready to enter into the deal. So stay tuned for more updates regarding this matter.

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Xiaomi Mi 10T and Mi 10T Pro get Android 11 update in India

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Feb 3, 2021

Xiaomi launched the Mi 10T series in India comprising of Mi 10T and Mi 10T Pro in mid-October ahead of the Diwali festive season. The phones debuted with MIUI 12 based on Android 10. Now, over three months after their release, these handsets have started receiving Android 11 update in the country.

The Mi 10T and the Mi 10T Pro run the same software build. Because these smartphones are identical in terms of both specs and design except for their primary camera. Similarly, the Mi 10T is also sold as Redmi K30S Ultra in China.

Since the Chinese counterpart is part of MIUI Weekly Beta program, Xiaomi has been releasing Android 11-based MIUI builds for this phone for a while now. Hence, the stable update should have been first available for this variant.

But for some reason, the Indian variant, which is known as Mi 10T is receiving the Android 11 stable update first along with the Mi 10T Pro. Anyway, the update with build number V12.1.1.0.RJDINXM is currently in the ‘Stable Beta’ phase and therefore, it is only available for select users in the country.

We expect Xiaomi to extend the availability of this update to more users as well as other regional variants of these handsets in the coming days. That said, being high-end devices, the Mi 10T and Mi 10T Pro should be receiving three MIUI updates and another Android update in the future.

TikTok lays off employees in India months after the countrywide ban

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Feb 3, 2021

TikTok has announced that it will be downsizing its staff in India. This news arrives months after the social media platform was banned in the region, implying that the company might be withdrawing from the country.

According to TheVerge report, a TikTok spokesperson confirmed that the company is reducing its workforce in India. In the statement, the representative told TheVerge that “Given the lack of feedback from the government about how to resolve this issue in the subsequent seven months, it is with deep sadness that we have decided to reduce our workforce in India… [We] hope to get the chance to relaunch TikTok in India to support the hundreds of millions of users, artists, story tellers, educators and performers there.”

In other words, over seven months after the social media app was banned from the region, the company is finally downsizing the Indian staff. At the moment, it is unknown how many employees TikTok will be retained in the country. Furthermore, a source close to the matter also added that “most” local employees are planned to be laid off. Although, the company has yet to clarify the news.

Previously, India was a large market for TikTok, which is owned by ByteDance, with over 30 percent of TikTok’s downloads were from the nation. For those unaware, the social media platform was banned from the country back in June 2020 by the Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology that accused the app on engaging “in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order.”

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Infinix SMART 5 will launch in India on February 11 as a rebranded HOT 10 Play

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Feb 3, 2021

Infinix is one of the three Transsion brands, which are more popular in Africa. But the company also has a good presence in India. In fact, the three of them witnessed their highest-ever shipments in the country last year. That said, Infinix is now set to launch its first smartphone of 2021 in India in the form of Infinix SMART 5 on February 11.

Infinix Smart 5 aka Hot 10 Play Featured — Infinix SMART 5 aka HOT 10 Play

For those unaware, Infinix debuted the SMART 5 first in Africa in mid-August 2020. So it does not make sense for the brand to release an old device half a year later in India. Hence, the SMART 5 launching in India next week will be the recently unveiled HOT 10 Play.

In simpler words, the Infinix SMART 5, which has been officially confirmed to launch in India on February 11 will be a rebranded Infinix HOT 10 Play, as per the official teaser posters shared by Infinix on its social media channels.

Before going official in Pakistan and the Philippines in January, the Infinix HOT 10 Play was certified by FCC in December. The device received its BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification in the same month itself. Hence, it certainly makes sense that the upcoming SMART 5 for India will be HOT 10 Play.

Some of the specs of this handset include MediaTek Helio G25, 6.82-inch HD+ LCD screen, 13MP dual camera, 8MP selfie camera, fingerprint sensor, 6,000mAh battery, and Android 10 Go Edition.

Apple patents Project Titan related tech that assists driver visibility in bad weather conditions

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Feb 3, 2021

Earlier this week, Apple was granted a new patent that was related to its upcoming Project Titan. The new patent was for technology related to assisting the driver’s visibility to help in poor weather conditions.

According to a PatentlyApple report, the Cupertino based giant was recently granted the patent by the US Patent and Trademark Office, which is related to its Project Titan. The document in question is regarding a new visibility system that is designed to assist drivers in viewing key road signs. This would be especially useful in bad weather conditions like heavy snow, thick fogs or smogs, and even dust. In driving, visibility is a very crucial aspect, which heavily ties into safety as well.

Thus, in low visibility conditions, a system that helps drivers in seeing other vehicles on the road or other hazards could reduce the risk of accidents or any other incidents. As per the patent, the vehicle with this system would be able to lower the risk of collision by utilizing an additional system that features radar systems, vision based cameras, and even light detection and ranging through LiDAR technology. Since poor weather conditions could also affect the reliability of the visibility system, like water vapor that can absorb or scatter light, improving detectability is paramount to such systems.

The patent granted to Apple covers a retroreflector system that includes a “plurality of retroreflectors.” In other words, the retroreflectors are configured to reflect a radar signal, a light, a LiDAR signal, or any other type of signal to a respective signal source. This might even have the sensor being partially embedded in an outer panel of the vehicle, which can be configured to allow the radar signal to pass through to the plurality of retroreflectors. While the system is described in detail, it is still unknown if Apple is actually working on such a product. So stay tuned.

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Redmi Smart TVs may launch in India in March

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Feb 3, 2021

Apart from India’s largest smartphone brand, Xiaomi is also the country’s leading smart TV brand. The Chinese tech giant entered the television market in India in early 2018. Since then, it has established itself as a prominent player in the TV segment. That said, according to a tip, Xiaomi’s sub-brand Redmi will also be launching its televisions soon.

Redmi started selling TVs after it became an independent brand in 2019. The brand’s televisions are only sold in its home country. It also entered the top 10 online TV brands list in China in August of 2020.

Unlike Xiaomi’s Mi-branded TVs, the Redmi TVs offer better specs and features at comparatively lower price tags. Also, almost all the models offered by the brand are large-sized televisions.

Now, as per Mukul Sharma (@stuflistings), a popular Indian tech influencer, Redmi may finally bring its TVs to India. He revealed that Redmi Smart TVs may launch in India as soon as March at competitive prices.

He also suggests that these TV models could be the Redmi Smart TV X series that was unveiled in May last year. For the unaware, this 4K television comes in three sizes (50-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch) and is cheaper than Mi-branded TVs with better features like a metal body, MEMC, and more.

Anyway, all the televisions released by Xiaomi in India so far are different than the models sold in China. Hence, the upcoming Redmi smart TVs could also be discrete.

Xiaomi Founder Lei Jun acquires controlling stake in AI chip developer CVITEK

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Feb 3, 2021

Earlier today (3rd February 2021), a new report surfaced that revealed that the Founder and CEO of Xiaomi has acquired stakes in a Chinese artificial intelligence development based firm called CVITEK. This led to a business change within the company with the smartphone maker’s senior official having a controlling stake within the AI developer.

As per new information from QCC, the Chinese tech giant has officially become CVITEK’s largest shareholder, with a shareholding ratio and a final benefit ratio of 20.7 percent. Furthermore, the information has also revealed that the most prominent position of the company has now been changed to Lei Jun, Xiaomi’s Chairman, Founder, and CEO. The senior official now has a total equity ratio of 3.07 percent.

For those unaware, CVITEK is a company that focuses on the design and development of aritificial intelligence based SoC chips. Unfortunately, we have no means on knowing what the company aims on achieving by acquiring majority stake in the business. Although, Xiaomi is a technology based brand, so we can assume that this is one of its attempt to broaden its horizon and deepen its research and development into the artificial intelligence field.

In other words, the smartphone manufacturer might be looking to have this company help develop future technology that might even be integrated into its own product offerings. However, that is just speculation at this point so take it with a pinch of salt and stay tuned for more, as we will be providing more updates if there are any interesting development regarding this matter.

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boAt Airdopes 441 and boAt Airdopes 441 Pro with up to ₹500 Off on Amazon India (1-Day Deal)

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Greeva Agnihotri

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Feb 3, 2021

boAt has established itself as one of the top 5 brands in the wearables category in just 5 years, globally. The company has a wide variety of products ranging from pocket-friendly accessories to high-end products to cater to all consumers’ needs. Presently, Amazon is offering up to ₹500 off on its products. Let’s take a look at them.

Note: The deal is exclusive just for today.

boAt Airdopes 441 TWS Earbuds

These bad boys usually have a price tag of ₹2499 but are currently up on sale at Amazon and available for just ₹1,999.

boAt Airdopes 441 TWS Earbuds have an IPX7 that prevents damage caused by sweat and water, making it sports friendly. It is integrated with Bluetooth v5.0, which maintains a strong connection for up to 10m distance and supports Android and iOS. This pair offers a playback time of up to 5 hours in earbuds and 25 hours with a charging case. Other features voice assistant, touch controls, and IWP instant pairing. boAt Airdopes 441 TWS Earbuds

boAt Airdopes 441 Pro TWS Earbuds

Currently, boAt Airdopes 441 Pro TWS Ear-Buds are up with a discount of ₹200 and available for just ₹2799 (original price: ₹2999) at Amazon.

This pair has similar features to its predecessor and offers an IPX7 rating, Bluetooth v5.0 connection, Android and iOS compatibility, voice assistant, touch controls, and IWP instant pairing. However, what makes it stand apart is its battery life. These boAt earbuds have a playback time of up to 5 hours in earbuds and 150 hours with a charging case and can be fully juiced up in just 1.5 hours. boat-airdopes-441-pro-blue_540x

These boAt headphones are an ideal upgrade for regular users and sports enthusiasts. The above deal is exclusive only for today and ends in 8 hours. So hurry and make the most of it.

Apple Car expected to use E-GMP platform from Hyundai Motors as base

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Jeet

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Feb 3, 2021

Last month, Hyundai Motor confirmed that the company is in talks with Apple for the production of the tech giant’s ambitious project of making its own autonomous driving vehicle, which is currently being referred to as Apple Car.

While both the companies are expected to reach an agreement in March related to the development of Apple Car, information about the project keeps surfacing online. In the latest news (via Gizmodo), a longtime Apple analyst says that the company has picked Hyundai’s E-GMP platform as the base for its upcoming electric car.

Hyundai claims that the E-GMP platform is designed for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and offers increased modularity and safety. At the same time, it also tries to maximize performance, driving range, and interior room for passengers and luggage.

The company further adds that high-performance cars based on the E-GMP platform could go from 0 to 60mph in less than 3.5 seconds, with top speeds of around 160 mph. It can deliver more than 310 miles on a single charge and the new charging system goes up to 350kw, allowing E-GMP-based vehicles to recharge up to 80% battery in just 18 minutes.

For those who are unaware, Hyundai had announced the E-GMP platform last year and it is the core architecture for the automaker’s next-generation battery electric vehicles (BEVs), including Ioniq 5 and Kia’s first dedicated BEV expected to launch this year.

Both the companies are hoping to produce around 100,000 vehicles in 2024 and the plan is to eventually reach the production goal of 400,000 vehicles annually. It is said that the “beta version” of the Apple Car could go into testing as soon as next year.

The timeline of making commercial cars by 2024 seems aggressive and has already been questioned by many, including notable Apple Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Some reports indicate that it will take around 5-7 years for the Apple Car to go into production.

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Samsung to rank 4th in chip fabrication capacity for matured nodes in 2021: Report

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