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Xiaomi’s offline stores across China will be shut from January 28 due to the Coronavirus epidemic

By
Jed John Ikoba
-

Xiaomi has announced that it will be shutting down its offline stores scattered across various cities in China. This was contained in a press release by the tech giant earlier today. The post cited the need to assist the epidemic prevention and control work in China, in relations to the Coronavirus outbreak that is currently ravaging the country. The closure will become effective from January 28. The stores will reopen on Monday, February 3 but there could be an extension depending on the prevailing situation. The company indicated that fans will be notified if there is an adjustment. Here’s a transcription of the press release below.Xiaomi Mi Store

EDITOR’S PICK: Xiaomi’s Aqara officially unveils its range of smart home products in the US

“Affected by the epidemic situation, in order to cooperate with governments at all levels to do a good job in epidemic prevention and prevention, to comprehensively and actively respond to national policies and measures, and also for the health of your family and friends around us, we carefully decided:

1. The Xiaomi House nationwide will be closed from January 28, 2020 (the fourth day) to February 2, 2020 (the ninth day). It will resume operations on February 3, 2020 (the 10th day), and it will be notified separately if there is any adjustment.

2. If you need to purchase products, please purchase them on Xiaomi’s official website or Xiaomi Mall app. The logistics will be delivered normally. Due to the holidays, the logistics aging will be delayed. Please forgive me.

3. If you need after-sales service, please dial 4001005678. Xiaomi will provide free postal service after the sale.”

Thankfully, the company also disclosed that fans can continue to purchase their favourite products via the company’s online channels (Xiaomi Mall app and Mi.com). The shipping will be handled promptly as usual but may encounter some delays as a result of the New year holidays.

China has been battling with a strange virus belonging to the Coronavirus species that has already resulted in the death of 80 persons in Wuhan where it emanated from. Almost 2,800 cases have been confirmed across China.  The government has also placed 15 cities with a combined population of over 57 million people under full or partial lockdown. Wuhan has been effectively quarantined with major flights and long-distance transport systems suspended for the foreseeable future.

UP NEXT: Vivo threatens Samsung in India, jumps to second position in Q4 2019

 

(source)

TCL rolls out Android 10 for the TCL Plex; bundles it with Modern Combat game

By
Habeeb Onawole
-

The TCL Plex is an upper mid-range phone that launched in September last year. It marked the entry of TCL-branded smartphones into the market. The device ran Android 9 Pie out of the box and is now getting an Android 10 update.

TCL Plex

The update arrives as version 2.0.2B.A.G and is 2.7GB in size. The changelog reveals there are a bunch of new features and optimizations. It also brings a file-sharing app and a Modern Combat mobile game. To be fair, the latter will practically be considered bloatware for a lot of people. Below is the full changelog:

Camera

  • Improves High Pixel mode performance for 48MP rear camera and front camera.
  • Improves video stability while in motion.
  • Improves skin color filters for the front camera.

System

  • Improves mobile security through a regular Android patch.
  • Enables EE/02 VoLEE and VoWIFI for UK open markets.
  • Adjusts the position of the sound control center.
  • Supports music player apps on the lockscreen.
  • Provides up to 30 shortcuts for smart key settings. Be aware that current smart key settings will be reset and their functions must be reconfigured.

New Features

  • Adds a File Share app and the game app “Modern Combat Rebel Guns”.
  • Adds gesture control for Google full screen and Google Assistant
  • Adds Game Mode to enhance your gaming experience.
  • Adds Dark Mode in which the current display theme can be substituted for one based on blacks and dark colors.

The TCL Plex has a 6.53-inch FHD+ display with a punch hole at the top left corner. It is powered by the Snapdragon 675 processor and paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. It has a hybrid SIM slot which means you can swap out one of the SIMs for a MicroSD card.

On the back of the phone are triple rear cameras – a 48MP sensor paired with a 16MP ultrawide camera and a 2MP depth sensor. It also has a 24MP front-facing camera. There is a fingerprint scanner on the back, an audio jack, and a 3820mAh battery with support for Quick Charge 3.0.

UP NEXT: TCL to hold global conference on February 22 at MWC 2020

 

(Source, Via)

Ulefone Armor 6S camera performance test (video)

By
Dimitris Economou
-

Rugged phones are a bit misunderstood as in early days, besides a durable chassis, there was nothing worth noting. That’s all in the past now as rugged smartphone manufacturers equip their devices with everything a modern smartphone should have. Including a decent camera. Two weeks ago, Ulefone uploaded a video demonstrating the camera performance of the Ulefone Armor 6S. Let’s check it out.

Hardware-wise, Armor 6S comes with a dual rear camera featuring a 16MP main camera and an 8MP secondary sensor. Also, it supports different modes including Mono Mode, Aperture Mode, and Pro Mode, to give the user more choices when shooting a photo. The Pro Mode enables you to freely adjust the white balance, ISO, and exposure, and if you are familiar with these terms you should get an excellent result. On the front, the phone hosts an 8MP selfie shooter with the ability to take beautiful and natural selfies.

Ulefone Armor 6S

What’s more, apart from the camera specs, Armor 6S is pretty powerful overall as it packs the Helio P70 SoC backed by 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The display is a 6.2″ FHD+ IPS notch display for an immersive visual experience while there’s also wireless charging, fingerprint and face unlock, global network support, NFC with Google Pay, Android 9.0 Pie OS and more.

As we speak, the Ulefone Armor 6S is on promotion over at Aliexpress for just $269.49. A big discount compared to its official price so you can visit the product page here and grab yours. For more Ulefone devices, you can check out their official website.

Chuwi HeroBox becomes a new and powerful choice in the HTPC market

By
Dimitris Economou
-

Chuwi HeroBox was launched just recently in an effort from the company to offer an all-around PC that will serve you as an HTPC with ease as well as an all-in-one machine connected to a display or serving as a NAS. It comes equipped with Intel N4100 CPU backed by 8GB of RAM and 180GB SSD.

 

Powerful GPU that can decode 4K with ease

Intel N4100 comes with the 9th Gen Intel UHD Graphics 600 GPU and as a result, HeroBox can decode 4K VP9 10bit video smoothly. You can just place it under your living room TV and connect either via HDMI or VGA to watch 4K videos with a high frame rate.

As you can see from DXVAChecker, HeroBox can hard decode 4K video and supports up to 8K resolution.

 

Media Streaming as it should be

Chuwi HeroBox

Many people buy random cheap Android boxes hoping they can use them to watch streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu at 4K quality but end up with a blurry result and buffering due to poor hardware performance and non-existent digital rights support. HeroBox faces none of the abovementioned problems as it runs Windows 10 on powerful hardware.

 

Storage expansion

HeroBox comes with a relatively small SSD drive that serves as an installation drive for Windows 10 in order for the PC to be lightning fast. Of course, UHD videos are very large and you definitely need a larger storage disk. For that reason, HeroBox supports SATA hard disk expansion. You can use HDDs up to 2TB big so that you can store hundreds of 4K movies. As you can see in the photos below, installing a HDD is a piece of cake.

Just unscrew the back of the fuselage, open the back cover and install the 2.5″ HDD to the reserved installation position. The device comes with 2 supports and 4 screws to fix the drive in place.

 

Conclusion

Chuwi HeroBox

As you can see, this little box is a sight for sore eyes. It has a metal body, many connectivity capabilities and is as powerful as the average user needs it to be featuring Intel N4100 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 180GB SSD. In addition, the GPU is capable of decoding 4K video easily in order to make the HeroBox the perfect HTPC companion. For more information about it, visit the official product page.

India likely to announce increase in import duties on electronics & other items next week

By
Jed John Ikoba
-

There are indications that the Indian government is wrapping up plans to increase import duties on several products. The affected items are said to be more than 50 in number and include electronics, electrical goods, chemicals and handicrafts worth around $56 billion (roughly Rs. 3,99,400 crores). As expected, imports from China will be most affected even though other countries will also be affected.

According to the report, citing a government official, India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman may likely make the announcement when she presents her annual budget for 2020-21 on February 1, along with other stimulus measures to revive sagging economic growth.

Two government officials familiar with the matter also disclosed that the increased customs duties are expected to affect goods such as mobile phone chargers, industrial chemicals, lamps, wooden furniture, candles, jewellery and handicraft items. The government plans to increase import tariffs by 5%-10% as recommended by a panel of trade and finance ministry officials, among others.

EDITOR’S PICK: Xiaomi’s Aqara officially unveils its range of smart home products in the US

The move is speculated to affect smartphone manufacturers that still import chargers or other components such as vibrator motors and ringers. However, since most of the OEMs manufacture their smartphones in India, the increase have little effect on smartphone prices.

In addition, retailers such as giant IKEA that is in the process of expanding its footprint in India may also be affected. IKEA had previously identified higher Indian customs duties as a challenge.

“Our aim is to curb imports of non-essential items,” said the official, adding a hike in import duties would provide a level playing field for local manufacturers-hit by cheap imports from China, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and other countries that enjoy trade pacts with India.

UP NEXT: Vivo threatens Samsung in India, jumps to second position in Q4 2019

 

(source)

 

Samsung Galaxy A51, A71 to launch on January 29 in India

By
Anvinraj Valiyathara
-

Samsung has recently launched the Galaxy Note 10 Lite and Galaxy S10 Lite smartphones in India. The landing page for the Galaxy A51 and Galaxy A71 had also gone live on Samsung India’s website in the recent, but their launch dates weren’t confirmed. Today through Twitter, the South Korean company released a new teaser to confirm that there are only two days remaining for the launch of the Galaxy A51 smartphone. The link that leads to the landing on Samsung India’s website has ‘galaxy-a5171’ mentioned in the URL. This indicates just as both phones had debuted together in Vietnam in December, they will go official together on Wednesday.

Samsung is currently receiving registrations for both smartphones. Some reports claim that the Galaxy A51 will be available for purchase in this month in India and the Galaxy A71 will be arriving some time later in February. The mystery behind it will be revealed on Jan. 29.

Samsung Galaxy A51 and Galaxy A71 prices in India (Rumored)

Leaked information has reveled that the Samsung Galaxy A51 will be arriving in two flavors in India namely, 4 GB RAM + 64 GB storage and 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage. The pricing of the higher model is not known, but the base variant is likely to be priced at Rs. 22,990. The phone also exists in 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage edition. This model is unlikely to release in India.

Samsung-Galaxy-A51The Galaxy A71 is expected to hit the India markets with a pricing of Rs. 29,990. However, it is not known whether both 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage options will be available in the country.

Editor’s Pick: Vivo threatens Samsung in India, jumps to second position in Q4 2019

 

Samsung Galaxy A51 and Galaxy A71 specifications

The Galaxy A51 and Galaxy A71 are equipped with a 6.5-inch and 6.7-inch AMOLED displays. Both phones sport Infinity-O top-center punch-hole design and they are equipped with in-screen fingerprint readers. The A51 and A71 phones feature 32-megapixel front-facing cameras. The Android 10 OS along with One UI 2.0 comes preloaded on both devices.

The Galaxy A51 has a 48-megapixel main lens whereas the Galaxy A71 has a 64-megapixel primary shooter in their rear-facing quad camera system. The other lenses on both smartphones are a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor, a 5-megapixel macro lens and a 5-megapixel depth sensor. The A51 has a 4,000mAh battery with 15W charging support. On other side, the A71 has a larger 4,500mAh battery with 25W rapid charging technology.

UP NEXT: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip to feature SD855+, dual 12MP cameras, wireless charging support

 

 

 

 

Facebook defends WhatsApp by blaming Apple for Amazon Founder’s iPhone getting hacked

By
Sean
-

Facebook has defended WhatsApp, its popular social messaging platform, and has shifted the blame towards Apple for an iPhone getting hacked. The reason why a hacked iPhone is making rounds in the news is due to its owner being Jeff Bezos, the founder and CEO of Amazon.

Facebook
Jeff Bezos, Founder and CEO of Amazon Group

Nick Clegg, the Vice President of Global Affairs and Communications of Facebook, explained that WhatsApp is not the reason for the breach in the iPhone and that the fault lays with Apple. Reports regarding the attack have revealed that Jeff Bezos’ iPhone X received a 4.4MB video that contained malware. This has led to a few gigabytes of data and personal information being stolen from one of the world’s richest person’s smartphones.

Editor’s Pick: Huawei builds 5G networking in hospitals to indirectly fight Coronavirus

A few had pointed to WhatsApp being the cause of the fault as it was claimed that the video was shared on the messaging application. However, Facebook, which also owns WhatsApp and Instagram, has defended its platform citing that its software is unhackable as the service uses end to end encrypting. Clegg stated that the encryption has yet to be hacked and is “very, very confident” in its security.

Facebook
The Apple iPhone X was hacked into by a 4.4MB malware infested video file

Furthermore, the senior executive state that the malware was intended for Apple’s iOS and that it affected the iPhone directly, managing to access private data stored behind the system’s own encryption. Notably, the Facebook official has claimed that end to end encryption is unhackable while WhatsApp has sued an NSO Group from Israel for building malware that was used to hack into high profiler users, journalists, and Government officials while other reports suggest that is still possible to hack an end to end security system as demonstrated by a Chinese hacker group.

UP NEXT: Pentagon blocks further clampdown on sales to Huawei Technologies

 

(Source,Via)

Microsoft Windows feature stops working after a Zero-Day Bug Fix

By
Sean
-

Microsoft recently released a bug fix for a zero-day bug that affected Internet Explorer in its Windows PC OS. However, the fix seems to have broken more than fixed as it has also created problems with the operating system.

Previously, Microsoft confirmed that a zero-day bug had affected Internet Explorer in all supported versions of Windows and said that a fix will be rolled out by 11th February Tuesday Patch. But till the patch arrives, the tech giant provided users affected with the zero-day bug a method to secure their PC systems which involved them to restrict access to JScript.dll.

Microsoft
Internet Explorer

Unfortunately, this fix apparently broke down Windows printing and the only way to fix this is to undo the method provided by Microsoft to fix the vulnerability. According to multiple user reports on online forums and Reddit, the printer bug affects printers of any make and type, disregarding known brands.

Editor’s Pick: Several Chinese smartphone brands donate up to 30 million yuan to fight coronavirus

Furthermore, Microsoft has stated that users affected with the zero-day bug are under “elevated risk” and are more susceptible to an attack on their desktop systems; and if the workaround method isn’t applied are vulnerable to hackers. Microsoft’s Security Advisory has revealed that an attacker is already exploiting this vulnerability which lets them take control of a system by simply directing users to a specially designed website.

Microsoft
Windows Operating System

The zero-day bug is reportedly capable of corrupting memory in a manner that allows an attacker to gain access to “execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user.” Meaning, a user’s PC can be vulnerable from a web-based attack where an attacker could host a special website that is designed to exploit the vulnerability through Internet Explorer and make users view the website an email.

UP NEXT: Huawei builds 5G networking in hospitals to indirectly fight Coronavirus

 

(Via)

ZTE helps conduct China’s first 5G remote diagnosis of the new coronavirus

By
Joel Joseph
-

Over the past year, we’ve heard how 5G will benefit all industries in the market, including the medical field.  Today, ZTE in partnership with China Telecom has shown us how the new age network can help fight serious issues such as the outbreak of the new coronavirus pneumonia in China. ZTE, in partnership with China Telecom, has successfully conducted remote diagnosis of the new coronavirus in the Sichuan province of China – with the help of the new age 5G network. The telecommunication equipment maker helped set up a remote 5G diagnosis center in West China hospital and the Chengdu Public Health Clinic Center of Sichuan University last week.

ZTE Logo

On January 25, ZTE built and interconnected 5G indoor base stations in West China Hospital’s conference room assigned for remote diagnosis and treatment. This way, the conference room was connected to the remote diagnosis and treatment system for the new coronavirus. On January 26, the company built and optimized 5G indoor distribution system at another core point of the diagnosis system. Finally, when the 5G network went live in the area, the company helped the West China Hospital, Chengdu Public Health Clinic Center & Sichuan health and health commission to perform a remote video consultation.

The Sichuan Health Commission has made the West China Hospital of Sichuan University as the central node of the 5G remote diagnosis and consultation system. It will have access to 27 hospitals that have accepted and treated patients with the 2019 novel coronavirus (nCoV).

Huawei 5G Coronavirus
As a 5G leader, Huawei is also helping out Wuhan to connect to 5G

Further, ZTE plans to build China’s first 5G remote coronavirus diagnosis system covering Sichuan province, city, and county levels. This will provide ‘one network’ for the remote diagnosis at the front-line hospitals that are currently helping out Wuhan. In the next step, ZTE wants to connect Wuhan’s front-end medical rescue team with 5G so as to provide expert diagnosis and treatment services, remotely, from the West China Hospital.

ZTE has also announced that it is currently setting up the communications network for the Lei Shen Shan Hospital in Wuhan. This is the second makeshift hospital that being built in the heart of the city to diagnose and treat coronavirus patients. ZTE, in partnership with China Mobile, will set up a 5G network in this hospital for aiding patient treatment, likely via remote consultations. The hospital is expected to start operations from February 5, 2020.

 

(Source)

iQOO 3 is the name of iQOO’s upcoming flagship

By
Habeeb Onawole
-

iQOO started off as a subbrand of Vivo when it was announced last year. Its first smartphone was a gaming phone called the iQOO, though some did refer to it as the Vivo iQOO. It followed it up with the iQOO Neo, a super affordable phone with a Snapdragon 845 processor. It also announced the iQOO Pro, and its first 5G smartphone, the iQOO Pro 5G. Afterward came the iQOO Neo 855 and the iQOO Neo 855 Racing.

It has been confirmed that iQOO will begin selling its phones in India this year but as a standalone brand and not a line of smartphones owned by Vivo. In an official press statement, the new company revealed it will launch a flagship phone in India in February. A new leak has revealed what may be the official name of the phone.

According to Sudhanshu Ambhore (@Sudhanshu1414), iQOO’s upcoming flagship will be called the iQOO 3 and it turns out its specs were already leaked last week by @Digital Chat Station.

Going by the Weibo post, the iQOO 3 will have a 6.44-inch 2400 x 1080 Samsung OLED display with a small punch hole at the top right corner. While most manufacturers are going for a higher refresh rate, the phone will have a 60Hz refresh rate.

Inside the device is the Snapdragon 865 Mobile Platform which will be paired with a 5G modem. Based on this, the iQOO 3 will be the manufacturer’s second 5G device. The leaker says the phone will have 48MP quad cameras on the rear arranged in a grid matrix (rectangular housing) and positioned on the left side of the phone.

The iQOO 3 will have a 4410mAh battery capacity, which should be marketed as 4500mAh. While the battery capacity has remained unchanged from that of its predecessors, save for the original iQOO phone, the leak said the iQOO 3 will have support for 55W Fast Charge. This means it will be able to charge faster than the original iQOO which supports 44W fast charge and charges from empty to full in 45 minutes.

While Digital Chat Station does have a good track record, we advise you to take this with a grain of salt as the above specs are for a prototype and the specs of the final product may be different.

iQOO says it will announce a flagship phone in India next month powered by the Snapdragon 865 processor. The phone may launch first in China before India. However, it may arrive in India under a new name and not as the “iQOO 3”. The reason for this is because none of the trademarked names by the company in India includes the name iQOO 3.

UP NEXT: Vivo threatens Samsung in India, jumps to second position in Q4 2019

 

(Sources: 1, 2)

Huawei Y9 2019 to receive Android 10 based EMUI 10

By
Sean
-

Earlier this week, Huawei went on Twitter to confirm that the Huawei Y9 2019 will receive the Android 10 based EMUI 10, which arrives as great news for its users. Huwaei confirmed the update as a reply to a Twitter user that tweeted to Huawei asking about the update.

Previously, over 1,600 Huawei Y9 2019 had signed a petition for their handsets to receive the latest EMUI 10. Initially, Huawei had stated that “We regret to inform you that EMUI 10.0 / Android 10 will not be available for Huawei Y9 2019 due to hardware limitations, as it requires higher hardware specifications for optimal performance.” So, the latest post on Twitter contradicts this and doubles back on it.

EMUI 10 is the latest update for Huawei smartphones which is based on the latest Android OS version. It brings changes in the UI design and introduces new features like Magazine Style UI layout, Morandi Coors, system wide Dark Mode, Golden Icons, New Animations, and improved privacy features.

Editor’s Pick: Several Chinese smartphone brands donate up to 30 million yuan to fight coronavirus

Furthermore, the latest version of EMUI also arrives with a lot of tweaks and improved software enhancements. One of these includes GPU Turbo technology which improves graphics processing by 60 percent. This is further supplemented by Link Turbo that allows smartphones to access multiple networks like 4G and WiFi to provide 70 percent faster overall network speeds.

Huawei Y9 (2019)
Huawei Y9 2019 Edition

Similarly, other new features have also been included in the system update to improve performance, like EROFS super file system that boosts Android’s random read speeds by 20 percent while Ark Compiler enables third party applications to launch up to 60 percent faster.

UP NEXT: Redmi Fitness Tracker’s design and features revealed by Mi Fit app; gets certified in India

 

(Via)

How to root and install TWRP on Xiaomi Mi A3?

By
Simranpal Singh
-

Xiaomi Mi A3 is quite a popular device in the mid-range segment running on the Android One program. It is the third smartphone on the Android One series that is co-developed by Google as part of its Android initiative. The smartphone is well-received by users in Europe and some developing nations like India. The third-party developers are also eagerly developing new mods, working on frameworks to make them compatible. Similarly, Xiaomi has received official TWRP support a few days ago.

mi a3 root twrp

Must See: Xiaomi India says Android 10 coming to Mi A3 next month

In our guide, we will get root access after installing TWRP on Xiaomi Mi A3. Over some time, the device had an unofficial port of TWRP available with some bugs. The flashing process will be different as the device uses the A/B partition system.

There are various advantages of using the TWRP recovery to get root access and flash other MODs. It also brings the capability of creating and restoring a system backup. The TWRP is GUI based custom Recovery that helps the users to do modification on the Android system by flashing respective MODs.

Xiaomi Mi A3 Specifications

The Xiaomi Mi A3 comes with a huge 6.08-inch Super AMOLED HD+ display featuring a 1560 x 720-pixels resolution and a pixel density of 293 PPI. The display is protected with Corning Gorilla 5 to protect against usual falls. The smartphone is powered with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset featuring Adreno 610 GPU and an octa-core processor.

In Optics, the smartphone carries an AI-assisted triple rear camera setup with the 48-megapixel primary camera, 8-megapixel ultrawide sensor, and 2-megapixel depth-sensing lens. A 32-megapixel front camera is present for selfies and video calling. There’s a 4030 mAh battery with 18W quick charging via Quick Charge 3.0.

Mi A3 500 x 500

Xiaomi Mi A3 comes in different storage variants of 64GB + 4GB, 128GB + 4GB, and 128GB + 6GB. It supports WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, Infrared Port, FM Radio and USB 2.0. There’s an under-display fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass. It comes in three different colors of Kind of Gray, Not just Blue and More than White.

Install TWRP on Xiaomi Mi A3

Installing TWRP on Mi A3 will open doors for unlimited possibilities to customize the smartphone.

Note: Gizmochina.com is not responsible if any damage to your device or data occurs while following this guide. You are proceeding at your own will. Unlocking Bootloader or rooting the device will void the warranty. The device will not receive any official OTA update from the company. 

Prerequisites:

Steps to install TWRP on Xiaomi Mi A3

Follow the below-mentioned instructions carefully to successfully install TWRP. Before proceeding, please ensure your Xiaomi Mi A3 bootloader is unlocked.

  1. Enable Developer Mode by tapping the MIUI version 7 times after heading to the Settings > About Phone.
  2. Enable USB Debugging by heading to the Settings>Developer Option and toggle USB Debugging.
  3. Connect your smartphone with the PC via USB Cable.
  4. Download the TWRP image from the above section and place it into the extracted ADB and Fastboot tools folder. Also, ensure to copy the same file on your phone’s internal storage.
  5. Open Command Prompt or Powershell by pressing SHIFT + RIGHT-Click in ADB and Fastboot folder.
    fastboot window
  6. Reboot your smartphone into fastboot mode by executing below mentioned command. 
    adb reboot bootloader
  7. In order to temporarily flash the TWRP on Mi A3, execute the following command: 
    fastboot boot twrp.img
  8. Once in TWRP after boot, navigate to Advanced > Install Recovery Ramdisk option > Browse the TWRP image.
  9. After Installing the TWRP image in the above step. Again head to Advanced > and “Fix Recovery Bootloop” option to avoid boot loops.
  10. Reboot your device and enjoy TWRP custom recovery.

You’ve successfully installed TWRP on Xiaomi Mi A3. In order to attain root access, you need to follow the steps below.

Root Xiaomi Mi A3 with Magisk

Rooting Xiaomi Mi A3 needs a custom Recovery installed, or you can root the device using a patched boot method. Otherwise, you can get the root privileges by flashing the Magisk manager on Xiaomi Mi A3 by following the below steps.

  1. Download Magisk manager File on your smartphone.
  2. Boot into the recovery, after taking the recommended backup of your stock ROM.
  3. Tap Install, and then browse ‘magisk.zip’ file you downloaded, and swipe to confirm the flash.
  4. After a few seconds, you can successfully reboot the device from the TWRP manager.
  5. Enjoy!

The user has successfully rooted the Xiaomi A3 using the above steps. You can now install your favorite MODs, can tweak the performance and battery efficiency. If you get any problem, let us know via the comments below.

Related: Xiaomi India says Android 10 coming to Mi A3 next month

Motorola says ‘Bumps & Lumps’ on Moto Razr’s screen are normal

By
Joel Joseph
-

Motorola Razr is all set to go on sale in the U.S. for the first time next month. Ahead of its release, the company uploaded a series of videos that showcase Razr’s unique features. This series includes a video titled ‘Caring for razr’ featuring a list of dos and don’ts. In the video, Motorola specifically pointed out that ‘Bumps & Lumps’ on the screen of the foldable device was normal.

Motorola said that the Razr’s foldable display is designed to bend. So, the formation of bumps and lumps on the display are pretty normal. This is a very interesting statement, especially because of what happened with the first batch of Galaxy Fold review units that were shipped out in early 2019. A number of Galaxy Fold units experienced display issues soon after the formation of small bumps and lumps on the screen. So this looks like a deliberate statement to inform users that it’s okay if their Razr unit develops a bump or two during usage.

Editor’s Pick: Samsung’s Dual-Screen Bezel-less Phone Patent Could Be The Future of The Galaxy lineup

The current generation of foldable smartphones use plastic OLED displays which make them far less durable than traditional glass-protected smartphones. This means everyday items like keys, pens, or even fingernails can damage your incredibly expensive handset. Even the new Motorola Razr is using a plastic OLED display from LG which is susceptible to such damage. So it’s not surprising to see Motorola giving out specific instructions like ‘don’t add a scratch guard on its screen’ and ‘always close the phone before keeping it in your pocket’ in its new ‘Care for Razr’ video.

motorola razr 01

While Galaxy Fold, Motorola Razr, and even Huawei Mate X can be called as fragile, recent rumors reveal upcoming foldables could be way more durable. According to both ice universe and Max Weiback, the Galaxy Z Flip or the Galaxy Fold 2 (the name is yet to be confirmed) will feature an ultra-thin glass cover, potentially making it significantly more durable than plastic-covered foldables.

The Galaxy Z Flip is expected to debut on the same day as the Galaxy 11 series launch, on February 11, which is around the same time when the Motorola Razr will be shipped out in the U.S.

UP NEXT: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip to feature SD855+, dual 12MP cameras, wireless charging support

 

(Via)

Huawei Matebook D teaser points to Philippines launch soon

By
Jed John Ikoba
-

Huawei has released a teaser video on its Philippines Facebook page that suggests the company may launch the MateBook D 15 soon in the Asian country. Huawei had launched the MateBook 13 in the Philippines in May 2019.Huawei MateBook D Windows Edition

The MateBook D 15 Ryzen Edition has an aluminum chassis measures 357.8 x 229.9 x 16.9 mm and it weighs 1.62 kg. The device is fitted with a 15.6-inch IPS display that offers full HD resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. It promises a screen-to-body ratio of 87 percent. The notebook is equipped with a full-sized keyboard along with a trackpad. An HD camera that is good enough for video calling is available on the device.

EDITOR’S PICK: Xiaomi’s Aqara officially unveils its range of smart home products in the US

The AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor powers the MateBook D 15 along with Radeon Vega 8 graphics. It is backed by 42Wh battery that supports 65W USB-C pocket charger. By charging the device for 30 minutes will allow it to gain 53 percent battery power.

Huawei-MateBook-D

The MateBook D 15 comes with connectivity features such as Wi-Fi 802.11ac, 2×2 MIMO and Bluetooth 5.0. The power button on the keyboard is integrated with a fingerprint sensor. The connectivity ports available on the device include a USB-A 3.0, two USB-A 2.0, a USB-C, HDMI and 3.5mm headphone/mic combo. The device is loaded with Windows 10 OS.

UP NEXT: Vivo threatens Samsung in India, jumps to second position in Q4 2019

 

(source)

Huawei builds 5G networking in hospitals to indirectly fight Coronavirus

By
Sean
-

Huawei is now using its expertise in the networking field to combat the outbreak of the Coronavirus. The Chinese electronics giant is currently helping in improving the infrastructure of hospitals through 5G networking.

Huawei
Official Huawei Weibo account shared details regarding the 150 member special team

For those unaware, China has recently been suffering from a new virus outbreak, dubbed Coronavirus, which is known to cause pneumonia and has already infected a couple of hundred people with a few dozen already succumbing to the disease. It has devastated the Wuhan region in the country, prompting the Government to put it on lockdown. This also means that about 11 million residents of the region are also at risk.

Huawei
Members of the special team layout fiber cables to enable 5G networking

Huawei, the known tech company from China, has already set up a Coronavirus outbreak protection team on 23rd January 2020, which comprises about 150 people. In the span of just three days, the dedicated team has aided in the construction of network planning, survey, design, fiber laying, and erection of base stations. Furthermore, the company has even established 5G base stations at the Wuhan Vulcan Mountain Hospital, in partnership with Hubei Mobile and Hubei Unicom.

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The Wuhan Vulcan Mountain Hospital is currently under rapid construction with another electronics giant like Xiaomi also lending a hand. It is expected to be completed by the end of this week and, though Huawei’s efforts, will be capable of receiving ultra-high-speed network connectivity. In other words, a fast and reliable data connection is ensured, making remote consultation, remote monitoring and other services more easily accessible.

The news was shared on Huawei’s official Weibo account, a Chinese microblogging website, that also contained images that showcased a few members of the special team that is currently working to set up the necessary infrastructure around the hospital and other key areas.

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(Source)

OPPO Kash app might launch in India by June 2020

By
Anvinraj Valiyathara
-

Chinese electronics giant OPPO is en route launching its very own financial services app in India, claims a new report on 91mobiles. Dubbed OPPO Kash, the app is likely to go live by the end of June 2020, a person familiar with the program revealed recently to the publication. The Beta version of the app is currently undergoing tests and will roll out as soon as all creases are ironed out.

Like Realme PaySa, OPPO Kash will offer hassle-free micro-loans at flexible repayment schedules to users. The app will be available on both Android and iOS platforms and will come pre-loaded in all future OPPO smartphones. OPPO Kash will feature UPI integration and allow users to purchase smartphones at east EMIs. The benefits of OPPO Kash can be reaped online as well as offline purchases.

oppo logo

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With OPPO and Realme being flag bearers of parent firm BBK Electronics, OPPO Kash was designed by FinShell, the same team behind Realme PaySa. With Reliance Jio recently introducing UPI payments to its popular app JioMoney, OPPO’s future is yet to be decided. The competition in the online payment realm is real with Google Pay, formerly Tez, securing the most popularity in 2019 with over 36 million downloads, and recording 50% YoY growth.

In related news, OPPO is scheduled to unveil the much-awaited Find X2 at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in February 2020. The device is rumored to flaunt a 6.5-inch curved OLED display with a resolution of 3168 x 1440 pixels and draw power from a Snapdragon 865 SoC. The highlights of the OPPO X2 include the display with a 120Hz refresh rate and new Sony sensors such as Sony IMX689 and Sony IMX708. OPPO has also used its patented crescent-shaped camera at the rear, with a unique rotating mechanism. According to a report by Counterpoint, OPPO currently enjoys a steady market share in India, recording a 9 percent increase in popularity in 2019.

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(source)

Twitter releases an India Gate emoji to commemorate Indian Republic Day

By
Sean
-

Twitter India released a special emoji that celebrates the 71st Republic Day of India. It is celebrated each year on the 26th of January.

Indian President, Ram Nath Kovind, will be using this emoji for his tweet, according to Twitter India. The emoji will be used as he addresses the nation as people all over the country will also participate in a public conversation in the same thread. Mahima Kaul, Director, Public Policy, India and South Asia, Twitter India stated that the Republic Day emoji was created to “resonate” with the Indian users across different cultures, languages, places. In other words, give the people yet another reason to celebrate and participate in the historic day for the Southeast Asian nation.

Twitter
The India Gate, situated in the capital city, New Delhi

The emoji is currently available on the platform and will remain active until 30th January 2020. It is found in English alongside ten different regional languages which are commonly spoken within the country, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Urdu and Gurmukhi.

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Notably, this marks the fifth consecutive year in which the social media giant has supported the Republic Day in India with a custom emoji on its platform. Similarly, Twitter is also known to celebrate other major occasions in the country like Independence Day, Diwali, Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanti and a few other notable milestones in the nation’s history.

Twitter
Twitter India’s special Republic Day emoji

The idea with emojis is to keep Indian cultural identity and sentiments as a large chunk of Twitter’s userbase is from the country. Thus, emojis are designed in such a particular fashion.

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(Via)

Realme Buds Air Iconic Cover price and availability in India confirmed

By
Anvinraj Valiyathara
-

Days after announcing a carrying case for the Realme Buds Air truly wireless earbuds alongside a 10,000mAh power bank at the soft launch of Realme 5i smartphone in India, the Chinese smartphone manufacturer has finally revealed the Iconic cover. While Realme had only revealed the pricing and availability details of the power bank at the time of the announcement, now it has confirmed the cost and sales date of the Iconic Cover.

Realme Buds Air Iconic Cover Price and Availability

The Realme Buds Air Iconic Cover is priced at Rs. 399 (~$6). The cover will be on sale starting at 12.30 PM IST on Jan. 28. It will be available on Flipkart and Realme’s own website.

Realme Buds Air Iconic Cover  Design

The Buds Air Iconic Cover features Realme’s tailor-made R logo designed by Pentagram. It hugs the charging case perfectly and the silicon protects the case against accidental damage or slides. Realme claims that the cover is composed of a durable material that is soft to the touch. It comes with a metal carabiner for portability. Wireless charging works without removing the cover.

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Like the Realme Buds Air truly wireless earphones, the Iconic Cover too draws heavy inspiration from the Apple AirPods design. The charging case supports wireless charging and is rated for up to 17 hours of playback on a single charge. Without the charging case, the device lasts for around 3.5 hours on a single charge.

Realme Classic Blue hue 10,000mAh power bank with yellow accents is priced at Rs. 1,299 (~$18). The power bank is also available in red, yellow, and grey color options. The Buds Air Iconic cover comes in four color variants, namely white, black, yellow, and blue. Realme is yet to divulge plans of selling either product in foreign a market outside India.

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POCO X2 is confirmed and it launches next week

By
Habeeb Onawole
-

After waiting for more than a year, we now have a launch date for a second POCO phone. No, this is not the POCO F2 but the POCO X2! Yeah, we know there is no POCO X1 but there also isn’t a Redmi K10.

The announcement comes via the official POCO Twitter account, and according to the tweet, the POCO X2 arrives next week, Tuesday, February 4, 2020.

In anticipation of the device’s launch, POCO has created the hashtags #SmoothAF and #POCOX2. The former is actually a hint to one of the phone’s features which is its high refresh rate.
Along with the tweet is also a URL to a page where you can check if your device is “Smooth AF”.

POCO X2 refresh rate

If you click on the link, it takes you to a page that automatically detects the refresh rate of your device. You get something like the image above if you visit it on your PC. However, opening the link on your mobile results in the second image below. Yeah, thanks POCO for reminding me my phone is due for an upgrade!

POCO X2 refresh rate mobile

The POCO X2 will have a display with a high refresh rate and since the phone is a rebranded Redmi K30, it means it has a 120Hz refresh rate.

POCO has also teased the phone will come with a Sony IMX686 (64MP) main camera and will have 6 cameras in total (four quad cameras and a dual front-facing camera).

POCO X2 camera

The teaser page also reveals the POCO X2 will have a Snapdragon processor (Snapdragon 730G) inside, liquid cooling, and fast charging. An image of the bottom of the phone further confirms it is a rebranded Redmi K30. Below is the bottom of the POCO X2 (left) alongside that of the Redmi K30 (right). And of course, we now know it will come in gold.

[envira-gallery id=”302378″]

The launch event is scheduled for 12 noon on February 4 but there is no info regarding the venue. However, we expect there will be a livestream too.

Are you excited about the POCO X2 or you are disappointed that it is a rebranded Redmi K30? Let us know what you think in the comment section.

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Tetris for mobile is ending service, alternative already available

By
Sean
-

Tetris is one of the world’s most iconic games. It is both nostalgic due to its very early conception in the gaming industry and classic, seeing as the series still has a sizeable player base. However, EA (Electronic Arts) is shutting down the service for Tetris’ two mobile ports, namely Tetris and Tetris Blitz.

The announcement for the end of both mobile games was shared on Twitter through Tetris Blitz’s official account. It mentioned both games will be taken down by 21st April 2020. The tweet also arrived with a link for any users with any concerns or grievances regarding this decision from the known gaming publisher, EA.

As of right now, it is unclear if the studio plans to end the Tetris series altogether since its deal with Tetris has expired. Hence, we might not see more from entries in the IP being launched from EA. However, N3TWORK, a game developer, has already signed a multi-year agreement with Tetris last year. This means that the game is not entirely dead and still lives on but under a different developer.

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N3TWORK is currently working on a couple of different versions of Tetris for the mobile platform and already has a game available for both Android and iOS, which is available for free. Furthermore, the game which is out now is a remake of the original. Thus, it just has one classic mode with a few different themes, unlike the one from EA with multiple modes and options.

Notably, in-app purchases and microtransactions which EA is infamous for, will not be making an appearance again in N3TWORK’s version of the game but will have users pay $4.99 to remove ads. Lastly, another version of Tetris from N3TWORK plans to bring the 100 player Battle Royale genre to the nostalgic game series in the form of a new game. So, for those that wish to play more than just the classic mode can check out Tetris Royale, which is currently in the Beta program and will be released by June 2020.

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(Source,Via)

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