Galaxy S10e Canary Yellow renders bring a ray of sunshine

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Feb 8, 2019

The Galaxy S10e has been labeled as Samsung‘s answer to Apple’s iPhone Xr. The phone is expected to be the cheapest in the S10 lineup just as the iPhone Xr is for Apple‘s latest lineup. However, a lower price tag won’t be the only similarity between both phones.

The Galaxy S10e (where e is said to stand for “Essential” according to Roland Quandt) will also come in bright colors one of which is Canary Yellow. Renders of this color variant have surfaced and it does look really nice.

The images which were shared by @IshanAharwal24 in collaboration with mysmartprice show the phone from a few different angles. The Galaxy S10e will have black bezels and a silver aluminum frame. Only the back which is covered in glass is actually yellow.

The Galaxy S10e has a punch hole in the top right corner of its display that houses the front camera. The screen flat and is said to be 5.8-inches in size just like that of the Galaxy S8. On the rear are dual cameras which are arranged horizontally.

Unlike the other S10 models which have an in-display fingerprint scanner, the Galaxy S10 has its fingerprint scanner on the right side of the phone where it doubles as the power button.

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Nokia 9 PureView real-life images leaked ahead MWC 2019 event

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 8, 2019

The Nokia 9 PureView is one of the most awaited smartphones to go official at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2019 on Feb. 24. Earlier this week, leaked renders of the Nokia 9 PureView had surfaced online to give a good look at its design. Today, Nokia Power User has shared some real-life images of the upcoming flagship phone from the company to reveal its awesome appeal.

The Nokia 9 PureView will be sporting an elongated display with rounded edges and equal-sized upper and lower bezels. The top bezel has some sensors at the top-left corner and there is a selfie camera along with a Nokia brand name. The bottom bezel of the phone is barren.

Rumors have it that it features a 5.99-inch AMOLED display that produces quad HD+ resolution. The display of the smartphone could be equipped with HDR10 support. It could be the first Nokia smartphone to arrive with an in-display fingerprint scanner.

The reflective rear of the Nokia 9 PureView suggests that it features a glass rear. The ZEISS branded penta-lens setup along with LED flash and autofocus module can be seen on the rear shell of the phone. Unlike the other Nokia phones, the Nokia 9 PureView does not feature Android One branding on its lower back.

The Snapdragon 845 mobile platform may power the Nokia 9 PureView. It may come in two models such as 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage and 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. It could be packed with a 4,150mAh battery. Apart from fast charging, the Nokia 9 PureView may also come with wireless charging support.

Read More: Nokia 6.2 (2019) concept video reveal realistic design with punch-hole display

The other Nokia smartphones that are expected to get unveiled at the MWC 2019 include Nokia 8.1 Plus and Nokia 6.2 (2019). There is a possibility that the Finnish firm may also announce a new feature phone at the same event.

(source)

Sony Xperia XA3 hands-on images leaked to reveal its tall aspect ratio display

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 8, 2019

Recently leaked renders of the upcoming Sony Xperia XA3 have revealed that the Sony Xperia XA3 will be arriving with a tall aspect ratio display. In fact, it could be sporting a 21:9 aspect ratio screen that is rumored to be also available on the Xperia XZ4 flagship phone. Today, a Japanese tech blog has shared hands-on images of the Xperia XA3 to reveal its entire design.

Sony Xperia XA3 Hands-on Photos Leaked

The images reveal that the Sony Xperia XA3 features a thick-sized top bezel, but its bottom bezel is extremely thin. The hands-on images of the phone resemble with the leaked renders that had surfaced yesterday. The top bezel only houses the usual components such as a selfie camera, an ear piece and some other sensors, but still it appears chunky.

The navigation pill that can be seen on the screen of the Xperia XA3 suggests that it is running on Android 9 Pie OS. The backside of the phone is fitted with a horizontal dual camera setup. The fingerprint scanner is not present on the rear shell of the device. The reason behind it is that the smartphone features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.

Sony Xperia XA3 Specifications (Rumors)

The Xperia XA3 being a XA-series phone from the company could sport a huge display of around 5.9 to 6.5 inches. It is expected to carry support for full HD+ resolution. Rumors have claimed that the phone could be fueled by Snapdragon 660 chipset. However, a recent leak by Weibo tipster named Zackbucks reveals that the XA3 could be fueled by the Snapdragon 636 chipset.

The SoC of the Xperia XA3 could be supported by 6 GB of RAM. It may feature an internal storage of 64 GB. The main sensor present in the dual camera module of the XA3 could be of 23-megapixel. There is no information available on the battery capacity of the device.

Read More: Alleged Sony Xperia XZ4 TENAA listing leak with full specifications spotted; Reveals 8 GB RAM, 256 GB storage

There is no confirmation yet whether the above the device is Xperia XA3 and Xperia XA3 Ultra/Plus smartphone. Hence, the rumor mill is referring to the handset as XA3. Rumors are rife that the Japanese tech giant will be announcing the Xperia L3 entry-level smartphone alongside these phones at Feb. 25 media event at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.

What’s your opinion on the asymmetrical design of the Xperia XA3? Let us know your thoughts by posting your comments below.

(source 1, 2)

Once again, Huawei P30 and P30 Pro designs leak, thanks to case maker Spigen

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 8, 2019

Huawei is expected to go official with its first flagship model for the year, the P30 series within the first quarter.There are speculations, backed by an official statement from Huawei Poland that the models will be launched around March ending. The P30 series will be made up of the Huawei P30,P30 Pro and the P30 Lite. The P30 and P30 Pro designs have now appeared online courtesy of case maker Spigen which have listed the protective cases for the two models for sale on its website.

This isn’t the first time the design of both flagships are appearing online. Fellow case maker Olixar had earlier unwrapped the design when it unveiled its own protective case for the models.

Going by the leaked renders, both the Huawei P30 and P30 Pro feature a teardrop notch on top of the full-screen display. Their sizes are also likely to differ as well as their camera configuration. While the teardrop notch on both models house a single selfie shooter, the P30 has three camera sensors at the rear with an LED flash under. On the other hand, the P30 Pro packs a quad-camera setup at the rear while there is an LED flash lying adjacent to the second sensor at the right side of the sensors. On the display is the date March 28. Could this be a clue as to the exact date Huawei will unveil the model?

(source)

Moto G7 Plus China Red version will be the only Motorola phone launching in China this year

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Feb 8, 2019

The Moto G7 Series launched yesterday. Over the next couple of weeks, it will make its way to different markets. However, only the Moto G7 Plus will be sold in China.

The official Motorola Weibo account shared a post today that said the Moto G7 Plus China Red version a.k.a Moto G7 Plus Viva Red variant will launch soon in China.

We aren’t too surprised as to why the G7 Plus is the only one in the series launching in China. There are several alternatives to the Moto G7 series available in the Chinese market, so we guess Motorola (or Lenovo) is playing it safe.

What we are surprised about is that the post also says the Moto G7 Plus will be the only Motorola phone launching in China this year! The Weibo post says the mid-ranger will be the only Moto-branded device launching in China which means no Motorola P40 and no Moto Z4 series.

We haven’t seen an official statement explaining the decision but if we were to make a guess we would say the plan is to only launch Lenovo-branded phones in China henceforth. It doesn’t seem as if the Motorola brand is doing very well in the market and it is also competing with the Lenovo-brand.

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Xiaomi mocks Samsung Galaxy M series with Redmi Note 7 AnTuTu scores

By

Simranpal Singh

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Feb 8, 2019

Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is in the news from past several months, thanks to several leaks and rumors. Xiaomi is also actively working to promote the device by teasing it via different means. After teasing its various color options and other details, the Chinese company took to Twitter to compete against the newly launched Samsung Galaxy M series. It is obvious, as the recently launched Samsung Galaxy M series is a potential competitor for Redmi Note 7. In the recent past, Xiaomi has been continuously mocking the Galaxy ‘M’ in different ways.

The 'M'ic drop moment when you realise #ԀW8ᔭ will outperform! #MiPowerd
RT if you agree! pic.twitter.com/3UeljTl7nX

— Redmi India (@RedmiIndia) February 5, 2019

Until now, Xiaomi hasn’t explicitly named Galaxy M20 device, they have been using the word ‘M’ in all the teasers. The scenario is making us believe that they are mocking Galaxy M series devices. Although making assumptions more firm, Xiaomi specifically posted the AnTuTu scores of Galaxy M series phone and Redmi Note 7. The teaser reveals that the Redmi Note 7 scores pretty well against the competitor aka. Galaxy M series device. In the teaser, Redmi Note 7 managed to perform 143,000 points against the 123,000 points of M branded device.

Additionally, Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is already launched in China for 999 yuan ($148) with a 48-megapixel primary rear camera. For selfies, Xiaomi has added a 13-megapixel front camera. There’s also a standard 6.3-inch FHD+ display having a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels. The display is protected with a Corning Gorilla Glass 5. There’s a 3/4/6GB RAM coupled with Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 SoC. It is available in 32/64GB internal storage along with the expandable storage option of upto 256GB via microSD card.

Moreover, Xiaomi is also planning to launch the Redmi Note 7 Pro in China very soon. It will feature much-improved specifications than the Redmi Note 7. It will have a better 48 MP camera module, 128GB storage, and a gradient color option.

Read More: Samsung Galaxy M20 vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 vs Honor 10 Lite: Specs Comparison

Xiaomi India is expected to price the Redmi Note 7 for about INR 10000. As per old leaks, it is supposed to make a debut in India on Febraury 12th. So, let’s wait for a few more days before speculating anything else.

(Source)

OPPO F11 Pro renders leaked; With 32MP pop-up selfie camera launching in early March

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 8, 2019

In the previous month, the OPPO F11 Pro had cleared certifications in multiple countries like Thailand and Indonesia. It has been revealed that the OPPO F11 Pro has a model number of CPH1969. Also, leaked photos that had surfaced earlier this month had revealed that the OPPO F11 Pro may sport a pop-up selfie camera and a dual camera module. Today, an Indian publication has shared leaked renders of the OPPO F11 Pro along with some of its key specs. The handset is speculated to debut early in the first week of the coming month in India.

The OPPO F11 Pro render reveals that it features a notch-less display with super-slim bezels. At the top-center of the rear panel is an LED enabled dual camera system. The vertical dual camera strip connects to top-edge of the rear shell. There is a fingerprint scanner below the camera module. The handset can be seen sporting a gradient color. It is expected to be available in multiple gradient color choices.

The OPPO F11 Pro will be fitted with a 48-megapixel primary sensor in its dual camera system. Probably, it will include the Samsung ISOCELL GM1 sensor which is also available on the Redmi Note 7. The same sensor is also expected to be available on the upcoming Vivo V15 Pro that is scheduled to go official on Feb. 20. Like the V15 Pro, the OPPO F11 Pro will be also featuring a 32-megapixel pop-up selfie camera. As the above renders show, the smartphone will be able to capture brilliant portrait shots in low-light conditions.

R

Read More: OPPO K1 with in-display fingerprint sensor launched in India for Rs. 16,990 (~$237)

An unknown MediaTek chipset is rumored to power the OPPO F11 Pro. It will be assisted by 6 GB of RAM. For storage, it will be equipped with an internal space of 128 GB. The publication has claimed that the Chinese manufacturer is aiming to launch the F11 Pro in the first week of the March. There is a possibility that the phone could be priced under Rs. 25,000 (~$350) in India.

What’s your opinion on the design of the OPPO F11 Pro and its key specs? Share your views by posting your comments below.

(source)

Moto G7 Power vs Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) vs Samsung Galaxy M20: Specs Comparison

By

Michele Ingelido

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Feb 8, 2019

Smartphones with big batteries are becoming a very popular reality in the affordable devices niche. Most of the important manufacturers released at least one handset with a big battery in the last year and the latest one is the Moto G7 Power by Motorola. It has not only a huge battery but also very efficient components that will help to maximize the battery life of the phone. Here, you can find a comparison with other recent big battery phones that also offer a high value for money: Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 and Samsung Galaxy M20.

Motorola Moto G7 Power vs Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) vs Samsung Galaxy M20

	Motorola Moto G7 Power	Asus Zenfone Max M2	Samsung Galaxy M20
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT	159.4 x 76 x 9.3 mm, 193 grams	157.9 x 75.5 x 8.5 mm, 175 grams	156.4 x 74.5 x 8.8 mm, 186 grams
DISPLAY	6.2 inches, 720 x 1570p (HD+), 279 ppi, LTPS IPS LCD	6.26 inches, 1080 x 2280p (Full HD+), 403 ppi, IPS LCD	6.3 inches, 1080 x 2340p (Full HD+), 409 ppi, PLS TFT
PROCESSOR	Qualcomm Snapdragon 632, octa-core 1.8 GHz	Qualcomm Snapdragon 660, octa-core 2.2 GHz	Samsung Exynos 7904, octa-core 1.8 GHz
MEMORY	3 GB RAM, 32 GB – 4 GB RAM, 64 GB – micro SD dedicated slot	3 GB RAM, 32 GB – 4 GB RAM, 64 GB – 6 GB RAM, 64 GB – micro SD dedicated slot	3 GB RAM, 32 GB – 4 GB RAM, 64 GB – micro SD dedicated slot
SOFTWARE	Android 9 Pie	Android 8.1 Oreo	Android 8.1 Oreo, Samsung Experience
CONNECTIVITY	Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS	Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5, GPS	Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5, GPS
CAMERA	Dual 12 + 5 MP, f/2.0 8 MP f/2.2 front camera	Dual 12 +5 MP f/1.8 and f/2.4 13 MP f/2.0 front camera	Dual 13 +5 MP, f/1.9 and f/2.2 8 MP f/2.0 front camera
BATTERY	5000 mAh, fast charging 15W	5000 mAh	5000 mAh
ADDITIONAL FEATURES	Dual SIM slot	Dual SIM slot	Dual SIM slot

Design

When it comes to affordable phones, for me the look is not everything. I also care about the build quality and if you want your device to last several years you should too. If we only consider the look, Samsung Galaxy M20 is the most attractive handset due to its thinner bezels and its small Infinity-V notch (even though some may prefer the Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 due to its reflective plastic back), but if we also consider the build quality, then Moto G7 Power wins. It comes with a sturdier aluminum frame and it is also splashproof, so it can be used under the rain. But note that this protection will be available only in selected markets, as well as the Gorilla Glass 3 protection for the display. Further, note that Zenfone Max Pro M2 comes with the Gorilla Glass 6 protection.

Display

Despite coming with the advanced LTPS IPS technology, Moto G7 Power is excluded from the display comparison because of the low resolution of its display: it is just an HD+ panel, while Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 and Samsung Galaxy M20 are Full HD+. Judging from the specs on the paper, Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 should offer a slightly better display quality due to the better technology. It is also protected by Gorilla Glass 6 that is the strongest protection even seen on a mobile device for a display, while Samsung Galaxy M20 does not offer so advanced protections for the glass.

Specs & Software

Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 has a superior hardware side to both Moto G7 Power and Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2. Actually, there is not any device from the Moto G7 series, neither from the M series, to have a more advanced hardware department than Zenfone Max Pro M2. The component making it superior is the Snapdragon 660 chipset that delivers better performances with advanced usage patterns and gaming. Further, it has more RAM in its most expensive variant: up to 6 GB. Note that Moto G7 Power is the only to come with Android Pie out of the box.

Camera

Unfortunately, we still had no chance to test the cameras of Samsung Galaxy M20 and Moto G7 Power because no much time has passed from their official announcement. But we know their specs, and on the paper, Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 is better. It has a rear dual camera with a brighter aperture and a bigger pixel size, as well as a higher resolution for the front camera equipped with a front-facing LED flash. While these things do not necessarily mean that Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 will click better photos, they raise the chance that it will be a much better camera phone.

Battery

All of these devices offer the same battery capacity: 5000 mAh. But there is one of them that should last definitely more than its opponents: the Moto G7 Power. We believe that it will offer a longer battery life due to the low resolution of its display, its efficient and less powerful Snapdragon 632 chipset, and its stock Android version. But only testing it thoroughly will confirm these thoughts.

Price

Moto G7 Power will cost about €210/$240, Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 comes with a €270/$305 price tag and Samsung Galaxy M20 costs just €150/$170. Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2 is the best device overall, while Samsung Galaxy M20 has a higher value for money.

Read More: ASUS ZenFone Max Pro M2, Max M2 now official in Russia; Pricing and Specifications Revealed

Motorola Moto G7 Power vs Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) vs Samsung Galaxy M20: PROs and CONS

Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2

PROs

Great battery life
Good cameras
Front-facing LED flash
Better performance

CONS

Price

Samsung Galaxy M20

PROs

Great battery life
Higher screen-to-body ratio
Good price
Nice cameras

CONS

Anonymous design

Motorola Moto G7 Power

PROs

Great build quality
Android Pie
Longer battery life
Fast charging

CONS

Worse display and cameras

Xiaomi patents smartphone design with four-sided curved edge display

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 8, 2019

Xiaomi is an innovative company, no doubt about that. The company continues to output innovative products and designs on all fronts. The latest is a design patent that was published on the Global Design Database of the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO) as first reported by LetsGoDigital.

The patent is that of a full-screen smartphone that packs a dual camera setup on the back just like every other full-screen phone. However, one spectacular thing about the supposed Xiaomi phone is that the edges are well-rounded. Usually, what is common is the dual edge curved screen found on Samsung Galaxy models. Xiaomi even used the double curved edge design on the Mi Note 2 released in 2016. But this design is different as can be seen on the sketch. All four edges are curved both on the display end and the rear aspect. This design will enable the device to utilise a bezel-less design while eliminating the need for a slider.

The device also doesn’t have any buttons on the sides and this brings to mind the Meizu Zero concept smartphone is currently on crowdfunding. Further, the device has a USB Type-C port. The rear aspect houses dual cameras but there is no sign of a selfie shooter onboard. Perhaps, it will not have one. We can’t be so sure about that. It is unclear if the design will feature on a Xiaomi-branded phone releasing anytime soon.

(via)

OnePlus, Xiaomi phones emit highest radiation and Samsung’s least as per a report

By

Simranpal Singh

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Feb 8, 2019

Smartphones are the most used personal gadgets which we all use and own. Even we reasearch a lot about their specifications, pricing, and features while buying it, but we always don’t count the radiation level in our decision. The German Federal Office has conducted reasearch to find devices emitting maximum and least radiation. As per data compiled by Statista, online statistics and marketing firm has published radiation data emitted by every popular device. Surprisingly, Xiaomi and OnePlus devices have topped the list as the highest radiation emitting devices.

Maximum radiation emitting smartphones

The most used and preferred devices in the mid-range from OnePlus and Xiaomi are emitting the most radiation. As per the report, Xiaomi Mi A1 emits maximum radiation while OnePlus 5T joined the list at second place. On the third and fourth position stands Xiaomi Mi Max 3 and OnePlus 6T. In the list of 16 handsets, both these companies have their eight devices listed as phones emitting the most radiation.

The list also compiles smartphones from HTC, Google, Apple, Sony, and ZTE. Significantly, Apple’s iPhone 7 and iPhone 8 are the devices with the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.38 Wk and 1.32 Wk respectively. Google’s Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL has also made it to the list with the SAR values of 1.33 Wk and 1.39 Wk respectively.

Martin Armstrong, Data Journalist writes, “In fact, the two companies are represented heavily in this list, with eight of the top 16 handsets being made by one of them. Premium Apple phones such as the iPhone 7 and the recently released iPhone 8 are also here to be seen, though, as are the latest Pixel handsets from Google.”

The tests are done on the basis of criteria set by the German Federal Office for Radiation and Protection. The device is termed in ‘safe’ level when the absorption rate is below 0.60 in watts per kilogram. All the devices listed above emit double the radiation than the benchmark level.

Least radiation emitting phones

Surprisingly, most of the Samsung and Motorola devices fall in the least radiation emitting category. The Korean giant’s Galaxy Note 8 carries the least absorption rate of 0.17 watt per kilogram. While, the list carries many Samsung devices such as Galaxy A8, Galaxy S8+, Galaxy S7 edge, Galaxy S9+, galaxy J6+, Galaxy J4+, and Galaxy S8.

“In fact, Samsung handsets feature prominently, with half of the top ten coming from the South Korean company. This contrasts starkly with their major rival Apple. Two iPhones occupy a place in the list of phones which emit the most radiation, compared to none from Samsung,” Armstrong said.

Read More: Samsung Galaxy S10, S10+, S10e price for India leaked with launch date

Motorola devices such as Moto Z, Moto G5 Plus are also in the list of devices emitting least radiation.

(Source)

Redmi 7 launch nears as it receives IMDA certification in Singapore

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 8, 2019

Singapore’s IMDA authority has recently certified the M1902F1/T smartphone. The same body has also approved the M180F6LG model number with Redmi 7 moniker in Singapore. The listing lacks any information on the specifications of the Redmi 7, but it reveals that it will be released not only in China but also in international markets.

Last month, Xiaomi CEO Jun had confirmed that the Redmi 7 series will be priced between 700 Yuan (~$103) and 800 Yuan (~$119). It will be a lower-end phone compared to the Redmi Note 7 that was introduced in China with a starting a price of 999 Yuan in the previous month. Probably, the Redmi 7 series will include Redmi 7A, Redmi 7 and Redmi 7 Pro as the successors for the Redmi 6A, Redmi 6 and Redmi 6 Pro phones from last year.

The Redmi 6A and Redmi 6 had featured 18:9 aspect ratio displays, and the Redmi 6 Pro was introduced with a notched display. In December 2018, a Russian tech blog had released a YouTube video to reveal the front design of the Redmi 7 Pro along with its box package. A screengrab shown below that was taken from the same video shows that the Redmi 7 Pro features a waterdrop-style notch screen with a thick chin. Since it is a Pro model, it may feature a dual camera setup as the predecessor model.

Read More: Xiaomi Mi 9 certified in Singapore; Launch could be near

There is no information on the launch date of the Redmi 7. Last year, the Redmi 6 series were unveiled in Q2. Now that the Redmi brand has been recently established as a separate entity, there is a possibility that the Redmi 7 series may launch early this year. Later in this month, Redmi will be launching the Redmi Note 7 Pro that will be arriving as an advanced version of the Snapdragon 660 powered Redmi Note 7.

The Pro model is expected to arrive with Snapdragon 675 chipset, 6 GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage and 48-megapixel Sony IMX586 + 5-megapixel rear camera setup. The rest of its specs could be same as the non-Pro model. Earlier this week, the Redmi President Lu Weibinng confirmed that the company is also working on a Snapdragon 855 powered flagship phone. It is speculated that it may debut as China’s cheapest Snapdragon 855 powered smartphone. The handset could be priced around 2,500 Yuan (~$370).

(via)

Live photos of ASUS ZenFone 6 show triple rear cameras, no notch or hole punch display

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Feb 8, 2019

Last year there were a couple of ASUS ZenFone 6 prototype leaks that revealed what the device could look like. One recurring team in all the leaks is the punch hole display but it appears the final device has taken a different direction.

New live photos of the ZenFone 6 have surfaced online and these show what we believe is the final product as there is a retail box in the images too.

The Zenfone 6 will come with three cameras on its rear. The cameras are arranged vertically with two sharing a single housing while a third and the LED flash are separated. There are two color variants in the images. One has a red-blue gradient finish while the other is black but both are covered in glass.

There is no shot of the front of the phone but the retail box appears in the photos and they do reveal some key details. As you can see, the phone doesn’t have its fingerprint scanner on the back. That is because it is in front – on the chin. Yes, ASUS is going for a front-mounted fingerprint scanner this time around.

The new position of the fingerprint scanner means the bezel gets thicker though not as thick as before the 18:9 era. The forehead is not very visible but we can’t make out a notch or a punch hole display and the bezel doesn’t appear thin too.

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Huawei says it is open to supervision by European governments regarding security issue

By

Habeeb Onawole

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Feb 8, 2019

Huawei has been having it tough in the last few weeks. The Chinese company has been under scrutiny regarding security concerns ever since the US encouraged its allies to bar the company from supplying 5G equipment to them.

There were reports Germany would bar them from supplying equipment for its 5G network but recent reports have revealed that isn’t legally viable.

Huawei is expected to deliver a speech at its Chinese New Year reception in Brussels and Reuters was able to get a copy of the speech which will be delivered by Abraham Liu, its chief representative to European Institutions and the president of its European Public Affairs and Communication Office.

In the speech, Huawei says it takes cybersecurity very seriously and believes it “should remain as a technical issue instead of an ideological issue. Because technical issues can always be resolved through the right solutions while ideological issues cannot.”

The tech giant also said in the speech that they are “always willing to accept the supervision and suggestions of all European governments, customers, and partners” to prove themselves as a trustworthy partner.

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Apple to reward 14-year-old who discovered a bug on Group FaceTime with bug bounty and scholarship

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 8, 2019

Recently, a 14-year-old made an interesting discovery on Apple‘s proprietary videotelephony product, FaceTime. He discovered that you could add yourself to a Group FaceTime call and force recipients to answer immediately. To induce this, the user starts a FaceTime video call with a contact, then while the call is “ringing,” they add themselves to the call as a third party by tapping “Add Person” and entering their own phone number. If properly executed, a Group FaceTime call is started and the original recipient’s audio begins to stream before the call is accepted.

This discovery has now earned the teenager identified as Grant Thompson a recognition and reward from Apple. The tech giant has confirmed that it will be providing the family with compensation for finding the bug as part of its bug bounty reward program. The teenager will also get a scholarship for his education which is actually a gift from Apple. No amount was mentioned but if the compensation is part of the company’s Bug Bounty program, the amount could be anywhere between $25,000 and $200,000.

Apple was at first slow to acknowledge the bug after Thompson’s mother Michelle attempted to warn Apple about the exploit a week before it became major news. The company was prompted to acknowledge the issue and the discovery after several tweets about the issue. The feature was temporarily disabled but the bug has now been fixed in the latest iOS 12.1.4 and macOS Mojave updates. The release note for the new iOS 12.1.4 version includes an acknowledgement of the discovery, crediting Grant alongside another individual identified as Draven Morris.

Xiaomi Mi 9 certified in Singapore; Launch could be near

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Feb 8, 2019

A mysterious Xiaomi phone with model number M1902F1A / M1902F1T was approved by China’s Compulsory Certificate (3C) body at the end of the previous month. Since the charger that will accompany the M1902F1A / M1902F1T phone carries support for up to 27W fast charging, it was speculated that the mysterious handset could be the Xiaomi Mi 9. The reason behind it was that Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun had claimed recently that the Mi 9 would be equipped with support for faster charging technology. A smartphone with model number M1902F1G has been approved by Singapore’s IMDA authority. The IMDA certification has confirmed that it is the upcoming Xiaomi Mi 9 flagship phone which suggests confirms that the M1902F1A / M1902F1T are the variants the of the same phone heading to China.

The IMDA certification of the Xiaomi Mi 9 has not revealed any information on its specifications but has only confirmed the moniker. The certification of the phone suggests that its arrival is not far away. The IMDA certification is a good evidence that hints that the Mi 9 would be made available outside of China.

Xiaomi’s Product Director Tang Weng Thomas has claimed that the designer who built the Xiaomi Mi 6 is creating the Mi 9 smartphone. The Mi 6 handset was praised for its design which indicates that the Mi 9 will have an impressive build. Rumors have revealed that the Mi 9 will be arriving with a waterdrop notch screen to deliver a high screen-to-body ratio. An alleged image of the Mi 9 that was reportedly shared and deleted on Weibo by Thomas had suggested that its glass chassis could be equipped with a triple camera setup. The rear side of the phone lacked a fingerprint which indicates that it could be featuring an in-display fingerprint sensor.

Read More: Xiaomi patent’s dual punch-hole display; Could it be for Mi MIX 4?

Rumors have it that the Xiaomi Mi 9 will be featuring a 6.4-inch display. The Snapdragon 855 is expected to power it along with up to 6 GB of RAM. It may include 48-megapixel Sony IMX586 + 12-megapixel + 3D ToF triple camera. For selfies, it may come with 24-megapixel Sony IMX576 sensor. It may receive power from a 3,500mAh battery.

Xiaomi had launched the Xiaomi Mi 8 SE smartphone alongside the Mi 8 last year. Hence, there is a possibility that the Xiaomi Mi 9 SE may also get announced alongside the Mi 9 phone.

(via)

Skype adds background blur feature during video calls to help hide untidy environment

By

Simranpal Singh

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Feb 8, 2019

Microsoft is continually upgrading Skype to endeavor it with latest features. Recently, in an update, Skype has received the option to blur the background while placing video calls. It will allow users to avoid clearing up the messy room or any environment with blur effect while using the video messenger.

Earlier, it was quite hectic to clear up all the mess before placing the video call. Now a great thanks to the latest Background blur feature which will ease out some load from individuals working from home or a busy cafe. The new feature will automatically apply a blur filter to the background and will show your face as focused.

The feature was already present from the last year on Microsoft Teams Software. Now, Microsoft has extended it to the general public or all Skype users around the globe. Currently, the new feature is limited for the latest version on PC and Laptop. Microsoft has not given any exact date about when the feature will be available on mobile devices.

Read More: The Days of Phone Numbers are Numbered Following The Popularity of Communication Apps Says Analyst

On the back end, Skype is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to blur the background. It will keep your body in focus, while all other things in the background with be blurred. Although, the efficiency of the feature is yet to be tested.

You guys can update your Skype to get the blur functionality on PC and Laptops. How many of you have already used the Microsoft Skype background Blue feature? Share your experience with us via the comments below.

(Source)

Vivo V15 with 32MP Pop-Up camera hits NBTC Certification in Thailand

By

Simranpal Singh

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Feb 8, 2019

Vivo has excellent plans for the year 2019, and they are soon announcing the Vivo V15 Pro and Vivo V15. Recently, both the devices with a Pop-Up style selfies camera received the NBTC cetification in Thailand. Surprisingly, the Vivo V15 received certification a week after the Vivo V15 Pro. The new Vivo V15 will also carry a brochure of similar specs including the same 32 MP Pop-Up selfies camera.

As per the rumors, Vivo is set to announce both the devices in India on February 20, a few days before Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2019 in Barcelona.

As per the NBTC certification, the smartphone codenamed Vivo 1819 will be named as Vivo V15. Although, no other details have been revealed via Thailand’s certification agency. As per old rumors and leaks, it will feature various AI-powered enhancements in 32 MP Pop-Up selfies camera. It will carry similar specs to vivo V15 Pro with some minor changes.

Additionally, Vivo V15 Pro will come with Qualcomm Snapdragon 675 Octa-Core processor and 6GB RAM. It is an incremental upgrade over the Snapdragon 660 SoC which is present in the Vivo V11 Pro. It will come only in 128GB storage variants with an option of memory expansion via microSD card.

In-camera department, Vivo V15 Pro will get an impressive 48MP+8MP+5MP triple camera setup on the rear side. While it will host a 32MP Pop-Up selfies camera on the front side. There will be a 3700 mAh non-removable battery with Dual Engine Fast charging technology.

Read More: Vivo V15 Pro with Snapdragon 675 appears on Geekbench

It is expected to be available at the price of INR 30000 ($425) in India. Similarly, a rough estimate can make Vivo V15 to sale at INR 25000($350).

The recent certifications have made it clear that the new devices are launching soon.

What are your expectations from the Vivo V15?

(Via)

Get Up To 50% Off On A Slew Of Security Products On AliExpress

By

Vinay Patel

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Feb 8, 2019

Home security systems play vital roles in detecting intrusion, unauthorized entry and suspicious activities that might put yours or your loved ones’ lives in jeopardy.

While there’s no dearth of gadgets and devices that offer much-needed protection to your home or office, these tools aren’t easy on the pocketbook. But it looks like AliExpress is bent on changing that.

In a bid to make security products available to those living on a tight budget, the Chinese online retail service is doling out up to a noteworthy 50 percent off on top-end security cameras, alarms etc.

Dubbed ‘Security & Protection,’ the recently kicked-off promo features several products that have been split into different categories including The Bestsellers, Top Stores, Video Surveillance, Alarms & Sensors and lots more.

More importantly, you can grab great discounts on all items available on the promotion page.

For the sake of an instance, the ESCAM G02 video monitor IP camera that usually sells for $43.49 is currently up for grabs bearing a reduced price tag of just $32.62 on AliExpress.

This 25 percent discount will be valid for nine days. Those using AliExpress App to place this order will be eligible to get a bigger discount.

Likewise, new users can apply $3 off coupon and save more money before placing their order.

‘The Bestsellers’ section is brimming with a slew of heavily discounted security gadgets like the Hiseeu 1080P IP camera wireless home security IP camera, BaoFeng UV-5R Walkie-talkie Professional Walkie-Talkie etc.

While you’d normally end up shelling out a lot of money on the aforesaid items, AliExpress is offering you a chance to get your tech greedy hands on them without emptying your pocket.

You can visit official online stores of popular brands like KKMOON, Sherlock, RETEVIS, BOAVISION and lots more by heading straight to the next category called Top Stores.

Video Surveillance alludes to the largest segment of Security technology and it comprises a slew of high-end cameras, systems, and accessories. There are no prizes for guessing, these gadgets don’t come cheap.

If you have restlessly been waiting to buy video surveillance products without burning a hole in your pocket, all you need to do is to check out the ‘Video Surveillance’ section on the promotion page.

You can click here to visit the promotion page and check out the rest of the products that you can buy at reduced prices. It is worth noting that the products will go back to their retail prices once the promo wraps up!

Check Out AliExpress’ Security & Protection Promo

Indian smartphone market grew 10% amid global slowdown last year reports Canalys

By

Simranpal Singh

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Feb 8, 2019

Last year, smartphone market witnessed a decline in total shipments for the first time in the last 8 years. This has affected the growth of various smartphone manufacturers including Apple, Huawei, and others. Turning out of odds, the Indian smartphone market has managed to register growth of 10% in the smartphone shipments last year. As per the consulting firm, Canalys, a total of above 250 million units were sold in 2018.

In comparison to 2017, handset shipments improved by 10%, making a place in the list of a few markets which posted full-year-growth. As per the report, a growth of 12 million handsets was seen in the market. Overall, it is the best growth that any market around the globe has achieved in 2018.

In detail, Xiaomi stood first in terms of total shipments. The Chinese company has managed to ship in 41 million smartphones constituting 29.9% market share. Xiaomi has witnessed 59.6% of overall growth with respect to the year 2017. Although, the Korean giant has made it to the second place with 35.4 million handset shipments, roughly converting to 25.8% market share. Samsung gradually improved than 2017 with increased growth of 20.4%. In the last, Vivo, Oppo, Micromax managed to make their place in the top 5 positions.

Surprisingly, both Huawei and Apple didn’t make it to the top 5 spots and ended up in the “others” category. The growth of both companies has stalled in India due to various reasons.

Moreover, Oppo’s numbers don’t include the data of Realme devices. The report carries the data of its subsidiary differently, ending up the confusion for readers.

Read More: Canalys Chinese smartphone market data for 2018 shows a significant decline

The numbers above for the Xiaomi depicts that India is its biggest market around the globe. Last year, in the fourth quarter, it shipped 9.4 million smartphones in China, while a total of 10 million units made it to India.

It will be good to see some more competition in India, as the market has not followed the global slowdown.

(Source)

Geekmall Is Offering You A Chance To Get 5 € Off On All Purchases [Coupon Inside]

By

Vinay Patel

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Feb 8, 2019

Known for offering a wide selection of electronic equipment like smartphones, tablets, computers, action cameras at unbeatable prices, Geekmall is now giving its users something more to cheer about.

The European online store is giving its loyal user base an unmissable opportunity to get 5€ off on all their purchases on Geekmall.eu for a limited period of time.

In order to avail the discount, all you need to do is to apply coupon code GEEK5 before placing your order.

For the sake of an instance, the Xiaomi Mi8 Lite smartphone usually sells for 229,00 €, but you can use the aforesaid coupon to save 5,00 € and reduce the original selling price of the phone to only 224,00 €.
You can even take advantage of the discounts applied to select products aside from using the aforesaid coupon to get an additional discount.

For example, the global version of the Xiaomi Mi8 would normally set you back 499,00 € on both online as well as offline stores.

But you can now buy it for just 439.00 € on Geekmall, thanks to a noteworthy discount available on the phone’s retail price.

On top of that, you can use coupon code GEEK5 to bring the already lowered retail price of the Mi8 smartphone further down to just 434,00 € without breaking a sweat.

All products available Geekmall.eu has been split into multiple categories in a bid to expedite and simplify the search process.

These categories include smartphones, tablets and computers, action cameras, TV box, smartwatch/band, gadgets/accessories, drone, and smart home.

Much to the delight of smartphone lovers, Geekmall.eu offers well-received handsets from popular manufacturers like Xiaomi, Huawei Honor, Nubia, OnePlus, Oppo and BlackView.

Likewise, the online store features a slew of coveted smartwatches from brands like Xiaomi, Ticwatch, Lenovo, Makibes, Teclast, IWOWNFIT, Huawei Honor and We Loop.

Not only most of the electronic items are available for lowered prices on Geekmall.eu, but you can also use the 5 € off to save more money before placing your order.

You can head straight to this link to check out all the rest of the products and avail an extra discount before the coupon expires.

Save Extra Money On Electronic Items