Oppo Find X8 Ultra to ditch Alert Slider for an Action Button like iPhones

By

-

Feb 8, 2025

It wasn’t long ago that Oppo borrowed OnePlus’ signature Alert Slider for its own phones. The Find N3 Flip, launched in 2023, was the first Oppo device to feature it, followed by the book-style Find N3.

More recently, we saw the Alert Slider on the Find X8 and X8 Pro, but according to a new leak, that might not be the case for the upcoming Find X8 Ultra.

No Alert Slider on the Find X8 Ultra

Prolific leaker Digital Chat Station claims on Weibo that Oppo could swap out the three-stage Alert Slider for a click-based switch, similar to Apple’s Action Button. That would allow users to customize the button for different functions—just like on the latest iPhones.

Is this a smart move or a step backward? That’s a topic of debate. Some users might prefer the simplicity of a dedicated Alert Slider, while others may welcome the added flexibility. So let’s see how the audience reacts—if the leak pans out.

Nevertheless, DCS also notes that the Find X8 Ultra will feature a flat display and is expected to launch in March.

What else to expect?

Apart from design, the Find X8 Ultra may also see some changes in the camera department. It’s rumored to feature a 50MP IMX882 sensor with 6x periscope zoom, an upgrade from the Find X7 Ultra’s 5x IMX858 periscope lens. Whereas, the 3x periscope lens will have a better 50MP IMX906 sensor with a large 1/1.56-inch size.

The quad-camera setup will be rounded out by a 50MP IMX882 ultrawide sensor and the same 1-inch LYT-900 main sensor found in the Find X7 Ultra. As with previous Find X models, Oppo is expected to continue its collaboration with Hasselblad for camera tuning.

Powering everything is a rumored 6000mAh battery with support for 100W fast wired charging. Under the hood, the Find X8 Ultra will likely pack Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Additional features might include an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and an IP68/69 dust and water resistance rating.

The Find X8 Ultra is expected to launch in March. Would you rather have an Alert Slider or a customizable button? Let us know in the comments.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 makes Geekbench debut with surprising Snapdragon chip

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Feb 8, 2025

Motorola is seemingly preparing to launch a follow-up to its Razr 50 Ultra foldable smartphone. It has already appeared on multiple certification sites, and now a Geekbench listing may have shed some light on what to expect from the device.

The first interesting detail is the name itself. The benchmark reveals that the foldable will be called the Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 — a surprising departure from Motorola’s usual naming conventions.

Previously, the foldable lineup followed a more predictable pattern. The global variant is expected to launch as the Razr Ultra, while the same device gets branded as the Razr+ in North America, paired with the launch year.

Following that logic, this should have been the Razr 60 Ultra for the global and Razr+ 2025 for the North American market. But Motorola seems to be changing things up this time.

Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 Geekbench

Along with the new branding, the Geekbench listing reveals a major hardware upgrade. The upcoming Razr Ultra 2025 will reportedly be powered by the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which would be a significant upgrade from the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip found in the Razr 50 Ultra/Razr+ 2025.

According to Geekbench, the Snapdragon 8 Elite features six cores clocked at 3.53GHz and two high-performance cores running at 4.32GHz, paired with an Adreno 830 GPU.

The listing also indicates the device will come with up to 12GB of RAM and is likely to ship with Android 15. In benchmark tests, the foldable scored 2,782 in single-core performance and 8,457 in multi-core tests.

Beyond these details, the listing remains sparse, but the name change and chipset upgrade suggest Motorola has a few surprises in store for its next foldable flagship. We will keep you in the loop if any new details emerge.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

(Via)

Oppo Find X9 Ultra is reportedly adopting 200MP periscope camera like Xiaomi and Vivo

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Feb 8, 2025

Oppo is currently gearing up to launch the Find N5 foldable, but once that’s out of the way, the focus is expected to shift to the Find X8 Ultra, which is rumored to arrive in March.

However, details about its successor are already starting to surface online. A recent post from reliable Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS) has spilled the first camera details for the Find X9 Ultra.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra with 200MP periscope

According to DCS, Oppo is considering a 200MP periscope lens for its 2026 flagship. This will reportedly replace the 50MP + 50MP dual-periscope setup found on the Find X7 Ultra—a configuration that is expected to carry over to the Find X8 Ultra as well.

The Find X7 Ultra made headlines as the world’s first dual-periscope flagship, but it looks like Oppo is now following in the footsteps of its Chinese rivals Xiaomi and Vivo. Both brands have already adopted 200MP periscope cameras for their Ultra-tier phones, and if the rumor is true, Oppo could be next in line.

Of course, there’s still plenty of time for things to change. The Find X8 Ultra hasn’t even debuted yet, and its successor isn’t expected until 2026.

What to Expect from the Find X8 Ultra

While the Find X9 Ultra is still a ways off, let’s dive into what we might see from the upcoming Find X8 Ultra.

According to rumored specs, the Oppo Find X8 Ultra could feature a 6.82-inch display paired with the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.

Powering this device is a hefty 6,000mAh battery, expected to support 80W or 90W fast charging. For those concerned about durability, the phone is tipped to boast both IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance.

Security also seems to be getting a boost with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, an upgrade over the optical ones found in the Find X8 and Find X8 Pro.

On the camera front, the Find X8 Ultra could come with a physical telephoto macro camera designed for enhanced close-up shots. Here’s a breakdown of the rumored camera sensors:

50MP Sony IMX906 telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom
50MP Sony IMX882 sensor with 6x optical zoom
50MP Sony LYT-900 main sensor
50MP Sony IMX882 ultra-wide sensor

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

(Source)

Oppo Find N5 leaks show off full color lineup

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Feb 8, 2025

Oppo is building hype for its next foldable, the Find N5, with a focus on its slim design. The company has already highlighted the device’s minimal crease in a recent social media post. And now, leaked renders from tipsters Evan Blass and Arsene Lupin offer our first real look at the design—along with its full-color lineup.

The images show the Find N5 in black, white, and purple. At first glance, the design looks like an evolution of the Find N3. It features a large circular camera module on the back with the Oppo logo beneath it.

The front of the device, however, has a few notable changes. The bezels around the screen are significantly slimmer, leaving almost no extra material next to the outer display. For comparison, Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold still has a chunk of material on the left side, but the Find N5 eliminates that entirely, letting the glass meet the hinge seamlessly.

What to expect

It’s clear now, that Oppo is chasing the title of the thinnest and most compact foldable yet with the Find N5. According to reports, it could measure just 4.2mm when unfolded.

The inner display is expected to be a 2K OLED panel, while the cover display is a conventional flat screen. Also, it could be the first foldable phone to debut with the 7-core variant of the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.

Despite a slim profile, the Find N5 might still pack a big battery inside — 5700mAh, according to rumors. And this will support 80W wired and 50W wireless fast charging.

The confirmed details include an IPX6, IPX8, and IPX9 water resistance rating, a Hasselblad-branded triple camera setup, a new white edition, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.

Like its predecessor, the Find N5 is expected to launch globally as the OnePlus Open 2, continuing Oppo’s strategy of bringing its foldables to North America under the OnePlus brand. The Open 2 might introduce some tweaks in design and color options—the first Open, for instance, came with a vegan leather back.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Tech enthusiast? Get the latest news first! Follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily tech fix!

(Source 1, 2)

Noise Master Buds with Sound by Bose teased in India: 49dB ANC, AirPods Pro-like design, & more

By

Sean

-

Feb 7, 2025

Noise has officially teased its upcoming premium hearables. The Noise Master Buds was just spotted in an image poster on Amazon, which confirmed its availability details, launch date, and even revealed its design and key specifications as well. So here is everything you need o know.

Noise Master Buds Teased

The company’s new Master Buds were originally expected to launch on 11th February 2025. However a new report has revealed that these new wireless earbuds will be launching on February 13. Earlier teasers did not reveal any finer details regarding these earbuds like its specifications, and we only caught a glimpse of its design as well.

But now, the fresh teaser on Amazon India has revealed that the Master Buds carry an in-ear design with a stem, which makes it resemble the AirPods Pro. These carry a dual tone design with a gray and black finish, which is also expected to be reflected on the charging case. At the top of the case, the Sound by Bose etching can be seen. Bose, the popular audio products maker had made a strategic investment in Noise back in 2023. Now, it appears to be directly collaborating with the brand for a premium audio experience.

The latest teaser on Amazon also confirms support for up to 49 decibels of adaptive ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) along with support for LHDC 5.0 audio codec for lowered delay and improved quality. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more. Notably, the new launch is coming just a short while after the Airwave Max 5 wireless headphones launch.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Tech enthusiast? Get the latest news first! Follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily tech fix!

Galaxy S25 Ultra survives head-height drop test

By

Debasish

-

Feb 7, 2025

The Galaxy S25 Ultra features a titanium middle frame and an upgraded Gorilla Armor 2 glass, which is slightly more prone to scratches than the original Armor glass. It suggests that Corning has engineered it to be less brittle—and thus more drop-resistant.

The drop test

YouTube creator PBKreviews dropped the phone four times on concrete from the head height on its front, back, side, and bottom. None of the impacts managed to damage the front and back glass. The added rings around the camera, which JerryRigEverything managed to detach from the phone with his knife, also remained fine and protected the lens covers.

That said, the titanium middle frame had the most impact and damaged the concrete surface, and the marks on the frame were easy to clean as well. Titanium is much more durable than aluminum, and the switch to it from aluminum is paying off. While people don’t drop-test their phones like this, accidents happen. The front glass is completely flat this time, which also reduces direct impact on the front glass.

Cameras containing moving parts inside also remained completely functional. As PBKreviews noted, the durability of this phone is on par or slightly better than its predecessor, the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Galaxy-S25-Ultra-survives-head-height-drop-test

Nonetheless, it’s also important to note that it was a flat concrete surface. A drop on an uneven surface may still hit the glass first. So it’s better to use a protective case on your shiny new device to maximize the protection. It’s now also easier to find screen protectors since it’s completely flat now.

Apart from the redesigned outside, the phone also includes a redesigned cooling system (which is also about 40% larger) and the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip (worldwide) for better performance. If you’re confused about whether to upgrade now or wait for the upcoming foldables: the upcoming Z series devices are expected to use the Exynos 2500. You can learn more about it here.

Tech enthusiast? Get the latest news first! Follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily tech fix!

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Preview	Product
	Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 5G (Titanium Silverblue, 12GB RAM, 512GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Acer introduces Predator Helios Neo AI series of gaming laptops with up to Intel Core Ultra 9 & Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti

By

Sean

-

Feb 7, 2025

Acer has just introduced a new lineup of AI enabled gaming laptops. From its iconic Predator series, the brand has launched two models with some of the latest hardware in the market. This includes the new Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and Predator Helios Neo 18 AI. These are a pair of powerful gaming rigs, so here’s everything you need to know.

Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 AI

Talking about the smaller variant first, we have the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 AI. As the name suggests, it is a 16-inch laptop model which comes in four display variants. You can either opt for the basic 180Hz or smoother 240Hz display, but the top model includes a OLED panel with a WQXGA resolution, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, Nvidia ADvanced Optimus, and a 1ms response time.

Under the hood, the new Predator Helios Neo 16 AI arrives with either an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor or the Core Ultra 7 255HX CPU. For graphics, it features NVidia’s latest GeForce RTX 5070 or RTX 5070 Ti GPU. Alongside these beefy specs, you also get up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and up to 2TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. Cooling these hefty specs is a the Gen AeroBLade fans, liquid metal thermal grease and vector pipes.

A massive 90Whr battery pack powers this gaming laptop, which weighs around 2.7 kilograms. Other notable features include Bluetooth 5.4, WiFi 6E, microSD card reader, 1080p webcam, and Windows 11 OS.

Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI

Much of the specs between these two models remain the same. Acer clearly intended to make a laptop that isn’t just great for gaming but can also handle AI powered tasks thanks to the new Intel CPUs. Although, even on the gaming front these models are quite secure thanks to the RTX 5000 series GPUs. So you still get the same CPU, CPU, RAM, and storage pairing on this model as well.

But one of the biggest differences here is the size. The Predator Helios Neo 18 AI packs an 18-inch panel in four options as well. Out of these three are LED screens, but the top end option is a Mini LED panel. So you can expect a top notch viewing experience from this variant. This option also gets you a 250Hz refresh rate, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 3ms response time, and more.

Pricing and availability

The PC making giant is set to launch the Predator Helios Neo 16 AI in North America in April, with the EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) release following in May. A wider release could be planned for the second half of this year but there is no official word regarding this matter. The smaller variant has a starting price tag of 1,899 US Dollars or 1,699 Euros.

On the other hand, the Predator Helios Neo 18 AI will start from 2,199 US Dollars or 1,799 Euros. The North American release is set for May with the EMEA launch planned for June. This announcement also arrives as the brand aims to launch new budget phones in India soon. Just last month, the company also unveiled the Predator X27U X1, which is a 26.5-inch 2K 240Hz QD-OLED monitor for gamers.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

BenQ LH750 Projector to Launch in Europe with Full HD resolution and 5,000 Lumens brightness

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 7, 2025

BenQ is preparing to release the LH750, a new LED projector designed for conference rooms, on February 25, 2025, in Europe. The DLP projector will be priced at €1,399 (around $1,499 or £1,199) and offers Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels), 5,000 ANSI lumens brightness, and 98% coverage of the Rec. 709 color space. It also includes a 30-bit color depth, a 500,000:1 contrast ratio, and a light source lifespan of up to 30,000 hours in Eco mode.

The LH750 supports 3D and HDR-HLG, along with a 1.62x zoom, vertical and horizontal keystone correction, and a built-in 20-watt speaker. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.0b, RJ-45, RS232, and USB-A 2.0, with optional WLAN functionality available for an additional €49.

Weighing 5.5 kg, the projector can display images from 60 to 200 inches diagonally, with a projection distance of 154 to 513 cm. It operates at noise levels of 29 dB in Eco mode and 34 dB in Normal mode. The device is compatible with remote maintenance systems like BenQ DMS Local, AMX, and PJLink.

While the official release is scheduled for February 25, the LH750 is already available through third-party retailers such as B&H, AV Parts Master, and Bechtle.

In other news, Lucky Goldstar has unveiled the LG PF600U – A 3-in-1 projector, Bluetooth speaker, and LED mood lamp, featuring FHD resolution, 300 ANSI lumens, LG webOS, and a lamp-style stand. It offers a 110° tilting head, auto screen adjustment (30-120 inches), stereo speakers, and customizable lighting.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Don’t miss a thing! Join our Telegram community for instant updates and grab our free daily newsletter for the best tech stories!

(Source: BenQ, via: Prad.de)

Google Pixel 9a Rumors: Price, Specs, and Release Date Leaked

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 7, 2025

Rumors about Google’s upcoming Pixel 9a are picking up steam, with leaks revealing key details about its pricing, release date, and specs. According to AndroidHeadlines, the Pixel 9a will start at $499 in the U.S. for the 128GB model, keeping the same price as the Pixel 8a. However, the 256GB version will cost $649, marking a $40 increase over its predecessor.

The phone is expected to launch on March 26, 2025, with pre-orders opening a week earlier on March 19. Renders shared by X user @ACE100xd reveal that the device will come in four colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, and Peony.

In Europe, the Pixel 9a will follow the same schedule, with pre-orders starting on March 19 and general availability on March 26. The 128GB model will be available in all four colors, while the 256GB version will be limited to Obsidian and Iris. Pricing will be €549 or £499 for the 128GB model and €649 or £599 for the 256GB version.

Some notable upgrades include a bigger 5,100mAh battery, Google’s Tensor G4 processor (the same one in the Pixel 9), and a 48MP main camera sensor for better photography. These improvements suggest Google is focusing on making the Pixel 9a a solid mid-range contender. In addition to these details, a previous report has claimed that all variants of the Pixel 9a will come with three months of Google One (100 GB) and YouTube Premium, plus six months of Fitbit Premium subscriptions.

There’s no word yet on pre-order deals or trade-in offers, but with these specs and pricing, the Pixel 9a looks like an affordable yet capable option. More details are expected as the launch date gets closer.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

(Source 1, 2)

How Much Will the Next Nintendo Console Cost? Latest Leaks & Rumors of the Switch 2

By

Sean

-

Feb 7, 2025

Gamers worldwide are eagerly awaiting the launch of Nintendo’s next generation handheld console. The model in question is the Switch 2, which is a true successor to the massively successful Nintendo Switch. While Nintendo has yet to officially announce any finer details regarding this portable console, leaks and rumors have given us some insight into what we can expect. From its price tag to its performance, we have already covered various reports regarding the Nintendo Switch 2. So here’s everything we know so far.

Prev Next

1. Expected Price Range

While Nintendo has not confirmed the price, there have already been plenty of rumors circulating regarding the possible pricing of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Some of the recent leaks suggest that the next handheld gaming console could be priced between $399 and $499.

If this is true, then the company is planning a notable price bump when comparing it with the original Nintendo Switch, which costs just around $299. The Switch will still be more affordable than the latest PlayStation or Xbox, but those are full sized consoles with vastly better performance. Considering how Nintendo has priced its console, it might prioritize accessibility and affordability. So the brand could be aiming for a more competitive price point that is closer to the $400 range to appeal to a broader audience.

2. When does it drop?

Nintendo has officially announced that its highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct will take place on 2nd April 2025 at 6 AM PST. During this event, we can expect the brand to finally reveal the availability details of the console like when it’s going to launch and how much is it going to cost. Furthermore, all of the key features and upgrades over the original Nintendo Switch would likely be showcased during this major launch conference as well.

3. Specifications

The Switch 2 will be arriving eight years after the launch of the original Switch. Nintendo kept many details under wraps, however, recent leaks and teasers have given fans a glimpse of what to expect. The new console still retains the hybrid design of its predecessor, which means you can dock it and also game on it like a handheld.

But one of the upgrades that are immediately noticeable is the display. It features a larger 8-inch display, an upgrade from the original 6.2-inch screen. While the screen type hasn’t been revealed, an OLED upgrade is possible. The resolution should likely be getting bumped to 1080p resolution as well, over 720p. Apart from a bigger footprint overall, the Joy Con controllers are also getting an upgrade with a new attachment mechanism that replaces the sliding rail system with a magnetic connection.

The announcement teaser trailer has even revealed an adjustable kickstand. Nintendo is also improving the performance of the Switch 2 thanks to a new Nvidia Tegra chip, with rumors claim can match the PS4 and Xbox One in terms of performance.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

China plans to investigate App Store as retaliation against new US tariffs

By

Joane

-

Feb 7, 2025

The United States has imposed new trade tariffs on Chinese goods. These tariffs increase costs for businesses and consumers in the US. Higher prices could lead to reduced sales in the US market. In response, China has announced possible retaliatory measures escalating the ongoing trade war between the US and China.

China’s potential investigation into Apple

China’s market regulator, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), is reportedly preparing an investigation into Apple’s App Store policies. The focus of the probe includes Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases and restrictions on third-party payment services and app stores. This follows a previous investigation in 2024, which found Apple’s commission fees to be fair. However, discussions between Chinese regulators, Apple, and developers have continued since then.

How did the market react to this news?

News of the potential investigation led to a 3% drop in Apple’s share price. Investors fear that increased scrutiny in China could impact Apple’s business in one of its largest markets. Apple has not responded to reports of the probe, and Chinese authorities have not officially confirmed the investigation.

China’s actions against other US companies

China is also investigating Google under anti-monopoly laws. Although no specific details were provided, reports suggest the probe could be related to Google’s Android operating system. Additionally, PVH Corp., the parent company of Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, has been placed on China’s “unreliable entity” list. US biotech firm Illumina has also been added to this list.

What is the impact of US Tariffs on Apple?

Apple has previously sought exemptions from US tariffs, with mixed success. The latest round of tariffs does not exempt Apple, which could increase production costs and affect prices for US consumers.

The tensions between the US and China continue to create uncertainty for businesses and the global economy. If China proceeds with the Apple investigation, it could escalate the ongoing trade conflict and impact the global tech industry.

Read More:

ASUS to Launch New Vivobook, Zenbook & V16 Laptops with Intel Core Ultra on Feb 13

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 7, 2025

ASUS has announced the launch of three new laptops in India on February 13 at 12 PM. The ASUS Vivobook 14 Flip, ASUS Zenbook 14, and ASUS V16 will come with dedicated AI chips, ASUS AI applications, and AI-enhanced gaming features.

These laptops, part of the Copilot+PC lineup, will be powered by Intel Core Ultra 9 processors (Series 2), offering up to 47 TOPS NPU performance and up to 12 cores/threads. The laptops feature ASUS Lumina OLED displays with up to 3K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits peak brightness. For gaming, the ASUS V16 laptop will include an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU.

While details on other models are currently unavailable, the ASUS V16 is likely the model that the brand unveiled back in December 2024. We can expect the laptop to feature a 16-inch FHD IPS display offering a 144Hz refresh rate, 1920 x 1080 resolution, and a 16:10 aspect ratio, along with a military-grade durable chassis. Under the hood, we can expect it to come with either an Intel Core i5-13420H or an Intel Core i7-13620H processor. The processor will be paired with 8GB or 16GB 5600MHz DDR5 RAM, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU.

This follows the recent launch of the ROG Phone 9 FE smartphone and the Zenfone 12 Ultra. The ROG Phone 9 FE has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, paired with a 5,500mAh battery and 65W wired (15W wireless) charging. On the other hand, the Zenfone 12 Ultra has a Snapdragon 8 Gen Elite chip, paired with an identical battery and fast charging, along with an IP68 rating.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

(Source)

Countries are banning DeepSeek: Is the Chinese AI a threat ?

By

Joane

-

Feb 7, 2025

Several countries have taken action against DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) platform, over concerns related to national security, data privacy, and possible links to the Chinese government. Authorities fear that DeepSeek could pose a security risk due to its origins and the potential for data transfers to Chinese state entities.

National Security and Data Privacy Risks

DeepSeek has been banned in multiple countries primarily due to security and privacy concerns. Governments worry that the Chinese government could access user data collected by DeepSeek under China’s National Intelligence Law. There are concerns over the platform’s lack of transparency in handling user data, raising fears of possible data breaches or unauthorized data sharing.

Which countries have banned DeepSeek

Australia
Australia has banned DeepSeek on all government devices due to national security risks. The Department of Home Affairs ordered all government agencies to remove DeepSeek, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke emphasizing that the ban aims to protect Australia’s national interests.

South Korea
South Korea has prohibited its use on government employees’ devices across multiple ministries and state-run agencies due to security and privacy concerns. Several government agencies, including Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, have blocked AI services like DeepSeek, while the country’s Personal Information Protection Commission is investigating how DeepSeek manages user data.

Italy
Italy has also taken steps to restrict DeepSeek, particularly regarding the processing of Italian users’ data. The Italian Data Protection Authority (Garante) imposed restrictions and requested details on DeepSeek’s data policies, citing a lack of transparency in data handling.

Taiwan
Taiwan has banned DeepSeek from all government departments, citing national security risks, and has blocked it from all government networks.

United States is considering a ban

The United States has not yet banned DeepSeek but is considering restricting its use. NASA has already blocked DeepSeek from its systems, and the U.S. Navy has warned personnel against using the AI service. Additionally, U.S. lawmakers are drafting a bill to ban DeepSeek on government-owned devices due to security concerns.

What Data does DeepSeek collect?

According to its privacy policy, DeepSeek collects personal information such as email, phone number, password, and date of birth. It also records chat history, including user interactions with the chatbot. Technical data such as IP addresses, keystroke patterns, and operating system details are also gathered. Information is shared with service providers and advertising partners, raising concerns over how long data is retained and who has access to it.

How DeepSeek data policy compares to other AI platforms

DeepSeek’s data collection practices are not unique. Other AI platforms like OpenAI’s ChatGPT also gather user data. However, OpenAI follows stricter data protection regulations in regions like the EU. Western governments believe OpenAI can be regulated, whereas Chinese platforms like DeepSeek are perceived as direct security threats.

What is the future of DeepSeek?

DeepSeek has disrupted the AI market with its cost-effective model. While OpenAI’s GPT-4 required over $100 million in training costs, DeepSeek’s latest model was developed for less than $6 million. Its rapid rise in popularity even caused a 17% drop in Nvidia’s stock value, leading to significant shifts in global AI investments.

As more governments evaluate DeepSeek’s risks, additional bans could be implemented. Western governments continue to assess the security implications of Chinese AI platforms, emphasizing concerns about espionage and unauthorized data access. The controversy surrounding DeepSeek highlights the broader tension between AI development and national security policies worldwide.

Read More:

(via)

Global shortage of Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card – wait time extends to 4 months

By

Joane

-

Feb 7, 2025

The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 has become one of the hardest-to-find graphics cards, with a global shortage affecting availability. Many customers are facing long waiting times, with some delays stretching up to 16 weeks.

Overclockers UK (OCUK) confirmed that all RTX 50 series graphics cards sold out within hours of release. Due to overwhelming demand, the retailer has temporarily halted pre-orders. Customers who have not received shipping confirmation are being placed in a pre-order queue.

Estimated availability and price surge

The RTX 5090 is expected to be available within 3 to 16 weeks, while the RTX 5080 may arrive sooner, with an estimated wait time of 2 to 6 weeks. However, supply remains uncertain.

Scalpers are taking advantage of the shortage, selling RTX 50 series cards at two to three times their retail price on platforms like eBay. The RTX 5090, which has an MSRP of $1,999, is being resold for $2,300 to $2,600. The RTX 5080, originally priced at $999, is now selling for $1,100 to $1,300.

The shortage is partly due to Nvidia’s reliance on TSMC’s wafer production, which is also used for Blackwell accelerators. This competition for manufacturing capacity has further limited the supply of RTX 50 series GPUs.

Retailer Measures and Stock Rumors

In Japan, retailers are using a lottery system to allow customers to purchase the RTX 5090 or 5080. Reports indicate that some retailers had no RTX 5090 stock at all on launch day. Others, like MSI, will not ship the RTX 5090 until February 6.

Industry experts suggest that RTX 5090 stock will remain tight until at least March 2025, while RTX 5080 availability could improve sooner. Meanwhile, AMD’s RX 9070 is expected to launch in March 2025, possibly as a competitor.

For now, consumers are advised to hold onto their existing graphics cards. Supply remains tight, and prices are much higher than expected due to scalping.

Read More:

Nothing’s Upcoming Wireless Headphones Get Certified, Hinting at Imminent Launch

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Feb 7, 2025

Nothing, the tech company known for its distinctive transparent design language, appears to be working on wireless headphones. A recent SGS Fimko certification listing has revealed the existence of a new product under the category of wireless headphones. The certification surfaced online as the company gears up to launch its Nothing Phone (3a) series on March 4th.

Nothing headphones grabs SGS certification

The certification lists the model number ‘B170’ and the certificate number ‘FI-63316.’ It categorizes the product as wireless headphones and names Nothing Technology Limited as the manufacturer.

The specs revealed are very limited, but the certification mentions the headphones will have a 5 VDC, 1A (5W) charging input, a 35-degree operating temperature, and Class III protection. Beyond these technical details, the listing does not reveal much about the product’s features or design.

However, the certification suggests that the new headphones could debut in Finland, with a possible rollout to other regions, including India. Given Nothing’s track record, the wireless headphones are likely to adopt the brand’s signature transparent aesthetic, though this remains speculative until official details emerge.

Nothing’s current audio lineup includes TWS earbuds and neckband products under both the Nothing and CMF brands. While the addition of wireless headphones would mark a new sub-category for the company, it aligns with its strategy to diversify its audio offerings.

Pricing details are yet to be confirmed. For context, Nothing’s existing audio products span various price points, including under Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000 in India, targeting a wide audience. The wireless headphones could follow a similar pricing strategy or aim at a different market segment.

With the certification hinting at an impending launch, more information about the product is likely to emerge soon.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Tech enthusiast? Get the latest news first! Follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily tech fix! ⚡

(Source)

Samsung’s One UI 7.0 rollout still needs some more time

By

Vicky

-

Feb 7, 2025

Samsung could have already begun the One UI 7.0 stable rollout, but a mistake in the last beta release pushes the rollout further by a week, at least. The company will release another One UI 7 beta update for the Galaxy S24 series to resolve an issue created by the third beta build.

Almost everyone was expecting Samsung to kick off the One UI 7.0 rollout this week, but the latest information spoils the excitement and brings more disappointment to Galaxy fans. Reliable Samsung tipster Ice Universe has revealed that the Galaxy S24 series will get its fourth One UI 7 beta to address the screen color calibration problem.

The third One UI 7 beta for the Galaxy S24 models has an issue with the screen color calibration that makes the display look more yellow than ideal colors. Samsung has fixed the issue, which is included in the fourth beta. It should roll out very soon to existing beta users.

Samsung hasn’t announced when it will release the fourth One UI 7 beta for the Galaxy S24 series or revealed the stable release date. However, the brand typically takes about a week to roll out the stable version after the final beta goes live. So, even if the fourth beta arrives this week, Galaxy S24 owners may have to wait at least another week for the stable One UI 7 update.

If you have a Samsung Galaxy device that’s eligible for One UI 7.0, remember to follow this guide to prepare your device for a smooth upgrade.

While you wait for One UI 7.0, read all the major changes of this massive upgrade below.

What’s new in One UI 7?

One UI 7 offers a host of big upgrades and features that make using your phone smoother and more intuitive. The animations are now smooth, making switching between apps and multitasking a breeze.

The camera app has been cleaned up, offering a simpler, more streamlined experience. Switching between camera modes and zoom levels is now easier, even with just one hand.

Finally, Samsung has added a vertical app drawer — something we’ve been waiting for a long time. While you can still switch to the horizontal layout if you prefer, most users will probably stick with the vertical one.

One of the biggest visual upgrades in One UI 7 is the Now Bar. It’s Samsung’s version of Apple’s Dynamic Island, showing useful info right on the lock screen. It works with music, recording, stopwatch, reminders, and more.

With this update, Samsung also introduces a split notification center and Quick Settings panel, which is already a thing in many Chinese smartphones. Now, you can swipe from the right to access Quick Settings and from the left for the notification center.

Other changes include a redesigned battery indicator, new icons for native apps, and more adaptive charging options, like limiting charging to 80%. Samsung has also added fresh widgets and enhanced Galaxy AI features.

Also read:
1. Prepare your Samsung Galaxy for a smooth upgrade to One UI 7
2. 6 lesser-known Android 15 features (but are super useful)

Tech enthusiast? Get the latest news first! Follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily tech fix! ⚡

Ambrane MiniCharge 20: A Compact 20,000mAh Power Bank with Built-in Type-C Cable launched

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 7, 2025

Ambrane has launched the MiniCharge 20, a portable power bank designed for travelers, hikers, and everyday users. Made in India, it features a 20,000mAh battery and an integrated Type-C cable that also serves as a carrying loop.

Ambrane MiniCharge 20 features

The MiniCharge 20 is approved for air travel and built with ISO-certified materials for safety and durability. It has a metallic finish and offers multiple charging options, including a 22W Type-C port, a 22W USB-A port, and a built-in 20W Type-C cable. LED indicators show battery levels, while advanced protection circuits help keep devices safe and extend battery life.

It supports fast-charging protocols like PD 3.0, QC 3.0, PPS, and VOOC, making it compatible with Type-C and USB-A devices. The power bank takes about 5 hours and 40 minutes to fully charge using a 20W charger.

Pricing & availability

Priced at Rs. 1,899, the MiniCharge 20 is available in Gradient Blue and Titanium. It can be purchased online from Flipkart, Amazon.in, and Ambrane’s official website, as well as offline at Croma, Vijay Sales, and Reliance Digital stores. Quick-commerce platforms like Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy Instamart also offer fast delivery in major cities. The MiniCharge 20 comes with a 6-month warranty.

In other news, the brand has also launched the Ambrane MagSafe 10,000mAh Power Bank. It supports 22.5W fast charging with a Type-C port (22W), USB-A port (22.5W), and 15W MagSafe wireless output. It recharges fully in 3.5 hours with a 20W PD charger and is compatible with PD 3.0, QC 3.0, VOOC, and PPS protocols.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

Realme Narzo 70 Turbo 5G smartphone gets Rs 3000 Coupon Discount

By

Simranpal Singh

-

Feb 7, 2025

Here’s an exciting deal for the Realme fans if they want to grab the Realme Narzo 70 Turbo 5G smartphone for Rs 13,998. There’s a quick Rs 3000 Instant discount coupon code which the users can avail on the listing page. Apart from this, there are some additional discounts from various Banks.

If you have Bank of Baroda, Federal Bank, or HSBC Bank credit cards, then you can get an additional 7.5% instant discount of up to Rs 1000. The discounts are in addition to the Rs 3,000 off coupon, and the final price will be down to around Rs 12,998. However, the 5% cashback on the Amazon ICICI Bank Credit Card is always there for interested buyers.

Buy Now

Specifications and Features

Realme Narzo 70 Turbo 5G smartphone is powered with the Dimensity 7300 5G chipset and up to 12GB RAM. The smartphone is available in three storage variants including 6GB RAM + 128GB storage, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage, and 12GB RAM with 256GB storage options. It houses a 6.67-inch display with over 92.65% screen-to-body ratio and 120Hz refresh rate.

The camera section houses a triple camera module with a 50MP primary sensor, a 2MP depth sensor, and an auxiliary lens. A 16MP sensor is present on the front for selfies and video calling. Meanwhile, the smartphones host Bluetooth 5.4, dual-band WiFi, GPS, and USB Type C 2.0. A 5000 mAh battery with 45W fast charging is present which can charge the 50% battery within 30 minutes.

Realme Narzo 70 Turbo 5G is bundled and measures 161.7 x 74.7 x 7.6 mm in size and 185g in size. The smartphone is retailing with an overall around ~50% discount from the actual price it was launched.

Preview	Product
	realme NARZO 70 Turbo 5G (Turbo Green,6GB RAM,128GB Storage) \| Segment’s Fastest Dimensity 7300…	Check Price on Amazon

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

OnePlus 13R Gets Region-Specific Updates: AI Features for India, Stability Fixes for North America

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 7, 2025

OnePlus has begun rolling out new updates for the OnePlus 13R, with region-specific enhancements for India and North America (NA). The Indian variant receives OxygenOS 15.0.0.406, featuring the January 2025 Android security patch and advanced AI translation tools. Meanwhile, the NA variant gets OxygenOS 15.0.0.405, focusing on system stability and network improvements.

The Indian update, identified by firmware version CPH2691_15.0.0.406(EX01), introduces significant upgrades. Wi-Fi and communication stability have been enhanced for a smoother network experience. Camera performance, including third-party camera apps, has also been optimized. The update integrates new AI translation features, such as real-time speech translation, face-to-face translation in Split View, and audio playback of translations through supported headphones. Users can initiate face-to-face translation with a single tap, with one language played through the phone’s speaker and the other through the headphones.

OxygenOS 15.0.0.406 official changelog

Communication & interconnection

Improves the stability of Wi-Fi connections for a better network experience.
Improves communication stability and network experience.

Camera

Improves camera performance and stability for a better user experience.
Improves the stability of third-party cameras.

System

Improves system stability and performance.
Integrates the January 2025 Android security patch to enhance system security.

AI translate

Adds the live translation feature that shows the translation of speech in real time.
Adds the face-to-face translation feature that shows the translation of each speaker in Split View.
Now you can hear the translations in your headphones.
Now you can start face-to-face translation with a tap on your headphones (only supported on selected headphones). The translation of one language is played on the speaker on the phone, while the translation of the other language is played on the headphones.

In contrast, the NA update, labeled CPH2647_15.0.0.405(EX01), is more modest, focusing solely on improving network stability and system performance. It does not include the AI features introduced in the Indian variant, suggesting a potential follow-up update for NA users.

OxygenOS 15.0.0.405 official changelog

Communication & interconnection

Improves communication stability and network experience.

System

Improves system stability and performance.

The rollout is gradual, with the update expected to reach all devices within 1-2 weeks. Indian users should look for firmware version CPH2691_15.0.0.406(EX01), while NA users should check for CPH2647_15.0.0.405(EX01).

The update is being released in phases, beginning with a limited group of users before reaching more devices in the coming days. To check for it manually, go to Settings > About Device > OxygenOS > Check for Update.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

(Source 1, 2)

Vivo V50 launch date officially confirmed: here’s everything known so far

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Feb 7, 2025

Vivo has officially confirmed that the Vivo V50 will be announced on Feb. 17 in India. Its landing pages on Vivo India’s website and Flipkart have already confirmed its key specifications and features. Here’s a look at the V50 details that have been officially confirmed so far.

Vivo V50 key specifications and features

On the front, the Vivo V50 has a micro-quad-curved OLED panel that measures 6.78 inches. It is said to support a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It houses a massive 6,000mAh battery within a slim chassis of 7.4mm. Speaking of the build, it will have an IP68/69-rated chassis and the new Diamond Shield Glass protection from Schott.

The V50 will feature a 50-megapixel camera with autofocus support on the front. The back panel of the device will be fitted with a 50-megapixel primary camera with OIS support, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and an Aura Light LED flash. The device will run on Android 15 and Funtouch OS 15 and will offer AI-driven image editing features, audio transcription, and real-time call translation.

Reports surrounding the device have claimed that the Vivo V50 will have the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip onboard. It may ship with up to 12 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and up to 512 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. The device is expected to support 90W fast charging.

Vivo V50 price in India (expected)

The Vivo V50 will arrive in three shades: Rose Red, Starry Blue, and Titanium Grey. It is expected to be priced between Rs 35,000 and Rs 40,000 in India.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!