Advertisement

What makes the Xiaomi Pad 7 special?

Xiaomi Pad 7 continues the legacy of its predecessors in India. The latest tablet retains the price of its forerunners and yet delivers upgrades.

Apart from updated specs, the newer model also comes with optional revamped accessories. All of these make it the most value-for-money Android tablet in the country, just like the previous two Xiaomi Pads (Pad 6 and Pad 5).

Almost 3 years later, there’s still no direct competition for Xiaomi Pads in India. The closest competitors (such as the OnePlus Pads) are more expensive. At the same time, the similarly priced or cheaper options lack the features.

Let’s find out why the Xiaomi Pad 7 stands out.

Xiaomi Pad 7

1. Excellent Performance

The Xiaomi Pad 7 houses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 3 chipset. Though the silicon sounds like a downgrade, it offers almost double the performance of the Snapdragon 870 chip inside the Xiaomi Pad 6.

For the unaware, the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 3 sits between Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in terms of performance. The chip is further paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.

The Xiaomi Pad 7 is the only tablet on the market to use this chip. In fact, there are only two smartphones (Realme GT 6T and OnePlus Nord 4) with this silicon in India. All three products cost about the same.

The tablet should remain smooth for years to come with the amount of performance it offers.

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

2. Bright and Crisp Display

The Xiaomi Pad 7 flaunts an 11.2-inch LCD screen with a 3:2 aspect ratio. More importantly, the display is crispier and brighter than the 11-inch panel on the Xiaomi Pad 6.

The screen offers a resolution of 3200 x 2136 pixels and 345 PPI. It supports up to a 144Hz refresh rate and a 360Hz touch sampling rate.

The display has a rated peak brightness level of 800 nits and offers 4096 levels of brightness adjustments along with DC dimming. It also supports Dolby Vision as well as DCI-P3 color gamut.

 Lastly, the touchscreen can be operated even while wet.

3. Ecosystem Features

The Xiaomi Pad 7 boots HyperOS 2 based on Android 15. The UI mimics the look and feel of a desktop. Multiple apps can be opened in window forms and can be switched seamlessly.

If you own a Xiaomi smartphone, the overall experience gets even better with interconnectivity. Users can pick up calls, share clipboard, stream phone’s screen,  and more. With the inclusion of NFC on Pad 7, users can simply tap their phones to share files.

Then, there’s a host of AI features. The tablet ships with useful tools, such as AI Writing, Live Subtitles, Xiaomi Creation, and Google Gemini.

4. Practical Accessories

The Xiaomi Pad 7 arrives with two optional accessories. The brand calls them Focus Keyboard and Focus Pen.

The keyboard is similar to what Apple sells for its iPads. In other words, it comes with a floating design that allows for 0° to 124° step-less adjustment.

It consists of backlit keys, which offer 1.3mm key travel. The trackpad also supports quick gestures for multiple functions.

Whereas the stylus has two buttons. They can be used for multiple tasks, such as pointing, highlighting, writing, screenshots, and camera shutter.

The pen supports 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity. Thus, it feels closer to a real thing.

5. Competitive Pricing

The Xiaomi Pad 7 is offered in two trims in India. The base 8GB + 128GB variant costs ₹27,999, while the higher 12GB + 256GB model retails at ₹30,999.

There’s no other Android tablet in this price segment in India offering an identical or better feature set. Even the accessories are not that expensive for the value they add.

The stylus and keyboard cost ₹5,999 and ₹8,999, respectively.

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

The Best Camera Smartphones of 2025

Brands are constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation in technology for smartphones. Camera technology is constantly improving, reaching new heights every year. The Vivo X100 Ultra, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Vivo X200 Pro, and Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max are great examples of device that raise the bar for mobile photography thanks to cutting edge hardware and innovative features, so let’s see what makes them the best camera smartphones of 2025.

1. Vivo X100 Ultra

Vivo X100 Ultra

The Vivo X100 Ultra took smartphone photography to the next level with its camera system. It features a Zeiss branded triple camera setup. This comprises a 50MP Sony LYT900 main camera, which is a one-inch sensor that has a 23mm focal length. The one-inch sensor ensures that you get a better photography experience in low-light environments. This is paired with a 50MP ultra wide-angle lens with a 116 degree FOV and 14mm focal length.

The last sensor is easily one of its highlights, being a 200MP HP9 periscope telephoto shooter, which offers a focal length of 85mm. Thanks to its professional mode, you get access to five focal length selections (24, 28, 35, 50, 85mm) and an adjustable aperture from f/0.95 to f/16. Pairing it with a V3 imaging chipset, the Vivo X100 Ultra is easily one of the best camera smartphones on the market right now. For selfies and video calls, you get another 50MP shooter.

2. Vivo X200 Pro

vivo x200 pro hands on 11
Vivo X200 Pro

While we are nearly at the end of 2024, Vivo unveiled its next generation of flagship smartphones. As of right now, the Vivo X200 Pro is its latest premium smartphone, bringing next gen camera technology. You miss out on the one inch sensor this time around, but you still get a 50MP Sony LYT818 primary camera, along with a 50MP ultra-wide angle lens, and a 200MP Zeiss APO telephoto sensor.

At the moment, the periscope telephoto shooter is among the best camera in the market for zoomed shots. It even comes with a new Vivo V3+ imaging chip for a better photography experience. This allows for 4K HDR Cinematic Portrait video and 10-bit Log video recording at 60fps. On the front, you get a 32MP shooter for selfies and video calls.

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

3. Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Continuing the one inch sensor trend from 2024, we have the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. The Chinese brand didn’t just pack a quad cameras on the back and call it a day, each image sensor plays its role. It has a 50MP Sony LYT900 one-inch primary sensor with a variable aperture range of f/1.63 to f/4.0 that enables bokeh and starburst effects, along with sharper details depending on the scene. Even the main sensor can offer up to 2x optical zoom.

The ultrawide-angle lens has a 50 MP resolution and 122 degree FOV. But for a better zoomed shot, users get a 50MP telephoto and another 50MP periscope telephoto lens. Both of these have floating technology that lets you shift the focus range from 10 cm to infinity. So you can get up to 70x zoom capabilities. Just like the X200 Pro, there is a 32MP selfie camera.

Preview Product
Xiaomi 14 Ultra Xiaomi 14 Ultra

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

4. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max

Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max

Apple’s iPhones is known for its camera and the iPhone 16 Pro Max does not disappoint. While flagships from Google, vivo, and others have raised the quality of still shots, the latest iPhones are still one of the best smartphones for video recording. The main sensor is a 48MP dual pixel primary camera, which is paired with a 12MP periscope telephoto shooter for 5x optical zoom.

The third sensor is a 48MP ultra wide angle lens while the last sensor is a 3D ToF LiDAR scanner that helps map depth. On the front, the Apple’s top end flagship phone packs a 12MP selfie camera along with a SL 3D sensor, which helps with its Face ID biometric sensor.

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

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

SL3-S: Leica’s First Camera with Content Credentials, 96MP photo mode, and 3:2 Open Gate 6K Recording

Leica Camera AG has unveiled the Leica SL3-S, the latest addition to its SL-System lineup. The SL3-S is the first SL-System camera to feature Content Credentials technology, aligning with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) to establish photo authentication and transparency.

The SL3-S includes a 24 MP BSI-CMOS full-frame sensor with Multi-Shot resolutions of 48 MP and 96 MP. With an ISO range of 50–200,000, the sensor delivers high dynamic range and consistent quality in various lighting conditions. Its advanced phase-detection autofocus system offers precise tracking and up to 30 fps continuous shooting.

The SL3-S uses Content Credentials technology, embedding secure metadata into images, such as camera details, author information, and editing history. The SL3-S supports up to 6K video recording with 3:2 Open Gate formats for greater versatility. It features ProRes 4:2:2HQ recording, HDMI RAW output, USB-C SSD recording, and a timecode interface for synchronization in professional workflows. Powered by the Maestro IV processor, the camera delivers precise color, wide dynamic range, and low noise in Leica’s L-Log color space.

The camera offers dual card slots for CFexpress Type B and UHS-II SD cards, USB-C tethering, and full-size HDMI 2.1 output. Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi integrate seamlessly with the Leica FOTOS app for fast DNG image transfers. Certified under Apple’s “Made for iPhone and iPad” program, it connects directly to Apple devices.

The SL3-S works with Leica and L-Mount Alliance lenses. Adapters expand compatibility to cine lenses, supported by dedicated video settings. Its in-body stabilization, offering up to five stops, improves performance with Leica M lenses.

The SL3-S features a 3.2-inch tiltable touchscreen and a high-resolution EyeRes electronic viewfinder with a 120 fps refresh rate. The interface supports seamless transitions between photo and video modes. Compact and lightweight, it is designed for comfortable use during long sessions.

Availability and Pricing

The Leica SL3-S is available globally through Leica Stores, authorized dealers, and the Leica Online Store at €5,190 (including VAT). For more information, visit leica-camera.com/sl3-s.

(Source)

Huawei Pura 70 Ultra will get a Red Variant for the Chinese New Year

Huawei has many new devices in development including the Pocket 3 foldable which is expected to launch in Q1 2025, and the successor to the groundbreaking tri-fold Mate XT. The brand is also working on a new red version of the Pura 70 Ultra smartphone, featuring a glossy frame, redesigned lens module, and plain leather back cover. The update focuses on appearance, with core specifications unchanged.

Huawei Pura 70 Ultra red model

Details shared on Weibo by user 李小祥龙 claim that this new color option could be a Chinese New Year special edition model, and it will also be quite expensive. The device launched for 9,999 Yuan (~$1,365) back in April of 2024.

The Pura 70 Ultra is currently available in Starry Black, Starry White, Chanson Green, and Mocha Brown. It has a 6.8-inch OLED display (2844×1260 resolution), 1-120Hz LTPO adaptive refresh rate, 1440Hz PWM dimming, and basalt-tempered Kunlun glass. The device is IP68-rated for dust and water resistance.

Huawei Pura 70 Ultra

The phone includes a 5200mAh battery with 100W wired, 80W wireless, and 20W reverse wireless charging. It features a Type-C (USB 3.1 Gen1) interface, satellite calling, Beidou satellite messaging, AI remote control, smart payment, and AI tools like image enhancement.

The camera system features a super-focusing telescopic lens with a 1-inch sensor, F1.6~F4.0 aperture, and stabilization. It includes a 40MP ultra-wide lens (F2.2) and a 50MP macro telephoto lens (F2.1, OIS). The front has a 13MP ultra-wide camera (F2.4).

Weighing 226 grams with dimensions of 162.6mm x 75.1mm x 8.4mm, the red variant offers exclusive first-sale gifts and retains the advanced features of the Pura 70 Ultra.

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

(Source, via)

Aoostar GEM 12 Max Mini PC launched with Ryzen R7-8745HS, DDR5 RAM, Wi-Fi 6 & PCIe 4.0

Aoostar has introduced its latest mini PC, the GEM 12 Max, powered by the AMD Ryzen R7-8745HS processor. The pricing of this mini PC starts at 1,959 yuan ($267) and it is now available for purchase on JD.com. Let’s check out its key specs.

Aoostar GEM 12 Max

Aoostar GEM 12 Max Specifications

The GEM 12 Max features a durable CNC-machined aluminum body with a lightweight (0.66 kg), compact design (13 cm x 13 cm x 6 cm), making it highly portable and space-saving. It features the AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor, built on the advanced Zen 4 architecture. This processor boasts 8 cores and 16 threads, with a maximum clock speed of 4.9 GHz, delivering exceptional computing power.

The mini PC comes equipped with the Radeon 780M integrated graphics based on the RDNA3 architecture, featuring 12 GPU cores. This setup ensures smooth gaming performance, support for ray tracing, and excellent rendering capabilities for creative tasks.

The device also supports dual-channel DDR5 memory with a maximum capacity of up to 96GB and speeds up to 5600 MHz, allowing seamless handling of resource-intensive workloads.

For storage, the GEM 12 Max provides two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 slots, enabling high-speed SSD performance and the flexibility to expand storage up to 2TB. It includes an independent OCuLink interface for external graphics or disk array cabinets, freeing up NVMe slots and adding significant expansion potential.

In terms of connectivity, the mini-PC features dual USB4 ports with 40Gbps bandwidth, dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. It supports up to 4K at 120Hz across four screens via HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, making it perfect for multitasking and creative tasks.

The PC also features a VC graphene heatsink and advanced cooling system for efficient heat management, supporting up to 70W power draw.

Pricing

The GEM 12 Max is priced at 1,959 yuan ($267) for the barebones version, 2,759 yuan ($376) for the 16GB RAM + 1TB storage variant, and 3,059 yuan ($418) for the 32GB RAM + 1TB storage option.

Last year in November, Aoostar also launched the Gem 12 Pro Max gaming mini PC, featuring an AMD R7 8845HS processor, OCuLink support, and up to 64GB of RAM.

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

G-Shock GA-2100 Carp Limited Edition Watch Debuts with Iconic Red and Black Design

Casio has announced the GA-2100 Hiroshima Toyo Carp Edition, a limited-edition G-Shock watch created in collaboration with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp baseball team. Following the success of models like the DW-5600CARP-1JR from 2009, the new watch will be released on February 1, with 2,000 units available.

G-Shock GA-2100 x Hiroshima Toyo Carp

Priced at ¥18,000 (approximately $115), the GA-2100 Carp Edition features the team’s red and black colors. Its octagonal bezel, known as “CasiOak,” houses a dial with red indices, accents, and the Carp logo on a black background. The backplate is engraved with the team’s logo and “Limited Edition.” The watch comes in a red tin box with Carp branding.

With G-Shock’s shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, and carbon core guard structure, the watch is durable and lightweight. Its bio-resin band ensures comfort and sustainability. Sales will use a lottery system in Japan, prioritizing Carp fan club members.

In other news, Casio Japan has also introduced the Fine Metallic Series in its G-Shock lineup. This series pairs stainless-steel bezels with silicone bands for enhanced durability and comfort. It includes the square GM-5600 and octagonal GM-2100 models, offered in silver and gold finishes.

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

(via)

Xiaomi 15 Ultra rumored to feature new self-developed ‘Small Surge’ chip

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra, the brand’s photography flagship, has been spotted in a new leak. The company is working on a new top model soon, which is expected to make its debut during the MWC 2025 event. So now, let’s check out what the new rumors have revealed.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra Tipped with new mystery chipset

The news arrives from known tipster @That_Kartikey who shared the details on X (formerly Twitter). In the tweet, he claimed that the Xiaomi 15 Ultra will be launching with a new self developed chipset. While the exact details of this processor and its specifications or functions are still unknown, this will apparently be called the ‘Small Surge’ chipset.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Xiaomi 15 Ultra

However, considering how its name sounds similar to the brand’s Surge series of chipset, which helps the battery management system, improve battery life, and charging time. So the Small Surge could serve a similar or possibly function as a signal enhancement chip. Unfortunately, this is all the information that was shared in the tweet, although the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has been spotted online quite a few times recently.

One rumor hinted that the Xiaomi 15 Ultra could feature 10cm± macro focus, a new photography kit, and improved lens coating. This model even surfaced on the BIS database, which is an essential Indian certification. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra could arrive with the largest battery on a Xiaomi flagship as well. While the official announcement is still a while away, a leak from a couple of months ago supposedly revealed its design revealed via leaked renders. So stick around for more updates as we will be keeping you up to date with new rumors and reports.

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

TCL Thunderbird Crane 6 Mini LED TVs Deliver 4K, 144Hz at Competitive Prices

TCL has officially unveiled its Thunderbird “Crane 6” 25 Mini LED TVs, offering advanced features at competitive prices. The series delivers 4K UHD resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate and up to 352 localized backlight zones. Pricing starts at an affordable 2,599 yuan.

TCL Thunderbird "Crane 6" 25 Mini LED TV

Display Technology
The TVs feature a VA panel with 4K resolution (3840×2160), achieving up to 1300 nits peak brightness on the 85-inch and 75-inch models, and 1000 nits on smaller sizes. The 144Hz display refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, supported by a full-channel 288Hz high refresh rate for select sizes. Enhanced by 94% DCI-P3 color gamut, Dolby Vision IQ, and IMAX Enhanced certifications, the series is designed for an immersive viewing experience.

TCL Thunderbird "Crane 6" 25 Mini LED TV

Mini LED Backlight Zones

  • 85-inch: 352 zones
  • 75-inch: 300 zones
  • 65-inch: 224 zones
  • 55-inch: 144 zones

Audio Excellence
The TVs boast 2.1-channel audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, alongside an independent subwoofer for a richer sound experience.

Performance and System
Powered by a quad-core A73 processor, Mali-G52 MC1 GPU, and 4GB RAM, the TVs handle multitasking with ease. A robust 64GB storage ensures ample space for apps and media. The Lingkong System 3.0, paired with Fuxi AI, offers personalization and advanced controls.

Connectivity
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6, and dual HDMI 2.1 ports, the TVs support seamless streaming and gaming, including VRR and ALLM for minimal input lag.

Pricing (First Release):

  • 55-inch: 2,599 yuan ($355)
  • 65-inch: 3,099 yuan ($423)
  • 75-inch: 3,999 yuan ($546)
  • 85-inch: 5,399 yuan ($737)

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

(Source)

iOS 19 first leak shows drastic change in camera UI

Apple’s Vision Pro has struggled to gain traction in the market, largely due to its hefty $3,499 price tag. But if a new leak is to be believed, iPhone users could soon get a taste of its design philosophy—without having to shell out thousands of dollars.

Jon Prosser, known for his Apple leaks, recently shared a scoop on his Front Page Tech YouTube channel, claiming that iOS 19 will bring a redesigned camera app that borrows heavily from VisionOS. While Prosser refrained from showing direct footage—presumably to protect his source—his team created animated renders of the updated UI based on what he saw.

A Cleaner, More Streamlined Camera Interface

The purported redesign introduces translucent menus for camera controls, allowing for a larger and more immersive viewfinder. Instead of cluttering the interface with an array of toggles, the new design simplifies things with two primary options at the bottom: Camera and Video. 

Image: Front Page Tech (YouTube)

Tapping each category expands a selection of relevant settings, including aspect ratio, depth, styles, exposure, and timers. Resolution and frame rate settings, which were previously more accessible, are now tucked away at the top of the screen.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not imagining things. A similar leak last year suggested that iOS 18 would bring a Vision Pro-like camera app update, but that never materialized. It’s possible the feature was simply delayed rather than scrapped altogether.

Is This the Beginning of a Larger iOS Redesign?

While a refined camera app is a noteworthy update, the bigger question is whether this signals a broader UI overhaul for iOS 19. Prosser explored this idea with a render featuring circular icons. However, he concedes that this may be an overreach.

According to him, Apple is more likely to introduce VisionOS-inspired elements within core apps like Camera, Music, Notes, and Wallet rather than implementing a full-fledged redesign across the entire system. This would allow Apple to ease users into a new design paradigm without disrupting the familiarity that keeps millions of iPhone users loyal to iOS.

And if Apple truly believes the VisionOS aesthetic is superior, rolling it out incrementally makes sense. A sudden overhaul could alienate users who prefer consistency over change. 

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

OnePlus Ace 2 gets ColorOS 15.0.0.400 update with new film-style filters, system optimizations & more

OnePlus Ace 2 has received a new update in the form of ColorOS 15.0.0.400 in China. This update brings a slew of improvements, including new photography tools, enhanced connectivity features, and optimizations for smoother performance.

OnePlus Ace 2

What’s new in this update?

The update introduces three new film-style filters for Photo and Portrait modes: Fresh, Retro, and Transparent. These filters are designed to provide users with a more artistic and dynamic shooting experience, enabling them to capture moments with added depth and style.

The update also brings Fluid Cloud support to the OnePlus Ace 2, offering real-time, visually enhanced charging and flashlight status updates. It also revamps the Calendar app with new cards for tracking birthdays, anniversaries, and countdowns, adding convenience and personalization to daily planning.

Connectivity has also been improved with enhanced wireless stability and compatibility for a more reliable experience. The update fixes system issues, including missing app icons, glitches in cloned apps, and the absence of the Gaussian blur effect in dynamic wallpapers when accessing recent tasks.

System performance also sees significant enhancements with this update. It promises improved smoothness by tackling lag in specific scenarios, better stability, and longer battery life. These changes are designed to optimize the overall user experience, making the OnePlus Ace 2 feel more responsive and reliable during daily use.

OnePlus Ace 2, launched in 2023, features a 6.74-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display with up to 1450 nits brightness. Powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, it includes 12GB/16GB LPDDR5X RAM, advanced VC cooling, and optimized gaming performance with a 120fps engine for 100+ games. Its design boasts a black hole-inspired aesthetic with Gorilla Glass 5 protection and a three-stage slider.

The phone has a 50MP Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS, 8MP ultra-wide, and 2MP macro cameras. It packs a 5000mAh battery with 100W SuperVooc charging, capable of reaching 100% in 25 minutes.

Currently, ColorOS 15 update is rolling out to a lot of Oppo devices, including the Oppo Reno12 series, Reno11 series, Find N3, Find N3 Flip, and more. Rollout stages may vary, with additional devices like the Find X5 Pro and Reno10 series receiving the update in Q1 and Q2 2025.

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

iQOO 11 gets a major OriginOS 5 update, includes new features

iQOO 11 has officially received the OriginOS 5 update (version 15.2.7.0.W10.V000L1) in China, introducing a range of exciting features and performance improvements. This highly anticipated update brings enhancements across multiple aspects, from intelligent assistance and user interface tweaks to improved connectivity and system stability.

iQOO 11 5G Legend
iQOO 11 5G

What’s new in this update?

The update introduces the Xiao V Screen Assistant, a smart feature that provides instant answers to queries about on-screen content, enhancing multitasking and accessibility for users. It also brings improved permissions management, including a new option under Device Motion and Orientation settings that lets users restrict app access based on whether the screen is on, offering greater control over data privacy.

It also introduces a simplified small-window mode that allows users to minimize control buttons into a compact top bar, enabling smoother app interactions while multitasking. This feature can be activated through the Shortcuts and Assistance settings menu.

Several system enhancements include improved network stability, fixes for occasional WLAN Direct issues, refined Bluetooth connectivity for better compatibility with car systems, and updated icon and button designs in Atomic Island for a more polished interface.

iQOO 11 has also received updates with versions 2.8.8 and 2.9.0, introducing home screen customization, Atomic Widget improvements, and Meituan Food Delivery integration. These updates also enhance system stability, resolve minor glitches, and include the January 2025 Google security patch for better security.

iQOO 11, launched back in 2023, features a 6.78-inch Quad HD+ Samsung E6 AMOLED display with 144Hz LTPO 4.0 refresh rate, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, and advanced cooling technology.

It offers up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, Android 13 (out of the box) with 3 years of OS updates, and a 50MP triple-camera setup powered by the V2 imaging chip. The phone packs a 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging, stereo speakers, and robust connectivity options, making it a powerhouse device.

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

(Via)

FiiO K17 Desktop DAC and Headphone Amplifier: Flagship AKM DACs and 4000mW Output Power

FiiO K17 is a cutting-edge desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for audiophiles seeking superior sound quality and powerful output. Packed with advanced features and state-of-the-art technology, the K17 ensures a remarkable listening experience for all types of headphones and earbuds. You can now get the FiiO K17 for $999.99 at Geekwills.

Exceptional DAC Performance

At the heart of the FiiO K17 lies the flagship AKM DAC combination: the AK4191 paired with dual AK4499EX chips. This high-performance setup provides incredible audio clarity and precision. Each AK4499EX chip handles a single channel, reducing interference and improving channel separation. The unique 8-channel to 4-channel low-pass filter (LPF) design and AKM’s “DWAROUTING” technology deliver an ultra-clean audio background with enhanced dynamics and resolution.

High-Power Amplification

The K17 boasts an impressive balanced output power of up to 4000mW per channel at 32Ω, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of headphones and IEMs. Its fully discrete Class AB transistor amplification circuit, equipped with ON Semiconductor’s MJE243/253 transistors, guarantees smooth, natural sound. With high current output and low impedance, the amplifier ensures consistent performance across all connected devices.

Advanced DSP and PEQ Capabilities

Equipped with the M21586Q DSP chip, the K17 offers 64-bit double-precision floating-point calculations at a 360MHz clock frequency. This chip enables a 31-band high-precision lossless parametric equalizer (PEQ), allowing users to tailor their sound preferences without compromising audio fidelity. Complemented by the ES9821Q ADC and a custom ultra-low phase noise femtosecond crystal oscillator, the K17 ensures exceptional performance in all modes.

Intuitive User Interface

The FiiO K17 features a 3.93-inch color screen with a custom Android 12 interface, providing a user-friendly and visually appealing display. Navigating the device is straightforward, allowing users to access various functions effortlessly right out of the box.

Versatile Connectivity Options

The K17 supports multiple input and output options, including USB, optical, and coaxial inputs, as well as 4.4mm balanced, 6.35mm single-ended, RCA line out, and coaxial outputs. These options make it a versatile device suitable for various audio setups.

Key Specs:

  • DAC Chip: AKM AK4191 + AK4499EX (dual)
  • USB DAC Support: Up to 768kHz/32-bit, DSD 512 (Native)
  • Output Power: Balanced 4000mW + 4000mW @ 32Ω
  • Frequency Range: 20Hz – 90kHz
  • THD+N: LO < 0.00045% (1kHz/10kΩ)
  • Dimensions: 244.6 x 213 x 66.8mm

Android 16 will have split-screen mode like OnePlus’ OxygenOS

Android 16 is currently in the Developer Preview stage. It has been exactly a month since Google rolled out the second Developer Preview of the new OS, and hidden within its code is a feature that might please tablet and large-screen users.

According to a report by Android Authority, the latest Developer Preview of the OS includes a multitasking system inspired by OnePlus’ Open Canvas. This would be a significant upgrade for large-screen devices and foldables, as OnePlus’ Open Canvas is widely regarded as the best multitasking tool and a more practical approach to split-screen functionality.

Android 16 will allow splitting three apps at once

Essentially, Android 16 might let users open three apps side by side on tablets. In OnePlus’ system, two apps take up 90% of the screen, while a third app is visible in the remaining 10%.  A simple tap on the smaller window brings it into focus, switching the layout smoothly. Google seems to be testing a similar approach in Android 16.

The code found in Android 16 DP2 mentions an in-development “flexible” split-screen mode. Android Authority’s Mishaal Rahman managed to get the feature working on his Pixel device, though he notes that it’s far from ready and currently doesn’t split apps properly.

Google is still testing this feature, and it’s unclear whether it will be ready for the final Android 16 release. If completed in time, it could roll out to all Android phones and tablets, and manufacturers like Samsung can particularly make use of these features for their book-style foldable. 

Android 16 is expected to reach platform stability in the first half of this year, with a full release later in the year. If this feature is finalized, users may receive it through manufacturer updates.

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

(Source)

Thunderobot launches new 31.5″ 4K 165Hz OLED gaming monitor with Samsung QD-OLED panel

Thunderobot has launched a new gaming monitor called Black Warrior DU32F165E in the Chinese market. The monitor is priced at 5099 yuan ($696) and is now up for sale on JD.com. Let’s check out its key specs.

Thunderobot Black Warrior DU32F165E

Thunderobot Black Warrior DU32F165E Specifications

The DU32F165E features a 31.5-inch Samsung QD-OLED panel and offers 4K resolution (3840×2160), a 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio, and wide 178° viewing angles, delivering exceptional image quality and vibrant visuals.

It features a high 165Hz refresh rate, supported across HDMI, DisplayPort, and Type-C inputs, along with a rapid 0.03ms response time. It comes with Adaptive-Sync technology, compatible with both G-Sync and FreeSync, ensuring smooth and tear-free visuals for gamers. It also equips HDR 400 certification with a peak brightness of 1000 nits, enhancing contrast and bringing out details in both bright and dark scenes.

The DU32F165E excels in color accuracy and reproduction, covering 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, 98% of Adobe RGB, and 100% of sRGB. Its native 10-bit color depth delivers 1.07 billion colors, ensuring lifelike and vibrant visuals. Every unit is factory-calibrated with a Delta E ≤ 2 for precise color accuracy, accompanied by a paper calibration report.

To enhance longevity, the monitor includes advanced burn-in prevention features such as pixel-shift technology, AI-based static image detection, and brightness adjustment for static elements like taskbars and borders. It also incorporates low blue light hardware and DC dimming to minimize eye strain during prolonged use.

The monitor is equipped with a versatile stand that offers 120mm height adjustment, -6° to 20° tilt, ±45° swivel, and ±90° vertical rotation. For connectivity, it comes with dual HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, a Type-C port with 90W power delivery, one USB-B port, and two USB-A ports.

Additionally, the DU32F165E supports KVM functionality for controlling multiple devices with a single keyboard and mouse, as well as PIP/PBP for multi-screen multitasking.

In related news, ThundeRobot introduced a new 27-inch 2K gaming monitor earlier this week featuring a Fast-IPS panel, a 210Hz refresh rate, 400 nits of brightness, and a 1ms response time. Additionally, LG debuted the UltraGear G8 27-inch gaming monitor, which offers dual-mode capabilities with 4K resolution at 240Hz and FHD resolution at an impressive 480Hz.

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

Samsung Budget Flagship Galaxy Tab S10 FE & Rugged Tab Active 5 Pro May Launch Soon

Samsung is all set to unveil the Galaxy S25 series of flagship smartphones in a few days. But it seems that new Galaxy tablet models are also in the works. A new report has found that the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro could be arriving soon as well.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE & Tab Active 5 Pro in the works

Galaxy-Tab-S10-FE
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE

The news arrives from AndroidAuthority who shared details regarding the upcoming rugged tablet and the budget flagship tablet from the Fan Edition series. In the report, the Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro, Galaxy Tab S10 FE, and Galaxy Tab S10 FE Plus variants were spotted in codes from reliable sources close to the matter. In other words, the South Korean tech giant is set to launch new tablets from the Galaxy Tab Active 5 lineup and even the newer FE models.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE
Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro Code

To recall, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Tab Active 5 along with the Galaxy XCover 7 back in January 2024. Earlier this week, the Galaxy XCover 7 Pro was spotted in another leak with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 and would likely be another rugged phone with military grade certification and an IP rating for water and dust resistance. This leak hinted at its imminent release, so the brand could debut the Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro along with this durable smartphone.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series Code

Furthermore, it appears that the Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro will also launch with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset like the Galaxy XCover 7 Pro. Although, there are two variants of this upcoming rugged tablet, which includes a WiFi only and 5G enabled versions. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 FE Plus codes were also spotted in WiFi only and 5G variants, but these may be powered by the Exynos 1580 SoC. The duo would be the successor to the Galaxy Tab S9 FE series.

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

TikTok halts US operations amid a federal ban, affecting 170m users

TikTok has officially gone offline in the United States, marking the culmination of years-long debates and legal battles. The federal ban, enacted after Congress passed a law mandating TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, divest its U.S. operations, has effectively rendered the app inaccessible to its 170 million American users.

Tiktok ban

Trump Administration Hints at Possible Reprieve for TikTok

Users trying to access TikTok encountered a direct message: “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S., which means the app is currently inaccessible.” This ban extends beyond TikTok to all ByteDance apps, including CapCut, Lemon8, and others.

This move has sparked criticism from free speech advocates, who argue that banning a platform of TikTok’s scale undermines democratic values. Pen America labeled the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the law as a troubling instance of government overreach. Meanwhile, national security concerns over potential data access by the Chinese government remain central to lawmakers’ defense of the ban.

TikTok’s last lifeline lies in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump, set to be inaugurated on January 20. Trump has indicated a willingness to extend negotiations, hinting at a possible 90-day reprieve. This could pave the way for alternative solutions, such as the revival of Project Texas, a $2 billion proposal designed to safeguard U.S. user data under the supervision of American companies like Oracle.

Meanwhile, alternative proposals are gaining traction. Start-up Perplexity AI has suggested a $50 billion merger with TikTok’s U.S. operations, while other bidders, including former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, have also expressed interest. However, legal experts caution that the federal law limits presidential power, leaving TikTok’s future uncertain.

As competitors like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts vie to capitalize on TikTok’s absence, the app’s U.S. shutdown could signify a seismic shift in the social media landscape. All eyes now turn to Trump’s administration to determine whether TikTok can stage a comeback or face permanent exile.

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

(Via)

Meet the Google Pixel 6a Lookalike Phone Used by the Indian Army to Prevent Sensitive Leaks

In a massive leak, sensitive information and key documents of the Indian Army were leaked. The Army officials were sharing these on WhatsApp before the major leak. So during border talks with China, the Indian Army shifted to use Sambhav (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) smartphones for safer communication. Now, we have finally have a look at this device, and it seems quite similar to a Google Pixel.

Indian Army’s Sambhav resembles the Google Pixel 6a

The image that has been circulating online showcases a smartphone with a Google Pixel’s Visor-like camera module. This houses a dual camera setup and includes an LED flash. The volume rockers and power buttons are placed on the right side and the device has a green back panel. Just looking at the image, the Sambhav phone has a design that looks like the Pixel 6a.

Indian Army Sambhav
Indian Army Sambhav

For those unaware, the Indian Army had around 30,000 Sambhav phones that were given to officers. These devices also came with the M-Sigma app for messaging and sharing documents, videos, and pictures. So while it functions similarly to WhatsApp, it would offer safer communications. Apart from this, the Sambhav smartphone also offers various important functions. This includes not having to save numbers, having a safe end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem, and supporting Jio and Airtel networks.

As per the official Indian Army announcement, “Mobile networks are inherently vulnerable to eavesdropping, putting sensitive information at risk. To counter this, we have developed an end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem that is network-agnostic and offers secure communication on the move.” It is unclear if the design was actually inspired by the Google Pixel 6a or just a random coincidence.

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

Oppo Find N5’s first look revealed in live shot, compares design with Find N3

Oppo will announce the Find N5 foldable phone in February in China. Recently, tech blogger Fixed Focus Digital shared a render based on the leaks surrounding the N5. Additionally, a leaked image that gives the first look at the device alongside its predecessor, the Find N3, is also being circulated on Weibo.

Oppo Find N5 design revealed

Oppo Find N5 live shot
Oppo Find N5 live shot

The above image showcases the Find N5 on the left and the Find N3 on the right. The Find N5, expected to debut as the world’s thinnest foldable phone, retains the large round camera module seen in its predecessor.

However, the company has made some changes to the positioning of the camera sensors and LED flash on the Find N5. The camera sensor arrangement is similar to that of the OnePlus 13, featuring an LED flash in the bottom-right corner and a periscope telephoto camera in the upper-right corner.

In contrast, the Find N3’s LED flash is positioned outside the camera module. The image below, which is a mock-up render of the Find N5, provides a good glimpse of what its final design might look like.

Oppo Find N5 mock-up render
Oppo Find N5 mock-up render

Reports suggest that the Find N5 will measure around 4mm in thickness in the unfolded state and around 9mm in the folded state. Readers can visit this post to see some live shots that compare the Find N5’s design with the Find X8, which has a thickness of 7.9mm. As far as specs are concerned, it is expected to feature a titanium build with an IPX8 rating, a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, around 5,700mAh battery with 50W magnetic wireless charging support, a 2K resolution internal screen, a 50-megapixel main camera, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.

Oppo Find N5 global release nears

Oppo Find N5 NBTC
Oppo Find N5 NBTC listing

Apart from the Chinese launch, the Find N5 is also heading to some Southeast Asian markets as the device already bagged multiple certifications. In the latest development, the N5 has also received approval from Thailand’s NBTC authority. It is speculated that the same device will be rebranded as the OnePlus Open 2 in other markets, such as the US, Europe, and India.

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

OnePlus 13 Mini key specifications tipped again, reveal Snapdragon 8 Elite, wireless charging and more

Oppo plans to launch the Oppo Find N5 and Watch X2 devices in China in February. In March, the brand anticipates revealing the Find X8 Ultra and Find X8 Mini in its domestic market. Meanwhile, sibling brand OnePlus recently launched the Ace 5 series of affordable flagship phones in China, and reports suggest that it may be working on the OnePlus 13 Mini, a compact flagship device. Speculation indicates that the OnePlus 13 Mini could share similarities with the Oppo Find X8 Mini. A new leak, courtesy of Smart Pikachu, has revealed key specifications of the OnePlus 13 Mini. Here’s what we know about the device so far.

OnePlus 13 Mini key specifications (rumored)

The above-mentioned leaked specs corroborate with the OnePlus 13 Mini details that were previously leaked by prominent leaker Digital Chat Station. As per the leak, the 13 Mini will arrive with a 6.3-inch OLED screen, a triple camera setup that includes a periscope camera, a metal middle frame, and a glass body.

DCS previously revealed that the screen supports LTPO technology, a 1.5K resolution, and has narrow bezels on all four sides. He also revealed that the camera setup includes a 50-megapixel Sony IMX906 main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with a 3x optical zoom, and an optical in-screen fingerprint sensor.

The OnePlus 13 Mini will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite, while the Find X8 Mini will feature the Dimensity 9400 chip. Smart Pikachu’s leak reveals that the device will also support wireless charging. Unfortunately, there is no information available about its battery size.

While the Find X8 is expected to debut in March, the OnePlus 13 Mini is slated to debut in the second quarter of this year in China. Currently, the global release of the device remains unclear.

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

Realme Neo 7 SE 3C certified, 7,000mAh + 80W charging combination confirmed

Realme has been consistently launching new phones each month. In December, the brand announced the Realme Neo 7 equipped with the Dimensity 9300+ chip and a 7,000mAh battery in China. This month, Realme unveiled the Realme 14 Pro and 14 Pro+ smartphones for the global market. After the upcoming Chinese Spring Festival, it will announce the Realme Neo 7 SE in China. With the Dimensity 8400-Max chip onboard, it is expected to rival the Redmi Turbo 4 in the home market. The smartphone is already in Tthe ENAA certification platform’s database, hinting that it will pack a 7,000mAh battery. The device has received 3C certification in China, hinting about its fast charging capabilities.

Realme Neo 7 SE 3C certified

Realme Neo 7 SE 3C certified
Realme Neo 7 SE 3C certified in China

Reports have revealed that the upcoming Realme Neo 7 SE has the RMX5080 model number. The same device has now surfaced in 3C’s database with a VCB8OACH charge, which supports up to 80W charging. This indicates that the Realme Neo 7 SE model will offer the same battery capacity and charging capabilities as the Neo 7.

The Neo 7 SE is also expected to be released globally. However, its exact moniker remains unclear, as some reports suggest it might be launched as the Realme GT 7T in markets outside China. Hopefully, upcoming reports will provide more clarity on its official name.

Realme Neo 7 SE specifications

Realme Neo 7 SE TENAA images
Realme Neo 7 SE TENAA images

According to reports, the Realme Neo 7 SE will house a 1.5K resolution OLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate support. The Dimensity 8400-Max powered phone may offer up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage. It will come preloaded with Android 15 and Realme UI 6.

For selfies, the Neo 7 SE will feature a 16-megapixel front-facing camera. The back panel of the device will have a Sony IMX882 50-megapixel main camera and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. It will have an optical in-screen fingerprint sensor for security.

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