Here’s Why Vivo X200 Pro Mini is Better than the iPhone 16 Pro

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Nov 19, 2024

While the iPhone 16 Pro is one of Apple’s latest premium smartphones, the next gen flagship Android smartphones are bringing top notch performance and cutting edge features as well. So now, here’s how the Vivo X200 Pro Mini is better than the iPhone 16 Pro.

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1. Thinner & Lighter Build

Both the Apple iPhone 16 Pro and Vivo X200 Pro Mini are compact flagship smartphones with displays that are smaller than typical premium devices. The former sports a 6.3-inch panel, while the latter has a 6.31-inch screen. So while these seem nearly identical, the Vivo X200 Pro Mini is not only thinner but also lighter when compared to the iPhone.

Apple’s new flagship measures 8.3mm in thickness and weighs 199 grams. On the other hand, the Vivo X200 Pro Mini measures only 8.2mm and weighs 187 grams. With modern day smartphones (especially the premium ones) often reaching 200 grams in weight, a light smartphone is more convenient to carry around.

2. Unmatched Charging Speeds

Apple is still years behind its competitors in terms of charging rates. While the Cupertino based giant has managed to match and even outpace its Android rivals in battery life, charging speeds have been one of its weaknesses. The Vivo X200 Pro Mini faced no such issues.

The device packs a large 5,700mAh battery pack, which supports 90W wired fast charging, 30W wireless fast charging, and even reverse charging support. Apple does not reveal the official fast charging rate for its iPhones, but it is expected to offer around 45W speed in wired charging speeds.

3. Flagship Made Accessible

Apple’s flagships are known to launch with a premium price tag and the iPhone 16 Pro is no different. Its base 128GB storage model costs 999 US Dollars, making it quite expensive. However, the Vivo X200 Pro Mini undercuts this, by a couple of hundred dollars.

Unlike the iPhone 16 Pro, the Vivo X200 Pro Mini’s starting model is the 12GB + 256GB model. With a starting price tag of 4,699 Yuan, this is roughly about 649 US Dollars. So you’re not only getting double the storage but various upgrades that is also 350 US Dollars cheaper. This is a massive difference considering how you also get three 50MP cameras on the rear with Zeiss optics and a 32MP selfie shooter. From camera to performance, the device is even well optimized with AI integration. There is also an IR blaster as well that helps control home appliances.

Galaxy A56 5G spotted on 3C Certification listing with 45W Charging support

By

Debasish

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Nov 19, 2024

Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy A56 5G has been listed on China’s 3C certification website, offering key insights into its charging capabilities. As a successor to the Galaxy A55 5G, the A56 5G will introduce significant upgrades, including support for faster charging, better performance, and possible camera enhancements, making it another exciting addition to Samsung’s mid-range lineup.

Key 3C listing highlights

The 3C certification reveals that the Galaxy A56 5G (model number SM-A5660) will support 45W charging, a clear leap from the 25W charging speed of its predecessor. This improvement brings the Galaxy A56 closer to Samsung’s flagship charging standards, as seen with the Galaxy S24 Ultra. However, how this upgrade translates to real-world charging performance remains to be seen, especially given the minimal differences observed between 25W and 45W charging speeds in Samsung’s flagship models.

Buyers upgrading from an A or M series device will also need to purchase a compatible 45W adapter separately to fully leverage the enhanced charging speeds.

Other aspects of the Galaxy A56 5G

In addition to faster charging, the Galaxy A56 5G is rumored to feature an Exynos 1580 chipset. Early reports suggest this processor could offer performance similar to the Snapdragon 888, Qualcomm’s 2021 flagship chipset used on the S21 Ultra.

The upcoming A series device also appeared on Geekbench last month with single and multi-core scores of 1341 and 3836 respectively—a significant improvement over the Galaxy A55’s Exynos 1480 chipset, which scores around 1100 and 3400 in the respective tests.

As for the cameras, the rear camera setup is expected to remain unchanged from the A55, with a 50MP+12MP+5MP triple lens. However, the company is expected to use a new 12MP sensor for the front facing camera.

The Galaxy A56 5G is likely to debut sometime in 2025, following the release of the Galaxy S25. While pricing details remain speculative, the Galaxy A55 launched in March 2024 at Rs 39,999 for the base model, offering a potential indicator of the A56’s pricing strategy.

(Via)

Nubia Z70 Ultra to Launch in Van Gogh’s Starry Night Color

By

Sean

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Nov 19, 2024

The Nubia Z70 Ultra will be officially announced in the Chinese market soon. But ahead of the official announcement, a fresh teaser was just shared by the brand that confirmed its color variants and camera details. One of these colors includes one of Van Gogh’s most popular works, so let’s check it out.

Nubia Z70 Ultra Starry Night

To recall, the Nubia Z70 Ultra is set to launch in China on 21st November 2024. This upcoming flagship smartphone was just teased, confirming three of its color options. We have already seen the Black Seal and Amber color variants. But now, the third version was revealed with Van Gogh’s Starry Night. This design is similar to the Nubia’s older Z60 Ultra Leading Edition. The rear panel features a large circular camera for the primary sensor, along with a telephoto shooter on a smaller housing.

This pill shaped module also features the LED flash and an ultra wide angle lens. Another teaser has also confirmed support for up to 100x digital zoom while its main camera supports a 35mm sensor with an adjustable physical aperture. Based on what we know so far, the Nubia Z70 Ultra was recently spotted on a benchmark platform with the Snapdragon 8 Elite. This processor is paired with 16GB of RAM. The GeekBench listing revealed that the device will launch with the Android 15 OS out of the box.

On the front, it sports a tall 6.85-inch OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, 2000 nits of peak brightness, and an under-display camera. Earlier this month, the company also shared camera samples of the Nubia Z70 Ultra as well. There is an Independent Pixel Driver and AI Transparency Algorithm 7.0 to offer improved light transmittance for a clearer view. It also expected to launch with an IP68/IP69 rating for water and dust resistance.

HMD Icon Flip 1 Specs, Design, and Colors leaked: highlights blend of Core Functionality and Digital Detox-friendly design

By

Debasish

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Nov 19, 2024

The upcoming HMD Icon Flip 1 flip phone has been leaked, with specifications and design details shared by @smashx_60 on the X platform on November 18. The leak highlights the phone’s retro-modern design, vibrant color options, and modest specs, signaling a continued focus on feature phones for users looking for simplicity.

The HMD Icon Flip 1 will be available in Magenta, Bleen (a blend of blue and green), and Glossy Black. Leaked images reveal a two-tone design, a textured power button on the right, and ports on the left, giving it a distinctive flair.

Leaked specifications:

According to the leaked information, the HMD Icon Flip 1 will support 4G LTE and draw power from a Unisoc T127 chipset—the same processor found in the HMD 105 4G announced earlier this year. It will pair the chipset with 48MB of RAM and 128MB of storage, adequate for basic usage. Running on the S30+ operating system, the phone will also support web apps, making it suitable for users seeking a no-frills device.

The phone is equipped with a 2.8-inch main display and a 1.7-inch cover screen.

A 2MP front-facing camera is included, but there’s no rear camera, reflecting its position as a feature phone.

Other key features include Bluetooth 5.0, an audio jack, a USB-C port, and a 1,500mAh removable battery.

While the leak did not confirm a price or launch date, comparisons were drawn with the HMD Barbie—available for about $130—indicating the Icon Flip 1 might fall within a similar price range. Design-wise, the phone also shares similarities with the Nokia 2660 Flip but adopts a more daring color palette.

HMD’s latest development aligns with its collaboration with Xplora to promote addiction-free technology. Not to mention, the phone appeals to those seeking a digital detox or a secondary phone with essential features.

While its launch date remains unconfirmed, readers can check out some of the best feature phones suitable for digital detox that are available now.

(Source)

Apple ready to invest $100 million in Indonesia to stop iPhone 16 sales ban

By

Sean

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Nov 19, 2024

Apple faced a ban on the sales of its iPhone 16 series in Indonesia back in October 2024. The company had apparently failed to keep its promise for planned investment in the region, prompting the end of iPhone 16 sales in the region. But now, Apple is willing to invest even more in Indonesia to reverse this decision. So let’s check it out.

Apple iPhone 16 Sales Ban: What was it all about?

The Cupertino based giant faced the sales restriction after failing to meet the $109 million investment that it had promised to provide in local infrastructure. Reports had indicated that Apple fell short of this amount by around $14 million. This paired with no new agreements and previous issues with the government’s mandate to source 40% local components led to the iPhone 16 sales ban.

iPhone 16 series camera control button- — iPhone 16 series camera control button

So what now?

As of right now, Apple has already began work on an innovation development scheme by creating Apple Academies in the country. Furthermore, a new report claims (Via PhoneArena) that Apple has increased its offer to invest $100 million in Indonesia over the next two years. This is a sizeable investment, which is around 10 times higher than its previous proposal of $10 million for a factory in Bandung that would make accessories and components.

The Indonesian government has yet to respond to Apple’s new proposal officially. However, considering how the Ministry of Industry is looking for Apple to expand research and development for iPhones selling in the country, this new investment promise might end the ban of iPhone 16 sales. To recall, Indonesia had also blocked the sale of Google’s Pixel 9 series of smartphones as well for a similar reason. The company had failed to meet similar investments, but it remains to be seen if Google meets these requirements.

Xiaomi Pad 7 series heads for global launch, reveals latest certification

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 19, 2024

Xiaomi‘s new Pad 7 series, which launched in China last month, seems to be inching closer to a global debut. The devices have been spotted on the SDPPI certification website in Indonesia, hinting at an imminent launch in the Southeast Asian nation.

Now, certifications don’t always paint the clearest picture, but let’s dissect the details. The listings reveal two model numbers: “2410CRP4CG” and “24091RPADG.”

Unfortunately, the SDPPI website doesn’t explicitly link these numbers to specific devices. Here’s where a little detective work comes in. Comparing them to the Chinese model numbers (“2410CRP4CC” for Pad 7 and “24091RPADC” for Pad 7 Pro), it’s a safe bet that “2410CRP4CG” corresponds to the global Pad 7 and “24091RPADG” to the global Pad 7 Pro.

While the certification stays mum on specs, the global variants are likely to mirror their Chinese counterparts.

Xiaomi Pad 7 / Pad 7 Pro Specifications

That is, the standard Pad 7 will have a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, while the Pro version will boast the more powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3. Both should offer smooth performance for everyday tasks and even some gaming, thanks to the 11.2-inch, 3.2K resolution display with a 144Hz refresh rate.

Speaking of the display, users who prioritize reduced glare can opt for the special Nano Matte version. This utilizes AG nano-texture and AR optical coating to reduce glare and reflectivity.

For the cameras, the standard Pad 7 has an 8MP front camera and a 13MP rear shooter, while the Pro version features a 32MP front camera and a 50MP rear camera.

Battery life shouldn’t be a concern with the hefty 8850mAh battery powering both tablets. The Pad 7 is expected to support 45W fast charging, while the Pro version could reach faster charging speeds with 67W support.

The sleek metal unibody design, measuring a mere 6.18mm thin and weighing around 500g, adds a touch of sophistication. Additionally, a dedicated floating keyboard accessory with a backlit keyboard, adjustable viewing angles, and a full-sized mechanical touchpad might be available for purchase separately.

(Source)

EDIFIER Hecate G2500 Gaming Speaker: Immersive 7.1 Surround Sound and Dynamic RGB Lighting

By

Joane

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Nov 19, 2024

EDIFIER Hecate G2500 Bar Gaming Speaker is designed to enhance your gaming experience with its cutting-edge features and immersive sound quality. Whether deep into gaming, streaming your favorite movies, or enjoying music, this speaker delivers exceptional performance with its advanced technologies and sleek design. You can get this gaming speaker for $99.99 at Geekwills.

Immersive 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound

One of the standout features of the EDIFIER Hecate G2500 is its 7.1 virtual surround sound capability. This technology creates a professional-grade sound field that delivers precise audio positioning and rich soundscapes, immersing you in games or entertainment. Backed by an integrated DSP chip, the speaker offers accurate audio processing and three sound modes: gaming, music, and movies. This versatility ensures a customized audio experience for different scenarios.

Crystal-Clear Communication with AEC Technology

The speaker is equipped with second-generation Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) technology. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers who rely on clear voice chats during multiplayer sessions. AEC eliminates echo, ensuring crystal-clear communication and seamless interactions.

Dynamic Lighting for an Engaging Experience

The EDIFIER Hecate G2500 also features TempoFlow RGB lighting technology, which provides 12 dynamic lighting effects. These effects are synchronized with sound, creating an engaging visual experience that complements your gameplay or entertainment sessions. Users can customize the lighting for added personalization through the Hecate Connect Center software on PC or the Edifier Connect App on mobile devices.

Versatile Connectivity Options

With Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity and a built-in USB sound card, this speaker is compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, PCs, PS4/PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Advanced Bluetooth technology ensures stable and fast wireless connections, while USB sound cards enhance wired audio quality.

Key Specs:

Sound Technology: 7.1 virtual surround sound with integrated DSP chip
Communication: 2nd-generation Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC)
Lighting: 12 RGB lighting effects with customization options
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 and USB sound card
Device Compatibility: Works with smartphones, tablets, PCs, PS4/PS5, and Nintendo Switch

The EDIFIER Hecate G2500 Gaming Speaker is a versatile and feature-packed device that takes your audio experience to the next level, whether gaming, watching movies, or enjoying music.

Buy – EDIFIER Hecate G2500 Gaming Speaker

Leak hints Galaxy S25 could rival iQOO 13 in 120fps gaming with Qualcomm’s frame interpolation tech

By

Debasish

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Nov 19, 2024

Samsung is reportedly gearing up to take mobile gaming to the next level with the Galaxy S25 series, rumored to introduce frame interpolation technology for smoother 120fps gameplay. According to tipster Jukanlosreve, the flagship lineup could incorporate Qualcomm’s AFME 2.0 (Adreno Frame Motion Engine), allowing games to scale from 60fps to a fluid 120fps. This technology could make the Galaxy S25 series a standout choice for gamers when it debuts in 2025.

Galaxy S25 series to debut Qualcomm AFME 2.0 technology

Qualcomm’s AFME 2.0 technology is not new, having been introduced in 2021 and refined during last year’s Snapdragon Summit. However, its application in the Galaxy S25 series would be groundbreaking for Samsung’s flagship lineup. Unlike iQOO’s approach, which relies on a dedicated chip for frame interpolation, Qualcomm’s AFME 2.0 handles the entire process directly on the GPU without external chips or CPU intervention.

This approach is expected to optimize power consumption and reduce the strain on the device, allowing the Galaxy S25 to maintain smoother gameplay while managing battery life and thermal performance. In contrast, interpolation technologies on PCs focus purely on visual fidelity, while mobile implementations aim to strike a balance between performance and efficiency.

While the latest rumor suggests that all Galaxy S25 models might adopt the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which enables AFME 2.0, there’s still speculation about chipset distribution across the lineup. The S25 Ultra could exclusively feature the Snapdragon chip (and this gaming tech), while the base and Plus models might stick with Exynos 2500 or Dimensity 9400 processors. This segmentation could impact how widely Samsung’s gaming enhancements are experienced across the series.

Other expectations from the Galaxy S25 series

Reports suggest an increase in RAM capacity without a price hike, which could further enhance multitasking and gaming performance. If true, these changes would position the S25 series as a balanced mix of power, efficiency, and affordability.

Samsung’s implementation of frame interpolation could also spark comparisons with iQOO’s dual-chip solution, which has proven effective in enhancing gameplay. How Qualcomm’s GPU-centric approach measures up will be an exciting development to test.

(Source)

Alleged Realme GT Neo 7 3C certified in China, may launch soon with overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 19, 2024

Realme has recently launched the Realme GT 7 Pro flagship phone in the Chinese market. Priced at 3,699 Yuan, it is the most affordable phone equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. Reports suggest that the brand could be working on a new GT Neo series phone. Recently, an upcoming Realme phone with RMX5060 was approved by China’s MIIT authority. The same device has received certification from the country’s 3C certification platform. It is speculated that this device could be the upcoming Realme GT Neo 7.

Purported Realme GT Neo 7 3C certified in China

Realme GT Neo 7 3C certification — Alleged Realme GT Neo 7 3C certified in China

As seen in the above screenshot, the upcoming Realme RMX5060 phone has appeared with an 80W fast charging in 3C’s database. While there is no concrete evidence, rumors surrounding it claim that this device could be the GT Neo 7.

The device will arrive as the successor to Realme GT Neo 6, which debuted with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip onboard, earlier this year in China. To recall, the device came equipped with a 5,500mAh battery and 120W fast charging support. Speaking of the GT Neo 6 series, the company also unveiled the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3-powered Realme GT Neo 6 SE packed with a 5,500mAh battery and 100W charging in China earlier this year.

Reports suggest that the Realme GT Neo 7 will come equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version, which is nothing but an overclocked version of the regular Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. With this chip onboard, the device is expected to rival upcoming phones, such as Redmi K80 and iQOO Neo 10, which are expected to feature the SD8G3 chip, as well as the OnePlus Ace 5, which comes equipped with the overlocked SD8G3.

Other reports have revealed that the Realme GT Neo 7 is expected to feature an OLED panel with support for a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an optical in-screen fingerprint sensor. It is also expected to feature a dedicated chip for enhanced graphics. The reduction in charging capabilities compared to the previous generation suggests that the GT Neo 7 may pack a larger silicon carbon battery.

Redmi Note 14 series teaser released in India ahead of December launch

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 19, 2024

Tomorrow, Redmi will announce the Redmi A4 5G in India. Powered by the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 chip, it is expected to arrive as the country’s most affordable 5G phone. Now, Xiaomi has also started teasing the Redmi Note 14 series in India, which indicates that it will not take long for it to go official.

Redmi Note 14 series India launch teased

Xiaomi officially confirmed earlier this month that the Redmi Note 14 series will be announced in December in India. This implies that it will launch approximately one month ahead of the Redmi Note 13 lineup, which made its debut in January of this year. While the above teaser does not mention the Redmi Note 14 series explicitly, the “A Noteworthy Reveal?” text is a good hint that the brand has started teasing the next generation of the Note series in the country.

The Redmi Note 14 series is expected to include three models, such as the Note 14, Note 14 Pro, and Note 14 Pro+. These devices have already launched in China and are now gearing up to release in other markets. It is possible that the global version of the Note 14 series will differ from its Chinese counterpart.

The Redmi Note14 Pro+ will feature a 200-megapixel Samsung S5KHP3 primary camera, an 8-megapixel Sony IMX355 ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel telephoto camera, according to leaked information that surfaced in September. Probably, the Note 14 Pro will have the same primary and ultra-wide cameras. However, it may feature a 2-megapixel macro camera instead of the telephoto lens.

Comparatively, the Note 14 Pro in China features a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 primary camera, while the Note 14 Pro+ has a 50-megapixel OmniVision OVX8000. The Note 14 series is expected to ship with Android 14 and HyperOS 2.0 in the global market.

The Note 14 Pro and 14 Pro+ are expected to feature a 6.67-inch curved-edge OLED panel with support for a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The Note 14 Pro may feature the Dimensity 7300 Ultra, whereas the Pro+ may arrive with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. Both devices are expected to offer up to IP69-rated water and dust resistance.

In China, the Note 14 Pro has a 5,500mAh battery with 45W fast charging, whereas the Note 14 Pro+ packs a larger 6,200mAh battery with 90W charging. Whether their global variants offer the same battery size and charging capabilities remains to be seen. ‘

Galaxy S25 series may offer more RAM without costing more

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 19, 2024

Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S25 series in the next couple of months. All three models in the line — the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra — will reportedly feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.

Additionally, leaks suggest the lineup will start with 12GB of RAM, an upgrade from the 8GB base in the previous generation. Despite this improvement, a new leak suggests the S25 series will match the pricing of the S24 lineup.

According to a now-deleted post by leaker Jukanlosreve, the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra will retain their predecessors’ starting prices: $799, $999, and $1,299, respectively. In other regions, these prices convert to roughly £799/AU$1,399, £999/AU$1,699, and £1,249/AU$2,199.

Storage configurations are also rumored to remain unchanged, with the base S25 starting at 128GB and the Plus and Ultra models starting at 256GB.

Why the increased RAM?

While the Snapdragon 8 Elite will be an unsurprising iterative upgrade, the increased RAM is likely a response to the growing demand for on-device AI features.

Samsung has been heavily promoting Galaxy AI as a key element of its mobile platform. Adding an extra 4GB of RAM across the board could result in noticeable improvements in AI performance.

Google followed a similar approach with the Pixel 9 series. It increased the base RAM to 12GB on the Pixel 9, while the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL come with 16GB of RAM across all storage variants to make AI-powered features run smoothly on devices.

The Galaxy S25 series might launch earlier than expected, according to a recent report. We have also seen the design renders of the vanilla S25 and S25 Ultra, and all three phones in the series are expected to have slightly slimmer dimensions compared to their predecessors.

(Source)

Is JioPhone Prima 2 the Best Feature Phone in India for 2024?

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 19, 2024

In 2024, the feature phone market in India continues to evolve, catering to users who prefer simplicity without compromising essential features. Among the many options, the JioPhone Prima 2 stands out as the best feature phone of 2024, offering an exceptional blend of affordability, smart features, and a design that appeals to a wide range of users.

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	JioPhone Prima 2 4G Keypad Phone with Premium Design, YouTube, JioTV, JioCinema, JioSaavn,…	Check Price on Amazon

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1. Display and Build Quality

The JioPhone Prima 2 features a premium curved design, offering a significant upgrade over its predecessors. The back of the phone sports a leather-like finish, enhancing its visual appeal.

It comes with a 2.4-inch QVGA curved display, providing clear visibility. What truly sets the Prima 2 apart from other Jio feature phones is its improved viewing angles. Unlike earlier models, which had limited screen clarity at certain angles, the Prima 2 equips users with a more consistent experience, whether watching a video or reading a message.

2. Smart Features

The JioPhone Prima 2 is designed to cater to both basic phone users and those who want to occasionally dip into the world of smart features. The device is powered by a Qualcomm SoC paired with 512MB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage, with an expandable memory option of up to 128GB.

This setup is perfect for light tasks such as calling, texting, and using the supported apps. The phone runs on KaiOS 2.5.3, offering access to apps like YouTube, Facebook, and Google Assistant, as well as the full suite of Jio services such as JioTV, JioCinema, and JioSaavn for entertainment.

3. Detox and Connectivity

For many, the JioPhone Prima 2 serves as an ideal secondary phone. In today’s world of constant smartphone engagement, having a device that can act as a detox from digital overload is refreshing. It allows users to disconnect while still offering essential services when needed, such as video calling, messaging, and access to Jio’s ecosystem.

Moreover, with Jio’s reliable 4G VoLTE connectivity, users can stay connected with family and friends at a much lower cost. The phone also supports WiFi, providing a versatile way to stay online without burning through mobile data.

4. UPI Support

The JioPhone Prima 2 features support for UPI payments through JioPay, making it a great option, especially for elders or those who prefer using feature phones. With UPI integration, the phone enables users to make payments easily, transfer funds, and scan QR codes without the need for a smartphone.

5. Ideal for Elderly Users

For older people who might find transitioning to a smartphone difficult, the JioPhone Prima 2 offers the perfect compromise. It supports apps like YouTube for easy content consumption, and the large buttons make navigation simple.

The added benefit of a rear and front camera also allows them to keep in touch through video calls, without the need for third-party apps. This user-friendly design, coupled with the essential apps and Jio services, creates a perfect entry-level device for those not ready to move on to a full-fledged smartphone.

6. Pricing and Availability

Priced at just Rs. 2799, the JioPhone Prima 2 offers incredible value for money. It is available in Luxe Blue color and can be purchased through Amazon, JioMart, Reliance Digital, and other retailers. Given its price point and the suite of features, it’s the best-value feature phone in India in 2024.

7. Room for Improvement

While the JioPhone Prima 2 excels in its segment, a slightly larger display, and a more robust battery would elevate the user experience further. Additionally, adopting the JioBharat J1’s design in future iterations could give users an aesthetically superior device.

If you’re planning to buy a flagship smartphone, this article will help you determine the best time to make your purchase.

Edifier launches X3 Pro earbuds with ANC, 23-hour battery life, Bluetooth 5.4, AI call noise reduction & more

By

Soumyakanti

-

Nov 18, 2024

Edifier has launched its latest TWS earbuds called X3 Pro in the Chinese market. The earbuds are priced at 149 yuan ($20) and are now available on JD.com. Let’s check out its key specs.

Edifier X3 Pro Specifications:

The earbuds feature composite diaphragms, though the exact driver size remains unspecified, along with imported voice coil wires that deliver a refined acoustic experience. They come equipped with the latest Bluetooth V5.4 connectivity, ensuring a stable signal with minimal interference.

Additionally, the earbuds include active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, which effectively minimizes external noise. They also feature AI-powered call noise reduction, ensuring crystal-clear voice quality by filtering out ambient distractions during conversations.

They come with an impressive 23-hour battery life, offering up to 7 hours of usage on a single charge, and extend to 23 hours with the charging case. The earbuds charge fully in just 1 hour, ensuring quick power-ups for on-the-go listening. It equips IP54 dust and water resistance, protecting the earbuds from sweat and dust, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.

The X3 Pro features 99.9% antibacterial ear tips, ensuring hygiene and comfort with high-efficiency antibacterial materials. It also comes with a customizable app that allows users to tailor features like the equalizer settings and touch controls, delivering a personalized listening experience.

It supports multiple Bluetooth protocols, including A2DP, AVRCP, and HSP, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. The earbuds sport a frequency response range of 20Hz-20kHz and a sound pressure level of 92±3dB.

Additionally, it features convenient touch controls for music playback, call management, and activating game mode. The design offers multiple color options, such as Cloud Rock White, Misty Pink, and Midnight Blue.

In related news, Noise has introduced the Buds Trooper TWS earbuds, offering extended battery life and low latency. Meanwhile, Philips has launched budget-friendly TWS earbuds and headphones in India, boasting impressive battery performance.

Rapoo launches VH850 gaming headset with 50mm drivers, 46-hour battery, RGB lighting & more

By

Soumyakanti

-

Nov 18, 2024

Rapoo, a well-known peripheral brand from China, has introduced its latest gaming headset, the VH850. The headset is priced at 199 yuan ($28) and is now available on JD.com. Let’s check out its key specs.

Rapoo VH850 Specifications:

The Rapoo VH850 sports 50mm neodymium drivers combined with graphene composite diaphragms, providing higher resolution and dynamic sound performance with strong power output and impactful bass.

The headset comes with physical dual acoustic chambers that enhance audio clarity by separating bass from other frequencies, reducing distortion, and improving sound positioning.

It equips a detachable omnidirectional noise-canceling microphone, which can be adjusted 360°, offering clear voice communication while minimizing ambient noise. The microphone also includes a dedicated switch for convenient muting.

The headset features three connection modes: Bluetooth 5.3, 2.4GHz wireless, and a 3.5mm audio wired interface, making it adaptable to gaming, office, or casual listening needs.

The VH850 features large, over-ear protein leather ear cups that are soft, breathable, and effective in reducing environmental noise for a comfortable long-wearing experience. It also comes with a lightweight metal single-head beam design, adjustable with telescopic arms, ensuring a precise fit for various head sizes.

The headset includes RGB backlighting with a mirror finish, adding a stylish touch to your gaming setup. However, the lighting is only available in wireless modes, not in wired mode. It offers convenient controls with dedicated buttons for mode switching, volume adjustment, microphone muting, and light effects.

The Rapoo VH850 is powered by a 1200mAh rechargeable lithium battery, providing up to 46 hours of usage in non-lit mode and 17 hours with RGB lighting enabled. Charging is facilitated via a USB-C port, requiring approximately 3 hours for a full charge.

In related news, Baseus has recently unveiled the GoPlay 1 Max gaming headset, featuring 40mm dual drivers, an adjustable microphone, and low-latency performance.

Asus ROG Phone 9 breaks AnTuTu records, achieves highest-ever score

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 18, 2024

Asus is a couple of hours away from announcing the ROG Phone 9 across the globe. Back in September, an Asus device with model number ASUSAI2501A was spotted in the database of China’s 3C certification platform. The device, which is believed to be the ROG Phone 9, has emerged on AnTuTu to confirm some of its key specifications.

Asus ROG Phone 9 AnTuTu listing

The above image reveals that the ROG Phone 9 has managed to secure the highest-ever score of 3,121,390 on the AnTuTu benchmarks. The said score is a total of CPU, GPU, memory, and UX tests, in which the device achieved 661,243, 1,256,559, 672,974, and 530,614 scores, respectively.

The listing confirms that the ROG Phone 9 features the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. It reveals that the device comes with 24 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, and Android 15. It also suggests that the device’s display will support a 185Hz refresh rate.

According to a recent report, the ROG Phone 9 will come equipped with a 6.78-inch AMOLED panel that offers an FHD+ resolution and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. On the front, the device will be equipped with a 32-megapixel selfie camera.

The ROG Phone 9’s rear camera setup will include a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support, a 13-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 5-megapixel macro camera. It will arrive with a 5,800mAh battery that supports 65W fast charging.

The ROG Phone 9 will be equipped with dual speakers and a 3.5mm audio jack. It will measure 163.8 x 76.8 x 8.9mm and weigh 227 grams. It will be available in two shades, Storm White and Phantom Black.

OnePlus Rumored to Launch Bigger Pad Pro with 13-Inch Display

By

Sudhanshu

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Nov 18, 2024

As per a new report from China-based tipster WHYLAB, OnePlus is gearing up to expand its tablet offerings with a larger variant of its flagship OnePlus Pad Pro. This new model is expected to feature a 13-inch display, offering more screen space for productivity, entertainment, and creative tasks.

Although details are limited, the larger OnePlus Pad Pro is likely to include many of the key features of the current model, such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for efficient performance and multitasking.

A notable upgrade in the larger version is the display resolution, which is rumored to be 3840×2400 pixels, providing sharper visuals. However, its peak brightness may be slightly lower at 600 nits compared to the 900 nits of the 12.1-inch model. The tablet is also expected to maintain the 144Hz refresh rate and 240Hz touch sampling rate for smooth navigation and responsive input.

A report from July stated that Oppo is also working on a new tablet, which will be a rebrand of the OnePlus Pad Pro. This larger screen variant could likely be the upcoming “Oppo Pad 3” as well. The report claimed that the tablet will come in Gold and Blue color options, with 8GB / 12GB / 16GB RAM and up to 512GB storage.

If other features remain the same, then we can expect the tablet to feature a quad-speaker setup, along with a 13MP rear camera with LED flash and an 8MP front-facing camera. The battery could remain 9510mAh with support for 67W SuperVOOC fast charging.

In other news, the OnePlus 13, launched in China last month, is set for an international release with two configurations: 12GB/256GB in Black Eclipse and 16GB/512GB in Midnight Ocean and Arctic Dawn. Unfortunately, OnePlus has yet to reveal the exact launch date of these smartphones in the global market, however, they are expected to debut in late December or January.

(Source, via)

IDC Report: Noise Leads Smartwatches as Indian Wearable Market Declines in 3Q24

By

Sudhanshu

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Nov 18, 2024

As per the latest IDC report, the Indian wearable device market faced another tough quarter, with shipments dropping by 20.7% year-over-year (YoY) to 38 million units in 3Q24. This marks the second consecutive quarter of decline, as brands struggle with shifting consumer preferences, cautious inventory strategies, and fewer product launches.

Smartwatches: A Category in Flux

Smartwatch sales saw a significant 44.8% YoY decline, with shipments falling to 9.3 million units. Despite the festive season, brands primarily focused on clearing older inventory by offering discounts, especially on e-commerce platforms. Interestingly, the average selling price (ASP) for smartwatches rose slightly by 1.4% to $26.2, reflecting a gradual shift toward higher-priced advanced models.

Noise maintained its leadership in the smartwatch category, securing a 27.4% market share, followed by boAt with 16.8%. Titan, however, stood out with a 37.5% growth in market share, driven by its premium positioning. On the other hand, Fire-Boltt faced a staggering 84.1% decline in growth, signaling a shift in consumer loyalty within the competitive segment.

Earwear Sees Slower Decline, TWS Gains Momentum

The earwear category, while also declining, fared better than smartwatches with a 7.5% YoY drop to 28.5 million units. Within this segment, Truly Wireless Stereo (TWS) devices hit a record 73.2% share, highlighting their growing popularity among Indian consumers.

Boult and realme were the standout performers in this category, with impressive growth rates of 55% and 94.6%, respectively. The rise of offline sales also played a crucial role, with earwear shipments to brick-and-mortar stores growing by 9.4%, counterbalancing the 14.4% decline in online sales.

A Shift in Market Dynamics

One of the most striking trends in 3Q24 was the decline in shipments from smaller, long-tail smartwatch brands, including white-label products. After enjoying a massive 328.8% growth in 3Q23, these brands saw a steep 59.1% drop in 3Q24. Analysts attribute this shift to the market’s maturing consumer base, which is increasingly opting for reliable, established brands.

“The smartwatch category is under stress due to a lack of differentiation and a limited number of brands dominating the market. However, we’re observing early signs of consumers leaning toward advanced smartwatches for better health tracking and functionality,” noted Vikas Sharma, senior market analyst at IDC India.

Emerging Categories Like Smart Rings Show Promise

While traditional wearable categories struggled, smart rings emerged as a promising segment, with 92,000 units shipped in 3Q24. Ultrahuman led the segment with a 36.8% market share, followed by boAt at 20.5%. The category’s ASP fell by 16.2% to $162.1, signaling potential for mass adoption as prices drop and new models enter the market.

(Source)

Vivo S20 and S20 Pro pre-reservation begins in China, design partially revealed

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 18, 2024

Vivo is expected to launch its mid-range S20 series devices this month. And the release seems imminent now as the company has started pre-reservations for the phones in China. The line will be home to two models – the Standard Edition and the Pro Edition.

You can reserve the phone through Vivo’s official website. Although it’s not explicitly mentioned, it’s likely that you will require a deposit. Those who reserve will have a chance to win a gift worth NT$278, limited to 2,500 participants. The gifts include a 44W charger and a one-year extended warranty.

Even if you book the phone for free, you still stand a chance to win prizes like the Vivo S20, Vivo TWS 4 earbuds, Vivo Pad 3, or 100 Vivo credit points.

A look at the design

More importantly, the pre-reservations page offers a partial look at the phones’ design. At first glance, both models share a similar vibe. They feature a vertical rear camera layout with a surrounding ring flash.

However, there are some subtle design differences. The standard edition has a glossy finish around its camera housing, while the Pro model features a more refined “Parisian trim stud” design.

Both phones are expected to feature a flat 6.7-inch OLED panel with a 1.5K resolution. The Standard Edition will likely use the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, while the Pro model may come equipped with the Dimensity 9300 SoC.

The Vivo S20 Pro will boast a 50MP front camera, while its back panel will include a 50MP Sony IMX921 primary camera with OIS, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP IMX882 periscope telephoto camera offering 3x optical zoom.

The S20 will feature a 50MP front camera and a dual-camera system on the back, comprising a 50MP primary sensor and an 8MP secondary lens.

In terms of battery, the S20 is expected to pack a 6,500mAh unit, while the Pro model may feature a smaller 5,500mAh battery. Both models are rumored to support 90W fast charging.

(Source)

MediaTek: Oppo Find X8 Series Will Be the First Dimensity 9400 SoC Smartphone in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Nov 18, 2024

OPPO and MediaTek have joined hands to introduce the upcoming OPPO Find X8 Series, the first smartphones in India powered by MediaTek’s latest Dimensity 9400 chipset. Announced at the MediaTek Technology Diaries event held on November 15, this partnership focuses on improving performance, gaming, photography, and battery life, making the Find X8 Series a strong contender in the smartphone market.

Powerful Performance with the Dimensity 9400

The Dimensity 9400 chipset is built using TSMC’s advanced 3nm process. Its second-generation “All Big Core” design improves speed and efficiency significantly, offering a 35% boost in single-core performance and 28% better multi-core performance compared to its predecessor. At the same time, it reduces power usage by 40%, ensuring smoother multitasking and quicker app launches.

The chipset’s 8th Generation NPU enables smarter AI features, such as Magic Compose in Google Messages. This feature generates replies that match the conversation’s tone, saving time and making messaging more convenient.

Better Gaming and Photography

The Dimensity 9400’s 12-core ARM Immortalis-G925 GPU enhances gaming by delivering 40% faster ray tracing performance and 41% better peak performance. With OPPO’s custom cooling system, users can enjoy long gaming sessions without worrying about overheating or lag.

Photography also sees major upgrades. The Find X8 Series combines MediaTek’s Imagiq 1090 ISP with OPPO’s Hasselblad Master Camera System. This pairing improves zoom quality, low-light photography, HDR video, and camera transitions. These features make it a solid choice for anyone who loves capturing photos or creating content.

Extended Battery Life and Efficient Charging

The Silicon-Carbon battery in the Find X8 Series works well with the Dimensity 9400 chipset to offer multi-day battery life. The phone consumes 14% less power when recording 4K video at 60fps. Recharging is also efficient, with the battery designed to handle demanding tasks while lasting longer.

Improved Connectivity

Connectivity is another highlight. MediaTek’s enhancements and OPPO’s AI LinkBoost ensure stable performance for gaming, streaming, and calls. The Dimensity 9400’s Xtra Range 3.0 extends Wi-Fi coverage by up to 30 meters, offering better connections in busy areas.

A Step Forward in Smartphone Innovation

“The Find X8 Series will put ultra-grade gaming, imaging, and smoothness in customers’ hands. This world-class performance is made possible thanks to our strong partnership with MediaTek,” said Andy Wu, OPPO Vice President.

What’s Next?

OPPO has not yet revealed the price or availability, but the Find X8 Series is expected to stand out with its strong performance, improved gaming and photography features, and dependable battery life. The smartphone will be launched on November 21 at 5 AM UTC, along with ColorOS 15.

The Find X8 will feature a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED flat display, while the Find X8 Pro will sport a 6.8-inch LTPO micro-curved AMOLED screen. Both will support 120Hz adaptive refresh rates, up to 4500 nits of brightness, and durable Oppo Crystal Shield glass.

They will debut the world’s first dual periscope camera system, with the X8 featuring a triple 50MP camera setup, and the Pro model adding dual 50MP periscope lenses for 3x and 6x optical zoom. Both devices will offer AI-powered Telescope Zoom, the HyperTone Image Engine, and a Hasselblad partnership for professional-grade photography and videography, including Dolby Vision and 12-bit processing.

The phones are expected to come with large batteries—5630mAh for the X8 and 5910mAh for the X8 Pro—and support 80W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging.

5 Reasons why iQOO 13 is better than Vivo X200

By

Vicky

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Nov 18, 2024

iQOO 13 arrived in October, boasting a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, a robust camera setup, and a massive battery with over 6,000mAh capacity. Vivo X200 was also unveiled the same month, offering equally compelling specs at a similar price point.

While both are powerful phones with solid specs, there are five key areas where the iQOO 13 is significantly better than the Vivo X200.

1. Great display

Although both smartphones have AMOLED panels, the iQOO 13 brings LTPO support for a variable refresh rate. This means the screen can automatically adjust the refresh rate as and when required to save power, which is missing on the Vivo X200. And thanks to the higher refresh rate support, you’ll have a smoother scrolling experience on the iQOO 13.

The iQOO 13 also wins at screen resolution. It has about 510 pixels per inch (PPI), whereas the OnePlus 12 only has about 460 PPI. Simply put, content would look better on the iQOO 13 than on the Vivo X200. Another advantage of having the iQOO 13 is that you’re getting a higher screen-to-body ratio.

2. Performance at best

The Snapdragon 8 Elite is the heart of iQOO 13, providing enough processing power for smooth operations. It’s Qualcomm’s fastest mobile chipset, featuring Oryon cores for the first time. The Vivo X200 is equipped with the Dimensity 9400 chip, the best from the chipmaker.

Both are exceptional chips for Android devices. You’d be able to play your favorite high-end games for long sessions without any lag. However, Adreno GPUs inside the Qualcomm chips have a history of being more stable and power-efficient than their MediaTek counterparts. For that reason, I’d give an extra point to the Snapdragon 8 Elite for gaming.

On AnTuTu V10, the iQOO 13 scored over 29 million points, while the Vivo X200 couldn’t surpass 26 million.

So, the bottom line is that the iQOO 13 delivers more robust performance than the Vivo X200.

3. Bigger battery and lesser charging time

The iQOO 13 has one of the biggest batteries you’ll see on a flagship device. It carries a 6,150mAh capacity, whereas the Vivo X200 has a 5,800mAh battery.

Both devices offer handsome screen-on time. However, the iQOO 13 will last a few additional hours. And the support for 120W fast charging makes the deal even sweeter. According to iQOO, it only takes 30 minutes to refill the battery to 100%.

The Vivo X200 comes with 90W charging support, which will take a little longer to refill than the iQOO 13. In short, the iQOO 13 offers more battery backup and less charging time.

4. Better audio quality

Both the iQOO 13 and Vivo X200 are equipped with stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience. However, the former device also supports Snapdragon Sound and 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res audio, further enhancing the audio quality and offering a high-fidelity listening experience.

5. Faster and more secure fingerprint scanner

The iQOO 13 employs an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, which is faster and more secure than the optical scanner in the Vivo X200.

The optical scanner on Vivo X200 uses a miniature camera to capture a 2D image of the fingerprint. These are found to be less secure and struggle most of the time with wet or oily fingers. The ultrasonic fingerprint technology on the iQOO 13 utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create a 3D map of the fingerprint, which is generally more secure than an optical one. Also, it works effectively even when fingers are wet.

Bonus: RGB lights

The iQOO 13 has a feature totally absent on the Vivo X200: RGB light ring. It features 72 light effects, including 12 color combinations and carious effects like pulsing and spiraling.

The RGB light ring works with notifications, music playback, and showing charging status. It also works with select gaming titles to indicate important game moments such as kills and wins. This is a cool addition to the iQOO 13, which might attract buyers.

Which one of the two would you pick for your next smartphone upgrade? Share your thoughts in the comments below.