Xiaomi 15 Full Review: Yes, Still The King of 6.3-inch Phones. But No Surprises

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Nov 7, 2024

When Xiaomi 13 was released, I was very excited, because that’s my ideal phone. when Xiaomi 14 was released, I was very happy, because my dream phone became perfect. Now that the Xiaomi 15 has been released, I realize I’m not as happy as I was before. Because my Xiaomi 14 is already great, why should I upgrade to Xiaomi 15? Is it that great? Is it worth buying? When I finished testing it, I had the answer in my mind.

Don’t forget that the Xiaomi 15 series is currently available at GeekWills. For those who want to get an early taste of this phone, you can get it by clicking the link below.

Design

The appearance is pretty much like what I covered in the hands-on video. Simply put, there isn’t much that has changed, but when you get your hands on it, it feels like it’s become more sophisticated. Don’t get it? Ok, you can go to an iPhone store, and then get your hands on the iPhone 16, that one is like the Xiaomi 14, and the Xiaomi 15 is more like the iPhone 16 Pro, both in terms of the premium feel and the size.

The frosted back cover and frame do make the phone feel more expensive, but it also means it’s more slippery, and I almost dropped it a couple of times, to be honest. I’d also like to complain about the ultrasonic fingerprint recognition area. Yes, it is better positioned and the speed is faster. It also doesn’t blind you at night like a flashbang.

The only cost is that you won’t be able to put whatever film you want on it. One advantage of a straight screen is that you can apply tempered film very easily and conveniently, but ultrasonic fingerprint recognition takes that away. Because ultrasonic waves can’t penetrate tempered film, so you need to buy special film, or you can only use TPU film, which makes it very difficult for me to accept as a tempered film lover.

And… There doesn’t seem to be anything else I can gripe about. It has all the features it should have, except for that headphone jack that’s been gone for a decade. Because it’s a globally sold model, it also has more network band support than other phones. If you don’t care about the film issue, then the Xiaomi 15 should be the perfect one as a 6.3-inch phone.

Display

The Xiaomi 15’s screen, compared to last year, has three main upgrades: brighter, narrower, and more power-efficient. The Xiaomi 14’s 3,000nit brightness is only achievable in 1% of the screen, but the Xiaomi 15 can reach that brightness in 25% of the area, and it is available while reading eBooks.

Narrower, meaning the bezels are narrower, the Xiaomi 15 has one of the narrowest bezels of any phone. The new M9 luminescent material, combined with a dual microcavity structure, has reduced the screen’s power consumption by 10%. And you have to keep in mind that this is a 6.3-inch straight screen, the phone is less than 72mm wide. This is the main reason why I like the Xiaomi number series so much.

Performance & Battery

I’ve put the benchmark scores for the Xiaomi 13 to 15 here. It is clear that the Xiaomi 15 with Snapdragon 8 Elite is the generation with the most improvements. Because of the new second-generation Oryon architecture, the CPU scores dust the previous generation by a mile. With every processor upgrade comes an improved gaming experience.

Again taking Genshin Impact as an example, the game doesn’t seem to be able to create trouble for current phones anymore, even last year’s Xiaomi 14 can run it smoothly. The advantage of a more advanced processor though, is that it’s able to achieve the same results with lower temperatures and less power. Even the frame rate jitter is a little bit less than the 14, which means it’s smoother.

Combined with the 5400mAh battery, the 15 consumes 2% less power than the 14 in just 20 minutes of gaming. Both gamers and non-gamers should be very happy with this chip and battery life, that’s for sure. This is probably where the biggest difference between the Xiaomi 14 and 15 comes in.

Charging

Since we’re talking about the battery, let’s also cover the charging part as well. The 90W wired charging and 50W wireless charging are basically the same as the Xiaomi 14, and a full charge takes about 40 minutes.

The Xiaomi 15 has a new mode in the battery settings: cold endurance mode, which limits performance to extend battery life, a very useful feature for those who live in extremely cold environments.

Camera

Just looking at the specs, the Xiaomi 15’s camera is almost exactly the same as the Xiaomi 14’s. Only the sensor of the telephoto camera has been upgraded a little bit. Very disappointing, right?

Actually, we all misunderstood Xiaomi, because it has actually improved quite a lot. I’ll be putting up a lot of samples here, and slowly you’ll be able to see how far ahead the Xiaomi 15 is compared to the 14. The photos taken by the 15 are clearly sharper and less noisy, and it’s ahead of the Xiaomi 14 on all fronts, whether it’s the main camera, the telephoto camera, or the ultra-wide camera.

But Why? Two reasons. One is because the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s ISP has gotten stronger again. The second is that Xiaomi’s algorithms have evolved again, and AI enhancements have become easier to trigger. So the Xiaomi 15 proves one thing: you can’t judge a phone’s camera by its hardware alone, algorithms can sometimes change the game.

In addition to the AI upgrades, the Xiaomi 15 also fixes a lot of issues that were on the Xiaomi 14. For example, the red color being oversaturated leads to color distortion, which is often seen on the Xiaomi 14. It was hard for you to see details on red objects. Then this year’s Xiaomi 15 solved that problem. The stability of the white balance has also been improved, so the food looks more tasty in the photos.

Thanks to the new ISP, the keying algorithm in portrait mode has also been greatly enhanced. It’s impressive to see that hair doesn’t get mushy even in very harsh environments.

Dynamic range has been improved and exposure has been bumped up a notch, which should make more people like this style.

However, this also leads to a drop in contrast, and personally I still prefer the photos from the Xiaomi 14. Of course, you can choose Leica Authentic mode to improve the contrast of your photos. Both phones have almost identical photo styles in this mode, showing that Xiaomi feels this is the best answer to Leica color on a phone.

Video recording

When it comes to video recording, the Xiaomi 15 has improvements and regressions. The improvement is that the HDR effect has been boosted once again, you can see the blue sky in the video taken by the Xiaomi 15, but it is just a white sky on the Xiaomi 14. Even with the front-facing camera, the Xiaomi 15 can record 4K 30FPS HDR videos, but the Xiaomi 14 can’t.

Lens flare is also being controlled better than the 14. You can see a petal-like ring of flare around the sun on the Xiaomi 14. Here’s a new con: it’s clear that the Xiaomi 15 has a serious purple-fringing issue. Maybe the photos taken can still be fixed by the algorithm, but the video completely exposes this shortcoming.

Overall, the Xiaomi 15’s camera system has been upgraded more than expected. If it is 7 out of 10 for the Xiaomi 14 camera system, then the Xiaomi 15 should get 8. That’s a very high score for a 6.3-inch phone.

HyperOS 2

I know you guys are concerned about how the HyperOS 2 really is. Since I haven’t had hands-on experience for a long time, I can only tell you how I feel about it in the past few days.

Compared to OS 1, the biggest feeling is that it’s much smoother. There are fewer dropped frames, a lot of blurring effects have been added, and the animations have become more dynamic. I’m going to put a few comparisons with HyperOS 1 here, so you should be able to see that, there are still a lot of optimizations in OS 2.

For comparison samples, please watch the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iY1JJfWb6bI

HyperOS 2 also has a lot of new features, such as the AI in it, which allows you to customize your dynamic wallpaper, and be able to access Apple’s ecosystem with a single app. Some of the features are not very stable at the moment, and some of them still need to wait for an OTA update to work. So give us, and Xiaomi some time, more HyperOS 2 features will be presented in the Xiaomi 15 Pro Review.

Now back to the question, is it great? Yes, it’s great! Even if the Samsung S25 hasn’t been launched yet, I am confident in saying that this is the best small-sized phone out there. Is it worth buying? Unless you don’t like small-sized phones, you will never regret getting them. If you are a Xiaomi 14 user, then check your wallet before you decide. The Xiaomi 15 is great, but the Xiaomi 14 isn’t bad either, so for those of you has the 14, maybe waiting for the Xiaomi 16 should be the more sensible option.

Alleged Redmi K80 appears in real, reveals new round camera island with 50MP main sensor

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 7, 2024

Recently, Xiaomi launched its flagship models, the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro, equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip in China. Following Xiaomi’s release schedule, the next flagship model will be from the Redmi sub-brand, specifically the Redmi K80 series. Reports suggest that the Redmi K80 and K80 Pro will debut by the end of this month in China. Rumors surrounding the device, along with an image shared by a Xiaomi executive, revealed that the K80 series will sport a round camera module. A new image of the alleged K80 series phone has surfaced on Chinese social media platforms, aligning with the rumors about the new design.

Alleged Redmi K80’s real-life image leaked

Alleged Redmi K80 real-life image — Alleged Redmi K80’s real-life image

The above image reveals that the design of the Redmi K80 series has undergone a major overhaul. The upper-left corner of the back panel houses the new circular camera island. The design is similar to Xiaomi’s Civi selfie-focused smartphones.

Upon closer inspection, the camera module reveals three lenses and inscriptions indicating a 50-megapixel primary camera. The shiny appeal of the rest of the back suggests the possibility of a glass back. The right edge of the device has a volume rocker and a power key.

According to reports, the Redmi K80 series will include at least three models, such as the Redmi K80e, the Redmi K80, and the Redmi K80 Pro. These models are likely to be powered by the Dimensity 8400 (upcoming), the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipsets, respectively.

A recent leak revealed that the Redmi K80 Pro’s rear camera setup will feature a 50-megapixel OmniVision Light Fusion 900 primary camera, a 32-megapixel Samsung S5KKD1 ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with 2.6x optical zoom. The K80 Pro will also feature a 20-megapixel OmniVision OV20B front camera. The device is expected to feature around 6,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging support. There is no concrete information about the camera specifications of the standard K80. Its charging capabilities could be similar to the Pro variant.

The Redmi K80 may feature a 1.5K resolution OLED screen integrated with an optical-type fingerprint scanner. Conversely, the K80 Pro might come with a 2K OLED panel that incorporates an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor.

(via)

Vivo Y19s launched with 90Hz display, 5,500mAh battery, RGB notification light

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 7, 2024

Vivo has launched a new Y-series phone dubbed the Vivo Y19s in Thailand. It’s a 4G phone equipped with a Unisoc processor. Some of its highlights include a 90Hz screen with a punch-hole design, a big battery, and a new RGB notification light. Continue reading ahead to learn about the specifications, features, and price of the Y19s.

Vivo Y19s specifications and features

Starting from the front, the Vivo Y19s has a 6.68-inch LCD panel that offers 1680 x 720 pixels HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. For better visibility outdoors, the screen comes with support for up to 1,000nits of brightness. For selfies, it has a 5-megapixel front camera.

On the back, the Vivo Y19s has a vertical camera module that houses a dual-LED flash, a 50-megapixel primary camera, and a 0.08-megapixel secondary camera. A ring-shaped notification light, glowing in different colors, follows the cameras.

Under the hood, the Vivo Y19s has the Unisoc T612 chipset, up to 6 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and a 5,500mAh battery with 15W rapid charging. The phone offers up to 6 GB of virtual RAM and a microSD card slot for more storage.

The Y19s comes preloaded with FunTouch OS 14-based Android 14. Other features available on the device include a side-facing fingerprint scanner, a 3.5mm audio jack, dual speakers, a USB-C port, dual SIM, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, and GPS. Lastly, the phone measures 165.75 x 76.10 x 8.10mm and weighs 198 grams.

Vivo Y19s price in Thailand

The 4GB+128GB variant of the Vivo Y19s costs 4,399 THB (~$130). Its 6GB+128GB edition is priced at 4,999 THB (~$145). Buyers can choose from colors like Glossy Black, Pearl Sliver, and Glacier Blue.

Anker 322 MagSafe 5000 mAh Power Bank on Sale For Rs 999

By

Simranpal Singh

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Nov 7, 2024

If you’re looking for a MagSafe Wireless Power Bank at an affordable price, you should not miss this sale on the Anker 322 MagSafe 5000 mAh power bank. For the first time, the 5000mAh capacity Anker 322 MagSafe Power Bank is on sale for Rs 999 in India. It has never retailed below this price; however, it is available in the North American markets for around $44.

Anker 322 MagSafe Wireless Power Bank features a 5000 mAh battery capacity and is compatible with iPhone 12 and later. The users can also wirelessly charge Android phones. It supports 7.5W wireless charging and 12W max output with USB-C powered wired charging. It ships with a USB-C to USB-C wire.

There’s also a convertible stand that enhances Powerbank usage and can aid in flawless and uninterrupted phone usage. Anker 322 Magnetic Wireless Power Bank is available in white and black color options, but the former is slightly dearer at the price of Rs 1099, and the latter is available for Rs 999.

Anker 322 Magnetic Wireless Power Bank offers effortless, cable-free charging for MagSafe iPhones with a strong magnetic hold that prevents slipping. Its foldable stand keeps your device at a convenient viewing angle, while a side port supports pass-through charging, allowing both the power bank and your iPhone to charge simultaneously. With built-in NTC sensors for continuous temperature monitoring and a pocket-friendly design, it’s a safe and portable solution for on-the-go power.

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

iQOO 13’s December launch confirmed for India, color options revealed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 7, 2024

A couple of days ago, iQOO announced iQOO 13 in China. The brand is planning a global launch of the device, possibly in India first. A recent post on X by iQOO India confirms the launch timeframe for the Indian market. Additionally, the landing page on Amazon and the official website have confirmed the color options.

iQOO 13 launch timeframe for India

iQOO 13 confirmed to launch in India in December

As seen in the screenshot above, the iQOO 13 will launch in India in December. Reports from last month suggested dates such as Dec. 3, Dec. 5, and Dec. 13. However, the brand has not yet confirmed the exact launch date.

Currently, the iQOO 13 landing page on Amazon lists some of its specifications, including a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a Q2 supercomputing chip for 144fps game frame interpolation and 2K super resolution, and a 2K LTPO AMOLED screen with a refresh rate of 144Hz. The iQOO 13 is available in four colors in China, such as white, green, black, and grey. In India, it appears that the handset will be available in white, dubbed the Legend Edition and grey.

In terms of specifications, the iQOO 13 heading to India will be identical to its Chinese version. The device has a 6.82-inch BOE Q10 flat screen with 4,500nits of peak brightness, LPDDR5x Ultra RAM, and UFS 4.0 storage.

It is expected to run on FunTouch OS 15-based Android 15 and feature an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint scanner. On the front, iQOO has a 32-megapixel selfie camera. Its rear camera setup has a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom.

Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 hands-on: Style and sound, with a dash of gaming

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Nov 7, 2024

As someone who loves music, appreciates good design, and occasionally indulges in mobile gaming for testing and review purposes, I’m always on the lookout for earbuds that tick all the boxes. When I came across the Nu Republic Cyberstud X4, I was immediately drawn to its unique design and impressive features. This reminded me of the Cyberstud Spin, another unique TWS earbud from the same brand with a fidget spinner design, which I tried a few months back. After using the X4 extensively for the past three weeks, I’m ready to share my thoughts.

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1. Design and Comfort

Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 Firefly

Let’s be honest, most earbuds look the same these days. But the Cyberstud X4 Firefly? That’s a different story. If you’re tired of the usual pebble-shaped cases, you’ll be instantly drawn to the unique hexagonal design of the Cyberstud X4. It’s made of sturdy ABS plastic and features a cool transparent lid that opens like a door when you press the V-shaped button on the front.

And that’s where the real fun begins. As soon as you open the case, an RGB light strip illuminates, along with LEDs on the earbuds themselves. It’s a subtle touch of flair that adds to the overall cool factor. The lights even pulse for a bit after you close the lid, which is a nice touch.

Now, this design does come with a minor caveat. You need to be a bit more mindful when closing the case, ensuring it’s properly shut before tossing it in your pocket. Otherwise, the “doors” might be prone to damage. But honestly, that’s a small price to pay for such a distinctive and eye-catching design. Nu Republic deserves kudos for thinking outside the box and delivering something truly unique.

Beyond the aesthetics, the earbuds themselves are comfortable and secure. They fit snugly in my ears, and I’ve worn them for hours on end without any discomfort. This is partly due to the variety of ear tip sizes provided, allowing for a customizable fit. I’ve found them to be very secure, even during my daily commute or while running errands. The touch controls are also well-placed and responsive, making it easy to adjust volume, skip tracks, or answer calls without fumbling.

2. Setup

Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 Firefly

Once you remove the earbuds from the case, you need to go to Bluetooth settings on your phone and scan and pair the earbuds, which takes less than a minute. Readers should note that there is no app support for this device. The following are the various touch controls supported by the Cyberstud X4 Firefly:

• Single tap (left earbud): Decrease volume

• Single tap (right earbud): Increase volume

• Single tap for call: Answer / Hang up

• Long press (either bud during an incoming call): Reject

• Double tap (both buds): Play / Pause

• Triple tap (left earbud): Previous song

• Triple tap (right earbud): Next song

• Four taps (left earbud): Voice assistant

• Four taps (right earbud): Music mode

• Long press (either bud): Transparent mode / ANC on / ANC off

3. Audio Performance

Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 Firefly

For music listening, the Cyberstud X4 delivers a balanced sound profile that I really enjoy. The highs are clear, the bass is punchy, and there’s a decent amount of depth to the sound. I’ve listened to a variety of genres, from pop and hip-hop to classical and podcasts, and the earbuds handle them all well. There’s also a dedicated music mode that enhances the listening experience, adding a bit more richness to the sound.

The Cyberstud X4 uses Bluetooth 5.3, which provides a stable and reliable connection. I haven’t experienced any connectivity issues during my testing. The earbuds also feature dual device pairing, allowing me to connect to two devices simultaneously. One feature that’s missing on the device is smart wear detection, which would automatically pause music when I take the earbuds out.

4. Noise Cancellation and Call Quality

Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 Firefly

The noise cancellation on the Cyberstud X4 is quite effective at reducing background noise in moderately noisy environments like cafes or on public transport. While it might not completely block out the world, it definitely helps to create a more immersive listening experience.

Call quality is also good. The earbuds feature environmental noise cancellation (ENC), which helps to minimize background noise during calls. People I’ve spoken to have said that my voice comes through clearly.

5. Battery Life and Charging

Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 Firefly

One of the key features of the Cyberstud X4 is its impressive battery life. I’ve been able to use the earbuds for several days without needing to recharge the case, which is incredibly convenient. As per the brand, X4 along with its case can last for up to 72 hours. Other notable features include fast charging, and IPX5 water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and light rain.

6. Cyberstud X4 Firefly: Price in India

Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 Firefly

The Cyberstud X4 Firefly is available for Rs 1,799 and is available for purchase through company’s official website. It is available through other platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.

Final Thoughts

After using the Nu Republic Cyberstud X4 for a couple of weeks, I’m impressed with its unique gaming-focused design. These earbuds offer a compelling combination of style, comfort, and performance. The distinctive design, combined with long battery life, decent audio performance, and noise cancellation, makes them stand out from the crowd. However, there are a couple of minor points to consider. The unique design, while eye-catching, requires a bit of extra care when closing the case to avoid any accidental damage. Additionally, while the touch controls are generally responsive, accessing some features, like the voice assistant or music mode, can be a bit tricky. They require four taps on the earbuds, which can be challenging to execute consistently, especially when simpler actions like play/pause (double-tap) and next/previous track (triple-tap) are already assigned.

Nevertheless, they offer a well-rounded package of features at a competitive price point. If you’re looking for earbuds that can keep up with your busy lifestyle and make a statement, the Cyberstud X4 is worth considering.

Xiaomi Mi 22.5W Adapter and USB Type-C Cable Bundle on Sale for Rs 599

By

Simranpal Singh

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Nov 7, 2024

Xiaomi is offering a lucrative deal on the Xiaomi Mi 22.5W Adapter and USB Type-C cable for the interested buyers. The bundle is on sale for the price of Rs 599 on Amazon India. It usually retails for more than Rs 700 in India, but the discount on the product is bringing it down to Rs 599. ICICI Amazon Card holders can further get Rs 30 cashback on the purchase of the bundle.

It is a universal adapter and can be used on any device that supports a USB Type-C port. Moreover, if you have another USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable, you can use the adapter without any hassle. The company is advertising its compatibility across all Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO smartphones and other USB-C devices.

The discount is applicable on Amazon India without any coupon or bank discount. If you’re looking to grab a power adapter at a reasonable rate, you should grab it without worrying about anything.

Xiaomi 22.5W Adapter Features

The adapter is Qualcomm Quick Charge 3 supported, offering improved speeds than normal chargers. The 1100 cm Type-C cable is long enough to offer you flexibility and accessibility. It can be used on any smartphone as advised above; however, you should check the official compatibility information on Amazon.

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

Honor Magic 7 Lite appears on Google Play Console revealing design and key specs

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 7, 2024

Honor‘s Magic 7 series, launched earlier this year in China, might be getting a new budget-friendly member – the Magic 7 Lite. Evidence for this Lite variant surfaced after the device was spotted on the Google Play Supported Devices and Play Console databases.

We were expecting the Magic 7 Lite sooner or later as a successor to the Magic 6 Lite. But it seems it won’t be a completely new model as we had hoped.

Honor Magic 7 Lite could be a rebranded phone.

The device was listed in the Play Console database with model number HNBRP-Q1, the same as that of the Honor X9c which recently launched in Malaysia.

The Play Console listing does explicitly identify the device as the Magic 7 Lite, but expect the name, there won’t be much difference in terms of specs. We know that since the Play Console sheds some light on the Magic 7 Lite’s internals as well.

The listing reveals the phone will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, paired with the Adreno 619 GPU and a generous 12GB of RAM. Storage capacity and camera details, however, remain a mystery for now.

The phone also shares the same resolution (1224×2700) as the X9c, adding weight to the possibility that this is a rebranded model. If they are indeed the same, we can expect the Magic 7 Lite to feature a large 6600mAh battery, a 6.78-inch curved OLED display, and a sturdy build rated for 2.2-meter drop resistance.

With the launch of the X9c fresh in mind, it’s tempting to connect the dots and assume the Magic 7 Lite is simply a regional rebrand. However, there’s a chance Honor has some modifications planned for this Lite variant. We’ll have to wait for an official announcement to understand the full picture.

(Via)

Galaxy Ring 2 tipped to launch sooner than expected; Apple may launch a rival as well

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 6, 2024

Plans for the next iteration of Samsung’s Galaxy Ring wearable may be accelerating, according to a recent leak. While the first Galaxy Ring launched in July of this year, a tipster now suggests Samsung might bring the Galaxy Ring 2 to market sooner than expected.

The rumor, originating from a Korean online platform Naver, claims the Galaxy Ring 2 will arrive “a bit earlier” than originally planned. Unfortunately, the source remains silent on the exact timeframe.

Galaxy Ring 2 may launch in January

Launching alongside the Galaxy S25 Ultra in January seems unlikely, while July wouldn’t be significantly earlier than the original Ring’s launch window.

This leaves an open window between these events, but a standalone event for the ring seems out of character for Samsung. With limited details, it’s unclear if Samsung plans a surprise January launch or will stick closer to the original summer window.

If the early launch rumor proves true, though, a January release alongside the Galaxy S25 series could still be possible.

Beyond the launch timeframe, the rumor hints at key improvements for the Galaxy Ring 2. The tipster suggests a slimmer design and an improved battery compared to the original model. The leak also mentions “new features,” but specifics remain under wraps.

Is Apple Ring incoming?

In addition to the Galaxy Ring 2, the tipster reveals Apple’s plans for wearables. Reportedly, Apple is working on a ring-style wearable and exploring both a band-style and smart glass wearable.

The idea of an Apple smart ring isn’t new; Apple has even filed patents for it, as it has for smart glasses. However, we are unsure about the alleged “band-type” wearable—could it be something like Whoop bands?

It’s crucial to remember that this information stems from a single, unverified source. While the details could materialize, it’s equally possible they won’t.

Viewsonic LX700-4K RGB laser projector launched in India with 4K resolution, 240Hz refresh rate

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 6, 2024

Earlier this year, ViewSonic launched its premium projector LX700-4K in the Chinese market. The projector has now arrived in the Indian market. Let’s check out its key specs.

ViewSonic LX700-4K Specifications

The LX700-4K RGB projector features RGB laser technology and is one of the first ceiling-mounted projectors in India. It comes with a “Designed for Xbox” designation, indicating it is optimized for gaming with Xbox consoles.

The projector supports a projection size of up to 300 inches and sports a 4K UHD resolution (3840×2160 pixels). It equips 3,500 ANSI Lumens, ensuring bright and vibrant visuals, and covers 100% of the BT.2020 color range.

The projector comes equipped with compatibility for high dynamic range formats HDR and HLG, featuring a 0.65-inch DMD chip that provides excellent detail and contrast levels. It sports flexible installation options, including a 1.6x zoom, vertical lens shift, and keystone correction, facilitating perfect image alignment.

For gamers, the LX700-4K stands out with its support for 1440p resolution at 120Hz refresh rate, which is optimal for consoles like Xbox X/S and PS5. It also includes features like auto-adjust mode for gaming, ensuring the best settings are applied for optimal gameplay experience.

The projector is equipped with various connectivity options including two HDMI, two USB-A ports, and additional audio and video outputs, enhancing its versatility in setup and use. For audio, the projector supports HDMI eARC, allowing for high-quality audio transmission to an external system via a single HDMI cable.

Additionally, the LX700-4K supports multiple streaming devices such as Google Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, and Fire TV, making it a comprehensive solution for varied media consumption needs. It also includes the WPD-700 Wireless Screen Casting Kit, enabling users to cast content from smartphones to the projector screen without DRM issues.

The projector also features third-generation laser phosphor technology, ensuring a long lifespan of up to 30,000 hours without the need for lamp replacement. It comes with TUV-certified eye protection and an IP6X dustproof rating, making it a reliable and maintenance-friendly option.

Pricing & Availability

The LX700-4K RGB Laser Projector is priced at Rs 4,95,000. Although the exact availability dates have not been announced by ViewSonic, it will soon be available for purchase at major retail outlets across India.

We also recently reviewed the Xgimi MoGo 3 Pro, a super compact Google TV projector. You can find the review here.

Xiaomi fan uses Xiaomi 15 Diamond Edition to propose, receives blessings from CEO Lei Jun

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 6, 2024

In a heartwarming turn of events, a Xiaomi fan recently used the limited-edition Xiaomi 15 Diamond Edition to propose to his partner, and the story didn’t stop there. The fan’s proposal not only captured hearts online but also caught the attention of Xiaomi’s CEO, Lei Jun himself.

How the Xiaomi 15 Diamond Edition Became Part of a Love Story

The fan shared their joyous news on social media, stating, “Lei Jun, the Diamond Edition Xiaomi 15 was put to good use; my boyfriend got one just to propose to me. We Xiaomi fans have grown up and found happiness.” Impressed by the innovative proposal, Lei Jun personally commented to congratulate the couple, adding a touch of warmth with a flower emoji.

The newly engaged fan was overjoyed, responding, “Oh my God, it’s really Lei Jun! So happy, thank you for the blessings, Lei Jun; I’ll always support you.” This unexpected interaction between a tech giant’s CEO and a fan has sparked widespread admiration and discussion online.

Xiaomi introduced the Xiaomi 15 series at the end of last month, which includes the luxurious Xiaomi 15 Diamond Edition. It is distinguished by its unique materials and design elements. It features a back panel made of crocodile-grain leather and also features an actual diamond with 57 facets embedded on the side, adding a touch of opulence.

The camera island also boasts a sparkly texture to enhance its premium look. It comes exclusively in 16GB/512GB configuration and is priced at 5,999 yuan ($836). This edition is available in three colors: Elephant Grey, Orange, and Glacier White. This model is a limited edition, and it’s currently unclear if it will be available outside of China.

The Xiaomi 15 Diamond Edition’s success highlights the growing trend of smartphones becoming more than just functional devices. They’re evolving into lifestyle accessories, capable of capturing special moments and expressing emotions. In this case, a simple smartphone has become a symbol of love and commitment, leaving a lasting impression on the couple and the tech community alike.

Vivo iQOO 13: Ultra-Fast Charging and Pro-Level Display for Power Users

By

Joane

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Nov 6, 2024

Vivo iQOO 13 is designed to deliver high performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and productivity. Powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and Vivo’s self-developed Q2 gaming chip, the iQOO 13 packs advanced features, cutting-edge technology, and an attractive design.

Stunning Display for a Captivating Viewing Experience

The iQOO 13 features a large 6.82-inch 8T LTPO flat display, developed using BOE’s advanced Q10 luminous material. With an impressive 3168×1440 resolution, it supports a smooth 144Hz refresh rate and a rapid 300Hz touch sampling rate, perfect for gaming and fast-paced activities. The screen also boasts a peak brightness of up to 4500 nits, making it easy to view in bright sunlight. For smoother visuals, it incorporates 2592Hz PWM dimming, ensuring comfort even during extended usage.

Power-Packed Performance with Snapdragon 8 Elite and Vivo’s Q2 Chip

At the heart of the iQOO 13 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 4nm chipset with a powerful octa-core CPU clocking up to 4.32GHz. Paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X Ultra RAM, the iQOO 13 can handle demanding tasks and multitasking with ease. The Vivo Q2 gaming chip, specially designed for gaming enthusiasts, ensures smooth performance and enhances in-game experiences by managing graphics and performance seamlessly.

Massive Storage and Robust Battery Life

Storage won’t be an issue with the iQOO 13, offering up to 1TB of UFS 4.1 storage for all your apps, photos, and files. The phone’s large 6150mAh battery supports 120W FlashCharge technology, which can charge the device from empty to full in just 19 minutes. This ultra-fast charging is perfect for users who are constantly on the go.

Camera System for Stunning Photos and Videos

The iQOO 13 comes equipped with a triple rear camera system that includes three 50MP lenses. The primary 50MP sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) ensures clear shots even in low light, while the 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens captures a broader field of view. There’s also a 50MP telephoto portrait lens with f/1.85 aperture for detailed close-ups. On the front, a 32MP camera ensures sharp selfies and video calls.

Advanced Security with Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor

For security, the iQOO 13 uses an ultrasonic 3D wide-area fingerprint sensor, which unlocks the device in just 0.2 seconds. It provides an extra layer of protection and quick access, requiring only one entry to set up.

Connectivity and Gaming Features

Supporting 5G and WiFi 7, the latest wireless standards, iQOO 13 provides fast connectivity. It also includes dual-frequency GPS, an IR blaster, HPUE, and 4×4 MIMO, ensuring a strong connection wherever you are. Gamers will enjoy the dual X-axis motors, upgraded 4D vibration, and dual pressure-sensitive buttons that enhance control for a more immersive experience.

Operating System and Software

Running on Android 15 with Vivo’s custom OriginOS 5.0, the iQOO 13 delivers a clean and user-friendly experience. OriginOS 5.0 introduces full-screen gestures for seamless navigation, enhancing the phone’s overall functionality and productivity.

Key Specs:

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, Vivo Q2 gaming chip
RAM: 12GB/16GB LPDDR5X
Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB UFS 4.1
Display: 6.82-inch LTPO, 3168×1440 resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, 4500 nits peak brightness
Rear Cameras: 50MP (primary) + 50MP (ultra-wide) + 50MP (telephoto)
Front Camera: 32MP
Battery: 6150mAh, 120W FlashCharge
Security: Ultrasonic 3D wide-area fingerprint sensor
Connectivity: 5G, WiFi 7, NFC, IR blaster, dual-frequency GPS

Price and Availability

Vivo iQOO 13 is available at $699.00, providing excellent value for a high-performance smartphone with premium features. It can be purchased through Giztop, making it accessible to customers worldwide.

Get the Best 2024 Black Friday Deals on LONGER Laser Engravers

By

Joane

-

Nov 6, 2024

This holiday season, creative professionals, hobbyists, and small businesses have an exciting opportunity to upgrade their tools with LONGER’s exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. From the beginner-friendly RAY5 20W to the powerful Laser B1 40W, LONGER’s top-quality laser engravers offer unmatched discounts for a limited time. Read on to discover the best deals, model highlights, and how you can win a FREE RAY5 10W laser engraver.

Unbeatable Savings: Up to 64% Off + Special Offers

With savings reaching up to 64%, LONGER’s 2024 Black Friday sale offers one of the best opportunities to acquire high-performance laser engraving and cutting equipment at unbeatable prices.

Discounts up to $1560 on select laser engravers.
The option to add a 500×500 honeycomb panel for only $0.01 with a purchase of the B1 30W Basic model.
30% off all accessories, perfect for enhancing existing projects or exploring new creative avenues.

Additionally, every order placed on Black Friday will enter a raffle to win a FREE LONGER RAY5 10W laser engraver. This exciting opportunity means you can expand your toolset simply by participating in the event!

Featured Models and Best Deals

LONGER Laser B1 30W & 40W

The LONGER Laser B1 series, available in 30W and 40W versions, is ideal for creators and small businesses tackling larger projects. This model stands out for its high speed and capability to handle tough materials like plywood and metal, making it perfect for scaling up business ventures. Shoppers can save up to $1560 on the 40W and up to $1160 on the 30W model, making it the best choice for professional-grade engraving and cutting needs.

LONGER RAY5 20W – Perfect for Beginners

The LONGER RAY5 20W laser engraver is designed for beginners and hobbyists looking to enter laser engraving. With discounts up to $980, the RAY5 starts at just $449.99, offering great value for those who want to explore intricate designs on wood, leather, and acrylic. This model combines accessibility with quality performance, making it a popular choice for new creators.

LONGER Nano Pro 12W – Precision and Versatility

For professionals requiring precision, the LONGER Nano Pro 12W is a compact and portable engraver with powerful capabilities. This model is ideal for detailed work on ceramics, glass, and other fine materials. Starting at $699.99 and offering up to 52% off, the Nano Pro 12W is a versatile tool for anyone prioritizing precision in their creative projects.

Limited-Time Offers – Don’t Miss Out!

LONGER’s 2024 Black Friday deals offer an exceptional chance to elevate your creative projects or business capabilities with top-tier laser engraving technology. With massive savings, exclusive deals on accessories, and a chance to win a free engraver, this sale is an opportunity too good to pass up. Visit Longer3d.com to browse the full range of offers and secure your laser engraver before the deals expire.

Limited-edition G-SHOCK Carbon-Metal Watch launched with “Storm Chaser” Aesthetic

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 6, 2024

Casio has added the limited-edition MTG-B2000YST-1AER to its G-SHOCK lineup, expanding the MT-G series with a watch that balances durability and style. Built with carbon and metal, this model is designed to withstand shocks, centrifugal forces, and vibrations.

The G-Shock MTG-B2000 Special Storm Chaser case is inspired by the work of storm chasers who face extreme weather to gather important data. Built for durability and style, this watch includes a rainbow IP bezel, a multi-layered carbon frame, and a mixed-color resin band that echoes the colors of a stormy sky.

The bezel’s color scheme, with a blend of blue IP and silver IP, reflects a storm’s changing skies. Made from layered carbon and glass fiber, the bezel has a design resembling lightning streaks, and a phosphorescent layer that glows in the dark to suggest flashes of lightning. The soft urethane band, with dark resin shades, is reminiscent of supercell clouds and intense weather patterns.

The MTG-B2000YST-1AER includes scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass with an anti-reflective coating for clear visibility. Its 200-meter water resistance makes it suitable for various water-based activities. The watch also offers practical features like a battery level indicator, a countdown timer, and a 24-hour stopwatch. The watch is quite lightweight, weighing just 104 grams.

The MTG-B2000YST-1AER harnesses solar energy to reduce the need for battery replacements. It also has Bluetooth connectivity that allows users to link the watch to the CASIO WATCHES app, providing automatic time updates, world time display, and other additional features.

Pricing & availability

Currently listed on Casio’s UK website for £1,299.00 (about $1,670), the watch’s US pricing is expected to be around $1,450, though availability in the US is yet to be confirmed.

In related news, Casio will launch its Shiba Inu-inspired G-Shock watch collection in the U.S. in November, following its successful debut in Japan in September. This collection honors the iconic Shiba Inu breed, celebrated for its loyalty and unique appearance.

(via)

Huawei files patent for a new solid-state battery tech

By

Soumyakanti

-

Nov 6, 2024

Huawei is set to make a significant advancement in energy storage with its latest development in solid-state battery technology. The tech giant has recently unveiled a patent for a sulfide-based solid electrolyte, a crucial component for next-generation lithium-ion batteries.

Huawei’s sulfide-based battery patent boosts lifespan, safety

This innovative technology addresses a long-standing challenge in the battery industry: the degradation of liquid electrolytes. By replacing these liquid components with solid electrolytes, Huawei aims to significantly enhance the lifespan, safety, and performance of batteries, particularly for applications like electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems.

The patented sulfide-based solid electrolyte exhibits exceptional properties, including high energy density, rapid charging and discharging capabilities, and excellent low-temperature performance. Moreover, it offers enhanced safety by mitigating the risk of thermal runaway, a common concern with traditional lithium-ion batteries.

This advancement aligns with the global push for sustainable energy solutions and the increasing demand for high-performance batteries. By overcoming the limitations of current battery technologies, Huawei’s solid-state battery innovation has the potential to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources.

As the world transitions towards a more sustainable future, breakthroughs like Huawei’s solid-state battery technology are essential. By addressing the limitations of traditional batteries, this innovation could pave the way for a new era of energy storage solutions.

In the smartphone market, battery innovation is also a hot topic. At this year’s Mobile World Congress, the spotlight was on developing faster-charging, longer-lasting batteries for smartphones.

Companies are exploring materials like lithium-sulfur and graphene to extend battery life. This year most top smartphone companies are using silicon-carbon batteries which offer higher energy density, faster charging, and longer lifespan compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

Meanwhile, a Chinese startup revealed a nuclear battery with the potential to power a smartphone for up to 50 years. The EU has also introduced new standards aimed at encouraging more sustainable and recyclable batteries.

(Via)

iOS 18.2 has a new “Battery Intelligence” feature: Here’s why its a nice addition

By

Debasish

-

Nov 6, 2024

Apple has rolled out the iOS 18.2 beta 2 update for developers, bringing a new battery-focused feature known as “Battery Intelligence”. While still in its testing stages, this feature is expected to make it easier for users to manage their device’s charging process by displaying the estimated time remaining to fully charge the iPhone.

Inside the “Battery Intelligence” feature

According to a report by 9to5Mac, the “Battery Intelligence” feature found in the iOS 18.2 beta 2 is designed to calculate the time required to complete an iPhone’s charge based on the device’s energy intake.

This feature takes into account both the charging rate and user-selected battery level settings. Though currently disabled in the beta, its framework suggests Apple is laying the groundwork for an enhancement that could eventually offer users a more intuitive view of their battery’s charging status.

Although, this feature isn’t entirely new in Apple’s ecosystem. A similar feature on macOS for MacBook users shows an estimated time to reach a full charge when plugged in, a convenience iPhones lack. By integrating this feature on iOS, Apple is likely to improve the charging experience, particularly for users who need a quick estimate for managing their daily device use.

iOS 18’s other battery health features

iOS 18 already introduced several improvements aimed at battery preservation. Users now have the option to limit maximum charge levels to 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% to reduce battery wear over time, a practice many other brands are adopting. This feature is especially beneficial for users who charge their phones overnight—a factor known to degrade battery lifespan.

Additionally, iOS 18 allows users to see when their device has been charged with a slower charger, offering more transparency about charging methods and how they affect the charging time.

Apart from Battery Intelligence, iOS 18.2 is set to bring several AI-driven enhancements across the system. These include ChatGPT integration in Siri, which could expand Siri’s capabilities for natural language understanding and complex query handling. Features like Genmoji and Image Playground add more creativity options, while Image Wand and Visual Intelligence are designed to enhance photo editing and recognition capabilities.

What the upcoming charging feature means for iPhone users

For iPhone users, Battery Intelligence could be a valuable tool for battery management, particularly for those with limited time to charge their devices. The estimated time display may encourage smarter charging habits, helping users avoid scenarios where they unexpectedly run out of battery. By understanding how long a full charge will take, users can plan their usage more effectively, reducing instances of low battery at critical moments.

iOS 18.2 is expected to be released to the public next month.

(Source)

DOOGEE Released Brand New Phones In Global Sources HK ft. Interview

By

Paco Zheng

-

Nov 6, 2024

DOOGEE in Global Sources Hong Kong Show 2024

On 18^th-31st October 2024, DOOGEE brought a lot of new products to the Global Sources Hong Kong Show. Gizmochina was invited there to check out those products, and we interviewed Joyce, the marketing manager of DOOGEE. Here is the video of the tour and the interview. And if you want to read about those products, there are also pictures and short summaries about them down below.

About DOOGEE

DOOGEE is a globally leading rugged smartphone brand established in March 2013. The brand adheres to the core philosophy of “QUALITY, EXPERIENCE,” DOOGEE’s belief is to design a permanently waterproof and indestructible phone. Currently, DOOGEE’s rugged smartphones are working their way down that journey. Most of them possess IP68 or IP69K water & dust resistance, and even MIL-STD-810G certifications, capable of withstanding any weather conditions, impacts, rain, dust, sand, as well as erosion from oil and water.

DOOGEE has developed multiple product lines, including a variety of smartphones with unique features and designs. For instance, DOOGEE DK10 is a flagship outdoor photography phone created in cooperation with Morpho, while DOOGEE T30 Max aims to inspire creativity and maximize productivity. Additionally, DOOGEE has launched several phones such as Spunk, Blade10 Pro, V Max Plus, T30SE, and N55 Pro, covering various fields from party speakers to ultra-thin rugged smartphones.

DOOGEE is also known for its durability, large battery capacity, and unique design elements. Its products are often affordable for most users. DOOGEE is also recognized for its innovation and unique features, such as night vision cameras, thermal imaging cameras, and laser rangefinders. Although DOOGEE may not match some giant brands in terms of performance and cameras, it holds a niche in the smartphone market’s specific segments.

DOOGEE V40 & V40 Pro’s Debut

DOOGEE released its V40 Pro series new rugged phones on Global Sources Hong Kong Show, featuring robust specifications tailored for gaming enthusiasts. The V40 Pro comes with a 6.78-inch FHD+ resolution 120Hz screen, MediaTek Dimensity 7300 CPU, and an impressive 8680mAh battery, ensuring ample power for an extended gaming session. The device also boasts a quad-camera setup on the back with a 200MP main camera, positioning it as a higher-spec option compared to the DOOGEE V40. For more details on the series, please check out the specs we listed down below.

Gizmochina Review team is also doing a comparison between the Standard and the Pro model. If you are interested in the new rugged series, please stay tuned and subscribe to the Gizmochina YouTube channel.

There’re some specs below of the star phones from DOOGEE showcased at the exhibition.

DOOGEE V40 Pro

DOOGEE V40 Pro is inspired by the popularity of E-sports, and that’s why there are some features that just like the gaming phones right now. Here are some specs of it.

Dimension: 183.7 mm*83.9mm*16.3mm
Weight: 536g
Color: Black / Gray
OS: Android 14
CPU: Dimensity 7300, 4m Octa Core / 2.5GHZ
GPU: Arm Mail-G615 GPU
Battery: 8680mAh/ Type-C port / 33W Charger
Memory: 36GB RAM (16GB + 20GB RAM) +512GB ROM
External Storage: T-Flash Card up to 2TB
Rear Camera: Morpho Al Quad Camera(200MP+20MP+8MP +8MP)
Front Camera: 32MP Ultra HD front camera
Display: 6.78″FHD + 120Hz IPS Notch-less Punch Display
Unlock: Face and Fingerprint Unlock
SIM Card: Support 2 SIM Cards+1 TF Card

DOOGEE S200

Another one that caught our attention on the Show was the DOOGEE S200. This model has a mecha-style appearance and a watch-face screen at the back, which not only makes it unique looking, but also adds more functionalities to it. Here are some specs of it.

Dimension: 179.5×82.5×16mm
Weight: 364g
Color: Silver / Dark grey
OS: Android 14
CPU: Dimensity 7050 Octa Core 2.6GHz 6mm
GPU: Arm Mali-G68 MC4
Battery: 10100mAh Large battery/33W
Memory: 32GB RAM (12GB+20GB RAM) +256 ROM
External Storage: T -Flash Card up to 2 TB
Rear Camera: Morpho® Al Triple camera (100MP+20MP+2MP)
Front Camera: 20MP Front Camera

DOOGEE Fire 6 Power

Support flashlight function / Dual light flashlight · 15500mAh Large battery / 18W high power reverse charging
Android 14
50MP AI main camera
2MP Macro camera
8MP Front Camera
20GB RAM (8GB + Up to12GB Extended RAM) / DDR4X
256GB ROM / UFS
Unisoc T606 Octa Core 1.6GHz 12nm
6.56” HD+ IPS Notch-less Punch Display / 90Hz · Side Fingerprint Recognition
Support face unlock
NFC Supports Google Pay
Leather back cover design
Triple Card Slot (Support 2 SIM Cards + 1 TF Card)

For more reviews about the DOOGEE products, please stay tuned to Gizmochina Review and the YouTube Channel.

Logitech G Launches PRO Series Gear with Advanced Features for Gamers and Esports Pros in India

By

Sudhanshu

-

Nov 6, 2024

Logitech G has unveiled its latest PRO Series gaming gear in India, designed to boost performance for esports athletes and competitive gamers. The new lineup features the PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX and PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED gaming mice, along with the PRO X TKL RAPID gaming keyboard.

PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX

The PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX is designed with a right-handed, asymmetrical form, suited to FPS gamers who play titles like Counter-Strike and Valorant. It uses LIGHTSPEED Wireless technology with an 8KHz polling rate, providing fast response times. The HERO 2 sensor ensures accurate tracking, and LIGHTFORCE switches offer consistent clicks with low power usage. Built with sustainability in mind, the mouse includes 55% post-consumer recycled ABS plastic.

PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED

Building on the original PRO Wireless mouse, the PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED features an ambidextrous design with enhanced components. It incorporates LIGHTSPEED Wireless and the HERO 2 sensor for high performance, accommodating various grip styles and suitable for multiple gaming genres.

PRO X TKL RAPID

Logitech G’s first magnetic analog keyboard, the PRO X TKL RAPID, includes adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger functionality for quick, precise inputs. It allows for on-the-fly adjustments without requiring software. The keyboard is also designed with sustainability in mind, featuring post-consumer recycled aluminum and plastic.

Pricing and Availability

PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX: Available in pink, black, and white for Rs. 17,995, with a limited-time Amazon price of Rs. 15,995.
PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED: Available in graphite for Rs. 13,995.
PRO X TKL RAPID: Available in black and white for Rs. 18,995, with availability beginning in December 2024.

In related news, Logitech has launched the M196 wireless Bluetooth mouse in India as a budget-friendly option, priced at Rs 1,125 (around $14). The compact mouse features Bluetooth Low Energy technology with a 10-meter range, 1000 DPI optical tracking, and a 2D scroll wheel for precise control. Powered by a single AA battery, it offers up to 12 months of use.

Xiaomi 15 and Vivo X200 Pro Mini: Different Names, Same Compact Flagship Formula

By

Sean

-

Nov 6, 2024

Vivo and Xiaomi recently unveiled their latest flagship smartphone series in China. While the Xiaomi 15 serves as the base model, it shares striking similarities with Vivo’s X200 Pro Mini. Despite their different branding, both the Xiaomi 15 and Vivo X200 Pro Mini offer the same compact flagship formula. So here are all the similarities between these two premium devices.

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1. Xiaomi 15 and Vivo X200 Pro Mini: The Same Size

X200 Pro Mini

Continuing the legacy of the Xiaomi 14, the vanilla Xiaomi 15 retains a compact 6.36-inch flat LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1.5K resolution, 3200 nits of peak brightness, DC dimming, and minimal bezels. Compared to most flagship phones, this is a noticeably smaller form factor.

On the other hand, the base Vivo X200 still has a taller 6.67-inch screen. However, the Vivo X200 Pro Mini features a smaller 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, HDR10+, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 4500 nits of peak brightness. It’s clear that Vivo wants to target the compact flagship segment with this new model.

2. Cutting Edge Hardware

Xiaomi 15

The Xiaomi 15 series and the Vivo X200 series feature the latest flagship grade processors from Qualcomm and MediaTek respectively. The former is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, which is paired with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage.

Meanwhile, the latter features the new Dimensity 9400 chipset that is coupled with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. It is not just the processors that are getting updated, with battery tech also seeing improvements in both models.

Despite their smaller form factor, the Vivo X200 Pro packs a large 5,700mAh battery pack that supports 90W wired fast charging and 30W wireless fast charging. The Xiaomi 15 has a slightly smaller 5,400mAh cell that also supports 90W wired fast charging. However, the wireless fast charging rate is 50W.

3. Three 50MP Cameras

Xiaomi 15 camera setup

Another aspect of the two small flagship phones are their camera systems. Both models feature three 50MP image sensors for their primary camera, ultra wide angle lens, and a periscope telephoto shooter that offers 3x optical zoom. While these are similar setups, the image sensors are different in both models. The Vivo X200 Pro Mini also arrives with Zeiss branded lenses, while the Xiaomi 15 boasts Leica optics. For selfies and video calls, the Xiaomi 15 and Vivo X200 Pro Mini houses a 32MP shooter.

4. Conclusion

The Xiaomi 15 and Vivo X200 Pro Mini deliver a premium experience in a compact flagship form. With similar triple 50MP camera setups, high-end processors, and similar screens, both models bring top-tier performance in a smaller form factor. Xiaomi’s Leica partnership and Qualcomm chipset contrast with Vivo’s Zeiss lenses and MediaTek processor, offering users two compelling choices in the compact flagship market without compromising on quality or innovation.

Exynos 2500 faces significant production setbacks

By

Debasish

-

Nov 6, 2024

While the Galaxy S25 Ultra is likely to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, Samsung’s plans for the base Galaxy S25 and S25+ models remain unclear. Initially, the Exynos 2500 chip was expected to power some regional variants, but recent reports suggest that production issues with Samsung’s 3nm process may force a shift to alternative processors like MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400.

Production challenges for Exynos 2500

According to a report from Korean media outlet NewsWay, Samsung’s 3nm process yield has fallen below expectations, with a reported yield rate of less than 20%. This low output rate has discouraged Samsung from moving forward with large-scale production of the Exynos 2500 chip, which was initially slated for certain regional versions of the Galaxy S25 series.

The Exynos 2500’s production setbacks could have far-reaching implications. Samsung’s foundry division, already facing substantial financial challenges, could incur significant losses due to this issue, with estimates suggesting losses of up to 1 trillion won in the third quarter of this year alone.

Samsung has traditionally aimed to balance its reliance on third-party chipmakers like Qualcomm by producing its own Exynos processors, but low yields in its 3nm process may prompt a shift toward a more externally sourced chipset strategy.

The low yield rate is not just a challenge for Samsung’s System LSI division (responsible for Exynos chip design) but also impacts other customers dependent on Samsung’s foundries.

This situation has increased speculation about alternative processors, with industry insiders suggesting that Samsung might replace the Exynos 2500 with MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 for the Galaxy S25 and S25+ in specific regions.

In fact, the Dimensity 9400 features performance improvements, power efficiency gains, and advanced AI capabilities that could make it a practical choice for Samsung.

Geekbench appearance of Galaxy S25+

While Samsung is testing the European version of the Galaxy S25+ model with Exynos 2500, this could be a part of an internal evaluation process rather than a final decision. Benchmark scores for the Exynos 2500 also hint at significantly lower performance capability than the Snapdragon flagship. This disparity also raises questions about whether the Exynos 2500 can meet the high-performance expectations associated with Samsung’s flagship lineup.

Ultimately, the final chipset selections may depend on how quickly Samsung can resolve its 3nm yield issues. In the meantime, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite remains the primary candidate for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, while MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 could see an adoption in Samsung’s lineup as a replacement to the Exynos 2500 for the S25 and S25+.

(Via)