While Xiaomi is gearing up for the Xiaomi 15 series launch later this month, its sub-brand Redmi quietly preparing its next move with the Redmi K80 lineup. It is expected to include two models, the vanilla K80 and K80 Pro.
New details about the Redmi K80 Pro have surfaced now, courtesy of a tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS). Although the original Weibo post by DCS has been deleted, we managed to capture a screenshot before it vanished.
Redmi K80 Pro Specifications
DCS suggests the Redmi K80 Pro will sport Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. This isn’t a huge surprise considering the K70 Pro boasts the current top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.
The K80 Pro might also pack a massive 6000mAh silicon battery, a notable upgrade from the K70 Pro’s 5000mAh cell.
DCS also claims the “energy density set a new high”, which likely refers to the battery’s ability to store more power in a smaller space.
Well, silicon batteries are known for higher energy density compared to lithium-based ones, allowing for either a smaller battery with the same capacity or a larger capacity in the same size. This means the device won’t need to be bulkier to accommodate a larger battery.
So a “new high” energy density could mean an even slimmer battery that will also impact the overall thickness of the device.
The K80 Pro is also tipped to support 100W fast charging. A key quality-of-life add-on, however, will be the support for wireless charging that DCS mentions.
If true, this would be a first for the Redmi K-series, offering a convenient way to top up your phone without fumbling with cables.
However, note that these are still rumors. We’ll have to wait for an official announcement from Redmi to confirm these details.
The vivo X200 series is going to be the first flagship based on the just-released Dimensity 9400 chip, which reportedly boasts up to 41% faster peak CPU performance, and 40% faster ray tracing performance. But what about the AI capabilities? Well, the vivo X200 Pro and X200 Pro Mini, which powers the chipset, are currently topping the AI-Benchmark listing.
Interestingly, the third and fourth positions are also occupied by two of the predecessors—the vivo X100 Pro and X100—which are equipped with the Dimensity 9300 chip.
Dimensity 9400 sets a new record in AI performance
For those curious about numbers, the X200 Pro and X200 Pro Mini scored 10132 and 10095 points in the AI benchmark test.
For those unfamiliar with the platform, AI-Benchmark tests and ranks smartphones based on their AI (Artificial Intelligence) performance. It assesses different devices using AI-related tasks, benchmarks their ability to handle machine learning models, and provides a score that reflects their AI performance capabilities.
The D2400 chipset packs MediaTek’s 8th Generation NPU, which enables flagships for the next wave of generative AI innovations. According to the company’s tests, it offers 100% faster diffusion generation performance and 80% faster LLM prompt performance all while consuming 30% less power as compared to its predecessor.
As for the devices, both the X200 Pro and Pro Mini are rumored to pack up to 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The compact flagship uses a 6.3″ 1.5K 120Hz display and packs a 5700mAh battery inside, which supports 90W fast charging.
Alongside the D2400 chip, the X200 series devices (at least the Pro models) also use a V3 imaging chip for better processing of details and color.
Speaking of real-world performance, the Oppo Find X8 Pro, powered by the D2400 chip, has significantly outperformed the iPhone 16 Pro in a 30-minute Genshin Impact gameplay test. Both the flagship lineups from vivo and Oppo are scheduled for launch on October 14 and October 24, respectively.
MediaTek recently unveiled the Dimensity 9400 as its most powerful chipset for mobile devices. The upcoming Vivo X200 series and Oppo Find X8 series will feature the D9400 SoC. The chipset has managed to breach the 3 million mark on AnTuTu, showcasing its remarkable performance. How does it fare against the Apple A18 Pro, which powers models like the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max? This post provides a detailed comparison of these two processors, examining their performance, AI capabilities, power efficiency, and overall impact on the smartphone market.
The MediaTek Dimensity 9400 is built on TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process, featuring an impressive array of cores: one Arm Cortex-X925 core operating at over 3.62GHz, three Cortex-X4 cores, and four Cortex-A720 cores. This configuration offers a 35 percent increase in single-core performance and a 28 percent boost in multi-core performance compared to its predecessor, the Dimensity 9300.
On the other hand, Apple’s A18 Pro is also manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm technology, with a six-core CPU composed of two performance cores clocked at 4.05GHz and four efficiency cores. Apple’s design focuses on balancing power and efficiency, delivering a processor that is both powerful and energy efficient. Benchmarks tests suggest that the A18 Pro can surpass the Dimensity 9400 in single-core performance. However, in multi-core scenarios, the 8-core design of the Dimensity 9400 might give it an edge.
2. Graphics and Gaming
When it comes to graphics and gaming, both chipsets push the boundaries of mobile GPU performance. The Dimensity 9400 features a 12-core Arm Immortalis-G925 GPU, providing a 40 percent boost in ray tracing performance and a 41% increase in peak performance compared to the Dimensity 9300. It also supports HyperEngine technology for super-resolution and improved picture quality, making it a formidable choice for gaming enthusiasts.
The Apple A18 Pro, with its six-core GPU, is nearly 40 percent faster than the GPU in the iPhone 15 series, enhancing the gaming experience and computational photography capabilities. This significant improvement ensures that the A18 Pro remains competitive against the latest Snapdragon processors. Early benchmarks of the D9400 suggest a significant lead over the A18 Pro’s 6-core GPU, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks and gaming.
3. AI Capabilities
AI and machine learning have become crucial in modern smartphones, and both the Dimensity 9400 and A18 Pro excel in this domain. The Dimensity 9400 is equipped with MediaTek’s 8th generation NPU, which introduces industry-first features like on-device LoRA training and high-quality video generation. It is designed to support agentic AI applications, offering up to 80 percent faster performance in large language model (LLM) prompts and 35 percent greater power efficiency compared to the Dimensity 9300.
Apple’s A18 Pro, with its new 16-core neural engine, can perform 35 trillion operations per second, more than doubling the AI processing power of the A16 Bionic. This enhancement allows for faster and more efficient on-device AI tasks, such as computational photography and voice recognition.
4. Power Efficiency
Power efficiency is a critical factor for mobile processors, impacting battery life and overall device performance. The Dimensity 9400 is up to 40 percent more power-efficient than its predecessor, the Dimensity 9300. This improvement translates to longer battery life, even under heavy use.
The Dimensity 9400 and Apple A18 Pro are built on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, but with slight variations. The Dimensity 9400 utilizes TSMC’s N3B process, while the A18 Pro is uses the more advanced and power-efficient N3P process. This could give the A18 Pro an edge in power consumption and thermal management.
5. Additional Features
Beyond raw performance, both processors incorporate features that enhance the overall user experience. The Dimensity 9400 supports HDR video recording throughout the entire zoom range, with MediaTek’s Smooth Zoom technology for capturing moving subjects. It also includes Imagiq 1090 for improved image processing. A refreshed 5G modem with up to 7Gbps sub-6GHz performance, Wi-Fi 7 tri-band MLO support, and MediaTek Xtra Range 3.0 for extended Wi-Fi coverage. Additionally, the Dimensity 9400’s dual SIM dual active (DSDA) capabilities offer greater flexibility for users.
Apple’s A18 Pro likely integrates a custom 5G modem with similar capabilities. Additionally, the new chip continues the tradition of integrating advanced technologies seamlessly into the iOS ecosystem. Its 16-core neural engine enhances on-device AI calculations, making tasks like image processing and real-time language translation more efficient. The A18 Pro’s architecture also supports future-proofing for larger AI models, ensuring the chipset remains relevant as AI technology evolves.
6. Final Thoughts
The Dimensity 9400 and Apple A18 Pro represent the pinnacle of mobile chip technology, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Dimensity 9400 appears to have a significant advantage in GPU performance, potentially making it a better choice for gamers. Its “all-big-core” CPU design and advanced AI capabilities also make it a strong contender.
Apple’s A18 Pro, while potentially lagging in GPU performance, is likely to excel in single-core CPU performance and power efficiency. Its tightly integrated design and optimization within the Apple ecosystem will continue to be a major advantage. Both chipsets cater to different segments of the market, but they share a common goal: delivering unparalleled performance and efficiency to meet the demands of modern smartphone users.
Oppo recently confirmed that the Find X8 series will go official on Oct. 24 in China. The brand is expected to unveil the Find X8, Find X8 Pro, and Find X8 Pro Satellite Communication Version. All three devices will feature the Dimensity 9400 chipset. Additionally, the brand is also working on the Find X8 Ultra and Find N5 foldable phones. Two reliable sources have tipped the launch timeframe for the Find X8 series and Find N5.
Oppo Find X8 Ultra, Find N5 launch timeframe
Oppo Find X8
According to tipster Teme, the Oppo Find X8 Ultra and Find N5 will debut in the first quarter of 2025. It is likely that some markets, such as India, may receive a rebranded version of the Find N5 under the OnePlus Open 2 moniker. The tipster added that the company is testing the N5 with the X8 Ultra’s quad camera setup. However, it is expected that the final device may feature a triple camera setup, similar to the original Find N5.
At present, there is no information about whether the Find X8 Ultra will be released globally. Regarding the Find N5, since the Find N3 was released in China and Southeast Asian markets, it is likely that the Find N5 will be heading to these markets within the said launch timeframe. As per reports, the Find N5 may debut as the world’s first foldable phone powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. The Find X8 Ultra is also expected to feature the same chip.
Find X8, Find X8 Pro global launch soon
According to Ice Universe, the Find X8 and Find X8 Pro will be the world’s first Dimensity 9400-powered phones to hit the global market. The Find X8 and X8 Pro have already been received in multiple markets such as India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Europe. It remains to be seen whether the Find X8 and X8 Pro will be released in global markets within this year.
It’s the last day of Amazon Prime Day in the US and Canada, and sometimes last-minute deals can help in significant savings. Among the abode of exciting deals, both the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 2 are retailing at massive discounted prices of $144 and $109, respectively.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 2 Amazon Prime Deal Explained
If you’re a Samsung user, then grabbing the Galaxy Buds 3 would help you better enjoy the whole ecosystem with premium sound. The Galaxy Buds 3 offers some impeccable features, including Active Noise Cancellation support. The Galaxy Buds 3 usually retails for the price of $209, but the recent Prime Day discount has brought the price down to $144.
Further, the Galaxy Buds 2 is also on sale, and with the recent discounts, the price is down to $109. It usually retails for the price of $149, but it lacks some Windows Quick Connection features. However, other
Galaxy Buds3 Specifications
Driver: 11mm dynamic driver
Battery Life: Up to 6 hours with ANC off (5 hours with ANC on)
Water Resistance: IP57 rated
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4, LE audio, Samsung’s 360 Audio with Auracast
Smartphone sales in India experienced a significant increase during the first wave of the festive season sales between September 26 and October 6, 2024. During this period, Amazon carried out the Amazon Great Indian Sale and Flipkart conducted the Big Billion Days Sale, while other retailers also held concurrent sales events. A survey conducted by TechInsights showed significant growth in India’s smartphone sales during the first wave of the 2024 festive season.
Samsung leads smartphone sales during the festive season sale
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
According to the latest estimates from TechInsights, sales grew by 11 percent year-over-year (YoY). It is important to note that the first wave of the festive season in 2024 lasted 11 days, compared to 7-8 days in the past couple of years. All YoY comparisons are made between the first wave of 2024 and that of 2023.
Samsung emerged as the leader in smartphone sales volume, capturing a 20 percent market share. The company’s top-selling models, such as the Galaxy M35, Galaxy S23, Galaxy A14, and Galaxy S23 FE, contributed significantly to this achievement. According to TechInsights, Samsung’s sales in unit terms grew by 17 percent YoY during the first wave of the 2024 festive season compared to the same period in 2023.
Abhilash Kumar, an industry analyst at TechInsights, commented on Samsung’s performance, stating, “Samsung had fantastic numbers in the first wave of festive season sales. This is driven by attractive deals and price cuts on products across price bands pertaining to Galaxy A, M, and S series. Also, Samsung was the main sponsor for sales events on Flipkart and Amazon, which gave it an additional push. Samsung sales in unit terms grew 17% YoY in 2024’s first wave.”
The growth in smartphone sales can be attributed to several factors. The extended duration of the festive season sales provided consumers with more time to make purchases. Additionally, the aggressive marketing strategies and attractive discounts offered by manufacturers and retailers played a crucial role in driving sales.
Honor is set to launch Tablet GT Pro in China on October 16th, alongside the Honor X60 series smartphones. Although the launch is still a few days away, Honor appears to have accidentally leaked the tablet’s pricing on its official website.
The tablet briefly appeared on Honor Mall, but the company was quick to remove the listing. However, a Weibo user managed to capture a screenshot before it disappeared.
So as you can see above, the listing reveals that the tablet will be priced at 2,899 yuan (about $410) for the 8GB RAM/256GB storage variant with Wi-Fi-only support. The color options listed are Star Black.
Honor Tablet GT Pro: What we know so far
The Honor Tablet GT Pro features a 12.3-inch display with a rear camera and an LED light. Official renders show the tablet with extremely thin bezels and a front-facing selfie camera centered on the left bezel.
The tablet will only support Wi-Fi, meaning no cellular connectivity. It will be available in four memory options: 8GB+128GB, 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, and 16GB+512GB.
Since we know the base model is 8GB+128GB and the leaked price is for the 8GB+256GB version, the starting price for the Honor Tablet GT Pro will be lower than $410.
Moreover, the tablet will come in three color options: Star Black, Moon Shadow White, and GT Blue.
That’s all the information we have about the Honor Tablet GT Pro so far. Key details like the display specs, chipset, and battery capacity are still under wraps.
We are sure, though, that Honor will reveal more details about the tablet leading up to launch. We’ll keep you updated as more details surface.
MediaTek launched its 2024 flagship chipset, the Dimensity 9400, which will power several flagship Android devices launching in October, including the Oppo Find X8 series and vivo X200 series.
Ahead of the launch, Weibo user WhyLab tested the Oppo Find X8 Pro against the iPhone 16 Pro in Genshin Impact. For those unfamiliar, this is a resource intensive game that is often used to measure the raw performance capabilities of flagship devices.
Find X8 Pro sustains peak performance for 30 minutes
It was a 30-minute test, where the Dimensity 9400-powered flagship scored an average of 60.44fps while the iPhone 16 Pro only managed to achieve an average frame rate of 47.48fps. While the iPhone score doesn’t seem too bad, there were some stutters where the frame rate dropped below 35fps. In comparison, the Find X8 Pro only dropped below 50fps for once. This shows how capable the new Dimensity flagship is.
But gaming (or any sustained workload) also highly depends on power efficiency. While the Find X8 Pro reached a temperature of 47.7°C, the iPhone stayed at 45.9°C.
The difference could be due to two main factors. Firstly, the D2400 offers a significantly higher frame rate, which demands more resources. Secondly, the thermal designs of the Oppo Find X8 and iPhone are very different. Oppo’s device uses a more effective heat dissipation system, efficiently transferring heat from the processor to the environment through the surface. Devices with better heat dissipation can actually feel hotter on the surface, even if both generate the same amount of heat.
Based on the combination of battery capacity and battery life on the iPhone 16 Pro we have seen so far, we can say it’s more power efficient. Nonetheless, the Oppo Find X8 Pro is offering a much better gaming experience here.
The Oppo flagship is rumored to pack a 5800 mAh battery and is expected to offer significantly faster charging than the iPhone 16 Pro, making it a better option for those seeking a device tailored to gaming.
In other aspects, the phone packs a 6.82-inch 1.5K micro-curved OLED display and a flagship-grade camera system on the back.
Logitech has launched the POP Icon Keys, a new keyboard designed to combine style with productivity. The keyboard stands out with its bold design, making it a vibrant addition to any workspace. It aims to provide a unique typing experience with responsive, low-profile keys that are both quiet and familiar.
Pop Icon Combo – All color options
The POP Icon Keys come in fresh colors with a transparent finish and a sleek silhouette, ensuring that it enhances and personalizes any desk. The keyboard includes four customizable Action Keys, which can be tailored using the free Logi Options+ app. These keys allow users to save time and work smarter by quickly accessing productivity tools, social media, music, and video apps, or launching AI tools like Logi AI Prompt Builder. Additionally, widely-used one-touch shortcut keys, such as mute, emoji menu, and screenshot, can be personalized to suit individual workflow needs. The keyboard is compatible with multiple operating systems and devices, enabling seamless typing across up to three computers, phones, or tablets.
Pop Icon Combo – Graphite
The POP Icon Combo pairs the keyboard with the POP Mouse, featuring a SmartWheel for precise navigation and Silent Touch Technology that reduces click noise by 90%. The POP Mouse also includes two customizable Action Buttons through the Logi Options+ app, allowing easy toggling between work and leisure modes. With a battery life of up to 24 months, the POP Mouse is designed for long-lasting use and can connect and switch between up to three devices.
Pop Icon Combo – Lilac
The POP Icon Keys and POP Mouse are designed with sustainability in mind, using post-consumer recycled plastic in their parts, ranging from 37% to 70% depending on the color. The paper packaging is sourced from FSC-certified forests and other controlled sources, further reducing the product’s carbon footprint.
Pricing and Availability
The POP Icon Keys will be available in rose/off-white, orange/off-white, graphite/green, lilac/off-white, and graphite/off-white in India this month (October) for Rs 6,695. The POP Icon Keys Combo will be priced at Rs 9,295, and the POP Mouse will be available for Rs 3,595. To complete any desk setup, the Logitech Desk Mat can be purchased for Rs 2,495, matching any aesthetic preference.
Vivo’s previous X-series generation included three models: Vivo X100, X100 Pro, and Vivo X100 Ultra. On October 14, the brand will announce the Vivo X200 and X200 Pro in China, and the Vivo X200 Ultra is expected to debut in January 2025. This time around, the brand has added a new device to the lineup dubbed the Vivo X200 Pro Mini. The device is said to have most of the innards of the X200 Pro in a compact form factor. It will also go official alongside the X200 and X200 Pro in the coming week. The Chinese manufacturer has already rolled an official poster to showcase the rear design and color options of the X200 Pro Mini. Now, the live shots of the device have emerged to give a good look at it design in real.
Vivo X200 Pro Mini live shots
The Vivo X200 Pro Mini can be seen in black, white, green, and pink shades in real-life images. In another image, the device is placed alongside the iPhone 16 Pro. According to reports, the Vivo X200 Pro Mini will have a 6.3-inch display, similar to the iPhone 16 Pro. Therefore, both phones seem to have a similar compact form factor. Like the iPhone, the X200 Pro Mini has flat edges and, on the front, it features a flat screen with ultra-narrow, equal-sized bezels. Certainly, the X200 Pro Mini seems designed to appeal to iPhone buyers.
Vivo X200 Pro Mini specifications (rumored)
According to reports, the Vivo X200 Pro Mini will feature a 6.31-inch OLED LTPO flat display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is expected to have an optical in-screen fingerprint sensor and be powered by the Dimensity 9400 chipset. The device will offer up to 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. A 5,700mAh battery will support 90W wired charging and 30W wireless charging.
The rear camera setup is anticipated to include a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-818 primary sensor, a 50-megapixel Samsung JN1 ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 3x periscope telephoto lens. Additionally, the phone will incorporate the Vivo V3 chip and run on Android 15 with OriginOS 5. The device is expected to have an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. A recent report claimed that it will arrive in three options, such as 12GB+256GB, 16GB+256GB, and 16GB+512GB. These variants are likely to be priced at 4,599 Yuan (~$650), 4,899 Yuan (~$690), and 5,199 Yuan (~$735), respectively.
Xiaomi is expected to launch its upcoming Pad 7 series tablet in China later this month, likely starting with two models: the Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro.
The Pad 7 Pro could be Xiaomi’s first tablet with an OLED display, though it may not offer top-tier performance, as it’s expected to feature a sub-flagship chip, possibly the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.
A new rumor now suggests Xiaomi may also be planning a more premium option, the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra, for users who want a top-of-the-line machine.
Is Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra incoming?
Words for it come from Weibo tipster Smart Pikachu, who briefly mentioned the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra in a new leak. If true, this will be the first Xiaomi tablet with an “Ultra” label.
There’s also mention of Redmi’s gaming tablet, but the tipster didn’t shed light on the specifics of any of these devices.
Given the “Ultra” moniker, Xiaomi is likely to equip the tablet with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, or possibly the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. Additionally, a previous report suggests that the Redmi gaming tablet will also have a Snapdragon 8-series chip.
Smart Pikachu, however, did mention that both the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra and the Redmi gaming tablet will launch early next year.
The Xiaomi Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro are expected to launch alongside the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro. It’s possible that the Pad 7 Ultra and Redmi gaming tablet could debut with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, which is also slated for early next year.
At this stage, there’s very little known about either the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra or the Redmi gaming tablet. Hopefully, more details will emerge in upcoming reports. In the meantime, you can learn more about the Xiaomi Pad 7 here and the Pad 7 Pro here.
Xiaomi‘s Redmi Watch 5 Active has made its debut in several European countries. The Redmi Watch 5 Active, Initially launched on August 27 in India is a budget-friendly smartwatch that offers many attractive features at an attractive price point.
Redmi Watch 5 Active features
The Watch 5 Active has a square dial with curved edges and a physical button on the right side. It sports a large 2-inch display with 500 nits peak brightness for enhanced visibility and a smooth user experience. The smartwatch is water-resistant up to 5ATM and has an IPX8 rating.
Equipped with a 24/7 heart-rate monitor, SpO2 sensor, stress, and sleep trackers, the Watch 5 Active also includes a menstrual cycle tracker for women and a breathing reminder. It supports over 140 sports modes and can automatically detect certain activities.
The smartwatch features a built-in speaker and microphone for Bluetooth voice calls and operates on Xiaomi’s HyperOS, making it the first Redmi wearable to do so. Other features include SOS, privacy lock, theatre mode, torch, find your phone, and built-in Alexa for voice commands. Powered by a 470mAh battery, it offers up to 18 days of battery life on a single charge.
Pricing & availability
The Watch 5 Active is currently available in the Netherlands and Germany for a discounted price of €32.99. In the UK, it can be purchased for £29.99. Other European countries like France and Spain offer the smartwatch at €39.99.
In other news, Huawei will launch its Watch D2 smartwatch in the Philippines on October 14, 2024, with pre-orders already open. Known for its advanced health features, the Watch D2 offers Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) with a built-in micropump and inflatable wrist strap for accurate readings. It also includes ECG, SpO2, heart rate, stress, and skin temperature monitoring through the TruSense system, which tracks nine health metrics with one tap.
EarFun is expanding its range of wireless Bluetooth speakers with the launch of the UBOOM X, designed as a powerful and rugged portable audio solution.
The UBOOM X offers 80 watts of sound through dual 30-watt woofers, 10-watt tweeters, and outward-facing bass radiators. EarFun’s “JumboBass” system delivers enhanced bass performance, catering to users who enjoy deep, rich sound.
To further enhance the listening experience, EarFun worked with Oluv’s Gadgets to create seven custom EQ settings. These can be accessed through the EarFun Audio App, which also offers additional sound customization options.
The speaker features a “Party Connect” mode, allowing up to 50 speakers to sync together, making it ideal for larger gatherings. It also includes dynamic, multi-color LED lights that can be controlled through the app, perfect for nighttime events.
With Bluetooth 5.3, users can expect reliable connectivity, and a battery life of up to 30 hours ensures extended playback. The speaker also functions as a power bank, allowing users to charge their devices, and has a built-in microphone for hands-free calls using Siri or Google Assistant.
Built for outdoor use, the UBOOM X has an IP67 water-resistant rating and is equipped with SweatShield technology for extra durability. It also includes dedicated indoor and outdoor sound modes to adapt to different environments.
Pricing & availability
The EarFun UBOOM X is available now on EarFun’s website and Amazon for $159.99, offering a powerful, versatile, and portable speaker option.
3D scanning has become essential across various industries, such as 3D printing, reverse engineering, healthcare, and AR/VR content creation. Companies and professionals alike are increasingly dependent on accurate 3D scans for applications like prototyping, design validation, and quality control. As demands increase for both efficiency and precision, the market is responding by creating tools that are more adaptable, user-friendly, and capable of handling a wide range of object sizes and complexities.
This need for enhanced versatility and high accuracy has led to the creation of the Creality Raptor X, the world’s first wireless hybrid blue laser line and NIR scanner, designed to meet modern scanning challenges with innovative technology.
Core Technological Innovations of the Raptor X
The Creality Raptor X sets itself apart through its pioneering hybrid system, combining 41 Blue Laser Lines with NIR (Near-Infrared) scanning technology, ensuring both large-scale efficiency and fine-detail accuracy.
Blue Laser Line System:
34 Cross Laser Lines: Designed to scan large objects efficiently, these laser lines allow for quick, seamless scanning of large surfaces, such as automotive parts, mechanical components, or even sculptures. The laser arrangement enables faster data collection without compromising the quality of the captured details.
7 Parallel Laser Lines: This feature is built to scan small, intricate details precisely. Each single laser line can measure features as small as 0.1mm, making it ideal for delicate surfaces or objects with complex geometries, such as jewelry, medical implants, or fine artwork.
NIR (Near-Infrared) Technology:
Markerless Scanning: Traditional scanning systems often require markers to capture accurate data. The Raptor X bypasses this need with its speckle-matching 3D imaging technology, which allows for direct, markerless scanning of feature-rich objects. This saves users time while ensuring accurate scans, especially in sectors like reverse engineering or medical prosthetics.
Face & Body Scanning Algorithm: Equipped with a unique face mapping algorithm, the Raptor X delivers high-quality scans for human body and facial scans—an asset in biometrics, virtual fitting, or VR character creation. The entire process takes just two minutes to complete.
The advanced optical system further supports the device’s accuracy, incorporating a low-distortion lens with less than 5‰ distortion, ensuring that even large depth-of-field scanning results remain true to form. The 9-element glass lens and metal lens housing provide durability and long-term reliability.
Advanced Scanning Capabilities and Accuracy
The Creality Raptor X excels in delivering high scanning accuracy and wide scanning ranges. The system is capable of metrology-grade accuracy, reaching up to 0.02mm precision, making it a valuable asset for industries requiring exact replication of object dimensions, such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing.
Laser Line Scanning Speed: The Raptor X processes data at up to 60 fps, with a remarkable capacity to capture 1,020,000 points per second using its 34 cross-laser lines. This allows for rapid scanning of medium-to-large objects, such as machinery components or architectural models.
NIR Scanning Speed: Complementing the blue laser line scanning, NIR technology supports a scanning speed of 30 fps, making it ideal for quick object captures in feature-heavy environments.
Scan Volume Flexibility: With a scanning volume range from 5mm³ to 4000mm³, the Raptor X can effortlessly switch between small, intricate objects (5mm³) and large-scale items (up to 4000mm³). This versatility ensures applicability across industries, from engineering prototypes to large archaeological finds.
Enhanced User Benefits
The Raptor X delivers clear user advantages in terms of ease of use, speed, and applicability across diverse scenarios.
Wireless and Portable: Weighing just 370g, the Creality Raptor X is designed for mobility. The wireless handle enables seamless scanning without the hassle of cables, making it perfect for on-site work or outdoor scans. Coupled with Wi-Fi 6 technology, users can transmit data at speeds up to 4.7Gbps with a minimal 10mS delay.
Long Battery Life: Equipped with a 35400mWh battery, the scanner offers over 4 hours of uninterrupted scanning, and can charge to 80% in just 1.5 hours, making it ideal for extended fieldwork. The built-in battery indicator ensures users can monitor power levels effectively.
Superior Outdoor Scanning: The blue laser technology is highly resistant to environmental conditions, functioning efficiently even in bright outdoor conditions, up to 100,000 lux for cross-laser line mode. This capability makes it invaluable for construction, heritage conservation, and large-scale environmental scans.
Intuitive Software: The Raptor X is paired with CrealityScan, a highly intuitive software that offers a range of features such as one-click processing, multi-project alignment, and point-cloud editing. The software’s user-friendly interface allows for quick learning and efficient model generation, making it accessible to users with minimal scanning experience.
Material Compatibility: Unlike many scanners that struggle with reflective or dark surfaces, the Raptor X’s advanced scanning system can accurately capture black or metal objects without the need for additional sprays or coatings, providing a hassle-free scanning experience in challenging conditions.
Market Prospects
The Creality Raptor X is poised to capture a significant share of the growing 3D scanning market, driven by its hybrid scanning technology and wireless convenience. The market for high-precision 3D scanning continues to expand as industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and architecture seek tools that deliver fast, accurate, and portable scanning solutions. The combination of blue laser lines and NIR technology gives the Raptor X a distinct competitive advantage in addressing these industry needs.
Looking ahead, the potential for 3D scanning to integrate with emerging technologies like digital twins, AI-driven design, and augmented reality applications positions the Raptor X at the forefront of a technological revolution. Its adaptability to different fields ensures that it will continue to play a critical role in the future of digital 3D modeling and manufacturing innovation.
Early Bird Discount
The Creality Raptor X 3D Scanner is available for pre-order with discounts during the early bird event. The first round of the Creality Raptor X 3D Scanner early bird event runs from October 8, 2024, 02:00 UTC to October 11, 2024, 15:59 UTC, offering a 35% discount.
In EU, Germany, and Spain, it’s priced at €4,699, with a 35% discount dropping it to €3,049. In the US, it’s $4,599, reduced to $2,999. UK buyers can expect £2,629, while in Australia it’s A$5,129.Canada gets it for CA$4,029, and Japan for ¥529,500. Prices rise slightly in the second round of the event.
Creality Raptor X’s innovative features address both precision requirements and the demand for user-friendly solutions, ensuring that it remains a top choice for those who need reliable, high-quality 3D data.
Casio has announced the upcoming release of the DQD-851J-8JF desk clock, which will be available in Japan starting October 25. This clock, with a retro design inspired by the A158 digital wristwatch, captures the familiar shape and vintage style.
While it retains the nostalgic look, the DQD-851J-8JF offers several interesting features. Unlike the wristwatch, this desk clock includes a Wave Ceptor function for automatic time adjustment within Japan, ensuring accurate timekeeping. It also has a built-in thermometer and hygrometer, providing useful information about the environment.
Other key features include a customizable snooze alarm with five sound levels, a 12/24-hour format, a full auto calendar, and a clear display of the date and day. The clock also comes with an amber LED light that provides a soft afterglow for better visibility in low-light conditions.
Measuring 102 x 117 x 48 millimeters and weighing 185 grams, the DQD-851J-8JF runs on two AA batteries, which are expected to last about one year.
It’s worth noting that the Wave Ceptor function is designed for use in Japan, where it picks up radio time signals. In other countries, this feature may not work due to different radio transmitters, though the clock can still be used without it. The table clock is available for pre-order in Japan for ¥4,378.
In other news, Casio is releasing two new G-Shock Full Metal models this October: the GM-B2100SD-1A and GMC-B2100ZE-1A. The GM-B2100SD-1A offers a hybrid analog-digital display, Bluetooth connectivity, solar charging, and enhanced readability with a darker grey background. The GMC-B2100ZE-1A, celebrating Casio’s 50th anniversary, features a black ion-plated bezel with gold accents, Bluetooth, and solar charging, blending a sleek aesthetic with G-Shock’s signature ruggedness.
MediaTek’s new processor Dimensity 8400 has been leaked. This processor is a new SoC, the successor to the Dimensity 8300. People are very curious about what Dimensity 8400 has to offer. The Gizmochina team spotted the Dimensity 8400 in Xiaomi’s HyperOS software. This means that we will see a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO model with Dimensity 8400 to be unveiled in the near future. Also, the testing of new processors by companies like Xiaomi aims to ensure a smooth user experience.
MediaTek Dimensity 8400 appears suddenly in Xiaomi HyperOS
The sudden appearance of the MediaTek Dimensity 8400 in HyperOS took everyone by surprise. This is an indication that a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO model with Dimensity 8400 is being actively tested. What does Dimensity 8400 have to offer? Unfortunately, the specifications of the processor are unknown, but there should be a significant increase in performance and power efficiency compared to Dimensity 8300. Dimensity 8400 has been spotted in HyperOS with the model number “MT6899”. The previous Dimensity 8300 had the model number “MT6897”.
Dimensity 8400 MT6899
This photo shows the model number of the processors. We have listed the model numbers in a way that you can understand them:
Dimensity 8200 – MT6896
Dimensity 8300 – MT6897
Dimensity 8400 – MT6899
Dimensity 9300 – MT6989
Dimensity 9400 – MT6991
Dimensity processors are very fast, and consume less power. With the Dimensity 8400 spotted, we will see many new high-performance smartphones. This is a good development. It’s also worth noting. MediaTek may have accidentally added the Dimensity 8400 to its website. Because, we also spotted the MT6899 model number on the official MediaTek website.
Look carefully at the model numbers on the MediaTek official website, the processors are listed as MT6896, MT6897 and MT6899. We have already prepared a list above and mentioned that these processors are Dimensity 8200, Dimensity 8300, and Dimensity 8400 respectively. So when will Dimensity 8400 be introduced? Unfortunately, we don’t know that. We can only confirm that the processor is being actively tested. We will come to you with new information.
Casio, a well-known Japanese electronics company, experienced a significant cyberattack on October 5th. The company reported that an unidentified third party illegally accessed its network, causing system failures and service disruptions.
G-SHOCK-GMC-B2100
In a statement on October 8th, Casio expressed regret for the inconvenience this has caused to its customers and stakeholders. The company is actively investigating the incident with help from external specialists to assess the extent of the breach and whether any personal or sensitive information was affected. Casio has reported the cyberattack to the appropriate authorities and is taking steps to prevent further unauthorized access to its systems.
The cyberattack has not only caused service disruptions but has also delayed the release of new G-Shock watch models, including the GMC-B2100AD-2A and GMC-B2100D-1A, which were set to launch on October 18th in Japan. The company has not yet provided a new release date, stating it will be announced once the situation is resolved.
Additionally, the attack may impact the launch of the second Casio Watch 50th Anniversary limited series, which features the G-Shock GMC-B2100ZE-1A. Although the company has not confirmed this, the timing of this release could be affected.
Currently, no group has taken responsibility for the cyberattack, and the motive behind the breach is still unclear.
In other news, Casio is launching two new G-Shock Full Metal models in October: the GM-B2100SD-1A and GMC-B2100ZE-1A. The GM-B2100SD-1A features a hybrid analog-digital display, Bluetooth connectivity, solar charging, and improved readability with a darker grey background. The GMC-B2100ZE-1A, marking Casio’s 50th anniversary, has a black ion-plated bezel with gold accents, Bluetooth, and solar charging.
MediaTek just unveiled its next gen flagship chip, the Dimensity 9400. This processor was manufactured on TSMC’s 3nm process and is set to power upcoming premium Android phones, bringing significant improvements in performance across the CPU, GPU, gaming, and AI capabilities. So now, here’s a list of all smartphones that will be powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400.
The first on the list is the Vivo X200 series. The Chinese brand’s X200 lineup will be the first to debut the Dimensity 9400 SoC ahead of any other company’s offerings. Vivo is set to launch the X200 series on 14th October 2024. The lineup will consist of Vivo X200, X200 Pro, and X200 Pro Mini. Notably, there will also be an X200 Pro Satellite Edition, which recently received an impressive AnTuTu score of over 3 million. This is the first Android flagship phone to achieve this milestone.
2. Oppo Find X8 Series
Oppo Find X8 Pro
Oppo has just announced the launch date for its flagship Find X8 series. The lineup consists of the Find X8, Find X8 Pro, and Find X8 Pro Satellite Communication Version. These devices are set to be unveiled later this month on 25th October 2024. These devices will likely take advantage of the AI performance bump in the Dimensity 9400 to bring more AI powered features on the the Find X8 series.
3. Samsung Galaxy S25 Series
Samsung Galaxy S25 Render
Samsung is known to known for releasing its flagship smartphones at the start of the year. Depending on the region, the Galaxy S series features either the Snapdragon chipsets (US and South Korea) or the Exynos processors (Rest of the World). However, in a surprising twist, rumors have claimed that the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ models will be powered by MediaTek Dimensity chips for the first time. The processor in question is rumored to be the Dimensity 9400.
4. iQOO Neo 10 Pro
iQOO Neo 9 Pro
Back in August 2024, known tipster Digital Chat Station revealed the chipsets that will power iQOO’s next gen flagship smartphones. DCS claims that the base iQOO Neo 10 will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. On the other hand, the higher end iQOO Neo 10 Pro is reportedly equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 SoC. To recall, the iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro also packed the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Dimensity 9300 SoCs respectively.
5. Redmi K80 Ultra
Redmi K70 Ultra
Xiaomi is expected to be working on the Redmi K80 series with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. This would mark a performance improvement over its predecessor, the Redmi K70 series, that featured the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. However, the series top end Redmi K70 Ultra model packed the Dimensity 9300+ SoC. So it won’t be surprising if its successor features a new Dimensity flagship chipset. While this is still just speculation at this point, the Redmi K80 Ultra could house the Dimensity 9400 SoC.
Smartphones across almost all price segments are now capable of running high-end games. However, not all of them offer the best experience.
Games generally run better on phones with top-of-the-line chipsets. But that’s not enough for superior mobile gaming sessions.
A number of other factors matter, such as cooling system, display, battery, and more. Smartphones designed specifically for gaming address all of these important factors.
Unfortunately, ‘gaming smartphones’ failed to lure in customers over the years. Thus, the number of options is now limited.
Phones are now an extension of our hands. So people use them for many tasks. Earlier, handsets designed for gaming unsurprisingly solely focused on the gaming aspect. So they were bulky, flashy, and were known for terrible cameras.
They had many shortcomings despite costing as much as regular premium smartphones. Brands have now fixed most of these issues but unfortunately, only a few players remain.
To be precise, there are only two gaming smartphone brands in 2024. These are Asus and Red Magic. Of course, they offer some of the best phones for gaming.
Apart from these two, there are two more brands that deliver on this front. Let’s check out all of these devices.
Asus is the oldest surviving gaming smartphone brand. The PC maker continues to release its annual gaming phones powered by Qualcomm’s flagship chips.
The top-end 2024 model, dubbed as ROG Phone 8 Pro featuring Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, was unveiled in January. Despite being nearly a year old, it continues to be the best gaming smartphone in the world.
There are two primary reasons for this. First of all, it is the only widely available gaming smartphone. Secondly, the hardware and software look and feel like a regular smartphone.
As it is a niche product, Asus charges a premium of $1199.99 but still only guarantees 2 Android updates. The device costs about the same across all markets. But now that it is older by months, you may find it at cheaper prices.
The Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro is the only gaming smartphone with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Though it looks like a standard phone, it retains quirks like pressure-sensitive zones, 341 mini LED programmable matrix, and two USB Type-C ports.
Other notable features include a proper three-lens camera system (wide, ultrawide, and zoom), a 165Hz LTPO AMOLED display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and wireless charging support
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2. Red Magic 9S Pro
The Red Magic 9S Pro costs almost half the price of the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro despite housing an overclocked Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. It starts at $649 but can be availed at lower prices.
However, its availability is limited. Additionally, as a China-focused product, the software can be a hit or miss for the Western audience.
Nevertheless, it is the only gaming smartphone in 2024 that retains some of the yesteryear features. It not only comes with an RGB light strip but also a built-in cooling fan. There are also pressure-sensitive zones and a whopping 6,500mAh battery.
Despite packing some extra goodies, the Red Magic 9S Pro has almost the same thickness and weight as the ROG Phone 8 Pro. The flushed cameras and optional transparent back make it stand out as well.
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3. iQOO 12
The iQOO 12 is not a gaming smartphone but a flagship phone from Vivo’s sub-brand. However, it has gaming chops.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 inside the handset is well-optimized for gaming, unlike any other in its segment. It is also less expensive (~$600) than the previously mentioned ‘gaming smartphones’. Also, its availability is better than that of the Red Magic 9S Pro.
The device comes with a capable three-lens camera system, which could come in handy. Though the battery is only 5,000mAh, there’s support for 120W wired charging.
The iQOO 12 houses a dedicated chip for its 144Hz LTPO AMOLED display to handle refresh rates efficiently while gaming. It also offers customizable vibrations and sound effects for an immersive gaming experience.
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4. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
The Apple A18 Pro inside the iPhone 16 Pro Max is currently the most powerful mobile chip on the market. Also, it is a known fact that iOS apps and games are better optimized compared to their Android counterparts.
Thus, gaming on the iPhone 16 Pro Max is better than on any smartphone despite it being a regular premium phone. It can also run limited AAA titles from consoles, which is not possible on any Android handset.
In fact, you can get a somewhat similar experience even from the vanilla iPhone 16 featuring an A18 chip. But it cannot offer the best experience with its slower 60Hz display and smaller battery.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max does not have the characteristics of a gaming smartphone. Additionally, you cannot sideload games that are not available on first-party app store like on Android. These can be a letdown for pure gamers.
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Anyways, propper gaming smartphones are now more expensive and still come with shortcomings. This makes the iPhone 16 Pro Max at $1199 a better deal. In addition to a solid gaming experience, you get one of the best cameras, a battery, long software support, and much more.
While several Dimensity 9400-powered flagship models from Oppo and vivo are scheduled to launch this month, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4-powered devices like the iQOO 13 and Realme GT7 Pro are expected to arrive slightly later, as the chipset itself is scheduled for release between October 21 and 23. According to previous reports, the GT7 Pro could launch sometime in November. Now, tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed display details of the global variant.
A customized Samsung display for the global version?
The tipster previously revealed that the phone features a 1.5K quad-curved BOE X2 panel. However, in a recent post, he mentioned that the global variant will use a customized Samsung display. Other than that, it packs the same single-point ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, an upgrade over the GT5 Pro’s under-display optical sensor.
While he didn’t reveal much information about the phone, he mentioned that the specifications surpass many high-end flagship models. It hints at another attention-grabbing flagship for the global market.
According to previous rumors, the phone includes a battery with over 6000mAh capacity, the largest in Realme’s history. Not to mention, it’s a silicon-carbon anode battery, which packs a higher energy density and can maintain a sleek and lightweight profile. The phone has already passed 3C certification with a 120W power adapter, however, we aren’t sure about the charging speed.
In terms of configuration, the phone will be available with up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage.
As for the performance, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (or Snapdragon 8 Elite) chipset reportedly uses Qualcomm’s Nuvia CPU architecture and is divided into two clusters—two high-performance cores and six efficient cores. It is expected to offer the same graphics capability as last year’s Dimensity 9300 with half the power consumption. The chipset is based on TSMC’s 3nm process node. Paired with the massive battery, it should deliver significantly longer battery life.
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