Should Nvidia worry as Huawei’s AI Chips rise in China?

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Oct 2, 2024

Huawei is testing its latest AI chip, the Ascend 910C, with potential clients in China. This chip aims to provide a strong alternative to Nvidia’s high-end GPUs, especially after US restrictions limited Nvidia’s sales to China. Samples of the Ascend 910C have been offered to large Chinese server companies for testing and hardware configuration.

The Ascend 910C is an upgraded version of Huawei’s Ascend 910B chip, which has already been used in China as an alternative to Nvidia’s A100 chip in various industries, including AI training.

What is the impact of US Sanctions on Nvidia?

Since August 2022, US sanctions have prohibited Nvidia from selling its A100 and H100 GPUs to China. In response, Nvidia developed modified versions, such as the A800 and H800, but these too faced further export restrictions in 2023. Despite these limitations, Nvidia remains a major player in China’s AI market, with new offerings like the H20, L20, and L2 GPUs.

Nvidia’s H20 chip is expected to generate significant revenue in China, with projected sales of US$12 billion in 2024, despite earlier low demand.

Huawei’s Growing Opportunity in China

The US sanctions on Nvidia have created an opportunity for Huawei to expand its AI infrastructure and computing resources within China. Huawei’s rotating chairman, Eric Xu Zhijun, emphasized that the company has built two computing businesses over the last five years to support the domestic AI industry. This has positioned Huawei as a strong competitor in the AI chip market.

While Huawei’s AI chips, such as the Ascend 910C, show great potential, the company faces challenges. Huawei typically bundles its AI chips with other services like network and storage solutions, which may deter some clients. Additionally, the majority of Huawei’s AI chips in use are still the older 910B models.

However, as the rivalry between Huawei and Nvidia intensifies, Huawei’s continued innovation in AI technology could position it as a key player in China’s AI chip market, particularly as it moves toward self-sufficiency in semiconductor production.

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iPhone users report rapid battery drain issue after iOS 18 update

By

Debasish

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Oct 2, 2024

Some iPhone users have recently reported a noticeable drop in battery life after installing the iOS 18 update, with some experiencing a 20% to 30% reduction within just one hour.

This sudden drop in battery life makes it challenging for users to get through the day on a single charge. This is especially a bad news and a very inconvenient situation for iOS users as none of the iPhones to date offer a respectable charging speed like most of the Android phones in its price range. In fact a significant proportion of iPhone users still charge their phone overnight.

Fortunately, Apple has provided several steps to help users identify and address the cause of battery drain, potentially improving battery performance. For those using the iOS 18 beta, a decline in battery performance is normal, as beta testers previously reported similar issues.

Apple Support notes that even though users can immediately use their iPhones after an update, certain processes continue to run in the background, temporarily affecting battery life and thermal performance. These background tasks may cause the device to consume more power until they are complete.

If you notice a drop in battery performance after installing iOS 18, there’s no need to worry right away. Often, battery optimization stabilizes after a few days as the system adjusts to the new update.

Tips to minimize the rapid battery drain

While iPhones generally optimize battery usage over time, there are a few steps users can take to reduce power consumption:

Enable Auto-Brightness or Auto-Lock: These features help conserve battery by reducing screen brightness and turning off the display when not in use.
Check App Permissions: Some apps may use your location in the background, draining battery life. Reviewing these permissions can help limit unnecessary power usage.
Use Wi-Fi: Whenever possible, connect to Wi-Fi networks as they consume less battery than cellular data.
Turn on Low Power Mode: Low Power Mode conserves battery by disabling non-essential features like background app refresh and visual effects.
To better understand battery usage, go to Settings > Battery and check the Activity and Battery Usage charts. These tools show which apps are consuming the most power, allowing you to make necessary adjustments.

iPhone 16 Pro Max costs nearly one-third of its retail price to manufacture

By

Debasish

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Oct 2, 2024

Market research firm TD Cowen has revealed the total manufacturing cost (bill of materials) of a 256GB iPhone 16 Pro Max, which includes components, product assembly, and packaging. According to their survey, the total cost to manufacture the 256GB version of the iPhone 16 Pro Max is only $485, nearly one-third of the price tag.

The display and rear cameras turns out to be the most expensive

For context, the iPhone 15 Pro Max costs $453 to make, $32 (or 7%) lower than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. As can be seen from the table, the cameras and the display are one of the most expensive components of the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The back camera setup alone accounts for 16% of the total manufacturing cost of the model. The display panel and touchscreen also cost the same as the rear camera system.

In comparison, the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s back camera setup costs $70, 15% of the total manufacturing cost. This could be due to the 12MP ultrawide having a lower price tag than the 48MP one on the latest Pro Max model.

Interestingly, the much more capable A18 Pro chip on the latest iPhone costs only $5 more than the A17 Pro that runs the predecessor. Memory and storage costs also increased by $5 each. The other improvements such as the larger battery reportedly cost the same – $15.

Notably, the bill of materials cost of the standard iPhone 16 has also increased to $416 from $395 of its predecessor. The company has also listed the iPhone 16 for a $100 higher price tag on its website in the US as compared to the iPhone 15.

Speaking of other aspects, all the iPhone 16 series models come with a new Capture button, which makes the camera more accessible. It is also interesting to see the BOM analysis doesn’t even mention the newly added button while a previous report notes that it may cost users as high as $750 to replace.

As of now, the key selling point of the new devices – Apple Intelligence – is currently only available in beta.

OnePlus hit with another sales ban in Germany amid new patent lawsuit

By

Soumyakanti

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Oct 2, 2024

OnePlus smartphones have once again been banned from sale in Germany due to a new patent dispute. This time, the issue stems from a conflict with InterDigital, a company that specializes in research and development of wireless technology, particularly 5G.

Patent dispute halts OnePlus smartphone sales in Germany

InterDigital claims that OnePlus is using its patented technology without proper authorization, resulting in a temporary halt to the sale of OnePlus phones in Germany. However, other OnePlus products such as the OnePlus Pad 2, Buds Pro 3, and Watch 2 remain available on the company’s German website.

This is not the first time OnePlus has faced such challenges in Germany. Earlier this year, the company returned to the market after resolving a long-running patent dispute with Nokia, which had kept OnePlus phones out of the country for nearly two years. That issue was centered around the use of Nokia’s patented mobile technology without proper licensing. Just as OnePlus managed to resolve that conflict, it is now facing another setback, this time with InterDigital.

OnePlus has issued a statement addressing the situation, stating that they highly value intellectual property rights and are committed to resolving the matter with InterDigital through negotiations. The company assured users that existing devices will continue to receive support, and they remain dedicated to the European market despite the current challenges.

While negotiations between OnePlus and InterDigital are ongoing, it is unclear how long it will take to reach a resolution. The previous dispute with Nokia took about two years to resolve, but OnePlus likely hopes to resolve this issue faster, especially with the upcoming launch of the OnePlus 13. The brand could miss out on significant sales opportunities in Germany if the dispute is not resolved soon, particularly with the highly anticipated release of their latest flagship device.

In addition to these legal issues in Germany, OnePlus is also facing potential challenges in India. The All India Mobile Retailers Association (AIMRA) has raised concerns about the brand’s business practices, accusing it of anti-competitive behavior. AIMRA claims that OnePlus and other Chinese smartphone brands are maintaining exclusive distribution agreements that marginalize traditional retailers. This issue could further complicate the company’s operations in key markets.

(Via)

Is Nintendo Switch Lite Still Worth Buying in 2024?

By

Sean

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Oct 2, 2024

When Nintendo announced the Switch Lite, many were disappointed that the company didn’t release a proper sequel to the Switch. Instead, we got a cutdown version that was more affordable. But since its release, gamers have warmed up to it quite a bit. But is it worth buying in 2024? Let’s find out.

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1. Nintendo Switch Lite: What makes it special?

One of the biggest selling points of the Nintendo Switch Lite was its cost. Unlike its elder sibling, it currently sells for under 200 US Dollars. The Nintendo Switch is already more affordable than a PlayStation or Xbox, so the Lite model being cheaper makes it a great entry point to the Nintendo library of games.

The Switch series has often faced criticism for featuring outdated or relatively weaker hardware compared to other handheld consoles. However, you’re not buying the Switch Lite for the performance, it is for its iconic game franchises. Anywhere from Mario to the Legends of Zelda, Nintendo has a powerful lineup exclusive to its platform.

2. Cons of the Switch Lite

For 100 dollars less, the brand did cut certain corners. Thankfully, the Switch Lite offers identical performance to the regular Switch. Both models are equipped with the Nvidia Tegra X1 processor. But the differences are immediately apparent with its design. Nintendo’s Switch Lite features a shorted 5.5-inch LCD panel compared to the 6.2-inch HD LCD screen on the base model.

If you spend a little more, you can even opt for the Switch OLED. Remember the removable controllers that the Switch is known for? The Lite doesn’t offer those either, lacking versatility. So you miss out on some of the charm of certain titles and the IRL multiplayer aspect in some games. Storage also takes a hit with a smaller 32GB onboard storage, which is half of the capacity of the regular Switch.

3. So is the Switch Lite worth buying in 2024?

Despite being a watered down version of the Nintendo Switch, the Switch Lite is an attractive option for entry level gaming. It is especially perfect for those who need an affordable handheld gaming console. Casual gamers looking to experience titles with legendary legacies like Mario can get a cheap entry into the Nintendo universe thanks to the Switch Lite.

While you do miss the removable Joy-Cons, the Switch Lite weighs over 100 grams lighter. This means that holding it in your hand and carrying it around is a breeze. Buyers also get support for digital and physical games, expandable storage, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and Nintendo Switch online. Everything which you also get on the more expensive Switch. To summarize, get the Switch Lite if you’re looking to enter the Nintendo gaming library (One of the best in the market) or get the Switch OLED if you have money to spare. You can even consider waiting for the Switch 2 if you’re a die-hard Nintendo fan, since it is touted to finally get some hardware improvements.

Is the Galaxy S25 the Last of Its Kind? Galaxy S26 Series Could Skip Base Model

By

Sean

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Oct 2, 2024

The Galaxy S25 series is Samsung‘s next gen flagship smartphones. But this new lineup could mark the end of an era. Reports have hinted at the base Galaxy S25 being the last of its kind, with the Galaxy S26 series rumors skipping the base model entirely. So why would Samsung consider this decision? Are compact flagship phones finally dying out? Read on to find out.

Samsung Galaxy S25: The End of an Era?

Samsung typically launches three models from its premium S series lineup. This includes a base, a Plus, and an Ultra variant. All of these have different display sizes with the base being the smallest of the lot. While something like the Galaxy S24 isn’t as popular as the Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24 Ultra, it is one of the only compact flagship phones in the Android segment, competing directly with Apple’s own small phone offerings like the base iPhone 15 or iPhone 16.

According to known tipster Ice Universe, Samsung and Apple have been the two major brands with compact phone models. But the Galaxy S25 could be the last since the gap between the two brands’ phones is large. So he believes that Samsung could readjust the Galaxy S26 series and remove the base Galaxy S26. Meanwhile, the upcoming Oppo Find X8 is set to launch as a new small flagship phone.

Ice Universe states that Samsung will face issues, especially over the next few years, while Apple has a stable footing in this segment. He claims that Chinese brands are also better at making powerful and compact devices, so the Galaxy S25 could already be outdated (sort of) at launch. It is worth noting that this is still just an unconfirmed report and there over a year from the Galaxy S26 series launch. Previously, there were rumors that the Galaxy S25+ wouldn’t launch as well, which turned out to be false. So this could be one of those instances.

Oppo Find X8 Set to Launch in India After Securing New Certifications

By

Sean

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Oct 2, 2024

Oppo is working on its next generation of flagship smartphones dubbed the Find X8 series. But before its official announcement, the upcoming high-end Find X8 was spotted on certification platforms, confirming that it will be launched in India. So here’s what we know so far.

Oppo Find X8 visits BIS & SDPPI

The Chinese smartphone maker has yet to officially confirm the launch event of the Find X8 series. However, fresh certifications have hinted that the global launch might be right around the corner. We say global since the Oppo Find X8 was spotted on India’s BIS as well as Indonesia’s SDPPI database. Oppo Find X8 was listed with the CPH2651 model number. Unfortunately, neither of these certifications reveals any finer details regarding the new flagship phone.

Oppo Find X8 series phone — Oppo Find X8

However, a company official recently confirmed some of its specs on Weibo (a Chinese microblogging website). Zhou Yibao, Head of Oppo Find series, states that the Find X8 series will sport a flat display with minimal and uniform bezels on all sides. The screen will also be surrounded by a metal frame, while its body will be noticeable thinner and lighter than its predecessor. Apart from the design, Zhou also confirmed Find X8’s support for 50W wireless fast charging and reverse wireless charging support. He confirmed that the phone will come with a compatible magnetic protective case in the box.

Certain classic features are also returning like the infrared remote control, smart NFC, three stage mute slider, and more. Other notable features included MediaTek Dimensity 9400 SoC, a large 5,700mAh battery pack, 80W wired fast charging, and up to 16GB of RAM. Oppo Find X8 Pro is set to be unveiled after China’s National Day, which was yesterday. In other words, we can expect to hear more from the brand soon. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more updates.

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus Arrives with Google AI & 15.6″ OLED Screen

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 2, 2024

Google has announced a new Chromebook which is the thinnest and lightest Chromebook Plus model yet. This new model is called the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus and it comes with Google AI features, including Help me read, Live Translate, and more. On a side note, Google has also announced that all Chromebooks will now feature Gemini, Google’s AI platform.

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus features

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is a sleek and lightweight laptop with a 15.6-inch OLED screen, with 400 nits of brightness. The device uses an Intel Core 3 100U processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. It also includes the Quick Insert key, which provides instant access to various tools like editing text, adding links, and finding emojis.

In addition to Quick Insert, Chromebook Plus laptops will have AI features like Help me read, which summarizes PDFs and articles, and Live Translate, which translates content into over 100 languages. The Recorder app also provides AI-powered transcriptions, and new video call features enhance audio and visual quality.

All Chromebooks will now feature Gemini, allowing users to chat and get help with tasks like planning trips and generating images. Google One AI Premium is also available for three months at no cost for new Chromebook purchases.

Other new features include Welcome Recap, which provides a visual overview of recent activity, and Focus, which helps users stay distraction-free. Users can also pin important files to their home screen for easier access.

As for battery life, Samsung promises up to 13 hours of run time on a single charge. This device offers a wide range of ports, including a full-sized HDMI port, a micro SD card slot, two USB Type-C ports, a USB Type-A port, and a combined headphone/microphone jack. The Chromebook is 11.8mm thick and weighs around 1.17 kg.

Pricing & availability

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is available starting at $699 in the US and will be available in some EU markets for €799.

(Source, Samsung PR)

iPhone 17 Pro to offer another button refresh

By

Debasish

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Oct 2, 2024

Apple has introduced a Capture Button across the entire iPhone 16 series, aiming to make the camera more accessible. This design change is notable, as Apple’s innovations are typically exclusive to the Pro models for a few years before reaching the base and Plus models. Now, a new rumor suggests that Apple is working on another button refresh for the iPhone 17 Pro models.

A new button that replaces the volume buttons and the Action button

According to the leak from tipster Majin Bu, Apple will replace the volume buttons and the Action button with a new one that apparently has the technology to replace both. The capture button Apple added this year has a sensitivity feature that can offer multiple controls based on the interaction.

However, details are scarce about the actual functionality of the new button. Majin Bu assumes it will “function as a sort of control for volume, ringtone, and other functions that are currently customizable with the capture button.”

While Apple may change its mind before September 2025 and the new button might not see the light of day, it’s worth noting that Apple has experimented with similar prototypes in the past, aiming to unify the volume buttons. Will the iPhone 17 lineup finally feature these changes in retail units? That remains to be seen.

Speaking of other aspects, the iPhone 17 series will also have a ‘Slim’ model, which could reduce the performance gap between the non-Pro and Pro models. The series could also come with a 2nm chip if TSMC manages to ready its 2nm production line in time. For those unfamiliar, the 2nm process could offer another major improvement in performance and power efficiency, where Apple will be able to implement more AI features that run natively.

A previous rumor also suggests that the non-Pro models may finally get ProMotion support with a 120Hz refresh rate, making an end of the standard 60Hz refresh rate on iPhones.

(Source)

BenQ TK710STi 4K Laser Projector launched in India Rs. 3,59,000, designed for compact living spaces

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Oct 2, 2024

BenQ has unveiled its latest offering in the realm of home entertainment and gaming with the launch of the TK710STi 4K Smart Short Throw Laser Projector. Designed to cater to the needs of users in compact living spaces, this advanced projector combines true 4K UHD resolution, HDR10 support, and an impressive 3,200 ANSI lumens of brightness to deliver stunning visuals even in well-lit environments. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the BenQ TK710ST

BenQ TK710STi specifications and features

BenQ TK710STi 4K Smart Short Throw Laser Projector offers true 4K UHD resolution, supporting HDR10 and providing 3,200 ANSI lumens of brightness. This ensures vivid visuals even in well-lit rooms. Utilizing BenQ’s advanced laser light source technology, the projector achieves a remarkable 600,000:1 contrast ratio and covers 95% of the Rec.709 wide color gamut, delivering exceptional image depth, clarity, and color accuracy.

For gaming enthusiasts, the TK710STi stands out with an input lag as low as 4.16ms, making it ideal for an immersive gaming experience. It supports high frame rates, including 4K at 60Hz, 1440p at 120Hz, and 1080p at 240Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay across different resolutions. Additionally, it features dedicated HDR game modes optimized for RPG and FPS titles, enhancing the gaming experience with greater immersion and responsiveness on a large 4K HDR display.

The projector is designed for small living spaces, capable of projecting a massive 100-inch image from just 5.5 feet away. This short throw capability is complemented by 4-corner correction, 3D keystone correction, and a 1.2x zoom, allowing for flexible and easy installation in various room configurations.

The projector’s built-in Android TV system, including support for Netflix, provides seamless access to a wide range of streaming content. The HDR10 support, high contrast ratio, and wide color gamut contribute to a cinematic experience.

BenQ TK710STi Price in India, availability

The BenQ TK710STi is priced at Rs. 3,59,000. It is available through top home AV integration and smart home automation partners in India. This pricing and distribution strategy ensures that the TK710STi is accessible to consumers looking for a high-performance projector that combines advanced features with ease of installation and use in smaller living spaces.

Vivo V40e First Sale Kicks Off: Special Deals and Full Feature Breakdown

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 2, 2024

Vivo has recently launched its V40e smartphone in India, marking its entry into the mid-range segment. The V40e is now available to purchase in the country with some attractive deals.

Vivo V40e pricing & launch offers

The V40e is priced at Rs. 28,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant and Rs. 30,999 for the 8GB + 256GB model. Online shoppers can avail a flat 10% instant discount using SBI or HDFC Bank cards or a flat 10% exchange bonus. Additionally, customers can enjoy up to 6 months of no-cost EMI.

Offline buyers can benefit from up to 10% instant cashback or a 10% upgrade bonus through V-Upgrade and a free 10-month extended warranty. As a bundled offer, the vivo TWS 3e earbuds are available at a discounted price of INR 1,499.

Vivo V40e specs

The Vivo V40e features a 6.77-inch curved AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10 support. It also includes an in-display fingerprint scanner. The phone boasts a sleek design, with a slim profile and a pill-shaped camera module housing two oblong sensors.

Under the hood, the Vivo V40e runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. It features a heat dissipation system for efficient cooling. A 5,500mAh battery with support for 80W fast charging powers the smartphone. It comes with Android 14 and will receive updates for the next three years.

For photography, the Vivo V40e is equipped with a dual-camera setup, including a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. It also features an Aura Light LED flash, which allows users to adjust the color temperature in low-light conditions. On the front, there’s a 50MP camera for selfies. The camera system includes OIS + EIS, AI eraser, and AI portrait enhancer functionalities.

Is the Vivo V40e worth buying?

The Vivo V40e is a well-balanced mid-range smartphone featuring a sleek design, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset with 8GB of RAM. It delivers reliable everyday performance, a vibrant 6.44-inch AMOLED display, strong battery life with 80W fast charging, and a capable 64MP triple rear camera system along with a 50MP front camera.

However, its gaming performance is average, and it may receive fewer software updates. If you’re looking for a stylish phone with solid cameras for daily use, the V40e is a great option. But for gaming enthusiasts, particularly for titles like BGMI, you might want to explore more powerful alternatives in this price range.

Realme GT 7 Pro to pack largest battery ever seen on a Realme phone

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Oct 2, 2024

Realme is reportedly prepping for the launch of its next flagship offering, the Realme GT 7 Pro. According to a recent report, the company could be aiming for an early November launch in China. This seems possible as the alleged device has already been approved by the country’s 3C certification platform. Now, Digital Chat Station, a well-known leaker, has revealed information about its battery.

Realme GT 7 Pro battery size: What to expect?

According to DCS, the Realme GT 7 Pro will feature a carbon-silicon battery with a capacity exceeding 6,000mAh, making it the largest battery capacity in the history of the Realme brand. Unfortunately, the exact battery size is not known yet.

According to the device’s 3C certification, its retail package may include a 120W charger. To recall, the GT 5 from last year featured a 5,400mAh battery with 100W charging support, despite packing a 120W rapid charger. Since the GT 7 Pro is expected to pack a silicon carbon battery, it is expected to arrive with a significant increase in battery size. Like the GT 5 Pro, the successor edition may also support 50W wireless charging.

The GT 7 Pro’s upgraded battery size and charging capabilities will solidify Realme’s position in the high-performance smartphone market by meeting users’ dual demands for long battery life and fast charging. The inclusion of the Snapdragon 8 Elite (Snapdragon 8 Gen 4) chip further strengthens Realme’s standing in the high-performance smartphone segment.

Regarding other specifications, the GT 7 Pro is expected to come with a 6.78-inch BOE screen, offering a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a micro-quad-curved design. It is expected to arrive with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint scanner, and an IP69-rated chassis. It may feature a 32-megapixel front camera and a rear camera setup equipped with an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel main camera, an ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel LYT-600 periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.

Tecno Spark 30C 5G: 5 key features to know before October 8 India launch

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Oct 2, 2024

Tecno has recently launched a couple of Spark-branded phones in different markets. While India received the entry-level Spark Go 1, the brand has also launched Spark 30 (4G) and Spark 30C (4G) in other markets. Now, the brand is gearing up to unveil the Spark 30C 5G on Oct. 8 in India. The company’s official website has listed the smartphone, providing nearly all its details. Here’s a look at the top 5 features of the Spark 30C 5G.

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1. Tecno Spark 30C 5G: Attractive design

The official images suggest that the Tecno Spark 30C 5G draws inspiration from the previous Xiaomi 11 Lite series. Nevertheless, the device features a punch-hole screen on the front with support for wet and oily touch. On the back, there is a squircle camera module that houses a single camera and a ring LED flash. Finally, it comes with an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. The above image suggests that the company Transformers the Spark 30C 5G variant. The official listing states that the handset comes in shades such as Azure Sky (blue), Aurora Cloud (white), and Midnight Shadow (black).

2. Tecno Spark 30C 5G: Decent performance

The Dimensity 6300 5G has now become a go-to chip when it comes to 5G support on budget phones. The reliable chip also powers the Spark 30C 5G.

The handset offers 4 GB of RAM, 4 GB of virtual RAM, and 64GB / 128 GB of storage. It houses a 5,000mAh battery with 18W charging support.

3. Tecno Spark 30C 5G: Stellar primary camera

The 48-megapixel Sony camera on the back is one of the major attractions of the Spark 30C 5G. A triple LED flash accompanies the rear camera. On the front, it has an 8-megapixel selfie camera with dual LED flash.

4. Tecno Spark 30C 5G: Good for Binge Watching

The Tecno Spark 30C 5G features a 6.67-inch HD+ LCD screen. With support for a 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Atmos-powered dual speakers, this handset promises an excellent binge-watching experience.

5. Tecno Spark 30C 5G: Other essentials

Tecno has packed the Spark 30C 5G with a few other nifty features, such as NFC support and an IR blaster. It features a side-facing fingerprint sensor for security. While there is no information about its price, it is likely to cost around Rs 10,000 (~$120) in India.

New research reveals the mental load exerted on professionals using multiple devices

By

Debasish

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Oct 2, 2024

A new study commissioned by Honor has highlighted the growing strain that modern technology places on professionals across Europe. The research surveyed 8,000 office workers and found that many are feeling overwhelmed by the number of devices and notifications they encounter daily.

The average office worker relies on three devices throughout the day

On average, workers rely on three devices throughout their workday, including laptops, tablets, headphones, and sometimes multiple phones. While these gadgets are integral to their lives, they are also causing stress, with 25% of respondents feeling overwhelmed by the number of notifications they receive. Moreover, 1 in 7 said they handle over 30 notifications daily, making it difficult to focus and manage tasks efficiently.

Many professionals find themselves carrying multiple devices to and from the office. A staggering 67% revealed that hybrid working models lead them to transport more tech, with commuters carrying an average of 4.1 kg in their bags—equivalent to the weight of an air fryer. This has raised concerns among 12% of respondents, who worry about the potential negative health impacts of lugging around so much tech.

The findings also showed a clear demand for a more streamlined tech experience. 52% of those surveyed said they would be willing to pay a premium for a single device that could replace their array of gadgets, and 1 in 5 expressed a desire to carry just one device for all their needs.

Foldable phones, like the Honor Magic V3, appear to be an appealing solution, with 1 in 7 respondents believing such a device would simplify their lives.

HONOR’s President of EU, Tony Ran, responded to the findings, noting that professionals are burdened by their devices both “literally and figuratively.” He emphasized that abandoning technology is not an option, but innovation is key to easing or reducing the mental load. The Honor Magic V3, designed with a slim and lightweight build, aims to meet this need by offering a durable, multi-functional device that reduces the need for multiple gadgets.

This study underscores the growing trend among professionals toward seeking simpler, more integrated technology solutions to manage the demands of modern work life.

Upcoming Oppo K12 Plus’ full specifications leaked, official image appears to reveal design

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Oct 2, 2024

Oppo is reportedly working on a new K-series phone for the Chinese market. Rumor has it that the upcoming Oppo PKS110 smartphone, recently approved by China’s radio certification platform and spotted in Geekbench’s database, could be the upcoming Oppo K12 Plus. The same device has now appeared in TENAA’s database, revealing its entire specifications.

Oppo K12 Plus specifications (rumored)

According to the K12 Plus’ TENAA listing, it features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display that produces an FHD+ resolution. The listing does not mention it, but it appears that the screen offers a 120Hz refresh rate. It will feature an in-screen fingerprint sensor for security.

The listing indicates that a 2.4GHz octa-core chip powers the Oppo K12 Plus. Its Geekbench listing has already revealed that it features the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3. The handset is expected to arrive in 8 GB / 12 GB RAM variants and 256 GB / 512 GB storage options in China. The device is expected to pack a 6,400mAh battery (typical value) with 80W charging. However, the TENAA only mentions the rated value of the battery as 6,220mAh.

The Oppo K12 Plus will have a 16-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. On the back, it has a 50-megapixel primary camera and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The phone is expected to run on ColorOS 14-based Android 14. The device will measure 162.47 x 75.33 x 8.37 mm and weigh 193 grams. The images of the phone have not appeared in TENAA’s database. However, an Oppo executive has already shared an official image of the phone to showcase the K12 Plus’ rear design. The phone’s design is consistent with other K-series phones announced earlier this year.

To recall, the Oppo K12 and K12x released in China earlier this year were rebadged as the OnePlus Nord CE 4 and the Nord CE 4 Lite globally. At present, there is no clarity on whether there will be a K12 Plus’ renamed version for the global market.

We have the first gaming results for a native HarmonyOS NEXT game, and they are surprising

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Oct 2, 2024

With the public beta rollout of HarmonyOS NEXT just around the corner (October 8th), gamers on Huawei devices finally have something to look forward to.

Tencent, the gaming giant, has released native HarmonyOS NEXT versions of its two popular titles – PUBG Mobile and Honor of Kings.

These games are currently in closed beta testing, but a Weibo user, Jerroid_Tech, has given us a preview of how the native HarmonyOS NEXT version of Honor of Kings performs. The good news? Its performance appears to match what high-end Android phones deliver.

Native HarmonyOS NEXT game delivers performance as good as flagship Android phones

The test focused on demanding gameplay conditions. Jerroid_Tech used Sima Yi, a hero with a wide field of view, in a 15-minute, 5v5 ranked match with frequent team fights. The game ran at HD graphics settings and 1080p resolution on a Pura 70 Pro+ powered by the Kirin 9010 processor.

Despite these demanding settings, the HarmonyOS NEXT version of Honor of Kings maintained a smooth average frame rate of 120.73. Jerroid_Tech mentions the game even has water surface reflection effects enabled, which puts extra strain on the GPU. Still, the performance remained impressive.

On the thermal side, the peak temperature reached 48.07°C on the back of the phone and 43.2°C on the front. The game consumed 4.9W of power and used 2.45GB of RAM during gameplay.

Although there’s no mention of frame rate drops or stutters, the test shows the phone can deliver a smooth gaming experience. While there’s no direct comparison with Android phones yet, we can tell that these results are comparable to flagship devices running the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. Also, it’s important to remember this is a preview version, not the final public release.

So, should you be hyped?

Based on this limited test, the native HarmonyOS NEXT games seem capable of offering a gameplay experience and performance on par with high-end Android devices, even in demanding situations.

This is a promising sign for new operating system, and especially for mobile gamers with Huawei phones. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is just a single test of a closed beta version.

We’ll need to wait for the wider rollout to see how Honor of Kings and other games perform on HarmonyOS NEXT across a broader range of devices in real-world scenarios.

(Source)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K retailing at the lowest price in the US

By

Simranpal Singh

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Oct 2, 2024

The Amazon Prime Day sale is yet a week away, well, the essence of the season’s finest sale is already up among some of Amazon’s products. The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K retails at the lowest price of $24.99 in the US. It is over 50% off, as its usual retail price is around $50. Additionally, Amazon is hosting the Prime Day Sale in the US from October 8th.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is going on sale for the price of $24.99 and the users can grab it from Amazon at the discounted price. The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is also down to $34.99, which is $25 off its usual price. It is worth considering the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max if you’re able to spend $10 more.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and the Fire TV Stick 4K Max differ significantly in terms of streaming capabilities. The Fire TV Stick 4K features a quad-core 1.7 GHz processor, 1.5 GB of RAM, and Wi-Fi 6. It is typically priced at approximately $49.99. It offers support for 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision, HDR, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos sound. Conversely, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max boasts a speedier quad-core 2.0 GHz processor, 2 GB RAM, and Wi-Fi 6E for improved connectivity.

The standard 4K version includes all of the same features as this one, as well as HDMI ARC, Live View Picture-in-Picture, and Auto Low Latency Mode for games. Extra controls are also included on the remote to facilitate operations. Nevertheless, the 4K Max is an ideal choice for gamers and streamers who desire the most advanced experience, as it offers superior performance and a broader range of features, all at a cost of approximately $59.99. If you are on a limited budget, the Fire TV Stick 4K remains a viable option for high-quality 4K streaming.

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Huawei Hi Matebook could be the first laptop to feature HarmonyOS

By

Soumyakanti

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Oct 1, 2024

Huawei is rumored to be preparing the launch of a new laptop under the name Hi Matebook as part of its Smart Selection lineup, with the release expected to take place later this month. This information comes from the tech blogger @Uncle Looking at Mountains, who shared details about Huawei’s upcoming product announcements for October.

Huawei-matebook-x-pro-ultra-premium-edition — MateBook X Pro

The laptop is expected to launch this month

According to the blogger, Huawei will roll out new products in two phases. The first phase is expected to include the Nova 13 smartphone, the latest version of HarmonyOS, and the Huawei Watch Ultimate Green Edition. These products could be unveiled around October 15. The second phase is likely to feature the MatePad 2024 tablet and the highly anticipated Smart Selection Hi Matebook laptop, with a possible launch date around October 22.

Huawei mostly launches these Hi Smart Selection products under the Wiko brand. Recently, they introduced the Wiko Hi GT Cube external GPU to complement the MateBook GT 14, which lacks a dedicated GPU. The eGPU is equipped with an AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT and also functions as a charger, providing up to 100W of power output.

In addition to the laptop, there has been speculation about a mysterious “X Project,” which the blogger mentioned could be tied to the Smart Selection PC. Initially, it was believed that the HarmonyOS PC might not arrive for at least another year, but if the X Project refers to this new product, it could mean that a HarmonyOS-based laptop might launch within the next six months.

This timeline aligns with recent comments made by Huawei’s Executive Director, Richard Yu. He stated that the current batch of Huawei PCs could be the last to run Windows due to ongoing sanctions. He hinted that future Huawei PC products would likely run on HarmonyOS, marking a significant shift in the company’s software strategy.

As Huawei continues to expand its ecosystem, the introduction of the “Hi Matebook” and other products under the Smart Selection range could play a key role in the company’s strategy to reduce reliance on foreign technology, particularly with the expected transition to HarmonyOS in future devices.

(Via)

Android 16 is called Baklava, not something starting with ‘W’ — Here’s why it makes sense

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Oct 1, 2024

It seems Google is planning a surprise with the upcoming Android 16 update. According to a new report from Android Authority, the internal codename for the OS is “Baklava,” a surprise departure from the company’s longstanding tradition of naming Android versions with dessert-themed names.

For years, Google has stuck to an alphabetical dessert naming scheme for Android. From Cupcake (Android 1.5) to recent names like Upside Down Cake (Android 14) and Vanilla Ice Cream (Android 15), these codenames have offered a fun way to track the OS’s development.

But the company is now making a sudden switch to the name “Baklava”, which is a flaky pastry staple from the Middle East. Why though?

We don’t exactly know, to be honest. But this isn’t Google ditching desserts entirely – Baklava still fits the theme. It’s just that everyone expected something starting with “W,” like Waffle Sundae or Whoopie Pie.

Android 16 will be called Baklava, internally

The name for the next Android version was scooped from the code references within the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code.

In the AOSP, the min_sdk_version field is currently set to name “Baklava”, just as it was set to “VanillaIceCream” for Android 15. Google changed the name from VanillaIceCream to Android 15 when the OS reached its first Platform Stability milestone. So we are expecting something similar for Android 16.

Interestingly, a Google engineer also accidentally confirmed the Android 16 codename by adding a check to see if the build’s platform SDK codename matched Baklava.

Why did Google choose Baklava for Android 16?

The change could likely be due to Google’s new development process of Android OS, introduced with Android 14. For those unfamiliar, Google began using a “Trunk Stable” project to develop new Android versions.

The first release under this project was Android 14 QPR2 in March, which introduced a new build ID naming system. Instead of starting with “U” for Upside Down Cake, the build IDs began with “A.”

For example, the build ID for the Pixel Tablet’s March update was AP1A.240305.019.A1. Its June update, based on Android 14 QPR3, had the build ID AP2A.240605.024.

The October update, based on Android 15, will likely follow with a build ID like AP3A.241005.0XX. Similarly, the Android 15 QPR1 update expected in December should have a build ID like AP4A.241205.0XX.

Next year’s Android releases will use build IDs starting with “B,” meaning Android 15 QPR2 build IDs will likely look like BP1A, and so on. This explains why Google chose “Baklava” as the codename for Android 16 instead of something beginning with “W.”

Honor could be making a multi-directional foldable phone

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Oct 1, 2024

The foldable phone market is still finding its footing, but innovation keeps pushing the boundaries. We recently saw Huawei’s tri-fold phone, and now, whispers suggest Honor might be exploring even wilder territory.

According to a patent spotted by 91mobiles, Honor might be working on a foldable phone that defies the limitations of current models. Unlike existing foldables that bend in just one direction (think book-style or clamshell), this one seems to boast a multi-directional folding mechanism.

Honor could be making a multi-directional foldable phone

The patent diagrams show a device with multiple rotating shafts, allowing the display to fold in various directions. While the exact functionality remains unclear, it could be that foldables won’t be restricted to a single-fold pattern.

The patent also depicts several variations of this mechanism, all featuring a central connecting element. This could be a way to maintain structural integrity despite the increased folding complexity.

Now, it’s important to remember that this is just a patent. There’s no guarantee Honor will actually develop or launch such a device. The foldable market is still a niche with premium price tags.

Tri-folding phones like the rumored Honor model and Huawei’s Mate XT series are likely the next step in this evolution, offering a larger unfolded screen while remaining somewhat compact when folded. Reports even suggest Honor’s tri-fold might be thinner than the already impressively slim Mate XT Ultimate.

But the multi-directional folding patent sparks curiosity. It raises questions about the potential benefits and challenges of such a design. Would it be more versatile but less durable? How would the user interface adapt to these multi-form configurations?

Only time will tell if Honor brings this futuristic folding concept to life. For now, it is a reminder that the foldable phone market is far from settled, and innovative ideas are still bubbling away in the background.