5 Best OnePlus 12R Alternatives: More Value, Similar Pricing

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Sep 7, 2024

The OnePlus 12R arrived earlier this year, rocking a flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, high-quality screen, 50MP triple rear cameras, and super-fast charging support.

The base variant with 8GB RAM is currently available for Rs. 37,999 and goes all the way up to 45,999 for the top-end model with 16GB RAM. The OnePlus “R” models are usually a trimmed version of a regular model at a discounted price. They offer a good value for the money. But in the case of OnePlus 12R, there are better alternatives from competitor brands that deliver more value at a similar price point.

If you are considering the OnePlus 12R, make sure to check out these alternatives to make a better purchase decision.

Let’s quickly go through the OnePlus 12R spec sheet first:

OnePlus 12R
Body	163.3 ×75.3 × 8.8 mm 207 g
Display	6.78″ LTPO4 AMOLED ProXDR display 1264 x 2780 pixels resolution 120Hz dynamic refresh rate HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 4500 nits (peak)
Chip	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm) Adreno 740 GPU
Rear camera	50MP (main) – OIS, f/1.8, 1/1.56″ 8MP (ultrawide) – f/2.2, 112° FOV 2MP (macro) – f/2.4 Video: 4K/1080p/720p @ 30/60fps
Front camera	16MP – f/2.4, 89.6° FOV Video: 1080p/720p @ 30fps
RAM/storage	8GB/16GB LPDDR5X RAM 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 storage
Battery	5,500mAh capacity 100W (wired)
Software	Android 14, OxygenOS 14 3 Android upgrades
Connectivity	5G/4G/3G/2G Wi-Fi 7 Bluetooth 5.3 NFC (supported)

1. Xiaomi 14 Civi

Xiaomi 14 Civi
Body	157.2 x 72.8 x (7.5-7.7) mm 177.6-179.3 g
Display	6.55″ 120Hz Quad Curved AMOLED screen 1236 x 2750 pixels resolution HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 3000nits (peak)
Chip	Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (4nm) Adreno 735 GPU
Rear camera	50MP (main) – OIS, f/1.63, 1/1.55″ 50MP (telephoto)- f/2.0, 2x optical zoom 12MP (ultrawide) – f/2.2, 120° FOV Video: 4K @ 24/30/60fps, 1080p @ 30/60fps
Front camera	32MP (wide) – f/2.0, 78° FOV 32MP (ultrawide) – f/2.4, 100° FOV Video: 4K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 30/60fps
RAM/Storage	8GB/12GB LPDDR5X RAM 256GB/512GB UFS 4.0 storage
Battery	4,700mAh battery 67W charging
Software	Android 14, HyperOS 3 Android upgrades
Connectivity	5G/4G/3G/2G Bluetooth 5.4 Wi-Fi 6, NFC USB Type-C 2.0

Xiaomi 14 Civi (review) is the best alternative to the OnePlus 12R, but you’ll have to spend a little more to get this powerful package.

It is powered by a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip — a more powerful chip than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 inside the OnePlus 12R. So you’ll have a smoother experience and better gaming.

Xiaomi 14 Civi is a compact flagship phone, so you don’t get a big display. It’s a little shorter than the OnePlus 12R but has more pixels and produces 68 times more colours. Notably, the OnePlus device has higher peak brightness, but the 3000 nits on the Xiaomi phone should be enough for good visibility outdoors.

Both devices have necessary connectivity features, but the OnePlus phone supports a newer Wi-Fi standard but lacks Bluetooth 5.4 support, which is available on the Xiaomi 12R. The Xiaomi 14 Civi has the disadvantage of having less battery capacity and a slower charging speed than the OnePlus 12R.

Besides performance, the Xiaomi 14 Civi truly outshines the OnePlus 12R in the camera department. The smartphone boasts a triple rear camera setup led by a 50MP primary sensor. The other two sensors include a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom and a 12MP ultrawide lens with a 120-degree field of view.

For selfies, the Xiaomi phone features two 32MP sensors. It can record up to 4K videos using both the rear and front cameras, while the OnePlus phone can only record 4K videos with its rear camera.

Both smartphones ship with Android 14 out of the box and have the same software update policy — 3 years of OS updates and 4 years of security patches.

Preview	Product
	XIAOMI 14 CIVI (Shadow Black, 256 GB) (8 GB RAM)	Check Price on Amazon

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2. Realme GT 6

Realme GT 6
Body	162 x 75.1 x 8.65mm 199g
Display	6.78″ 120Hz LTPO AMOLED screen 1264 x 2780 pixels resolution HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 6000nits (peak) Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2
Chip	Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (4nm) Adreno 735 GPU
Rear camera	50MP (main) – OIS, f/1.69, 1/1.4″, 85° FOV 50MP (telephoto)- f/2.0, 1/2.8″ 8MP (ultrawide) – f/2.2, 1/4″, 112° FOV Video: 4K/1080p/720p @ 30/60fps
Front camera	32MP (wide) – f/2.45, 90° FOV Video: 4K/1080p/720p @ 30fps
RAM/Storage	8GB/12GB/16GB LPDDR5X RAM 256GB/512GB UFS 4.0 storage
Battery	5,500mAh capacity 120W wired charging
Software	Android 14, Realme UI 5.0 3 Android upgrades
Connectivity	5G/4G/3G/2G Bluetooth 5.4 Wi-Fi 6, NFC USB Type-C 2.0

Realme GT 6 is also powered by the flagship Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip that delivers smoother performance than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered OnePlus 12R.

The Realme phone has the same screen size and resolution as the OnePlus 12R, although it has a much higher peak brightness of 6000 nits (vs. 4500 nits on the OnePlus 12R). Both have LTPO support for variable refresh rates and have Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection.

Both smartphones have a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide lens. The third rear camera on the Realme GT 6 is a 50MP telephoto lens, while the OnePlus 12R has a 2MP macro sensor, which adds little to no value to the camera setup.

Both devices take good shots using their primary camera, but the zoom shots are better on the Realme device, thanks to the telephoto lens. Overall, the Realme GT 6 has a better rear camera setup. It has a 32MP sensor with up to 4K video recording support, while the OnePlus 12R can only record 1080p videos with its selfie camera.

The OnePlus 12R and Realme GT 6 have 5,500mAh battery. However, the Realme phone supports a faster charging of 120W (vs. 100W on the OnePlus 12R).

Overall, the Realme GT 6 offers much better value than the OnePlus 12R.

Preview	Product
	realme GT 6T 5G (Fluid Silver,8GB RAM+128GB Storage) \| India’s 1st 7+ Gen 3 Flagship Chipset \|…	Check Price on Amazon

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3. Vivo X90

Vivo X90
Body	164.1 x 74.4 x 8.5mm 200g
Display	6.78″ 120Hz AMOLED screen 1260 x 2800 pixels resolution HDR10+, 452 PPI SCHOTT Xensation Alpha protection
Chip	MediaTek Dimensity 9200 (4nm) Immortalis-G715 MC11 GPU
Rear camera	50MP (main) – OIS, f/1.8, 1/1.49″ 12MP (telephoto) – f/2.0, 2x optical zoom Video: 4K/1080p/720p @ 30/60fps
Front camera	32MP – f/2.5 Video: 1080p/720p @ 30/60fps
RAM/Storage	8GB/12GB LPDDR5 RAM 256GB UFS 4.0 storage
Battery	4,810mAh capacity 120W (wired)
Software	Android 13, Funtoch OS 13 3 Android upgrades
Connectivity	5G/4G/3G/2G Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 Bluetooth 5.3 NFC supported USB Type-C 2.0

The Vivo X90 (review) is another solid alternative to the OnePlus 12R. It boasts the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chip, which is neck-to-neck with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 on the benchmarks and has barely any difference in real-life performance.

It has the same screen size as the OnePlus 12R but lacks LTPO support. The real USP of the Vivo X90 is its cameras. It rocks a triple camera setup on the back, which includes a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP telephoto camera, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. The camera setup was made in collaboration with ZEISS for better colour accuracy and image quality.

The Vivo X90 takes better photos and videos than the OnePlus 12R. On the front, it has a 32MP selfie shooter. Both smartphones can record up to 4K videos using the rear camera and 1080p videos using the selfie camera.

Both smartphones carry the same connectivity features, except for the Wi-Fi 7 support in the OnePlus 12R. The Vivo phone has a slightly lower battery capacity but supports a higher fast charging of 120W.

4. Samsung Galaxy S23

Galaxy S23
Body	146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6mm 168g
Display	6.1″ 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X 1080 x 2340 pixels resolution HDR10+, 1750 nits (peak) Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection
Chip	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm) Adreno 740 GPU
Rear camera	50MP (main) – OIS, f/1.8, 1/1.56″ 10MP (telephoto) – OIS, f/2.4, 3x optical zoom 12MP (ultrawide) – f/2.2, 120° FOV Video: 8K @ 24/30fps, 4K @ 30/60fps, 1080p @ 30/60/240fps
Front camera	12MP – f/2.2 Video: 4K @ 30/60fps, 1080p @ 30fps
RAM/Storage	8GB LPDDR5X RAM 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 storage
Battery	3,900mAh capacity 25W (wired) 15W (wireless) 4.5W (reverse wireless)
Software	Android 13, One UI 5 4 Android upgrades
Connectivity	5G/4G/3G/2G Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth 5.3 NFC supported USB Type-C 3.2

The Galaxy S23 was launched last year at a starting price of Rs 74,999. Since then, it has received multiple price cuts and is now available at Rs. 47,000, thus becoming a good alternative to consider. But it is still a little costlier than the OnePlus 12R.

The Galaxy S23 is a compact flagship phone, smaller than the OnePlus 12R. It has Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection on both sides, while the OnePlus 12R has it on the front side only. The Galaxy device also has a better IP rating for dust and water resistance.

Both smartphones rock the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, so there’s no significant difference in performance. But there’s a big difference in the camera. The S23 has a more powerful camera setup, featuring a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, a 10MP telephoto lens with OIS and 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens with a 120-degree field of view.

The Galaxy S23 has a more capable camera setup that produces better photos and videos than the OnePlus 12R. It can record up to 8K videos using its rear cameras and 4K videos using the front camera. The OnePlus 12R only supports 4K recording using the rear camera and 1080p with its front camera.

While the Galaxy S23 has powerful cameras, the battery isn’t that impressive. It’s a 3,900mAh battery with support for 25W charging. The OnePlus 12R, on the other hand, has a much larger battery capacity and supports super-fast charging. However, it lacks wireless and reverse wireless charging support that the Galaxy S23 offers.

Preview	Product
	Samsung Galaxy S23 5G Snapdragon (Phantom Black, 8GB, 128GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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5. Poco F6

Poco F6
Body	160.5 x 74.4 x 7.8mm 179g
Display	6.67″ 120Hz AMOLED screen 1220 x 2712 pixels resolution HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 2400nits (peak) Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Chip	Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (4nm) Adreno 735 GPU
Rear camera	50MP (main) – OIS, f/1.59, 1/1.95″ 8MP (ultrawide) – 1/4.0″ Video: 4K/1080p @ 30/60fps
Front camera	20MP – f/2.2, 1/4″ Video: 1080p @ 30/60fps, 720p @ 30fps
RAM/Storage	8GB/12GB LPDDR5X RAM 256GB/512GB UFS 4.0 storage
Battery	5,000mAh capacity 90W (wired)
Software	Android 14, HyperOS 3 Android upgrades
Connectivity	5G/4G/3G/2G Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 Bluetooth 5.4 NFC supported USB Type-C 2.0

If performance is your top priority, the Poco F6 (review) might be a great fit. It is also cheaper than the OnePlus 12R.

The Poco phone has a slightly smaller AMOLED screen but supports 68 times more colours. The peak brightness is 2400 nits, which is lower than the OnePlus 12R’s. However, the rest of the display specs are pretty similar.

The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 fuels the Poco F6, which performs better than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered OnePlus 12R. Since the Poco F6 is a gaming phone, it has a better cooling system and loads of gaming features. It also has faster storage, which adds to better performance.

The Poco F6 has two cameras on the back — a 50MP primary sensor and an 8MP ultrawide sensor. Like the OnePlus 12R, it can record up to 4K videos. On the front, there’s a 20MP selfie snapper.

The device houses a 5,000mAh battery and supports 90W fast charging versus a 5,500mAh battery with 120W charging on the OnePlus 12R. The OnePlus phone has a clear advantage here. However, both come with Android 14 and promise three years of Android updates.

Preview	Product
	POCO F6 5G Titanium 8GB RAM 256GB ROM	Check Price on Amazon

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These are the top alternatives to the OnePlus 12R. Would you still go for the OnePlus 12R or pick any of these alternatives? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Honor Magic 7 Pro gets leaked in real-life image

By

Debasish

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Sep 7, 2024

The Honor Magic 7 series is expected to launch in January 2025. In the latest news, real-life images of the Honor Magic 7 Pro have been revealed by Weibo tipster a well-known tipster @旺仔百事通. From the leaked photos, we can see that the Honor Magic7 series will continue using an equal-depth quad-curved display.

The images also reveal that the Honor Magic 7 Pro will feature a centered pill-shaped cutout for the selfie camera and additional sensor. However, the cutout seems to be a bit smaller than that of the Honor Magic 6 Pro.

The Magic 7 Pro retains the flat middle frame and similarly rounded corners from the predecessors. Rumors also suggest that the upcoming device will offer enhanced imaging capabilities alongside an improved display (with the same 1.5k resolution as the predecessor) and a high-density silicon-carbon anode battery. Speaking of cameras, Honor was rumored to test the phone with the 50 MP OmniVision OV50H and the Sony IMX882 as the primary and periscope telephoto sensors respectively.

Adding to the excitement, Honor is expected to debut a new AI Agent with the Magic 7 series, which may position it as an AI-driven flagship device or an ‘AI phone’.

With the design leaks circulating, the official release of the Honor Magic 7 series seems imminent. It was previously rumored that the upcoming series will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip. Considering Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 platform launch in October, it’s likely that Honor will unveil the Magic 7 series around the same time.

The competition in the smartphone market is heating up, with multiple flagship releases expected ahead of the Double Eleven event in China.

(Source)

Xgimi launches Mogo 3 Pro, Elfin Flip, Aura 2, and Horizon S Series projectors at IFA 2024

By

Soumyakanti

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Sep 7, 2024

Xgimi, the popular projector brand, has launched five new projectors at IFA 2024: Mogo 3 Pro, Elfin Flip, Aura 2, and the Horizon S Series, which includes the Horizon S Max and Horizon S Pro.

Xgimi launches Mogo 3 Pro, Elfin Flip, Aura 2, and Horizon S Series at IFA 2024

These products combine cutting-edge technology with sleek design, offering consumers a range of options for both home and on-the-go entertainment. With prices starting at $399, Xgimi is aiming to make premium audiovisual experiences accessible to a broader audience.

Prev Next

1. Mogo 3 Pro

The Mogo 3 Pro, Xgimi’s first Google TV projector, is designed for portability and versatility. Weighing only 1.1 kg, it’s as compact as a coffee cup, making it ideal for movie nights, business presentations, or travel. It supports native Netflix and other streaming apps, offers 1080p resolution, and boasts a 90% DCI-P3 color gamut for vibrant visuals.

The projector also introduces a unique rotating base that powers the device when adjusted, adding convenience. It also includes an ambient light feature where the projector’s light moves with the music, adding dynamic colors that enhance the immersive audio-visual experience.

With a USB Type-C port for power bank support, the Mogo 3 Pro is travel-ready. The base model is priced at $449, or $499 when bundled with the extra Powerbase stand.

2. Elfin Flip

For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Elfin Flip delivers a cinematic experience with 1080p resolution and Dolby Audio in a compact design. With 400 ISO lumens of brightness, it is perfect for smaller spaces and can tilt up to 150 degrees for versatile projection angles.

Powered by WebOS and offering native Netflix support, the Elfin Flip is an attractive option at $399, making it an excellent choice for consumers looking for affordability without compromising on quality.

3. Aura 2

The Aura 2 features Dual Light 2.0 technology with 2300 ISO lumens of brightness and 99% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage. It is IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision certified for exceptional visual quality, and its four Harman/Kardon speakers deliver immersive sound.

The short-throw projector, priced at $2,699, can display a 150-inch image from a close distance, making it perfect for a home cinema or gaming setup.

4. Horizon S Series

The Horizon S Series includes the Horizon S Max and Horizon S Pro, designed for consumers seeking high performance at an affordable price. The Horizon S Max, certified by IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision, features 3000 ISO lumens of brightness and a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, offering a true cinematic experience.

The Horizon S Pro, with 1700 ISO lumens, provides a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on quality. Prices for the Horizon S Series start at $1,299, making them accessible options for home theater enthusiasts.

iPhone 16 Pro will double the storage for the base model

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 7, 2024

iPhone users who favor the Pro model but balk at limited storage may be in for a treat. According to a report from Taiwanese market research firm TrendForce (via MacRumors), Apple is likely to do away with the 128GB base storage option for the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro, bumping it up to a minimum of 256GB.

We’re expecting this — Apple bumped the base storage of the iPhone 15 Pro Max to 256GB last year. So it’s only natural for the Pro model to follow suit in the iPhone 16 series. However, the increase in the base storage could mean a higher starting price for the iPhone 16 Pro.

TrendForce suggests this price increase might be more palatable since the 16 Pro will also include the tetraprism zoom lens, previously exclusive to the Pro Max model.

Apple did something similar last year by introducing the tetraprism zoom lens on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which naturally raised the cost. To make the higher price acceptable, the company increased the base storage from 128GB to 256 GB.

Beyond storage and camera, the report corroborated previously leaked details about iPhone 16 series hardware. The non-Pro variants are expected to receive the A18 chip, while the Pro models will presumably boast the more powerful A18 Pro processor.

Additionally, there’s a chance Apple might increase the RAM on the non-Pro models from 6GB to 8GB, potentially catering to the demands of Apple Intelligence features.

These are all early speculations and concrete details regarding the iPhone 16 series will likely emerge closer to the official launch event, currently rumored for September 9th.

Galaxy Tab S10 Plus, and Tab S10 Ultra price leaks for both WiFi and 5G model

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 7, 2024

We’re inching closer to the launch of Samsung‘s next-gen flagship tablet, the Galaxy Tab S10 series. While Samsung hasn’t revealed much yet, leaks are slowly giving us a glimpse of what to expect.

Today, a new leak courtesy of Svztechinfo has shed light on the price of all the models in the Galaxy Tab S10 series. Here’s the breakdown.

Samsung-Galaxy-Tab-S10-Ultra-Render-Promo — Tab S10 Ultra

Storage and Color Options

Both the Tab S10+ and Tab S10 Ultra will be available in two storage configurations: 256GB and 512GB. The Ultra will come in a higher-tier option with a whopping 1TB of storage. Color-wise, it seems like a classic affair with Grey and Silver being the only choices.

Price

Now, let’s talk about the numbers. The leak reveals the price in Swiss pricing (CHF) which we’ve converted to approximate Euros (EUR) and Indian Rupees (INR) for easier reference.

Galaxy Tab S10+ Wi-Fi
- 12GB RAM + 256GB: CHF 1179 (EUR 1260, INR 1,17,363)
- 12GB RAM + 512GB: CHF 1299 (EUR 1390, INR 1,29,309)
Galaxy Tab S10+ 5G:
- 12GB RAM + 256GB: CHF 1319 (EUR 1410, INR 1,31,307)
- 12GB RAM + 512GB: CHF 1419 (EUR 1517, INR 1,41,262)
Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra Wi-Fi:
- 12GB RAM + 256GB: CHF 1399 (EUR 1496, INR 1,39,271)
- 12GB RAM + 512GB: CHF 1519 (EUR 1624, INR 1,51,217)
- 16GB RAM + 1TB: CHF 1829 (EUR 1956, INR 1,82,039)
Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 5G:
- 12GB RAM + 256GB: CHF 1549 (EUR 1657, INR 1,54,170)
- 12GB RAM + 512GB: CHF 1669 (EUR 1785, INR 1,66,114)
- 16GB RAM + 1TB: CHF 1979 (EUR 2116, INR 1,96,968)

As expected from a flagship series, the Galaxy Tab S10 lineup doesn’t come cheap. The starting price for the Tab S10+ Wi-Fi with 256GB storage sits comfortably above the €1,000 mark, placing it in the premium tablet territory.

The Tab S10 Ultra goes even further, with the 1TB version reaching a price point that could make even the most dedicated power users flinch.

Galaxy S25 Ultra dimensions leak, it will be the slimmest Samsung flagship in five years

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Sep 7, 2024

While the official unveiling of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is still a few months away, a leak by reliable source Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) has shed some light on the phone’s dimensions.

According to the leaked information, the Galaxy S25 Ultra will measure in at 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2mm. This would make it one of the slimmest Galaxy S-series flagships, although it wouldn’t quite dethrone the title held by the older Galaxy S6, which came in at a razor-thin 7mm.

Samsung-Galaxy-S25-Ultra-design — Galaxy S25 Ultra Render

For reference, here’s a quick comparison of flagship Galaxy phone dimensions from the past five years:

Galaxy S20 Ultra: 166.9 x 76.0 x 8.8 mm
Galaxy S21 Ultra: 165.1 x 75.6 x 8.9 mm
Galaxy S22 Ultra: 163.3 x 77.9 x 8.9 mm
Galaxy S23 Ultra: 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9 mm
Galaxy S24 Ultra: 162.3 x 79.0 x 8.6 mm
Galaxy S25 Ultra (Leak): 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2 mm

According to a previous leak, the phone will retain the familiar build materials — titanium frames on the side and Gorilla Glass for both the front and back. It’s also likely to IP68 boast dust and water resistance, with an in-display fingerprint reader for added security.

However, Samsung is expected to continue the use of 45W fast charging which debuted in the Galaxy S20 Ultra back in 2020.

Since then, the company hasn’t made any significant progress in this area, and 2025 doesn’t seem to promise much change. The battery is also expected to remain at 5,000mAh, showing Samsung’s preference for maintaining the status quo.

On a positive note, the smartphone is expected to come with a camera upgrade. While the main 200MP sensor and dual 50MP telephoto lenses will stay the same, the ultrawide module is expected to get a bump from 12MP to 50MP.

The selfie camera will still be 12MP, like its predecessor. The phone is also expected to run the latest Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7.1 on top and receive software updates for a healthy seven years.

Xiaomi launches Redmi Max 85-inch 2025 TV with 4K 120Hz screen, HyerOS & more

By

Soumyakanti

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Sep 7, 2024

Xiaomi has expanded its Redmi Max 2025 series with the introduction of a new 85-inch model. Previously, the company launched the 100-inch version in April. The new TV is now available for pre-sale in China on JD.com for 4,699 yuan ($662). Let’s take a look at its key specifications.

Xiaomi Redmi Max 85 2025 Specifications:

The TV features an 85-inch 4K screen with a resolution of 3840×2160. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate in gaming mode for smooth motion with reduced blur and ghosting. It also includes 4K HDR decoding and a 4K 60Hz MEMC dynamic compensation feature, helping to enhance image clarity by reducing motion blur.

The display is factory-calibrated to achieve a color accuracy of ΔE≈2, providing vibrant, true-to-life colors supported by 1.07 billion colors for enhanced realism. It also comes with a wide 178° viewing angle, offering consistent picture quality from various angles.

The smart TV is powered by a quad-core processor, with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, providing enough capacity for downloading apps and smooth multitasking.

It also supports Wi-Fi 6, which offers faster internet speeds and lower latency, improving overall connectivity. Additionally, it comes with a Bluetooth voice remote that supports NFC one-tap casting, allowing users to quickly cast content from their smartphones.

The TV operates on Xiaomi’s HyperOS and features the Xiao Ai smart assistant, allowing for far-field voice control to manage media playback and smart home devices. Users can also make voice queries, adjust the volume, and check the weather without needing to touch the remote.

For audio, the TV comes with dual 10W stereo speakers, delivering a more immersive sound experience, and it supports DTS sound decoding. The design includes a metal frame with a 98% screen-to-body ratio, contributing to a sleek and immersive display. The TV offers various connectivity options, including two HDMI ports, two USB ports, and support for Ethernet and Bluetooth 5.2.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE high-quality renders leak in four colors

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Sep 7, 2024

Samsung is expected to announce the Galaxy S24 FE soon, and leaks are coming in steadily. We’ve seen it in renders in a previous leak, but they didn’t show all the color options.

Now, thanks to a new leak from Android Headlines, we have a look at the phone’s design in four colors: Blue, Graphite, Green, and Yellow. While the S24 FE is also rumored to come in white, that color hasn’t surfaced in the latest leak.

Looking at the renders, it’s easy to do a double-take. The S24 FE appears nearly identical to the S23 FE. Samsung seems to be adopting a “why mess with a good thing?” approach here. The camera layout on the back, the punch-hole display – it’s all very familiar territory.

The most noticeable change appears to be the frame, which ditches the S23 FE’s curves for a flatter, more modern look – a design element borrowed from the flagship Galaxy S24. But there’s particularly not anything that stands out in its appearance.

Moving from asthetics, the smartphone is expected to pack a 6.7-inch FHD+ display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a respectable 1,900 nits peak brightness.

Gorilla Glass Victus+ should offer some peace of mind for those prone to accidental drops. Powering the phone will likely be a toned-down version of Samsung’s latest Exynos 2400 chipset.

The camera department seems to be sticking with a proven formula: a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom capabilities.

Charging options also appear to remain unchanged, with support for 25W wired and 15W wireless charging. This might feel a tad dated considering some competitors are pushing the boundaries with faster charging speeds, but that’s what you get even on the high-end S24 and S24 Plus. So we can’t complain here.

Huawei’s tri-fold is already available for pre-order in China

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Sep 7, 2024

Huawei is launching its first tri-fold phone, named Mate XT Ultimate Design on September 10 in China. Before the big reveal, the device is now available for pre-order on the Chinese e-commerce platform JD.com, for those who want to get their hands on this innovation early.

Unsurprisingly, the company is keeping the pricing details under wraps. But one thing is certain now — the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design will be the first commercially available tri-fold and not a concept phone like the Tecno Phantom Ultimate 2 showcased earlier this month.

The pre-order page confirms a few other details of the foldable. It will go on sale in China from September 20 and will be available in two memory variants, 16/512GB and 16GB/1TB. The color options are Ruihong and Xuanhei.

Based on teasers Huawei released earlier this week, the Mate XT boasts a sleek, slim design when unfolded. Unfold it, and you’ve got a tablet-sized screen – rumored to be around 10 inches – supported by a complex dual-hinge design.

Huawei has reportedly managed to keep the phone’s thickness under 5mm thin when unfolded. Impressive engineering, if true. Folded shut, it transforms into a regular-looking smartphone – perfect for slipping into your pocket.

Flipping it over, the rear design takes inspiration from the Mate 60 RS. We see a familiar octagonal camera module housing a periscope telephoto lens. The back panel is finished with luxurious vegan leather – a nice touch for a phone likely to command a premium price.

Speaking of price, that’s still under wraps. Leaks point to a hefty 14,900 Yuan (around $2,000), which wouldn’t be surprising considering this is Huawei’s first foray into tri-folding tech. It’s also speculated to be a limited edition offering, making it a potential collector’s item for early adopters.

Obsbot Meet 2 Review: A Compact AI-Powered 4K Webcam for Creators

By

Soumyakanti

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Sep 7, 2024

Obsbot Meet 2 is the latest addition to the Obsbot lineup, designed to meet the needs of content creators, gamers, and professionals who prioritize high-quality video and AI-powered features.

Packed in a compact and lightweight form, this webcam offers 4K video quality, AI auto-framing, and enhanced audio features, all at an affordable price point. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the design, performance, features, and overall value of the Obsbot Meet 2.

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1. What’s in the Box?

The Obsbot Meet 2 comes with everything you need to get started right out of the box. Inside, you’ll find:

The Obsbot Meet 2 webcam
A USB-C to USB-A adapter
A USB-C to C cable
A magnetic mount
A privacy cover for peace of mind
A user manual and warranty card

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	OBSBOT Meet 2-4K Webcam for PC with 1/2″ Sensor, AI Framing & Autofocus, Beauty Mode, Lightweight,…	Check Price on Amazon

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2. Design and Build Quality

The Obsbot Meet 2 is extremely compact and lightweight, measuring 45 x 36 x 36.7mm and weighing just 67.5g with the mount. Available in three stylish colors, Space Grey, Cloud White, and Aurora Green, it features a minimalist design ideal for travelers, students, or those with limited desk space.

I got the Space Grey version but didn’t find it as appealing. Personally, I think the green color stands out as the best option among the three, though that’s just my preference.

The webcam also features a magnetic mount for quick and easy adjustments, and with its UNC 1/4-20 interface, it can be mounted on a standard tripod for more advanced setups. While the camera is made of plastic, it feels sturdy enough for regular use, and its compact size doesn’t compromise its functionality. It also includes a magnetic privacy cover that can be attached to the lens for added security.

During my usage, I noticed some scratches on the wider area of the lens. I’m not sure if the lens is particularly prone to scratching or if it’s due to my heavy usage, but I wanted to mention it.

3. Setup and Compatibility

Setting up the Meet 2 is as simple as plug-and-play. It connects via USB-C, and no additional drivers are required for basic use. However, for those wanting to unlock the camera’s full potential, Obsbot Center software is recommended.

The software allows you to fine-tune settings such as exposure, white balance, and resolution and gives you access to AI-powered features like auto-framing and gesture control.

The Meet 2 is compatible with Windows 10 or later and macOS 11 or later. It works seamlessly with popular video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.

4. Performance

The Obsbot Meet 2 is equipped with a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor and a f/1.8 aperture, delivering crisp 4K video at 30 fps and 1080p at 60 fps. In well-lit environments, the image quality is excellent, with vibrant colors and sharp details.

I really like how the camera performs decently in low-light conditions, thanks to its larger sensor and HDR support, which helps balance exposure in varying lighting.

It also includes Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) to keep subjects in focus during calls or streams. However, in 1080p mode, the camera tends to hunt for focus more often, an issue not present in other formats.

The camera comes with 4x digital zoom, so you can zoom in on specific details without significant loss of quality. However, keep in mind that digital zoom is not as precise as optical zoom, so it’s best used sparingly.

The webcam also supports dual omnidirectional microphones that feature noise reduction and auto gain control, ensuring clear audio even in moderately noisy environments. While the built-in mics are adequate for video calls, professionals looking for studio-quality sound may want to invest in an external microphone.

5. Special Features

The Obsbot Meet 2 features AI Auto-Framing, which automatically tracks movements to keep users centered, making it ideal for meetings, presentations, and live streaming. However, it can take 2-3 seconds to adjust the frame when moving around.

In addition to AI tracking, the webcam allows for zoom control, and when zoomed in, you can adjust the frame using gimbal controls within the app. Other features include auto and manual focus, white balance adjustment, exposure settings, and HDR mode.

The microphone settings are equally versatile, letting you disable the mic, reduce background noise, control radio distance, and more, offering a customizable and seamless user experience.

6. Software and Customization

The Obsbot Center app enhances the functionality of the Obsbot Meet 2 webcam by providing users with control over advanced camera settings, the ability to switch between different tracking modes, and apply image filters. The app offers extensive customization options, allowing users to adjust both basic and advanced settings such as recording bitrate, format, and even shortcuts for easier use.

However, some users may find the interface less user-friendly compared to other webcam applications. During 4K recording, there are occasional stability issues, such as the app crashing when the stop recording button is pressed multiple times.

While Obsbot’s hardware is impressive, the software could use refinement to provide a smoother, more intuitive experience. The app’s features are comprehensive, but the cluttered design sometimes hinders the full potential of the product. Improving the software would likely elevate the overall experience for users, ensuring they can take full advantage of the webcam’s capabilities.

7. Pricing

The Obsbot Meet 2 is competitively priced at $129, making it an affordable option among 4K webcams. A bundle pack is also available for $202, offering additional accessories like a USB-A to USB-C data power cable with an On/Off switch, an extendable tripod mini ball head, and an extendable tripod.

8. Should You Buy Obsbot Meet 2?

I love the Obsbot Meet 2 primarily for its portability, as it easily fits in a laptop bag. It offers all the essential features, excellent video quality, and smart AI capabilities at an affordable price. Its sleek design, ease of use, and robust software make it a great choice for remote work, online learning, live streaming, and content creation.

While it lacks some of the advanced features of pricier models like the Obsbot Tiny 2 Lite (which offers a gimbal for more dynamic tracking), the Meet 2 still provides great value for its price. If you’re in the market for a high-quality 4K webcam with intelligent features, the Obsbot Meet 2 is a solid choice.

TCL NXTPAPER 14 tablet with 14.3″ paper-like 2.5K display & Helio G99 processor launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Sep 7, 2024

TCL has expanded its tablet lineup with the introduction of the NXTPAPER 14.

TCL NXTPAPER 14 specs:

This affordable device boasts a massive 14.3-inch matte LCD screen with a resolution of 2400 x 1600 pixels. It offers a paper-like reading experience thanks to its NXTPAPER 3.0 tech. The screen features three distinct modes: a default color mode, a Color Paper mode that mimics e-readers, and a quasi-E Ink mode.

It is powered by the Helio G99 processor and paired with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. Unfortunately, the tablet does not come with a microSD card slot. It has a dual front camera setup and an IP54 dust and water resistance rating.

Additional features include quad speakers, face unlock, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and a 10,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging. The tablet runs Android 14 and supports features like floating windows and secondary display functionality.

Pricing & availability

Priced at €399, the NXTPAPER 14 is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a large, paper-like screen.

In other news, Honor has introduced the MagicPad 2 at IFA, alongside its Magic V3 foldable phone. The tablet boasts a slim 5.8mm design and a 12.3-inch OLED 3K display with a 144Hz refresh rate, delivering up to 1600 nits of brightness. It also supports IMAX Enhanced, DTS audio, and features Honor’s Spatial Audio Technology for an enhanced sound experience. Powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, it comes with a 10,050mAh battery and 66W fast charging.

Casio G-SHOCK G-STEEL GBM-2100 Series Watches with Solar Charging launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Sep 7, 2024

Casio‘s G-SHOCK, known for its durable and reliable watches, has launched the G-STEEL GBM-2100 series in India. Building on the success of the GM-2100, this new collection combines strength, elegance, and modern technology.

The GBM-2100 series features a polished metal octagonal bezel, a departure from the usual resin bezels found in many G-SHOCK models. The dial features a transparent grid pattern with a circular brushed finish.

Beneath its stylish exterior, the watch is built to last. It includes a stainless steel bezel and a durable inner case reinforced with glass fiber resin, ensuring protection for its internal mechanisms. The high-contrast dial, with phosphorescent index marks, ensures easy readability even in low-light conditions.

One of the key features of the GBM-2100 series is its Tough Solar function that allows the watch to charge using sunlight, eliminating the need for battery changes. Additionally, the Smartphone Link feature allows for easy pairing with your phone, providing access to world time, alarms, and more.

The GBM-2100 series includes a Super Illuminator, a high-brightness dual LED light that ensures clear visibility in all lighting conditions. The watch also comes equipped with essential features like shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, five daily alarms, a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and world time.

G-SHOCK has used bio-based resin for parts of the case and band, reducing the watch’s environmental impact and reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

The G-STEEL GBM-2100 series comes in four color options: black, blue, green, and brown. It costs Rs 19,995 and can be purchased from Casio stores, G-SHOCK stores and through Casio’s online stores.

Red Magic Nova Gaming tablet teased to launch soon, could be a rebranded Gaming Tablet Pro

By

Sudhanshu

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Sep 7, 2024

After the recent launch of the Red Magic Gaming Tablet Pro in China, the brand plans to launch a new tablet in the global market soon called the Red Magic Nova Gaming tablet. Red Magic has dropped hints about its upcoming gaming tablet, which is set to launch globally on September 27, 2024. While specific details remain under wraps, the teasers suggest that the tablet will closely resemble the Gaming Tablet Pro.

Red Magic Gaming Tablet Pro specs:

The Red Magic Gaming Tablet Pro features a 10.9-inch 2.8K LCD screen with a 144Hz refresh rate. It is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version processor, the tablet delivers strong performance with a score of 2.35 million points on AnTuTu. The device has up to 24GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

The tablet’s Magic Cooling ICE 2.0 system effectively reduces core temperature by 25°C, ensuring optimal performance during intensive gaming sessions. Its sleek design, featuring a transparent section made of lens-grade aluminosilicate glass and a custom RGB lighting system, enhances both aesthetics and durability.

Equipped with a 50MP rear camera, 20MP front camera, dual X-axis motor, four-channel speakers, and three microphones, the tablet offers an immersive multimedia experience. It is powered by a 10100mAh battery with 120W fast charging.

In other news, Honor has unveiled the MagicPad 2 at IFA alongside its Magic V3 foldable phone. The tablet features a sleek 5.8mm thin design, a 12.3-inch OLED 3K display with a 144Hz refresh rate, and 1600 nits brightness. It supports IMAX Enhanced, DTS audio, and Honor’s Spatial Audio Technology for improved sound. Powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, it has a 10,050mAh battery with 66W charging.

Honor Pad X8a tablet debuts in India with Snapdragon 680 & 11″ 90Hz display

By

Sudhanshu

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Sep 6, 2024

Honor has expanded its product lineup in India with the launch of the Pad X8a tablet. This affordable device offers a range of features that make it a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. This launch comes amid the brand’s many new announcements at the IFA Berlin 2024 show.

Honor Pad X8a specs:

The Pad X8a boasts an 11-inch FHD 90 Hz display with a 1200 x 1920 pixels resolution, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor and paired with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, the tablet offers smooth performance for daily tasks.

One of the standout features is its large 8300mAh battery, which can provide up to 14 hours of online video playback and 85 hours of music playback on a single charge. The tablet’s sleek design, measuring 7.25mm thin and weighing 495g, makes it easy to carry around.

Running Android 14, the Pad X8a comes equipped with quad speakers for an immersive audio experience. The tablet will be available for pre-order starting September 8th, with a free flip cover included. The Honor Pad X8a is priced at Rs 12,999, which makes it a competitive value proposition in the tablet market.

In related news, Honor has also launched the Magic V3, the MagicPad 2 tablet, the Magic Watch 5, and the MagicBook Art 14 laptops in the global market. The brand has also showcased several AI-powered solutions at IFA Berlin 2024, including AI Agent, AI Deepfake Detection, and the MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon. AI Agent is a personal assistant for Honor smartphones that can automate tasks and learn from user habits. AI Deepfake Detection is a tool to detect manipulated media.

(Source)

Xiaomi launches power bank with built-in cable that doubles as a lanyard

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 6, 2024

Xiaomi has introduced a new power bank in China, the Powerbank 10000 33W. However, unlike its name suggests, it doesn’t actually have a 10,000mAh capacity. Instead, it’s a 5,500mAh power bank with 33W charging support.

It seems Xiaomi is using clickbait-like names for their new power banks. Earlier this week, they launched the Power Bank 25000 212W. And guess what? It also didn’t match its name’s implied capacity — rather it packed a more modest 14,000mAh cell. Xiaomi needs to stop doing this!

Regardless, the headline feature of the new power bank is its integrated cable. When not in use, it tucks neatly into a dedicated slot on the power bank, doubling as a lanyard. It’s a clever space-saving solution, perfect for those who perpetually misplace cables.

However, the built-in nature of the cable means it’s not replaceable. If it frays or breaks, you’re essentially out of luck.

Xiaomi does offer a third, standard USB-C port for additional charging options, with a maximum output of 22.5W and intelligent power distribution support when juggling multiple devices. However, if the main USB-C port malfunctions, you’ll be left with only this single port for charging.

Additionally, it’s unclear whether you can use another USB-C port to charge the power bank. If you can’t and the main USB-C cable breaks, the power bank could become completely unusable.

Its maximum charging rate is 33W, unsurprisingly, which can top up a Xiaomi 14 Pro to 51% in just 30 minutes.

Xiaomi also throws in some additional features for good measure, including a low current mode for charging low-power devices and support for common fast charging protocols like PD 3.0 and QC 3.0.

The design is compact and lightweight, measuring in at a pocket-friendly 3.2 x 2.6 x 1.0 inches. You can choose between a sleek Deep Space Blue or a more muted Light Brown to match your style

Talking of the price, the Xiaomi Powerbank 10000 33W retails for 149 yuan (~$21) in China but is currently available at a discount of 20 yuan (~ $2). You can purchase it from Xiaomi Youpin platform.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro specification and price leaks, to have 40MP camera

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 6, 2024

DJI‘s focus on the budget-friendly Neo drone might have overshadowed their action camera plans, but a new leak suggests the Osmo Action 5 Pro is ready to take center stage. The action cam will be a direct competitor to the recently launched Hero 13 Black.

Now, DJI itself hasn’t officially confirmed anything, but reliable leaker @Quadro_News has spilled the beans about its specifics.

According to the tipster, the Osmo Action 5 Pro will feature a 1/1.3-inch sensor with a 40MP resolution and 155-degree field of view, so it can capture a wide swathe of the action.

Video recording capabilities are said to max out at 4K resolution at a smooth 120 frames per second. It will also have “SuperNight Slow-Motion Modes” for capturing slow-mo video.

Battery life seems respectable too, with @Quadro_News estimating up to four hours of recording on a single charge. Connectivity-wise, we’re looking at Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6.

Storage shouldn’t be an immediate concern either as the action cam is said to come with 47GB built-in and will be expandable up to 1 TB via a microSD card. For audio, the leak suggests the Osmo Action 5 Pro will sport three stereo microphones.

Likewise, the software features the action camera is expected to have is 360° HorizonSteady, Live Stream, OsmoAudio, Subject Centering & Tracking and Voice Control.

Pricing details are a bit fuzzy, but @Quadro_News hints that the Osmo Action 5 Pr’s “Adventure Combo” with various accessories could retail for €450-€490 (roughly $520-$570 USD). The expected launch date is September 12th, so we shouldn’t have to wait too long for official confirmation.

Honor jabs Samsung, round three — this company needs to stop now

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 6, 2024

Earlier this week, Honor unveiled Magic V3 at IFA 2024 as the world’s slimmest foldable. However, this launch wasn’t without some drama. In the lead-up to the reveal, Honor went all out with their marketing; and they didn’t shy away from even taking direct shots at Samsung.

First, they made fun of Samsung foldables for being too thick. Then came the “world’s smallest apology” — a cheeky message etched on the Magic V3’s hinge for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 owners who feel ‘let down’ by their ‘chunky’ folding phone.

Now, Honor’s marketing team is back for round three. And this time, they’ve taken their rivalry on the road.

There’s currently a van cruising the streets of France, plastered with – wait for it – a “review” by “Sam Sung.” Yes, you read that right. It’s not a typo, folks.

Sam Sung is a biomedical science graduate from London (that’s what the billboard says), who declares Magic V3 as the “No.1 foldable” and “so much thinner and lighter” than their current phone.

That’s not it — the company found another Sam Sung, a recruiter from Glasgow, who chimes in with, “easily the best foldable phone.” Clever pun? Absolutely.

But it all feels a bit forced now.

Look, playful marketing is all fun and games, and a little friendly competition can be good for the industry. But the constant stream of Samsung-bashing feels like Honor is trying too hard.

There’s no denying that the Magic V3 is a sleek device with impressive specs. But with every dig at Samsung, the focus seems to be shifting away from the phone’s merits and towards the competitive rivalry. While some might find this humor refreshing, it could also backfire.

Think about it. Instead of focusing on why someone should choose the Magic V3 over the competition, Honor keeps reminding us of the competition itself. This could potentially alienate some consumers who just want to see a strong product on its own terms.

“Sam Sung” reviews are cute, but they’re not exactly inspiring confidence. They feel gimmicky, at least to me, and are distracting buyers from the core message — is the Magic V3 really a better foldable than what Samsung has to offer? Or is it just the slimmest phone with a side of shade?

Don’t get me wrong, a little friendly competition is healthy. But Honor might benefit from shifting gears a bit. Let the Magic V3 speak for itself. Highlight its unique features, show its performance, and let the consumers decide who reigns supreme in the foldable phone arena. After all, a good product should be able to stand on its own two (well, one folding) legs.

Honor Magic 7 to debut with AI Agent personal assistant in Q4 2024

By

Sudhanshu

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Sep 6, 2024

At the IFA Berlin 2024 event, Honor debuted a bunch of new hardware like the Magic V3, the MagicPad 2 tablet, and the MagicBook Art 14 laptop. Earlier today, the brand separately showcased its AI-based solutions for both its laptops and mobile devices. In total, the brand has showcased three mobile AI solutions: AI PC powered by Snapdragon X Elite platforms, AI Agent, and AI Deepfake Detection.

The key focus here is Honor’s AI Agent, which is a personal assistant for Honor smartphones. This on-device AI assistant, designed to learn from user habits and device environments, can intelligently automate tasks across various apps and services. Honor demonstrated its capabilities by showcasing how it can find and cancel unwanted app subscriptions with simple voice commands. The AI Agent is expected to be available with the Honor Magic 7 Series later this year (Q4 2024) in China.

HONOR also introduced AI Deepfake Detection, a feature aimed at addressing the issue of manipulated media. Using advanced algorithms, this tool can analyze and detect deepfakes, demonstrating HONOR’s focus on user privacy and security.

Additionally, HONOR showcased the MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon, an AI-powered PC that features the Snapdragon X Elite platform. This device offers strong AI performance and smooth cross-device connectivity, with MagicRing technology enabling easy access to services across different platforms.

In other news, Honor has also unveiled the Honor Watch 5 at the recent IFA event, confirming its specifications. The watch has a square design with curved edges and an aluminum frame, featuring a larger 1.85-inch AMOLED display. It’s lightweight at 35g and 11mm thick, designed for comfortable daily wear.

Key features include heart rate and SpO2 tracking, a one-click health scan, and the AccuTrack positioning system for improved GPS accuracy. With a 480mAh battery and Turbo X Smart Power Management, it offers up to 15 days of battery life. The watch also includes 400+ customizable faces, 85 sports modes, and 5 ATM water resistance.

(Source: Honor Press release)

Android 16 might demand two swipes to access quick settings

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Sep 6, 2024

While we are eagerly awaiting the official release of Android 15 for Pixel phones (expected in the coming weeks), whispers of what’s next are already swirling.

A recent discovery by Mishaal Rahman of Android Authority in the latest Android 15 QPR beta suggests Google might be planning an overhaul for notifications and Quick Settings in next year’s Android 16.

The proposed change involves a split approach to notifications and quick settings. Swiping down with one finger would reveal a slim notification panel, presumably occupying about a quarter of the screen. This could offer a less disruptive way to check notifications without obscuring the entire display.

However, the real head-scratcher comes with accessing quick settings. Google appears to be toying with the idea of requiring a two-finger swipe to expand the notification shade further and reveal the quick settings tiles. The change feels counterintuitive, to be honest. Below is a video of the changes in action.

The Quick Settings panel itself appears relatively unchanged, albeit with a few tweaks. Brightness control gets its own dedicated space with a text label, while the remaining tiles seem to have shrunk a bit. Swiping allows you to access the full list of settings.

It’s worth noting that this design is far from complete. Many settings are missing from the Quick Settings panel, and Google hasn’t confirmed if this revamped UI will see the light of day in Android 16. Still, it clearly shows what Google is experimenting with its Android skin.

For now, the focus remains squarely on Android 15. Pixel users can expect the update in the coming weeks, with other manufacturers like Samsung, Honor, and OnePlus following suit in the coming months.

October 2024, Global Sources Hong Kong Shows is set to spotlight Innovation and Sustainability

By

Joane

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Sep 6, 2024

The highly anticipated Global Sources Hong Kong Shows are set to return in October 2024, bringing together global suppliers, innovative products, and a diverse range of industries. The event will span three distinct phases over the month, each focusing on key themes of innovation, sustainability, esports, AI integration, and health. With over 5,000 Asian suppliers and 300,000+ products on display, the show is expected to attract over 100,000 professional buyers worldwide.

Event Date & Location: October 11–30, 2024, at Asia World-Expo, Hong Kong.

This year’s event will emphasize major global trends, including the rise of esports, smart home technologies, and eco-conscious solutions. Trending product categories include gaming peripherals, smart home appliances, pet products, and outdoor sports gear. The event promises to highlight cutting-edge technology and sustainable, health-focused, and lifestyle-enhancing products.

Event Phases

The Global Sources Hong Kong Shows will be divided into three key phases:

Phase 1: October 11–14, 2024

Global Sources Consumer Electronics
This phase will focus on new-generation electronics, including computer peripherals, gaming accessories, automotive and outdoor electronics, and more.
Global Sources Electronic Components
The spotlight will be on electronic components, batteries, connectors, semiconductor products, and other key elements that drive the electronics industry.

Phase 2: October 18–21, 2024

Global Sources Mobile Electronics
A showcase of the latest mobile devices, smart wearables, AR/VR tech, and energy storage solutions will take center stage.
Global Sources Smart Home, Security & Home Appliances
This phase will highlight smart home appliances and security systems, with a focus on innovative and intelligent designs.
Global Sources Home & Kitchen
Eco-conscious and stylish products for the modern home will be featured, ranging from decor, cleaning, and storage solutions to kitchenware and dining equipment.
Global Sources Lifestyle
Focused on sustainability, this section will present a variety of pet care products, gifts, stationery, toys, and personal care items.

Phase 3: October 27–30, 2024

Global Sources Sports & Outdoor
Attendees can explore eco-friendly outdoor gear, sports equipment, and smart sportswear, with a special focus on tech-integrated solutions.
Global Sources Baby & Children’s Products
From baby care items to toys, strollers, car seats, and nursery furniture, this phase will offer the latest in child-focused products.

Key Highlights by Category

One of the most anticipated sections is the Gaming & Esports Hall (Phase 1), featuring leading brands such as Saitake (gamepads), Quiksol (mouse and keyboard combos), Beiou (7.1 surround sound headsets), Anbernic (portable gaming consoles), and Morphling (gaming chairs). This segment will offer immersive experiences with themed gaming rooms, esports team appearances, and professional cosplayers. A notable highlight will be a preview of the Black Myth: Wukong game. Special guest Gerald Solomon from the North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF) will engage with Chinese esports managers during the event.

Phase 2 will also bring attention to cross-border brands, with companies like Arpha (smart locks), IVISMILE (oral care devices), Pingjia (cleaning robots), KOSPE (smartwatches), and FUKUMAR (smart pet products) leading the charge. The AR/VR experience zone, supported by HTC, will offer immersive tech demonstrations, while the dog park and a unique Sichuan opera face-changing performance will add cultural flair.

The Sports & Outdoor section (Phase 3) will highlight key exhibitors like See Me Here (outdoor karaoke speakers), NELLO (sports cameras, camping lamps), and Gymera (AI Integrated Fitness Robot), a Red Dot Award winner. This phase will also feature a sports carnival, complete with a Pure Yoga session, interactive fitness areas, and professional sports experiences such as pickleball.

Awards & Special Features

The event will culminate with the prestigious Global Sources Best of Innovation Awards, which will recognize excellence in design, innovation, and quality across electronic products. Judged by industry experts and global buyers, these awards serve as a benchmark for innovation within the industry.

Buyers and suppliers will also have the opportunity to engage in special experience zones, including interactive esports arenas, smart product showcases, and cultural performances, further enhancing networking opportunities and the overall show experience.

As the world continues to evolve technologically, the October 2024 Global Sources Hong Kong Shows stand at the forefront of these innovations, providing a comprehensive platform for buyers and suppliers to explore the latest in AI, esports, smart home tech, and sustainability. With its diverse range of products and immersive experiences, this event is not to be missed for industry professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve.