Hisense has expanded its audio product range with new soundbars in its HS and AX series. These soundbars are designed to complement Hisense TVs, offering improved sound quality.
Hisense HS series soundbars:
The HS series is aimed at users looking for an affordable audio upgrade. The HS2000 is the smallest model, featuring 2.1 channel sound with 240 watts of output. The HS3100 provides 3.1 channel sound with a dedicated center speaker and an external subwoofer, delivering 480 watts. The top-tier HS5100 offers 5.1 channel surround sound with additional wired rear speakers and a combined output of 540 watts. All HS models support Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS Virtual, and offer connectivity options such as HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.3, optical, AUX, and USB ports.
Hisense AX series sound bars:
The AX series is aimed at users who want higher audio performance. The AX3120G provides 3.1.2 channel sound with upward-firing speakers and an external subwoofer, producing 360 watts. The AX5125H offers 5.1.2 channel sound with wireless rear speakers and a more powerful subwoofer, with a total output of 500 watts. Both AX models support Dolby Atmos and DTS for a more immersive sound experience, with similar connectivity options to the HS series, plus the addition of dual HDMI ports.
Both series include remote controls, wall mounting options, and equalizer modes. The HS series is priced between €129 and €299, while the AX series ranges from €349 to €499, with availability depending on the model.
Here’s a list of news that has been trending over the weekend!
Today’s Highlights:
Google Tensor G4 Throttling Concerns: Dive into the early reports suggesting significant performance drops in the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s Tensor G4 chip.
Samsung’s Potential Naming Shake-up: Explore the rumors surrounding Samsung’s possible rebranding of its flagship line. There could be a new Note model too.
Huawei Export Restrictions Update: Unpack the latest developments in Huawei’s ongoing battle with U.S. export restrictions. We’ll have to wait and see the potential implications of the California Democrats’ recent move for both Huawei and U.S. tech competitiveness.
Dual-layer OLED Tablet Race: Get the scoop on the upcoming high-end tablets from Xiaomi, Honor, and Huawei featuring advanced dual-layer OLED displays. We’ll break down what this technology means for the tablet market.
Plus, don’t miss our roundup of other headline-grabbing stories, including a face-off between the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S24, Lenovo’s next-gen gaming tablet, Pixel 9 series pricing and deals, and Samsung’s latest affordable smartphone launch!
Google‘s custom silicon efforts have faced consistent critiques regarding thermal management and sustained performance. Now, early reports suggest the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s Tensor G4 might be particularly susceptible to this issue.
Samsung‘s Galaxy S series has long been a mainstay in the Android smartphone market, offering a clear and consistent naming scheme. However, a recent rumor suggests the South Korean giant might be considering a shake-up for the upcoming Galaxy S26 lineup.
Huawei‘s future under U.S. export restrictions is uncertain, but a recent move by California Democrats suggests a possible shift. In a letter to Alan Estevez, Under Secretary for Industry and Security at the U.S. Commerce Department, California representatives Alex Padilla and Zoe Lofgren voiced concerns about the impact of further restrictions on U.S. competitiveness.
Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the Pad 7 series in September, featuring advanced dual-layer OLED displays. The Pro model will boast the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. This comes as other tech giants like Huawei and Honor are also planning to release high-end tablets with similar cutting-edge display technology by the end of the year.
iQOO is preparing the iQOO 13 for the Chinese market. The device is expected to debut in November of this year in the country. This time around, the company is unlikely to launch a “Pro” variant alongside it. Hence, the iQOO 13 is expected to include features that were expected to be available on the cancelled Pro variant. Many details about the iQOO 13’s specifications have already been leaked by the rumor mill. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Bald is Panda, reveals important information about the design of the device.
iQOO 13 may sport a light strip design
According to the tipster, the upcoming iQOO 13 may feature a light strip on the back. To recall, iQOO previously offered a light-strip design on the first generation iQOO smartphone, which launched in 2019. The original design involved etching a light path approximately 1 mm deep into the glass back panel, allowing the light strip to shine through. This approach was quite striking at the time, with iQOO even incorporating additional light and shadow effects within the software to complement the light strip, enhancing its overall visual appeal.
iQOO eventually phased out the light strip on its smartphones. However, it now appears that the brand will reintroduce the light strip in the upcoming iQOO 13. This could indicate a return to the brand’s roots in high-performance, gaming-oriented smartphones. The iQOO 12 launched last year featured a squircle camera module. At present, there is no clarity on whether the company will offer the same design on the iQOO 13.
iQOO 13 specifications (rumored)
The iQOO 13 rumors suggest that it will have a flat OLED panel by BOE that offers a 2K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor. Under the hood, the device may feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip and a 6,000mAh battery with 100W charging support.
Its rear-facing triple camera setup may include a 50-megapixel primary camera, an ultrawide lens, and a periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. The device is also expected to feature an IP68-rated chassis, a metal middle frame, and a glass back.
In October 2023, Vivo announced the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro as the first Dimensity 9300-powered smartphones. Rumor has it that the Vivo X200 and X200 Pro, set to debut in China in October, will be the world’s first phones equipped with the Dimensity 9400 chip. Today, tipster Digital Chat Station released a sketch to showcase the design changes on the Vivo X200.
Vivo X200 sketch released
Vivo X200 leaked schematic by DCS
In the above sketch, the ZEISS logo placed in the centre of the camera module clearly indicates that this is a schematic of an X200 series phone. While the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro featured a curved-edge OLED panel, reports suggest that the X200 Pro will continue with a curved-edge display, whereas the standard X200 may come with a flat display. Therefore, it seems that the schematic likely belongs to the Vivo X200.
As per reports, the Vivo X200 will have a 6.4-inch or 6.5-inch flat screen with support for a 1.5K resolution. An earpiece can be seen lodged in the top bezel above the display punch-hole. The device features a volume rocker and a power key on its right edge.
The back panel of the X200 features a round camera module with a pill-shaped LED flash unit positioned at the upper-right corner. Inside the round module, there are four rings, but it is speculated that the X200 will have a triple camera setup headlined by a custom-made 50-megapixel primary camera. The camera setup may also include a periscope telephoto camera, similar to its predecessor. The device is expected to pack a 5,800mAh battery. While the X200 Pro and a rumored smaller model featuring a 6.3-inch display, tentatively dubbed the Vivo X200 Mini, will offer wireless charging support, the X200 may lack support for it.
Approximately two months are remaining for the launch of the Oppo Find X8 series, which includes at least three models, such as the Find X8, X8 Pro, and X8 Ultra. It is speculated that the Find X8 and X8 Pro will hit the Chinese market in October and the Ultra may go official in January 2025. Today, tipster Digital Chat Station shared the following schematic to leak the design of what appears to be the standard Find X8.
Oppo Find X8 schematic
Oppo Find X8 leaked schematic by DCS
DCS recently claimed that the Find X8 will have a flat screen, whereas the displays of the X8 Pro and X8 Ultra will have a micro-curvature design. So, it appears that the above image, which features a flat display, could be the standard Find X8.
As can be seen, there’s an earpiece placed on the top bezel of the Find X8. The device appears to have an alert slider on the left side and a volume rocker and power button on the right edge.
The round camera module on the Find X8’s back has four camera rings with a Hasselblad logo in the middle. Since it is a standard variant, it is said to feature a triple camera setup. The upper-left corner of the module houses an LED flash.
Oppo Find X7
In comparison, the Find X7, which debuted in January this year, features a similar design but with a curved-edge display instead of a flat screen. Additionally, while it also has a round camera module on the back, the layout is slightly different.
Oppo Find X8 specifications (rumored)
According to reports, the Oppo Find X8 will feature a 6.4-inch or 6.5-inch OLED panel that supports 2760 x 1256 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. The Dimensity 9400-powered device is said to pack a 5,600mAh silicon battery. It is expected to run on ColorOS 15-based Android 15. Its rear camera setup is expected to feature a 50-megapixel Sony primary camera, an ultrawide lens, and a Sony IMX882 periscope telephoto camera. It is expected to come in shades such as black, white, blue, and pink.
The Realme 13 Pro series, announced earlier this month, succeeds the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+. The Realme 13 Pro and 13 Pro+ share the same chipset, unlike their predecessors, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 and Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, respectively. In fact, the two phones are largely identical, differing primarily in two key areas: the rear camera setup and quick charging capabilities. In this review, we will focus on the Realme 13 Pro+ and explore how its upgraded features, particularly the enhanced rear camera setup and faster charging, set it apart from the standard Realme 13 Pro.
Realme 13 Pro Plus 5GRealme 13 Pro Plus 5GRealme 13 Pro Plus 5G
161.3 x 73.91 x 8.41mm,185.5 grams (leather)
161.3 x 73.91 x 8.23mm, 190 grams (glass)
IP65 rating | Gorilla Glass 7i protection for display
Colors: Emerald Green (leather), Monet Gold (glass)
Unboxing, the Realme 13 Pro+ retail package reveals the handset, an 80W charger, a USB-C to USB-A cable, a SIM ejector tool, a safety guide, a quick guide, and a protective case. The Emerald Green edition, which I received for review, has a leather back, while the Monet Gold features a glass back.
Like the Realme 12 Pro series, the 13 Pro+ continues to feature a curved-edge OLED panel on the front, a plastic frame, and a round camera module on the back. The device feels good in the hand, and its IP65 rating protects it from dust and low-pressure water jets, making it resistant to splashes and light rain.
TB: 600nits, GMB: 1200nits, LPB: 2,000nits, MMB:600nits (Typical Brightness, Global Maximum Brightness, Local Peak Brightness, Manual Maximum Brightness)
Dual speakers
The display of the Realme 13 Pro+ appears to be identical to that of the previous model. However, the new phone comes with better brightness. Color profiles available on the device include Vivid (P3), Natural, and Pro (Cinematic and Brillant). There is an “AI Eye Comfort” option in settings, which allows the phone to detect eye fatigue with AI and adjust the screen color temperature in real-time.
The Realme 13 Pro+ lacks HDR support, which means it can’t stream HD content available on Netflix and YouTube. However, it is compatible with Widevine L1.
The speaker setup includes a bottom-firing speaker and an earpiece-embedded one. The bottom speaker appears to produce about 60 percent of the sound output. Overall, the 13 Pro+ offers a decent experience when watching a movie.
3. Performance and Software
Realme 13 Pro+ 5G benchmarks
Snapdragon 7s Gen 2
LPDDR4x RAM | UFS 2.2 (128GB/256GB) / UFS 3.1 (512GB) storage | Up to 12GB virtual RAM
Variants: 8GB+256GB | 12GB+256GB | 12G+512GB
Android 14 | Realme UI 5
5,200mAh battery | 80W charging
9-layer cooling system (4500mm² tempered VC + 9953mm² graphite + 3394mm² large vapor chamber)
The Realme 13 Pro+ has the 4nm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 onboard. In terms of performance, it is not better than the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. In a nutshell, the S7sG2 offers a bit smoother experience for everyday tasks and slightly better gaming performance. It is good to see Realme pack a large battery of 5,200mAh inside the 13 Pro+. With an 80W in-box charger, the device can go from 0 to 100 percent in 50 to 55 minutes.
The Realme UI 5, based on Android 14, includes software features such as AI Smart Loop (similar to Google’s Circle to Search), AI Smart Recognition, Air Gestures, Smart Image Matting, Microsoft Phonelink, and File Dock. The phone is set to receive Android 15 and Android 16 OS upgrades, along with three years of security updates. While the UI experience is quite good, there are many pre-loaded apps. Ideally, I would prefer an app drawer with fewer preinstalled apps, allowing for a more customized experience where I can install apps according to my preferences. Additionally, the 13 Pro+ also shows system ads, which can be turned off in the settings. Nevertheless, apart from these hiccups, the Realme UI 5 experience is, as usual, quite smooth and stutter-free.
There’s feedback for the brand. While there are several AI functionalities, they seem to be buried deep within the settings. For example, AI Smart Loop and AI Smart Recognition are located under Settings > Accessibility & convenience. Additionally, there are numerous features within “Accessibility & convenience,” such as in-app air gestures available under Smart Sensing. It would be good if Realme simplified the interface so that these features were more easily accessible.
The Realme 13 Pro+ scores 652,858 in AnTuTu, indicating good overall performance. It should be able to handle most everyday tasks, multitasking, and even demanding games with reasonable ease. In the CPU Throttle app, the throttle percentage is at 73%, which indicates that the CPU is currently running at about 73% of its maximum potential performance. I did not experience frame drop issues in demanding games like PUBG (Ultra/Ultra HDR) and Genshin Impact. While the Realme 13 Pro+ can handle intensive tasks, it is not a gaming-focused phone. Since it is more of a photography device, you should look at the Realme GT 6 or 6T for a top-notch gaming experience.
4. Cameras and Other Features
Realme 13 Pro+ 5G
Front: 32MP Sony IMX615
Rear: 50MP Sony LYT-701 with OIS | 8MP Smartsens SC820CS ultrawide | 50MP Sony LYT600 telephoto with OIS
The HyperImage+ logo on the camera module of the Realme 13 Pro series represents Realme’s new AI photography architecture, which aims to improve the camera experience and image quality. This includes packing flagship-grade optics (LYT-701, industry first on Realme 13 Pro+), the AI HyperRAW algorithm processing images in RAW format, and the AI HyperRAW algorithm processing images in RAW format. For cloud-based editing, Smart Removal lets you erase unwanted objects or people from photos, and Group Photo Enhancement optimizes group shots by adjusting lighting and facial features. Additionally, Audio Zoom enhances video audio quality by focusing on sound from specific sources.
As expected, daylight shots captured using the primary camera of the Realme 13 Pro+ are impressive. The 50-megapixel main camera captures images at 12 megapixels by default and supports up to 120x digital zoom. Color reproduction and details are accurate, with a satisfactory dynamic range. In low-light conditions, the main camera produces impressive shots with excellent details and color saturation. There’s a dedicated Action Mode feature, which can capture clear and more stable photos (up to 3x zoom) and videos when there’s movement involved. I feel that the LYT-701 when coupled with a flagship processor will produce even better results, especially in low-light conditions.
Ultrawide (0.8x)Main camera (1x)Main camera (2x)Main camera (6x)Main camera (3x)Ultrawide (0.8x)Main camera (1x)Main camera (2x)Main camera (10x)Main camera (50x)Main camera (100x)Ultrawide (0.8x)Main camera (1x)Main camera (2x)Main camera (6x)Main camera (10x)Main camera (!x)Ultrawide1x2xWithout night modeWith night mode
Shots captured using the 8-megapixel ultrawide camera are consistent with the primary camera. In both daylight and low-light conditions, the dynamic range is good.
When you use the phone for portrait shots, the periscope telephoto camera, which supports up to 3x optical zoom, comes into action. While it captures decent shots in daylight, the night selfies carry some noise.
The 32-megapixel selfie camera supports 0.8x and 1x zoom options in Photo, Portrait, and Video modes. It captures 32-megapixel resolution shots by default, which can result in excessively large file sizes, potentially taking up significant storage space.
Portrait Selfie (0.8x)Portrait Selfie (!x)Portrait shotPortrait shotPortrait shotPortrait shotMain cameraPortrait shotMain camera low-lightPortrait shotMain camera low-light
When it comes to video shooting, the Realme 13 Pro+’s primary camera can shoot up to 4K 30fps. The ultrawide and telephoto cameras support 1080p video recording at up to 30fps and 60fps, respectively. The front camera supports up to 4K 30fps video shooting.
Ultra Stead (OIS) is only available when you are shooting 1080p 60fps videos using the primary camera. The 30fps and 60fps videos are captured with EIS enabled by default. That means there is no stabilization while capturing 4K videos.
The Photos app provides two photography-related AI features. The AI Eraser does well at removing people and objects from an image. Sometimes, it may take a couple of tries to get some unwanted objects removed according to your preference. Otherwise, the feature functions pretty well. There’s AI Ultra Clarity for enhancing details in existing shots.
With AI EraserWith AI Eraser
The in-screen fingerprint scanner on the Realme 13 Pro+ 5G operates flawlessly. However, I would have preferred its placement a bit higher. The Realme Lab available in Settings has two additional features, Dual-mode Audio (produces audio through Bluetooth earphones and wired earphones simultaneously) and heart rate measurement using the in-screen fingerprint sensor.
The x-axis vibration motor’s intensity can be increased according to preference via Settings. However, the Indian variant lacks support for NFC connectivity, unlike its global version.
5. Verdict and competitors
Realme 13 Pro Plus 5G
To sum up, the Realme 13 Pro+ is a reborn 12 Pro+ with a bigger battery with faster charging, better optics, and plenty of AI features. Only flagship phones, typically priced above Rs 50,000, come with periscope telephoto cameras. With the exception of the Realme 12 Pro+, which is now available at a reduced price of Rs 28,999, only the Realme 13 Pro+, priced around Rs 30,000, features a periscope telephoto snapper. Furthermore, it is blessed with a flagship-level primary camera. Hence, it manages to offer a better photography experience than the 12 Pro+. It is speculated that the Realme GT 7 Pro flagship phone, arriving by the end of this year, may inherit the LYT-701 primary camera from the 13 Pro+.
Realme 13 Pro+ price in India
The prices of the Realme 13 Pro+ variants in India, which include 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, and 12G+512GB, are Rs 32,999 (~$393), Rs 34,999 (~$417), and Rs 36,999 (~$441), respectively. It is available for purchase through Realme India’s website, Flipkart, and offline stores.
Infinix is preparing to introduce the new Hot 50 series. This series will consist of 5 models: Hot 50, Hot 50 5G, Hot 50 Pro, Hot 50 Pro+ and Hot 50i. Of course, there is no information about the technical specifications of these devices. We can confirm that Infinix will be introducing 5 new Hot 50 series smartphones. The top-end model of the series will be the Hot 50 Pro+. Another detail is that, as usual, the Hot 50i model will be an affordable smartphone and will not offer any significant improvements.
Infinix Hot 50 series
Above, we have already summarized the Infinix Hot 50 series. Gizmochina has spotted 5 different Hot 50 series models in the IMEI database and the model numbers of the devices have been surfaced. Each smartphone has a different model number. The known model numbers of these 5 devices are as follows:
Infinix Hot 50: X6882
Infinix Hot 50 Pro: X6881
Infinix Hot 50 Pro+: X6880
Infinix Hot 50 5G: X6720
Infinix Hot 50i: X6531
Unlike the Hot 40 series, the brand is customizing the base model in 2 different variants in this new series. The 4G-only Infinix Hot 50 4G and the Infinix Hot 50 5G, feature a 5G modem that is not limited to 4G only. This is a significant difference compared to the previous Hot 40 series. With 5G smartphones getting a lot of attention lately, Infinix has made such a change. With this latest change, the brand is expected to achieve a significant rise in the smartphone market.
The Hot 50 series features are currently unknown. But with different leaks in the near future, the technical specs of the smartphone may be revealed. We will see this over time. We officially confirm the development of the Infinix Hot 50 series. As for the launch date of the devices, we don’t have any information about it.
The Signyean H9 Ultra Projector has been launched in China. What makes this product from the Chinese start-up stand out is the presence of a mechanical gimbal design on this model. The projector also has a maximum brightness of 4000 ANSI lumens and a front floating screen.
Features
The Signyean H9 Ultra projector has a 360° mechanical gimbal, a pitch angle of 235°, and a horizontal angle of 360°. The projector is powered by the HiSilicon Hi3751V352F processor with a quad-core A55 CPU and dual-core G52 GPU. The projector also supports Vulkan features.
The new projector uses the 7th generation closed optical engine and covers 110% BT.2020 color gamut,. It has a contrast ratio of 3000:1, and Delta E of approximately 0.9. The new Signyean projector is equipped with a “cinema-level” panoramic subwoofer with a volume of 800cc and integrates noise cancellation technology. It has a built-in 2 x 12W tweeter with a 98mm heavy bass diaphragm and a 15W digital amplifier.
In terms of connectivity options, the projector supports Bluetooth connection. The front of the body is equipped with a floating screen that supports displaying time, weather, lyrics, and other information.
The projector offers an ads-free operation when it is turned on. It also supports TOF 4K laser automatic following. Other features available with the projector include focus correction, automatic obstacle avoidance, and automatic screen entry. You can use the projector to stream content from a smartphone and it also supports NFC touch-and-go transmission. Other features are film and television App screen projection and office meeting screen projection.
Pricing & Availability
The Signyean H9 Ultra mechanical gimbal projector is available from JD.com at an introductory price of 1,899 yuan ($265). Global availability and pricing details for the projector are lacking at this time.
Motorola recently revealed its plans to launch the Moto G45 5G smartphone in India on August 21. Specs, features, and renders of the device were leaked previously in detail. Now, the brand has started confirming the details through the official Flipkart landing page.
The device is now confirmed to feature a 6.5-inch 120Hz variable refresh rate display protected by Gorilla Glass 3. It will be powered by a Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chipset coupled with up to 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. Camera features include a 50MP main sensor and a 16MP selfie shooter.
It will also feature a 5,000mAh battery and will come with Android 14 out of the box, promising 1 year of OS updates and 3 years of security updates. The phone has Dolby Atmos-tuned stereo speakers and a vegan leather back. As for water resistance, it has an IP52 certification.
Other than the revealed details, the leaks claim that the device will offer an HD+ resolution, and will have a 4GB RAM variant as well. The 50MP primary camera sensor will be paired with a 2MP depth sensor, while the device will have a 16MP sensor on the front for snapping selfies. As for the pricing, rumors claim that the Mogo G45 5G will retail for around Rs 15,000 (~$178). Some of these details will likely be confirmed in the coming days, so stay tuned.
After much anticipation, Google introduced the new Pixel 9 Series, consisting of four new smartphones: Pixel 9, the Pixel 9 Pro, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. All the smartphones have been improved with new hardware specifications and features. Google’s AI prowess further enhances the list of useful features and aids in better usability. The smartphones are already up on pre-orders, and here you can check the availability and exciting introductory offers. Let’s dive into more details below:
Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Pricing Details and Offers
The pricing for the Pixel 9 series changes with regions, and even the availability differs. Here’s our compilation to inform all our readers about the pricing, offers, and availability of the new Pixel Series.
Matte Black case with Obsidian Band Polished Silver case with Porcelain Band Champagne Gold case with Hazel Band Polished Silver case with Rose Quartz Band
Matte Black case with Obsidian Band Polished Silver case with Porcelain Band Champagne Gold case with Hazel Band Polished Silver case with Rose Quartz Band
Matte Black case with Obsidian Band Polished Silver case with Porcelain Band Champagne Gold case with Hazel Band Polished Silver case with Rose Quartz Band
These are the pricing details for India, the US, the UK, and Canada. There are some introductory discounts available for smartphones and new accessories and wearables.
Huawei‘s future under U.S. export restrictions is uncertain, but a recent move by California Democrats suggests a possible shift. In a letter to Alan Estevez, Under Secretary for Industry and Security at the U.S. Commerce Department, California representatives Alex Padilla and Zoe Lofgren voiced concerns about the impact of further restrictions on U.S. competitiveness.
The core of their argument is that unilateral sanctions could backfire. The Democrats warn that by cutting off Huawei and other Chinese companies from crucial U.S. technology, the U.S. risks falling behind. They urged the department to “pause additional unilateral export controls until you have adequately justified that such controls will not damage U.S. competitiveness in advanced semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing equipment.”
This position marks a significant pushback against the Commerce Department’s ongoing efforts to restrict technology exports to China. While Padilla and Lofgren aren’t advocating for the abandonment of all trade regulations, they question whether unilateral sanctions effectively achieve national security goals.
This concern is particularly relevant in California, a state heavily invested in the semiconductor industry. Home to giants like LAM Research, KLA Corporation, and Applied Materials, California could suffer greatly if U.S. firms are cut off from key markets like China. This isn’t the first time California has lobbied for a change. In April, Padilla and Governor Gavin Newsom urged the administration to reconsider scrapping a subsidy program for chip research and development.
The U.S. faces a complex dilemma. National security concerns remain a major factor driving export restrictions. There is an ongoing fear that China could use U.S. technology for military purposes or compromise user security—concerns that have long been associated with Huawei, which denies such allegations.
However, the strategy of tightening controls may have unintended consequences. The U.S. effort to isolate China from advanced technology could be hindering American companies. Combined with pressure from states like California, this may lead to a reevaluation of the current approach.
The letter from California Democrats could signal the start of a shift. Whether this will lead to concrete policy changes remains uncertain, as the Commerce Department has yet to formally respond to California’s concerns.
For the past couple of months, it’s been raining discounts on electronics from Amazon India. Earlier, it was with the Amazon Prime Day Sale, and later, it switched under the banner of the Amazon Freedom Sale. However, the Redmi 13C 5G is now retailing at the lowest price, despite any sale on Amazon India. The smartphone usually retails for Rs 10,499, but with the recent coupon discount, you can get it for the effective price of Rs 9,499.
Redmi 13C Discount Detailed on Amazon India
To get a discount, the user should click on the “Apply Rs 1000 coupon” present under the usual retail price. Apart from the coupon, there’s an additional 5% cashback for the Amazon ICICI Bank Credit Card, and the user can also opt for the Rs 472.78 No-Cost EMI discount. Excluding the bank discounts, the final price stands at Rs 9,499.
Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Redmi 13C Features and Specifications
The Redmi 13C, launched in India last December, boasts impressive specifications for its price range. It features a 6.74-inch IPS LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth visual experience. The device is powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 chipset, coupled with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD. The Redmi 13C runs on Android 13 with MIUI 14. It also includes a triple-camera setup on the back, with a 50MP main camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 0.08MP auxiliary lens, along with an 8MP front camera for selfies. The phone is equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging, ensuring long-lasting performance.
In terms of design, the Redmi 13C is available in four attractive colors: Clover Green, Glacier White, Navy Blue, and Midnight Black. The sleek and slim design, measuring just 8.09 mm in thickness, makes it comfortable to hold and use. The device also features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for added security and convenience. In connectivity, the user gets WiFi, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC, USB Type-C 2.0.
With its combination of powerful performance, stylish design, and affordable pricing, the Redmi 13C is a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Earlier this year, Lenovo launched the Legion Y700 matte display tablet in its domestic market, with a minor display upgrade over the 2023 model. Now, the alleged Lenovo Legion Y700 2024 model has made an appearance on Geekbench, with a new processor.
Lenovo Legion Y700 2023
A recent Geekbench listing has confirmed the device’s next iteration, the Legion Y700 (2024), identified by model number TB321FU will be powered by Qualcomm’s top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The benchmark results, showcase a single-core score of 2209 and a multi-core score of 6509.
While specifics remain limited, the Geekbench listing information indicates the tablet will feature 12GB of RAM. It’s anticipated that Lenovo will unveil the Legion Y700 (2024) in China in the coming months, followed by a global release sometime thereafter. Like its predecessor, the 2024 model is rumored to come with an 8.8-inch display. We can take a look at the specifications and features of the Legion Y700 (2023) to get an idea of what else we can expect from its successor.
Lenovo Legion Y700 (2023) specs:
The 2023 Legion Y700 tablet is powered by the 4nm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset and comes in two variants: 12GB RAM with 256GB storage and 16GB RAM with 512GB storage. It has an 8.8-inch 2.5k LCD display with 144Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 500 nits.
It features a dual rear camera setup with a 13MP primary sensor and a 2MP secondary sensor, along with an 8MP front-facing camera. The tablet has dual USB Type-C 3.1 Gen2 ports, which support display output via DisplayPort 1.4.
Xiaomi has rolled out a significant update for its Mix Flip (check out our full review of Xiaomi Mix Flip) foldable phone, bringing the HyperOS 1.0.11.0 UNICNXM version to the device. This update, which has a size of approximately 625 MB, introduces a range of improvements and new features, particularly enhancing the functionality of the external screen.
What’s new in this update?
The update introduces a new external screen smart pop-up window with a focus notification card, enabling users to view important information like travel details, food delivery progress, and verification codes directly on the external screen without opening the phone.
Additionally, users can now open apps directly by tapping on external screen widgets, providing quicker and more convenient access to frequently used apps.
Furthermore, the external screen now supports additional applications, including Mi Home and Happy Match, expanding its usability and making it more versatile for everyday tasks.
Along with these new features, Xiaomi has also optimized the overall system stability, ensuring a smoother and more reliable user experience. The dark mode input experience on the external screen has also been refined, providing better visibility and ease of use in low-light conditions.
In terms of app compatibility, the update has improved the external screen’s adaptation for popular apps like WeChat and Douyin, ensuring that these apps run more seamlessly on the smaller display. Xiaomi has also addressed some bugs and issues in this update, including occasional abnormal issues in certain scenarios and app-switching restart problems on the external screen, enhancing the overall user experience.
Additionally, the August 2024 security patch has been integrated into the update, providing users with the latest security enhancements to protect their device and data.
Xiaomi Mix Flip Quick Specifications
The Xiaomi Mix Flip, launched earlier this year, features a 6.86-inch internal 1.5K LTPO display with up to 3000 nits peak brightness, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and UTG glass protection. The external display is a 4-inch 1.5K panel with similar brightness and HDR capabilities.
It is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor with Adreno 750 GPU, up to 16GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device runs on Xiaomi HyperOS based on Android 14 and includes a 50MP rear camera, 32MP front camera, side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a 4780mAh battery with 67W fast charging.
Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra comparison table
In this article, two top tier Android brands face off to show off the performance and features of their top flagship models. Yes this, Vivo X100 Ultra versus Oppo Find X7 Ultra brings two Ultra Android devices against each other. If you’re out there shopping for a new Android device that packs all the features that you need, then these two devices will be on your shopping list. But which of them is a better pick for you? This article will help you to make the right choice, between these two, when shopping for a new Android flagship device.
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Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra: Design and colours
Vivo X100 Ultra:
The Vivo X100 Ultra is a device that defines elegance in the smartphone industry. From its curved screens to its curved rear panel, this device is easy to hold and also the finish on this device is easy to the touch. Despite the curved screen and rear panel, the sides of this device are flat and house the power and volume rocker keys on the right-hand side. On its rear panel sits a circular camera cutout that houses three camera lenses and flash that sits out of the circular cutout. The concave top and bottom sides house the upwards firing speakers, SIM tray, USB-C port, and microphone. Available colours top pick from are Titanium, White, and Grey.
Oppo Find X7 Ultra:
This device comes with a design that is quite similar to what we have on the Vivo X100 Ultra. We can attribute this to its bold circular rear camera cutout that houses four lenses as well as the curved screen and back panel. For the rear finish, Oppo sticks to using a blend of leather and an aluminium frame at the top rear panel and along the sides. Along the right side of this device are the volume and power buttons, and its left side is a flip to mute button. At its top is an upward firing speaker while at its base is the SIM tray slot, USB-C port, microphone, and speaker. Available colour options for this device are Black, Dark Blue, and Light Brown.
Major differences:
A more curved screen display on the Oppo Find X7 Ultra.
Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra: Display
Vivo X100 Ultra and Oppo Find X7 Ultra:
Both devices come with curved screen displays and an LTPO AMOLED panel. They also support up to 120Hz refresh rate, but the Oppo Find X7 Ultra outperforms the competition with a 4500 nit peak brightness. The OPPO Find X7 Ultra also features a larger screen, measuring at 6.82 inches. Ideal for buyers looking out for something larger. Thanks to a more curved screen, the Oppo Find X7 Ultra features a better screen-to-body ratio, giving it a more premium feel than the competition.
Major differences:
Larger screen on the Oppo Find X7 Ultra.
Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra: Cameras
Vivo X100 Ultra and Oppo Find X7 Ultra:
Being photography oriented flagship devices, these entries from Vivo and Oppo take very appealing approaches to their camera systems. The Vivo X100 Ultra comes with a triple rear camera setup with two 50MP sensors, a 200MP periscope telephoto sensor, and a 50MP sensor. Oppo on their part makes use of four 50MP rear camera sensors as well as a 32MP selfie sensor. Vivo integrates Zeiss camera technology on the X100 Ultra, and Oppo uses Hasselblad camera technology on the X7 Ultra.
Major differences:
200MP periscope telephoto lens on the Vivo X100 Ultra.
50MP selfie camera on the Vivo X100 Ultra.
Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra: Performance
Vivo X100 Ultra and Oppo Find X7 Ultra:
This is another area where these two devices are also very similar to one another. Both devices come with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor for flagship level performance. The two devices also offer up to 16GB RAM variants for power users.
Major upgrades & differences:
Nil.
Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra: Software
Vivo X100 Ultra and Oppo Find X7 Ultra:
Both devices run on Android 14 out of the box but with different software products as the Vivo X100 Ultra runs OriginOS 4 and the Oppo Find X7 Ultra runs ColorOS 14. If you purchase any of these devices, you’ll get up to three years of OIS upgrades and five years of security updates.
Major differences:
Vivo X100 Ultra runs OriginOS 4.
Oppo Find X7 Ultra runs ColorOS 14.
Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra: Battery life and charging
Vivo X100 Ultra and Oppo Find X7 Ultra:
The Vivo X100 Ultra comes with a larger battery, and the Oppo Find X7 Ultra comes with faster charging capabilities. Vivo packs a 5500mAh battery that supports 80W fast charge on the X100 Ultra. As for the Oppo Find X7 Ultra, it comes with a 5000mAh battery capacity and supports 100W fast charging.
Major differences:
Larger battery on the Vivo X100 Ultra.
Faster charging on the Oppo Find X7 Ultra.
Vivo X100 Ultra vs Oppo Find X7 Ultra: Final Verdict
If you’re shopping for a new device and these devices are on your mind, it’s good to note that the Oppo Find X7 Ultra is the overall better buy. It comes with a ton of features at a more affordable price tag than the competition in this article. While the Vivo X100 Ultra is a solid purchase, it comes at a more expensive price while comparing similarly with the Oppo Find X7 Ultra.
Redmi 12C has started receiving the new HyperOS August update. Of course, this update is unique to the Global ROM for the time being and comes with important optimizations. The HyperOS August update is expected to be released for users in all regions in the near future. The smartphone stands out for its affordable price and is powered by a MediaTek Helio G85 processor. Xiaomi released the HyperOS August update to make the Redmi 12C run faster, more stable, and smoother.
Redmi 12C HyperOS August Update
The Redmi 12C was launched with Android 12 based MIUI 13 and received the latest Android 14 based HyperOS update. Xiaomi regularly releases new security patches for this smartphone. With the new updates, users will feel different feelings towards their smartphones. This time the build number of the HyperOS August 2024 security update is OS1.0.6.0.UCVMIXM. The update improves system security and stability.
The new update has a file size of 393MB. At the moment, the update is rolling out to HyperOS Pilot Testers. It will be available to all users in the near future. With this update, many smartphones have started receiving the August 2024 security patch. Has your device received the new update? If not, don’t worry, Xiaomi will soon start rolling out the August 2024 security update to specific Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO models. Please wait patiently.
POCO has started rolling out the August 2024 security update for its flagship model POCO F5 Pro. The POCO F5 Pro is known for its outstanding performance and stunning display quality, offering a seamless gaming experience and overall user satisfaction. With this latest update, the smartphone becomes even more secure and powerful by addressing various security vulnerabilities.
POCO F5 Pro HyperOS August Update
The POCO F5 Pro arrived with MIUI 14 based on Android 13. The device has already received the Android 14-based HyperOS update and continues to benefit from regular updates. The latest version brings the August 2024 security patch and further enhances system security as well as optimizes interface performance. The update has the build number OS1.0.8.0.UMNMIXM is currently available for users with Global ROM.
The update is rolling out first to HyperOS Pilot users and is expected to be released to many more users soon. This August 2024 security patch, with a download size of 493MB, is highly recommended for all users to ensure their devices are up to date with the latest security enhancements.
Vivo V40 Pro and OnePlus 12 are popular premium smartphones from Chinese brands. Both devices look solid on the spec sheet, featuring impressive cameras, a high-resolution display, and a powerful octa-core chipset for superior performance. They also come with super-fast charging support that refills the battery in minutes.
Vivo V40 Pro and OnePlus 12 are good high-end phones, but some key differences set them apart. In this post, we’ll compare them to see how the two flagship phones stack up against each other and which offers more value for money.
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Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Design
The Vivo V40 Pro and OnePlus 12 (review) are nearly the same in height and width, but the Vivo V40 Pro stands out with its sleek design, being around 19% thinner and 14% lighter than the OnePlus 12. This makes it a stylish and easy-to-carry companion wherever you go.
Both smartphones have a glass back but a completely different camera module. The OnePlus 12 has a giant circular camera module, whereas the Vivo phone has a vertical one. Both are solid phones and have been rigorously tested for longer durability.
Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Display
The OnePlus 12 boasts a slightly bigger display with more resolutions. Both phones feature HDR10+, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 4500nits, ensuring a clear viewing experience even outdoors. The OnePlus 12 also takes it a step further with LTPO support, a display technology that automatically adjusts the refresh rate based on the content being displayed, setting it apart from the Vivo V40 Pro.
Both devices have curved displays, although the Vivo phone is more curved than the OnePlus 12. The OnePlus phone uses the popular Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, while the Vivo V40 Pro has Schott Xensation Alpha protection. The former is well-known and trusted for drop resistance, while the latter promises innovative features and environmental benefits.
Because of more pixels and LTPO support, the OnePlus 12 is a better choice than the Vivo V40 Pro as far as the display is concerned.
Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Camera
Both smartphones have a triple camera setup on the back, although the design and megapixel count are completely different. The Vivo V40 Pro features a vertical camera module that includes three sensors, each with a 50MP resolution. The primary one has f/1.9 aperture, 1/1.56-inch sensor size, and optical image stabilisation (OIS) support.
The Vivo phone also has a 50MP telephoto lens with f/1.9 aperture, 1/2.51-inch sensor size, OIS, and 2x optical zoom. The third 50MP sensor is for ultrawide shots with f/2.0 aperture, 1/2.76-inch sensor size, and 119-degree field of view (FOV). Even the selfie camera on the Vivo V40 Pro has 50MP resolution.
The Vivo phone can record up to 4K videos at 30 frames per second (FPS) with its rear as well as selfie camera.
The OnePlus 12 also features a triple camera setup, led by a 50MP sensor with f/1.6 aperture, 1/1.4-inch sensor size, OIS, and 85-degree FOV. There’s also a 64MP periscope telephoto lens with f/2.6 aperture, 1/2-inch sensor size, OIS, and 3x optical zoom. The camera setup also has a 48MP ultrawide lens with f/2.2 aperture, 1/2-inch sensor size, and 114-degree FOV.
The OnePlus 12’s rear camera can record up to 8K videos and 4K videos at up to 60FPS. On the front, it boasts a 32MP camera with up to 4K video recording support.
Both smartphones have strong camera specs. However, the OnePlus 12 edges past the Vivo V40 Pro in terms of video recording by offering 8K support, which is limited to 4K on the Vivo phone.
Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Performance
The Vivo V40 Pro is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset, whereas the OnePlus 12 uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. Both are octa-core chips fabricated using the same TSMC’s 4nm process. However, there’s a big performance gap.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 uses more high-performance and efficient cores than the Dimensity 9200+ chip, delivering much better CPU and GPU performance. On Geekbench and AnTuTu benchmarking platforms, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 scores over 30% better than the Dimensity 9200+. The difference gets wider on gaming benchmarks such as 3D Mark WidLife.
Besides a highly efficient and powerful Qualcomm chip, the OnePlus 12 also has faster RAM and storage, offering quick app loading and better overall performance.
The bottom line is that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip inside the OnePlus 12 has much better CPU, GPU, and overall performance than the Dimensity 9200 Plus-powered Vivo V40 Pro. If performance is your serious concern, the OnePlus 12 is a no-brainer choice over the V40 Pro.
Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Battery
The Vivo V40 Pro packs a 5,500 mAh battery, while the OnePlus 12 has a slightly lesser battery capacity of 5,400 mAh. The difference is not much here, but you’ll experience it while charging the device.
The OnePlus 12 supports 100W fast charging, while the Vivo V40 Pro brings support for 80W fast charging. The OnePlus phone also supports 50W wireless charging.
The OnePlus 12 has a slightly lower battery capacity than the Vivo V40 Pro but compensates by lowering the charging time.
Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Software
Vivo V40 Pro and OnePlus 12 run Android 14 out of the box with their version of custom skins (Funtouch OS 14 on Vivo and OxygenOS 14 on the OnePlus).
The smartphones have the latest version of Android OS, but it’s also important to check how long they will be supported. As for the OnePlus 12, the company promises four years of Android updates and five years of security patches. However, the Vivo V40 Pro will only get three years of Android and four years of security updates.
Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Connectivity
The Vivo V40 Pro and OnePlus 12 have good connectivity features. However, there are notable differences you should be aware of.
The OnePlus 12 supports a newer Bluetooth 5.4 standard, while the Vivo V40 Pro supports Bluetooth 5.3. The OnePlus phone also supports Wi-Fi 6e. While these may make little difference, the USB type does.
The Vivo V40 Pro supports USB type-C 2.0, whereas the OnePlus 12 supports USB type-C 3.2. This means the OnePlus phone has faster data transfer speed. So, transferring large files to USB-connected devices will take much longer on the Vivo V40 Pro.
Vivo V40 Pro vs OnePlus 12: Verdict
The Vivo V40 Pro and OnePlus 12 are solid high-end smartphones. But there are key differences that really impacts your purchase decision.
The Vivo V40 Pro is a lightweight phone with excellent portrait photography and a high-resolution front-facing camera. It has a slightly larger battery capacity and supports fast charging. The device runs the latest Android version and is guranteed up to three Android upgrades.
The OnePlus 12’s display has more pixels and supports LTPO technology. The rear cameras take good shots and can record up to 8K videos. It has a high-performance and efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, much better than the Dimensity 9200+. The device will receive one extra year of software updates than the Vivo V40 Pro and has better connectivity features.
The base variant of the Vivo V40 Pro is currently priced at Rs. 49,999, while the OnePlus 12 costs Rs. 64,999. There’s a clear pricing gap, which also reflects on the spec sheet. The OnePlus 12 offers a better value, hence my choice over the Vivo V40 Pro.
Which one of these two phones would you consider? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Huawei China has unveiled its largest Smart TV yet, the V5 98-inch. The new model joins the existing 75-inch and 85-inch variants, offering consumers a massive screen option. It is currently available on VMall, priced at 36,999 yuan ($5,168) but discounted to 34,999 ($4,889) yuan until August 31st.
Huawei Smart TV V5 specs:
The V5 98-inch features a Super MiniLED Ultra HD display with a 4K resolution, supporting direct down backlight mode for enhanced contrast. With a 120Hz refresh rate, 95% DCI-P3 color gamut, 750 nits typical brightness, and a peak of 2000 nits, the TV promises vibrant and detailed visuals.
Under the hood, the device is powered by Huawei’s Honghu Swan 900 chip paired with HarmonyOS 4. It comes equipped with 6GB RAM and 64GB internal storage. Audio is handled by a dual-driver speaker system with additional components for enhanced sound quality.
Huawei’s new Wireless Remote Control offers improved navigation and control. The TV also includes AI features like content duration control, sitting posture and distance reminders, and eye protection. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1, USB ports, Ethernet, and an AI camera with voice input and video calling capabilities. The V5 98-inch measures 2176.2 x 1256 x 65mm and weighs 63kg without the stand.
In other news, Huawei’s upcoming tri-foldable phone has been spotted again, this time in a folded state. The device, which features a dual-hinge design, is expected to have a 10-inch screen and a rear camera module resembling the Mate 50 series. It is powered by the Kirin 9 series platform and may launch in September alongside other Huawei products like the Nova 13 series and Huawei Watch GT 5.
Chinese tech giant Vivo is working on a new entry-level phone. Gizmochina has spotted this smartphone in the IMEI database. After unveiling the Vivo Y18s a few months ago, the brand aims to increase competition in the smartphone market by starting work on the Vivo Y19s.
Vivo Y19s
Vivo plans to increase competition in the affordable phone market. The company will announce the affordable Vivo Y19s in the near future. According to the IMEI database, the Vivo Y19s will have the model number V2419. We expect the new smartphone to have similar specifications to the Vivo Y18s.
There is no information yet about when this smartphone will be unveiled and its specifications. However, compared to the predecessor Vivo Y18s, the new Y19s is expected to be slightly improved. Therefore, let’s take a look at the specifications of the previous model Vivo Y18s.
The Vivo Y18s comes with a 6.56-inch 90Hz LCD display. The device has 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. Additionally the Y18s is powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 chipset.
Vivo Y19s’ official launch date is not yet known, but it’s possible that more detailed information will emerge in the future. This smartphone is already a candidate to be a product that will be in demand at the entry level. We are eagerly waiting to see what this new smartphone has to offer.
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