It’s been only a few months since the launch of the Pixel 8a, and the smartphone has been heavily discounted for the first time within these few months. The smartphone has been retailing for $399 over the past few days, inclusive of a $100 discount. It was launched for $499 for 128 GB of storage. It is an exciting deal for interested folks who’d like to try the new smartphone featuring several upgrades over its predecessor, i.e., the Pixel 7a.
Pixel 8a Discount in the US
It could be a strategic discount, that is pushed to make space for the Pixel 9, which is expected to launch in the coming days. However, the Pixel 8a 128GB variant is now available for the price of $399, while the 256GB is available for the price of $349.
Pxiel 8a Specifications and Features
Pixel 8a was launched in May with the Google Tensor G3, which has 8 GB of RAM and is available in 128GB or 256GB of internal storage options. Furthermore, the smartphone has a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate. It houses a 4492 mAh battery with 18W fast wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging.
The smartphone runs the latest Android 14 and is promised to receive more than 5 years of security updates. In optics, there’s a 64MP primary sensor with OIS support and a 13MP wide-angle lens. Meanwhile, it features a 13 MP front camera sensor with an f/2.2 aperture.
In terms of connectivity, the smartphone bundles Bluetooth 5.3, WiFi 6E, and Sub-6 5G mmWave support. Pixel 8a measures 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm and weighs 188 g. With an IP 67 rating indicating protection from dust over an extended period and protection against objects greater than 1 mm. It is available in Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe color options.
Casio has recently announced that it has expanded the reach of its WS-B1000 digital watch to multiple markets around the globe. Launched in June, it’s now available in Malaysia, Europe (Netherlands, France and Spain) and the US. This watch combines traditional timekeeping with modern features.
Casio WS-B1000 features:
With a sporty look, the WS-B1000 includes practical features such as a step tracker synced with the Casio app to show your daily step goals which can be set between 1,000 and 999,999 steps. It has Bluetooth connectivity for time updates, alarms, and phone location tracking. It also has a stopwatch, countdown timer, and a long-lasting battery. It has an LCD display with an LED backlight. The battery of the watch can last up to two years.
The watch is durable, featuring 100-meter water resistance and a sturdy resin construction. Its lightweight design, weighing just 36 grams ensures comfort for extended wear. While not a smartwatch, the WS-B1000 offers a practical balance of functionality and simplicity. It goes for $55.95 in the US and €59.90.
In other news, Casio has also recently announced the G-SHOCK GBD-300 smartwatch. Designed for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, it features a slimmer, more compact design, dual bezel protection, a high-contrast LCD display, and advanced fitness tracking capabilities. The watch tracks distance, pace, steps, and calories burned, and connects to smartphones via Bluetooth for notifications and enhanced functionality through the G-SHOCK MOVE app.
Last month, Honor introduced the Xiaopai Smart Camera Pro under its Honor Choice label, a home security camera with impressive features, including up to 20x super zoom capability. Priced at 249 yuan (approximately $35), the security camera is now up for sale on JD.com.
Honor Xiaopai Smart Camera Pro Specifications:
The Xiaopai Smart Camera Pro features a triple-lens setup with 4MP telephoto and wide-angle lenses, both having an f/1.6 aperture. The wide-angle lens offers a broad field of view, while the telephoto lens captures detailed distant images. It supports a 20x hybrid optical zoom, enabling clear magnification of details.
The camera offers intelligent dual-light full-color night vision with infrared and high-power warm fill lights. Users can choose between intelligent, full-color, and infrared night vision modes. In intelligent mode, the camera uses infrared but switches to full color when detecting human shapes. Full-color mode keeps the white light on all night, while infrared mode provides black-and-white images.
In terms of coverage, the camera offers a horizontal visual range of 360° and a vertical visual range of 125°, enabling panoramic surveillance. The camera also supports dual-screen synchronous live broadcasts and recordings, which allows users to monitor a wider area in real time. Additionally, the guard lens is fixed to monitor key areas consistently.
The Xiaopai Smart Camera Pro is designed with practical features such as two-way calling, making it easy for family members to communicate, especially the elderly and children. It also supports dual network connection methods, including 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and a wired network port, ensuring a stable and interference-free connection.
The camera’s local AI capabilities enable intelligent tracking of humans and pets, automatically capturing and recording movements. It also features cross-border/area detection, triggering alarms if something or someone enters a predefined area. To enhance security, the camera can emit a high-decibel alarm either manually or automatically upon event detection.
Storage options for the Xiaopai Smart Camera Pro include local storage via microSD cards with a capacity of up to 512GB and cloud storage through the Honor Smart Space App, available for purchase separately. The app facilitates real-time monitoring, playback of recorded footage, and overall device management.
Realme GT 6T was released in May this year with a primary focus on performance. It’s a good smartphone overall, currently up for sale at a starting price of Rs. 30,999 and goes up to Rs. 39,999 for the top-end variant. At a similar pricing, there are phones with more powerful chips that can deliver better performance.
Here, I’ll show you the five best alternatives to Realme GT 6T with a more powerful chipset. Before that, let’s quickly recall Realme GT 6T specs with the spec sheet below.
Realme GT 6T Spec Sheet
Realme GT 6T
Body
163.4 x 75.1 x 8.65 mm 191 g
Display
6.78″ 120Hz LTPO AMOLED 1264 x 2780 pixels resolution 1450 nits peak brightness Gorilla Glass Victus 2
Poco F6 is one of the best alternatives to the Realme GT 6T with a more powerful Snapdragon chip at a slightly lower price.
A Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip powers the Poco phone, whereas the Realme GT 6T has a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3. Both phones come in various RAM and storage options, with the top-most being 12GB+512GB. Please note that the 8GB+128GB version of the Realme GT 6T has UFS 3.1 storage, while the remaining models get UFS 4.0.
The Realme GT 6T has a slightly larger screen, although both have the same refresh rate and a punch-hole selfie cutout.
Both devices have a 50MP primary camera with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide lens on the back with up to 4K video recording. However, the Realme phone has a 32MP selfie shooter (vs. 20MP on the Poco F6) and supports 4K videos, which the Poco F6 lacks.
Poco F6 may be disappointing regarding battery capacity and charging speed, as the Realme GT 6T is slightly ahead in both areas.
So, the bottom line is that the Poco F6 has a better chipset and a comparable camera setup but slightly less battery capacity and charging speed compared to the Realme GT 6T.
OnePlus 12R is a solid smartphone, but you’ll need to spend a few more thousand rupees than you’d for the Realme GT 6T.
The Realme GT 6T has a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, whereas the OnePlus 12R is powered by a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. Both have the same screen size, refresh rate, resolution, and protection.
The phones have a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide lens on the back, but the OnePlus 12R also has a 2MP macro sensor. The rear camera setup on both devices can record up to 4K videos. There’s a 16MP selfie shooter on the OnePlus 12R with up to 1080p video recording support.
The OnePlus 12R and Realme GT 6T have the same battery capacity of 5,500 mAh, but the latter supports faster wired charging.
Overall, OnePlus 12R is a better smartphone than the Realme GT 6T.
iQOO Neo 9 Pro is another good alternative to Realme GT 6T for performance-loving people. It comes with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which is more powerful than the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3-powered Realme GT 6T.
The iQOO device also has an LTPO AMOLED panel with a higher refresh rate of 144Hz — however, the display brightness peaks at 3,000 nits, lower than the Realme GT 6T.
Both phones have a dual camera setup on the back that consists of a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide lens, but the iQOO Neo 9 Pro can record up to 8K videos, which is limited up to 4K on the Realme GT 6T. However, the Realme phone can record up to 4K videos with its 32MP selfie camera, but the 16MP selfie shooter on the Neo 9 Pro can only record 1080p videos.
The iQOO phone has a slightly lesser capacity battery, although both support 120W fast charging.
If you can spend a few extra thousands, the Xiaomi 14 Civi might be a better choice over Realme GT 6T, as it offers a more powerful chipset and camera setup.
The Xiaomi 14 Civi has a slightly smaller screen size but more pixels, colors, and Dolby Vision support. It doesn’t support adaptive refresh rate support, as it doesn’t have an LTPO panel.
The Xiaomi phone is powered by a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, which is more powerful and efficient than the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 inside the Realme GT 6T.
Coming to the optics, the Xiaomi 14 Civi boasts a powerful camera setup, which includes a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP telephoto camera, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. It has two 32MP sensors on the front for great selfies and clear video calling. Both camera setups can record up to 4K videos.
Xiaomi didn’t go aggressive with the battery features on the 14 Civi as it offers a decent 4,700 mAh capacity with support for 67W fast charging.
OnePlus Nord 4 has a similar spec sheet and is offered at a lower price than the Realme GT 6T, making it an excellent alternative.
The Nord 4 has nearly the same screen size but is a non-LTPO panel with a lower peak brightness. The same Snapdragon chip powers both smartphones, but the Realme GT 6T has a better cooling mechanism, resulting in a better gaming experience.
Both phones have a dual camera with the same camera resolutions and 4K video recording support. However, the selfie camera only supports 1080p recording on the Nord 4, whereas the Realme GT 6T can record up to 4K videos.
The smartphones carry the same battery capacity, but the Realme GT 6T offers faster charging.
In short, the OnePlus Nord 4 is suitable for most people. However, those prioritizing gaming should go with Realme GT 6T, which has better cooling systems and game optimizations.
So, these are the five best alternatives to the Realme GT 6T. Are you still going for Realme GT 6T, or have you decided to buy among these five alternatives? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition in Indonesia towards the end of last year with a customized exterior that better protects it from external damage. Now the company has announced the availability of the Tab A9+ Kids Edition in the US with a price tag of $270 for 4GB + 64GB configuration. For context, the standard Tab A9+ is currently available for $179 for the same configuration.
The Kids Edition comes with a customized UI and three different colors on the exterior – Blue, Red, and Yellow.
It is powered by the Snapdragon 695 chipset. While the chipset is 5G capable and the standard Galaxy Tab A9+ also offers 5G connectivity, the Kids Edition solely relies on WiFi.
It packs an 11″ TFT LCD display that has a resolution of 1920 x 1200. It packs an 8MP camera on the back and a 5MP one on the front. It has a dimension of 168.7 x 257.1 x 6.9mm and weighs 480g. There is a 7040mAh battery inside, which is the same as the standard version. It also supports the same 15W charging speed.
Samsung Kids App offers a number of controls to the parents
According to the company, this new product is meant to ensure a safer environment for kids in this digital age. “The Galaxy Tab A9+ Kids Edition is designed to provide a space for children to use technology safely, while also providing them the room to learn, grow, create, stream, and explore,” said Drew Blackard, Vice President of Mobile Product Management. He also revealed that parents can even create profiles for their children and personalize their settings.
The device comes preloaded with the Samsung Kids app which empowers parents to curate customized safety protocols. With this feature, parents will have the ability to set specific screen time limits, restrict access to certain apps, and monitor their children’s online activities.
Sony‘s next TWS earbuds offering called the WF-C510 has leaked. The leak comes via renders and marketing material shared by tipster @MysteryLupin over at X (formerly Twitter). For those unaware, the WF-C510 will be a direct successor to the WF-C500.
Design-wise, the WF-C510 is a carbon copy of its predecessor. It retains the familiar shape, command button, and charging case. While it lacks ANC, it boasts a slightly improved 22-hour battery life. Additional features include dual device pairing, ambient sound mode, and IPX4 water resistance.
Expected to launch in September 2024 for around $100, the WF-C510 will compete in the crowded budget TWS market. More details are expected to be revealed in the coming days.
Other than Sony, OnePlus and Nintendo have also recently garnered headlines in the world of TWS earbuds. As per reports, OnePlus is working on the OnePlus Buds 3 Pro, which is expected to debut with a €199 pricetag, alongside an 11mm woofer, 6mm tweeter, and Dynaudio-tuned sound. It is said to offer improved 50 dB noise cancellation and up to 43 hours of battery life.
On the other hand, Nintendo has released new Zelda-themed wireless earbuds in green and white variants, exclusive to the UK and Ireland, priced at £34.99. These join the existing black version. The earbuds offer Bluetooth 5.0, a balanced sound profile, and six hours of battery life per charge, with the charging case providing three additional charges.
Haier has launched its new Xiao Bai A3 Floor Scrubber in the Chinese market. The product is now available for pre-sale on JD.com and other e-commerce platforms, priced at 2299 yuan ($321).
Haier Xiao Bai A3 Floor Scrubber Specifications:
The Xiao Bai A3 includes a lightweight design, allowing for 900g single-handed operation, intended to make cleaning the entire house easier. Despite its lightweight design, the Xiao Bai A3 delivers 17000pa suction power and 18N ground pressure for effective cleaning.
The floor scrubber boasts a brush head that can lay flat at 180°, making it ideal for cleaning low spaces and hard-to-reach areas. It incorporates a bionic double-wing sealed design to prevent moisture from flowing back into the motor, enhancing durability. It also boasts a close-to-edge cleaning capability with a minimal gap of just a few millimeters, ensuring no corner is left uncleaned.
The machine uses different brushes for different areas, such as a special brush for bathrooms and another for kitchens, enhancing cleaning efficiency, hygiene, and preventing cross-contamination. The machine also uses electrolyzed water for disinfection, achieving a 99.99% sterilization rate against common bacteria.
The Xiao Bai A3 is equipped with several cleaning modes, including powerful, quiet, and dry suction modes. The Haier Xiao Bai A3 is powered by an IPX7 waterproof motor with a 4000mAh battery, providing up to 35 minutes of operation, and features a dual water tank system with a 600mL clean water tank and a 420mL dirty water tank. The product comes with a charging base, cleaning brush, cleaning solution, and roller brush
The floor scrubber includes a system to prevent hair and debris from tangling in the brush, enhancing the machine’s performance over time.
It features a 70°C hot water spray system for dissolving dirt and deep soaking the roller brush with large volumes of water. Additionally, the device is equipped with a 3D hand-scrubbing simulation design and 70°C hot air drying for a thorough and quick drying process.
The Xiaobai A3 provides real-time notifications, such as low battery alerts and reminders to refill the water tank. It also has a clear display and voice prompts for added user convenience.
The product dimensions are 276 x 207 x 1113mm for the main unit and 319 x 321 x 222mm for the charging base, with a net weight of 4.2kg. Haier is offering a comprehensive 3-year warranty for the Xiao Bai A3, covering the entire machine, and two years for the battery, excluding consumables. They are also providing a trade-in program where users can enjoy a 30% discount on new purchases within five years.
ASUS launched the Azoth Extreme mechanical keyboard last month, which is now available for sale in China for a price tag of 3,599 Yuan (~$500). This is a customizable gaming keyboard with a premium aluminum alloy chassis and metal frame.
This keyboard features a report rate of 8000 Hz and a customizable OLED touchscreen
The front also equips an OLED touch screen, which you can customize using Armoury Crate software. This touchscreen and the three-way knob enable system monitoring and quick adjustments.
This mechanical keyboard features an 8000 Hz report rate with the ROG Polling Rate Booster. For context, its predecessor offers a polling rate of 1000 Hz. For those unfamiliar, the polling rate indicates how frequently the keyboard’s inputs are transmitted to the computer. This new product offers over 1600 hours of battery life in ROG SpeedNova 2.4 GHz wireless mode.
Speaking of the typing experience, the carbon-fiber positioning plate ensures a crisp typing sound, while three dampening layers absorb vibrations. The keyboard comes with an adjustable gasket mount with a paddle switch, which offers two typing preferences. It also offers RGB LED per key. You can see some of the design elements in the images.
The product uses USB 2.0 (TypeC to TypeA) and Bluetooth 5.1 for wired and wireless connectivity and supports AURA Sync. It comes with a 2M USB type A to C braided cable. It has a dimension of 332 x 139 x 40 mm and weighs around 2200g (with wrist rest included).
In addition to the things mentioned above, you get a ROG nameplate, keycap puller, switch puller, USB dongle, USB extender, ROG NX switches * 2, Ctrl keycap, foam stickers for ROG keyboard stabilizer swap* 8, and ROG cleaning cloth in the box.
Nintendo has released new color variants of its Zelda-themed wireless earbuds exclusively in the UK and Ireland. The green and white models join the existing black version, all priced at £34.99. While the black earbuds feature unique branding, the green and white options boast a distinct design. Notably, the green model has already sold out.
The earbuds offer Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, a balanced sound profile, and up to six hours of battery life per charge. The charging case provides three additional charges. Each case displays the Tears of the Kingdom logo, and the earbuds feature the iconic Triforce insignia.
Produced by OTL Technologies, the package includes earbuds, a charging case, a USB-C cable, a manual, and multiple ear tip sizes.
In other news, pricing and details of the OnePlus Buds 3 Pro have recently leaked. As per reports, the Buds 3 Pro will have a €199 pricetag with features like an 11mm woofer, 6mm tweeter, and Dynaudio-tuned sound. Improvements include 50 dB noise cancellation (up from 48 dB) and a battery life of up to 43 hours with the case. However, its 94ms delay might not be ideal for gamers. Other than that, the earphones are said to include LHDC 5.0 audio technology, IP55 dust and water resistance, and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.
Apple AirPods 2nd Generation is on sale for the price of Rs 7500 via Flipkart in India. The premium earphones from Apple usually retail for the price of Rs 8,999, but the recent Rs 1500 discount is making the earphones available for the price of Rs 7500. The Rs. 1500 discount is available on all bank credit cards. It is worth considering the Apple AirPods Pro 2nd generation at the present discount offer.
Apple AirPods 2 Generation
Apple AirPods 2nd Generation offers premium sound and flawless compatibility with all Apple iPhones. After April, it’s for the second time that the price has plunged to Rs 7500 this year. There are some no-cost EMI offers too via some bank cards via Flipkart.
Apple AirPods 2nd Generation Features
The Apple AirPod Pro offers premium sound quality and a comfortable design. The semi-in-ear tips instead of the AirPod Pro’s silicone ear tips. However, it fails to impress with the noise cancellation. Further, it is coupled with an H1 headphone chipset that offers crystal-clear sound quality.
Apple AirPods (2nd Gen) offer up to 3 hours of talk time and rapid charging speed. The AirPods come with a year of warranty and offer up to 3 hours of talk time. The total time increases substantially if we incorporate the battery charging case capacity.
However, Apple recently introduced the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation), which offers several new features and advancements in comparison with the Apple AirPods Pro 1st Generation. It offers lossless audio support with ultra-low latency. It offers an improved IP 54 rating to protect against dust and water resistance. AirPods Pro 2nd Gen comes with 2x Active Noise Cancellation, an advanced transparency mode, and a more immersive spatial audio experience. It is available with a price tag of $249.
Both CMF and Poco are subsidiaries of certain smartphone companies, and they both cater to the needs of the mid-range Android market. In this article, we will put one device from Poco against the first smartphone entry from CMF ever since its launch. Let’s now closely compare the CMF Phone 1 with the Poco X6 to see which is the better pick.
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CMF Phone 1 vs Poco X6: Design and colours
CMF Phone 1:
The CMF Phone 1 comes with a very impressive design language that might not be for everybody. It comes with a dual rear camera setup as well as a circular cutout towards the base of the device for modular add-ons. On the right side of the device sits the power button, and to the left side are the volume rocker keys. At its base is the USB-C port, speakers, microphone, and the SIM tray slot. A major selling point for this device is its modular design, as users can sap out the rear panel for a different colour or screw in different accessories. Available colour options on this device are Black, Orange, and Light Green.
Poco X6:
In terms of looks, the Poco X6 is an overall more attractive device in comparison with the CMF Phone 1. It comes with an impressive finish as well as a camera island that expands across the device’s top half. This cutout houses the rear facing cameras, flash, and the Poco logo. On the right side of the device are the volume rocker keys and the power button, while the left side is plain. Having a look at the top of this device is the 3.5mm headphone jack and speakers. At the base is the USB-C port, SIM tray, and a downward firing speaker. The available colour options on this device are Black, White, and Blue.
Major differences:
Modular design on the CMF Phone 1.
3.5mm headphone jack on the Poco X6.
CMF Phone 1 vs Poco X6: Display
CMF Phone 1 and Poco X6:
When it comes to the display performance of these devices, they come with some similarities. First they both come with AMOLED screen displays, the CMF Phone 1 comes with a higher peak brightness. Despite featuring the same screen size, the Poco X6 comes with slimmer bezels than the CMF Phone 1.
Major differences:
Brighter display and slimmer bezels on the Poco X6.
CMF Phone 1 vs Poco X6: Cameras
CMF Phone 1 and Poco X6:
Unlike the CMF Phone 1, the Poco X6 comes with three rear facing cameras. On the CMF Phone 1 users get a 50MP main camera and a 2MP depth sensor. For the Poco X6, it comes with a 64MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide sensor and a 2MP macro. Up front, both devices come with a 16MP selfie shooter, and they also support 4K video recording on the rear facing cameras.
Major differences:
Triple rear camera setup on the Poco X6.
Dual rear camera setup on the CMF Phone 1.
CMF Phone 1 vs Poco X6: Performance
CMF Phone 1 and Poco X6:
Performance is one area where these devices stand apart from one another. The CMF Phone 1 comes with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, while the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite comes with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor. From a series of testing, the processor in the CMF Phone 1 outperforms that in the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite. But Poco makes up for its loss by offering up to 12GB RAM capacity for users.
Major upgrades & differences:
Better processor on the CMF Phone 1.
12GB RAM on the Poco X6.
CMF Phone 1 vs Poco X6: Software
CMF Phone 1 and Poco X6:
Both devices run on Android 14 but use different software. The CMF Phone 1 uses the Nothing OS, while the Poco X6 makes use of the MIUI 14 software. You can get up to 3 years of OS upgrade if you purchase either of these devices.
Major differences:
CMF Phone 1 runs OriginOS 4.
Poco X6 runs MIUI 14.
CMF Phone 1 vs Poco X6: Battery life and charging
CMF Phone 1 and Poco X6:
In this area, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite performs better than the competition. It comes with a larger, 5110mAh battery and faster 67W charging ability.
Major differences:
Larger battery and faster charging on the Poco X6.
CMF Phone 1 vs Poco X6: Final Verdict
In this comparison, when it comes to performance the CMF Phone 1 is the top pick hence offering more value for your money. However, the Poco X6 comes with more memory capacity as well as faster charging. Which device will you pick when shopping? Let us know in the comment section below.
Oppo launched the Reno 12 series last month with an IP65 dust and water resistance rating. The phone’s light blue color option will go on sale in China tomorrow. The phone is reportedly listed on JD.com, according to which, the price tag is 2,699 Yuan (~$377).
You can see the device in the light blue color option in the image above, which is apparently taken from one of the company’s official stores. The relatively fresh light blue color looks very suitable for the summer atmosphere.
The configuration remains the same as the standard edition. For those unfamiliar, the phone packs a 6.7″ AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2412 pixels. The panel reaches a peak brightness of 1200 nits and is protected with Gorilla Glass Victus 2. There is an under-display optical fingerprint scanner.
The phone is powered by the Dimensity 7300-Energy chipset (4nm) and runs ColorOS 14.1. This is paired with UFS 3.1 storage and 8GB or 12GB of LPDDR4X memory. The standard edition comes in two different storage options – 256GB and 512GB.
On the back, the phone packs a plastic battery cover and a triple camera setup within a rectangular camera island. The back camera setup consists of a 50MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor (1/1.95″), an 8MP ultrawide (1/4.0″), and a 2MP macro camera. On the front, the phone equips a 32 MP centered hole-punch selfie camera, which is measured at 1/3.1″ in size.
There is a 5000mAh battery inside and the phone supports 80W fast charging. Despite housing a big battery, the phone weighs only 177g and is 7.6mm thick. The middle frame is made of plastic.
Group1 has made significant strides in battery technology with the introduction of the world’s first 18650 cylindrical potassium-ion battery.
This innovative development could offer a viable alternative to the dominant lithium-ion batteries, addressing concerns over supply chain constraints and environmental impact.
The battery delivers advanced cycle life and strong discharge performance
Unlike lithium-ion batteries, potassium-ion batteries utilize potassium ions as charge carriers. Despite the different chemistry, they maintain the standard 18650 form factor, ensuring compatibility with existing devices and infrastructure.
The new battery boasts a nominal voltage of 3.7V and an energy density comparable to lithium iron phosphate batteries, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Potassium-ion batteries offer the advantage of using readily available commercial components like graphite anodes and separators, which reduces dependency on critical minerals such as nickel, cobalt, and lithium. This could result in more stable supply chains and lower production costs.
While potassium-ion batteries show promise in terms of performance and sustainability, the technology is still in its early stages. Challenges such as optimizing energy density and extending cycle life need to be addressed for widespread adoption.
These batteries hold immense promise, however, it’s important to note the concurrent development of sodium-ion batteries as well. These batteries also leverage abundant and inexpensive materials, offering benefits like faster charging and improved safety. Although their energy density currently lags behind lithium-ion, ongoing research is rapidly advancing their capabilities, making them a potential contender for large-scale energy storage solutions.
The emergence of potassium-ion and sodium-ion batteries signifies a pivotal moment in the battery industry. As research and development progress, these technologies could reshape the energy landscape, providing more sustainable and efficient power sources for a wide range of applications.
Alexander Girau, CEO of Group1, expressed enthusiasm about the potential of potassium-ion batteries to reshape the energy storage landscape. “Years of dedicated research have culminated in this breakthrough,” he stated. “We believe this technology will play a pivotal role in driving sustainable and efficient energy solutions.”
Huawei has quietly launched a new charging solution on its JD.com flagship store – the “Huawei All-in-one Multi-Port Charger.” It’s a 100W GaN charger with a fairly familiar and affordable price. So let’s get into the details here.
The charger itself appears fairly standard, the white, plastic charger features a standard design with one foldable pin. This allows for easier storage and portability, a practical feature for travelers. Beyond the foldable pins, the design offers little in terms of novelty.
Efficiency seems to be the focus, with Huawei touting its “efficient dual-channel current sharing architecture” and “gallium nitride technology.” These elements, paired with graphite heat dissipation, aim to deliver a powerful charger in a compact form factor.
The connectivity options are fairly standard but it’s the execution of port that is particularly interesting. The charger has a USB-A and USB-C port joint together that Huawei is calling a fusion interface. It is accompanied by a dedicated USB-C port.
Protocol support includes the usual suspects – PD/PPS/QC – ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. In terms of power delivery, the charger offers 100W of output from a single port. When utilizing both ports simultaneously, there are four different combinations possible:
88W Max (USB-A/C1) + 18W Max (USB-C2)
66W Max (USB-A/C1) + 40W Max (USB-C2)
40W Max (USB-A/C1) + 66W Max (USB-C2)
18W Max (USB-A/C1) + 88W Max (USB-C2)
This isn’t the first time Huawei has experimented with GaN-based chargers. Their existing “SuperPower Wall Charger” offers a maximum output of 88W, suggesting the 100W model could have been intended as a higher-tier option.
As for the price, the Huawei All-in-one Multi-Port Charger is available on JD.com for 349 yuan (~ $50).
In the rapidly transforming world of smartphones, finding a feature-packed device without breaking the bank is a challenge. Under ₹20,000, today’s smartphones offer impressive displays, powerful processors, long-lasting batteries, and fast charging capabilities, making premium technology accessible to all. Whether you’re looking for good visuals, robust performance, or exceptional value, this phone segment has something to cater to every need.
Lets dive into the best phones under ₹20,000 that deliver top-notch experiences without compromising on quality.
Category
Phone
Highlight
Link
Best Display
Poco X6, Realme Narzo 70 Pro
Superior AMOLED displays with high brightness; Dolby Vision, HDR10+
The vivo iQOO Z9 is IP54 rated, making it dust and splash-resistant, ensuring durability in various environments. The device features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing an immersive visual experience. The Dragontrail Star 2 Plus protection and Always-on display add to its robustness and usability. Running on Android 14 with Funtouch 14, the phone is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 7200 chipset, an octa-core CPU, and Mali-G610 MC4 GPU, ensuring smooth performance and efficient multitasking.
The dual main camera setup includes a 50 MP wide lens with PDAF and OIS, and a 2 MP depth sensor, capable of capturing 4K videos with gyro-EIS. The 16 MP front camera ensures clear selfies and 1080p video recording. With stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio, the sound quality is top-notch. The device supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and various positioning systems for seamless connectivity. The 5000 mAh battery supports 44W wired charging, reaching 50% in 30 minutes.
Pros:
Display: High-quality AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate and HDR.
Realme Narzo 70 Pro stands out with its premium features and sleek design, perfect for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike. With an IP54 rating, it is dust and splash-resistant, ensuring durability. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display delivers vibrant visuals with a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support, making it ideal for multimedia consumption. Running on Android 14 with Realme UI 5.0, the device is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 7050 chipset and Mali-G68 MC4 GPU.
The triple-camera setup includes a 50 MP main camera, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro sensor, providing versatile photography options. The 16 MP front camera ensures high-quality selfies and video calls. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and various positioning systems. The 5000 mAh battery supports 67W wired charging, reaching 50% in just 19 minutes. Available in Green and Gold, the Narzo 70 Pro combines aesthetics with advanced technology.
Pros:
Display: Superior AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+.
Fast Charging: 67W charging, reaching 50% in 19 minutes.
Audio: Includes a 3.5mm jack and Hi-Res audio.
Cons:
No Expandable Storage: Lack of a microSD card slot.
NFC: Absence of NFC.
Camera Video: Limited to 1080p@30fps video recording.
The Poco X6 comes with an IP54 rating, making it dust and splash-resistant. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display supports, a 120Hz refresh rate, and Dolby Vision, ensuring vibrant and smooth visuals. The display, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, reaches a peak brightness of 1800 nits, perfect for outdoor use. The device runs on Android 13 with MIUI 14 and is planned for an upgrade to Android 14, offering a seamless user interface powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset. The octa-core CPU and Adreno 710 GPU ensure efficient multitasking and gaming performance.
The triple-camera setup includes a 64 MP main camera, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro sensor, capable of 4K video recording. The 16 MP front camera supports HDR and 1080p video recording, ensuring clear selfies and video calls. It features dual speakers, a 3.5mm jack, and Hi-Res audio for an immersive sound experience. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and an infrared port. The 5100 mAh battery supports 67W wired charging, fully charging in just 44 minutes.
Pros:
Display: Exceptional AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision.
Battery Life: Large 5100 mAh battery with fast 67W charging.
Performance: Powerful Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset with planned OS upgrade.
Cons:
No Expandable Storage: Lack of a microSD card slot.
Samsung Galaxy M35 offers an impressive blend of performance and features, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a robust mid-range smartphone. Its 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1000 nits peak brightness ensures vivid and smooth visuals, ideal for multimedia and gaming. Running on Android 14 with One UI 6.1, the Galaxy M35 is powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset and Mali-G68 MP5 GPU.
The triple-camera system includes a 50 MP main camera, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 5 MP macro sensor, allowing users to capture high-quality photos and 4K videos. The 13 MP front camera supports 4K video recording, ensuring detailed selfies and video calls. The device has stereo speakers, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and a large 6000 mAh battery with 25W wired charging, ensuring long-lasting use. With storage options up to 256GB and microSDXC support, it offers ample space for all your needs.
Pros:
Display: High-quality Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate.
Battery Life: Large 6000 mAh battery for extended use.
Performance: Efficient Exynos 1380 chipset with ample RAM options.
Cons:
No 3.5mm Jack: The absence of a headphone jack may be inconvenient for some users.
The CMF Phone 1 is a sleek and reliable smartphone designed to deliver excellent performance at an affordable price. Featuring a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2000 nits, it offers vibrant and smooth visuals. Running on Android 14, the device is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 7300 chipset and Mali-G615 MC2 GPU.
The dual-camera system includes a 50 MP main camera and a 2 MP depth sensor, capable of capturing 4K videos. The 16 MP front camera supports 1080p video recording, ensuring high-quality selfies and video calls. With a 5000 mAh battery, 33W wired charging, and 5W reverse wired charging, the CMF Phone 1 offers long-lasting battery life and quick recharging.
Pros:
Display: AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate and high brightness.
Battery: Robust 5000 mAh battery with fast 33W charging.
No 3.5mm Jack: Absence of a headphone jack may be inconvenient for some users.
NFC: Lack of NFC capability.
Basic Camera Setup: Dual-camera system may not appeal to advanced photography enthusiasts.
Each phone offers a unique set of strengths. The Poco X6 and Realme Narzo 70 Pro stand out for their display and charging capabilities. The Samsung Galaxy M35 offers the best battery life, making it ideal for heavy users. The iQOO Z9 provides excellent value for budget-conscious consumers, while the CMF Phone 1 balances performance and price effectively.
Privacy concerns have always remained in the limelight since the evolution of the Internet. With time, different tools, firewalls, and utilities have been developed to bolster the overall security of the network and data. In recent times, VPNs have become a primary tool that safeguards privacy while accessing the network. Nowadays, the advantages have varied, and users tend to use VPN services. SurfsharkVPN is one of the most talked-about VPN service providers around the globe. We have reviewed the VPN and found some advantages that are worth the applause and some issues that might hinder the ‘perfect’ experience. Let’s dive in for details.
Key Takeaways
Surfshark offers useful features to hide your identity, safeguard your privacy, and even enhance system security.
Don’t worry about logs, as Surfshark doesn’t keep any logs.
Installation
SurfShark is compatible with almost every popular operating system, including MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS, MacOS, and browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. Below are the details of our setup:
Machine Environment
We tested the Surfshark VPN on an Android, iOS, and Windows OS machine and compared the features after rigorously testing the VPN across different use cases. We used different applications across different countries and tried to flaunt the features marketed by the VPN fully, and the results were satisfying. We tested the services from Toronto, Canada, and Chandigarh, India, to better evaluate the overall service. Moreover, what excites us is the company’s no-log audit report, which promises privacy for the end user. Below is the result of our evaluations:
There are several other competitors in the VPN space; however, Surfshark has maintained its spot by offering VPN services with some extra features at an affordable price.
Why We Recommend the SurfShark VPN
Note: For test purposes, we have used some online streaming services using VPNs. In no way do we recommend using these services unethically.
Unblocking the Web
After the initial setup, we tried Surfshark VPN using its WireGuard protocol by accessing Weibo.com from India as it is blocked currently. However, with the Surfshark the website opened like a flash without a major delay. Moreover, we tried accessing some Prime Video India content from our Toronto location, and the content was buffering without any buffering in Full HD.
Speed Tests
Further, we tried the VPN using the OpenVPN Protocol and did a speed test from Toronto, and it offered a 340 Mbps download speed. From our location in India, it touched 130 Mbps download speed. However, speed to far-off locations often reduces the speed below 100Mbps. There’s a significant drop in speed if you want to access Australian servers from Toronto, Canada.
Alternative ID
Moreover, the user can fake their profiles with the Alternative ID in countries such as the United States, Australia, Brazil, Denmark, Germany, and Portugal.
Ease of Access
Logging into the SurfShark VPN has become easy, as users can easily log in on different devices using a QR code from devices that are already logged in. There’s also an option to log into the Surfshark account with an Apple or Google account. Such practices help users easily access the services across devices.
Better User Interface with Kill Switch
In addition to Android and iOS apps, Surfshark offers a modern and easily accessible user interface. Precisely, the Android app has passed Google’s Mobile Application Security Assessment, confirming that SurfShark uses some best practices to secure the user’s data and privacy. Further, the user can use a Kill Switch (Soft or Strict) to fully cut down on internet access if the VPN is not active. It is a quite useful feature in some scenarios.
Split Tunneling
Surfshark Bypass is another useful feature that allows the VPN to bypass certain apps, programs, or websites.
Among the features listed on the product page, the product stuns with features like WireGuard, AlternativeID, and Incogni. Further, the no-logging policy attracted our attention. It bundles the ability to unlock Netflix, Player, Amazon, Prime, and Disney Plus. If you arrive in an odd situation, the support live chat is not so far away. Moreover, it helps to initiate multiple simultaneous conceptions at no extra cost. To access their network of 3200+ servers across 140+ locations in 100 countries, the user can buy cheap long-term plans.
Compatibility and Security
With extensive support across different operating systems like Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. There are also dedicated extensions for Firefox, Chrome, and Edge. It allows users to connect with strong AES-256-GCM encryption and offers support for different protocols, such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. Users can search on SurfShark without leaving any traces behind. There’s a dedicated antivirus program that protects you from incoming attacks.
Logging Policy
Certain independent security audit reports confirm the ‘strong security posture’. However, there were some general security flaws that were already fixed by Surfshark. In another audit, Deloitte verified the ‘no-logs’ policy claim and found the server setup “properly prepared, in all respects, by Surfshark’s description of its no-logs policy.”
Other Features
WireGuard Protocol: Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol offers faster speeds and enhanced security compared to traditional VPN protocols.
No-Logging Policy: The No-Logging Policy is a major advantage of using Surfshark, as none of your online activities are tracked or stored.
Streaming Access: It unlocked popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, etc.
Live Chat Support: The support team offers immediate assistance via 24/7 live chat.
Strong Encryption: To further protect the user data, the communication is well protected with the AES-256 GCM encryption to secure your data.
Protocol Flexibility: It supports multiple VPN protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, and others that enhance flexibility and security.
Antivirus Integration: Includes a dedicated antivirus to protect against malware and other online threats.
However, since most of the features are part of the SurfShark One subscription, so you won’t be able to enjoy some features in the SurfShark Starter plan.
Future Improvements:
Certain features are limited to Android and Windows PCs; users on Mac or iOS are unable to utilize the Split Tunneling feature. Moreover, the pricing for a single month is a bit expensive, and the same goes for the renewal. Furthermore, you will get more latency for the servers nearest to your locations.
Pricing
ShurfShark offers three different plans including the SurfShark Starter, SurfShark One, and SurfShark One+. These plans could be expensive if you opt only for a month. We suggest going for the 12-month or 24-month plans. There are extensive discounts for long-time plans.
There are slight upgrades in the Surfshark One and Surfshark One+ plans; however, the difference increases if you opt for the Surfshark Starter. Most of the features are absent from the starter plan. We suggest you opt for the Surfshark One plan if you don’t want to delete your data from company databases or people’s search sites.
With long-term plans, it only costs $2.69 per month. It is worth considering the Surfshark VPN at this price, and we suggest you always opt for a 2-year plan to maximize the savings.
Conclusion
There are plenty of features, but those come at a cost, especially if you want to grab it for a month. The user has to shell out ~$15 per month. It is always recommended to grab the annual or biannual plan. The cost compensates better for a long-term plan.
Surfshark has features that would safeguard user privacy and data. Overall, speeds are good from certain locations; however, the speeds hamper once you connect far-off servers from your location. The VPN was able to unblock most of the websites and apps that are blocked in India. It is a better option if users in North America want to access Chinese applications and apps. You will never miss your favorite show while traveling, as the VPN easily unlocks the video streaming service’s content across the globe.
With Google‘s Pixel 9 event set for August 13th, leaks about the new devices keep coming. While most attention has been on the Pixel 9 series and the Pixel Watch 3, a recent leak has shed light on a lesser-known but crucial accessory: a new 45W USB-C charger.
The leak comes from tipster @MysteryLupin who shared images of the charger on X (formerly Twitter). Taking a cue from the upcoming Pixel phones, the charger ditches the traditional square design for a rounder, oval shape. Interestingly, the USB-C port is located at the bottom of the charger, which is unusual since most chargers have it at the top.
The leaked images show the European version of the charger, but the US model is expected to be more compact with standard non-foldable prongs.
While Google previously offered a 45W USB-C power brick with the Pixelbook, the upcoming charger is noticeably smaller and has a more pleasing design. It also seems smaller than the company’s current 30W charging brick.
The leak arrives alongside reports suggesting the Pixel 9 Pro XL can fast charge “up to 70%” in 30 minutes. This points towards the phone supporting faster charging speeds than the current 30W limit, explaining the need for a more powerful charger.
While pricing details haven’t been revealed, Google’s existing 30W charger retails for $25. Given the higher power output, we can expect a slight price increase for the 45W version. We’ll likely have confirmation on both pricing and exact features during Google’s August 13th event.
For those who prefer not to spend extra on the new charger, it’s worth noting that the Pixel 9 series devices will support Power Delivery (PD) charging. This means you can use any existing PD charger you have to charge the phone, so you won’t necessarily need to buy the new 45W charger.
Samsung is reportedly developing a new Game module for its Good Lock customization platform, set to debut with the upcoming One UI 7 update. This new module will give users more detailed control over game settings, going beyond what the current Game Booster and Game Booster Plus plugins offer.
The confirmation comes directly from a Samsung moderator, who revealed that the company is looking into ways to offer more advanced game settings customization options.
While the current Game Booster plugin offers several essential tools for gamers, many enthusiasts have called for more advanced settings. The new Game module is designed to meet this demand with a more flexible and customizable platform.
Additionally, Samsung may be planning to redesign the Game Booster plugin itself. According to the moderator, the current interface of the Game Booster is “overly complex” and has “poor usability.” As a result, Samsung aims to simplify it, making it more accessible and better suited to user patterns for offering the necessary settings.
Apart from this, One UI 7 is expected to bring several new changes out of the box. A report earlier this week revealed the update will finally include Large Folder support.
Likewise, major changes are expected for first-party app icons. Multiple reports so far have claimed that Samsung is drawing inspiration from iOS for the new One UI 7 app icons, though it remains to be seen how this will turn out.
One UI 7, based on Android 15, is scheduled for official release in October. The beta program for the update is expected to commence later this month. We’ll be sure to keep you in the loop on any new developments regarding Samsung’s upcoming Android skin.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite comparison table.
Both devices that we’ll have a look at in this comparison article are fan favourites. The Nothing CMF Phone 1 got itself a ton of attention, being the brand’s first smartphone. As for the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite, this device is one of the most affordable devices from OnePlus and the NOrd series is also very popular in the budget smartphone community. So which of these devices is the best pick for you? Let’s find out as we compare them side by side.
Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Design and colours
CMF Phone 1:
The CMF Phone 1 comes with a very impressive design language that might not be for everybody. It comes with a dual rear camera setup as well as a circular cutout towards the base of the device for modular add-ons. On the right side of the device sits the power button, and to the left side are the volume rocker keys. At its base is the USB-C port, speakers, microphone, and the SIM tray slot. A major selling point for this device is its modular design, as users can sap out the rear panel for a different colour or screw in different accessories. Available colour options on this device are Black, Orange, and Light Green.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite:
The design on this device is quite impressive for a mid-range Android device. It comes with flat side frames and a vertical camera cutout housing two lenses and two flashes. On the right side of this device sits the volume rocker keys and power button. The left side holds the SIM tray as well as a memory expansion slot. At its base is the USB-C slot, speakers, microphone, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Major differences:
Modular design on the CMF Phone 1.
3.5mm headphone jack on the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Display
CMF Phone 1 and OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite:
When it comes to the display performance of these devices, they come with some similarities. First they both come with AMOLED screen displays, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite comes with a higher peak brightness. Despite featuring the same screen size, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite comes with slimmer bezels than the CMF Phone 1.
Major differences:
Brighter display and slimmer bezels on the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Cameras
CMF Phone 1 and OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite:
These devices come with the same rear and front facing cameras. A main 50MP sensor and a secondary 2MP depth sensor. Up front, this device gives users 16MP sensors with no 4K video recording ability.
Major differences:
Nil.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Performance
CMF Phone 1 and OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite:
Performance is one area where these devices stand apart from one another. The CMF Phone 1 comes with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, while the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite comes with the Snapdragon 695 processor. From a series of testing, the processor in the CMF Phone 1 outperforms that in the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite. However, both devices come with up to 8GB RAM capacity and 256GB worth of storage.
Major upgrades & differences:
Better processor on the CMF Phone 1.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Software
CMF Phone 1 and OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite:
Both devices run on Android 14 out of the box but use different software. The CMF Phone 1 uses the Nothing OS, while the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite makes use of the OXYGEN OS 14 software. You can get up to 3 years of OS upgrade if you purchase either of these devices.
Major differences:
CMF Phone 1 runs OriginOS 4.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite runs OxygenOS 14.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Battery life and charging
CMF Phone 1 and OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite:
In this area, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite performs better than the competition. It comes with a larger, 5110mAh battery and faster 80W charging ability.
Major differences:
Larger battery and faster charging on the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite.
CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Final Verdict
If you want performance and a modular device, then the CMF Phone 1 is the best pick for you among the two devices in consideration in this article. But if you need blazing fast charging on your smartphone, then the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite is the right choice for you. The option from OnePlus also offers just one storage configuration, while buyers can pick between a few storage configurations on the CMF Phone 1.
Xiaomi phones have long been praised for their affordability and feature-packed offerings. However, a persistent issue for users is the presence of ads within the user interface (UI). While it is possible to disable these ads, the process is complex and falls short of user expectations.
A recent leak suggested that Xiaomi may finally be working to bring a single toggle to switch off system ads entirely. But in a move likely to disappoint many users, the company has now confirmed that this toggle won’t be making an appearance on its Android skin anytime soon.
In a statement to Android Authority, Xiaomi acknowledged plans to improve the user experience by reducing pre-installed apps and “content display entry pages,” hinting at a potential decrease in bloatware. However, the statement explicitly rejected the idea of a dedicated ad-disabling toggle:
“We aren’t currently planning to add a toggle that realistically, only a small number of users would discover and use.”
This reasoning is likely to frustrate many users. Currently, disabling ads requires a multi-step approach.
Users must find the obscure MSA app within the settings and then delve into individual app settings like File Manager, Music, and Downloads to eliminate all unwanted promotions. This cumbersome process stands in stark contrast to the simple solution users were hoping for.
While the news of reduced bloatware is positive, it doesn’t address the core issue of a scattered and frustrating ad-disabling experience. Xiaomi’s justification for refusing a dedicated toggle seems particularly disingenuous, given that the current system requires users to navigate deep into settings menus across multiple apps.
It remains to be seen if Xiaomi will reconsider its stance in the future. Until then, users yearning for a streamlined ad-free experience may need to look elsewhere or resign themselves to the current convoluted approach.
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