Surfshark VPN Review: Enjoy Protection with Extras at an Affordable Price

By

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Aug 4, 2024

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.
Surfshark offers a free seven-day trial on Android, iOS, and Mac, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
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.

Plan Name	24 Months (+3 Free Months)
Surfshark Starter	$59.12 ~$2.19/M
Surfshark One	$72.63 ~$2.69/M
Surfshark One+	$115.83 ~$4.29/M

Plan Name	12 Months (+3 Months Free)
Surfshark Starter	$41.85 ~$2.79/M
Surfshark One	$47.85 ~$3.19/M
Surfshark One+	$76.35 ~$5.09/M

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.

New leak reveals the Google’s new 45W charger for Pixel 9 series

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Aug 4, 2024

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.

pic.twitter.com/wn54ELeUVV
— Arsène Lupin (@MysteryLupin) August 2, 2024

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.

One UI 7 will offer more granular game controls with Good Lock Game Module

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Aug 4, 2024

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.

Which is better, CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite

By

Collins

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Aug 4, 2024

CMF Phone 1: July 2, 2024

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: July 9, 2024

SPECS TABLE

	CMF Phone 1	OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite
Price	$259	$321
Display	6.67-inch AMOLED screen	6.67-inch AMOLED screen
Refresh rate	1 – 120Hz adaptive	1 – 120Hz adaptive
Rear cameras	50MP wide (f/1.8), 2MP depth (f/2.4).	50MP wide (f/1.8), 2MP depth (f/2.4).
Front camera	16MP (f/2.0)	16MP (f/2.4)
Chipset	MediaTek Dimensity 7300	Qualcomm SM6375 Snapdragon 695 5G
RAM	6GB, 8GB	8GB
Storage	128GB, 256GB	256GB
Battery	5000 mAh	5110 mAh
Charging	33W wired	80W wired
Water/dust resistance	Dust/water-resistant	IP54 dust/water-resistant
Size	164 x 77 x 8.2 mm (6.46 x 3.03 x 0.32 in)	162.9 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm (6.41 x 2.98 x 0.32 in)
Weight	202g (6.95 ounces)	191g (6.74 ounces)
Colours	Black, Orange, Light Green	Super Silver, Mega Blue

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.

CMF Phone 1 vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite: Price

CMF Phone 1

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite

CMF BY NOTHING Phone 1 5G (128 GB) (6 GB RAM) (Black)

₹ 15,999

₹ 19,999

Buy Now

Check Price on Amazon

CMF Phone 1

₹ 15,999

Buy Now

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite

₹ 19,999

Check Price on Amazon

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 confirms there will be no easy way to disable system ads

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Aug 4, 2024

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.

Oppo A80 5G high-quality renders, specs, and price leaks

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Aug 4, 2024

Following the recent launch of the Oppo A3x, the company appears to be gearing up for another A-series release: the Oppo A80. A report from 91Mobiles has revealed official-looking renders and specifications of the upcoming phone.

According to the report, the Oppo A80 may be a rebranded version of the Oppo A3 Energy Edition recently launched in China.

Based on the leak, the A80 5G will have a flat-edged design with a punch-hole display. The rear houses a dual-camera setup with an LED ring, mirroring the A3 Energy Edition’s aesthetics. Color options include Black and Purple, with a Green variant potentially joining the mix globally.

The display itself is a 6.67-inch HD+ panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a respectable 1,000 nits peak brightness. Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset handles processing, paired with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage.

The camera department appears to be a budget-conscious affair. The rear features a 50MP primary sensor alongside a 2MP secondary lens, likely for depth information. The front-facing camera for selfies clocks in at 8MP.

The A80 5G is equipped with a 5,100mAh battery that supports 45W SuperVOOC fast charging. It will run on ColorOS 14.0.1 based on Android 14. Security features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and the phone has an IP54 rating for basic dust and water resistance.

Rounding out the package are standard features like a 3.5mm headphone jack, USB Type-C port, NFC, and Wi-Fi 5. Additionally, the phone will have AI features like AI Eraser for cleaning up unwanted objects in photos, AI LinkBoost for network optimization, and AI Charging protection to extend battery life.

According to the report, the Oppo A80 5G will retail at €249 (roughly Rs 22,566) for the 8GB/256GB variant in Europe. The company has not yet announced a launch date for the phone, but we will keep you updated with any new details.

Samsung Galaxy M05 & Galaxy F05 picks up BIS certification ahead of Indian launch

By

Sudhanshu

-

Aug 4, 2024

Samsung is gearing up to expand its budget smartphone lineup in India. The company has secured BIS certification for two new models: SM-E055F/DS and SM-M055F/DS, believed to be the Galaxy F05 and Galaxy M05 respectively. Both devices will support dual SIM cards.

These upcoming models are expected to succeed the popular Galaxy F04 and Galaxy M04. While details remain scarce, anticipated upgrades include improved performance and higher price points compared to their predecessors. In the meantime, you can check out the specs and features of its predecessor to get an idea of what to expect.

Samsung Galaxy M04 specs:

The Samsung Galaxy M04 features a 6.5-inch PLS LCD with an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. It has a front-facing camera with a resolution of 5 megapixels, while the back panel houses a 13-megapixel primary camera, a 2-megapixel macro camera, and an LED flash. The phone is powered by the Helio P35 CPU and comes with 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of built-in storage.

It includes a microSD card slot for additional storage and runs on OneUI-based Android 12 OS, with Samsung guaranteeing 2-year OS upgrades up to Android 14. The device is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 10W charging. Connectivity options include dual SIM, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Nothing Phone (2a) Plus goes on sale in the UK

By

Sudhanshu

-

Aug 4, 2024

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus has begun its global rollout. After its launch a few days ago, the device is now available for purchase at Nothing’s London store for £399. US consumers can get their hands on the phone starting August 7 through the company’s beta program for a price tag of $399.

Nothing Phone (2a) Plus specs:

The phone features a 6.7-inch OLED screen with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, 1,300 nits peak brightness, and an integrated fingerprint scanner. On the back, it has a design quite similar to that of the Phone (2a) integrated fingerprint scanner.

The dual-camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultra-wide lens. The front camera is upgraded to 50MP, offering better selfies and 4K video recording. Camera features include Ultra XDR, motion capture, and night mode.

Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro SoC, the phone has a 3GHz CPU and a 30% faster GPU compared to the standard model’s 7200 Pro. It comes with 12GB RAM, 8GB virtual RAM, and up to 512GB storage. The phone includes an advanced liquid cooling system and a 5,000mAh battery with 50W charging. It runs on Nothing OS based on Android 14. Additional features include dual 5G, WiFi-6, battery health technology, and an IP54 rating.

MediaTek is rumored to be developing the Dimensity 8400, a sub-flagship SoC with impressive performance, scoring between 1.7 million and 1.8 million on the AnTuTu benchmark, potentially outperforming the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.

(via)

ThundeRobot launches H51 gaming headset with 50mm dynamic drivers, Bluetooth 5.4 & triple connectivity

By

Soumyakanti

-

Aug 3, 2024

ThundeRobot has unveiled its new H51 tri-mode over-ear Bluetooth gaming headset in the Chinese market. The headset is set to go on sale on August 5th on JD.com, with an initial price of 149 Yuan ($21). Let’s check out its key specs.

ThundeRobot H51 Headset Specifications:

The ThundeRobot H51 features a 50mm neodymium magnet dynamic driver, customized to deliver immersive, high-quality audio with clear, layered sound. It enhances the gaming and multimedia experience by providing detailed soundscapes and accurate sound positioning.

The headset offers tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.4, 2.4G wireless, and wired options, making it compatible with a wide range of devices including PCs, gaming consoles, and Android devices. It ensures a stable, robust connection and ultra-low latency of just 27 milliseconds in wireless mode for a smooth, lag-free gaming experience.

The H51 headset, weighing around 318 grams, is designed for comfort with large, skin-friendly protein leather ear cushions that ensure breathability and reduce fatigue during extended use. The ear cushions are also easy to clean and replace, making the headset ideal for long gaming sessions.

The headset includes a retractable noise-canceling microphone that can be extended for clear communication during gaming and retracted when not in use. Positioned close to the mouth, it captures voice accurately while minimizing background noise.

For convenience, the headset comes with centralized controls on one side, including buttons for power, microphone, volume adjustment, and RGB lighting control. The RGB lighting adds a visual flair to the headset, with flowing light effects that can be customized or turned off as per the user’s preference.

The H51 headset is equipped with a 1000mAh battery, providing around 30 hours of continuous usage on a single charge. It is built for durability and performance, with a frequency response range of 20Hz-20KHz and an impedance of 32Ω, catering to the needs of serious gamers.

Irock launches NA87 Pro gaming keyboard with 0.3ms latency, Asat structure, RGB lighting & more

By

Soumyakanti

-

Aug 3, 2024

Irock has announced the launch of its latest gaming keyboard, the NA87 Pro, which is set to be available for purchase on August 5th at 3 PM (CST) for an initial price of 249 Yuan ($34). Let’s check out its key specs.

Irock NA87 Pro Specifications:

This new model is an upgrade to the NA87 series, following the NA87 and NA87 Mag keyboards that were launched earlier this year. The NA87 Pro distinguishes itself by offering significant improvements in latency and keycap design.

The keyboard features a magnetic axis design and boasts an impressive latency reduction from 5ms in previous models to just 0.3ms, making it one of the fastest response keyboards in its class.

This improvement is designed to enhance the gaming experience by providing near-instantaneous keypress registration. The NA87 Pro also comes equipped with side-engraved keycaps, adding to the aesthetic appeal while maintaining durability and longevity.

The NA87 Pro features an Asat structure with a chessboard-like design and a three-dimensional inner frame to optimize sound and reduce resonance. This design aims to deliver high-fidelity typing sound and consistent tactile feedback, appealing to both gamers and typists.

Furthermore, the internal structure of the keyboard is enhanced with sound-absorbing materials, including sound-absorbing cotton, an under-switch pad, and bottom cotton, all of which contribute to a quieter and more refined typing experience.

The NA87 Pro features a 16.8 million color RGB lighting system, which includes both upper and lower lighting positions. The keyboard supports a full-key hot-swappable design, meaning users can replace any of the keys without soldering, and it also includes full-key anti-ghosting to ensure that every keypress is registered accurately.

The keyboard’s connectivity is through a wired connection, ensuring stable and fast data transmission. It is also equipped with an 8000Hz polling rate and a key scan rate of 4000Hz, further reducing input lag and ensuring swift responses to commands. The NA87 Pro also comes with an adjustable range between 0.4mm and 4.0mm, allowing users to fine-tune the keyboard’s performance to their preferences.

The keyboard is available in two color options: a White Grey gradient and a Black Grey gradient.

Titan Army launches P2710R-Pro 2K Fast IPS gaming monitor with 180Hz refresh rate

By

Soumyakanti

-

Aug 3, 2024

Titan Army has launched its latest gaming monitor, the “P2710R-Pro,” a 27-inch display designed to cater to gaming enthusiasts and professionals. The monitor is priced at 999 Yuan ($140) and it is now available on JD.com. Let’s check out its key specs.

Titan Army P2710R-Pro Monitor Specifications:

The P2710R-Pro features a Fast IPS panel with 2K resolution (2560×1440 pixels) and a refresh rate of 180Hz, providing smooth and fluid visuals, especially suited for fast-paced gaming. The monitor comes with a 1ms response time, minimizing motion blur and ghosting to deliver a crisp and clear gaming experience. The monitor also boasts a brightness of 500 nits and a static contrast ratio of 1000:1, ensuring bright and vivid images with deep blacks.

This monitor supports a wide color gamut, covering 99% of the sRGB, 100% of Adobe RGB, and 105% of NTSC color spaces. It also includes 95% DCI-P3 color coverage, making it capable of producing rich and accurate colors, suitable for content creation and professional design work. Additionally, it features HDR500, which enhances the dynamic range to deliver more realistic and immersive visuals, making it ideal for both gaming and multimedia consumption.

In terms of ergonomics, the P2710R-Pro comes with a versatile stand that allows for height adjustment, tilt, pivot, and rotation, catering to various user preferences. The monitor is also compatible with VESA 100x100mm wall mounting, providing additional flexibility in its setup.

Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.0 ports and one DP1.4 port, along with a 3.5mm audio jack, making it easy to connect to multiple devices. The monitor also features Adaptive-Sync technology, which synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card, reducing screen tearing and ensuring a smooth gaming experience.

Additionally, the monitor comes with a Game+ mode that enhances gaming visuals, a hardware low blue light technology for comfortable viewing, and a 12 scenarios mode that offers customizable settings for different usage scenarios. The monitor also supports dual gaming modes, with features like 4K 60Hz, VRR, and ALLM, making it an excellent choice for console gamers as well.

ViewSonic Unveils Affordable 27-inch 4K Monitor, Priced at 1,899 Yuan ($273)

By

Anubhav

-

Aug 3, 2024

ViewSonic has launched a new budget-friendly monitor, the VX2730-4K-HDU, featuring a 27-inch 4K resolution display. This monitor offers a compelling option for users seeking a high-resolution display without breaking the bank.

The monitor has standard, game, movie, web browsing, text, and medical grayscale viewing modes

The VX2730-4K-HDU boasts a 3840 x 2160 resolution IPS panel with a brightness of 400 nits. While the native refresh rate is 60Hz, the monitor can be overclocked to 73Hz using a DisplayPort connection. It also supports 10-bit color depth and covers 100% of the sRGB color gamut, ensuring vibrant and accurate visuals.

The VX2730-4K-HDU features a variety of viewing modes, including standard, game, movie, web browsing, text, and medical grayscale, allowing users to optimize the display for different tasks. Additionally, the monitor stand offers tilt, lift, and swivel adjustments for ergonomic comfort.

Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C port with 65W Power Delivery, providing a convenient way to charge laptops or other devices. This monitor also supports VESA wall mounting for versatile placement options.

Priced at 1,899 yuan (approximately $273 USD) on JD.com, the ViewSonic VX2730-4K-HDU presents a value-driven option for users seeking a high-resolution display with essential features.

(Via)

Hisense TV 98S57 with soft light anti-glare screen & 384-zone precision light control for 9,899 yuan ($1,383)

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Aug 3, 2024

Hisense has launched its latest TV in China. The Hisense TV 98S57 (98E3N-PRO) is now available for purchase on retail platforms such as JD.com. The TV comes with a soft light anti-glare screen and a 384-zone precision control. It is being offered at an introductory price when its payment is completed on or before August 7.

The Hisense TV 98S57 has a 98-inch soft light screen (direct-down/ DLED) with anti-glare and a resolution of 3840 2160 pixels. It supports brightness and color temperature adaptation. It also supports 4K HDR 1,000 nits peak brightness. The TV is the industry’s first 264Hz model with ultra-high and multi-level refresh rates. The refresh rate adapts to various scenes and high-speed motion pictures do not have stuttering or tailing. The TV has a 95% DCI-P3 movie-level wide color gamut, a 1.07 billion color display, and AI support for multiple audio and video scenes.

The new Hisense TV is equipped with a quad-core A73 processor with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. It supports dual-band WiFi 6 connectivity and comes with a remote control with three customizable buttons. The buttons of the remote control can be customized for one-click access.

The Hisense TV 98S57 has a 2.1-channel subwoofer and the sound quality is optimized by the Hi-Sound Pro engine. The optimization is implemented in real-time and enhances the stereoscopic and layered sound delivery of the TV. The model also comes with an AI big model voice that can take care of multi-round question and answer and search. The AI exclusive voice architecture supports big model English language generation dialogue ability.

The new Hisense TV 98S57 weighs 67kg (inclusive of its base), has a total power output of 450W, and comes with a level 1 energy efficiency rating. The product can be purchased via JD.com for 9,899 yuan ($1,383) until August 7 and subsequently, it will sell for 9,999 yuan ($1,396).

Skyworth’s new Wallpaper TV will go on sale on the 14th of this month

By

Debasish

-

Aug 3, 2024

The Skyworth A7E Pro series wallpaper TV will be up for sale on JD.com starting from August 14 for a starting price of 6,799 Yuan (~$949). The TV comes in three different sizes – 65″ / 75″ / 85″ which will be priced at 7499 Yuan (~$1,047), 10999 Yuan (~$1,536), and 13999 Yuan (~$1,955) respectively.

But there will reportedly be certain discounts during the first sale. As mentioned above, the first discounted price of the 65″ wallpaper TV will be 6,799 Yuan (~$950). The 75″ and 85″ ones will be priced at 8,799 Yuan (~$1,229) and 12,799 Yuan (~$1,788) respectively.

This wallpaper TV comes with the slogan “0 reflections, 0 glare”

According to the company, the TVs come with a unique matte screen. This screen of the wallpaper TV reportedly has “0 reflections, 0 glare”. The product is less than 4cm thick, which should be able to mimic a photo frame on the wall. In addition, this series of wallpaper TVs also offers the option of an art frame, which can be matched with a hidden magnetic hanger. The company claims that it looks very similar to a painting or an artwork when hung on the wall, which justifies the naming of the product.

The A7E Pro series wallpaper TVs all use a 3840 x 2160 high-resolution Mini-LED panel that reaches a refresh rate of 288Hz. The panels offer a peak brightness of 2000 nits, a dynamic contrast ratio of 24 million:1, and reportedly cover 110% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The product is claimed to have “thousand-level partitioning” technology. The 65″, 75″, and 85″ models come with 1152 partitions, 1440 partitions, and 1920 partitions respectively.

This product comes with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage. For connectivity, it packs 3 x HDMI 2.1 ports, 1 x USB-A 2.0 port, and also supports WiFi connectivity.

For the listening experience, this TV is equipped with a 243W Harman Kardon tuned speaker system, which also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS decoding technology.

Best Honor Magic 6 Pro alternatives in India

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Aug 3, 2024

The Honor Magic 6 Pro arrived in India with a thud more than a cheer. Don’t get us wrong, much of the Magic 6 Pro’s specs are flagship territory. Its 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display boasts a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, peak brightness of 1600 nits (HBM), and an in-house NanoCrystal Shield for protection.

The Magic 6 Pro also stands out with its unique camera system. The main 50MP sensor is paired with an impressive 180MP periscope telephoto lens for exceptional portraits and a 50MP camera for ultrawide shots. The front has a 50MP selfie camera and a time of flight (ToF) 3D depth sensor that works as a reliable way for biometrics.

Powering the device is a current-best Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. And even the battery here is the latest silicon tech with a sizeable 5600mAh capacity which supports 80W wired charging and a not-too-shabby 66W wireless charging. Everything about this phone screams ‘2024 flagship.’

However, with a price tag of Rs 90,000 in India, it steps into a crowded market of established flagships, each with its unique features and advantages.

As a result, buyers are naturally inclined to explore alternatives in the same price range. To help with that, we’ve curated a list of the best alternatives to the Honor Magic 6 Pro in India. Let’s start after we take a quick look at the Honor Magic 6 Pro’s specification table.

Specification	Honor Magic 6 Pro
Display	LTPO OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.8 inches, 1280 x 2800 pixels
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM and Storage	256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12/16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM
Rear Camera	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 180 MP (periscope telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)
Selfie Camera	50 MP (wide), TOF 3D
Battery	5600 mAh, 80W wired, 66W wireless
Build	Glass front, glass or silicone polymer back, IP68
Others	NanoCrystal Shield, Dolby Vision, HDR, NFC, Infrared port

Prev Next

1. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

For those seeking a top-of-the-line flagship phone, the Galaxy S23 Ultra from last year is a great choice. It often drops below Rs 80,000 in India, making it more affordable than the Honor Magic 6 Pro.

While the Magic 6 Pro has a solid camera setup, the S23 Ultra brings more versatility to the table. It features a 200 MP main sensor, compared to the Magic 6 Pro’s 50 MP, delivering higher resolution and greater detail. And the S23 Ultra has a 3x optical zoom and a 10x periscope telephoto lens, ideal for long-range shots. In contrast, the Magic 6 Pro’s 180 MP periscope telephoto lens only provides 2.5x optical zoom.

Both phones have excellent screens. They both sport a 6.8-inch OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR support. However, the S23 Ultra’s peak brightness is lower than the Magic 6 Pro’s, with 1750 nits versus 5000 nits. And the Magic 6 Pro also supports Dolby Vision, which the S23 Ultra lacks.

In terms of performance, the S23 Ultra’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset is powerful, but the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Magic 6 Pro is more advanced. The S23 Ultra makes up for this with a more refined One UI 6.1, whereas the Magic 6 Pro uses MagicOS 8.

Battery life is another area where the Magic 6 Pro has an advantage. The S23 Ultra comes with a 5000mAh battery and 45W wired charging, while the Magic 6 Pro features a 5600mAh battery and faster 80W charging. But not to forget, the S24 Ultra is the only one to come with built-in stylus support.

Specification	Honor Magic 6 Pro	Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Display	LTPO OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.8 inches, 1280 x 2800 pixels	Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 6.8 inches, 1440 x 3088 pixels
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
RAM and Storage	256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12/16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM	256GB 8/12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 12GB RAM
Rear Camera	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 180 MP (periscope telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)	Quad: 200 MP (wide), 10 MP (telephoto), 10 MP (periscope telephoto), 12 MP (ultrawide)
Selfie Camera	50 MP (wide), TOF 3D	12 MP (wide)
Battery	5600 mAh, 80W wired, 66W wireless	5000 mAh, 45W wired, 15W wireless
Build	Glass front, glass or silicone polymer back, IP68	Glass front and back (Gorilla Glass Victus 2), aluminum frame, IP68
Others	NanoCrystal Shield, Dolby Vision, HDR, NFC, Infrared port	Always-on display, HDR10+, NFC, Samsung DeX, Ultra Wideband (UWB) support

Preview	Product
	SAMSUNG Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G (Cream, 12GB RAM, 512GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

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2. Vivo X100 Pro

The Vivo X100 Pro has its own set of strengths. Both it and the Magic 6 Pro offer high-quality displays and an IP68 rating, which is standard for flagship phones.

Performware-wise, the Vivo X100 Pro is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 9300 chipset, comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Magic 6 Pro, so you won’t notice a significant performance difference.

The camera setup on the Vivo X100 Pro is also impressive. It features a 50 MP main sensor, a 50 MP ultrawide lens, and a 50 MP telephoto lens with 4.3x optical zoom. Vivo has also collaborated with Zeiss and chipped in its in-house V3 imaging chip to further enhance photo quality. This makes the X100 Pro a strong competitor to the Honor Magic 6 Pro.

Battery life is a strong point for the X100 Pro, with a 5400 mAh battery and 100W wired charging, surpassing the Magic 6 Pro’s 80W wired charging. The X100 Pro supports 50W wireless charging though it’s slightly behind the Magic 6 Pro’s 66W.

Specification	Honor Magic 6 Pro	Vivo X100 Pro
Display	LTPO OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.8 inches, 1280 x 2800 pixels	LTPO AMOLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.78 inches, 1260 x 2800 pixels
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3	Mediatek Dimensity 9300
RAM and Storage	256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12/16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM	256GB 12/16GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM
Rear Camera	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 180 MP (periscope telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 50 MP (periscope telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)
Selfie Camera	50 MP (wide), TOF 3D	32 MP (ultrawide)
Battery	5600 mAh, 80W wired, 66W wireless	5400 mAh, 100W wired, 50W wireless
Build	Glass front, glass or silicone polymer back, IP68	Glass front, aluminum frame, glass back, IP68
Others	NanoCrystal Shield, Dolby Vision, HDR, NFC, Infrared port	Zeiss optics, HDR, NFC, Infrared port, Hi-Res audio

Preview	Product
	Vivo X100 5G (Asteroid Black, 12GB RAM, 256GB Storage) MediaTek Dimensity 9300 Processor \| AMOLED…	Check Price on Amazon

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3. OnePlus 12

The OnePlus 12 features a 6.82-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3168 pixels. It also has other good display stuff like Dolby Vision support making it a formidable contender, though the Magic 6 Pro has a slight edge in brightness.

Both the OnePlus 12 and the Magic 6 Pro use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, so their performance is nearly identical. However, the OnePlus 12’s camera setup, with a 64 MP telephoto lens and Hasselblad color calibration, offers a competitive alternative to the Magic 6 Pro’s camera system. The Magic 6 Pro’s 180 MP periscope telephoto lens provides more optical zoom, but the OnePlus 12 offers a broader range of photo enhancements.

Battery life is a highlight for the OnePlus 12, featuring 100W wired and 50W wireless charging, compared to the Magic 6 Pro’s 80W wired and 66W wireless. The OnePlus 12 also has a larger battery, which might provide better longevity depending on usage.

Specification	Honor Magic 6 Pro	OnePlus 12
Display	LTPO OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.8 inches, 1280 x 2800 pixels	LTPO AMOLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.82 inches, 1440 x 3168 pixels
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM and Storage	256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12/16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM	256GB 12/16GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM, 1TB 24GB RAM
Rear Camera	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 180 MP (periscope telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 64 MP (periscope telephoto), 48 MP (ultrawide)
Selfie Camera	50 MP (wide), TOF 3D	32 MP (wide)
Battery	5600 mAh, 80W wired, 66W wireless	5400 mAh, 100W wired, 50W wireless
Build	Glass front, glass or silicone polymer back, IP68	Glass front, glass back, aluminum frame, IP65
Others	NanoCrystal Shield, Dolby Vision, HDR, NFC, Infrared port	Dolby Vision, HDR10+, NFC, Infrared port, Hi-Res audio

Preview	Product
	OnePlus 12 (Flowy Emerald, 16GB RAM, 512GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Xiaomi 14

The Xiaomi 14 has a more compact 6.36-inch display compared to the Magic 6 Pro’s 6.8-inch screen. Although the Magic 6 Pro has higher peak brightness, the Xiaomi 14’s display is well-balanced with a peak of 3000 nits. Both phones use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, offering similar performance.

The Xiaomi 14’s camera setup includes a 50 MP main sensor, a 50 MP telephoto lens with 3.2x optical zoom, and a 50 MP ultrawide lens.

Its 4610 mAh battery is smaller than the Magic 6 Pro’s 5600 mAh, but its 90W wired and 50W wireless charging speeds are competitive. While it falls slightly behind the Magic 6 Pro’s wired charging speed, its wireless charging is comparable.

Specification	Honor Magic 6 Pro	Xiaomi 14
Display	LTPO OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.8 inches, 1280 x 2800 pixels	LTPO OLED, 68B colors, 120Hz, 6.36 inches, 1200 x 2670 pixels
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM and Storage	256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12/16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM	256GB 8/12GB RAM, 512GB 12/16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM
Rear Camera	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 180 MP (periscope telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 50 MP (telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)
Selfie Camera	50 MP (wide), TOF 3D	32 MP (wide)
Battery	5600 mAh, 80W wired, 66W wireless	4610 mAh, 90W wired, 50W wireless
Build	Glass front, glass or silicone polymer back, IP68	Glass front, glass or silicone polymer back, aluminum frame, IP68
Others	NanoCrystal Shield, Dolby Vision, HDR, NFC, Infrared port	Dolby Vision, HDR10+, NFC, Infrared port, Hi-Res audio

Preview	Product
	Xiaomi 14 (Black, 12GB RAM, 512GB Storage) \| 50MP Leica Professional Optics \| 120 Hz 1.5K LTPO…	Check Price on Amazon

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4. Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus has a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a peak brightness of 2600 nits. It has a higher resolution of 1440 x 3120 pixels compared to the Magic 6 Pro, but this difference is unlikely to be noticeable in everyday use.

The Indian variant of the S24 Plus uses the Exynos 2400 chip, which may not match the performance or efficiency of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Magic 6 Pro but is a flagship processor that can handle demanding tasks.

The S24 Plus features a camera setup of a 50 MP wide lens, a 10 MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. Although it lacks the Magic 6 Pro’s high-resolution telephoto, it compensates with impressive video capabilities, including 8K recording.

Its 4900 mAh battery with 45W wired charging is competitive but doesn’t quite match the Magic 6 Pro’s larger battery and faster wired charging.

Specification	Honor Magic 6 Pro	Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus
Display	LTPO OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 6.8 inches, 1280 x 2800 pixels	Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, 6.7 inches, 1440 x 3120 pixels
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM and Storage	256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12/16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM	256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM
Rear Camera	Triple: 50 MP (wide), 180 MP (periscope telephoto), 50 MP (ultrawide)	Quad: 50 MP (wide), 10 MP (telephoto), 10 MP (periscope telephoto), 12 MP (ultrawide)
Selfie Camera	50 MP (wide), TOF 3D	32 MP (wide)
Battery	5600 mAh, 80W wired, 66W wireless	5000 mAh, 45W wired, 15W wireless
Build	Glass front, glass or silicone polymer back, IP68	Glass front and back (Gorilla Glass Victus 2), aluminum frame, IP68
Others	NanoCrystal Shield, Dolby Vision, HDR, NFC, Infrared port	Always-on display, HDR10+, NFC, Ultra Wideband (UWB) support

Preview	Product
	Samsung Galaxy S24 5G AI Smartphone (Marble Gray, 8GB, 128GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

5. Verdict

The Honor Magic 6 Pro is a solid flagship phone with standout features like the 180 MP periscope telephoto lens, AMOLED display, and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. However, there are some reliable alternatives like Galaxy S23 Ultra which offer similar if not better experiences.

Ultimately, choosing the best phone depends on your priorities. If you want the best camera system, consider the S23 Ultra or Vivo X100 Pro. If you need a phone with a built-in stylus, the S23 Ultra is your best bet. For ultra-fast charging, the OnePlus 12 and Xiaomi 14 are excellent options.

Remember, specs only tell part of the story. User reviews and in-depth comparisons will help you understand which phone offers the best real-world experience. Just don’t expect any of them to be truly revolutionary—the flagship market is becoming increasingly similar.

Skyworth A7E Pro series 65-85-inch wallpaper TV with 4K 288Hz Mini-LED screen launched

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Aug 3, 2024

The Skyworth A7E Pro series wallpaper TV has been unveiled in China. The new TV comes in three sizes – 65”, 75”, and 85 inches and utilizes a Mini-LED paper-like screen. In terms of performance, the Skyworth A7E Pro series delivers 4K content and features a high display refresh rate of 288Hz.

The Skyworth A7E Pro is similar to the previously-launched A7E TV but the new model differs from its predecessor in its backlight partitioning. The Skyworth A7E Pro offers what is termed a thousand-level partition. The TVs use a matte screen design with zero reflection and zero glare. The TV is 39.99mm thick and also has an optional art frame as well as a hidden magnetic hanger. When the TV is hung on the wall, it looks like an art mural.

The A7E Pro TV has a screen resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels for its mini-LED panel. The maximum brightness of the screen is 2,000 nits while the dynamic contrast ratio is 24 million: 1. The TV has a 110% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and the lowest number of partitions in the TV is 1152. The 75-inch model has 1440 partitions and the 85-inch variant has 1920 partitions. Skyworth plans to release a 100-inch variant of the A7E Pro and it will have 2304 partitions.

The A7E Pro TV is equipped with 243W Harman Kardon-tuned speakers and supports Dolby Atmos + DTS decoding. The TVs have 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. Connectivity options available with the TV include dual-band WiFi, HDMI 2.1 (x3), USB-A 2.0 (x1), and a single AV interface.

Pricing & Availability

The Skyworth A7E Pro wallpaper TV is priced at 7,499 yuan ($1,047) for the 65-inch variant, 10,999 yuan ($1,536) for the 75-inch model, and 13,999 yuan ($1,955) for the 85-inch model. However, Skyworth is offering a discount that has seen the prices reduce. The introductory prices of the new Skyworth wallpaper TVs are 6,799 yuan ($950), 8,799 yuan ($1,229), and 12,799 yuan ($1,788) respectively for the 65″, 75″, and 85″ models. The three variants of the Skyworth A7E Pro TV can be purchased from JD.com.

iPhone 16 series launch date tipped

By

Debasish

-

Aug 3, 2024

Apple was expected to release the iPhone 16 series sometime in September this year. Now the latest news is that Apple could launch the new iPhone lineup on September 10. The phones are expected to go on sale starting September 20. Although we are still over a month away from the launch, numerous leaks and rumors have already offered an idea of what to expect from the upcoming devices.

Images of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max have already revealed the color options of the new series. The base iPhone 16 will have a white color option instead of yellow and the iPhone 15 Pro Max will come with slightly darker shades of the color options offered by the predecessor. You can check out the images of the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro Max dummy units here. The base model also adopts a vertical camera layout in order to support spatial video.

According to previous reports, the iPhone 16 Pro Max may be equipped with a 6.9-inch large screen. The peak brightness is also expected to be further improved. Some rumors also claim that the display borders will get thinner than the predecessor (from 1.55mm to 1.15mm).

When it comes to performance, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max are likely to be equipped with the A18 Pro chip, which will not only have more CPU power than the A17 Pro but will also be able to better perform the on-device AI tasks. The A18 Pro chip is said to be fabricated on TSMC’s 2nd generation 3nm process.

Speaking of the non-Pro models, it’s still not clear whether Apple will use the same A18 Pro chip or use last year’s chipset, just as the company has done with the last two generations of iPhones. According to a report from last month, Apple was indeed planning to use the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. However, the backend code suggests that the company will use the “A18 chipset” in this year’s non-Pro models. It could be a slightly cut-down version of the A18 Pro. Nonetheless, these are still rumors and the company is yet to make things official.

(Via)

LG announces new 27″ 4K IPS monitor in China with 300 nits brightness, HDR10 & more

By

Soumyakanti

-

Aug 3, 2024

LG has announced the upcoming launch of its new 27-inch monitor model, the “27UP550N,” which will be available for purchase on JD.com starting August 8 at 10 AM. This monitor will be priced at 1799 Yuan ($251) at launch.

LG 27UP550N Monitor Specifications:

The LG 27UP550N is equipped with a 3840×2160 resolution, delivering 4K visuals with a 60Hz refresh rate. The display is built on an IPS panel, offering a standard brightness of 300 nits and a static contrast ratio of 1000:1.

The monitor supports 8-bit color depth and covers 98% of the sRGB color gamut, ensuring accurate color reproduction suitable for a range of tasks, including image and video editing. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with AMD FreeSync technology, which helps reduce screen tearing and stuttering during gaming.

The design of the monitor is ergonomic, featuring a stand that supports adjustments for tilt, swivel, and height, providing flexibility for users to set up their workspace according to their comfort.

The monitor also offers multiple connectivity options, including two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4 port, and a USB-C port capable of delivering 90W of power, which can be used for charging connected devices and data transfer with a single cable.

In terms of additional features, the LG 27UP550N supports HDR10, which provides a wider range of brightness and contrast, enhancing the viewing experience. The inclusion of the IPS technology ensures consistent and accurate colors from wide viewing angles.

For gamers, the monitor includes features such as Dynamic Action Sync, which reduces input lag, and Black Stabilizer, which improves visibility in dark scenes.

The monitor also includes LG’s OnScreen Control software, which allows users to easily split the screen and adjust monitor settings using a mouse, making it convenient to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Xiaomi launches the MIJIA Outdoor Leisure Backpack with a lightweight design for 199 yuan ($28)

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Aug 3, 2024

Xiaomi has launched the MIJIA outdoor leisure backpack in China. The new product comes in a lightweight design, weighing just 0.5kg, and reflects a professional storage design. The backpack has a large opening which makes it convenient for quick access to items while on the go. Its lightweight design, large and varied compartments, and breathable materials stand the product out in the market.

The large compartment of the MIJIA outdoor leisure backpack can accommodate your clothes, camping equipment, and even a laptop up to 14 inches in width. The backpack has deeper storage compartments that can store water bottles securely while trudging on a trail. The top and front of the backpack also have storage compartments for small items such as an ID card and similar items.

The Xiaomi MIJIA outdoor leisure backpack is made of high-quality fabrics that are wear-resistant and durable. The backpack’s fabric is also breathable and offers comfortable usage during outdoor activities. Xiaomi says the MIJIA outdoor leisure backpack is available in three color variants namely jungle green, lake blue, and obsidian black. Each color option is claimed to be full of fashion and vitality.

The MIJIA outdoor leisure backpack can also be used as a carrier of sporting gear and materials. The product can be purchased from retail platforms in China such as JD.com for 199 yuan ($28). It is expected that this pretty durable and versatile outdoor leisure backpack will be available in other markets subsequently.

Xiaomi was the only Chinese phone maker that appeared in the top 10 best-selling list in Q2 2024

By

Debasish

-

Aug 3, 2024

Counterpoint Research has published its list of the top 10 best-selling smartphones in Q2 2024. Generally, the list is occupied by the last two generations of iPhones and some (mostly affordable) Galaxy devices. Surprisingly, a Xiaomi device managed to make its way to the list of top ten best-selling devices for the second quarter.

Xiaomi is the only Chinese phone maker in Q2 2024 to appear in the list of top 10 best selling devices

As you can see in the list below, the Redmi 13C 4G occupies the 8th position. For the same time last year, the list only included iPhones, entry-level Galaxy devices, and the S23 Ultra. The Redmi 13C 4G practically replaced an affordable Galaxy device when compared to the last year. The list for Q2 of this year still includes the successor iPhone models and the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

The Redmi 13C 4G was launched back in December last year in India with the Helio G85 (12nm) chipset with a starting price of ₹8,999 (4GB + 128GB). The 6GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB variants were priced at ₹9,999 and ₹11,499 respectively. Currently, the 4GB + 128GB configuration of the phone is available in the country for a price tag of ₹7,699.

This phone packs a 6.74″ 90Hz IPS LED display that goes up to 450 nits in typical condition and can reach up to 600 nits in HBM. The Helio G85 chipset is paired with eMMC 5.1 storage.

Speaking of cameras, this phone packs a 50MP main, a 2MP macro, and an auxiliary lens on the back and another 8MP one on the front for selfies. This phone packs a 5000mAh battery and supports 18W PD charging.

(Source)