OnePlus Buds Pro 3 design and specs tipped: 50db ANC with leather finish on the case

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Jul 31, 2024

OnePlus is working on the successor of the OnePlus Buds Pro 2, which was launched earlier last year. Previously it was rumored that the Buds Pro 3 would be available in three different color options – black, gold, and green. However, not much about the design and specifications were known at that point. Thanks to the latest leak (via Smartprix), we now have more information about the design and specifications of the Buds Pro 3. The publication also speculates that the product could launch soon.

OnePlus Buds Pro 3 design & specifications:

Judging from the images, the case will come with a design similar to the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro. However, the earbuds appear to boast a slightly different design. The images also suggest that the case will have a leather finish on the front. There will be a pairing button on the right and a Type-C port at the bottom for charging. The text “Co-created with Dynaudio” is written on each earbud and the ONEPLUS logo is engraved on the front of the case. The case weighs 61g.

Speaking of colors, the latest images reveal two color options – black, and a mixture of silver and gold. The earbuds will have a glossy stem and a matte finish near the ear tips.

According to the leak, the earbuds pack 11mm woofer and 6mm tweeter, each of which is reportedly powered by its own DAC (digital to analog converter).

For connectivity, the earbuds support Bluetooth 5.4, which offers 94ms low-latency audio, which can be suitable for certain scenarios like gaming. The earbuds reportedly support the LHDC 5.0 audio codec, which provides stereo-grade clarity and depth with up to 1 Mbps bitrate and 24-bit/192 kHz audio. Notably, this product will support dual-device connectivity.

The Buds 3 Pro will offer a 43-hour battery life and also supports fast charging. It reportedly offers 5 hours of music playback with just 10 minutes of charging. However, the leak doesn’t mention the state of ANC during the time. In terms of battery life, it is four hours longer than its predecessor.

Speaking of ANC (active noise cancellation), it is also bumped up from the predecessor’s 49db to 50db. In addition to that, it is claimed that voice calls should sound twice as clear.

The Buds Pro 3 is also IP55 dust and water-resistant, which means it should handle little splashes of water, rain, or sweat. While the pricing of the product is unclear at this point, it’s expected to be around Rs 12,000 (~1,035 Yuan) in India as the predecessor was launched with a price tag of Rs 11,999 in the country.

(Via)

JUST CORSECA Launches Four New Audio Devices in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Jul 31, 2024

JUST CORSECA has launched four new audio products in the Indian market. The lineup includes a trio of true wireless earbuds and a portable Bluetooth speaker.

Sonnet TWS earbuds

The Sonnet TWS earbuds feature a sleek design with IPX4 water resistance, a 13mm dynamic driver, and quad microphones with Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) for clear calls. They offer up to 42 hours of total playtime with their 50mAh batteries and a 350mAh charging case.

Spectre TWS earbuds

The Spectre TWS earbuds add Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to the ENC feature for better sound isolation. Like the Sonnet, they have a 13mm dynamic driver and provide up to 45 hours of playtime.

Strider SmartTouch earbuds

The Strider SmartTouch Earbuds include a 2.01-inch Retina touchscreen for easy controls. They offer ANC, ENC, and a quad microphone for improved call quality. With a 10mm dynamic driver, they deliver high-definition audio. The smart case allows users to control volume, playback, skip tracks, and customize settings like wallpaper, noise reduction, and equalizer.

Sstrike Bluetooth Portable Speaker

For those interested in a portable speaker, the Sstrike offers a 40W bass output and a built-in microphone for hands-free calls. The speaker’s RGB lights sync with the music, and it supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) for a wider soundstage, with up to 5 hours of playtime.

Pricing & availability

The Sonnet TWS is priced at Rs. 1,099, available in Black & Red and White & Red color options. The Spectre TWS is priced at Rs. 1,399 and comes in Black and Silver. The Strider SmartTouch Earbuds are priced at Rs. 2,199 and offered in Black and White. Lastly, the Sstrike JST612 BT Portable Speaker is priced at Rs. 2,999. All products are available on the company’s website, major e-commerce platforms, and select retail stores.

Global smartphone shipments surge 12% in Q2 2024, reaching 288.9 million units: Canalys

By

Soumyakanti

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Jul 31, 2024

Global smartphone shipments soared 12% year-over-year to reach 288.9 million units in the second quarter of 2024, marking the third consecutive quarter of growth. According to market research firm Canalys, the industry is experiencing a resurgence driven by innovative product launches and improving economic conditions.

Samsung Solidifies Lead as Market Exceeds Expectations

Samsung solidified its position as the market leader with a 18% share, shipping 53.5 million units. The company’s high-end devices continue to drive revenue growth. Apple held onto the second spot with 45.6 million units shipped, demonstrating strong performance in both North America and the Asia-Pacific region.

Canalys global smartphone market q2 2024

Xiaomi is closing in on Apple, securing the third position with 42.3 million units shipped. The Chinese tech giant’s competitive product lineup has fueled its rapid growth. Xiaomi also reclaimed the top spot in India’s smartphone market in Q2 2024, capturing an 18% market share. Vivo reclaimed the fourth spot with 25.9 million units, while Transsion who make Tecno and Infinix branded smartphones rounded out the top five with 25.5 million units shipped.

While the overall market is on an upward trajectory, challenges loom ahead. Component shortages, particularly for high-end features like large displays and advanced cameras, are starting to impact production costs. This could put pressure on brands targeting the mass market. Additionally, maintaining a competitive edge will become increasingly difficult as the market matures.

To stay ahead, industry leaders are focusing on differentiating their offerings. Samsung and Apple are prioritizing long-term strategies in established markets while emphasizing generative AI features in their flagship devices. Chinese brands are also investing heavily in AI technology to compete in the high-end segment.

As the smartphone market continues to evolve, consumers can expect to see more AI-powered features, advanced camera systems, and larger, more immersive displays. However, the rising cost of components could lead to higher prices for premium devices.

(Source)

Users can now access Circle to Search on their computer via Chrome

By

Debasish

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Jul 31, 2024

Google rolled out the Circle to Search feature to select premium Android devices starting in January this year. Now the news is that the feature is now available for desktop users as well. The feature is now available in both ChromeOS and the Chrome browser. For those unfamiliar, the feature allows users to easily search for information based on visual content.

Circle to Search is currently available in beta channel for Windows and macOS

However, the Circle to Search is currently limited to ChromeOS 127 beta and Chrome 128 beta (for both Windows and macOS) and is expected to become available for the regular versions soon. In addition to that, the feature is currently labeled as “Search with Google Lens” for Windows and macOS, while it’s called “Drag to Search” on ChromeOS.

On macOS or Windows with Chrome 128 beta, users can access this new feature by selecting “Search with Google Lens” from the overflow menu. This option can also pinned to the side panel for easy access. Speaking of ChromeOS, its users can trigger the feature by clicking the new Google Lens icon in the address bar.

With this feature, desktop users can now search for anything on the computer screen by simply dragging a box around that element. The company’s release note for Chrome 128 beta describes the feature as follows:

“Google Lens in Chrome makes it easy to search anything you see on your screen. Search within a video you’re watching, a slide in a livestream, or an image on a webpage. Google Lens will give you answers right there, in your tab, and you can continue browsing with the new information you’ve found.”

The feature is expected to enter the stable channel of Chrome for both macOS and Windows within the next couple of weeks. After that, every user will be able to access the feature as described above.

(Via)

Xiaomi Smart Band 9: What makes it so special?

By

Sean

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Jul 31, 2024

Xiaomi‘s smart band series is still going strong, with the latest release being the Smart Band 9. With smartwatches getting more affordable, many prefer a watch over a band. So here’s why the Xiaomi Smart Bands are still so popular and relevant in the market.

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1. Xiaomi Smart Band 9: No Comprises on Design & Display

Smart bands were commonly seen as a more affordable smart wearable gadget compared to smartwatches. These lowered price tags were attributed to cut corners in many aspects with the most obvious being design and display. However, Xiaomi has continued the lineup while improving both aspects. Yes, you can’t use these like a full fledged premium smartwatch but these are easily comparable to budget ones.

The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 sports a tall 1.62-inch AMOLED display that offers up to 1200 nits of peak brightness, a 60Hz refresh rate, and supports over 200 watch faces. This is an oval panel and not circular or square-like. So, it is a pretty competent screen for the functions it serves. In terms of design, the latest smart band was announced with multiple color options and strap variants.

2. Specs and Features

The “Smart” in bands or watches are all the features they offer. Xiaomi’s Smart Band 9 offers heart rate tracking, blood oxygen mapping, blood pressure monitoring, and female health tracking as well. For physically active users, the smart band supports more than 150 workout modes. Apart from these, it can even monitor your stress levels and map and suggest recommendations for an improved sleep cycle.

Professional courses like running, running bean mode, and somatosensory boxing are also offered. It runs on HyperOS and supports Bluetooth 5.4 to provide basic smart features like music control, message replies, and weather updates.. The NFC variant supports NFC and the 5ATM water resistance of up to 50 meters. A 233mAh battery pack powers this device, which offers up to 21 days of battery life and has a charging time of 1 hour.

3. Budget Pricing

Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is available in multiple variants. This includes Black, Argent, Pink Gold, and Blue casings, with the straps offering metal and silicon versions. There is even a Ceramic Special Edition. It has a starting price tag of 249 Yuan (roughly 34 US Dollars). The global launch date is reportedly set for 19th August 2024. So it isn’t simply a cutdown smartwatch, but a great wearable offering from the Chinese tech giant. The affordable pricing is why its so popular, which is also what makes it accessible in markets outside of China.

Sennheiser MKH 8030 condenser microphone with figure-8 pickup pattern launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Jul 31, 2024

Sennheiser has introduced the MKH 8030 Figure-8 RF condenser microphone, expanding its MKH 8000 series. This new microphone is designed to deliver clear sound even in noisy environments. It features a figure-8 pickup pattern for isolating sound sources, making it suitable for recording artists and sound engineers.

The MKH 8030 supports M-S (mid-side), double M-S, and Blumlein stereo recording formats and integrates seamlessly with other MKH 8000 series microphones. It offers a frequency response of 30 to 50,000Hz, a noise level of 13dB(A) / 21dB (CCIR), a maximum sound pressure level of 139dB, and a sensitivity of -31dBV/Pa (28 mV/Pa). The microphone is wired and weighs 38g.

The MKH 8000 series includes the MKH 8020 (omni-directional), MKH 8090 (wide cardioid), MKH 8040 (cardioid), MKH 8050 (super-cardioid), MKH 8060 (short shotgun, super-cardioid/lobar), MKH 8070 (long shotgun, lobar), and MKH 800 TWIN (dual-capsule with adjustable pick-up pattern).

New accessories for the MKH 8000 series include the MZE Extension Tubes with a rotatable head, the MZGE 8000 Tube Connector, and the MZH 8042 Gooseneck.

Pricing & availability

The MKH 8030 is priced at Rs. 1,39,900 and is available through authorized dealers such as Advance Telemedia Private Limited, Premier Radios, TELERAD, and Division of Systronics LIMITED.

In related news, Sennheiser has launched the MOMENTUM Sport earphones in India, designed for fitness and outdoor enthusiasts. These in-ear TWS earphones feature interchangeable ear tips, shark fins for a secure fit, and are IP55-certified for sweat, dust, and shock resistance. They are equipped with a 10mm Transducer driver, hybrid adaptive noise cancellation, and anti-wind noise reduction. The earphones also have built-in tracking sensors, including a PPG heart-rate sensor, body temperature monitor, and a 3-axis accelerometer, compatible with fitness apps and smartwatches.

Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 5G Appears On Google Play Console And TUV Rheinland

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jul 31, 2024

The Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 5G has been steadily bagging certifications including EEC, Bluetooth SIG etc. Now, the foldable phone has been spotted on the Google Play Console and TUV Rheinland certification sites. Both reveal some key details of the device. The Phantom V Fold 2 is set to arrive as the successor to the last year’s V Fold. However, the exact launch timeline remains a mystery.

Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 5G bags two new certifications

The Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 5G is listed with model number AE10 on Google Play Console and TUV Rheinland. The former mentions a motherboard codenamed MediaTek MT6983Z/TCZA. The setup comprises of four cores clocked at 1.8GHz, three cores at 2.85GHz, and two cores ticking at 3.2GHz. There is a Mali G710 GPU onboard. This is in line with the Geekbench listing from earlier this year. It suggests that the foldable phone will be equipped with a Dimensity 9000+ chipset. In the benchmarking platform’s single-core and multi-core test results, the device scores 1,273 and 3,844 points respectively.

The Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 5G is listed with 12GB RAM onboard and we can expect more options at launch. The certification mentions a 2,000 x 2,296 pixels screen resolution and a 480 dpi screen density. It will ship with Android 14 OS out of the box.

Coming to the TUV Rheinland certification, the Phantom V Fold 2 5G is listed with dual battery capacities of 2,973mAh and 2,637mAh. This totals to 5,610mAh unit which is an upgrade over the Phantom V Fold.

We can expect more details about the Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 5G to surface in the coming weeks.

Source

Is Nothing Phone (2a) Plus a significant upgrade over Phone (2a)?

By

Soumyakanti

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Jul 31, 2024

Nothing has expanded its smartphone lineup with the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus, positioning it as a performance-oriented upgrade over the well-received Phone (2a).

While both devices share a similar design ethos and core features, there are significant differences in key areas that impact the overall user experience. Let’s delve into the specifics.

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1. Design and Build

Both the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus and the Phone (2a) adopt a similar design philosophy, featuring a transparent back panel adorned with the iconic Glyph Interface.

The unique LED lighting system offers customization options and provides visual alerts for notifications and calls. Both phones boast an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, ensuring protection against everyday elements.

However, the Phone (2a) Plus introduces a refined metallic finish on the back, achieved through a complex manufacturing process involving nano-coating, multi-layer printing, and specialized ink formulations. This results in a more premium and visually appealing appearance compared to the Phone (2a)’s plastic back cover.

2. Display

There’s no change in the display department. Both phones feature a 6.7-inch FHD+ OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and a peak brightness of 1300 nits. The display quality is excellent on both devices, offering vibrant colors and good contrast ratios.

3. Performance

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro SoC, an upgraded chip compared to the Dimensity 7200 Pro in the Phone (2a).

The 7350 Pro offers a higher clock speed of up to 3GHz, resulting in a 10% performance boost. Additionally, the integrated Mali-G610 MC4 GPU in the Plus variant is clocked at 1.3GHz, delivering a 30% improvement in graphics performance over the Phone (2a).

Both devices come with 8GB or 12GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample space for apps and media.

4. Camera

The primary camera setup remains identical on both phones, featuring a dual 50MP system with a main sensor and an ultrawide lens. However, the Phone (2a) Plus takes a significant leap forward with its front camera. It boasts a 50MP sensor compared to the 32MP unit on the Phone (2a), promising better selfie quality and improved low-light performance.

5. Battery and Charging

Both phones pack a substantial 5000mAh battery, providing ample juice for a full day of use. However, the Phone (2a) Plus offers faster charging with 50W support, compared to 45W on the Phone (2a). This translates to quicker top-ups, allowing you to spend less time plugged in.

6. Software

Both devices run Nothing OS based on Android 14, offering a clean and intuitive user interface. The Phone (2a) Plus introduces Nothing OS 2.6, which brings additional features and enhancements, including new functional widgets and AI-powered news aggregation.

7. Pricing

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus commands a premium over its predecessor. It’s priced at Rs. 27,999 for the 8GB + 256GB variant and Rs. 29,999 for the 12GB + 256GB model. In comparison, the Nothing Phone (2a) starts at Rs. 23,999 for the base 8GB + 128GB model and goes up to Rs. 27,999 for the top-end 8GB + 256GB variant.

8. Conclusion

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus undeniably surpasses its predecessor, the Phone (2a), in terms of performance, camera capabilities, and charging speed. The upgraded processor, improved front camera, and faster charging technology are definite enhancements. However, the question remains whether these advancements justify the price hike.

While the Plus model offers notable improvements, users might have expected more substantial upgrades to warrant the additional expense. Ultimately, the decision to opt for the Phone (2a) Plus hinges on individual priorities and budget constraints. If performance and camera quality are paramount, the Plus model is a compelling choice. But if cost is a primary factor, the Phone (2a) still offers a solid package.

Google Pixel Watch 3 Surfaces In Leaked Marketing Material Ahead Of Launch

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jul 31, 2024

The marketing material of the Google Pixel Watch 3 series has leaked. The next-generation smartwatches from the search giant are set to launch on August 13. Today’s leak reveals everything about the upcoming offerings. The Pixel Watch 3 is arriving as the successor to last year’s Pixel Watch 2. Previously, the promo material of the Pixel 9 series had leaked out.

Google Pixel Watch 3 promo material reveals key details

The Google Pixel Watch 3 will come in 41mm and 45mm dial sizes as previously rumoured. Both are said to feature an Actua display with up to 2,000 nits peak brightness. Its predecessor had an AMOLED screen with 1,000 nits brightness. The leak also claims that the upcoming offering packs 40 percent more screen than the Pixel Watch 2 for richer info at a glance.

The Google Pixel Watch 3 will gain a new ability to view Nest Doorbells and Cameras on their wrists for added convenience. Maps can be accessed offline and Google Wallet can be used for payments. Users can also control their Pixel phone’s camera from the smartwatch and also switch between photo and video modes.

Coming to health and fitness tracking, the Google Pixel Watch 3 will support advanced running metrics. It will come with custom runs, audio and haptic cues, and improving form with various metrics. The wearable device will feature a readiness score that will determine if you are ready to take up a workout or need to rest. The cardio load will measure your heart rate and determine if you are under or overtraining. Google is also introducing a new Morning Brief feature that will summarize each metric including sleep quality and readiness score.

The Pixel Watch 3 will reportedly offer a 24-hour battery life with AOD enabled and 36 hours with battery saving mode. The 41mm size is tipped to offer 20 percent fast charging.

As per the report, the Pixel Watch 3 is said to come in an active band, active sport band, woven band, metal links band, crafted leather band, and performance loop band. Additionally, the 41mm model is tipped to get exclusive bands including stretch band, metal mesh band, metal slim band, and two-tone leather band.

Source

Exclusive: Samsung starts Galaxy M55S’s One UI tests!

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Jul 31, 2024

Samsung has started One UI testing of the Galaxy M55s, suggesting that the new device will be unveiled soon. The Galaxy M55s model seen on Samsung’s OTA servers will have similar specs to its predecessor, the Galaxy M55 5G. Gizmochina spotted that Samsung has started One UI testing of the M55s.

Galaxy M55s is coming, get ready

The Galaxy M55s has passed the One UI software test 4 times so far. The build number of the software detected by Gizmochina is M558BXXU0AXG7/M558BODM0AXG7/M558BXXU0AXG7. The device was detected 4 times in the One UI test, indicating that the Galaxy M55S is still under development.

Galaxy M55s Leaked Specifications

The technical specifications of the Galaxy M55s started to come to light last week. The smartphone with the model number “SM-M558B” scored 1,003 points in Geekbench’s single-core tests and 2,309 points in multi-core tests. This reveals that the upcoming phone will be a price-performance product.

According to the listing on Geekbench, the Galaxy M55s will be powered by Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 similar to the Galaxy M55. It’s also expected to come out of the box with 8GB of RAM and Android 14 based One UI 6.1 operating system.

Unfortunately, there is no further information about the other features of the Galaxy M55s, but it’s expected to have similar features to its predecessor, the Galaxy M55. So let’s take a look at the Galaxy M55’s features to get an idea:

The Galaxy M55 comes with a 6.7-inch AMOLED+ display offering FHD+ resolution. The smartphone has a 120 Hz refresh rate a peak brightness of 1,000 nits and an in-screen fingerprint reader sensor. Also, The device is equipped with an IP67 certification that is resistant to water and dust.

The Samsung Galaxy M55 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor. At the same time, the smartphone is backed by 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. The Galaxy M55 was launched with Android 14-based One UI 6.1. Unfortunately, there is no information about the launch date and availability of the Galaxy M55s. We are all waiting with curiosity.

Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Launched Globally With Minor Upgrades To SoC, Selfie Camera, And Charging

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jul 31, 2024

It seems that Nothing isn’t done with the Phone (2a). Since its launch earlier in March this year in Black and White color options, the brand later announced an India-exclusive Blue edition and then a Special edition with multi-colored back panel. This time, Nothing has released what is an enhanced version of the Phone (2a). Dubbed the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus, it packs various upgrades across the board. Read on to know what the latest offering has in store for us.

Nothing Phone (2a) Plus specifications

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus retains the same compact design with a Glyph interface, a horizontal pill-shaped camera module, and a running cable on the bottom half part of the transparent back panel. The most noticeable change is that the device has a metallic finish making it stand out from the standard variant. The running cable also looks in shiny metallic finish and on the Black color variant it gives a dual-tone look.

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus has the same 6.7-inch OLED screen on the front with thin bezels and a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout. There is an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, 1,300 nits peak brightness, and an integrated fingerprint scanner.

On the optics front, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus’s dual camera setup comprises the same 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens. Up front, the selfie camera gets upgraded from a 32MP snapper on the standard model to 50MP on the latest offering. This ensures better picture quality for all your selfies and during video calling. It can also record 4K videos now. There are features like Ultra XDR, motion capture, night mode etc.

Nothing has also made changes to the hardware on the Phone (2a) Plus. It is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro SoC compared to 7200 Pro on the standard model. The former is clocked at 3GHz which is 10 percent faster along with a 30 percent faster GPU in contrast to the 2.8GHz on the latter. The device packs 12GB RAM along with 8GB virtual RAM and up to 512GB storage. There is also an advanced liquid cooling system for heat dissipation. The smartphone is backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 50W charging. Software-wise, it ships with Nothing OS based on Android 14.

Other features on the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus include dual 5G, WiFi-6, battery health technology, IP54 rating etc.

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus starts at Rs 27,999 for the 8GB + 256GB variant whereas the 12GB + 256GB option costs Rs 29,999. The latter carries a price tag of $399/£399 in the US and European markets. The device is offered in metallic Grey and Black colors.

Samsung’s latest Galaxy Watch 7 series has potentially found a solution to the battery life issue

By

Debasish

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Jul 31, 2024

Samsung launched the Galaxy Watch 7 series alongside the latest foldable and TWS earbuds in its last Unpacked event on July 10. Just after a couple of days of general availability, the watches are now getting their first software update, which reportedly addresses some of the issues present from day one. Notably, the company has delayed the One UI 7 update noting that they are currently ‘too busy’ with updates.

Speaking of the Galaxy Watch 7 series, early buyers have reported being affected by unexpected battery drain issues and overall poor battery life on the two wearables.

A possible solution to the battery life issue

For those unfamiliar, the Galaxy Watch 7 comes equipped with a 300mAh cell. According to Samsung, it should last users anywhere between 30 (AOD on) to 40 (AOD off) hours. The Galaxy Watch Ultra packs a larger 590mAh battery, and according to Samsung, it should last anywhere between 60 (AOD enabled) to 80 (AOD disabled) hours.

However, according to real-life usage data, the watches only offer around 12 hours of battery life, which is significantly inferior to what’s advertised. Fortunately, though, the company acknowledged the issue and the watches have received an update as well.

Nonetheless, it’s important to mention that the changelog doesn’t explicitly talk about the battery life issue. It just mentions that it can include improvements to performance and bug fixes alongside new or enhanced features. This update is based on One UI version 6.0 Watch. The firmware versions for the Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch Ultra is L310XXU1AXG2 (~173MB) and L705FXXU1AXFB (330.59MB) respectively.

Both the watches offer 1.5″ AMOLED displays (480 x 480 pixels), while the Watch Ultra is heavier (60.5g as compared to 33.8g of Watch 7) and comes with a square design. Both the devices are equipped with the new Exynos W1000 chip, which according to Samsung, is much more capable and power efficient as compared to the predecessor.

(Via)

Xiaomi Unveils Watch S4 Sport with the Unisoc W117 Processor, Priced at 1,999 yuan

By

Anubhav

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Jul 31, 2024

Xiaomi has unveiled its latest smartwatch, the Watch S4 Sport, featuring the Unisoc W117 processor. Built on a 22nm process and announced earlier on July 16, the processor supports eSIM independent communication and runs a lightweight RTOS system.

The smartwatch is available in black and orange color options

Designed for sports enthusiasts, the Watch S4 Sport offers a round dial, titanium body, and sapphire glass for durability. The smartwatch comes in black and orange color options and is equipped with a Milanese strap.

Key features include lactate threshold testing, watch route navigation, and support for eSIM independent communication. Priced at 1,999 yuan, the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport targets users seeking a premium sports smartwatch experience.

With its combination of advanced features and stylish design, the Watch S4 Sport aims to compete in the high-end smartwatch market.

(Via)

qdc Launches Second-Generation TWX Bluetooth Earhook priced at 799 Yuan

By

Anubhav

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Jul 31, 2024

qdc has launched the second generation of its TWX Bluetooth earhook, offering enhanced features and functionality. Priced at 799 yuan, the new model builds upon the success of its predecessor while incorporating several improvements.

The device will still have support for APTX/AAC decoding

The upgraded TWX features a larger headphone compartment to accommodate a wider range of custom headphones. Additionally, the charging management chip has been enhanced for better compatibility. The device maintains its support for APTX/AAC decoding and utilizes the Qualcomm QCC3040 chip.

Designed for durability and convenience, the TWX offers IP54 dust and water resistance and a combined battery life of up to 40 hours. The lightweight design, weighing only 6g per earbud, ensures comfortable wear.

With a focus on user experience, qdc has included customizable features such as mobile phone tuning and a stable Bluetooth connection. The new TWX is compatible with a variety of headphones and offers a versatile audio solution for users seeking high-quality wireless audio.

The initial batch of 200 units is available for purchase, with a 10 yuan discount applied to the purchase price.

(Via)

MSI Unveils new MAG CORELIQUID I Series AIO Water Coolers, Starting at 699 Yuan

By

Anubhav

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Jul 31, 2024

MSI has unveiled its new MAG CORELIQUID I series of all-in-one (AIO) water coolers, offering efficient cooling solutions for PC enthusiasts. The series currently includes the MAG CORELIQUID I360 model, with the 240mm variant expected to launch in mid-August.

The 120mm ARGB fans feature LDB circulating dynamic oil return bearings

A standout feature of the MAG CORELIQUID I series is its striking double-sided infinity mirror lighting effect. The cooling head incorporates a dual-cavity pump design and an increased density of micro-water channels, enhancing cooling performance. The 120mm ARGB fans feature LDB circulating dynamic oil return bearings for reduced noise and extended lifespan.

Designed for compatibility, the MAG CORELIQUID I supports a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms, simplifying the installation process. With a price tag of 699 yuan for the I360 model, MSI offers a compelling option for users seeking to optimize their system’s cooling capabilities.

The MAG CORELIQUID I series combines aesthetics, performance, and ease of use, making it an attractive choice for PC builders and enthusiasts.

(Via)

How does Oppo K12x 5G Indian variant differ from the Chinese variant?

By

Soumyakanti

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Jul 31, 2024

Oppo has just launched its latest budget-friendly smartphone, the Oppo K12x 5G, in the Indian market. This version differs slightly from the Chinese variant, which was released back in May. Interestingly, the Chinese version of the Oppo K12x was later rebranded and launched as the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite.

While both models share the same name, they exhibit significant differences in specifications, design, and features. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to understand the key disparities between the two variants.

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1. Display

Both variants of the Oppo K12x sport a 6.67-inch display, but the technology differs. The Indian variant features an HD+ LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, while the Chinese variant boasts a superior Full HD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The AMOLED panel on the Chinese version offers deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and potentially better power efficiency. Additionally, the Chinese variant’s display gets brighter, reaching up to 1200 nits in High Brightness Mode (HBM).

2. Performance

The Indian Oppo K12x is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, a mid-range processor capable of handling everyday tasks efficiently.

On the other hand, the Chinese variant is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695, a slightly more powerful chipset known for its balance of performance and power efficiency. While both processors offer adequate performance for most users, the Snapdragon 695 is expected to deliver better gaming and multitasking capabilities.

3. Camera

The camera setup is where the two variants show the most significant difference. The Indian K12x has a 32MP primary rear camera accompanied by a 2MP portrait sensor.

In contrast, the Chinese variant features a higher resolution 50MP primary rear camera and a 2MP depth sensor. While megapixels aren’t everything, the 50MP sensor on the Chinese variant might offer better detail and flexibility in certain scenarios. Both variants have an 8MP front-facing camera for selfies.

4. Battery and Charging

The Indian Oppo K12x houses a 5100mAh battery with support for 45W SuperVOOC fast charging. The Chinese variant, on the other hand, packs a slightly larger 5500mAh battery and supports even faster 80W SuperVOOC charging. This translates to quicker charging times and potentially longer battery life for the Chinese model.

5. Software

Out of the box, both phones come with Android 14 with ColorOS 14 on top. Oppo has committed to providing two OS updates and three years of security updates for the Indian K12x, which is a positive aspect for long-term software support. We are uncertain about the exact OS update details for the Chinese variant though.

6. Durability

The Indian K12x stands out with its military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810H) and IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, making it more rugged and better suited for harsh environments. The Chinese variant does not have military-grade durability certifications, however, it comes with an IP54 rating. The China variant also features an in-display fingerprint sensor which is not present in the Indian variant.

7. Conclusion

The Oppo K12x and its Chinese variant offer different strengths and cater to distinct user preferences. The Indian model emphasizes durability and affordability, while the Chinese variant prioritizes a superior display, faster charging, and higher-resolution cameras.

HP OmniBook X & EliteBook Ultra launched in India: Brand’s first Copilot+ notebook

By

Sean

-

Jul 31, 2024

HP unveiled the EliteBook Ultra and the OmniBook X in the global market back in May. These devices were announced to arrive in India last month, with the pre-bookings also going live in June. Now, the brand’s first Copilot+ notebooks have officially been released in the region.

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1. HP OmniBook X

HP OmniBook X

The OmniBook X sports a 14-inch IPS display that supports touch functionality. This screen has a 2.2K resolution and 300 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, it is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor, which is paired with Qualcomm Adreno graphics. There is also a dedicated 45 TOPS NPU that enables the laptop to offer various generative AI powered functions. All of this is coupled with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage.

A 59Whr battery pack powers this device, which the brand claims can offer up to 26 hours of battery life. HP’s new OmniBook X runs on the Windows 11 operating system out of the box. This laptop also packs a full size backlit keyboard that features a dedicated Copilot key. For video calls, there is also a 5-megapixel IR web camera. For connectivity, users get WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 2x USB Type C ports, USB Type A port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The two models also feature the PolyCamera Pro which offers virtual interactions and AI filters like spotlight and auto framing. These are features useful for video calls as well.

2. HP EliteBook Ultra

HP EliteBook Ultra

Similar to the OmniBook X, the HP EliteBook Ultra also sports a 14-inch touch display that offers 2.2K resolution and 300 nits of peak brightness. This model is also powered by the new Snapdragon X Elite chipset and Qualcomm Adreno Graphics. The 45 TOPS NPU for AI functionality returns. For memory and storage, you can opt for up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage. The battery pack capacity is identical to the OmniBook X, which is accompanied by a 65W USB Type C charger.

This laptop runs on the Windows 11 OS. The front houses a 5-megapixel IR web camera along with full size backlit keyboard with an HP Image pad and an image sensor based click pad. There is also a dual microphone setup and dual stereo speakers. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.2, 2x USB Type C ports, USB Type A port, WiFi 6E, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

3. Pricing and Availability

The HP OmniBook X is currently on sale via authorized stores while the EliteBook Ultra is listed for purchase at HP World stores and HP online stores. The former has a starting price tag of 139,999 INR (roughly 1,672 US Dollars) for the Meteor Silver color, while the latter was released in an Atmospheric Blue color and starts from 169,934 INR (roughly 2,029 US Dollars).

MG may launch a new compact EV in India with the Baojun Yunduo logo

By

Debasish

-

Jul 31, 2024

MG released a new car preview last Saturday, announcing that it will launch a new compact pure electric vehicle in the Indian market. it will be known as “India’s first smart CUV.” According to the outline shown in the preview, this new car could be considered a “rebranded” model of Baojun Yunduo under SAIC-GM-Wuling.

This car adopts a new design style, which is officially named “Sky Aesthetics”. As you can see from the image, the car offers a relatively rounded shape in the front. It is also reported that all models are equipped with LED headlights. The side of the body includes hidden D-pillars, hidden door handles, and five-spoke low-drag wheels.

Speaking of size, this electric car has a length, width, and height of 4295/1850/1652mm respectively. It comes with a wheelbase of 2700mm.

The “Lingxi Edition” model under Baojun Yunduo, which focuses on smart driving features, is equipped with the “Lingxi Intelligent Driving 2.0”. This is an intelligent driving system, which is reportedly jointly developed by Baojun Automobile and DJI.

Baojun Yunduo is equipped with a 15.6-inch central control screen and electrically adjustable driver/passenger seats. The exterior rearview mirrors support electric adjustment + heating. When it comes to power, Baojun Yunduo is equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries. The battery capacity of the 360 Plus and 360 Pro is 37.9 kW⋅h, which offers a range of 360km and supports 3.3kW charging. On the other hand, the battery capacity of the 460 Pro and 460 Max is 50.6 kWh, which reportedly offers a range of 460km and supports 6.6kW charging. The driving motor reportedly produces maximum torque and speed of 200 N⋅m and 150km/h respectively.

SAIC‘s Feifan Automobile also announced during the Geneva Motor Show in February this year that it will expand outside its home country. The company has officially unveiled the Feifan F7 sedan and the Feifan R7 coupe SUV in the home country. The two models were renamed MG9 EV and MG S9 EV respectively, to debut under the MG brand that is more familiar to the overseas markets.

(Via)

itel Buds Ace ANC launched in India with a long battery life for just Rs 1399

By

Sean

-

Jul 31, 2024

itel launched the T31 Pro and Buds Ace 2 in India back in May. Now, it is expanding its hearables portfolio with the new itel Buds Ace ANC. These are its latest pair of truly wireless earbuds that support ANC and offer impressive battery life.

itel Buds Ace ANC Specs

The Buds Ace ANC arrives with a stem design that houses 10mm audio drivers that claim to offer punchy bass and an immersive audio experience. It packs a dual mic setup that enables ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) that allows for improved calls by reducing the background noise. As the name suggests, the itel Buds Ace ANC has Active Noise Cancellation with up to 25 decibels of noise cancellation.

On a single full charge, the brand’s new TWS earbuds can offer up to 50 hours of audio playback. It even supports fast charging, with just 10 minutes of charge offering up to 180 minutes of playtime. The buds pack a 40mAh battery pack, while the case has a 500mAh cell. The Buds Ace ANC has a dual tone design and supports touch controls for a convenient user experience. Other notable features include an IPX5 rating for splash resistance, 60ms low latency mode for gamers, AI voice assistant support, and Bluetooth 5.3.

Pricing and Availability

The itel Buds Ace ANC arrives in multiple color options, namely Cranberry Juice, White, and Midnight Blue. It will go on sale via various retailers in the Indian market. As of right now, the earbuds are on sale for a 1,399 INR price tag (roughly 17 US Dollars).

(Via)

Logitech G309 Lightspeed wireless charging mouse launched in India

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Jul 31, 2024

Logitech has announced the launch of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed wireless gaming mouse. This new mouse offers dual-wireless connectivity, precision tracking, and reliable performance, all in a sleek new form factor. It is designed for gamers who demand performance, comfort, and reliability, the G309 Lightspeed to meet the needs of both esports professionals and casual players.

Logitech G309 Lightspeed wireless gaming mouse key features

The G309 Lightspeed gaming mouse incorporates several advanced technologies. It is compatible with Logitech’s Powerplay wireless charging system, allowing the mouse to operate without an AA battery when using the charging system, thereby reducing the weight by 18 grams.

The mouse features the highly efficient Hero 25K sensor, offering over 300 hours of continuous gameplay at a 1 ms report rate with a single AA alkaline battery. The sensor enables the mouse to deliver exceptional responsiveness and accuracy, with 400 IPS and a sensitivity of up to 25,600 dpi without any acceleration or smoothing.

The G309 Lightspeed uses the company’s Lightspeed wireless technology, providing a high-performance gaming experience that surpasses most wired mice. In Bluetooth mode, the battery life extends to over 600 hours. The mouse is lightweight, weighing 86 grams with an alkaline AA battery and 68 grams without when paired with Powerplay.

In addition to its performance features, the G309 Lightspeed includes the Lightforce hybrid optical-mechanical switches, which combine the benefits of both optical and mechanical triggers. These switches offer ultra-low-latency optical actuation along with the tactile feedback of mechanical clicks. The mouse also allows players to connect two Lightspeed devices to one receiver using the Device Pairing Tool in G HUB, enabling seamless operation with other Logitech gaming peripherals.

Lightspeed G309 Lightspeed wireless gaming mouse pricing and availability

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed wireless charging mouse is available in Black and White colourways at Rs 8,995. It promises to provide gamers with top-of-the-line technology at an affordable price, making it an attractive option for both seasoned esports athletes and newcomers to gaming. The same mouse is available in the global market for $80.

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