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Oppo Reno 12 vs Realme GT 6T: Battle of the Chinese mid-range phones

After weeks of teasers and reports, the Oppo Reno 12 was finally announced in India. It is an upper mid-range smartphone packed with AI powered features. But at this price range, it competes with the Realme GT 6T. So which one is better? Let’s find out.

Oppo Reno 12 vs Realme GT 6T

Oppo Reno 12 vs Realme GT 6T: What’s with all the AI?

We recently reviewed the Oppo Reno 12 and its new generative AI and features were definitely a highlight. The device brings GenAI features like AI Eraser 2.0, which is handy in removing unwanted objects in your photos. AI Clear Face and AI Best Face are pretty useful, improving facial details and more. Other notable AI features include AI Recording Summary, AI LinkBoost, and more. All of these help in productivity and also aid in daily use.

The use of AI on the Realme GT 6T is more modest. It focuses more on functionality for photography. So you get access to AI Night Vision and AI Smart Removal. Artificial Intelligence is also employed in frame stabilization to improve the users’ gaming experience. But the Reno 12 easily outshines in this regard.

Snapdragon vs Dimensity

The use of AI was great for various features on the Reno 12, but Realme GT 6T easily takes the lead in raw performance. The latter is the first smartphone in India to feature the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chip, which achieved a score of over 1.5 million on AnTuTu.

On the other hand, Oppo equipped the Reno 12 with a Dimensity 7300 Energy chipset. This is still a capable chip but benchmark scores show a clear gap in performance between the two processors. The gap isn’t large enough to affect daily use or in most scenarios. But intensive tasks like gaming would have a noticeable difference.

Realme with the bigger battery & faster charging

Oppo’s new Reno 12 is powered by a respectable 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 80W wired fast charging. This is a great combo, although, the Realme GT 6T has an edge once again. The GT 6T packs a larger 5,500mAh cell that supports 120W wired fast charging. So you get a bigger battery, which can also be charged quicker.

Realme GT 6T’s display is 5 times brighter

Once again, the Realme GT 6T has another trick up its sleeve. It sports a tall 6.78-inch LTPO AMOELD display that has a Full HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, 1000 nits of typical brightmess and a peak brightness of 6,000 nits. This is 10 times higher than the Oppo Reno 12’s maximum configurable brightness (600 nits) and 5 times higher than its peak brightness of 1200 nits.

The screen on the Reno 12 is also a shorter 6.7-inch OLED panel but it also offers a 120Hz refresh rate and a FHD+ resolution. This means that you miss out on the variable refresh rate from 1-120Hz on the GT 6T along with a taller and a brighter display.

Pricing

Out of the two phones, the Realme GT 6T is more affordable with a starting price tag of 30,999 INR for its base 8GB + 128GB option. Oppo’s Reno 12 has a slightly higher 32,999 INR price tag for its starting model, but offers 8GB RAM and higher 256GB storage. This price tag is identical to the Realme GT 6T’s 8GB + 256GB option. You also get more experience options like the 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB variants.

Between the two phones, there isn’t a clear distinction as to which is better. Oppo has a some useful tricks with AI, but Realme has its own advantages with the hardware. So depending on how you use your phone you can make your own decision. A gamer would likely require the extra horsepower on the Reno 12, but the software experience has an edge in the Reno 12.

Upcoming Sony Xperia 5 VI appears in render images

Following the recent successful launch of the Xperia 1 VI, Sony is gearing up to release the Xperia 5 VI! Render images of the Xperia 5 VI have been spotted on a German case retailer’s website.

Some internet rumors claimed that Sony was discontinuing the Xperia 5 lineup, but it turns out that’s not the case. Sony is set to introduce the Xperia 5 VI soon. The render images indicate that the design of the upcoming Xperia 5 VI is quite similar to its predecessor, Xperia 5 V.

The cameras appear to have a similar size and layout as those on Xperia 5 V. The images also show a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and volume buttons above it. Unfortunately, the shutter button which is welcomed among photography enthusiasts, is missing from Xperia 5 VI. Additionally, while the Xperia 1 VI has a boxier design, the Xperia 5 VI features rounded corners.

Sony Xperia 5 VI also features a 3.5mm headphone jack at top of the phone. This is what we know all about the future Sony Xperia 5 VI.

(source)

Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 makes its way to Geekbench for first time

Qualcomm‘s upcoming mid-range processor, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, has made an uninspiring debut on Geekbench. Traditionally, SoCs with “s” in their name signify a slight downgrade compared to their non-s counterparts. The trend seems to hold true here, with the 7s Gen 3 offering performance nearly identical to the standard Snapdragon 7 Gen 3.

Geekbench 6.3 scores show the 7s Gen 3 achieves 1,157 and 3,157 in single-core and multi-core tests, respectively. These figures are practically indistinguishable from the regular 7 Gen 3’s scores of 1,147 and 3,129. 

Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 Geekbench

When compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, the new chip offers a marginal improvement – a 15% bump in single-core and a 12% increase in multi-core performance. These gains fall within the realm of expected generational iteration for mid-tier processors, offering little cause for excitement.

As for the technical specifications, the 7s Gen 3 will have a tri-cluster CPU architecture. The primary core clocks in at 2.5 GHz, flanked by three performance cores at 2.4 GHz. Two efficiency cores round out the package, operating at a conservative 1.8 GHz. 

Rumors suggest that for performance, the SoC will use Arm’s Cortex-A720 core. The graphics processing duties are handled by an Adreno 810 GPU clocked at 480 MHz.

Based on Geekbench, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 is likely to offer a predictable update in Qualcomm’s mid-range portfolio. You will get dependable performance but don’t expect any major boost in terms of performance.

Although it’s not confirmed yet, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 might debut with the Redmi Note 14 Pro smartphone. This is likely because its predecessor, the Redmi Note 13 Pro, features the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC.

(Source)

Will Xiaomi unveil a new car on July 19 during Lei Jun’s annual speech?

Previously it was rumored that Xiaomi is working on the “Xiaomi SU8” which was apparently scheduled to be unveiled today. A Xiaomi official recently denied the presence of the “Xiaomi SU8” in one of his Weibo posts. He said that the news is fake and that there is no such car under development. However, there have been some spy photos of an SUV that is said to be from Xiaomi.

Netizens are seemingly excited to see a successor to the Xiaomi SU7

Lei Jun, CEO of Xiaomi, announced today that he would hold the fifth annual speech at 19:00 on the evening of July 19. he will talk about the ins and outs of car manufacturing and the ups and downs of the past three years. So far, he has not revealed anything about the development or launch time of a new car. However, according to rumors, the company could unveil a new car (speculated to be an SUV) at the event.

According to some previous reports, the event on July 19 will also include the announcement of the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4, Redmi K70 Ultra, and Xiaomi Mix Flip. While we cannot be sure about the unveiling of a new car from the company, spy photos show that the car is an SUV, which is reportedly code-named MX11. The car is expected to be unveiled by the end of this year or early next year.

Not to mention, the leaked images of the SUV reveal a design similar to the Xiaomi SU7, such as the M-shaped headlights, pebble-style laser radar, etc.

Speaking of the Xiaomi SU7, the company has ramped up its production to shorten the waiting period. A previous report claims that the company sold over 10,000 units of the SU7 in June and is also expected to sell another 10,000 units this month. Xiaomi Auto is reportedly planning to deliver a total of 100,000 EVs this year.

(Source)

HP OmniBook Ultra & OmniStudio X AIO Desktop launched: Powered by Intel & AMD AI CPUs

Expanding its new AI powered PC portfolio, HP has just announced the OmniBook Ultra laptop and the OmniStudio X AIO desktop computer. Both models are equipped with AI enabled chipsets from AMD and Intel that bring access to a bunch of features.

HP OmniBook Ultra AI PC

Not to be confused with the Snapdragon X Elite powered OmniBook X, the OmniBook Ultra is a different laptop that features AMD Ryzen AI 300 series processor. This CPU is paired with a Radeon 800M GPU. The processor is paired with the up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM and up to 2TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. It sports a 1-inch 2.2K (2240 x 1400) IPS LCD screen that offers touchscreen support and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The OmniBook Ultra is a workstation designed to enhance LLM (large language model) development by detecting and correcting biases in models.

HP OmniBook Ultra AI PC
HP OmniBook Ultra AI PC

A 68Wh battery pack powers this device, which promises to offer 21 hours of video playback. Connectivity options include two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-A port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. On the front, you get a 9MP webcam for video calls. For audio, there is a quad speaker setup with DTS Ultra. Other notable features include a fingerprint scanner for security, an HP Wolf Security chip (AI assisted protection against cyberattacks), and 1.57 kilograms of weight. The body uses 90 percent recycled material and 5 percent ocean plastic.

HP OmniStudio X AIO

Alongside the new AI laptop, the company also unveiled the OmniStudio X AIO desktop PC with AI functionality. It arrives in two variants, namely 27-inch and 31.5-inch options. The front offers 4K resolution and a 5MP webcam. HP has used 25 percent recycled metals and 35 percent consumer-recycled plastics and has EPEAT Gold with Climate and ENERGY STAR certifications. Interestingly, the OmniStudio X 31.5-inch version is the first ever AIO PC to receive IMAX Enhanced certification.

HP OmniBook Ultra AI PC
HP OmniStudio X AIO Desktop PC

Under the hood, the OmniStudio X is equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 7 processors, which can be paired with up to an NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU. This brings a suite of AI features like HP AI Companion that helps in creative editing and productivity. Buyers get access to Z by HP AI Studio thanks to built in generative AI for LLM development. For connectivity, there is a USB-C connection that supports video, audio, data, keyboard, and mouse control.

Pricing and Availability

HP has announced the OmniBook Ultra in a Meteor Silver color option. It is set to go on sale in August from the brand’s official website as well as BestBuy. It has a price tag of 1,449 US Dollars. On the other hand, the HP OmniStudio X AIO is also set to go on sale next month and will be listed for purchase on HP.com. It has a starting price tag of 1,149 US Dollars. Galileo integration for Z by HP AI Studio will arrive in the fall of 2024.

(Via)

Lenovo Legion Gaming Tablet visits Flipkart, preorders on July 19

Lenovo‘s upcoming Legion Gaming Tablet has made an appearance on Flipkart, with pre-orders kicking off on July 19. The specs featured in the marketing materials look quite promising.

Unlike the Steam Deck or ASUS’s ROG Flow, which feature AMD’s latest mobile processors, Lenovo’s new Legion Gaming Tablet comes with the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset. The revealed specs are impressive, and it could be a fantastic option for gamers if the priced fair.

The tablet sports an 8.8-inch display with a 2.5K resolution. It boasts a 144 Hz refresh rate and 500 nits of brightness, making for a solid screen. The tablet comes with a 6550 mAh battery and includes a 45W charger in the box. It also features stereo speakers and two microphones.

One standout feature is the dual USB-C ports. One port supports 10 Gbps data transfer and display output, while the other supports 45W charging. This means you can connect the tablet to a monitor and charge it simultaneously. Additionally, there’s a microSD card slot for extra storage. The tablet is listed on Flipkart with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.

Pricing for the Lenovo Legion Gaming Tablet hasn’t been announced yet. You can check it out on Flipkart through the provided link.

Acer launches 31.5-inch IPS monitor at Rs. 13,699 in India!

Acer has expanded its monitor lineup in India with the launch of two new 31.5-inch IPS models. On Flipkart’s website, you’ll find two different models: the SA322Q and the SA322QU.

Acer SA322Q monitor has an FHD resolution, while the SA322QU has a WQHD resolution. Considering that 31.5 inches is quite large for a monitor, opting for WQHD over FHD would be a better choice. The sale prices of the monitors are ₹13,699 and ₹16,299, respectively.

The main difference between the two monitors lies in the resolution. Both monitors have a 75 Hz refresh rate and 300 nits brightness. In terms of connectivity, the regular model has VGA and HDMI ports, while the SA322QU comes with HDMI and Display Port. Both monitors also have a 1 ms response time.

Flipkart’s website is currently online, and a 10% discount is also available with an Axis Bank Credit Card. You can visit Flipkart’s website to check out the new Acer SA322Q and SA322QU monitors from the given link.

Oppo plans to push AI to 50 million devices by the end of 2024

Oppo is reportedly planning to push its AI capabilities to 50 million devices by the end of 2024. It’s also revealed that India is regarded as one of the most important markets when it comes to the company’s latest AI rollout plan.

The company is expected to offer over 100 AI features to its products this year

The company is expected to launch more than 100 AI features this year and become a leader in the platform shift driven by the new technology. Peter Dohyung, the head of product strategy at Oppo, has already revealed the company’s roadmap for the integration of AI in its devices.

Notably, one of the key steps in the roadmap is to push generative AI features to the products. A company official said in an interview that OPPO hopes that all phones will have GenAI capabilities in the near future. He also revealed that the company aims to start with its AI strategy by rolling out generative AI features to 50 million devices by 2024.

Reportedly, the camera system will benefit from the integration of this new technology. How? Well, a company official said the company will “continue to integrate AI to enhance the imaging experience.” However, we don’t know much about how exactly the addition is going to enrich the camera system. There is also a summary feature that utilizes generative AI.

It is also claimed that the AI features will be rolled out with strict data privacy measures. This is especially important because we have already seen server-side implementations of similar AI features from multiple brands, where user data leaves their device for more advanced processing.

That being said, Oppo is committed to uplifting the user experience with the use of generative AI. The company is also making a significant contribution to the research and development of the technology. The company has been focusing on improving its data centers and building Large Language Models that power the AI features for the past couple of years.

(Via)

HMD to unveil brand-new HMD Crest series

HMD is preparing to introduce its new Crest series smartphones. The company is known for its budget-friendly phones. In India, due to their affordability, HMD phones have become quite popular. Previously, they introduced the HMD Pulse phone, which was branded as HMD Arrow in India. Now, the ‘HMD Crest’ series is on the horizon.

HMD’s naming scheme can be a bit confusing. The HMD Crest might either be a rebranded version of HMD Pulse series or an entirely new lineup.

We already stated that HMD is already well-known in India due to affordable pricing. The official HMD Crest webpage has been launched, although it’s currently available only in India. This suggests that the upcoming HMD Crest series might be specifically offered for the Indian market.

Unfortunately, the website doesn’t provide any additional details about the phones. What we do know about the HMD Crest series is that it features models named HMD Crest and HMD Crest Max.

Hands-On with Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6: Know the Improvements

Samsung’s latest foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6, are here, and they bring several noteworthy upgrades. Here’s an in-depth look at these new devices, exploring their design, features, performance, and overall user experience.

1. Design and Build

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Galaxy Z Flip 6: The Z Flip 6 continues the stylish and compact design of its predecessors. It now features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both sides and an IP48 rating, providing limited dust protection in addition to water resistance. The device feels sturdy, with a refined hinge mechanism that makes the crease on the main display less noticeable. It comes in various colors, including Silver Shadow, Blue, and Mint, with Samsung.com exclusives like Black, White, and Peach.

Galaxy Z Fold 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Galaxy Z Fold 6: The Z Fold 6, on the other hand, maintains its book-style design with some enhancements. The hinge has been refined for smoother operation, and the device now offers a more robust build quality. It also offers an IPX8 dust and water resistance. The outer screen is slightly larger, making it more functional when the device is folded. It also comes in a variety of colors, such as Silver Shadow, Navy, and Pink. On Samsung.com, buyers can avail exclusive shades, such as Black and White.

2. Display

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Galaxy Z Flip 6: The main display is a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x panel with LTPO technology, supporting a 1-120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and improved battery efficiency. The cover display remains a 3.4-inch AMOLED panel, but with better functionality, allowing more widgets and interactive elements.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Galaxy Z Fold 6: The Fold 6 houses a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x main display with a 120Hz refresh rate and excellent brightness levels, making it ideal for both productivity and entertainment. The outer display is a 6.2-inch AMOLED, also with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a seamless experience whether the device is open or closed.

3. Performance

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6

Both devices are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipset, which is an overclocked version of the regular Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 that powers other Android flagships. The Z Flip 6 gets a significant boost with 12 GB of RAM, compared to its predecessor’s 8GB, making multitasking and using AI features smoother. Storage options include 256 GB and 512 GB.

The Z Fold 6 similarly offers powerful performance, equipped with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage, catering to power users who need ample space and speed for demanding tasks.

4. Battery Life

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Galaxy Z Flip 6: The battery capacity has been increased to 4,000mAh, providing better endurance compared to the previous model.

Galaxy Z Fold 6: The Fold 6 also sees an improvement in battery life, with a larger 4,400mAh battery supporting the dual displays. It supports fast charging, both 25W wired and 15W wireless, ensuring that the device can be quickly recharged when needed. Both devices took around 1:20 hours to achieve a full charge in initial tests.

5. Cameras

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

Galaxy Z Flip 6: The camera setup gets an upgrade as it features a new OIS-enabled 50-megapixel main sensor, alongside a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens. The selfie camera remains a 10-megapixel sensor. These upgrades ensure better photo quality, especially in varied lighting conditions, and the addition of AI enhancements helps with image processing.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Galaxy Z Fold 6: The Fold 6 features a versatile triple camera setup on the back, including an OIS-assisted 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 12-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The front cameras, both on the cover and the inner display, offer 10-megapixel and 4-megapixel (under screen) respectively.

6. Software and Features

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6

Both devices run Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6.1.1, offering a cohesive and user-friendly interface. The Z Flip 6 introduces several new cover screen widgets and interactive wallpapers, enhancing usability without having to unfold the device. The Fold 6 benefits from Samsung’s multitasking features, making it a productivity powerhouse with its large screen real estate and app continuity features.

Samsung promises seven years of OS and security updates for both devices, which is a significant commitment to ensuring longevity and security for users.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 also come equipped with Samsung’s latest AI features, powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. These AI enhancements are integrated throughout the user experience, providing smarter and more intuitive interactions. A good thing is that there is a dedicated “Galaxy AI” section in the Settings, where users can find all the AI-driven features.

  1. Call Assist: Automatically transcribes and provides summaries of phone calls, making it easier to keep track of important conversations.
  2. Chat Assist: Provides intelligent suggestions and auto-completion for messages, making texting faster and more efficient.
  3. Interpreter: Real-time translation for conversations in different languages, helping users communicate seamlessly.
  4. Note Assist: Automatically organizes notes and highlights key points, making it easier to review and find important information.
  5. Transcript Assist: Converts voice recordings into text, allowing for easy documentation and reference.
  6. Browsing Assist: Provides recommendations and shortcuts while browsing, enhancing the internet experience.
  7. Photo Assist: Uses AI to enhance photo quality, offering suggestions for the best shots and automatic adjustments.
  8. Drawing Assist: Helps create better sketches by offering suggestions and corrections based on the drawing style.
  9. Photo Ambient Wallpaper: Creates dynamic wallpapers from your photo library, keeping the home screen fresh and personalized.
  10. Health Assist: Tracks health metrics and provides personalized insights and recommendations, integrating seamlessly with Samsung Health.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 continues to support the S Pen. While there are no new upgrades to the stylus itself, the enhanced AI features offer an improved user experience. The S Pen is available as an optional accessory, and there is no storage slot for it available on the device. Both devices continue to feature the side-facing fingerprint scanner.

7. Pricing and Availability

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 starts at $1,099 for the base model in the US, while the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is priced at $1,799. Both devices have been available for pre-order from July 10, with general availability set for July 24.

In India, both foldable phones are available for pre-orders via multiple platforms, such as Samsung India’s website, Flipkart, Amazon, other online retailers, and offline stores. Both devices will go on sale in India from July 24, with the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6 starting at Rs 1,09,999 and Rs 1,64,999, respectively. Readers can visit this post to see detailed information on the prices of all the variants and offers of both foldable phones.

Final thoughts

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6

Both the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6 offer notable improvements over their predecessors, with enhancements in design, display, and AI features. The Galaxy Z Flip 6, with its compact form factor and durable hinge, promises a more refined foldable experience, while the Galaxy Z Fold 6 brings a larger screen and versatile multitasking capabilities. AI features such as Call Assist, Interpreter, and Note Assist enhance user convenience and productivity on both devices.

The improvements in battery life, processing power, and software support make these devices strong contenders in the foldable market. A more detailed review will be added soon to provide further insights into their capabilities.

Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport gets officially announced; will launch on July 19

Xiaomi officially announced today that it will hold the 2024 annual conference at 19:00 on July 19 in China. The company will release a number of new products at the event, which includes the new foldable and Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport.

The Watch S4 Sport is going to be the company’s first professional sports smartwatch. It will reportedly come with a titanium body, sapphire on the front and back along with a new rotating crown. From the appearance and design, it looks like the product can be somewhat comparable to the Apple Watch Ultra in certain aspects.

Certification listings have revealed that the watch comes with a circular OLED screen and boasts a 586mAh battery. It also supports eSIM, so you can use it without a smartphone. Speaking of connectivity and usability, it lets you answer calls, send messages, and open certain app applications directly on the watch. It also supports support GPS, NFC, and heart rate monitoring among other functions.

According to a previous report, the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport supports 10W charging, a focus on battery life, and comes pre-installed with HyperOS.

Speaking of the regular Watch S4, it is expected to be launched around October with the Xiaomi 15 series. It will also likely come with e-SIM support, which has already been spotted on the IMEI database with a model number M2424W1. launched the Watch S3 towards the end of last year.

(Source | Via)

Realme Watch S2 launch date & ChatGPT AI voice assistant support confirmed

Realme Watch S2 had its design leaked recently. This new smartwatch would mark the return of the brand’s wearable lineup, following a gap of two years. While the Watch S2 was rumored to launch on July 30, the company has now officially confirmed it.

Realme Watch S2 Launch Date

Realme’s official website revealed the release date for its upcoming Realme 13 Pro series. These new smartphones are set to launch in India on 30th July 2024. Alongside the Realme 13 Pro series, the Realme Watch S2 will also be announced in the region. For those unaware, this is the successor of the original Realme Watch S. The teaser poster revealed some notable features of the new smartwatch as well.

Realme Watch S2

The Realme Watch S2 will feature an AI voice assistant that is powered by ChatGPT. We also get a glimpse of its design, with the Watch S2 sporting a circular display. This screen seems to be surrounded by a golden rim, which could match the Monet Gold on the Realme 13 Pro series. Two buttons can also be seen on the right side that are likely for navigation and other functionality. Unfortunately, Realme hasn’t confirmed any finer details like its specs and features. But based on the previous generation, the Realme Watch S2 should sport an AMOLED panel and support GPS.

Just last month, the smartwatch was spotted on the FCC database carrying the RMW2401 model number. This revealed the digital crown and a metal link strap. FCC also lists the device with a 380mAh battery pack that supports 5W charging. The company might also release only one variant of the smartwatch this time around, but that is still just speculation at this point. More details should surface as we get closer to the release date. So stick around for more as we will be providing updates.

Samsung One UI 7 to bring major design overhaul, claims tipster

For the past three years, Samsung‘s One UI interface hasn’t seen many significant changes. Last year’s One UI 6.0 update mainly focused on the Quick Panel layout. However, a recent leak suggests a major design overhaul is coming with One UI 7.0, which will be based on Android 15. 

The words come from reliable tipster Ice Universe who claims that One UI 7.0 will introduce a completely new UI design. The tipster said it could be “the most changed version in the history of One UI.” The update is also expected to include revamped app icons, marking a rare departure from Samsung’s usual design cycle.

Samsung has a history of sticking with icon designs for extended periods, typically refreshing them every five years or so. If the rumors hold weight, a new icon design language alongside a broader UI revamp would solidify One UI 7.0 as a major update. Previous rumors also hinted at the possibility of a vertical app drawer in One UI 7.0, though this has not been confirmed.

The rollout strategy is also taking shape, with reports suggesting a beta program kicking off in the next two months. The Galaxy S24 series is expected to be the initial testing ground. The beta program might then be extended to older high-end devices like the Galaxy S23 series in the following weeks. 

Based on Samsung’s historical update cadence, a stable release of One UI 7.0 could land in October or November of this year. High-end and mid-range devices, foldables included, could see the update before 2024’s close. Whereas entry-level and some mid-range phones might have to wait until the first quarter of 2025 to get the update.

Samsung is also likely to push further on its AI capabilities, although details are scarce at the moment. We will keep you informed about any new information regarding One UI 7.0.

(Source)

iQOO Neo 9s Pro+ now on sale, here’s how you can purchase it globally

The iQOO Neo 9s Pro+, the latest addition to the Neo 9 series, is now on sale in China. The smartphone joins the existing standard, Pro, and 9s Pro variants, offering another option for consumers seeking a high-performance device. Here are its pricing and availability details.

Pricing and Options

The iQOO Neo 9s Pro+ comes in three storage configurations: 12GB RAM with either 256GB or 512GB storage, and 16GB RAM with either 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage. Color options include Buff Blue, Star White, and Fighting Black.

The base 12GB + 256GB model starts at CNY 2,999, while the top-of-the-line 16GB + 1TB variant reaches CNY 4,099. Here’s a breakdown of the China pricing:

  • 12GB + 256GB: CNY 2,999 (~$412)
  • 12GB + 512GB: CNY 3,399 (~$467)
  • 16GB + 256GB: CNY 3,299 (~$454)
  • 16GB + 512GB: CNY 3,699 (~$509)
  • 16GB + 1TB: CNY 4,099 (~$564)

Global Availability

While the iQOO Neo 9s Pro+, like its predecessors in the series, is currently only available for purchase in China, international buyers have an option through Geekwills, a third-party retailer that offers global shipping. Prices on Geekwills are listed in USD and are slightly higher than the China pricing.

Here’s a look at the global pricing offered by Geekwills:

  • 12GB + 256GB: USD 529
  • 12GB + 512GB: USD 599
  • 16GB + 256GB: USD 579
  • 16GB + 512GB: USD 659
  • 16GB + 1TB: USD 739

It’s important to note that Geekwills is an independent retailer, and its pricing and warranty policies may differ from those offered by iQOO directly.

Specifications

The iQOO Neo 9s Pro+ boasts a large 6.78-inch OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a 3D ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. Powering the device is a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor which is complemented by an in-house iQOO Q1 chip that caters to elevate the gaming experience.

iQOO Neo 9S Pro Plus

The phone has a dual rear camera system that includes a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor, while the front camera is 16MP. A 5,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging keeps the phone powered, and it boots on OriginOS 4 based on Android 14 which has a variety of AI features built-in.

Redmi K70 Ultra officially has a launch date

Xiaomi has officially confirmed the launch date for the Redmi K70 Ultra, also known as the Extreme Edition. The phone will be unveiled on July 19th at 19:00 CST in China, alongside the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 and Xiaomi Smart Band 9

The Redmi K70 Ultra will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, offering high-end processing capabilities. Storage options will include a high-end 24GB RAM and 1TB storage variant, as confirmed by Redmi’s General Manager, Thomas Wang.

Its camera system features a primary 50MP Sony IMX906 sensor, likely accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide sensor and a 2MP macro sensor. Notably, the K70 Ultra is the first Redmi phone to utilize Xiaomi’s self-developed AISP imaging algorithm, aiming to enhance overall camera performance.

Another highlight for the Redmi K70 Ultra is the inclusion of Xiaomi’s Pengpai T1 signal enhancement chip. It reportedly delivers a 12% boost in WiFi performance, a 20% improvement in GPS performance, and a significant 58% increase in 5G WiFi signal strength. 

Redmi K70 Ultra

Apart from this, the phone will have a Surge P2 chip for fast charging, a G1 for power management, and a D1 chip for independent display processing. All of these are in-house SoCs developed by Xiaomi. 

Moreover, the phone is confirmed to pack a 5500mAh battery with support for 120W fast charging for quick power refills. It also boasts an IP68 certification for dust and water resistance.

On the front, the Redmi K70 Ultra features a flat 1.5K resolution OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate. The display utilizes 3840Hz PWM dimming, which Xiaomi claims delivers industry-leading eye protection in low-light conditions. While the exact screen size remains undisclosed, it’s known to be co-developed with TCL

Xiaomi is likely keeping the Redmi K70 Ultra as a China-exclusive phone. But a tweaked version of the phone with better cameras may release globally as Xiaomi 14T Pro.

Honor 200, 200 Pro silicon-battery details, chipset, RAM, storage details emerge before India launch

On July 18, Htech will announce the Honor 200 and Honor 200 Pro in India. The press releases rolled out by the band suggest that the 200 series heading to India could be the same devices that debuted in China in May of this year. Ahead of the Indian launch, the company has confirmed the key details of the Honor 200 series’ key specifications.

Honor 200 series key details confirmed before India launch

Honor 200 Pro
Honor 200 Pro

According to Htech, in a market where lithium batteries dominate, the Honor 200 series will be equipped with a silicon-based anode technology-powered battery. It utilizes distributed Li+ transmission to boost power density by 6% and improve charging rates.

The company added that the Micro-tunnelling Laser Guidance Technology further enhances the fast-charging capabilities of the Honor 200 series without compromising power density. It claimed that it has rigorously tested this battery under extreme conditions to ensure safety and longevity.

The Honor 200 and Honor 200 Pro feature 5,200mAh silicon-carbon battery. The Pro variant offers 100W charging, promising a full charge in 41 minutes. Additionally, it will support 66W wireless charging. To maintain optimal performance, the 200 Pro includes a stainless-steel vapor chamber with a 36,881mm2 area.

The Honor 200 and 200 Pro will be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipsets, respectively. The Pro model also features the Honor C1 + RF enhancement chipset for superior telecommunications and internet connectivity.  The 200 series will have up to 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, as well as MagicOS 8.0 based on Android 14. Both devices will be sold via Amazon in India.

Honor Magic 7 series key specs tipped; to feature 200MP telephoto camera & Tandem OLED display

Honor is reportedly working on the Magic 7 series smartphones, after recently unveiling its Magic V3 and Magic Vs 3 foldable smartphones. A report from yesterday revealed that we can expect the Magic 7 series to be equipped with a massive 6,000mAh battery. Now, tipster @RODENT950 over at X (formerly Twitter) has revealed more details about the series.

As per the tipster, the Magic 7 series will feature a triple-camera setup. This will include a 50 MP Omnivision OV50K main sensor, a 50 MP Omnivision 50H ultra-wide sensor, and a Samsung ISOCELL HP3 200 MP sensor, which will likely be used by the telephoto camera.

Powering the device will be the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor, promising top-tier performance. The battery department could see a significant bump with a 6000mAh+ capacity. Display details are less clear, but the rumors mention a “tandem OLED” display, which might be exclusive to certain models within the Magic 7 lineup. For those unaware, the Honor Magic 6 RSR already uses this display technology.

Tandem OLED displays can achieve much higher brightness levels and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional OLED displays. However, they are also more expensive. Other than these details, the tipster has also provided a December launch timeline for the Magic 7 series. The Honor Magic 6 series launched in China earlier this year in January.

(Source)

Meizu Blue 20 announced as ~$140-priced AI phone, key specifications revealed

Meizu Blue 20 has officially been announced in China as the company’s first 1,000 Yuan (~$140) AI-driven smartphone. The phone launched in cooperation with China Mobile offers a large display, long battery life, and decent performance. Here is a look at some of the key specifications of the device.

Meizu Blue 20 specifications

Meizu Blue 20 AI phone
Meizu Blue 20 AI phone

While the company has released the above image to showcase the rear design of the Meizu Blue 20 AI phone, it is yet to confirm its specifications. As per a Weibo post by WHY LAB, the Blue 20 AI phone features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD waterdrop notch screen that offers an FHD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. It has an 8-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel primary camera on the back.

The Blue 20 is equipped with the Unisoc T765 chipset. It will be available in two options, such as 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage, and 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage.

The Blue 20 AI phone houses a 5,010mAh battery with 10W charging support. It comes with other features, such as Flyme AIOS, a microSD card slot, and dual speakers. Lastly, it measures 8.3mm in thickness and has a plastic middle frame with a glass back cover.

Meizu Blue 20 price

While the brand has confirmed that the Meizu Blue 20 AI is a 1,000 Yuan-priced phone, it is yet to reveal the exact pricing of its two variants. The phone will be available in three colors, such as Haoyue White, Obsidian Black, and Meiye Purple. While Meizu is reportedly gearing up to launch Note-branded phones in the global market, there is no clarity on whether the Blue 20 AI will be released in markets outside of China.

GC Daily: Huawei’s first tri-folding phone is expected in two months, How to watch OnePlus Summer Launch Event

First up today in this roundup, OnePlus is throwing a big party with their Summer Launch Event. They’re showing off four new things: a new Nord phone, a tablet, a watch, and some earbuds. We’ll tell you how to watch it live and what to expect. It’s going to be fun!

But wait, there’s more! Huawei might be working on a phone that folds three times. Yes, you read that right—three times! Could this be the next big thing in phones? We’ll dive into what we know so far.

Remember the CMF Phone 1? We thought it would be easy to fix, but it turns out it’s not so simple. We’ll explain why and what it means for you if you’re thinking about buying one.

All the details on these stories are in today’s roundup below.


Huawei’s first tri-folding phone is expected within two months, may replace iPad

Huawei is set to challenge the foldable phone market yet again, with rumors swirling about the imminent release of the world’s first triple-folding phone. According to tipster Fixed Focus Digital in a Weibo post today, the device is expected to launch within two months.

Read more


Turns out CMF Phone 1 is not so easy to repair

The CMF Phone 1, known for its unconventional design, was expected to be easily repairable. However, a recent teardown by PBKreviews suggests otherwise. Although the phone features a unique back cover that can be easily removed, repairing the actual device is more complicated than expected. 

Read more


After months of secrecy, Huawei finally reveals processor details for its popular smartphone lineups

In a surprising move, Huawei has lifted its embargo on chipset information for recently released phones. This means consumers can finally learn what processors power their Mate 60, Mate X5, and Pura 70 series devices.

Read more


Here’s how to watch OnePlus Summer Launch Event and what to expect

OnePlus is gearing up for its Summer Launch Event today, where the company is confirmed to unveil four new products — the OnePlus Nord 4, OnePlus Watch 2R, OnePlus Pad 2, and OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro. The event will be live-streamed across various platforms. So here’s a breakdown of how to watch the event live and what to expect from the new OnePlus devices.

Read more


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Android 15: The Last OS Update for These Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco Devices

Xiaomi Android 15 final update devices

Android 15 development is in full swing, as multiple beta builds are already out. It has already entered the platform stability phase, which is the final phase of development before it’s released to the public.

Google announced Android 15 at the Google I/O developer conference in May. Xiaomi was among the few early brands to participate in the beta program. As of writing this post, the Android 15 beta is available for Xiaomi 14T, Xiaomi 13T Pro, and Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4, with more devices to be added to the list in the coming weeks and months.

Early builds have revealed a host of new and exciting features coming to Android 15, making people eagerly wait for the stable release. Although it’s an exciting upgrade, it will be the last OS update for many Xiaomi devices.

Review the list below to find out which Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco will reach their end of OS updates after Android 15.

Android 15: The Last OS Upgrade for These Xiaomi, Redmi, Poco Devices

[Xiaomi devices]

  • Xiaomi 13 Lite
  • Xiaomi 12 Pro
  • Xiaomi 12
  • Xiaomi 12T Pro
  • Xiaomi 12T
  • Xiaomi 12S Ultra
  • Xiaomi 12S Pro
  • Xiaomi 12S
  • Xiaomi Civi 2
  • Xiaomi Civi 1S
  • Xiaomi Mix Fold 2
  • Xiaomi Pad 5 pro 12.4

[Redmi devices]

  • Redmi Note 13 5G
  • Redmi Note 13
  • Redmi Note 13R Pro
  • Redmi Note 12
  • Redmi Note 12 Turbo
  • Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed
  • Redmi Note 12R
  • Redmi Note 12R Pro
  • Redmi Note 12T Pro
  • Redmi Note 12S
  • Redmi K60E
  • Redmi K50 Ultra
  • Redmi K50i
  • Redmi 13C 5G
  • Redmi 13C
  • Redmi 13R
  • Redmi 12 5G
  • Redmi 12

[Poco devices]

  • Poco M6 Pro 5G
  • Poco M6
  • Poco X6 Neo
  • Poco F5 Pro
  • Poco F5
  • Poco C65
  • Poco C61

This is an unofficial list we’ve prepared by analyzing the software update policies for each Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco device.

Xiaomi typically offers a maximum of three Android updates to its flagship phones. However, recent models, including the Xiaomi 14 series and 13T series, do come with a promise of four OS updates.

Not just flagship models, newer mid-range phones, including the Redmi Note 13 series, are also getting an extra year of Android updates, while earlier models get a maximum of two.

Like the Redmi phones, Xiaomi has been offering a maximum of two OS updates to its Poco phones. However, recent models, such as Poco X6, X6 Pro, and M6 Pro 4G, are promised three years of Android updates.

The extended software support for newer Xiaomi phones sounds like a sweet deal, but the brand still lags behind its competitors, such as Samsung and Google, which are now offering seven Android updates.

Also Read: 10 Amazing Features Coming to Android 15

When Will Xiaomi Start Rolling Out Android 15?

The official Android 15 timeline is similar to last year’s Android 14. So, naturally, you’d expect the new OS to drop around the same time as last year in October. But Google seems to be in a hurry this time around.

The Made by Google event, where the company showcases new hardware usually happens in October, but this year it’s happening in August. As past leaks suggested, the official website confirmed the Pixel 9 series launch at this event.

The upcoming Pixel models are expected to run Android 15 out of the box. This means the stable version of the new OS could be released in August. The worst case here is October.

Once the stable Android 15 build is out, smartphone brands, including Xiaomi, take additional time to polish their custom skins (such as HyperOS) to work with the latest Android version. This usually takes a few days to weeks.

Thankfully, not everyone has to wait that long to enjoy the latest features. Xiaomi has already opened access to Android 15 beta to test the new OS before the public release. Currently, it’s available for Xiaomi 14, Xiaomi 13T Pro, and Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4, and should expand to more models in the coming days and weeks. Please note that these beta builds might contain bugs and problems, and several features may not work.

Android 15: What to Expect?

Android 15 has plenty of new features and enhancements. Here, I have highlighted the most important ones:

1. Satellite Connectivity Support

Android 15 “extends platform support for satellite connectivity.” It provides support for SMS, MMS, as well as, native RCS apps to use satellite connectivity for sending and receiving messages. The OS also adds some UI elements to ensure a consistent user experience.

All Android 15 phones may not support satellite connectivity as they will likely require special chip and carrier support. 

2. Private Space

Private space is a privacy-focused addition to Android 15 that allows users to protect apps and files from prying eyes. It uses a different Google account, and you can use a different lock for better protection.

The files/apps you download and use in private space aren’t visible to other users.

3. Theft Detection Lock

Google recently rolled out the Find My Device network to help users find their lost Android devices. It uses a crowdsourced network of over a billion Android devices. This is rolling out to older Android phones as well, but Android 15 is taking it to another level by adding a Theft Detection Lock.

The new Theft Detection Lock feature automatically locks the device when someone snatches your phone and runs away. It does so by automatically detecting the motion. The best part is that the device needs to be logged into the same Google account after a factory reset.

4. App Pairs

Android 15 will let you save your favorite app combinations for the split-screen mode. An icon is created for this that shows both apps. This is a time-saving feature for people spending most of their time doing multitasking in the split-screen mode.

5. Partial Screen Sharing

This Android 15 feature lets you share or record a single app rather than the entire screen. Previous Android versions record everything that appears on your screen, such as notifications, reminders, etc, which most of us don’t want others to see. Hence, this is a useful privacy-focused addition to the new OS.

6. App Archiving

Similar to offloading apps on iPhones, Android 15 will allow users to uninstall unnecessary apps while keeping the user data around. There won’t be any data loss; you can continue where you left off after reinstalling/unarchiving the app.

Android already has app archiving via the Google Play Store. This means you can only archive and restore apps through the Google Play Store. However, Android 15 integrates this feature at the OS level, allowing users to archive/restore apps, even those installed outside of the Google Play Store.

7. High-Quality Webcam

Android 15 dramatically improves the output video quality when you use your Android smartphone as a webcam to your computer. A new “HQ” symbol will appear in the webcam camera preview to enable the high-quality webcam. This disables the power optimizations to improve the video quality.

Is Android 15 the final OS update for your Xiaomi device? Let us know your thoughts on the new OS in the comments below.

More Android 15 Stories:
1. Android 15 Update: Complete List of Eligible Devices
2. How to Download and Install Android 15 Beta