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YouTube’s New Guidelines will Let Users Request Removal of AI-based Videos with their Voice in it

YouTube has implemented new guidelines to address the growing concern of AI-generated content that mimics real individuals. Users can now request the removal of videos that utilize AI to imitate their likeness and voice.

YouTube will evaluate removal requests on various factors before making a decision

This policy change prioritizes the protection of individuals’ privacy rights rather than focusing on the technology’s potential for misleading content. YouTube will evaluate removal requests based on various factors, including whether the content is labeled as AI-generated, the level of realism, and the potential for harm to the individual depicted.

YouTube

The platform will provide content creators with a 48-hour window to address complaints before taking further action. While blurring the individual’s face within the video is an option, setting the video to private status is not considered sufficient grounds for removal.

As AI technology continues to advance, questions surrounding intellectual property, consent, and authenticity will become increasingly important. Determining ownership and copyright of AI-generated content, particularly when it closely resembles real individuals, will require careful consideration and potentially new legal frameworks.

(Via)

Heijue Ajazz Launches the AK820 MAX e-sports Magnetic Axis Keyboard, Starting at 199 Yuan

Heijue Ajazz has launched the AK820 MAX, an e-sports magnetic axis keyboard priced starting at 199 yuan. The keyboard features a 75% layout with a volume knob and supports hot-swappable magnetic switches from brands like Kailh and Jixian.

The keyboard offers customizable key travel adjustment from 0.1 to 4 mm

The AK820 MAX utilizes a gasket mount structure with an aluminum plate and three-layer sound dampening for improved typing experience. It offers customizable key travel adjustment from 0.1 to 4mm and supports various magnetic axis functionalities.

The wired version boasts an 8KHz polling rate, while the wireless version with a 0.85-inch color screen offers a 1000Hz polling rate. Both versions are available for purchase, with prices starting at 199 yuan for the wired model and 299 yuan for the wireless model with the color screen.

(Via)

Honor X60i price, variants, specifications ahead of launch

Recently, an Honor phone bearing the LYN-AN00 was approved by China’s TENAA regulatory body. Now, the same device has appeared in the database of China Telecom’s product library with all its specifications and images. The listing confirms that the device will be called the Honor X60i when it arrives on the market.

Honor X60i price, variants

Honor X60i
Honor X60i

As per the listing, the Honor X60i will arrive in China in three RAM and storage combinations, such as 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, and 12GB+512GB. These variants are listed with tentative price tags of 1,699 Yuan (~$235), 1,899 Yuan (~$260), and 2,099 Yuan (~$290). The phone is expected to be released in the Chinese market on July 26, and it will be available in shades, such as Phantom Night Black, Cloud Water Blue, Moon Shadow White, and Coral Purple.

Honor X60i specifications

The Honor X60i measures 161.05 x 74.55 x 7.18mm and weighs 172 grams. It will have a 6.7-inch IPS LCD panel that produces an FHD+ resolution of 1080 x 2412 pixels. Interestingly, despite housing a single 8-megapixel front-facing camera, the screen has a pilled shaped cutout. On the back, the device has a 50-megapixel + 2-megapixel dual-camera system.

Under the hood, the Honor X60i has the MediaTek MT6833P chip, which appears to be the Dimensity 6080 SoC. The handset will draw power from a 5,000mAh battery, which may have support for 35W fast charging.

The Honor X60i will run on MagicOS 8.0-based Android 14. For security, it features a side-facing fingerprint sensor. As the moniker goes, the device will succeed the Honor X50i, which went official in July 2023.

Xiaomi Smart Band 9 to be Released on July 19th during Lei Jun’s Annual Speech

Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is set to be released on July 19th at 7 PM. The new fitness tracker will be unveiled during Lei Jun’s annual speech.

The Band 9 will feature similar specs to its predecessor, the Band 8

The Smart Band 9 features a similar design to its predecessor, the Smart Band 8, with a variety of colors and wristbands to choose from. The Mi Band 8 boasts a 1.62-inch AMOLED display with 326PPI, 60Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits brightness. It also features a runway-shaped design with in-polar automatic brightness adjustment and a quick-disassembly structure for a necklace form.

Xiaomi Smart Band 9

Xiaomi has yet to reveal specific details about the Band 9 beyond its design similarities to the Band 8. However, given the advancements in wearable technology, it’s likely that the new model will include upgraded health tracking features, potentially enhanced battery life, and possibly new customization options. Fans of the series are eagerly awaiting the official announcement for a complete picture of what the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 has to offer.

(Via)

Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 with Face Recognition Released for 1,899 Yuan ($262)

Xiaomi has officially launched the Smart Door Lock 2 Face Recognition Edition, available for purchase starting today at 10:00 for 1899 yuan.

The door lock has 3D live anti-counterfeiting technology

The door lock features 3D structured light facial recognition, capable of detecting faces within a 1.2 to 2 meter height range at a distance of 0.4 to 0.8 meters. It supports multiple unlocking methods and offers enhanced security with 3D live anti-counterfeiting technology.

Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2
Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2

Equipped with a dual-core AI chip, the lock optimizes performance over time. An integrated 2.3-megapixel camera with a 160-degree wide-angle view provides AI humanoid detection and three days of cloud storage. The lock can be linked with other smart home devices for automated functions.

A noise reduction automatic lock body ensures convenient and quiet operation. The lock employs a direct plug-in C-level lock cylinder for added security against tampering. Users can connect to the lock remotely via WiFi or Bluetooth and receive notifications through the Mijia app. Powered by a 5000mAh lithium battery with a backup dry battery system, the lock offers reliable power supply.

(Via)

Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 launch date, key specifications officially confirmed

Xiaomi has officially confirmed that it will unveil the Mix Fold 4 at 7pm (local time) on July 19 in China. While the company hasn’t confirmed it yet, it appears that the Xiaomi Mix Flip and the Redmi K70 Ultra will also debut at the same launch event. Apart from confirming the launch date, the company has also confirmed the design and key specifications of the Mix Fold 4.

Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 design

Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 design, July 19 launch date

The Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 poster released by the brand reveals that it will be available in at least blue and white shades. The back panel of the device has a rectangular camera module with a slight curvature on its bottom edge. A recent leak suggested that the Mix Fold 4 will also come in a black variant.

Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 key specifications

Xiaomi has confirmed that the Mix Fold 4 features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which means it will rival the likes of the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro, the Honor Magic V3, and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 in the Chinese market. As per a recent report, the highest variant of the Mix Fold 4 will have 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage.

According to the brand, the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 will be its first foldable phone to feature the Xiaomi Dragon Bone Hinge 2.0, greatly improving reliability while maintaining its thinness. To minimise its weight, the device is built with the T800H high-strength carbon fibre full-carbon architecture. The Mix Fold 4 weighs 226g and has a thickness of 9.47mm. When it comes to durability, it will offer IPX8-rated water resistance.

The Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 features a Leica quad-camera setup with a 5X periscope lens and a portrait telephoto lens, allowing for telephoto macro photography. Additionally, the device offers 50W wireless charging and two-way satellite communication.

POCO C61 Airtel Locked version unveiled with 50GB free date; costs Rs 5,999

POCO is offering a new variant of their budget smartphone, the POCO C61 (4GB RAM + 64GB storage), exclusively for Airtel users in India. Launching July 17th on Flipkart for Rs 5,999, this phone comes with a catch: it’s locked to the Airtel network for 18 months.

POCO C61 Airtel Locked model

To unlock the phone after 18 months, users need to recharge with any Airtel Truly Unlimited prepaid plan above Rs 199 during the lock-in period. As a bonus, buyers get 50GB of free data. For those unaware, the POCO C61 was launched at the end of March, and the unlocked version of the device with 4GB of RAM and 64GB storage is currently selling for Rs 6,499.

POCO C61 Airtel Locked model

POCO C61 specs:

The POCO C61 features a 6.71-inch screen with a dewdrop notch and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection. The LCD panel has a resolution of 1650 x 720 pixels, a 90Hz refresh rate, and 500 nits peak brightness.

It is powered by a MediaTek Helio G36 SoC, LPDDR4x RAM, and eMMC 5.1 storage. The phone has a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging via USB Type-C and runs on Android 14.

The dual rear camera setup includes an 8MP primary sensor and a 0.08MP secondary sensor. The front camera is a 5MP sensor.

Security features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. It also has a dedicated MicroSD card slot and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Connectivity options are dual SIM, 4G, WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, and GNSS.

(Source)

Realme Buds Air 6 Royal Violet color option now available in India with special launch price

Realme recently introduced a new “Royal Violet” color for its Buds Air 6 earphones in India. This new color option is now available to buy for customers via online platforms like Flipkart and the Realme website.

Realme Buds Air 6 Royal Violet

Normally priced at Rs 3,299, the Royal Violet Buds Air 6 is available for Rs 2,999 on the official Realme India website. This launch offer includes Rs 200 off and an additional Rs 100 discount with a coupon code.

Realme Buds Air 6 Royal Violet

This offer ends July 22nd and is only valid on the Realme India website. While Flipkart advertises the Royal Violet Buds Air 6 at Rs 2,999, their current listing shows a higher price of Rs 3,099.

Realme Buds Air 6 specs:

The Realme Buds Air 6 is equipped with 12.4mm drivers and a dynamic bass boost for clear bass. They are Hi-Res Wireless audio certified and support LHDC 5.0 audio decoding to ensure high sound quality during streaming.

Realme Buds Air 6 Royal Violet

The earbuds offer 50dB active noise cancellation and adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts to the environment. Each earbud has three microphones for clear call quality, and there is a 55ms low latency mode for enhanced performance.

The Realme Buds Air 6 provides up to 40 hours of battery life, with 10 hours of use from the earbuds alone when ANC is off. They also support Google Fast Pair for easy connectivity. They are IP55-certified for water resistance and feature smart touch controls for various functions.

In related news, Redmi has recently launched the Buds 5C TWS earbuds in India. These earphones feature 12.4mm titanium drivers, 40dB hybrid active noise cancellation, and a transparency mode. They come with a pebble-shaped case housing a 480mAh battery, offering up to 36 hours of use, while the earbuds provide 7.5 hours of usage.

Realme Watch S2 design leaked ahead of alleged July 30 launch

Marking a comeback after a two-year hiatus, Realme is set to relaunch its smartwatch line with the Realme Watch S2. The smartwatch was recently spotted on the FCC database with model number RMW2401. Now, tipster Ishan Agarwal has leaked box images of the Watch S2, revealing what it will look like.

Realme Watch S2

The image reveals that the S2 features a classic round design. The watch promises core fitness tracking features but adds new functionalities like Bluetooth calling and audio playback, missing from the original Watch S released in 2020. It has a digital crown and button on the side and a metal link strap. The FCC listing has revealed that it has 380mAh and support for 5W charging.

While other details are currently a mystery, it is more than likely that the smartwatch won’t be featuring the Google Wear OS operating system. Ishan Agarwal says that the smartwatch will be launched in India alongside the Realme 13 Pro series smartphones, which are set to debut on July 30. While we wait for more details on the smartwatch, you can check out the specifications of its predecessor to get an idea of what to expect.

Realme Watch S

The Watch S features a 1.3-inch round LCD touch panel with a 360 x 360 resolution, an aluminum body, and a removable strap. Its 390mAh battery provides up to 20 days of life but lacks GPS connectivity. The watch supports Bluetooth 5.0 and is compatible with Android and iOS devices.

It includes multiple sports modes, downloadable watch faces, call and message notifications, find phone, remote camera, music control, a heart rate sensor, a blood oxygen monitor, a 3-axis accelerometer, and a rotor vibration motor.

(Source)

Edifier W830NB wireless headphones for $80: 40mm drivers, 45dB hybrid ANC & up to 94 hours battery life

Edifier just launched the W830NB wireless headphones worldwide, following their recent release of the HECATE G2 headphones in China.

Edifier W830NB wireless headphones

Edifier W830NB headphones specs:

The W830NB supports LDAC high-definition audio, offering detailed sound. The 40mm drivers cover a wide range of sound from 20 Hz to 40 kHz.

These headphones are lightweight, at just 9.42 ounces (267 grams), and come with soft ear pads and an adjustable headband for comfort during long use.

They feature improved hybrid ANC technology that reduces noise by up to -45dB, an 18% improvement over previous models. Users can switch between different modes like High Noise Cancellation, Medium Noise Cancellation, Wind Reduction, and Ambient Sound to suit their environment.

DNN (Deep Neural Network) noise reduction ensures clear voice calls even in noisy places. Ambient Sound Mode lets users hear their surroundings without removing the headphones.

The W830NB offers several modes for different activities. Game Mode has low latency, ensuring audio syncs with on-screen action. Spatial Sound Mode provides a surround sound effect, enhancing the listening experience. Music Mode delivers rich and detailed sound.

The Edifier W830NB provides up to 94 hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) off, and up to 54 hours with ANC on. This means you can use them for long periods without needing to recharge often.

For connectivity, the W830NB uses Bluetooth 5.4, offering dual device connectivity. It also comes with a USB-C cable for wired use when needed.

Price and Availability

The Edifier W830NB headphones are available in black, gray, and sand white. They can be bought on Amazon for $79.99, with a current 20% discount available.

(Source)

Xiaomi launches Wireless Mouse Comfort Edition with ergonomic design, 1200 DPI sensor & more

Xiaomi has launched a new crowdfunding campaign for a wireless mouse designed for comfort and productivity. The Xiaomi Wireless Mouse Comfort Edition is available on Youpin, Xiaomi’s crowdfunding platform, for a starting price of just 45 yuan (roughly $6.20).

Xiaomi Wireless Mouse Comfort Edition

Xiaomi Wireless Mouse Comfort Edition Specifications:

The mouse boasts an ergonomic design with a “fit hand shape + wide large size buttons” layout. The “fine matte frosted surface” and widened TTC light touch switch buttons are designed to provide a comfortable grip and reduce fatigue during extended use.

The mouse comes with an asymmetric design, which Xiaomi claims “firmly supports the thumb, provides comprehensive palm support, and relieves long-term grip fatigue.” This design choice caters to users who experience discomfort with symmetrical mice.

In terms of specifications, the mouse keeps things simple. It utilizes a 1200 DPI sensor, which is sufficient for everyday tasks and basic office work. The mouse measures 111.1 x 74.5 x 40.6 mm and weighs approximately 60 grams, making it lightweight and portable.

For connectivity, the mouse relies on a 2.4GHz wireless connection, offering a stable and reliable connection for smooth data transmission. This eliminates the clutter of wires on your desk.

It also comes with TTC light touch switch buttons. These buttons are designed to be sensitive and require minimal pressure to actuate, reducing click fatigue and noise. This is a welcome feature for those who work in quiet environments or dislike the clicking sound of traditional mice.

The Xiaomi Wireless Mouse Comfort Edition comes in two color options: Pure White Gray and Deep Space Black. The white option evokes a sense of clean and modern aesthetics, while the black option provides a more traditional and professional look.

For added convenience, the mouse features a rubber-coated scroll wheel for smooth and precise scrolling. Additionally, a built-in receiver ensures portability and reduces the risk of losing the receiver. The bottom of the mouse is equipped with Teflon foot pads, which offer low friction and increased durability.

Tesla Model Y goes up in flames & burns completely while charging at a supercharging station

A Tesla electric vehicle has burnt to ashes while at a charging station in Pennsylvania, United States. The EV caught fire at the Sheetz supercharging station in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania on July 8. There is no confirmation yet on the model of the vehicle but it is suspected to be a Model Y.

Tesla Model Y

The fire incident at the Pennsylvania supercharging station drew a quick response from the Upper Allen Fire Department and other fire services. The responders included the Upper Allen Police, Mechanicsburg Fire Company, TEAM 200, Lisburn Fire Company, and Hampden Township Fire Department. The combined response was however not enough to save the car from being burnt almost completely.

The Upper Allen Fire Department provided a detailed report of the incident but the cause of the fire has not been revealed to the general public. While battling the inferno, the fire department shut down the street. It used a fire hydrant at the opposite side of the road and remained on the scene for about 5 hours, as there were fears that a reignition could occur.

There have been several reported cases of Tesla cars catching fire but the company insists that its vehicles are safe. Tesla published a report recently that claimed that its cars catch fire 9 times less than the US average per 1 billion miles covered. It is always advised that car owners utilize preventive measures to mitigate or prevent a fire from engulfing their car.

(via)

Moto Buds i40 ANC TWS earbuds silently listed in Singapore with 13mm drivers & 40-hour battery life

Motorola has introduced the Moto Buds i40 ANC TWS earbuds in Singapore. These earbuds are listed on Lazada for SGD 71, offering noise reduction, high sound quality, long battery life, and a low latency mode.

Moto Buds i40 ANC TWS earbuds specs

The Moto Buds i40 ANC are lightweight, weighing only 3.4 grams, and designed for comfort. They include a 13mm sound unit for clear audio. The Active Call Noise Reduction feature helps reduce background noise during calls. These earbuds also have low latency, which is good for watching videos and gaming.

The earbuds support Bluetooth 5.4 for a stable connection. They offer up to 40 hours of battery life and up to 720 hours of standby time. Charging is easy with the Type-C port.

Pricing and availability

As mentioned in the beginning, the Moto Buds i40 ANC TWS earbuds are available for SG$ 71 on Lazada. It comes in three color options: White, Black, and Grey.

In related news, Motorola is also gearing up to launch a new smartphone in the global market called the Motorola Edge 50 Neo. This will be the fourth smartphone in the Edge series this year, following the Edge 50 ProEdge 50 Ultra, and Edge 50 Fusion. A premature retail listing has revealed that the device will have a starting price of EUR 425.90, which is a tad bit higher than its predecessor which debuted at EUR 399. Unfortunately, no details regarding the specifications are available as of yet.

(Source, via)

iQOO TWS 1i earbuds with AI noise reduction, 55ms gaming latency, Bluetooth 5.3 up for sale in China

iQOO recently announced its latest TWS earbuds the iQOO TWS 1i in the Chinese market. The earbuds come in Mech Armor White and Pearl Yellow colors. The Mech Armor White color variant of the earbuds is now up for sale for just 99 yuan ($14).

iQOO TWS 1i

iQOO TWS 1i Specifications:

iQOO TWS 1i earbuds are lightweight, weighing only 4.3 grams each, and come with comfortable, antibacterial silicone ear tips for a secure and hygienic fit.

Under the hood, the iQOO TWS 1i packs a 10mm high-resolution sound unit that delivers rich audio with a wide frequency response range. Additionally, the earphones boast Monster Sound for an immersive gaming experience with optimized low-frequency response and reduced mid-to-high frequencies for clearer in-game sounds.

The earbuds also feature 3D panoramic audio, which accurately reproduces four mainstream sound field modes: theater, concert, studio, and music hall. Furthermore, the earbuds come with DeepX 3.0 stereo sound effects, allowing users to customize their listening experience with four different sound styles.

For gamers, the iQOO TWS 1i boasts a low-latency connection of just 55ms, ensuring smooth audio and video synchronization during gameplay. The earphones also feature AI call noise reduction to filter out background noise for clear communication during voice chats.

The earbuds themselves can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, and the charging case provides an additional 35 hours, bringing the total battery life to an impressive 45 hours. The case supports fast charging, offering 3 hours of playback time with just a 10-minute charge.

The earbuds feature an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, making them ideal for various environments, including workouts and rainy conditions.

The iQOO TWS 1i comes with several smart features, including personalized cute pet pop-up animations when opening the charging case, voice control support for music playback and calls, message broadcast for receiving notifications directly through the earphones, and a “Find My Headset” function to locate lost earbuds.

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. 

The back cover has four flathead screws and an “Accessory Point” knob, which avoids the typical adhesive approach. Removing these screws pops off the plastic back, but reaching the battery requires additional steps that could void the warranty.

There’s a thin protective layer that must be peeled back to expose the battery, a step explicitly discouraged by PBKreviews as it compromises the warranty.

Next, there are twelve Phillips screws, each with tamper stickers, that need to be removed. These stickers serve as another warranty-voiding measure, underscoring the phone’s less-than-ideal repairability. The top half of the back cover houses the camera lenses and antennas.

Finally, the motherboard, which integrates the front and back cameras, chipset, RAM, storage, and sensors, becomes accessible. However, the battery remains difficult to reach due to a hidden screw located beneath the Accessory Point. Only after removing this hidden screw can the battery be pulled out using dedicated pull tabs.

PBKreviews concludes by awarding the CMF Phone 1 a middling repairability score of 6.5 out of 10. The hidden battery screw and the use of tamper stickers on easily accessible screws create unnecessary hurdles for repairs. Additionally, the plastic covers over the motherboard and speaker assembly are more challenging to remove compared to other phones.

The takeaway? The CMF Phone 1 takes a small step towards repairability with its accessible back cover screws. However, hidden elements and warranty-voiding steps mean independent repairs remain a challenging endeavor.

Acerpure Aspire & Swift TVs launched in India with up to 4K resolution & 24W audio output

Acerpure by Acer has entered the Indian TV market with the Aspire & Swift series. Offered in 32″, 43″, 55″, and 65″ sizes, these TVs promise high-quality visuals and immersive sound at competitive prices.

Acerpure Aspire & Swift TV

Aspire & Swift boast Pure Vision

The Aspire & Swift TVs boast Pure Vision technology for a vibrant display with 1.07 billion colors and up to UHD resolution (3840 x 2160). A 178-degree viewing angle and up to 350 nits brightness (250 nits for 32″) ensure clear visuals from almost anywhere. The Swift series features Pure Dolby Audio with Dolby Atmos for an enhanced listening experience. Speaker power ranges from 20W (32″) to 24W.

The TVs feature a stylish, bezel-less design for a touch of elegance in any room. Connectivity options include 3x HDMI 2.0 ports, USB 2.0, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Powered by Google TV, they offer access to over 10,000 apps and streaming services. Features like VRR and ALLM ensure smooth performance, especially for gaming.

Availability & Pricing

The launch prices are as follows: Acerpure Aspire TV by Acer 32″ HD (AP32HG41AASPD) at Rs. 11,490, Acerpure Aspire TV by Acer 43″ FHD (AP43UG51ASFTD) at Rs. 23,490, Acerpure Swift TV by Acer 55″ 4K (AP55UG51ASFTD) at Rs. 35,999, and Acerpure Swift TV by Acer 65″ 4K (AP65UG51ASFTD) at Rs. 49,490. These TVs are available via Acer Exclusive Stores and on Flipkart.com.

In related news, Sony has launched the new Bravia 7 Mini LED TVs in India, available in 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch sizes. These TVs feature 4K resolution, XR contrast booster technology, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and a 120 Hz refresh rate. They also include a 4 x 10W speaker system with Dolby Atmos and DTS X support, powered by the XR Processor.

(via: FoneArena)

Android Version of Popular Nintendo Wii U Emulator, Cemu, Leaks Online, Devs Clarify Details

An Android version of the popular Wii U emulator, Cemu, has been leaked online. However, the developers have quickly clarified that this version is not intended for public release and is currently in a very early stage of development.

The leaked version has very limited game compatibility

The leaked version is reported to only support high-end devices with Qualcomm processors and has limited game compatibility. Additionally, the emulator’s performance is heavily dependent on the device’s hardware, with many games currently unplayable.

Official announcement

Cemu’s official team has emphasized that the leaked version is not representative of the final product and has discouraged users from seeking help or reporting issues at this time. They have also warned about the potential for malware disguised as Cemu APK files.

The developers have provided an FAQ document addressing common questions about the leaked version and its development status. Key points include the emulator’s reliance on Qualcomm processors, compatibility with Android 12 and later, and the expectation of a long development timeline before a public release.

(Via)

Apple Introduces New Midnight Color for the HomePod mini Smart Speaker

Apple has introduced a new midnight color for its HomePod mini smart speaker. The new color is made with 100% recycled mesh fabric and joins the existing blue, yellow, orange, and white color options. The HomePod mini with the new midnight color will be available for purchase starting July 17.

The speaker can be used with Apple Music, or paired with Apple TV 4K

The HomePod mini is a compact smart speaker that offers big sound in a small package. It features a seamless,acoustically transparent mesh exterior and a backlit touch surface that illuminates from edge to edge. The HomePod mini can be used with Apple Music to access over 100 million songs, and it can also be used to create a home theater experience with Apple TV 4K.

Originally released in November 2020, the HomePod mini has become a popular choice for consumers seeking a compact, high-quality smart speaker. With the addition of the new midnight color, the company continues to expand its options for customers while maintaining its commitment to sustainability.

The HomePod mini is priced at $99 in the United States. It is available for purchase on Apple.com and at Apple Store locations.

(Via)

iQOO Z9 Lite 5G vs Realme C65 5G comparison: Which phone offers better value?

The budget smartphone market is heating up with the launch of the iQOO Z9 Lite 5G and the Realme C65 5G. Both phones offer 5G connectivity, capable processors, and attractive features at competitive prices. However, there are key differences to consider before making a purchase decision. This detailed comparison will delve into the specifics of each phone to help you determine which one is the right fit for you.

iQOO Z9 Lite 5G

1. Display

The iQOO Z9 Lite 5G features a 6.56-inch HD+ (1612 x 720 pixels) LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate. The Realme C65 5G boasts a larger 6.67-inch HD+ (1604 x 720 pixels) LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

While both offer an immersive viewing experience for everyday use, the Realme C65 5G wins with a slightly bigger screen and a smoother 120Hz refresh rate for gamers and those who prioritize a fluid visual experience. However, iQOO Z9 Lite 5G shines brighter with its 840 nits peak brightness compared to Realme C65 5G’s 625 nits.

2. Design and Build

The iQOO Z9 Lite 5G comes in Aqua Flow and Mocha Brown colors and weighs 185g. The Realme C65 5G is available in Feather Green and Glowing Black colors and weighs 190g. Both phones offer a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The iQOO Z9 Lite 5G boasts dust and splash resistance with an IP64 rating. The Realme C65 5G offers a similar level of protection with an IP54 rating. Both phones should be able to withstand splashes and dust, but the iQOO Z9 Lite 5G might offer slightly better protection against dust ingress.

3. Performance and Software

Both phones are powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, which is a capable chipset for everyday tasks and light gaming. They come with options for either 4GB or 6GB of LPDDR4x RAM.

Both devices offer an additional 6GB of virtual RAM, potentially enhancing multitasking capabilities. Storage-wise, the iQOO Z9 Lite 5G provides 128GB eMMC 5.1 storage, while the Realme C65 5G offers 64GB or 128GB UFS 2.2 storage. UFS storage is generally faster than eMMC, leading to quicker app loading times and data transfer speeds on the Realme C65 5G.

In terms of software, the iQOO Z9 Lite runs Android 14 with Funtouch OS 14 and promises two years of Android updates and three years of security updates. The Realme C65 also runs Android 14 but with Realme UI 5.0, offering its own set of features and customizations.

4. Camera

The iQOO Z9 Lite 5G sports a dual rear camera system with a 50MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. The Realme C65 5G keeps things simple with a single 50MP rear camera. Both phones have an 8MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.

While the megapixel count isn’t everything, the iQOO Z9 Lite 5G’s additional depth sensor might offer a slight edge in portrait shots with background blur. However, camera performance heavily relies on software optimization as well, so reviews comparing image quality from both phones would be helpful to determine the true winner in this category.

5. Battery

Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery, promising long battery life for everyday use. With similar screen sizes and processors, the battery performance is likely to be comparable. Both phones support 15W fast charging, so there’s no significant difference in charging speeds either.

6. Price

The iQOO Z9 Lite 5G starts at Rs. 10,499 for the 4GB RAM variant, while the 6GB RAM model costs Rs. 11,499. The Realme C65 5G starts at the same price point (Rs. 10,499) for the 4GB RAM and 64GB storage variant. The 4GB RAM with 128GB storage option costs Rs. 11,499, putting it on par with the base variant of the iQOO Z9 Lite 5G with 6GB RAM. The top-end Realme C65 5G with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage is priced at Rs. 12,499.

7. Conclusion

Both the iQOO Z9 Lite 5G and Realme C65 5G offer compelling features and excellent value for their price. The Z9 Lite might appeal to those who prioritize a compact design, slightly better camera capabilities due to the depth sensor, and enhanced dust and water resistance. The Realme C65, on the other hand, could be a better choice for users who prefer a larger display with a faster refresh rate and slightly more storage options.

Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider factors like screen size, refresh rate, camera features, and storage options before making your final decision. Both phones represent solid options in the budget 5G smartphone market, offering a balance of performance, features, and affordability.

LeTV S3 Pro launched with 5000 mAh battery and $96 price tag

Letv has introduced its latest smartphone, the Letv S3 Pro. This follows their previous launch of the Letv S2 Pro smartphone in 2023. While the S2 Pro debuted at 999 CNY, the newly released S3 Pro comes at a reduced price of 699 CNY (approximately 96 USD), making it more affordable than its predecessor.

Similar to the iPhone lineup’s camera arrangement, the Letv S2 Pro featured a design. The S3 Pro continues this tradition, boasting a 6.7-inch OLED display. Powered by the MediaTek Helio G95 chipset, the phone includes a metal mid-frame for durability.

The Letv S3 Pro is equipped with a 5000 mAh battery supporting 18W charging, along with stereo speakers. Its triple camera array includes a 50 MP main camera, and it’s available in two colors: white and black.

(source)