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Apple Watch Series 10 Leaked Raw Render Could Disappoint Those With Thinner Wrists

Apple’s annual Fall event is a few months away. As usual, it will see the launch of the next-generation iPhones and Apple Watch. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Apple Watch with a special offering reportedly labelled Watch X on the cards. Past reports suggest that the Cupertino-based tech giant may introduce a major overhaul to the Watch Series 10 including a thinner design and larger display. Now, raw CAD-based renders give us a first glimpse at this year’s Watch Series 10. It’s worth noting that there is still no clarity between Watch Series 10 and Watch X. 

Apple Watch Series 10 leaked CAD-based renders 

As per the leaked renders, the Apple Watch Series 10 will feature a familiar design as its predecessors. It will have a square dial with a rotating crown on the top right side and a physical button below it. 

Coming to the changes, the Apple Watch Series 10 is seen with a bigger display. It will reportedly feature a 2-inch screen which is quite an upgrade from the 1.7-inch on the Watch Series 9. Additionally, the Watch Ultra 2 has a 1.93-inch display. This will make the upcoming offering the biggest screen Apple Watch so far. The increase in screen size will result in to increased dimensions of the smartwatch. Dimensions-wise, it will measure 46 x 39.7 x 11.6mm making it bigger than the Watch Series 9 but smaller than the Watch Ultra. In other words, it will sit between the two models. 

As for the confusion between the Apple Watch Series 10 and Watch X, the CAD-based renders don’t seem to reveal any significant overhaul on the former. Hence, it could be a minor refresh with the Watch X coming out as an anniversary model. Previously, it was reported that the Watch X could feature a magnetic band attachment system which is not seen in the renders. 

Source

Snapdragon X Plus outperforms Apple M2 / M3 chips in Cinebench, but is still relatively power-hungry

The new Snapdragon X Plus-powered Surface Laptop 7th Edition was compared with the M2-powered Apple MacBook Air by YouTube creator Luke Miani. He used Cinebench to measure the CPU capability of the machines and the results are somewhat shocking. However, in some areas, the M2 MacBook Air still performed better than the Surface Laptop. So let’s take a look.

Battery life and performance

Luke Miani ran Cinebench twice, 10 minutes each time, for a total of 20 minutes. The test shows that the power efficiency of Apple Silicon is still superior to Qualcomm’s new offering. When the M2 MacBook Air lost 10% of its battery during testing, the Snapdragon X Plus-powered Surface Laptop 7th Edition was already down to 65%.

Speaking of the battery capacity, there is not much of a difference between the two machines. The M2 MacBook Air is equipped with a 52Wh battery, while the Surface Laptop 7th Edition is equipped with a 54Wh battery. So the result we saw was due to the significantly higher power consumption of the Snapdragon X Plus during the testing. On the other side, the keyboard area of the Surface Laptop reached 45°C while the MacBook Air was at 36°C. You should also keep in mind that the Surface Laptop has an active cooling mechanism.

However, in Cinebench, the Surface Laptop also achieved a significantly higher score as compared to the M2 MacBook Air. It even outperformed the M3 MacBook Air in the test. Nonetheless, the Snapdragon SoC is still new and needs some work in different aspects. You can see the results below (lower is better).

While the Cinebench test highlighted the power efficiency difference between the two chips, the Surface Laptop performed relatively better in normal video streaming when it comes to battery life. With a total of 7.5 hours of video playback the MacBook Air reached 36% while the Surface Laptop was at 12%.

Xiaomi launches Mijia Cold Water Kettle with 1.6L capacity, leak-proof design & more

Xiaomi has unveiled a new addition to its Mijia line – a cold water kettle designed for convenient refreshment during the hot summer months. The kettle is currently available for purchase in China at a price of 79 yuan (approximately $11). Let’s check out its key specs.

Xiaomi Mijia Cold Water Kettle

Xiaomi Mijia Cold Water Kettle Specifications:

The Mijia Cold Water Kettle boasts a space-saving flat body design measuring only 95mm wide, allowing it to fit perfectly into the side door of your refrigerator. This thoughtful design maximizes refrigerator space and ensures the kettle stays cool for easy access to refreshing beverages.

The kettle comes with a leakproof design, achieved through a silicone sealing ring and threaded mouth, allowing you to store the kettle horizontally or even upside down without worrying about spills.

The kettle features a built-in cold brew filter compartment. This compartment allows you to cold brew tea, brew hot beverages, or even use it for low-temperature fermentation. When not using the cold brew function, the filter compartment can be conveniently removed for regular cold water use.

It comes with a 300-mesh filter screen that ensures a clear and flavorful drinking experience by filtering out tea leaves, fruits, coffee grounds, and other unwanted particles. The kettle body itself is crafted from food-grade AS material, known for its durability, resistance to breakage, and safety for storing beverages.

It can withstand temperatures ranging from -10°C to 92°C, making it suitable for a variety of drink preparations. However, users are advised not to expose the filter compartment to hot water as it may deform under heat.

The kettle also comes with a 90-degree rotating lid that allows for easy pouring without removing the entire lid, while the V-shaped spout ensures smooth and even water flow, preventing splashes. Additionally, the kettle features built-in scale units for precise water measurement, ideal for creating perfect drink ratios.

For easy cleaning and maintenance, the kettle boasts a wide opening and a comfortable ergonomic handle. The filter compartment lid also features a handle for convenient removal.

Honor Magic V3 Teased To Be Thinner Than Its Predecessor And Come With AI Features

The Honor Magic V2 still has the title of the world’s slimmest horizontal folding phone. It launched in July last year measuring just 4.7mm and 9.9mm thick when unfolded and folded respectively. Now, the brand is readying the foldable phone’s successor. Honor has shared an official teaser of the Magic V3 on the microblogging platform Weibo revealing some key details. 

Honor Magic V3 will take the foldable phone’s thickness to next level

The Honor Magic V3 is touted to be an ultra-thin and versatile folding phone. The company continues to deepen its research and innovation in the field of folding screens. Honor isn’t stopping even after the Magic V2’s achievement in the thickness aspect. The Weibo post shows the phone how slim it looks when folded along with a protruding camera island on the back panel. Surprisingly, the Magic V2 and even its upcoming successor are thinner than many slab phones in the market. 

The exact dimensions of the Honor Magic V3 remain unknown at the moment. But we can definitely expect it to be thinner than its predecessor. 

In a separate post, Honor also confirmed that the Magic V3 will come with AI features like AI eye protection and AI anti-fraud. The foldable phone is teased to be coming soon. So we can expect to learn more details about the device in the coming days. The Magic V3 is rumoured to launch next month in China.

As per leaks, the Honor Magic V3 is tipped to be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. It is speculated to be backed by a large 5,000mAh battery unit despite having a slim form factor. As per a 3C certification listing, the foldable phone will reportedly support 66W fast charging and also satellite connectivity.

OpenAI bans China-based developers, but this may spark growth in the local AI sector

OpenAI’s decision to block access for China-based developers will reshape the AI landscape in the region. Industry insiders and analysts believe this move will not hinder but rather accelerate the growth of the Chinese AI sector.

Zhou Hongyi, CEO of Qihoo 360, anticipates that the ban will drive Chinese users towards local AI models. Qihoo 360 has already developed its large language model (LLM). Despite OpenAI’s services being officially unavailable in China, developers have been using VPNs and APIs to bypass restrictions. However, the new ban is prompting a swift response from Chinese tech firms eager to capitalize on the opportunity.

In reaction to OpenAI’s ban, several Chinese companies are offering incentives to attract developers. Beijing-based Zhipu AI, for example, has launched a “special house-moving plan” to facilitate the transition to its platform. Major firms like Alibaba, Baidu, Baichuan, and 01.ai are also providing various perks, including discounts, freebies, and technical support. Baidu is offering free AI model fine-tuning and 50 million free tokens, while SenseTime Group Inc. is providing 50 million free tokens and Zhipu AI is giving away 150 million tokens along with training sessions.

source:openai.com

The ban could significantly impact the market, leading to an exit of smaller startups that emerged during the “battle of a hundred models.” There are concerns about whether other open-source models, like Meta’s Llama, will also cut off access to Chinese developers.

OpenAI’s move will likely benefit local LLMs by reducing competition, but Chinese developers might face challenges accessing advanced global algorithms. This aligns with the US government’s efforts to limit Chinese access to advanced AI and semiconductor technology, impacting the broader US-China tech competition.

In the long term, the lack of access to global tools may slow down Chinese AI progress. Alibaba Chairman Joe Tsai estimates it will take two years for Chinese AI models to match their US counterparts. This situation might also accelerate the migration of Chinese tech startups overseas to find more stable markets.

Microsoft, however, is maintaining access to OpenAI models for eligible Hong Kong customers through its Azure cloud platform, with no changes to Azure OpenAI service offerings in Hong Kong. This continues to provide some developers in the region with the tools they need.

Overall, OpenAI’s ban is not a setback but a catalyst for growth and transformation in the Chinese AI sector. With over 200 home-grown LLMs, including 117 approved for public release, China is poised to strengthen its position in the global AI industry.

Related:

Redmi K70 Ultra teased in China ahead of launch with a water & dust resistant design

Amid various rumors and reports, The Redmi K70 Ultra has officially been teased by a senior executive of Xiaomi. The upcoming device is highly anticipated in China. But ahead of its release, the device will arrive with a water and dust resistance body. So here are all the details.

Redmi K70 Ultra comes with an IP68 rating

Redmi K70 Ultra

The Chinese tech giant’s Wang Teng (General Manager of Redmi) shared a poster image, which confirmed support for the IP68 rating. This means that the Redmi K70 Ultra is water resistant in fresh water to a maximum depth of 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes. It is also protected from dust so the user does not need to worry about an extra case.

The senior official also added that this makes it perfect for users who love to travel during the summer. To recall, the Redmi K70 Ultra was spotted on the IMEI database earlier this month with the 2407FRK8EC model number. Just recently, a Weibo tipster confirmed some of the key specs and features of this new device. The smartphone will reportedly pack a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ SoC. Since the Redmi K70 Pro launched last November with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, it seems like Redmi is moving away from Qualcomm for its flagship model.

REDMI-K60-Ultra-Review
Redmi K60 Ultra

The high-end Dimensity chip is paired with up to 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. A large 5,500mAh battery pack is expected to power this device, which may offer a 120W wired fast charging. The front sports an 8T OLED display that offers 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. This screen is surrounded by a metal middle frame, while the back has a glass panel. For optics, you get a 50MP + 8MP + 2MP triple camera setup on the back. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more updates.

Realme 12 4G launches with OLED display, Snapdragon 685 processor

Following a two-year hiatus, Realme’s number has re-entered the Pakistani smartphone market with two new devices – the Realme 12+ and the Realme 12 4G. 

While the 12+ mirrors the global model with its Dimensity 7050 and 5G capabilities, the 12 4G is the Realme 12 line. Let’s walk through its specifications and price here.

Realme 12 4G Specs Price

Realme 12 4G Specifications

The Realme 12 4G features a 6.67-inch OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1080 x 2400px resolution. The display can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, is protected by an unnamed strengthened glass, and has an under-display fingerprint sensor. The front also has a punch-hole cutout for a 16MP camera. 

On the back, the phone has a 50MP Sony LYT-600 sensor with f/1.9 aperture and OIS support. Accompanying the main camera is a 2MP depth sensor. 

Powering the device is the Snapdragon 685, a 6nm processor with four high-performance cores clocked up to 2.8 GHz (Kryo 265 Gold – based on Cortex-A73) and four power-efficient cores running at up to 1.9 GHz (Kryo 265 Silver – based on Cortex-A53). Memory options include 8GB of RAM and 128/256GB of storage.

Realme is also offering a dedicated microSD slot for storage expansion alongside dual SIM card slots, a 3.5mm headphone jack for wired audio, and dual speakers for stereo sound. The phone also has an IP54 dust and water resistance rating.

The battery capacity is 5,000mAh which supports faster 67W charging. Realme claims the phone can reach 50% charge in just 19 minutes and achieve a full charge in 47 minutes. The phone comes bundled with an even faster 80W charger.

Pricing and Availability

The Realme 12 4G comes in two storage options: 8GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB.  The pricing starts at PKR 60,000 (approximately USD 215, EUR 200, or INR 18,000).  It will be available for purchase through Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok platforms alongside Realme 12+.

Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G 5G: Which Delivers Superior Performance?

Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G 5G

Samsung announced the Exynos 1380 mobile chipset in February 2023, whereas the Snapdragon 778G 5G chip was announced in May 2021. Despite being a three-year-old chip, Snapdragon 778G 5G is still popular among mid-range phones.

The Exynos 1380 is another powerful mid-range chip built using Samsung’s 5nm process node. Both chipsets look strong on the spec sheet and target the same user segment, making it a little more work to pick the right one.

In this post, we’ll compare the Exynos 1380 and Snapdragon 778G 5G mobile chipsets and find out how they stack up against each other.

Here’s the spec sheet for a quick overview:

Exynos 1380SD 778G 5G
Release DateFeb 2023May 2021
Process Node5 nm Samsung6 nm TSMC
CPU4 x Cortex-A78 @ 2.4 GHz
4 x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz
1 x Kryo 670 Prime (Cortex-A78) @ 2.4 GHz
3 x Kryo 670 Gold (Cortex-A78) @ 2.4 GHz
4 x Kryo 670 Silver (Cortex-A55) @ 1.8 GHz
GPUMali-G68 MP5Areno 642
NPUYes, 4.9 TOPSHexagon 770, 12 TOPS
MemoryUp to 8GB LPDDR5 RAM
3200 MHz (frequency)
Up to 16GB LPDDR5 RAM
3200 MHz (frequency)
StorageUFS 3.1UFS 3.1
Camera200MP single camera
64MP (ZSL) single camera
16+16+16 MP triple cameras
200MP single camera
64MP (ZSL) single camera
36+22 MP (ZSL) dual cameras
22+22+22 MP (ZSL) triple cameras
Video Recording4K @ 30 fps4K @ 30 fps
720p slow-mo @ 240 fps
DisplayFHD+ @ 144HzFHD+ @ 144Hz
Connectivity5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.35G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2

Benchmarks

[Geekbench 6]

Exynos 1380

  • Single core: 979
  • Multi core: 2771

Snapdragon 778G 5G

  • Single core: 939
  • Multi core: 2811
Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G 5G - Geekbench

[AnTuTu V10]

Exynos 1380

  • CPU: 184416
  • GPU: 130783
  • Memory: 116200
  • UX: 151230
  • Total score: 582629

Snapdragon 778G 5G:

  • CPU: 194499
  • GPU: 136185
  • Memory: 118841
  • UX: 138451
  • Total score: 587976
Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G 5G - AnTuTu

CPU Performance

Both Exynos 1380 and Snapdragon 778G 5G are octa-core chips, although they have different core clusters. The Exynos chip has four Cortex-A78 performance cores clocked at 2.4 GHz and four Cortex-A55 power-efficient cores with 2.0 GHz clock speed.

The Snapdragon chip has one Kryo 670 Prime (Cortex-A78) core running at 2.4 GHz, three Kryo 670 Gold (Cortex-A78) at the same clock speed, and four Kryo 670 Silver (Cortex-A55) running at 1.8 GHz.

On the Geekbench platform, which measures CPU performance, both chips have obtained similar scores in single-core and multi-core tests. However, the CPU test on AnTuTu tests favours Snapdragon 778G 5G over Exynos 1380 by a small margin.    

GPU & NPU Performance

The Exynos 1380 chipset has Mali-G68 MP5 GPU, while the Snapdragon 778G 5G chip has Adreno 642 to handle graphics tasks. Both are capable GPUs for lightweight to medium gaming needs. However, the Adreno 642 (in Snapdragon 778G 5G) has a slight edge over the Mali-G68 MP5 (in Exynos 1380) on GPU benchmarks, such as 3D Mark WildLife Extreme.

The Snapdragon 778G 5G also has an AI advantage as the Hexagon 770 inside the chip can perform 12 trillion operations per second (TOPS), while the NPU in Exynos 1380 has 4.9 TOPS capacity.

Camera Capabilities

Both Exynos and Snapdragon chips have a triple image signal processor (ISP). It’s the Spectra 570L on the Snapdragon chip, but Samsung hasn’t revealed the name of the ISP.

Both chips support up to 200-megapixel single camera and up to 64-megapixel single camera with zero shutter lag. The Snapdragon chip also supports zero shutter lag for 36-megapixel + 22-megapixel dual cameras and 22-megapixel + 22-megapixel + 22-megapixel triple cameras.

The chipsets support up to 4K video recording at 30 frames per second (fps). The Snapdragon chip also supports 720p slow-mo videos at 240 fps.

Connectivity Features

Both Exynos 1380 and Snapdragon 778G 5G chips have all the necessary connectivity features like 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth (5.3 on Exynos, 5.2 on Snapdragon) and satellite systems (GLONASS, Beidou, GPS, QZSS, Galileo). 

The Exynos chip has an integrated 5G modem, offering up to 3.79 Gbps of download speed and up to 1.28 Gbps of upload speed. The Qualcomm 778G 5G, on the other hand, has a Snapdragon X53 5G modem with 3.7 Gbps maximum download speed and 1.6 Gbps maximum upload speed.

Miscellaneous

Both Snapdragon 778G 5G and Exynos 1380 support Full HD+ resolution display with up to 144Hz refresh rate. They don’t differ in terms of display capabilities.

Both chips also support UFS 3.1 storage and LPDDR5 RAM, although the Snapdragon chip supports higher RAM of 16GB RAM (vs. 8GB on Exynos 1380).

Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G 5G: Which is Better?

Snapdragon 778G 5G and Exynos 1380 are good mid-range chipsets. Both have similar CPU performance. However, the Snapdragon chip has a slight GPU advantage, resulting in better gaming performance. It also has a better NPU with higher TOPS than Exynos 1380.

Exynos 1380’s advantages include a newer Bluetooth standard and an advanced fabrication process that results in better power efficiency.

Choosing one of these two chipsets really comes down to your needs. But If I had to pick one, I’d go with the Snapdragon 778G 5G.

Other Popular Chip Comparisons:
1. Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 vs 8 Gen 2
2. Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 vs Dimensity 6100+
3. Dimensity 7300 vs Snapdragon 888

Lenovo launches its first Windows-based handheld console in India

Lenovo has launched its first Windows-based handheld console, Legion Go, in India. The device runs on Windows 11, offering a familiar PC experience in a portable form factor. It also features detachable controllers for enhanced portability. Let’s get into Lenovo Legion Go’s complete specifications and price in India here.

Specifications

The Legion Go boasts an 8.8-inch IPS touchscreen display with a WQXGA resolution (2560×1600 pixels) for sharp visuals. The display features a 144Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for increased durability.

Lenovo Legion Go Price India Specs

Under the hood, the device is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM. Storage options go up to 1TB SSD, with a microSD card slot for additional expandability.

Controllers are a key feature for any handheld gaming device, and the Legion Go offers a familiar layout with Hall Effect joysticks for precise control. Uniquely, the left and right controllers can detach from the main unit, allowing for a more traditional console experience or use in a detached mode. 

The right controller can even transform into an ergonomic mouse. Both controllers also feature a small buttonless touchpad for additional navigation options.

Lenovo Legion Go Price India

In terms of connectivity, the Legion Go offers Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 for seamless online gaming and accessory pairing. The device also includes two USB 4 Type-C ports, two Pogo pin connectors, a headphone jack, and the aforementioned MicroSD card reader.

Lenovo claims the Legion Go is equipped with a 49.2Wh battery with Super Rapid Charge support, allowing it to be charged from 0 to 100% in 80 minutes. The entire unit measures 298.83 x 131 x 40.7 mm and weighs 854g.

Price and Availability

The Lenovo Legion Go will be available for purchase starting July 1st in India. It will be sold in a single Shadow Black colorway and can be purchased from Flipkart, the Lenovo website, and select Lenovo-exclusive stores. The price is set at Rs. 89,990 and includes a one-year accidental damage protection plan and a free screen protector.

OnePlus Pad Pro live images leaked! All-metal design returns

OnePlus is set to launch the OnePlus Pad Pro later today in China (27th June 2024). This tablet model would bring improved hardware over the existing OnePlus Pad. But ahead of its official launch, a fresh leak revealed live images of this upcoming tablet.

OnePlus Pad Pro Live Images

The latest leak arrives from known tipster Digital Chat Station who shared the images on Weibo (a Chinese microblogging website). Looking at these images, we can see that the OnePlus Pad Pro appears quite similar to the base Pad model. It also retains the premium all-metal body. In other words, the only refresh is for the internals. The selfie and rear camera placement are basically identical and the light green color option is back as well.

OnePlus Pad Pro

For those unaware, the Chinese brand is set to unveiled a bunch of products in China alongside the OnePlus Pad Pro. Based on what we know, this model will sport a tall 12.1-inch LCD panel that offers a 3K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and a 7:5 aspect ratio. Under the hood, it is expected to be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, which is paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. A massive 8,510mAh battery pack could power the device, and it may support 67W wired fast charging.

The OnePlus Pad Pro is rumored to launch in four storage configurations in total. This includes 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB, 12GB + 256GB, and 16GB + 512GB variants. The tablet has an upgraded keyboard accessory that supports NFC as well, which can be seen in the live images. For optics, the front packs an 8-megapixel selfie shooter, while the rear has a 13-megapixel camera. So stick around for more, as we will be covering the launch event where the Ace 3 Pro and Pad Pro will be released.

Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G drops to ₹15,999 on Amazon India

The Realme Narzo 70 Pro is on sale again after the massive Realme Savings Day discount offers earlier this month. Only this time, the discounts are even more ridiculous than before. Currently, the brand is offering up to Rs. 4,000 off on the device. Keep reading to know more details.

Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G

Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G discount offer:

Amazon India is currently offering a Rs 4,000 coupon on the 128 GB storage models of the Narzo 70 Pro, bringing its prices down to Rs. 15,999. In addition to that, customers using an IDFC First Bank credit card for the purchase get a Rs. 250 instant discount.

Realme NARZO 70 Pro 5G

A similar offer is available for the 256GB storage variant on Realme.com, where the brand is selling it for Rs. 18,999.

Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G specs:

The Narzo 70 Pro features a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC. It includes LPDDR4x RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, and a VC liquid cooling system. Running on Realme UI 5.0 based on Android 14, it supports air gestures and is backed by a 5,000mAh battery with 67W wired fast charging.

Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G

The device sports a triple rear camera setup with a 50 MP OIS-assisted Sony IMX890 sensor, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens. The front camera is 16 MP. It lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack and a MicroSD card slot but features Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers. Connectivity options include dual SIM, 5G, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, GNSS, and USB Type-C.

Xiaomi 15 Pro could ditch variable aperture, adopt new battery tech; says tipster

Xiaomi 15 series is expected to be one of the first Android flagships to adopt the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset. According to previous rumors, the series will launch towards the end of the year in China.

Xiaomi 14

In the latest news, Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed some of the key specifications of the Xiaomi 15 Pro. According to him, the phone will come with a 2K micro-curved screen. He also claims that the Xiaomi 15 series will finally switch from an optical fingerprint scanner to an ultrasonic one, which generally offers faster and more reliable unlocking speeds.

Speaking of cameras, there will be a 50MP main sensor underneath a large aperture. However, he notes that the aperture won’t be a variable one, just like the Xiaomi 14. Notably, the Xiaomi 14 Pro from last year offers a variable aperture of f/1.4-f/4.0. He adds that there will be a 50MP 3x telephoto camera.

Although DCS didn’t reveal anything about a third camera, you can expect another 50MP sensor for the ultrawide. A previous rumor from earlier this month claims that the Xiaomi 15 Pro will boast a similar 50MP triple camera setup where the OmniVision OV50K and IMX882 will be used as the main and the 3x telephoto sensor respectively.

DCS also claimed that the phone will be equipped with a silicon-carbon negative electrode battery. A silicon-carbon negative electrode battery is a lithium-ion battery that uses silicon as the material for its negative electrode. Silicon is a promising material for this purpose because it has several advantages over graphite, the material currently used in most lithium-ion batteries. One of the advantages of using silicon is its higher energy density. The tipster also hinted that the phone will have a larger battery capacity. Previously, it was reported that the phone will come with a 5,500 mAh battery and will weigh less than 200g.

Vivo T3 Lite Launched in India: Budget 5G phone with 90Hz display & big battery

Vivo has just unveiled a brand-new budget 5G phone in India. The Vivo T3 Lite was recently teased in the region, and now, it has finally been launched. It carries a budget price tag and offers decent specs and features. So here’s everything you need to know.

Vivo T3 Lite Specs

The Vivo T3 Lite sports a 6.56-inch LCD panel that offers HD+ resolution, a 20:9 aspect ratio, a 90Hz refresh rate, and up to 840 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, the new smartphone is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC, which is paired with up to 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. You can further expand storage by up to 1TB via a microSD card slot.

Vivo T3 Lite 5G

A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports a modest 15W wired fast charging. This model runs on the Android 14 OS based Funtouch OS 14 custom skin out of the box. For optics, the rear packs a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. Meanwhile, the front houses an 8-megapixel shooter for selfies and video calls. Other notable features include an IP64 rating for water and dust resistance, a 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.4, USB Type-C, and a side mounted fingerprint scanner.

Vivo T3 Lite Pricing and Availability

The Vivo T3 Lite has been released in two color options in the Indian market, namely Vibrant Green and Majestic Black. It has a starting price tag of 10,499 INR (roughly 125 US Dollars) for its base 4GB + 128GB model. On the other hand, the 6GB + 128GB variant costs 11,499 INR (roughly 138 US Dollars). The first sale of this device will kick off on 4th July 2024 and you can buy it via Flipkart, Vivo’s official online store, and across authorized offline retail stores. Customers can avail a flat 500 INR instant discount on HDFC Bank and Flipkart Axis Credit Card.

Xiaomi 14T launch imminent, spotted on NBTC and Camera FV-5 database

Xiaomi appears to be prepping for the launch of the Xiaomi 14T series. A recent sighting of the global variant of the Xiaomi 14T Pro in Thailand’s NBTC certification database sheds some light on the upcoming phone’s specifications.

The NBTC certification confirms the model number (2407FPN8EG) and the phone’s moniker – Xiaomi 14T Pro. It also reveals support for GSM, WCDMA, LTE, and NR connectivity.

Additional information comes from the Camera FV-5 database, which suggests a primary rear camera with an f/1.6 aperture, 12.6MP pixel binning, and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). 

A 12.6MP resolution with pixel binning means we can expect the phone to feature a 50MP main sensor. The selfie camera might come with an f/2.0 aperture and will capture 8.1MP pixel-binned images. We might also see Leica co-branding for the cameras, similar to Xiaomi’s flagship models.

Under the hood, the Xiaomi 14T Pro is expected to pack a MediaTek Dimensity 9300 processor built on a 4nm process. 

The SoC features one Cortex-X4 core clocked at 3.25GHz, three Cortex-X4 cores at 2.85GHz, four Cortex-A720 cores at 2.0GHz, and a Mali-G720 Immortalis MP12 GPU. 

Notably, the 14T series is expected to be the first in the T series from Xiaomi to support wireless charging. Our previous report also revealed that the Xiaomi 14T series will have displays supplied by Tianma.

The Xiaomi T series typically differentiates the standard and Pro models with the processor. Both the 13T and 13T Pro shared similar cameras and battery capacities. The trend is follow suit with the 14T series.

As for the launch, the Xiaomi 14T series is expected to launch sometime in August or September. However, there is uncertainty about the launch of the Xiaomi 14T series in India, as Xiaomi skipped the launch of the 12T and 13T series in the country.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G goes on sale in India starting at Rs 17,999

OnePlus recently refreshed its budget-range offering with the launch of the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G. This device comes with many improvements over its predecessor, like a better display, better camera, bigger battery, and faster charging. Starting today, it has been made available to purchase in India. Here are all the details.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G pricing & offers

The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G is available in two variants: one with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage priced at Rs 19,999, and another with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage priced at Rs 22,999. Starting June 27 at 12 pm, you can purchase the smartphone from the brand’s website, partner retail stores, and Amazon.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G offers

ICICI Bank and OneCard cardholders can get an instant discount of Rs 1,000 on their purchase. Additionally, Amazon Prime members are getting an additional Rs 1,000 off in the form of a coupon on the 128GB storage variant, bringing its price down to Rs 17,999.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G specs:

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G comes with a flat 6.67-inch AMOLED screen, offering FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 2,100 nits. It includes Aquatouch technology, allowing you to use the phone with wet hands, similar to the Nord CE 4 and the OnePlus 12 series. In terms of design, the Nord CE4 Lite 5G features a flat frame and a pill-shaped camera module.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G

For cameras, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G has a dual rear setup with a 50MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor that supports OIS and 2x in-sensor zoom, and a 2MP depth assist lens. The front camera is 16MP.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G

The phone is powered by a Snapdragon 695 processor, the same chipset used in the Nord CE 2 Lite 5G from 2022. It comes with 8GB of RAM and is available in 128GB and 256GB storage options, plus 8GB of virtual RAM. The device has a 5,500mAh battery that supports 80W VOOC fast charging, reverse charging, and a battery health engine feature. It runs on OxygenOS 14 out of the box.

On a related note, if the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G is not looking as exciting to you, then we have also compiled a list of the best Nord CE 4 Lite 5G alternatives that are sure to give you better value for your money.

OnePlus Ace 3 Pro relocates the fingerprint scanner and offers improved haptic feedback

The OnePlus Ace 3 Pro is scheduled to launch at 7 pm today in China. We have already come across several rumors revealing the specifications of the device. Now the company has officially revealed some information about the product ahead of the launch. So let’s take a look.

Ace 3 Pro equips a bionic vibration motor and an ultra-thin optical fingerprint scanner

According to the posters, the phone is going to be a “Performance Beast”. It houses a “Bionic vibration motor” for improved haptic feedback. The haptic feedback adds a nice touch to the overall user experience. The Ace 3 Pro houses a 602mm³ motor for the purpose, which according to the poster, surpasses iPhones in the haptic feedback.

Alongside the use of a large vibration motor, the company also reveals the presence of an ultra-thin optical fingerprint scanner. The fingerprint scanner is reportedly positioned for optimal reachability, making unlocking more convenient. You can see the positioning in the poster above.

According to previous rumors, the phone is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. To sustain longer sessions of heavy workloads, OnePlus is offering a 9126mm² ultra-large vapor chamber. With the flagship chipset and reasonably good cooling measures, the phone achieves an AnTuTu benchmark score of 2,326,659 (according to OnePlus). The phone also comes with the company’s Tidal Architecture which is meant to optimize chip performance. The company previously revealed that the Snapdragon flagship chipset will be paired with up to 24GB LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage.

To power the system, the phone boasts a massive 6100 mAh battery and supports 100W wired fast charging. Speaking of the outside, on the front you will see a 6.78-inch BOE S1 curved display that comes with 1.5K resolution. On the back, you could see a 50MP + 8MP + 2MP camera setup. The 50 MP main camera houses the Sony LYT-800 sensor, and the 8MP one is for the ultrawide.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite vs Nothing Phone 2a: Which is the best for you?

OnePlus recently launched the Nord CE 4 Lite smartphone globally and in the Indian market. Positioned in the highly competitive mid-range segment, it faces strong competition from both new and established brands. One of its main competitors is the Nothing Phone (2a), which is similarly priced and brings its own set of features to the table. But which one comes out on top? Let’s break down their specifications and see how they compare across key areas.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite vs Nothing Phone 2a

1. Display 

Both phones come equipped with captivating 6.67-inch and 6.7-inch AMOLED displays, respectively, offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for a seamless user experience. Resolution remains identical at 1080 x 2400 pixels, ensuring sharp visuals. 

The OnePlus edges out slightly with a peak brightness of 2100 nits compared to Nothing Phone 2a’s 1300 nits which should offer better visibility in outdoor environments.  

2. Design

The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G utilizes a combination of glass front, plastic frame, and plastic back. The Nothing Phone 2a follows a similar approach but with a tougher Gorilla Glass 5 front and plastic back and frame. Both offer an IP54 rating for basic dust and water resistance. The Nothing Phone 2a differentiates itself with a unique transparent back design incorporating three LED notification lights.

Both offer a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rarity in today’s market, but only the Nothing Phone 2a features NFC for contactless payments.

3. Performance and Software

The biggest concern for the Nord CE 4 Lite is the recycled heart of the phone – the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695. This processor has been powering OnePlus budget phones since the Nord CE 2 Lite in 2022. While it can handle everyday tasks, it’s starting to show its age. Gamers and those who crave a super snappy experience will likely find it sluggish. 

Nothing Phone (2a), on the other hand, has a newer MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro that offers better performance for both everyday use and gaming. Both phones come with 8GB of RAM and offer 128GB or 256GB of storage.

Software-wise, both phones run the latest Android 14 operating system. However, the experience differs. The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G utilizes OxygenOS 14, a familiar interface known for its clean and customizable approach. The Nothing Phone 2a features Nothing OS 2.5.5, a lighter skin that prioritizes a near-stock Android experience. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prefer a more minimalist or feature-rich interface.

4. Camera Systems

Both phones equip a dual rear camera system. The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G opts for a 50MP main sensor with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) alongside a 2MP depth sensor for portrait mode. The Nothing Phone 2a takes a different approach with dual 50MP sensors – a wide and an ultrawide – offering more versatility when capturing landscapes and group photos. Both lack telephoto capabilities, a common omission in this price range. 

Over on the front, the Nothing Phone 2a boasts a higher-res 32MP camera compared to the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G’s 16MP sensor.

5. Battery Life and Charging

Both phones come with sizable batteries: the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Indian variant has a 5500mAh battery, the global version has a 5110mAh battery, and the Nothing Phone (2a) has a 5000mAh battery. While real-world battery life will vary based on usage patterns, both should comfortably last a full day on a single charge.

Charging speeds differ significantly. The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G supports faster 80W wired charging compared to the Nothing Phone 2a’s 45W wired charging.

6. Price

The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite is available in Super Silver, Mega Blue, and an India-exclusive Ultra Orange color. The base model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage is priced at Rs 19,999, while the 8GB + 256GB variant costs Rs 22,999. 

The Nothing Phone (2a) comes in White and Black colors. It starts at Rs 23,999 for the base 8GB + 128GB variant whereas the 8GB + 256GB configuration carries a price tag of Rs 25,999. The higher 12GB + 256GB configuration carries a price tag of Rs 27,999.

Here’s a quick rundown of the specs of two phones:

SpecificationOnePlus Nord CE 4 LiteNothing Phone 2a
Display6.67 inches AMOLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 120Hz 6.7 inches AMOLED, 1080 x 2412 pixels, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass 5 
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 695 5GMediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro
RAM8GB8GB or 12GB
Storage128GB or 256GB128GB or 256GB
Main Camera50MP (wide) + 2MP (depth)50MP (wide) + 50MP (ultrawide)
Front Camera16MP32MP
Battery5500mAh (India) / 5110mAh (Global)5000mAh
Fast Charging80W45W
Fingerprint SensorYes (under display, optical)Yes (under display, optical)
Headphone JackYesYes
NFCNoYes
Software (OS)Android 14, OxygenOS 14Android 14, Nothing OS 2.5.5

7. Verdict

The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite isn’t a bad phone by any means. It offers a decent display, good battery life, and a capable camera system for casual users. However, if you’re a power user or someone who values the latest features and future-proofing, it’s worth considering the Nothing Phone (2a). It boasts a more versatile camera system with an ultrawide sensor and convenience features like NFC for contactless payments. Additionally, its eye-catching transparent design sets it apart from other phones in its segment.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Alternatives: More Value for the same price

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G

OnePlus recently refreshed its sub-₹20,000 offering with the launch of the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G. While it does bring many improvements over its predecessor, like an AMOLED display, a bigger 5,500mAh battery & 80W fast charging the Nord CE 3 Lite, the device has stiff competition in this price range, with many smartphones offering a better value for the money. So, here are some alternatives, along with their pros and cons compared to the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G.

1. Realme Narzo 70 Pro

The Realme Narzo is one of the most well-rounded smartphones available in the sub-₹20,000 price range. We discussed separately why it is a much better pick than the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G. Here, we’ll give you a rundown of its specifications.

The Realme Narzo 70 Pro has a 6.67-inch centered punch-hole flat AMOLED display with a 92.65% screen-to-body ratio. The display provides a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels with 120Hz refresh rate and 2000 nits peak brightness with support for HDR+ content. For biometrics, it has an in-display fingerprint sensor.

Under the hood, it has a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, paired with 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 storage. The device has a VC (Vapor Chamber) liquid cooling system to keep the device from overheating, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging to keep it powered throughout the day.

The main highlight of the device is its OIS-assisted 50 MP Sony IMX890 primary camera sensor, paired with an 8MP ultrawide unit and a 2MP macro sensor. There is a 16 MP selfie snapper on the front. Additionally, the device offers a 3.5mm headphone jack and a MicroSD card slot, along with Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers and support for dual SIM 5G.

Pricing:

  • 8GB + 128GB – ₹19,999
  • 8GB + 256GB – ₹21,999

Pros:

  • Better processor
  • Faster storage
  • Better cameras
  • HDR video playback support

Cons:

  • Smaller battery & slower charging

2. POCO X6 5G

The POCO X6 5G is another device that provides better value for money compared to the Nord CE 4 Lite. It has a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering a 1.5K resolution (1220 x 2712 pixels), a 120Hz refresh rate, and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. The device is built for durability with Gorilla Glass Victus protection and an IP54-rated chassis.

The phone is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, paired with LPDDR4x RAM, UFS 2.2 storage, and a 5,100mAh battery that supports 67W fast charging. In terms of cameras, the X6 features a 16-megapixel front camera capable of 1080p 60hz video recording. On the back, it has a 64-megapixel main camera with OIS that can record up to 4K videos at 30FPS, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera.

Pricing:

  • 8GB + 256GB – ₹18,999
  • 12GB + 256GB – ₹19,999
  • 12GB + 512GB – ₹21,999

Pros:

  • Better processor
  • Better display
  • Better screen protection
  • Better video recording capabilities
  • More affordable

Cons:

  • weaker primary camera
  • Smaller battery & slower charging
  • No memory card slot

3. iQOO Z9 5G

If you are looking for a device to game on in the sub-₹20,000 budget range, then the iQOO Z9 5G is the one for you. It has a Dimensity 7200 processor onboard that provides 60 FPS in titles like BGMI and 90FPS in COD Mobile. It comes with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage.

It features a 6.67-inch 120Hz FHD+ AMOLED display with HDR, 1800 nits peak brightness, and an under-display fingerprint sensor. The device is powered by a 5,000mAh battery with 44W wired charging, and it has stereo speakers for audio. For optics, it features a 50 MP Sony IMX882 OIS primary camera, paired with a 2 MP bokeh lens and a 16 MP selfie snapper.

Pricing:

  • 8GB + 128GB – ₹19,999
  • 8GB + 256GB – ₹21,999

Pros:

  • Vastly better processor
  • Better video recording capabilities

Cons:

  • Smaller battery & slower charging
  • No 3.5mm audio jack

4. Realme P1 Pro 5G

Realme P1 Pro

The Realme P1 Pro is pretty similar to what netizens were expecting the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G to be. It features a 6.7-inch curved FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it has a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, paired with LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 3.1 storage.

For optics, it has a 50MP main camera with a Sony LYTIA 600 sensor (4K@30fps video recording), an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 16MP front camera for selfies. The device is powered by a 5,000mAh battery with 45W SuperVOOC fast charging. Additional features include dual speakers with Dolby Atmos, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and IP65 dust and water resistance.

Pricing:

  • 8GB + 128GB – ₹19,999
  • 8GB + 256GB – ₹19,999 (current)
  • 12GB + 256 – ₹22,999

Pros:

  • Curved display
  • Better processor
  • Faster storage
  • Better video recording capabilities
  • Better secondary camera

Cons:

  • Smaller battery & slower charging
  • No memory card slot

5. Vivo T3 5G

Vivo T3 5G

Specs-wise the Vivo T3 5G is quite similar to the iQOO Z9 5G, however, it is available to buy from Flipkart, Vivo store, and offline channels, making it more accessible.

The smartphone comes with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 2400 x 1080. It is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 processor, 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, and offers 128GB or 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage. The 5,000mAh battery supports 44W fast charging.

The camera setup includes a 50MP primary Sony IMX882 sensor with OIS, a 2MP depth sensor, and a flicker sensor, along with a 16MP front camera. It has dual stereo speakers and an in-display fingerprint sensor. Connectivity options include 5G, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, dual SIM support, and USB Type-C. The phone is rated IP54 for dust and splash resistance and runs on Funtouch OS 14, based on Android 14.

Pricing:

  • 8GB + 128GB – ₹19,999
  • 8GB + 256GB – ₹21,999

Pros:

  • Vastly better processor
  • Better video recording capabilities
  • Wider availability

Cons:

  • Smaller battery & slower charging
  • No 3.5mm audio jack

Tecno Phantom V Flip price slashed to Rs 31,999 (~$385) in India, Phantom V2 Flip could be coming soon

Last year, Tecno launched the Phantom V Fold and V Flip as its first foldable phones. Rumors are rife that the brand is gearing up to launch the Phantom V2 Fold and V2 Flip, as they have received some important certifications recently. Ahead of the expected launch, the previous generation of foldables is available on Amazon India with heavily discounted price tags. The V Flip, in particular, is available at a massive discount of Rs 23,000 (~$275).

The Phantom V Flip debuted at an introductory price of Rs 49,999 (~$600). After that, it was selling for Rs 54,999 (~$660). Now it is selling for Rs 31,999 after a discount of Rs 23,000. There is a possibility that the brand could be clearing the existing stock of the V Flip before the arrival of the V2 Flip. It is available in two shades, such as Mystic Dawn (purple) and Iconic Black.

Tecno Phantom V Flip specifications

Tecno Phantom V Flip
Tecno Phantom V Flip

The Tecno Phantom V Flip features a foldable 6.9-inch AMOLED main display with 1080 x 2640 pixels resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. On the outside, there is a secondary 1.32-inch cover display for notifications and quick access to essential features.

The Phantom V Flip harnesses the power of the Dimensity 8050 processor and a 4,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. It comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. For photography, the V Flip offers a 64-megapixel primary camera and a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens, delivering impressive image quality. It also has a 32-megapixel front camera.

In related news, the Phantom V Fold has also been available at a discounted price on Amazon. With a coupon discount of Rs 10,000, the foldable phone can be purchased for Rs 59,999 (~$720).

Nikon unveils the Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4 autofocus lens

Nikon has officially announced the Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4 autofocus lens. The new Nikon offering is a wide-angle fixed-focus lens that is compatible with the Nikon X Mount system. The Nikkor Z has a minimum focusing distance of 0.27 meters and a constant maximum aperture of f/1.4.

Nikon Nikkor Z

The Nikon Nikkor Z series system lenses are mirrorless interchangeable lenses that are the best complements for the Nikon Z series mirrorless camera. They offer a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto and deliver the perspective needed for stunning images and 4K Ultra HD video. They offer advanced technology in several directions including silent autofocus that is perfect for videos and vlogging. The user can also use F-mount Nikkor lenses on a Z series camera with the optional Mount Adapter FTZ or Mount Adapter FTZ II.

Nikon Nikkor Z

The Nikon Nikkor Z has a length of about 86.5mm and weighs 415g. It is similar in size to the Nikon Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.8 S and can be conveniently carried around during daily use. The lens supports silent autofocus and utilizes a stepping motor (STM) in its operation. The lens comes with dust and water resistance, thus enhancing its reliability. The end of the lens uses a metal filter ring cover and the device is equipped with 11 lenses in nine groups. There are two aspherical lenses in the setup and the device marks the first time it is configured in a non-S series lens.

Nikon Nikkor Z sample

The Nikon Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4 lens will be released on July 18 and is projected to be priced at 4,999 yuan ($688).