Lenovo launches AI-powered Yoga Air 14c flip notebook with 360-degree hinge, Ultra 7 155H & more

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Jun 25, 2024

Lenovo has launched a new member of its YOGA family in the Chinese market – the YOGA Air 14c AI Yuanqi. This 14-inch flip notebook is equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra processor and boasts an integrated NPU for AI applications. Let’s check out its key specs.

Lenovo YOGA Air 14c Specifications:

The YOGA Air 14c features a 2.8K 120Hz OLED touchscreen display with 400 nits of brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, Dolby Vision, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification. It also supports the Lenovo Yoga Inspiration Pen with 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity and supports screen-off note-taking.

The YOGA Air 14c Flip boasts a new generation Tian Gong hinge system with a 360-degree hinge, allowing users to seamlessly switch between laptop and tablet mode. It also features a super-aggregate antenna for a strong 350-meter ultra-long-distance connection.

Under the hood, the YOGA Air 14c Flip packs a punch with the latest Core Ultra 7 155H processor, boasting a 33% improvement in multi-core performance compared to the previous generation. The CPU is further complemented by an NPU, specifically designed to accelerate AI applications and tasks. The laptop comes equipped with 32GB of LPDDR5x-7467 memory and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 solid-state drive, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample storage for demanding projects.

Lenovo has also pre-installed its Xiaotian AI assistant on the Yoga Air 14c. Xiaotian is powered by the Tianxi large language model and can perform various tasks through natural language interaction. These include summarizing local documents, answering personal knowledge-based questions, and continuously learning user habits to provide a more personalized experience.

Despite its sleek design, the Yoga Air 14c packs a 71Wh battery. Lenovo claims the battery offers up to 19.1 hours of local video playback and 8.1 hours of simulated market usage. Additionally, the laptop supports fast charging with the included 65W Type-C adapter.

The Yoga Air 14c weighs just 3.1 lbs (1.4kg) and measures 0.59 inches (14.9mm) thick, making it a highly portable device. The laptop is equipped with a comfortable 1.5mm keyboard and a large 5.6-inch anti-accidental touch touchpad for easy navigation.

In terms of connectivity, the Yoga Air 14c offers a good selection of ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, a USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 port, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The Yoga Air 14c comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home. To enhance security and user experience, Lenovo offers a one-year accidental protection plan with a free spare machine and a dedicated customer service representative for Yoga Black Gold members (399 yuan/year).

Pricing and Availability

The Lenovo Yoga Air 14c flip notebook with Core i7 Ultra 7 155H processor, 32GB of LPDDR5x-7467 memory, and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD is priced at 8999 yuan (approximately $1,239). Pre-sales for the device started today in China, with official sales commencing on July 13th.

China is betting big on Memory Chips: Will they win the global race

By

Joane

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Jun 25, 2024

China faces a challenging yet promising landscape in the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chip market and the broader semiconductor industry, driven by surging global demand and strategic expansions.

High-bandwidth memory chips are experiencing a significant surge in demand, primarily driven by their critical role in AI applications within data centers. This growing demand is expected to contribute to an approximate 80% revenue growth in the global memory chip market this year, bouncing back from a low base in the previous year. The key players leading this market include SK Hynix, which holds a 50% global market share, followed by Samsung Electronics and the US-based Micron Technology.

China’s Position and Challenges

China accounts for 30-35% of global memory consumption. However, the country faces substantial challenges in producing high-end memory chips due to limitations in its semiconductor supply chain. Currently, China’s production capabilities are more suited to mid to low-end memory solutions. Consequently, as China’s AI ecosystem continues to expand, it will increasingly rely on imports, particularly from Korean memory chip producers.

Despite these challenges, China is actively working to strengthen its position in the HBM market. ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) represents China’s leading hope for domestic HBM production. CXMT, in collaboration with TongFu Microelectronics, is developing HBM samples, although it may take up to four years for these products to reach the market. In the interim, China sees potential growth opportunities in lower-end memory products, particularly for AI edge devices such as autonomous vehicles, AI-enabled smartphones, and personal computers. By 2025, the demand from edge AI applications is expected to drive about 20% industry revenue growth.

External Challenges

China’s ambitions in the semiconductor sector are also constrained by external factors, including potential further restrictions from the US, Japan, and the Netherlands on developing HBM chips.

Strategic Expansion Amid US Sanctions

In response to fears of more US sanctions, Chinese semiconductor companies, including SMIC and Hua Hong Semiconductor Group, are ramping up their capacities. Investments are primarily focused on legacy chips used in applications like cars and consumer electronics. This year, China’s wafer fabrication capacity is projected to increase by 15% to 8.9 million wafers per month, with a further 14% increase to 10.1 million wafers per month expected next year. This rapid growth is set to make China account for about 30% of the world’s total wafer fabrication capacity, outpacing global growth rates.

Economic and Market Impact

The expansion efforts have led to a significant surge in sales of semiconductor wafer fab equipment in China, which saw a 48% increase last year compared to a mere 1% worldwide growth rate. Meanwhile, China’s imports of integrated circuits (ICs) dropped by 10.8% in volume and 15.4% in value.

Overcapacity Concerns and Domestic Advantages

Despite these aggressive expansions, analysts warn of potential overcapacity in the next two years, which could drive global chip prices down. Additionally, the Biden administration’s planned tariffs on $18 billion worth of Chinese imports, including a 50% hike on semiconductor imports, add to the complexities.

However, China’s drive towards self-sufficiency has benefited local foundries like SMIC and Yangtze Memory Technologies Corp. These foundries enjoy higher capacity utilization rates due to domestic substitution policies. For example, Hua Hong Semiconductor operates at maximum capacity and plans a 10% price increase in the latter half of the year.

Market Recovery and Demand

Local foundries in China are showing a faster recovery in capacity utilization compared to their global peers, supported by high customer demand during the traditional peak inventory stocking season. Recent price adjustments aim to alleviate profit pressures rather than indicating a full recovery in demand.

China is strategically expanding its semiconductor capacity to mitigate the impact of US sanctions and reduce reliance on imports. While rapid growth brings the risk of overcapacity, domestic policies, and self-sufficiency drives provide significant advantages, positioning China as a formidable player in the global semiconductor market.

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Exclusive: Vivo T3 Pro 5G surfaces, could be coming soon

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Jun 25, 2024

Mid-range smartphones are becoming more advanced over time. Chinese smartphone manufacturer Vivo will announce the new mid-range smartphone Vivo T3 Pro 5G in the near future. Recently, the brand has been trying to compete more in the mid-range smartphone market.

vivo T3 Pro 5G is coming

Vivo will officially announce the T3 Pro 5G. Gizmochina has spotted the Vivo T3 Pro 5G in the IMEI database with model number “V2404”. This new smartphone is expected to have better features and improvements compared to the Vivo T3.

The Vivo T3 had a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 chipset, a 50MP main camera, and a 16MP front camera. The T3 Pro 5G is likely to have even more advanced features, although its exact specifications are not yet known.

There are several reasons why the Vivo T3 Pro 5G might be better than its predecessor. First, technology is always improving, so newer models usually have better hardware and software. Second, Vivo wants to stay competitive in the mid-range market, so they are likely to add more features to attract buyers.

Some possible improvements in the T3 Pro 5G could include a better camera, a faster processor, and longer battery life. It might also have more storage and better design. However, these are just guesses, and we will have to wait for the official announcement to know for sure.

The launch date and price of the Vivo T3 Pro 5G have not been announced yet. However, it is expected to be a mid-range smartphone, so the price will probably be affordable. This is important because many people want good features without spending too much money.

Keychron Announces V8 Max Mechanical Keyboard with an Ergonomic Design and Multiple Connectivity Options

By

Anubhav

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Jun 25, 2024

Keychron has announced the upcoming launch of their V8 Max mechanical keyboard, featuring an ergonomic Alice layout. The keyboard is expected to go on sale at 8 pm on JD.com and Tmall’s Keychron Flagship Store for a starting price of 529 yuan (approximately $85 USD).

The keyboard is compatible with both Windows and Mac Operating systems

The Alice layout is designed to provide a more natural hand position for improved comfort during extended typing sessions. The V8 Max also offers versatility with its triple-mode connectivity: 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth, and wired USB connection. This allows users to connect to various devices seamlessly, whether a desktop PC, laptop, or tablet. Additionally, the keyboard is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems.

The Keychron V8 Max also sports hot-swappable switch sockets. This allows users to easily customize the keyboard’s typing feel by installing their preferred mechanical switches without soldering. The keyboard comes pre-installed with Gateron’s custom Jupiter axis switches, which are factory-lubricated for a smoother typing experience. The V8 Max features OSA PBT double-shot keycaps, known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear.

For added functionality, the keyboard supports full-key anti-collision, ensuring all key presses register accurately, even during rapid typing. Keychron also offers self-developed web drivers and compatibility with open-source QMK/VIA software, allowing users to program macros and customize the keyboard’s layout to their preferences.

(Via)

Honor 200 Pro Gets Certified via BIS in India, Launch Expected Soon

By

Anubhav

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Jun 25, 2024

The Honor 200 series, previously rumored for an Indian launch, is inching closer to becoming a reality. The Honor 200 Pro was formerly launched in China, and has now been spotted on the BIS certification website, hinting at an imminent arrival in the Indian market.

Only the Pro model of the Honor 200 is listed on the BIS database

The BIS certification listing reveals the model number “ELP-NX9” for the Honor 200 Pro, approved on June 24th, 2024. While the specific name isn’t mentioned, the global launch of the 200 series confirms this model belongs to the Pro variant. Currently, only the Pro model appears on the BIS database.

Though details are scarce, previous leaks suggest the Honor 200 Pro will sport a display with a 1.5K resolution and a single punch-hole cutout. The display is also rumored to have a slightly curved design, similar to the Honor 100 Pro.

In the camera department, leaks point towards a 50-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a standard feature in high-end smartphones. Additionally, a 32-megapixel telephoto lens with 2.5x optical zoom and a powerful 50x digital zoom capability is expected.

Under the hood, the Honor 200 Pro is rumored to be powered by the top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip from Qualcomm. The vanilla Honor 200 is expected to follow with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, offering similar core architecture but potentially at slightly lower clock speeds. This suggests comparable performance between the two models.

Previous leaks indicated a launch by the end of May for the Honor 200 series. However, with the June certification, a revised launch timeframe is likely. Pricing and other details remain unknown, but we can expect more information to emerge in the coming days.

(Via)

LockBit Claims Massive US Federal Reserve Hack, Experts Remain Skeptical

By

Anubhav

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Jun 25, 2024

The LockBit ransomware gang has sparked controversy by claiming they stole a massive database containing sensitive banking information from the US Federal Reserve. This claim, however, is being met with significant skepticism from security researchers.

LockBit is notorious for demanding hefty ransoms in the high seven figures

Earlier this week, LockBit listed the Fed on their data leak site, asserting they possess an archive filled with “33 terabytes of juicy banking information containing Americans’ banking secrets.” They further taunted the Fed, suggesting an ongoing negotiation and a $50,000 offer already on the table, which they deem insufficient. The exact ransom demand by LockBit remains undisclosed, but the group is known for hefty ransom requests in the high seven figures.

With a deadline set for June 25th at 8:27 PM UTC (2:27 PM EDT), the US Federal Reserve has stayed silent on the issue. However, security analysts are expressing doubt about the legitimacy of the attack. Many believe LockBit, following a major international police operation (Cronos) that disrupted their infrastructure, is attempting to regain notoriety within the hacking community through this hoax.

Operation Cronos resulted in the seizure of LockBit’s infrastructure, the release of decryption keys and stolen files, and the identification of some operators. While no arrests were made, LockBit swiftly resumed operations within a week. Now, security researchers are questioning the technical feasibility of such a large-scale breach by LockBit, casting doubt on their claim. The situation remains fluid, with the Fed’s silence further fueling speculation. It’s crucial to rely on official channels for updates and avoid amplifying baseless claims.

(Via)

Redmi Note 14 Pro camera & display information tipped

By

Debasish

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Jun 25, 2024

Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed some of the key details about the display and camera system of the Redmi Note 14 Pro.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus — Redmi Note 13 Pro

Tipster claims the main camera will be downgraded to 50MP

According to the tipster, the mid-range phone will offer a 1.5K micro-curved panel with a centered punch-hole cutout for the front camera.

He also added that there will be a 50MP “large” main sensor but no periscope telephoto. Unlike the predecessor, the phone could come with a centered elliptical camera island. Referring to the comment area, this phone is expected to be the Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro. Unfortunately, this is all the information about the phone he could share.

For reference, the Redmi Note 13 Pro comes with a 6.67″ 2712×1220 flat AMOLED display with slim bezels. There is a 16MP centered punch-hole selfie camera and a 200 MP + 8 MP + 2MP setup on the rear. The high-resolution main camera of the predecessor comes with OIS, multi-directional PDAF, f/1.7 aperture, and a sensor size of 1/1.4″. The phone is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset and is paired with 8GB or 12GB RAM. The phone has a 5100mAh battery and supports 67W fast wired charging.

Redmi Note 13 Pro +, however, is Redmi’s first curved-screen mobile phone that supports 120W wired charging and packs a 5000 mAh battery. This phone also houses the same camera system as the Pro model and has the same display resolution.

The Redmi Note 14 series is reportedly set to launch in September and has already appeared in the IMEI database. Six out of nine model numbers include “2409,” suggesting a September release, while the remaining three include “2411,” possibly indicating a November release. This could mean the series will debut in China in September, with other markets following in November.

Moto S50 Neo With 120Hz Curved Display, Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 Launched In China

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jun 25, 2024

Alongside the launch of the Razr 50 series foldables, Motorola also announced a new S-series smartphone in China. The device is dubbed as the Moto S50 Neo. Some of the key highlights of the device include a curved display, a long-lasting battery, and longer software support. Read on to know what the device offers out of the box.

Moto S50 Neo series specifications and features

The Moto S50 Neo has a 6.7-inch pOLED curved 10-bit display. It bears an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals, and a 1,600 nits peak brightness for outdoor visibility. The screen is integrated with a fingerprint scanner. Design-wise, the phone has a slim profile with a raised rear camera module. It is water-resistant thanks to the IP54 rating.

The Moto S50 Neo’s dual camera setup consists of a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor with OIS support. It is paired with an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens that also works as a macro and depth shooter. Up front, the phone has a 32MP selfie snapper.

Internally, a Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 processor powers the Moto S50 Neo. It packs up to 12GB RAM and 512GB internal storage. The smartphone is backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit that can be topped with support for 30W charging. Software-wise, the device ships with Android 14 OS out of the box. It is the first phone in the world to be eligible for four years of OS updates.

The Moto S50 Neo starts at CNY 1,399 (~$192) for the base 8GB + 256GB variant. Meanwhile, the 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB configurations are priced at CNY 1,599 (~$220) and CNY 1,899 (~$261). The phone is offered in Gray, Olivine, and Surf that are developed in partnership with Pantone. It will be available for purchase in China from June 28.

Exclusive: Xiaomi Watch S4 is coming

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Jun 25, 2024

Offering various products to users, Xiaomi is developing a new smartwatch. Expected to be Xiaomi Watch S4, the smartwatch has been spotted in the IMEI database. We don’t have any information about the new smartwatch yet. The Chinese brand is expected to introduce this watch with the Xiaomi 15 series.

Xiaomi Watch S4 is coming with Xiaomi 15 series

The Xiaomi Watch S3 was launched in Q4 2023 along with the Xiaomi 14 series. Now the brand continues to grow its ecosystem with the Watch S4. Gizmochina has spotted the new smartwatch in the IMEI database. Xiaomi Watch S4 is expected to have e-SIM support. Because the previous generation Watch S3 had e-SIM support.

Xiaomi Watch S4 appears with the model number M2424W1. The previous Watch S3 had the model number M2311W1. There is no detailed information about the Watch S4, but we can make some guesses.

The Xiaomi Watch S4 may have e-SIM support, we’ve already explained why above. The Watch S4 is also expected to come with HyperOS 2.0 software out of the box. This new HyperOS version aims to provide users with a more fluid, advanced and user-friendly experience. Xiaomi will optimize the software every year to provide users with the best experience.

The Xiaomi Watch S4 is expected to be unveiled alongside the upcoming Xiaomi 15 series smartphones, which will be unveiled in October. This launch is very important for Xiaomi to announce new products. Xiaomi usually prefers to introduce its new products en masse at big events and thus manages to keep users’ interest alive. Together with the Xiaomi 15 series, the Xiaomi Watch S4 will be one of the products that will stand out at this event.

Realme 13 Pro+ processor, camera, and design detail tipped

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jun 25, 2024

Prolific industry leakster who goes by the name Digital Chat Station or DCS has shed light on the specifications of an upcoming. While the tipster didn’t reveal the phone’s name, a report by ITHome suggests it is likely the Realme 13 Pro+.

The leak, posted on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, suggests the phone could be the first to sport a Sony IMX882 3x periscope lens. The IMX882 is a 1/1.953″ sensor and has reportedly been tapped by other manufacturers like Oppo and OnePlus for their upcoming flagship devices, Find X8/ X8 Pro and OnePlus 13, respectively.

Additionally, DCS says the phone might retain the 50MP main sensor and a triple-camera setup from the previous gen Realme 12 Pro+.

Apart from the image sensor, the leak describes a familiar design for the Realme 13 Pro+. The phone is expected to retain a centrally aligned punch-hole display and a circular module on the back for rear cameras.

Under the hood, the Realme 13 Pro+ is said to pack the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor, a modest upgrade over the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 on the Realme 12 Pro+.

Moreover, previous reports suggest that the Indian version of the Realme 13 Pro+ will be available in two color variants, Monet Gold and Emerald Green, and will offer four memory options — 8GB+128GB, 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, and 12GB+512GB.

Even the Realme 13 Pro is said to offer similar RAM and storage options but will reportedly come in three shades: Monet Gold, Monet Purple, and Sky Green.

Apart from these details, other information about the Realme 13 series is under wraps for the moment. We will keep you updated if we get any new information about the smartphone.

Motorola Razr 50, Razr 50 Ultra With Large Cover Screen, Wireless Charging Launched In China

By

Viraj Gawde

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Jun 25, 2024

Motorola has unveiled its next-generation Razr 50 series foldable phones. It includes the Razr 50 and Razr 50 Ultra. They arrive as the successor to the last year’s Razr 40 and 40 Ultra respectively. The latest offerings pack quite some upgrades over their predecessors. Notably, the standard model now comes with a larger secondary screen.

Motorola Razr 50 series specifications and features

The Motorola Razr 50 and Razr 50 Ultra are clamshell foldable phones. Both come with a 6.9-inch FlexView pOLED display bearing an FHD+ resolution and support for Dolby Vision. The standard model features a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. Meanwhile, the ultra model has an LTPO refresh rate of 165Hz and the peak brightness maxes out at 3,000 nits.

The secondary screen on the back panel of the Razr 50 Ultra also has a pOLED panel with 165Hz LTPO refresh rate, a 1080p resolution, and HDR10+ support. The device has the biggest display measuring 4 inches on a foldable phone. On the other hand, the standard Razr 50 moves away from the smaller 1.5-inch screen to 3.6 inches with a 90Hz refresh rate. The secondary display on both devices are Gorilla Glass Victus shielded. It can be used for features like watching videos, navigation, and more.

On the optics front, the Motorola Razr 50 duo have a 50MP main camera with OIS. The Ultra model has a 50MP 2x telephoto lens whereas the standard variant features a 13MP ultra-wide-angle sensor. Both phones feature a 32MP selfie snapper.

The Motorola Razr 50 series are equipped with a fifth-generation star track hinge that is said to be smaller and lighter. It also features a 6000 series aviation-grade aluminium frame. Both phones have IPX8 ratings for water-resistance. There is a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button.

Under the hood, the Razr 50 is powered by a Dimensity 7300X processor whereas the Razr 50 Ultra is equipped with a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC. Both phones pack up to 12GB RAM and 512GB UFS 4.0 storage. The Razr 50 Ultra is backed by a 4,000mAh battery with support for 44W wired and 15W wireless charging. Meanwhile, the standard model draws its power from a 4,200mAh cell with support for 33W wired and 15W wireless charging.

Other features on the Razr 50 series include Android 14 OS, 5G, dual-band WiFi, USB-C port etc.

The Motorola Razr 50 is priced at CNY 3,699 (~$510) and CNY 3,999 (~$550) for the 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB variants. It comes in Steel Wool, Pumice Stone, and Arabesque colours with a leather texture back panel. The Ultra model costs CNY 5,699 (~$785) and CNY 6,199 (~$850) for the 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB configurations respectively. It is offered in Dill, Navy Blazer, and Peach Fuzz hues.

Xiaomi launches new Mijia Air Conditioner 3HP boasting rapid cooling/heating, energy efficiency & more

By

Soumyakanti

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Jun 25, 2024

Xiaomi has unveiled a new addition to its Mijia air conditioner lineup – the Giant Power Saving 3HP Wall-mounted model. This air conditioner prioritizes energy efficiency while boasting features for rapid cooling, powerful heating, and smart home integration.

Xiaomi Mijia Giant Power Saving Air Conditioner 3HP Specifications:

This air conditioner is ideal for medium to large spaces, ranging from 30 to 40 square meters. It boasts a 3HP capacity, making it suitable for large bedrooms, open floor plans, and even small living rooms. Compared to traditional floor-standing units of similar power, the wall-mounted design saves valuable floor space, offering more flexibility for home decor.

The air conditioner boasts a sleek design that complements modern homes. It features a flush design with a matte white finish and a circular LED display screen.

It boasts 40-second rapid cooling and 80-second rapid heating, ensuring your desired temperature is reached quickly. This is achieved through a combination of technologies, including Coupled Optimization Control and an efficient low-noise air duct system.

The air conditioner is also equipped with a reliable inverter drive control technology, allowing it to function effectively in a wide range of temperatures, from -35°C to 60°C.

The air conditioner also features a self-developed air duct system for noise-sensitive users that ensures quieter operation, with noise levels ranging from 30 to 40 dB(A). Additionally, the unit features a smart light-sensing function that automatically adjusts display brightness for a more peaceful night’s sleep.

The air conditioner also prioritizes user health. It incorporates self-cleaning technology for both the indoor and outdoor units. The indoor unit utilizes high-temperature drying technology to eliminate attached bacteria, while the outdoor unit rinses condensate water to remove dust from the heat exchanger, improving efficiency and maintaining optimal operation.

The Mijia air conditioner boasts an impressive APF (Annual Performance Factor) of 4.55, exceeding China’s new Grade 1 energy efficiency requirement of 4.20. This translates to an estimated saving of 578 kWh of electricity per year compared to new Grade 3 models.

This air conditioner seamlessly integrates with Xiaomi’s smart home ecosystem. It supports Xiao Ai voice control, allowing you to control not just the air conditioner, but also lighting, robotic vacuum cleaners, and other compatible smart devices through voice commands. Additionally, the Mijia app allows for remote control and operation, letting you adjust settings and monitor the air conditioner’s status from anywhere.

Pricing and Availability

The Xiaomi Mijia Giant Power Saving Air Conditioner 3HP Wall-mounted model is currently available for pre-sale on Xiaomi Youpin in China at a price of 4299 Yuan (approximately $592).

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite vs iQOO Z9: Which one is better under Rs 20,000?

By

Sean

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Jun 25, 2024

OnePlus has just launched its latest Nord CE 4 Lite smartphone in India. The new mid-range model dropped in India for under 20,000 INR. But at this price range, how does it stack up against the iQOO Z9? Which one is better? Let’s find out in this comparison.

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1. OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite vs iQOO Z9: Snapdragon or Dimensity?

While there are many similarities between the two devices, one of the major differences between the Nord CE 4 Lite and iQOO Z9 are their chipsets. Under the hood, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC. Meanwhile, the iQOO Z9 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 SoC.

For whatever reason, OnePlus decided to retain the Snapdragon 695, which was also found on the Nord CE 2 Lite and Nord CE 3 Lite. This means that it is still employing an aged processor. So despite launching back in March 2024, the iQOO Z9 has a better chipset.

2. Bigger Battery and Faster Charging

An area where OnePlus makes up ground is in the battery department. While the iQOO Z9 is powered by a 5,000mAh battery pack, the Nord CE 4 Lite packs a larger 5,500mAh cell. The latter also supports 80W wired fast charging, but the former only supports 44W wired fast charging. In just 52 minutes, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite can hit 100 percent charge. The iQOO Z9 only managed a 50 percent charge in 30 minutes, as per official notes.

3. Display and Camera are nearly identical

From the front and back, the two smartphones are quite similar to one another. Both devices sport a 6.67-inch AMOLED display that offers FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The Nord CE 4 Lite’s screen has 2,100 nits of peak brightness, which is slightly higher than the 1,800 nits found on the Z9.

These similarities are reflected in the cameras at the rear. Both models pack a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. A 16-megapixel shooter for selfies and video calls can be found on the front of the iQOO Z9 and Nord CE 4 Lite. These devices with a plastic frame and back, but the iQOO Z9 has a slight advantage thanks to its IP54 rating for water and dust resistance.

4. Pricing and Verdict

OnePlus and iQOO’s mid range devices come in two storage configurations, which have identical price tags. The 8GB + 128GB variant costs 19,999 INR and the 8GB + 256GB version is priced at 21,999 INR. However, the iQOO Z9 is currently on sale with a notable 3,000 INR discount. This brings its effective price tag down to just 16,999 INR.

So if you’re on a strict budget, the iQOO Z9 seems better equipped for your needs. It is hard to recommend the Nord CE 4 Lite at the moment, considering its outdated processor and pricing. You do get a flat 1,000 INR discount with bank offers on the new OnePlus phone, but the iQOO Z9 still strikes as the better deal.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Scarlet Red Edition launched in India with a bright new hue

By

Sean

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Jun 25, 2024

Xiaomi has officially launched a new variant of the Redmi Note 13 Pro. This model is called the Redmi Note 13 Pro Scarlet Red Edition, which arrives with a bright new color. So here is everything you need to know about this smartphone.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Scarlet Red Edition Pricing and Availability

The Redmi Note 13 Pro Scarlet Red Edition has been announced in India in two storage configuration, namely 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB variant. It has a starting price tag of 24,999 INR (roughly 300 US Dollars), while the higher end version costs 26,999 INR (roughly 324 US Dollars). This smartphone has gone on sale starting today (25th June 2024). You can purchase it from the brand’s official website, Amazon India, and Xiaomi retail stores.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Scarlet Red Edition Specs

To recall, the Redmi Note 13 Pro was first announced in Midnight Black, Coral Purple, and Arctic White. Now, it is available for purchase in the special Scarlet Red Edition. For those unaware, the Redmi Note 13 Pro sports a tall 6.67-inch OLED display that offers 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 1800 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, it is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC. The device runs on the Android 13 OS based HyperOS custom skin out of the box. A large 5,100mAh battery pack powers this model, which supports 67W wired fast charging.

For optics, you get a 200-megapixel main camera at the rear along with an 8-megapixel ultra wide angle lens, and a 2-megapixel macro sensor. Meanwhile, the front houses a 16-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. Other notable features include an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, an AG matte glass back cover, Bluetooth 5.2, and an in-display fingerprint scanner.

MINISFORUM MS-01 refresh with an Intel Core i5 processor and a cheaper price tag launched

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jun 25, 2024

MINISFORUM has released a more affordable version of the MS-01 mini-PC. The new version of the MS-01 comes with an Intel Core i5 processor as against the previous model which is equipped with a Core i9. The actual processor in the refreshed MINISFORUM MS-01 mini-PC is the Intel Core i5-12600H.

The MINISFORUM MS-01 still offers significant performance for many applications even when compared with the Core i9 variants. Previous benchmarks between the lower Core i7 and the Core i9 models point to less-than-significant improvements in performance. There are no benchmark results yet comparing the performance of the Core i5-12600H and the Core i9 variants of the MINISFORUM MS-01 mini-PC.

The MINISFORUM MS-01 was originally unveiled in December 2023 and came with the Core i9 processors. The company has also unveiled several other models since the release of the MS-01, some of which featured AMD processors. The MS-01 mini-PC before now featured the Intel Core i9-12900H or Core i9-13900H CPUs. The refreshed version of the mini-PC now offers the Intel Core i5-12600H variant leading to a significant reduction in the price of the mini-PC. While the starting price of the MS-01 was previously around $580/ $870, the refreshed version starts at about $450 on Amazon. When purchased directly from MINISFORUM, the MS-01 costs $399 or $589 with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.

The less-expensive version of the MINISFORUM MS-01 offers access to a greater segment of the market while retaining the core performance essentials of the model. It remains to be seen what the reception of the model might be in the market.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 & Watch 7 Ultra spotted in Chinese certification ahead of launch

By

Sean

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Jun 25, 2024

Samsung is rumored to be working on the Galaxy Watch 7 series, its next-gen lineup of premium smartwatches. But ahead of any official announcement, the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra has surfaced in a Chinese certification platform. So let’s have a look.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 & Watch 7 Ultra Visits 3C

The South Korean tech giant’s upcoming smartwatches were spotted on the 3C certification (Via MySmartPrice). The Galaxy Watch 7 was seen carrying the SM-L315 model number, while the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra was seen with the SM-705 model number. The Chinese database reveals that both models are LTE variants of the smartwatches. Furthermore, the listing confirmed that the Galaxy Watch 7 series is charged by an adapter that carries the EP-T1510 model number, at least during the testing phase.

Samsung is set to host the Galaxy Unpacked event on 10th July 2024. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 foldable smartphones are set to be unveiled at this conference. During this same major event, the brand is expected to unveil the Galaxy Watch 7 lineup as well. Just last week, the Galaxy Watch 7 was spotted on Amazon Canada. This showcased some of its specs and features like 128GB storage, Bluetooth connectivity, Activity Tracker, Alarm Clock, and Contactless Payments.

The Galaxy Watch 7 will have a circular display that has a 40mm screen. It will support BioActiveSensor2 for more accurate heart rate measurements during exercise and sleep. These next-gen smartwatches could also act as an AI companion that functions even when you sleep, exercise, and for communication as well. The e-retailer listing claims that the Galaxy Watch 7 will launch on 16th July 2024 and it will have a 358.55 CAD (roughly 262 US Dollars). Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra is rumored to cost somewhere around 689 to 699 Euros.

boAt Stone Lumos launch: First Bluetooth speaker with LED projection launched in India

By

Sean

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Jun 25, 2024

Last week, the boAt Stone Lumos was officially teased as the brand’s latest Bluetooth speakers. Now, this model has finally been launched in the Indian market. The portable wireless speaker is quite unique as it features an LED projection module, which can hype up your party experience. So let’s have a look.

boAt Stone Lumos Pricing & Availability

The boAt Stone Lumos is listed in a single Midnight Black color option. It has an official price tag of 6,999 INR. You can buy the wireless speaker from the company’s official website, Amazon India, and Flipkart. This can also be purchased from offline retailers like Reliance, Vijay Sales, and Croma. The first sale of these speakers has officially kicked off today (25th June 2024).

boAt Stone Lumos Specs

boAt’s new Stone Lumos features an interesting design that includes a carry handle and a dedicated module for LED projection. This allows it to project LED lighting in 7 dynamic modes. In other words, the speaker promises to offer not only immersive audio quality but LED projection that blends the audio and visual experience. These seven LED patterns can create a soft, pulsating glow, and more. Under the hood, the speakers house 60W audio drivers that come with the boAt Signature Sound.

An 800mAh battery pack powers this speaker, which promises to offer up to 9 hours of battery life. It comes with a built-in microphone as well for hands-free functionality. You can use these speakers outdoors as well since it has an IPX4 rating for water and splash resistance. Other notable features include Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity, although, you can also pair it via AUX and USB ports. It can be paired with a TWS for stereo sound as well. You can pair the speakers with the boAt Hearables App as well.

Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro Disney Princess limited edition phone launching this week in China

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jun 25, 2024

Xiaomi has officially announced the upcoming release of a limited edition Civi 4 Pro smartphone designed in collaboration with Disney Princess. The phone, officially named the Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro Disney Princess Limited Edition, is set to launch in China on June 27th.

Details are scarce, but the company has shared a teaser on Weibo that hints at a focus on the aesthetic side of things. The poster features a shadowy image of Snow White in a mirror, accompanied by the tagline “a super photogenic custom phone.” We are not sure what that translates to, but we won’t have to wait long to find out.

Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro Disney Princess Limited Edition Phone

As you might know, this wouldn’t be the first time Xiaomi has collaborated with Disney or other popular characters. The Civi series has previously seen Hello Kitty, Strawberry Bear, and even a Mickey Mouse edition celebrating Disney’s 100th anniversary.

All these co-branded Xiaomi phones offered special packaging, exclusive themes, and unique charging animations. The Disney Princess edition is expected to follow suit.

While the design elements remain under wraps, the overall specifications of this limited edition phone will be similar to the standard Civi 4 Pro. That means you can expect a large, curved 6.55-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz high refresh rate and smooth dimming technology. Under the hood lies the latest Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.

The camera system is another highlight of the Civi 4 Pro. It’s the first Xiaomi phone outside of the company’s flagship number series to feature a Leica imaging system.

The Civi 4 Pro has a triple-camera setup featuring a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP portrait lens, and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, all co-engineered by Leica. There are two cameras even on the front — a 32MP main and another 32MP lens for ultrawide selfies. Fueling the device is a 47000mAh battery that supports 67W wired charging.

Samsung builds industry-first CXL infrastructure certified by Red Hat

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Jun 25, 2024

Samsung Electronics announced today the successful construction of the industry’s first Compute Express Link (CXL) infrastructure certified by Red Hat, a leading provider of open-source solutions.

The new infrastructure at Samsung’s Memory Research Center in South Korea will allow the South Korean giant to directly verify CXL-related products, including hardware and software components.

Products verified by Samsung through the new infrastructure can be immediately submitted for registration with Red Hat, streamlining product development cycles for both Samsung and its customers.

Samsung has already leveraged this infrastructure to verify its first CXL product, the CMM-D successfully. Going forward, the company will leverage this infrastructure to provide tailored solutions to customers by optimizing products at earlier development stages.

CXL is a high-speed interconnect standard designed to improve communication between various data center components, including CPUs, GPUs, and memory devices.

It utilizes the PCIe interface to deliver lower latency and higher bandwidth compared to traditional standards. This translates to improved speed, latency, and scalability for existing data centers without significant cost increases.

The recent boom in artificial intelligence (AI) has driven the need for fundamental changes in server architecture. Data centers are facing new operational challenges due to the massive surge in data processing. CXL technology addresses this challenge by providing a more efficient way to manage data flow within servers.

In December 2023, Samsung collaborated with Red Hat to verify CXL memory operation in a real-world user environment. This partnership also led to Samsung becoming the first company to offer a CXL module, open-source software, and CXL DRAM supporting the CXL 2.0 standard.

Samsung has since expanded its Red Hat-certified products to include its data center solid-state drives (SSDs). This allows customers to build systems leveraging Red Hat-certified hardware with reliable Linux support.

(Source)

Realme GT 6 schematic leak reveals a new design with flat display, renewed camera module

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jun 25, 2024

Yesterday, Realme confirmed that it will launch the Realme GT 6 for the Chinese market in July. Don’t confuse this device with the GT 6, which made its debut in the global market recently. The global variant has the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, while the Chinese model has the more potent Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. Today, tipster Digital Chat Station released the below-shown schematic to reveal the design of the GT 6’s Chinese variant.

Realme GT 6’s design revealed

The above image gives a first look at the GT 6’s rear panel. The image does not reveal the front of the device, but the brand’s official teaser yesterday suggested that the GT 6 features a flat display.

The phone’s back panel features a rectangular camera module located in the upper-left corner. It includes three cameras and an LED flash. The leaker revealed it has a 50-megapixel primary camera accompanied by a ring LED flash. A metal middle frame will complement the glass back of the GT 6. DCS said that the device will be available in a white variant, among other color options.

Reports have revealed that it will have a BOE S1 LTPO OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and up to 6,000 nits of peak brightness. The device may come with up to 24 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, up to 1 TB of storage, and a 6,000mAh battery with 100W charging support. It is unclear whether the device will be released in markets outside of China.

The Realme GT 6 is expected to launch in July in China. It is likely to be followed by the Realme 13 Pro series of smartphones. By the end of this year, the company is expected to announce the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4-powered Realme GT 7 Pro in the global market as well as in China.