GC Daily: Musk Lashes Out at Apple’s OpenAI Partnership, Nokia invents ‘Immersive’ phone call technology

By

-

Jun 11, 2024

In today’s tech news roundup, get the scoop on the Galaxy S24 FE’s potential camera hardware, which may not see significant upgrades but promises solid performance. Nokia’s revolutionary ‘Immersive’ phone call technology aims to transform your calling experience with three-dimensional audio and video. Discover Apple Intelligence’s personalized AI, set to debut in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, enhancing user experiences with advanced generative models.

Explore Xiaomi’s TV lineup in India, offering a range of options to suit every budget and need. Plus, exciting leaks reveal impressive specs for the upcoming Xiaomi 15, including a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset and a powerful camera setup.

Here are all the top stories from the past 24 hours.

Galaxy S24 FE camera hardware could disappoint

Featuring the same 50MP ISOCELL GN3 main sensor as its predecessor, the S24 FE may not offer a significant improvement in imaging capability but is expected to deliver solid performance. While details are still emerging, previous Fan Edition models have showcased upgraded chipsets, indicating a promising upgrade in store for consumers.

Read more

Nokia invents ‘Immersive’ phone call technology

Nokia‘s CEO Pekka Lundmark made a phone call using a new technology called “immersive audio and video.” According to the company, their new calling technology improves the quality of a call, adding a three-dimensional effect for a more realistic listening experience. The demonstration call was held with Stefan Lindström, Finland’s Ambassador of Digitalization and New Technologies.

Read more

Apple Intelligence: Personalized AI arrives in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia

Discover the latest in personalized AI with Apple Intelligence! Integrated into iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, this innovative system utilizes generative models and personal context to enhance user experiences. With features like Smart Reply suggestions in Mail, Image Playground for image creation, and Siri’s improved capabilities, Apple Intelligence offers personalized AI tools while prioritizing user privacy through on-device data processing.

Read more

Xiaomi TV lineup in India: A breakdown by series, display, software, and more

Xiaomi is dominating the Indian TV market with a range of TVs under Xiaomi and Redmi brands, catering to various budgets and needs. The article simplifies the Xiaomi TV lineup breakdown by series, display technology, software, and price range.

Xiaomi offers Smart TV A, X, and X Pro Series, while Redmi focuses on Smart TV X Series and Smart Fire TV Series, providing options from budget-friendly to premium quality TVs for a personalized viewing experience.

Read more

Xiaomi 15 leak reveals display, chipset, camera, design details

Exciting leaks reveal the upcoming Xiaomi 15’s impressive features! Expect a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset, a 1.5K OLED LTPO display, and a powerful camera setup with 50MP lenses. With up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage, it will also boast an ultrasonic under-screen fingerprint scanner and dual speakers.

Read more

🔥 More Top Stories You Might Have Missed

iQOO 13 Pro: The case for discontinuing ‘Pro’ models – What could be behind iQOO decision?

iOS 18 is Bringing Charging Limits to the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro

Musk Lashes Out at Apple’s OpenAI Partnership, Citing Security Concerns

Save Maximum on OnePlus Smartphones and Accessories: OnePlus One Community Sale

Apple’s first foldable may have an outward-folding design inspired by Huawei Mate Xs 2

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jun 11, 2024

Most foldable phones on the market today follow the inward-folding design like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. However, according to Apple analyst Jeff Pu, Apple may take a different approach with its first foldable iPhone.

The upcoming “iPhone Fold” (if that’s what Apple decides to name) will reportedly feature a 7.9-inch OLED display that folds outward, similar to the Huawei Mate Xs 2.

Huawei was one of the first companies to launch a foldable phone with an innovative wrap-around display. However, the company has since changed the design of its current generation of foldables to a book style with two displays—one on the cover and one on the inside.

The shift is likely due to concerns about screen durability, as the outward display will not be shielded when folded. This means users will need to handle such devices with extra caution.

That said, the outward-folding design does have advantages of its own. Since this design requires only a single large panel that can serve for both folded and unfolded situations, it makes the device thinner and lighter as there’s no need to fit in a second display.

The outward-folding design also gives the phone a sleek look and lets you use the main camera setup even for selfies no matter if the device is folded or not.

Moving on, analyst Pu suggests a 2026 launch for the “iPhone Fold,” around the same time as the iPhone 18. In addition to the foldable iPhone, there are rumors of a MacBook with a foldable display in the works. The device will reportedly have a 20.3-inch display and is set to go into mass production by the end of 2025, according to rumors. However, other reports suggest it won’t be launched until 2027.

Galaxy S24 FE camera hardware could disappoint you

By

Debasish

-

Jun 11, 2024

Samsung launched the Galaxy S23 FE in October last year as part of the Galaxy S23 series launched in February of the year. The Galaxy S24 series launched one month early and we are also inching towards the launch of the Galaxy S24 FE. The next generation Fan Edition is expected to be launched towards the end of the year.

Samsung is reportedly working on a device codenamed R12. The Galaxy S20 FE, S21 FE, and S23 FE were codenamed R8, R9 and R11 respectively. So the R12 seems to represent the Galaxy S24 FE. With the absence of R10 (S22 FE) the next generation (S23 FE) appeared to be based on the Galaxy S22 series. So the S24 FE could also be based on last year’s S23 series instead of the S24 series.

Galaxy S24 FE uses the same main camera as its predecessor

In the latest news, Galaxy Club reveals the camera specifications of the next-generation FE model. The publication claims that the Galaxy S24 FE will equip the 50MP ISOCELL GN3 as the main sensor. The ISOCELL GN3 is a 1/1.57″ sensor with 1.0µm pixels.

For those unaware, this is the same main sensor adopted by the Galaxy S22, Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23 FE, and this year’s Galaxy S24. So, an improvement in imaging capability will rely solely on image processing, and might not meet the expectations of many. This could be slightly disappointing for those who are waiting for the handset. However, it’s also understandable as the Fan Edition devices are never meant to push the limits of what’s possible.

Although only the main sensor is revealed at this point, we can expect more details to emerge in the coming months ahead of the launch.

To give you an idea of the possible camera system, the predecessor equips an 8MP 3x telephoto and a 12MP ultrawide in addition to the ISOCELL GN3 main sensor.

All the fan edition models so far have offered upgraded chipsets so far. Additionally, Samsung is likely to use Exynos chips in the upcoming FE model wherever possible.

However, with the absence of an S22 FE, the S23 FE was based on the S22’s chipset, and there is no Exynos 2300 chipset that the company can use at this time. We will have to see if they decide to put their latest Exynos 2400 chipset on the S24 FE or purchase Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chips for the purpose.

(Source)

Xiaomi 15 leak reveals display, chipset, camera, design details

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Jun 11, 2024

Xiaomi’s annual flagship, the Xiaomi 15 series, is expected to break cover in October of this year in China. Reliable leaker Digital Chat Sation has been consistently leaking details about the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro. Today, he shed light on some key specifications of what appears to be the standard Xiaomi 15.

Xiaomi 15 key specifications (rumored)

DCS’ Weibo post suggests that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset-powered Xiaomi 15 will feature a flat OLED LTPO screen that produces a 1.5K resolution. Unfortunately, the leaker did not mention the exact screen size. What’s known is that the Xiaomi 15 will be a compact flagship like the Xiaomi 14, which features a 6.36-inch display.

For photography, the device will have a 50-megapixel OmniVision primary camera, along with a 50-megapixel ultrawide lens and a 50-megapixel 3.x telephoto macro lens. The phone is slated to offer a comprehensive range of photography options, with a large range of apertures.

Additionally, it will come in configurations of up to 16GB of RAM paired with up to 1 TB of internal storage. The device will incorporate a single-point ultrasonic under-screen fingerprint scanner, dual speakers (top speaker embedded in the earpiece), and a decent motor for vibration.

The leaker did not share information about the Xiaomi 15’s battery capacity and charging capabilities. However, he disclosed that the battery cell materials have undergone advancements to achieve a lightweight and thin design, all while accommodating a larger battery. To recall, the Xiaomi 14 housed a 4,610mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging support. Possibly, the Xiaomi 15 may pack a battery of around 4,800mAh to 5,000mAh.

Furthermore, the Xiaomi 15 is expected to sport a sleek design with black and white color variants, featuring glass, vegan leather, and vegan leather splicing options.

iQOO 13 Pro: The case for discontinuing ‘Pro’ models – What could be behind iQOO decision?

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Jun 11, 2024

The rumor mill is now gradually spilling details about the upcoming flagships that are expected to launch in the last quarter of this year in China. Among other brands, Vivo is expected to unveil the Vivo X200 and X200 Pro with the Dimensity 9400 chip onboard, while the iQOO 13 series is expected to arrive with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. There have been some rumors that claim that the iQOO 13 Pro will be skipped this year.

iQOO’s Pro-branded flagships may get axed

Several factors seem to have influenced iQOO’s strategic decision to not launch the iQOO 13 Pro in China this year. One significant aspect contributing to this decision could be the historical performance of the Pro variants in the iQOO lineup. Rumors have circulated suggesting that iQOO has been contemplating discontinuing the Pro variant since the iQOO 11 generation due to lacklustre sales. According to a known tech blogger from China, the trend has persisted for two generations, indicating that there might be inherent challenges or limitations associated with positioning a Pro variant within the iQOO brand.

Part of the challenge lies in brand positioning and market perception. iQOO, as a sub-brand of Vivo, has been successfully carving out a niche in the performance-driven segment. However, it still faces significant challenges in establishing itself as a standalone brand with sufficient brand power to support a Pro variant in China.

Moreover, considering that previous Pro models, such as the iQOO 12 Pro, 11 Pro, 10 Pro, 9 Pro, and so on, haven’t launched outside of China, while some of their standard (non-Pro) counterparts have made it to the global market, there might be reservations about the viability of the Pro models beyond China. The brand’s experimentation with Pro variants in China over the past years, coupled with reportedly poor sales, suggests that even in its domestic market, the brand may not be confident in the potential success of a Pro version.

As it’s known, the parent brand, Vivo, has traditionally focused on delivering flagship smartphones with a strong emphasis on the photography experience. This creates a potential conflict for the iQOO Pro series, especially if it overlaps with the main brand’s offerings. To recall, last year’s iQOO 12 series came equipped with periscope telephoto cameras for enhanced photography. Moreover, the Vivo X100 Pro and iQOO 12 Pro carried the same starting price of 4,999 Yuan (~$690) last year.

Furthermore, the dynamics of the smartphone market play a crucial role in shaping product strategies. Competitors such as OnePlus have also experimented with Pro variants but eventually discontinued them. This suggests that there may be challenges associated with sustaining a Pro lineup within a sub-brand, particularly if it does not resonate with consumer preferences or market demands.

In response to these challenges, leaks indicate that Vivo and iQOO have opted for a more distinct differentiation strategy for their upcoming models. The iQOO 13 is rumored to focus on a 2K flat OLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip, and imaging capabilities, while the Vivo X200 is expected to offer a slightly different proposition with a 1.5K OLED curved-edge display, Dimensity 9400 chipset, and imaging features tailored to a different segment of consumers. The X200 is expected to launch in October, whereas the iQOO 13 series may go official in November.

Considering the historical performance of the Pro variants, market dynamics, and brand positioning, it seems logical for iQOO to forego the launch of the iQOO 13 Pro in China this year. Instead, the company may prioritize enhancing the standard iQOO flagship (iQOO 13) by incorporating additional features and improvements that would typically be offered on the Pro version.

HTech partners with nStore, expands Honor product availability in India before Honor 200 series launch

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Jun 11, 2024

Htech has announced a strategic partnership with nStore, a participant in the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) Network, in India. This collaboration will make HTech’s full range of Honor devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, and earphones, accessible to customers across India via the Paytm app. This move marks a significant expansion in HTech’s distribution strategy, leveraging the growing reach of the ONDC Network.

Honor devices to be available nStore

Honor

For those who don’t know, ONDC is an initiative by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) of the Government of India. It aims to democratize and revolutionize the e-commerce landscape in the country. Unlike traditional e-commerce platforms where buyers and sellers are confined to a single platform, ONDC creates an open network. This allows buyers to discover products and services from a wide range of sellers across different platforms, and vice versa.

HTech’s partnership with ONDC means customers can easily purchase Honor products such as the Honor Choice Earbuds X5, Honor Choice Watch, and the Honor X9b, along with upcoming models (probably the Honor 200 and Honor 200 Pro) through the ONDC Network. Madhav Sheth, CEO of HTech, expressed confidence that this partnership will enhance the company’s reach and meet the local needs of their customers by providing access to cutting-edge features and capabilities across their product lineup.

The collaboration with nStore, which empowers sellers to utilize the benefits of the ONDC Network, is expected to unlock new growth opportunities and drive innovation. Pradeep K Sampath, CEO of nStore, highlighted that the partnership is aimed at leveraging technology to widen access and improve supply chain efficiencies, enabling brands to connect seamlessly with consumers.

In related news, Honor will unveil the Honor 200 and 200 Pro for the global market on June 12. These devices are equipped with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipsets, respectively. The new initiative by HTech comes at a time when the company prepares to launch the highly anticipated Honor 200 and Honor 200 Pro in India. The availability of these new models on the ONDC Network could significantly boost their market penetration, making it easier for customers to purchase the latest devices.

iOS 18 launched: Brings Apple Intelligence, user experience enhancements

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Jun 11, 2024

At the 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple took off covers from the iOS 18, which will be available for a wide range of iPhones soon. One of the major announcements for Apple users is the arrival of Apple Integration, which is the company’s iteration of AI-driven features.

Prev Next

1. iOS 18 supported iPhones

iOS 18

These include the iPhone 15 series, the iPhone 14 series, the iPhone 13 series, the iPhone 12 series, the iPhone 11 series, iPhone XS, XR, and XS Max. It will also be available for second and third-generation iPhone SE models. Here is a look at the key features of the iOS 18.

2. iOS 18 key enhancements: Home Screen, Control Centre, Photos app, Mail

iOS 18 Home Screen

Apple’s iOS 18 introduces significant enhancements across various facets of the user experience. The Home Screen now allows users to arrange apps and widgets in any open space, with new looks for icons and widgets including dark, tinted effects, and larger sizes.

Control Centre has been redesigned for easier access to frequently used controls and is customizable with third-party app controls.

The Photos app features a single, unified view for all photos, new collections, a carousel view for highlights, and auto-playing content for a dynamic experience.

Mail categorizes emails into Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions, with a new digest view for quick scanning of business emails.

3. iOS 18 key enhancements: Messages, Safari, Passwords app, Health, Privacy

iOS 18 Messages

Messages now support satellite communication, allowing texts without cellular or Wi-Fi, and introduce new text effects, formatting options, expanded Tapbacks, message scheduling, and RCS support for messaging non-Apple devices.

Safari introduces a Highlights feature that surfaces key webpage information and a redesigned Reader mode with summaries and a table of contents.

The new Passwords app consolidates passwords, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes, with alerts for weak, reused, or leaked passwords.

Health and safety updates include a redesigned Medical ID, pregnancy-related data management, and Emergency SOS Live Video for sharing context during emergency calls.

Privacy features now allow locking and hiding apps with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode, sharing only specific contacts with apps, and improved privacy for connecting third-party accessories.

4. iOS 18 brings Apple Intelligence, Additional Features

IOS 18 Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence offers writing tools for rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text, an Image Playground for creating animated, illustrated, or sketched images, and a Clean Up tool in Photos to remove distracting objects. Siri is enhanced for more natural, contextually relevant responses. It should be noted that Apple Intelligence will be available for A17 Pro-powered iPhones. The AI system will be integrated with Macs and iPads powered by M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. You can visit this post to learn more in detail about Apple Intelligence.

Additional features include offline custom walking routes and hikes in Apple Maps, a Game Mode for consistent frame rates and responsive accessories, enhanced Apple Pay with rewards redemption and instalment options, SharePlay for shared music control across devices, and AirPods updates for better call quality and personalized spatial audio. The Notes app introduces Math Notes for instant equation solving, while the improved Calendar app integrates tasks from Reminders. The Home app now offers guest access with hands-free unlock, and accessibility updates include Eye Tracking, Music Haptics, and Vocal Shortcuts.

Apple Intelligence: Personalized AI arrives in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Jun 11, 2024

Apple introduced Apple Intelligence, a personal intelligence system integrated into iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia at the 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). It leverages generative models and personal context to deliver intelligent features and experiences across Apple devices. Available for A17 Pro, M1, M2, M3, and M4 series chip-powered Apple devices, Apple Intelligence offers personalized AI tools to help with daily tasks like prioritizing notifications and managing emails, all while ensuring privacy through on-device data processing.

Apple Intelligence: All the key features

Writing tools in Apple Intelligence include options for rewriting with multiple versions, as well as proofreading and summarizing tools integrated into all apps. The Mail app benefits from Smart Reply suggestions and the ability to surface priority emails at the top of the inbox. Image creation is enhanced with the Image Playground, allowing users to create images in sketch, illustration, and animation styles. Genmoji, generative AI emoji based on profile pictures, add a fun element, while the Clean Up tool helps remove unwanted people and objects from photos. The Memories feature enables users to create video stories by typing descriptions, with song suggestions to match.

For audio and transcription, the Notes and Phone apps now allow users to record, transcribe, and summarize audio. When recording a phone call, participants will be notified, and a summary will be provided once the call ends. Siri also sees significant enhancements with a new look, improved context retention, and the ability to type questions. Siri can now understand more natural language and will gain the capability to operate apps with on-screen awareness over the next year.

Integration with OpenAI brings ChatGPT into the mix, accessible through Siri and systemwide writing tools. Apple assures users that their requests and information will not be logged, with options for ChatGPT premium features. The technical aspects of Apple Intelligence include Private Cloud Compute, which uses server-based models for complex queries without storing user data, and independent verification to ensure privacy and security promises are met.

While the ChatGPT integration is expected later in the year, it may not be available at the initial launch of iOS 18. Nonetheless, Apple Intelligence represents a significant step forward in personalized AI, offering a seamless and secure experience across Apple devices.

Assassin’s Creed: Shadow Gameplay Unveiled, The 13-minute Clip has its Exciting Moments

By

Anubhav

-

Jun 11, 2024

Ubisoft kicked off their 2024 preview conference with a bang, showcasing a thrilling 13-minute gameplay demonstration for Assassin’s Creed: Shadow. Set against the backdrop of Japan’s Warring States period, the game seems like a trip, with dual protagonists and diverse combat options.

Gamers can play as a skilled ninja and a powerful samurai

Players take on the roles of both a skilled ninja and a powerful samurai, offering a fresh approach to the series’ combat. This flexibility allows you to choose between stealthy maneuvers favored by ninjas or the direct, head-on approach of a samurai.

The gameplay retains the series’ signature blend of open-world exploration, street brawls, and strategic stealth mechanics. The video depicts how NPCs react differently to your chosen character; crowds scatter in fear of the samurai, while bowing respectfully as they pass.

Ubisoft highlighted the game’s core concept: “Two different assassins, two completely different combat modes! Choose the way to achieve your goals at will, and write a new legend in the Japanese Warring States Period!”

Assassin’s Creed: Shadow is slated for release on November 15, 2024, across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC platforms. As per reports, the game’s availability on Mac and iPad thanks to information revealed at Apple’s WWDC24 conference. This wider platform reach extends the Assassin’s Creed experience to a broader audience.

(Via)

iOS 18 is Bringing Charging Limits to the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro

By

Anubhav

-

Jun 11, 2024

Apple officially unveiled the iOS 18 update today at the WWDC24 developer conference. Alongside the announcement, they released the first developer preview version.

Previously, iPhone 14 Pro and earlier models were limited to 80% charging

One of the noteworthy features in the new update is the introduction of more charging limit options for iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro users. In addition to the existing 80% limit aimed at extending battery lifespan, users can now choose from 85%, 90%, and 95% limits through a convenient slider control.

Previously, iPhone 14 Pro and earlier models were limited to the single 80% charging limit option. It’s important to note that this expanded charging limit feature remains exclusive to the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro series for now.

Apple also released the developer preview beta update (internal version number: 22A5282m) for iPhone users today. The public beta is expected to arrive next month, with the full system rollout planned for this fall.

(VIA)

Musk Lashes Out at Apple’s OpenAI Partnership, Citing Security Concerns

By

Anubhav

-

Jun 11, 2024

The already strained relationship between Elon Musk and OpenAI took another blow following Apple‘s announcement at WWDC24. Apple revealed a future collaboration with OpenAI, intending to integrate OpenAI’s ChatGPT technology with Siri. This news sparked outrage from Musk, who took to platform X with a series of posts accusing Apple of “selling user data.”

The public spat between Sam Altman and Elon Musk seems to be escalating

Musk expressed his skepticism, stating, “Apple isn’t innovative enough to create its own AI, yet thinks it can guarantee user privacy through OpenAI? That’s laughable! Once your data reaches OpenAI, Apple loses control. They’re essentially selling you out.”

His criticism escalated further, threatening a potential ban: “If Apple integrates OpenAI at the operating system level,” Musk declared, “Apple devices will be prohibited within my companies. This represents a serious security breach. Visitors will be required to surrender their Apple devices at the entrance and store them in Faraday cages.” (A Faraday cage is a metal enclosure that blocks electromagnetic signals.)

This public spat highlights the ongoing tension between Musk and OpenAI. With Apple entering the equation, the battle lines for artificial intelligence development and user data security become even more complex.

(VIA)

Realme C65 5G Speedy Red color launched with Rs 1,000 bank discount

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jun 11, 2024

Realme has expanded its color offerings for the Realme C65 5G with a new Speedy Red variant. Initially launched in April 2024 with the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC, this smartphone features a design similar to the previously released Feather Green model.

The Speedy Red version will be available from June 14 at noon on Flipkart and Realme’s official e-Shop. To promote this new color, Realme is offering an instant discount of up to Rs 1,000. The pricing details for the different configurations are as follows:

4GB RAM + 64GB Storage: Rs 10,490
4GB RAM + 128GB Storage: Rs 11,490
8GB RAM + 128GB Storage: Rs 12,490

Realme C65 specs:

The Realme C65 5G features a 6.67-inch LCD screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate and HD+ resolution. It includes virtual RAM expansion for enhanced performance and a MiniCapsule 2.0, which functions similarly to Apple’s Dynamic Island, showing notifications and battery status.

Camera capabilities include a 50 MP main sensor with a 2 MP secondary camera and an 8 MP front camera for selfies. The phone is equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery that supports 15W charging.

Additional specifications include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, face unlock, and an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. The device is also equipped with Air Gestures and a Dynamic Button.

In related news, Realme has recently launched the Narzo N63, which is a premium-looking, yet affordable smartphone. It is powered by the UNISOC T612 processor and comes in a vegan leather back option. The starting price of the device is only Rs. 7999, however, after the launch offer window is over, it will jump up to Rs. 8499.

Huawei Pura 70 Ultra EMUI update to fix the heating issue is now available

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jun 11, 2024

Huawei has introduced a new update for its Pura 70 Ultra smartphones, aimed at resolving issues related to device overheating. This patch follows earlier updates that enhanced camera functions and integrated the May 2024 security measures to protect against vulnerabilities.

Recent reports from users indicated that the Pura 70 Ultra was overheating even during regular use. In response, Huawei has quickly deployed an EMUI system patch designated as version 14.2.0.161, the same as the previous update but with a file size of 2.61MB.

Update Focus:

Overheating Fix: The update addresses specific conditions that cause the device to overheat.
System Stability: Although no new features are added in this patch, users might notice improved stability and performance post-installation.

How to Install the Update:

Navigate to Settings > System and Updates > Software Updates on your device.
Search for the latest update.
Once the update appears, tap on Download and Install.

Huawei Pura 70 Ultra specs:

The Pura 70 Ultra features a 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,500 nits. It has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

It runs on a Kirin 9010 chip and includes a 5,200mAh battery with 100W wired charging 80W wireless charging, and 20W reverse wireless charging.

The Pura 70 Ultra’s camera setup includes a 50MP primary camera with a retractable lens, a 50MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom and OIS, and a 40MP ultra-wide lens with autofocus.

In related news, the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra was crowned the king of smartphone cameras by DxOMark last month and it is yet to be dethroned. The device excels in Photography, videography, zoom, Bokeh, and low-light performance.

(via)

Blackview MP100 mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 and up to 64GB of RAM unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Jun 10, 2024

The Blackview MP100 mini PC has been launched and it comes with an affordable price tag. The new Blackview mini PC is powered by the Ryzen 7 5700U chipset with up to 64GB of RAM and . 3TB maximum storage.

The Blackview MP100 mini PC comes with a decent amount of power. It comes in several memory/ storage configurations from 16GB/ 512GB to 32GB/ 1TB. The AMD Ryzen 7 5700U has 8 cores and 16 threads and can comfortably take care of most productivity and entertainment workloads. The processor’s storage capacity can be extended up to 3TB while the memory can reach 64GB of RAM. This can be achieved using the Crucial CL22 kit which is currently retailing on Amazon for $133.65.

The MP 100 has the AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 integrated GPU but this is sub-par compared to the Radeon 780M. Recent benchmark results indicate that the MP 100 can conveniently run many games at 30fps or higher with the settings scaled down. In terms of cooling, the Blackview MP 100 mini PC has an integrated cooling system that keeps the components cool during operation with minimal noise output. The maximum noise level of the mini PC is 40dB and this threshold is approached during stress conditions.

The Blackview MP 100 mini PC has two USB-C ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 2, one USB 2.0, one Ethernet, one HDMI 2.0, and one DisplayPort interface. It is compatible with Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6 wireless connectivity. The mini PC comes with a VESA mount, triple display out capability, and RGB lights to illuminate the computer.

Pricing & Availability

The Blackview MP 100 is currently offered via AliExpress at a discounted price of $276.99 for the 16GB/ 512GB configuration. The top option in the range is the 32GB/ 1TB option which is priced at $341.60.

Xiaomi Smart Camera C300 Dual-Camera Edition unveiled for 269 yuan ($37)

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Jun 10, 2024

Xiaomi has announced a crowdfunding campaign for the Smart Camera C300 Dual-Camera Edition on Xiaomi Mall. The camera comes with two screens and the campaign will open on June 12.

Features

The Xiaomi Smart Camera C300 Dual-Camera Edition has a dual-lens design that allows the camera to cover and shoot two different scenes at the same time. This effectively enhances the monitoring of blind spots in the home. The dual lenses of the camera are each rated 3MP and they offer a resolution of 2304 x 1296 pixels. The camera combines a 6mm pan-tilt telephoto lens with a 2.8mm short-focus fixed lens. This arrangement takes care of a wide range of applications and combines both long and short focal lengths.

When operational, one lens is responsible for dynamic monitoring while the other takes care of static monitoring. This ensures a 360-degree horizontal viewing angle and a vertical viewing angle of 88 degrees. The two lenses of the Xiaomi Smart Camera C300 Dual-Camera Edition are equipped with twelve 940nm infrared fill lights, delivering clear video recording in any environment. The device has several AI care functions including AI detection of dual images simultaneously, support for human detection, virtual fences, and AI face recognition, among others.

The Xiaomi Smart Camera C300 Dual-Camera Edition is compatible with the Xiaomi Pengpai Intelligent Link technology. Both lenses can trigger device linkage and this offers an intelligent linkage experience for many more scenarios.

Pricing & Availability

The dual-lens camera will be available from June 12 on Xiaomi Mall and the crowdfunding price is 269 yuan ($37). However, the original price of the camera is 299 yuan ($41).

Philips launches new 23.8-inch 2K 100Hz monitor in China for $96

By

Soumyakanti

-

Jun 10, 2024

Philips has launched a new 23.8-inch monitor called the “24E1N1520” in the Chinese market. This monitor boasts a 2K 100Hz display, making it a great option for productivity tasks and casual gaming. The monitor is now available on JD.com for 699 yuan ($96). Let’s check out its key specs.

Philips 24E1N1520 Monitor Specifications:

The Philips 24E1N1520 features a 23.8-inch IPS LCD panel with a 2560 x 1440 resolution and 8-bit color depth. The IPS panel offers wide viewing angles (178 degrees) and accurate color reproduction, making it well-suited for office work, design, and multimedia consumption. The monitor boasts a 100Hz refresh rate ensuring smooth visuals.

The monitor also boasts a 1ms (MPRT) response time for gamers, which minimizes ghosting and blurring for a more responsive gaming experience. Additionally, the monitor supports Adaptive Sync technology, which helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.

The Philips 24E1N1520 covers 94% of the sRGB color gamut and 73% NTSC, delivering vibrant and accurate colors. This makes the monitor suitable for content creation and design work. The monitor features a brightness level of 250 nits and a static contrast ratio of 1300:1, enabling deep blacks.

The monitor also features a number of eye care features, including a low blue light filter and flicker-free technology, which can help to reduce eye strain during long periods of use.

The monitor’s intelligent features extend to SmartContrast technology, which dynamically adjusts colors and backlight intensity based on the content being displayed. This adaptation enhances the overall viewing experience by boosting contrast and optimizing picture quality for different types of media.

In terms of connectivity, the Philips 24E1N1520 comes equipped with HDMI 2.0 and DP 1.4 ports. This allows you to connect the monitor to a variety of devices, including computers, laptops, and gaming consoles. The monitor also features a VESA mount hole pattern, so you can easily mount it on a wall or monitor arm.

Xiaomi TV lineup in India: A breakdown by series, display, software, and more

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jun 10, 2024

Xiaomi has established itself as a major player in the Indian television market, offering a range of TVs under both the Xiaomi and Redmi brands. This variety meets different budgets and needs, but it can also make choosing the right TV a bit confusing.

So in this article, we’ll simplify things by breaking down the Xiaomi TV lineup in India. We’ll categorize them by series, display technology, software, and price range. Let’s dive in!

Prev Next

1. Brand Differentiation

Just like their smartphones, Xiaomi offers TVs under both the Xiaomi and Redmi brands. As you might have guessed, Redmi TVs are generally positioned as a more budget-friendly option, while Xiaomi TVs cater to a wider range, including mid-tier and premium segments. That said, there is an affordable series under the Xiaomi brand called the Xiaomi Smart TV A series, which the company updates annually.

Xiaomi TV Series

Xiaomi offers several TV series under its brand name. Here’s a breakdown:

Smart TV A Series: This series focuses on affordability, featuring HD-ready and Full HD resolutions suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
Smart TV X Series: Stepping up the screen quality, the X Series offers 4K resolution with HDR capabilities, targeting those seeking a superior viewing experience.
Smart TV X Pro Series: A step above the X Series, the X Pro Series offers higher-end features, such as improved picture processing and premium build materials.
QLED / OLED TV: These are Xiaomi’s premium-end TVs packed with all the features you would expect on a flagship-grade TV.

Redmi Smart TVs

The smart TV choices available under the Redmi brand are more limited compared to Xiaomi. The current lineup centers around:

Redmi Smart TV X Series: Similar to the Xiaomi X Series, these Redmi TVs provide 4K resolution with HDR for a price-conscious option in the 4K segment.
Redmi Smart Fire TV Series: As implied by the name, this series comes pre-installed with Fire TV from Amazon as its operating system which may appeal to users familiar with the Amazon ecosystem.

2. Display Tech

The display technology used in Xiaomi TVs varies depending on the series and model.

LED (Light-Emitting Diode): LED TVs are the most common display type across Xiaomi and Redmi’s lineup. They offer decent picture quality and are available at various price points.
QLED (Quantum-dot Light-Emitting Diode): QLED is a variant of LED technology that utilizes quantum dots to enhance color accuracy and brightness. Currently, QLED TVs are not as prevalent in Xiaomi’s offerings in India.
OLED TV: Sitting at the pinnacle of Xiaomi’s display technology offerings, OLED panels boast exceptional contrast ratios, perfect blacks, and wide viewing angles. This premium technology is ideal for discerning viewers seeking the most immersive and true-to-life picture quality.
Resolution: Xiaomi TVs (including RedmI) offer a range of resolutions from HD Ready (720p) to Ultra HD (4K). Higher resolutions provide sharper visuals, which are ideal for larger screens and viewing content with intricate details.

3. Software

As of now, Xiaomi has two different software platforms for their TVs:

Patchwall: This is Xiaomi’s proprietary smart TV interface built on top of Android, available on most Xiaomi and Redmi TVs. Patchwall focuses on content discovery with personalized recommendations and a curated content library. It can also seamlessly integrate with other Xiaomi smart home devices for a unified ecosystem experience.
Fire TV: The brand recently introduced a few Redmi Smart TVs that run on Fire TV OS. They are easy to identify as they carry the ‘Fire TV’ tag in their name, such as ‘Redmi Smart Fire TV 4K’. They offer native access to the Amazon content library and can seamlessly integrate with other Amazon devices.

4. Price

Xiaomi’s TV lineup caters to a wide range of budgets. The A series caters to the affordable segment, with prices starting around Rs 12,499 for a 32-inch HD Ready model. Likewise, Redmi’s Smart Fire TV 4K 43-inch model costs Rs 24,999.

Prices increase steadily with larger screen type and size, higher resolution, and software experience, and can even exceed the 1 lakh mark. For instance, the Mi TV QLED 75 is likely the most expensive offering by the brand in India, priced at Rs 109,999.

5. Conclusion

Xiaomi’s dominance in the Indian smart TV market is due to its diverse product lineup catering to various budgets and preferences. The A series offers a more budget-friendly entry point, while the X series caters to those who want a premium home entertainment experience.

Moreover, with different software platforms like Android-based Patchwall and Fire TV available, users have the flexibility to choose their preferred platform. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual needs and budget constraints.

JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds with Adaptive Noise Cancellation teased on Amazon India, launch imminent

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jun 10, 2024

JBL recently showcased its new Live TWS 3 series at CES 2024, including the Live Beam 3 earbuds, which are set to be available soon in India and other international markets.

While the official release date has not been announced, these earbuds are already listed on Amazon and JBL’s Indian websites. On the JBL website, the device is priced at Rs. 24,999 in India. That said, we expect it to be a placeholder price as Amazon Indian has teased that these earbuds will be priced below Rs. 20,000. You can check out the specifications and features below.

JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds specs:

The Live Beam 3 comes with 10mm dynamic drivers and JBL’s signature sound. The earbuds can last up to 48 hours on a single charge without noise cancellation, and up to 40 hours with noise cancellation activated. They also offer a quick charge feature that gives 4 hours of playtime after just 15 minutes of charging.

These earbuds include a customizable SmartCase for controlling sound settings and calls, and even personalizing the case’s screensaver. Other features include Hi-res audio, adaptive noise cancellation for clearer sound in noisy environments, and six microphones for better call clarity.

The Live Beam 3 supports wireless charging and can be adjusted using the JBL Headphones app, where users can tweak the EQ, audio, and video settings. They come with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for reliable pairing and are available in black, blue, and gray.

In related news, JBL has also recently debuted the JBL Live Buds 3 earbuds in China. Like the Live Beam 3, the Live Buds 3 also features a touchscreen LCD panel along with a 7-level Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), as well as 3D spatial audio. These earbuds have launched with a 1,299 Yuan (~$179) price tag in China. These earbuds are already available in other regions across the globe, like the EU for EUR 200.

Nokia invents ‘Immersive’ phone call technology

By

Debasish

-

Jun 10, 2024

Nokia‘s CEO Pekka Lundmark made a phone call using a new technology called “immersive audio and video.” According to the company, their new calling technology improves the quality of a call, adding a three-dimensional effect for a more realistic listening experience. The demonstration call was held with Stefan Lindström, Finland’s Ambassador of Digitalisation and New Technologies.

Nokia expects their 3D calling technology to become the new standard

Nokia expects their new 3D calling method to become a standard soon. So they encouraged network providers, chipset manufacturers, and handset manufacturers to work on the latest technology and implement the ‘immersive’ calling capability into their products.

The goal of this new development is similar to Google’s Project Starline. However, Nokia’s immersive calling technology has fewer requirements than Google’s.

The CEO effectively demonstrated the future of voice calling. Reportedly, he was also present during the demonstration of the 2G calling.

Both the underlying technology in calling and the end result have stayed largely the same for quite some time. Calling used heavy compression to reduce the file size, which was necessary for the transmission when the technology was first developed. Although high-quality audio with multiple channels can be transmitted with the current infrastructure, we still use the monophonic system. That’s why Nokia’s 3D audio-based immersive calling is a notable addition to the calling technology.

Nokia’s latest contribution will not only let you hear the speaker on the other end. but also let you visualize the environment on the other end. “It is the biggest leap forward in the live voice calling experience since the introduction of monophonic telephony audio used in smartphones and PCs today,” said Jenni Lukander, Nokia’s president.

One of the advantages of this new calling method is that it does not require special audio devices to experience the 3D effect. Creating the immersive effect reportedly only requires a stereo microphone setup, which nearly all recent smartphones already have.

If you’re still thinking about the transmission, the call was demonstrated with a regular 5G enabled smartphone. In the image above you will see CEO Pekka Lundmark holding a Pixel device. Reportedly, besides a person-to-person call, the new immersive experience can also be implemented for conference calls.

Nokia expects to license the new technology and make it available to the public within a few years.

(Source)

Save Maximum on OnePlus Smartphones and Accessories: OnePlus One Community Sale

By

Simranpal Singh

-

Jun 10, 2024

OnePlus is hosting the OnePlus Community Sale on Amazon India with massive discounts on OnePlus smartphones and other accessories. Interested folks can save most on the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 Series, OnePlus Bullet Wireless Series, OnePlus Buds 3, and OnePlus Buds Pro 2 earbuds. Users can also upgrade to the latest OnePlus smartphones at a good price.

OnePlus One Community Sale in India: Details

Along with inclusive discounts, there’s an additional instant discount of up to Rs 5,000 applicable to smartphones and audio products if you purchase with ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, OneCard, and BOBCard.

There’s an additional discount on each smartphone and audio product, and it is inclusive of the price the product is retailing.

OnePlus Bullet Wireless Series

Good discounts are going on for the OnePlus Bullet Wireless series of earphones. Specifically, the OnePlus Bullets Z2 Wireless Earphones are now available for Rs. 1249, the price is inclusive of the Bank cashback and other discounts. However, the list price on the website is Rs 1394 for OnePllus Bullets Z2 Bluetooth. OnePlus 11R 5G

Check Price on Amazon

OnePlus Nord Buds 2 Series

The popular OnePlus Nord Buds 2r is also available for a discounted price of Rs 1549. However, it currently retails for Rs 17,99, exclusive of bank discounts and cashback.

Check Price on Amazon

OnePlus Buds 3

The famous earbuds from OnePlus are now retailing for the price of Rs 4499, given Rs 500 bank discount on the present retail price. It offers Adaptive Noise Cancellation support, the ability for simultaneous connections, and a battery life of up to 44 hours.

Check Price on Amazon

OnePlus 11R

The smartphone with Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 is on sale for Rs 27,999. However, there’s an additional Rs 1399 cashback on Amazon ICICI Bank Cards.

Check Price on Amazon

There are discounts on the whole fleet of OnePlus devices, and accessories. We suggest checking the discounts and casback offers by heading to Amazon.

Related:

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.