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Upcoming Honor X60 series leaked! Big battery, drop resistance, & quad curved display

Honor is gearing up to unveil the Honor 200 series in China soon. But it appears that this isn’t the only smartphone lineup in the plans. A fresh leak has claimed that the Honor X60 series is also in the works, with some of its features being revealed. So let’s have a look.

Honor X60 Series Tipped

Honor X50 Pro

The news arrives from known tipster Digital Chat Station who shared the information of Weibo. As the name suggest, the X60 series is the successor to the X50 lineup. The latter included models like the X50, X50i, X50i+, X50 Pro, and X50 GT. In other words, there are likely multiple variants of the Honor X60 as well. The tipster also shared some key design details of the upcoming devices.

Reportedly, the smartphone will feature a quad curved display on the front. This is usually present in high-end devices, so the X60 would likely continue to be positioned as an affordable flagship phone, like its predecessor. Furthermore, Digital Chat Station claimed that the Honor X60 series will be powered by a large battery pack and offer “super” drop resistance. The brand has released devices with anti-drop features in the recent past, so this isn’t something new.

Honor X60 series

Unfortunately, this is all the information we have at the moment as DCS didn’t share any finer details like its specs, pricing, or launch date. But we can expect more details to surface soon via leaks and teasers. So stay tuned for more as we will be providing updates when more information is available regarding this matter.

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Xiaomi reports net profits of 6.5 billion yuan ($897.6 million) for Q1 2024

Chinese tech powerhouse Xiaomi has reported adjusted net profits of 6.5 billion yuan ($897.6 million) for the first quarter of 2024. The company announced its unaudited consolidated financial results for January to March 2024 with double-digit Year-on-Year growth for two consecutive quarters.

Xiaomi Q1 2024

Xiaomi is mainly focused on consumer electronics and smart manufacturing, with smartphones and hardware connected by its core IoT platform. The Xiaomi Group’s total revenue increased by 27% YoY to 75.5 billion yuan ($10.42 billion). The adjusted net profit increased by 100.8% to 6.5 billion yuan ($897.6 million). The report also indicated that Xiaomi incurred about 2.3 billion yuan ($317.6 million) in expenses in the development of the brand’s smart electric vehicle.

Xiaomi’s gross profit margin reached 22.3% which was an increase of 2.8% YoY. The profitability of the core businesses of Xiaomi is at the heart of its impressive financial performance in Q1 2024. The results show that Xiaomi’s premiumization strategy paid off with the rising ASP of smartphones. Xiaomi’s global smartphone shipments increased by 33.7% YoY during the period (40.6 million units shipped). Smartphone revenue achieved the fourth consecutive quarterly growth and reached 46.5 billion yuan ($6.42 billion). Xiaomi also maintained its top-three position as a leading smartphone brand globally.

The business margin of Xiaomi’s Internet of Things (IoT) was very impressive, hitting a record high. Smart large home appliances showed strong momentum within the period ending on March 31, 2024. Revenue from IoT and lifestyle products increased by a record 21% YoY to 20.4 billion yuan ($2.82 billion). Furthermore, solid internet services growth continues to spur the brand’s global expansion plans. Xiaomi also sees improvement in its EV business strategy as it plans to scale up production to 100,000 units per year.

Overall, the outlook remains very promising for Xiaomi. It is expected that the same impressive performance is expected for the subsequent quarters of 2024.

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(source)

Creality Falcon2 Pro 60W Laser Engraver: Exclusive Limited-Time Deal

The Creality Falcon2 Pro 60W is a product that redefines what users can expect from such devices. As the industry’s first 60W integrated machine, the Falcon2 Pro offers unparalleled cutting power, intelligent features, and a high level of safety and precision that make it stand out in a crowded field.

Exclusive DEAL:

The Creality Falcon2 Pro 60W laser engraver and cutter is now available with a 15% discount on the official Creality Falcon Store during the initial sales period from May 24, 2024, to June 15, 2024. The first 200 units are up for grabs, with special gifts for early buyers: the first 100 orders receive a gift worth $199, and orders 101-200 get a gift worth $50. Additionally, one lucky customer who purchases during this period will win a free order. This offer is available across various regional stores including the US, EU, UK, CA, and AU.

60W Laser Power: The Mightiest Cutting Ability

The Falcon2 Pro 60W boasts a powerful 60W laser module, making it the most formidable laser engraver and cutter available. This high-performance laser can effortlessly cut through a variety of materials, including 3mm metal, 22mm basswood board, and 30mm acrylic in a single pass. This exceptional cutting capability not only expands the range of materials you can work with but also opens up new creative possibilities, allowing you to explore more ambitious projects.

Intelligent 3-Level Adjustment Beam

One of the standout features of the Falcon2 Pro 60W is its intelligent 3-level adjustment beam. This patented technology allows users to switch between 22W, 40W, and 60W power levels with a simple click. This flexibility means you can tailor the machine’s performance to suit different tasks, whether you’re working on fine engravings or large-scale cutting projects. This versatility makes the Falcon2 Pro a true multi-functional tool that can handle a wide range of applications with ease.

Built-in Camera for Auto-positioning

Precision is paramount in laser engraving and cutting, and the Falcon2 Pro excels in this area thanks to its built-in camera for auto-positioning. The high-precision camera, combined with advanced image algorithms, ensures perfect positioning of the material every time. This feature is particularly beneficial for detailed work, allowing for meticulous accuracy even in complex designs. The camera covers the entire 400x400mm workspace, enabling efficient batch processing and significantly increasing productivity.

Super-Higher Working Efficiency

The combination of the powerful 60W laser and intelligent features like the built-in camera results in super-higher working efficiency. The optimized cooling system and control algorithms minimize power loss and maximize cutting speed. For instance, cutting efficiency for the same thickness of basswood is 300% higher with the 60W laser compared to a 22W laser, reducing a 1.5-day task to just one day. This increased efficiency not only saves time but also boosts your business potential by allowing for faster turnaround times.

Achieve Precise Engraving for Photos

Included with the Falcon2 Pro is a bonus 1.6W laser module, perfect for achieving precise engravings on a variety of materials. This module excels at detailed work, such as photo-engravings, making it ideal for creating personalized gifts and preserving cherished memories. It can handle materials ranging from wood and leather to acrylic and precious metals, offering a wide range of creative possibilities.

Integrated Machine with High Protection

Safety is a critical consideration in any laser engraving and cutting machine, and the Falcon2 Pro takes this seriously. As a fully enclosed machine with Class-1 safety certification, it ensures there is no laser leakage, providing a safe working environment without the need for protective goggles. The fire-resistant design and high transparency cover further enhance safety, making it suitable for home use and small studios alike.

Air Assist for Better Work Results

The Falcon2 Pro is equipped with an air assist system, which significantly improves the quality of cuts and engravings. By directing a stream of air onto the cutting area, it helps to clear away debris and smoke, resulting in cleaner edges and more precise results. This feature is particularly useful for intricate designs and detailed work, ensuring that your finished projects are of the highest quality.

User-friendly Design

Thoughtful design touches make the Falcon2 Pro easy and convenient to use. The metal drawer design provides a handy storage space for creative debris, making clean-up quick and efficient. The push-pull cover is perfect for small spaces, allowing for better placement and ease of use. Additionally, built-in features like the fan and light strip enhance the overall user experience, making it a pleasure to work with.

Applications and Creative Possibilities

The versatility and power of the Falcon2 Pro make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from business services and customization to home decoration and festive projects.

Business Services and Customization

For businesses offering customization services, the Falcon2 Pro is a game-changer. Its ability to handle batch processing efficiently makes it ideal for producing customized products in large quantities. Whether you’re creating personalized gifts, promotional items, or bespoke products, the Falcon2 Pro can help you meet your client’s needs with precision and speed. Its high-efficiency and intelligent features make it a valuable asset for any business looking to expand its offerings and increase profitability.

Home and Festive Decoration

The Falcon2 Pro is also perfect for home and festive decoration projects. Its powerful 60W laser can handle large-scale decorations, such as cutting intricate designs for holiday ornaments or creating custom home decor pieces. The intelligent beam adjustment allows you to switch to lower power levels for more delicate work, such as engraving personalized messages or detailed designs. This flexibility makes it easy to create beautiful, customized decorations that add a personal touch to your home.

Personalized Gifts and Handmade DIY

For hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts, the Falcon2 Pro opens up a world of creative possibilities. The bonus 1.6W laser module is perfect for detailed engraving, allowing you to create unique, personalized gifts for friends and family. From engraving names and dates on wooden plaques to creating custom jewelry pieces, the Falcon2 Pro enables you to bring your creative visions to life. Its user-friendly design and safety features make it accessible for beginners and experienced users alike.

Retail and Customer Support

The Creality Falcon2 Pro 60W is available for purchase through Creality’s official website and authorized retailers. Creality provides comprehensive customer support, including detailed tutorials, troubleshooting guides, and responsive customer service to ensure that users can get the most out of their Falcon2 Pro.

The Creality Falcon2 Pro 60W is a revolutionary product that sets a new standard in the laser engraving and cutting industry. Its powerful 60W laser, intelligent features, and high level of safety and precision make it a versatile and reliable tool for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re a business owner looking to expand your services, a hobbyist exploring new creative possibilities, or someone in need of personalized gifts and decorations, the Falcon2 Pro is the perfect solution.

Where to Buy Creality Falcon2 Pro 60W

United States: https://store.creality.com/products/falcon2-pro-60w-pro-safe-laser-engraver-cutter?aid=ZBKOLUS

Motorola G04s India launch May 30: New budget phone with 50MP camera & big battery

Back in April 2024, Motorola announced the brand-new Moto G04s smartphone model in the European market. The device is an entry-level smartphone, and now, it appears that the G04s is arriving in India as well. So here’s everything we know so far.

Moto G04s to launch in India next week

As per official notes, the Moto G04s will launch be launching in the region on 30th May 2024. Furthermore, this device will be sold exclusively through Flipkart, a popular e-retailer in India. A Flipkart microsite has also gone live, teasing the launch of the upcoming Motorola budget phone. To recall, the G04s was announced in Europe with a 6.56-inch IPS LCD panel that offers an HD+ resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and a center align punch hole cutout.

Moto G04s
Moto G04s

Under the hood, it is equipped with the UNISOC T606 processor, which is paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. Users can expand storage via a microSD card slot. This device offers virtuam RAM expansion of up to 8GB RAM as well. For optics, the rear features a 50-megapixel camera, while the front packs a 5-megapixel selfie shooter. It runs on the Android 14 OS based MyUX out of the box.

A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports 15W wired fast charging. The Moto G04s was announced in four shades, which include Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, and Sunrise Orange. Motorola is expected to launch the device in India for under 10,000 INR, so stay tuned for more updates.

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vivo X100 Ultra Full Review: From Micro to Macro, Capture Every Moment in the World

The X100 Ultra, Vivo’s most powerful phone so far, also comes at the latest time among all flagship phone brands. In a few months, Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be released soon, and by then the phones with 8 Gen 3 will be outdated to some extent. What made Vivo so confident to do it this way? We tried and tested its power, especially the camera capacity. Now I’m sure that the phone is powerful enough to please almost everyone.

Here’s an enticing deal for tech enthusiasts: Get VIVO X100 Ultra at a special presale price of $100 off! Simply use the coupon code “GX100” to avail of this discount. This offer is only valid until May 29th, 2024.

WHERE TO BUY
Buy vivo X100 Ultra on GEEKWILLS with $100 off code: GX100

Telephoto Camera

Like the Pro version, the X100 Ultra is housing triple lenses with different focal lengths, which is different from the four focal lengths used by Xiaomi and OPPO. What’s different from the Pro is that the sensors of the three cameras have various upgrades respectively. In particular, the telephoto camera is the best telephoto camera available on a phone and it is also the X100 Ultra’s main selling point.

Although the focal length has been shifted from 100mm to 85mm, it’s actually a good adjustment for this phone. Because the zoom between 23mm and 100mm on the Pro version is digitally cropped, the range is so wide that the drop in image quality is more noticeable. Now the X100 Ultra’s 85mm telephoto camera will fix that a bit.

So how great is this telephoto camera? The answer is superb, so good that I’m willing to give it the title of world’s best. 200MP HP9 with the In-sensor-zoom feature, plus Vivo’s AI algorithms will make you become a sniper without a problem. Can you believe this is a 600mm or 26x zoomed-in photo? You must know that it only has a 3.7x optical zoom (check it out in the review video).

The over-sharpening is also not very noticeable like before. As you can see, the pet’s fur is presented naturally. The sensor area is bigger, and you no longer need the main camera to crop the image when there is insufficient lighting at night.

All in all, I am very satisfied with this camera. But of course, nothing is perfect. For example, the unstable white balance issue is still there without been fixed. But other than that, it’s hard to pick any other flaws with this camera.

Macro mode

It’s no surprise that a telephoto camera can take macro photos, but what happens when the macro function catches up with the best telephoto phone camera in the world? It’s getting me addicted.

The ultra-high pixel count and large sensor bring high image quality like never before. I’ve never seen such great macro photos shot on a smartphone. It has driven me a lot to take a photo of any subject in macro mode that is close to me.

Take a look at this photo with two flies in it, can you see them? Let’s take a closer look at it in macro mode.

I apologize for interrupting their sweet time, but, hey, look at the image quality. You can even see the hairs on the legs. This is unbelievable! The other bug doesn’t seem to have found its mate yet, staying there thinking about its life. This is the X100 Ultra, a phone that can shoot insect documentaries.

The only thing I would complain about is the shallow depth of field, sometimes I don’t want to blur out the background, but there’s nothing I can do about it, this is physics after all. Fortunately, shallow depth of field is a good thing most of the time, so it’s not a big deal. Being both a telescope and a microscope, no one should disagree with me when I say it’s the world’s number one telephoto camera for smartphones now, right?

Color Mode

The X100 Ultra still has three color modes: Vivid is characterized by bright and vivid colors, Textured is characterized by low exposure, high contrast, and noticeable vignetting, and ZEISS Natural is closer to Vivid, but with lower contrast and a cooler white balance.

Each of the three modes has its own use scenario: if recording daily life, such as taking photos of food and portraits, the Vivid mode is the best.

If you want to create your own photography, or shoot neon lights at night, try using Textured mode. Because Vivid’s HDR effect is too strong, it doesn’t look as good as Textured mode’s.

When the first two modes don’t work well, it’s time for ZEISS Natural mode to take over, most of the time it takes decent photos easily. It actually has a fourth color mode tucked away somewhere else. What it is and where it is, we’ll show you later.

Main Camera

Let’s talk about the main camera. In terms of image quality, there is no significant difference between the main camera of the Ultra and the Pro. I mean the Pro’s main camera is already at the top of its game, the Ultra doesn’t surprise us much. Or maybe the telephoto cameras have surprised us so much that it seems like the main camera is less of an improvement.

Compared to taking photos, the main camera will be a bigger improvement in video recording. Instead of using the same physical variable aperture design as HUAWEI and Xiaomi, the X100 Ultra has added a gimbal-like anti-shake structure. So the stability of the footage will be improved a lot, and obviously, it’s much better than any other Android phone when recording at night.

For video samples, check out the video at the beginning of the article.

All cameras can be switched in Dolby Vision mode at will, whether they’re recording or not, which is something other Android phones can’t do. The ultra wide-angle camera is a bit less competent than the other two cameras though. It’s the only one that can’t record 4K 120fps video specs. I also found a problem that I’m not sure if it’s a bug or not: its 4K 60fps preview is without EIS and looks very shaky. But when you go to the albums, you’ll see that the footage is actually very stable. It’s quite strange that I’ve never seen before.

For video samples, check out the video at the beginning of the article.

Ultra-wide Camera

The ultra-wide camera is the most common of the three. Although the hardware has been upgraded, the improvement in image quality is not very significant. We won’t go into too much detail, but you’ll see how great it is when you look at the sample photos.

Portraits

Portraits have always been a strength of Vivo’s phone. Skin tones are accurate and there are various beauty effects as well. The X100 Ultra’s selfie camera has been enhanced quite a lot. In addition to having autofocus, there’s also 4K 60fps video recording. This should be good news for Vloggers.

AI is also used in portrait mode, such as the AI Visual feature. It converts your portraits to be like you took them in four different seasons. Though you can find out it doesn’t convert perfectly by zooming in. We use it for fun anyway, so don’t take it too seriously.

Camera experience

Vivo has also put a lot of effort into the camera experience this time. For example, it puts several commonly-used focal lengths in the same button. Sometimes it’s hard to use the dial to adjust to the focal length I want, and it’s really easier and faster to tap to switch.

Another example is that to emphasize the X100 Ultra’s status as a photography flagship, Vivo has designed a new mode for it: the Humanistic Street Photography Camera Mode. Simply put, it’s another Pro mode, but more retro.

In this mode, you can easily adjust various parameters and use various presets. It also has the DISP mode of the Pro cameras, it even allows you to customize the style of the shutter button. There’s a new color mode here, black and white mode. Just like the name says, it enables you to take black-and-white photos. I don’t know why ultra-wide cameras aren’t allowed to use this mode, which really confuses me.

One interesting point is that the default color style for this mode is Textured and HDR is off by default. It’s clear that Vivo wanted this modern and powerful camera phone to turn into a retro camera, making it possible to take highly stylized photos. If you buy that camera grip, then this is the most powerful “old camera” ever.

Here’s an old problem that hasn’t been fixed yet. I really wish Vivo would let me choose the metering preference. Every time the X100 Ultra detects a face, it raises exposure, which sometimes makes me so mad.

Display

The display upgrade on the X100 Ultra is not huge. Although the resolution has been improved, the panel has been replaced with Samsung’s E7 material. Peak brightness hasn’t improved though, and the PWM dimming has gone from 2160Hz on the Pro version to 1440Hz. viewing angles have gotten worse too.

Actually, I can live with all these, what I can’t live with is the fact that its screen form factor is still the same as it was a few years ago. You know, a lot of phones these days have straight screens or curved screens with four equal-width bezels. They’re all very pretty and functional. The X100 Ultra just looks very outdated in front of them. Vivo didn’t put much thought into the screen.

Performance

Similarly, since Qualcomm hasn’t released Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 yet, the X100 Ultra’s processor has to be Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Just… We’ve tested thousands of 8 Gen 3 phones now, and the X100 Ultra just isn’t anything special. It’s good, and it’s in line with the performance we’d expect from a photography flagship phone. After all, you wouldn’t expect this kind of phone to still have a very aggressive strategy over performance, right?

Design, Battery & Charging

The X100 Ultra keeps the design of the X100 family. There aren’t too many noticeable changes other than the camera module being bigger once again. There’s only one thing I can say about the X100 Ultra’s design: what’s going on with the fake camera? Putting the Zeiss logo here would look better to me.

There are only three colorways for the Ultra version, and all of them are much more subtle than the Pro version. Especially the Titanium color we have here, the glass back looks metallic and is my favorite of the three colorways. Otherwise you can actually still think of it as the X100 Pro with satellite communication.

The weight is slightly increased but acceptable. The bad news is that: the charging power is lower, both wired and wireless. And that wireless charging coil has moved down because the camera module is too big, so not all wireless charging docks fit it well. The good news is that the semi-solid state battery gives the X100 Ultra a little more battery capacity, and it won’t shut down automatically and should perform well in cold conditions. And the high-power PPS charging is still here, with great charging compatibility.

All in all, most of the X100 Ultra’s features are similar to the Pro version, which is great, but nothing more.

Summarize

The Vivo X100 Ultra is a good phone, but not good enough. It has one of the top camera systems in the world, but unfortunately, it was released too late. Since this year’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s will be released earlier than last year’s 8 Gen 3’s, right away you’ll be able to buy an 8 Gen 4 phone.

I don’t know how many more people will buy an 8 Gen 3 phone for that camera at that time. But if you just don’t care what happens in the future, you just want a phone that takes the best pictures right now, then the X100 Ultra does give you what you want.

WHERE TO BUY
Buy vivo X100 Ultra on GEEKWILLS with $100 off code: GX100

Honor Magic 6 Pro arriving in India soon: Spotted in HTech teaser & fresh leak

Honor Magic 6 Pro is apparently arriving in the Indian market soon. The flagship device was teased by an HTech executive, while a known tipster shared more details regarding its launch timeline. So here’s everything you need to know.

Honor Magic 6 Pro India Launch Near

Honor-Magic-6-Pro

Madhav Sheth, CEO of HTech, shared a tweet where he showed all the users that have been asking for the Magic 6 Pro to arrive in India. He further added that the Honor Magic series will “exceed Indian consumer’s expectations in reality.” Sheth said this in regards to the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro teaser that claimed it is the slimmest foldable phone in India. Meanwhile, tipster Paras Guglani stated that the Magic 6 Pro could debut in India by the middle of July 2024.

Guglani previously claimed that Honor is starting manufacturing products in India to lower the cost and aggressive pricing. However, the Magic 6 Pro won’t be cheap. During MWC 2024, the high-end device was announced for an exorbitant price tag of 2,699 Euros for its top-end 12GB + 512GB model. To recall, the Magic 6 Pro sports a 6.8-inch OLED display that offers a 120Hz refresh rate, DCI P3 color gamut, 4320Hz PWM Dimming, LTPO, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and up to 5000 nits of peak brightness.

Under the hood, it is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. For optics, you get a triple camera setup with two 50-megapixel shooters and a 180-megapixel telephoto sensor. You also get a 50-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. A large 5,600mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports 80W wired fast charging and 66W wireless fast charging.

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BenQ X500i review: Designed for gaming, decent for movies

The BenQ X500i is a 4K HDR 4LED short-throw home cinema projector aimed squarely at gamers and home theatre enthusiasts. It promises to deliver stunning visuals, immersive audio, and a hassle-free user experience. Sharing many features with BenQ’s flagship X3100i, it offers a compelling value proposition by delivering most of its high-end counterpart’s performance. However, there are some compromises that the company has made, and it is essential to understand where the X500i shines and where it falls short.

Design and Build Quality

BenQ X500i
BenQ X500i

The X500i sports a sleek, modern design with a white finish that should blend well into most home environments. Its compact size and short-throw capability make it easy to place on a coffee table or shelf, projecting a large image without requiring a lot of space. The build quality feels solid, and the included remote control is well-designed and responsive. It measures 366 x 118 x 244mm and weighs only 3.6kg.

Gaming Performance

The X500i excels in gaming, boasting short lag times that match or exceed those of its competitors. It supports 1440p resolution at up to 120Hz, a popular choice for gaming. One of the standout features of the X500i is its low input lag, which is crucial for gamers. With a response time as low as 4ms in 1080p@240Hz mode, the projector offers a smooth and responsive gaming experience, even with fast-paced action games.

Three predefined game modes—RPG, FPS, and SPG—tailor the visual and audio experience to different game genres. These modes adjust both image and sound settings to enhance the gaming experience. For instance, FPS mode tweaks HDR settings for better clarity in dark areas and focuses audio on positional accuracy, while RPG mode boosts cinematic visuals and bass levels. The Auto Game Mode automatically detects when you’re playing a game and switches to the appropriate settings for optimal performance.

Video and Audio Quality

The X500i’s 2,200 ANSI lumens are sufficient for dark or low-light environments, but it may struggle a bit in brighter rooms. In a dark room, it produces vibrant colors, good contrast, and impressive shadow detail, particularly in HDR10 mode after some adjustments to brightness and contrast settings. The projector also features BenQ’s CinematicColor technology, which is designed to reproduce accurate colors that match the filmmaker’s intent.

Audio is another strength, with two 5-watt treVolo speakers delivering high-quality sound. The projector’s MAXXAudio dynamic enhancement and BenQ’s proprietary algorithms ensure immersive audio that can fill a large room. While it lacks support for Dolby Atmos, the X500i’s built-in audio is surprisingly rich and detailed. For a more immersive experience, the projector supports up to 7.1 Dolby Atmos sound via an eARC port, allowing the connection of a soundbar.

While the X500i is optimized for gaming, it also performs well for movie watching, albeit with some limitations. It lacks support for Dolby Vision and HLG, and the default settings for 4K HDR content can be disappointing without adjustment. However, in Cinema mode, it offers good color accuracy and contrast, making it suitable for a variety of content.

Features and User Experience

The BenQ X500i 4K gaming projector features a versatile throw ratio of 0.69 to 0.83 and a 1.2x zoom ratio, allowing for flexible placement and large image projection from short distances. It has a built-in Android TV interface, giving you access to a vast library of apps and streaming services. The projector’s short-throw capability is another significant advantage. It allows you to project a large image from a short distance, making it ideal for smaller rooms or apartments. The digital zoom feature lets you adjust the image size without moving the projector, adding to its flexibility.

It includes two HDMI 2.0b ports with HDCP2.2 support, one USB Type A 2.0 port for power supply, reading, and firmware upgrades, and a USB Type C port with DisplayPort capabilities and Power Delivery output of 5V/1A. Additional connectivity options include an RS232 input (DB-9 pin), Bluetooth 5.0, and Wi-Fi supporting 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4G/5G). For wireless projection, the projector supports AirPlay and Google Cast, enhancing its compatibility with various devices and streaming options.

Setting up the X500i is a breeze. The projector’s user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. It comes with an HDMI Android dongle that needs to be installed behind a panel on the projector. This process requires removing a small screw, plugging in the dongle, and replacing the panel. Once set up, the projector boots up to the Google TV interface, allowing you to log in with your Google account and access your favorite apps via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The projector’s fan noise is noticeable but not overly distracting. In a quiet room, you’ll hear it, but it shouldn’t be an issue during movies or games.

Conclusion

The BenQ X500i is a versatile and capable 4K HDR projector that excels in gaming and home theatre applications. Its bright, colorful image, low input lag, and flexible features make it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment setup. While it’s on the pricier side, its performance and features make it a compelling option for those willing to invest in top-tier quality. If you’re in the market for a high-quality 4K projector and willing to make the investment, the X500i should be at the top of your list.

BenQ X500i price in India, availability

WHERE TO BUY
Buy BenQ X500i Projector @ BenQ India website | Amazon

BenQ X500i gaming projector is listed for Rs 1,89,990 on BenQ India’s online store and Amazon.

Realme GT 6T first impressions: Gamer’s delight with unmatched display, topnotch performance 

Realme unveiled the Realme GT 6T after taking a two-year hiatus from GT series phones in the Indian market. At the launch, the brand claimed that the letter “T” in the moniker of the device indicates top performer. Hence, it is a performance-driven phone offering some great specs with a starting price of Rs 30,999. I have used the phone for a couple of days, and here’s what I think of it.

1. Built for Gaming

Realme GT 6T
Realme GT 6T

Realme GT 6T is India’s first phone featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset. The chip inherits architectures and cores from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. The inclusion of the chip allows it to deliver powerful performance suitable for gaming and resource-intensive tasks. 

The phone ships with up to 8GB/12GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 128GB (UFS 3.1) / 256 GB (UFS 4.0) / 512GB (UFS 4.0) storage. It offers one of the best battery size and charging combinations by packing a 5,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging support. With my limited use, the phone could easily last for 1.5 days of nominal use. It took me around 35 minutes to achieve a full charge using the in-box 120W SuperVOOC charger

For an enhanced gaming experience, the phone features dual speakers, which offer a good immersive output, and an x-axis linear motor for haptics. To keep the internals cool, the Realme GT 6T features a dual-layer vapor cooling structure encompassing a surface area of 10,014mm².

2. Unmatched Display

Realme GT 6T
Realme GT 6T

The 6.78-inch OLED screen produces a peak brightness of 6,000 nits, making it easily visible even in direct sunlight. The 8T LTPO panels support a 1.5K resolution and a 1Hz-120Hz refresh rate, ideal for gaming and media consumption. For precise touch response while gaming, the display supports a 2500Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate. No other phone in its price range offers such a marvellous screen.

3. Decent Cameras

The Realme GT 6T has an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel Sony LYT-600 main camera on the back, which is joined by an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The 32-megapixel front-facing camera offers above-average performance. Since it is performance-driven, photography is not the major strength of the device. Nevertheless, it does manage to produce some good shots.

4. Software Support and Flagship-like Features

Realme GT 6T
Realme GT 6T

While the company seems to be experimenting with providing fewer preloaded apps as it did on Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G, the GT 6T continues its usual affair with plenty of them. Thankfully, the phone comes with longer software support of three years of Android OS upgrades and four years of security updates. The phone comes preloaded with the Realme UI 5.0-based Android 14.

Features like dual-frequency GPS, NFC, and IR blaster are some good additions to the device.

5. Durability

Realme GT 6T
Realme GT 6T

In terms of design, the Realme GT 6T offers a curved-edge OLED screen on the front. Its frame and its dual-tone rear panel are made out of plastic. The shiny portion on the phone’s back attracts fingerprint marks. Nevertheless, the phone promises good durability as it features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection for the screen and an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance. The phone comes in two shades: Fluid Silver and Razor Green.

Overall Impressions

The Realme GT 6T has made a strong first impression. Its performance, display, and charging speeds are simply outstanding for a mid-range device. If Realme can deliver on its camera promises, the GT 6T could be a serious contender for the best mid-range smartphone of the year. I’m excited to spend more time with this phone and put it through its paces in a full review. If you are thinking about this phone, now could be the ideal time as buyers can benefit from the initial offers.

6. Realme GT 6T Price in India

The Realme GT 6T has arrived in India in four options: 8GB+128GB, 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, and 12GB+512GB. The variants are priced at Rs 30,999, Rs 32,999, Rs 35,999, and Rs 39,999, respectively. With Rs 4,000 bank cashback and Rs 2,000 exchange bonus, the GT 6T can be bought for as low as Rs 24,999.

The Realme GT 6T will go on sale on May 29. It will be sold via Realme India’s website and Amazon.

Disclaimer: These are my initial impressions based on limited use. A full review will provide a more comprehensive assessment of the Realme GT 6T’s features and performance

HMD Aura launched as a pocket-friendly smartphone with an HD+ IPS screen and 4GB RAM

HMD Global previously released the entry-level repairability-focused Pulse series with three different models in Europe, all of which use the 12nm Unisoc T606 chipset. Now the company has launched a more affordable phone called the HMD Aura in Australia.

HMD Aura key specs and features:

HMD Aura comes with a 6.56″ 900 x 1600 resolution IPS LCD display on the front with similar bezels as the Pulse Pro. However, it comes with a water drop notch instead of a punch-hole-style cutout for the front camera. The phone offers a wider display than most in the market (16:9 as compared to 20:9).

The Aura is available in two different colors – Glacier Green and Indigo Black, which you can see in the images above.

The phone uses the 28nm Unisoc SC9863A1 (also used by the Nokia C31) chipset. For those interested in benchmarking, it scores around 160 in single-core and 725 in multi-core in the GeekBench 6 CPU test.

It comes with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. The 4GB RAM should be enough for regular web browsing, video streaming, and similar tasks.

HMD Aura equips a 5000mAh battery and supports 10W charging through a USB-C port. This phone also offers a 3.5mm headphone jack.

You get a 13MP main camera on the back with an auxiliary lens (like for depth mapping, which you shouldn’t care about) and a 5MP selfie camera on the front.

For security, the phone offers a back-mounted fingerprint scanner below the flash module. The phone comes with Android 13 out of the box.

Pricing and availability:

The HMD Aura is priced at AUD 180 (~$118) in the country. For reference, the HMD Pulse (4GB+128GB) is available for AUD 230 (~$150).

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Xiaomi Router BE5000: Affordable WiFi 7 for High-Speed Connectivity now at GeekWills

The Xiaomi Router BE5000 2.5G WiFi 7 is redefining affordability in the realm of high-speed internet. As one of the most budget-friendly WiFi 7 routers on the market, it comes packed with features designed to meet the increasing demands of modern households and tech enthusiasts. You can now buy Xiaomi Router BE5000 2.5G WiFi 7 for a discounted price of $49 only at GeekWills. 

WHERE TO BUY
Xiaomi Router BE5000 2.5G WiFi 7 at $49 @GeekWills

Advanced WiFi 7 Technology

The Xiaomi Router BE5000 leverages the latest WiFi 7 technology, also known as IEEE 802.11be, which serves as the successor to WiFi 6. This advancement ensures that all your devices operate at optimal speeds, making activities like 4K and 8K streaming, immersive AR/VR gaming, and large file downloads more efficient and seamless. With a combined wireless speed of up to 5.011Mbps, this router is built to handle the bandwidth requirements of today’s digital world.

MLO Dual-Channel Integration for Stability

One of the standout features of the BE5000 is its Multi-Link Operation (MLO) Dual-Channel Integration. This technology allows a single device to connect to both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands simultaneously. By transmitting data in parallel through two links, it significantly reduces the impact of environmental interference, ensuring a more stable and reliable connection. This is particularly beneficial in environments with numerous connected devices or potential sources of interference.

High-Speed Network Ports

The router is equipped with one 2.5 Gbps WAN/LAN port and three 1 Gbps WAN/LAN ports. These ports facilitate high-speed data transmission, ensuring that all connected devices benefit from the fastest possible internet speeds. This setup is ideal for users who need reliable, high-speed connections for activities such as online gaming, video conferencing, and streaming.

Maximized Coverage with Beamforming

To ensure comprehensive coverage, the Xiaomi Router BE5000 features five external antennas and Beamforming technology. This combination enhances the router’s ability to deliver stronger, more reliable connections with less interference. Whether you’re in a large home or an apartment with multiple rooms, this router provides the coverage you need to stay connected everywhere.

High Performance Dual Wireless Chip

At the heart of the BE5000 is a high-performance 6nm dual wireless chip. This chip ensures fast and stable performance, supporting up to 128 devices online simultaneously. This capability is particularly useful for smart homes with numerous connected devices, from smartphones and tablets to smart appliances and security systems.

Mesh Networking Support

For those with larger homes or more complex network requirements, the Xiaomi Router BE5000 supports Mesh networking. You can connect up to 10 Xiaomi or Redmi routers in a Mesh network, creating a scalable solution that provides seamless coverage throughout your home. This ensures that every corner of your space enjoys consistent, high-speed internet access.

Seamless IoT Connectivity

Designed with smart homes in mind, the BE5000 offers one-click networking for Xiaomi smart home devices. It also doubles as a home security hub, providing robust network protection and management. The router offers real-time feedback on network risks via the Mijia App, helping to prevent cyber-attacks and protect your privacy. Additionally, it includes features for parental control, allowing you to manage and filter the content accessible to family members, ensuring a safe online environment for children.

Xiaomi Router BE5000 combines affordability with advanced features, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking high-speed, reliable internet connectivity. Whether for streaming, gaming, or managing a smart home, this router delivers performance and value in one sleek package.

Boult Z40 Gaming, Y1 Gaming TWS earbuds launched in India: Read price, specifications

Boult has announced the Z40 Gaming and Y1 Gaming earbuds in India. These earbuds are designed to enhance your gaming experience with features like dual device connectivity, Bluetooth 5.4, and Combat™ Gaming Mode for minimal latency.

Boult Z40 Gaming, Y1 Gaming TWS earbuds key features

Boult Z40 Gaming and Y1 Gaming TWS earbuds
Boult Z40 Gaming and Y1 Gaming TWS earbuds

The Z40 and Y1 gaming earbuds feature inbuilt ZEN™ Quad Mic ENC technology for clear communication in any environment. Operated through the Boult Amp App, available on iOS and Google Play Store, these TWS earbuds offer convenience with touch controls and voice assistant support.

Both products offer IPX5 water resistance for durability during intense gaming sessions. Powered by BoomX Technology and 10mm drivers, these earbuds deliver quality audio with supreme bass.

The Z40 Gaming TWS offers 60 hours of battery life and comes in Black Moss and Electric White variants with RGB lights. It comes with support for dual device pairing, Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, and supports 40ms low latency. The Y1 Gaming TWS promises 50 hours of playtime and is available in Black Metal, Electric Red, and Glacier Blue, featuring vibrant RGB lights.

Boult Z40 Gaming, Y1 Gaming price in India, availability

In terms of pricing, the Boult Z40 Gaming TWS is available on Amazon, Flipkart, and Boult’s website for Rs 1,299. On the other hand, the Y1 Gaming TWS will be available soon for Rs 1,099 on Flipkart and Boult’s website. Varun Gupta, co-founder & CEO of Boult, expressed excitement about expanding into the gaming segment, aiming to provide top-notch audio solutions for gamers.

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Galaxy Z Flip 6 leaked render reveals bigger camera & redesigned speaker grill

Samsung is expected to unveil its 6th generation foldable, Galaxy Buds 3, and the Galaxy Ring in the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event expected to be held on July 10 in Paris.

Galaxy Z Flip 6 render

The render shows a refreshed speaker grill design and bigger camera modules

Ahead of the event, design information of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 has been revealed thanks to a leaked render of the phone with a third-party protective case. To be clear, the 6th generation flip phone will only offer a couple of minor design changes.

The Z Flip 6 render shows even sharper edges of the frame as compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 5. There is another design change that looks similar to the Galaxy S24 series – the speaker grill. Instead of the separate holes now it comes with a single wide one.

Additionally, the camera modules in the render are larger than the predecessor, and the space between the two modules has also been reduced.

You may also notice an additional hole in the frame at the top of the phone, whereas the Z Flip 5 only had one. However, this appears to be a mistake, as the Z Flip 5 has all the sensors that the Galaxy S24 Ultra has (1 below and 2 on top), with the same three similar holes. In contrast, the Z Flip 6 render shows four of them.

That being said, take things with a pinch of salt as this is still a leaked render of the phone and not an image of the actual product. We are still quite a few days away from the release and we will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

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Honor 200, 200 Pro specifications leaks almost reveals everything before May 27 launch

Honor is scheduled to announce the Honor 200 and 200 Pro smartphones on May 27 in China. A recent leak revealed that the two phones will feature different chipsets. Now, a new leak that has emerged on Weibo has revealed almost everything about both phones.

Honor 200 Pro specifications (rumored)

The Honor 200 Pro will feature a 6.78-inch OLED panel with a quad-curved design, offering a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 3840Hz PWM dimming, a peak brightness of 4,000 nits, and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. It will run on Android 14 with a layer of Magic OS 8.0 on top.

The Honor 200 Pro has a dual selfie camera setup featuring a 50-megapixel primary camera. While there is no information about the secondary camera, it is likely to feature the same 2-megapixel depth sensing unit seen on last year’s Honor 100 Pro. The rear camera setup of the 200 Pro will have an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel OmniVision OV50H camera, a 12-megapixel camera for ultra-wide shots, and a 50-megapixel Sony IMX856 telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom and OIS support.

Under the hood, the 200 Pro will feature the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset and a 5,200mAh battery with support for 100W fast charging. The device will also offer other features, such as 66W wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, NFC, an IR blaster, dual speakers, a C1+ RF enhancement chip, and an IP55 rating. The device will weigh 199 grams. It will be sold in shades like Sky Blue, Coral Pink, Moon Shadow White, and Ink Black.

Honor 200 specifications (rumored)

The Honor 200 will have a 6.7-inch quad-curved OLED panel, offering the same features as the Pro variant. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Enhanced Version chipset will power the device. It will have a single 50-megapixel camera on the front and its primary camera on the back, with a 50-megapixel Sony IMX906 lens with OIS support. The rest of its specifications will be identical to those of the Pro model.

However, the device will lack features such as wireless charging, reverse charging, an RF chip, and an IP rating. It will weigh 187 grams and come in the same shades as the Pro variant. Both phones are expected to differ in RAM and storage departments, but these have not appeared this year.

As usual, readers are advised to digest the report with a pinch of salt as the authenticity of the leak could not be confirmed.

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Massive leak reveals Redmi A3x full specs and design

We already got a peek at the Redmi A3x’s specs yesterday, but a new leak from SpillSomeBeans just blew the doors wide open. The publication shared a treasure trove of marketing materials that reveal almost everything there is to know about the phone.

As expected, the Redmi A3x borrows heavily from its sibling, the Redmi A3. It features a familiar 6.71-inch HD+ LCD display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, DC Dimming technology for eye comfort, and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for protection.

The rear camera setup remains a dual-sensor affair with a 50MP main and an auxiliary sensor. For selfies and video calls, there’s a 5MP front camera. Powering the phone is a 5000mAh battery and security is handled by a side-mounted fingerprint scanner.

The leak clarifies that the key differentiator between the A3x and the A3 is the chipset. The A3x opts for a Unisoc T603 SoC, while the A3 has a MediaTek Helio G36. 

Xiaomi’s marketing materials suggest comparable performance between the two processors on the AnTuTu benchmark. The A3x will come with 3GB of RAM and you will be able to virtually expand it by up to 4GB.

Another difference is in the color options. The A3x sheds the leather finish of the A3’s Forest Green variant, opting for a glass back with a new name – Aurora Green. 

The MoonLight White color of the A3 is replaced by Star Blue on the A3x, while Midnight Black remains the same for both models. 

All three colorways sport glass backs, plastic frames, and a thickness of 8.3mm. Interestingly, Xiaomi is comparing the A3x’s camera design to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, terming it a “Xiaomi’s heritage design.”

Rounding out the specifications, the Redmi A3x runs Android 14 out of the box with a commitment of 2 years of major OS updates and 3 years of security patches. It has a single speaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio, and charging is handled via a USB Type-C port.

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Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim may debut with S25 series, display sizes, price emerge

On July 10, Samsung may hold its next Galaxy Unpacked event to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. Recent reports have claimed that the South Korean tech giant is also working on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Ultra, which may remain exclusive to the home market. While the specifications of the Ultra variant haven’t surfaced yet, the rumor mill has started churning out details about another model named the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim. Two reliable sources have backed the existence of the Slim variant, revealing its display sizes and expected price tag.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 display sizes revealed

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 CAD render
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 CAD render by SmartPrix / OnLeaks

According to display analyst Ross Young, Samsung is planning to launch a foldable phone named the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim. He revealed that the Fold 6 Slim’s screen size will be larger than the regular Fold 6. The leak suggests that the device may lack S Pen support and will be priced similarly to the Fold 6..

Young further stated that the panel shipments will start in the fourth quarter of this year. It is probable that the device, along with the Galaxy S25 series, will go official in the first quarter of 2025.

Popular leaker Ice Universe claimed that the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim will have an 8-inch inner foldable screen and a 6.5-inch cover display.  The aspect ratios of the Slim model’s displays are said to be different from those of the Z Fold 6. It is likely that the Slim variant may come equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset. Unfortunately, the other details of the Slim variant are under wraps.

A recent report claimed Samsung is also working on an affordable offering called the Galaxy Z Fold 6 FE. This device is likely to break cover in the coming year.

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GC Daily: Huawei’s Hisilicon ships 8 million Kirin SoCs, Reno 12 series launched

In today’s roundup, Huawei’s Hisilicon seems to be doing really well, Reno 12 series launched and became the first Android phone to support sending live photos, and the Nothing Phone 3’s alleged action button was spotted.

All the interesting news and analysis are below.

Huawei’s HiSilicon ships 8 million Kirin SoCs in Q1 2024, surpasses Google in revenue

Huawei‘s HiSilicon division, responsible for Kirin chipsets, is showing signs of recovery in the smartphone chipset market. According to Canalys data, the company shipped 8 million Kirin units in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, generating $6 billion in revenue. 

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Reno 12, 12 Pro are first Android phones to support sending Live Photos

The Oppo Reno12 series was officially launched in China yesterday. The lineup includes two models, such as the Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro. Both models are the first Android phones to support the ability to share live photos on social platforms.

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Oppo Reno 12, Reno 12 Pro launched in China: Curved OLED displays, 50MP triple cameras, & more

After weeks of teasers and leaks, Oppo has finally unveiled the highly anticipated Reno 12 series. The lineup consists of the Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro, which have been announced in the brand’s home market of China. All the details, like its specs, pricing, and more, are in our launch story below.

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Samsung launches another panda-themed “Fubao” case for Galaxy Buds with a furry texture

Earlier this year, Samsung launched a “Twin Bao” edition of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro in its home country. Now the company has launched a new Panda-themed charging case for the Galaxy Buds FE, Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Galaxy Buds2, Galaxy Buds Pro, and Galaxy Buds Live in South Korea. It is designed to celebrate the birth of the giant panda, “Fubao”.

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Is This Our First Look At The Nothing Phone (3) With Action Button?

Pei shared an image of the redesigned quick settings and notification panel on the Nothing OS. It is expected to be included on the Nothing OS 3 later this year. Coming back to the main context, the redesign is shown on a mockup of the device. At first glance, things don’t appear any different, and it looks just like the Phone (2) and Phone (1). 

However, eagle-eyed folks can notice that the mockup device has a new additional button on the right frame, just below the power key.

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OnePlus 13 to be one of the first to feature Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip

Alleged Samsung Galaxy A83 in works for India, will it sport an innovative design?

Get $120 Off and free Earbuds on Galaxy S24 Ultra this Samsung Summer Sale; Exciting Offers on Smart TVs

Samsung has been giving massive discounts on consumer electronics and home appliances. Along with a $120 discount on the Galaxy S24 Ultra, there’s a $300 discount on Samsung’s 4K M80C Smart Monitor. However, there are some additional discounts on Samsung products if you grab the Galaxy S24 Ultra right away.

Samsung Summer Sale Details

Samsung has been offering handsome discounts on its electronics. If the user gets the Galaxy S24 Ultra 512GB Unlocked variant, they can get a $120 direct discount. Moreover, you will get a free Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, $190 off on the Galaxy Watch 6, and an additional $240 off on the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic.

It is a worth-considering deal if you’re looking to grab the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Grab Galaxy S24 Ultra Here

Further, a discount is around $300 on a Samsung 4K M80C Smart Monitor.

Grab Samsung 4K M89C Smart Monitor

Further, there’s a discount on the Samsung flagship 4K TV for 2024. The TV is available at the lowest price from Samsung, at $2299.99. It is actually retailing on Amazon for $2597.99.

Grab Samsung 55-inch S95D OLED 4K TV

Samsung QN90C is the best Samsung TV available, with an over 43% discount. It is actually retailing for the price of $1599.99 from Samsung. It is available for $2797.99 from Amazon.

Grab Samsung QN90C for $1599.99

There are several other deals at the Samsung Store in the US for a limited time.

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Oppo Reno 12 vs Oppo Reno 11: Is the upgrade worth considering?

Oppo‘s Reno series occupies a crowded space in the smartphone market: the ever-competitive mid-range. With the recent launch of the Reno 12, it’s natural to wonder how it stacks up against its predecessor, the Reno 11. So here we will take a close look at both models to see if the upgrade is worth considering. 

Oppo Reno 11 vs Oppo Reno 12

Display

Both phones feature a near-identical 6.7-inch AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates and 1080p resolution. Bezels are minimal, offering a near edge-to-edge viewing experience. In terms of raw specs, there’s little to differentiate between the two. 

Oppo Reno 12
Oppo Reno 12

However, the Reno 12 boasts a slight bump in peak brightness, reaching 1200 nits compared to the Reno 11’s 950 nits. This could offer a minor improvement in outdoor visibility. 

Additionally, the Reno 12 introduces a quad-curved display for a more premium look and feel, while the Reno 11 only has curves just on the sides. The Reno 12 also comes with Gorilla Victus 2, which the Reno 11 lacks.

Performance

Under the hood, the Oppo Reno 12 edges out its predecessor with the MediaTek Dimensity 8250 chipset compared to the Reno 11’s Dimensity 8200. While both are built on the same 4nm process, the 8250 offers a marginally higher clock speed. 

In day-to-day use, the performance difference is unlikely to be noticeable for most users. Both phones are capable of handling most tasks and games without issue. However, power users who prioritize raw processing power may want to look elsewhere since these are not the SoCs for heavy gaming.

Both phones come in a similar selection of storage configurations (256GB and 512GB) but differ in RAM options. The Reno 12 offers a top-end model with up to 16GB RAM option while the Reno 11 maxes out at 12GB, which is still ample for most users. 

Both phones lack expandable storage via microSD card, so choosing the right storage capacity from the outset is crucial.

Software

Both the devices come pre-installed with Android 14 but the Reno 12 has newer Color OS 14.1 compared to Color OS 14 on Reno 11. While there’s not a major difference in the UI and usability, 14.1 brings a hunch of AI features. Of course, 2024 is the year of AI. 

These include fixing photos where someone blinked, removing people who walked into the frame, and helping you replace backgrounds.

There’s also transcription and summarization of dictations and a document scanner that can handle tricky tasks like math formulas. The phone’s Xiaobu assistant can also act as an English teacher and a primary school tutor. Moreover, the AI can help plan your next vacation and create a custom itinerary. 

These features should eventually be available on the Reno 11 through a software update.

Cameras

The camera systems on both phones are triple, but the configuration differs slightly. The Reno 12 ditches the 32MP telephoto of the Reno 11 for a 50MP telephoto lens. The main and ultrawide sensors remain the same at 50MP and 8MP, respectively. 

OPPO Reno 12 series

On paper, this appears to be an upgrade that should capture better zoom shots. However, it’s the real-world testing that will help us understand if the megapixel boost translates to an improvement in image quality. 

The selfie camera on the Reno 12 also receives an upgrade to a 50MP sensor from the 32MP unit on the Reno 11.

Battery Life and Charging

The Oppo Reno 12 boasts a larger 5000mAh battery compared to the Reno 11’s 4800mAh. While the difference may seem small, it could translate to slightly longer battery life for the Reno 12, especially for heavy users. 

Both phones offer fast charging, but the Reno 12 takes the lead with its 80W wired charging compared to the Reno 11’s 67W. This translates to potentially faster charging times for the Reno 12.

Design and Others 

The design language between the two phones is similar, with both sporting sleek glass backs and minimal bezels. However, the Reno 12 boasts an IP65 dust and water resistance rating. 

Reno 11 misses on any sort of IP rating. It could be a deciding factor for users who require a phone that can withstand the occasional splash. For audio, they come with a single speaker and miss the 3.5mm headphone jack. 

Conclusion

The Oppo Reno 12 offers modest upgrades over the Reno 11 in specific areas – a marginally better processor, a higher-res main and telephoto lens, a larger battery, faster charging, and better ingress protection. These improvements alone may not be game-changing for all users, especially those content with the Reno 11’s performance. 

However, for those seeking the latest features and a slight edge in battery life and camera capabilities, the Reno 12 could be a compelling choice. 

Ultimately, the decision depends on individual needs and budget. If you can find a good deal on the Reno 11, it may still offer excellent value for the price. But if you crave the newest features and are willing to pay a premium, the Reno 12 might be the better bet.

Below is a quick rundown of the specifications:

FeatureOppo Reno 11Oppo Reno 12
Body162.4 x 74.1 x 7.6 mm, 184 g161.4 x 74.8 x 7.3 mm, 179 g
Water ResistanceNoIP65
Display6.7 inch AMOLED, 1080 x 2412 pixels, 120Hz6.7 inch AMOLED, 1080 x 2412 pixels, 120Hz
Peak Brightness950 nits1200 nits
Display ProtectionNoneCorning Gorilla Glass Victus 2
ProcessorMediatek Dimensity 8200Mediatek Dimensity 8250
RAM8GB, 12GB12GB, 16GB
Storage256GB, 512GB256GB, 512GB
Rear CameraTriple: 50MP main, 32MP telephoto, 8MP ultrawideTriple: 50MP main, 50MP telephoto, 8MP ultrawide
Front Camera32MP50MP
Battery4800 mAh, 67W charging5000 mAh, 80W charging
Oppo Reno 11 vs Reno 12

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iFixit ends its Samsung Repair Hub saying Samsung’s approach to repairability no longer aligns with its own

After two years of launching the Samsung Repair Hub in collaboration with the company, iFixit is now ending the partnership. Starting next month, they will no longer be Samsung’s designated third-party parts and tools distributor.

Samsung Galaxy A55 teardown

In the words of iFixit, “We aimed to set the gold standard for repair documentation and empower local independent repair businesses with the tools and parts they needed to thrive, all while keeping Galaxy devices running.”

Samsung reportedly didn’t want to help local repair shops

However, iFixit has not been able to execute what they aimed. According to them, the prices of the repair parts and tools are high enough to convince users to replace their devices entirely instead of repairing them. Samsung didn’t want to allow them to help local repair shops. In addition, Samsung hasn’t provided official parts for its new models since Galaxy S22.

As a result, iFixit is ending its partnership with Samsung after all its efforts in the last two years. According to them, Samsung’s approach to repairability didn’t align with them. The result will be the following:

  • Starting June 2024, iFixit will no longer be Samsung’s designated third-party parts and tools distributor.
  • Also starting next month, we will no longer have a quantity limit of seven Samsung parts per repair shop per quarter.
  • No existing information will be removed from iFixit, but we will not collaborate directly with Samsung to develop new manuals.
  • We will continue to sell parts and repair fix kits for Samsung devices, sourcing OEM parts when available and clearly indicating whether parts are original or aftermarket. Just like we do for Apple repair parts.

Samsung has responded to a request for comment on the matter, essentially indicating that they want to maintain control over the process.

Here’s what they said: “Samsung is committed to providing quality, accessible device care to our customers with flexible options to suit their needs, including walk-in, mail-in, and “We Come to You” services. For people who would like to take advantage of our self-repair program, we offer Samsung-certified parts, tools, and information for our qualified products in one easy place: SamsungParts.com, powered by Encompass. We’re proud of the work we’ve done together with iFixit. We can’t comment further on partnership details at this time.”

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Reno 12, 12 Pro are first Android phones to support sending Live Photos

The Oppo Reno12 series was officially launched in China yesterday. The lineup includes two models, such as the Reno 12 and Reno 12 Pro. Both models are the first Android phones to support the ability to share live photos on social platforms.

Reno 12 series supports sharing Live Photos

Oppo Reno 12
Oppo Reno 12

Like the predecessor models, the Reno 12 series promises an impressive photography experience. Live Photos capture and display motion just before and after the photo is taken. Previously, while Android phones could take Live Photos, they couldn’t post them on social media. When shared on social platforms, these images appeared as still images.

The Reno12 series not only supports sharing Live Photos but also allows users to beautify and modify them. This includes adjusting colors, adding filters, and incorporating text and stickers, offering a variety of customization options.

The Reno 12 and 12 Pro are expected to launch soon in the global market. However, there is a possibility that the global variants may pack modified specifications.

Oppo Reno 12 Pro
Oppo Reno 12 Pro

In China, the Reno 12 starts at 2,699 Yuan (~$372), whereas the 12 Pro has a starting price of 3,199 Yuan (~$440).  In terms of specifications, the Reno 12 and 12 Pro feature a 6.7-inch curved-edge OLED panel that supports 2412 x 1080 pixels FHD+ resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 50-megapixel front camera, a 50-megapixel (LYT-600 on the Reno 12, IMX890 on the Reno 12 Pro) + 8-megapixel + 50-megapixel (2x telephoto) triple camera system, and a 5000mAh battery with 80W fast charging.

The Reno 12 features the Dimensity 8250 chip, whereas the Reno 12 Pro is equipped with the Dimensity 9200+ SoC. Both models have LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, an IP65-rated chassis, an in-screen fingerprint sensor, and an IR blaster. The Pro variant offers other features, such as dual speakers and an X-axis linear motor.

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