Poco has officially confirmed the launch of its upcoming Poco F6 smartphone in India. Scheduled for May 23rd, the phone will be the first in the country to boast the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC.
The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 shares many aspects of its architecture with the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This includes the same Image Signal Processor (ISP), display, memory, and modem architecture. It also utilizes the same powerful Kryo “X4” core and is built on the same 4nm TSMC fabrication process.
The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 also supports a staggering 10 billion parameters and supports features like multi-modal generative AI and compatibility with various large language models (LLMs) including Baichuan-7B, Llama 2, and even Gemini Nano.
In terms of raw performance, Poco claims the F6 achieves an impressive score of over 1.5 million points on the AnTuTu benchmark.
The smartphone will be a direct competitor to the upcoming Realme GT 6T which is also launching in India next week with a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC and a similar AnTuTu score of 1.5 million.
Rumors suggest the Poco F6 might be a rebranded version of the Redmi Turbo 3 launched in China last month. If true, we can expect a 6.67-inch 1.5K resolution OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
The camera department could feature a primary 50MP sensor (likely the Sony IMX-600) alongside an 8MP ultrawide sensor. Powering the device will likely be a 5000mAh battery with support for 90W fast charging.
iQOO has released a new software update for its iQOO Neo 9 Pro smartphone, focusing on system security enhancements and performance improvements. The update, identified as firmware version PD2338BF_EX_A_14.0.12.0.W30, requires a download of 238MB.
Key features of this update include the integration of the May 2024 Android security patch, which improves the device’s defense against security threats. Notably, the update removes the background video listening feature from the smart sidebar.
The update addresses several critical issues: it resolves a bug preventing the smartphone from connecting to WiFi networks and fixes a glitch where the home screen would not display correctly when exiting apps. Additionally, it enhances the stability of the MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) and Super-resolution features, which are crucial for video quality and image clarity.
iQOO recommends that users back up their data before proceeding with the update to avoid any loss of information. The company also advises connecting the device to a charger during the update process, as it may consume more power and cause the device to heat up temporarily.
This firmware update is now available for iQOO Neo 9 Pro users and can be accessed through the device’s settings menu.
Samsung has just launched the OneUI 6.1 update for the Galaxy S21 series devices in Europe, US, and its home country over the past couple of days. Now the company has released the update in India. Surprisingly, the devices from early 2021 are also getting some of the company’s recently released Galaxy AI features.
The firmware version of the update for the three models is – G996BXXUAGXDA / G996BOXMAGXDA / G996BXXUAGXDA. The update is around 2.2GB in size and also contains the April security patch. Notably, the Galaxy S21FE has not received the update yet.
Galaxy S21 gets Circle to Search and some other AI features with the update
The OneUI 6.1 brings one Galaxy AI feature to the S21 series – Circle to Search. For those unfamiliar, it lets you circle around an object on your screen that you want to know more about. Without leaving the app you can easily search for things you see, copy text from images, and more.
You can tap and hold the home button or the Navigation Handel (depending on which setting you are using) to activate the feature.
With the new update, the latest version of the built-in Gallery app also gets some AI-powered image editing features. Upon tapping the ‘i’ button below an image, you’ll get recommendations such as colorize, star trail, and more. Now the Gallery app also lets you copy an object from an image and paste it somewhere else.
The built-in video editor also has some new features. Now you can change the video playback speed of an entire video or a part of it. The video editor also lets you export files to other Galaxy devices and continue the editing there.
You can also apply frames and effects to the wallpaper such as blurring the background around the subject.
In addition, Samsung Health now lets you compete with yourself through your previous workout records. The Calendar app now lets you add two custom stickers for each date. The Reminders app lets you pin frequently used categories.
Philips has launched the OneBlade Face & Body QP1624 grooming kit in India, targeting GenZ consumers who prioritize ease and safety in grooming. The device is designed with dual protection technology to prevent cuts and nicks and features an ergonomic grip for comfortable handling.
The OneBlade QP1624 includes three stubble combs (1mm, 3mm, and 5mm) that allow users to easily adjust beard lengths. A fast-moving cutter achieves 6000 cuts per minute, ensuring efficient grooming. The device is equipped with a 3mm body comb and a skin guard for trimming sensitive areas.
The grooming kit is fully waterproof (IPX7) and can be used in the shower. It is cordless, supports both wet and dry use, and features a USB-A charging port. A full charge takes 8 hours and provides 30 minutes of use.
Priced at Rs. 2,199, the Philips OneBlade Face & Body QP1624 is available in a charcoal gray color option and comes with a two-year warranty. It is compatible with replacement heads QP210, QP220, and QP230.
The device is now available for purchase on e-commerce platforms such as Myntra, Philips’ official website, and offline stores like Croma.
Keychron has announced the launch of the M2 4K wireless mouse, a new option designed to cater to both gamers and professionals seeking a high-performance peripheral. The M2 4K boasts an impressive feature set packed into a lightweight and comfortable design.
The mouse can be connected via Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless and a wired USB
The M2 4K’s heart lies in its PixArt PAW3395 sensor. Renowned for its precision and speed, this sensor offers gamers the responsiveness they crave for fast-paced action titles. Professionals working on design tasks or editing applications will also benefit from the sensor’s accuracy during detailed work.
The M2 4K offers the versatility of three connection options: 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and wired USB. This allows users to switch seamlessly between their desktop PC, laptop, or other devices depending on their needs. Additionally, the 2.4GHz wireless connection boasts a high polling rate of 4000Hz, ideal for gamers who demand the absolute lowest latency for lightning-fast response times. However, it’s worth noting that using the 4000Hz mode does impact battery life.
Despite its impressive features, the M2 4K prioritizes user comfort. The mouse weighs in at a mere 53 grams, making it a lightweight option perfect for extended gaming sessions or long stretches of work. This helps to reduce fatigue and strain on your wrist and hand, even during intense use.
The M2 4K packs a punch in terms of performance without compromising on battery life. When using the 1000Hz polling rate, the mouse offers an impressive 135 hours of battery life on a single charge. This ensures you can stay productive or dominate online battles without worrying about frequent recharging. The mouse features a right-handed ergonomic design that promotes a natural hand position. This design choice helps to reduce wrist strain and fatigue during extended use, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or productive workdays.
The Keychron M2 4K wireless mouse is now available for purchase at 408 yuan (approximately $60 USD).
HP has introduced a new lineup of laptops designed for professionals who prioritize both performance and portability: the Zhan X Core Edition. The Zhan X laptops boast Core Ultra processors, ensuring they can handle demanding tasks with ease. Specific processor details haven’t been revealed yet, but the “Ultra” designation typically refers to high-performance options from Intel.
The laptops have a variety of configurations for maximum customization
The Zhan X comes in two sizes – 14-inch and 16-inch – and offers a variety of configurations to cater to different needs and budgets. Here’s a closer look at the available options:
Display: Both sizes boast high-resolution displays with smooth 120Hz refresh rates. The 14-inch model features a stunning 2.5K DreamColor screen with an impressive 500 nits of brightness and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. Opting for the 16-inch version upgrades you to a 2.8K OLED display with 400 nits of brightness and equally impressive 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. The 14-inch model also offers a touchscreen option for added convenience.
Processor: The laptops come in configurations featuring either the Ultra 5 125H or Ultra 7 155H processor.
Memory: All configurations come generously equipped with 32GB of DDR5 memory, expandable up to 64GB of DDR5 5600 for those seeking an extra performance boost.
Storage: Every model comes with a spacious 1TB of PCIe 4.0 solid-state storage for speedy boot times and application loading.
Connectivity: One configuration of the 14-inch model boasts 5G network capability, keeping you connected on the go.
Despite packing a performance punch, the Zhan X laptops maintain a thin and light design. The 14-inch version starts at a mere 1.42kg, while the 16-inch version starts at 1.9kg. This makes them ideal for professionals who need to take their work with them wherever they go.
The HP Zhan X 14 Core Edition starts at 7,499 yuan (approximately $1,130 USD), while the 16-inch Zhan X 16 Core Edition starts at 7,999 yuan (approximately $1,200 USD). Sales kick off at 10:00 am on May 20th in China.
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon series consistently pushes the boundaries of mobile processing, offering diverse options for various market segments. However, in such cases it can be hard to choose which one is best.
Luckily, we are here to help. For example, we recently compared the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2. Now, let’s go through Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 versus Snapdragon 7 Gen 3. Here are the details…
1. Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 vs Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Performance
Both the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 and Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 are built on a cutting-edge 4nm fabrication process, signifying a leap forward in power efficiency and performance potential.
Examining performance, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 features an octa-core CPU with four high-performance Cortex-A710 cores clocked up to 2.4 GHz and four power-efficient Cortex-A510 cores at up to 1.8 GHz.
The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, however, boasts a heterogeneous octa-core architecture with a high-performance Cortex-X2 core clocked at 2.92 GHz, three Cortex-A715 cores at 2.5 GHz, and four power-efficient Cortex-A510 cores for enhanced efficiency.
The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 significantly outperforms the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 in graphics rendering due to its more advanced Adreno 720 GPU, offering superior graphical capabilities compared to the Adreno 644 GPU in the older model.
Feature
Snapdragon 7 Gen 1
Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
Process Technology
4nm Samsung
4nm TSMC
CPU Cores
8 (1+3+4)
8 (1+3+4)
CPU Prime Core
Cortex-A710 @2.4GHz
Cortex-X2 @2.92GHz
CPU Performance Cores
Cortex-A710 @2.36GHz
Cortex-A715 @2.5GHz
CPU Efficiency Cores
Cortex-A510 @1.8GHz
Cortex-A510 @1.8GHz
GPU
Adreno 644
Adreno 725
Memory
LPDDR5 (3200MHz)
LPDDR5X (7500MHz)
Storage
UFS 3.1
UFS 4.0
ISP
Spectra Triple ISP
18-bit Triple ISP
Camera (Max)
200MP
200MP
Video Capture
4K HDR
4K HDR
AI Engine
Hexagon
Hexagon
5G Modem
Snapdragon X62
Snapdragon X65
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi 6E
Wi-Fi 7
Bluetooth
Bluetooth 5.2
Bluetooth 5.3
Charging
Quick Charge 4+
Quick Charge 5
2. Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 vs Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Benchmark Performance
Benchmark
Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
Snapdragon 7 Gen 1
AnTuTu 10
866,000
665,000
Geekbench 6
Single-Core: 1139
Single-Core: 1110
Multi-Core: 3375
Multi-Core: 3145
In AnTuTu 10, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 scores notably higher with approximately 866,000 points compared to the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1’s score of 665,000 points. This indicates a significant performance improvement of around 30% in favor of the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, showcasing its enhanced processing capabilities and efficiency.
Similarly, in Geekbench 6, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 achieves a single-core score of 1139 and a multi-core score of 3375, highlighting its superior CPU performance compared to the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. However, it is worth noting that these are synthetic tests and may not accurately reflect real-world performance.
Apple recently surprised the world at an event by introducing the new iPad Pro, powered by the M4 processor. While the iPad Pro itself is a powerful device, the true star of the show was the Apple Silicon M4 chip, making its debut.
As the fourth generation of Apple Silicon chip, the M4 is the company’s most powerful processor yet. But what exactly is the M4, and what features does it bring to the table? Here’s everything you need to know.
The Apple M4 chip marks a significant advancement in both performance and efficiency. Built on TSMC’s second-generation 3 nanometer process, this chip boasts a remarkable 28 billion transistors, surpassing its predecessor, the M3, with 25 billion. More transistors in a computer chip means it can do more calculations, while using less space and power.
The Apple M4 chip is a big upgrade over the M3, offering improved performance in both CPU and GPU tasks. It features a 10-core CPU, providing a 50% increase in performance compared to the Apple M2 chip. The new chip also introduces several advancements, including a new display engine that enhances the precision, color, and brightness, (for the iPad Pro’s Ultra Retina XDR display).
Hardware-accelerated technologies like dynamic caching, ray tracing, and mesh shading optimize performance across a variety of applications. Additionally, the chip’s 120GB/s memory bandwidth ensures smooth multitasking and efficient handling of data-intensive tasks.
Unfortunately, the M4 chip is currently exclusive to the iPad Pro. However, it is expected to extend its reach beyond the iPad. Rumors suggest it may soon find its way into MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. Additionally, variants like the M4 Pro and M4 Max are also speculated.
2. Apple M4 vs. M3 Comparison
Feature
Apple M4
Apple M3
Process Node
2nd-generation 3nm
1st-generation 3nm
CPU Cores
8-core (4 performance, 4 efficiency)
8-core (4 performance, 4 efficiency)
GPU Cores
8-core or 10-core
8-core or 10-core
Neural Engine
16-core (38 trillion operations per second)
16-core (18 trillion operations per second)
Memory Bandwidth
120Gbps
100Gbps
Transistors
28 billion
25 billion
Dedicated Display Engine
Yes
No
External Display Support
1 (iPad Pro)
Up to 2 (MacBook Air)
8K Video Support
Yes
No
CPU:
Up to 10-core CPU (4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores)
Improved branch prediction
Wider decode and execution engines for performance cores
Deeper execution engine for efficiency cores
Enhanced, next-generation ML accelerators
Up to 1.5x faster CPU performance than the M2 chip
GPU:
Up to 10-core GPU
Up to 4x faster graphics performance than the M2 chip
Neural Engine:
16-core Neural Engine
Capable of 38 trillion operations per second
60x faster than the first Neural Engine in A11 Bionic
It’s been a while since the launch of the Galaxy S24 series and already leaks about the Galaxy S25 series have started surfacing on the internet. According to previous rumors, the S25 series may not house the speculated stacked battery for higher energy density. Instead, the series will use AI to conserve power and potentially offer a better battery life.
Galaxy S24 Ultra
One less camera along with the introduction of variable zoom
The latest rumor from tipster @ISAQUES81 shares three new aspects of the camera system of the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Samsung is reportedly testing an early prototype of its upcoming Ultra flagship.
According to him, the S25 Ultra prototype has only three cameras on the back instead of the four that were offered by the predecessors. The three cameras are – main, ultra-wide, and a single periscope telephoto.
Samsung has reportedly ditched the “weak” 3x telephoto module and is aiming to compensate with digital zoom.
The company was already experimenting with the zoom cameras at least since the predecessor, where they ditched the “weak” 10MP 10x telephoto for a 50MP 5x one. And the phone actually does fine with long-range zooms with the high resolution 5x camera and the AI capabilities they have. Applying something similar in the 3x range is not theoretically impossible for sure.
The main camera retains the same sensor size and resolution. However, the sensor will capture more light, possibly with a larger aperture. More light to the sensor is generally helpful for the ISP and in turn, offers a better end result.
The periscope telephoto uses a larger sensor than the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which may improve the detail in zoomed shots. But the most notable change is the addition of variable zoom which is significant to the quality of images in zoomed shots. A variable zoom means using certain mechanisms similar to dedicated cameras that will create a bigger image on the sensor. No cropping means less to no loss of detail in the zooming process.
However, unlike the Xperia 1 V (that boasts 3.5x – 5.2x continuous optical zoom), the S25 Ultra will offer two fixed focal lengths – the first being between 4 and 5x zoom, and the second between 6 and 7x zoom. It’s kind of like merging two different zoom cameras (like it is now) into one module. The phone will still use digital zoom for values between the two focal lengths. Nonetheless, the two fixed focal lengths are quite close to each other and the loss shouldn’t be much noticeable.
Nothing first introduced ChatGPT integration with the launch of the Ear and Ear (a) last month. It arrived on the company’s smartphones including the Phone (1), Phone (2), and Phone (2a) with the Nothing OS 2.5.5 update. Now, the London-based brand has announced the expansion of ChatGPT integration to older audio devices. This is way ahead of the originally planned rollout for June.
Nothing announces expansion of ChatGPT integration for older audio devices
ChatGPT on-the-go.
Alongside Ear and Ear (a), our ChatGPT integration is coming to all of our audio products: Ear (1), Ear (stick), Ear (2), CMF Buds, CMF Neckband Pro, and CMF Buds Pro. Update your Nothing X app on May 21st. pic.twitter.com/KwdzsJSHbp
The ChatGPT integration is not only limited to Nothing audio devices. It is also arriving on the sub-brand CMF’s offerings. The feature will be available on the Ear (1), Ear (stick), Ear (2), CMF Neckband Pro, and CMF Buds Pro. Users will be able to access ChatGPT integration starting May 21. They will have to update the Nothing X app.
It’s worth noting that the ChatGPT integration is only available on Nothing and CMF audio devices when they are connected to Nothing smartphones on OS 2.5.5.
Users will be able to access ChatGPT integration on the supported devices with a new gesture option that needs to be enabled in the Nothing X app. The feature allows users to start a conversation with the AI assistant by simply pinching their earbud stem.
OEMs have been working on integrating AI features into their products. Nothing’s expansion of integrating ChatGPT into smaller audio devices is a welcome move. It won’t be surprising if other brands too follow suit in the near future. If you use a Nothing smartphone and TWS earphones, make sure to update the Nothing X app next week.
SMIC has been a key manufacturer for Huawei‘s Kirin chips such as the Kirin 9000S and 9010. Both these SoCs are manufactured on a 7nm process while the foundry is said to be developing its own 5nm chip production process.
New reports from Business Korea and Hankyung now suggests that SMIC has successfully achieved this milestone. That means, their 5nm process is now ready for chip manufacturing.
That’s an incredible feat, especially given the infrastructure challenges SMIC has encountered due to US export restrictions. But the reports suggest that the SMIC’s new 5nm node relies on older Deep Ultraviolet (DUV) lithography instead of the more advanced Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) technology.
DUV lithography uses deep ultraviolet light with a wavelength of around 193nm to etch circuit patterns onto silicon wafers.
EUV lithography, on the other hand, uses much shorter extreme ultraviolet light (around 13.5nm). This shorter wavelength allows for the creation of finer features, enabling the production of more powerful and efficient chips. As a result, EUV is considered essential for achieving the most advanced chip designs.
The reason behind SMIC’s inability to adopt EUV technology lies in the ongoing tensions between the US and China. ASML, a key supplier of EUV lithography machines, is restricted by US export rules from supplying its technology to Chinese foundries like SMIC. Consequently, SMIC has to rely on DUV lithography for its 5nm node.
Despite yield concerns, Huawei is likely to use processors manufactured using SMIC’s new 5nm node on its upcoming Mate 70 series.
Additionally, there’s a rumor of a new Huawei laptop with a Kirin chip for PCs that is said to rival Apple’s M2 in terms of performance. Whether these rumors hold weight remains to be seen.
Poco has announced its plans to launch the Poco F6 series on May 23. The series will come with two models, the Poco F6 and the Poco F6 Pro. Both of these devices are essentially rebranded versions of the China-exclusive Redmi Turbo 3 and the Redmi K70. In this article, we will discuss all the specs and features we expect on the Poco F6 Pro.
Poco has recently confirmed the design of the F6 Pro, revealing that it looks exactly like the Redmi K70 (full review). It features flat sides, a slightly curved back panel for a comfortable grip, and the same rectangular camera module with four cutouts, three of them featuring a camera sensor, and the last cutout housing a flash module.
On the front, we can expect a 6.67-inch 2K resolution (3200 x 1440p) display with a 120Hz refresh rate, up to 2160Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate, and up to 3840Hz PWM dimming. The display will likely offer complete coverage of the DCI-PC color gamut, as well as support for HDR10+, HDR Vivid, and Dolby Vision.
2. Performance
Under the hood, the Poco F6 Pro will most likely come with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which is Qualcomm’s flagship processor from last year. This chip is built on TSMC’s 4nm node, offering a mind-blowing AnTuTu score of around 1.71 million. For comparison, its predecessor, the Poco F5 Pro achieves an AnTuTu score is around 1.05 million.
The phone will also feature upgraded RAM and storage, replacing LPDDR5 RAM with LPDDR5x and UFS 3.1 storage with UFS 4.0 storage. We expect the device to debut with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. For heat management, the brand could include a 5000 mm2 heat dissipation system.
3. Optics
Like the Redmi K70, we expect the Poco F6 Pro to also come with the Sony LYT 800 50MP main camera sensor. This 1″ Type camera sensor was announced last year, and it uses Sony’s cutting-edge stacked sensor technology. It will also come with an f/1.6 aperture and optical image stabilization. The two other cutouts on the back will likely house an 8MP ultra-wide sensor and a 2MP macro sensor.
On the front, the camera device is expected to offer a 16MP selfie snapper. The primary camera will likely support up to 8K video recording in 24FPS, while also offering 4K & 1080p recording in 60FPS. The front camera will likely offer up to 1080p 60FPS video recording.
4. Battery & other details
The battery could be a bit smaller than last year at 5,000mAh, however, it is expected to offer 120W fast charging compared to the 67W of its predecessor. The device could also come with Xiaomi’s P2 fast charging chip and G1 battery management chip.
The phone is expected to feature an in-display fingerprint sensor for security and stereo speakers. It will likely debut with Xiaomi’s HyperOS, which is an Android 14-based operating system. For connectivity, we can expect the device to offer Wi-Fi 7 support, as well as Wi-Fi 6 (dual-band), as well as Bluetooth 5.3, offering support for AAC / LDAC / LHDC 5.0 audio codecs.
Every year dozens of Galaxy devices become ineligible for future Android OS updates after they receive the promised number of OS updates. The same story follows this year, as Android 15 will be the last major OS update for many Galaxy smartphones.
In this post, I have curated a list of those Samsung Galaxy devices that will become ineligible for future OS updates after upgrading to Android 15. Go through the list to check if your device is reaching the end of support for Android updates.
Android OS updates are super exciting, as they introduce a host of new features, improvements, and UI changes that transform the user experience. However, at some point of time, your device becomes ineligible for future updates. Hence, it’s important to keep an eye on the future OS availability for your device to ensure you don’t miss out on the latest and greatest features.
Android 15 Will Be the Last OS Update for These Galaxy Phones
Galaxy S21
Galaxy S21+
Galaxy S21 Ultra
Galaxy Z Fold 3
Galaxy Z Flip 3
Galaxy A14
Galaxy A14 5G
Galaxy A05
Galaxy A05s
Galaxy M14 4G
Galaxy M14 5G
Galaxy F14 5G
This is an unofficial list that we have prepared by taking into account the software update policy for every Samsung Galaxy phone and tablet. These devices may receive Android 15 as their final OS update unless Samsung extends software support. However, in all scenarios, these devices will also get One UI 7.1 incremental update. After that, they will continue to receive security patches for a few more months or years.
The Galaxy M-series and F-series phones typically get two major Android OS updates. Hence, all those launched with Android 13 would receive Android 15 as their last OS upgrade.
As for the Galaxy A-series, Samsung provides two major OS upgrades to older devices. However, the newer models do come with a promise of four OS updates. Select Galaxy A-series phones are eligible for an impressive 4 OS updates.
All Galaxy S-series, Tab S-series, and Z-series phones launched onwards the Galaxy S21, Galaxy Z Fold 3/Flip 3, and Galaxy Tab S8 series are eligible for four years of Android OS support.
Samsung has generous software update policies for its Galaxy smartphones and tablets. No other smartphone brand provides as many as four Android OS updates to its mid-range phone, but Samsung does. Several brands don’t even offer this many OS updates to their high-end devices.
One of the best things I like about Samsung is its clear-cut software update policy. Users know how many OS updates they can expect on their Galaxy devices, while many brands such as Realme, Oppo, and Xiaomi don’t tell their users about the software support for most of their smartphones. Users are left in the dark about the future Android OS availability for their devices until the official list is out, which generally arrives months after the new OS is released.
Samsung had the best software support until Google released its Pixel 8 series with a mind-blowing 7 years of OS updates. The South Korean giant didn’t take much time catching up with Google by offering the same software support for its Galaxy S24 series.
What to Expect from Android 15 (One UI 7)?
If your Galaxy device is eligible for the Android 15 upgrade, I’m sure you must be wondering about the new features it will bring. Well, Android 15 is still under development. However, Google has already announced several features of the new OS and many more have been discovered in the beta builds, promising a bigger and more exciting update than the previous two OS versions – Android 15 and Android 14.
Here are the biggest changes discovered in Android 15 so far:
Satellite Connectivity Support
Android 15 adds support for satellite connectivity. This means you’ll be able to send texts to your friends even if you don’t have cell towers nearby, as long as you have access to the open sky. The new OS supports satellite connectivity for SMS apps and preinstalled RCS apps. In other words, this feature on Android 15 will not be limited to emergency uses only.
Find My Phone Network
Find My Phone is getting a pretty significant update in the new OS. All Android 15 phones can ping each other via Bluetooth and contribute to the network to help someone find their lost device. The nearby Android device part of Find My network can pick up Bluetooth signals from the broadcasting device and upload the encrypted location details to Google’s servers, which can be decrypted by the broadcasting device owner.
Battery Health
Android 15 could bring the “Battery Health” feature, which users have been requesting for a very long time. This feature tells the remaining battery capacity – an important metric that can help users replace the battery at the right time.
Although Google hasn’t confirmed Battery Health as an upcoming feature in Android 15, we might see it in one of the upcoming beta releases.
App Archiving
The app archiving feature lets you uninstall apps while keeping the user data around. So, the next time you reinstall the app, you can continue where you left off.
Google already has the app archiving feature through the Google Play Store. This means you can archive and restore apps only through the Play Store. But Android 15 removes this restriction by allowing any apps to be archived, including those installed outside the Play Store.
Partial Screen Sharing
Partial screen sharing is a useful and privacy-focused addition to Android 15 that allows users to share and record a single app rather than the entire screen. So, you don’t have to worry even if you mistakenly open a secret app while sharing your screen.
Notification Cooldown
Android 15 introduces the “Notification Cooldown” feature to stop people from getting overwhelmed by too many notifications from the same app. This feature lowers the volume of successive notifications from the same app.
Sensitive Notifications
Android 15 brings the sensitive notifications feature to prevent malicious third-party apps from reading your OTPs. This is an important change that could save many people from OTP frauds that steal money from the bank.
Check out this post to for a more detailed look at the new features coming in Android 15. Also, don’t forget to check out our Android 15 section for the latest news and developments around the new OS.
Meizu is set to announce the Meizu 21 Note smartphone in China on May 16. The brand has also revealed the launch of launch three major new AI products this month. Now, the company has confirmed that it will announce a new audio device alongside the upcoming smartphone later this week. It is the Meizu Live AI True Wireless Hi-Fi Noise Cancelling Headphones.
Meizu Live AI True Wireless Hi-Fi Noise Cancelling Headphones launch confirmed
Meizu says that it has accumulated 21 years of acoustic experience to create a variety of flagship in-ear Hi-Fi headphones. It announced the Meizu Live with the first four-unit moving iron flagship headset in 2017. The Meizu UR debuted in 2019 as the company’s first high-end privately customized headphones.
Meizu says that the upcoming offering i.e. Meizu Live flagship headphones will enter the TWS era. Not much is known about the upcoming TWS earphones but the brand has confirmed that they will be priced under CNY 1,500. One poster shows a squarish-shaped case and it is expected to pack AI features. The upcoming audio device is also expected to come with noise cancellation and Hi-Fi audio. We should learn more details on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the Meizu 21 Note will be the third device in the Meizu 21 series after the standard and pro variants. It is confirmed to feature a 1.5K display with 144Hz refresh rate and dual rear cameras with RGB ring LED flash. The smartphone will be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor coupled with 16GB RAM and be backed by a 5,500mAh battery unit.
According to the International Data Corporation’s (IDC), India’s smartphone market shipped 34 million units in the first quarter of 2024, reflecting an 11.5% year-over-year growth. This marks the third consecutive quarter of increased shipments, driven by new launches, promotional activities, and microfinancing schemes.
Top 10 smartphone brands in Q1 2024
Vivo emerged as the top smartphone brand in India, surpassing Samsung. This achievement is attributed to Vivo’s robust portfolio across various price segments and strong support for offline partners. Vivo’s strategic focus on the mass budget segment, where it holds a significant share, has been particularly impactful.
Samsung, now in second place, saw a mixed performance despite new product launches. While Samsung experienced growth in the premium segment, where it closely trails Apple with a 44 percent share, its overall shipments declined.
Poco achieved a significant milestone by surpassing OnePlus. It registered more than 65 percent year-over-year shipment growth in the online channel, becoming the second leading brand in the entry-level segment and showing strong performance in the online sales arena. OnePlus faced challenges, particularly in the mid-premium segment where it leads with a 38 percent share but saw an overall market decline. Despite strong positions in specific segments, OnePlus’s shipments did not match the growth of competitors like Poco.
Apple recorded a robust first quarter, with a 19 percent year-over-year growth. The success was driven by the iPhone 14 and 15 models, which accounted for 56 percent of Apple’s shipments. Apple continues to dominate the super-premium segment, holding a 69 percent market share.
To sum up, the top 10 smartphone brands in Q1 2024 include Vivo, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Realme, Apple, Poco, OnePlus, Motorola, and Tecno. As can be seen in the table above, Poco and Motorola experienced significant YoY growth of 72 precent and 110 percent, respectively.
The Poco F6 series will be officially unveiled on May 23rd, but leaks are already giving us a good idea of what to expect. In fact, Xiaomi itself confirmed that these phones are basically rebranded versions of their existing China-exclusive phones.
So the focus of most buyers might now have been shifted to price as Poco is known for its competitive pricing strategy.
It looks like you won’t have to wait long for that, as tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore has stumbled upon what seems to be an early listing for the Poco F6 Pro on Amazon.
Although the listing shows only the top-tier variant with 16GB of RAM and a massive 1TB of storage, its price tag is quite impressive at €619.90.
That’s even lower than the starting price of last year’s Poco F5 Pro whose 12/512GB configuration was launched at €649.90. So F6 Pro’s base variant will likely have a very aggressive price.
In addition to pricing, the Amazon listing confirms earlier rumors about the specifications of the Poco F6 Pro. It’s expected to come with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and a 5000mAh battery that supports 120W fast charging.
The display is rumored to be a WQHD+ panel with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It will also have a peak brightness of 4000 nits for excellent visibility in bright outdoor conditions.
When it comes to the camera setup, leaks suggest that the Poco F6 Pro will sport a triple-camera system, led by a 50MP main sensor. Although details about the other cameras are scarce, they could be an ultrawide and a macro sensor. For selfies and video calls, there will be a 16MP front-facing camera.
Interestingly, the leaked information mentions that the Poco F6 Pro will come with MIUI 14 pre-installed, rather than Xiaomi’s latest HyperOS skin. It seems like a typo, as it wouldn’t make sense for the phone to ship with MIUI as HyperOS has been for around months now.
The tech world is excited as Amazon and Walmart have dramatically reduced the price of the M1 iPad Air, making it more affordable for everyone. Apple enthusiasts and consumers now have an opportunity to own one of the most powerful tablets on the market at an unbeatable price. Here are the details…
Amazon, Walmart Offer Huge Discounts on M1 iPad Air 5
Originally priced at $569.00, the 64 GB Wi-Fi version of the iPad Air is now available for just $399.00 at Walmart. This $170.00 price drop makes the device an attractive option for those looking for a high-performance tablet without breaking the bank.
For users needing more storage, the 256 GB Wi-Fi model has also seen a price cut, now retailing for $614.00, down from $749.00. This $135.00 discount ensures that users who require more space for apps, media, and files.
Amazon has also stepped up with competitive pricing. The 64 GB Wi-Fi model is available for $395, while the 256 GB Wi-Fi version can be purchased for $639, reflecting a 15% savings from the original price.
However, it’s worth noting that this discount is limited to the available stock. Therefore, it’s advisable to act quickly. If you want to buy the M1 iPad Air (5th Generation) from Amazon, click here, and if you want to purchase it from Walmart, click here.
M1 iPad Air (5th Generation)Specifications
Feature
Specification
Display
10.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2360 x 1640 pixels)
Chip
Apple M1 chip
Storage
64 GB or 256 GB
Cameras
12 MP Wide rear camera, 12 MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage
Video Recording
4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps
Audio
Stereo speakers
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C connector
Battery
7600 mAh
Colors
Space Gray, Starlight, Pink, Purple, Blue
Other Features
Touch ID sensor, Apple Pencil (2nd generation) support
German peripheral manufacturer Cherry has released the XTRFY M50 wireless gaming mouse in the Chinese market, boasting features designed for both performance and customization. The M50 comes in Black and White colors and it is now available on JD.com at a price of 549 yuan (approximately $76). Let’s delve into its key specs.
Cherry XTRFY M50 Mouse Specifications:
The M50 mouse is equipped with a Pixart 3311 sensor and a main control microswitch from Huano Huarong, known for its reliable performance. It supports four DPI levels up to 5000 and offers a polling rate that can be adjusted between 125 and 1000Hz, ensuring precision and responsiveness.
The mouse measures 122.4mm in length, 63mm in width, and 39mm in height, weighing a light 87 grams. This design is geared towards providing a comfortable fit in the palm, supporting prolonged gaming sessions without strain.
The standout feature of the M50 series is its RGB lighting effects. The mouse includes a unique circular RGB light strip that extends from the tail to the base and it’s adjustable. This feature not only adds to the visual excitement but also allows users to personalize their gaming setup.
In terms of connectivity, the Cherry M50 is versatile, supporting triple-mode connections. It can connect via a 2.4GHz wireless connection, Bluetooth 5.2, or a USB-wired setup, offering flexibility. Additionally, the mouse is equipped with a USB-A to USB-C data cable and a 2.4G wireless receiver, ensuring a variety of connection options are readily available.
The mouse boasts an impressive battery life of approximately 100 hours, with a quick charging time of about two hours. It supports intelligent charging while in use, meaning gamers can continue playing while the mouse recharges, minimizing downtime.
The M50 also comes with a multi-functional scroll wheel. The scroll wheel is designed to perform multiple functions, including forward and backward scrolling, left and right tilting, and a downward click. This multifunctionality enhances user experience by allowing for customizable shortcuts.
Additionally, the Cherry M50 features dedicated driver support through proprietary software. This software provides five customizable configuration profiles where users can adjust settings such as RGB lighting effects, CPI, and polling rate. The mouse is compatible with both Mac and Windows systems.
Real-life images of the Motorola Razr 50 Ultra have already surfaced on the web revealing the dimension of the device. Now almost all the key specifications of the Razr 50 Ultra (or the Moto Razr+ 2024) have surfaced on the web thanks to OnLeaks. So let’s take a look.
Motorola Razr 40 Ultra
Motorola Razr 50 Ultra leaked specifications:
Just as the predecessor Moto Razr 40 Ultra, the successor also houses a 6.9 2640 x 1080 resolution flexible pOLED inner display and a 3.6″ cover display.
Unlike the display, the chipset is upgraded from the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 to the newly released Snapdragon 8s Gen 3. According to the leak, it is paired with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. For those unfamiliar, the Moto Edge Edge 50 Ultra and the recently released iQOO Z9 Turbo also uses this chipset. It equips 1x Cortex-X4 core clocked at 3GHz, 4x Cortex-A720 cores clocked at 2.8GHz, and 3x power efficient Cortex-A520 cores.
Another big upgrade is the rear camera system of this phone. The 12MP and 13MP sensors are replaced by 50MP ones. The ultra-wide angle lens is also reportedly replaced by a 2x telephoto. However, the 32MP selfie stays the same as before.
The phone also equips a slightly larger 4000mAh battery as compared to the 3800mAh capacity of its predecessor. It will support both wired and wireless charging.
The water-repellent coating is also replaced by an IPX8 dust and water-resistant rating. The IPX8 means the device can be submerged in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water. However, it’s not protected from dust. The phone will also offer eSIM support.
This phone will be the company’s first clamshell to sport the Hello UI, a custom skin based on Android 14.
Pricing and availability
The Razr+ 2023 (8GB + 256GB variant) was launched with a price tag of $999. It seems that the price tag will stay the same.
The Razr+ 2024 will be available in three color options: Midnight Blue, Spring Green, and Hot Pink. It will be available in the US for $999 for the 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage variant. You can expect the phone to be launched in June.
Vivo just unveiled the new X100s series of flagship smartphones in China. The newer devices arrive about half a year after the X100 series and are basically a mid-year refresh. But what are all the upgrades? And what are the new changes? Let’s find out.
1. Vivo X100s Pro vs X100 Pro: Slight bump in performance
The Vivo X100 Pro was first announced back in November 2023. It featured MediaTek’s flagship grade processor, the Dimensity 9300. Now, the successor X100s Pro model has launched with an updated chipset, which is the Dimensity 9300+ SoC. This new chip offering improved performance thanks to a higher boost clock speed of 3.4GHz, but it even offers improved APU performance of 10 percent in on-device AI related tasks as well.
2. Design & Display
Apart from the chipset, the differences between the two models are quite negligible. The X100 Pro sports a tall 6.78-inch curved LTPO AMOLED display that offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 3000 nits of peak brightness, which is basically mirrored on the newer X100s Pro as well.
Even in terms of design, the two high-end devices look practically identical with a curved display on the front and a glass panel with a large circular camera island on the back. Both devices offer water and dust resistance, but the newer X100s Pro features an IP69 rating over the IP68 rating of the X100 Pro.
3. Colors: Not as bright anymore
The Chinese brand seems to have opted for a more sober color scheme on the X100s Pro. To recall, the Vivo X100 Pro came in Star Trail Blue, Sunset Orange, White Moonlight, and Cheyne Black color options. But now, the X100s Pro is only available in Titanium, White, and Black/Dark Gray variants.
4. Camera: More of the same
Vivo might have determined that the X100 Pro’s camera hardware was great since it seems like it has returned on the X100s Pro. Even the official website shows that the camera setup has returned untouched. The Vivo X100 Pro and X100s Pro feature a triple camera setup on the rear.
All three sensors are a 50-megapixel shooter. The primary is a one-inch sensor that offers OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), which is paired with an ultra wide angle lens, and a Zeiss APO super-telephoto camera that offers 4.3x optical zoom and 100x hybrid zoom. Meanwhile, the devices house a 32-megapixel shooter for selfies and video calls.
5. Price Hike
The pricing of the two smartphones follows the same philosophy. So there are barely any changes again. The Vivo X100 Pro started from CNY 4,999 ($700) for its 12GB + 256GB model. The 16GB RAM + 256GB, 16GB RAM + 512GB, and 16GB RAM + 1TB options cost CNY 5,299 ($726), CNY 5,499 ($800), and CNY 5,999 ($822) respectively.
Vivo has managed to keep the starting price of the Vivo X100s Pro the same at CNY 4,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant. But for the 16GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB versions, you pay CNY 5,599 ($774) and CNY 6,199 ($857) respectively. So there is a marginal hike in price for the updated X100s Pro.
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