Xiaomi revamps HyperOS development strategy; introduces new “Beta” version

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May 9, 2024

Xiaomi today announced a significant change to the development strategy for HyperOS. It’s replacing the existing “Development” version with a new initiative called the “Beta” version.

Xiaomi currently rolls out a “Development” version of its custom skin for early adopters who are comfortable with potential bugs and glitches in exchange for experiencing the latest features. This approach, while valuable for gathering initial feedback, wasn’t without drawbacks.

The new Beta program promises a more smoother experience. Beta testers will still get a sneak peek at upcoming features but with the crucial advantage of seamless upgrades between the Beta and official versions.

That means no more wiping data when switching between testing and daily use – a major pain point for previous “Development” version users. Additionally, Beta testers will receive updates pushed directly from the official version, ensuring they stay updated without needing manual intervention.

Another key improvement is Xiaomi’s new approach to recruitment and release cycles. The “Beta version” program will adopt a flexible model for new feature releases.

This means there won’t be a fixed schedule for feature rollouts; instead, they’ll be rolled out as needed. It will allow for targeted testing of upcoming features, which could result in more refined updates.

Xiaomi plans to discontinue the “Development version” by August 2024. Existing users can seamlessly upgrade to the official version without data loss.

The inaugural recruitment for the Beta program is expected to begin in Q4 2024. Specific details regarding compatible phones and application procedures will be announced on the Xiaomi Community Internal Test Center application page.

The revamped system development plan offers several benefits for both Xiaomi and its users. Users can enjoy a more stable Beta experience with smooth upgrades, while Xiaomi benefits from focused testing and quicker feedback loops to enhance HyperOS.

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Xiaomi may stop releasing Redmi-branded routers

By

Soumyakanti

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May 9, 2024

Xiaomi appears to be simplifying its router lineup, with reports suggesting the company will discontinue releasing routers under the Redmi brand. This news comes after a comment exchange on Weibo, the popular Chinese social media platform.

The spark ignited when @Selen7, head of smart hardware market for Xiaomi China, responded to a netizen’s comment on blogger @Kang’s post. In the reply, @Selen7 seemingly confirmed that future Xiaomi router releases won’t carry the Redmi branding. Blogger @Kang further solidified this information in a subsequent Weibo post.

While the official announcement is still awaited, this shift indicates a potential streamlining of Xiaomi’s router strategy. Currently, Xiaomi’s website offers five Wi-Fi 6 routers under the Redmi brand: Redmi Router AX5400, AX6000, AX3000, AX6S, and the Redmi Gaming Router AX5400. These routers cater to a budget-conscious audience with prices ranging from 239 yuan to 459 yuan (approximately $33 to $64 USD).

Interestingly, Xiaomi already has routers within this price range under its main brand. This overlap suggests that discontinuing the Redmi router line wouldn’t significantly impact Xiaomi’s overall router offerings. Consumers looking for budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 routers will still have a variety of Xiaomi-branded options to choose from.

The potential reasons behind this move remain unclear. It’s possible that Xiaomi aims to simplify its brand messaging and product segmentation. Xiaomi could improve brand recognition and streamline marketing efforts by focusing on a single brand for routers. Additionally, consolidating router production under one brand might lead to increased production efficiency and cost savings.

This news might come as a surprise to some Redmi fans who have enjoyed the brand’s budget-friendly routers. However, the impact on consumers is likely to be minimal. Xiaomi routers within the same price range will still be readily available. We’ll have to wait for an official announcement from Xiaomi to understand the reasoning behind this strategic shift and its long-term implications for the company’s router lineup.

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Vivo V30e with 50MP selfie camera goes on sale in India

By

Sudhanshu

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May 9, 2024

Vivo recently introduced the Vivo V30e smartphone in the Indian market. This smartphone has debuted in the highly competitive ₹30,000 price range where it’s going up against the Realme 12 Pro, Redmi Note 13 Pro, and other smartphones. Starting today, the Vivo V30e has been made available for purchase.

Vivo V30e pricing & launch offers

The Vivo V30e comes in two storage options: the 128GB version is priced at Rs 27,999, and the 256GB version at Rs 29,999. You can buy it from Vivo’s official website, Flipkart, and authorized retail stores across India. HDFC and SBI cardholders get a flat 10 percent instant discount when purchasing online, while offline buyers can enjoy the same discount with participating banks like ICICI, SBI, IndusInd, IDFC, and others.

Vivo V30e specs:

The Vivo V30e comes with a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and an in-display fingerprint scanner for security. Under the hood, the device features a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB / 256GB storage.

For optics, the phone has a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary camera sensor with OIS assistance. The primary camera is coupled with an 8MP ultra-wide sensor and an Aura Light, which claims to offer studio-quality LED lighting for photos. On the front, the device comes with a 50MP eye autofocus selfie camera.

The hardware is powered by a large 5,500mAh battery unit that supports 44W fast charging. Lastly, the phone has Android 14-based Funtouch OS 14 pre-installed.

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Galaxy S23 Ultra’s lock screen clock widget is facing problems after OneUI 6.1 update

By

Debasish

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May 9, 2024

The OneUI 6.1 update has offered many AI features of the latest Galaxy S24 series to the predecessor, the Galaxy S23 series. However, a few bugs have also been introduced to the series as part of the update.

The lock screen clock widget resets its styling

The latest bug introduced to the S23 series with the OneUI 6.1 update is related to the lock screen clock widget.

After installing the update, Galaxy S23 Ultra users have reported that the lock screen clock widget resets its placement, style, and font after some time. Sammobile wrote that they also noticed this issue in their units and it reportedly happens “quite frequently”. The company has not responded as of writing.

Another bug related to the lock screen notification surfaced on the Samsung Community forum a couple of weeks ago, where the first down swipe on a notification would open the notification panel instead of expanding it on the lock screen. An user noted that this happens mainly due to clock/widget overlapping with some component of notification panel or fingerprint area. He advised to change the position of the clock/widget, which reportedly worked.

Speaking of the features, the update brought Galaxy AI to the S23 series. As a result, the devices can now live translate your calls. The phone also gets the ‘Interpreter’ mode which gives you a real-time translation of your face-to-face conversations.

The Samsung Keyboard now offers the option to change the tone, check spelling for you, make suggestions, and translate messages of your friend from another country. The built-in photo editor in the Gallery app can move, remove, and resize people and objects in any image. It now also uses generative fill to create or expand the background. There are also some other generative AI features added to the system apps like Samsung Notes and Voice Recorder.

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iQOO Pad 2 Pro: Everything this Dimensity 9300+ powered tablet could offer

By

Sudhanshu

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May 9, 2024

iQOO plans to hold a launch event in China this month, where they may introduce the iQOO Neo 9s Pro smartphone and possibly unveil a new tablet, the iQOO Pad 2 Pro. Teasers suggest the tablet will feature a new flagship MediaTek processor. Here’s what to expect from the upcoming tablet.

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1. Premium design & large display

Rumor has it that the iQOO Pad 2 Pro will be a variant of the recently launched Vivo Pad 3 Pro. It is said to improve upon some key internals, however, the overall design of the tablet is said to be the same as the Vivo Pad 3 Pro. This means that the iQOO Pad 2 Pro will come with a metal body, featuring flat sides and a circular camera island on the back.

On the front, we can expect it to feature a 13-inch 3096 x 2,064 resolution LCD display offering a variable refresh rate of 144Hz (all the way down to 30Hz). It could also offer 900nits of peak brightness, along with HDR10 support and full coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The panel could offer a high touch sampling rate since the iQOO Pad will primarily be targeted at gamers.

2. Cutting-edge performance

iQOO has already teased the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chip for the Pad 2 Pro. This new chip was introduced only a few days back, revealing that it is a slightly overclocked version of the existing Dimensity 9300 chip. That being said, the Dimensity 9300 has been going head-to-head with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in terms of performance, so this slight overclock could be enough to give it a decisive performance advantage over the flagship Qualcomm chip, at least on paper.

In real-life applications, users can expect high frame rates on any games they wish to play on this tablet. Additionally, the Dimensity 9300+ has improved in on-device generative AI processing, so AI-driven use cases will also see a significant boost.

Since the iQOO Pad 2 Pro is aimed at gaming, the brand will probably include an efficient cooling system. This will enable the powerful Dimensity 9300+ chip to run smoothly without being slowed down by overheating issues. We can also expect up to 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and up to 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage to be onboard.

3. Larger battery and faster charging

The iQOO Pad, which launched in May last year featured a large 10,000mAh battery paired with 44W fast charging. In comparison, the iQOO Pad 2 Pro is rumored to come with a massive 11,500mAh battery, while China’s 3C certification listing has confirmed that the fast charging will be bumped up to 66W. A previous report also claimed that the iQOO Pad 2 Pro will be getting a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port, which means up to 5 GBPS of transfer speeds, making transferring files and media a breeze on this tablet.

4. Cameras & other notable features

The iQOO Pad 2 Pro is likely to come with a single 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera for selfies and video calls. It’s expected to offer good sound quality, possibly with up to eight speakers for stereo sound. Connectivity options may include Bluetooth 5.4 and WiFi 7. Like the Vivo Pad 3 Pro, it might include a gyroscope, which gamers appreciate. Additionally, the device could have a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for convenient unlocking.

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Vivo Y28 (4G) Passes FCC Certification Revealing Massive Battery And Fast Charging

By

Viraj Gawde

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May 9, 2024

Earlier in January this year, Vivo announced the Y28 (5G) smartphone in India. Now, the brand is reportedly working on the 4G variant of the device. It has been spotted on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification website. Last month, the upcoming offering with the same model number also surfaced on the Bluetooth SIG and Indonesia Telecom certification website.

Vivo Y28 (4G) passes FCC

On the FCC website, the Vivo Y28 (4G) is listed with the model number V2352. It reveals that the smartphone will be backed by a 6,000mAh battery unit. However, that’s said to be the typical or advertised capacity whereas the minimal capacity will be 5,870mAh. The battery carries a model number BA45.

The FCC certification also reveals that the Vivo Y28 (4G) was tested using a charger with the model number V4440L0A0-US. This suggests that the device will support 44W fast charging. Additionally, the firmware version of the smartphone is PD2365F_EX_A_14.0.5.3.W30 indicating that the Y28 (4G) will run on Android 14 OS. The upcoming offering will support WiFi, Bluetooth, and LTE.

The rest of the specifications of the Vivo Y28 (4G) remain unknown. It could be slightly different compared to the 5G variant. The Y28 (5G) has a 6.5-inch HD+ display with 90Hz refresh rate. It is powered by a Dimensity 6020 chipset and backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit with support for 15W charging. The smartphone features a 50MP main camera paired with a 2MP depth lens. It runs on Android 13 OS out of the box.

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US-China tech war takes a new turn as US reviews RISC-V chip technology to stop China’s dominance

By

Joane

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May 9, 2024

The technology war between the United States and China has taken a new turn with the emergence of RISC-V, an open-source chip technology. As China intensifies its focus on RISC-V as an alternative to reduce reliance on foreign technologies, the US Department of Commerce has decided to review this development and take new measures against China’s use of RISC V-chip.

RISC-V, known for its versatility and suitability for specialized chips in AI and mobile devices, has garnered significant attention in recent years. China’s rapid adoption of RISC-V is evident, with over 300 Chinese companies leveraging the technology, and major tech giants like Alibaba, Huawei, and Tencent investing in RISC-V-based chips. This concerted effort by Chinese firms underscores the strategic significance of RISC-V in the ongoing technological competition between the two global powers.

The heightened scrutiny from the US stems from concerns about the implications of China’s increasing dominance in RISC-V. Lawmakers have urged the Biden administration to take action to prevent China from leveraging RISC-V to its advantage, citing potential risks to US national security and economic interests. The Commerce Department’s review aims to assess these concerns and explore potential measures to address them.

Google’s recent decision to remove RISC-V support from the Android kernel has further enhanced tensions surrounding the technology. While this move may impede RISC-V chip vendors targeting Android systems, analysts suggest that developers could potentially restore RISC-V support with additional effort. Nevertheless, the implications of Google’s decision highlight the broader ramifications of the US-China technological competition on global innovation and supply chains.

However, controlling China’s access to RISC-V technology presents a formidable challenge for US policymakers. The relocation of RISC-V International to Switzerland in 2020 was a strategic move aimed at insulating the organization from geopolitical influences and limiting US regulatory options. Imposing restrictions on RISC-V could disrupt the global supply chain and also hinder US companies’ participation in international RISC-V development efforts.

As the Commerce Department navigates these complexities, it must strike a delicate balance between safeguarding national security interests and preserving the competitiveness of US companies in the global marketplace. The outcome of this review will not only shape the future trajectory of RISC-V technology but also influence the broader dynamics of the US-China technological rivalry.

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Oppo Reno 12 Pro to come with network-free “Bluetooth calling” support, claims tipster

By

Rajesh Regmi

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May 9, 2024

There are new rumors about the upcoming Oppo Reno 12 Pro, thanks to a leak from a reliable source Digital Chat Sation. It suggests the phone will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 “Star Speed Edition” chipset.

The fancy suffix on the name should mean some more clock speeds compared to the vanilla Dimensity 9200 Plus. There’s also talk about generous memory configurations, reaching up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

On the back, the phone is rumored to feature a triple camera setup. There will be a 50MP Sony IMX890 main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 50MP Samsung GN5 sensor for telephoto with 2x optical zoom. The front camera is rumored to also house a 50MP Samsung JN5 sensor.

Other tidbits from the leak include a big 5000mAh battery with fast 80W charging, plastic side frames, an X-axis haptic motor, and an optical in-screen fingerprint sensor.

The leak also mentions a network-free “Bluetooth calling function” for the phone. The tipster didn’t mention the specifics, but based on the name, we expect the feature to facilitate short-range communications. However, we’ll need to wait for an official announcement to learn more about this feature.

The Reno 12 Pro will be joined by its cheaper sibling, Reno 12. It is expected to come with the new Dimensity 8250 chip, a 6.7-inch OLED display that offers a 1.5K resolution.

As for the cameras, the Reno 12 is expected to mimic the same camera setup as the Pro model. That means, there will be a 50-megapixel main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom.

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iQOO Z9x 5G Key Specs Confirmed: 6,000mAh Battery, Two OS Updates, IP64 Rating, And More

By

Viraj Gawde

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May 9, 2024

The iQOO Z9x 5G is set to be announced in India on May 17. Amazon has put up a microsite of the upcoming offering confirming its availability on the e-commerce platform. Additionally, the listing also reveals some new specifications of the smartphone. Previously, it was confirmed to be powered by Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset.

iQOO Z9x key specs confirmed

As per the microsite, the iQOO Z9x 5G is touted to be the slimmest phone in India with a massive 6,000mAh battery unit. It is claimed to offer 2 days of usage on a single charge. The device will support 44W fast charging and a 30-minute charge is said to offer 10 hours of usage. The upcoming offering is confirmed to pack 8GB RAM along with 8GB virtual RAM and 128GB internal storage expandable up to 1TB.

In terms of display, the iQOO Z9x 5G has a centre-aligned punch-hole cutout with a screen measuring 6.72 inches. It features a seven-level 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and 1,000 nits peak brightness. On the audio front, the device is equipped with dual stereo speakers with Hi-Res certification. There is also a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The iQOO Z9x 5G is confirmed to be IP64-certified dust and water-resistant. It is teased to be the first in the segment, although the exact price segment remains a mystery. There is a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button. The iQOO Z9x 5G has a squarish camera module on the rear housing a 50MP main sensor and a secondary lens.

Lastly, software-wise, the iQOO Z9x 5G is confirmed to ship with pre-installed Android 14 OS. It will be eligible for two OS updates and three years of security patches.

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Realme GT Neo 6 vs Realme GT Neo 5: What’s new and what’s been improved

By

Sean

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May 9, 2024

Realme GT Neo 6 was finally unveiled in China earlier today (9th May 2024), after weeks of leaks, rumors, and teasers. The latest device arrives as the direct successor to the Realme GT Neo 5 from last year. But what’s changed? And what all has improved in the newer device? Let’s find out.

Realme GT Neo 6 vs Realme GT Neo 5: Change in Design philosophy

Right off the bat, the design of the two GT devices have changed drastically. Realme launched the GT Neo 5 with the Halo LED lighting and a large camera island on the back. This RGB zone featured a transparent area that showcased the high-end Snapdragon chip under the hood. The GT Neo 5 arrived as a flagship killer device so its not a surprise flaunting that they highlighted one of its defining features (Click here for our full review).

However, the Realme GT Neo 6 took an entirely different approach, choosing an elegant form over flexing its muscles. The LED lighting and transparent zone is replaced with a seamless camera island that has a reflective finish that blends seamlessly with the rear panel. The device is more durable too with the addition of the IP65 water and dust resistance rating.

Better performance with newer chip

Since the Realme GT Neo 6 has just been unveiled, it features more up to date specs. It is equipped with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, which is more capable than the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 on the GT Neo 5. Both chips are more than enough for everyday tasks and gaming, but this is an upgrade nonetheless. Even the base storage options pairs 12GB RAM with 256GB storage, over the GT Neo 5’s 8GB + 256GB base configuration.

Camera: One less but new and improved

Realme has decided to remove on image sensor on the Realme GT Neo 6 entirely. The GT Neo 5 features a triple camera setup at the back, but the third sensor was a 2-megapixel macro lens. So we’re not missing out on much, but what’s here has gotten a refresh.

The main sensor is a now a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 sensor over the IMX890 sensor. Although, the 8-megapixel ultra wide angle lens has remained unchanged. The front has also doubled in pixel count in the newer model from 16-megapixel to 32-megapixel now.

Battery: Best of both worlds with charging & capacity

Realme made an interesting decision to launch the GT Neo 5 in two different charging variants. One offered blazing fast 240W wired charging but with a 4,600mAh battery, while the second offered a larger 5,000mAh battery with slower 150W fast charging. But this time around, it seems we’re getting the best of both sides, since the battery now has a massive 5,500mAh capacity, but still offers 120W wired fast charging.

What else has improved?

Talking about some of the more minor changes, the display is marginally taller measuring 6.78-inches on the GT Neo 6 over the GT Neo 5’s 6.7-inch panel. The OLED display on the newer model can output an impressive 6000 nits of peak brightness as well, up from 1400 nits on its predecessor. The GT Neo 6 runs on the Android 14 OS based Realme UI 5 custom skin out of the box, meaning it will have longer software support as well.

Price

A notable difference between the two is the price. The Realme GT Neo 6 starts from 2,099 Yuan (roughly $290) for the 12GB + 256GB base model, while the GT Neo 5 launched for 2,499 Yuan (roughly $368) for the 8GB + 256GB version. So the company managed to avoid the price jump across a new generation, but even managed to slice its base price to make it more affordable.

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iQOO 13 battery and charging details tipped

By

Rajesh Regmi

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May 9, 2024

iQOO’s upcoming flagship smartphone, the iQOO 13 series will possibly launch in the fourth quarter of this year. While there are not many details available about the devices yet, some early leaks have started to emerge.

Recently, a tipster known as Smart Pikachu shared details about the charging and battery capabilities of the iQOO 13 via a Weibo post.

According to this tipster, the iQOO 13 will feature a 6000mAh battery and support 120W charging. That will be a 1000mAh upgrade from last year’s iQOO 12 while the charging stays the same.

Beyond these details, the leak doesn’t provide much else. However, in a previous leak, the same tipster revealed that the phone would be powered by the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 SoC, which boasts custom Oryon CPU cores and an enhanced NPU for advanced AI capabilities.

The iQOO 13 is expected to come in standard and Pro variants. The standard model is rumored to have a 1.5K resolution with a flat display, while the Pro variant might feature a curved display with a higher 2K resolution.

It aligns with the display setup of the iQOO 12 line, suggesting no major changes in this regard. The leak also suggests that both models could use displays sourced from Samsung and domestic Chinese display manufacturers, likely BOE.

Although there’s no specific mention of the launch timeframe for the iQOO 13 series in the leaks, it’s unlikely to debut before the expected release of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 in October 2024. We will be sure to keep you updated on any new details about the smartphones.

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How Long Will Google Pixel 8a Get Software Updates?

By

Vicky

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May 9, 2024

The Google Pixel 8a is the company’s latest affordable smartphone and probably the best mid-range phone you can get right now. It offers a similar design and aesthetics as its pricier counterparts, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, but cuts back on the spec sheet to achieve a more budget-friendly price tag.

But, does the latest Google Pixel 8a sacrifice in terms of software support? Thankfully, the device comes with the same software update promise as the other Pixel 8 series models. So, how long will the Pixel 8a get software updates?

How Many Software Updates Will the Pixel 8a Get?

Like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the pocket-friendly Pixel 8a will also get seven years of Android updates, security updates, and Pixel Feature Drops. So, you’ll have the latest Android experience for many more years to come.

The Google Pixel 8a comes with Android 14 out of the box, the same OS as the other Pixel 8 series phones launched with last year. This means the last OS upgrade for all Pixel 8 series models will be Android 21, which will be released in 2031.

These Google Pixel phones will also receive seven years of Pixel Feature Drops that bring exciting features and improvements multiple times a year.

That’s an impressive software support for a mid-range phone such as the Pixel 8a. In fact, no other smartphone brands offer this many OS upgrades for a mid-range phone, even their high-end phones get a maximum of four or five OS upgrades.

Also Read: Top 5 Google Pixel 8a Alternatives in India

No Treat for Older Pixel Phones

While the mid-range Pixel 8a enjoys an impressive 7-year software update treat, older Pixel phones are on the verge of getting their final OS upgrade.

Google only offers three Android OS upgrades for the Pixel 7 series and older models. This means Android 16 will be the final major OS update for the Pixel 7 models, and then all Pixel phones launched before Pixel 8 will become ineligible for future OS upgrades.

Google, on one hand, is offering seven OS updates to the Pixel 8 series, while older Pixel phones are stuck with three. This huge gap has been disappointing for a lot of older Pixel users. Google could have extended software support for two additional years, at least. But, it doesn’t seem to be happening. If you want longer software support, get any of the newest Pixel phones.

In case you have an older Google Pixel, click here to see which of them are eligible for the Android 15 upgrade. The same article also highlights exciting features of the upcoming Android OS.

Xiaomi SU7 car broke down after driving 39 kilometers, Xiaomi agreed to compensate

By

Debasish

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May 9, 2024

Mr. Wen, a user of the Xiaomi SU7 EV, just released a video showing that his car broke down after just 39 kilometers of journey. He towed the car back to the delivery center. After the initial inspection, no problems were found. The after-sales personnel told him that they were willing to handle the return process of the car, however, he insisted on an exchange.

He informed that he purchased the standard version of the Xiaomi SU7 car at the Xiaomi Auto Delivery Center in Xiang’an, Xiamen City. Naturally, the incident sparked a heated conversation about the new car.

The user insisted on a replacement

The user has shared screenshots of his conversation with the after-sales service. “What I want is a car, not a return. Can’t you reschedule Youxian to produce one for me?” the user asked the after-sales personnel.

The after-sales personnel informed the user that the car needed to be returned to the factory for further analysis so that the company could find out the reason behind the breakdown. He also clarified that it wasn’t possible to repair the car right away. “The cause of the vehicle’s failure needs to be returned to the factory for further analysis, and it is temporarily unable to be repaired.”

The personnel informed that the car will be returned to him after a detailed inspection. It would surely take time, however, according to the company, it is to ensure the quality of the cars. The personnel also apologized to the user for the disappointing car purchasing experience.

Xiaomi after-sales personnel agreed to offer a replacement

However, Mr. Wen insisted on a replacement. Fortunately, after an internal application, the Xiaomi after-sales personnel agreed to offer a replacement to the user. “If the original order number does not change, we will apply to schedule the production of new vehicles according to the original order number in the system.” However, the personnel also informed that there are currently many users arranging orders, and the company cannot promise to deliver the replacement in a short time.

Simply the company wants to find out what caused their car to break down and work on the problem, but offering the user an instant replacement isn’t temporarily possible due to the current high demand.

During the waiting period until the date of delivery of the replacement car, the company agreed to provide transportation rights compensation (150 yuan in cash or an equal amount of points per day, optional).

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Vivo Y18s Launch: New budget phone with large battery, 50MP camera drops in Vietnam

By

Sean

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May 9, 2024

Vivo has silently launched a new Y series budget smartphone in Vietnam. The Vivo Y18s was listed on the brand’s official website, revealing its key specs and features. However, it appears that it is not just a brand-new model, so here are all the details.

Vivo Y18s Specs

Looking at the design and specs on the official company website, the Vivo 18s seems awfully familiar to another smartphone. The device appears to be a rebranded Vivo Y18, which has already been released in various markets including Vietnam and India. The Y18s model was listed with the same 6.56-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate as the Vivo Y18.

Under the hood, it is equipped with the MediaTek Heli G85 SoC that is paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The memory can be further expanded by up to 6GB via a virtual RAM expansion, while storage can be bumped by up to 1TB through a microSD card slot. Notably, the Vivo Y18 model in Vietnam was launched with 8GB RAM, so the Y18s could be a slightly cutdown version since it offers only 6GB of RAM.

It is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 15W wired fast charging. Other notable features include a 50MP dual rear camera, an 8MP selfie shooter, Android 14 OS out of the box, Bluetooth 5.0, and FM support. The budget phone comes in two color options, namely Mocha Brown and Green Hai Luu. Unfortunately, the current listing does not reveal the pricing for this device, but it will likely be announced soon. So stay tuned for more updates.

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Moto Buds+ & Moto Buds debut in India with Bose sound, ANC & Dolby Head Tracking

By

Sudhanshu

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May 9, 2024

Motorola has officially unveiled the Moto Buds and Buds+ TWS earphones in India, almost a month after their global debut. These earbuds are packed with attractive features like ANC, Hi-res audio support, and the Moto Buds+ are tuned by Bose.

Moto Buds+ specs:

The Moto Buds+ is the more premium offering among the two, featuring dual dynamic drivers with an 11mm woofer and a 6mm tweeter in each earbud. As mentioned above, these earbuds have been tuned by Bose, and support Hi-Res Audio, Dolby Head Tracking as well as various audio codecs including LHDC5.0, AAC, SBC, and LC3.

The Active Noise Cancellation technology has also been provided by Bose, which is capable of blocking up to 46dB of external noise. Users can switch between ANC, an adaptive mode that responds to surrounding noises, and a transparency mode that allows ambient sounds to filter in.

These earbuds use Bluetooth 5.3 for connectivity and support simultaneous connection to two devices through the Moto Buds app. The app also offers EQ tuning, which lets users adjust the audio profile as per their preferences. Each earbud includes a triple microphone system for improved call clarity via ENC.

As for battery battery life, Motorola claims up to 8 hours of playback with ANC turned off, and an additional 30 hours provided by the charging case, adding up to 38 hours of total playtime. These earbuds support both wired (USB Type-C) and wireless charging, with wired charging taking 60 minutes and wireless taking 110 minutes for a full charge. It also has a quick charge feature that delivers up to 3 hours of playback after just 10 minutes of charging.

Moto Buds specs:

The Moto Buds are equipped with 12.4mm dynamic drivers in each earbud, delivering balanced audio with bold bass. These earbuds have the Dolby Audio certification and come with Hi-Res Audio mode. For noise suppression, they are equipped with 50dB ANC and three noise cancellation modes including Adaptive, Noise Cancellation, and Transparency.

Each earbud also has a triple mic setup with Environmental Noise Cancellation, which helps reduce the surrounding noise when you are using your mic for calls. For connectivity, they use Bluetooth 5.3 and feature touch controls which can be customized via the Moto Buds app.

Motorola promises 9 hours per charge when ANC is off, and the charging case provides an additional 33 hours, summing up to a total of 42 hours of playback. The case also supports quick charging, offering up to 2 hours of playtime after just a 10-minute charge.

Pricing & availability

The Moto Buds+ are priced at ₹9,999, while the Moto Buds are priced at ₹4,999. However, during the initial launch period, the Moto Buds+ will be available for ₹7,999, and the Moto Buds will be priced at ₹3,999. This special offer starts on May 15 via Flipkart.

In terms of color choices, the Moto Buds+ come in Forest Grey and Beach Sand, while the Moto Buds are available in Starlight Blue, Glacier Blue, and Coral Peach.

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Realme GT 6T will launch as India’s first Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 phone

By

Rajesh Regmi

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May 9, 2024

Realme has announced that the GT 6T will launch in India this month. The phone will be the first in the country to feature the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC and is the first “T” model within the non-Neo branch of the GT series smartphones.

The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset is touted to offer superior performance, faster speeds, and improved power efficiency. According to Realme, the GT 6T achieves an AnTuTu benchmark score exceeding 1.5 million points.

Additionally, Realme said that with the GT 6T, it has “strengthened its commitment to innovation, relentless quest for superior quality, and unwavering commitment to its customers.”

Although the GT 6T will be India’s first phone featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, Realme previously introduced the GT Neo6 SE in China, which shares the same chip. So the GT 6T will likely be a rebranded version of the GT Neo 6 SE in India.

We can expect the phone to have a 6.78-inch OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a super bright peak brightness of 6,000 nits. It’s powered by the latest Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor and runs on Android 14.

Moreover, the Neo 6 SE features a 50MP main camera and an ultrawide sensor on the back, while a 32MP camera sits on the front. It packs a long-lasting 5,500mAh battery with 100W fast charging and is water and dust-resistant, thanks to an IP65 rating.

Although Realme hasn’t disclosed the exact launch date for the GT 6T in India, it has been confirmed to arrive sometime this month.

Related:

iQOO Neo 9S Pro+ Leak: Flagship Snapdragon chip & more at an attractive price?

By

Sean

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May 9, 2024

The iQOO Neo 9S Pro and Neo 9S Pro+ models are set to debut in China soon. But ahead of the official announcement, a fresh leak has revealed some key details regarding the Neo 9S Pro+ model’s specifications. It will reportedly pack a premium Snapdragon processor and a tall OLED display with a high refresh rate, so let’s have a look.

iQOO Neo 9S Pro+ Leaked Specs

The leak arrives from known tipster Digital Chat Station who shared the information on Weibo (a Chinese microblogging website). While the tipster didn’t explicitly state the name of the device in his leak, he used emojis to revecal that it was an upcoming iQOO phone. He stated that this smartphone will be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. To recall, the Neo 9S Pro was recently teased to feature the Dimensity 9300+ processor.

Digital Chat Station further added that the smartphone could sport a tall 6.78-inch OLED display that offers 1.5K resolution (2800 x 1260 pixels), 144Hz refresh rate, 2160 PWM dimming, and DC dimming as well. The high-end processor is rumored to be paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. Although, a 512GB option is also present in the leak. For photography, the rear packs a 50-megapixel primary camera.

While other finer details were not revealed in this leak, DCS claimed that the iQOO Neo 9S Pro+ will feature a dedicated graphics chipset. This would likely imply a smooth gaming epxerience. Apparently, this new device would be cost-effective despite offering top-notch specs and features. So it could be priced in the budget flagship/flagship killer category.

RELATED:

Realme GT Neo 6 arrives with 6000 nits screen, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and 120W charging

By

Rajesh Regmi

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May 9, 2024

Realme has officially launched the GT Neo 6 in China, the successor to the popular GT Neo 5. The phone positions itself as a “mid-range flagship,” aiming to deliver high-end performance at a competitive price.

Performance

The GT Neo6 boasts the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 mobile platform, the latest sub-flagship chip from Qualcomm. This, coupled with a 10,000-level VC cooling system, promises users top-tier performance for e-sports and other demanding tasks.

To further enhance performance, the phone has a Geek Performance Panel 2.0 that allows users to customize CPU and GPU frequencies, along with an upgraded “AI Burning Mode” which intelligently activates full performance mode when a compatible cooling back clip is attached.

All this translates to incredible gaming performance, according to Realme. The phone supports native 1.5K resolution in “Genshin Impact” for superior visuals compared to standard 720p or upscaled resolutions. Additionally, it can optimize image quality and frame stability in popular games like “Honor of Kings.”

Memory options include up to 16GB of LPDDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

Display

The display is another highlight, and it’s basically unchanged from what we saw on the Neo 6 SE. That is, the phone has a 6.78-inch screen co-developed with BOE that has rated peak brightness of 6000 nits.

While that’s the peak, the typical global maximum brightness sits at 1600 nits and the manual maximum brightness is 1000 nits. It’s an 8T LTPO panel with a variable refresh rate of 0.5-120Hz, 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming and 3+1 Pulse DC-like low-stroboscopic technology for a comfortable viewing experience.

There’s also Greenfield AI eye protection, an industry-first feature, that actively detects user fatigue and adjusts various screen parameters accordingly. It’s combined with other features like low-frequency flicker dimming and hardware-level blue light reduction for a comfortable viewing experience.

Camera

The Realme GT Neo 6 has a dual-camera system on the back. The main sensor is a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS). It’s accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide-angle sensor (Sony IMX355). And there’s a 32MP Sony IMX615 camera on the front for selfies.

Battery

The GT Neo6 is equipped with a 5500mAh battery, the largest among Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 phones, and supports 120W fast charging. It allows for a quick 50% charge in just 10 minutes.

Realme doesn’t compromise on other aspects either. The phone comes equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for improved protection and supports IP65 dust and splash resistance. It’s the only phone among its competitors to feature “dual-frequency GPS + tri-frequency Beidou” for highly accurate positioning.

The phone also has an IR sensor, an X-axis linear motor, and NFC for a well-rounded flagship experience.

A Collaboration for Comic Fans

For the first time, Realme has collaborated with a leading Chinese comic IP to launch a limited edition Realme GT Neo6 “Perfect World” animation Yunxi gift box.

It includes a customized phone with exclusive themes, ringtones, and a charging light effect inspired by the comic. The box also includes the latest Realme Buds Air 6 TWS, a customized phone case, and other peripherals.

Price

The Realme GT Neo6 comes in four memory configurations. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing:

12GB + 256GB: ¥2099
16GB + 256GB: ¥2399
16GB + 512GB: ¥2699
16GB + 1TB: ¥2999

The phone is available for purchase via the company’s official site in China in Purple, Green, and Silver color variants.

Related:

Motorola X50 Ultra Launch: Moto’s next-gen flagship arrives in China on May 16

By

Sean

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May 9, 2024

Motorola is gearing up to unveil a new high-end smartphone in China soon. The upcoming device is the Motorola X50 Ultra, which is expected to be a rebranded version of the Edge 50 Ultra recently launched in Europe. But an official teaser has confirmed the release date of the X50 Ultra for the Chinese market.

Motorola X50 Ultra China Launch

To recall, the Edge 50 series is nearing its global release, consisting of the Edge 50 Pro, Edge 50 Fusion, and Edge 50 Ultra. The Edge 50 Fusion is set to launch next week while the other two have already been released in certain markets. And now, the Chinese version, dubbed the Motorola X50 Ultra, is also set to debut on May 16.

Looking at the teaser, we can see the device in a Biege color option. But since the Edge 50 Ultra also comes in Black and Peach Fuzz variants, we can expect the China release to also include these colors. Since it’s a rebranded Edge 50 Ultra, the specifications are likely similar between the two models. So the X50 Ultra could sport a 6.67-inch pOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate and 2500 nits of peak brightness as well.

Under the hood, it is expected to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC that is paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device would likely run on the Android 14 OS out of the box. For photography, the rear may offer a 50-megapixel triple camera setup while the front offers a 50-megapixel selfie shooter. A 4,500mAh battery pack could power this device with support for 125W wired and 50W wireless fast charging.

RELATED:

MOONDROP MIAD 01: Innovative smartphone with Hi-Fi music player now available on GeekWills

By

Joane

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May 9, 2024

In a world filled with sleek yet sound-compromising smartphones, the MOONDROP MIAD 01 emerges as a beacon for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike. This revolutionary device seamlessly combines the functionality of a cutting-edge smartphone with the unparalleled audio quality of a dedicated Hi-Fi music player, delivering an immersive auditory experience like never before.

You can now buy the MOONDROP MIAD 01 smartphone cum Hi-Fi music player for $499 at GeekWills.

WHERE TO BUY

MOONDROP MIAD 01 at $499 @GeekWills

At the heart of the MOONDROP MIAD 01 lies the powerful MTKD7050 processor, ensuring seamless performance and swift responsiveness for all your tasks, be it streaming high-resolution music or navigating through apps with ease. With a generous 256GB UFS3.1 ROM and 12GB LPDDR4x RAM, storage constraints become a thing of the past, allowing you to carry your entire music library wherever you go.

The immersive 6.7-inch AMOLED display, boasting a resolution of 2460x1080P and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, provides an unparalleled visual feast, whether you’re indulging in your favorite albums or binge-watching your preferred streaming content.

One of the standout features of the MOONDROP MIAD 01 is its dedication to preserving the purity of Hi-Fi sound. Equipped with both a 3.5mm single-ended and a 4.4mm balanced analog audio output, this device ensures that you experience your music exactly as the artist intended, with crystal-clear clarity and rich, nuanced tones.

Furthermore, the inclusion of Bluetooth codecs such as SBC, AAC, and LDAC ensures compatibility with a wide range of audio devices, allowing you to enjoy high-quality sound wirelessly, without compromise.

In today’s era of streaming supremacy, the MOONDROP MIAD 01 stands out as a champion of audiophile-grade music consumption. With support for hi-res digital masters and lossless audio from leading streaming services like Tidal, Qobuz, and Apple Music, you can enjoy your favorite tracks with unrivaled fidelity, anytime, anywhere.

Beyond its audio prowess, the MOONDROP MIAD 01 is a powerhouse in terms of functionality. With a robust 5000mAh battery capacity and PD 33W fast charging, you can stay connected and immersed in your music for extended periods without interruption. The inclusion of NFC and OTG support further enhances its versatility, while the advanced Android 13 operating system ensures a seamless and intuitive user experience.

MOONDROP MIAD 01 transcends the boundaries of conventional smartphones, offering a holistic audiovisual experience that caters to the discerning tastes of audiophiles and music fanatics.