Author: GizNews

  • Introducing the Hornback X1 Folding Electric Bike in India, Available for Less than $550

    Introducing the Hornback X1 Folding Electric Bike in India, Available for Less than $550

    The Hornback X1: A Game-Changer for Urban Commuters in India

    In bustling cities like those in India, the search for convenient and eco-friendly transportation options has never been more important. That's where the Hornback X1 comes in. This innovative folding e-bike is making waves in the world of urban commuting, combining the benefits of electric bikes with the practicality of a folding design.

    A Unique Folding Mechanism

    At the heart of the Hornback X1's design is its unique folding mechanism. Unlike other folding e-bikes with smaller wheels, the Hornback X1 features large 28-inch wheels, providing greater comfort for longer rides. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need a reliable and comfortable ride for their daily commutes or city explorations. The patented folding mechanism allows the rear wheel to fold towards the bike's side, significantly reducing its size for easy storage and transportation. The bike's distinctive handlebars, resembling turned-down horns, inspired its name "Hornback."

    Impressive Technical Features

    From a technical standpoint, the Hornback X1 is equally impressive. It boasts a 36-Newton-meter rear motor and a 7.65-Ampere-hour battery neatly placed on the luggage rack. While this placement limits additional cargo space, the bike offers a commendable range of 45 kilometers (28 miles) in pedal-assist mode. With the throttle option, the range reduces slightly to 35 kilometers (22 miles). Despite its sturdy steel frame, weighing 24.5 kilograms, the bike remains balanced and stable when stored, thanks to its rear casters that aid in rolling.

    Safety and Performance

    Despite its weight, the Hornback X1 does not compromise on safety and performance. It is equipped with 160mm disc brakes and a Shimano Tourney seven-speed derailleur, ensuring smooth and reliable riding experiences. However, it's worth noting that the bike currently lacks mudguards and a kickstand, which might be minor drawbacks for some users.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Hornback X1 is priced at 45,000 INR (about $540), making it not just a bike but also a statement of innovation and practicality. Its unique blend of features makes it an appealing option in the Indian market and a potential inspiration for e-bike makers globally. So, for urban commuters in India, the Hornback X1 might just be the game-changer they've been waiting for.

  • Samsung users left disappointed by One UI 6 roadmap’s inaccuracies

    Samsung users left disappointed by One UI 6 roadmap’s inaccuracies

    Samsung users were recently treated to what seemed like an early holiday gift – a roadmap detailing the release dates for Android 14 and One UI 6 updates. Shared on Samsung’s community forums by a forum manager, the detailed roadmap included exact release dates for the stable One UI 6 update on various eligible Galaxy devices, sparking excitement among users with eligible devices. However, the roadmap eventually proved to be inaccurate, as the anticipated update rollout for the mentioned devices did not happen.

    Misleading Roadmap

    The excitement was short-lived as it turns out the roadmap was nothing more than a misleading mirage. The post containing the release dates has been swiftly removed from Samsung’s forum, and it’s clear that the dates provided were inaccurate and not aligned with Samsung’s official update plans.

    For instance, according to the now-debunked roadmap, the Galaxy S22 lineup was expected to receive the stable One UI 6 update on November 15, with the Galaxy Z Fold 5, Galaxy Z Flip 5, Galaxy A34, and Galaxy A54 slated for an update on November 13. These dates were evidently far from reality.

    Official Roadmap Remains Unknown

    The truth of the matter is that the official One UI 6 roadmap remains a mystery. Samsung is known for publishing comprehensive roadmaps through the Samsung Members app, ensuring users are informed about the estimated release time frames for major Android and One UI updates.

    Currently, the stable Android 14 One UI 6 update is exclusive to the Galaxy S23 series. The tech giant is actively engaged in beta testing One UI 6 across various smartphones.

    Patience is Key

    Samsung users eagerly anticipating the update should exercise patience and manage their expectations. Samsung is likely to provide an accurate roadmap once more devices are set to receive the non-beta One UI 6 update.

  • Spy photos reveal the interior of Xiaomi’s forthcoming EV

    Spy photos reveal the interior of Xiaomi’s forthcoming EV

    Spy Images Reveal Interior Details of Xiaomi's First EV

    Recently leaked spy images have given us a glimpse into the interior of Xiaomi's highly anticipated first electric vehicle (EV). The photos confirm some design and construction details, providing a sneak peek into what we can expect from Xiaomi's venture into the automobile space.

    A Sizable Central Control Screen and Functional Steering Wheel

    According to the leaked images, Xiaomi's EV will feature a sizable central control screen, allowing for easy access and control of various vehicle functions. Additionally, the car will come equipped with a three-spoke steering wheel that has a flattened bottom. The steering wheel also includes function buttons, enhancing the overall user experience.

    Constructional Details and Spacious Interior Layout

    The upcoming Xiaomi EV boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 4997/1963/1455 mm. This generous size contributes to a spacious interior layout, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for occupants.

    Wheel Options and Advanced Functionalities

    Xiaomi's EV will offer two wheel options: 19" and 20". These wheels will be accompanied by tire specifications of 245/45 R19 and 245/40 R20, respectively. Notably, the vehicle will also feature lidar technology positioned behind the front windshield, indicating advanced functionalities such as autonomous capabilities. Furthermore, the inclusion of a B-pillar camera raises expectations for a potential face recognition unlocking feature.

    Versatile Powertrain Options and Battery Packs

    The powertrain of Xiaomi's EV will offer versatility with two options. The Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) variant will be equipped with a 220 kW motor, while the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) version will boast a maximum power of 495 kW (220 kW + 275 kW). The battery pack options include an LFP pack from BYD, known for its cost-effectiveness, and a ternary NMC pack from CATL, offering a more premium alternative.

    Weight and Speed Capabilities

    In terms of weight, the Xiaomi EV will range from 1,980 kg for the base model to 2,205 kg for the top trim. The vehicle's speed capabilities will also vary, with the lower trim limited to 210 km/h and the top model reaching an impressive 265 km/h.

    Multiple Versions for Consumer Choice

    MIIT filings have revealed that Xiaomi's EV will come in three versions: SU7, SU7 Pro, and SU7 Max. This range of options will allow consumers to choose a trim that best suits their needs and preferences.

    HyperOS: Xiaomi's In-Car Operating System

    To power its in-car system, Xiaomi has developed HyperOS, an in-house operating system with a proven track record in smartphones. Now seamlessly integrated into the SU7's automotive environment, HyperOS combines cutting-edge technology with Xiaomi's software prowess, positioning the SU7 as an exciting contender in the electric vehicle landscape.

    With these leaked interior details and a promising combination of features, Xiaomi's first EV is generating significant anticipation among electric vehicle enthusiasts. As we await its official launch in the first half of next year, the Xiaomi EV is shaping up to be a compelling choice in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.

  • Sneak Peak at OPPO Pad Air 2 Display Details Prior to Upcoming Launch

    Sneak Peak at OPPO Pad Air 2 Display Details Prior to Upcoming Launch

    OPPO Pad Air 2: Key Details Teased Ahead of Launch

    OPPO is preparing to unveil its latest offerings, the Reno 11 series smartphones and the OPPO Pad Air 2, on November 23. As the successor to the Reno 10 series, the Reno 11 series is highly anticipated. Meanwhile, the OPPO Pad Air 2 is expected to follow in the footsteps of last year’s Pad Air. In preparation for the upcoming launch, OPPO has shared teasers on its official Weibo handle, providing some key details about the upcoming tablet.

    Impressive Display Features

    One of the highlights of the OPPO Pad Air 2 is its display. The tablet will feature a 2.4K resolution, ensuring sharp and vibrant visuals. Moreover, it will filter out 60 percent of harmful blue light, reducing eye strain and potential hazards. Compared to ordinary LCD screens, the OPPO Pad Air 2 will reduce the suppression of melatonin, promoting better eye protection and facilitating comfortable sleep. This display technology demonstrates OPPO’s commitment to providing a top-notch user experience.

    Possible Rebranding and Speculations

    While the new teasers do not disclose additional details about the OPPO Pad Air 2, speculations suggest that it might be a rebranded version of the OnePlus Pad Go, which was recently launched in India. If this speculation holds true, the OPPO Pad Air 2 could come with a dual-tone back panel design, housing both front and rear 8MP cameras. Under the hood, it is expected to be powered by a Helio G99 SoC, accompanied by up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The OnePlus Pad Go, upon which the OPPO Pad Air 2 may be based, boasts an 8,000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging. Additionally, it is available in both WiFi and 4G LTE variants.

    Pre-Orders and Availability

    The OPPO Pad Air 2 is already available for pre-orders in China, indicating that the tablet will soon be hitting the market. OPPO fans and tech enthusiasts alike eagerly await the official launch event on November 23 to learn more about the OPPO Reno 11 series smartphones and the OPPO Pad Air 2.

    With its impressive display features and potential specifications, the OPPO Pad Air 2 promises to be a noteworthy addition to the tablet market. Stay tuned for more updates as OPPO unveils its latest offerings.

  • Dimensity 8200 SoC Confirmed to Power OPPO Reno 11

    Dimensity 8200 SoC Confirmed to Power OPPO Reno 11

    OPPO Reno 11 Series: New Teasers Reveal More Details

    OPPO is gearing up to launch its highly anticipated Reno 11 series in China on November 23. The lineup, which includes standard and pro models, has already generated a lot of buzz in the tech community. While the brand has previously unveiled the design of both smartphones and provided some information about the cameras, new teasers shared on the microblogging platform have now shed more light on what to expect from the Reno 11 series.

    MediaTek Dimensity 8200 Processor Confirmed for OPPO Reno 11

    According to the latest teasers, the standard OPPO Reno 11 will be powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 8200 processor. This chipset, which was launched in December last year, is expected to provide a powerful performance for the device. This confirmation gives users an idea of the processing capabilities they can expect from the Reno 11.

    ColorOS 14: The First Smartphone to Ship with the Latest Operating System

    Another exciting revelation from the teasers is that the upcoming Reno 11 will be the first smartphone to come with ColorOS 14 straight out of the box. This is a significant development for OPPO users, as the new operating system is expected to bring a range of improvements and new features to enhance the overall user experience.

    Curved Display with Center-Aligned Punch-Hole Cutout

    A teaser video of the OPPO Reno 11 series has also confirmed that both phones will feature a curved display with a center-aligned punch-hole cutout. This design choice not only gives the devices a sleek and modern look but also maximizes the screen real estate for an immersive viewing experience. OPPO fans can look forward to more teasers in the coming days, which will reveal additional details about the Reno 11 devices.

    Familiar Design, Impressive Camera Capabilities

    As per previous teasers, the OPPO Reno 11 series will maintain the same design as its predecessors, featuring a slim profile and a pill-shaped camera module. One standout feature of the Reno 11’s camera system is the 32MP portrait lens with a 47mm focal length. OPPO claims that the imaging algorithms used in the device will produce portrait images comparable to those captured by the high-end Find X series. This is great news for photography enthusiasts who want to capture professional-looking portraits with their smartphone.

    Wide Range of Color Options and High Popularity

    The Reno 11 duo will be available in four attractive colors: Flourite Blue, Moonstone, Turquoise, and Obsidian Black. These color options provide users with the opportunity to choose a device that matches their personal style. The popularity of the upcoming smartphones is evident, as they have already received over 100,000 reservations. This high demand indicates that the Reno 11 series is highly anticipated by consumers.

    As the launch event approaches, OPPO continues to build excitement by sharing more details about the Reno 11 series. With its powerful processor, cutting-edge operating system, impressive camera capabilities, and attractive design, the Reno 11 is shaping up to be a standout smartphone in the market. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the official unveiling on November 23.

  • Latest Update Brings eSIM Functionality to OnePlus Open

    Latest Update Brings eSIM Functionality to OnePlus Open

    OnePlus Open Receives New Update with eSIM Support and Camera Improvements

    The OnePlus Open, the company's first-ever foldable phone, has been receiving positive feedback since its launch in global markets last month. The device witnessed record one-day sales in North America and India, showcasing its popularity among consumers. After its initial release, the OnePlus Open received its first update, which brought various enhancements. Now, the brand is rolling out a new update that introduces support for eSIM, along with some additional changes.

    New Update Details

    The latest update for the OnePlus Open, with the version number CPH2551_13.2.0.116, is being rolled out in phases. Due to the phased rollout, it may take some time for all devices to receive the update. The update has a file size of 301.17MB and is based on Android 13, maintaining compatibility with the latest operating system.

    eSIM Functionality Enabled

    One of the significant additions in the new update is the enablement of eSIM functionality. Although the OnePlus Open already supported eSIM connectivity, it was not enabled in certain markets like India. With this update, users in these markets can now take advantage of eSIM, which is a digital SIM card that serves as an alternative to physical SIM cards. It is important to note that using eSIM will disable the second physical SIM, but it can be re-enabled by disabling the eSIM. To add the eSIM, users need to have the EID (Embedded SIM Identifier), which can be found by navigating to About Device > Status > EID.

    Camera Improvements and System Enhancements

    In addition to the eSIM support, the OnePlus Open's telephoto camera receives notable improvements in the latest update. Users can expect increased clarity for photos taken at higher zoom levels, along with better color accuracy and improved tones in Photo and Pro mode. These enhancements aim to enhance the overall photography experience on the OnePlus Open.

    Furthermore, the update brings improvements to system stability and performance. Users can expect a smoother and more responsive user interface. Additionally, the update addresses specific issues such as the slow response problem when holding a profile photo in WeChat on the cover screen and the unresponsive behavior of the eraser tool in Photos.

    Conclusion

    The latest update for the OnePlus Open introduces support for eSIM functionality, enabling users in various markets to utilize this digital SIM card technology. Along with the eSIM support, the update enhances the telephoto camera's performance, providing increased clarity and improved color accuracy for photos. Additionally, the update improves system stability and addresses specific issues, ensuring a smoother user experience. As the update rolls out in phases, OnePlus Open users can look forward to enjoying these enhancements soon.

  • Lenovo Legion Go Review: Unparalleled Gaming Experience in a Handheld Console

    Lenovo Legion Go Review: Unparalleled Gaming Experience in a Handheld Console

    Lenovo Legion Go Handheld Gaming Console: A Powerful Device with Some Shortcomings

    As a game lover, I got my hands on many interesting devices, such as this new Lenovo Legion Go handheld gaming console. First of all, I am very happy that a big company like Lenovo is willing to launch such a niche product. Indeed, the Legion Go is a quite special but impressive handheld among all the newest candidates.

    Unboxing

    Let’s take a look at the packaging. The Legion Go’s outer box doesn’t have anything special, but the accessories are quite good. It comes with a pretty well-made carrying case that fits the device perfectly and protects it when on the go. The carrying case even has a magnetic hole for convenient charging. The power adapter that supports up to 65w is also included, along with a long power cable. Additionally, there’s a strange plastic piece that can merge with one of the joypads to turn it into a mouse, which is a thoughtful detail.

    Design

    In terms of design, the most attractive thing to me is the screen. This 8.8-inch LCD screen is the largest among the current handheld consoles with the Windows system. When you actually get your hands on the Legion Go, the screen is even bigger than what you see in the commercial. A bigger screen leads to a better gaming experience, and as far as graphics go, this device has no rivals. However, the weight of 860g should be carefully considered before buying, as it may strain your arms and wrists during long gaming sessions.

    The Legion Go’s exterior design is very much in line with my taste. The lines are full of energy, and the body looks sharp, like a muscle car. Combined with the RGB effect on the joystick, this is the coolest gaming handheld console as far as I’m concerned. It incorporates many features of handheld consoles on the market, such as removable controllers, touch pads on the controllers, and brackets on the back of the mainframe. The right controller can be removed and used as a mouse, which is a unique design choice by Lenovo.

    Performance

    The Legion Go comes with an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which is one of the most powerful processors currently available for Windows handhelds. It has 8 zen4 cores, 16 threads, a Boosted clock of up to 5.1 GHz, and 16MB of L3 cache. In the test, it has a good performance at 30w power consumption. Even at 15w of power consumption, the performance is still strong. In terms of GPU performance, the Z1 Extreme is equipped with a Radom 780M core graphics card, which scored 2,782 points in the time spy, almost doubling the 96eu Intel XE graphics card.

    Game

    I tested several games on the Legion Go and was impressed with the performance. Horizon 5 and Cyberpunk 2077 ran smoothly at 1200p with low graphics presets. My favorite game, Ganshin Impact, performed well at 2560×1600 resolution with low graphics presets. Additionally, Tears of the Kingdom ran at 1080p 30fps, providing a better experience than on the Switch.

    Screen

    The Legion Go uses an 8.8-inch LCD display, which is the same screen as the Lenovo y700 tablet. It is a good screen in terms of display quality, but it has some drawbacks. First, it has high power consumption due to being an LCD display. Additionally, it does not support variable refresh rates, which impacts the battery life of the Legion Go.

    Battery

    Although the Legion Go has a large 49-watt-hour battery, the battery life performance is average. With a TDP setting of 15W, you can play games for 2 hours, and with a TDP setting of 30W, it can only run for 1 hour and 30 minutes. When playing games with lower performance requirements, setting TDP to 5-10W can make it run for 3-4 hours. The Legion Go supports bypass charging, which is a convenient feature.

    Software

    The software on the Legion Go has some room for improvement. The Legion Space, which is supposed to be a game launcher, feels more like an advertisement slot. The quick settings interface allows for adjustments to brightness, power consumption, and volume, but lacks features like locking the frame rate and convenient screen recording. The performance monitor data is also incorrect. Hopefully, Lenovo will address these issues in future updates.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the Legion Go has very good hardware, a powerful CPU, a good quality screen, and a controller full of highlights. However, it also has some shortcomings. It is more suitable for heavy gamers and geeks. If you are interested in having a new way to play on PC, the Legion Go handheld is worth checking out.

    Source: Gizmochina

  • BOE faces Samsung’s termination amidst ongoing legal disputes

    BOE faces Samsung’s termination amidst ongoing legal disputes

    South Korean electronics giant Samsung Electronics has cut ties with BOE, China's largest display manufacturer. The decision comes as a result of patent infringement and trade secret theft allegations made by Samsung Display, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics. Complaints have been filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) accusing BOE of misappropriating OLED panel and module technology.

    The exclusion of BOE from Samsung Electronics' supplier list is significant as the Chinese company has been a major supplier of LCD panels, accounting for approximately 10% of the company's TV panel purchases in the first half of 2023. This marks the first time in nearly seven and a half years that BOE has not been included as a primary supplier for Samsung Electronics' Device Experience (DX) division.

    The termination of the partnership is expected to have a significant impact on BOE's business. As a major customer, Samsung's decision to end the contract will likely hurt the Chinese company's bottom line. BOE had been relying on Samsung as a key customer, and losing this contract will pose challenges for its operations.

    In response to cutting ties with BOE, Samsung Electronics is anticipated to increase its collaboration with other suppliers such as LG Display, Sharp, and AUO. LG Display, in particular, is expected to boost production at its Guangzhou, China LCD factory. This move could lead to an increase in shipments from 9 million units in 2023 to 16 million units in 2024.

    The severed ties between Samsung Electronics and BOE highlight the significance of intellectual property protection in the technology industry. Patent infringement and trade secret theft allegations can have severe consequences for companies involved, leading to the termination of partnerships and potential financial losses. As the industry continues to evolve, safeguarding intellectual property rights remains crucial for businesses to maintain their competitive edge.

  • Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 mobile platform unveiled by Qualcomm

    Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 mobile platform unveiled by Qualcomm

    Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Chipset: Bringing High-End Features to Mid-Range Smartphones

    Hot on the heels of last month’s major announcement, Qualcomm has now unveiled the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset. This new System-on-a-Chip (SoC) brings generative AI capabilities from the high-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 to mid-range smartphones, along with several other significant improvements.

    Impressive Specifications and Performance Boosts

    The latest chipset from Qualcomm is manufactured on TSMC’s 4nm process technology and boasts a 1+3+4 CPU architecture. The primary core operates at up to 2.63 GHz, while three performance cores run at 2.4 GHz, and four efficiency cores operate at 1.8 GHz.

    According to Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 offers a nearly 15% improvement in CPU performance and an over 50% jump in GPU performance compared to the previous generation Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. The chipset also offers 20% better power savings.

    Advancements in Artificial Intelligence

    In the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 with its Hexagon NPU delivers a 60% improvement in AI performance per watt, introducing INT4 precision support for the first time in the 7-series.

    Exciting New Features

    The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 also includes a number of new features that enhance the user experience. It supports the Google Ultra HDR image format on Android 14, allowing for stunning visuals. The chipset also offers improved AI-based face detection, spatial audio with head tracking, and multi-device Snapdragon Seamless experiences.

    Enhanced Camera Capabilities

    Photography enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 continues to support capturing from three cameras simultaneously. Additionally, it introduces a new feature called "AI Remosaic" that eliminates grainy discoloration for higher-resolution results with more vivid colors.

    Cutting-Edge Connectivity

    Connectivity-wise, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 features the Snapdragon X63 5G modem for up to 5 Gbps downloads, ensuring lightning-fast internet speeds. It also supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, enabling seamless wireless connections.

    Partnering with Prominent Smartphone Manufacturers

    Honor and Vivo are among the smartphone manufacturers that plan to use the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 in their upcoming devices. Honor is expected to launch the Honor 100 with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, while Vivo is likely to use the chip in its V30 series smartphones.

    With the introduction of the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, Qualcomm is once again pushing the boundaries of what mid-range smartphones can offer. Users can look forward to a powerful and feature-packed experience that was previously only available in high-end devices.

  • Hyundai Car Sales Exclusive Launch on Amazon Next Year

    Hyundai Car Sales Exclusive Launch on Amazon Next Year

    Hyundai Automobiles Available for Purchase on Amazon from the Coming Year

    Amazon is gearing up to broaden its product range by incorporating cars into its offerings. Through a collaboration with Hyundai, customers will be able to buy cars directly on the Amazon app commencing in 2024. This move is designed to simplify the purchasing process for Prime members who can now have their newly bought vehicles delivered straight to their doorsteps.

    Pioneering Online Car Sales

    The CEO of Amazon, Andy Jassy, revealed this partnership through a Twitter announcement, outlining the introduction of online car sales in the United States within the upcoming year. The primary objective of this collaboration is to enrich the customer’s buying journey and seamlessly integrate the Alexa experience into Hyundai vehicles.

    The procedure for buying a car on Amazon will mirror the process of purchasing other items on the platform. Users can scout for cars based on location, apply filters to identify specific models, and customize the desired specifications of the car, akin to choosing storage capacity on a smartphone.

    Following in Tesla’s Footsteps

    Amazon’s venture into online car sales corresponds with the evolving landscape of the automotive industry. Tesla, spearheaded by Elon Musk, has revolutionized car sales through its digital sales approach. Tesla’s success in circumventing traditional dealerships and concentrating on digital sales channels has underscored that elaborate global operations are dispensable.

    This strategic shift has been embraced by various car manufacturers, including Hyundai. Although the debut countries for Amazon’s car sales initiative remain undisclosed, a prompt global expansion is on the horizon.

    Wrapping Up

    Amazon’s resolution to vend cars via its app signifies a momentous milestone in e-commerce. Through its alliance with Hyundai, Amazon aims to furnish customers with a flawless car purchasing experience. The added perk for Prime members is the convenience of doorstep delivery, enabling them to acquire their dream cars with minimal effort using their smartphones. As the automotive sector progressively embraces digital sales channels, it will be intriguing to witness how other automakers and e-commerce platforms adapt to this pioneering methodology.