Author: GizNews

  • Apple iPhone 17 Pro with Lightning Port via Protective Case

    Apple iPhone 17 Pro with Lightning Port via Protective Case

    Key Takeaway

    1. Ken Pillonel has modified a current iPhone 17 Pro to include a Lightning port using a 3D-printed protective case and a modded adapter.
    2. The project demonstrates that charging a modern iPhone via the proprietary Lightning connector is technically feasible with moderate effort.
    3. The modification primarily serves as a hobby and is not intended for commercial sale, with unclear capabilities for data transfer or accessory connection through the custom Lightning port.

    Ken Pillonel’s Creative Modding for Apple Devices

    Over a past few years, this innovative guy Ken Pillonel has been very busy with modding and tinkering with iPhones. He managed to convert older models into ones with a USB-C port and even installed a 3.5 mm headphone jack by himself. The coolest part? His online shop shows off protective cases that actually add a USB-C port to recent iPhones like the iPhone 13 and 14. So, it’s not just a hobby, but also a bit of a showcase of possible DIY upgrades.

    April 1st Project: Replacing the Lightning Port

    On April 1, he took things a step further by trying out something pretty wild—adding a Lightning port to the latest iPhone 17 Pro, which costs around $1,149 at retail. The project seems like a fun, humorous hobby stunt rather than a serious product. Despite that, it prove that charging a current iPhone through its proprietary connector could be feasibly done with some effort and creativity. The process isn’t very complex: he combined a 3D-printed protective case with a custom-modded USB-C to Lightning adapter, designed to take up as little space as possible so the case only adds a few millimeters to the phone’s bottom end.

    Technical Capabilities and Limitations

    It’s worth noting though, Ken doesn’t specify whether this Lightning port can do more than just charge — like transferring data or connecting other accessories. The original Apple official USB-C to Lightning adapter, which you can get for roughly $29, does support data transfer and headphone connections as well. However, don’t expect lightning-fast data speeds—since Lightning mostly caps data transfer at USB 2.0 levels, maxing out at about 480 Mbit/s, which is quite standard for this technology.

    Summary of the Project’s Purpose and Feasibility

    • This mod is more about showcasing possibilities than practical use.
    • It highlights that, with some technical skill, even the latest devices could be modified to include outdated but familiar ports, if users really want that.
    • Keep in mind, such modifications are not supported officially by Apple and could void warranties or damage your device if not done carefully.

    Overall, Pillonel’s project reflect on what is technically possible with a bit of hacking and creativity, even if it’s not practical on everyday use. It also adds a playful aspect to tech customization, showing that with enough effort, we can push the limits of out-of-the-box devices.

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  • Unbound Studio by Resident Evil Creator Shinji Mikami Acquired by Shift Up

    Unbound Studio by Resident Evil Creator Shinji Mikami Acquired by Shift Up

    Key Takeaway

    1. Shift Up has acquired all shares of Unbound, fully controlling the Japan-based studio.
    2. The acquisition aims to expand Shift Up’s focus on developing more PC and console games.
    3. Shinji Mikami, renowned for Resident Evil and other titles, is leading a new large-scale game at Unbound.
    4. The new project is already in development, with additional details to be announced later.

    Shift Up Completes Acquisition of Unbound

    In a surprising move, Shift Up has taken full control of Unbound by acquiring all its shares. This strategic decision was released on April 1, 2026, aiming to expand their portfolio of PC and console games. The move signifies Shift Up’s intention to solidify its position in the gaming industry with more ambitious projects under its wings.

    The Vision Behind the Deal

    Lead by CEO Hyung Tae Kim, the company is eyeing bigger plans, especially bringing prominent figures like Shinji Mikami into their fold. Known for his iconic work on Resident Evil, Mikami’s team is now tasked with creating large-scale original games. The collaboration emphasizes not just development but also strengthening their foothold in publishing, boosting the quality and reach of upcoming titles.

    Future Projects and Expectations

    This partnership hints at exciting future releases, although specific details remain a mystery. Mikami’s team is currently working on a new big game, but no exact info on genres, platforms, or release dates has been shared. Both companies remain focused on development now, promising that more news will be shared in the near future. Fans can absolutely expect some interesting upcoming announcements soon.

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  • Cloudflare Launches C-Based Custom DDoS Shields for Magic Transit

    Cloudflare Launches C-Based Custom DDoS Shields for Magic Transit

    Key Takeaway

    1. Programmable Flow Protection is a new closed beta feature for Magic Transit customers to mitigate Layer 7 UDP-based DDoS attacks.
    2. It allows users to upload custom eBPF programs written in C for protocol-aware inspection and filtering of UDP traffic.
    3. The feature is designed for environments with specialized UDP traffic, such as gaming, financial services, VoIP, and streaming workloads.
    4. Configuration is managed via Cloudflare’s API, supporting various network topologies and only inspecting ingress traffic.
    5. It extends Cloudflare’s DDoS protection capabilities with customizable, protocol-specific mitigation options.

    Cloudflare Launches Programmable Flow Protection in Beta

    Cloudflare has rolled out a new feature called Programmable Flow Protection in a closed beta for users of Magic Transit. This feature aims to combat complex DDoS attacks especially targeting custom and standard UDP-based Layer 7 protocols. This upgrade is available as an add-on option for Magic Transit, whether users are using their own IP addresses or Cloudflare’s leased IPs.

    Designed For Specialized Traffic and Critical Workloads

    As detailed by Cloudflare, this feature specifically caters to environments managing unique UDP traffic, like gaming, financial sectors, VoIP calls, telecom, and streaming services. It’s positioned as an enhancement to Magic Transit’s existing DDoS protection suite, which includes Advanced TCP and DNS Protections. The platform aims to provide users better security and control options for demanding UDP workloads.

    Customizable Packet Inspection

    One of the key benefits of Programmable Flow Protection is its capacity for uploading custom packet-processing programs written in C. These programs undergo validation, compilation, and are then distributed across Cloudflare’s network as eBPF programs operating in user space. This approach gives operators the ability to examine UDP traffic with protocol-specific logic, helping them decide which packets to permit or block in real-time.

    Foundation and API Management

    The system relies on Cloudflare’s Flowtrackd, a stateful mitigation engine supporting various network topologies. Nonetheless, it only inspects incoming traffic (ingress). Customers can configure and manage these settings using Cloudflare’s API, which provides endpoints for program uploads, rule creation, configuration listings, and deletion. This flexibility allows tailored responses based on specific network needs.

    Extending Cloudflare’s Security Platform

    Magic Transit is Cloudflare’s comprehensive service for securing and optimizing networks whether they’re on-premises, cloud-based, or hybrid. The addition of Programmable Flow Protection broadens its capabilities by allowing more personalized UDP traffic inspection and attack mitigation. This is especially useful for services that do not conform to typical mitigation strategies.

    Ongoing Development and Availability

    According to Cloudflare’s DDoS documentation, Programmable Flow Protection enables deploying custom eBPF packet logic to scrutinize and defend against attacks targeting UDP Layer 7 protocols. However, the feature is currently in a closed beta stage, with general availability yet to be announced. Though promising, it remains an advanced tool for select users at this time.

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  • Upcoming Anbernic Handheld with Metal Shell Reacts Before Launch

    Upcoming Anbernic Handheld with Metal Shell Reacts Before Launch

    Key Takeaway

    1. Anbernic’s new gaming handheld features a sliding display mechanism, similar to the RG Slide.
    2. The device includes a top-mounted USB Type-C port, in-line triggers, a microSD card slot, and possibly a 3.5 mm audio jack.
    3. It is advertised to support up to Nintendo 64 games and may be released as the RG Rotate with both metal and plastic shell options.
    4. The official release date is not yet known, but a launch is expected later this month.

    New glimpses of the upcoming Anbernic handheld device has just been shared online. Its the second device from the company to feature a sliding display, following last year’s RG Slide which is currently priced at $174.99. The device was first seen in mid-March, and these new videos prove it’s no April Fools’ prank.

    Additional Features Revealed

    Although a specific release date still hasnt been announced, the folks at Handheld Penguin have posted new footage on Bilibili. The videos, embedded below, allow us to see some more details of the device. For example, there’s a USB Type-C port located at the top, inline trigger buttons, and a microSD card slot visible in the shots.

    Audio & Gaming Capabilities

    It’s interesting to note the inclusion of a built-in MP3 player, which suggests that a 3.5mm headphone jack will be present. Though it’s not visible in either video, it’s likely on the right side of the device. Also, the recent footage hints that Anbernic plans to promote the device as capable of running games on Nintendo 64.

    Design & Potential Release

    From what appears, Anbernic might call this device the RG Rotate. The design has a metal shell option alongside a basic black plastic version. Fans are eagerly awaiting an official reveal, which is expected to happen later on this month.

    Speculations and Expectations

    • Possible metal and plastic body options
    • Targeting retro gaming enthusiasts especially for N64 games
    • Expected inclusion of extra ports like USB-C and microSD card slot
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  • Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x with Snapdragon X2 Elite Offers Long-Lasting Battery and Strong Performance

    Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x with Snapdragon X2 Elite Offers Long-Lasting Battery and Strong Performance

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Snapdragon X2 Elite chip offers exceptional battery life, outperforming MacBook Air and previous X models, with up to 25 hours in real-world testing.
    2. The chip delivers around 20% better multi-core performance than current competitors and maintains consistency whether plugged in or on battery.
    3. The Yoga Slim 7x 2026 features a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display at 120Hz, improved design with lighter weight, and upgraded cooling and audio systems.
    4. Software compatibility has improved with native Windows-on-ARM apps, though some games still rely on emulation and face compatibility issues.

    Impressive Battery Life of Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x

    Recently, Youtuber Dave2D shared a teaser about his new review of the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x equipped with the Snapdragon X2 Elite. And boy, does it impress, especially with its battery performance. It not quite reaches the promises made by Lenovo though, but it still outperforms the MacBook Air quite surprisingly. In some video playback tests, it can last up to 31 hours, though typical usage hits around 25 hours with it’s 70 Wh battery. Keep in mind, this was a pre-production unit, so real-world performance might vary a bit. Still, this is an upgrade over the first Snapdragon X Elite models from last year by about 6 hours, and it even surpasses Apple’s newest MacBook Air models.

    Performance Benchmarks and Real Life Usage

    Now, what about its processing power? Dave2D ran Cinebench 2024 benchmarks and found that the Snapdragon X2 Elite outperforms other current chips like the AMD Ryzen AI HX 470, Intel Core Ultra X9 388H, and the Apple M5 by approximately 20% in multi-core tests. When it comes to single-core speeds, it’s not quite as fast as the M5, but it still leaves Intel and AMD options behind. But the real question is, do these synthetic benchmarks translate into everyday use?

    In practice, the X2 Elite seems to shine, especially in Blender where it beats the competition pretty easily and matches performance in Premiere Pro with Intel and AMD rivals. More impressively, the chip maintains the same performance whether your device is plugged in or running solely on battery, a rarity among competing chips from Intel and AMD. Power efficiency here is key and Lenovo has managed to excel in that area.

    Software Compatibility and Gaming Performance

    On connectivity, Dave2D mentions that most Windows-on-ARM applications are now native, and they’ve addressed the compatibility issues from last year’s models. However, gaming is still a mixed bag; many games rely on Prism emulation, which is decent at 1080p medium settings, but some titles are off-limits due to anti-cheat restrictions, including popular games like Apex Legends, Valorant, and LoL. The iGPU’s performance, though, is promising given the limitations, making casual gaming quite feasible on this device.

    Design, Display, and Pricing Details

    The Yoga Slim 7x 2026 notably reduced weight down to 1.17 kg and shrunk the screen size slightly to a 14-inch display instead of a 14.5-inch. The highlight is the new 2.8K OLED panel boasting 120 Hz refresh rate, 100% P3, and AdobeRGB color coverage, with a brightness up to 1100 nits—all of which promise vibrant visuals. Cooling has also been improved with a flat heatpipe system that keeps fan noise low, around 28 dB in Quiet mode and up to 43 dB if you switch to Performance mode. In addition, the upgrade includes four speakers instead of two, offering much better audio quality.

    Initially, Lenovo indicated that the 16 GB RAM models of the Yoga Slim 7x would start at $900. However, due to current shortages in RAM and storage components, the final prices may go over $1000 once the laptops hit the market. When considering the specs and performance, it seems to be a worthwhile upgrade for professionals and casual users alike.

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  • Best QD-OLED Gaming Monitor Under $300: 27-Inch AOC 240Hz QHD Certified Refurbished

    Best QD-OLED Gaming Monitor Under $300: 27-Inch AOC 240Hz QHD Certified Refurbished

    Key Takeaway

    1. OLED gaming monitors, like the AOC Q27G41ZDF, are now affordable, with prices dropping below $300.
    2. The monitor offers high performance with a 27-inch 1440p QD-OLED panel, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 0.03 ms response time, suitable for gaming and content creation.
    3. Limitations include only HDMI 2.0 ports, low brightness for glare in bright rooms, and HDR400 certification, making it less ideal for HDR content.
    4. Certified-refurbished models provide significant savings, allowing budget allocation to other PC components.

    Affordable OLED Gaming Monitors Are Now a Reality

    No longer do you need to fork out a massive sum of $500 or even more to enjoy an OLED gaming screen. Today, with brands like AOC leading the charge, OLED gaming monitors have gotten way more affordable. And with sales that further cut down the price, it makes a smart choice for many folks. For example, presently, you can snag the AOC Q27G41ZDF QD-OLED monitor for under $300 on eBay. This is quite a deal for tech enthusiasts or gamers on a budget.

    Pricing and Condition of the Deal

    The AOC Q27G41ZDF QD-OLED, which comes as a certified-refurbished product with a two-year warranty, is selling for just $271.99 (see link at the bottom). Back in mid-March, it was reported that an AOC QD-OLED monitor was available at $359 on Amazon, marking a low in price at the time. While the $359.99 price remains active, the eBay refurbished version saves you a cool $88 compared to a brand new one.

    Specifications That Please Gamers and Content Creators

    This monitor features a 27-inch 1440p QD-OLED display, with a high 240 Hz refresh rate and an extremely quick 0.03 ms response time. It supports Nvidia G-Sync, which is a great boon for gamers, reducing screen tearing and stutter. Additionally, it covers 110% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, making it suitable not just for gaming but for content creation and media editing as well.

    Limitations to Keep in Mind

    However, there are some negatives. The HDMI 2.0 ports only support a maximum of 1440p resolution at 144Hz, limiting some connection options. Also, with just 200 nits of SDR brightness and 400 nits of HDR brightness, the screen isn’t very bright especially in brightly lit rooms, which makes glare a problem. Plus, its HDR400 certification indicates that it’s not designed for true HDR content viewing, which could be disappointing for HDR enthusiasts.

    Final Verdict and Value

    Despite these minor flaws, at only $271.99, the AOC Q27G41ZDF QD-OLED offers tremendous value. Few monitors at this price can match its combination of size, refresh rate, and OLED quality. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, high-performance gaming monitor, this is a fantastic choice that balances cost and features well.

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  • Google Unveils New Fitbit Smartwatch in Latest Video

    Google Unveils New Fitbit Smartwatch in Latest Video

    Key Takeaway

    1. Fitness wristbands without displays, like Fitbit Loop, are gaining popularity as affordable alternatives to smartwatches and traditional fitness trackers.
    2. The Fitbit Loop features a slim design, adjustable length, and a striking appearance, with involvement from Stephen Curry hinting at health-focused features.
    3. Basic functions are available without a subscription, but a paid plan unlocks advanced AI-driven health coaching and additional features.

    Introduction to Fitness Wristbands Without a Display

    More and more folks are now opting for fitness wristbands that dont have a screen. It used to be that the only major player was Whoop, and then other brands like Polar Loop ($199 on Amazon) and the Amazfit Helio Strap also entered the scene as more affordable choices that don’t require a recurring subscription. These gadgets are quite minimalistic but still offer vital health tracking features.

    New Google and Fitbit Collaboration Revealed

    Recently, a short teaser clip shows basketball star Stephen Curry introducing a new fitness wristband under the Fitbit label. The sleek and slim design with gray fabric and orange edges stands out, and it appears that the length can be adjusted easily. In the video, Curry suggests he may have contributed to shaping the device, emphasizing its role in fostering a “new relationship with health.” More to learn about this gadget is expected soon, with details still scarce.

    Subscription and Hardware Insights

    Bloomberg reports that some basic features of this Fitbit Loop are available without subscribing, but to unlock all functionalities, users need to pay a subscription. This paid plan probably grants access to an AI-powered Fitbit Personal Health Coach. As for hardware, it’s likely to include sensors like heart rate, SpO2, along with gyroscopes and accelerometers — similar to other health-focused devices. The rise of these displayless wristbands highlights their growing place as alternatives to traditional smartwatches and even smart rings in the fitness world.

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  • New Citizen Automatic Watch with Open Caseback and Caliber 8210 Launches

    New Citizen Automatic Watch with Open Caseback and Caliber 8210 Launches

    Key Takeaway

    1. The NJ0243-06A is an affordable, entry-level automatic dress watch featuring Citizen’s in-house Caliber 8210 movement.
    2. It has a classic design with a 40mm stainless steel case, gold-tone finish, and a brown leather strap, emphasizing simplicity and elegance.
    3. The watch includes an exhibition caseback, a champagne-gold dial with Roman numerals, and a basic date function, with a water resistance of 5 bar.

    Introduction to the NJ0243-06A

    Citizen Hong Kong has just launch a new watch, the NJ0243-06A, and it’s sort of a newbie in automatic watches. This one is made for folks who like simple, elegant dress watches. Price wise, it’s tucked in at HK$2,280 which is around $291, making it budget friendly compared to other models in the Citizen line up.

    Movement and Design Details

    The watch run with Citizen’s own Caliber 8210, which is an automatic movement that shows the time and date only, no fancy smart or radio features. The interesting part is that you can see the movement through the caseback, which is a nice feature at this price. The whole movement setup is neat and simple that suits the watch’s overall style.

    Case and Strap

    This watch features a 40 mm stainless steel case with a gold-tone finish that’s smooth and looks classy. It’s 11.6 mm thick and weighs about 62 grams, feeling quite comfortable whether you wear it day or night. The strap is brown leather, matching with the gold theme and giving it classic dress watch vibes. With a 5 bar water resistance, it’s fine for daily splashes but not recommended for swimming or diving.

    Dial and Finish

    The dial keeps things clean with a champagne-gold hue that makes it look elegant. Most of the hour markers are simple applied indices, but the 12 and 6 o’clock position have Roman numerals adding a little flair. There’s a tiny date window at 3 o’clock, and the hands are slim, minimal, no fuss. The overall look is straightforward and focuses on simplicity, which is often what dress watch lovers want.

    Features and Market Position

    There’s really not many added features or complications here, seems like an intentional choice to keep things simple and affordable. The NJ0243-06A is made for those who prefer an automatic watch but don’t want to spend big bucks. Despite its simplicity, the inclusion of an in-house movement and an exhibition caseback at this price point makes it quite appealing. It’s a balanced mix of value and style for everyday wear.


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  • Oppo Confirms Find X10 Ultra Will Not Release in 2026

    Oppo Confirms Find X10 Ultra Will Not Release in 2026

    Key Takeaway

    1. Oppo’s upcoming launch on April 21, 2026, will feature the Find X9 Ultra and the X9S series, with no plans for a Find X10 Ultra in 2026.
    2. The company emphasizes a “stable release schedule,” delaying the release of the Find X10 Ultra to Spring 2027 to avoid rushed updates.
    3. The Find X9 Ultra will feature a pocket-friendly Hasselblad camera with a five-reflection prism, 20x optical zoom, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and a large 7,050mAh battery.

    Upcoming Oppo Launch Event and Rumors

    Oppo has planed a big event in China on April 21, 2026 where they will introduce the new flagship cameras, the Find X9 Ultra, plus the X9S series. Although the lineup isn’t fully finalized yet, lots of rumors about what to expect are starting to come out. Some whispers suggested Oppo might launch the Find X10 Ultra in 2026, but recent info from the company says nope, that’s not happening. An oppo official, Zhou Yibao, mentioned that their Find X series will have a “stable release schedule”, meaning they won’t be rushing new models in a hurry.

    Release Schedule and Market Strategy

    They not in a big rush to push out new phones, so the next flagship, the Find X10 Ultra, is actually tentatively scheduled for Spring 2027. Seems like making fans wait a little is part of their plan, especially since early rumors didn’t really add up. Releasing the X9 Ultra in April 2026 and then bringing out a new model shortly after would hardly make sense, as it would mean the phone wouldn’t last very long before being replaced. Plus, upgrading just the processor wouldn’t be enough to warrant a whole new flagship so soon.

    Highlights of the Oppo Find X9 Ultra

    When it comes to the X9 Ultra, Oppo said it would be almost like carrying a tiny Hasselblad camera in your pocket. The key feature is a brand new optical setup, which includes a five-reflection prism. That design offers an impressive focal length of 460mm, making it ideal for zooming. The periscope sensor in this phone is said to give an incredible 20x optical zoom, thanks to the “built-in teleconverter,” promising serious photography capabilities on a phone.

    Specifications and Features

    The phone is expected to run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, ensuring high performance, and it will operate on ColorOS 16, based on Android 16. The battery is quite large at 7,050mAh, which should give long-lasting power, and it supports fast charging with 50W wireless and 80W wired options. For fast charging, a typical choice could be the 100W Anker Prime charger, priced around $59.99, which may be usable with this device for quick recharge times and convenience.

    Sources like Digital Chat Station and Experience More on Weibo (machine translated) have been discussing these upcoming features and rumors, adding more excitement for Oppo fans eagerly waiting for the official launch.


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  • Stable HyperOS 3.1 Now Available on Xiaomi Phones and Tablets Globally

    Stable HyperOS 3.1 Now Available on Xiaomi Phones and Tablets Globally

    Key Takeaway

    1. Xiaomi has begun rolling out HyperOS 3.1 to EU devices, including select Xiaomi 17 series phones and tablets like Redmi Pad Pro and Poco Pad.
    2. The update introduces enhanced Super Island, iOS-style animations, a polished UI, and improved cross-device compatibility, especially with Apple devices.
    3. The broader global rollout and availability for other devices are still unspecified, with some devices potentially not receiving the 3.1 update.

    Latest Update Rollout for Xiaomi Devices

    Xiaomi has begun to roll out their latest HyperOS 3.1 to some of their first eligible global devices, with the update currently appearing on phones and tablets in the EU. They are planning a broader release soon, so more users should expect to see the upgrade shortly. The update marks a notable improvement over the previous versions, bringing new features and user interface enhancements.

    Device Compatibility and Firmware Versions

    Among the earliest devices getting the update are the Xiaomi 17 series, including the vanilla model, known as Pudding, and the Ultra, codenamed Nezha. In the EU, the firmware version for Pudding is OS3.0.301.0.WPCEUXM and for Nezha it’s OS3.0.301.0.WPAEUXM. For tablets, the Redmi Pad Pro and Poco Pad also received the latest HyperOS 3.1 update. Both tablets run the same firmware version in the EU, which is OS3.0.301.0.WNSEUXM.

    New Features and System Improvements

    The HyperOS 3.1 update introduces several fresh features and updates aimed at improving user experience. Among these is the enhanced Super Island, which is now more interactive, offering a more lively and engaging user interface. The animation style of the system and app interfaces has been remodeled, featuring iOS-style animations that make the entire system appear more smooth and polished.

    Cross-Device Compatibility Enhancements

    An additional eye-catching upgrade is the improved Xiaomi HyperConnect, which now boasts increased compatibility across different devices. For example, the update enables better integration with the Apple ecosystem, allowing for smoother interaction between Xiaomi devices and Apple products. A notable feature is the system’s ability to ping paired Apple AirPods (Pro 3 – priced around $199), aiding users in locating their accessories more efficiently.

    Future Update Expectations

    Although the current rollout is promising, Xiaomi has not provided a definitive timeline for when the remaining devices will also get HyperOS 3.1. It’s worth mentioning that some phones and tablets running HyperOS 3.0 may not be upgraded to 3.1 due to compatibility or other reasons, as was discovered late last year. Users eager for the update will just need to keep an eye out for further announcements from Xiaomi.

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