Category: All News

March 28, 2024
Upgrade Redmi Note 10 Pro: Is It Worth It?
Redmi Note 10 Pro, also known as Redmi Note 10 Pro Max in India, stands out as one of Xiaomi's top-tier smartphones to date. After its launch in early 2021, the device has received a total of two software updates, combining Android and MIUI enhancements. Originally running on Android 11 with MIUI 12, the phone currently operates on MIUI 14 based on Android 13, marking a solid software progression.
Software Support Updates
The recent cessation of software support for Redmi Note 10 Pro has caught the attention of many users. Despite being a year behind the latest software, the device remains quite competitive in terms of performance and functionality. This shift has drawn a spotlight on the hardware aspect of the smartphone.
Hardware Comparison and Considerations
When it comes to hardware, the Redmi Note 10 Pro continues to hold its ground against newer models within its category. While the device lacks 5G capabilities and features a slightly slower chipset compared to its counterparts, it still boasts impressive specifications that cater to the needs of most users.
Should You Upgrade?
The decision to upgrade from the Redmi Note 10 Pro hinges on various factors, including individual preferences, usage patterns, and the importance of cutting-edge technology. Despite its software support coming to an end, the smartphone's robust hardware and overall performance may still make it a viable option for many consumers. Ultimately, whether to upgrade or stick with the current device is a subjective choice that users must consider carefully.
Tags: Redmi Note 10 Pro, Smartphone Variant Launch, Xiaomi
March 28, 2024
OnePlus Pad Update: Boosts Battery & Resolves Screen Flickering
OnePlus recently rolled out an update for its OnePlus Pad aimed at enhancing the tablet's battery life and addressing various issues. The update, identified as OPD2203_14.0.0.500(EX01), is currently being distributed in India, Europe, and globally. Its primary objectives include improving battery longevity, resolving screen flickering problems during orientation changes, and fixing issues related to calendar event additions and app switching.
Update Enhancements and Fixes
The latest update for the OnePlus Pad also resolves a display anomaly that occurs when the tablet is linked to a phone via Multi-Screen Connect. Additionally, it incorporates the February 2024 Android Security Patch to bolster the system's security measures. The comprehensive changelog can be found below.
OnePlus Pad OxygenOS 14.0.0.500 Update Changelog
System
- Enhances system stability and performance.
- Reduces power consumption to prolong battery life under specific scenarios.
- Rectifies app-switching difficulties within recent tasks.
- Addresses screen flickering when transitioning between landscape and portrait modes.
- Resolves issues pertaining to adding calendar events.
Security
- Integrates the February 2024 Android security patch to bolster system security.
Communication
- Resolves discrepancies in information display on the tablet when connected to a phone via Multi-Screen Connect.
OnePlus is implementing a phased release for this update, ensuring a gradual deployment to all users. The company encourages users to provide feedback on the update by visiting the OnePlus community platform.
Tags: Oneplus, OnePlus Pad, software update
March 28, 2024
Realme 12x 5G vs Realme 11x: 10+ Upgrades, Lower Price Comparison
On April 2, Realme is set to unveil a new addition to its 12-series lineup, the Realme 12x 5G. This upcoming device is positioned as a successor to last year’s Realme 11x 5G, which was powered by the Dimensity 6100 Plus chipset. The Realme 12x retains this chipset but promises more than 10 enhancements over its predecessor. Notably, the 12x is expected to be priced more affordably compared to the 11x.
Realme 12x 5G Key Specifications
Realme has disclosed that the Realme 12x will sport a 6.72-inch FHD+ display with a high refresh rate of 120Hz, providing up to 950 nits of brightness and a rainwater smart touch feature. In contrast, the 11x featured a similar 6.72-inch FHD+ 120Hz screen but with 680 nits of brightness. The 12x will come with dual speakers, a feature missing in its predecessor.
Both the Realme 11x and the upcoming Realme 12x will share the Dimensity 6100+ chipset, but the 12x will introduce a vapor chamber cooling unit for improved heat dissipation. While both devices house a 5,000mAh battery, the 12x will support faster 45W charging as opposed to the 33W charging on the 11x.
The camera setup on the Realme 12x will feature a 50-megapixel primary sensor with added AI capabilities, deviating from the 64-megapixel camera on the 11x. Realme 12x will debut with Android 14, a step up from the Android 13 on its predecessor, and will include new software features like Air Gestures and Dynamic button support.
In terms of design, the Realme 12x will be thinner at 7.69mm compared to the 7.9mm profile of the 11x. Additionally, the 12x will boast an IP54-rated chassis for added durability, a feature absent in the 11x.
Realme 12x 5G Price in India
The Realme 11x 5G debuted with a starting price of Rs 14,999 ($180), whereas the Realme 12x is expected to be priced below Rs 12,000 ($145). It remains to be seen if this pricing includes any promotional offers.
Tags: Realme, Realme 12x 5G, Smartphone Evolution
March 28, 2024
Samsung Galaxy M55 5G: 50MP Front Camera, 50MP Triple Rear Camera, IP67 Chassis
Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy M55 5G smartphone in Brazil, a mid-range device that differs from the Galaxy A55 despite initial speculations. While the design of the M55 resembles the A55, the M-series offers a distinct set of specifications. Let's delve into the details of the M55.
Samsung Galaxy M55 5G Specifications and Features
The Galaxy M55 5G boasts a 6.7-inch AMOLED Plus display featuring a punch-hole design. This screen delivers a Full HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. Operating on Android 14 with One UI 6.1 layered on top, the phone promises a seamless user experience.
Power-packed Performance
Under the hood, the Galaxy M55 is fueled by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chipset and a robust 5,000mAh battery supporting 25W fast charging. Paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, the device ensures smooth multitasking and ample storage space. It offers a suite of connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and a USB-C port for enhanced usability.
Camera and Build Quality
On the camera front, the M55 sports a 50-megapixel front camera for selfies and video calls. The rear setup includes an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and a 2-megapixel macro camera, catering to diverse photography needs. Audiophiles will appreciate the dual speakers on the device. Crafted with a polycarbonate build and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, the M55 strikes a balance between durability and functionality. Measuring 7.8mm in thickness and weighing 180 grams, the device is sleek and lightweight.
Samsung Galaxy M55 5G Price
In Brazil, the Galaxy M55 is priced at BZR 2,699, which roughly translates to $540. Available in Light Green and Dark Blue color options, the M55 is set to hit other markets, including India, in the near future. Stay tuned for its global release!
Tags: Galaxy M55 5G, Mid-range smartphones, Samsung
March 28, 2024
Anbernic RG35XX 2024 Handheld Gaming Console Leak: What We Know
As per a recent leak, Anbernic is gearing up to introduce a fresh handheld gaming gadget dubbed the RG35XX 2024. For enthusiasts of portable gaming, this announcement holds significant importance. Anbernic has a reputation for frequently unveiling new devices, and this latest offering appears to amalgamate the finest features of their prior models, the RG35XX and the RG35XX Plus, creating a product that is both recognizable and innovative.
Upgraded Features and Design
The upcoming RG35XX 2024, as per Retro Handhelds, incorporates notable enhancements under its hood while retaining the familiar aesthetics of its predecessors. It is driven by the Allwinner H700 chipset and boasts 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM. This configuration facilitates seamless gameplay across a diverse array of titles from iconic consoles like the SEGA Dreamcast, PlayStation 1, and PlayStation Portable without any performance hiccups.
Compact Build and Battery
The device is designed to be compact, featuring a 3.5-inch IPS screen, all packed into a diminutive frame measuring 117 x 81 x 22 mm and weighing a mere 186 grams. Despite having a slightly smaller battery capacity compared to the RG35XX Plus at 2,600 mAh, it ensures ample power for extended gaming sessions.
Pricing and Availability
In terms of pricing, the RG35XX 2024 is reportedly set to be budget-friendly. Reports suggest that customers can acquire one for approximately $50 if purchased directly from Anbernic or for $61 via AliExpress. Additionally, it will be offered in four color variants: Grey, Black, White, and Purple, providing users with a range of choices to suit their preferences.
Tags: Anbernic RG35XX 2024, handheld gaming, retro gaming
March 28, 2024
iQOO Z9 Turbo, iQOO Pad 2, Neo 10 Key Specs Tipped: Q2 Launch Expected
The first quarter of 2024 is drawing to a close, paving the way for a flurry of new smartphone releases in China in the upcoming second quarter. Among the brands gearing up for this launch season is iQOO, which is set to unveil four new smartphones along with a flagship tablet. Recently, tipster Digital Chat Station took to Weibo to unveil the key specifications of what appears to be some of the upcoming iQOO devices.
Anticipated iQOO Devices for the Chinese Market
Digital Chat Station’s leak sheds light on three forthcoming iQOO devices. The initial device is rumored to sport an OLED panel with a 1.5K resolution, a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (SM8635) chipset, and a hefty 6,000mAh battery. Speculations hint that this device could hit the market as the iQOO Z9 Turbo.
Further reports indicate that the iQOO Z9 Turbo might make its grand entrance in April, with the Z9 and Z9x models following suit. The Z9 is expected to house the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, while the Z9x could come with the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1v chipset.
Tablet and Additional Smartphone Revealed
The subsequent device highlighted in the recent leak is a tablet boasting a 13-inch LCD panel showcasing a 3.1K resolution. Fuelled by the Dimensity 9300 chipset and an impressive 11,500mAh battery, this model is likely to be christened the iQOO Pad 2 upon its debut in China. Sources suggest it could be a rebranded version of the Vivo Pad 3 Pro tablet, recently introduced in the Chinese market.
Lastly, the leak discloses another iQOO phone equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650) chipset. This device is anticipated to feature a 1.5K OLED display and a 50-megapixel primary camera with OIS support. While the final name of this device remains uncertain, speculations range from it potentially being part of the Neo 9 series to the Neo 10 lineup.
Conclusion
As the tech world gears up for the second quarter of 2024, iQOO’s upcoming lineup promises a blend of cutting-edge specifications and innovative features. Keep an eye out for these new devices as they make their way into the competitive Chinese smartphone market.
Tags: iQOO Pad 2, iQOO Z9 Turbo, Neo 10
March 28, 2024
MSI reveals new 27″ 4K 160Hz gaming monitor: Quantum Dot IPS, 0.5ms response
MSI recently introduced a new gaming monitor known as the MPG 274URF QD. The company has not disclosed the pricing details or a specific release date for this product. Let’s delve into the key specifications of this new monitor.
MSI MPG 274URF QD Specifications:
The MPG 274URF QD showcases a 27-inch high-resolution 4K Rapid IPS (3840 x 2160) display with a 16:9 aspect ratio and an impressive 160Hz refresh rate. With a rated 0.5ms GtG (gray to gray) response time, potential blurring during fast on-screen movements is significantly reduced.
Quantum Dot Backlighting and Display Enhancements:
To ensure color accuracy, MSI has integrated Quantum Dot backlighting into the monitor. This innovative technology extends the color gamut beyond 145% of the sRGB spectrum, promising more vibrant and lifelike visuals compared to conventional monitors. The monitor also features a 10-bit color depth (8-bit + FRC), a static contrast ratio of 1000:1, VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification, and a peak brightness of 400 nits, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Connectivity and Gaming Features:
In terms of connectivity, the monitor offers a versatile range of options. It includes a USB Type-C port with 65W power delivery for charging compatible devices, DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.1 ports for connecting gaming consoles and PCs, and a headphone jack. Acting as a USB hub, it provides two USB Type-A ports and one upstream USB Type-B port for connecting peripherals or updating firmware.
The monitor supports AdaptiveSync technology, ensuring compatibility with NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync for a tear-free and smooth gaming experience.
MSI Gaming Features and Ergonomic Adjustments:
The monitor is equipped with MSI’s G.I. Smart Gaming features, enabling users to adjust settings via keyboard shortcuts and switch between different game profiles for optimized performance. The rear of the monitor features Mystic Light RGB lighting that can be customized using a smartphone app or PC software for a personalized touch.
It offers various ergonomic adjustments such as up to 130mm of height adjustment, -5 to 20 degrees of tilt, +/- 30 degrees of swivel, and a bi-directional pivot. Geared towards gamers, the monitor features Smart Crosshair, Night Vision, and Optix Scope. It also supports Console Mode with VRR, ALLM, and CEC compatibility for a seamless console gaming experience.
Tags: Gaming Monitor, High-Performance Features, MSI MPG 274URF QD
March 28, 2024
Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G, Buds 5 Pro & Watch 4
Xiaomi is gearing up for its annual event, the 2024 Xiaomi Fan Festival (XFF), dedicated to celebrating the brand’s strong bond with its fans. This year, the festival revolves around the theme "Our iconic moment." During the event, Xiaomi intends to unveil special editions of its popular products: the Redmi Buds 5 Pro earbuds, the Redmi Watch 4, and the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G smartphone, each sporting distinctive colors.
Redmi Buds 5 Pro in Lavender
The Redmi Buds 5 Pro will be introduced in an elegant lavender hue. While retaining their original design elements like the semi-in-ear fit and silicone tips, these earbuds now boast enhanced features such as water and dust resistance, active noise cancellation of up to 52dB, and a 360-degree spatial audio characteristic. They offer an extended battery life of up to 38 hours with the case, with each earbud capable of providing 10 hours of usage without noise cancellation and 6.5 hours with it.
Redmi Watch 4 with a Refreshed Look
The Redmi Watch 4 receives a refresh with a yellow strap and a silver frame, maintaining its aluminum alloy construction and stainless steel crown. Featuring a 1.97-inch AMOLED display, it supports over 200 watch faces and an array of health tracking functionalities such as heart rate and blood oxygen level monitoring. The watch ensures a prolonged battery life lasting up to 20 days on a single charge.
Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G in Silver
The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G comes with an eye-catching silver rear panel. This smartphone boasts a 6.67-inch curved AMOLED screen with 1.5K resolution and a high 120Hz refresh rate. Equipped with a triple camera setup, including a remarkable 200MP main camera, it operates on the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra chipset. The device supports rapid 120W charging and houses a robust 5000mAh battery.
Tags: Redmi Buds 5 Pro Earbuds, Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus, Redmi Watch 4, Xiaomi
March 28, 2024
China Telecom debuts Zhenqing 20: Senior-Friendly 5G Phone with Large Fonts & Safety Features
China Telecom has introduced the Zhenqing 20, a 5G smartphone tailored for elderly users, emphasizing simplicity, safety, and long-lasting battery performance, making it an ideal present for parents or grandparents.
Simplified Interface and Safety Features
Upon activation, the Zhenqing 20 transitions to Care Mode, featuring a user-friendly interface with large fonts and a 4×3 icon grid. With a maximum volume set at 96dB, the phone ensures clear sound for seniors struggling with standard smartphones. This design focuses on ease of use, addressing the specific requirements of older individuals.
Safety and Durability
The device includes safety measures to offer families peace of mind. It enables real-time location tracking, allowing relatives to monitor the user’s whereabouts. Moreover, it can detect and block suspicious calls and messages, safeguarding users against scams.
Specifications and Performance
Equipped with a 6.7-inch IPS 90Hz waterdrop screen, the Zhenqing 20 delivers an engaging visual experience. Its double-sided 2.5D tempered glass enhances durability and scratch resistance. Powered by a Unisoc Tanggula T760 6nm 8-core 5G processor, the phone ensures smooth performance for daily tasks. It features a 13MP main rear camera + 2MP macro lens, a 5MP front camera, 6GB RAM, and 128GB storage. Operating on Android 13 with ZeaQo OS, the device offers a seamless user experience.
Family Assistance and Battery Life
Through the "Zhenqing Guardian" app, family members can remotely aid the user, assisting in phone setup, troubleshooting, or exploring new features. They can monitor app usage time, battery status, and data consumption. With a massive 6000mAh battery, the phone claims to last up to two weeks on a single charge, supported by 18W fast charging.
Pricing and Availability
The Zhenqing 20 is priced at 1499 yuan (approximately $207) in China, available in Moonlight White, Starry Black, Glacier Blue, and Lilac Purple color options.
Tags: China Telecom, Elderly-Friendly Smartphone, Zhenqing 20
March 28, 2024
New Black Hole Image Reveals Strong Magnetic Fields Spiralling Around
Scientists have recently captured a novel image of the supermassive black hole located at the core of our galaxy, Sagittarius A (Sgr A), using polarized light for the first time. This latest image unveils well-defined and organized magnetic fields swirling around the black hole, resembling the observations made around the black hole M87* back in 2019.
Implications of Magnetic Fields
The findings, unveiled by the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) collaboration, propose that potent magnetic fields may be a common trait among all black holes. Additionally, the image implies the potential existence of a concealed jet emerging from Sgr A, akin to the robust jet witnessed near M87.
Understanding Through Polarized Light
Previously, researchers had captured the initial image of Sgr A* in regular light, disclosing its basic structure and dimensions. However, delving into the black hole through polarized light offers a more profound insight into its encompassing magnetic fields. When light waves get polarized, their vibration is confined to a single plane, aiding in the analysis of the magnetic field lines' structure and intensity around the black hole.
Technological Challenges and Future Prospects
Achieving a polarized image of Sgr A posed a notable challenge due to the black hole's dynamic nature compared to M87. While M87 provides a more stable target for prolonged observations, Sgr A undergoes rapid changes, necessitating advanced research methodologies and data interpretation.
Despite the obstacles, scientists are enthusiastic about the recent discoveries. The resemblances between the magnetic fields of Sgr A and M87 suggest that black holes, irrespective of their size or mass, might share fundamental characteristics. This breakthrough paves the way for a deeper comprehension of black hole operations and their cosmic significance.
The EHT collaboration is continuously enhancing its technology and intends to reexamine Sgr A* in April 2024. These continual observations, coupled with telescope advancements and data analysis, hold the promise of unraveling more enigmas about black holes in the years ahead. The ultimate objective is to capture high-resolution sequences of Sgr A*, potentially unmasking the concealed jet and offering a more intricate view of its dynamics. Furthermore, forthcoming space-based telescopes like the Black Hole Explorer (BHEX) could furnish even clearer images, enabling researchers to scrutinize black hole properties across space in exquisite detail.
Tags: Black Hole Magnetic Fields, Event Horizon Telescope, Future Black Hole Observations