Category: All News

  • Google Pixel 9 Leaked Renders: No Periscope Lens, XL Model Returns

    Google Pixel 9 Leaked Renders: No Periscope Lens, XL Model Returns

    Earlier in January this year, a sneak peek at Google's Pixel 9 and 9 Pro smartphones was unveiled through leaked renders by reliable tipster Steve Hemmerstoffer (Onleaks). However, a recent update reveals a slight twist in the naming scheme. The standard and pro models previously showcased are now set to hit the market as the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, respectively, reviving the XL designation last seen on the Pixel 4 years ago.

    The Rebranding: Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL

    This rebranding has raised speculation regarding the existence of a standard Pixel 9. Recent leaks indeed confirm the presence of the standard model in the lineup.

    Design and Features: Pixel 9 Details

    Leaked renders of the Google Pixel 9 showcase a design akin to the Pro and Pro XL versions. The device appears compact with a square-edged design, featuring a flat frame and curved corners. Noteworthy is the rear panel housing a prominent pill-shaped camera setup that differs from its predecessors by not extending to the corners.

    The Pixel 9 boasts a centered punch-hole cutout display encircled by symmetrical bezels on all sides. A key disparity between the standard and pro iterations lies in the former's marginally smaller 6.03-inch screen size compared to the 6.1 inches on the latter. Additionally, the standard model will sport a dual-camera setup and miss out on a periscope lens present in the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL.

    According to Onleaks, the Pixel 9 is anticipated to measure 152.8 x 71.9 x 8.5mm, expanding to 12mm with the rear camera bump.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6: No Faster Charging, Revealed by 3C Certification

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6: No Faster Charging, Revealed by 3C Certification

    Samsung is anticipated to introduce the sixth-generation Galaxy Z foldable in early July this year. There is a growing buzz of leaks and speculations surrounding the upcoming foldable phones. Recently, both the Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 have acquired China’s 3C certification, shedding light on the charging speed of these foldable devices, suggesting that there may not be significant changes in this aspect for the upcoming devices.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Z Fold 6 Acquire 3C Certification

    The 3C certification platform has listed the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 with the model number SM-F9560, while the Z Fold 6 is identified with the model number SM-F7410. According to the regulatory listing, these phones are expected to be compatible with Samsung’s charger bearing the model number EP-TA800. Although the exact charging speed is not explicitly disclosed, based on the charger’s model number, it is likely to cap at 25W.

    Samsung has maintained a maximum battery charging speed of 25W on the Galaxy Z foldables since their original models. It is probable that this trend will continue if the recent 3C certification for the sixth-generation offerings is indeed accurate. Earlier this month, the batteries of Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 were featured on Safety Korea certification, indicating that both devices will incorporate a dual-cell battery setup.

    Design Insights and Colour Variants

    Leaked renders have provided insights into the design of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, showcasing a boxier design with sharp corners, while the Z Flip 6 is expected to retain its current aesthetic without significant cosmetic alterations. Rumors suggest that the Z Fold 6 might come with a titanium frame. Additionally, recent reports have hinted at the possible color variants for both foldable phones.

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  • India & China to Lead Global PC Market Recovery in 2024

    India & China to Lead Global PC Market Recovery in 2024

    Just a few years back, the global landscape was drastically altered by the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. A wave of caution swept through populations worldwide, prompting individuals to remain within the confines of their homes to shield themselves from the virus. This period saw a surge in the demand for electronic devices such as smartphones, gaming consoles, and computers, as people adapted to remote work, online learning, and combating boredom. The manufacturing industry struggled to keep pace with the soaring demand. However, as the situation gradually improved and life began to normalize, the momentum in electronics sales waned. Particularly, the computer market experienced a notable decline. Fortunately, industry experts foresee this deceleration as transient, with a resurgence anticipated in the PC market within China and India by 2024. Here's a closer look at the forecasted developments.

    India & China Spearhead PC Market Expansion in 2024

    The forecast for both the Chinese and Indian PC markets indicates a promising growth trajectory in the upcoming years, as per Canalys projections. Expectations are high for a rebound in the Chinese market in 2024, with a projected growth rate of 3%, which is anticipated to surge to 10% by 2025. This upswing is primarily attributed to the heightened demand in the commercial sector for PC upgrades. Concurrently, the tablet market in China is also set to witness steady growth, with a 4% increase forecasted for both 2024 and 2025, driven by the deepening digitalization initiatives in the region.

    Similarly, in the Indian PC market encompassing desktops, notebooks, and tablets, a robust 14% year-on-year growth is on the horizon for 2024. All segments are poised to contribute to this expansion, with tablets leading the charge at an impressive 24% year-on-year rise. Noteworthy is the performance seen in Q4 2023 shipments, where desktops took the lead with a 27% increase, followed by notebooks at 3%. Interestingly, tablets in India experienced a 9% decline in shipments during the same period.

    Driving Forces Behind the Growth

    The growth in both India and China's PC markets is being propelled by the rise of AI-powered PCs and the emergence of locally manufactured devices. Various companies are expected to reap the benefits of this market expansion in the two countries. In India, Samsung emerges as the top player with a 26% market share, closely followed by Lenovo at 14.8% and Apple at 13.3%. In contrast, the scenario in China sees Lenovo taking a commanding lead with 38%, while Huawei and HP secure a tie for the second position, each holding 10% of the market share. The detailed breakdown of market shares is as follows:

    Indian Market:

    • Lenovo: 38% market share
    • HP: 10% market share
    • Huawei: 10% market share
    • Dell: 8% market share
    • Asus: 7% market share
    • Others: 28% market share

    Chinese Market:

    • Apple: 32% market share
    • Huawei: 23% market share
    • Xiaomi: 12% market share
    • HONOR: 11% market share
    • Lenovo: 8% market share
    • Others: 15% market share

    These statistics shed light on the evolving landscape of the PC market in India and China, hinting at a promising growth trajectory in the near future.

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  • Baldur’s Gate 3: Smooth 1080p 30fps Demo on Snapdragon X Elite

    Baldur’s Gate 3: Smooth 1080p 30fps Demo on Snapdragon X Elite

    Back in October 2023, Qualcomm introduced the highly anticipated Snapdragon X Elite, positioning it as a faster alternative to the Apple M2 Max chipset. Recently, the gaming capabilities of this chipset were showcased as it successfully ran Baldur’s Gate 3.

    Snapdragon X Elite’s Gaming Performance

    Qualcomm assured users that the Snapdragon X Elite would not necessitate the porting of x86-based games, as they would seamlessly operate on the ARM chipset. This new processor is set to feature in the upcoming generation of laptops, with an official announcement confirming its compatibility with most games found on Windows PCs. Developers looking to run their games on the ARM processor can choose to run natively on ARM64, run hybrid on ARM64EC, or opt for x64 based emulation.

    GPU Capabilities and Performance

    The Adreno GPU within the Snapdragon X Elite boasts a capacity to deliver 4.6TFLOPs and supports DX12, DX11, Vulkan, OpenGL, as well as offering legacy support for DX9 and OpenGL 4.6. Early tests have shown an impressive 80 percent performance boost compared to the AMD Radeon 780M iGPU.

    In a demonstration shared by Devin Arthur, the Snapdragon X Elite was exhibited running Baldur’s Gate 3 smoothly at 1080p resolution, maintaining a framerate of approximately 30 frames per second. While details on specific graphics settings remain undisclosed, this demonstration hints at promising gaming experiences on laptops powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chip. While Qualcomm isn’t branding this chip as a gaming powerhouse, ongoing optimizations and driver updates are likely to enhance its gaming performance gradually.

    Here’s a demo of Baulders Gate 3 running at 1080p hovering around 30FPS, which is perfectly playable!

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  • Samsung Reveals Pokemon Galaxy Buds Cases in Japan

    Samsung Reveals Pokemon Galaxy Buds Cases in Japan

    Samsung now offers Pokemon-themed cases for its Galaxy Buds, catering to fans in Japan after releasing them in Europe last November. Pokemon, a popular Japanese media franchise encompassing animated series, films, video games, and more, serves as the inspiration for these new accessories.

    New Pokemon-Themed Galaxy Buds Cases

    Samsung has unveiled three new Pokemon-themed cases for the Galaxy Buds, featuring designs inspired by Poke balls used to capture Pokemon creatures. The collection includes the Super Ball, Hyper Ball, and Master Ball. The Super Ball showcases Blue and Red colors, the Hyper Ball comes in Black and Yellow with an H initial, while the Master Ball boasts a distinctive design with a vibrant Violet hue. These cases are environmentally friendly, crafted from recycled materials.

    Compatibility and Availability

    These Pokemon-themed cases are compatible with various Samsung true wireless stereo (TWS) earphones, such as the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Galaxy Buds Pro, Galaxy Buds2, Galaxy Buds Live, and Galaxy Buds FE. Enthusiasts who own these models alongside a love for Pokemon will likely be eager to acquire these themed cases.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Pokemon-themed Galaxy Buds cases are priced at 4,879 Yen (~$32) and are available for purchase through Samsung Japan's official website, the Slash B Slash online store, and the brick-and-mortar store located in Harajuku.

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  • Sony SRS-XB100 Portable Wireless Speaker: IP67 Rating, 16hrs Battery Life – Launched in China

    Sony SRS-XB100 Portable Wireless Speaker: IP67 Rating, 16hrs Battery Life – Launched in China

    Sony China has recently broadened its audio product range with the introduction of the SRS-XB100 portable wireless speaker, which can now be pre-ordered for 399 yuan ($55). Starting from April 1st, the speaker will be officially available for purchase on JD.com, offering customers a choice of four colors: Black, Grey, Orange, and Blue. Originally launched in India last July, this speaker is now entering the Chinese market.

    Sony SRS-XB100 Specifications:

    The SRS-XB100 is a lightweight and compact speaker featuring a cylindrical design, weighing merely 274g. It comes with a detachable double suspension strap for easy portability and includes an anti-skid silicone base for stability when placed upright.

    Audio Performance and Connectivity:

    Equipped with a full-range speaker and a passive radiator, the speaker delivers clear sound quality and robust bass. Sony’s proprietary DSP technology enhances the low-frequency response for improved bass output. Additionally, a Sound Diffusion Processor ensures broader sound dispersion.

    The SRS-XB100 is integrated with Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless wireless connectivity and extended battery life. With an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, this speaker is suitable for outdoor use.

    Features and Functionality:

    The speaker offers up to 16 hours of playback time on a single charge, ensuring uninterrupted music enjoyment throughout the day. It supports USB-C charging for added convenience.

    Compatible with the Sony Music Center app, users can control playback, adjust sound settings, and personalize the speaker’s illumination from their smartphones. It also allows for pairing with another SRS-XB100 unit for stereo sound.

    Apart from music playback, the SRS-XB100 features a built-in microphone for hands-free calls. Incorporating echo cancellation technology, the speaker ensures clear audio quality during calls, even in noisy environments.

    Sony has incorporated sustainable elements into the SRS-XB100’s design. The speaker’s body and strap are partially constructed from recycled plastic materials, and the packaging is entirely free of plastic.

    Sony SRS-XB100 Portable Wireless Speaker: IP67 Rating, 16hrs Battery Life - Launched in China
    Sony SRS-XB100 Portable Wireless Speaker: IP67 Rating, 16hrs Battery Life - Launched in China
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  • OPPO Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition Spotted on China Telecom

    OPPO Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition Spotted on China Telecom

    The OPPO Find X7 and X7 Ultra were first introduced in January this year in China, marking them as the first smartphones in the industry to feature two periscope cameras. While these models have not yet been released in global markets, OPPO is now rumored to be working on a new version of the Ultra model known as the Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition. Recently, this upcoming device was discovered on the China Telecom certification website, unveiling essential specifications, pricing, and additional details.

    OPPO Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition Emerges on China Telecom

    The OPPO Find X7 Ultra Satellite Edition is identified by the model number PHY120, aligning with the 3C certification that confirmed support for 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. The latest listing from China Telecom officially confirms the name of this new device within the Find X7 series.

    As implied by its name, the OPPO Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition will incorporate satellite connectivity technology, a feature already present in devices like the iPhone 14 series, iPhone 15 series, and Huawei Mate 50. This technology enables users to send emergency messages in areas lacking cellular network or WiFi coverage.

    Expected Features and Design

    Aside from the addition of Satellite Connectivity, the upcoming OPPO Find X7 Ultra variant will maintain the same specifications as the standard Ultra model. As per the China Telecom listing, the device will retain its familiar design featuring a circular camera module housing four 50MP sensors, including two periscope lenses. The front display will boast a curved 6.82-inch screen with a resolution of 1440 x 3216 pixels, supported by a 5,000mAh battery unit. While details like the processor are not specified, it is anticipated to be consistent with the Find X7 Ultra.

    Pricing Details

    The OPPO Find X7 Ultra Satellite Communication Edition is listed with a price tag of CNY 7,999, as per the China Telecom certification, indicating this cost for the 16GB RAM and 1TB storage variant. It is essential to note that China Telecom listings often display higher price tags compared to the actual retail prices.

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  • Realme 12x 5G: Price Confirmed & Leak Details for Killer Deal

    Realme 12x 5G: Price Confirmed & Leak Details for Killer Deal

    The Realme 12x 5G is preparing for its launch in the Indian market. The company has officially disclosed the pricing details, and a recent leak has unveiled the full specifications of the device. Let’s delve into the essential aspects, such as specifications, pricing in India, and whether it presents a compelling offer.

    Realme 12x 5G Pricing & Specifications

    Realme has confirmed that the Realme 12x 5G will hit the Indian market at a price below 12,000 INR (approximately 144 US Dollars). This smartphone stands out as the slimmest in its price range, measuring a mere 7.69mm in thickness. Additionally, the teaser has revealed that the Realme 12x 5G will support 45W wired fast charging. The launch date for this device in India is scheduled for April 2, 2024, at 12 PM IST.

    Specs Overview

    A recent leak by Sudhanshu Ambhore has provided insights into the specifications of the Realme 12x 5G. The device is expected to feature a 6.72-inch LCD display that boasts Full HD+ resolution, 950 nits peak brightness, and a 120Hz refresh rate. Powering the Realme 12x 5G is the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC, paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2TB through a microSD card slot.

    Camera and Features

    On the rear, the Realme 12x 5G will house a 50-megapixel dual camera setup, while an 8-megapixel front camera will cater to selfies and video calls. Noteworthy features include the device running on Android 14 OS out of the box, IP54 water and dust resistance, and weighing 188 grams. Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available.

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  • Apple Considers Chinese AI for iPhone 16 Series, Reports Suggest

    Apple Considers Chinese AI for iPhone 16 Series, Reports Suggest

    Tech giant Apple is currently in discussions with Chinese internet giant Baidu regarding the integration of Baidu's Ernie Bot, a significant language model (LLM), into its iPhone 16 and other products tailored specifically for the Chinese market. This collaboration, as reported by Cailian Press, is part of Apple's efforts to adhere to China's increasingly stringent regulations concerning AI-generated content.

    Apple's Potential Integration of Baidu's Ernie Bot

    The partnership is expected to see Apple incorporating Ernie Bot into its iOS 18 operating system and Mac OS for the Chinese market. Before finalizing the deal with Baidu, Apple explored discussions with various other Chinese entities like Alibaba and an AI company affiliated with Tsinghua University. While Apple may continue using its in-house AI model or Google's Gemini outside of China, it seeks a locally developed solution within China to ensure compliance with the country's regulations.

    Apple's Strategic Focus on the Chinese Market

    During a recent visit to China, Apple CEO Tim Cook reiterated the company's dedication to the Chinese market and engaged with key suppliers. Commending Chinese suppliers for their efforts toward carbon neutrality, Cook announced plans to expand Apple's research center in Shanghai and establish a new applied research lab in Shenzhen. This focus on China comes amidst a 24% decline in iPhone sales in the region, largely attributed to intense competition, particularly from Huawei.

    Strategic Implications and Regulatory Challenges

    Similar to Samsung's approach, which integrates Baidu's Ernie into its latest Galaxy S24 series in China for the "Circle to Search" feature while using Google's Gemini AI globally, Apple's potential partnership with Baidu aligns with evolving market strategies. Both Apple and Baidu face mounting regulatory obstacles, as China has implemented precise regulations governing domestic generative AI services to ensure alignment with approved content standards.

    Market Response and Future Outlook

    The news of a potential collaboration between Apple and Baidu led to a notable 6% surge in Baidu's shares in Hong Kong. Analysts perceive this as a promising development for Baidu, not only in terms of branding its Ernie Bot but also for accelerating its AI monetization endeavors and gaining a competitive advantage over domestic rivals. Additionally, Apple has officially announced the dates for its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024, scheduled to take place virtually from June 10th to 14th. Speculations abound regarding the unveiling of iOS 18 with generative AI features and a possible AI App Store, underscoring potential shifts in Apple's AI strategy by offering a platform for diverse AI applications from various developers, including upgraded Siri features and contributions from competitors like Google and Baidu.

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  • Xiaomi Enters OLED Component Manufacturing Industry

    Xiaomi Enters OLED Component Manufacturing Industry

    Xiaomi has collaborated with Lumilan, a company specializing in the research, development, manufacturing, sales, and service of new OLED materials. Rather than producing the final product or display panels themselves, Xiaomi is focusing on enhancing the technology behind display materials through involvement in key OLED materials research and development.

    Xiaomi's Focus on Advancing Display Technology

    There is a growing trend in the display industry with manufacturers such as BOE creating increasingly brighter OLED panels. By investing in foundational technologies, companies can address existing limitations and enhance the quality of the end products.

    Establishment of Xiaomi-Lumilan OLED Joint Laboratory

    To further this goal, Xiaomi inaugurated the "Xiaomi-Lumilan OLED Key Materials and Devices Joint Laboratory" in Ningbo, a prominent industrial hub in China. This strategic move underscores Xiaomi's commitment to strengthening core display technologies for future advancements.

    Joint Efforts to Enhance OLED Industry

    During the launch event of the joint laboratory, Wu Cangzhi, the general manager of Xiaomi's mobile phone display and touch department, emphasized Xiaomi's vision for the upcoming decade. He aims to propel Xiaomi as a global frontrunner in cutting-edge technology by bolstering the company's expertise in display materials. The collaboration with Lumilan is geared towards addressing challenges within the OLED industry and enhancing the performance of display products.

    The Chairman of Lumilan, a leading OLED manufacturer, highlighted the close partnership with Xiaomi, particularly through the Xiaomi-Lumilan OLED key materials and devices joint laboratory. Together, they are dedicated to overcoming existing technological hurdles in the OLED display sector.

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