Category: All News

  • Sigma Unveils World’s First 28-45mm F1.8 Full Frame DG DN Art Lens

    Sigma Unveils World’s First 28-45mm F1.8 Full Frame DG DN Art Lens

    Sigma has made a significant impact in the realm of full-frame lenses with the introduction of their new 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art lens. This groundbreaking lens brings several unique features, making it a compelling choice for both seasoned and amateur photographers. Let’s delve into what sets this lens apart:

    The lens features an internal zoom mechanism to prevent lens creeping. The Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN is the world’s first full-frame zoom lens with a constant f/1.8 aperture. This remarkable achievement ensures excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh throughout the zoom range. Imagine capturing striking portraits with a dreamy background at any focal length, from wide-angle to slightly telephoto. The constant f/1.8 aperture delivers image quality comparable to many high-end prime lenses, eliminating the need to switch lenses in varying lighting conditions.

    Portability and Ease of Use

    Despite its advanced features, Sigma has not compromised on portability. The lens employs an internal zoom mechanism, maintaining a constant length while zooming. This design eliminates the "lens creep" issue found in some zoom lenses, making it perfect for travel or street photography. The focusing distance is fixed at 30cm throughout the zoom range, simplifying focusing for close-up shots.

    Advanced Optical Design

    The Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN is built with a sophisticated 18-element, 15-group lens structure. This design includes 5 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) elements and 3 aspherical lenses to minimize chromatic aberrations and optical distortions. These elements work together to deliver sharp, clear images across the frame, even at wider apertures. Additionally, Sigma’s nano-porous coating and super multi-layer coating technology reduce flare and ghosting, enhancing image quality, especially in backlit conditions.

    Professional-grade features are also a highlight. The lens uses a high-speed HLA linear motor for quick and quiet autofocus, ensuring you capture fleeting moments. The bidirectional drive focus ring allows for precise manual focus adjustments, ideal for detailed control. The lens also includes various physical controls, such as an aperture ring, an infinite aperture switch, an aperture lock switch, two customizable AFL buttons for specific functions, and a locking petal-shaped lens hood.

    Durability and Versatility

    Designed to endure professional use, the Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN has a dust-proof and splash-proof body. The front lens group features a water and oil-proof coating, making it suitable for challenging shooting environments. Whether facing harsh weather conditions or dusty locations, this lens is built to perform reliably.

    With its outstanding image quality, constant fast aperture, and versatile zoom range, the Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art lens offers a comprehensive solution for a broad spectrum of photographers. Portrait photographers will love the beautiful bokeh and low-light capabilities, while landscape and street photographers will benefit from the versatile zoom range and exceptional sharpness.


    Sigma Unveils World's First 28-45mm F1.8 Full Frame DG DN Art Lens
  • OPPO F27 Pro+ Key Specs Revealed on Geekbench and Camera FV-5

    OPPO F27 Pro+ Key Specs Revealed on Geekbench and Camera FV-5

    The OPPO F27 series is anticipated to launch on June 13, although the brand hasn’t officially confirmed this. The series is expected to include two models: the F27 Pro and the F27 Pro+. The F27 Pro will succeed the F25 Pro, which debuted in India earlier this year. Recently, key details about the F27 Pro were leaked. Now, the OPPO F27 Pro+ variant has appeared on several platforms, revealing some information.

    OPPO F27 Pro+ on Multiple Databases

    The OPPO F27 Pro+ has been spotted on the Geekbench benchmarking platform, BIS certification website, and Camera FV-5 database. On the first two websites, it is listed with model number CPH2643. The BIS listing does not disclose any key details.

    According to Geekbench, the OPPO F27 Pro+ features a motherboard codenamed k6877va_64_k419 with six cores clocked at 2GHz and two cores at 2.60GHz, suggesting it will be powered by a Dimensity 7050 processor. The device will include 8GB of RAM and will run on Android 14 OS out of the box. In the benchmarking platform’s single-core and multi-core tests, the smartphone scores 886 and 2,305 points, respectively.

    Camera and Additional Features

    On the Camera FV-5 database, the OPPO F27 Pro+ is listed with a 64MP sensor featuring an f/1.7 aperture and EIS. It is also expected to have an 8MP front-facing selfie camera. This is all the information currently available about the OPPO F27 Pro+. We can expect the brand to start sharing official details in the coming weeks.

    Meanwhile, the OPPO F27 Pro is rumored to be the first IP69-rated smartphone in India. It is tipped to feature a 3D curved AMOLED display and a dual-tone leather back panel.


    OPPO F27 Pro+ Key Specs Revealed on Geekbench and Camera FV-5
  • ASUS ROG Ally X: Upgrades in the Latest Handheld Gaming Console

    ASUS ROG Ally X: Upgrades in the Latest Handheld Gaming Console

    ASUS has introduced a new handheld gaming console, the ROG Ally X, which serves as an upgraded version of last year’s ROG Ally. Let’s delve into the notable enhancements featured in this latest gaming handheld.

    ASUS ROG Ally X: Doubled Battery Capacity

    While the ROG Ally X is more of a mid-cycle update than a complete successor, it retains the same 7-inch LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and the Ryzen Z1 Extreme chipset. However, the significant upgrade lies in its battery capacity, which has been doubled to 80Wh from the previous 40Wh. This enhancement aims to address the battery life issues seen in the original model, promising better performance even during intense gaming sessions.

    Enhanced Storage and Memory

    In addition to the battery, the storage capacity has also seen a substantial increase. The ROG Ally X now boasts 1TB of M.2 SSD storage, up from its predecessor’s 512GB. It features a full-size 2280 module, allowing for potential future upgrades with larger drives and compatibility with various third-party options. Memory has also been bumped up to 24GB of faster LPDDR5X RAM, compared to the 16GB on the original ROG Ally.

    Improved Cooling System

    ASUS has introduced a new fan system in the ROG Ally X, which claims to offer 24% better airflow despite the fans being 23% smaller. The console also benefits from larger heat pipes, enhancing thermal dissipation. These improvements are crucial for portable gaming systems, ensuring smoother gameplay over extended periods. The performance mode now draws 17W, an increase from 15W, while the silent mode draws 13W, up from 10W, translating to slightly better gaming performance.

    Refreshed Exterior Design

    The ROG Ally X also brings changes to its exterior design. It now features a new black exterior and is slightly thicker, providing a better grip and more ergonomic buttons. The new precision D-Pad is a notable addition, although the joysticks still lack Hall Effect sensors but do feature stiffer springs for improved durability. Another significant change is the addition of a third vent on top and the replacement of the proprietary XG mobile connector with a second USB-C port, supporting USB 5 and Thunderbolt 4. This allows for the connection of an external GPU if desired.

    Overall, ASUS has refined the original ROG Ally formula, addressing its shortcomings and creating a more rounded handheld gaming console in the ROG Ally X.

  • Redmi A3x Launched: 4G, Android 14, 90Hz Display

    Redmi A3x Launched: 4G, Android 14, 90Hz Display

    Xiaomi has introduced the Redmi A3x to its Redmi A series, now accessible worldwide on its official site following its initial launch in Pakistan. This latest model is a simpler version of the Redmi A3, targeting users who seek an economical yet capable smartphone.

    Redmi A3x Specifications

    The Redmi A3x is equipped with a 6.71-inch display boasting a resolution of 1650 x 720 pixels and a 90 Hz refresh rate, ensuring a crisp and fluid visual experience. The smartphone is powered by a Unisoc Tiger T603 processor, which includes two ARM Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores running at 1.6 GHz.

    Storage configurations offer either 3 GB or 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM paired with 64 GB or 128 GB of eMMC 5.1 flash storage. This storage can be expanded up to 1 TB via a MicroSD card. The device is also fitted with a 5,000 mAh battery supporting 10 W charging through a USB Type-C port.

    Camera and Other Features

    The Redmi A3x includes an 8 MP main camera and a QVGA lens for basic photography needs, complemented by a 5 MP front camera. Additional features include a 3.5 mm headphone jack, dual SIM support, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The phone runs on Android 14 and is slated to receive two major Android updates along with security updates until 2027.

    Pricing

    Although the pricing in markets such as the EU is not yet revealed, the phone is available in Pakistan for PKR 18,999 ($68) for the 3GB RAM + 64GB storage variant.

  • ASUS ProArt PZ13 Copilot Plus: New Microsoft Surface Pro Rival?

    ASUS ProArt PZ13 Copilot Plus: New Microsoft Surface Pro Rival?

    Earlier today, ASUS unveiled the ROG Ally X. At the ongoing Computex 2024 event, the Taiwanese company also introduced three new PCs in its ProArt series. These include the ProArt PZ13, ProArt P16, and ProArt PX13, all of which are designed for creators. The ASUS ProArt PZ13 is a tablet computer that competes with the Microsoft Surface Pro, featuring a detachable design. It's part of the Copilot Plus program. For more details about this device, continue reading below.

    ASUS ProArt PZ13 Key Specifications and Features

    The ASUS ProArt PZ13 resembles the Surface Pro in many ways. It functions both as a standalone tablet and a conventional laptop when attached to its detachable keyboard, which also includes a kickstand. The device focuses on portability, being just 9mm thick and weighing 0.85 kg. The ProArt PZ13 is IP52-rated for dust and water resistance and has MIL-STD-810H military-grade certification for durability.

    The ASUS ProArt PZ13 features a 13.3-inch Lumina OLED screen with a 3K resolution. It supports Dolby Vision, a 60Hz refresh rate, a 100 percent DCI-P3 color gamut, and a 0.2ms response time. ASUS claims that the display is Pantone Validated and VESA DisplayHDR 500 True Black certified. The device also includes a 5MP IR front camera and a 13MP rear camera.

    Performance and AI Features

    Under the hood, the ASUS ProArt PZ13 is equipped with a Snapdragon X processor with a TDP of up to 20W. It comes with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB SSD storage. A thermal system is included for heat dissipation. The device also has a dedicated AI chipset that offers up to 45 TOPS performance. It supports a variety of AI features like copilot, recall, live captions, cocreator, and includes creator apps such as StoryCube and CapCut.

    Battery and Connectivity

    The ASUS ProArt PZ13 is powered by a 70WHr battery, which is claimed to provide long hours of usage for both work and play. Connectivity options include two USB 4.0 ports, WiFi 7, and an SD card reader.

    The ASUS ProArt PZ13 is expected to be available in the third quarter of this year, with pricing details to be announced closer to the launch date.

  • Android 15 Update: Xiaomi, Redmi, Poco Devices List

    Android 15 Update: Xiaomi, Redmi, Poco Devices List

    Google's next major upgrade, Android 15, is set to introduce numerous exciting features and enhancements. While we await its public release, Xiaomi has already announced the initial batch of its phones and tablets that will receive the Android 15 update.

    Xiaomi will deploy the Android 15 update with the MIUI 16 skin for its eligible devices. However, those already updated to HyperOS will receive the new OS with a new HyperOS skin.

    Xiaomi, Redmi, & Poco Devices Eligible for Android 15 Update

    Confirmed List

    Xiaomi

    • Xiaomi 14
    • Xiaomi 14 Ultra
    • Xiaomi 13 Lite
    • Xiaomi 13T
    • Xiaomi 13T Pro
    • Xiaomi 12
    • Xiaomi 12 Pro
    • Xiaomi 12T
    • Xiaomi 12T Pro

    Redmi

    • Redmi Note 13
    • Redmi Note 13 5G
    • Redmi Note 13 Pro
    • Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G
    • Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
    • Redmi Note 12
    • Redmi 13C
    • Redmi 12
    • Redmi 12 5G

    Poco

    • Poco M6 Pro 5G

    Xiaomi has confirmed Android 15 eligibility for these devices on its software support page, but this is not the complete list. More devices are expected to receive the new OS upgrade.

    Unconfirmed List

    Xiaomi

    • Xiaomi 14 Pro
    • Xiaomi 13
    • Xiaomi 13 Pro
    • Xiaomi 13 Ultra
    • Xiaomi 12 Lite
    • Xiaomi 12S
    • Xiaomi 12S Pro
    • Xiaomi 12S Ultra
    • Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro
    • Xiaomi Civi 3
    • Xiaomi Civi 2
    • Xiaomi Civi 1S
    • Xiaomi Mix Fold 3
    • Xiaomi Mix Fold 2
    • Xiaomi Pad 6
    • Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro
    • Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14
    • Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4
    • Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro 12.4

    Redmi

    • Redmi Note 13 4G
    • Redmi Note 13 5G
    • Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G
    • Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G
    • Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
    • Redmi Note 13R
    • Redmi Note 13R Pro
    • Redmi Note 12 4G
    • Redmi Note 12 Turbo
    • Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G
    • Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed
    • Redmi Note 12R
    • Redmi Note 12R Pro
    • Redmi Note 12T Pro
    • Redmi Note 12S
    • Redmi K70
    • Redmi K70E
    • Redmi K70 Pro
    • Redmi K60
    • Redmi K60 Pro
    • Redmi K60 Ultra
    • Redmi 13R
    • Redmi 13C
    • Redmi 13C 5G
    • Redmi 12
    • Redmi 12 5G
    • Redmi Pad Pro
    • Redmi Pad Pro 5G
    • Redmi Pad SE
    • Redmi Turbo 3
    • Redmi A3
    • Redmi A3x

    Poco

    • Poco F6
    • Poco F6 Pro
    • Poco F5
    • Poco F5 Pro
    • Poco X6
    • Poco X6 Neo
    • Poco X6 Pro
    • Poco M6
    • Poco M6 Pro
    • Poco M6 Pro 5G
    • Poco Pad
    • Poco C65
    • Poco C61
    • Poco C51

    These Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco devices are expected to get the Android 15 update according to the software update policy.

    Xiaomi’s Software Update Policy: A Mixed Bag

    Xiaomi has traditionally offered only three years of OS updates for its flagship phones, but this was extended to four years last October. This change came shortly after Google announced seven years of OS updates for its Pixel 8 and 8 Pro models.

    Major OS updates are crucial as they bring new features and improvements, keeping devices relevant over the years. Xiaomi had been lagging behind competitors like Samsung, OnePlus, and Google in this area. However, the company recently announced four years of OS updates, aligning its policy with other major Android brands.

    Despite this positive change, Xiaomi's software policy remains unclear for most devices. Users often don't know how many Android updates their device will receive. Typically, high-end devices get three OS updates, while mid-range and budget phones receive two updates, with some exceptions getting an additional generation.

    When Will Xiaomi Start Rolling Out Android 15 Update?

    Android 15 development is well underway, with multiple developer previews and beta builds already released by Google. The final release is expected in October, around which time Xiaomi will begin rolling out the stable Android 15 update to its eligible devices, starting with recent flagship models.

    Xiaomi has announced the Android 15 beta program for several devices, including Xiaomi 14, Xiaomi 13 Pro, and Xiaomi Pad 6S 12.4. Owners of these devices can sign up for the beta program to experience Android 15 early. Our guide on how to download and install the Android 15 beta on Xiaomi devices can help you get started.

    Android 15: What’s Exciting About the New OS?

    Here are the major changes in Android 15:

    1. Satellite Connectivity
      • Allows sending texts without a nearby cell tower, as long as there is access to the open sky. This feature supports SMS, MMS, and RCS apps, and is not limited to emergency use.
    2. App Archiving
      • Similar to offloading apps on iPhones, it enables uninstalling unnecessary apps while retaining user data. This feature is integrated at the OS level.
    3. App Pairs
    • Allows saving favorite split-screen app combinations for quick access, particularly useful for large-screen devices.
    1. Private Space
      • Introduces a "private space" to keep sensitive apps and files under an additional layer of authentication, similar to Samsung's Secure Folder.
    2. Partial Screen Sharing
      • Enables sharing or recording a single app rather than the entire screen, preventing accidental exposure of sensitive apps.
    3. Notification Cooldown
    • Reduces the volume of successive notifications from the same app to prevent notification overload.
    1. High-Quality Webcam
      • Improves webcam video quality by disabling power optimizations, indicated by a new “HQ” symbol in the preview mode.

    There are also rumors that Google might introduce a "Battery health" feature in Android 15, similar to what iPhones have had for years.

    What are your expectations for the new Android OS? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

  • Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro Gets Global HyperOS Update

    Xiaomi Mi 10 Pro Gets Global HyperOS Update

    Xiaomi is actively deploying its new HyperOS operating system to all the eligible devices. Following the recent rollout for the POCO X4 GT, the brand has now extended the update to global users of the Mi 10 Pro.

    The Mi 10 Pro, which was launched over four years ago in February 2020, originally came with Android 10 and received Android 13 as its final update. Despite its age, Xiaomi has decided to offer users the HyperOS update. However, there is a nuance; while HyperOS is based on Android 14, older devices like the Mi 10 Pro are being updated with an Android 13-based version of HyperOS. This update, which brings numerous improvements, is identified by firmware version 1.0.1.0.TJAEUXM.

    Mi 10 Pro HyperOS Update Changelog

    System

    • Updated Android Security Patch to March 2024, enhancing system security.

    Vibrant Aesthetics

    • New animation language makes device interactions more wholesome and intuitive.
    • Natural colors bring vibrancy and vitality to all corners of your device.
    • A new system font supports multiple writing systems.
    • The redesigned Weather app provides not only crucial information but also reflects how it feels outside.
    • Notifications are now more focused on important information, delivering it efficiently.
    • Every photo can resemble an art poster on your Lock screen, enhanced by various effects and dynamic rendering.
    • New Home screen icons refresh familiar items with new shapes and colors.

    Multitasking

    • Multitasking has become even more straightforward and convenient with an upgraded multi-window interface.

    The update is already available in China and is being extended to EU users and other regions. If the OTA update notification hasn’t appeared on your device yet, you can manually check for it by navigating to Settings > About Phone > Tap on MIUI 14.

    (via)

  • Huawei Nova 13 Lite Leak: Mid-Range Phone Gets 5G with Kirin Chip

    Huawei Nova 13 Lite Leak: Mid-Range Phone Gets 5G with Kirin Chip

    Huawei might soon unveil its Nova 13 series of premium mid-range smartphones in China. However, prior to any formal announcement, a new report has surfaced revealing more details about the Nova 13 Lite and some of its anticipated upgrades.

    Huawei Nova 13 Lite may get a much-needed 5G upgrade

    An unidentified Huawei smartphone, previously spotted with the PSD-AL00 model number on 3C certification, was believed to be part of the Nova 13 series, though the exact model was unclear. A NoteBookCheck report now suggests that this device is likely the successor to the Nova 12 Lite. For context, the Nova 12 Lite was the entry-level model in this premium mid-range line.

    Huawei Nova 12 Lite

    The earlier models were equipped with 4G and LTE networking capabilities. However, the upcoming version may finally support 5G processors. This implies that the base Nova 13, along with the higher-end Nova 13 Pro and Nova 13 Ultra, could feature 5G connectivity. Unlike the previous generation, the Nova 13 Lite might forgo the Snapdragon 778G in favor of a 5G Kirin processor. This device is anticipated to launch sometime later this year.

    Charging and Camera Specifications

    Based on the 3C certification, the Huawei Nova 13 Lite is expected to support 66W wired fast charging. This suggests that the more expensive Pro and Ultra variants might benefit from faster 100W wired fast charging. These models are also likely to include variable-aperture rear cameras. It remains uncertain whether Huawei will release the Nova 13 series in global markets outside of China in 2024.

  • Boat Airdopes 300: Spatial Audio, Low Latency, 50hr Battery in India

    Boat Airdopes 300: Spatial Audio, Low Latency, 50hr Battery in India

    After introducing the Airdopes 311 Pro last week, Boat has unveiled another pair of earbuds named the boAt Airdopes 300. These new earbuds are budget-friendly and come equipped with features like low latency mode and ASAP Fast charging.

    Boat Airdopes 300 Specifications

    The Airdopes 300 is outfitted with 10mm dynamic drivers that provide high-quality audio. These earbuds also support Spatial Audio and 24-bit Audio Processing. For gaming enthusiasts, the earbuds offer a low latency of 65ms in BEAST mode, ensuring fluid and responsive audio playback.

    One standout feature is the Multipoint connectivity, which simplifies the management of connections across multiple devices. Additionally, the earbuds are equipped with four microphones and AI-driven algorithms that use ENx technology to isolate the user’s voice from background noise, enhancing call clarity.

    Battery Life and Extra Features

    Another significant feature is the long battery life. Boat claims that the Airdopes 300 can last up to 50 hours with the charging case, and a brief 10-minute charge provides around 150 minutes of playtime, courtesy of ASAP Fast charging technology. Other user-friendly features include In-Ear Detection for automatic play and pause, and Swift IWP technology for quick pairing.

    For durability, the earbuds have an IPX4 rating, offering resistance against water and sweat, making them suitable for physical activities.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Airdopes 300 TWS earbuds are available in two colors: Chrome White and Gunmetal Black, priced at Rs. 1,399. They can be purchased from boAt’s website and other major retail platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and local stores starting today.


    Boat Airdopes 300: Spatial Audio, Low Latency, 50hr Battery in India
  • iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max to Feature Record-Breaking Narrow Bezels

    iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max to Feature Record-Breaking Narrow Bezels

    The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max already feature impressively thin bezels, but a new leak hints that Apple could make them even slimmer with the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models.

    According to a Weibo user, the bezels on these new devices could be reduced by up to 40%, enhancing the screen-to-body ratio for an even more immersive experience.

    Larger Displays

    This rumor aligns with previous reports suggesting that Apple plans to equip the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max with larger displays, measuring 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches respectively.

    The Weibo user, Setsuna Digital, claims that the iPhone 16 Pro Max could feature bezels as thin as 1.15mm, while the iPhone 16 Pro might have slightly thicker bezels at 1.20mm. Both measurements are still impressively thin, surpassing the minimal bezels currently seen on other smartphones.

    Confirmation from Reliable Sources

    Though Setsuna Digital is a relatively unknown tipster, the leak appears credible as the reliable leaker Ice Universe has confirmed that the iPhone 16 Pro will have bezels thinner than those on the Galaxy S24. Ice Universe even stated that it will have the “narrowest bezels in the world.”

    The tipster also shared a mockup render of the phone, showcasing the incredibly thin bezels expected on the upcoming iPhone.


    iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max to Feature Record-Breaking Narrow Bezels

    New Technology

    While the specifics of how Apple will achieve this feat remain undisclosed, leaks suggest that the company may use a “Border Reduction Structure” technology to make it possible.

    It’s still uncertain whether this new technology will result in a price increase for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, given the significant effort and resources likely required.