Category: All News

July 12, 2024
Pixel 9 Series Prices and Color Variants Leaked
French outlet Dealabs has reportedly revealed the upcoming European prices for Google’s four new Pixel 9 devices: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. If these leaks are accurate, most models will see a price increase over their Pixel 8 equivalents.
The base model Pixel 9 is expected to start at €899 for the 128GB version and €999 for the 256GB version. Available colors are likely to include Obsidian (black), Porcelain (white), Cosmo (possibly pink), and Mojito (likely green).
Pixel 9 Pro Pricing and Specs
The Pixel 9 Pro, similar in size to the base model but featuring additional cameras, is predicted to start at €1,099 for the 128GB version, €1,199 for the 256GB version, and €1,329 for the 512GB version. Higher configurations will be available only in Obsidian and Hazel, while the other storage options will also include Porcelain and the rumored pink variant, possibly named “Cosmo.”
Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold
The Pixel 9 Pro XL, expected to be the true successor to the Pixel 8 Pro in terms of size, will share the same internals as the Pixel 9 Pro but come in a larger size. Prices will start at €1,199 for the 128GB version, €1,299 for the 256GB version, €1,429 for the 512GB version, and a hefty €1,689 for the rumored 1TB model. The color options are more varied, with the 1TB model exclusive to Obsidian, 128GB and 512GB models also available in Porcelain and Hazel, and the 256GB variant uniquely including Pink.
Finally, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which appears to be the follow-up to the original Pixel Fold, is expected to be priced at €1,899 for the 256GB version and €2,029 for the 512GB version. Color choices for the foldable model seem to be limited to Obsidian and Porcelain.
Price Variations
It’s essential to note that these prices are listed in Euros, and VAT differences might cause slight price variations across the European Union. Nonetheless, if these leaks hold true, they suggest a trend of price increases for most Pixel 9 models compared to their Pixel 8 predecessors.
Tags: European Prices, Pixel 9 Pro, Price Increases
July 12, 2024
Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3 Price Drop: Huge Savings Now Available
Huawei introduced the FreeBuds Pro 3 (review) to the global market late last year, featuring dual drivers and the company’s ANC 3.0 technology. The earbuds also come with L2HC 3.0 Hi-Res wireless audio and LDAC codec support. Initially priced at 1,499 yuan (179 GBP), the FreeBuds Pro 3 are now available at a discounted rate of 1,299 yuan (~158 GBP).
Connectivity
The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3 are powered by the Kirin A2 chip and mark the first instance of Polar Code in earbuds. This proprietary connectivity technology supports a transmission rate of 1.5 Mbps, ensuring lossless audio and making it four times more efficient than the FreeBuds Pro 2.
The earbuds also feature standard Bluetooth connectivity and are compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and other platforms. They support dual-device connectivity, allowing them to connect to two devices simultaneously and automatically switch audio between them. Notably, when linked to EMUI devices, users can switch audio between more than two devices.
Audio
The FreeBuds Pro 3 are equipped with a dual-driver system comprising an 11 mm dynamic driver and a planar diaphragm driver, enhanced by a Halbach array for a high transient response. These earbuds also incorporate digital cross-over technology, providing audio ranging from 14kHz to 48kHz without compromising quality.
Huawei’s triple adaptive EQ algorithm enables the earbuds to detect volume levels, ear canal shape, and wearing status in real-time, adjusting the sound level and EQ settings accordingly.
For improved voice and video call quality, the earbuds offer 2.5 times better voice pickup, thanks to a redesigned bone conduction voice pick-up (VPU) sensor that remains closely affixed to the ears.
Battery Life
The earbuds and their case weigh approximately 5.8 g and 45.5 g, respectively, and house 55mAh and 510mAh batteries. In terms of battery life, the earbuds can last 7 hours on a full charge and 33 hours when used with the charging case (ANC disabled). With ANC enabled, the earbuds offer 5 hours of battery life on a single charge and 23 hours with the charging case.
Tags: ANC 3.0, Dual-Driver Audio, Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3
July 12, 2024
New Discoveries on Milky Way Size by Chinese Astronomers
Chinese astronomers have uncovered new insights into the size of the Milky Way galaxy, indicating it is much larger than previously estimated. Their study, published in the highly regarded journal Nature Astronomy, utilized data from APOGEE, the world’s first extensive near-infrared stellar spectral survey.
Analysis of Stellar Distribution Across the Milky Way
The research team, led by Associate Professor Lian Jianhui from Yunnan University, leveraged this survey to consider factors like dust that can obstruct traditional measurements. By examining the distribution of stars throughout the Milky Way, they were able to reconstruct a more detailed image of its structure.
Their findings contest the long-standing belief that the Milky Way consists of a single exponential disk – a flat structure where stellar density gradually decreases outward. Instead, the study suggests a more intricate structure. The outer disk (beyond 24,000 light-years from the galactic center) aligns with the exponential model. However, the inner disk (between 11,000 and 24,000 light-years) shows a flatter distribution, with stellar density remaining relatively constant.
Implications of the Revised Understanding
This updated perspective has significant implications. Earlier estimates based on the exponential disk model placed the Milky Way’s radius at about 10,000 light-years, making it seem denser than galaxies of similar mass. The new data, however, proposes a nearly doubled radius of 19,000 light-years, aligning the Milky Way with other galaxies of its type.
Professor Lian underscores the significance of near-infrared observations in surpassing the limitations of traditional methods. Dust particles greatly affect visible light, but their impact on near-infrared wavelengths is much less. This allows for a clearer view of stellar distribution, especially within the Milky Way’s dusty inner regions.
These discoveries provide valuable insights into the structure and features of our galaxy, encouraging further studies to revise estimates of the Milky Way’s overall physical properties.
Tags: APOGEE, Milky Way size, Near-infrared survey
July 12, 2024
Infinix Zero Flip 5G: Battery Size Revealed, Launch Soon
In April, an IMEI database listing unveiled that Infinix is working on its inaugural foldable phone, the Infinix Zero Flip. This device, identified as the X6962, has appeared on certification platforms like Europe’s EEC and FCC. Recently, it received approval from the TUV certification platform, which disclosed its battery specifications.
Infinix Zero Flip 5G Battery Details
The TUV certification screenshot indicates that the Infinix Zero Flip 5G will be equipped with a dual-cell battery, featuring capacities of 3,410mAh and 1,180mAh. Thus, the device is expected to house a battery unit with a rated value of 4,590mAh and potentially offer a typical value of 4700mAh.
The FCC certification revealed that the Zero Flip might come with a 70W rapid charger. Additionally, it is likely to be equipped with 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage. Other specifications of the Zero Flip remain undisclosed.
Infinix Zero Flip FCC Certification
The FCC certification also provided a schematic of the Zero Flip, showing a large square outer display. It will be complemented by a vertical dual camera system and an LED flash. Although it is confirmed to be available in a Titanium Black variant, other color options for the device remain unknown.
Additional Approvals
Along with the Zero Flip 5G, the FCC has granted approval to the Zero 40 5G and Zero 40 4G. These products are anticipated to launch in various markets either this month or in August.
Tags: Battery and Charger, Foldable Phones Market, Infinix Zero Flip
July 12, 2024
Redmi K70 Ultra Battery Size and Charging Capabilities Confirmed
Redmi has yet to announce the official launch date for the Redmi K70 Ultra in China. However, the company has been actively disclosing key details about the device. Today, Redmi revealed information about the battery capacity and charging features of the K70 Ultra.
Recent teasers have primarily highlighted the rear design of the Redmi K70 Ultra. So far, it has been confirmed that the device will feature a metal frame and a glass back, available in black, white, and purple colors. Additionally, the device will offer IP68-rated dust and water resistance.
Display and Design
The latest poster, released today, shows that the K70 Ultra will come with a flat display and slim bezels on all sides. The top and side bezels are just 1.7mm thick, while the bottom bezel is slightly thicker at 1.9mm.
Although the exact screen size hasn’t been disclosed, the K70 Ultra’s TCL C8+ display will support a 1.5K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 3840Hz PWM dimming. TCL C8+ display will support Additional posters released today confirm that the device will house a 5,500mAh battery, support 120W fast charging, and feature the Pengpai T1 signal enhancement chip.
Specifications
The Redmi K70 Ultra will be powered by the Dimensity 9300 Plus chipset, accompanied by up to 24 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1 TB of internal storage. For photography, it is expected to sport a 20-megapixel front camera and a triple camera setup on the back with 50-megapixel, 8-megapixel, and 2-megapixel sensors.
Expected Release
The Redmi K70 Ultra is anticipated to launch alongside the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 and Mix Flip later this month in China. It appears that the K70 Ultra will be exclusive to the Chinese market. However, a modified version with enhanced cameras is expected to be released globally under the Xiaomi 14T Pro name.
Tags: Launch Details, Redmi K70 Ultra, specifications
July 12, 2024
Infinix Zero 40 5G Design, Variants, Chipset Revealed via FCC
An Infinix phone with the model number X6861 has been approved by the FCC. It is believed that this device might be the upcoming Zero 40 5G. This phone has already surfaced in Europe’s EEC and Geekbench databases, the latter of which appeared in June but went largely unnoticed. The Geekbench listing disclosed the chipset powering this device.
Infinix Zero 40 5G at FCC and Geekbench
The FCC listing shows that the Infinix Zero 40 5G has dimensions of 164 x 74 x 8mm. For comparison, its predecessor measured 164.5 x 75 x 7.9 mm and featured a 6.78-inch curved-edge AMOLED display. This suggests that the Zero 40 might have a similarly sized screen. One of the color variants will be Polar Black.
Regarding its design, the Zero 40 5G will have a round camera module containing three cameras and a dual-LED flash unit. Additionally, there is a separate cutout on the top-left corner of the phone’s back, though its purpose—whether for an LED flash or something else—remains unclear.
Specifications and Features
The ID label document indicates that the device will come with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. There is speculation that there will also be a version with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
According to the Geekbench listing, the device may be powered by the Dimensity 8200 chipset and run on Android 14 OS. FCC documents further suggest that the Infinix Zero 40 5G might support NFC connectivity and feature 45W fast charging.
Tags: Dimensity 8200, FCC approval, Infinix Zero 40 5G
July 12, 2024
Huawei Nova 13 Series and Flagship Tablets Launching in August
Huawei is reportedly developing the Nova 13 series smartphones for the Chinese market. Initially, rumors suggested that the Nova 13 lineup would be introduced in the second quarter of this year. However, a report in May indicated that the launch had been delayed to July. Although there is no new information about its release, a Chinese leaker has shared what to expect from the next-generation Nova phones.
Huawei Nova 13 Series on the Horizon
According to tipster Smart Pikachu, all models in the Huawei Nova 13 series will feature Kirin processors. He also mentioned that the top variant would include flagship-level satellite communication capabilities.
The Nova 12 series, launched in December 2023, included several models such as the Nova 12 Lite, Nova 12s, Nova 12 Pro, and Nova 12 Ultra. The Pro and Ultra models supported calling and messaging via satellite connectivity. Therefore, it is likely that the Nova 13 Pro and Nova 13 Ultra will also offer satellite connectivity.
New Kirin-Powered Tablets
The tipster also revealed that Huawei plans to introduce two flagship tablets powered by Kirin chips. Both tablets will support Huawei’s Star Flash NearLink technology. For those unfamiliar, this is a revolutionary short-range wireless technology combining the benefits of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It offers significantly faster transmission speeds, lower power consumption, reduced latency, higher connection capacity, and improved security compared to current technologies. The leak suggests that these tablets may also support satellite connectivity.
Regarding the launch, Huawei could unveil the Nova 13 series and the new tablets in August. A recent report suggested that a Kirin 9010E-powered Nova-branded flip phone might also launch in August.
Tags: Huawei Nova 13, Kirin processors, satellite connectivity feature
July 12, 2024
Microsoft Shifts Market Strategy from Xbox Consoles in EMEA
Microsoft‘s approach for the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) market seems to be evolving, as reported by The Verge on July 12th. The article suggests that Microsoft might be planning to halt console sales in the region and instead concentrate on promoting its cloud gaming services, Xbox Game Pass subscriptions, and controllers.
Focus on Cloud Gaming
Microsoft has been spotlighting cloud gaming for some time now. This strategy is in line with their recent focus on cloud gaming and platform-independent experiences. They have pointed out that players do not necessarily require an Xbox console to enjoy Xbox games, with many new releases also available on PC. The Verge’s report cites sources indicating that Microsoft has decided internally to shift its game promotion and release strategies, potentially reducing the emphasis on the Xbox console itself.
Strategic Move Towards Subscriptions
This shift could signify a strategic move towards a subscription-based model. The report highlights Microsoft’s efforts to promote Game Pass subscriptions, which provide access to a library of games at a reduced price, especially for new subscribers. By prioritizing cloud gaming and subscriptions, Microsoft might be aiming to attract a broader audience that might not invest in a dedicated console.
It’s crucial to note, however, that this information is based on a report, and Microsoft has not officially confirmed any plans to stop Xbox console sales in the EMEA market. Further announcements from Microsoft will be needed to clarify their future strategy for the region.
Tags: Microsoft, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
July 12, 2024
Huawei’s Patent Images Reveal 5 Innovative Flip Phone Designs
Huawei has been a reliable contender in the foldable phone arena, recently unveiling the Pocket 2, notable for its clamshell design and a unique quad-camera setup on the exterior. Fresh patents filed with China’s CNIPA have surfaced, giving us a peek into the potential future of Huawei’s flip phones.
Although patents don’t necessarily confirm final product designs, they can hint at a company’s design intentions. Discovered by 91mobiles, these patents reveal five different configurations that Huawei might be considering for their upcoming clamshell foldable phones. The primary folding mechanism remains the same across all models, with the main variations focusing on camera placement.
Future Design Possibilities
Huawei’s existing Pocket 2 has a vertically stacked quad-camera module and a separate circular cutout for the cover display. The new patents suggest several possible future designs:
One design proposes two horizontally aligned circular rings on the phone’s exterior, unlike the vertically stacked rings on the Pocket 2. Another patent showcases the same circular format but with a strip around the upper rear section of the phone.
An intriguing third design features a clamshell phone with two different-sized cutouts placed diagonally. The larger cutout is likely intended for the cover display, while the smaller ring might accommodate the cameras.
Square Camera Modules
Additionally, Huawei seems to be exploring square camera modules instead of circular ones. One patent depicts a flip phone with two horizontally arranged square frames on the rear, replacing the circular configuration.
Another design shows these square frames arranged diagonally in a larger and smaller layout, mirroring the circular design but with square frames.
These patents indicate that Huawei may be moving away from the dual-ring design of the Pocket 2. Whether these designs will make it to production remains uncertain, but they offer a fascinating glimpse into Huawei’s foldable phone innovations.
Tags: Foldable Phone Patents, Huawei
July 12, 2024
Noise 4 Wireless Headphones Launched in India: 70hr Battery
Noise, a leading brand in India for electronic lifestyle products, has introduced its latest wireless headphones, the Noise 4, to the Indian market.
Noise 4 Wireless Headphones Specifications
The Noise 4 headphones are designed for comfort with a foldable structure that makes them easy to carry. Available in Carbon Black and Calm Beige, these headphones are both stylish and practical.
Equipped with 40mm drivers, the Noise 4 delivers powerful, clear sound with deep bass. They offer up to 70 hours of music playback on a single charge, ideal for lengthy trips or busy days.
The headphones feature AI-enhanced Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) to ensure clear calls even in noisy environments. The Instacharge function provides up to 300 minutes of playtime with just 10 minutes of charging.
Additional Features
Dual-Device Pairing allows you to seamlessly switch between your phone, tablet, or laptop. Bluetooth 5.4 technology ensures stable connectivity, an extended range, and low latency. Additionally, the Noise 4 headphones are water-resistant with an IPX5 rating, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.
Pricing & Availability
The Noise 4 Wireless Headphones are priced at INR 2,499 and are available starting today on gonoise.com, Amazon, and Flipkart. Purchases made through the company’s website include an additional INR 200 discount.
Tags: Adaptive Noise Cancellation, Noise 4, Wireless Headphones