Category: All News

  • Kirin 9100 Set to Outperform Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, Claims Tipster

    Kirin 9100 Set to Outperform Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, Claims Tipster

    Huawei is anticipated to launch a new Kirin chipset, the Kirin 9100, later this year. This processor is speculated to power the forthcoming Mate 70 series, which will also be the first Huawei phone to come pre-installed with HarmonyOS NEXT.

    Potential Performance Leap

    There are speculations that the Kirin 9100 might represent a significant performance improvement for the Chinese tech giant. However, doubts remain due to Huawei and its chip manufacturer, SMIC, lacking the latest chip manufacturing technology as a result of the US trade ban.

    Kirin chips have so far struggled to compete with offerings from Qualcomm and MediaTek. However, the Kirin 9100 might be an exception. A new rumor indicates it could outperform Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.

    Rumors and Speculations

    The information comes from an X tipster, jasonwill, who appears confident that the upcoming Kirin chip will exceed the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. If Huawei’s next-gen Kirin SoC is indeed faster, this would represent a substantial improvement compared to the current-best Kirin 9010, which struggles to compete even with mid-range chips like the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2.

    Additionally, the tipster suggests that the Kirin 9100’s performance could enhance the user experience, even if its on-paper specifications “may not match those of the 8gen3”.

    Software Optimization

    How could Huawei achieve this? The likely answer is software optimization. Huawei is expected to launch HarmonyOS NEXT alongside the Kirin 9100, completely distancing itself from Google’s Android platform.

    According to Huawei, HarmonyOS NEXT is three times more efficient in memory utilization compared to Android. This efficiency translates to smoother UI performance on Huawei devices, even those powered by older Kirin chipsets.

    Another factor contributing to the Kirin 9100’s performance is its manufacturing process. The chip is reportedly set to be mass-produced using SMIC’s 5nm node. While this technology isn’t the most advanced, it should still provide better performance and power efficiency compared to previous Kirin chipsets.

    While it’s exciting to anticipate Huawei’s upcoming chip matching the performance of its competitors, it’s prudent to remain skeptical as such a significant leap forward seems almost too good to be true for Huawei to achieve in one go.

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  • Aoostar GEM12 Plus Mini PC: 13th Gen i9, OCuLink & More

    Aoostar GEM12 Plus Mini PC: 13th Gen i9, OCuLink & More

    Aoostar has introduced its latest mini PC, the GEM12 Plus, in China, offering a compact yet powerful computing solution powered by the newest 13th Gen Intel Core i9 processors. This mini PC promises desktop-level performance in a small form factor.

    Specifications of Aoostar GEM12 Plus

    The GEM12 Plus offers two processor choices: Intel Core i9-12900HK and i9-13900H. These processors are ideal for intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and high-end gaming.

    Equipped with a VC (Vapor Chamber) cooling system, the GEM12 Plus efficiently manages heat dissipation, maintaining a 75W power output for seamless operation even under heavy loads.

    It supports dual PCIe 4.0×4 interfaces, accommodating two 2280 solid-state drives, allowing for storage expansion up to 2TB. Additionally, it can support up to 48GB of dual-channel DDR5 memory operating at 5200MHz, facilitating enhanced multitasking and smooth transitions between programs.

    Connectivity and Design

    In terms of connectivity, the mini PC includes a USB4 port with 40Gbps transfer speeds, ideal for high-performance peripherals or external storage. It also features a full-function USB-C port, dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for ultra-fast wired networking, and dual HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 ports, enabling the connection of up to four 4K displays simultaneously.

    The device also includes an OCuLink interface, which allows for the connection of an external graphics card, significantly enhancing graphical performance for tasks like gaming or complex video editing. Unlike some competitors, the OCuLink interface on the GEM12 Plus does not occupy the M.2 slots, providing more flexibility in storage configurations.

    For wireless connectivity, the GEM12 Plus is equipped with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

    Compact Form Factor

    The mini PC is designed to be compact, with dimensions of just 13cm x 13cm x 6cm and a weight of only 0.66kg, making it easy to place on a desk or mount behind a monitor for a space-efficient setup. Its body is crafted from CNC-machined aluminum alloy and finished with sandblasting and anodizing, giving it a premium appearance and feel. The system is powered by a robust 120W USB-C power supply, ensuring sufficient power for all its functionalities.

    Pricing and Availability

    The GEM12 Plus is now available for purchase on JD.com in China. Pricing begins at 2449 Yuan (approximately $336) for the barebones model featuring the Core i9-12900HK processor. Pre-configured options with RAM and storage can go up to 4499 Yuan (approximately $618) for the Core i9-13900H model with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage.

    Aoostar GEM12 Plus Mini PC: 13th Gen i9, OCuLink & More
    Aoostar GEM12 Plus Mini PC: 13th Gen i9, OCuLink & More
    Aoostar GEM12 Plus Mini PC: 13th Gen i9, OCuLink & More
    Aoostar GEM12 Plus Mini PC: 13th Gen i9, OCuLink & More
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  • HMD Drops “Arrow” Name for First Smartphone Launch in India

    HMD Drops “Arrow” Name for First Smartphone Launch in India

    HMD Global, the company known for Nokia-branded phones, was set to introduce its first phone under its own brand in India – the HMD Arrow. However, recent social media updates on X (formerly Twitter) disclosed that legal issues in India have necessitated a name change for the “Arrow.”

    Despite this hiccup, the company has assured that the new name for HMD’s inaugural smartphone in India will be unveiled soon. This renaming process may, however, lead to a delay in the phone’s launch in the country.

    Name Chosen Via Contest

    HMD initially selected the name Arrow through a user contest on X (formerly Twitter). The individuals whose suggestions were chosen will still receive their prizes. HMD has also confirmed that all contest entries remain valid, and they will announce five winners who will be rewarded.

    Possible Rebrathe Pulse boasts a 6.65” LCD with a 720p+ resolution (20:9) and a 90Hz refresh rate. It runs on a Unisoc T606 processor, coupled with either 4GB or 6GB of RAM, and includes 64GB of storage, expandable up to 256GB via a microSD card.

    For photography, the Pulse features a 13MP primary sensor on the back with autofocus and a dual-LED flash, along with a depth sensor. The front-facing camera is an 8MP sensor housed in a punch hole.

    Battery and Software

    The device is powered by a 5,000mAh battery and comes with Android 14 pre-installed. HMD Global has committed to providing two years of OS updates and three years of security patches for the Pulse.

    Although the launch of HMD’s first phone in India might be slightly delayed, the primary features could stay consistent with the HMD Pulse if the rebranding speculation holds true.

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  • Vivo Y28e & Y28s Launched in India, Starting at Rs 10,999

    Vivo Y28e & Y28s Launched in India, Starting at Rs 10,999

    Vivo has introduced two new budget-friendly 5G smartphones in India, the Y28e and Y28s, expanding its Y series. The Y28e was initially launched in the Indian offline market last month and is now available through online retailers as well.

    Vivo Y28e & Y28s Specifications:

    Both the Y28e and Y28s feature a 6.56-inch HD+ LCD screen with a 90Hz refresh rate and 840 nits peak brightness. They are equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ 5G processor and offer up to 8GB of RAM. These smartphones operate on FunTouch OS 14, which is based on Android 14.

    Battery and Camera Features

    Both models boast a 5000mAh battery and support 15W flash charging for quick recharges. The Y28s is equipped with a 50MP primary camera featuring a Sony IMX852 sensor, a 2MP secondary camera, and an 8MP front camera. The Y28e, on the other hand, comes with a 13MP main camera, a 2MP secondary camera, and a 5MP front camera.

    The Y28s includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a feature that the Y28e lacks. Both models are available in 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB RAM variants with 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD. They have an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance and support 5G, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS + GLONASS, and a USB Type-C port. Additionally, both models include a 3.5mm audio jack.

    Pricing and Availability

    Vivo Y28e:

    • Rs. 10,999 (4GB+64GB)
    • Rs. 11,999 (4GB+128GB)
    • Available in Vintage Red and Breeze Green.

    Vivo Y28s:

    • Rs. 13,999 (4GB+128GB)
    • Rs. 15,499 (6GB+128GB)
    • Rs. 16,999 (8GB+128GB)
    • Available in Vintage Red and Twinkling Purple.

    Both models can be purchased on Flipkart, the Vivo India e-store, and through various retail partners.

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  • Galaxy S24+ Running Android 15 One UI 7 Spotted

    Galaxy S24+ Running Android 15 One UI 7 Spotted

    Samsung has been widely recognized for its success with One UI, a robust and highly customizable Android interface. The Galaxy S24 series currently operates on One UI 6.1, which is based on Android 14. Recent rumors suggest that Samsung is already working on One UI 7. A Geekbench result has now confirmed that the Galaxy S24+ is running this upcoming version.

    Galaxy S24+ Running Android 15 Based One UI 7

    Although the Geekbench listing shows the Galaxy S24+ operating on One UI 7, this does not necessarily mean that Samsung will release the update soon. The official introduction of One UI 7 could take a considerable amount of time, potentially extending into 2025.

    The Geekbench test results reveal that the Galaxy S24+ has a single-core score of 2114 and a multi-core score of 6616. The operating system is identified as “Android 15,” indicating that Samsung has indeed started developing the One UI 7 update for the Galaxy S24 series.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 3 with UWB Support Spotted on FCC

    Google Pixel Watch 3 with UWB Support Spotted on FCC

    Google launched the Pixel Watch 2 back in October last year, and the Pixel Watch 3 is slated for release on August 13th.

    Recently, the upcoming Google watch has appeared on the FCC listing, revealing critical details about the product.

    Two Different Models

    Unlike its predecessors, the Pixel Watch 3 series will feature two distinct models – the Pixel Watch 3 and the Pixel Watch 3 XL.

    FCC Listing Details

    The FCC listing unveils four model numbers: GBDU9, GGE4J, GG3HH, and GRY0E. These might correspond to the 41mm and 45mm versions of the Watch 3. Specifically, the GBDU9 and GRY0E models will support LTE and UWB connectivity, along with Bluetooth, NFC, and dual-band Wi-Fi. The other two variants will offer UWB, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, but lack LTE connectivity. All four models are expected to come with GPS support.

    OnLeaks previously shared renders of the Watch 3, showcasing a design similar to its predecessor. The Watch 3 will feature the same circular bezel-less display with a rotating crown on the side. It is anticipated to sport a 1.2-inch AMOLED display, identical to the previous model. The watch will likely be available in Black with a matching strap, though additional color options may also be available.

    Slight Design Changes

    According to earlier leaks, the Watch 3 will be marginally thicker than the Pixel Watch 2. The battery capacity is expected to be 307 mAh, a slight increase from the 304 mAh capacity of the Pixel Watch 2.

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  • Apple May Replace iPhone 17 Plus with Slim Model

    Apple May Replace iPhone 17 Plus with Slim Model

    Apple is anticipated to unveil the iPhone 16 series this September. Interestingly, discussions about its successor have already surfaced. Rumors suggest that Apple will replace the ‘Plus’ model with a ‘Slim’ version in the forthcoming iPhone 17 series.

    Reducing the Gap Between Non-Pro and Pro Models

    Reports indicate that Apple is introducing some ‘bold innovations’ in the design of the iPhone 17 Slim. This new model is expected to be thinner and lighter than its predecessors, utilizing aluminum for its chassis. The camera island is said to be horizontally aligned, reminiscent of the Pixel 8 series' design. However, with Apple recently reverting to vertical camera placement to support Spatial Video, it remains uncertain if this feature will work with a horizontal layout.

    On the front, the device will feature a narrower Dynamic Island, potentially due to the adoption of a more compact “metalens” for the Face ID sensor. The design of the iPhone 17 Slim is reportedly similar to that of the iPhone X.

    Display and Refresh Rate Enhancements

    The ‘Slim’ model will boast a 6.55-inch screen, aiming to bridge the gap between the non-Pro and Pro versions. For context, the iPhone 15 Plus has a 6.7-inch display. Furthermore, the iPhone 17 Slim will support a 120Hz high refresh rate, marking the first time a non-Pro iPhone model will feature such a refresh rate. It’s also likely that the base model of the iPhone 17 series will come with a 120Hz refresh rate.

    While these models will offer higher refresh rates, they will also be adaptive like the Pro models. This means the phone will automatically adjust the refresh rate based on the content being displayed on the screen.

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  • CMF Watch Pro 2: 60Hz AMOLED, Interchangeable Bezels, Global Launch

    CMF Watch Pro 2: 60Hz AMOLED, Interchangeable Bezels, Global Launch

    Alongside the debut of the CMF Phone 1, Nothing’s sub-brand has also introduced two new wearables: the CMF Watch Pro 2 and the CMF Buds Pro 2. The CMF Watch Pro 2 is a follow-up to last year’s Watch Pro, featuring significant enhancements. Let’s delve into what this latest smartwatch offers.

    CMF Watch Pro 2 specifications and features

    The CMF Watch Pro 2 features a circular dial with a 1.32-inch AMOLED display, offering a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and an auto-brightness mode. It supports a 60Hz refresh rate and reaches a peak brightness of 620 nits, ensuring a smooth and bright viewing experience. Additionally, it includes gesture control that allows you to perform customized functions by simply shaking or rotating your wrist.

    Design-wise, the CMF Watch Pro 2 sports an aluminum alloy body with a rotating crown located on the top right side. It is IP68-certified for dust and water resistance. A standout feature of this smartwatch is its interchangeable bezels, allowing users to customize the device’s appearance to suit different occasions.

    Health and Fitness Features

    In terms of health and fitness, the CMF Watch Pro 2 is equipped with a heart-rate monitor and an SpO2 sensor. It also includes a sleep tracker with nap detection, a menstrual cycle tracker, and an activity score. Other features include breathing training, sedentary reminders, and hydration alerts. The device supports 120 sports modes, with auto-detection for some exercises, and provides warmup exercises illustrated by 3D animations. It can integrate health data across various apps and comes with a built-in GPS system.

    The CMF Watch Pro 2 is powered by a 305mAh battery that is claimed to last up to 11 days. Additional features include Bluetooth calling with AI noise cancellation, a “find my phone” function, weather updates, and more.

    Pricing and Availability

    The CMF Watch Pro 2, available with Dark Grey and Dark Ash liquid silicon straps, is priced at Rs 4,999/ $69/EUR 69. The Blue and Orange leather strap options are available for Rs 5,499. The smartwatch’s bezels and strap set are priced at Rs 749.

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  • CMF Buds Pro 2 Launch: Noise-Canceling, Smart Charging, $59

    CMF Buds Pro 2 Launch: Noise-Canceling, Smart Charging, $59

    Nothing’s sub-brand CMF has introduced new true wireless noise-cancelling headphones named the CMF Buds Pro 2. These headphones are being launched globally, targeting regions including the United States, United Kingdom, India, and Europe. The design continues to offer the color options of orange, dark gray, and light gray from the first generation, but now includes a new vibrant blue option. Significantly, the Pro version now features the smart knob charging case that was available with the standard CMF Buds last year.

    Customizable Controls and App Integration

    The lightweight charging case comes with a rotating knob for volume control, and users can customize functions such as noise cancellation mode, music playback, and song navigation. The knob can also activate the voice assistant, manage calls, mute the microphone, and toggle low latency mode. Users have the option to disable the knob entirely to avoid accidental touches, with all settings adjustable via the Nothing X app.

    Advanced Audio Features

    The CMF Buds Pro 2 are equipped with a dual-unit system consisting of an 11mm woofer and a 6mm tweeter. These headphones support hybrid active noise cancellation and transparency mode, and they are Hi-Res Audio certified with spatial audio capabilities. Bass performance can be further personalized through the Nothing X app. For clear call quality, each earbud is equipped with three microphones and Nothing’s Clear Voice Technology 2.0 for call noise reduction.

    Impressive Battery Life

    Battery life is notable, featuring 60mAh batteries in each earbud and a 460mAh battery in the charging case. Official figures indicate talk time ranges from 18.6 hours to 25 hours (with charging case) depending on noise cancellation settings and audio encoding. Playback time varies as well, offering up to 43 hours (with charging case) with noise cancellation off and AAC encoding. Fast charging offers 3 hours of listening time (noise cancellation off) with just a 10-minute charge, extending to 7 hours with the charging case. With noise cancellation on, those figures drop to 1.8 hours and 6 hours respectively.

    The CMF Buds Pro 2 are positioned as an affordable choice in the true wireless noise-cancelling headphone market. They will be available later this month through the official website (cmf.tech) and other retailers, with a price tag of US$59 (around 430 Yuan) in the US market.

    CMF Buds Pro 2 Launch: Noise-Canceling, Smart Charging,
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  • Oppo Find X6 Pro Update: Enhanced Animations, Touch & AI Features

    Oppo Find X6 Pro Update: Enhanced Animations, Touch & AI Features

    Oppo has introduced a substantial software update for its Find X6 Pro smartphone, aiming to enhance system performance, boost AI capabilities, refine animations, improve touch controls, and more. This update is built on Android 14 and comes with firmware version PGEM10_14.0.0.810 (CN01U100P02).

    Oppo Find X6 Pro ColorOS 14.0.0.801 Update

    AI-powered Features

    The update upgrades the AI Eraser, enabling you to remove unwanted objects from your photos. Additionally, you can now cut out parts of a photo and save them as stickers for increased creativity.

    Animation Upgrade

    New transition animations have been added for opening and closing Home screen widgets. There is also a new transition animation for clock widgets when the screen turns off. Gaussian blur effects have been introduced when opening and closing app icons on the Home screen, and the display of Home screen widgets has been improved.

    Touch Control

    The update adds a transition animation when pulling down Quick Settings and optimizes animations when opening and closing multiple apps. App icons on the Home screen now respond faster to taps, and touch control responsiveness when opening and closing apps has been improved. Additionally, animations when dragging app icons on the Home screen have been optimized.

    System

    Music controls can now be displayed in Live Alerts, and you can choose not to show the track when drawing the Lock screen pattern to unlock your device. The update integrates the June 2024 Android security patch to enhance system security and fixes an issue where the volume slider in Quick Settings and the one triggered by pressing the physical volume button might appear simultaneously.

    Games

    Gaming stability has been improved, and an issue where the screen might turn black while playing a game has been fixed.

    Security

    Permissions for the Calendar are now granted at a minimum level to maximize the security of your information. The Clipboard privacy info protection function has been improved, which automatically detects privacy information on the clipboard and prevents unauthorized access by apps without your consent, minimizing the risk of privacy leaks.

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