Category: All News

April 27, 2024
Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Launch Nears, Seen on Regulatory Sites
Vivo’s most recent foldable smartphone, the X Fold 3 Pro, is set to be released internationally following certifications found on regulatory sites. Initially launched in China last month, the phone has now appeared on Bluetooth SIG, TKDN, and BIS, identified by model number (V2330).
Certification Details
Bluetooth SIG has verified Bluetooth 5.4 support, while TKDN has outlined network connectivity options for global use. Notably, the standard X Fold 3 model is missing, indicating Vivo’s focus on the premium market segment.
Global Launch Anticipation
Although an official release date has not been announced yet, the device is expected to hit the global market in the upcoming months. While waiting for further updates, let’s delve into the features it offers.
Specifications Overview
The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro boasts a 6.53-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2,480 x 2,200 pixels. Its inner display spans 8.03 inches, featuring 2,748 x 1,172 pixels. Both screens incorporate LTPO technology, offering a refresh rate of up to 120Hz and a peak brightness of 4,500 nits. Security-wise, it is equipped with an ultra-sonic fingerprint scanner.
Performance and Camera Features
Powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the device is coupled with up to 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. It houses a 5,700mAh battery supporting 100W wired fast charging and 50W wireless charging capabilities. The camera setup includes a 50MP OV50H OIS main camera, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 64MP OIS periscope lens with 3x optical zoom. Additionally, a 32MP selfie camera is located on the front, complemented by the brand’s self-developed V3 imaging chip.
Connectivity and Audio Features
Featuring a stereo speaker setup and Wireless Lossless Hi-Fi audio support, the device is Wi-Fi 7 ready and supports dual 5G SIM cards, along with NFC connectivity.
Tags: Foldable Phones Market, Premium Specifications, Vivo X Fold 3 Pro
April 27, 2024
Samsung Galaxy S24 Revealed in 128GB Storage Variant for India
The Samsung Galaxy S24 series made its global debut in January this year, with a new variant now available in the Indian market. This variant offers a base configuration of 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, priced at Rs 74,999. For those not needing as much storage, this option provides a more affordable choice compared to the 256GB and 512GB models priced at Rs 79,999 and Rs 89,999, respectively.
New Variant Introduced in India
The Samsung Galaxy S24 introduces a new variant in India, featuring 8GB RAM and 128GB storage at Rs 74,999, catering to users seeking a more budget-friendly option with lower storage capacity.
The latest variant is currently not listed on Samsung's official website or online platforms but is anticipated to be available soon through offline retailers.
Specifications Remain Unchanged
Despite the new variant, the core specifications of the Samsung Galaxy S24 remain consistent. The device boasts a 6.2-inch LTPO AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, all protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2. On the camera front, it includes a 50MP OIS-enabled main sensor, a 10MP telephoto lens with OIS, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle unit, and a 12MP front-facing selfie camera.
Internally, the Samsung Galaxy S24 is equipped with an Exynos 2400 processor, 8GB RAM, and up to 512GB storage. It comes with a 4,000mAh battery supporting 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
Tags: Indian Market Launch, Samsung Galaxy S24, Smartphone
April 27, 2024
Xiaomi 20000mAh Power Bank with Built-in Cable & 33W Fast Charging
Xiaomi recently unveiled a new 20000mAh power bank in the Chinese market, featuring a built-in cable and supporting rapid 33W charging. Priced at 159 yuan ($22), the power bank is now up for grabs on JD.com in Light Khaki and Deep Space Blue color options. Let’s delve into its key specifications.
Xiaomi 20000mAh Power Bank Specifications:
The power bank is tailored to be airline-friendly, adhering to global aviation standards with a battery energy below 100Wh. Boasting a robust 20000mAh capacity, it emerges as a dependable companion for travelers seeking to keep their gadgets juiced up on the move.
Internally, the device houses two lithium-ion 10000mAh battery cells and integrates an intelligent recognition chip. This chip adeptly tunes the output current to cater to the charging demands of diverse gadgets, spanning from smartphones and tablets to Bluetooth earphones and smartwatches.
For Xiaomi smartphones supporting intelligent fast charging, the power bank can supply power up to 33W, facilitating swift recharges. Furthermore, it facilitates bidirectional fast charging up to 30W, trimming down the time taken for the power bank itself to replenish.
Equipped with multiple ports including a built-in USB-C power interface, alongside extra USB-C and USB-A ports, users can charge up to three devices simultaneously, catering to the need for charging multiple devices while on the go.
In the safety realm, the product incorporates a nine-fold safety protection system. This setup guards against overcharging, over-discharge, high temperatures, short circuits, and other irregular scenarios, ensuring secure and dependable operation.
The power bank also supports a low current charging mode, activatable by double-clicking the battery check button. This functionality proves handy for charging low-current devices such as non-Xiaomi Bluetooth headsets and bands.
Crafted with a sturdy body composed of PC+ABS material and rounded edges for a comfortable hold, the design bolsters portability and confers a premium feel to the touch.
Tags: Fast Charging Technology, portable charging, Xiaomi Power Bank
April 27, 2024
OnePlus Nord 3 Update: Screenshots, Flashlight Shortcut
The latest update for the OnePlus Nord 3, known as OxygenOS 14.0.0.510, is now available for users in India, Europe, and globally. This update aims to enhance the overall user experience with a range of new features.
Enhanced User Experience Features
One notable addition is the introduction of the "Partial screenshot" feature in the Smart Sidebar, allowing users to capture specific sections of their screen with ease. Moreover, the Photos app now supports creating collages without frames, providing users with more flexibility in their image editing tasks.
Improved Functionality
OnePlus has included the ability to adjust the volume for individual apps directly from the volume bar. Additionally, a convenient shortcut has been introduced to activate the flashlight by simply holding down the volume button when the screen is off.
Enhanced Search Capability
A new fuzzy search option has been integrated into the Home screen search bar in Drawer mode, enabling users to initiate searches by typing only the initial letter of an app's name.
The rollout of this update is currently limited to a select number of devices, with a wider distribution anticipated in the near future. If users have not yet received the Over-The-Air (OTA) update notification, they can manually check for it by navigating to Settings, then About Device, followed by OxygenOS, and finally selecting Check for Update.
For users in India encountering any post-update issues, OnePlus has provided a channel for bug reporting through the Google Dialer by dialing *#800#.
Tags: OnePlus Nord 3, OxygenOS, User Experience Enhancements
April 27, 2024
Vivo’s First Satellite Connectivity Smartphone
Vivo appears to be gearing up for the release of its highly-anticipated smartphone for 2024, the Vivo X100 Ultra. While the company has not made any official announcements yet, recent developments suggest that the launch is imminent. The device recently made an appearance on the 3C certification platform, a crucial step that ensures compliance with national safety and quality standards in China.
Certification Details
The X100 Ultra, identified by the model number V2366GA, has successfully obtained the necessary certifications to enter the market. In addition to the standard version, there are speculations regarding a variant of the X100 Ultra that will support satellite connectivity. This version, carrying the model number V2366HA, has also cleared the Radio Certification process.
Features and Specifications
One of the standout features of the Vivo X100 Ultra is its support for Tiantong satellite communication technology, marking a significant advancement for the company in this area. The device is expected to introduce 80W wired charging, a notable feature that enhances user convenience. Despite the slightly lower charging speed compared to its predecessors, hints suggest a substantial battery capacity of around 5,500 mAh.
Camera and Performance
As Vivo's flagship camera offering for 2024, the X100 Ultra is anticipated to showcase cutting-edge technology. It is rumored to feature Sony's latest Lytia LYT-900 main sensor and an impressive 100mm (4.3x) 200MP periscope telephoto lens. The smartphone will be powered by a top-tier processor from either MediaTek or Snapdragon, paired with generous RAM and storage capacities. Speculations also point towards the integration of Vivo's innovative BlueImage branding for its camera system.
Launch Details
The Vivo X100 Ultra is expected to debut alongside the X100s and X100s Pro models in China, with a potential launch date set for May. While initial reports referred to it as the X100 Ultra, there are suggestions that it might be officially named the Vivo X100s Ultra upon release. Stay tuned for more updates on Vivo's exciting lineup for 2024.
Tags: satellite connectivity feature, vivo, Vivo X100 Ultra
April 27, 2024
Alleged Sony Xperia Ace IV Render with Single-Camera Design
Sony's Xperia smartphone range encompasses models like the Xperia 1, Xperia 5, and Xperia 10 series, alongside the entry-level Xperia Ace. Recently in 2022, Sony unveiled the latest addition to this lineup, the Xperia Ace 3. While there were whispers about the Xperia Ace IV in December of the same year, subsequent details or buzz surrounding it have been scarce.
Alleged Render of Xperia Ace IV
An alleged render of the Xperia Ace IV has surfaced online, originating from a user on X (previously Twitter) with the handle @mirai160525. This render showcases a phone with a singular camera setup reminiscent of the Xperia Ace 3, featuring a boxy design. Interestingly, the phone's design hints at a 21:9 aspect ratio display, deviating from the rumored shift within the Xperia range towards more common ratios like 19.5:1. Given this deviation, skepticism lingers regarding the authenticity of this render.
Geekbench Listing and Speculations
Reports from December 2022 suggested that the Xperia Ace IV, identified with model number Sony SM4375, might house a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 SoC, an entry-level 5G chip. However, concrete specifications beyond this remain elusive. For a glimpse into what could be anticipated, one can refer to the specifications of its predecessor, the Ace 3.
Sony Xperia Ace 3 Specs:
The Xperia Ace 3 boasts a HD+ resolution of 720 x 1496 pixels, shielded by Gorilla Glass Victus. Its camera setup includes a 5-megapixel front camera and a 13-megapixel rear camera accompanied by an LED flash. Powering the device is the Snapdragon 480 5G platform, coupled with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage, expandable via microSD. Initially launched with Android 12, the phone is equipped with a 4,500mAh battery supporting USB-PD and rapid charging, along with a side-facing fingerprint scanner for enhanced security. Connectivity options encompass 5G, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, NFC, and USB-C. Additionally, the device boasts IP6X dustproofing and IPX5/IPX8 water resistance.
Tags: Smartphone Evolution, sony, Xperia Ace IV
April 27, 2024
All about Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series Chip
Qualcomm has introduced its latest Windows on ARM platform, the Snapdragon X series processor, boasting impressive performance and efficiency. The company’s goal is to emulate Apple’s success with its M-series chip and offer a compelling option for ARM-based Windows laptops.
Snapdragon X Series Overview
The Snapdragon X series consists of two main tiers: the high-performance Snapdragon X Elite and the budget-friendly Snapdragon X Plus. These SoCs are designed to cater to different market segments, providing users with a range of options based on their needs and preferences.
Performance and Efficiency
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series promises to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, similar to what users have come to expect from Apple’s M-series chips. By offering a variety of features and capabilities, Qualcomm aims to enhance the overall user experience on Windows on ARM devices.
Conclusion
With the introduction of the Snapdragon X series processors, Qualcomm is positioning itself as a key player in the Windows on ARM market. By providing a competitive alternative to Apple’s M-series chips, Qualcomm is aiming to drive innovation and choice in the laptop industry.
Tags: Qualcomm, Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series
April 27, 2024
Galaxy A35 Update Enhances “4G TDD” Performance
Launched recently, the Samsung Galaxy A35 represents the company's newest mid-range smartphone option. In Europe, the first update for the device has just been initiated by Samsung.
The update is specifically aimed at enhancing the 4G connectivity of Galaxy A35 models with the model number SM-A356B. Although the smartphone does support 5G connectivity, Samsung is focusing on improving the 4G capabilities through this update. The changelog highlights the enhancement of "Regional LTE TDD band support."
Improving Connectivity
TDD, a technology utilized by cellular networks for data transmission, is being targeted for improvement through this update. By enhancing TDD band support, Samsung aims to boost the device's ability to connect to and utilize 4G networks. Users can expect better data speeds and a more reliable connection as a result.
Specific Limitations in Germany
Interestingly, the update comes with a special note for users in Germany. Even after the update, Galaxy A35 5G models purchased in Germany may still face limitations in receiving signals on LTE TDD bands within various European countries.
Update Process
European users of the Galaxy A35 can anticipate the update to be automatically delivered to their devices in the coming days. Alternatively, users can manually check for the update by going to Settings > Software update > Download and install.
It remains unclear why there are restrictions on LTE TDD band signals for Galaxy A35 models purchased in Germany within certain European countries such as Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.
Tags: 4G Connectivity, Samsung Galaxy A35, Smartphone
April 27, 2024
WhatsApp Exit: Can India & WhatsApp Reach Middle Ground?
WhatsApp has issued a warning that it may cease operations in India if it is compelled to compromise its end-to-end encryption. The messaging service, alongside Meta (its parent company), has lodged a petition at the Delhi High Court disputing India's 2021 IT regulations for social media intermediaries. Their main objection revolves around the mandate to identify the original source of information and share it with governmental authorities.
WhatsApp's Stand Against Indian Regulations
The current clash between WhatsApp and the Indian government stems from the requirement to expose the source of information, a move that could potentially jeopardize user privacy.
WhatsApp's primary concern is the demand to identify message originators, a process that conflicts with their end-to-end encryption policy, designed to safeguard user data.
The Debate Over Privacy vs. Security
While the government argues that tracing message originators is crucial to combat harmful content, WhatsApp emphasizes that breaking encryption violates users' fundamental right to privacy.
The platform highlights the extensive data storage implications and the potential breach of privacy rights if forced to compromise encryption protocols.
Legal Battle and Future Implications
The legal battle between WhatsApp and the Indian government has reached the Delhi High Court, with a scheduled hearing on August 14 for the petitions submitted by the messaging giant and Meta.
The outcome of this conflict will not only impact WhatsApp's operations in India but also underscores the necessity for India to establish robust data privacy laws to protect user information and uphold privacy standards.
Tags: End-to-end encryption, India’s Rules, WhatsApp
April 27, 2024
Google Pixel Tablet Sold Separately Without Base at 446 Euros
Google is planning to introduce a more affordable version of its Pixel tablet, aiming to make it more accessible to a wider range of customers. The baseless version of the tablet will be priced at 446 euros (approximately $477 USD) on the European retail website. This represents a 34% reduction in price compared to the base version that includes a stand.
Budget-Friendly Pixel Tablet Option
The new baseless tablet from Google will be available in two color options, Hazel and Porcelain, and will offer storage capacities of 128GB and 256GB, priced at 446 euros and 553 euros respectively (around $477 USD and $592 USD).
Additional Accessories for Enhanced Functionality
For those interested in enhancing the functionality of their Pixel tablet, Google is introducing a Bluetooth keyboard and stylus. The keyboard, available in matching colors, is expected to be priced at approximately 100 euros (around $107 USD). While the stylus price has not been revealed yet, it was previously rumored to be around 100 euros as well.
If you prefer the convenience of a stand, the Pixel Tablet with the base will still be an option, priced at 679 euros and 779 euros (around $727 USD and $834 USD) for different storage capacities. These additional accessories and pricing adjustments aim to expand the Pixel ecosystem and cater to diverse user preferences.
Tags: Google Pixel Tablet, Pricing