Category: All News

  • Microsoft Unveils New Surface & Surface Pro Laptops in India

    Microsoft Unveils New Surface & Surface Pro Laptops in India

    Microsoft has officially launched the 7th Edition Surface and 11th Edition Surface Pro laptops in India. These devices come equipped with Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus processors, and they include Copilot+ support. Although the new Surface series was initially announced in May, it is now making its way to the Indian market.

    Microsoft Surface Pro 11th Edition

    The Surface Pro (2024) represents the latest high-end laptop from the American tech company. It features a 2-in-1 design with a detachable Surface Pro Flex Keyboard. Additionally, it offers a customizable haptic touchpad and built-in pen storage. The laptop is powered by either the Snapdragon X Elite or Snapdragon X Plus, along with the Qualcomm Hexagon NPU. According to Microsoft, the 11th Edition Surface Pro is 90 percent faster than the Surface Pro 9.

    These processors are coupled with up to 32GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 1TB of removable Gen 4 SSD storage. For connectivity, the laptop includes two USB 4 ports (supporting up to three external 4K displays), WiFi 7, optional 5G support, and Bluetooth 5.4. It features a 13-inch display that can be upgraded to an OLED panel with HDR support. The device runs Windows 11 Home out of the box.

    In terms of cameras, there’s a 10-megapixel rear camera and a quad HD front camera with AI effects. The audio setup includes 2W stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support. The Surface Pro is powered by a 39W power supply but also supports up to 65W charging. Notably, Microsoft has used 72 percent recycled materials and replaceable components in the manufacturing of this notebook.

    Microsoft Surface 7th Edition

    The Surface 7th Edition laptop is available with either a 13.8-inch or 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen display, offering a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision IQ, and Adaptive Color technology. Inside, these devices are equipped with the Snapdragon X Elite or Snapdragon X Plus chips, along with the Qualcomm Hexagon NPU. On a full charge, Microsoft claims up to 22 hours of battery life for the 15-inch model and up to 20 hours for the 13.8-inch version.

    Similar to the Surface Pro, this laptop also supports up to three external 4K displays. The processors are paired with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of removable Gen 4 SSD storage. The 13.8-inch variant comes with a 39W adapter, while the 15-inch version includes a 65W adapter. The front of the device houses a Full HD Surface Studio Camera with AI effects, complemented by Omnisonic Speakers and Dolby Atmos.

    Pricing and Availability

    Both Surface variants come with Copilot+ PC features, accessible via a dedicated key on their keyboards. Pre-orders for the new Surface laptops are now live through retailers like Amazon, Reliance Digital, Vijay Sales, and Croma. Here are the available configurations and their prices:

    Surface Pro 11th Edition

    • Snapdragon X Plus (16GB RAM, 256GB SSD): 116,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Plus (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD): 134,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, OLED): 165,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, OLED): 185,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, OLED): 237,999 INR

    Surface Laptop 7th Edition – 13.8″

    • Snapdragon X Plus (16GB RAM, 256GB SSD): 116,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Plus (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD): 134,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD): 154,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD): 175,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (32GB RAM, 1TB SSD): 207,999 INR

    Surface Laptop 7th Edition – 15″

    • Snapdragon X Elite (16GB RAM, 256GB SSD): 142,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD): 163,999 INR
    • Snapdragon X Elite (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD): 183,999 INR
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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Leak: New Display Tech and Name Change Rumored

    Garmin Fenix 8 Leak: New Display Tech and Name Change Rumored

    New information has surfaced regarding the upcoming Garmin Fenix E and Fenix 8 smartwatches, successors to the Fenix 7 series. These details come courtesy of leaks discovered by the publication Fitness Tracker Test (FTT) on authorized Garmin dealer websites.

    Previously, a Finnish retailer, Multitronic, listed the Fenix 8 with a release window in September 2024. While we didn’t get a peek at the smartwatch design, the listing did reveal some specifications like size and colors.

    Design and Display Enhancements

    The latest leak, from an Icelandic retailer, corroborates the September release timeframe and sheds light on design and display upgrades for the upcoming smartwatch. The listing reveals that the Fenix 8 will come in a 43mm size at the smallest compared to the 42mm size of the Fenix 7s. But the most notable change could be in terms of display. The leak reveals that instead of the customary Memory In Pixel (MIP) displays, the Fenix 8 might adopt AMOLED technology.

    While AMOLED displays will offer richer colors and deeper blacks, MIP displays are known for their excellent battery life. So it remains to be seen if the Fenix 8 can maintain similar endurance as the Fenix 7s on a single charge.

    Potential Name Change

    The Icelandic retailer listing also hints at a potential name change for the smaller-sized Fenix model. Traditionally, the smaller variant was designated “Fenix 7s”. The leak suggests Garmin might simply call it “Fenix 8” for the next generation, dropping the “s” moniker altogether.

    Meanwhile, FTT speculates that the Fenix E will retain MIP displays, acting as a more direct successor to the Fenix 7 series in terms of screen technology.

    While these leaks offer valuable insights, it’s important to remember that official confirmation from Garmin is still pending. We are expecting an official announcement revealing the final specifications, pricing, and release date sometime in late August or early September.

    Garmin Fenix 8 Leak: New Display Tech and Name Change Rumored
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  • Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3 Price Drop: Huge Savings Now Available

    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.

    Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3 Price Drop: Huge Savings Now Available
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  • Xiaomi Smart Band 9: Design, Battery, and Health Tracking Upgrades

    Xiaomi Smart Band 9: Design, Battery, and Health Tracking Upgrades

    Xiaomi has been actively introducing new devices in 2024, including its inaugural POCO tablet. However, there’s been no official announcement regarding a successor to the Smart Band 8 and Smart Band 8 Pro. Yet, a recent leak indicates that the Smart Band 9 might be in development, featuring several iterative enhancements over its predecessor.

    According to the leak, the Smart Band 9 will likely maintain the design aesthetics of the Smart Band 8, which was already similar to the Smart Band 7. It is expected to keep the recognizable oval shape and a 1.62-inch display.

    Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Render

    The dimensions are rumored to be slightly smaller than the Band 8, measuring 46.53 x 21.63 x 10.95 mm. Notably, the leak hints at an upgrade in materials to an aluminum alloy casing with a sandblasted finish, giving it a more premium appearance.

    In terms of display, there could be a significant enhancement in brightness. While the refresh rate is expected to stay at 60Hz, the peak brightness might reach 1200 nits, which is double what the Smart Band 8 offered.

    Battery life is also expected to see a modest improvement. The leak suggests a 233 mAh battery, a 43 mAh increase compared to the Band 8. This should result in approximately 9 days of battery life with the always-on display enabled, or 21 days with it turned off.

    Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Render

    Other potential upgrades for the Smart Band 9 include a 10% improvement in the accuracy of the heart rate and SpO2 sensors, as well as a transition to Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.

    However, the leak does not reveal any information about a possible release date or pricing for the Smart Band 9. We’ll need to wait for further leaks or official announcements to learn more about the Xiaomi Smart Band 9.

    Xiaomi Smart Band 9: Design, Battery, and Health Tracking Upgrades
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  • Pixel 9 Series Prices and Color Variants Leaked

    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.

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  • New Discoveries on Milky Way Size by Chinese Astronomers

    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.

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  • Infinix Zero Flip 5G: Battery Size Revealed, Launch Soon

    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.

    Infinix Zero Flip 5G: Battery Size Revealed, Launch Soon
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  • Redmi K70 Ultra Battery Size and Charging Capabilities Confirmed

    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 supportAdditional 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.

    Redmi K70 Ultra Battery Size and Charging Capabilities Confirmed

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  • Infinix Zero 40 5G Design, Variants, Chipset Revealed via FCC

    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.

    Infinix Zero 40 5G Design, Variants, Chipset Revealed via FCC
    Infinix Zero 40 5G Design, Variants, Chipset Revealed via FCC
    Infinix Zero 40 5G Design, Variants, Chipset Revealed via FCC
    Infinix Zero 40 5G Design, Variants, Chipset Revealed via FCC
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  • Huawei Nova 13 Series and Flagship Tablets Launching in August

    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.

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