Category: All News

March 2, 2024
Popular Indian Apps at Risk of Removal as Google Play Store Enforces Stricter Policies
Google has begun enforcing its Play Store payment policy with various Indian app developers, a move that could lead to tensions with local tech firms. This enforcement may result in the removal of non-compliant apps, including popular ones like Shaadi.com and Quack Quack, from the platform.
Compliance Efforts Vary Among Developers
While some developers have started adhering to the policy, others have not yet done so. These companies had previously contested Google's policy in court but did not receive temporary protection. Presently, some, like Info Edge, have confirmed compliance, whereas others, such as Matrimony.com, have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their industry.
Options for Delisted Developers
Google has outlined options for developers facing delisting: integrating with Google Play's billing system (the standard approach), using an alternate billing system alongside Google Play (at a reduced fee but with less control), or operating as consumption-only (no fees but limited features). These choices underscore the importance of following Play Store policies and prompt developers to evaluate their compliance and select the most suitable option to maintain app availability for users.
This recent enforcement action underscores the significance of Play Store policy adherence. Developers must consider their compliance status and make decisions to ensure their apps remain accessible to users. For some developers, the implications of non-compliance are severe, potentially requiring policy restructuring in response to updated regulations. The industry awaits to see how developers will navigate and respond to this policy enforcement.
Tags: Compliance, Google Play Store, Indian App Developers
March 2, 2024
Lava Blaze Curve 5G Price Leak Before March 5 Launch
Indian smartphone company Lava is gearing up to introduce its newest offering, the Lava Blaze Curve 5G, during a live launch event on March 5, 2024, streamed from Lakshadweep. Ahead of the official unveiling, details regarding the pricing of the device have emerged.
Pricing Insights
Although the official pricing for the Lava Blaze Curve 5G has not been officially confirmed, speculations suggest it could kick off at Rs 16,999. This aligns with the current retail price of the Lava Agni 2 5G by the same brand.
Specifications Overview
The Lava Blaze Curve 5G boasts a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, 8GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage capacity. Recent findings from a Geekbench listing indicate that the device will operate on an Android 13-based system. Its visual interface is presented through a 6.67-inch curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, promising a vibrant and seamless display quality.
Features and More
In the realm of audio, the device is equipped with dual stereo speakers to enhance the sound experience. The camera setup is reported to include a 64MP primary camera with a Sony sensor. Additionally, leaks suggest that the phone will house a robust 5,000mAh battery.
With the launch event on the horizon, specific details about the phone remain scarce. However, anticipation surrounds the possibility of the device being available in two color variants, with pricing expected to fall within a range of Rs 16,000 to Rs 19,000.
Tags: Lava Blaze Curve 5G, Smartphone Launch Event, Tech Specifications
March 2, 2024
Xiaomi Introduces New Mijia Adjustable Fan with Powerful Airflow
Xiaomi has unveiled a fresh addition to its range of home appliances with the introduction of the Mijia circulating fan. This versatile fan is crafted for use on both desktops and floors, blending functionality and technology seamlessly to elevate home comfort.
Xiaomi Mijia Fan – Innovations and Pricing
The product will be up for crowdfunding starting March 6th at 10:00 on the Xiaomi Youpin platform, featuring a special crowdfunding price of 299 yuan ($42), reduced from the suggested retail price of 349 yuan ($49).
Technical Details of Xiaomi Mijia Fan
The smart fan boasts a 1500m³/h airflow capacity and can deliver wind up to 13 meters away. Xiaomi asserts that it can achieve complete home air circulation within just 2 minutes, effectively combating stagnant air.
Features and Efficiency
With automatic horizontal oscillation of 120° and manual vertical adjustment of 105°, the circulating fan ensures broad coverage and optimal cooling in any room. Users can tailor their comfort with 100 adjustable wind speeds using the DC frequency conversion motor.
This energy-saving device consumes as little as 1.92W in non-oscillation direct blowing mode, with Xiaomi estimating an electricity cost of about 0.83 yuan for an entire summer, making it a cost-effective choice.
Multi-season Utility and Smart Integration
Designed for year-round use, the Mijia Fan can work in conjunction with other home appliances like dehumidifiers, air conditioners, humidifiers, and electric heaters to maintain indoor temperature and humidity, ensuring a comfortable living space.
The fan offers integration with the Xiaomi Home App and Xiao Ai voice control, allowing users to manage and schedule the fan remotely or use voice commands for a refreshing breeze.
Additionally, the fan supports Xiaomi HyperOS Connect for smart connectivity with compatible devices, enabling automated operations based on preset conditions. It includes features like a removable mesh cover for easy cleaning, low-voltage power supply for safety, and a child lock function for added security.
Xiaomi's crowdfunding initiative for the Mijia circulating fan also presents opportunities for backers to win extra products like the Xiaomi Mijia No-fog Humidifier through participation in the 1 yuan support or full payment support programs.
Tags: Energy-efficient Technology, Smart Home Appliances, Xiaomi Mijia Circulating Fan
March 2, 2024
Tencent Aurora P2S Smart Projector: 700 Lumens, 1080p HDR10+ Quality at 3599 Yuan
Tencent has introduced its latest projector, the Aurora P2S Projector, available for pre-order at 3599 yuan ($506) in China. This new device is scheduled for release on March 7th and promises enhanced viewing experiences for users.
Aurora P2S Projector Specifications:
The Aurora P2S projector offers a brightness level of 700 CVIA lumens, ensuring clear visuals in various lighting conditions. It supports true 1080P full HD resolution, driven by the advanced O-VISION 2.0 picture quality engine. Incorporating HDR10+ and HLG dual decoding, as well as MEMC motion interpolation, this projector provides a cinematic visual experience.
Enhanced Features:
Featuring TOF laser sensors and CMOS HD cameras, the smart projector includes intelligent recognition algorithms for quick and precise calibration, improving usability. Smart functionalities like automatic focus, trapezoid correction, and eye protection make it suitable for both home and professional use.
Technical Specifications:
Running on Android 9.0, the projector supports multiple wireless casting protocols and boasts DLP technology, a high-transmission coated glass lens, and compatibility with 2K/4K resolutions. With a recommended screen size range of 60-120 inches, the device is powered by the Amlogic T982 chip, 4GB DDR4 RAM, and 32GB eMMC storage.
Audio and Entertainment:
The Aurora P2S features dual 10W high-fidelity speakers within a 300CC sound chamber, supporting Dolby & DTS dual audio effects. Tuned by Harman’s acoustic experts, the projector ensures an immersive auditory experience. Designed for gaming and streaming, it offers SPDIF, HDMI 2.1, USB, LAN, and DC connectivity options, with access to Tencent Cloud Gaming and Aurora TV for entertainment.
Connectivity and Expansion:
With a 48Gbps transmission bandwidth, low latency gaming mode, and noise level of ≤24dB for quiet operation, the projector supports a wide range of interfaces for connectivity and expansion, making it a versatile choice for various entertainment needs.
Tags: High-End Features, Smart Projection Technology, Tencent Aurora P2S Projector
March 2, 2024
Redmi Note 12 4G and Redmi 12 4G receive price cuts in India – Details revealed
Xiaomi’s Redmi brand has recently announced a price drop for the 6GB/128GB variants of its popular mid-range smartphones, the Redmi Note 12 4G and Redmi 12 4G, effective starting from March 1st. The Redmi Note 12 4G is now available at a reduced price of Rs. 12,999, down from its previous price of Rs. 13,999, while the Redmi 12 4G can now be purchased for Rs. 10,499, down from Rs. 10,999.
Redmi Note 12 4G Specifications:
The Redmi Note 12 4G is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 processor and boasts a spacious 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a rapid 120Hz refresh rate. Its rear camera setup includes a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro shooter, while the front houses a 13MP selfie camera. Additionally, the device supports 33W fast charging for its 5,000mAh battery. Despite the absence of dual stereo speakers, it retains features like a 3.5mm headphone jack and a MicroSD card slot for expandable storage.
Redmi 12 4G Features:
On the other hand, the Redmi 12 4G appeals to users seeking a large screen and prolonged battery life. It showcases a 6.79-inch FHD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, reinforced by Corning Gorilla Glass for durability. Powered by a MediaTek Helio G88 processor, this model offers a similar camera arrangement and a 5,000mAh battery with 18W fast charging support. Its build quality is enhanced with an IP53 splash resistance rating, and it incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for convenient unlocking.
Tags: India, Redmi Note 12 4G, Smartphone
March 2, 2024
MediaTek Oppo Find X7 dominates AnTuTu rankings in Feb 2024
Qualcomm's Snapdragon processors have traditionally held a dominant position in the realm of Android smartphone performance. However, MediaTek has made significant strides, particularly with its Dimensity 9000 series, which has helped level the playing field. The latest premium chipsets from both companies, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Dimensity 9300, are now neck and neck in terms of performance.
Dimensity 9300 Powers Top Smartphone
For the second month in a row, the Oppo Find X7, powered by the Dimensity 9300 chip, has claimed the top spot in smartphone performance according to AnTuTu benchmarks. With an impressive score of 2,195,036, it surpasses its competitors. The Dimensity 9300 stands out due to its utilization of ARM's potent cores, specifically 4 x Cortex-X4 and 4 x Cortex-A720 cores.
AnTuTu Top 10 Performance Rankings
- OPPO Find X7
  - Score: 2,195,036
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 1TB Storage
- ROG 8 Pro
  - Score: 2,157,660
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 512GB Storage
- iQOO 12
  - Score: 2,120,878
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 512GB Storage
- RedMagic 9 Pro+
  - Score: 2,105,949
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 512GB Storage
- vivo X100 Pro
  - Score: 2,098,634
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 1TB Storage
- vivo X100
  - Score: 2,090,900
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 1TB Storage
- iQOO Neo9 Pro
  - Score: 2,082,581
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 1TB Storage
- iQOO 12 Pro
  - Score: 2,081,272
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 1TB Storage
- Nubia Z60 Ultra
  - Score: 2,069,734
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 512GB Storage
- OPPO Find X7 Ultra
  - Score: 2,061,537
  - Configuration: 16GB RAM + 512GB Storage
The Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, comes in a close second. The performance gap between the top two smartphones is merely 37,000 points, which is a slim margin within the flagship category. Asus typically introduces 'D' variants of its ROG Phones with MediaTek chips a few months after the initial launch. The potential combination of gaming-centric hardware in the ROG Phone and the Dimensity 9300 in the upcoming release could introduce interesting dynamics to the leaderboard.
Tags: MediaTek Dimensity, Qualcomm Snapdragon, Smartphone Performance
March 2, 2024
Elon Musk Sues OpenAI, Seeks Public Release of Technology
Elon Musk, renowned for his contributions to electric cars and SpaceX, has taken legal action against OpenAI, an artificial intelligence (AI) research lab co-founded by him. Musk alleges that OpenAI has strayed from its original mission of developing beneficial, non-profit AI for the benefit of all. Notably, OpenAI, recognized for its ChatGPT language model, has garnered support from Microsoft, a move that has raised apprehension in Musk's view. He contends that the organization, initially intended to be transparent and non-commercial, has shifted its focus towards generating profits for its investors.
Lawsuit Against OpenAI
The legal dispute, initiated in San Francisco, urges the court to mandate OpenAI to disclose its research and technology to the public. This action would enable anyone to access and further build upon the advancements made by OpenAI, thereby promoting broader AI innovation. Additionally, the lawsuit seeks to restrain the utilization of OpenAI's cutting-edge AI model, GPT-4, for financial gains, encompassing both Microsoft and individuals affiliated with OpenAI. As of now, both OpenAI and Microsoft have refrained from issuing a public statement regarding the lawsuit.
Musk's Concerns and AI Landscape
Musk has consistently voiced apprehensions regarding the potential risks associated with AI, advocating for regulatory measures. Having resigned from OpenAI's board in 2018, he has been vocal about his skepticism concerning Microsoft's role in the organization. Musk perceives that the tech giant wields significant influence, if not direct control, over OpenAI. This legal confrontation adds a new dimension to the intricate domain of AI advancement. While the final outcome remains uncertain, it prompts critical reflections on the ethical considerations, objectives, and governance surrounding this potent technology.
Musk's AI Venture and Future Prospects
In parallel, Musk is advancing his own AI initiative, xAI, which strives to develop an AI system geared towards seeking maximum truth. Recently, the startup introduced its ChatGPT rival, Grok, which inadvertently divulged the actual formula for a drug when prompted. This development underscores Musk's ongoing engagement in the AI sphere and the evolving landscape of AI technologies.
Tags: AI Ethics, Elon Musk, OpenAI
March 2, 2024
Xiaomi Official: Global Success of Xiaomi 14 Ultra, but Internationalization a Work in Progress
Xiaomi recently introduced its latest top-tier model, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, in China on February 22. Following this, on February 25, the company made the flagship available globally for €1,499. This strategic move by Xiaomi places the phone in direct competition with industry giants like Samsung and Apple, who currently dominate these markets.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra's Success in Global Markets
In Barcelona, Spain
Lu Weibing, a partner and president at Xiaomi Corporation, emphasized the significance of Xiaomi 14 Ultra's performance in the international market. In a recent Weibo post, he highlighted the importance of establishing a strong presence in global markets for Chinese brands. Despite the stronghold of Apple and Samsung, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has garnered positive responses from users in both domestic and international markets.
Strong Sales Performance
On the first day of its release on February 27, Lu Weibing revealed that the initial sales of Xiaomi 14 Ultra in Europe had tripled compared to its predecessor. Moreover, the Xiaomi 14 achieved a remarkable six-fold increase in sales when compared to previous models.
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra, priced at €1,499 (equivalent to 11,600 Yuan in China), offers a 16GB + 512GB configuration, significantly surpassing the offerings in the Chinese market. In China, variants such as 12GB+256GB, 16GB+512GB, and 16GB+1TB are priced at 6,499 Yuan, 6,999 Yuan, and 7,799 Yuan, respectively.
Focus on Imaging Capabilities
This ultra flagship device from Xiaomi places a strong emphasis on its imaging capabilities, featuring a 50MP 1" Sony LYT-900 main sensor supported by a variable aperture system. The telephoto cameras, with 3.2x and 5x capabilities, utilize the Sony IMX858 sensor and are adept at focusing on subjects at close range, enabling users to capture stunning close-up shots. For a detailed insight into the camera system of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, refer to our comprehensive review of the device.
Tags: Global Market Expansion, Imaging Capabilities, Xiaomi 14 Ultra
March 2, 2024
MWC 2024: Tecno Unveils AI Assistant Ella for Summer Debut on Tecno Phones
We are all familiar with virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, but Tecno is now entering the AI assistant arena with its own creation named "Ella." Unlike traditional assistants that primarily handle tasks such as setting alarms or playing music, Ella is positioned as an "all-round personal assistant" that aims to provide users with a comprehensive solution for both convenience and content creation. While some of its functionalities may mirror those of other well-known AIs, Ella distinguishes itself as a versatile tool designed to address common challenges faced by smartphone users, potentially making it the unique selling point of this AI assistant.
Tecno's Ella: A Multi-Functional AI Assistant
Tecno's Ella introduces a range of innovative features, including:
Image Generation:
Ella can transform your verbal descriptions into visual representations, injecting a creative element into your projects. This generative AI function is akin to OpenAI's Dall-E.
Translation Capabilities:
Eliminating language barriers is now easier with Tecno's AI, offering services such as call translation, social media translation, and the ability to generate video subtitles.
Inclusive Image Enhancements:
Recognizing the significance of diversity, Tecno's AI tailors its image generation and photo enhancement tools to suit various regions, ensuring that all users receive optimal results.
Advancements in Photo Editing
Smart Photo Editing:
Bid farewell to unwanted distractions in your photos as Tecno's AI allows you to erase strangers from images and create custom stickers and cutouts, reminiscent of Google's Magic Eraser feature found in Pixel smartphones.
Effortless Photo Search:
Locating specific images is now simplified with Tecno's AI, enabling users to search their photo galleries using brief descriptions, streamlining the process of finding desired pictures just like Google Photos.
While exact release dates are yet to be revealed, these innovative features are anticipated to roll out on Tecno phones as early as this summer. Through this AI enhancement, HiOS aims to enhance the smartphone experience by making it more seamless, creative, and user-friendly than ever before.
Tags: AI Assistant Innovation, Creative Content Creation, Tecno Ella
March 2, 2024
GPD Win Mini 2024 Gaming Handheld Launched: Ryzen 7 8840U APU, 7″ FHD 120Hz Display
GPD is set to introduce an updated version of its Win Mini handheld gaming device in 2024, featuring AMD’s Ryzen 8000 series APUs.
Enhanced Performance and Features
The latest Win Mini will be equipped with either a Ryzen 7 8840U or a Ryzen 5 8640U processor, featuring 8 Zen4 cores. This upgrade promises increased speeds and enhanced capabilities for gaming and various tasks. The integration of AMD’s XDNA AI-core technology is anticipated to elevate overall performance, particularly in computational operations.
Display and Connectivity Upgrades
A significant enhancement in the new model is the display, now sporting a 7-inch, 1080p LTPS screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate. It supports FreeSync Premium and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technologies, all protected by Gorilla Glass 6. However, the 2024 model has abandoned the OCuLink port from the previous version in favor of USB4 connections.
Gaming and Pricing Details
The Win Mini 2024 is designed to deliver improved performance in emulating PlayStation 3 games, targeting a smooth 60 FPS experience. With support for AVX-512 instructions, gaming performance is expected to see a boost. The device will be launched via a crowdfunding campaign, offering a base configuration starting at $879. This configuration includes the Ryzen 7 8840U processor, 32 GB of RAM, and options for either 512 GB or 2 TB of SSD storage.
Tags: AMD Ryzen 8000 series, GPD Win Mini 2024, Handheld Gaming Device