Category: All News

  • India Gets New Storage Variant for Vivo Y200 5G

    India Gets New Storage Variant for Vivo Y200 5G

    Vivo Y200 5G Gets New Storage Variant

    Vivo launched the Y200 5G smartphone in India in October last year, and now the Chinese brand has announced a new configuration of the Y200 5G with double the storage capacity. This new variant comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The Vivo Y200 5G with the new storage option is priced at Rs 23,999 and is available in Jungle Green and Desert Gold color options.

    Same Impressive Specifications

    Apart from the storage upgrade, the core specifications of the Vivo Y200 5G remain unchanged. The device features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen also houses a fingerprint scanner and supports HDR10+. The smartphone has a sleek flat frame design and a rectangular camera module.

    Dual Rear Camera Setup and High-Quality Selfies

    The Vivo Y200 5G is equipped with a dual rear camera setup, consisting of a 64MP main sensor with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) support and a 2MP depth lens. The device also features a Smart Aura Light flash. For selfies, there is a 16MP front-facing camera.

    Powerful Performance and Long Battery Life

    Under the hood, the Vivo Y200 5G is powered by a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor. It is backed by a 5,000mAh battery cell that supports 44W fast charging. This ensures that users can enjoy long hours of usage without worrying about running out of battery. The smartphone runs on the latest Android 13 operating system out of the box.

    Availability

    The Vivo Y200 5G with the new 256GB storage variant is now available for purchase from the brand’s website and Flipkart. The base model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage is priced at Rs 21,999.

    With its impressive specifications, upgraded storage capacity, and competitive pricing, the Vivo Y200 5G offers a compelling option for smartphone users in the sub-Rs 25,000 price segment. Whether you are a multimedia enthusiast, a photography lover, or a power user, this device is worth considering for its performance and features.

  • Get the ZTE Axon 40 Pro at an unbeatable price of $220, featuring Snapdragon 870 SoC and 256GB storage.

    Get the ZTE Axon 40 Pro at an unbeatable price of $220, featuring Snapdragon 870 SoC and 256GB storage.

    The ZTE Axon 40 Pro, which was released in May 2022, is now available at a significantly reduced price. This smartphone originally stood out for its affordability, featuring a Snapdragon 870 chip and a curved display.

    A Great Deal on a Powerful Smartphone

    After nearly two years, the ZTE Axon 40 Pro has seen a considerable price drop, making it an even more appealing option for consumers. In fact, it now offers better value compared to other similarly priced new phones.

    The 12GB + 256GB variant of the ZTE Axon 40 Pro was initially launched at ¥3,298 ($465). However, it is currently being sold on JD for just ¥1582 ($220), representing a discount of approximately 48%.

    Limited Time Offer

    It’s important to note that this reduced price is part of a clearance deal. As a result, the offer will only be available while supplies last. Therefore, if you’re interested in purchasing the ZTE Axon 40 Pro at this discounted price, it’s advisable to act quickly.

    Impressive Features at an Affordable Price

    Despite its reduced price, the ZTE Axon 40 Pro still offers an impressive array of features. One standout aspect is its 6.67-inch 10-bit curved display, boasting a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels (FHD+). Additionally, it supports a 144Hz refresh rate and reaches a peak brightness level of 1000 nits.

    Under the hood, the ZTE Axon 40 Pro is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 chipset, paired with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. This combination ensures smooth performance and efficient multitasking capabilities.

    The smartphone also excels in the camera department, featuring a quad-camera system on the rear. This setup includes a 108MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultrawide unit, a 2MP macro snapper, and a 2MP depth sensor. For selfies and video calls, it utilizes a 16MP front-facing shooter.

    In terms of additional features, the ZTE Axon 40 Pro boasts dual stereo speakers, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, an x-axis linear vibration motor, and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. Moreover, it is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and supports 66W wired charging, ensuring long-lasting usage.

    Final Thoughts

    With its recent price reduction, the ZTE Axon 40 Pro has become an even more compelling option for smartphone buyers. Its combination of a Snapdragon 870 chip, curved display, and impressive camera setup, all at an affordable price, make it a standout choice in the market. However, since this is a clearance deal, interested buyers should act quickly before stock runs out.

  • Amazon India landing page goes live, teasing Honor X9b with Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop display

    Amazon India landing page goes live, teasing Honor X9b with Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop display

    Honor X9b Launch and Amazon Teaser

    The Honor X9b is set to make its debut in the Indian market soon. Ahead of its release, the Amazon landing page for the upcoming smartphone has gone live, providing some exciting details.

    The Chinese brand has scheduled the launch of the Honor X9b in the region on 15th February 2024. The availability of the device on Amazon has been confirmed, as the landing page showcases its key features. The teaser highlights the smartphone’s curved display and slim design. It also hints at the presence of a Snapdragon chipset and a long-lasting battery life. Honor promises to deliver a new standard of durability and endurance with the X9b, as revealed in its latest teaser.

    Ultra Bounce 360° Anti-Drop Resistance

    One of the most intriguing features of the Honor X9b is its Ultra Bounce 360° Anti-Drop Resistance. This cutting-edge cushioning technology allows the handset to achieve a Five Star Overall Drop Resistance certification from SGS. The innovative shock-absorbing structure of the Ultra Bounce Anti-Drop display provides enhanced protection. Honor claims that the smartphone can withstand drops of up to 1.5 meters on all six faces and four corners.

    Impressive Display Features

    The Honor X9b boasts a tall 6.78-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1.5K resolution. The model incorporates PWM Dimming technology, which, combined with low blue light, reduces eye discomfort and fatigue. The smartphone also offers Dynamic Dimming for a natural light rhythm, providing optimal eye protection. Additionally, the Circadian Night Display feature filters blue light during nighttime use, ensuring a more comfortable viewing experience.

    Conclusion

    With its imminent launch in the Indian market, the Honor X9b has generated significant anticipation. The Amazon landing page and official teaser have shed light on some of the smartphone’s key features. The Ultra Bounce 360° Anti-Drop Resistance and impressive display technologies make the Honor X9b an exciting prospect for consumers. Stay tuned for more updates on this upcoming smartphone.

  • Xperia F, Sony’s First Foldable Smartphone, Remains Uncertain

    Xperia F, Sony’s First Foldable Smartphone, Remains Uncertain

    Sony’s Potential Entry into the Foldable Smartphone Market Still Uncertain

    Recent rumors about Sony’s foray into the foldable smartphone market have sparked speculation among tech enthusiasts. While initial reports indicated that Sony’s potential foldable phone, tentatively named “Xperia F,” would be a clamshell-style device, new information suggests that the company’s decision is still up in the air. Discussions about the future of foldable devices and consumer trends are reportedly influencing Sony’s approach.

    Insider sources on Reddit have shed light on Sony’s considerations in entering the foldable market. According to these sources, there is concern that a significant portion of current foldable smartphone users, approximately 70%, may revert back to traditional smartphones for their next purchase. This potential decline in adoption after an initial surge in sales has sparked apprehension within the company. However, it is important to note that this perspective is not officially endorsed by Sony and lacks solid data to support claims about user preferences for future upgrades.

    Interest in Foldable Phones Persists

    Despite the uncertainty surrounding the future of foldable smartphones, there is still considerable interest in these innovative devices. It is expected that foldable phones, including the rumored Xperia F, will attract users who seek to experience their unique features, especially as prices become more affordable. Short-term growth in the foldable smartphone market is anticipated, but the continuation of this growth as users plan their next upgrades remains uncertain.

    Challenges in Retaining Market Share

    One of the main challenges that the foldable smartphone segment may face in the coming years is the typical 3 to 4-year smartphone replacement cycle. Projections suggest that the adoption rate of foldable devices might reverse during this timeframe, based on speculated consumer behavior. While the rumored Xperia F is said to boast a 7-inch 4K display with a 21:9 aspect ratio, further details are still pending. Despite the uncertainties, Sony’s foldable smartphone continues to generate high interest, and further updates will be shared as additional information becomes available.

  • Impressive AI and Performance Gains Revealed in MediaTek Dimensity 9400 Specs

    Impressive AI and Performance Gains Revealed in MediaTek Dimensity 9400 Specs

    Taiwanese chipmaker MediaTek recently held a ceremony to commemorate the beginning of construction for a new office building near the Hsinchu High-speed Railway station. The 22-story building is projected to house 3,000 employees by 2027.

    MediaTek’s CEO Teases Upcoming Dimensity 9400 Chip

    During the event, CEO Cai Lixing hinted at the forthcoming Dimensity 9400 chip, which is anticipated to be released in the fourth quarter of 2024. While not explicitly mentioned, Cai highlighted that the new System on a Chip (SoC) will feature enhanced AI capabilities, positioning it as a competitor to other high-end smartphone processors.

    Leak Reveals Potential Upgrades for Dimensity 9400

    Although specific details about the Dimensity 9400’s performance remain undisclosed, a report by China Times has shed some light on what can be expected from the chip.

    According to the leak, the Dimensity 9400 is set to benefit from TSMC’s 3nm process, a shift from the Dimensity 9300’s 4nm process. This transition is expected to deliver improved performance and power efficiency.

    MediaTek Sticks with Arm’s CPU Designs

    In contrast to Qualcomm, which is transitioning to its custom Oryon CPU cores, MediaTek is likely to continue utilizing Arm’s CPU designs. The Dimensity 9400 is anticipated to feature the Cortex-X5 as its main core, alongside three Cortex-X4 and four Cortex-A720 performance cores.

    Enhanced Processing Capabilities and Faster Image Creation

    The leaked details also suggest that the Dimensity 9400 will be capable of processing 12 to 15 tokens per second using a specific model called Llama 2 from Meta. This represents a significant improvement in processing speed compared to its predecessor.

    Furthermore, the Dimensity 9400 is expected to outperform the Dimensity 9300 in image creation using Stable Diffusion 1.5, completing the task in just 3 seconds instead of 3.5 seconds.

    A Promising Future for Dimensity 9400

    With these enhancements, the Dimensity 9400, and its successor, the APU 790, have the potential to deliver processing speeds that are 20-50% faster for tokens and up to 16.7% faster for image creation.

    However, it is important to note that these details are still preliminary and subject to change. Therefore, it is advisable to approach this information with caution.

  • Battery pack specifications for Vision Pro revealed, and to everyone’s surprise, it continues to utilize the Lightning port

    Battery pack specifications for Vision Pro revealed, and to everyone’s surprise, it continues to utilize the Lightning port

    We now have more detailed information on the battery specifications for the Vision Pro headset, clearing up the initial ambiguity of the pre-order period that only provided general usage and video playback estimates.

    Battery Specifications

    The battery pack included with the Vision Pro headset has a capacity of 3,166 mAh. Despite its seemingly modest capacity considering the weight of the headset (353 grams), it operates at a high voltage of 13V 6A, surpassing the typical 3.8V voltage of phone batteries.

    Equivalent Capacity

    The higher voltage of the battery pack translates to an equivalent capacity of 9,440 mAh when compared to typical phone battery voltage. This essentially makes the Vision Pro headset comparable to a 10,000 mAh power bank, according to GSMArena.

    Removable Connecting Cable

    Contrary to initial impressions, the connecting cable between the battery pack and the headset is indeed removable. Journalist Ray Wong made an interesting discovery – the cable can be detached from the battery pack using a SIM ejector tool. This means that if the cable gets damaged, users can replace it individually without having to purchase an entirely new battery pack.

    Lightning Port

    Ray Wong’s findings also reveal an interesting detail about the Vision Pro headset. Apple is still using a Lightning port for the proprietary headset and battery pack connecting cable. However, this version of the Lightning port is larger and features 12 pins, unlike the ones typically seen on iPhones. It is somewhat surprising that Apple has not moved away from its proprietary connector, especially considering the current pressure it’s facing from the EU.

    Non-Hot-Swappable Battery

    It is important to note that the Apple Vision Pro battery is not hot-swappable. This means that disconnecting the cable while using the headset will effectively shut it down. Users will need to perform a fresh reboot when connecting a new battery pack.

    Overall, the detailed information on the battery specifications of the Vision Pro headset provides clarity and valuable insights for potential buyers. The high voltage and equivalent capacity make it a powerful option, while the removable cable and Lightning port add convenience and compatibility. However, the non-hot-swappable feature should be considered when using the headset.

  • Certification for Starlink’s WiFi 6 Router From FCC and IMDA Underway

    Certification for Starlink’s WiFi 6 Router From FCC and IMDA Underway

    Following its recent announcement about launching a “cellphone tower in space,” Starlink, the satellite communication and internet connectivity company owned by Elon Musk, is now focusing on a more grounded project. It seems that Starlink is working on developing a new WiFi 6 router, as revealed by certifications obtained from the IMDA (Infocomm Media Development Authority) and FCC (Federal Communications Commission) databases. Here are the details we have so far.

    Certification Details

    The IMDA certification disclosed that the new router carries the model number UTR-232 and is classified as a low-power WLAN device. On the other hand, the FCC listing confirmed that it will utilize the same wireless bands as other WiFi 6 routers. This indicates that the upcoming router will be compatible with existing WiFi 6 devices.

    Features and Specifications

    According to the FCC listing, the new Starlink WiFi 6 router will come equipped with two built-in LAN ports. In addition, it will include two power adapters, namely UTP-231L and UTP-232C. This suggests that the router will offer enhanced connectivity options for users.

    Gen 3 Mesh Router

    It is speculated that the UTR-232 WiFi 6 router is an upgraded version of the UTR-231 WiFi 6 router, which is considered a Gen 3 mesh router. The UTR-231 router is expected to serve as an accessory for existing Starlink customers, allowing them to boost their connectivity with Starlink’s coverage. This indicates that the new WiFi 6 router will provide improved performance and faster broadband speeds compared to the previous generation routers bundled with Starlink’s dish.

    Benefits of WiFi 6

    By upgrading to WiFi 6, users can expect not only faster broadband speeds but also improved energy efficiency on mobile devices and reduced bandwidth congestion. This means a more seamless and efficient internet experience for Starlink customers.

    Conclusion

    While these are all the details available at the moment, it is likely that Starlink will release more information about the new WiFi 6 router in the near future. As Starlink continues to innovate in the field of satellite communication and internet connectivity, the introduction of a WiFi 6 router further demonstrates their commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to their customers. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development from Starlink.

  • People nearby can easily disrupt Apple Vision Pro’s gesture controls

    People nearby can easily disrupt Apple Vision Pro’s gesture controls

    Apple Vision Pro Headset Faces Minor Flaw in Hand-Tracking Gesture Controls

    Apple’s innovative Vision Pro headset, known for its gesture-based interaction, has been found to have a minor flaw in its hand-tracking gesture controls, according to test results from technology media CNET. The issue arises when other people insert themselves into the interaction area while the wearer is using gestures, causing interference with the headset’s gesture controls and impacting the overall user experience.

    Difficulty in Distinguishing Between User and Others’ Hands

    The Apple Vision Pro headset heavily relies on gestures for user interaction, facilitated by the visionOS software. However, CNET’s tests reveal that the headset struggles to differentiate between the wearer’s hand and the hands of others entering the interaction space. This can pose challenges, especially in scenarios where users have children or other individuals around them.

    Impact on User Experience

    The interference from additional hands affects the seamless execution of gestures, potentially disrupting the intended experience. This flaw can be particularly inconvenient, as even a random hand movement within the range of the gesture system may lead to unintended actions, such as accidental deletion of a file.

    Room for Improvement in Apple’s visionOS

    While this flaw is relatively minor, it highlights the need for improvement in Apple’s visionOS. It is expected that future updates will address this issue, enabling the headset to accurately distinguish the wearer’s hand. As Apple continues to enhance its software systems, gesture recognition improvements are likely to become a focal point, ensuring an optimal and uninterrupted user experience for Vision Pro users.

    Future Updates and Second-Generation Vision Pro

    In conclusion, while this imperfection may cause some inconvenience in certain situations, it is part of the ongoing development process for this first-generation product. Apple is already rumored to be working on a second-generation Vision Pro headset, potentially named the Apple Vision Pro 2. This future iteration of the headset is expected to address some of the imperfections of the first-generation product, including improvements in weight and weight distribution.

    Overall, Apple’s Vision Pro headset remains a groundbreaking product with its innovative gesture-based interaction. As Apple continues to refine and enhance its software and hardware, users can look forward to an even better user experience in future iterations of the headset.

  • New Year Deal: Apple iPhone 15 in China receives a $190 discount

    New Year Deal: Apple iPhone 15 in China receives a $190 discount

    Consumer Products on Sale for Lunar New Year in China

    Retailers in China are offering heavily discounted prices on consumer products for the Lunar New Year festival. This year, even Apple has joined other brands in offering discounts, which is a first for the company. However, one retailer is standing out with its eye-catching deal on the iPhone 15.

    JD (Jingdong) is offering the base 128GB variant of the Apple iPhone 15 for as low as ¥4,639 ($650). This is an incredible discount of ¥1,360 ($190) on a premium smartphone that is only four months old. It is important to note that both the discount and the streaming subscription offer for new Apple Music subscribers are only available for a limited time.

    The iPhone 15: A Solid Upgrade

    For those who are coming from non-5G iPhones like the iPhone 11 and older models, the iPhone 15 is a solid upgrade. Along with faster mobile connection, consumers can enjoy better cameras and display, a faster chip, and a USB Type-C port. The device is available in both standard and plus variants, with the latter featuring a larger display and a bigger battery.

    Pricing and Variants

    The base version of the iPhone 15 starts at 128GB and is priced at ¥5,999 (~$845). However, customers who are interested can choose from the 256GB and 512GB storage variants. As with previous models, the iPhone 15 is available in multiple colors including blue, pink, yellow, green, and black. The new model stands out with its matte finish and lighter tones.

    Don’t Miss Out on the Deals

    With retailers offering heavily discounted prices on consumer products for the Lunar New Year festival, now is a great time to take advantage of the deals. JD’s offer on the iPhone 15 is particularly enticing, with a significant discount on a premium smartphone. If you are interested, make sure to act fast as both the discount and the streaming subscription offer are only available for a limited time.

  • Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition now equipped with Realme UI 14.0.0.213 updates in China

    Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition now equipped with Realme UI 14.0.0.213 updates in China

    Realme Software Updates for Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition

    Realme has recently released new software updates for the Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition in China. These updates bring various fixes and enhancements to both smartphones. Specifically, the Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition are receiving the Realme UI 140.0.213 update. Let’s take a closer look at the details.

    Realme GT2 Update Details

    The Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition and Realme GT2 Pro have a similar changelog for the update. One of the key improvements is the refinement of permission settings that restrict apps from switching. Additionally, a pop-up window has been added as a fail-safe for switching between different apps. The update also enhances system performance and stability. Here is the official change log:

    NFC:

    • Fixed the issue where the access card could be entered but the door could not be opened.

    System:

    • Added device action and direction sensor permission settings to restrict applications from using sensors for shake-to-jump behavior.
    • Added pop-up prompts for jumping between applications to provide better control and awareness for each jump.
    • Optimized system performance and improved system stability.

    According to the announcement thread, the update is being rolled out gradually and it may take up to 2-3 weeks for the new firmware to become available on each device.

    Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition Specifications

    In addition to the software updates, let’s take a quick look at the specifications of the Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition.

    Realme GT2 Pro:

    • Weight: 189/199g
    • Thickness: 8.2mm
    • Operating System: Android 12 (upgradable to Android 14)
    • Storage Options: 8/12GB RAM, 512GB (no card slot)
    • Display: 6.7″ with 1440×3216 pixels resolution
    • Primary Camera: 50MP capable of recording 4320p video
    • Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
    • Battery: 5000mAh

    Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition:

    • Weight: 195g
    • Thickness: 8.2mm
    • Operating System: Android 12 with Realme UI 3.0
    • Display: 6.7″ with 1080×2400 pixels resolution
    • Primary Camera: 50MP capable of recording 2160p video
    • RAM: 8/12GB
    • Chipset: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
    • Battery: 5000mAh

    In conclusion, Realme has rolled out new software updates for the Realme GT2 Pro and Realme GT2 Explorer Master Edition in China. These updates bring various improvements and fixes to enhance the user experience. Users can expect better performance, stability, and additional features with the Realme UI 140.0.213 update.