Category: All News

  • Realme RMX3993: Potential Radio Certification for Realme GT Neo 6

    Realme RMX3993: Potential Radio Certification for Realme GT Neo 6

    Anticipated Elements and Launch Timeline of Realme GT Neo 6

    Realme is gearing up for the debut of a fresh array of smartphones in the Chinese market, encompassing the Realme 12+ 5G, Realme 12 Pro 5G, and Realme 12 Pro+ 5G. Simultaneously, the much-awaited Realme GT Neo 6 is poised for launch in the near future.

    Purported Features of Realme GT Neo 6

    An unidentified gadget bearing the model number RMX3993 has surfaced within China’s radio certification database, hinting at the likelihood of it being the GT Neo 6 in the process of certification before its official unveiling. Nevertheless, the formal nomenclature of the device remains unverified.

    OLED Display:

    • 1.5K resolution
    • 144Hz refresh rate

    Central Processing Unit (CPU):

    • Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

    Storage Capacity:

    • Up to 24GB LPDDR5 RAM
    • Up to 1TB UFS 4.0 storage

    Operating System:

    • Realme UI 5 based on Android 14

    Estimated Price Tag:

    • Around 2,000 Yuan (~$277)

    Competitive Landscape

    Realme GT Neo 6 is set to rival other smartphones equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, including:

    • OnePlus Ace 3
    • Honor 90 GT
    • Redmi K70
    • iQOO Neo 9

    Its fusion of robust capabilities and an enticing price point is anticipated to resonate with individuals in search of a top-tier smartphone experience minus the exorbitant expenses.

  • In 2026, the BMW iX3 Electric SUV will incorporate advanced battery technology and boast an extended range of 800 kilometers.

    In 2026, the BMW iX3 Electric SUV will incorporate advanced battery technology and boast an extended range of 800 kilometers.

    BMW’s highly anticipated iX3 is set to be the first model in the Neue Klasse series, which will be at the forefront of BMW’s lineup for the next decade. The success of the iX3 is crucial to BMW’s ambitious plans for electrification. Production is scheduled to begin in 18 months, with the 2026 iX3 joining BMW’s product lineup alongside updated versions of its current fuel-powered X3 models. This marks a significant milestone in BMW’s journey towards electric vehicles (EVs).

    Spy Shots Reveal BMW iX3 Prototype

    New spy shots have recently emerged, showcasing the BMW iX3 prototype. The design of the iX3 incorporates traditional BMW elements, such as the iconic Hofmeister corner on the rear window. It also features design cues inspired by BMW’s latest concept cars, such as the Vision Circular and Vision Neue Klasse. Notably, the wide, closed front end of the iX3 showcases the influence of these concept cars.

    A Glimpse into the Interior

    Interior spy photos of the iX3 suggest a departure from the traditional instrument display found in BMW’s current models. Instead, the iX3 is expected to feature a head-up display projected onto the front windshield, resembling the futuristic design of the Vision Neue Klasse. This innovative approach to the instrument display adds to the overall modern and forward-thinking interior of the iX3.

    Check out the spy shots of the BMW iX3 prototype below:

  • Despite Chip Challenges, Foxconn Sets Sights on 2024 Improvement

    Despite Chip Challenges, Foxconn Sets Sights on 2024 Improvement

    Foxconn, a major player in electronics manufacturing and known for producing iPhones for Apple, is optimistic about the year 2024. Despite facing challenges and experiencing financial setbacks in the previous year, including a significant hit from its stake in Sharp Corp, Foxconn’s Chairman, Liu Young-way, expressed positivity during the company’s annual employee event.

    Positive Outlook for the Year Ahead

    Liu Young-way shared his thoughts on the company’s outlook for the upcoming year, indicating that it is expected to be slightly better despite the challenges faced by Foxconn. This positive sentiment suggests that the company is anticipating a turnaround and better financial performance in the near future.

    Challenges in Chip Supply

    One of the major obstacles Foxconn is currently facing is the shortage of chips for AI servers, which are crucial for the next generation of technology. The demand for these chips is high, but there is a lack of sufficient manufacturing facilities to meet the demand. In response to this issue, Liu mentioned the possibility of constructing new factories to address the growing demand for AI technology.

    Potential Impact of Economy and Political Issues

    However, the global economy and political factors may pose challenges for Foxconn. The company’s sales could be affected if people become less inclined to purchase gadgets due to these external factors. Apple, one of Foxconn’s key partners, is already expecting lower iPhone sales and reduced profits, particularly in China. Chinese customers are increasingly opting for other brands and phones that offer foldable designs or utilize chips manufactured within China.

    Anticipation of Earnings Announcement

    As Foxconn prepares to disclose its earnings for the previous quarter and provide insights into its projections for the future, industry observers are closely monitoring the situation. Although the company’s stock has experienced a slight decline this year, its upcoming announcements will shed light on the direction of the technology industry, particularly in terms of manufacturing and the availability of components for the latest gadgets and AI technology.

  • Apple Surpassed by Huawei as China’s Top-selling Smartphone Brand in Early 2024

    Apple Surpassed by Huawei as China’s Top-selling Smartphone Brand in Early 2024

    Huawei experienced an exciting growth in the Chinese smartphone market in 2023. Recently IDC report revealed that Huawei’s shipments increased by 36.2% in Q4, 2023 making it the fourth-largest smartphone brand in China.

    Huawei Tops Smartphone Sales in China in 2024

    A new report by Counterpoint Research now reveals that Huawei has clinched the top spot in smartphone sales during the first two weeks of 2024.

    The achievement is particularly noteworthy, not just because it has surpassed Apple, but also because it’s the first time since the 2019 US ban that Huawei has secured the leading position in terms of smartphone sales in China.

    Mate 60 Series Key to Huawei’s Success

    As expected, the Mate 60 series is the key to Huawei’s recent success in the Chinese market. Launched last year, the smartphones feature a Kirin 9000S processor and Harmony OS operating system. Mate 60 series is still said to be in high demand in the mainland, according to local distributors.

    Huawei’s Ambitious Plans for Harmony OS NEXT

    Looking ahead, the company has ambitious plans to launch Harmony OS NEXT; an operating system with Huawei’s own kernel which will phase out Android app support completely. Expected to launch by the end of 2024, its success will have a significant impact on Huawei’s smartphone business.

    Nova 12 Series Boosts Sales

    Except for the Mate 60, the Nova 12 series launched back in December has also helped Huawei to increase its sales numbers. These are all mid-range smartphones powered by Kirin processors, except for the Nova 12 Lite which has a Snapdragon 778G 4G chip inside.

    Chinese Brands Chipping Away at Apple’s Market Share

    According to a Counterpoint report, the high-end smartphone market in China saw a growth of 27% in 2023. While Apple continues to hold the top position, Huawei and other Chinese brands have been gradually chipping away at Apple’s market share since the third quarter of 2023.

  • Introducing Vivo V30: Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, 50MP Selfie, and Dual 50MP Rear Cameras

    Introducing Vivo V30: Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, 50MP Selfie, and Dual 50MP Rear Cameras

    Vivo has quietly unveiled the Vivo V30 for the global market. The company has not confirmed the device’s price but has assured that it will be released in 30 markets in the near future. These markets include countries such as India, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the UAE. As anticipated, the Vivo V30 is a modified version of the Vivo S18, which made its debut in December in the Chinese market.

    Vivo V30 specifications and features

    The Vivo V30 features a 6.78-inch curved-edge AMOLED panel with a centrally positioned punch-hole. The screen delivers a 1.5K resolution of 1280 x 2800 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Operating on Android 14, overlaid with the FunTouch OS 14, the company has confirmed that the V30 will provide 50 months of a smooth experience, hinting at approximately 4 years of software updates.

    It is the first smartphone to launch outside of China with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip onboard. Depending on the market, the smartphone will be available in multiple configurations, such as 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage, 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, and 12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage. The device houses a 5,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging support.

    Camera and Design

    On the front, the Vivo V30 features a 50-megapixel OmniVision OV50E selfie camera with autofocus support. On the back, it showcases a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and an Aura LED flash, equipped with smart color temperature adjustment support.

    The Vivo V30 comes with an IP54-rated chassis, measuring 7.45mm in thickness and weighing around 186 grams. It is available in shades such as Noble Black, Bloom White, Waving Aqua, and Lush Green.

  • Launching on February 8 in India: Itel P55+ Boasts 45W Charging and iP55 Offers 256GB Storage

    Launching on February 8 in India: Itel P55+ Boasts 45W Charging and iP55 Offers 256GB Storage

    Itel recently confirmed that it will announce as many as three P-series Power Play phones in February in India. Today, a landing page showcasing the arrival of two new phones, the itel P55 and itel P55+, has gone live on Amazon India. The listing reveals that both phones are scheduled to launch on Feb. 8 in the country. The brand has confirmed the key specifications and design of both smartphones.

    Itel P55+

    The major highlight of the itel P55+ is that it will offer 45W fast charging. According to the company, the phone can go from 0 to 70 percent in just 30 minutes. It will offer three levels of charging: Hyper Charge for quickly replenishing the battery, allowing users to gain 25 percent battery power in just 10 minutes. The Smart Charge option relies on AI to charge the phone based on the user’s usage pattern. There is also a Low-Temp Charge option that will charge the device without overheating.

    The device is also expected to offer up to 16 GB of RAM, including virtual RAM. It will come equipped with a 50-megapixel dual-camera system. Additionally, one of the color variants of the phone has a dual-tone finish featuring a leather-textured portion.

    Itel P55

    The itel P55’s main feature is that it will offer users 256 GB of built-in storage. It will also feature a dual-camera system. The other details of this phone are yet to be confirmed.

    Specifications

    Since these devices are already available in the African market, their specs are already known. Both phones will have:

    • 6.56-inch HD+ 90Hz LCD panel
    • Unisoc T606 chip
    • Android 13
    • 8-megapixel front camera
    • 5,000mAh battery (18W charging on P55)

    The series is also expected to receive a third model named the itel P55T. This phone is likely to pack similar specs and will also offer a 6,000mAh battery as a differing feature.

  • Introducing BYD Seal 06: An Innovative Addition to the Plug-In Hybrid Car Range

    Introducing BYD Seal 06: An Innovative Addition to the Plug-In Hybrid Car Range

    The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has unveiled BYD’s latest addition to its lineup through the “Announcement of Road Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Products” (Batch 380). Alongside the previously reported Qin L, BYD introduces the Seal 06, a new plug-in hybrid model. Positioned as a vehicle under the existing Seal EV and Seal DM-i models, the Seal 06 stands out with a noticeably shorter body, suggesting a lower positioning in BYD’s product range.

    The Seal 06 is shorter than the existing Seal EV, Seal DM-i models

    The Seal 06, a plug-in hybrid car, exhibits dimensions of 4830mm in length, 1875mm in width, and 1495mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2790mm. Comparing these figures with the previously reported Qin L (4830/1900/1495mm, wheelbase 2790mm) indicates a potential interaction between the two models, suggesting a “sister model” relationship, similar to the dynamic between Qin PLUS and Destroyer 05 in BYD’s lineup.

    Continuing BYD’s commitment to “marine aesthetics” in design

    The Seal 06 boasts soft and smooth lines, continuing BYD’s commitment to “marine aesthetics” in design. The front grille, resembling a big grinning mouth, adds a unique touch to the vehicle’s appearance. Petal-style wheels contribute to the overall aesthetics, and buyers have the option to include a sunroof, panoramic sunroof, or small sunroof, providing customization choices for a personalized driving experience.

    Equipped with a 1498ml engine delivering 74kW of power

    Under the hood, the Seal 06 is equipped with a 1498ml engine delivering 74kW of power, enabling a top speed of 180km/h. This car is anticipated to be part of BYD’s fifth-generation DM-i hybrid system, sharing the core technology with the Qin L but differentiating itself through distinctive exterior and interior design elements.

    A notewo#rthy addition catering to environmentally conscious consumers

    As automakers increasingly embrace hybrid technology, BYD’s Seal 06 enters the scene as a noteworthy addition, catering to consumers looking for a more environmentally friendly yet versatile driving experience. The strategic placement of the Seal 06 within BYD’s product hierarchy suggests a commitment to providing a diverse range of options for consumers seeking plug-in hybrid vehicles.

  • Redmi K50 Receives Long-Awaited HyperOS Update and January 2024 Security Patch

    Redmi K50 Receives Long-Awaited HyperOS Update and January 2024 Security Patch

    Xiaomi has released a stable HyperOS update for the Redmi K50 in China. The firmware version 1.0.2.0.ULNCNXM is now available for all users, weighing around 5.7GB. The update is being rolled out incrementally and may take some time to reach all units. However, it brings various improvements and feature upgrades.

    New Features and Enhancements

    The update brings all the new features of HyperOS, along with the luxuries of Android 14. It also includes the January 2024 security patch to enhance system performance and power efficiency. After the update, the smartphone may experience overheating or other issues for a couple of days. However, these issues should be resolved once the system optimization is completed.

    Redmi K50 HyperOS Update

    The Redmi K50 initially received the HyperOS Developer Version, followed by beta builds. Now, the stable build is finally available. The Redmi K50 was listed in the second batch of devices to receive the HyperOS update.

    HyperOS Official Changelog

    Here are the official changes included in the HyperOS update:

    • Xiaomi HyperOS: Xiaomi’s ThePaper OS creates a “full ecology for people, cars, and homes” operating system.
    • System: Update Google security patch (2024#01) to improve system security.
    • Low-level refactoring: The bottom layer of Xiaomi’s ThePaper OS is reconstructed to optimize hardware performance.
    • Cross-terminal intelligent connection: Xiaomi HyperConnect allows efficient cross-device interconnection and collaboration.
    • Global security: Enhanced security and privacy architecture for device interconnection.
    • Aesthetics of life: Improved aesthetics for a comfortable visual experience, including motion language, color system, weather design, and lock screen.
    • Unified system fonts: Designed for global use.
    • New artistic lock screen: Turns every photo into a poster with dynamic glass material.
    • Upgraded desktop icons: Renewed colors and shapes.
    • Reconstructed multi-task window management: Improved interaction and usability.

    Users can check for the latest firmware by going to Device Settings > About > Software Update > Check for Update. It is recommended to have sufficient storage and battery before upgrading to avoid potential issues or data corruption.

  • Open sale of Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 with Qi2 support now available

    Open sale of Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 with Qi2 support now available

    Last month, Xiaomi launched a power bank with support for Qi2 wireless charging. The accessory officially goes by Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2.

    Open Sale in China

    This product is now up for open sale in China. Earlier, it was only available through Xiaomi’s crowdfunding program.

    The accessory carries a price tag of ¥229 (~$30). In other words, its retail price is ¥10 more expensive than its crowdfunding price.

    It can be purchased from almost all official online retailers across China. It can be availed in either Porcelain White or Clear Sky Blue color options.

    Specifications

    The Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 has the following specifications:

    • Battery Capacity: 6,000mAh
    • Dimensions: 104.8 x 68 x 15.1mm
    • Finish: Leather
    • Wireless Output: Up to 15W for Qi2-compatible devices
    • USB Type-C Port: Supports 18W output and up to ~20W input

    Features

    Additionally, the power bank has the following features:

    • Built-in Stand: Can be used as a wireless charging stand
    • Lanyard: Can be carried easily
    • Compatibility: Official MagSafe cases

    For iPhone Users

    At present, the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 only makes sense for iPhone users. It is still not clear when Android OEMs will introduce Qi2. Also, it is not known whether this accessory will be made available in global markets.

  • Firmware Update Adds WeChat App to Xiaomi Watch S3

    Firmware Update Adds WeChat App to Xiaomi Watch S3

    The Xiaomi Watch S3 is the company’s latest flagship smartwatch. It was announced alongside the Xiaomi 14 series in late October.

    Firmware Update for Xiaomi Watch S3

    A little over three months after its release, the wearable is receiving an important software update. The latest firmware for the accessory brings the most used app in China.

    New Features and Functions

    The eSIM variant of Xiaomi Watch S3 is receiving a new firmware update with version number 1.11.11. This update adds WeChat application. The app supports almost all the commonly used functions. Users can perform voice replies, quick replies, and emoticon replies from their wrists. The app also supports picture messages and other functions.

    However, all the aforementioned features only work when the wearable is paired with an Android phone. The WeChat app does not work if the watch is paired with an iPhone.

    Optimizations and Improvements

    At launch, the accessory had support for WeChat Pay. This functionality is now built into the WeChat app. Thus, users need to log into their account again to make payments.

    The official changelog for the software update also mentions optimizations for some system functions.

    Xiaomi Watch S3 Specifications

    The Xiaomi Watch S3 is the company’s first smartwatch with replaceable bezels. It is also the firm’s first wearable to ship with HyperOS software.

    The accessory sports a 1.43-inch circular OLED display. The screen has a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, 326 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate, and 600 nits peak brightness level.

    The watch has an aluminum alloy middle frame and a stainless steel bezel. The straps come in rubber and leather variants.

    The wearable arrives with all common features, such as fitness modes, health tracking functions, 5ATM water resistance, calling, and others. Last but not least, it can last up to 15 days on a full charge.