Category: All News

March 3, 2025
MWC 2025: HMD Amped Buds – Earbuds with Power Bank Case
Key Takeaways
1. Unique Charging Case: The HMD Amped Buds feature a charging case that can wirelessly charge compatible smartphones, acting as a power bank.
2. Distinct Design: The earbuds have a unique in-ear design with a slim case that differs from typical clamshell designs, making them more portable.
3. Impressive Battery Life: Users can enjoy up to 95 hours of playback with the charging case, dropping to 58 hours with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on.
4. Advanced Features: Equipped with 10mm drivers, ANC, Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), and multiple microphones for clear calls, along with touch controls and virtual assistant support.
5. Connectivity and Tracking: The earbuds support Bluetooth 5.4, Google Fast Pair, and the Find My Device feature on Android, with an IP54 rating for dust and sweat resistance.
HMD has unveiled a fresh set of earbuds named the HMD Amped Buds, which it claims to be the first wireless earbuds globally featuring a charging case that can wirelessly charge smartphones that are compatible with wireless charging. Essentially, these earbuds come with a case that also acts like a wireless charging power bank.
Design and Functionality
The HMD Amped Buds sport an in-ear design that’s quite unique. The earbuds, which have a hinged design and stems, are stored in a charging case that stands out from competitors. Instead of the typical clamshell case found with products like the AirPods Pro 2 or OnePlus Buds Pro 3 (currently priced at $144 on Amazon), these earbuds are kept in the sides of an ultra-slim case similar to that of a power bank.
The case’s shape serves more than just a visual purpose; it functions as a wireless charging power bank capable of charging phones that support wireless charging or magnetic wireless charging. If your smartphone isn’t compatible with wireless charging, you can still recharge it via the USB-C port located on the case. However, keep in mind that you won’t get a full charge since the case has a capacity of 1,600mAh. Still, it can be quite useful in emergency situations.
Battery Life
Because of the case’s significant battery capacity, users can expect several hours of use with the earbuds. HMD claims that playback time can reach up to 95 hours when using the charging case, although this falls to 58 hours if Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is activated. For those interested in precise figures, each earbud contains a 35mAh battery, allowing for about 4.9 hours of use with ANC on and 8.1 hours with ANC off.
The HMD Amped Buds are equipped with 10mm drivers, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), along with compatibility for Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Sound. Each earbud is fitted with three microphones to ensure clear call quality. Touch controls are also available, and users can activate virtual assistants like Google Gemini.
Connectivity and Availability
These earbuds support the Find My Device feature on Android, helping owners track them down if misplaced. They connect through Bluetooth 5.4 and support Google Fast Pair, allowing them to connect to two devices at the same time and switch seamlessly between the two. They also have an IP54 rating, which offers protection against dust and sweat.
The HMD Amped Buds will be available in Black, Cyan, and Pink and are set to be priced at £179.99 in the UK and €199.99 across Europe when they launch. There is currently no information regarding their release in North America.
Source:
Link
Tags: Active Noise Cancellation, HMD AMPED BUDS, wireless charging
March 3, 2025
Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite: 18-Core Chip with 48GB RAM Leak
Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Elite features 18 ARM-based Oryon processor cores.
2. The chip may use a mix of performance and efficiency cores, or only performance cores.
3. It is a “system in package” design, integrating RAM directly with the chip.
4. One variant is expected to have 48 GB of RAM and a 1 TB NVMe SSD, supporting dedicated graphics cards.
5. Broader availability of the Snapdragon X2 Elite is anticipated no sooner than 2026.
Initial details regarding the Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite were revealed last September, featuring the codename “Project Glymur” and the model number “SC8480XP”. Recently, Winfuture has obtained additional insights into a premium variant of the Snapdragon X2 Elite.
Processor and Architecture
Reports suggest that Qualcomm plans to include 18 ARM-based processor cores, which will be the next-gen Oryon cores developed internally. It’s still uncertain if the design will utilize solely performance cores as in past models, or if there will be a mix of performance and efficiency cores, which is common in mobile devices. What we do know for sure is that it’s an SiP, or “system in package”, indicating that the RAM will likely be integrated directly with the chip, akin to Intel’s Lunar Lake or Apple’s M4.
RAM and Storage Specs
At least one variant of this chip is expected to feature 48 GB of RAM and a 1 TB NVMe SSD. The interesting part is that the Snapdragon X2 Elite can work alongside a dedicated graphics card, potentially making it appealing for desktop computers and gaming laptops. The first-generation Snapdragon X Elite showcased impressive processing power, yet its built-in GPU fell short in delivering adequate gaming performance. So far, no additional specifications for the Snapdragon X2 Elite have been disclosed, and Winfuture anticipates its broader availability no sooner than 2026.
Source:
Link
Tags: 48 GB RAM, Project Glymur, Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite
March 3, 2025
Xiaomi’s Magnetic Clip-On Camera: Large Sensor & Fast Lens for MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi has launched the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra globally, along with a concept smartphone called the “Xiaomi 15 Custom.”
2. The Xiaomi 15 Custom features a magnetic ring on its back designed for attaching a clip-on camera, not for charging.
3. The clip-on camera includes a microFourThirds sensor and a lens with a 35 mm equivalent focal length and an f/1.4 aperture.
4. This clip-on camera is expected to perform better in low-light conditions and dynamic range compared to the main camera of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
5. The concept of a modular camera is not new, and it remains uncertain if Xiaomi’s “Modular Optical System” will be released to the market.
Xiaomi has recently revealed the global release of the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Alongside this announcement, the company took the chance to introduce an innovative concept smartphone inspired by the Xiaomi 15. This new model, dubbed the “Xiaomi 15 Custom,” features a magnetic ring located on its back. This ring isn’t designed for charging like Apple’s MagSafe; instead, it is intended for attaching a camera.
Camera Features
The camera appears to be a standard lens, but it contains a sensor within its housing. This innovative camera connects to the smartphone through a series of metal contacts on the specially modified Xiaomi 15. This setup means that it likely doesn’t require independent charging or a Bluetooth connection to function with the smartphone.
Specifications of the Clip-On Camera
Reportedly, this clip-on camera is equipped with a microFourThirds format sensor and a lens that offers a 35 mm equivalent focal length along with an aperture of f/1.4. A microFourThirds sensor has a size that is more than double the 1-inch sensor found in the main camera of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Consequently, the clip-on camera is expected to provide better performance regarding image noise in low-light conditions and dynamic range.
Modular Concept Challenges
While the idea of a modular camera is not entirely fresh—similar products like the Sony QX10 were introduced over a decade ago—the Xiaomi’s modular camera is still just a concept. Therefore, it remains uncertain if or when the “Xiaomi Modular Optical System” will become available in the market.
Source:
Link
Tags: Modular Camera, Xiaomi 15, Xiaomi 15 Ultra
March 3, 2025
Oppo Find X8 Ultra Spy Shots Show Flat Display and Hasselblad Camera
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo has announced the launch date for its premium Hasselblad camera flagship, the Find X8 Ultra, set for 2025.
2. Prototype versions of the Find X8 Ultra were spotted in public, indicating early showcase before the official launch.
3. The design features a flat, nearly borderless display, distinguishing it from competitors with curved screens.
4. A quick access button for the Hasselblad camera is included, allowing for convenient features like gesture zooming.
5. Oppo manager Zhou Bao confirmed the authenticity of the leaked images, suggesting the leak is beneficial for the company’s visibility.
Oppo has revealed the launch date for its top-tier Hasselblad camera flagship for 2025. However, photos from this past weekend suggest that prototypes are already being showcased in public. At an event, someone using the Find X8 Ultra was captured in both front and back shots, as illustrated below.
Design Features
Although the distinctive round Hasselblad camera is mostly shielded by a privacy cover, the front part stands out with its flat and nearly borderless display. The leaker mentions that several other Chinese flagship models featuring flat AMOLED screens are set to debut in 2026, but the Oppo Find X8 Ultra is positioned as a unique offering in the premium segment for 2025. In contrast, competitors like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and the anticipated Vivo X200 Ultra will feature four curved displays.
Camera Functionality
A notable aspect in one of the photos is the quick access button for activating the Hasselblad camera. This feature is also present in the Oppo Find X8 Pro and allows for gestures, such as zooming. For those questioning the authenticity of these leaked images, Oppo manager Zhou Bao has confirmed via Weibo that this is indeed the Oppo Find X8 Ultra. Therefore, this leak might not be as negative for the company as one might think.
Source:
Link
Tags: Find X8 Ultra, Hasselblad, Oppo
March 3, 2025
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6: Metal Convertible with Intel Arrow Lake
Key Takeaways
1. Lenovo launched the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1, its first convertible model, replacing the ThinkPad X13 2-in-1.
2. The T14s 2-in-1 features a magnesium chassis and combines design elements from the T14s and X13, maintaining the classic ThinkPad look.
3. It is equipped with Intel Arrow Lake H and U processors, up to 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and various communication features including 5G/LTE and Wi-Fi 7.
4. The standard ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 now includes options for the latest Intel CPUs, with enhanced brightness and OLED screen supporting Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).
5. The T14s 2-in-1 will be available in June for €1,650, while the Intel variant of the T14s Gen 6 will start at €2,000, with budget options beginning at €1,500.
Exactly 25 years ago, the ThinkPad T series was launched, originally under the IBM brand. Fast forward a quarter-century, and Lenovo has introduced the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1, the first convertible model featuring tablet capabilities. This new model takes the place of the Lenovo ThinkPad X13 2-in-1. Additionally, Lenovo has refreshed the standard ThinkPad T14s Gen 6, equipping it with the latest Intel CPUs from the Arrow Lake and Lunar Lake lines.
A New Era for ThinkPad
Previously, the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 held the title of being the sole 14-inch convertible within the ThinkPad lineup, but the arrival of the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 changes this. Essentially, Lenovo has supersized the X13 2-in-1 (which can be purchased on Amazon). The design of the T14s 2-in-1 blends elements from both the standard T14s and the X13, featuring a magnesium chassis that feels substantial and durable. Its exterior maintains the classic ThinkPad aesthetic.
Specifications and Features
Weighing in at 1.4 kg, the T14s 2-in-1 isn’t the lightest option on the market. It will come exclusively with Intel Arrow Lake H and U processors, offering up to 64 GB of soldered LPDDR5X RAM. This convertible ThinkPad is packed with communication features, including 5G/LTE, Wi-Fi 7, USB-A, HDMI, and a 5 MP webcam. The battery is rated at 58 Wh. Lenovo continues to use WUXGA IPS displays, which are always matte and can reach brightness levels of up to 500 cd/m². The digitizer pen, a staple of ThinkPad convertibles, can attach magnetically to the display.
New Options Available
The ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 is already on the market with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors and AMD Ryzen AI, but it has expanded to include the latest Intel CPUs as well. Lenovo is set to provide Arrow Lake U, Arrow Lake H, and Lunar Lake options. The T14s Gen 6 will also see an enhancement in screen brightness, reaching 500 cd/m² for most models. Additionally, the OLED screen now supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). A notable distinction between the Arrow Lake and Lunar Lake processors is that Arrow Lake supports up to 64 GB of RAM, while Lunar Lake is limited to 32 GB.
Starting in April, the Intel option for the T14s Gen 6 will launch in June with a price tag of €2,000, excluding tax. More budget-friendly variants are expected to debut in June, beginning at €1,500. The T14s 2-in-1 is scheduled to hit the market in June for €1,650.
Tags: intel Arrow Lake, Lenovo, ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1
March 3, 2025
Xbox Series X Unavailable in Europe as Sales Decline
Key Takeaways
1. Xbox Series X availability is declining due to reduced shipments by Microsoft, primarily affecting European markets.
2. Gamers in the UK and Poland face significant challenges in finding the Xbox Series X, with major retailers often out of stock.
3. The Xbox Series X Digital Edition is more accessible, as retailers prioritize disc-less systems in line with Microsoft’s focus on subscription services.
4. Xbox sales are struggling, particularly in Europe, with only 38,581 units sold in 2025 compared to over 328,000 PS5 units.
5. Retailers in South America are also experiencing stock shortages, leading to speculation that Microsoft may be redirecting production towards cloud services.
With Xbox sales on the decline, one would think it should be easy for gamers to find a console available. But, due to less demand, Microsoft seems to have cut back on shipments to numerous European nations. The shortages are mostly affecting the Xbox Series X instead of the Series S. Many gamers are taking to social media to express their frustration in finding the console in stock. While Microsoft hasn’t officially declared the end of the console’s lifecycle, some retailers are beginning to give up on seeing new shipments.
Stock Issues in the UK and Poland
In the UK, finding the Xbox Series X is a real challenge for gamers. Major shops like Argos have it listed, but it often isn’t available for either delivery or pickup in various areas. Similarly, Polish gamers have been facing a tough time since December, which Microsoft attributes to the high demand seen during the holidays. There is a silver lining in Germany, as the Series X is still widely available at MediaMarkt and other outlets.
Digital Edition Availability
At the moment, the Xbox Series X Digital Edition, which doesn’t have a disc drive, is easier to find. Even in the United States, many retailers are prioritizing these disc-less systems and bundles. This strategy aligns with Microsoft’s growing focus on subscription services and streaming platforms such as Xbox Game Pass. The Xbox Series S is widely available, although it does not offer the 4K functionality found in the Series X, PS5, and PS5 Pro.
Sales and Future Prospects
Regardless of whether Microsoft comments on it, the situation of Xbox sales looks quite dire. This is particularly evident in Europe, where recent data from VGChartz indicates only 38,581 units sold in 2025. Conversely, while PS5 sales have also decreased, Sony has still managed to sell over 328,000 consoles. With so many customers opting against the Series X, the extremely low supply is puzzling.
Retailers in South American nations like Brazil and Chile are also reporting a worrying lack of consoles in stock. Some gamers theorize that Microsoft may be focusing its production of Series X hardware primarily for its cloud services. The company maintains an interest in creating a new Xbox console in the future, but fans may have to wait quite a while for that to happen.
Source:
Link
Tags: PS5, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
March 3, 2025
Lenovo Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition Launches at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Lenovo is launching the Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition at MWC 2025, featuring Intel Arrow Lake-H processors.
2. The laptop has a sleek design, measuring 16.9 mm thick and weighing 1.54 kg, with a 14.5-inch 3K OLED display.
3. It offers 100% sRGB and DisplayP3 color coverage, high color accuracy, and is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor with customizable memory and storage options.
4. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, multiple USB ports, HDMI 2.1, and an 84 WHr battery with a 5 MP webcam.
5. The Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition will be available in Luna Grey starting March 2025, with a starting price of €1,399.
So far, the Aura Editions — which Lenovo refers to as Intel Copilot+ branded laptops — have been available with the Yoga Slim 7i, the Yoga 9i 2-in-1, and the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13, ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 10, and the ThinkPad X9.
New Launch at MWC 2025
At the MWC 2025 event, Lenovo is launching the Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition, which is powered by the Intel Arrow Lake-H processors.
The Lenovo Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition Gen 10 is sleek, measuring just 16.9 mm in thickness and starting at a weight of 1.54 kg. This laptop features a 14.5-inch 3,000 x 1,876 3K 16:10 PureSight Pro touch OLED display that is VESA DisplayHDR True Black 1000 certified, boasting a peak brightness of 1,000 nits.
Impressive Display and Performance
The screen is capable of covering 100% of the sRGB and DisplayP3 color spaces and comes pre-calibrated to achieve a high Delta E <1 color accuracy. The Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H Arrow Lake-H processor, and it can be customized with up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X-8533 dual-channel memory and a 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD. Lenovo claims the Yoga Pro 7i Aura is engineered to deliver a 75 W TDP with the assistance of Lenovo X Power.
Lenovo mentioned that the Yoga Pro 7i Aura includes a brand-new Yoga keyboard as part of the Yoga Premium Suite, which features 1.5 mm key travel and has an oil- and water-resistant coating for a more comfortable and durable typing experience. The Yoga Premium Suite also includes 4x Dolby Atmos-capable speakers and noise-canceling microphones.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Network connectivity is managed by a Wi-Fi 7 WLAN card with Bluetooth 5.4. The port selection features 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A, 2x USB4 Type-C with Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort 2.1-out, 1x HDMI 2.1 that supports 4K 60 Hz output, 1x SD card reader, and a 3.5 mm combo audio jack.
The Yoga Pro 7i Aura is powered by a robust 84 WHr battery, and it also includes a 5 MP webcam.
The Lenovo Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition will come in Luna Grey starting in March 2025, with a price beginning at €1,399.
Tags: 3K OLED display, Intel Arrow Lake-H, Lenovo Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition
March 3, 2025
Cult Classic Sonic the Hedgehog Game Unofficially Ports to PC
Key Takeaways
1. Project Overview: Unleashed Recompiled is a fan-made adaptation of Sonic Unleashed, porting the Xbox 360 version to Windows and Linux through static recompilation.
2. Gameplay Styles: The game features two gameplay styles: fast-paced daytime segments focused on speed and platforming, and slower nighttime segments where Sonic becomes the “Werehog” for combat.
3. Installation Requirements: Players must have a legally owned copy of the Xbox 360 version of Sonic Unleashed to use Unleashed Recompiled, which does not include game files.
4. Enhanced Features: The project adds enhancements like support for ultrawide displays, higher resolutions, improved frame rates, and allows for user-created mods.
5. System Requirements: Minimum specifications include a modern CPU and GPU with Direct3D 12 or Vulkan support, compatible with Windows 10 or modern Linux, requiring 6 to 10 GB of storage.
A beloved Sonic the Hedgehog title has been revived on PC through a fan-made project.
Unleashed Recompiled Overview
Unleashed Recompiled is an unofficial adaptation of the classic game Sonic Unleashed, which was originally launched on platforms such as PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, and Xbox 360. The project specifically ports the Xbox 360 version to Windows and Linux by using what is described on the project’s GitHub as “the process of static recompilation.”
Gameplay Experience
Players in Sonic Unleashed step into the shoes of the iconic character, Sonic the Hedgehog, as he journeys across the globe to restore the Chaos Emeralds’ power. The game features two distinct gameplay styles: daytime segments that emphasize speed and platforming, similar to other 3D Sonic titles, and nighttime segments that focus on combat, where Sonic transforms into a more powerful but slower creature called the “Werehog,” a monstrous adaptation of himself.
Installation Requirements
It’s important to clarify that Unleashed Recompiled is essentially a technique for recompiling the game’s assets for use on Windows and Linux. The project does not include any game files, which players must source from their own legally owned version of the game. To enjoy Unleashed Recompiled, one must possess a copy of the Xbox 360 edition of Sonic Unleashed.
The game remains available for digital purchase via the Xbox online store at a price of $14.99, and it can be played on Xbox One as well as Xbox Series X|S. Notably, it seems that Sega may not be able to shut down the project since it doesn’t technically violate any of their intellectual property.
Enhanced Features
Unleashed Recompiled does more than just bring the game to PC; it adds several enhancements for players, including support for ultrawide displays, higher resolutions, better frame rates, and overall improved performance. Additionally, the project allows for user-created mods. For comprehensive details and setup instructions, you can check the GitHub page linked in the Sources section below.
System Requirements
Given the age of the title, the minimum system specifications are quite modest. Players will need a CPU like the Intel Sandy Bridge (2nd Gen) or AMD Bulldozer (FX series) or newer, along with a GPU that supports Direct3D 12 or Vulkan 1.2 (e.g., Nvidia GeForce GT 630, AMD Radeon HD 7750, or Intel HD Graphics 510). The game is compatible with either Windows 10 or a “modern Linux distro” (such as Ubuntu Linux 22.04) and requires between 6 and 10 GB of storage, depending on whether the downloadable content (DLC) is installed.
Source:
Link
Tags: Sonic Unleashed, Unleashed Recompiled, Xbox 360
March 3, 2025
Affordable Lenovo ThinkPad Laptops with 120Hz Screen at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 7 and E16 Gen 3 feature improved display options, with the E14 offering a 2.8K display and the E16 a 2.5K panel, both with better brightness and refresh rates.
2. Battery capacity has been increased to 64 Wh in both models, replacing the previous 57 Wh batteries.
3. The new ThinkPads use Intel’s Arrow Lake processors, with options for both Arrow Lake H and U, as well as possible AMD Ryzen 8040 series chips.
4. The design of the E series has been updated to reflect modern ThinkPad aesthetics, while maintaining the same specifications and port selection.
5. The expected launch date for the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 7 and E16 Gen 3 is April, with a price point of €670.
The E series ThinkPads serve as the starting point for those interested in the ThinkPad lineup. Historically, these budget-friendly office laptops have struggled with poor displays, often featuring low brightness and lackluster color accuracy.
New Screen Options
However, the latest models might signal a turnaround: the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 7 and Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 3 are set to launch with improved screens. While the basic version of the display still exists, the upgraded option is now significantly enhanced: the E14 Gen 7 boasts a 2.8K display with 400 cd/m² brightness and a refresh rate of 120 Hz, while the E16 Gen 3 offers a 2.5K panel with identical specifications.
Battery Improvements
In addition to the screen upgrades, Lenovo has also increased the battery capacity. The E14 Gen 7 and E16 Gen 3 come equipped with a 64 Wh battery, replacing the 57 Wh battery found in the E14 Gen 6 (available on Amazon) and E16 Gen 2. These new ThinkPads are powered by Intel’s Arrow Lake processors, featuring both Arrow Lake H and Arrow Lake U options. There is also the choice of the Raptor Lake Refresh series and unspecified AMD processors, which we anticipate will be the new Ryzen 8040 series chips.
Design and Pricing
The chassis of the updated E series has been entirely reworked, though the fundamental specifications and port selection remain unchanged. The design now reflects the latest ThinkPad aesthetics, with black logos and a slightly elevated webcam bar.
The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 7 and E16 Gen 3 are expected to hit stores in April, priced at €670.
Tags: Lenovo Laptops, ThinkPad E14 Gen 7, ThinkPad E16 Gen 3
March 3, 2025
HMD’s Fusion X1: First Kids’ Smartphone at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. The HMD Fusion X1 is marketed as the first smartphone designed specifically for teenagers, developed through The Better Phone Project in collaboration with Xplora.
2. The device includes safety features based on a survey of 25,000 parents and children, addressing concerns about harassment and bullying.
3. The HMD Fusion X1 is a modified version of the HMD Fusion phone, incorporating custom software for parental oversight, available for a monthly fee of €4.99.
4. Parents can set location alerts, approve apps, create screen time limits, and monitor their child’s location history with the device.
5. Additional features include social media restrictions, emergency SOS calling, and a design that allows for easy repairs and various case attachments.
The HMD Fusion X1 is one of the few new devices introduced by HMD at MWC 2025. Marketed as the first smartphone for teenagers, the HMD Fusion X1 comes from HMD’s The Better Phone Project. This product was developed in collaboration with Xplora, a company recognized for creating smartwatches designed for children.
Safety Features for Kids
After conducting a survey with 25,000 parents and children in Australia, India, the UAE, the UK, and the US, HMD made the decision to design a series of smartphones aimed at children, incorporating safety features. The survey highlighted that many kids experienced harassment, bullying, or unwanted contact from strangers, emphasizing the necessity for phones that can safeguard children both online and offline.
Custom Software and Pricing
The HMD Fusion X1 marks the first smartphone in this new product line; however, it is essentially a modified version of the HMD Fusion modular phone, which is currently available on Amazon for $299.99. The key distinction between the HMD Fusion X1 and the standard model is that the former includes a custom software that allows parents to oversee their child’s smartphone usage.
For a monthly fee of €4.99, parents can establish location alerts, approve apps, create screen time limits, and screen contacts. They will also have real-time access to their child’s whereabouts, with options to set safe zones for up to ten locations and receive notifications when their child enters or exits these zones. Moreover, parents can review the last three days of location history.
Additional Features for Both Parents and Kids
The HMD Fusion X1 also empowers parents to restrict or eliminate access to social media and includes a school mode to minimize distractions. Additional features encompass emergency SOS calling, low battery alerts, and remote access for parents.
For children, the device offers a contemporary yet secure smartphone experience. Kids can request additional screen time from their parents remotely. Additionally, since the phone is fundamentally the HMD Fusion, it boasts features like a 108MP rear camera and various case attachments, including the Fusion Gaming Outfit, Fusion Rugged Outfit, and Fusion Flashy Outfit, all of which easily connect to the back of the phone. The phone’s design also allows for straightforward repairs.
HMD has not yet revealed information regarding the pricing and availability of the HMD Fusion X1, but interested customers can register on the HMD website to receive updates as more information about the phone becomes available.
Source:
Link
Tags: HMD Fusion X1, smartphone for teens, The Better Phone Project