Category: All News

  • Realme 12 Pro Series China Launch Date Confirmed; Realme 12+ 5G May Join

    Realme 12 Pro Series China Launch Date Confirmed; Realme 12+ 5G May Join

    Last month, Realme introduced the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ for the global market, including India. The Chinese division of the brand initially announced that the Realme 12 Pro series would make its debut in February in China. Recently, the brand has officially confirmed that the series is set to be unveiled at 2pm on Feb. 27 in China.

    Realme 12 Pro, 12 Pro+ Specifications

    The Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ for China are anticipated to come with similar specifications to their global variants. Both devices feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED curved-edge display offering an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an under-display fingerprint scanner. Additionally, both phones are equipped with a 5,000mAh battery supported by 67W fast charging capabilities.

    Realme 12 Pro China Launch Date

    The Realme 12 Pro series is expected to provide up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of storage in the global market. The Pro model boasts a 16-megapixel front camera, while its rear panel houses a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 main camera with OIS support, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 telephoto lens featuring 2x optical zoom.

    On the other hand, the Realme 12 Pro+ features a 32-megapixel Sony IMX709 front-facing camera. The device’s back panel houses a 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 primary camera with OIS support, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 64-megapixel Ov64 periscope telephoto camera equipped with 3x optical zoom. The series runs on Realme UI 5-based Android 14.

    Realme Teases Realme 12+ 5G Smartphone

    Realme has begun teasing the Realme 12+ 5G smartphone in India. The device is set to launch on Feb. 29 in Malaysia. As the device’s specifications were revealed through TENAA certification in China, it is likely that the 12+ will be unveiled alongside the 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ on Feb. 27 in China. The 12+ is expected to feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz flat display, a Dimensity 7050 chipset, a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging, a 16-megapixel front camera, and a 50-megapixel + 8-megapixel + 2-megapixel triple camera system on the back.

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  • Chinese Giant BYD to Launch More Luxury EV Models This Year

    Chinese Giant BYD to Launch More Luxury EV Models This Year

    BYD, short for Build Your Dreams, has been making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) and battery technology sector, emerging from its roots as a modest battery manufacturer in China to become a global leader in electric transportation. The company's success can be attributed to its innovative approach to EVs, encompassing passenger cars, buses, trucks, and advancements in rechargeable batteries. By expanding its presence worldwide, BYD is not only shaping China's electric future but also posing a challenge to established automotive giants internationally.

    BYD's Focus on Luxury Car Models

    BYD recently disclosed its plans to introduce luxury car models, marking a strategic shift in its product offerings. The announcement, made through a filing with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, underscores the company's commitment to emphasizing quality and profitability in its automotive division. This move signals a significant milestone for BYD and underscores its intent to compete with upscale car brands, signaling a new era of expansion and diversification.

    Venturing into the Luxury Car Segment

    By entering the luxury car market, BYD is signaling its ambition to not only diversify its product portfolio but also to set new standards in quality and innovation. This strategic decision reflects the company's dedication to providing customers with distinctive and high-quality options, challenging traditional perceptions of luxury vehicles. With its expertise in electric technology, BYD's foray into luxury cars is expected to introduce fresh perspectives, particularly appealing to eco-conscious consumers seeking sustainable yet luxurious driving experiences.

    Potential Impact on the Automotive Industry

    The introduction of luxury car models by BYD is poised to disrupt the automotive industry landscape, offering consumers a wider array of choices in the premium vehicle segment. Building on its previous success with high-end models like the YangWang U8 Luxury EV, BYD is well-positioned to redefine luxury in the electric vehicle market, catering to discerning buyers who prioritize environmental sustainability alongside luxury amenities. This strategic move underscores BYD's commitment to innovation and sets the stage for an exciting evolution in the realm of luxury electric vehicles.

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  • Samsung Commemorates Twin Panda Cubs with Exclusive Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Edition

    Samsung Commemorates Twin Panda Cubs with Exclusive Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Edition

    Samsung has recently introduced a special edition of its Galaxy Buds 2 Pro in South Korea, known as the “Twin Bao” edition. This unique release is inspired by the birth of twin panda cubs, Hui Bao and Rui Bao, at Samsung’s Everland theme park.

    The limited-edition package includes the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro along with charming Twin Bao cases. Consumers also have the option to purchase the cases separately if they desire.

    Unique Pairings

    Samsung has thoughtfully paired the two color variants of the buds with distinct cases. The graphite Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is coupled with the Rui Bao case, while the white version comes with the Hui Bao case.

    Born on July 7th, 2023, the names of the cubs, Hui Bao which means “shining treasure” and Rui Bao which means “wise treasure,” are reflected in the Twin Bao cases, showcasing intricate details of the pandas’ facial features and markings.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Twin Bao edition is priced at KRW 195,000 ($146) on Samsung.com from February 21st, 2024. The standalone cases are available for KRW 42,900 ($32) and are compatible with Galaxy Buds FE, Live, 2, and Pro models.

    Want to experience them firsthand? The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Twin Bao edition is being showcased at select Samsung retail outlets in South Korea, including Samsung Gangnam, Bucheon Jung-dong, Starfield Hanam, The Hyundai Seoul, and more.

    Impressive Specifications

    In terms of specifications, the Twin Bao edition of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro boasts the same features as the standard model. This includes active Noise Cancellation (ANC) of up to 33dB, transparency mode, and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.

    These earbuds are designed with IPX7 water resistance, making them resistant to water and splashes. Each bud is equipped with 10mm drivers that provide 24-bit Hi-Fi sound and 360-degree audio for an immersive listening experience.

    Moreover, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro includes a Dolby Head Tracking feature and three microphones to ensure clear voice transmission during calls. With ANC turned off, the battery life lasts up to 8 hours on a single charge, and with the charging case, it extends to up to 29 hours.

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  • ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra Certification in Europe Signals Upcoming Launch

    ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra Certification in Europe Signals Upcoming Launch

    ASUS is preparing to introduce a new flagship-grade smartphone named the Zenfone 11 Ultra in the near future. While an official release date has not been confirmed yet, a recent European certification suggests that the launch might be imminent.

    ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra Certified on EEC

    The upcoming Zenfone 11 Ultra model from the Taiwanese brand has received certification on the EEC platform. Identified with the model number AI2401, there are speculations that it could possibly be a rebranded version of the ROG Phone 8. Unfortunately, specific details about the device’s specifications were not disclosed in this database. However, based on available information, a GeekBench listing has revealed that it will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.

    The benchmarking platform has also confirmed that the Zenfone 11 Ultra will come with Android 14 OS out of the box and will offer a variant with 16GB of RAM. Impressively, it achieved scores of 2226 and 6949 points in the single-core and multi-core tests, respectively. Furthermore, the smartphone has been spotted in recent certifications from the Google Play Console, SDPPI, and Bluetooth SIG.

    Leaked Details and Renders

    In a separate report, high-resolution renders of the Zenfone 11 Ultra have surfaced online, showcasing various color variants. The options include Eternal Black, Skyline Blue, Misty Gray, Verdure Green, and Desert Sienna. While these visuals provide a glimpse of the upcoming device, detailed specifications and features are yet to be fully disclosed.

    Stay tuned for further updates as more information or leaks emerge regarding the ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra.

    Specifications

    • Model Number: AI2401
    • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
    • RAM: 16GB
    • Operating System: Android 14
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  • Luxury Airline Beond to Introduce Apple Vision Pro on Flights

    Luxury Airline Beond to Introduce Apple Vision Pro on Flights

    Beond Airlines, a newly established luxury airline, has created a buzz in the aviation industry by being the first airline to introduce Apple Vision Pro headsets for select passengers, elevating the inflight entertainment experience through cutting-edge technology.

    A Luxurious Upgrade

    Tero Taskila, the Chairman and CEO of Beond Airlines, has unveiled this groundbreaking move, emphasizing the airline's dedication to delivering a premium travel experience from beginning to end.

    The Apple Vision Pro, with a starting price of $3499, boasts advanced features such as the M2 chip for computing and the R1 chip for processing data from various lenses, sensors, and microphones. These components work together to offer a seamless and immersive mixed reality content viewing experience.

    Innovative Travel Entertainment

    Tailored by Apple with a travel mode designed specifically for air travel, the Vision Pro allows passengers to indulge in movies on a large virtual screen, enhancing the enjoyment and privacy of long-haul flights. This unique feature has been lauded for its potential to significantly improve passenger comfort and entertainment during flights.

    Beond Airlines intends to leverage the Vision Pro to not only present regular content but also showcase captivating visuals of resort destinations and activities in the Maldives, building anticipation and excitement among passengers before they reach their destination.

    Future Plans

    Scheduled to launch in July 2024, this service coincides with Beond Airlines' plans to expand flight services from key cities worldwide to Malé, Maldives, offering fully flat seating configurations for an unparalleled travel experience.

    However, the specifics of which passengers will be eligible for the Vision Pro experience have not been clarified by Beond, sparking speculation. Additionally, concerns regarding hygiene may arise with shared headsets, particularly in a post-pandemic environment.

    The response to the Apple Vision Pro from users, critics, and the public has been varied. While some individuals are returning their headsets due to comfort issues and skepticism about its everyday utility, complaints have surfaced about discomfort, headaches, motion sickness, and doubts about practicality.

    Despite these challenges, the inclusion of Apple Vision Pro on Beond flights marks a significant milestone in the advancement of inflight entertainment, offering passengers an unparalleled level of immersion and customization in their travel adventures.

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  • Meizu Exits Smartphone Market, Shifts Focus to AI Technology

    Meizu Exits Smartphone Market, Shifts Focus to AI Technology

    Meizu, a prominent Chinese technology company, has recently taken a bold strategic step by announcing the halting of new smartphone development. Instead, the company is redirecting its focus towards the creation of next-generation devices powered by artificial intelligence (AI), embracing an “All in AI” approach to innovation.

    A Shift Towards AI

    This transition signifies a pivotal moment for Meizu as it pivots from being solely a mobile phone company to evolving into an “ecological group.” Shen Ziyu, Chairman and CEO of Xingji Meizu Group, highlighted this transformation, emphasizing the shift towards AI-driven technologies as the future direction of the company.

    Meizu has made significant progress in developing immersive multi-terminal experiences and establishing strategic partnerships through its Unbounded Zhixing open platform. The MYVU brand by Meizu has also solidified its position as a front-runner in the realm of AR glasses, showcasing the company’s commitment to cutting-edge technologies.

    Acknowledging the changing dynamics of the smartphone market, Shen Ziyu noted that consumers are now holding onto their devices for extended periods before upgrading, with an average of 51 months between purchases. This trend is fueled by the comparable performance levels offered by smartphones across different brands in terms of features, camera quality, and overall user experience.

    The current landscape of smartphone innovation is characterized by an intense competition focused on incremental upgrades such as increased memory, larger camera sensors, and faster charging capabilities. Meizu recognizes the industry shift towards a “stacked parameters” approach where brands engage in tactics like highlighting shortcomings of competitors to gain attention.

    Strategic Decisions and Future Plans

    In response to these market dynamics, Meizu has chosen to step away from its smartphone business, leading to the cancellation of upcoming models like the Meizu 21 Pro, Meizu 22, and Meizu 23. This decision aligns with Meizu’s history of adapting to emerging technologies, such as transitioning from MP3 players to smartphones during previous market shifts.

    The company’s strategic realignment towards AI involves extensive preparations, including team building, resource allocation, and product planning. Meizu aims to launch a new mobile operating system tailored for the AI era in 2024 and introduce its first AI hardware product later this year, marking a significant milestone in its technological evolution.

    Embracing AI Technologies

    Former Meizu executive Li Nan has expressed support for the company’s strategic shift, emphasizing the importance of embracing AI for future growth and innovation. Meizu’s commitment to developing open hardware solutions for AI applications demonstrates its dedication to advancing technology in collaboration with its user base.

    Despite the transition away from smartphone development, Meizu reassures its customers that ongoing support for existing products and services will continue without disruption. The company’s offline stores across China will remain accessible to users, ensuring a seamless experience for consumers.

    In conclusion, Meizu’s decision to prioritize AI-driven technologies underscores its commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and adapting to evolving market trends. By embracing AI as a core focus, Meizu positions itself for continued success in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

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  • LineageOS 21 Custom ROM Launched: Android 14 Based with New Features

    LineageOS 21 Custom ROM Launched: Android 14 Based with New Features

    LineageOS, a well-known alternative to conventional Android operating systems, has recently unveiled its newest iteration, LineageOS 21, which is based on Android 14. Despite arriving five months following the launch of Android 14, this update sets itself apart with a strong emphasis on quality and stability. Renowned for providing a bloatware-free, rigorously tested operating system, LineageOS continues to be a favored choice among Android enthusiasts who prioritize reliability.

    Enhanced Features and User Experience

    With LineageOS 21, users not only receive all the fundamental features of Android 14 but also benefit from exclusive additions that enhance the overall user experience. One notable enhancement is the introduction of Glimpse, a fresh gallery application that replaces the default Gallery2. Glimpse offers advanced features for managing photos and videos, elevating the user’s media experience. Furthermore, the update revamps the Aperture camera app by incorporating Material You design principles, ensuring a more user-friendly and visually appealing interface.

    Improved Browser and App Updates

    The update extends beyond visual enhancements; the Jelly browser has undergone a redesign, now featuring enhanced privacy controls for a more secure browsing experience. Moreover, essential apps such as LatinIME, Calculator, and Messaging have also been updated with Material You elements, aligning them with the contemporary design language of Android.

    Availability and Upgrading

    LineageOS 21 is currently accessible for a limited range of devices. Users interested in upgrading can verify device compatibility on the official LineageOS downloads page.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 Now Available for Purchase in the US – Get Yours Today!

    Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 Now Available for Purchase in the US – Get Yours Today!

    Samsung has just released its latest rugged tablet, the Galaxy Tab Active 5, to the US market after its official announcement in January 2024. Geared towards fulfilling business requirements, this new device outshines its forerunner, the Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro, in crucial aspects.

    Enhanced Features for Business

    The Galaxy Tab Active 5 is tailored for US business clients in a unique Enterprise Edition. The base model is priced at $548.99, while the 5G variant is available for $659. Though these rates may seem high for a tablet, it's important to note that this device is not designed for casual everyday use but rather for demanding work environments.

    Specifications Overview

    This rugged tablet, the Galaxy Tab Active 5, is crafted to endure severe conditions. It holds MIL-STD-810H certification and includes a protective case capable of withstanding drops from heights of up to 12 meters. Additionally, it boasts dustproof and waterproof features with an IP68 rating, alongside scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass 5.

    Technical Details

    On the front, the Galaxy Tab Active 5 sports an 8-inch FHD display with a remarkable 120Hz refresh rate. In terms of photography, users can utilize a 13MP primary camera and a 5MP front camera for selfies.

    Under the hood, the tablet is equipped with the Exynos 1380 chipset, accompanied by either 6GB or 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, expandable through a microSD card slot. While Samsung is known for its prompt software updates, the Tab Active 5 currently operates on the older Android 12 version, with an expected upgrade in the pipeline.

    To ensure continuous operation, a robust 5,050mAh battery powers the device. Security features include a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, an Active key on the side for quick access, and connectivity options like dual SIM support, 5G compatibility, pogo pins, USB-C port, and Wi-Fi 6.

    Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 Now Available for Purchase in the US - Get Yours Today!

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  • Acer Predator XB273K V3: 27″ 4K IPS 160Hz Gaming Monitor Released in Europe

    Acer Predator XB273K V3: 27″ 4K IPS 160Hz Gaming Monitor Released in Europe

    Acer has expanded its Predator gaming monitor lineup with the introduction of the Predator XB273K V3 in Europe, offering a host of features tailored for gamers and tech enthusiasts. This new model is priced at €500. Let’s explore its key specifications in detail.

    Acer Predator XB273K V3 Specifications:

    The Predator XB273K V3 features a 27-inch 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) IPS display with a pixel density of 163 PPI, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals with a wide color gamut. The monitor boasts a refresh rate of up to 160Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay while minimizing motion blur. With a typical brightness of 400 nits and VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification, it provides excellent contrast and brightness levels for enhanced gaming visuals with depth and realism.

    Impressive Display and Performance Features:

    The standout feature of the Predator XB273K V3 is its 0.5ms VRB (Visual Response Boost) response time, which reduces ghosting and blur in fast-paced scenes, making it ideal for competitive gaming. It supports both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync technologies, offering a tear-free gaming experience by synchronizing the display’s refresh rate with the GPU output.

    Connectivity and Design:

    In terms of connectivity, the monitor is equipped with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4 input, and a headphone jack. It also features two 2W speakers to meet basic audio needs. The design of the Predator XB273K V3 combines aesthetics and functionality, featuring a sleek, modern look with a slim bezel for an immersive visual experience. The anti-glare matte finish reduces reflections, ensuring clear visibility in varying lighting conditions.

    Comfort and Ergonomics:

    To enhance user comfort, the monitor includes flicker-free technology and a low blue light filter that helps reduce eye strain during extended gaming sessions. The Predator XB273K V3 also offers extensive ergonomic features such as a removable stand, height adjustment with a range of 150mm, and the ability to swivel left and right up to 25 degrees. It supports VESA mounting with a 100 x 100 mm interface for wall installation, along with forward tilt up to 5 degrees and backward tilt up to 25 degrees.

    Earlier this month, Acer introduced the SA272U E monitor with a 100Hz refresh rate in India.

    If you want to check out images of the Predator XB273K V3, you can view them here and here.

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  • Android 15 Introduces Notification Cooldown Feature to Address Notification Overload

    Android 15 Introduces Notification Cooldown Feature to Address Notification Overload

    While the first Android 15 developer preview focused less on visual overhauls, it introduces a practical feature called “Notification Cooldown.” This feature addresses the annoyance of constantly buzzing or beeping phones due to a stream of repetitive notifications.

    The concept is straightforward — if your phone receives multiple notifications from the same app within a short timeframe, Notification Cooldown progressively lowers the volume and vibration intensity of these subsequent notifications.

    Notification Cooldown Feature

    This offers relief from the distraction of endless buzzing caused by chatty contacts or active group threads. If you have apps where every notification is crucial, Google allows the option to apply Notification Cooldown exclusively to conversations.

    Also to note, this ‘cooldown’ isn’t permanent. After a brief pause in the conversation, notifications will go back to full volume. If you need all alerts at maximum volume (for work, or on-call situations), the feature can be easily disabled.

    Enabling/Disabling “Notification Cooldown”

    Google’s enabled this feature automatically in the developer preview, but if you’re using it, here’s how to customize it:

    1. Open your device’s “Settings” app.
    2. Tap on “Notifications”.
    3. Scroll down and choose “Notification Cooldown”.
    4. Your options:
      • “Apply cooldown to all notifications” for comprehensive quiet.
      • “Apply cooldown to conversations” to target chattiness.
      • “Don’t use notification cooldown” to turn the feature off entirely.

    The Future of Notification Cooldown

    As Android 15 progresses, Google could further improve Notification Cooldown. An ideal addition would be customization on a per-app basis, allowing users to fine-tune which apps have this calming feature applied.

    Even in its initial form, “Notification Cooldown” has the potential to simplify how we manage notifications on our devices.

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