Category: All News

February 7, 2024

Redmi A3 Debuts in India on Valentine’s Day, Flaunts 90Hz Display & USB-C Charging

Xiaomi is set to unveil a new Redmi A series smartphone in India soon. While there was no word regarding the Redmi A3 release, the latest announcement has confirmed its launch date. The Redmi A3 drops in India on Valentine’s Day, with the teaser also confirming some key features as well.

Redmi A3 India launch set for Feb 14

The Chinese tech giant’s Redmi A3 will be unveiled in the region on 14th February 2024. A dedicated microsite has also gone live on the brand’s official Indian website, which reveals certain specs. The upcoming device will offer a display with a 90Hz refresh rate and will be powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack. Design elements of the Redmi A3 were also teased, showcasing a premium Halo design.

Design and Specifications

In other words, the rear packs a circular camera island that houses the image sensors and LED flash module. The teaser hints at a green color option. Unfortunately, this was all the information that was shared on the website. But based on what we know so far, the device will sport a 6.71-inch LCD panel and an 8-megapixel selfie camera on the front, while the rear features a 13-megapixel dual camera setup.

Under the hood, it could feature a MediaTek chipset that is paired with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The smartphone will likely run on Android 13 Go Edition and standard 10W charging. Xiaomi’s Redmi A3 is rumored to launch in multiple color options, namely Green, Blue, and Black. So stick around for more, as we will be covering the release next week.

Tags: India launch, Redmi A3
February 7, 2024

Alleged Google Pixel Fold 2 in Development, Features Tensor G4 and 16GB RAM

Last year, Google announced its entry into the foldable phone market with the Google Pixel Fold. Now, rumors suggest that the brand is preparing to unveil its successor, the Pixel Fold 2. A recent report by Android Authority has provided some insights into the key specifications of the upcoming device, as well as its expected launch timeframe.

Google Pixel Fold 2 Key Specifications (Rumored)

According to an anonymous source mentioned in the report, Google has been conducting internal tests on the Pixel Fold 2 for the past few months. It has been discovered that the prototype units of the Pixel Fold 2 are powered by a chipset codenamed “zumapro.” This is interesting because the previous Pixel 8 series was powered by the Tensor G3 chip, which had the codename “zuma.” This suggests that the zumapro chip could be the next-generation Tensor G4 chip for the Pixel Fold 2. It’s worth noting that the original Pixel Fold 2 featured the Tensor G2 chip.

The Tensor G4 chip is expected to be manufactured by Samsung and will likely come equipped with ARM Cortex-X4, A720, and A520 CPU cores. In terms of memory and storage, the Pixel Fold 2 is rumored to have 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256 GB of UFS 4.0 storage. This is a significant upgrade compared to the original Pixel Fold, which had 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. Additionally, there are speculations that the Pixel Fold 2 may also feature the rumored Pixel AI assistant.

Google Pixel Fold 2 Launch Timeframe (Rumored)

According to the report, the Pixel Fold 2 is currently in the Engineering Validation Test (EVT) stage. This suggests that it may still be several months away from entering mass production. Google is expected to unveil the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro in October this year, both featuring the Tensor G4 chip. With the Pixel Fold 2 also rumored to have the same chip, there is a possibility that it may be launched alongside the Pixel 9 series.

Tags: google, Pixel Fold 2, Tensor G4
February 7, 2024

URBN Traveler and Urban Laptop Backpacks Unveiled by Asus India
A major consumer electronics manufacturer, Asus, has expanded its product lineup with the launch of two new backpacks, the URBN Traveler and URBN Laptop Backpack. These stylish and modern bags are designed to cater to individuals who desire a professional-looking bag for their everyday work needs.

Perfect Protection for Electronics

As a brand known for its electronics, Asus has ensured that both backpacks offer high-quality cushioning to protect your devices from accidental falls and damage. Whether you are constantly on the move for work or travel, these backpacks are tailored to meet the needs of modern individuals.

The URBN Traveler Series

The URBN Traveler series combines innovation and style, providing an elevated experience for urban professionals and modern explorers alike. These backpacks are versatile enough to be used for work, university, or travel while keeping you trendy and stylish.

Featuring two large front pockets, dual mesh side pockets for water bottles, and an impressive 18L carrying capacity, these feature-rich backpacks offer practicality without compromising on style. They also come with two internal accessory pockets and a luggage strap, enhancing their functionality for everyday use.

ASUS AP1600 Backpack

The ASUS AP1600 Backpack, available in an elite midnight blue color, is specifically designed for 16” ROG/ASUS laptops. Weighing only 540 grams, this backpack is lightweight and features a comfortable luggage strap for ease of use. It is priced at Rs 840 and can be purchased from the Asus e-store and all ASUS exclusive stores in India.

ASUS AP1601 Backpack

For those with 15.3” ROG/ASUS laptops, the ASUS AP1601 Backpack is the perfect choice. It comes in a stylish charcoal grey color and offers ample capacity despite its lightweight design. This backpack is ideal for travelers who prioritize mobility without compromising on storage space. It is available for Rs 719 and can be purchased from the ASUS e-shop, Flipkart, Amazon, as well as multi-brand retailers including Reliance Digital, Croma, and Vijay Sales.
Tags: ASUS, India
February 7, 2024

TSMC and Toyota Prepare for $5.26 Billion Investment in New Semiconductor Plant in Japan
TSMC Announces Construction of Second Semiconductor Plant in Japan

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) is set to make a significant advancement in Japan with the announcement of the construction of a second semiconductor plant. This move, backed by new investor Toyota Motor Corp, will bring about a major shift in the global chip manufacturing landscape.

Expansion in Kumamoto Prefecture

TSMC, globally recognized as the leading contract chip maker, is expanding its presence in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. This strategic initiative aligns with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s vision of enhancing Japan’s semiconductor production capabilities.

Collaboration with Toyota

The collaboration between TSMC and Toyota is a notable cross-industry effort to strengthen the semiconductor supply chain, a critical component for various technologies ranging from vehicles to smartphones. The investment for the new facility is capped at US$5.26 billion, with a focus on advancing semiconductor technology through the addition of 6- and 7-nanometre process technologies at the new site.

Commitment to Innovation and Job Creation

The construction of the new plant is scheduled to begin later this year and is expected to be operational by 2027. This project goes beyond manufacturing expansion; it represents a commitment to innovation and technological advancement. The new facility has the potential to produce over 100,000 12-inch wafers monthly and create more than 3,400 high-tech jobs.

Addressing Semiconductor Supply Chain Challenges

This development comes at a time when countries are increasingly aware of the need for a robust semiconductor supply chain. Recent global shortages have highlighted the impact on industries such as automotive and consumer electronics. The construction of the second semiconductor plant in Japan by TSMC, with the support of Toyota, aims to address these challenges and strengthen the global chip manufacturing ecosystem.
Tags: Semiconductor Plant, Toyota, TSMC
February 7, 2024

Newly Launched Sennheiser Accentum Plus Wireless Headphones Available in India at a Special Price of INR 14,990 (~$180)

After making its debut in China and showcasing at CES 2024, Sennheiser has now launched its ACCENTUM series in India with the introduction of the ACCENTUM Plus wireless headphones. These headphones are designed to offer exceptional audio quality, comfort, and durability at a competitive price point, providing users with an immersive listening experience. Additionally, they come with touch controls and quick charging capabilities to enhance convenience.

Sennheiser Accentum Plus Pricing and Availability

The Sennheiser Accentum Plus is available for pre-orders at a price of Rs 15,990. It comes in black and white color options. For a limited time, the company is offering a Rs 1000 discount, valid until February 13. Users can pre-book the headphones on Amazon.in or the Sennheiser Webshop.

Sennheiser Accentum Plus Features

The Sennheiser Accentum Plus wireless headphones are designed to be the perfect on-the-go audio companion. They feature hybrid ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and boast an impressive 50-hour battery life on a single full charge. With Bluetooth 5.2, the headphones support all popular codecs, including aptX Adaptive, ensuring outstanding sound quality. The 37mm dynamic drivers deliver high-quality audio without compromising on the details. Additionally, the headphones have a dual-microphone setup for noise reduction during calls.

According to Vijay Sharma, General Manager of Sennheiser Consumer business in India, “We are thrilled to introduce the ACCENTUM series to India, representing a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering exceptional audio experiences to our price-conscious listeners. The launch of the ACCENTUM Plus wireless headphones reaffirms Sennheiser’s dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. The ACCENTUM Plus sits right in the sweet spot of blissful sound and convenient technology.”

Design and Controls

The Sennheiser Accentum Plus headphones are designed for a comfortable experience with soft ear cushions. They feature a silicon headband and a rotatable design for easy wear. The headphones also come with touch controls that simplify overall control. They have a foldable design and come with a protective zip-storage case, making them easy to carry while traveling. The headphones allow users to manage media controls, listening levels, and switch between different modes.

Users can pair the Sennheiser headphones with the Smart Control App, which offers various audio-centric features. The headphones also feature Sennheiser’s Sound Personalization mode, allowing users to customize their audio experience.

In terms of charging, the Sennheiser Accentum Plus headphones come with quick charge technology, providing 5 hours of listening time in just 10 minutes.

Tags: ACCENTUM Plus headphones, Sennheiser, Wireless Headphones
February 7, 2024

Redmi G Pro Mini LED Gaming Monitor: Now at 2199 Yuan (~$300) for 27-inch Display
Xiaomi has unveiled its latest addition to the Redmi display lineup with the launch of the Redmi G Pro 27-inch monitor, now available for pre-sale on JD.com. Customers can secure this cutting-edge display at a pre-sale price of 2,199 yuan (~$300). The Redmi G Pro 27 boasts impressive features and specifications aimed at delivering a premium visual experience for users.

Technical details of this Mini LED gaming monitor

Equipped with 1152 partition Mini LED technology and 4608 lamp beads, the Redmi G Pro 27 promises precise control over screen brightness and detail, ensuring a visually immersive experience. Offering four-level light control modes and a dynamic backlight function, users can tailor their display settings to suit various usage scenarios, whether it’s gaming, multimedia consumption, or professional tasks.

This monitor sets itself apart with its remarkable specifications.

It offers a peak brightness of 1000 nits and a black point brightness of 0.001 nits, coupled with HDR1000 support and a dynamic contrast ratio of 1000000:1. In short, the Redmi G Pro 27 delivers stunning visuals with deep blacks and vibrant highlights. Moreover, its impressive 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms GTG response time ensure smooth, blur-free motion and fast-paced gaming experiences, complemented by FreeSync anti-tearing technology for seamless gameplay.

Designed with eye comfort in mind

In terms of eye comfort and color accuracy, the Redmi G Pro 27 doesn’t disappoint. It has obtained TÜV low blue light certification, allowing users to filter short-wave blue light when the low blue light mode is activated, reducing eye strain during prolonged use. Additionally, with support for 100% sRGB, 99% DCI-P3, and 97% Adobe RGB color gamuts, along with a color accuracy of ΔE<2 and a 10-bit color depth, this monitor delivers precise, true-to-life colors with over 1.07 billion colors available.

Three-sided narrow frame design with joystick control

Visually striking both inside and out, the Redmi G Pro 27 features a sleek three-sided narrow frame design and convenient joystick control for easy navigation of settings. The stand offers versatile adjustments, including front and rear pitching, up and down lifting, left and right rotation, and even vertical screen rotation, ensuring optimal viewing comfort for users.

Available ports:
- 2 x DP1.4
- 2 x HDMI 2.0
In summary, the Redmi G Pro 27-inch monitor presents a compelling option for users seeking a high-performance display for gaming, content creation, and professional tasks.
Tags: Gaming Monitor, redmi
February 7, 2024

Leaked Ahead of Launch: Battery Size of Xiaomi 14 Ultra Revealed
The highly anticipated global release of the Xiaomi 14 series is right around the corner. The flagship lineup is expected to consist of the Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Ultra (14 Pro rumored to skip global launch), and now, a fresh ahead of the announcement has revealed the battery specs of the top end Ultra model. So let’s have a look.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Battery

The Chinese tech giant is going to host a global launch event on 25th February 2024. But ahead of the official release, known tipster Digital Chat Station shared new information regarding the Xiaomi 14 Ultra on Weibo (a Chinese microblogging website). The premium grade handset is rumored to be equipped with a 5,180mAh battery pack. This is likely the rated value so its typical value could likely be around a 5,300mAh capacity.

Speculations on Charging and Processor

In a previous report, we covered another leak, which claimed that the upcoming device will offer 80W wireless fast charging and 100W wired fast charging. Similar to the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra could likely be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, which is paired with up to 16GB of RAM. The 14 Ultra is the flagship model that promises to offer a top notch photography experience.

Camera, Software, and Certifications

The rear packs a 50-megapixel Sony LYT900 primary camera. Xiaomi 14 Ultra would likely run on the Android 14 OS out of the box. Recently, the device received certification on major platforms like TUV Rheinland and IMDA. Meanwhile, a GeekBench listing showcased its synthetic benchmark performance. So stick around for more, as we will be covering the launch event later this month.
Tags: battery size, Xiaomi, Xiaomi 14 Ultra
February 7, 2024

Google Play Console listing reveals design and key specifications of Vivo Y200e 5G

In October 2023, Vivo announced the Vivo Y200 5G smartphone, equipped with the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chip, in India. Recent reports have revealed that the brand is working on a new phone dubbed the Vivo Y200 5G. The said device was recently spotted at the Bluetooth SIG certification and Geekbench. Now, 91mobiles has spotted the Google Play Console listing of the Vivo Y200e 5G.

Vivo Y200e 5G design, key specifications (rumored)

The Vivo Y200e 5G’s Play Console listing has an image of the device. As can be seen, it has revealed the front and rear design of the smartphone. On the front, it has a punch-hole screen and the blue-colored back panel has a rectangle module housing three cameras and an LED flash.

Differences from Vivo Y200 5G

The overall design of the phone is like the Vivo Y200 5G. However, one significant difference is that the Y200 5G has a dual-camera setup, whereas the Y200e has an extra camera.

Specifications

The Play Console listing mentions that the model number of the device as V2327. Just as the Geekbench listing did, the Play Console listing reveals that the device is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip. The SoC is mentioned with the model number SM4450 in the listing.

It further reveals that the Y200e 5G has an FHD+ display, but it is not clear whether it has an AMOLED or LCD panel. Most likely, it will have an AMOLED screen like the Y200. In addition, the listing reveals that the device has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage.

Expected Launch

The appearance of the Y200e 5G at Play Console, Geekbench, and Bluetooth SIG suggests that its launch is imminent. The phone may debut either by the end of this month or in March.

Tags: vivo, Vivo Y200e 5G
February 7, 2024

Leaked: Redmi A3 renders and price point ahead of Indian launch

Xiaomi is set to launch the Redmi A3, an entry-level smartphone, in India. According to information provided by 91Mobiles Hindi and tipster Paras Guglani, the base variant of the Redmi A3 will be priced under Rs 7,000, while a higher-end variant will come in under Rs 9,000.

Design and Specifications

The design and specifications of the Redmi A3 have been leaked prior to its launch. A recent report even showcased a live image of the device with a shiny, glass-like back. The smartphone is expected to feature a waterdrop-style notch and thin bezels on the top and sides. It will be available in three color options: Green, Blue, and Black. The back of the phone will house a circular camera module with dual cameras and an LED flash.

Display and Performance

The Redmi A3 is rumored to have a 6.71-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 400 nits. The leaked retail packaging images suggest that there will be a higher-end model with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The smartphone is expected to be equipped with a MediaTek chipset and run on Android 13 Go Edition.

Camera and Battery

The Redmi A3 is said to feature a 13MP primary camera accompanied by an AI lens, and an 8MP front camera for selfies. It is also rumored to have a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging support.

It is important to note that Xiaomi has not officially confirmed these details yet. More information is expected to be released by Xiaomi in the near future. We will provide further updates as they become available.

Tags: Indian launch, Redmi A3
February 7, 2024

OnePlus Executive Provides Insight into Four-Year Software Updates for OnePlus 12

OnePlus 12 was unveiled in 2023 and came with quite a lot of improvements compared to the OnePlus 11, particularly in the camera and battery department. However, when it comes to software updates, OnePlus is still not very active against other OEMs. Google Pixel 8 Pro and S24 Ultra will receive software updates for 7 years, however OnePlus 12 will only receive updates for 4-5 years.

OnePlus claims users don’t need long-term software support

For years, one of the worst things about Android devices compared to iOS devices has been the lack of long-term software updates. Apple has always continued to update iPhones for a long time. So much so that the iPhone X introduced in 2017 is still receiving security patches. Google and Samsung promise long software support, making them strong competition to Apple in the Android world.

OnePlus on the other hand, things are a little different. OnePlus’ president Kinder Liu explained in an exclusive interview with Tom’s Guide why OnePlus 12 will have 4 years of software support. Liu wants you to imagine that your phone looks like a sandwich!

OnePlus 12

Kinder Liu explains why the OnePlus 12 won’t have 7 years of software support: ‘It’s not just software update policies that are important to the user; it’s the fluency of your phone’s user experience too.’

Liu also stated: ‘Imagine your phone is a sandwich,” he said. “Some manufacturers are now saying that the filling in their sandwich — their phone’s software — will still be good to eat in seven years’ time. But what they’re not telling you is that the bread in the sandwich — the user experience — might be moldy after four years. Suddenly a seven-year software update policy doesn’t matter, because the rest of your experience with the phone is terrible.‘

OnePlus’s president, Kinder Liu, points out with this statement that being able to use the phone for a long time is more important than long software support. Liu also emphasizes that tests simulating many years of use on OnePlus phones have been conducted and that OnePlus phones can last for a long time.

Kinder Liu makes a valid point, but phones released recently now feature far better technology, such as more durable UFS storage chips rather than eMMC. Furthermore, each new phone released has only slight upgrades over its predecessor nowadays, so OEMs would rather offer more software support and release phones less frequently.

Tags: Oneplus, OnePlus 12, software updates