Category: All News

  • Nothing Phone 3a Update: 4K Video, Privacy Features, Camera Boosts

    Nothing Phone 3a Update: 4K Video, Privacy Features, Camera Boosts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Added 4K video recording for telephoto and periscope cameras.
    2. New Privacy Space feature for secure app access and distinct privacy passwords.
    3. Hotspot Manager for easier management of connected devices.
    4. Enhanced camera features, including improved selfie clarity and night photography.
    5. April Android security patch along with bug fixes and stability improvements.


    Nothing has rolled out a fresh update for the Nothing Phone (3a) and the Phone (3a) Pro, incorporating new features and system enhancements driven by user suggestions.

    Key Features Added

    The latest update introduces 4K video recording capabilities for the telephoto and periscope cameras, allowing users to capture sharper videos. Additionally, a new Privacy Space feature has been added, enabling users to swipe right in the app drawer to quickly access a secure area. There is also the option to create a distinct privacy password for both the App Locker and Privacy Space.

    Improvements in Functionality

    A Hotspot Manager has been included, simplifying the management of devices connected to the phone’s hotspot. Camera enhancements are noteworthy too, with improved selfie clarity, better facial detailing, and more lifelike colors. Night photography under streetlights has seen improvements, leading to enhanced image quality. Users can now apply filters on high-resolution 50MP pictures. Furthermore, the update enhances brightness and minimizes flicker when utilizing the telephoto camera in dim lighting.

    Security and Stability Updates

    This update also brings the April Android security patch, alongside general bug fixes and stability enhancements. The rollout is being executed in stages, and more Nothing Phone (3a) users will receive it shortly.

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  • Xiaomi Mijia Wireless Floor Washer 4 Pro: 21,000Pa Suction Power

    Xiaomi Mijia Wireless Floor Washer 4 Pro: 21,000Pa Suction Power

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Wireless Floor Washer 4 Pro features 21,000Pa suction power and an enhanced anti-tangle system, with a launch price of 1,999 yuan (approximately $275).

    2. It has a high-performance motor providing 134AW of suction and a five-level water control system for faster drying and reduced slip risk.

    3. The upgraded anti-hair-entanglement system can manage up to 3,000 strands of hair without clogging, making it suitable for pet owners or those with long hair.

    4. The comprehensive sterilization system, utilizing hot water and antibacterial materials, achieves a sterilization rate of up to 99.999% against common pathogens.

    5. With a 4000mAh battery, it offers up to 40 minutes of runtime, smart dirt detection, and user-friendly features like an LED display and voice prompts for maintenance.


    Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Wireless Floor Washer 4 Pro, expanding its range of smart home products. This new device is now available for pre-order on Xiaomi Youpin in China. It offers impressive suction power of 21,000Pa, an enhanced anti-tangle system, and a launch price of 1,999 yuan (approximately $275). Official sales are set to begin on April 29.

    Specifications of the Mijia Floor Washer 4 Pro

    The Mijia Floor Washer 4 Pro is powered by a high-performance motor that provides 134AW of suction and 23N of ground pressure, making it suitable for cleaning hard floors effectively. It is equipped with a five-level water control system that helps speed up drying times and lessens the risk of slipping.

    This washer features a newly crafted high-density roller brush along with a floating metal scraper bar. This setup scrapes dirt and moisture evenly, enhancing water absorption by 23% and scraping efficiency by 255% compared to older models. Xiaomi claims that the drying time is improved by 39%, and water spots are reduced by 41%.

    Advanced Anti-Hair Entanglement System

    An upgraded anti-hair-entanglement system, certified by TÜV Rheinland, is part of the design. Utilizing a shark tooth comb structure and strong suction, the washer can manage up to 3,000 strands of hair without clogging, making it a dependable option for households with pets or individuals with long hair.

    Hygiene is prioritized with a comprehensive sterilization system. This combines cleaning with 100°C hot water, electrolyzed water sterilization, 90°C hot air drying, and antibacterial roller materials. Xiaomi asserts that the system can achieve a sterilization rate of up to 99.999% against common pathogens like E. coli and Candida albicans. Additionally, it features a 120°C heat press to keep the brush soft and improve cleanliness.

    Battery Life and Smart Features

    The Mijia Floor Washer 4 Pro is powered by a significant 4000mAh battery, offering up to 40 minutes of runtime on a single charge, which is adequate for cleaning approximately 336 square meters. It includes a 1000mL clean water tank and a 700mL dirty water tank, enabling extended cleaning without interruptions.

    Smart dirt detection is incorporated through a high-precision sensor, which automatically adjusts suction power according to the dirt level detected. An LED display and voice prompts keep users informed about cleaning modes and maintenance requirements in real time.

    The dirty water tank features a solid-liquid separation system for simplified maintenance, while the roller brush is made from an antibacterial high-density material with a 17% increase in density for improved durability.

    For added convenience, the washer has a reinforced scratch-resistant body with IML brushed metal-style panels and can lay flat at 180°, allowing it to reach under beds and sofas easily.

  • Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro Gets 3 Years of Software Updates, Less Than Pad 7

    Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro Gets 3 Years of Software Updates, Less Than Pad 7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi introduced the Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro tablets in March, with initial uncertainty about software update duration.
    2. The Pad 7 will receive four major Android updates and security patches until 2031, while the Pad 7 Pro will receive only two Android updates and patches until 2028.
    3. The Pad 7 Pro, despite being pricier and having a more powerful processor, has a shorter software support timeline than the standard Pad 7.
    4. Both tablets feature an 11.2-inch display with 3.2K resolution, but differ in camera specifications and charging capabilities.
    5. The reason for the difference in software support between the two models is currently unclear, pending further clarification from Xiaomi.


    Xiaomi recently introduced its Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro tablets worldwide in March. However, they didn’t provide information on the duration of software updates for each device at that time.

    Clarification on Software Updates

    Now, the situation is clearer. Xiaomi has discreetly added both tablets to its Product Security Center, disclosing the number of years of platform updates and security patches for each model. Interestingly, there is a notable difference between the two.

    Pad 7 Pro’s Update Discrepancy

    As anticipated, the Pad 7 Pro is the pricier variant, equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor. Unexpectedly, Xiaomi has confirmed that the Pad 7 Pro will receive three fewer Android updates than the Pad 7, which is set to receive two major Android updates (up to Android 17) and security patches until 2028.

    On the other hand, the more budget-friendly Pad 7 boasts a longer support timeline. It is slated to receive four Android updates up to Android 19, with security updates lasting until 2031.

    Comparing Software Support

    In simpler terms, the Pad 7 is promised four years of software updates and six years of security patches, while the more premium Pad 7 Pro is only assured two years of software updates and three years of security patches.

    The reason behind this stark contrast in support between the two models remains unclear. We will provide updates if Xiaomi makes an official statement regarding this matter.

    Key Specifications

    Initially unveiled in October 2024 in China, both tablets come with an 11.2-inch display featuring a 3.2K resolution, a refresh rate of 144Hz, a 3:2 aspect ratio, and peak brightness of up to 800 nits.

    The standard Pad 7 runs on a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, includes an 8MP front camera, a 13MP rear camera, Wi-Fi 6E support, and a large 8,850mAh battery with 45W fast charging capabilities.

    In contrast, the Pad 7 Pro elevates the specs with a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip, a 32MP front camera, a 50MP main camera, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and quicker 67W charging. Nonetheless, it retains the same 8,850mAh battery capacity as the base model.

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  • T-Mobile Cuts Starlink Satellite Service Price 50% for Verizon, AT&T

    T-Mobile Cuts Starlink Satellite Service Price 50% for Verizon, AT&T

    Key Takeaways

    1. T-Mobile will reduce the monthly fee for Starlink connectivity to $10, significantly lower than AT&T and Verizon’s rates.
    2. The service currently offers limited messaging functionality, primarily for emergency texts, but is expected to expand to voice and data services in the future.
    3. T-Mobile’s Starlink service will be available to customers of AT&T and Verizon, not just T-Mobile users.
    4. Virtual eSIM cards will allow users to access Starlink connectivity while using multiple carriers simultaneously.
    5. T-Mobile will offer free Starlink connectivity to premium plan subscribers at the official launch in July.


    At the recent earnings call for T-Mobile, the company revealed important details about the pricing for its Starlink satellite service, which is set to exit its beta phase in July.

    Pricing Details for Starlink

    T-Mobile plans to lower the monthly fee for Starlink connectivity to $10. This is a significant reduction compared to the fees for AT&T and Verizon customers, who would pay double that amount, and $15 for T-Mobile users. Although this service currently provides limited functionality—mainly messaging when users are outside T-Mobile’s coverage—it has been highlighted by the carrier as potentially “lifesaving” for emergency texts. This was part of their argument for an FCC exemption to speed up the service’s rollout to older mobile devices.

    Future Capabilities

    Additionally, the growth of SpaceX’s direct-to-cell satellite network will enable T-Mobile’s Starlink users to access voice and data services, including the ability to stream podcasts and videos. T-Mobile’s CEO, Mike Sievert, confirmed that the $10 monthly Starlink service will also be available to customers of AT&T and Verizon, just like it is currently offered during its beta phase.

    How Connectivity Works

    To enable Starlink connectivity for users of Verizon or AT&T, T-Mobile uses virtual eSIM cards available in devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, allowing customers to utilize two carriers simultaneously. While in beta, T-Mobile has also made the service available for free to those who switch from AT&T or Verizon to their network, although it is uncertain how many individuals have taken up this offer.

    For T-Mobile subscribers who are on premium plans such as Experience Beyond and Go5G Next, the Starlink connectivity will also be offered at no cost when the service officially launches in July.

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  • Surface NUC1: Compact Windows Tablet with Intel Processor and Kickstand

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Surface NUC1 is a new portable Windows tablet, also referred to as a compact PC, with an Intel N200 processor and a planned Intel Core i3-N305 version coming soon.
    2. It features 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512 GB of user-replaceable storage, with a small 7-inch screen that has a resolution of 800 x 1,280.
    3. The device includes a built-in 3,400 mAh battery, multiple USB ports, HDMI output, and supports Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet connectivity.
    4. The price for the Surface NUC1 is approximately $290, but buyers should consider shipping details and potential import fees.
    5. Users may want to explore alternatives like the AWOW 10.1-inch Windows tablet for a more traditional tablet experience.


    The Surface NUC1 is a newly released portable Windows tablet. Yet, the name it goes by isn’t fully confirmed, as it appears on the X+ store under the title “N200 Mini PC Table PC – Desktop Pocket PC”. This gadget can also be seen as a compact PC with a display and battery. Measuring 21.95 mm (0.86 in) thick, it’s thicker than most standard tablets. Powered by an Intel N200 processor, there’s also a planned version with an Intel Core i3-N305 that is expected to be available soon.

    Memory and Storage

    This tablet offers 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512 GB of storage. The M.2 2280 SSD included is user-replaceable, and it can connect through either SATA or NVMe. The Surface NUC1 is designed with a small 7-inch screen that has a fairly low resolution of 800 x 1,280. Since Windows 11 is primarily made for desktop use, users may encounter challenges when trying to multitask on such a small display.

    Connectivity and Features

    It comes with a built-in 3,400 mAh battery, three USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, one USB 2.0 port, an HDMI output, and two USB-C ports that are compatible with both USB Power Delivery and DisplayPort. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet. The current price for the Surface NUC1 is roughly $290. However, potential buyers should check the shipping details and any possible import fees before they decide to buy.

    If you’re looking for a more traditional choice, you might want to look into the AWOW 10.1-inch Windows tablet, which you can find on Amazon.

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  • iQoo Z10 Turbo Pro: First 7,000mAh 120W Phone with 144Hz Display

    iQoo Z10 Turbo Pro: First 7,000mAh 120W Phone with 144Hz Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iQoo Z10 Turbo Pro features a 144Hz refresh rate on its 1.5K display, promising a competitive edge over rivals.
    2. The display is expected to be bright, stable, and power-efficient, with DC dimming and a high PWM spec, though it will use LTPS backplane technology.
    3. The device will include LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC, cooled by a vapor chamber and a 7,000mAh battery.
    4. The Turbo Pro can charge to 50% in just 15 minutes with 120W wired charging technology.
    5. A non-Pro model, the Z10 Turbo, will launch with a larger 7,620mAh battery and a Dimensity 8400 processor on April 28, 2025.


    iQoo claims that their new Z10 Turbo Pro will surpass rivals thanks to a 144Hz refresh rate on its modern 1.5K display in recent promotional materials.

    Display Features

    In addition, well-known leaker Digital Chat Station has suggested that the display will be bright and stable while being power efficient, featuring DC dimming and a nearly top-tier 4,320Hz PWM spec. However, it seems that the device will use an LTPS backplane instead of the more advanced LTPO technology. The Z10 Turbo Pro is expected to boast LPDDR5X Ultra RAM paired with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC. It appears that these components will be kept cool by a vapor chamber measuring around ~7,000mm2, complementing its 7,000mAh battery.

    Charging Capabilities

    The Turbo Pro is said to charge its large battery to 50% in just 15 minutes, utilizing the 120 watt (W) wired charging technology found in iQoo’s current flagship device, the iQoo 13, which is priced at INR 54,999 on Amazon.in.

    Upcoming Model

    Nonetheless, it seems the Z10 Turbo Pro will be outshined by its non-Pro counterpart, which will debut as the first smartphone to feature a 7,620mAh battery. The Z10 Turbo is now confirmed to be equipped with a Dimensity 8400 processor, scheduled for launch on April 28, 2025.

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  • Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Performance Issues on PC

    Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Performance Issues on PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered shows poor performance with persistent stutters, even on high-end hardware.
    2. A new patch removed DLSS, FSR, and various graphical settings, leading to continued frame rate issues.
    3. The game is demanding on both CPU and GPU, with open-world gameplay suffering from visual fluidity.
    4. Lowering graphical settings provides minimal performance gains that don’t justify the drop in quality.
    5. Despite performance issues, Oblivion Remastered has attracted over four million players, highlighting nostalgia among fans.


    The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion made waves when it hit consoles and PCs in 2006. Recently, a Digital Foundry technical review showed that the remastered version doesn’t perform much better. Persistent stutters interfere with the improved textures and realistic lighting, even on the best CPUs and GPUs. Alex Battaglia mentioned that the performance of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is considered “one of the worst running games he has ever tested.”

    Patch Issues

    A new patch for Oblivion Remastered removed DLSS, FSR, and various graphical settings on the PC Game Pass version. Even when upscaling is back, the game struggles to maintain a steady frame rate and shows a disappointing frame-time graph. Digital Foundry did their tests using an Nvidia RTX 5090 GPU alongside either a Ryzen 5 3600 or Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor. Even at 1080p with DLSS performance options activated, stuttering was common on both lower and higher-end CPUs.

    Performance Challenges

    Oblivion Remastered is surprisingly demanding on both CPU and GPU. In confined spaces, the gameplay often runs smoothly across a variety of hardware. Just like its predecessor, the vast open world draws players in but sacrifices visual fluidity. Regrettably, decreasing settings like Ray Traced-based Lumen global illumination shows limited improvement. The RTX 5090 coupled with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D achieved frame rates above 60 fps, yet stutters were still evident.

    The review suggests beginning with the High preset and adjusting the hardware lighting mode down. However, after making these changes, the drop in graphical quality doesn’t justify the slight performance gains. Digital Foundry wrapped up by stating that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered’s performance urgently needs a patch for better optimization.

    Player Engagement

    Despite its fluctuating frame rates, Oblivion Remastered has drawn in over four million players. Nevertheless, the stuttering is a memory that nostalgic fans wish Bethesda could have left behind in the past.

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  • Nothing Phone 3a Series Upgrades to 4K Telephoto Video

    Nothing Phone 3a Series Upgrades to 4K Telephoto Video

    Key Takeaways

    1. New camera feature allows recording telephoto videos in 4K at 30 fps for both Phone (3a) models.
    2. Only the Phone (3a) Pro includes a modern periscope zoom lens enabling 3x zoom.
    3. Update introduces the Privacy Space feature to hide apps, similar to OnePlus smartphones.
    4. Upgrade to Android 15 enhances the Nothing X app for audio devices, now compatible with CMF Buds 2.
    5. Security patch level updated to April 2025, with the update rolling out to most Phone (3a) users soon.


    Nothing has just released a fresh camera feature for its newest mid-range smartphones through a software update. This allows both models to record telephoto videos in 4K at 30 frames per second (fps). However, only the Phone (3a) Pro will utilize a modern periscope zoom lens to achieve 3x zoom.

    Update Details

    The rest of the changelog for this update, known as Nothing OS v3.1-250417-1222, applies to both the (3a) and the (3a) Pro, which is currently available for $699.99 on Amazon.

    One key addition is the Privacy Space feature, which enables users to ‘hide’ apps within a section accessible by swiping right in the app drawer. This function may seem familiar to those who’ve owned OnePlus smartphones in recent years.

    Android Skin Upgrade

    Moreover, the upgrade to the Android 15 skin enhances the Nothing X app for the brand’s audio devices to version 3.0, introducing compatibility with the new CMF Buds 2.

    The update also ensures that the security patch level for the devices is current, set to April 2025. It is expected to be rolled out to “most” users of the Phone (3a) series in the next few days.

    Community Feedback

    This update reflects Nothing’s commitment to improving user experience and security. Users are encouraged to share their feedback within the Nothing Community as the new features become available.

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  • Ulefone Armor 28 Pro: Rugged Dual-Screen Phone with Night Vision

    Ulefone Armor 28 Pro: Rugged Dual-Screen Phone with Night Vision

    Key Takeaways

    – Ulefone Armor 28 Pro is a tough smartphone set to launch on May 12, with direct sales from the manufacturer and retailers like AliExpress.
    – It features a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, supporting 5G connectivity.
    – The device has a thick design (19.4 mm) and a weight of 450 g, powered by a large 10,600 mAh battery with fast charging capabilities (120W wired, 50W wireless).
    – The display is a 6.67-inch AMOLED with a peak brightness of 2,200 cd/m², and it includes a secondary screen for notifications.
    – The phone has a robust camera setup, including a 64 MP night-vision camera, and meets IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H standards for durability.


    Judging by Ulefone’s range of products on Amazon, it is not surprising that the new Armor 28 Pro is a tough smartphone. Since the phone isn’t officially on the market yet, we don’t have pricing information – but it’s likely it won’t be priced in the thousands. Set to be launched on 12 May, the Ulefone Armor 28 Pro will be sold directly from the manufacturer and also at retailers like AliExpress.

    Specs and Performance

    The Armor 28 Pro comes with decent specifications, featuring a MediaTek Dimensity 7300, which is a powerful processor with support for 5G. This SoC is combined with 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a generous 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. The device is quite thick at 19.4 mm (0.76 in) and weighs a substantial 450 g (0.99 lb), housing a gigantic 10,600 mAh battery that can charge at 120 watts via cable and 50 watts wirelessly.

    Display and Camera Features

    The primary display measures 6.67 inches and is AMOLED, boasting a peak brightness of 2,200 cd/m². There is also a secondary screen that can perform various tasks, like showing notifications. The Armor 28 Pro is equipped with a main camera and an ultrawide camera, alongside a 64 MP night-vision camera that uses an OV64B sensor. Ulefone claims that the phone meets IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H standards for ruggedness.

    Ulefone’s new smartphone is sure to attract attention with its robust features and specifications, making it a viable option for those in need of a durable device.

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  • Redmi K90 Pro Launch Date Leaked: Early Release Expected

    Redmi K90 Pro Launch Date Leaked: Early Release Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm plans to launch the second-generation Snapdragon 8 Elite processor in September 2025, targeting competition with the iPhone 17 series.
    2. Android manufacturers are expected to release new high-end smartphones powered by this chip by the end of October 2025.
    3. Anticipated devices include the OnePlus 14, Xiaomi 16 series, and Redmi K90 series, which previously struggled against Xiaomi 15 models.
    4. The “K90 Pro” is set to launch during the main season for flagship devices, featuring a 2K flat display and a battery of at least 6,000mAh.
    5. The earlier launch timeline may benefit the successor to the Poco F7 Ultra, which had delays in its release.


    Qualcomm is expected to try and overshadow the iPhone 17 series by introducing the second-generation Snapdragon 8 Elite processor in September 2025. This announcement is likely to encourage Android manufacturers to quickly roll out new high-end smartphones powered by this latest chip, aiming for a release by the end of October 2025.

    Anticipated Devices

    The upcoming devices are rumored to include the OnePlus 14, the Xiaomi 16 series, and the Redmi K90 series. The earlier versions of these phones did not provide viable alternatives to the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro in the Chinese market until November 2024.

    K90 Pro’s Launch

    The “K90 Pro” may not be considered an afterthought this year, as it is once again slated for release during what could be called the ‘main’ season for the 8 Elite Gen 2 flagship devices. This new flagship series is expected to feature a 2K flat display (completely flat this time, perhaps) and is also likely to come with a battery that has at least the same capacity as the 6,000mAh battery found in the K80 Pro.

    Good News for Poco Fans

    The accelerated timeline for these launches may also bode well for the Poco F7 Ultra’s successor, which had to wait until March 2025 to re-brand the K80 Pro for international markets.

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