Category: Phones

  • Redmi K70E Gets 200 Yuan Discount in China from March 21st

    Redmi K70E Gets 200 Yuan Discount in China from March 21st

    Redmi’s general manager and spokesperson Wang Teng Thomas made an announcement today regarding a limited time discount for the Redmi K70E model. Starting tonight at 20:00 in China, the Redmi K70E will be available at a reduced price of 200 Yuan ($28). Following the discount, the 12GB+256GB variant will be priced at only 1799 Yuan ($249), while the 12GB+512GB and 16GB+1TB versions will be priced at 1999 Yuan and 2399 Yuan respectively.

    Redmi K70E Limited Time Discount

    The Redmi K70E is equipped with the new HyperOS, based on Android 14, and is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 8300-Ultra chipset. This chipset offers a 20% increase in CPU performance and a 60% boost in GPU performance compared to its predecessor. Moreover, it delivers up to 30% higher power efficiency at peak performance. The phone features a 5000mm² stainless steel vapor cooling chamber to ensure sustainable performance, achieving an impressive score of over 1.52 million in AnTuTu.

    Impressive Display and Camera Features

    The Redmi K70E boasts a 6.67″ 1.5K flat AMOLED display with thin borders and a peak brightness of 1800 nits. It also includes a 1920Hz high-frequency PWM dimming feature to reduce eye strain caused by screen flickering. In terms of photography, the device sports a 64MP OmniVision OV64B main camera with OIS, along with an 8MP wide-angle lens (OmniVision OV08D10), while a third 2MP lens complements the setup.

    Battery Life and Design

    To support its performance, the phone is equipped with a 5500 mAh battery and supports 90W fast charging. Reports suggest that this model retains 90% of its battery capacity even after 1000 charge cycles. In practical terms, this means that with daily charging from 0-100%, the phone’s battery should maintain 90% of its original capacity over three years. In terms of design, the phone features flat sides, is 8.1mm thick, and weighs under 200 grams (198g).

  • OnePlus Nord CE 4 Charging Same, Display Downgraded vs Ace 3V

    OnePlus Nord CE 4 Charging Same, Display Downgraded vs Ace 3V

    OnePlus is preparing to unveil the Nord CE 4 in India and global markets on April 1, with expectations that it will essentially be a rebranded version of the Ace 3V recently launched in China. However, there are anticipated variances between the two models. The Indian division of OnePlus has disclosed specific details about the battery charging and display of the Nord CE 4.

    OnePlus Nord CE 4 to Feature Rapid Charging and AMOLED Display

    The Nord CE 4 is set to boast a rapid 100W battery charging speed, matching that of the Ace 3V. This will mark it as the fastest-charging Nord phone thus far, with the capacity to provide a day's power in just 15 minutes. As for its display, the smartphone will sport an AMOLED screen with an FHD+ resolution, a step down from the 1.5K resolution seen on the Ace 3V. Global variants of the Nord CE 4 will come with a 120Hz refresh rate.

    Specifications and Hardware Details

    Revealed specifications indicate that the OnePlus Nord CE 4 will run on a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor. It will initially be available in an 8GB LPDDR4x RAM and 256GB storage configuration, with the possibility of additional options at launch. Notably, the internal hardware of the Nord CE 4 is slightly less advanced compared to the Ace 3V in China, which boasts the latest Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chip and starts with a base configuration of 12GB LPDDR5x RAM, expandable up to 16GB.

    Distinctions and Future Reveals

    While the Nord CE 4 is expected to share similarities with the Ace 3V as a rebadged model, it is evident that there will be notable differences in specifications. OnePlus plans to unveil further details about the upcoming smartphone on its official microsite as the days progress leading up to the launch event.

  • Introducing Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC: On-Device GenAI Features

    Introducing Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC: On-Device GenAI Features

    Qualcomm has recently unveiled the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a streamlined variant of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. In addition to this, the American chipmaker has introduced a new mid-range System on Chip (SoC) that joins the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 family. This latest addition is known as the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, serving as the successor to the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 from the previous year. The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 brings forth a variety of enhancements, particularly in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), indicating that devices powered by this chipset will incorporate advanced AI functionalities.

    Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 Unveiled

    The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 retains the 4nm process technology from TSMC, similar to its predecessor. Its CPU architecture mirrors that of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, comprising of a prime core, four performance cores, and three efficiency cores. Notably, the prime core reaches a maximum clock speed of 2.8GHz. Qualcomm asserts that this chipset offers a 15% improvement in CPU performance, 45% in GPU performance, and a 15% boost in power efficiency.

    Enhanced Features and Connectivity

    Equipped with an integrated X63 5G modem and the FastConnect 7800 mobile connectivity system, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 can achieve peak download speeds of up to 4.2 Gbps while also supporting WiFi-7 technology.

    On-Device AI Capabilities

    One of the standout features of the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 is its on-device generative AI capabilities. This platform supports a diverse array of large language models (LLM) like Baichuan-7B, Llama 2, and Gemini Nano, enhancing virtual assistant functionalities, multi-language translation, and transcription capabilities for smartphones powered by this chipset.

    Photography and Audio Capabilities

    Featuring an 18-bit triple cognitive Image Signal Processor (ISP) that can capture images up to 200MP, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 boasts additional features such as Snapdragon Low Light Vision. On the audio front, it supports Spatial Audio with head tracking, Snapdragon Sound technology, aptX Lossless, LE audio, and more. The chipset is capable of accommodating up to QHD+ display resolution at a refresh rate of 120Hz, and it supports up to 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a UFS 4.0 storage system.

    OnePlus Ace 3V Debut

    The OnePlus Ace 3V has already made its entrance in the Chinese market, featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor.

  • Redmi Mocks OnePlus and Teases Superior Snapdragon 8 Series Smartphone

    Redmi Mocks OnePlus and Teases Superior Snapdragon 8 Series Smartphone

    Redmi Expands Product Lineup with New Smartphones

    Redmi, known for its innovative products, recently unveiled the Display G Pro 27 MiniLED gaming monitor in China. Following this, the company is gearing up to launch new smartphones, although specific details remain scarce. Teasing their performance on Weibo, Redmi hinted at a competitive edge, even playfully jabbing at the OnePlus Ace 3V.

    Redmi Sets the Bar with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Processor

    The OnePlus Ace 3V, positioned as a mid-range device, features the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor. Redmi, however, aims higher by introducing its upcoming smartphone equipped with the more powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3. The comparison is clear – with a "8>7" message, Redmi underscores the performance disparity between the two devices.

    Performance and Price Considerations

    While the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 offers flagship-level performance, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 caters to the mid-range segment. The differences are substantial, with the 8s Gen 3 showcasing superior CPU and GPU performance, energy efficiency, and AI capabilities. Redmi's strategic move suggests a potential competitor in a similar price range, hinting at a device that could rival the OnePlus Ace 3V's starting price of around $277.

    Unveiling the Future

    Rumors speculate on the identity of this upcoming Redmi device, possibly belonging to the K or Note series or introducing an entirely new lineup. Sources suggest a price point of approximately 1999 yuan (roughly $280), positioning it as an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. Official confirmation is pending until the phone's launch.

    ![Image Here](Add image link here for illustration)

    Specifications:

    • Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3:
      • Process Node: TSMC 4nm
      • CPU: 1x Cortex-X4 @ 2.8GHz, 4x Cortex-A720 @ 2.6GHz, 3x Cortex-A520 @ 1.9GHz
      • GPU: Adreno 720 (likely)
      • AI: Hexagon NPU (Runs AI models up to 10B parameters)
      • Modem: Snapdragon X63 5G (Up to 4.2 Gbps download)
      • Display Support: Up to 4K @ 60 Hz, QHD+ @ 120 Hz, VRR: 240Hz to 1Hz
    • Snapdragon 8s Gen 3:
      • Process Node: TSMC 4nm
      • CPU: 1x Cortex-X4 @ 3.0GHz, 4x Cortex-A720 @ 2.8GHz, 3x Cortex-A520 @ 2.0GHz
      • GPU: Adreno 735 (likely)
      • AI: Hexagon NPU (Runs AI models up to 10B parameters)
      • Modem: Snapdragon X70 5G (Up to 10 Gbps download)
      • Display Support: Up to 4K @ 120Hz, QHD+ @ 165Hz
    • Memory and Camera Support:
    • Both processors support up to LPDDR5X RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, and up to 200MP photo capture capabilities.
  • iPhone 16 Series to Feature Slimmer Bezels with ‘Borderless’ Technology

    iPhone 16 Series to Feature Slimmer Bezels with ‘Borderless’ Technology

    BRS, short for Border Reduction Structure, is a technology aimed at minimizing the bottom bezel or chin of all models within the iPhone 16 series by utilizing copper wires underneath the panel.

    Technological Advancements in Display

    Samsung Display, BOE, and LG Display, the panel suppliers for the iPhone 16 series, have adopted the BRS technology, with the focus on reducing the bottom bezel. The success of this technology will heavily depend on the production yield rates, which could vary among the companies upon mass production initiation.

    Enhanced Display Features

    Reports suggest that the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will retain the same panel size and type as their non-Pro predecessors, offering a 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch 60 Hz LTPS panel, respectively. On the other hand, the Pro models might see a slight increase in display size, with the iPhone 16 Pro potentially featuring a 6.3-inch display and the iPhone 16 Pro Max offering a 6.9-inch display. These larger panels will utilize LTPO display technology, similar to the previous year's Pro models.

    Delay in Under-Display Technology

    Despite speculations about under-display technology hiding certain sensors, the implementation might be postponed. Kang Min-soo from Omdia mentioned that Apple's attempts to modify display features, such as concealing the camera or Face ID, using UDC technology may face delays, possibly extending to 2027.

  • Xiaomi CIVI 4 Pro: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 & 50MP Camera Launch

    Xiaomi CIVI 4 Pro: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 & 50MP Camera Launch

    Xiaomi recently introduced the CIVI 4 Pro smartphone in the Chinese market, as planned. This device expands on the CIVI series, initially targeted towards women but now appealing to a broader audience due to its appealing design and robust premium features.

    Design & Display

    The CIVI 4 Pro maintains the design essence of its predecessor, the CIVI 3, with subtle refinements. Its back showcases a circular camera setup housing three lenses and an LED flash. The camera module is encircled by a textured metal ring matching the back's color. The device is available in four standard colors: Spring Field Green, Soft Mist Pink, Breeze Blue, and Black. Particularly, the Spring Field Green variant boasts a glossy finish with vibrant spring hues, achieved through a unique "colorful gilding" process. This variant also likely features a textured back, possibly crafted from vegan leather.

    Display Features

    On the front, the phone sports a slightly curved display with ultra-slim bezels measuring 1.6mm, 1.44mm, and 2.02mm on the top, sides, and bottom, respectively. The 6.55-inch display offers a resolution of 2750 x 1236 pixels, a 460 PPI pixel density, full DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, up to 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 3000 nits. Additional features include HDR10+, Dolby Vision support, and Wet Touch functionality to prevent ghost touches on a wet screen. The display incorporates a pill-shaped cutout housing two front cameras and is safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

    Performance Attributes

    Internally, the CIVI 4 Pro is powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 octa-core processor manufactured on TSMC’s 4nm node. It is coupled with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage. Xiaomi claims that the device can maintain an average frame rate of 59.4 FPS during a 30-minute session of Genshin Impact. The phone packs a 4700mAh battery with 67W fast charging support, promising a full charge in 40 minutes. For thermal management, a 4184mm² vapor chamber cooling system is employed. The device operates on the Android 14-based HyperOS platform.

    Camera Capabilities

    The CIVI 4 Pro showcases significant camera enhancements. It boasts a 50MP f/1.63 primary sensor with OIS behind a Leica Summilux lens, a 50MP Samsung JN1 portrait + telephoto camera, and a 12MP Ultra-wide sensor. The front camera setup consists of a 32MP main sensor and a 32MP ultra-wide sensor, both equipped with various advanced features and Leica photography modes.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Xiaomi CIVI 4 Pro will be available for sale starting March 21st at 15:30, with reservations opening on March 26th at 10:00 and the first sale slated for April 1st at 10:00. Pricing details include: 12GB + 256GB at 2999 Yuan ($417), 12GB + 512GB at 3299 Yuan ($458), and the 16GB + 512GB Special Edition priced at 3599 Yuan ($500). Global availability remains uncertain, although reports suggest an imminent launch in India.

  • Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus HyperOS Update: Android 14, Feb Security Patch & UI Overhaul

    Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus HyperOS Update: Android 14, Feb Security Patch & UI Overhaul

    Last month, Xiaomi announced that the HyperOS update would be released for the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus in March. Sticking to their commitment, the update is now being rolled out, introducing the Android 14-based HyperOS and incorporating the February 2024 Android security patch.

    The HyperOS update designed for the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G is packaged with firmware version “1.0.3.0.UNOINXM” and occupies a space of 5.6GB. Alongside the February 2024 Android security patch, it brings enhancements to the system's visual appeal.

    Update Features

    The update introduces visual modifications, an enhanced memory management system, and various UI enhancements, as outlined in the following changelog:

    System Enhancements

    • Updated Android Security Patch to February 2024, boosting system security.
    • Vibrant aesthetics: The global aesthetics draw inspiration from everyday life, transforming the look and feel of your device.
    • New animation language fosters wholesome and intuitive interactions with your device.
    • Natural colors infuse vibrancy and vitality into every aspect of your device.
    • The new system font supports multiple writing systems.
    • The redesigned Weather app not only provides crucial information but also conveys how the weather feels outside.
    • Notifications are streamlined to deliver important information to users efficiently.
    • Multitasking is now simpler and more convenient with an enhanced multi-window interface.
    • Fresh Home screen icons breathe new life into familiar items with updated shapes and colors.

    Expansion of Updates

    Apart from the Note 13 Pro Plus, the Note 13 Pro and Note 13 are also slated to receive the update in March. Additionally, the update will be accessible for Xiaomi 12 Pro, Redmi Note 12 Pro+, Redmi Note 12 Pro, and Note 12 in March, as disclosed by the company.

  • OnePlus Ace 3V: First Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 Phone, 100W Fast Charging

    OnePlus Ace 3V: First Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 Phone, 100W Fast Charging

    OnePlus has officially introduced the Ace 3V smartphone in China today, succeeding the Ace 2V from the previous year. This new model boasts several enhancements compared to its predecessor and is positioned as a more affordable version of the premium Ace 3. Let’s delve into the features that this smartphone brings to the table.

    Design and Features

    The OnePlus Ace 3V showcases a fresh design, featuring a flat frame and retaining familiar elements such as a three-stage alert slider on the left side and power and volume buttons on the right. Notably, it sports a pill-shaped vertically aligned camera setup at the back and holds an IP65 rating for dust and splash resistance.

    Display and Biometrics

    At the front, the OnePlus Ace 3V flaunts a compact punch-hole cutout on its flat OLED display, which also integrates a fingerprint sensor. The screen spans 6.7 inches with a 1.5K resolution, 2160Hz PWM dimming, and a 120Hz refresh rate. It delivers a peak brightness of 2,150 nits and incorporates Rain Touch technology for usability with wet hands.

    Camera and Performance

    In terms of photography, the OnePlus Ace 3V boasts a dual rear camera system comprising a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, along with a 16MP front camera for selfies. Powering the device is the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, equipped with various AI capabilities. It offers up to 16GB LPDDR5x RAM, 512GB UFS 4.0 storage, and a 5,500mAh battery with 100W fast charging support.

    Pricing and Availability

    The OnePlus Ace 3V comes in multiple configurations: the base 12GB + 256GB variant starts at CNY 1,999 ($277), the 12GB + 512GB option is priced at CNY 2,299 ($319), and the top-tier 16GB + 512GB model costs CNY 2,599 (~$361). Color options include Magic Purple Silver and Titanium Air Grey. Connectivity features include dual gaming antennas, WiFi, NFC, IR control, among others.

  • Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G Early Bird Offer Boosts Sales by 338%

    Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G Early Bird Offer Boosts Sales by 338%

    Earlier this week, Realme introduced the Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G in India. The smartphone’s first sale is set for tomorrow, March 22, in the country, but it was made available for an early bird sale on the launch day, March 19, at 6 pm for a limited time. Today, the company issued a press release detailing the sales figures achieved during the early bird sale.

    Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G Early Bird Sale Success

    Realme revealed that during the early bird sale, it sold more than 300 units of the Narzo 70 Pro 5G per minute. The sales of this device surged by an impressive 338 percent in comparison to the Narzo 60 Pro 5G from the previous year.

    Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G Pricing and Specifications

    The Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G offers a host of impressive features at an accessible price point. The 8GB+128GB variant is priced at Rs 19,999 ($240) while the 8GB+256GB model costs Rs 21,999 ($265). Available in Glass Green and Glass Gold color options.

    Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G Key Specifications

    The Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G boasts a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, rainwater smart touch feature, and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. Running on Realme UI 5-based Android 14, the device is guaranteed to receive two Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates.

    The smartphone is powered by the Dimensity 7050 chip and comes with 8GB LPDDR4x RAM, 8GB virtual RAM, 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery supporting 67W fast charging. It features a 16-megapixel front camera and a triple camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel (Sony IMX890, OIS) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 2-megapixel (macro) configuration.

  • Infinix Note 40 Pro 5G Series Launching Soon in India on Flipkart

    Infinix Note 40 Pro 5G Series Launching Soon in India on Flipkart

    Recently, Infinix conducted a global launch event in Malaysia to introduce the Infinix Note 40 series of smartphones. Along with the Note 40 series, they also unveiled the XBuds 3 WE and the XWatch 3 WE smartwatch. Today, Infinix has officially announced the upcoming release of the Note 40 Pro 5G series in India.

    Infinix Note 40 Pro 5G Series Launch in India

    A preview of a landing page on Flipkart reveals that the Infinix Note 40 Pro 5G series is set to debut in India in April. The Note 40 lineup consists of four models: Note 40, Note 40 Pro, Note 40 Pro 5G, and Note 40 Pro+ 5G. However, it appears that only the 5G variants will be released in the country.

    Specifications of Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G and Note 40 Pro 5G

    The Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G boasts a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with curved edges, offering a Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It includes an in-screen fingerprint sensor and is powered by the Dimensity 7020 chip, paired with 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB of storage, and a 4,600mAh battery. This phone supports 100W wired charging and 20W MagCharge magnetic wireless charging.

    The Note 40 Pro+ 5G features a triple camera setup on the back with a 108-megapixel main camera (with OIS) and two 2-megapixel sensors, accompanied by quad-LED flash. For selfies, it sports a 32-megapixel front-facing camera and comes with XOS 14-based Android 14.

    The Note 40 Pro 5G shares the same specifications as the Pro+ variant but differs in aspects like battery capacity, charging technology, and RAM. It comes with 8 GB of RAM, a 5,000mAh battery supporting 45W charging, and is promised to receive two Android OS upgrades and three years of security updates.

    Both devices are expected to be priced below Rs 25,000 (~$300) in India. There are also speculations that the smartwatch and earbuds will also be available in the Indian market.