Category: Phones

March 21, 2024
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.
Tags: Feb Security Patch, HyperOS update, Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus
March 21, 2024
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.
Tags: Oneplus, OnePlus Ace 3V, Smartphone Launch
March 21, 2024
Vivo T3 Launches in India: iQOO Z9 with Three Rear Cameras
The Vivo T3 has been officially launched in India today as planned. This new budget smartphone by Vivo is quite similar to the recently unveiled iQOO Z9, differing mainly in its inclusion of three rear cameras instead of two.
Vivo T3 Successor
The Vivo T3 follows the Vivo T2 introduced last year, which itself bore a strong resemblance to the iQOO Z7x.
Vivo T3 Specifications
Constructed with a plastic build akin to its predecessor and many other devices within its price range, the Vivo T3 sports a flat frame. Featuring a trio of rear cameras situated on a slightly elevated rectangular island, the phone boasts a 6.67-inch centered punch-hole AMOLED display. This display offers a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, 394 PPI, and a rapid 120Hz refresh rate, capable of reaching 1800 nits peak brightness.
Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 chip coupled with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, the Vivo T3 runs on a 5,000mAh battery supporting 44W wired charging. Its rear camera setup includes an OIS-assisted Sony IMX882 primary sensor, a 2MP depth sensor, and a flicker sensor, while the front houses a 16MP shooter.
Features and Connectivity
The smartphone is equipped with dual stereo speakers, an in-screen fingerprint sensor, a MicroSD card slot, and an IP54 rating. Connectivity options include dual SIM support, 5G, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GNSS, and USB Type-C. The device runs on Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14.
Vivo T3 Price and Availability
In India, the Vivo T3 is priced as follows:
- 8GB + 128GB – ₹19,999 (~$240)
- 8GB + 256GB – ₹21,999 (~$265)
Available in Cosmic Blue and Crystal Flake color variants, the Vivo T3 will go on sale starting at 12 PM IST on March 27 through Vivo.com, Flipkart, and various retail outlets nationwide. Customers can enjoy a ₹2,000 instant discount on transactions made with HDFC Bank and SBI credit cards.
Tags: Budget smartphone, laptop specifications, Vivo T3
March 21, 2024
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.
Tags: Realme, Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G, Smartphone
March 21, 2024
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.
Tags: Indian Market Launch, Infinix Note 40 Series, Smartphone Launch Event
March 21, 2024
Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G: Best Budget Smartphone vs Redmi Note 10 Pro
The sub-20K INR price segment (~$250) remains a highly popular category in the Indian smartphone market when it comes to sales. However, the appeal of these products to tech enthusiasts has somewhat diminished compared to previous times.
Changing Landscape of Budget Smartphones
The Redmi Note series used to be the go-to choice for many, while the Realme lineup served as a viable alternative. As prices increased, these product lines created a significant gap for other brands to fill, but that gap remained unaddressed for a while.
Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G: A Game Changer
Realme recently unveiled the Narzo 70 Pro 5G in India. Traditionally, the Narzo phones have been known to offer better value than the Realme number series, and this trend continues with the latest release. The Narzo series seems to have elevated its offering this time around.
Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G: A Standout in the Sub-20K Segment
In my view, the Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G emerges as the most compelling sub-20K INR smartphone following the immense popularity of the Redmi Note 10 Pro from 2021. Here’s why I believe this to be the case.
Tags: Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G, Smartphone Market Trends, Sub-20K INR Segment
March 21, 2024
Poco C61 Price, Renders, Specifications Leaked – Launch Soon
Recent reports indicate that the upcoming phone from Poco’s C-series will be named the Poco C61 upon its launch. This device has recently obtained approval from certification bodies like India’s BIS and the Bluetooth SIG, in addition to being included in the Google Play Console database. These sources suggest that the Poco C61 could be a rebranded version of the Redmi A3, which made its debut in India. A recent leak from Appuals has disclosed the essential specifications, pricing, and renders of the Poco C61.
Poco C61 Pricing and Renders (Rumored)
According to the report, the Poco C61 is expected to be available in two configurations: 4GB RAM with 64GB storage and 6GB RAM with 128GB storage. The speculated prices for these models in India are Rs 7,499 ($90) and Rs 8,499 ($102) respectively. The leaked images display the black, blue, and green variants of the C61. More images of the device can be viewed by following the source link.
Poco C61 Key Specifications (Rumored)
As per the publication, the Poco C61 is anticipated to feature a 6.71-inch IPS LCD display with an HD+ resolution of 1650 x 720 pixels, a 90Hz refresh rate, a 180Hz touch sampling rate, and a peak brightness of 500 nits. The screen will be protected by Gorilla Glass 3.
The Poco C61 is expected to be powered by the Helio G36 chipset, coupled with 4GB or 6GB of RAM, 64GB or 128GB of storage, and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. It will be equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 10W charging through a USB-C port.
Furthermore, the C61 will feature a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a 5-megapixel front camera, and a dual-camera setup consisting of an 8-megapixel main camera and a 0.08-megapixel secondary camera at the rear. Given that the C51 was announced in April last year, it is likely that the C61 will be unveiled sometime in the upcoming month.
Tags: Poco C61, smartphone specifications, Technology Rumors
March 21, 2024
Tecno Pova 6 Pro India Launch Date Revealed
Tecno has officially announced the launch date for the much-anticipated Pova 6 Pro smartphone model in India. Initially unveiled at the MWC 2024 global event, the device is now making its way to the Indian market. Here is all you need to know about it.
Tecno Pova 6 Pro India Launch
The smartphone company has confirmed that the upcoming device is scheduled to be launched in India on March 29, 2024. This launch is in partnership with Playground Season 3, a series on Amazon miniTV. Tecno will unveil the first unboxing of the handset during the show. The Pova 6 Pro is positioned as a mid-range smartphone, boasting a semi-transparent design with a lithography precision texture.
Innovative Design and Features
The back of the phone is adorned with LED light strips, reminiscent of the Nothing Phone lineup. Official sources mention 210 mini LEDs on the back offering nine lighting modes. Additionally, the rear houses a 108-megapixel dual camera setup. On the front, users will find a tall 6.78-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution, a 32-megapixel selfie camera, and a 120Hz refresh rate.
Powerful Performance and Battery
Internally, the Pova 6 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC coupled with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, supporting virtual RAM expansion. The device is fueled by a hefty 6,000mAh battery, supporting 70W wired fast charging and 10W wireless reverse charging. Available in Meteorite Grey and Comet Green color variants, this smartphone promises to deliver a compelling user experience.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the exciting launch event next week.
Tags: Smartphone Launch Event, Tecno, Tecno Pova 6 Pro
March 21, 2024
Galaxy S22: Samsung Confirms AI Love Coming
Samsung has unveiled a new set of AI functionalities for the Galaxy S24 series under the Galaxy AI umbrella. These capabilities are set to arrive with the One UI 6.1 update for users of the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S23 FE, Fold 5, Flip 5, and Tab S9 series.
Hope for Galaxy S22 Series
Recent reports indicated that the Galaxy S22 lineup, Samsung's flagship for 2022, might miss out on this AI enhancement. However, Samsung executives' recent comments suggest a glimmer of hope for the S22 range.
TM Roh, the President of Samsung's Mobile Division, revealed during a shareholders' meeting that the company is actively exploring ways to extend Galaxy AI features to older devices.
Challenges and Efforts
One of the main hurdles appears to be the differing hardware capabilities required for various Galaxy AI functions, some reliant on cloud processing while others on on-device processing. The Galaxy S22 series may face limitations in supporting these features due to its hardware setup.
Despite sharing chipsets with the S22 lineup, the S23 FE is anticipated to receive Galaxy AI features through the One UI 6.1 update. This indicates that chipset compatibility may not be the primary issue for the Galaxy S22 series, although specific details were not discussed by Roh.
Roh emphasized the substantial effort needed to overcome these obstacles, reaffirming Samsung's dedication to allocating resources to make this a reality.
Future Prospects
The prospect of the Galaxy S22 series eventually gaining these AI features remains uncertain. However, the acknowledgment that Samsung is not entirely discarding this possibility brings a ray of hope.
In a related development, TM Roh also confirmed Samsung's ongoing work on innovative foldable and rollable devices. His statements suggest that Samsung is evaluating the viability of these form factors and securing the necessary patents to advance their development.
Tags: Galaxy AI, Galaxy S22 series, Samsung
March 21, 2024
Oppo A60 Camera, Battery Specs, Fast Charging Revealed – Launch Soon
The upcoming Oppo A60 appears to be the next smartphone in the A-series lineup by the brand. Identified by the model number CPH2631, this device has garnered approval from several certification platforms including Thailand’s NBTC, Indonesia’s SDPPI and TKDN, and the UAE’s TDRA. It has also been spotted in the databases of TUV Rheinland and Camera FV-5.
Oppo A60 Certification Details
Certifications obtained in Thailand, Indonesia, and the UAE for the Oppo A60 confirm its name and model number. According to TUV certification, the device is likely to feature a robust 5,000mAh battery supporting 45W fast charging.
Camera Specifications and More
Listed on Camera FV-5, the Oppo A60 is expected to sport a 50-megapixel primary camera along with an 8-megapixel front camera, both potentially equipped with EIS stabilization. While these details have surfaced, other specifics about the device remain undisclosed.
The naming convention suggests that the Oppo A60 could follow in the footsteps of the A59 model, which was introduced back in 2023. The A59 boasted a 6.56-inch LCD display with FHD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. Its camera setup included a 13-megapixel dual-camera system and an 8-megapixel front camera, running on Android 13 with ColorOS 13.1.
Featuring a Dimensity 6020 chipset, 4 GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage, and a 5,000mAh battery supporting 33W fast charging, the A59 also came with a side-facing fingerprint reader. Additional features comprised dual 5G SIM support, a microSD card slot, dual stereo speakers, a 3.5mm audio jack, a side-facing fingerprint scanner, and an IP54-rated chassis.
Tags: camera specifications, Certification Details, Oppo A60