Category: Phones

  • Samsung Pass now offers support for RuPay credit cards in India for UPI payments

    Samsung Pass now offers support for RuPay credit cards in India for UPI payments

    Samsung Pass, the mobile wallet app for Galaxy smartphones in India, has recently announced an expansion of its mobile payment capabilities. Users in India who have the Samsung Pass feature can now make UPI transactions using their RuPay credit cards.

    New Payment Method for RuPay Credit Cardholders

    Previously, UPI payments through Samsung Pass were limited to bank accounts and specific debit cards. However, this update now allows RuPay credit cardholders to enjoy the convenience of contactless transactions and potential benefits like rewards points and purchase protection offered by their credit cards. Linking the card is also a straightforward process, done within the Samsung Wallet UPI.

    Introduction to UPI

    For those unfamiliar, UPI is a popular Indian payment system that enables instant inter-bank transfers through virtual payment addresses. Transactions are secured by a PIN, similar to ATM withdrawals.

    Versatile Digital Wallet

    Aside from payments, Samsung Pass serves as a versatile digital wallet. Users can store various documents such as driver’s licenses, loyalty cards, membership cards, and even boarding passes and movie tickets.

    Limited to RuPay Credit Cardholders

    It is important to note that while this update offers a new payment option for RuPay credit cardholders, the feature is currently limited to them. Mastercard and VISA credit cardholders can only utilize UPI payments through linked bank accounts within Samsung Pass.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Samsung Pass has expanded its mobile payment options in India by integrating RuPay credit cards into the UPI platform. This move offers Galaxy smartphone users with RuPay credit cards an additional way to make convenient and potentially rewarding contactless payments.

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  • Leaked Presentation Slide Reveals Realme Note 1 Specifications and Launch Date

    Leaked Presentation Slide Reveals Realme Note 1 Specifications and Launch Date

    Realme Announces New Note Series, Leaked Specifications for Realme Note 1 Surface

    Realme has officially announced the addition of a new Note series to its smartphone portfolio. Following this announcement, detailed specifications for the first phone in this series, the Realme Note 1, have been leaked online.

    Leaked Specifications for Realme Note 1

    The leak comes from a Twitter user, @ThisGood15, who shared what appears to be an official presentation slide. According to the leak, the Realme Note 1 will feature a 6.67-inch FullHD OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It will be powered by the Dimensity 7050 chipset and will have a large 5000mAh battery with fast 67W charging support.

    In terms of camera, the leaked specs suggest a 108MP main sensor, possibly accompanied by an 8MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro lens. For selfies, there will be a 16MP front-facing camera. Other key features include an in-display fingerprint sensor for biometrics and dual speakers for audio.

    Launch Date and Positioning in the Market

    The leaked slide also reveals a launch date of “24.1,” which is believed to refer to January 24th. This indicates that the release of the Realme Note 1 is not too far away. The leaked specifications position the Realme Note 1 in the mid-range segment, with the leak even including comparisons to rivals such as the Infinix Note 30 and Redmi Note 13.

    Possible Indonesian Launch

    The leak originated from an Indonesian X/Twitter user, and Realme Indonesia retweeted a post by the company’s global president, mentioning “noted from Indonesia.” This hints at a possible Indonesian launch for the Realme Note 1. However, official confirmation is still pending.

    Realme Note 50 in the Works

    In addition to the Realme Note 1, there is news of the budget-oriented Realme Note 50, which has already obtained certifications including NBTC and TUV Rheinland. The device has also appeared on the Geekbench benchmarking platform, revealing that it will be powered by the Unisoc T612 chip. It seems that Realme is aiming to cover both the entry-level and mid-range segments with its new Note series.

    As more information about the Realme Note series becomes available, we will keep you updated. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting new addition to Realme’s smartphone lineup.

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  • Introducing the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2: Now with Qi2 Support and an Impressive 6000mAh Capacity

    Introducing the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2: Now with Qi2 Support and an Impressive 6000mAh Capacity

    Xiaomi Releases Magnetic Power Bank 2 with Qi2-Compatible Wireless Charging

    Xiaomi has unveiled its latest power accessory, the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2. This slim and portable battery pack is designed to support magnetic wireless charging. It is one of the first accessories on the market to be compatible with the Qi2 standard.

    Qi2: The Next Generation of Magnetic Wireless Charging

    The introduction of the MagSafe charging standard on iPhones has paved the way for the development of Qi2, a universal open standard for magnetic wireless charging. Currently, only the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15 models support Qi2. It remains uncertain when other smartphone brands will adopt this new standard. However, accessory manufacturers have already begun to embrace it. Belkin, for instance, recently showcased a range of Qi2-compatible products at CES 2024.

    Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2: Crowdfunding and Pricing

    Xiaomi’s Magnetic Power Bank 2 is now available for crowdfunding in China, priced at ¥219 (~$30). It is expected to go on open sale in the near future. This power bank boasts a 6,000mAh battery capacity and supports up to 15W output for Qi2 devices. For MagSafe products, such as the iPhone 12 lineup, it offers a 7.5W output.

    Versatile and Stylish Design

    The Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2 features a single USB Type-C port that supports 18W output and 20W input. Additionally, it has a built-in stand, allowing it to be used as a wireless charging dock. The back of the accessory is adorned with a stylish leather finish and it is available in two colors: Porcelain White and Clear Sky Blue. Moreover, the battery pack is compatible with official MagSafe cases, adding to its versatility.

    With the release of the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 2, users can now enjoy the convenience of magnetic wireless charging on their Qi2-compatible devices. Its sleek design, affordable price, and compatibility with popular smartphone models make it an attractive choice for tech enthusiasts.

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  • Price for Galaxy S24 leaked as Mexican retailer lists it

    Price for Galaxy S24 leaked as Mexican retailer lists it

    The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 has made an unexpected early appearance online, thanks to a Mexican retailer. The Galaxy S24 was listed on the website of Mexican e-commerce platform Doto, with prices for the 128GB and 256GB models.

    Pricing Details

    According to the listing, the 128GB Galaxy S24 is priced at 16,499 pesos (approximately USD 979), while the 256GB model is priced at 17,999 pesos (approximately USD 1067). These prices are similar to those of the previous models.

    However, it's worth noting that Doto is showing a limited stock of just 10 units for the 128GB model and 4 units for the 256GB model. It is unclear whether they are actually fulfilling any orders at this point.

    Early Leak Raises Eyebrows

    This leak comes just a few days before Samsung's official unveiling of the Galaxy S24 lineup, which is scheduled for January 17th. This unexpected early appearance is likely to raise eyebrows at the company, especially considering their recent efforts to prevent leaks.

    Samsung Galaxy S24 Specifications

    Now let's take a look at what we can expect from the Galaxy S24 in terms of specifications.

    Design and Display

    The Galaxy S24 will feature a glass back with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus Armor and an Armor Aluminum frame. It will come with a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering a 120Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution, and HDR10+ support.

    Processor and Battery

    In the US and Canadian markets, the Galaxy S24 will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, while other regions can expect to receive the Exynos 2400 chipset. The device will be equipped with a 4,000mAh battery that supports 25W wired and 15W wireless fast charging.

    Camera

    The Galaxy S24 will feature a triple camera setup on the back, including a 50-megapixel primary sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 10-megapixel telephoto shooter with 3x optical zoom. On the front, there will be a 12-megapixel sensor for selfies and video calls.

    Software and Features

    The device will run on the Android 14 operating system, likely with the One UI 6.1 custom skin. Samsung is also introducing new AI-powered features called "Galaxy AI," although further details about these features have not been disclosed.

    For more comprehensive details about the Galaxy S24, you can check out our leak round-up.

    In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy S24 has made an unexpected early appearance online, with a Mexican retailer listing the device on its website. The leaked pricing and specifications give us a glimpse of what to expect from Samsung's upcoming flagship smartphone. However, it's important to note that these details should be taken with a grain of salt until the official announcement on January 17th.

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  • OnePlus 12R Global Variant Design Revealed

    OnePlus 12R Global Variant Design Revealed

    The OnePlus 12 Series: Unveiling Date and OnePlus 12R Design Revealed

    Newly Unveiled Design of OnePlus 12R

    Prior to its official launch, insider Roland Quandt has released high-quality images of the OnePlus 12R, providing a detailed glimpse of the device available in Blue and Black variants.

    The back of the phone showcases a notably large circular camera setup accommodating three cameras and an LED flash unit. Meanwhile, the front exhibits a curved screen housing a centrally positioned punch-hole cutout for the front camera.

    Noteworthy Technical Specifications

    The OnePlus 12R features:

    • A 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a peak brightness of 4500 nits, and a 1.5K resolution
    • Driven by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 System-on-Chip
    • Options for up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage
    • A 5,000mAh battery coupled with 100W wired fast charging capability
    • Connectivity options encompassing 5G support, WiFi 7, IR blaster, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC, and a USB Type-C port

    Scheduled Unveiling for January 23

    The official announcement for the OnePlus 12R is set for January 23 at 7:30 PM IST. Stay tuned for further updates and in-depth coverage of the event.

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  • Regular iPhone 16 and 16 Plus may come with 8GB RAM and Wi-Fi 6E, suggests Apple

    Regular iPhone 16 and 16 Plus may come with 8GB RAM and Wi-Fi 6E, suggests Apple

    iPhone 16 Lineup: Potential Hardware Upgrades and Changes

    There are rumors circulating about a significant shift in Apple’s strategy for its standard iPhone models with the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup. According to tech analyst Jeff Pu, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus might receive hardware upgrades previously exclusive to their Pro counterparts, potentially narrowing the performance and feature gap.

    Increased RAM and Enhanced Performance

    Pu suggests that all iPhone 16 models will boast 8GB of RAM, which marks an upgrade for the standard models. The current iPhone 15 and 15 Plus models only have 6GB of RAM. With this upgrade, the new phones are expected to handle multiple tasks and demanding apps more efficiently, enhancing overall performance.

    Wi-Fi 6E Support

    Furthermore, Pu anticipates that the base models of the iPhone 16 will come equipped with Wi-Fi 6E support. This technology utilizes the 6GHz frequency, offering faster download and upload speeds. However, it is important to note that a compatible router would be required for users to take full advantage of this feature. Presently, only the iPhone 15 Pro models come with Wi-Fi 6E support.

    Camera Design Changes

    Another potential change in the iPhone 16 lineup could be seen in the camera design. Pu suggests that Apple is testing a new camera layout, similar to the one seen in the iPhone 12, which deviates from the diagonal camera design found in recent models. This information aligns with previous reports and early renders of the new phones, further supporting the credibility of Pu’s claims.

    Bridging the Gap

    The speculated hardware upgrades and changes in the iPhone 16 lineup would make the standard models more closely resemble the Pro versions. While the Pro models are likely to retain some unique features, the disparity between the two variants might not be as significant as in previous iterations.

    Take It with a Pinch of Salt

    It is important to remember that all of this information is based on speculation at this point. Apple’s final plans for the iPhone 16 lineup could undergo changes before the official announcement later this year. Therefore, while these potential updates sound promising, it is advisable to approach them with caution and await official confirmation.

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  • Realme 12 Pro to Launch in India on January 29 Simultaneously with Global Release.

    Realme 12 Pro to Launch in India on January 29 Simultaneously with Global Release.

    Realme 12 Pro Series to Launch in India on January 29th, 2024

    Realme has officially announced the global launch date for its highly anticipated Realme 12 Pro series, and now the company has revealed the date for the Indian release as well. The Chinese smartphone maker took to X (formerly Twitter) to share an official teaser, confirming that the Realme 12 Pro series will debut in India on January 29th, 2024. The launch event is scheduled for 12 PM IST and will coincide with the global release of the smartphones. The microsite on Realme’s official Indian website has also gone live, and the devices will be available for purchase via Flipkart.

    Realme 12 Pro Series Specifications

    The Realme 12 Pro is expected to be equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, while the Realme 12 Pro+ may offer the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset. The series is confirmed to arrive in a Submarine blue color variant. Both models are expected to house a large 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 67W fast charging. The company has also revealed that the smartphones will feature an OV64B periscope telephoto shooter along with a Sony IMX890 sensor that offers OIS support.

    Stunning Display and Enhanced Security

    The Realme 12 Pro series will feature a tall 6.7-inch curved AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen will also include an in-display fingerprint scanner for added security. The smartphones will run on the Android 14 OS based Realme UI 4 custom skin.

    Exciting Updates to Come

    Stay tuned for more updates as we will be providing further coverage of the Realme 12 Pro series launch later this month.

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  • Introducing the Infinix Smart 8 in India: 50MP Camera & 90Hz Display Now Available at a Discounted Price

    Introducing the Infinix Smart 8 in India: 50MP Camera & 90Hz Display Now Available at a Discounted Price

    Infinix Smart 8: An Affordable Smartphone with Impressive Features

    Last week, the Infinix Smart 8 made its debut in the Indian market, and now it is officially available for purchase. This budget-grade smartphone offers a range of impressive specifications and comes in multiple color options. Let’s take a closer look at the pricing, specs, and availability of the Infinix Smart 8.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Infinix Smart 8 is priced at 7,499 INR, which is approximately 90 US Dollars. For this affordable price, users can enjoy a feature-packed smartphone without breaking the bank. The device is currently listed on Flipkart, a popular e-retailer in India, and is available for purchase starting from January 15th, 2024.

    Color Options

    The Infinix Smart 8 is available in a variety of vibrant color options to suit different preferences. Users can choose from Galaxy White, Rainbow Blue, Shiny Gold, and Timber Black. Whether you prefer a classic black or a bold blue, there’s a color option for everyone.

    Impressive Specs

    The Infinix Smart 8 boasts a large 6.6-inch display with an HD+ resolution. With 500 nits of peak brightness, users can enjoy vivid and vibrant visuals. The smartphone also features a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and seamless navigation.

    Under the hood, the Smart 8 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G36 SoC, ensuring smooth performance and efficient multitasking. It is paired with 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM and offers 64GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. Users also have the option to expand the storage further by up to 2TB using a microSD card slot. Additionally, the Smart 8 supports virtual memory expansion, allowing users to enhance the RAM by another 3GB.

    Camera and Other Features

    The Infinix Smart 8 comes equipped with a 50-megapixel primary camera on the back, accompanied by an AI lens and a quad LED ring flash. This ensures that users can capture stunning photos in various lighting conditions. On the front, there is an 8-megapixel camera, perfect for selfies and video calls.

    One of the standout features of the Smart 8 is its large 5,000mAh battery pack, which offers long-lasting usage without the need for frequent charging. The smartphone also features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, providing convenient and secure access to the device. With a weight of just 189 grams, the Smart 8 is lightweight and comfortable to hold.

    Other notable features of the Infinix Smart 8 include Bluetooth 5.0, Dual SIM support, and GPS for navigation purposes.

    With its affordable price tag and impressive specifications, the Infinix Smart 8 is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers great value for money. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a tech enthusiast, the Smart 8 is worth considering if you’re in the market for a new smartphone.

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  • Realme 12 Pro Series Official Launch Date Confirmed

    Realme 12 Pro Series Official Launch Date Confirmed

    Realme 12 Pro Series: Launch Date Set

    Realme has officially revealed the launch date for the highly anticipated Realme 12 Pro series, putting an end to weeks of speculation and leaks. The global unveiling of this smartphone lineup is scheduled for January 29.

    Anticipated Features of the Realme 12 Pro Series

    The brand’s launch date poster offers a sneak peek at the Realme 12 Pro+, highlighting its periscope telephoto camera. Realme has emphasized that the 12 Pro series will include the impressive 50-megapixel Sony IMX890 camera. As the launch date approaches in two weeks, more details about the 12 Pro lineup are expected to be confirmed.

    Detailed Camera Specifications

    Reports suggest that both the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ will share the same primary camera and an 8-megapixel Sony IMX355 ultra-wide lens. However, the telephoto cameras differ between the two. The 12 Pro will have a 32-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, while the Pro+ version will feature an OmniVision OV64B periscope telephoto camera supporting 3x optical zoom. Notably, the 12 Pro+ will support up to 6x lossless zoom and an impressive 120x digital zoom. Additionally, the 12 Pro will offer a 16-megapixel front camera for selfies, and the 12 Pro+ will come with a 32-megapixel selfie shooter.

    Enhanced Performance and Storage Capacity

    Both the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ will be driven by Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. The 12 Pro will house the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip, while the 12 Pro+ will incorporate the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip. Both models are anticipated to feature a 5,000mAh battery supporting 67W fast charging. As for storage options, consumers worldwide can expect variants with up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of onboard storage.

    Immersive Display and Software Experience

    The Realme 12 Pro duo will boast a 6.7-inch curved-edge AMOLED display offering FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. These devices are set to operate on Realme UI 5-based Android 14, ensuring a smooth and user-friendly interface. Moreover, they will integrate an in-screen fingerprint sensor to bolster security.

    Array of Color Choices

    The 12 Pro models will be released in Submarine Blue and Navigator color options, providing users with a chic and dynamic selection. On the other hand, the 12 Pro+ will be available in the eye-catching Explorer Red edition, catering to individuals seeking a more distinctive appearance.

    As the launch date nears, tech enthusiasts and smartphone aficionados can anticipate the unveiling of the Realme 12 Pro series, where further intriguing features and specifications will be confirmed. Stay tuned for additional updates!

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  • Imminent Launch of Honor X9b in India, Company Releases Drop Test Teaser

    Imminent Launch of Honor X9b in India, Company Releases Drop Test Teaser

    Honor X9b India Launch Teased Again

    Last year, HTech revived the Honor brand in India with the announcement of the Honor 90 5G. Now, the company is generating excitement by teasing the arrival of a new smartphone in the country. Although the device’s name has not been officially revealed, it is highly likely that it is the Honor X9b, which was introduced in some markets in October 2023. Madhav Sheth, the head of HTech, recently released a teaser showcasing drop tests of the Honor X9b at various heights to demonstrate the smartphone’s display durability.

    A Curved Display that Defies Gravity

    In a tweet, Sheth shared a video of the drop tests and hinted at the extraordinary features of the upcoming smartphone. While the phone’s name was not explicitly mentioned in the teaser, the presence of the letter “X” strongly suggests that it belongs to the X-series. The video showcases the Honor X9b’s curved-edge display undergoing rigorous drop tests from waist level, shoulder height, 8 feet, and even an extreme height. Surprisingly, the display emerges from all the tests without any visible damage, highlighting its exceptional durability.

    Impressive Specifications

    While the official specifications are yet to be announced, here is an overview of the expected specifications for the Honor X9b:

    • Display: The Honor X9b is expected to feature a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will also come with an in-screen fingerprint scanner for added convenience.
    • Operating System and Processor: The device will run on Magic OS 7.2-based Android 13 and will be powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset.
    • Memory and Storage: The Honor X9b is rumored to come with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space for all your files and apps.
    • Battery: It will house a powerful 5,800mAh battery and support 35W fast charging, ensuring that you can use your smartphone for extended periods without worrying about running out of battery.
    • Camera: The front of the device will feature a 16-megapixel camera for high-quality selfies. On the back, it will have a triple camera setup, including a 108-megapixel primary camera, a 5-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera.
    • Additional Features: The Honor X9b is expected to come with dual SIM support, 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, a USB-C port for fast data transfer, and a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting your headphones.

    Conclusion

    With the upcoming launch of the Honor X9b in India, HTech aims to impress consumers with its display durability and impressive specifications. The teased drop tests demonstrate the phone’s ability to withstand various heights without sustaining any visible damage. As excitement builds, consumers can look forward to experiencing the latest trend in smartphones with the Honor X9b.

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