Category: Phones

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  • Xiaomi Mi 14 Ultra HyperOS Update: Big Upgrades for Photography & Health

    Xiaomi Mi 14 Ultra HyperOS Update: Big Upgrades for Photography & Health

    Xiaomi is now deploying a significant update for the Mi 14 Ultra's HyperOS, labeled version 1.0.7.0.UNACNXM, weighing in at a substantial 626MB. This latest update is packed with a plethora of enhancements aimed at elevating the overall user experience.

    System Enhancements

    The latest system updates are primarily centered around photography and health integration. Mi 14 Ultra users will now have access to a new camera handle charging control switch, granting them more precise control over their mobile photography endeavors. Health-conscious individuals will benefit from the Tiantong SMS function, which seamlessly syncs vital signs information with the Xiaomi Sports Health app (version 3.27.2 required). Furthermore, an automated distress text message feature activates post usage of satellite calls in SOS mode, adding an additional layer of security during emergencies. To top it off, there's a general optimization of the touch experience to ensure a smoother and more responsive interaction with the device.

    Camera Enhancements

    The camera enhancements packed within this update are targeted at three key areas: HDR imaging, portrait clarity, and metering. The improved HDR imaging effect is set to capture visually balanced scenes across a broader range of environments. Enthusiasts of portrait photography will be pleased with the increased clarity and detail in their shots. Moreover, the update optimizes metering weight in environment priority mode, ensuring optimal exposure for faces in varying lighting conditions.

    Potential New Photography Controller

    Rumors suggest that Xiaomi may introduce a new Photography Controller alongside this update. This professional-grade tool features a Type-C interface for effortless connectivity, eliminating the need for complex pairing or power management procedures. Officials are touting a "no delay" guarantee for a seamless user experience. With this update and the possible launch of the Photography Controller, the Mi 14 Ultra is poised to become a powerhouse in mobile photography. Stay tuned for more information on the official release of the controller!

  • Upcoming Vivo X Fold 3: Lighter Than iPhone 15 Pro Max, Galaxy S24 Ultra

    Upcoming Vivo X Fold 3: Lighter Than iPhone 15 Pro Max, Galaxy S24 Ultra

    Vivo is set to unveil the Vivo X Fold 3 series of foldable smartphones in China on March 26, marking a significant advancement in the world of mobile technology. These upcoming foldable devices are anticipated to be lighter in weight compared to traditional candybar-style smartphones, capturing the interest of tech enthusiasts and consumers alike. Various tech bloggers within China have shared insights regarding the dimensions and weight specifications of the X Fold 3 series.

    Vivo X Fold 3 Series: Dimensions and Weight

    Reports from tech bloggers in China suggest that the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro, rumored to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, will have dimensions of 11.2mm when folded and 5.2mm when unfolded, weighing approximately 236 grams. In contrast, the Vivo X-Fold 3 is expected to emerge as one of the lightest foldable devices in history, weighing just 219 grams. This weight places it below competitors like the iPhone 15 Pro Max (221 grams) and the Galaxy S24 Ultra (232 grams).

    Slim Profile and Foldable Design

    The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered foldable phone is projected to feature a slender profile of 4.65mm when unfolded, potentially surpassing the Vivo X5 Max, currently recognized as the world's thinnest smartphone at 5.1mm. When folded, the device is expected to measure 10.2mm. On another note, the Honor Magic V2 currently holds the title for the thinnest and lightest foldable device with a horizontally foldable design. Introduced in July 2023, the V2 boasts measurements of 4.7mm when unfolded and 9.9mm when folded, with a weight of just 231 grams.

    By pushing the boundaries of innovation and design, Vivo's upcoming X Fold 3 series aims to redefine user experiences with foldable smartphones, offering a blend of portability and cutting-edge technology to consumers worldwide. Stay tuned for the official unveiling on March 26 to witness the next evolution in foldable phone technology.

  • Latest Update Fixes Annoying Flicker Issue in Nothing Phone (1)

    Latest Update Fixes Annoying Flicker Issue in Nothing Phone (1)

    Nothing has released a fresh update, Nothing OS 2.5.3.A, for the Nothing Phone (1) to tackle recent bugs that have been bothering users.

    The update targets various crucial issues, including resolving flickering problems when dealing with lock screen widgets, fixing failures in sending text messages under certain conditions, getting rid of fingerprint unlocking flickers on the Always On Display (AOD), and rectifying blurry thumbnails in the Media Player widget, particularly during Spotify playback.

    Enhancements and Optimizations

    This new update brings forth a Recorder widget for convenient audio recording, enhances widget and app-opening animations for smoother performance, and upgrades the lock screen and Always On Display (AOD) animations for a more seamless visual experience. Furthermore, it includes an updated security patch to enhance device security.

    Rollout and Feedback

    The deployment of this update will be gradual, so users may need to wait a while for the OTA notification to show up on their devices. If you miss the notification or wish to manually check for the update's availability, head to Settings > System > System update. For those looking to share their feedback on the update, simply go to Settings > System > Feedback.

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

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

    Qualcomm recently unveiled the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a streamlined version of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Now, the American chipmaker has introduced a new mid-range System on Chip (SoC) that joins the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 lineup. The latest addition is the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, serving as the successor to last year's Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2. This new chipset brings various enhancements, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), indicating that devices powered by this SoC will boast advanced AI features.

    Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 Unveiled

    The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 retains TSMC's 4nm process, similar to its predecessor. It shares the same CPU architecture as the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, comprising a prime core, four performance cores, and three efficiency cores. Notably, the prime core reaches a maximum speed of 2.8GHz. Qualcomm claims that this chipset offers a 15% improvement in CPU performance, a 45% boost in GPU performance, and a 15% enhancement in power efficiency.

    Enhanced Connectivity and AI Capabilities

    Equipped with an integrated X63 5G modem and FastConnect 7800 mobile connectivity system, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 can achieve peak download speeds of up to 4.2 Gbps and supports WiFi-7 connectivity. One of its standout features is the support for on-device generative AI capabilities, enabling a wide array of large language models (LLM) like Baichuan-7B, Llama 2, and Gemini Nano. This empowers devices using this chipset to enhance virtual assistant functionalities and offer additional AI-powered features, including multi-language translation and transcription.

    Impressive Features and Specifications

    The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 boasts an 18-bit triple cognitive Image Signal Processor (ISP) and can capture images up to 200MP. Notable features include Snapdragon Low Light Vision and advanced audio capabilities such as Spatial Audio with head tracking, Snapdragon Sound technology, aptX Lossless, and LE audio support. This chipset can accommodate up to QHD+ display resolution at a 120Hz refresh rate, along with supporting up to 24GB LPDDR5x RAM and a UFS 4.0 storage system.

    The OnePlus Ace 3V has already been introduced in China, featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, showcasing the capabilities of this new mid-range SoC.

  • OnePlus Nord 2 Update: Fixes Security Vulnerabilities

    OnePlus Nord 2 Update: Fixes Security Vulnerabilities

    The OnePlus Nord 2, initially launched in July 2021, received its final significant update last year in the form of OxygenOS 13, which is based on Android 13. Following this update, the device has been consistently receiving incremental updates to address performance issues, bugs, and security concerns. The most recent update includes the latest Android security patch, resolving various vulnerabilities.

    OxygenOS 13 F.51 Update

    The latest update for the Nord 2, named OxygenOS 13 F.51, integrates the March 2024 Android security patch. This patch rectifies numerous security vulnerabilities, particularly two critical ones that could potentially enable remote code execution, allowing unauthorized access to the device.

    Availability and Rollout

    At present, this update is exclusively accessible to OnePlus Nord 2 users in India. The rollout is gradual, commencing with a smaller group of users before expanding to a wider audience. Consequently, it might take several days to a few weeks for all units to receive the update. Users can manually check for the update by navigating to Settings > About > Software Update. In case of any issues with the new firmware, users can provide feedback through the OnePlus Community or Google Dialer.

  • Xiaomi 14 Ultra AI Camera Features Upgrading Older Flagships

    Xiaomi 14 Ultra AI Camera Features Upgrading Older Flagships

    Today, Xiaomi hosted an event in China to introduce its latest smartphone, the Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro, and to reveal upcoming software updates for the Xiaomi 14 series and Xiaomi 13 Ultra.

    These Xiaomi Phones Will Soon Receive AI-powered Master Portrait Mode

    Xiaomi announced that the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro models will receive the “Master Portrait” feature starting in April, while the Xiaomi 13 Ultra will have access to it by June. This feature, initially introduced on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, utilizes an AI portrait large model known as Xiaomi Portrait LM. It offers functionalities such as AI wrinkle removal, skin tone evening, and enhancement of teeth and eyes. Additionally, it supports high-resolution recording with 4K 60fps continuous zoom, full-range 8K 30fps video recording, and 4K 120fps high frame rate slow motion.

    Exciting Updates in Software Features

    In June, another software enhancement will arrive in the form of Xiaomi AISP (Xiaomi AI Image Semantic Processor). Positioned as the primary AI large model computational photography platform, AISP utilizes Xiaomi’s HyperOS to combine the processing power of CPU, GPU, NPU, and ISP, achieving speeds up to 60TOPS. This implementation enables features like ULTRA RAW super negative, providing exceptional color depth and dynamic range, and is compatible with professional editing software. AISP also includes a feature called ULTRA SNAP, which can capture 150 photos using advanced algorithms.

    Introducing the Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro

    The Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro features a Leica triple camera system and a specially designed Light Fusion 800 sensor. It also benefits from Xiaomi AISP (Imaging Brain 3.0), significantly enhancing overall computing power by 69% and enabling quicker continuous shooting. AISP on the Civi 4 Pro introduces a new AI GAN beauty algorithm, ensuring natural-looking beauty effects tailored to individual facial characteristics. The phone also offers flagship-level video capabilities, including 4K 60fps recording with features like HDR, autofocus, and beauty mode.


    Xiaomi 14 Ultra AI Camera Features Upgrading Older Flagships
  • Next-Gen Snapdragon “Pakala” Chip and Reference Device Unveiled in New Qualcomm Video

    Next-Gen Snapdragon “Pakala” Chip and Reference Device Unveiled in New Qualcomm Video

    Qualcomm had previously declared its intention to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 later this year. In a recent YouTube video released by the company, keen observers were able to identify the codename of the upcoming chipset as well as the reference device. Let’s delve into the details.

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Details Unveiled
    In a video titled “Behind the Silicon: Snapdragon X”, Qualcomm inadvertently revealed the moniker of the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, which goes by the name “Pakala”. Just before the codename was spotted, viewers caught a glimpse of the reference device being utilized in the video. However, the video primarily focuses on the Snapdragon X Elite rather than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.

    Exciting Updates on Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
    It was previously speculated that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 would be identified as “Sun” on benchmarking platforms and as “Pakala” for the hardware, a speculation that has now been confirmed. This upcoming chipset from Qualcomm is highly awaited and signifies a significant chip redesign for the brand, not just a routine annual release of its top-of-the-line mobile Application Processor (AP). The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is reportedly transitioning from ARM cores to Qualcomm’s proprietary Oryon cores.

    Anticipated Performance and Features
    There are rumors circulating that suggest the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 could potentially outperform the Apple A18 Pro chipset, although this remains unverified at the present time. Initial information indicates that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 might also offer support for LPDDR6 memory. The official unveiling of the chipset is scheduled for October 2024, so stay tuned for further developments.


    Next-Gen Snapdragon “Pakala” Chip and Reference Device Unveiled in New Qualcomm Video
  • 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.