Category: Tablets

  • Amazon Launches Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition: First Color eReader

    Amazon Launches Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition: First Color eReader

    Amazon has unveiled a new range of Kindle devices, including the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, which is the first eReader from Amazon to feature a color display. With the introduction of the Kindle Colorsoft, Amazon enters the competitive market of color-screen eReaders, joining brands like Onyx with its BOOX Go Color 7, available for $250 on Amazon, and Rakuten’s Kobo Libra Color.

    Design and Display

    The Kindle Colorsoft resembles the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition, but it boasts a color screen. Amazon claims that the display mimics a paper-like color experience. It utilizes a mix of nitride LEDs together with special algorithms for a new light guide, enhancing colors and boosting brightness while maintaining detail. Users can select from standard and vibrant color options.

    Technical Specifications

    Currently, the technical specifics of the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition are not available, as Amazon has reportedly removed the product listing. The official announcement has also been taken down, but luckily, it has been archived. Still, the Kindle Colorsoft is said to offer up to 8 weeks of battery life and comes with wireless charging capabilities. Furthermore, it is waterproof, making it suitable for use in the bath, at the beach, or even in the pool.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition is priced at $279.99, with shipping set to start on October 30. This price point is notably higher than the Kobo Libra 7, which retails for $220 on Amazon. The Kobo model features a 7-inch color display, 32GB of storage, physical buttons for page turning, support for a stylus (sold separately), and boasts an IPX8 waterproof rating.

    Amazon via The Verge

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  • iPad Mini 7 Features A17 Pro Chipset in Downgraded Version

    iPad Mini 7 Features A17 Pro Chipset in Downgraded Version

    Apple has launched the highly awaited 7th generation iPad mini, which offers a notable performance boost compared to the last version. A key feature of the new iPad mini is its A17 Pro chipset, the same robust SoC that powers the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    A17 Pro: A Compromised Version in iPad mini 7

    Looking deeper, it becomes clear that Apple has used a binned version of the A17 Pro, equipped with a 5-core GPU instead of the 6-core GPU available in the iPhone 15 Pro models. This indicates a clever strategy to utilize slightly less powerful chips for the iPad mini, which allows for cost-effective production.

    The iPad mini 7 is designed with a 6-core CPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, matching the core setup of the A17 Pro found in last year’s Pro iPhones. This means users can anticipate similar processing power and AI functions, making it a strong option for multitasking, creative applications, and gaming. The main distinction is the 5-core GPU, which could minimally impact graphics performance, although most users probably won’t perceive this during regular use.

    Enhanced RAM and AI Features

    Alongside the A17 Pro chipset, the iPad mini 7 also sees an increase in RAM, going from 4GB in the former model to 8GB. This enhancement allows for more fluid multitasking and supports Apple’s new AI-driven features. For fans of the iPad, this represents the most budget-friendly way to explore Apple’s latest machine learning advancements with iOS 18.1.

    The binned A17 Pro chipset shows Apple’s ongoing strategy of optimizing production expenses. Chip-binning involves employing components that fail to meet the highest performance criteria for flagship devices but are still usable for other products. In the case of the iPad mini 7, the combination of a 6-core CPU and a 5-core GPU likely comes from production runs that didn’t fulfill the rigorous demands of the iPhone 15 Pro series. Instead of discarding these chips, Apple finds a new use for them, letting the iPad mini benefit from A17 Pro performance at a reduced price.

    Design and Availability

    This isn’t the first time Apple has made use of chip-binning in its devices. The A15 Bionic in the iPad mini 6 operated at slightly lower clock speeds than its counterpart in the iPhone 13 Pro, and similar variations were observed with the M2 chip in the latest iPad Air models. While some may wish that the iPad mini 7 featured the A18 Pro chipset, this decision likely helps keep its starting price at an appealing $499.

    Even with these internal enhancements, the iPad mini 7 retains the same stylish and portable design that loyal fans have come to love. Featuring an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, Touch ID, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro, the new model is ideal for anyone looking for a compact yet powerful device for both work and entertainment.

    The iPad Mini 7 is now up for pre-order, with an official launch set for October 23. Be sure to check out our latest article to see if upgrading to the iPad Mini 7 is the right decision for you!

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  • Leak Uncovers Waterproof Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12 with Bigger Screen

    Leak Uncovers Waterproof Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12 with Bigger Screen

    A few weeks back, a leak hinted at the Amazon Kindle (2024), and now a Reddit user named gavan820 has shared images (shown below) that supposedly depict the new Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12. From these pictures, it appears that Amazon has made minimal updates to the design, with only the edges of the screen being slightly narrower. However, the back of the packaging indicates that the screen size has been increased from 6.8 inches to 7 inches.

    Enhanced Display Features

    Once again, the display features front lighting, which users can adjust for brightness and color temperature. Similar to the last model, the Kindle Paperwhite is IPX8 certified, meaning it is completely waterproof and can be used in places like a pool without worry. This new e-reader still offers 16 GB of flash storage.

    Battery and Charging

    The packaging claims that the battery can last “several weeks” and charges through USB-C at a maximum of 7.5 watts. It mentions that a charging cable is provided, although a charger is not included. The business model seems to remain the same, as the label states that the Kindle Paperwhite shows ads on the lock screen, which can be removed for a fee.

    Minimal Changes Noted

    So, based on this packaging, it looks like the only difference between the Kindle Paperwhite Gen 12 and the 2021 version is the slightly larger display. However, there’s a chance that Amazon might upgrade the MediaTek MT8110 chip to a newer one, possibly add a bigger battery, or even introduce wireless charging to the standard model, which has only been available in the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition until now.

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  • Is iPad Mini 7 Upgrade Worth It? Discover the New Features

    Is iPad Mini 7 Upgrade Worth It? Discover the New Features

    The iPad Mini lineup has always been Apple’s solution for users wanting a small, yet strong tablet. With the launch of the iPad Mini 7, Apple has rolled out important upgrades to improve its functionality, graphical performance, and overall effectiveness.

    Key Upgrades

    Let’s take a closer look at the main improvements that the iPad Mini 7 offers over the iPad Mini 6, and discover what enhancements Apple has included in its tiniest tablet.

    Processor and Performance

    One of the most notable changes in the iPad Mini 7 is the shift from the A15 Bionic chip to the advanced A17 Pro chip. This new 3nm processor features a 6-core CPU (with 2 cores focused on performance and 4 on efficiency), which claims a 30% boost in CPU speed compared to the A15. It also has a 5-core GPU that provides a 25% increase in graphics performance.

    Moreover, the A17 Pro chip brings in hardware-accelerated ray tracing, a function that significantly improves gaming and other graphics-heavy applications by creating more lifelike lighting and shadows. While the iPad Mini 6, equipped with the A15 Bionic, already showed great speed, the A17 Pro elevates the iPad Mini 7 to be among the most powerful small tablets on the market, rivaling some high-end laptops.

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  • Apple Unveils New iPad Mini with A17 Pro and Increased Storage

    Apple Unveils New iPad Mini with A17 Pro and Increased Storage

    Apple has quietly revealed a new iPad Mini tablet without much excitement. Contrary to earlier speculations, it does not feature a mini LED display. Instead, it continues to utilize the reliable 8.3-inch LCD screen that was previously seen on the 2021 iPad Mini. Moreover, the base storage has been increased to 128 GB, similar to the recent iPad Air models, which now have a much-needed storage option of 256 GB.

    Pricing and Availability

    The starting price for the Wi-Fi model is set at $499, while the 5G version begins at $649. The new iPad Mini is available in four color options: Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Black. Besides the storage enhancement, it is powered by the new Apple A17 Pro SoC. However, it features a lower-binned 5-core GPU, unlike the 6-core GPU that comes with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    New Features

    The upgraded SoC (and a quiet RAM upgrade that Apple is not disclosing) enables Apple Intelligence to operate on the tablet natively. However, not all features will be accessible right after purchase. The new iPad Mini is equipped with iPadOS 18, giving users an experience comparable to that of the iPad Air. You can now pre-order the new iPad Mini, with deliveries set to start tomorrow.

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  • iPad Mini 7: A17 Pro Chip, USB-C, Double Storage & Apple Pencil Support

    iPad Mini 7: A17 Pro Chip, USB-C, Double Storage & Apple Pencil Support

    Apple recently revealed its new iPad mini, packed with exciting upgrades. Named the iPad Mini 7, this device is powered by the A17 Pro chip, making it the most potent mini model to date. This advancement means a noticeable increase in performance for tasks like photo editing, gaming, and augmented reality. Additionally, Apple has increased the base storage to 128GB, giving users plenty of room for their apps, photos, and videos.

    Specifications and Features of iPad Mini 7

    The iPad Mini 7 keeps the small and portable design seen in earlier versions, boasting a stunning 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. However, its internals have seen significant improvements. The A17 Pro chip provides a 30 percent enhancement in CPU performance and a 25 percent improvement in graphics performance compared to the last generation. This allows the iPad Mini 7 to run even the most challenging games smoothly, including graphic-heavy titles like “Zenless Zone Zero.”

    Enhanced Connectivity

    Connectivity has also improved with Wi-Fi 6E support, giving users up to double the performance of its predecessor. The cellular models now come with 5G support and eSIM capabilities for easier plan setup and management. Moreover, the USB-C port offers faster data transfer, making it more efficient for users.

    Creative Capabilities with Apple Pencil Pro

    The iPad Mini 7 works seamlessly with the Apple Pencil Pro, expanding creative options for users. With features like pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and a customizable tool palette, the Apple Pencil Pro turns the iPad Mini 7 into a convenient digital sketchbook.

    Camera Features

    The device includes a 12-megapixel wide rear camera that supports Smart HDR 4, producing natural-looking photos with enhanced dynamic range. The camera employs machine learning to identify and scan documents through the Camera app. The 12-megapixel ultra-wide front camera is great for video calls and selfies, featuring Center Stage for a better experience.

    Apple Intelligence and Software Enhancements

    With iPadOS 18, Apple Intelligence is deeply embedded, utilizing the power of Apple silicon to improve user experience with features like Writing Tools, a refined Siri, and the Memories function in Photos. Upcoming updates are set to introduce even more features, including the Image Playground and the new Image Wand tool. iPadOS 18 also offers new functionalities such as Math Notes, Smart Script in the Notes app, and improved customization for the Home Screen and Control Center.

    Pricing and Availability

    The iPad Mini 7 has a starting price of $499 for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB of storage. The Wi-Fi + Cellular version is available for $649. In India, the starting prices for the Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi+Cellular models are Rs 49,900 and Rs 64,900, respectively. Customers can choose from four appealing colors: Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray. Pre-orders for the iPad Mini 7 are open, with the device expected to be available from Oct. 23.

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  • Oppo Pad 3 Pro Flagship Android Tablet Launching October 24

    Oppo Pad 3 Pro Flagship Android Tablet Launching October 24

    Oppo is set to launch a range of new devices on October 24. Alongside the much-awaited Find X8 series, the Chinese technology company will introduce the Oppo Pad 3 Pro tablet. Before the official reveal, a listing for this device has surfaced on Oppo’s online shop.

    ### Changes in Tablet Naming

    Earlier reports mentioned the OnePlus Pad 2, which is currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon, would be released in China as the Oppo Pad 3. However, a recent leak clarified that this is not true. Instead of the Oppo Pad 3, the tablet will come out as the Oppo Pad 3 Pro. Notably, it will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version chip, unlike the standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 found in the OnePlus Pad 2.

    ### Specifications and Variants

    This official listing verifies that the tablet will indeed be named Oppo Pad 3 Pro and confirms the presence of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version chipset. The distinctions between these two tablets extend beyond just the chipsets.

    According to the listing, there will be four different configurations for the Oppo Pad 3 Pro. The entry-level version will offer 8GB of RAM along with 256GB of storage, while there will also be a 12GB RAM model with the same storage capacity. Additionally, a 16GB RAM option will be available, offering 512GB and 1TB storage choices. On the flip side, the OnePlus Pad 2 is only sold in two configurations: 8GB RAM and 12GB RAM, with storage options of 128GB and 256GB, respectively.

    ### Design and Features

    Furthermore, the Oppo Pad 3 Pro will come in two color choices: Night Blue and Dawn Gold. In contrast, the OnePlus Pad 2 is available solely in Nimbus Gray. The differences don’t stop at color; the design also varies, featuring concentric circles on the back of the Oppo tablet, similar to the OnePlus Pad. Additionally, the Oppo Pad 3 Pro will support an optional stylus and keyboard.

    The pricing for Oppo Pad 3 Pro has not been revealed yet, but the company has started taking reservations for it.

    Oppo via ITHome

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  • Oppo Pad 3 Pro and Find X8 Series Launch on October 24

    Oppo Pad 3 Pro and Find X8 Series Launch on October 24

    Several sources have indicated that Oppo is developing a new tablet known as the Oppo Pad 3 Pro. Today, the company officially announced that the tablet is now open for pre-orders. The device is set to launch alongside the Find X8 series smartphones on October 24 in China.

    Oppo Pad 3 Pro Pre-Order Details

    Pre-orders for the Oppo Pad 3 Pro have commenced on various platforms, including Oppo Store and JD.com in China. The listings reveal that the tablet will be offered in several configurations, including 8GB+256GB, 12GB+256GB, 16GB+512GB, and 16GB+1TB. It will be available in colors such as Night Blue and Dawn Gold.

    Launch Background

    Earlier this year, there were rumors that Oppo would release the Oppo Pad 3 in China, but that launch did not take place. Instead, the same device was rebranded as the OnePlus Pad 2 for the global market in July. Now, the company is gearing up to introduce the Oppo Pad 3 Pro in China. Although no official specifications have been confirmed, rumors indicate that it may come with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version chipset. It will run on ColorOS 15 and support the Oppo Pencil 2 Pro stylus.

    Design and Specifications

    Official images suggest that the Oppo Pad 3 Pro has a design similar to the OnePlus Pad 2. This raises the possibility that the new Oppo tablet may share some specifications with the OnePlus Pad 2. To recap, the OnePlus Pad 2 features a 12.1-inch IPS LCD display that provides a resolution of 2120 x 3000 pixels and a refresh rate of 144Hz. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and includes 8GB or 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, along with 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage, and a 9,510 mAh battery that supports 67W fast charging. Additional features include six speakers, an 8-megapixel front camera, and a 13-megapixel rear camera.

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  • Honor Launches 11-Inch Tablet X9: Key Features and Specs

    Honor Launches 11-Inch Tablet X9: Key Features and Specs

    Honor is set to launch a range of new products, which includes the Tablet GT Pro and the Tablet X9. Those who follow Honor closely may recognize the X9 name, as the Honor Pad X9 has been released in some regions since last year. However, the Honor Tablet X9 is a distinct model with key differences in its features.

    Display Specifications

    The fresh Honor Tablet X9 features an 11-inch display with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080, making it slightly smaller than the previous year’s model. Additionally, it has a refresh rate of up to 90 Hz, which is lower than the 120 Hz found in the earlier version. The maximum brightness of the screen is rated at 400 cd/m², which is relatively modest. The screen-to-body ratio is noted to be 84%, and the edges of the display are clearly visible in the product images released so far.

    Performance Expectations

    While specific details regarding the installed SoC are not yet revealed, it appears that Honor’s Tablet X9 is aimed primarily at users interested in media consumption and web browsing, rather than those seeking a high-performance tablet suitable for professional tasks. This is suggested by the product images that have been shared. Furthermore, the battery is reported to have a capacity of 8,300 mAh, which should provide decent usage time.

    Upcoming Launch Date

    The Tablet X6 is anticipated to be announced on October 16, though it remains uncertain whether the tablet will be available worldwide.

    Honor (Weibo)

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  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Expected to Feature MediaTek Dimensity 9400

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Expected to Feature MediaTek Dimensity 9400

    Plenty has been discussed about Samsung’s potential use of MediaTek chipsets lately, but nothing has been confirmed yet. The initial speculation seems to have started with the launch of the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, which come equipped with Dimensity 9300 Plus chipsets—this is a first for this series.

    Google DeepMind’s Implication

    A post from Google DeepMind suggested this chip adoption might also apply to Samsung’s smartphones, although this claim has since been denied. In a similar vein, market analysts from Morgan Stanley have purportedly released findings rejecting the idea that a Samsung phone powered by the Dimensity 9400 could be launched next year. This rumor also supposedly involves Honor, but we have yet to discover any concrete proof, nor has our source shared a link to the report.

    Ongoing Speculations

    Despite this, there are still ongoing rumors about Samsung potentially incorporating Dimensity chipsets in the Galaxy S25 series. Reports say that initial discussions between Samsung and MediaTek focused on including a yet-to-be-named Dimensity chipset in the standard Galaxy S25. However, it seems that Samsung has opted for Snapdragon exclusivity for its upcoming compact flagship, which may also apply to the bigger Galaxy S25 Plus.

    Future of the Galaxy S25 FE

    MediaTek, on the other hand, is now hoping that Samsung will use its Dimensity platform in the Galaxy S25 FE, moving away from this year’s dual Exynos and Snapdragon approach seen in the Galaxy S24 FE (currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon). It’s likely that the chipset involved will be the Dimensity 9400, not something newer or older. While the launch date for the Galaxy S25 FE remains uncertain, the idea that it may feature a Dimensity chipset suggests it could be released alongside new flagship Galaxy Tab S tablets.

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