Tag: IP68

  • Lenovo ThinkTab X11: Removable Battery, Waterproof

    Lenovo ThinkTab X11: Removable Battery, Waterproof

    Key Takeaway

    – Price starts at $499 (8GB/128GB) or $579 (256GB) via Lenovo USA; €699 for 256GB in Germany
    – Rugged business tablet with IP68 waterproof rating (with protective cover)
    – Replaceable 10,200 mAh battery with 17-hour web surfing battery life
    – 10.95-inch 90Hz IPS display (2560×1600, 800 nits)
    – Includes 5G modem, nano-SIM, Wi-Fi 6E, two USB-C ports, and headphone jack

    Lenovo ThinkTab X11 Now Available

    The Lenovo ThinkTab X11 was anounced at the Mobile World Congress and the tablet is finally available. The tablet can be ordered directly from Lenovo USA for $499 with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, or for $579 with 256 GB. Lenovo Germany is offering the tablet exclusivly with 256 GB for €699. The storage can be expanded using a microSD card.

    Target Audience and Durability

    The ThinkTab X11 is primarilly aimed at business customers, but the specs also make the device interesting for consumers who are looking for a particularly robust, durable tablet. Although the tablet, which is almost 1 centimeter thick and weighs 650 grams, is not particularly thin or light, the casing is IP68-certified and therefore waterproof – at least with the corresponding protective cover. Without the cover, the device is only IP52 certified.

    Connectivity and Display

    The integrated 5G modem and nano-SIM slot make it possible to access the internet on the go. The 10.95-inch touchscreen in 16:10 format is based on an IPS panel that achieves a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels, a frame rate of 90 Hz and a brightness of 800 nits; 72% of the NTSC color space can be displayed.

    Performance and Battery Life

    Inside the tablet is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. A special feature is that the 10,200 mAh battery can be easily replaced when the end of the 1,000 charge cycle lifespan is reached. Lenovo advertises a battery life of 17 hours when surfing the web. A fingerprint sensor in the power button, an 8 MP selfie camera, a 13 MP main camera, Wi-Fi 6E, two USB-C ports and a 3.5 mm headphone jack complete the package.

    Pricing Availibility

    • Lenovo USA: $499 (8GB/128GB) or $579 (256GB).
    • Lenovo Germany: €699 (256GB only).
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  • Nitecore P17iX: Compact EDC Flashlight Launches

    Nitecore P17iX: Compact EDC Flashlight Launches

    Key Takeaway

    – Nitecore P17iX costs $129, about $30 less than the P27iX.
    – Uses a replaceable 21700 battery with USB-C charging; design and controls are nearly identical to the P27iX.
    – Rated at 5,000 lumens but has a shorter beam range (1,083 feet) than the P27iX (1,411 feet).
    – Slightly lighter at 3.6 oz (including battery) and 0.8 oz lighter than the P27iX.
    – Rugged with IP68 rating, waterproof to 6.6 feet, and drop-resistant from up to 6.6 feet.

    Pricing and Specs of the Nitecore P17iX

    The Nitecore P17iX is now avalible. The smaller sibling of the P27iX is at stock at some retailers with cost around $129 dollers. That is about $30 less than the P27iX. They are barely different in design. Both use a Nitecore NL2155HPi battery that is replaceable. The battery charges via the USB-C port on the flashlight wich is protected.

    Battry Options and Controls

    Alternatively, CR123 cells can be used. The controls are identical and configurable, including button layout and the protective slide switch for locking the flashlight. If you have used the P27iX you should have no trouble using the smaller P17iX at all.

    Light Output and Runtimes

    As before, there is a floodlight and spotlight that can be biefly activated until the flashlight gets too hot. There are constant-on modes. The diffrence is still significant even though both are rated at 5,000 lumens. However, the P17iX beam only offers 1,083 feet of range. The 27 model reaches 328 feet farther. It is also 0.8 oz lighter cause the head is smaller, and weights 3.6 oz including the battery according to the manufacturer.

    Battery Life in Modes

    Battery life in the lowest mode of 15 lumens is around 100 hours. In turbo mode at 1,500 lumens, the P17iX lasts half an hour longer and therefor manages at least 3 hours of runtime. The model is very rugged and IP68-rated. Brief immersion down to 6.6 feet is permited. According to Nitecore drops from up to 6.6 feet are possible too.

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  • Armor Mini 5: Android Phone with Buttons & Touchscreen

    Key Takeaway

    – Runs Android 11 with a touchscreen, but very low resolution (240×320) limits use of demanding apps.
    – Extremely low-end specs: 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, and an old 2017 MediaTek processor.
    – Cameras are minimal at 0.3 MP, barely functional.
    – Rugged durability with IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certification.
    – Priced at $99, aimed at basic communication like WhatsApp rather than full smartphone use.

    Understanding the Ulefone Armor Mini 5

    The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 is technically a new smartphone, although in practice it is likely somewhere between a feature phone and a smartphone. It runs Android 11, and additional apps can be installed. There is also a 2.8-inch touchscreen. However, it only has a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, which means more demanding smartphone apps are likely less suitable. Ulefone puts particular emphasis on WhatsApp use. Whether the Ulefone Armor Mini 5 combines the best of both worlds or, conversely, the drawbacks of both platforms, will likely depend heavily on actual use.

    Performance and Storage Capabilities

    The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 uses the rather ancient MediaTek MT6739, an SoC introduced in 2017, which is paired with just 1GB RAM. Internal storage is very limited at 8 GB, but can be expanded by up to 64GB with a memory card. There are also two additional card slots, making it possible to use two cellular networks and two phone numbers. 5G networks are not supported, but LTE can be used.

    Camera, Battery and Durability Features

    There is both a front and rear camera, though both sensors have a resolution of just 0.3 MP. That is likely very close to the limit of practical usability, and perhaps almost gives it a certain retro charm again. The removable 2,500 mAh battery is said to enable a standby time of up to 311 hours. Compliance with IP68, IP69K and MIL-STD-810H requirements is listed. The smartphone is available from the manufacturer for $99.


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  • AMOLED NFC Smartwatch with IP68 — Only $23 Deal

    AMOLED NFC Smartwatch with IP68 — Only $23 Deal

    Key Takeaway

    – Very low price for a smartwatch with seemingly strong specs (AMOLED display, blood oxygen, blood pressure, NFC, IP68, Bluetooth 5.4) at about $23, but reliability is questionable.
    – Limited confidence in software and features: unclear language support, likely unreliable health measurements, and contactless payments may not work outside China.
    – Potential caveats: shipping/import fees may apply; uncertain warranty/updates; best as a backup, tinkering device, or budget quick-browse option rather than a trusted health/fitness watch.

    Overview of the Valdus VD40 Pro on Alibaba

    Most smartwatch buyers are likely to spend hundreds of dollars on their new watch, even though there are much cheaper devices in this category on the market. Those who do not have high expectations and are mainly looking for a wearable with a decent screen may even find that a budget of $23 is enough.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Chinese online marketplace Alibaba is currently selling the Valdus VD40 Pro, a surprisingly good-looking smartwatch with a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, for just $23. Potential shipping and import fees may still apply in some cases. Three different color variants are available at that price, and one apparently even ships with a stainless-steel strap. The watch case appears to be made from a zinc alloy.

    Specs and Features Versus Price

    The advertised specs and features also read surprisingly well given the price. In addition to blood oxygen and blood pressure sensors, NFC, an IP68 rating, Bluetooth 5.4 and a voice assistant are allegedly included. However, how reliable and usable these functions ultimately are is highly questionable, especially from a software perspective.

    Practical Considerations

    For example, it is not known which languages the pre-installed OS supports. Contactless payments are also unlikely to work outside of China. Bargain hunters should ultimately be aware that the health features of the Valdus VD40 Pro are most likely not trustworthy. However, as a backup watch or a gadget for tinkering, this very cheap smartwatch may still be suitable.

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  • Affordable Stylish AMOLED Smartwatch: Rollme Edge Now Available

    Affordable Stylish AMOLED Smartwatch: Rollme Edge Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Rollme Edge smartwatch is priced at $30 and available in black or white.
    2. It features a boxy design, a rotating crown, and is IP68 waterproof, but not suitable for diving or swimming.
    3. The watch has a 1.95-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 460 x 460 pixels and a 380mAh battery lasting up to 10 days.
    4. Health monitoring features include heart rate, blood oxygen tracking, and sleep quality, but it lacks built-in GPS.
    5. The Edge has a microphone and speaker for hands-free use with AI assistants, combining style and functionality at an affordable price.

    Rollme has just announced the release of a new smartwatch. The device, called Edge, can be purchased directly from the manufacturer for $30. Buyers have the option to select either a black or white model, but they should be aware of the shipping policies and any extra charges that may apply.

    Design Features

    The smartwatch has a rather boxy design, which might not appeal to everyone. It includes a rotating crown on the right side, but lacks any additional buttons. While the watch is built to be somewhat tough, it only complies with the IP68 waterproof standard. This means that the Rollme Edge isn’t suited for diving or swimming, despite the manufacturer showcasing such activities in one of their promotional images.

    Display and Battery Life

    Equipped with a 1.95-inch AMOLED display, the watch boasts a resolution of 460 x 460 pixels. Rollme mentions a color deviation of Delta E < 2, but does not provide details on brightness, which is likely an important factor for a device like this. The watch measures around 0.41 inches in thickness and has a width of 40mm. Its 380mAh battery is designed to last up to 10 days on a single charge. Additionally, the Edge includes standard features like notifications and weather updates.

    Health Monitoring and Connectivity

    The Rollme Edge can track heart rate and blood oxygen levels. It also monitors sleep duration and quality by observing movements during the night. However, a GPS module is not built-in, meaning that running distances can only be estimated using step count and stride length, unless the watch is connected to a smartphone. On the plus side, it comes with a microphone and speaker, allowing it to function as a hands-free device for various AI assistants.

    Rollme’s new offering seems to be a mix of style and functionality, making it an interesting option for consumers looking for a budget-friendly smartwatch.

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    Affordable Stylish AMOLED Smartwatch: Rollme Edge Now AvailableAffordable Stylish AMOLED Smartwatch: Rollme Edge Now Available

     

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  • JBL Launches Grip Portable Speaker with Ambient Light and Auracast

    JBL Launches Grip Portable Speaker with Ambient Light and Auracast

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Size and Weight: The JBL Grip is smaller and lighter than the Flip 7 and Charge 6, making it easier to transport, though less portable than the Clip 5.

    2. Customizable Ambient Light: It features a built-in ambient light that can be customized via the JBL Portable app, which can also enhance bass response when positioned correctly.

    3. Audio Design: The Grip uses a single full-range driver and two passive radiators, lacking 360-degree sound and should be oriented with the JBL logo facing the listener for optimal performance.

    4. Durability and Battery Life: With an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, the Grip can withstand drops but does not float; the battery lasts up to 14 hours, depending on light settings.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at $100, the Grip is available for pre-order in six colors, with shipping starting on September 28th.

    The Grip fits nicely into JBL’s range of portable speakers, being smaller than both the Flip 7 and Charge 6 models. With dimensions of 6.4 x 15.3 cm (2.5 x 6 inches) and a weight of just 385 g (0.85 lb), it’s definitely easier to transport compared to its heavier counterparts, although it’s not as portable as the carabiner-style Clip 5.

    Unique Features

    One standout feature of the Grip is its built-in ambient light located on the back panel, which can be customized with different colors and themes via the JBL Portable app. A clever way to use this light is to position it facing a wall, allowing it to function as a diffuser. This positioning also enhances the bass response, which is a clever advantage for compact speakers like the Grip.

    Sound Performance

    In terms of audio, the Grip features a single full-range driver along with two passive radiators, which helps to keep the weight down. Because of this design, it doesn’t offer 360-degree sound and should ideally be oriented with the JBL logo directed towards the listener. However, the Auracast technology lets you connect two Grip speakers in stereo mode, or you can link multiple Auracast-compatible JBL speakers to cover a larger space.

    Durability and Battery Life

    Like many Bluetooth speakers of its kind, the Grip is designed to withstand tough conditions. Its IP68 rating shows that it has excellent resistance to water and dust, and JBL claims it can withstand a drop from 1 meter onto concrete. However, unlike some other models such as the UE Boom 4, the Grip does not float, so it’s advisable to be cautious around water.

    The battery is said to last up to 14 hours, but it’s unclear if this time includes the brightness settings for the built-in light.

    Pricing and Availability

    Available for the price of $100, the Grip can be pre-ordered in the United States straight from JBL’s website, with shipping and broader availability beginning on September 28th. The speaker will come in six different colors: black, white, purple, red, blue, and camo.

     

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    JBL Launches Grip Portable Speaker with Ambient Light and AuracastJBL Launches Grip Portable Speaker with Ambient Light and AuracastJBL Launches Grip Portable Speaker with Ambient Light and Auracast

     

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  • Galaxy Z Fold 7 Leak Reveals Weak Dust Resistance Features

    Galaxy Z Fold 7 Leak Reveals Weak Dust Resistance Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Z Fold7 has the same IP rating as its predecessor, indicating similar water and dust resistance.
    2. Durability concerns include difficulty keeping out dust particles of 1mm or smaller and limited water resistance for submersion.
    3. The Z Fold7 received an A grade for drop resistance and a B grade for energy efficiency, with a battery life of around 40 hours.
    4. Competitors like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Vivo X Fold5, and Honor Magic V5 have better water and dust resistance ratings.
    5. The Galaxy Z Fold6 is currently priced at $1,619.99 and has an IP48 rating, making it thicker than newer models at over 12mm.

    The European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL) seems to have prepped the Energy Label for the Galaxy Z Fold7 ahead of its release. Arsène Lupin shared this info on X (previously known as Twitter), showing that the phone will have the same IP rating as the previous version.

    Durability Concerns

    One of the main durability issues with the Z Fold7 is its struggle to keep out dust particles that are 1 millimeter (mm) or smaller. It also can’t handle being submerged in fresh water for more than 30 minutes, unless it’s in water that is 1.5 meters (m) deep or less. This is a key point of concern for users who might worry about the device’s longevity.

    Energy Efficiency and Performance

    Additionally, the Z Fold7 has reportedly earned the highest drop-resistance grade (A) from EPREL. It also got a B-grade for energy efficiency, with its battery lasting around 40 hours and 28 minutes on a full charge. It’s suggested that this performance can be maintained for up to 2,000 full charge cycles.

    Comparison with Competitors

    In comparison, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is thought to outperform with its full IP68 water and dust resistance. Meanwhile, the newly launched Vivo X Fold5 and Honor Magic V5 already have better ratings in real-world scenarios, boasting IP58/59 ratings.

    Despite these points, the Galaxy Z Fold6 is still retailing on Amazon for $1,619.99, sporting its own IP48 rating. It is worth noting that the Z Fold6 is thicker than the newer models, measuring just over 12mm in thickness.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Surprises in New Bend Test Video

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Surprises in New Bend Test Video

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S25 Edge is the slimmest Samsung phone ever at 5.8 mm thick and weighs only 163 g.
    2. It is available for a price similar to the flagship S25 Ultra but lacks features like the S Pen and an extra rear camera.
    3. The phone features a titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 display, offering IP68-rated dust and water protection.
    4. It has shown durability comparable to thicker smartphones powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite.
    5. The Galaxy S25 Edge passed durability tests without issues, dispelling concerns about bending.

    The Galaxy S25 Edge has been revealed as “the slimmest Samsung phone ever created,” measuring just 5.8 millimeters (mm) thick, and it might also be the lightest in its category at only 163 grams (g).

    Pricing and Availability

    Even with its seemingly minor size, it’s currently available on Amazon for nearly the same price as the flagship S25 Ultra. However, it misses out on some features such as the S Pen, an additional rear camera, and even an anti-glare screen.

    Features and Durability

    The higher price tag can be attributed to its frame, which is enhanced with titanium, and the new Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 display. These materials provide impressive IP68-rated protection against dust and water, making this smartphone surprisingly robust despite its delicate appearance.

    Performance Tests

    Interestingly, it has shown durability similar to other smartphones powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite, which are of a more “normal” thickness. It successfully passed the JerryRigEverything tests for scratches, burns, and bends with the same ease as the 8.8mm Oppo Find X8 Ultra.

    Thus, those expecting a dramatic “Bendgate” situation with the Galaxy S25 Edge might be left feeling a bit let down.

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  • Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus 5G: Xiaomi Silent on IP69 Rating Details

    Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus 5G: Xiaomi Silent on IP69 Rating Details

    The story of the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus and its IP rating outside of China is still unfolding. To summarize, Xiaomi offers the device with an IP69 rating for dust and water resistance in China. This means the phone should be able to endure exposure to hot water and high-pressure water jets without facing any damage.

    Confusion Over International Release

    At first, it looked like this level of protection wouldn’t apply to the phone’s global launch. It appeared that Xiaomi confirmed the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus 5G would only have an IP68 rating, similar to its previous model (currently $377.50 on Amazon). However, they later stated that the device would come to India with an IP69 rating, boasting that it is ‘designed to handle the extreme’.

    Unclear Water Resistance Levels

    Sadly, the precise level of water resistance that the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus provides is still uncertain. Xiaomi has recently stated that IP69 is ‘supported’, but with specific terms and conditions attached. Strangely, the company has not detailed what these conditions are or where they can be located. In fact, the product listing for the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus only mentions the IP68 certification. This means there’s no assurance that the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus is as water-resistant as Xiaomi has often suggested.

    Xiaomi’s communication on this matter has been quite perplexing, leaving potential buyers in a bit of a muddle.

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