Tag: UWB connectivity

  • Xiaomi Mix Flip 2 Leak: Can It Function as a Car Key?

    Xiaomi Mix Flip 2 Leak: Can It Function as a Car Key?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The first Xiaomi Mix Flip has performed well in China, despite camera and battery limitations.
    2. The upcoming Mix Flip 2 will feature a bigger battery and the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
    3. The Mix Flip 2 will introduce ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity, enhancing smart-home experiences.
    4. UWB may allow for automatic vehicle unlocking and starting, pending compatibility confirmation.
    5. The Mix Flip 2 is expected to support 5G roaming and 90W fast charging, launching alongside other high-end devices in 2025.


    The first Xiaomi Mix Flip has reportedly performed well in the market, especially in China, despite some limitations with its cameras, battery life, and overall performance due to its clamshell design. The upcoming Mix Flip 2 is anticipated to improve in several areas, featuring a bigger battery and an upgrade to the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.

    Enhanced Connectivity Features

    In addition to these upgrades, the Mix Flip 2 is set to include ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity, a feature that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 does not currently offer. This would mark the first Xiaomi foldable smartphone to have UWB technology, which is thought to enhance the smart-home experience for users, similar to what the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers within the Apple ecosystem.

    Potential for Smart Features

    With the inclusion of UWB, the second-generation Mix Flip could also allow users to unlock and start their vehicle automatically, provided the car is from a compatible brand, although this feature remains unconfirmed at this time.

    Future Prospects

    Moreover, the Mix Flip 2 is expected to support 5G roaming and faster charging at 90W, although it won’t include features like satellite calling or messaging. It may be launched alongside other high-end devices, such as the Redmi K80 Ultra, later in 2025.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 3: Ultra-WideBand Connectivity for Enhanced Watch Unlock

    Google Pixel Watch 3: Ultra-WideBand Connectivity for Enhanced Watch Unlock

    Google’s Pixel Watch 3 has been a subject of recent speculation within the tech community. Reports suggest that the upcoming wearable device will introduce enhancements to its Watch Unlock feature, offering additional functionality and potential use cases, thanks to the incorporation of Ultra-WideBand (UWB) connectivity. While the original and second-generation Pixel Watches can currently be unlocked through a Bluetooth-linked smartphone, this new upgrade aims to elevate the unlocking experience.

    Enhanced Watch Unlock Feature with UWB Connectivity

    9to5Google has delved into the latest version of the Play Services app and uncovered references pointing towards an enhancement in Watch Unlock capabilities through UWB connectivity. The code discovered indicates the potential integration of ‘UWB ranging’, although it's noted that UWB may not be universally available, leading Google to deactivate this feature in regions where the connectivity protocol is unsupported.

    The notification users will receive states, “You can still use Watch Unlock but may experience a slight delay and less accuracy,” hinting at Google's efforts to optimize smartwatch unlocking using ultra-wideband technology for faster and more precise interactions between the watch and a paired phone. It's essential that both devices are equipped with the necessary hardware for this functionality, with UWB support currently available in devices like the Pixel 6 Pro and later models, but not in the standard variants or the Pixel Watch.

    Potential Applications of UWB Connectivity

    Beyond improving the unlocking process for the Pixel Watch 3, UWB connectivity opens up possibilities for utilizing the technology in various scenarios such as digital car keys, smart home controls, and smart door locks. This advancement signifies a broader scope for the Pixel Watch 3 in terms of inter-device communication and seamless integration with other smart technologies.

    Recent reports have also hinted at the introduction of a larger 45mm size variant for the Pixel Watch 3, complementing the existing 41mm model. This expansion in size options suggests Google’s commitment to providing users with a diverse range of choices when it comes to selecting their preferred wearable device.