Thursday, March 14, 2024

ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED and Vivobook 15 laptops launched in India

ASUS unveiled its latest offerings in India with the introduction of the Zenbook S 13 OLED (UX5304MA) and Vivobook 15 (X1504VAP) models. These laptops join ASUS' recent lineup additions like the ROG Zephyrus G16 and ROG Strix laptops. The ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED boasts a sleek and durable design, constructed from recycled metals and plastics, featuring a slim all-metal chassis and U.S. military-grade durability. Weighing just 1 kg and measuring 1 cm thin, it's highly portable. Equipped with a 13.3-inch 2.8K ASUS Lumina OLED display, powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor-155U, and offering up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory and 1 TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs, it ensures smooth multitasking. On the other hand, the ASUS Vivobook 15 emphasizes portability and style, with a thin profile and MIL-STD 810H certification. Powered by Intel Core U-series processors, it offers up to 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD for high-speed performance. Both models come with attractive pricing, with the ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED starting at Rs. 1,29,990, and the Vivobook 15 starting at Rs. 49,990.

Vivo X100s Specifications Leaked

Vivo expanded its X100 series in India with the Vivo X100 and Vivo X100 Pro featuring the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipset. Now, rumors suggest the arrival of another addition to the lineup, the Vivo X100s. Although Vivo has not officially confirmed this, leaks from a reliable tipster hint at its color options and specifications. Allegedly, it will be available in four colors: black, cyan, white, and titanium, while sporting the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 SoC. The Vivo X100s is anticipated to succeed the Vivo X90s, offering a flat screen with 1.5K resolution and slim bezels, housed in a flat metal frame with glass on both sides. Last year's Vivo X90s boasted a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, Dimensity 9200+ SoC, triple rear cameras, and a 5,000mAh battery with 120W wired fast charging.

Moto G 5G (2024) and Moto G Power 5G (2024) Unveiled

Motorola unveils the latest additions to its G series lineup for the US market with the introduction of the Moto G 5G 2024 and Moto G Power 5G 2024, both featuring FHD+ displays boasting a 120Hz refresh rate. The Moto G 5G runs on the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, while the Power model is powered by the Dimensity 7020 SoC. With a 5000mAh battery and 18W/30W fast charging respectively, they promise enduring power. The G 5G sports a 6.6-inch LCD screen, whereas the Power variant offers a 6.7-inch display. Notable features include 5G connectivity, 50MP main cameras, and side-mounted fingerprint scanners. The Moto G 5G starts at USD 199.99 and will be available from March 21st, while the Moto G Power 5G, priced at USD 299.99, will hit the shelves from March 22nd. Both models will be available unlocked on various platforms starting May 2nd and March 29th, respectively. Additionally, the Moto G Power 5G will debut in Canada on April 12th.

Google confirms the upcoming Pixel 8a model

Google confirms plans for an extensive battery information page to debut alongside the Pixel 8a, responding to a forum query. While the device hasn't been officially unveiled, its moniker recently surfaced on a support page, hinting at an imminent launch, possibly during Google's upcoming I/O event. The Pixel 8a is expected to inherit design elements from the Pixel 8 series and run on the Tensor G3 processor with a 90Hz refresh rate display. Leaks suggest two variants with 8GB RAM and 128GB or 256GB storage options, priced around EUR 570 and EUR 630, respectively. Color options may include bay, mint, obsidian, and porcelain. The Pixel 7a's specifications are likely to be maintained, including the Tensor G2 SoC, 6.1-inch 90Hz OLED display, dual rear camera setup, and 4,385mAh battery, running on Android 13. 

New iPad Pro and iPad Air Models Anticipated; Possible New Feature for AirPods Pro

Apple is once again speculated to unveil new products, this time focusing on iPad Pro and iPad Air models. Following the recent launch of new MacBook Air models, reports suggest that Apple might introduce M3 chipset-powered iPad Pro models and M2-powered iPad Air models by late March or early April. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reiterated this information, stating that revamped iPad Pros, new iPad Airs, a refreshed Magic Keyboard, and an upgraded Apple Pencil could be unveiled around that time frame, coinciding with the release of iPadOS 17.4 software. These new devices are rumored to feature significant upgrades, including new OLED displays, slimmer bodies, revamped camera modules, MagSafe wireless charging support, and landscape-oriented front cameras. Additionally, a larger trackpad for the Magic Keyboard and a new feature for AirPods Pro, termed as 'hearing aid mode,' are expected later this year with the iOS 18 update.

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Poco X6 Neo launched in India

The affordable smartphone Poco X6 Neo debuts in India, featuring standout specs like a 120Hz refresh rate, a 108MP dual rear camera setup, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a MediaTek Dimensity 6080+ chipset. It competes with rivals such as the Realme 12 5G, Redmi Note 13 5G, and Lava Curve Blaze 5G. Available in two configurations, the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage version is priced at Rs 15,999, while the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant costs Rs 17,999. Color options include Astral Black, Horizon Blue, and Martian Orange.

The Poco X6 Neo hits Flipkart shelves today, March 13, at 7 pm, with a Rs 1,000 instant discount for ICICI Bank cardholders. The subsequent sale is slated for March 18 at 12 pm. Sporting a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, the device promises a 120Hz refresh rate, 1000 nits peak brightness, and Full HD+ resolution. Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 chipset, it offers up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, running on Android 13-based MIUI 14.

Camera-wise, it boasts a dual rear setup with a 108MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor, complemented by a 16MP front camera. The device packs a 5,000mAh battery supporting 33W fast charging, IP54 water and dust resistance, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and an in-display fingerprint sensor. It also promises two years of Android OS updates and four years of security updates.

Lava Blaze Curve 5G Now Available for Purchase in India

Lava recently unveiled its latest addition to the Blaze series lineup in India, the Lava Blaze Curve 5G. Boasting a 64MP camera, a 6.67-inch 120Hz 3D Curved AMOLED display, Dimensity 7050 SoC, and a robust 5,000mAh battery, the smartphone quickly hit the market shelves within a week of its debut. Available in Iron Glass and Viridian Glass variants, with storage options of 8GB RAM + 128GB or 8GB RAM + 256GB, priced at Rs 17,999 and Rs 18,999 respectively, the Blaze Curve 5G is accessible through the Lava e-store, Amazon India, and offline Lava retailers. Offering at-home repair service during the one-year warranty period, the device runs on Android 13 and houses MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset. The smartphone boasts a stunning 6.7-inch 3D Curved AMOLED display with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz and features a 64-megapixel main camera with EIS and a 32-megapixel front camera. Moreover, it supports stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and comes with 33W fast charging support. Additionally, reports suggest Lava's upcoming debut smartwatch in India, expected to feature AI functionalities and be priced below Rs 4,000, available both online and offline.

Flipkart Offers Temporary Price Drop for Apple Watch Series 9 in India

The Apple Watch Series 9 debuted alongside the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and iPhone 15 lineup in September 2023, boasting a familiar design akin to its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 8. However, it introduces an exclusive double tap gesture. Available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, and in aluminum or stainless steel finishes, it offers both GPS and Cellular connectivity options. Currently, Flipkart in India offers the Series 9 at discounted rates. Originally priced at Rs. 41,900 for the 41mm GPS variant, it's now available for Rs. 32,999, a reduction of Rs. 8,901. Similarly, the 45mm GPS model, initially priced at Rs. 44,900, now retails for Rs. 35,999. Additional discounts are available through bank offers, with ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and Citi Bank credit cardholders eligible for an extra discount of up to Rs. 2,500, reducing the effective prices to Rs. 30,499 and Rs. 33,499 for the 41mm and 45mm variants, respectively. The Apple Watch Series 9 is equipped with Apple's S9 SiP and a second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chipset, running watchOS 10, and promises a battery life of up to 36 hours. Notably, it introduces the "Double Tap" gesture for various functions, a feature unique to this model.

Vivo T3 5G Launch Teased for India

Vivo has officially announced the imminent launch of its Vivo T3 5G smartphone in India, with Flipkart confirmed as its exclusive sales platform. Although the specific release date remains undisclosed, Flipkart has already created a dedicated microsite, offering a sneak peek into the rear design of the device. While exact details are yet to be revealed by Vivo, leaks suggest the smartphone will operate on a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 SoC and may support rapid 44W charging. Notably, tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore, in collaboration with Appuals, disclosed pricing, renders, and probable specifications of the Vivo T3 5G. The device is anticipated to be priced around Rs. 20,000 and could come in crystal flake and cosmic blue color variants. Expected features include a 6.67-inch full-HD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, MediaTek Dimensity 7200 SoC paired with 8GB RAM, and a triple rear camera setup led by a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 lens. Additionally, it might boast a 5,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging and IP54 water and dust resistance.

OnePlus Nord CE4 Set to Launch in India on April 1

OnePlus is gearing up to unveil its latest mid-range 5G smartphone, the OnePlus Nord CE4, in India, with the launch scheduled for April 1, as confirmed by the company. Ahead of the official launch, OnePlus has provided a sneak peek into key features such as processor, color variants, and camera specifications.

The OnePlus Nord CE4 will come in two color options, as revealed by teasers from the company, showcasing black and green variants. Tipster Ishan Agarwal has indicated that these colors will be named Dark Chrome and Celadon Marble. The device's teaser images suggest a distinct rear panel design, housing two or three cameras, which adds a touch of novelty compared to its predecessor.

Expected to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, the OnePlus Nord CE4 promises enhanced performance, efficiency, and gaming capabilities, offering consumers an upgraded experience. With more details yet to be disclosed, the anticipation surrounding the OnePlus Nord CE4's launch is steadily building.

Thursday, February 29, 2024

WhatsApp Adds 'Date Search' Functionality for Retrieving Past Messages

WhatsApp Enhances User Experience with 'Search by Date' Feature Amid Increasing Competition, Mark Zuckerberg Confirms. The latest feature, now available on iOS, Mac desktop, and WhatsApp Web, enables users to search chats by specific dates. Android users can expect a phased rollout. Accessed through the chat's settings, this feature expedites locating media or messages. Additionally, WhatsApp introduced new text formatting options, including bulleted and numbered lists, block quotes, and inline code, catering to diverse communication needs. These updates reflect WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to maintain user engagement in a competitive landscape dominated by Signal, Telegram, and other messaging platforms.


Oppo F25 Pro 5G Launched in India

Introducing Oppo's latest addition to the F series, the Oppo F25 Pro 5G, now available in India. This smartphone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. Sporting a triple rear camera setup led by a 64-megapixel primary sensor, it offers two sleek color options. Boasting a robust 5,000mAh battery with 67W SuperVOOC fast charging support, its price starts at Rs. 23,999 for the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant and Rs. 28,999 for the 8GB RAM + 256GB storage variant. It's offered in Lava Red and Ocean Blue and will be available from March 5 via Oppo's e-store, Amazon, Flipkart, and other major retail outlets. Running on Android-based ColorOS 14.0, it features a 6.7-inch full-HD+ display with up to 120Hz refresh rate and Panda glass protection. With its impressive camera setup, ample storage options, and swift charging capabilities, the Oppo F25 Pro 5G promises an exceptional user experience.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G's New Variant Launched in India

Samsung has introduced a new variant of its Galaxy A15 5G smartphone in India, featuring 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. This release follows the previous launch of the device, which initially came in 8GB RAM + 128GB and 8GB RAM + 256GB storage configurations. Sporting an octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC and a 5,000mAh battery with 25W charging, the Galaxy A15 5G now offers three memory options in India. The newly unveiled 6GB RAM + 128GB storage model retails at Rs. 17,999, with a bank-based discount reducing the price to Rs. 16,499. Existing variants, the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage and 8GB RAM + 256GB storage, are priced at Rs. 19,499 and Rs. 22,499, respectively. Available in Blue Black, Blue, and Light Blue hues, the dual-SIM (Nano) Galaxy A15 5G operates on Android 13-based One UI 5 and guarantees up to five years of security updates and four years of OS upgrades. It boasts a 6.5-inch full-HD+ Super AMOLED display, a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, and a triple rear camera setup with a 50-megapixel primary sensor. The device supports various connectivity options and features a fingerprint sensor for security, promising extended usage with its 5,000mAh battery.

Adobe unveils a generative AI tool poised to revolutionize music creation and editing

Adobe's newest generative AI experiment, Project Music GenAI Control, unveiled at the Hot Pod Summit in Brooklyn, aims to empower users to create and customize music effortlessly, even without professional audio expertise. This prototype tool enables music generation via text prompts and seamless editing within the same interface. Users can input text descriptions to generate music in various styles, such as "happy dance" or "sad jazz," and then fine-tune the results using integrated editing controls. These controls allow adjustments to repeating patterns, tempo, intensity, and structure, with options to remix sections and generate looping audio. Additionally, the tool can modify audio based on reference melodies and extend clip lengths for specific needs like animations or podcasts. While details on the user interface for editing are pending, Adobe confirms the collaboration with academic institutions like the University of California and Carnegie Mellon University for Project Music GenAI's development. This early-stage experiment holds promise for future integration into Adobe's editing software, though no release date has been announced. Interested users can follow its progress on the Adobe Labs website.

TECNO Introduces PolarAce Imaging System, and More at MWC 2024

TECNO debuts the PolarAce Imaging System at MWC 2024, integrating the Sony Imaging Chip CXD5622GG to pioneer 4K 30fps full-scene AI-NR HDR video. This innovation leverages TECNO's Universal Tone tech and AI imaging advancements. With End-Side FP16 Computing, it achieves 4.6TFLOPS@FP16, while its Four Engine Configuration optimizes color restoration, noise reduction, HDR enhancement, and video smoothness. RAW Domain Processing ensures nearly lossless image quality with a 30.3dB SNR improvement, while offering superior energy efficiency. The system premieres in the CAMON 30 Premier 5G, featuring a sleek design with a zoom ring lens frame and metal mid-frame for cooling, alongside an "Action Dot" breathing light. Equipped with a 1.5K LTPO screen, a 70mm golden portrait focal length periscope lens, and MediaTek's Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 5G chip, it delivers remarkable micro shots and up to 60x hybrid zoom. TECNO also introduces the Dynamic 1 robot, Pocket Go AR gaming set, and PHANTOM Ultimate smartphone with a rollable screen, highlighting its commitment to innovation and user-centric solutions at MWC 2024.

NoiseFit Twist Go smartwatch launched in India

After introducing the Noise ColorFit Macro and NoiseFit Grace smartwatches, the indigenous tech brand has unveiled its latest offering, the NoiseFit Twist Go. Priced affordably, it features a 1.39-inch circular display, a metallic body, Bluetooth calling, and an IP67 rating. The NoiseFit Twist Go, available in eight color variants and offering Metallic, Silicon, and Mesh strap options, will be retailed on Amazon and the company's official website for an introductory price of Rs 1,199, depending on the variant. Boasting a circular display with a metal build and a rotating crown for navigation, it includes a 1.39-inch HD TFT LCD screen with a 2.5D curved glass display. With over 100 cloud-based watch faces for personalization, Bluetooth calling via Noise Tru Sync technology, health monitoring features, support for more than 110 sports modes, and up to 7 days of battery life, the NoiseFit Twist Go caters to diverse user needs. It also offers an IP67 rating for water resistance, along with additional features like weather updates, reminders, alarm settings, camera and music control, and a built-in calculator. This budget-friendly smartwatch competes with other offerings in its price range, including the Fire-Boltt Phoenix Pro, boAt Xtend Smart Watch, and Boult Crown.

OnePlus Watch 2 launched in India

During the Mobile World Congress, OnePlus unveiled its flagship Watch 2 in India, priced at ₹24,999 and powered by Google Wear OS 4. The Watch 2 employs a dual chipset system, integrating the Snapdragon W5 performance chipset and the BES 2700 MCU Efficiency chipset to manage background tasks and intense activities effectively. With a 500mAh battery, OnePlus asserts that the Watch 2 offers up to 100 hours of battery life in full Smart Mode, reducing to about 48 hours under heavy usage. It boasts quick charging capability, fully replenishing in just 60 minutes. Sporting tracking modes for over 100 sports, health features like heart rate variability tracking and sleep tracking, and GPS functionality, the Watch 2 ensures comprehensive activity monitoring. Available in Black Steel and Radiant Steel color variants, the Watch 2 with 2GB RAM and 32GB ROM memory will be accessible through various online and offline channels starting March 4.

Pebble Unveils the World's Thinnest Smartwatch Royale

Pebble, India's rapidly growing smartwatch brand, continues to push the boundaries of innovation with its latest offering, the Royale. Positioned as the world's thinnest Bluetooth calling smartwatch, the Royale exudes luxury and sophistication, catering to discerning individuals seeking elegance in their timepieces. Featuring a sleek stainless steel dial and an incredibly slim profile of just 3mm frame and 6mm body thickness, it boasts a Super Amoled 1.43” display, lightweight construction, and stylish design. Available exclusively on pebblecart.com, the Royale debuts at an introductory price of Rs. 4299, offering both leather and magnetic strap options to suit varied preferences. Pebble co-founder Komal Agarwal describes it as a tribute to the refined tastes of the "NextGen legends" who prefer minimalist fashion and premium quality. Ananth Narayanan, Founder & CEO of Mensa Brands, emphasizes Pebble's commitment to innovation in style, design, and specifications with the launch of the sleek Royale. Featuring advanced functionalities like Super Amoled Display, Always ON Display, BT calling with Voice Assistant, and comprehensive health monitoring, the Royale offers a blend of style and utility, catering to individuals who appreciate sleek and cutting-edge gadgets. With its array of strap colors and IP67 certification for water and dust resistance, the Royale promises to be an iconic accessory for those embracing a smart and stylish lifestyle. 

New Home-Screen Widget Expected Soon for ChatGPT Android App

Reportedly, the AI-powered chatbot ChatGPT from OpenAI is set to introduce a home-screen widget for Android, aligning with the trend of major releases in generative AI tools like Google's Gemini 1.5 and Copilot's upcoming default assistant capability on Android. Bhavish Aggarwal's Krutrim startup has also entered public beta. The widget aims to enhance the app's accessibility, with tipster Mishaal Rahman sharing insights on X (formerly Twitter), revealing its functionalities: "ChatGPT for Android now offers a home screen widget, featuring shortcuts for text/image/voice queries and conversation mode." Currently in beta, the widget, depicted in Rahman's screenshot, adopts a 4x2 grid style similar to Google Search but double in height. It includes a text field for queries and prompts, along with four icons for image upload, camera capture, speech input, and verbal responses. This widget caters to users' frequent needs, allowing for quick queries while multitasking, without occupying the full screen. OpenAI recently added long-term memory to ChatGPT, empowering users to customize their interactions further.

Vivo V30 and V30 Pro Launched in Indonesia

Vivo has launched the Vivo V30 and V30 Pro in Indonesia, expanding their lineup alongside the previously unveiled Vivo V30 Lite. Both the vanilla and Pro versions boast curved 1.5K displays and 50-megapixel front cameras. Scheduled for release in India on March 7, the Indian variants are expected to mirror their Indonesian counterparts. The Vivo V30 5G base model is priced at IDR 5,999,000 for the 8GB + 256GB option and IDR 6,999,000 for the 12GB + 512GB variant, available in Equatorial Green, Puspa White, and Volcanic Black colors. The Vivo V30 Pro is listed at IDR 8,999,000 for the sole 12GB + 512GB configuration. Featuring curved 1.5K AMOLED displays, 120Hz refresh rate, and 300Hz touch sampling rate, both models are powered by different chipsets and offer extensive RAM and storage options. They run on Android 14-based FunTouchOS 14, sport advanced camera setups, support fast charging, and come with IP54 ratings and various connectivity options.