Category: Gadgets

  • Compact Camera, Expansive Potential: A Review of Insta360 Go 3

    Compact Camera, Expansive Potential: A Review of Insta360 Go 3

    Insta360has become quite popular among people who make videos and take pictures. They started with small cameras that could capture everything around them and then moved on to even smaller cameras called Go cameras. They recently added a smartphone stabilizer to their collection too. Now, they’re going back to their tiny camera line to introduce the all-new Go 3. This camera has some great improvements in its camera part, and the way it charges has been completely changed too.

    The Insta360 Go 3 is a really small action camera that you can put in many different places. It’s great for taking interesting pictures and videos. While it doesn’t have the best video quality like 4K, and it’s not as powerful as some other similar cameras, it has a really cool tool called the Action Pod. This tool helps you control the camera in a special way and makes shooting really fun. You can take unique pictures and videos you can’t easily do with other cameras.

    You can buy the Insta360 Go 3 from their website or from big online stores. It starts at $380 for a version with 32GB of storage, and there are also versions with 64GB and 128GB of storage for $400 and $430.

    The main purpose of the Insta360 Go 3 is for action, just like its name suggests. It works like a typical action camera, which can be both good and not so good. For example, the lens it uses can make things look really curved, which some people like for action shots. But the camera’s sensor is not very big, similar to what most smartphones have, so it doesn’t do well with small details or when it’s not very bright. The videos can also look too sharp.

    However, if you’re using it for action during the day, these things might not matter much. What’s great is how small and light the camera is. You can wear it or attach it to almost anything with the right accessory. This makes it easy to use when you’re skiing, running, or climbing. You can even put it in small spaces to take cool shots, like inside a glass or behind a microwave (just don’t turn it on).

    The Action Pod is really helpful for making vlogs and creative shots. It has a screen you can flip, and you can see what the camera sees on your phone.

    Some features, like the flip screen, need to be fixed a bit using the app on your phone or Insta360 Studio on your computer. If you’re unsure how to take a picture or video, you can use FreeFrame mode and fix it later.

    The sound quality is pretty good, and while it might not be as good as a special microphone, it’s okay for most people who make vlogs. The camera is set to reduce wind noise, which is good, but it didn’t work well when I was jogging. You can also change how it captures sound depending on where you are.

    Keeping the camera steady when you’re moving fast is important, and Insta360 made it really stable with something called FlowState Stabilization technology. There are different levels of stabilization, but using Insta360’s apps gives the best results. Still, if the camera moves a lot, there might be some shaking in the video.

    Something to be careful about is that the camera can get hot. It’s normal for small devices like this to get warm when they’re working hard. It might take about 15-20 minutes before it gets hot, but it’s slower than another camera that got really hot in just 4-5 minutes. It’s a good idea not to use the camera for too long without some air around it.

  • Huawei’s Anticipated Mate 60 Flagship: A Glimpse into the Future

    Huawei’s Anticipated Mate 60 Flagship: A Glimpse into the Future

    This year, Huawei is expected to introduce its new flagship smartphone lineup, the Huawei Mate 60. While details about these devices are still limited, an insider named Digital Chat Station has shared a preview of the Mate 60’s back panel. Here’s what’s new and interesting about it:

    Huawei Mate 60

    It seems that Huawei has chosen to stick with a familiar design for the Mate 60, harking back to their 2020 Mate 40 model (shown in the main image). The most noticeable aspect is the main camera setup, which retains the circular shape, albeit slightly larger. Notably, the Leica branding that was previously seen within the camera circle has now been replaced with the word “XMAGE”.

    This change suggests that Huawei will be handling the image processing capabilities internally, underscoring their commitment to enhancing the photography experience. Previous leaks have hinted at the return of the oval-shaped cutout on the display, which serves as the housing for the front camera and facial recognition sensor.

    Interestingly, the design echoes a similar look found in the P40 and Mate 40 series from 2020. However, the cutout will be centered on the screen this time rather than positioned on the side. This design choice bears a resemblance to Apple’s Dynamic Island concept.

    Rumors have also circulated regarding the display specifications for the Mate 60. It is said to boast a 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1.5K, promising a high-quality visual experience for users.

    In simpler terms, Huawei is preparing to launch their new Mate 60 flagship smartphones. While not many details are known yet, a person who often reveals insider information, Digital Chat Station, has provided a glimpse of what the back of the Mate 60 might look like. The most noticeable change is the camera area on the back, which is round like before but a bit bigger. The word “Leica” that used to be there is now replaced with “XMAGE,” suggesting that Huawei will be doing the work to make pictures better themselves. It’s like they’re taking more control over how the camera works.

    Another interesting thing is the front of the phone, where the screen is. Just like in 2020, Huawei seems to be bringing back the oval shape for the part of the screen where the front camera and face recognition sensor are. But this time, it will be in the middle of the screen, not on the side. This might look a bit like how Apple designs their screens too.

    People are also talking about the display, which is like the TV of the phone. The Mate 60 could have a 6.7-inch screen that uses OLED technology, which is known for having bright and colorful images. The resolution of the screen might be 1.5K, meaning it will show pictures very clearly.

  • Huawei’s Mate X3 Pro 5G: What We Know So Far

    Huawei’s Mate X3 Pro 5G: What We Know So Far

    On August 4, Huawei will have its 2023 Huawei Developers Conference (HDC). During the event, they will introduce Harmony OS 4.0. There are speculations that Huawei might also reveal new phones under the Mate brand. A Chinese tipster leaked the names of these upcoming devices, suggesting that Huawei might release three new phones: the Huawei Mate 60 4G, the Mate 60 5G, and the Mate X3 Pro 5G.

    Huawei-Mate-X3

    While some details about the Mate 60 models have been leaked, there is no information available yet about the Mate X3 Pro. The only thing known about the Huawei Mate X3 Pro 5G is that it will support 5G connectivity. Earlier this year, Huawei announced the Mate X3, which is a 4G device powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset. It is not clear whether the Mate X3 Pro will use the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.

    The name “Mate X3 Pro” suggests that it will be an improved version of the Mate X3. The Mate X3 is a lightweight foldable phone, weighing only 239 grams, making it thinner and lighter than the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max. Therefore, the Mate X3 Pro is an exciting foldable phone to look forward to.

    The Mate X3 Pro is expected to compete with recently announced foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, the Honor Magic V2, and the Vivo X Fold 2. It will also compete with upcoming foldable phones like the Oppo Find N3 and the Xiaomi MIX Fold 3, which are expected to launch in August this year.

  • Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus: Upgraded Smartwatch with Apple Watch Ultra Design

    Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus: Upgraded Smartwatch with Apple Watch Ultra Design

    Fire-Boltt, a brand known for its smartwatches, has recently introduced a new model named Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus. This latest offering from the homegrown brand bears a striking resemblance to the highly popular Apple Watch Ultra, a product from the tech giant Apple. It is not the first time that Fire-Boltt has taken design cues from Apple’s wearable devices; they have previously launched smartwatches with similar looks.

    Fire-Boltt

    The Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus is an upgraded version of the original Gladiator, unveiled in December of the preceding year. Building on the success and feedback received from its predecessor, the brand has incorporated several enhancements and improvements into the Gladiator Plus.

    One of the key highlights of the Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus is its design, which closely resembles the Apple Watch Ultra. This resemblance is evident in the sleek and compact rectangular form factor, the placement of the buttons, and even the strap options. The smartwatch features a high-quality display, which is likely to provide users with a visually pleasing and immersive experience. The touch interface is expected to be responsive, making navigation through various functionalities smooth and effortless.

    In terms of features, the Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus is likely to be packed with various capabilities that cater to fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy individuals. It is anticipated to have multiple fitness tracking modes, enabling users to monitor their physical activities such as walking, running, cycling, and more. The inclusion of a heart rate sensor might enable users to keep track of their heart health and optimize their workouts accordingly.

    Moreover, the smartwatch is expected to offer sleep tracking functionality, helping users gain insights into their sleep patterns and quality. This information can be invaluable in promoting better sleep habits and overall well-being.

    The Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus may also incorporate smart notification features, allowing users to receive alerts for incoming calls, messages, and app notifications directly on their wrists. This convenience can be especially handy during workouts or when users don’t want to be constantly checking their smartphones.

    Connectivity options such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are likely to be available in the smartwatch, facilitating seamless pairing with smartphones and enabling the synchronization of data with compatible apps.

    Battery life is always a critical factor in smartwatches, and it is anticipated that the Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus will come with a robust battery, ensuring prolonged usage without frequent charging.

    Like most smartwatches, the Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus is likely to be compatible with Android and iOS devices, widening its appeal to a broader audience.

    While the Fire-Boltt Gladiator Plus may share similarities with the Apple Watch Ultra, it is essential to recognize that it comes from a homegrown brand. Supporting indigenous products can be seen as a way to bolster local businesses and contribute to the growth of the domestic technology sector.

     

  • Realme GT5: A Flagship with Impressive RAM and Storage Options

    Realme GT5: A Flagship with Impressive RAM and Storage Options

    Realme is all set to launch its GT5 series at the ChinaJoy event. This new series will follow the GT 2, which was released earlier this year. Interestingly, realme has decided to skip the GT 3 and GT 4 and head straight to GT5. The company teases a fierce competition among Android performance leaders.

    realme GT5

    Leaker @OnLeaks spilled the beans about the GT Neo6, previously seen in renders and TENNA listings, which is now expected to be launched as GT5.

    Digital Chat Station, another reliable leaker, shared an image of the phone inside a case. It is rumored that the phone will feature a 1.5K flat screen, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, and two variants with either 240W or 150W.

    Now, let’s dive into the leaked specifications of the realme GT5:

    The phone will flaunt a 6.74-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz adaptive refresh rate. The peak brightness can reach up to 1450 nits, offering an excellent viewing experience. The phone boasts a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, ensuring vibrant colors and smooth visuals.

    Under the hood, it is expected to be powered by the Octa-Core Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 4nm Mobile Platform, coupled with the Adreno 740 GPU. This powerful combination ensures smooth performance and top-notch graphics.

    In terms of memory, the GT5 is rumored to come with four options: 8GB, 12GB, 16GB, and a whopping 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM. Storage options range from 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, to a massive 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. With such abundant RAM and storage choices, users can enjoy seamless multitasking and ample space for their files and apps.

    The realme GT5 is anticipated to run on Android 13 with the latest realme UI 4.0, offering an optimized and user-friendly experience.

    On the camera front, the GT5 is expected to pack a punch. The rear camera setup is rumored to include a 50MP main camera with a 1/1.56″ Sony IMX890 sensor and OIS (optical image stabilization) for sharp and steady shots.

    There’s also an 8MP 120° ultra-wide camera and a 2MP macro camera to add versatility to your photography. For selfie enthusiasts, the phone will offer a 16MP front-facing camera.

    Security-wise, the GT5 will feature an in-display fingerprint sensor, ensuring quick and secure access to the device.

    In terms of connectivity, the phone will support 5G SA/NSA, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6 802.11 ax (2.4GHz + 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.2, GPS (L1 + L5)/ GLONASS, NFC, and USB Type-C.

    Battery life is an essential aspect of any smartphone, and realme has got it covered with the GT5. It is rumored to come in two battery options: 5160mAh and 5080mAh, both featuring SuperVOOC fast charging.

    The 240W variant will have a 4600mAh or 4450mAh battery with 240W SuperVOOC fast charging. This means you can charge your phone quickly and get back to using it in no time.

    The realme GT5 is said to measure 163.13×75.38×8.86mm and weigh 205g, making it relatively slim and lightweight for comfortable handling.

  • Apple’s Foldable Future: Rumors of a Foldable iPad

    Apple’s Foldable Future: Rumors of a Foldable iPad

    In 2023, Apple, known for its popular iPhones and iPads, is still one of the few manufacturers without a foldable device. However, there are reports suggesting that the company is working on developing one. The new gadget would be a foldable iPad, combining the features of a tablet and a smartphone.

    Apple's Foldable Future

    According to a DigiTimes report, Apple is considering creating a foldable iPad with a book-like form factor similar to Samsung and Google’s offerings. The device will have a flexible display, allowing users to open it like a book and enjoy a large screen. The folding iPad is said to feature a hinge that connects the two parts of the case, enabling the folding mechanism.

    An analyst named Ming-Chi Kuo predicted earlier in the year that the foldable iPad could be released in 2024. However, specific details about the device have not been disclosed yet. It is worth noting that Apple is reportedly exploring various possibilities in the long run, not just for foldable iPads, but also for potential foldable iPhones and Macs.

    As of now, it remains uncertain whether Apple will indeed release any of these foldable devices or if they will remain in the research and development phase. The company might be assessing different aspects and possibilities before finalizing any plans.

    Apple is rumored to be working on a foldable iPad that would offer a unique combination of a tablet and a smartphone. The device could feature a flexible display and a hinge for folding. While an analyst predicts a possible release in 2024, it’s not yet clear whether these foldable devices will see the light of day or stay in the development stage for now.

  • OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro: The Perfect Blend of Style and Functionality

    OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro: The Perfect Blend of Style and Functionality

    Once upon a time, OnePlus started making affordable smartphones, but over the years, they have expanded their product range. While smartphones remain their main focus, they now offer a few other items and even venture into entirely new product categories.

    OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro

    One such example is the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro, a mechanical keyboard created in collaboration with Keychron, a well-known brand among keyboard enthusiasts.

    The OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro aims to provide users with a premium typing experience while embodying the unique “OnePlus experience.” It was initially announced in February and is now available for purchase.

    This keyboard boasts an aluminum build and comes in a stylish gray and red color scheme, featuring a transparent volume knob in one corner. There are two variations available: Winter Bonfire, which has PBT plastic keycaps and tactile switches, and Summer Breeze, with “marble-mallow” keycaps and linear switches.

    As with other Keychron keyboards, the OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro employs a double-gasket design with hot-swappable switches, allowing users to customize their typing experience.

    Keychron is widely recognized as one of the top keyboard manufacturers, with some of their models even making it to the list of the best mechanical keyboards to buy. Hence, the OnePlus Keyboard is expected to uphold the same level of quality.

    However, it is worth noting that this product is more suitable for fans of the OnePlus brand and smartphones, as it pays homage to the OnePlus aesthetic. While it is likely to be an excellent product overall, it is primarily designed to resonate with OnePlus enthusiasts.

    If the color combination of red and gray appeals to you and you find this keyboard to be your style, you can purchase it directly from the OnePlus website, starting on July 26th.

    The Winter Bonfire version will be priced at $219, while the slightly more premium Summer Breeze, featuring linear switches, will cost $239. So, if you’re interested in this unique OnePlus keyboard, head over to their website and get ready to elevate your typing experience with style and precision.

  • Stacked Battery Technology: A Game-Changer for Longer Battery Life and Faster Charging in Smartphones

    Stacked Battery Technology: A Game-Changer for Longer Battery Life and Faster Charging in Smartphones

    Stacked battery technology is a new way of making batteries for smartphones. Instead of placing battery cells side-by-side, they are stacked on top of each other. This allows for more battery capacity without making the phone bigger.

    Stacked battery technology

    The advantages of stacked battery technology are exciting. Firstly, it means smartphones can have a bigger battery without becoming bulkier. This is great because users want their phones to last longer on a single charge. Secondly, stacked batteries can charge faster because multiple battery cells can be charged together.

    For example, the Samsung Galaxy S24 series is rumored to be one of the first phones to use stacked battery technology. The Galaxy S24 is expected to have a larger 5,000mAh battery compared to the Galaxy S23, but the phone’s size won’t increase.

    Currently, most batteries in smartphones are made using winding technology. Winding batteries are made by rolling the positive and negative parts together like a spiral. This method is simple and cheap, but it has some problems. For instance, the battery cells can have uneven stress, which might cause them to fail prematurely.

    Stacked battery technology improves on this by stacking the positive and negative parts on top of each other. This creates a more balanced structure inside the battery, making it perform better and last longer.

    Here are the potential benefits of stacked battery charging:

    1. Longer battery life: Stacked batteries can increase the capacity of a smartphone’s battery by up to 50%, meaning the phone can last longer between charges.

    2. Faster charging speeds: Stacked batteries allow for faster charging because multiple cells can be charged at the same time, reducing the overall charging time.

    3. Smaller phones: With stacked batteries, phones can be made smaller without sacrificing battery life. The batteries take up less space since they are stacked closely together.

    Stacked battery technology

    However, there are some challenges with stacked battery technology:

    1. Cost: Stacked batteries are more expensive to make compared to traditional batteries. The process of stacking and aligning the cells precisely adds to the manufacturing costs.

    2. Safety: If not properly managed, stacked batteries can overheat and become a safety risk. This is why proper cooling mechanisms are essential.

    3. Reliability: Stacked battery technology is relatively new, and its long-term performance is not yet fully understood due to limited data from smartphone usage.

    Samsung is reportedly planning to use stacked batteries in their Galaxy S24 series, and Apple’s iPhone 15 series may also adopt this technology. However, due to limited production capabilities, this feature might be exclusive to certain models. To address potential safety concerns, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is rumored to have cooling gel within the stacked

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: A Closer Look at Expected Upgrades and Features

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: A Closer Look at Expected Upgrades and Features

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is about to be announced at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2023 on July 26, and there are several improvements that we hope to see in this new foldable phone.

    Z Fold 5

    1. Wider cover screen: The current cover screen on the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is narrow and has an awkward aspect ratio. We’d love to see a wider and more sensibly shaped cover screen, similar to the Google Pixel Fold.

    2. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra-caliber cameras: The cameras on Samsung’s foldable phones have been decent but not on par with their flagship Galaxy S series. We hope to see the same high-quality cameras found on the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, with a 200MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and a 10MP periscope with 10x optical zoom.

    3. No crease: Current foldable phones have a visible crease in the screen where it folds. We wish for the Galaxy Z Fold 5 to have a smoother screen without a noticeable crease, even if it’s just a 15% reduction in size.

    4. A lower price: Foldable phones are expensive, and we understand that high-end tech comes at a cost. However, we hope that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 will be priced lower than its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Fold 4, which starts at a hefty price point.

    5. A bigger battery: With the Galaxy Z Fold 5 expected to have a large tablet-sized screen, a bigger battery is crucial to ensure longer battery life. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 had a 4,400mAh battery, but we hope to see a larger battery capacity in the new model.

    6. Dust resistance: Samsung’s foldable phones have good water resistance, but they lack dust resistance. It would be reassuring to see the Galaxy Z Fold 5 with an IP58 rating, indicating a significant level of dust resistance.

    While some of these improvements have been rumored, others remain uncertain. We’ll have to wait for the official announcement on July 26 to know the exact features and upgrades that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 will offer.

  • Sony’s New Xperia 5 V: What to Expect from the Upcoming Flagship Phone

    Sony’s New Xperia 5 V: What to Expect from the Upcoming Flagship Phone

    In May, Sony revealed two new phones: the high-end Xperia 1 V and the budget-friendly Xperia 10 V. Now, there’s anticipation for the upcoming Xperia 5 V, and a leaked promotional video shared by Reddit user JB2Unique has given us some insights into what to expect.

    Xperia 1 V

    The notable change is that the Xperia 5 V will have a dual camera system on the back, unlike its predecessor that had three cameras. This new setup will likely include a main (wide) snapper and an ultra-wide lens. Additionally, the Zeiss branding on the lower camera suggests that Sony will retain its anti-glare coating, which helps prevent unwanted light artifacts in images, a common issue in iPhone cameras.

    Good news for music enthusiasts who prefer wired headphones: Sony is keeping the headphone jack on the Xperia 5 V, just like their other recent phone releases.

    The absence of a third camera might positively impact the phone’s price. The Xperia 5 IV was priced at $999, but with this change, the Xperia 5 V could potentially be more affordable, possibly with a $100 price drop or even more.

    Based on the usual release pattern, we can expect Sony to announce the Xperia 5 V around the same time in 2023 as they did with the Xperia 5 IV last year, which was at the beginning of September.

    The leaked video has given us a sneak peek at what’s coming from Sony, and we’re looking forward to seeing the official announcement of the Xperia 5 V soon.