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Category: Tech Gadgets

Android 14 Beta Program Approaches Final Stage with July Release

Google’s Android 14 beta program is coming to an end soon, with July being the final month before a potential stable release in August. Over the past five months, Google has been refining the build and fixing numerous bugs. Now, Android 14 Beta 4 has been released, bringing with it a substantial list of bug fixes.

Initially, the update was expected to arrive on July 5, but it was delayed slightly due to the holiday. Google announced the new build today, starting with eligible Pixel devices like the Pixel 4a 5G. The update first appeared as a generic system image (GSI) on Google’s DSU Loader utility before becoming available for phones and tablets.

The latest update has a build number of UPB4.230623.005 and includes the July security patches. Users have reported a download size of approximately 200MB, although this may vary depending on the device. Google has provided an extensive list of bug fixes in the release notes. Notably, this is the first beta build to be made available for Google’s new Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet devices. Users can enroll in the beta program to receive prerelease updates, just like with any other Pixel device.

Based on previous release cycles, this is likely the second-to-last beta build of Android 14. Last year, Android 13 Beta 4 was released in early July, followed by a Beta 4.1 release in late July before the stable version was made public in August. It seems that a similar trajectory is being followed this year.

While the update has started rolling out, it may take some time to reach all users, depending on their device and carrier. For those who want to expedite the process, the Android Flash Tool can be used to sideload the OTA or flash the factory images in about 15 minutes.

July 13, 2023
Upcoming OnePlus Open: Leaked Details Suggest Exciting Features and Software

Rumors and leaks have provided some information about the upcoming OnePlus Open device and its software. According to insider @_snoopytech_, the device will feature the OxygenOS Fold interface, which is designed specifically for the wearable’s form factor. The interface will be based on the Android 13 operating system. Unfortunately, there are no other details available about the device’s interface at the moment.

If the rumors are accurate, the OnePlus Open will have two displays: a main display measuring 7.8 inches with a 2K resolution, and an additional 6.3-inch display. Both displays will use AMOLED technology and have a refresh rate of 120Hz, providing smooth visuals.

Under the hood, the device is expected to run on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, coupled with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. This powerful configuration will ensure smooth performance and ample storage for apps and files.

To keep the device powered throughout the day, it will be equipped with a 4,800mAh battery. Additionally, it will support 67W charging, allowing for fast charging times.

The OnePlus Open will also feature a versatile camera setup, with a triple camera configuration on the rear consisting of 48 MP, 48 MP, and 64 MP sensors, along with a 32 MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.

While these details are based on rumors and leaks, if they turn out to be true, the OnePlus Open could be an exciting and feature-packed device, offering a seamless user experience with its optimized software and impressive specifications.

July 12, 2023
Nothing Phone (2): The Highly Anticipated Android Release of the Year

The upcoming release of the Nothing Phone (2) has generated immense excitement among tech enthusiasts. This second-generation device promises to elevate the Nothing Phone range by delivering a more premium Android smartphone than its predecessor.

In a recent announcement, the brand unveiled the initial locations where eager customers can finally get their hands on this highly anticipated device. They have organized a series of in-person retail drops called “Nothing Drops,” offering exclusive bundles and an early opportunity to purchase the phone.

These exciting events are scheduled to take place between the 13th and 15th of July, at various locations worldwide. The inaugural drop will occur at the Nothing retail store in Soho, London, starting at 4 pm. The complete list of events can be found below.

During the Nothing Drops, attendees will have the chance to purchase the new handset along with the recently launched black variant of the Nothing Ear (2). Moreover, a Limited Launch Edition box will be available, featuring the phone with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage in the captivating dark grey color, complemented by a 45W fast charging power adapter and a Nothing Ear (stick).

Beyond the retail drops, the brand’s announcement has divulged additional intriguing details about the device. Notably, the introduction of the Dark Grey color option distinguishes the Nothing Phone (2) from its predecessor and other devices in the Nothing lineup, which predominantly offered monochrome choices of White or Black.

Furthermore, a glimpse of the phone’s front edge has been provided, revealing remarkably slim bezels. However, a comprehensive assessment of the device’s design will require a direct view from the front, allowing for a clearer understanding of its aesthetics.

While the specific pricing details remain undisclosed, the brand has promised to unveil this crucial information during the highly anticipated launch event scheduled for the 11th of July. As eager fans and tech enthusiasts await this event, they can only speculate about the potential positioning of the 12GB RAM and 512GB storage variant within the range, suggesting it may represent the higher-end configuration with a lower storage variant likely to accompany it.

July 10, 2023
Is the Google Pixel Tablet Worth It? A Comprehensive Review

The Google Pixel Tablet is an Android-based tablet from Google, and it comes with a Charging Speaker Dock that transforms it into a smart display with improved speakers and Nest Hub-like features. The tablet is powered by custom Tensor G2 silicon and features a 10.95-inch LCD display, front and rear 8MP cameras, and a 7,020mAh battery.

The base model of the Pixel Tablet with 128GB storage is priced at $499 in the US, while the 256GB storage variant costs $599. In the UK, it is priced at £599, and in selected European markets, it is priced at €679. You can purchase the Pixel Tablet from the Google Store, Amazon, Best Buy, and other major retailers.

The Pixel Tablet was tested for two weeks, with the review unit purchased by Android Authority. The unique feature of the tablet is its dock, which enhances its functionality as a smart display. However, the dock is the main reason to consider buying the tablet, as it offers a better speaker and a pseudo-Google Nest smart display experience.

When attached to the Charging Speaker Dock, the Pixel Tablet provides a room-filling audio experience. The dock holds the tablet securely with strong magnets, but it loses its functionality when separated from the tablet. The tablet itself has a Google aesthetic with soft-touch aluminum and slim bezels around the screen, making it suitable for both portrait and landscape orientations. The LCD panel is decent for a tablet and provides a good smart display experience.

In terms of performance, the Tensor G2 chip offers enough power for everyday tasks without any issues. However, the tablet’s screen refresh rate is capped at 60Hz, which can make the overall performance feel sluggish compared to other devices with higher refresh rates.

The Pixel Tablet provides the full Pixel experience on a larger screen, running on Android 13. It offers Google apps, Pixel-specific features, and a Material You design. However, some apps may not be optimized for the larger screen, and the absence of an official stylus or keyboard attachment limits their productivity potential.

While the Pixel Tablet aims to excel in smart home integration, its Hub Mode falls short compared to dedicated Nest Hubs. It lacks features like Continued Conversation support and multiple Voice Match users. However, it performs well for basic tasks that require an interface, and the dock-centric setup ensures the tablet is always charged and ready to use.

The battery life of the Pixel Tablet is standard, lasting around 10 hours with typical use. The cameras on the tablet are average, with both front and rear shooters being 8MP and limited to 1080p/30fps video recording.

The Google Pixel Tablet caters to a specific niche, offering a hybrid experience as a portable slate and a smart display. While it may not match the performance and features of other Android tablets or provide a complete Nest Hub experience, it is a suitable option for those on a budget seeking a basic smart display and a user-friendly Android tablet.

July 9, 2023
Upcoming Top Smartphones in July: Nothing Phone 2, Oppo Reno 10, and more

Some eye-catching smartphones are going to be launched in the market in July this year. In the next few days, four brands are going to release their new smartphones in the market. Popular brands like Nothing, Oppo, Honor, and Infinix will release their smartphones in India. However, the Honor brand smartphone will be released in China.

Nothing Phone 2

The Nothing Phone 2 smartphone will be unveiled on July 11. The smartphone will use a powerful chipset. The Glyph interface and LED light design can be seen here, just like the previous models of the phone. The smartphone will be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset. 6.72-inch Full HD Plus display, 2412 x 1080 pixels resolution, fifty-megapixel primary camera, Android 13 version, and 4700 MHz battery will be featured.

Oppo Reno 10 Series

The oppo reno 10 series is slated to launch in India on July 10. The global version of the line-up consists of three models. Reno 10 and 10 Pro devices will be powered by Snapdragon 778g and Dimension 7050 chipset respectively. The smartphone will support fast charging features of 80 watts and 67 watts. However, the global version of the Reno 10 Pro Plus smartphone and the Chinese model are the same.

Honor Magic V2

The Honor Magic V2 smartphone is going to be officially released in China on Wednesday, July 12. It is the brand’s third foldable smartphone after the Magic V and Magic VS smartphones. Not much information is known about this device. But here are two variants you can expect. One device is said to be powered by Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 and the other by Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.

Infinix Hot 30 5G

The Infinix Hot 30 5G smartphone will be released in India on Friday, July 14. The brightness of the device is given up to 580 nits. The smartphone will feature a 50-megapixel camera and will be powered by a 6,000 MHz battery.

July 9, 2023
Top 5 Noteworthy Smart TVs: Exploring the Best Features and Options

The demand for smart TVs in the current market is undeniably on the rise. These televisions offer a wide range of features and applications, allowing users to enjoy various channels and access popular streaming platforms like YouTube and Netflix. In this article, we will delve into the details of some noteworthy smart TVs available in the market today.

One notable option is the Samsung QN90BAK, a 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV. Powered by Samsung’s Tizen operating system, this TV boasts a stunning 4K display with a refresh rate of 100 Hz. It offers an immersive audio experience with its 4-speaker system and supports Bluetooth audio with Q-Symphony technology. Additionally, it comes with convenient features like a smart remote control and auto power-off. The inclusion of AI upscale and quantum matrix technology further enhances picture quality, making it a compelling choice for consumers.

Another impressive option is the Vu Masterpiece Glo, a 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV. Similar to the Samsung model, this TV features a 4K display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, ensuring smooth and vibrant visuals. Its 4.1 speaker system with 100-watt output, in-built subwoofer, and support for Dolby Atmos delivers exceptional audio quality, bringing movies and TV shows to life.

Xiaomi’s Mi Q1 is another contender in the 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV segment. Running on the Android TV platform, this smart TV offers a 120 Hz screen refresh rate and a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels. It is equipped with a quad-core processor and Mali G53 GPU for seamless performance. With six speakers and Dolby audio support, users can enjoy immersive sound quality. Multiple HDMI and USB ports provide convenient connectivity options for external devices.

The Blaupunkt 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV is another worthy consideration. Featuring a screen resolution of 3840×2160 pixels, this 4K smart TV offers 60 watts of sound output through its four speakers. With built-in Wi-Fi, users can easily connect to the internet and access popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+Hotstar, and Prime Video, expanding their entertainment options.

Lastly, there is IQ-IT’s ROYALTY 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV. This smart Android TV offers a 4K resolution with a screen refresh rate of 60 Hz. It comes equipped with two Dolby Atmos speakers for immersive audio. With three HDMI and two USB ports, users have ample connectivity options to connect their devices and enjoy their favorite content.

July 8, 2023
Nubia Sets New Benchmark: World’s First 24GB RAM Gaming Smartphone

Nubia, a prominent gaming smartphone manufacturer, has recently made waves in China with the launch of their groundbreaking RedMagic 8S Pro series. This highly anticipated release showcases two remarkable devices, namely the RedMagic 8S Pro and the RedMagic 8S Pro+, both engineered to provide an unparalleled gaming experience. While these smartphones share similarities in storage, battery, and processor, they differentiate themselves in terms of specifications, pushing the boundaries of mobile gaming technology.

Displaying a vibrant 6.8-inch FHD+ OLED screen with a resolution of 2480 x 1116 pixels, both the RedMagic 8S Pro and RedMagic 8S Pro+ captivate users with their stunning visuals. The displays boast a 120Hz refresh rate, a remarkable 960Hz touch sampling rate, and a 10-bit color depth, delivering smooth and immersive gaming sessions.

Under the hood, the RedMagic 8S Pro+ takes performance to new heights with its octa-core Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, clocked at an impressive 3.36GHz. This cutting-edge 4nm fabrication chipset is accompanied by the Adreno 740 GPU, ensuring stunning graphics rendering. Meanwhile, the RedMagic 8S Pro houses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, clocked at 3.2GHz, offering remarkable processing power.

Notably, the flagship variant of the RedMagic 8S Pro+ boasts an astounding 24GB of RAM and a whopping 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, granting users unprecedented speed and storage capacity.

When it comes to capturing memories and moments, both phones excel with their triple rear camera setup. Consisting of a high-resolution 50MP Samsung GN5 sensor with a wide 1/1.57 aperture, an 8MP 120-degree ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro Omnivision OV16A1Q sensor, users can expect exceptional photography and videography capabilities. Additionally, a 16MP front camera is integrated for stunning selfies and seamless video calls.

To ensure extended gaming sessions, the RedMagic 8S Pro features a robust 6000mAh battery, complemented by 80W fast charging technology. Meanwhile, the RedMagic 8S Pro+ houses a slightly smaller 5000mAh battery but compensates with a staggering 165W fast charging support, allowing for rapid recharging and reduced downtime.

In terms of connectivity, both phones offer dual SIM support for G NSA/SA networks, dual 4G VoLTE, WiFi 6E 802.11 ax across 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS (L1/L5)+ GLONASS, USB Type-C ports, and NFC capabilities. Additional features include a 3.5mm audio jack, stereo speakers, dual smart PA, and three microphones, enhancing the overall audio experience.

Running on the Android 13 operating system with the RedMagic OS 8.0 interface, these devices offer a seamless and intuitive user experience, combining the power of the latest Android updates with Nubia’s customized gaming optimizations.

As for pricing, the RedMagic 8S Pro lineup offers options to cater to various budgets and preferences. The 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant is priced at BDT 45,400, providing an affordable entry point for gamers seeking high-performance devices. Meanwhile, the flagship RedMagic 8S Pro+ with its impressive 16GB RAM and 256GB storage commands a price of RMB 5,499, equivalent to approximately BDT 62,500, for those seeking the pinnacle of gaming performance.

July 8, 2023
REDMAGIC 8S Pro Plus: It offers a 24GB RAM and 1TB Storage

Nubia, the renowned brand for gaming phones, has recently unveiled their latest device, the REDMAGIC 8S Pro. This new smartphone is poised to be the most powerful of 2023, boasting impressive specifications and advanced cooling features.

The company has confirmed that the REDMAGIC 8S Pro is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Leading Version, which is nearly identical to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy SoC found in the Galaxy S23 series. This means that users can expect a powerful 3.36GHz CPU clock speed and a GPU speed of 719MHz, surpassing the standard chip’s 3.2GHz and 680MHz, respectively.

One of the standout features of this phone is its ICE 12.0 cooling system, which incorporates various cooling measures such as a 3D vapor chamber and a graphene heat sink. However, the most notable addition is the built-in fan. Nubia’s previous model, the REDMAGIC 8 Pro, demonstrated excellent sustained performance due to its cooling fan, and similar results are anticipated with the 8S Pro.

Apart from the impressive chipset, nubia also offers a Pro Plus variant of the device, which boasts an astounding 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. While the RAM capacity might be excessive for gaming and most other tasks, the generous storage capacity will be useful for users who store a large number of games and media on their phone.

As for battery life, the REDMAGIC 8S Pro features a sizable 6,000mAh battery with 80W wired charging speeds. However, those opting for the Pro Plus model will have a slightly smaller 5,000mAh battery but can enjoy significantly faster 165W wired charging.

In terms of design, the phone exhibits the typical aesthetic of a gaming device, complete with a circular RGB light on the back and a pair of capacitive shoulder triggers. Interestingly, the phone incorporates a 16MP under-display selfie camera, allowing for an uninterrupted full-screen experience.

With its impressive specifications, advanced cooling system, and gaming-centric design, the REDMAGIC 8S Pro is poised to be the most powerful smartphone of 2023, catering to gamers and power users alike.

July 6, 2023
Realme GT Neo 6’s Stunning Design and 240W Fast Charging Capability

Realme, the smartphone manufacturer, is reportedly planning to launch a new phone called the Realme GT Neo 6 in China. Although the exact release date is unknown, leaks have surfaced revealing key specifications and design details of the upcoming device.

According to information leaked on Weibo, the Realme GT Neo 6 will feature a 1.5K AMOLED display with a high refresh rate of 144Hz and a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) of 2160Hz. The display is expected to have narrow bezels and no plastic bracket around it, providing an immersive viewing experience.

Under the hood, the GT Neo 6 is said to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, offering improved performance compared to its predecessor, which utilized the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset. It is anticipated that the phone will be available in variants with up to 16GB of RAM and a whopping 1TB of internal storage, providing ample space for users’ files and applications.

One of the notable features of the GT Neo series is its fast charging capability, and the Realme GT Neo 6 is expected to continue this trend. It is rumored to support charging speeds of up to 240W, similar to its predecessor. The Realme GT Neo 5 came with two models, one supporting 150W fast charging and the other featuring the faster 240W charging speed, both available for wired connections.

While other specifications of the GT Neo 6 are still undisclosed, a report by MySmartPrice provides insight into the phone’s design. The device is expected to have a two-tone back design, particularly for the green-colored variant. On the rear, there will be a rectangular camera module housing at least three cameras and an LED flash. Interestingly, the back of the phone also features a Snapdragon logo, which is somewhat unusual for a smartphone. This inclusion might be part of Realme’s marketing strategy for the GT Neo 6.

The phone is reported to have slim edges, with the power button and volume rocker situated on the right side. Additionally, the GT Neo 6 is anticipated to support SuperVOOC fast charging and NFC technology.

In the meantime, Realme is preparing to launch the next Narzo series in India on July 6. The Narzo 60 series will consist of two phones: the Narzo 60 and Narzo 60 Pro. Realme claims that the top-end model will be the first in India to offer a massive 24GB of RAM. However, there is a catch.

The highest configuration of the Narzo 60 Pro will come with 12GB of physical RAM, while the remaining 12GB will be provided through dynamic expansion. This means that users will be able to virtually access the additional 12GB of RAM from the phone’s internal storage, enhancing the device’s multitasking capabilities.

July 6, 2023
Nokia Introduces Trustworthy Feature Phones with Built-in UPI Payment App

Nokia has launched two new feature phones in India, namely the Nokia 110 4G and Nokia 110 2G. These phones are known for their sleek design and trusted build quality. They come in darker shades and offer a smaller display along with a tactile keyboard.

The Nokia 110 4G is priced at Rs 2,499 and is available in Midnight Blue and Artic Purple colors, while the Nokia 110 2G costs Rs 1,699 and comes in Charcoal and Cloudy Blue color options. Both phones can be purchased online and offline through Nokia’s official website, partner stores, and retail outlets.

These feature phones have a polycarbonate plastic build with a nano texture design and an IP52 rating for protection against dust and dripping water. They are also environmentally friendly, thanks to their packaging and use of recycled materials.

One notable feature is the built-in UPI payment app, which allows users to scan and pay for transactions. Both models have a QVGA camera and support storage expansion of up to 32GB via a MicroSD card. They run on Nokia’s S30+ operating system and include FM radio.

The main difference between the Nokia 110 4G and Nokia 110 2G lies in their battery capacity and connectivity options. The Nokia 110 4G is a 4G-enabled phone with a larger 1,450mAh battery, while the Nokia 110 2G supports 2G networks and has a 1,000mAh battery. The 4G model offers up to 8 hours of talk time and 12 days of standby time.

Both phones feature a single microphone and speaker setup and can be charged using a Micro USB cable. They also have a 3.5mm headphone jack and support Bluetooth 5.0. Nokia aims to provide a superior phone experience and empower users by introducing the Scan & Pay UPI functionality on feature phones, enabling secure and convenient digital transactions.

In addition to the feature phone launch, Nokia recently introduced its first repairable 5G smartphone, the Nokia G42 5G. This smartphone boasts a 6.56-inch HD+ display and is powered by the Snapdragon 480 Plus chipset.

July 5, 2023