It is clear from MediaTek’s approach that the 9300+ will be a close competitor to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
“The Dimensity 9300+ will help us continue to build a rich ecosystem of generative AI applications thanks to the chip’s broad LLM support and on-device LoRA Fusion,” said JC Hsu, Corporate Senior Vice President at MediaTek.
MediaTek Dimensity 9300+: Key Specs
MediaTek Introduces Dimensity 9300+ to Power Up Mobile AI and Gaming
The APU 790 AI engine allows Dimensity 9300+ to support LLMs with 1B, 7B, and 13B parameters, with scalability up to 33B, and run LLMs quickly and efficiently.
Dimensity 9300+ enhances clock speeds and supports extensive generative AI applications.
With NeuroPilot Speculative Decode Acceleration, Dimensity 9300+ can run LLMs with seven billion parameters at 22 tokens per second, more than 2X the rate of competitive mass market solutions.
Imagiq 990 has a built-in AI Semantic Analysis Video Engine to support advanced AI videography features.
FAQs
What are the main features of the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chip?
The Dimensity 9300+ is built using a 3rd generation TSMC 4nm process, featuring high-performance cores and advanced AI capabilities to support large language models and efficient generative AI processing.
How does the Dimensity 9300+ improve gaming experiences on mobile devices?
With its 2nd generation hardware raytracing engine and Arm Immortalis-G720 GPU, the Dimensity 9300+ delivers smooth 60 FPS raytracing and console-grade illumination effects, enhancing mobile gaming.
What AI capabilities are integrated into the Dimensity 9300+?
The chip includes MediaTek’s NeuroPilot Speculative Decode Acceleration and the APU 790 AI engine, enabling it to support LLMs with up to 33 billion parameters and provide rapid AI processing.
Can the Dimensity 9300+ handle advanced photography and videography?
Yes, the Dimensity 9300+ uses MediaTek’s Imagiq 990 ISP for 18-bit RAW processing and features a built-in AI Semantic Analysis Video Engine to enhance photo and video quality, especially in low-light conditions.
● Powered by Innovation: Responsive and versatile performance for modern businesses, with up to 13th gen ultra-efficient U-series and performance P-series.
● Intel® Core™ i7 processor, support of up to 64GB of fast DDR5-5600 RAM with Dual SODIMM slots, fast PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD and optional NVIDIA RTX 2050 (4GB) discrete graphics (only with U-series processors).
● Flexible configurations: One of the most configurable platform yet, with options of U and P series processors, optional discrete NVIDIA graphics, optional backlit keyboard, optional Full-HD IR enabled camera, up to 16:10 14-inch (B3404) and 16-inch Full-HD+ IPS WQXGA (2560 x 1600) anti-glare panel, full range of I/O ports including a full-sized RJ-45 port, optional SSDs ranging with TCG OPAL Self Encrypting Drive, optional 50 Wh and 63Wh battery packs, and an optional smart-card reader.
● Sleek and Durable design: Premium Military-grade tested chassis with Aluminium top and reinforced with internal metal chassis, with hinges tested up to 30,000 times, tested to deal with up to 25kg of force on the lid, and spill-resistant keyboard tested up to 10 million keystrokes.
● Enterprise-grade Security and Privacy: Up to Intel® vPro® Enterprise solution, built-in fingerprint biometric security (on power key), optional smart-card authentication, TPM 2.0 chip, physical webcam cover, Kensington lock slot, and Self-healing ASUS BIOS.
ASUS ANNOUNCES EXPERTBOOK B3 SERIES: Specifications
The series optionally can be equipped with powerful NVIDIA® dedicated graphics, and a vibrant immersive screen (touchscreen optional) with a tall 16:10 aspect ratio.
Enhance productivity with a cutting-edge 16:10 anti-glare IPS display featuring up to a vibrant WQXGA resolution of up to 2560 x 1600 for an outstanding viewing experience
The ExpertBook B3 series features a fast Gen 4 NVMe SSD that allows the laptop to boot in a mere few seconds and multi-task with productivity apps – all day long.
RAM upgrades are up to an incredible 64GB DDR5-5600 with Dual SO-DIMM slots.
Experience an unrivalled multi-touch experience with the ASUS ExpertBook B3404, offering a larger input space without compromise.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Dinesh Sharma, Vice President, Commercial PC and Smartphone, System Business Group, ASUS India, said, “The ASUS ExpertBook B3 series is meticulously engineered to meet the diverse needs of enterprises across all sectors by effortlessly elevating productivity, strengthening security, and facilitating seamless communication for the users. Business users in India will surely appreciate its powerful processing, exceptional durability, and long-lasting battery life, along with highly customizable features related to chassis design, screen sizes, security, connectivity, and graphics. With military-grade durability and eco-conscious design, the ASUS ExpertBook B3 epitomizes our dedication to providing businesses with innovative solutions.”
ASUS ExpertBook B3 Specifications & features
Powered by Innovation
Experience exceptional performance with the ASUS ExpertBook B3404, powered by up to 13th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 Processor
The ASUS ExpertBook B3 is engineered to enhance business capabilities, providing the fast and responsive performance essential for today’s demands — enabling seamless multitasking, advanced data handling, and streamlined operations.
Featuring up to 13th generation Intel® Core processors, up to NVIDIA RTX 2050 (4GB GDDR6) dedicated graphics and support of up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM over dual slots provide raw performance needed to innovate the way business is done, reshaping workflows to get the job done without breaking a sweat, all day long!
Experience unparalleled connectivity with the ASUS ExpertBook B3404, designed to meet the demands of modern professionals
The latest B3 models also benefit from a comprehensive set of ports for versatile peripheral connections and easy data transfers.
There’s also the latest Thunderbolt™ 4 USB-C® port, which supports 40 Gbps data transfer speeds, dual 4K display output via HDMI and USB-C with DisplayPort, an RJ-45 Ethernet socket, plus fast-charging support with the bundled 65W/90W USB-C charger.
Flexible Configurations
ASUS ExpertBook B3404 features a spill-resistant keyboard designed to withstand accidental spills of up to 60cc, ensuring durability and peace of mind during busy workdays
The latest ExpertBook B3 laptops offer the freedom and flexibility to be tailored to meet specific requirements or everyday computing tasks — with configuration feature options that include –
* Display – Optional IPS WQXGA (2560 x 1600) Touchscreen with MPP2.0 stylus support, * Stylus – Optional ASUS Pen 2.0 stylus for touchscreen enabled configuration, * Processor – Optional Intel® vPro® enabled processors, * Graphics – Optional NVIDIA RTX 2050 (4GB GDDR6) discrete graphics, * SSD – Optional SSDs ranging from OPAL SED (Self Encrypting Drive) SSD, Value SSD (NVME x2), and Performance SSD (NVME x4), * Battery – Optional 3-cell 50Wh or 63Wh battery packs, * Keyboard – Optional backlit chiclet keyboard, * Camera – Optional Full-HD IR enabled camera with Windows Hello support, * Security – Optional smart card reader for multifactor authentication, and full vPro® Enterprise solution. The optional touchscreen B3 models are also compatible with ASUS Pen 2.0, and other MPP 2.0-compatible input devices, for versatile mobile productivity.
Productivity-First Design
Stay productive throughout the day with the Expertbook B3404, featuring a high-capacity up to 63Wh battery in a 3-cell configuration.
The bright, clear 14-inch (B3404) or 16-inch (B3604) NanoEdge display with wide viewing angles and a taller 16:10 aspect ratio, plus a greatly-improved up to 85% screen-to-body ratio, delivers superb visual experiences — with more vertical workspace.
The ExpertBook B3 features fast charging and a long-lasting 3-cell battery with options of either 50Wh or 63Wh, it ensures seamless and efficient productivity experiences.
Experience noise-free communication anytime, anywhere with ASUS AI Noise cancellation modes tailored for different scenarios.
To provide exceptional remote-working and video-conferencing experiences, B3 features AI-powered noise-cancelation technology that cancels out unwanted background noise and picks up the user’s voice for optimum conference-call quality, and up to an optional Full-HD IR camera for exceptional video.
The ExpertBook B3604, in particular, features a full-sized numeric keypad on the right side of the keyboard, easing and speeding data-entry efficiency — perfect for when dealing with lots of numeric figures, and features a massively large trackpad providing enough room for multi-finger Windows gestures.
Enterprise-Grade Security and Privacy
ASUS ExpertBook B3404’s enterprise-grade features. choose the optional FHD + IR camera for facial recognition or use the fingerprint sensor
The ExpertBook B3 series is packed with technology to provide strong data security and privacy protection.
These are bolstered by an optional smart-card reader to enable easy two-factor authentication, with a password and recognized card required for login.
A discrete TPM 2.0 chip securely stores authentication information utilized by software, safeguarding crucial data and transactions, including passwords and encryption keys.
The laptops also benefit from a physical webcam cover for an assurance of instant privacy when it’s not in use — with just a quick finger flick required for operation.
There’s also an integrated Kensington lock slot, providing a physical security option for safeguarding the hardware when used in unsupervised locations.
World-class Durability
Experience class-leading durability with the ASUS ExpertBook B3404’s robust design, featuring a durable construction with an Aluminium Lid
The ExpertBook B3 is designed and tested for rugged business mobility. It is MIL-STD 810H Military-grade certified, passing stringent 23 tests in 10 categories.
Built to withstand the toughest conditions, this laptop meets the industry-leading MIL-STD 810H US military standard.
1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C support power delivery
2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
1x Thunderbolt™ 4, compliant with USB4, supports display / power delivery
1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS
1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
1x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet (Rigid port)
Smart card reader
1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C support power delivery
2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
1x Thunderbolt™ 4, compliant with USB4, supports display / power delivery
1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS
1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
1x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet (Rigid port)
Smart card reader
US MIL-STD 810H military-grade standard
Device, hinge, and I/O port reinforcement
US MIL-STD 810H military-grade standard
Device, hinge, and I/O port reinforcement
Security
HDD User Password Protection and Security
BIOS Booting User Password Protection
Compurace ready from BIOS
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0
BIOS setup user password
Kensington Nano Security Slot™
HDD User Password Protection and Security
BIOS Booting User Password Protection
Computrace ready from BIOS
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0
BIOS setup user password
Kensington Nano Security Slot™
Green Certifications
TCO Certified
EPEAT Gold
Energy star 8.0
FSC Recycled
RoHS
REACH
TCO Certified
EPEAT Gold
Energy star 8.0
FSC Recycled
RoHS
REACH
Faqs
How is the design of Asus Expertbook B3 laptop ?
Smartly designed for modern business and forward-thinking organizations, ExpertBook B3 series embraces a true productivity-first approach — making it ideal for today’s hybrid-working paradigm.
The bright, clear 14-inch (B3404) or 16-inch (B3604) NanoEdge display with wide viewing angles and a taller 16:10 aspect ratio, plus a greatly-improved up to 85% screen-to-body ratio, delivers superb visual experiences — with more vertical workspace.
The ExpertBook B3 features fast charging and a long-lasting 3-cell battery[vi] with options of either 50Wh or 63Wh, it ensures seamless and efficient productivity experiences.
To provide exceptional remote-working and video-conferencing experiences, B3 features AI-powered noise-cancelation technology that cancels out unwanted background noise and picks up the user’s voice for optimum conference-call quality, and up to an optional Full-HD IR camera for exceptional video.
The ExpertBook B3604, in particular, features a full-sized numeric keypad on the right side of the keyboard, easing and speeding data-entry efficiency — perfect for when dealing with lots of numeric figures, and features a massively large trackpad providing enough room for multi-finger Windows gestures.
What is the price & availability of Asus Expertbook B3?
The ASUS ExpertBook B3 series is now available for business users in India starting May 07, 2024. For enquiries related to pricing, please contact your local ASUS representative for detailed information.
What are the security & privacy features of Expertbook B3 series ?
The ExpertBook B3 series is packed with technology to provide strong data security and privacy protection.
For starters, B3 has built-in biometric security — in the form of an integrated infrared camera for Windows Hello facial recognition and a fingerprint sensor that’s placed on the Power key for easy access. T
hese are bolstered by an optional smart-card reader to enable easy two-factor authentication, with a password and recognized card required for login.
A discrete TPM 2.0 chip securely stores authentication information utilized by software, safeguarding crucial data and transactions, including passwords and encryption keys.
The laptops also benefit from a physical webcam cover for an assurance of instant privacy when it’s not in use — with just a quick finger flick required for operation.
There’s also an integrated Kensington lock slot, providing a physical security option for safeguarding the hardware when used in unsupervised locations.
What are the durability features of Asus Expertbook B3 series ?
The ExpertBook B3 is designed and tested for rugged business mobility. It is MIL-STD 810H Military-grade certified, passing stringent 23 tests in 10 categories.
Additionally, the laptop is also ASUS internally tested for measures such as the hinges tested for 30000 open and close cycles, tested to bear up to 25kg of force on the aluminium lid, up to 5000 times of plug-in and out port tests, drop tests up to 30cm, and spill-resistance up to 60cc.
Among the headlining collection is the Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop band, that will launch on May 22.
Special Pride Edition watch band and watch face on Apple Watch
According to Apple, the color scheme, which features pink, light blue, white, black, and brown threads, draws inspiration from many pride flags.
The pink, blue, and white hues are for transgender and non-binary people, and the black and brown for Black, Hispanic, Latin, and other communities that are affected by HIV/AIDS.
The words “PRIDE 2024” are laser-etched to the band’s lugs.
Apple Pride Accessories, Watch Faces
The Apple Watch Pride collection 2017 through 2024 ✨⌚️ pic.twitter.com/oKkSCUVfRr
— 9to5Mac (@9to5mac) May 6, 2024
The Pride Braided Loop will be available for both 41mm and 45mm sizes at the cost of $99 in the US.
What products are included in Apple’s Pride Collection 2024?
The 2024 collection features a Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop band, special watch faces for the Apple Watch, and new wallpapers for iPhones and iPads.
When will the Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop band be available for purchase?
The band will be released in the US on May 22 at Apple Stores and online, with a global launch set for the following day.
How much does the new Pride Edition watch band cost?
In the US, the Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop band is priced at $99 and is available for both 41mm and 45mm Apple Watch models.
What is the significance of the colour scheme in the Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop band?
The colour scheme includes pink, light blue, white, black, and brown, representing transgender, non-binary, and communities affected by HIV/AIDS, reflecting diversity and equality.
The tech company is working on making its own big language model called “MAI-1”.
“We will continue to be on this path — building increasingly powerful supercomputer for OpenAI to train the models that will set pace for the whole field — well into the future,” Scott wrote in a LinkedIn post following The Information’s report. “There’s no end in sight to the increasing impact that our work together will have.
Microsoft’s New LLM
Microsoft Developing New AI Model MAI-1 to Enhance In-House LLM Capabilities
Two Microsoft workers said its huge size means it will cost more money to train and need more powerful computers.
MAI-1 Built From the Ground Up
MAI-1 development is led by former DeepMind co-founder Mustafa Suleyman
The information claims MAI-1 is completely new and built from the ground up by Microsoft’s teams, even if some data and technologies from Inflection are being used.
It is not just a rebranded version of Inflection’s AI.
The tech company is working on making its own big language model called “MAI-1”
The company may be protecting itself, as its current AI deals are under scrutiny from regulators.
The model features approximately 500 billion parameters, requiring powerful hardware
MAI-1 is said to have around 500 billion parameters, which is more than many other large language models out there like Microsoft’s own recent 3.8 billion parameter Phi-3 Mini model.
MAI-1 is being described as “far larger” than any previous AI models Microsoft has made
FAQs
What is the MAI-1 model developed by Microsoft?
Microsoft’s MAI-1 is a large language model with around 500 billion parameters, designed to be far superior in size and capability compared to its previous AI models.
Who is leading the development of Microsoft’s MAI-1?
Mustafa Suleyman, a former co-founder at Google’s DeepMind and the founder of AI firm Inflection, which Microsoft acquired, is heading the development of MAI-1.
Why is Microsoft investing in its own large AI model like MAI-1?
By developing MAI-1, Microsoft aims to secure its leadership in AI technology, amidst regulatory scrutiny of its investments in external AI partnerships like OpenAI.
What technological needs does MAI-1 have due to its size?
The immense size of the MAI-1 model necessitates more expensive training processes and the use of advanced Nvidia servers to handle its computational demands.
Who is the pioneer for Microsoft’s MAI-12?
The MAI-1 project is under the guidance of Mustafa Suleyman, a prominent figure in Al, who co-founded Google’s DeepMind and later led his own startup, Inflection Al.
Now at Microsoft, Suleyman’s experience is expected to drive significant advancements in Microsoft’s Al capabilities.
The MAl-1 is poised to be a large language model, potentially surpassing those developed by other tech giants like Meta and Mistral in terms of size and complexity.
What is the idea behind Training of Microsoft’s MAI-1?
Microsoft plans to train MAI-1 using a vast dataset that includes inputs from ChatGPT as well as public web information and possibly data from Inflection’s previous models.
This diverse data foundation is crucial for training a robust Al model that can handle a wide range of tasks and queries, from simple requests to complex computational problems.
What is Microsoft’s Multi-Pronged Al Strategy?
Apart from MAI-1, Microsoft is also working on smaller, less complex models tailored for smartphone applications.
This dual approach indicates Microsoft’s commitment to catering to both high-end computational needs and everyday consumer applications, ensuring versatility in its Al offerings.
Despite a decline in overall iPhone sales, high-end models see increased demand
Commenting on the near-term outlook, Research Director Tarun Pathak said, “Growth is expected to be slow but steady in the near term. However, revenues are expected to grow faster as the ongoing premiumization trend is likely to persist, especially with the rise of newer form factors and capabilities such as foldables and GenAI.
More than 10 OEMs have launched over 30 GenAI-capable smartphones so far. We estimate that GenAI’s share of overall smartphone shipments will reach 11% by 2024.”
Commenting on Apple’s performance, Research Director Jeff Fieldhack said, “Tough competition in China, record low upgrades in the US and a difficult compare from last year due to iPhone 14 Pro’s supply shifting to Q1 2023 all weighed on iPhone performance.
However, there were upsides as well. An improved product mix with 15 Pro’s performing better than its predecessors, and an increasing footprint in emerging markets, helped Apple in arresting some of the declines. Emerging markets especially provide long term growth opportunities. We also expect the inclusion of GenAI later this year to contribute to iPhone upgrades.”
Commenting on overall market dynamics, Senior Analyst Prachir Singh said, “Smartphone shipments grew during the first quarter as emerging markets continued their strong momentum, while Europe, especially Central and Eastern Europe, grew the most compared to a difficult Q1 2023.
Consumer demand in these markets has been growing gradually and the inventory levels have improved. MEA was the fastest growing region due to the strong shipments of TECNO, Xiaomi and HONOR. China also grew YoY owing to strong Lunar New Year sales and Huawei’s comeback.
The India market also saw growth thanks to exiting 2023 with healthy inventory levels. The mature markets of North America and Japan declined relative to the same period in 2023.”
iPhone 15 Series Tops the List
iPhone 15 Pro Max Reigns Supreme in Q1 2024 Smartphone Sales
According to Counterpoint’s global smartphone shipment report for the first quarter of 2024, the iPhone 15 Pro Max topped the list, beating even Apple’s own iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, and last year’s iPhone 14 models.
Which smartphone topped global sales in the first quarter of 2024?
The iPhone 15 Pro Max was the best-selling smartphone worldwide in the first quarter of 2024, according to Counterpoint.
How does the iPhone 15 Pro Max compare to other models from Apple and competitors?
The iPhone 15 Pro Max outshone other models including Apple’s iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra in global sales.
What is the revenue contribution of Pro model iPhones in 2024?
As of Q1 2024, iPhone Pro models contribute over 60% to Apple’s total smartphone revenue, showing significant growth from 24% in Q1 2020.
How did Apple perform in the smartphone market overall in the first quarter of 2024?
Despite leading with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, overall iPhone sales fell by 10% year-over-year, though service revenue growth helped mitigate this decline.
Did Apple face challenges in any major markets in Q1 2024?
In Q1 2024, Apple experienced a drop in iPhone shipments in China, falling behind Samsung, Huawei, and Xiaomi in that market.
Is iPhone 15 Pro Max Best-selling Smartphone in Q1 2024?
Apple and Samsung dominated the list of top 10 best-selling smartphones in Q1 2024.
This was the first quarter in which the top 10 smartphones were all 5G capable.
This was also Apple’s first non-seasonal quarter when the iPhone Pro Max took the top spot.
The Pro line-up captured half of Apple’s total sales in Q1 2024, a significant increase from 24% in Q1 2020.
Apple and Samsung dominated the top-10 best-selling smartphones list for Q1 2024, each capturing five positions and leaving no spot for other brands, according to Counterpoint Research’s Global Monthly Handset Model Sales Tracker.
This was the first quarter in which the top 10 smartphones were all 5G capable. Besides, the trend towards premiumization was evident, with 7 of the top 10 smartphones being premium (wholesale price at $600 and above).
Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro Max was the best-selling smartphone of Q1 2024. Notably, the Pro Max variant achieved the top position for the first time in Apple’s non-seasonal quarter, reflecting an increasing trend of consumer preference for high-end smartphones.
All four iPhone 15 variants and the iPhone 14 were among the top 10 bestsellers. Further, the iPhone 15 line-up secured the top three spots.
The growing popularity of the Apple Pro line-up was evident, as it captured half of Apple’s total sales in Q1 2024, a significant increase from 24% in Q1 2020.
The Pro iPhones have become the major revenue drivers for Apple, contributing over 60% of its sales value in Q1 2024. The Pro line-up offers substantial upgrades and significant enhancements over the base models.
This strategic move has proven successful, as consumers are willing to pay for premium features. The Pro line-up’s features include an innovative dynamic island interface, more advanced chipsets, ultra-smooth displays, titanium chassis and a telephoto camera.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max performed well despite its first price increase since the launch of the Pro series in 2019, indicating a strong consumer desire for the extra features the Pro line offers.
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series secured two spots in the top 10 for Q1 2024, with its Ultra variant ranking fifth and the base variant coming in ninth.
The strong performance of the S24 series can be attributed to Samsung’s early refresh of the series, and its efforts in generative AI (GenAI) technology.
The S24 series was the first to reach the market with GenAI features and capabilities, allowing users to create unique content and experience a new level of interaction with their smartphones.
Consumers are holding onto their smartphones for longer periods because upgrades are offering limited differentiation in features.
This leads consumers to opt for high-end smartphones to ensure their devices remain technologically relevant for a longer duration.
Going forward, we expect the top 10 best-selling smartphones to capture a larger share of total smartphone sales as OEMs are focusing on leaner portfolios with premium features, including GenAI.
But that could change sooner than you think, according to a series of investor reports.
Apple’s First Foldable Coming by 2025
Apple to Reportedly Launch a Foldable Device With iPad and MacBook Capabilities by 2026
A new note from the analyst Jeff Pu, recently claimed that Apple was already planning a first foldable offering in the shape of an odd-duck MacBook-iPad hybrid device.
Pu wrote that this foldable MacBook-iPad is already set for mass production to begin in late 2025.
But that was not the only report about Apple’s foldable ambitions.
The latest leak confirms some of the earlier predictions of respected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who has told investors that the Cupertino tech giant was indeed in the process of developing a massive 20.5-inch foldable notebook that will be released next year, in 2027.
Apple plans to enter the foldable device market with MacBook-iPad hybrids and iPhones.
Display expert Ross Young has already gone on record in the past to say that such a large foldable hybrid device from Apple was indeed in the works before 2027.
This has already been backed by the insider, Mark Gurman, who previously revealed that the company has been researching an altogether new dual-screen foldable design that seeks to bring both iPad and MacBook functionality into one, unified package.
Apple’s Foldable Future Still Doubtful
Insider reports suggest a new dual-screen design combining iPad and MacBook features
For all the Apple fans who would love nothing more than to see something new when it comes to form factors, the prospect of ingenious foldables spanning both productivity and mobile categories certainly makes things exciting.
FAQs
What is Apple’s plan for foldable devices?
Apple is set to introduce a foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid and a foldable iPhone, with production beginning in late 2025 for the hybrid and late 2026 for the iPhone.
When will Apple start mass production of its foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid?
The mass production of Apple’s first foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid is scheduled to start in late 2025.
Are there any reports about Apple’s foldable iPhone?
According to investor reports, Apple is planning to launch a high-end premium foldable iPhone model by late 2026.
What details are available about Apple’s foldable notebook?
A foldable 20.5-inch notebook from Apple, discussed by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, is expected to be released in 2027.
Who has confirmed the development of Apple’s large foldable devices?
Display expert Ross Young and insider Mark Gurman have both confirmed that Apple is working on large foldable devices that integrate iPad and MacBook functionalities.
Mark your calendars for May 16th, as iQOO India CEO Nipun Marya took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that the Z9x 5G will debut in India on that date.
More concrete information is expected closer to the unveiling next month.
iQOO Z9x: Potential Variants and Pricing
Ready, set, #iQOOZ9x. Fully loaded for a full day of action! 🔥 #FullDayFullyLoaded pic.twitter.com/xlCry5wCzp
— Nipun Marya (@nipunmarya) May 6, 2024
While iQOO has been tight-lipped about full specs and pricing for the Indian variant so far, some details have trickled out already.
The company’s India website recently listed spare parts pricing, revealing that the Z9x 5G will likely launch in 4GB+128GB, 6GB+128GB, and 8GB+128GB RAM and storage configurations for the Indian market.
If the Indian pricing follows the China launch, buyers can expect the Z9x 5G to start around the Rs 15,000 mark for the base 8GB+128GB model.
Colour options may also mirror the Dark Night, Feng Yuqing, and Starburst White shades available in China.
iQOO Z9x: Expected Specs
Expected in 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB RAM variants with 128GB storage
When is the iQOO Z9x 5G launching in India and where can it be purchased?
The iQOO Z9x 5G is confirmed to launch on May 16th and will be available for purchase exclusively on Amazon India.
What are the expected variants and pricing for the iQOO Z9x 5G in India?
The iQOO Z9x 5G is likely to come in three configurations: 4GB+128GB, 6GB+128GB, and 8GB+128GB, with prices starting around Rs 15,000 for the base model.
What specifications can consumers expect from the iQOO Z9x 5G?
The smartphone is expected to feature a 6.72-inch FullHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, and a 6,000mAh battery with 44W fast charging.
What camera capabilities does the iQOO Z9x 5G offer?
The iQOO Z9x 5G will sport a 50MP primary camera with a 2MP depth sensor for the rear and an 8MP camera for selfies.
Are there any additional features of the iQOO Z9x 5G that stand out?
Additional highlights include IP64 dust and water resistance, Bluetooth 5.1, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and stereo speakers, enhancing its appeal as a budget-friendly yet feature-rich device.
While official details remain tightly under wraps, whispers have started circulating about the forthcoming OnePlus Open 2.
Let’s delve into the fortifying rumours and examine what could be in store.
Processor and Cameras
OnePlus Open 2 to feature Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for top-tier performance
The heart of Open 2 is a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is expected to deliver beefy performance with enhanced efficiency.
This should help the device boast an 8-inch foldable display, where rumours are in that direction.
Possibilities include retaining the size of its predecessor, with possible increases in refresh rates and brightness.
In photography, the collaboration may be deepened further with the already-renowned optics mavens, Hasselblad.
What might be witnessed includes further improvements in image processing, color science improvements, and a new Sony sensor, among other things.
Looking forward, we may see improvements in battery technology, with advanced capacities and quicker charging speeds projected as probable advancements.
Design and Software
Enhanced photography with Hasselblad collaboration and new Sony sensor
Multitasking optimisations tailored to the foldable form factor may be in the spotlight.
Expected Pricing and Availability
Expected to launch in September priced around £1,500 ($1,800)
Industry sources have told PocketWatch to expect a September launch and to finally have the OnePlus Open 2 in the market to get a head start before the next Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 release.
In India expect the Open 2 to keep the above Rs 1,30,000 mark alive.
OnePlus Open 2: Challenging the Norm?
Design improvements include a smoother hinge and better water resistance.
While the foldable arena is rapidly maturing, with Samsung retaining a commanding presence and ascending brands like Oppo also jostling for attention, the OnePlus Open 2 shapes up as a tempting proposition.
Hasselblad Camera for Mobile, Nightscape, Dolby Vision, Smart Scene Recognition, Portrait Mode, Pro Mode, Panorama, Tilt-Shift mode, Long Exposure, Dual-View Video, Retouch, Movie Mode, XPan Mode, Focus Peaking, Raw file, Raw Plus file, Filters, Super Stable, Video Nightscape, Video HDR, Focus Lock, Time-lapse, Google Lens
Video Recording
4K @ 30/60 fps UHD, 1080p @ 30/60 fps FHD
Flash
Yes, LED
Front Camera
Punch Hole 20 MP 20 mm f/2.2 (Wide Angle)
32 MP 22mm, 1/3.14″, Cover camera f/2.4 (Wide Angle)
What key features can we expect from the OnePlus Open 2?
The OnePlus Open 2 is anticipated to come with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, an 8-inch foldable display, and advancements in camera technology through a partnership with Hasselblad.
How will the camera capabilities of the OnePlus Open 2 improve?
Expected upgrades include enhanced image processing, advanced colour science, and the integration of a new Sony camera sensor, providing superior photographic results.
What are the design enhancements in the OnePlus Open 2?
The new model is likely to feature a more refined hinge that minimizes the visibility of the crease, alongside improvements in durability and water resistance.
What software will the OnePlus Open 2 run?
The OnePlus Open 2 is set to operate on the latest Android 14 platform with OnePlus’ OxygenOS, focusing on multitasking optimizations suited for its foldable display.
When is the OnePlus Open 2 expected to launch and what will it cost?
The device is projected for a September launch, aiming to precede the release of Samsung’s next foldable. It’s expected to be priced competitively at around £1,500 ($1,800).
Thus far, the market share survey reveals that private operators command a huge percentage of the market, owning 92.26% share compared to the public sector’s 7.74%.
What did the TRAI report from March 2024 reveal about subscriber changes in India’s telecom sector?
The report highlighted significant subscriber changes, with Jio and Airtel gaining millions of subscribers, while Vi and state-run operators like BSNL faced losses.
How many subscribers did Reliance Jio add according to the latest TRAI report?
Reliance Jio added 2.14 million subscribers in March 2024, despite a slight drop from February’s 3.41 million additions.
What are the current challenges faced by Vodafone Idea as per the TRAI report?
Vodafone Idea continues to lose subscribers, with a decrease of 0.68 million in March, highlighting ongoing retention issues.
What new milestone did Reliance Jio achieve according to the TRAI report?
Jio surpassed global records by achieving the highest data traffic consumption, underscoring its extensive operational scale and active user engagement.
What are the key specifications of the leaked Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 8a is expected to feature a 6.1-inch FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Tensor G3 chipset, 8GB RAM, and a dual-camera setup including a 64MP main sensor.
How does the Pixel 8a improve in terms of display and brightness?
The upcoming Pixel 8a is set to offer a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, providing superior visibility under various lighting conditions compared to previous models.
What battery features can be expected in the Pixel 8a?
The Pixel 8a is rumoured to include a 4,492mAh battery capable of 27W wired and wireless charging, with an ultra battery saver mode extending usage up to 72 hours.
What are the camera capabilities of the Pixel 8a?
Alongside a 64MP main and 13MP ultra-wide rear cameras, the Pixel 8a will also have a 13MP front camera with AI-powered features such as Magic touch-up and eraser tools.
