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Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds Review: High on Quality, Low on Price

December 3, 2023

Highlights

Eco-friendly design with 50% recycled materials.
Comfortable fit, ideal for active use.
Bass-heavy sound perfect for modern music.
Impressive 20-hour total battery life with rapid charging.

Skullcandy, a familiar name in the audio gear industry, introduced its latest offering in the earbuds category – the Smokin’ Buds, back in September.

With a price tag of Rs 7,999 these TWS are positioned at the higher end of the budget range.

This addition to Skullcandy’s lineup comes amidst stiff competition in the wireless earbuds market, promising a range of features designed to appeal to various users.

I approached the Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds with a mix of skepticism and curiosity.

This review will explore whether these earbuds stand out in a crowded market and justify their pricing.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Affordable and functional design.	Limited feature controls
Comfortable, secure fit	No app customization
Good bass-heavy audio	No ANC
Impressive battery life

Key Specs

8 Hours in the Bud + 12 Hours in the Case
Rapid Charge (10 mins = 2 Hours of playtime)
Premium Audio Quality
Activate Voice Assistant
Capacitive Touch Controls
Microphone in Each Earbud
Noise-Isolating Fit
Use Either Bud Solo

Design and Build

I feel that the Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds, crafted from 50% recycled plastic, strike a balance between eco-conscious design and practicality.

Despite its commendable sturdiness and IPX4 certification for splash resistance, the earbuds and their case give a plasticky impression, which is fine given the pricing but a few competing products definitely look cleaner.

Also, the ear tips, made from a stiffer, lower-quality silicone, might require replacement after prolonged use.

While the case is durable, its plastic hinge feels slightly flimsy and potentially susceptible to wear over time.

Nevertheless, the lightweight, sleek design of the Smokin’ Buds and their portable case makes them an easy and convenient companion for everyday use.

The Smokin’ Buds Wireless does well to blend comfort with functionality.

Nestled inside the case are two ultra-light earbuds, offering a secure fit that remains stable even during activities like jogging.

I would know since I took them two separate intense jogging sessions and not once did they fall off.

Accompanying these earbuds are three different sizes of ear tips to cater to various ear shapes, ensuring a snug fit in the outer ear.

I felt that the ear tips’ stiffer silicone composition requires a bit of effort to insert, but it does contribute to the buds’ overall stability.

However, this tight fit might lead to some discomfort during prolonged use.

The initial setup is user-friendly; upon inserting the buds, a voice prompt signals pairing mode, allowing for a seamless Bluetooth connection with devices like my iPhone.

Features

As for the features, the TWS from Skullcandy come equipped with touch-sensitive controls that are mostly effective, though not without their quirks.

They facilitate a range of commands: a single tap plays or pauses music, answers or ends calls, a double tap raises the volume, and a quadruple tap changes the EQ mode.

However, there is no wear detection support, which felt like a miss for me.

Additionally, holding either bud for a second can reject a call or activate your voice assistant whether Android or iOS.

However, the control for lowering the volume—a triple tap—didn’t function in my testing. While these controls are comprehensive, they lack the precision found in more expensive offerings.

One notable absence is a dedicated app for the Smokin’ Buds, meaning users cannot fine-tune settings like the EQ or customize controls to their preference.

This limitation could be a drawback for those who prefer a more personalised listening experience.

Audio Performance

Let’s get into sound quality and the Smokin Buds deliver a more than decent experience within their budget range.

Testing them with a variety of genres highlighted their strengths and limitations.

The intense tracks of Guns and Roses were impressively rendered, with robust guitars, vibrant vocals, and dynamic drums.

While the clarity in orchestral pieces like Hans Zimmer’s Time in Inception wasn’t as refined as it might be on higher-end headphones, the overall quality was satisfactory for the price.

In terms of sound profile, the Smokin’ Buds have a bass-heavy emphasis, making them ideal for genres like pop and hip-hop.

However, as we mentioned instrumental enthusiasts might find the sound lacking in detail.

The earbuds have good peaks and dips performance, although there’s a noticeable imbalance in the high-bass and low-mid ranges, and a dip in the mid-mid that slightly hollows out vocals and lead instruments.

There is no ANC with the Smokin’ Buds but the earbuds’ snug fit effectively filters out much background noise.

This also translates to clear call quality, with recipients noting crystal clear sound.

The noise isolation capability of these earbuds is quite effective, minimizing external distractions and enhancing the listening experience.

Battery Life

The Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds offer an impressive battery life, with up to 8 hours of playback time on a single charge and an additional 12 hours available from the charging case.

This makes a total of 20 hours of use when both the buds and case are fully charged.

Along witha rather portable design and lasting battery life the buds can last a full workday of listening, with the added flexibility of topping up the charge on the go.

Additionally, the Smokin’ Buds feature a practical ‘Rapid Charge’ function, providing up to two hours of playback from just 10 minutes of charging, making them a reliable option for those with busy lifestyles or frequent travelers.

Final Verdict

The Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds, priced at Rs 7,999, are a solid choice in the budget TWS market.

They balance eco-conscious design with practical features, offering comfort and stability, albeit with a plasticky feel and stiffer ear tips.

While they lack advanced features like wear detection and app customization, they compensate with efficient controls and good battery life.

Audio performance is robust, especially for bass-heavy genres, though not as nuanced for intricate musical styles.

Overall, I think that they are an affordable option for everyday use, well-suited for users prioritising functionality and battery life over high-end sophistication.

FAQs

How is the build quality of Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds?

The Smokin’ Buds are made from 50% recycled plastic, offering a balance between eco-friendliness and durability. While they feel a bit plasticky, they are IPX4 certified for splash resistance, making them sturdy for everyday use.

What are the audio capabilities of the Smokin’ Buds?

They excel in bass-heavy music, making them ideal for genres like pop and hip-hop. However, they might not deliver the same level of detail in more intricate musical styles due to their sound profile.

Are there any limitations in the features of Smokin’ Buds?

Yes, they lack wear detection and customizable app support. The touch controls are comprehensive but not as precise as more expensive models.

What’s the battery life like on the Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds?

The earbuds offer 8 hours of playback, with an additional 12 hours from the case, totaling 20 hours. They also feature a rapid charge function for quick top-ups.

Google Is Taking Legal Action Against Fake Bard AI Malware Scammers

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

Google sues over fraudulent Bard AI chatbot downloads and malware installation.
Lawsuit targets misuse of Google trademarks to deceive users.
Fake Bard AI malware scam affects social media users and small businesses.
Google’s legal action seeks to disrupt scammer operations and set a precedent.

Google has initiated legal action against unidentified individuals for promoting fraudulent downloads of its AI chatbot Bard, which, in reality, turned out to be conduits for installing fake Bard AI malware.

Google’s Fight Against Misuse of Bard AI

The lawsuit highlights the exploitation of Google’s trademarks, such as “Google AI” and “AIGoogleBard,” by the alleged scammers.

These names are reportedly used to deceive users into installing malware, which then enables the attackers to hijack social media login credentials.

The defendants, referred to as Does 1-3 in the lawsuit, have not been identified as of now.

Google’s general counsel, Halimah DeLaine Prado, stated that the lawsuit serves multiple purposes, including establishing legal precedent, disrupting scammers’ tools, and increasing the consequences for such malicious actors.

She emphasized that these scammers have misled people globally, leading Google to file nearly 300 takedown requests related to this issue.

Impact and Response

This fake Bard AI malware scam targets a wide range of victims, including small businesses and Facebook advertisers.

The scammers reportedly use social media posts and web pages to falsely advertise free downloads of Bard, a chatbot that is not available for download.

Unsuspecting users who fall for this trap end up downloading malware, which gives scammers control over their social media accounts.

FAQs

What is the nature of the lawsuit filed by Google?

Google has filed a lawsuit against anonymous individuals for promoting fake downloads of its AI chatbot, Bard, which were actually conduits for installing fake Bard AI malware. The lawsuit focuses on the misuse of Google’s trademarks, such as “Google AI” and “AIGoogleBard,” by the alleged scammers to deceive users.

What are the consequences of the fake Bard AI malware?

The fake Bard AI malware enables attackers to hijack social media login credentials, posing a significant threat to individual privacy and security. The malware primarily targets social media users, small businesses, and Facebook advertisers, gaining unauthorized access to their accounts.

How has Google responded to the Bard AI malware scam?

In response to the fake Bard AI malware scam, Google has filed nearly 300 takedown requests and initiated legal action. This lawsuit aims to disrupt the tools used by scammers, establish a legal precedent, and raise the consequences for such malicious activities.

iOS 17.2 Update Is Going to Bring Custom Apple Default Alerts Sounds

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

iOS 17.2 introduces customizable Apple Default Alerts sounds for notifications.
“Sounds & Haptics” settings include new “Default Alerts” section for sound personalization.
Update offers options to adjust haptic feedback for a tailored iPhone experience.

Apple is gearing up for the release of iOS 17.2, an update that brings a much-anticipated feature: the ability to customize Apple Default Alerts sounds.

This enhancement allows users to personalise the sound for all incoming notifications, adding a new dimension to the iPhone experience that was previously out of the user’s reach.

The update is obviously available only to beta testers at the moment.

So how do you change the notification sound? In the “Sounds & Haptics” settings of iOS 17.2, users will find the “Default Alerts” section, where you can select your preferred notification sounds.

This update extends beyond just audio customization; it also includes options to adjust the default haptic feedback, providing a more tailored user experience.

Apple has been know to be quite intuitive with its updates recently, and this new feature is basically the company offering users more control over the iPhone experience.

The iOS 17.2 update, expected to be released before Christmas, also introduces the z, a digital diary for iPhone users to document their thoughts and experiences.

More recently Apple released the iOS 17.1.2 update for its iPhone 15 lineup and select older models, alongside macOS Sonoma 14.1.2.

The focus for the update was not on making breakthrough changes in the software but basically addressing some minor issues and enhancing security across supported iPhone and Mac models.

FAQs

1. How can I customize notification sounds in iOS 17.2?

In iOS 17.2, go to “Sounds & Haptics” in the settings menu and navigate to the “Default Alerts” section. Here, you can choose your preferred sounds for different notifications, giving you the ability to personalize how you receive alerts.

2. What other features does the iOS 17.2 update include apart from sound customization?

Beyond customizable Apple Default Alerts sounds, iOS 17.2 also brings adjustable haptic feedback options, allowing users to tailor the tactile response of their iPhones. Additionally, the update introduces the Journal app, a digital diary for capturing personal thoughts and experiences.

3. How does the iOS 17.2 update enhance the overall iPhone experience?

iOS 17.2 enhances the iPhone experience by providing users with greater control over their device’s audio and haptic feedback, reflecting Apple’s commitment to intuitive and user-friendly updates. This, combined with the new Journal app, adds more depth to the iPhone’s functionality and personalization.

Redmi 13C 5G Confirmed To Harbour MediaTek’s Dimensity 6100+ SoC Ahead of December 6 India Launch

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

Redmi 13C 5G with MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset set for India launch.
4G variant of Redmi 13C likely powered by MediaTek Helio G85 SoC.
Features 6.74-inch display, 50MP primary camera, and 5,000mAh battery.
Available in Stardust Black and Star Shine Green with up to 256GB storage.

The Redmi 13C 4G, initially unveiled globally earlier in November, is set to make its debut in India on December 6, marking a significant addition to the Redmi smartphone lineup in the country.

But there is also going to be a 5G variant for the device and the company has revealed some details about this new variant as well.

Features and Specifications

The upcoming Redmi 13C 5G variant in India will feature MediaTek’s Dimensity 6100+ chipset, as has already been revealed by Redmi India.

Positioned as an affordable 5G option, it is expected to be priced below Rs. 15,000, offering 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of onboard storage.

In contrast, the 4G model of the Redmi 13C is likely to be powered by a MediaTek Helio G85 SoC, which is more in line with its global version.

However, this specification is yet to be officially confirmed.

As per earlier leaks and then confirmations, the Redmi 13C 4G version in India will be available in two colour options – Stardust Black and Star Shine Green.

It boasts a 50MP primary rear camera, indicating a focus on enhanced photography capabilities.

The global model of the Redmi 13C 4G runs on Android 13-based MIUI 14 and comes in three RAM and storage variants.

It features a 6.74-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 450 nits.

The camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor and a 2MP macro shooter at the back, along with an 8MP front sensor.

Additionally, the phone is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery supporting 18W wired charging.

What are the key features of the Redmi 13C 5G variant launching in India?

The Redmi 13C 5G variant, set to launch in India, is powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 6100+ chipset.

This affordable 5G smartphone is expected to be priced below Rs. 15,000, featuring 8GB of RAM and offering up to 256GB of onboard storage. Its introduction signifies Redmi’s commitment to bringing 5G technology to a wider audience in the Indian market at an accessible price point.

How does the Redmi 13C 4G model compare, and what are its specifications?

The Redmi 13C 4G model, aligning with its global version, is likely to be equipped with a MediaTek Helio G85 SoC, although this detail awaits official confirmation. It comes in Stardust Black and Star Shine Green color options, featuring a 50MP primary rear camera. The phone runs on Android 13-based MIUI 14 and has a 6.74-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate.

iQOO Neo 9 Leaked Schematics Show Design, Camera Placement

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

iQOO Neo 9 leaks reveal a unique dual rear camera setup.
Features a 6.78-inch display with a modern hole-punch design.
Anticipated to run on Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC and Android 14.
Expected to include a 50MP Sony IMX920 sensor for superior photography.

The iQOO Neo 9, following the launch of the iQOO Neo 8 in China earlier this year, is already generating buzz with its recent schematic leaks.

What’s more it is possible that the device launch is fast approaching as well.

Design and Display Features

Leaked schematics of the iQOO Neo 9, shared by tipster Digital Chat Station, reveal a possible dual rear camera setup, a departure from more common multi-camera arrays.

This setup includes primary and secondary sensors in separate circular cutouts, accompanied by a dual-LED flash unit, situated at the top left corner of the handset.

The schematics also indicate a hole-punch cutout at the top center of the display, along with narrow bezels, something now very common on modern day smartphones.

In terms of display, the iQOO Neo 9 is rumored to feature a 6.78-inch screen, maintaining the display size seen in the iQOO Neo 8 and iQOO Neo 8 Pro, both of which boast a 1.5K resolution.

Anticipated Specifications

Talking about some of the leaked specs, the iQOO Neo 9 is likely to be powered by last years Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, which could be paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

The device might operate on Android 14, equipped with either FunTouchOS 14 or OriginOS 4, depending on the region.

One of the highlight features, as also shown by the leaked schematics, is the potential inclusion of a 50MP Sony IMX920 sensor, measuring 1.49 inches, which could significantly enhance the phone’s camera capabilities.

iQOO Neo 9 Series Key Specs

GENERAL

Sim Type	Dual Sim, GSM+GSM
Dual Sim	Yes
Sim Size	Nano+Nano SIM
Device Type	Smartphone
Release Date	February 23, 2022

DESIGN

Dimensions	75.1 x 159.1 x 8.6 mm
Weight	200 g
Bezel less	Yes

DISPLAY

Type	Color AMOLED Screen (1B)
Touch	Yes
Size	6.56 inches, 1080 x 2376 pixels, 120 Hz
PPI	~ 398 PPI
Screen to Body Ratio	~ 87.5%
Features	HDR10+, 1200 nits (peak)
Notch	Yes, Punch Hole

MEMORY

RAM	8 GB
Storage	128 GB
Storage Type	UFS 3.1
Card Slot	No

CONNECTIVITY

GPRS	Yes
EDGE	Yes
3G	Yes
4G	Yes
5G	Yes
VoLTE	Yes, Dual Stand-By
Wifi	Yes, with wifi-hotspot
Bluetooth	Yes, v5.2, A2DP, LE
USB	Yes, USB-C v2.0
USB Features	USB on-the-go, USB Charging

EXTRA

GPS	Yes, with A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS
Fingerprint Sensor	Yes, In Display
Face Unlock	Yes
Sensors	Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, E-compass, Ambient light sensor
3.5mm Headphone Jack	No
Splash Resistant	Yes
Dust Resistant	Yes

CAMERA

Rear Camera	48 MP f/1.8 (Wide Angle) 13 MP f/2.5 (Telephoto) 13 MP f/2.2 (Ultra Wide) with autofocus
Features	Night Mode, Portrait, Pano, Live Photo, Slo-mo, Time-Lapse, Pro Mode, AR Stickers, Extreme Night Vision, Doc Correction, Pro Sports Mode, Ultra Stable Mode
Video Recording	4K @ 30 fps UHD, 1080p @ 30 fps FHD
Flash	Yes, Dual LED
Front Camera	Punch Hole 16 MP f/2.5 (Wide Angle)
Front Video Recording	1080p @ 30 fps FHD

TECHNICAL

OS	Android v12
Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 888+
CPU	2.9 GHz, Octa Core Processor
Core Details	1×2.99 GHz Kryo 680 (Cortex X1) + 3×2.42 GHz Kryo 680 (Cortex A78) + 4×1.80 GHz Kryo 680 (Cortex A55)
GPU	Adreno 660
Java	No
Browser	Yes

MULTIMEDIA

Email	Yes
Music	Yes
Video	Yes
FM Radio	No
Document Reader	Yes

BATTERY

Type	Non-Removable Battery
Size	4350 mAh, Li-Po Battery
Fast Charging	Yes, 120W Fast Charging

FAQs

1. What are the notable design features of the iQOO Neo 9 based on the leaks?

The iQOO Neo 9 is rumored to have a dual rear camera setup, featuring primary and secondary sensors in separate circular cutouts, and a dual-LED flash unit located at the top left. Additionally, the device is expected to have a hole-punch cutout in the center of its display and narrow bezels, aligning with current smartphone design trends.

2. What can we expect from the display of the iQOO Neo 9?

The iQOO Neo 9 is rumored to feature a 6.78-inch screen, maintaining the display size of its predecessors, the iQOO Neo 8 and Neo 8 Pro. Both earlier models boast a 1.5K resolution, suggesting that the Neo 9 will continue to offer a high-quality visual experience.

3. What are the anticipated specifications of the iQOO Neo 9?

The iQOO Neo 9 is likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. It is expected to operate on Android 14, with a software overlay of either FunTouchOS 14 or OriginOS 4, depending on the region. A standout feature is the possible inclusion of a 50MP Sony IMX920 sensor, enhancing its camera capabilities.

Microsoft Game Store Set to Rival Apple and Google in Mobile Gaming

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

Microsoft plans to launch a mobile gaming store to challenge existing giants.
Expansion follows a 7% increase in Game Pass subscribers in Latin America.
Acquisition of Activision Blizzard strengthens Microsoft’s mobile gaming portfolio.
Cloud gaming technology pivotal in Microsoft’s mobile gaming strategy.

Microsoft is making a strategic leap into the mobile gaming market with its upcoming Microsoft game store, aiming to compete with giants like Apple and Google.

Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, revealed the plan at the CCXP convention in Sao Paulo, indicating that the launch might be sooner than expected.

This new venture is part of Microsoft’s successful expansion of its Game Pass subscription service to Latin America, which saw a 7% customer increase.

Of course everyone remembers the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, known for hits like “Candy Crush” and “Call of Duty Mobile,” bolstering Microsoft’s stance in the $90 billion mobile gaming market.

Challenging Path Ahead

However, the path ahead is not without challenges.
The mobile gaming industry saw a 5% decrease in spending in 2022, and the regulatory environment around digital marketplaces is complex, as highlighted by Epic Games’ lawsuits against Apple and Google.

Despite these hurdles, Microsoft is optimistic about providing more choices to gamers, especially with its cloud gaming technology enabling streaming to mobile devices.

Spencer’s emphasis on multi-screen presence makes a point of Xbox’s strategy for future relevance.

Microsoft is making a big entry into the mobile game store arena and it couldn’t be better timed, particularly as regulatory efforts like the EU’s Digital Markets Act push for more openness in app stores.

In essence, Microsoft is poised to leverage its technological prowess and recent strategic moves to make a significant impact in the mobile gaming sector.

FAQs

1. What is Microsoft’s plan for entering the mobile gaming market?

Microsoft aims to launch a mobile gaming store, positioning itself as a competitor to Apple’s App Store and Google Play. This move is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the lucrative mobile gaming sector and offer a diverse range of gaming experiences to users.

2. How has Microsoft’s Game Pass expansion influenced its mobile gaming strategy?

The expansion of Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription service, particularly in Latin American countries, resulted in a significant 7% increase in subscribers. This growth reflects the potential and demand in the gaming market, encouraging Microsoft to further invest in mobile gaming solutions.

3. How does the acquisition of Activision Blizzard impact Microsoft’s mobile gaming plans?

Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a major player in the mobile gaming industry, is a strategic move to bolster its position in the market. With popular titles like “Candy Crush” and “Call of Duty Mobile,” this acquisition provides Microsoft with a strong foothold in the $90 billion mobile gaming industry.

Pixel 8 Pro Video Boost Feature Spotted in Google Photos Code Snippet

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

Pixel 8 Pro Video Boost enhances quality via Google’s servers.
Requires Google Photos backup for video enhancement.
No impact on Pixel 8 Pro’s battery life or performance.
Export options include AVC or HEVC file formats.

Google is gearing up to introduce a significant enhancement to video quality in its upcoming Pixel 8 Pro through the ‘Video Boost’ feature, as revealed by recent updates in the Google Photos app.

This feature is still pending a firm release date, even after being revealed during the smartphone’s launch.

Understanding Pixel 8 Pro Video Boost

In the latest versions of Google Photos (versions 6.61 and 6.63), there are indications of how the ‘Video Boost’ will function for Pixel 8 Pro users.

The feature requires users to back up their videos to Google Photos, necessitating a Google account for access.

The process entails uploading the video for enhancement, during which users are notified that it may take some time depending on various factors like video length, internet speed, and battery status.

User Experience with Video Boost

pixel-8-pro-168456868716x9 — Google Pixel 8 Pro: User Experience with Video Boost

One key aspect of the Pixel 8 Pro video boost process is its impact on device performance.

Google assures that enhancing the video quality will not affect the phone’s battery life or overall performance.

Users will receive notifications when their video is ready after the boosting process, which underscores the convenience and user-friendly aspect of this feature.

For Pixel 8 Pro users, the enhanced videos can be exported as AVC or HEVC files, ensuring playback in the best quality possible on the device.

This flexibility in export formats aligns with Google’s commitment to providing high-quality video experiences for Pixel 8 Pro users.

FAQs

What is the Pixel 8 Pro Video Boost feature?

The Pixel 8 Pro Video Boost is a new feature designed to improve video quality through advanced post-processing on Google’s servers. It’s integrated into the Google Photos app and is specifically tailored for Pixel 8 Pro users, aiming to significantly enhance their video content.

How do users access the Video Boost feature for their Pixel 8 Pro?

To use the Video Boost feature on the Pixel 8 Pro, users need to back up their videos to Google Photos. This process requires signing in with a Google Account. Once the video is backed up, it will undergo the boosting process on Google’s servers.

Will using Video Boost affect the performance of the Pixel 8 Pro?

Using the Video Boost feature on the Pixel 8 Pro will not impact the phone’s battery life or performance. The video enhancement process occurs on Google’s servers, ensuring that the device’s resources are not strained.

Google Messages RCS Hits 1 Billion Users with New Exciting Features

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

RCS reaches 1 billion users, transforming Android messaging.
Photomoji feature adds personalized reactions using Google AI.
Voice Moods brings emotions to life in voice messages.
Screen Effects animate chats with vibrant, responsive visuals.

Google’s RCS (Rich Communication Services) platform has reached a significant milestone, boasting 1 billion monthly active users.

To celebrate this achievement, Google has introduced seven innovative features to its Messages app, intending to enhance the overall messaging experience for Android users.

RCS: An Explaination

But first what is RCS?

Well it’s the new messaging standard designed to supersede the traditional SMS and MMS by bringing a suite of features that include typing indicators, read receipts, threaded replies, high-quality media sharing, improved group chats, and advanced privacy settings.

You know, things that are already present on WhatsApp.

RCS 1 Billion Users

Joking aside, to mark reaching 1 billion users, RCS introduces a few new features.

The first, Photomoji, leverages Google AI to turn photos into reusable reactions, adding a personalized touch to messages.

Photomojis are stored in a dedicated tab, accessible for future conversations, and shareable in group chats.

The second feature, Voice Moods, adds a new dimension to voice messages by integrating animated emoji overlays.

This feature aims to visually convey the emotions in voice messages.

Additionally, Google has enhanced the audio quality of these messages by increasing both the bitrate and the sampling rate.

Screen Effects, the third feature in the lineup, brings dynamic animations to the messaging experience.

Triggered by specific phrases, such as “it’s snowing” or expressions of love, these animations add a visually engaging element to chat interactions.

FAQs

1. What is RCS and how is it changing messaging for Android users?

RCS (Rich Communication Services) is a new messaging standard that aims to replace traditional SMS and MMS. It introduces features like typing indicators, read receipts, threaded replies, high-quality media sharing, and enhanced privacy options. For Android users, RCS elevates the messaging experience to be more in line with modern communication apps like WhatsApp.

2. What is the Photomoji feature in Google Messages RCS?

The Photomoji feature in Google Messages RCS allows users to transform their photos into personalized reactions using Google AI. These Photomojis can be stored for future use in a dedicated tab and shared in group chats, adding a fun, personalized element to messaging.

3. How does Voice Moods enhance voice messaging in RCS?

Voice Moods is a feature in RCS that adds animated emoji overlays to voice messages, visually expressing the speaker’s emotions. Google has also improved the audio quality of these messages by increasing the bitrate and sampling rate, making voice messages clearer and more expressive.

Huawei and Xiaomi Overtake Apple in Singles Day Sales

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

Huawei sales surge 66% overshadowing iPhone 15 in Singles’ Day period.
Xiaomi records 28% sales increase, boosting China’s smartphone market.
Huawei Mate 60 and Xiaomi 14 priced competitively against iPhone 15.
Apple’s sales volume on JD.com surpasses 10 billion Yuan in 2023.

In the latest turn of events in the smartphone market, Huawei has managed to surpass Apple in sales during China’s renowned 11.11 shopping holiday.

According to a report from Counterpoint Research, Huawei, along with fellow Chinese tech giant Xiaomi, saw a significant increase in sales, overshadowing the performance of Apple’s iPhone 15 lineup.

Huawei Beats Apple in Sales Surge

During the two-week period from October 30 to November 12, which includes the Singles’ Day shopping festival, Huawei recorded a substantial 66% increase in sales year-on-year.

This surge was largely propelled by the success of its latest flagship 5G series, the Mate 60 lineup.

In contrast, Apple experienced a 4% dip in iPhone sales.

Xiaomi Follows Suit

Xiaomi, another major player in the Chinese smartphone market, also experienced a notable increase in sales.

The brand witnessed a 28% rise during the same period, further indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards domestic brands.

The sales jump of Huawei and Xiaomi not only signifies the brands’ growing dominance but also contributed to a 5% overall increase in the local smartphone market sales year-on-year during the Singles’ Day period.

Pricing Comparison

In terms of pricing, Huawei’s Mate 60 series starts at 5,499 Yuan, while Xiaomi’s 14 lineup is priced from 3,999 CNY.

Apple’s iPhone 15 series, on the other hand, has a starting price of 5,999 CNY.

The competitive pricing of Huawei and Xiaomi, combined with their advanced features, is likely to have contributed to their impressive sales figures.

E-Commerce Platform Sales

Despite Chinese e-commerce giants Alibaba and JD.com ceasing the practice of revealing sales figures for the Singles’ Day period, some insights were still shared.

JD.com reported that the volume of Apple products sold during the 2023 shopping festival exceeded 10 billion CNY.

Meanwhile, Xiaomi announced that its sales across all platforms during the festival reached 22.4 billion CNY.

FAQs

How did Huawei’s sales compare to Apple’s during the Singles’ Day period?

Huawei experienced a significant sales increase of 66% year-on-year during the Singles’ Day period, surpassing the performance of Apple’s iPhone 15, which saw a 4% decline. This surge was primarily driven by the popularity of Huawei’s Mate 60 series.

What was Xiaomi’s performance during the Singles’ Day sales?

Xiaomi also showcased a strong sales performance, with a 28% increase during the Singles’ Day shopping period. This growth contributed to the overall rise in China’s smartphone market sales and highlighted Xiaomi’s growing market presence alongside Huawei.

How does the pricing of Huawei and Xiaomi smartphones compare to Apple’s iPhone 15?

Huawei’s Mate 60 series starts at a price of 5,499 Yuan, and Xiaomi’s 14 lineup begins at 3,999 Yuan. In comparison, the starting price of Apple’s iPhone 15 series is slightly higher at 5,999 Yuan, making Huawei and Xiaomi’s offerings more competitively priced.

OnePlus Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary With Message from CEO Pete Lau

Team My Mobile

December 2, 2023

Highlights

OnePlus marks ten years of industry advancements and “Never Settle” ethos.
59% growth in global device sales in 2023, highlighting market expansion.
OnePlus emphasizes sustainable practices and community engagement.
Special OnePlus 12 packaging to honor the community’s contribution.

OnePlus is marking its ten-year anniversary with a bit of reflection on its journey which has been filled with significant advancements in the smartphone industry.

Pete Lau, the founder, shared insights on this decade-long progression in the OnePlus community forum.

The brand’s evolution, from the OnePlus One to its latest OnePlus 11, has demonstrated its commitment to the “Never Settle” ethos.

Key Achievements and Future Direction

2023 saw OnePlus’s global device sales soar by 59% compared to the previous year, highlighting its expanding market presence.

The launch of the OnePlus Open, a foldable smartphone, met with exceptional demand, indicating the brand’s success in new ventures.

Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement

OnePlus’s focus extends beyond technology to include sustainable and socially responsible practices.

Efforts to build a greener operation and ensure product longevity showcase its commitment to environmental stewardship.

Celebrating its anniversary, OnePlus is engaging its large community through various programs, emphasizing the Power of Community initiative.

OnePlus 12: A Community Tribute

In a unique gesture of gratitude, the upcoming OnePlus 12 will feature a special packaging box with a thank you list, honoring the community’s role in OnePlus’s success.

This move symbolizes the brand’s appreciation for its supportive user base.

FAQs

1. What milestones has OnePlus achieved in its ten-year journey?

OnePlus has experienced significant advancements over the last decade, epitomized by its growth from the OnePlus One to the OnePlus 11. The brand celebrated a remarkable 59% increase in global device sales in 2023. Its successful foray into new product categories, like the OnePlus Open foldable smartphone, further underscores its industry impact.

2. How is OnePlus demonstrating its commitment to sustainability?

Alongside its technological innovations, OnePlus has been actively incorporating sustainable practices into its operations. The brand focuses on building greener operations and enhancing product longevity, reflecting its dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible practices.

3. What role does community engagement play in OnePlus’s strategy?

Community engagement is a cornerstone of OnePlus’s ethos. The brand actively involves its community through various initiatives, emphasizing the “Power of Community” program. This approach highlights OnePlus’s recognition of its user base’s significant role in its success and journey.

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