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iPhone 16 Pro to Feature 5X Periscope Lens for Improved Zoom Capabilities

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  • iPhone 16 Pro will include a 5x optical zoom periscope lens.
  • Taiwanese suppliers Largan Precision and GSEO to provide lenses.
  • Expanded periscope lens usage confirmed by new supplier report.
  • Camera upgrades aim to balance advanced features with standard Pro model size.

Apple’s annual iPhone upgrades often focus on camera improvements, and this year’s iPhone 16 lineup is set to bring significant changes.

A recent supplier report from Digitimes has provided further support for a key rumour about the iPhone 16 Pro’s camera system.

Periscope Lens Coming to Standard Pro Model

Reports indicate that the iPhone 16 Pro series will have the same screen size as the iPhone 15 Pro series

Last year, the iPhone 15 Pro Max introduced an exclusive tetraprism periscope lens, enabling up to 5x optical zoom and 25x digital zoom.

This feature represented a substantial improvement over previous models’ zoom capabilities.

iPhone 16 Pro features a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen compared to the iPhone 15 Pro's 6.1 inches.
iPhone 16 Pro features a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen compared to the iPhone 15 Pro’s 6.1 inches.

Earlier reports suggested that this lens would be included in the smaller iPhone 16 Pro model this autumn.

A new report from Digitimes has now added weight to this claim.

Janet Kang of Digitimes reports that Apple is expanding the use of periscope lenses in its upcoming iPhone series.

Taiwanese manufacturers Largan Precision and Genius Electronic Optical (GSEO) are expected to be the primary suppliers.

Apple plans to release iPhone 16 first in South Korea to challenge Samsung
Contact Apple support immediately if you fall victim to this scam

Largan supplied periscope lenses for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, while GSEO is likely to join as a new supplier this year.

The expansion of production and addition of a new supplier for periscope lenses seem to confirm that the iPhone 16 Pro will upgrade from the 15 Pro’s 3x optical zoom to the 5x zoom currently exclusive to the Max line.

Impact on Consumer Choice

The iPhone 15 Pro Max’s 5x zoom capabilities were well-received last year, prompting many users of the smaller Pro model to consider the larger Max version.

Apple to Boost iPhone Production in India to 25% by 2028
Apple to Boost iPhone Production in India to 25% by 2028

However, the significant increase in display size that comes with the Pro Max model can be a deterrent for some users.

By bringing the periscope lens to the standard Pro model, Apple may be addressing the desires of users who want enhanced zoom capabilities without having to opt for the larger phone size.

As we approach the expected September launch of the iPhone 16 lineup, this camera upgrade could be a significant factor in many consumers’ purchasing decisions.

Also Read: Apple to Release iPhone 16 Series in Multiple Colours and Premium Titanium Finishes

Also Read: iPhone 16 to Get a Major RAM and Storage Upgrade for AI Capabilities

Also Read: iPhone 16 Pro Series Rumoured to Feature New Colours and Capture Button

Google to Manufacture Pixel Phones in India for Export to Europe and the US

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  • Google plans to produce Pixel phones in India with Foxconn and Dixon Technologies.
  • Production to start in September, targeting exports to Europe and the US.
  • Google aims to leverage India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
  • The Pixel 9 series will launch in India on August 13 with improved features.

Google is reportedly planning to begin manufacturing its Pixel smartphones in India, with the intention of exporting them to Europe and the United States.

This move follows Apple’s footsteps in expanding its manufacturing base in India.

the new AI-based features that should be available on the Pixel 9 series
The new AI-based features that should be available on the Pixel 9 series

Production Details

The production is expected to be handled by two firms in India: Foxconn and Dixon Technologies.

Foxconn, which also manufactures iPhones for Apple in India, has reportedly started trial production in Tamil Nadu.

Dixon Technologies is set to manufacture the base variants of Pixel phones, while Foxconn will focus on the Pro models.

Google Pixel 9 may introduce an AI-powered Creative Assistant to generate stickers and emojis
Google Pixel 9 may introduce an AI-powered Creative Assistant to generate stickers and emojis

Google aims to make India a key hub for Pixel phone manufacturing.

The company plans to start production in September this year, with exports beginning once production stabilises.

Initially, the phones will be exported to Europe, followed by the US market.

Market Strategy

Interestingly, the demand for Pixel phones in India is currently low. Google intends to leverage the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme benefits by exporting most of the locally produced devices.

Tarun Pathak from Counterpoint Research commented on this strategy: “Any manufacturing operation would require a certain scale for commercial sense. With less than 1 per cent share in India, Google will need export volumes of pixel devices to scale its manufacturing. Hence, there are high chances of exporting outside India and Google’s big markets are USA and key European countries where some of the OEMs are already exporting their smartphones from India.”

Upcoming Launch

Pixel 9 series scores: Pixel 9 (1,016,167), Pixel 9 Pro (1,148,452), Pixel 9 Pro XL (1,176,410)
Here are some other variants in which the Pixel 9 has already leaked before.

Google is set to launch its Pixel 9 series in India on August 13.

The new series is expected to feature improvements such as a faster and more reliable ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.

The standard model is likely to have a dual rear camera setup, while the Pro model may feature a triple rear camera system.

This move by Google represents a significant shift in its manufacturing strategy and could potentially boost India’s position as a global smartphone manufacturing hub.

FAQs

Why is Google manufacturing Pixel phones in India?

Google is expanding its manufacturing base to India to leverage the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and to export devices to larger markets like Europe and the US.

Who will handle the production of Pixel phones in India?

Foxconn and Dixon Technologies will handle production, with Foxconn focusing on Pro models and Dixon on base variants.

When will production of Pixel phones start in India?

Production is set to begin in September, with exports starting once production stabilizes.

What are the expected features of the new Pixel 9 series?

The Pixel 9 series is expected to include improvements such as a faster ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, with the standard model featuring a dual rear camera setup and the Pro model a triple rear camera system.

What is the market strategy for Pixel phones manufactured in India?

Given the low demand in India, Google plans to export most of the locally produced Pixel phones to Europe and the US to achieve commercial scale.

Also Read: Google Pixel 9 To Reportedly Get Only A Modest Chipset Upgrade Next Year

Also Read: Google Pixel 9 Pro Potentially Revealed in Detailed 5K Renders Months Ahead of Official Launch

Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Pre-orders Expected to Be Delayed Due to Increased Cost

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Qualcomm to Unveil Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 at Tech Summit 2024 in Hawaii
  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 may cost 25-30% more than Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
  • Custom Oryon cores replacing ARM CPU cores.
  • Expected price range: $220-$260.
  • Manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm N3E process for better performance.

The upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor, expected to power next year’s Galaxy S25 Ultra, is likely to be more expensive than its predecessor.

This price increase is partly due to Qualcomm’s switch to custom Oryon cores, replacing the previously used ARM CPU cores.

The company needs to recover the costs of developing these custom cores.

Pricing Uncertainty

Yogesh Brar has hinted about the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset cost

However, the exact pricing of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 remains uncertain.

With manufacturers yet to begin mass production of devices using this chipset, Qualcomm cannot accurately gauge demand or determine a per-unit price.

The chip won’t be officially unveiled until the annual Snapdragon Summit in October.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, known for his Apple predictions, has weighed in on the matter.

He estimates that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 could cost 25% to 30% more than the current Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which is priced between $190 and $200.

New chipset to feature Qualcomm Oryon CPU and Neural Processing Unit
New chipset to feature Qualcomm Oryon CPU and Neural Processing Unit

This could push the new chip’s price to $237.50-$260. Leaker Yogesh Brar offers a slightly more conservative estimate of $220-$240.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be manufactured using TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process node (N3E), an upgrade from the 4nm node used for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

This should improve both performance and energy efficiency.

Samsung’s Strategy

For the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung is expected to continue its dual chipset strategy.

The Galaxy S25 and S25+ may use the Exynos 2500 in most markets, with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 reserved for China, the US, and Canada.

Qualcomm to Unveil Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 at Tech Summit 2024 in Hawaii
Qualcomm to Unveil Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 at Tech Summit 2024 in Hawaii

The Galaxy S25 Ultra, however, is likely to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 globally.

While the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 is shaping up to be a strong competitor, it’s unlikely that Samsung would choose it over Qualcomm’s offering for their flagship Ultra model.

As we await more concrete information, it’s clear that the increasing costs of high-end mobile processors may lead to price hikes for premium smartphones.

FAQs

Why is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 more expensive?

The increase in cost is due to Qualcomm’s switch to custom Oryon cores, requiring higher development expenses compared to the ARM CPU cores used previously.

What is the expected price range for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4?

Analyst estimates suggest the price could range from $220 to $260, representing a 25-30% increase over the current Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

When will the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 be officially unveiled?

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be officially unveiled at the annual Snapdragon Summit in October.

Which Samsung models will use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4?

The Galaxy S25 Ultra will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 globally, while the Galaxy S25 and S25+ will likely use the Exynos 2500 in most markets.

What manufacturing process will the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 use?

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be manufactured using TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process node (N3E), an upgrade from the 4nm node used for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

Also Read : Qualcomm to Unveil Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 at Tech Summit 2024 in Hawaii

Also Read: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Could Have New Architecture With No Efficiency Cores

 

Apple Watch Series 10 to Feature Larger Displays and Potential Apple Intelligence Integration

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  • Series 10 models to increase to 45mm and 49mm sizes.
  • Rumored features include a blood pressure sensor and sleep apnea sensor.
  • New display technology for better battery efficiency.
  • Potential integration of Apple Intelligence with more powerful chips.

Reports suggest that this autumn’s Apple Watch Series 10 will be larger than its predecessors.

While the Ultra model will stay the same, the standard models are expected to increase from 41mm and 45mm to 45mm and 49mm respectively.

The reason for this change isn’t clear. It’s possible Apple has seen positive feedback about the Ultra model’s larger display and believes bigger screens will be better received.

Apple Intelligence and the Apple Watch

Large displays are coming to the Apple Watch X

Interestingly, the Apple Watch is currently the most popular Apple product that doesn’t support Apple Intelligence.

iPhones, Macs, and iPads are all compatible, but the Watch, Vision Pro, and HomePod are not.

Rumoured Features for Series 10

Apple Watch Series 10 to Feature Larger Display

Several new features are rumoured for the Series 10 Watch:

  • A blood pressure sensor for detecting hypertension
  • A possible sleep apnea sensor
  • New display technology for improved battery efficiency

However, these features alone might not fully explain the size increase.

Could Apple Intelligence be Coming to Watch?

Apple Intelligence is expected to make big changes on the Watch Series X.

The current Watch chip is underpowered for Apple Intelligence.

A larger Watch could potentially house a more powerful chip with better thermal management.

If Apple wants to bring a more capable Siri experience to the Watch, it might need more processing power and an improved Neural Engine.

It’s likely that Apple will want to bring Apple Intelligence to the Watch soon.

WWDC 2025 might see an announcement about expanding Apple Intelligence to new devices.

If the Series 10 includes a next-gen chip, it could be ready for Apple Intelligence features when watchOS 12 is unveiled.

While this is speculation, the size increase of the Series 10 Watch could be laying the groundwork for future AI capabilities.

We’ll have to wait and see what Apple has in store for its popular wearable.

FAQs

What are the new sizes for the Apple Watch Series 10?

The Apple Watch Series 10 is expected to increase to 45mm and 49mm, up from the current 41mm and 45mm.

Why is Apple increasing the size of the Apple Watch Series 10?

The reason is unclear, but it may be due to positive feedback on the larger Ultra model and the potential need for larger screens to house new features.

What new features are rumored for the Apple Watch Series 10?

Rumored features include a blood pressure sensor, a sleep apnea sensor, and new display technology for improved battery efficiency.

Will the Apple Watch Series 10 support Apple Intelligence?

While the current Watch chip is underpowered for Apple Intelligence, a larger Watch could house a more powerful chip capable of supporting these features in the future.

When might Apple announce Apple Intelligence for the Watch?

It’s possible that Apple Intelligence could be announced for the Watch at WWDC 2025, especially if the Series 10 includes a next-gen chip.

Also Read: Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Lose Blood Oxygen Feature: All You Need To Know About This Patent Dispute

Also Read: Apple Watch Series 9: Five Features To Admire & Two Reasons for Second Thoughts

Google is Targeting iPhone Users with Ads to Promote Its OwnApps

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  • Google advertises features like Google Lens to attract iPhone users.
  • Balances promoting its apps without upsetting Apple.
  • Possible changes in search engine options if Google loses the court case.
  • Google actively seeks to maintain its search dominance on iPhones.

Google’s not just sitting back and hoping for the best. They’re actively trying to get iPhone users to download and use their apps.

It’s a bit like trying to get your mate to switch football teamsnot an easy task, but they’re giving it a go.

They’ve been plastering ads all over the place, showing off fancy features like Google Lens.

You know, the thing that lets you take a picture of something and find out what it is. Pretty nifty, if you ask me.

The Balancing Act

Apple could sue Google if it keeps forcing users to use its services.

But here’s the thingGoogle’s got to be careful. They can’t go too hard on pushing their own apps, or they might annoy Apple.

It’s a bit of a tightrope walk, really. They even thought about locking some of their AI stuff to their own apps but decided against it in the end. Probably a smart move, that.

What It Means for Us

So what does all this mean for us regular iPhone users? Well, not much yet.

But if Google loses this court case, we might see some changes in how we search the web on our phones.

Maybe we’ll have to choose our search engine when we set up our phones, instead of it just being Google by default.

The Bigger Picture

Google wants more people to use its services on the iPhone

This whole situation is a bit of a headache for both Google and Apple.

They’ve had this cosy little arrangement for years, and now it might all come crashing down.

It’s like when your parents find out about that party you’ve been having while they were away. The fun’s over, and now there’s explaining to do.

Only time will tell how this all shakes out. But one thing’s for sure – Google’s not going down without a fight.

They’re pulling out all the stops to keep iPhone users searching with them, one way or another.

FAQs

Why is Google promoting its apps to iPhone users?

Google aims to increase its app usage among iPhone users by showcasing unique features like Google Lens.

How is Google promoting its apps?

Google has been running ads highlighting the capabilities of their apps to entice iPhone users to download them.

What challenges does Google face in promoting its apps on iPhones?

Google must promote its apps without overstepping boundaries that could upset Apple and maintain a balanced relationship.

What might change if Google loses its court case?

If Google loses, users might have to choose their default search engine during iPhone setup instead of defaulting to Google.

Is Google planning to lock AI features to its own apps?

While considered, Google decided against locking AI features to its apps to avoid potential backlash.

Also Read: Apple’s iOS 18 Is Likely to Be Its Most Ambitious Update Yet: Mark Gurman

Also Read: Apple Reportedly Acquires DarwinAI to Boost iOS 18 AI Features and More

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 to Feature IPS LCD Cover Display Instead of AMOLED

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  • Galaxy Z Flip 6 will have a 3.4-inch IPS LCD cover display.
  • The new display retains 720×748 resolution, matching the Z Flip 5.
  • Samsung is already taking reservations for the new foldable phones.
  • Reservations include a chance to win a £5,000 Samsung credit.

Samsung is set to launch its new foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Fold 6, on 10 July. Ahead of this, leaks about the devices continue to surface.

A recent leak has revealed an unexpected change for the Galaxy Z Flip 6.

The phone’s cover display will reportedly use an IPS LCD panel instead of the AMOLED screen used in previous models.

The cover display will keep its 3.4-inch size and 720×748 resolution, matching the Galaxy Z Flip 5. ‘

However, the switch from AMOLED to LCD is a surprising move.

This change is puzzling for several reasons. The Galaxy Z Flip 5’s cover display had a max brightness of 1,600 nits.

While this is somewhat dim by current standards, an updated AMOLED panel could easily match or exceed the brightness of an IPS LCD.

It’s also unusual because Samsung hasn’t used LCD panels in its flagship phones for many years.

Adding to the confusion, rumours suggest the Galaxy Z Flip 6 will be more expensive than its predecessor.

The reasoning behind this change isn’t clear. More details may come to light when Samsung officially unveils the device on 10 July.

Despite this potential downgrade, Samsung is already taking reservations for the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Fold 6.

Customers can reserve through Samsung’s website and receive a £50 credit. There’s also the possibility of saving up to £1,500.

Galazy Z Flip 6 might be getting a new interpreter mode.

These reservations are free and don’t obligate customers to buy the device.

As an added incentive, those who sign up are entered into a draw for a £5,000 Samsung credit.

This unexpected change to the cover display adds an intriguing element to the Galaxy Z Flip 6 launch.

It will be interesting to see how Samsung explains this decision and how it affects the user experience.

FAQs

What type of cover display will the Galaxy Z Flip 6 have?

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 will feature an IPS LCD cover display instead of the AMOLED screen used in previous models.

What is the size and resolution of the Galaxy Z Flip 6’s cover display?

The cover display will be 3.4 inches with a resolution of 720×748, the same as the Galaxy Z Flip 5.

Why is the switch from AMOLED to LCD surprising?

The switch is surprising because Samsung has not used LCD panels in its flagship phones for many years, and AMOLED panels typically offer better brightness and quality.

When will Samsung officially unveil the Galaxy Z Flip 6?

Samsung will officially unveil the Galaxy Z Flip 6 on 10 July.

How can customers reserve the Galaxy Z Flip 6?

Customers can reserve the Galaxy Z Flip 6 through Samsung’s website, receive a £50 credit, and be entered into a draw for a £5,000 Samsung credit.

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 To Likely To Sport A Slimmer Profile Than The Current Z Fold 5

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Could Feature External S Pen Storage Suggest Leaked Renders

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Rumours: Everything We Know About the Upcoming Foldable

Tesla Cars to Get Amazon Music and YouTube Music Streaming Soon

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  • Amazon Music and YouTube Music are coming to Tesla cars.
  • The update will be available for Tesla S, 3, X, and Y models.
  • YouTube Music previously required Bluetooth tethering.
  • Enhanced in-car entertainment options for Tesla drivers.

Tesla has been working with a number of software developers to bring their applications onto Tesla cars.

While most of the other cars work through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, Tesla comes with its own operating system.

However, this has not prevented Tesla from providing access to numerous popular apps and services.

Up to this point, some major missing pieces in Tesla’s streaming selection were titles like Amazon Music and YouTube Music.

Amazon Music, YouTube Coming to Tesla

Amazon Prime Music

That’s all about to change: Not a Tesla App is reporting that both Amazon Music and YouTube Music are preparing to work with Tesla EVs.

Information was mined from a leaked change log of an update on the way.

This update would be available for owners of Tesla S, Tesla 3, Tesla X, and Tesla Y models.

Though there is no official word for release, the update is supposedly white-hot.

Earlier, one could stream YouTube Music by tethering it with one’s phone through Bluetooth inside of any Tesla car.

However, this method lacked many features available inside of the native app.

YouTube Music is also ideal for anyone who loves creating and enjoy playlists without having a paid subscription.

This could help Tesla drivers save money on other music streaming services, such as Spotify.

The addition of music services furthers Tesla’s attempts to improve the in-car entertainment options.

This also proves how the company can have partnerships with some of the major tech companies, even if it doesn’t use the normal automotive software platforms.

According to the leak, the exact date of the update is not known, but it will happen at any time.

This update should hopefully cause significant improvements to the in-car music streaming services for many Tesla drivers.

FAQs

Which music streaming services are being added to Tesla cars?

Tesla is adding Amazon Music and YouTube Music to its in-car entertainment system.

Which Tesla models will receive the new music streaming update?

The update will be available for Tesla S, 3, X, and Y models.

How could Tesla drivers stream YouTube Music before this update?

Previously, drivers could stream YouTube Music by tethering it to their phones via Bluetooth.

What advantage does YouTube Music offer for Tesla drivers?

YouTube Music allows for creating and enjoying playlists without a paid subscription, potentially saving on other music streaming services.

When is the update expected to be released?

The exact release date is unknown, but it is expected to happen soon.

Also Read: Elon Musk Plans to Test Neuralink Implants In Humans in 2023

Also Read: Elon Musk Confronts Major Advertisers’ Pause on X with Defiant Stance

Realme 13 Pro+ Launch: Design and Key Specs Surface Ahead of Announcement

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  • Realme 13 Pro+ launch will happen soon with a 6.7-inch OLED display 
  • Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 CPU confirmed.
  • Triple camera setup: 50MP main, 8MP, 50MP telephoto.
  • 5,050 mAh battery with 80W wired charging.

Realme is set to unveil its 13 Series soon.

The company is expected to launch at least two new models by the end of the month: the 13 Pro and 13 Pro+.

These phones will debut in China first. Realme is likely to release them in other markets, including India, shortly after.

Realme 13 Pro+: Spotted on Certification Websites

Realme 13 Pro+ has been spotted on TENNA website.

The Chinese version of the Realme 13 Pro+ was spotted on TENAA, a Chinese certification website. This listing has revealed the phone’s design and key specs.

Despite earlier rumours, the TENAA listing confirms that the Realme 13 Pro+ will use a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 CPU, not the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 as previously thought.

Realme 13 Pro+: Expected Specs and Launch

Realme 13 Pro+ will be launching soon enough in India

The phone will feature a 6.7-inch OLED display with 2412 x 1080 pixels resolution. It will have a triple camera setup (50MP + 8MP + 50MP) and a 32MP selfie camera.

Realme has stated that the 13 Pro+ will include a 50MP Sony Lytia LYT-701 main sensor and a 50MP Sony Lytia LYT-600 telephoto sensor.

The device will be powered by a 5,050 mAh battery with 80W wired charging support.

In China, the 13 Pro+ will come in four memory variants: 6/128GB, 8/256GB, 12/512GB, and 16GB/1TB.

The Realme 12 Pro+ was recieved well in the country.

Realme has mentioned that the 13 Series will include powerful AI features, mainly related to the camera.

However, these weren’t listed in the TENAA certification, which typically only covers hardware specs.

The exact launch date for the 13 Pro and 13 Pro+ hasn’t been announced yet.

However, given that they’ve been certified by TENAA and FCC, an official announcement is likely to come soon.

FAQs

What processor will the Realme 13 Pro+ use?

The Realme 13 Pro+ will feature the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 CPU.

What are the display specifications of the Realme 13 Pro+?

The phone will have a 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels.

What is the camera setup on the Realme 13 Pro+?

The Realme 13 Pro+ will have a triple camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP secondary sensor, and a 50MP telephoto sensor. It also has a 32MP selfie camera.

What are the battery and charging capabilities of the Realme 13 Pro+?

The device is powered by a 5,050 mAh battery with 80W wired charging support.

What are the memory variants available for the Realme 13 Pro+?

In China, the 13 Pro+ will come in four memory variants: 6/128GB, 8/256GB, 12/512GB, and 16GB/1TB.

Also Read: Redmi Note 13 Pro+ schematics reveal Xiaomi 13-inspired design, narrow bezels : reveals a huge camera ; Launch Expected Soon

Also Read: Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Spotted on Geekbench Ahead of China Launch

Samsung Galaxy AI to Remain Free Till 2025: Galaxy AI+ Might Debut in 2026

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Samsung Rolls Out Limited Galaxy AI Features to 2021 Devices with One UI 6.1 Update
  • Galaxy AI will be free until the end of 2025.
  • Samsung might launch Galaxy AI+ with additional features in 2026.
  • Seven Galaxy Experience spaces to open globally for showcasing Galaxy AI.
  • Features include Chat Assist, Circle to Search, Photo Assist, and AI Summary.

Samsung revealed Galaxy AI with the Galaxy S24 Series in January 2024.

The company plans to host another Unpacked Event on 10 July 2024, where it might announce more Galaxy AI features.

samsung-galaxy-s24-series-ai-features-3
Galaxy AI is now going to be free till 2025.

Earlier reports suggested Samsung might charge for Galaxy AI. The company has now confirmed Galaxy AI will be free until 2025.

Samsung shared a press release about this. They’re opening seven Galaxy Starting in 2026, Samsung plans to introduce a paid version of its AI services.

While the exact details aren’t clear yet, industry insiders suggest the company might launch a service called ‘Galaxy AI+’.

The basic Galaxy AI features that users currently enjoy might continue to be free.

However, the paid ‘Galaxy AI+’ service is expected to offer more advanced features and capabilities.

Samsung One UI 6.1 Update Rolls Out to Older Galaxy Phones with Select AI Features
Samsung One UI 6.1 Update Rolls Out to Older Galaxy Phones with Select Galaxy AI Features

This move follows a trend in the AI industry. Many companies initially offer AI services for free to attract users and gather data.

They then introduce paid tiers with enhanced features.

Samsung hasn’t revealed pricing details for the future paid service.

It’s also unclear which features might be exclusive to the paid tier.

The company likely aims to balance user adoption with the costs of developing and maintaining AI services.

By keeping basic features free, Samsung can ensure widespread use of Galaxy AI.

The paid tier could then cater to power users who want more advanced capabilities.

This follows a trend seen with other AI assistants.

Google’s Gemini, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and Microsoft’s Co-pilot all started free but later added subscription plans.

Samsung offers customizable AI for personalized convenience
Samsung offers customizable AI for personalized convenience

Galaxy AI has several features:

  • Chat Assist helps users write replies. It supports 13 languages for now.
  • Circle to Search, made with Google, lets users search for anything during browsing or shopping. Users press the home button, circle or highlight what they want to search, and get quick results.
  • Photo Assist helps with photo editing and enlargement.
  • Interpreter works as a translation tool, even offline. It’s useful for reading signs and communicating in foreign places.
  • Instant Slo-mo adds slow-motion effects to regular videos using AI.
  • AI Summary creates quick summaries of long texts on web pages in Samsung’s browser.

FAQs

When will Samsung start charging for Galaxy AI?

Samsung plans to start charging for Galaxy AI in 2026, with Galaxy AI remaining free until the end of 2025.

What is the Galaxy AI+?

Galaxy AI+ is a potential premium version of Galaxy AI that may launch in 2026, offering more advanced features than the basic free version.

Where can users experience Galaxy AI in person?

Samsung is opening seven Galaxy Experience spaces worldwide in cities like Paris, Dubai, and Tokyo to showcase Galaxy AI features.

What languages does Chat Assist support?

Chat Assist currently supports 13 languages for writing replies and assisting with communication.

What are some key features of Galaxy AI?

Key features include Chat Assist, Circle to Search, Photo Assist, Interpreter, Instant Slo-mo, and AI Summary.

Also Read: Samsung Is Introducing a New Battery Protection Feature in the One UI 6.1 Update

Also Read: One UI 6.1: All You Need To Know About Samsung’s Next AI Frontier

Google Contacts App to Introduce “Besties Widget” for Quick Access to Favorite Contacts

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Google Contacts App Preps Revamped "Create" Experience
  • New widget will show seven frequently contacted people.
  • Provides quick access to contact details and recent interactions.
  • Individual contact widget now shows notifications.
  • Resizable widget offers quick actions for calling or messaging.

Google is developing a new feature for its Contacts app. The “Besties Widget” aims to provide quick access to favourite contacts.

This update is part of ongoing improvements to the app and its features.

Advanced contact fields now hidden behind an overflow menu for simplicity
Advanced contact fields are now hidden behind an overflow menu for simplicity

Google’s New Besties Widget

The widget is currently still under development. It should function more or less like the current “Favorite contacts” widget, but it will only show seven frequently contacted ones.

Tapping on any individual contact serves all the contact details, for instance, contact information and recent interactions.

New besti widget on Google Contacts.

The app-level development of the new widget may even mean quicker updates than for a system-level feature.

It may just be the case that this finally obsoletes the default Android Conversations widget.

The Contacts app hit a new update sometime last week. They have worked on enhancing the widget experience.

For example, the Individual contact widget now shows notifications, making it easier to keep track of communications.

The “Besties Widget” is likely to display starred contacts. It may replace the existing “Favourite contacts” widget as development progresses.

Other Updates on Contacts App

There are other improvements afoot in the Google Contacts app as well.

There are other new features besides Google Contacts Besties Widget that are coming to the contacts application.

The Individual contact widget can be resized to show quick actions for calling or messaging.

This could be developed further to allow integration with other Google services; perhaps with Maps or Calendar.

It should be noted that this information reflects current development.

This will be the final product. Google may add more features inside in the near future or change the aspects of the widget as they work on it.

The Contacts widget could provide a more tailored way for users to effortlessly access their favorite Contacts.

Details on this update aren’t finalized until the new feature goes live.

FAQs

What is the “Besties Widget” in Google Contacts?

The “Besties Widget” is a new feature under development that will provide quick access to seven frequently contacted individuals, displaying contact details and recent interactions.

How does the “Besties Widget” differ from the “Favorite contacts” widget?

The “Besties Widget” focuses on seven key contacts and aims to enhance user experience by potentially replacing the existing “Favorite contacts” widget.

What new feature does the Individual contact widget offer?

The Individual contact widget now shows notifications, making it easier to keep track of communications and offering quick actions for calling or messaging.

Can the “Besties Widget” integrate with other Google services?

While it’s still in development, there’s potential for the widget to integrate with other Google services like Maps or Calendar in the future.

When will the “Besties Widget” be available?

The release date isn’t finalized, but Google is actively working on the feature, and it will be available in a future update of the Google Contacts app.

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