Home Blog Page 486

Apple Reportedly Rejects Meta AI For its Chatbot, To Work with OpenAI and Possibly Google

0
Apple Reportedly Rejects Meta AI For its Chatbot, To Work with OpenAI and Possibly Google

Highlights

  • Apple rejects Meta’s offer to integrate Llama chatbot
  • Apple partners with OpenAI for ChatGPT integration
  • Apple’s own AI features coming in iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia
  • Meta focuses on AI deployment in its own apps like Instagram and WhatsApp

Despite some earlier reports to the contrary, Apple’s not too keen on cozying up with Meta when it comes to AI.

According to a new Bloomberg report, the iPhone maker has turned down Meta’s offer to integrate their Llama chatbot into Apple devices.

Apple’s AI Dance Card: Who’s In and Who’s Out?

Apple Reportedly Rejects Meta AI For its Chatbot, To Work with OpenAI and Possibly Google
Apple Reportedly Rejects Meta AI For its Chatbot, To Work with OpenAI and Possibly Google

However, while Meta’s getting the brush-off, Apple’s been chatting up other AI bigwigs.

They’ve already inked a deal with OpenAI for ChatGPT integration (that happened back in June), and there are reports the company is eyeing up Google’s Gemini for a future partnership.

So, why the snub for Meta?

Well, it seems Apple’s got some concerns about Meta’s privacy policies.

And let’s face it, Meta’s reputation in the privacy department isn’t exactly squeaky clean.

Apple’s apparently worried about how cozying up to Meta might look to their users.

Here’s the thing – Apple’s not just shopping around for AI partners.

Apple rejects Meta's offer to integrate Llama chatbot
Apple rejects Meta’s offer to integrate Llama chatbot

They’re cooking up their own AI features too.

Come iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, we’ll be seeing Apple’s homegrown Apple intelligence features.

They’re betting big on their privacy narrative, and building their own AI lets them keep tight control over that.

But they’re not completely going it alone.

That deal with OpenAI?

It means ChatGPT subscribers can access their accounts right through iOS.

OpenAI gets a new revenue stream, and Apple gets to skim a little off the top with App Store commissions.

A demo for the same has already been revealed at WWDC earlier this month.

Meta’s Plan B: Riding on Its Own Apps

Meta focuses on AI deployment in its own apps like Instagram and WhatsApp
Meta focuses on AI deployment in its own apps like Instagram and WhatsApp

Now, don’t feel too bad for Meta.

They might not be getting in bed with Apple’s millions of devices, but they’ve got a pretty good consolation prize – billions of users across Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger.

In fact, they’ve just unleashed their Meta AI chatbot on users in India, which also happens to be their biggest market.

Apple might just be making the right call by keeping Meta at arm’s length.

The Cupertino Giant’s stringent privacy policy anyways didn’t leave much room for any kind of deal with Meta, a company that has built a business on selling user data.

It’ll be interesting to see how this AI chess game plays out in the coming months.

One thing’s for sure – the AI race is heating up, and everyone’s jockeying for position.

FAQs

Why did Apple turn down Meta’s offer to integrate their Llama chatbot?

Apple declined Meta’s offer due to concerns about Meta’s privacy policies and potential implications for Apple’s user base.

Who has Apple partnered with for AI integration?

Apple has partnered with OpenAI for ChatGPT integration and is reportedly considering a future partnership with Google’s Gemini.

What AI features is Apple developing on its own?

Apple is developing its own AI features, which will be included in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, focusing on maintaining user privacy.

How will ChatGPT integration benefit Apple users?

ChatGPT integration allows subscribers to access their accounts directly through iOS, enhancing functionality and providing a seamless user experience.

What is Meta’s strategy after Apple’s rejection?

Meta is focusing on deploying its Meta AI chatbot across its own apps, such as Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger, particularly in its largest market, India.

Also Read: Apple Intelligence: AI-Powered Enhancements Boost Company Stock to Record High

Also Read: Apple to Integrate OpenAI Technology in iOS 18: Enhancing AI Features

WhatsApp To Soon Introduce New Lottie Stickers For Users Across the Globe

0
WhatsApp is said to introduce Lottie framework support on Android and iOS

Highlights

  • WhatsApp supports Lottie stickers for sleek animations and vibrant colours
  • New “I’m Just a Girl” sticker pack first to use Lottie framework
  • Lottie stickers provide clear visuals at any size, improving user experience
  • Third-party developers currently can’t create Lottie stickers

Well, it looks like WhatsApp just made a little swag on our chats; introducing new stickers, as they are rather silently moving in support of Lottie stickers.

But sticker aficionados have already taken up stations to talk about the feature.

And no, this isn’t going to be another minor upgrade for stickers in WhatsApp.

It would very likely be that.

What’s the Big Deal with Lottie?

So, what’s big about Lottie?

That is a new way to make stickers.

Unlike the old WebP format used in animations, Lottie has vector-based ones.

That means sleeker animations and more saturated colours.

It is like moving from standardized definition to HD, but for stickers.

The folks over at WABetaInfo were the first to notice this.

An all-new sticker pack in the official Sticker Store named “I’m Just a Girl,” designed by BUCK, is going to be the guinea pig for this new Lottie framework.

What’s in It for Users and Developers?

WhatsApp is said to introduce Lottie framework support on Android and iOS
WhatsApp is said to introduce Lottie framework support on Android and iOS

Yeah, for us regular folk, that means our sticker game is about to get a serious upgrade.

Those little animations we love spamming our friends with?

They’re about to look slicker than ever.

As for the developers, Lottie can be a real game-changer.

The vector-based format means stickers will look nice and clear no matter how large or small you make it.

That has been one of the pain points with the current WebP format.

But here comes the rub: for the time being, there’s no way for third-party developers to create their own Lottie stickers.

Kind of a tease, if you ask us.

WhatsApp shows you what it’s capable of, but doesn’t hand over the keys to the kingdom yet.

This whole Lottie thing has been in the works for a while now.

Beta version 2.24.5.10 was a first giveaway that something was cooking at Meta.

Quite clever, really.

The old WebP stickers weren’t bad, but they had their limits, especially when it came to resizing.

So, what do you feel?

Hyped or not for these new, super-smooth stickers?

Either way, it looks like our WhatsApp chats are about to get a whole lot more animated.

A word to the wise, just don’t blame us when you spend hours scrolling through new sticker packs instead of actually messaging people!

FAQs

What are Lottie stickers on WhatsApp?

Lottie stickers are a new type of vector-based animated sticker that offer smoother animations and more vibrant colours compared to the traditional WebP format.

How can I access Lottie stickers on WhatsApp?

The first Lottie sticker pack, “I’m Just a Girl,” is available in the official Sticker Store on WhatsApp.

More packs are expected to follow.

What makes Lottie stickers different from regular stickers?

Lottie stickers use a vector-based format, ensuring they remain clear and high-quality regardless of size, unlike WebP stickers which can lose quality when resized.

Can developers create their own Lottie stickers for WhatsApp?

Currently, third-party developers do not have the ability to create Lottie stickers, but this may change as the feature becomes more widely adopted.

Why is WhatsApp introducing Lottie stickers?

WhatsApp is introducing Lottie stickers to enhance the visual experience for users, providing smoother animations and more vibrant sticker options.

Also Read: Latest WhatsApp update brings sticker maker tool for iPhone users: How to use this WhatsApp Sticker Maker

Also Read: WhatsApp Channels Stickers Set To Enhance Broadcasting on the Popular Messaging Platform

JioCinema Quietly Removes its Annual Premium Plan: What Subscribers Need to Know

0
JioCinema Quietly Removes its Annual Premium Plan

Highlights

  • JioCinema removes Rs 299 annual Premium plan from the website
  • Current subscription options include Rs 29 and Rs 89 monthly plans
  • Rs 89 monthly plan offers 4K streaming on up to four devices
  • Uncertainty remains around the future of JioCinema’s annual plans

It seems like JioCinema has pulled one off on its subscribers.

It quietly delisted the annual Premium plan from its website, leaving many in a tizzy.

You remember that Rs 299 deal they were touting a couple of weeks ago?

Well, poof! It’s gone.

It vanished without a trace.

This comes right after they had cut down the price of their Rs 999 annual plan to Rs 599—what a pricing see-saw!

Now, go to JioCinema’s website and see how this annual pack has been washed clean.

It just never was.

In fact, even their FAQ section has been cleaned up of any such question.

JioCinema Premium Plans on Offer

Current subscription options include Rs 29 and Rs 89 monthly plans
Current subscription options include Rs 29 and Rs 89 monthly plans

Well, there are still a few other plans on offer.

You get ad-free viewing with the ₹29 a month deal for nearly everything but live shows and sports—those ads are baked in.

You get most of their premium content, including Hollywood films and shows.

You also get streaming in 4K on one device and are able to download stuff for watching offline.

There’s the Rs 89 a month plan for the family folk.

JioCinema Quietly Removes its Annual Premium Plan
JioCinema Quietly Removes its Annual Premium Plan

It has got all of the perquisites of the premium plan, but with this one, you can have the content running on up to four devices at once.

Perfect for when everyone in the house wants to watch something different.

No one is quite sure why JioCinema just pulled the annual plan.

Are they just cooking up something new, or is this a momentary glitch?

Your guess is as good as mine.

They might bring it back somewhere, but it looks like, for now, it has gone the way of the dodo.

Uncertainty remains around the future of JioCinema's annual plans
Uncertainty remains around the future of JioCinema’s annual plans

It’s a head-scratcher, especially since they’d just overhauled their paid subscriptions to offer ad-free streaming.

You’d think now, of all times, they’d want to keep an annual plan around that locked in subscribers for the long haul.

What do you think?

Is this a smart move on the part of JioCinema, or are they digging at their own grave?

And more importantly, if you were eyeing that annual plan, what are you going to do now?

Stick with the monthly options or look elsewhere?

It will be really interesting how this pans out in the streaming wars.

FAQs

What happened to JioCinema’s Rs 299 annual Premium plan?

JioCinema has quietly delisted the Rs 299 annual Premium plan from its website, leaving subscribers without the option to renew or purchase it.

Are there any other Premium plans available on JioCinema?

Yes, JioCinema offers Rs 29 and Rs 89 monthly plans.

The Rs 29 plan provides ad-free viewing for most content, while the Rs 89 plan offers the same benefits for up to four devices simultaneously.

What content is available with JioCinema’s current Premium plans?

Subscribers to JioCinema’s current Premium plans can access Hollywood films, shows, and 4K streaming, along with the ability to download content for offline viewing.

Why did JioCinema remove the annual Premium plan?

JioCinema has not provided an official reason for removing the annual Premium plan.

It could be part of a strategy shift or a temporary change.

Can I still get ad-free viewing with the current JioCinema plans?

Yes, the Rs 29 monthly plan offers ad-free viewing for most content, except live shows and sports.

The Rs 89 monthly plan offers the same benefits for multiple devices.

Also Read: JioCinema to Introduce New Ad-Free Subscription Plan This April: All You Need to Know

Also Read: JioCinema to Introduce New Ad-Free Subscription Plan This April: All You Need to Know

Google Gemini to Feature AI Chatbots Based on Celebrities and YouTube Stars

0
Google Gemini to Feature AI Chatbots Based on Celebrities and YouTube Stars

Higlhights

  • Google Gemini AI to introduce chatbots based on real celebrities
  • Personalized chatbots for regular users also in the works
  • Project led by Google Doodles creator Ryan Germick
  • Launch expected first on Google Labs for initial testing
  • Google is reportedly trying to enhance the Gemini with this new addition.
  • It is said to be trying to partner with popular figures and create its AI chatbot.
  • Earlier , companies such as Character.ai have tried this.
  • Google might partner with. Meta’s chatbots, for instance, are based on personalities like TikTok star Charli D’Amelio, YouTube phenomenon Mr. Beast, Snoop Dogg, Tom Brady and Paris Hilton.
  • Character.ai’s characters include politicians, philosophers, fictional characters.

Looks like Google’s jumping on the AI celebrity bandwagon.

According to a report from The Information, they’re cooking up something pretty wild for their Gemini AI – chatbots based on real celebrities and YouTube stars.

Google’s Personalized Chatbots

Google Gemini to Feature AI Chatbots Based on Celebrities and YouTube Stars
Google might partner with. Meta’s chatbots, for instance, are based on personalities like TikTok star Charli D’Amelio, YouTube phenomenon Mr. Beast, Snoop Dogg, Tom Brady and Paris Hilton

But here’s the kicker – they’re not stopping at just celebs.

Apparently, Google’s planning to let us regular folks create our own personalized chatbots too.

You’ll be able to describe your ideal AI buddy’s personality and looks, and voila!

It’s like Bitmoji on steroids.

This isn’t exactly a brand new idea.

Google is reportedly trying to enhance the Gemini with this new addition
Google is reportedly trying to enhance the Gemini with this new addition

Character.ai has been playing around with something similar, and Meta’s already got chatbots mimicking folks like TikTok queen Charli D’Amelio, YouTube sensation Mr. Beast, and even Snoop Dogg.

Google’s just fashionably late to the party.

The project’s reportedly being headed up by Ryan Germick, the guy behind those fun Google Doodles, along with a team of ten.

But here’s the thing – we don’t know which celebs Google’s eyeing up for this.

And it looks like they might be playing it safe by launching this on Google Labs first, rather than unleashing it on the masses right away.

Will Google Succeed Where Others Have Failed?

Personalized chatbots for regular users also in the works
Earlier , companies such as Character.ai have tried this

Now, let’s be real for a second.

These celeb AI chatbots haven’t exactly been setting the world on fire when other companies have tried them.

So, will Google’s attempt make any waves?

It’s hard to say.

It is said to be trying to partner with popular figures and create its AI chatbot
It is said to be trying to partner with popular figures and create its AI chatbot

They’re kind of late to the game, and people might be getting a bit tired of the whole concept.

What do you reckon?

Are you itching to chat with an AI version of your favorite celeb?

Or create your own digital mini-me?

Or is this just another tech gimmick that’ll fizzle out?

Character.ai’s characters include politicians, philosophers, fictional characters
Character.ai’s characters include politicians, philosophers, fictional characters

It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out.

Google’s got the tech chops, but will they be able to make this feel fresh and exciting?

Only time will tell.

For now, we’ll just have to wait and see what other details emerge.

Who knows, maybe they’ll surprise us all with something truly groundbreaking.

Or maybe it’ll just be another flash in the AI pan.

What’s your take on it?

FAQs

What is Google Gemini AI?

Google Gemini AI is an upcoming platform by Google that will feature chatbots based on real celebrities and YouTube stars.

Can users create their own personalized chatbots on Google Gemini?

Yes, users will be able to create personalized chatbots by describing their ideal AI buddy’s personality and looks.

Who is leading the Google Gemini AI project?

The project is being headed by Ryan Germick, the creator of Google Doodles, along with a team of ten.

Will the celebrity chatbots be available immediately?

The celebrity chatbots will first be launched on Google Labs for initial testing before being made widely available.

How does Google Gemini compare to similar AI chatbot initiatives?

Google Gemini follows similar projects by Character.ai and Meta, but aims to offer a unique experience with personalized chatbots and celebrity interactions.

Also Read: Google Drops New Update Giving Pixel 8 Pro Gemini AI Capabilities and Enhanced Features

Also Read: Google To Reportedly Bring Gemini Nano AI Assistance Called Pixie to Upcoming Pixel 9 Series

Also Read: Google Bard Expands Globally with Gemini Pro and Launches New Image Generation Feature

Also Read: Google Rebrands Bard to Gemini; Introduced Access to Gemini Ultra 1.0 and Mobile App for Android, iOS

Also Read: Google Gemini Update Brings Automatic Voice Commands, To Expand to Headphones

Huawei To Ditch All Android Apps for its Upcoming New UI HarmonyOS NEXT

0

Highlights

  • HarmonyOS NEXT will not support Android apps
  • Huawei aims for a “completely independent” platform
  • AI for Harmony and improved Xiaoyi introduced
  • HarmonyOS NEXT promises a 30% performance boost

Huawei has now revealed that it will turn all of its chips toward HarmonyOS NEXT.

That makes this platform a lot interesting since there will be no support for Android apps on this operating system.

Now, that is quite a bold strategy, given the fact that it now totally decouples Huawei from the entire Android ecosystem.

A little background

Huawei To Ditch All Android Apps for its Upcoming New UI HarmonyOS NEXT
Huawei To Ditch All Android Apps for its Upcoming New UI HarmonyOS NEXT

Since those were banned in 2020 and it all went topsy-turvy into what Huawei did business with, they have been on a mission to make HarmonyOS work.

It started out as just an Android clone, but it’s evolved since then.

With HarmonyOS NEXT, they’re taking the biggest leap yet.

 users can directly enter the designated service interface of the application after scanning the code
Users can directly enter the designated service interface of the application after scanning the code

What the update is lacking and what can therefore be called its biggest shocker is the Android app support.

Yes, that’s correct; Huawei is completely divorcing Android apps.

It supports voice, touch, and other interaction modalities
It supports voice, touch, and other interaction modalities

They’ve been making claims that this new platform is “completely independent” and doesn’t use any Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code.

But it’s not just about what they’ve taken away.

the accuracy of code scanning in other complex scenes is 92%; the code scanning delay is 550ms
The accuracy of code scanning in other complex scenes is 92%; the code scanning delay is 550ms

Huawei’s added some pretty interesting features:

  1. AI for Harmony: Huawei’s version of artificial intelligence that, through them, can generate images, repair sound—apparently useful in some cases for people who have speech disorders—and can even describe images to visually impaired people.
  2. Improved Xiaoyi: Fans of Huawei’s virtual assistant, Xiaoyi, meet an improvement – a smarter one. You may even ditch the wake word; drag and drop using the content and navigation bar – it will figure what to do with it.
  3. Star Shield Security: Huawei is not joking around with security: stringent app vetting, multi-device data encryption, and even hardware-level encryption for single files.
This function also integrates the code scanning function and camera zoom
This function also integrates the code scanning function and camera zoom

Huawei’s claiming some impressive numbers as well- a 30% improvement in performance with a 20% drop in power consumption.

If that holds up in real-world use, it could be a game-changer.

When Can We Get Our Hands on It?

Huawei aims for a "completely independent" platform
Huawei aims for a “completely independent” platform

Well, not just yet.

HarmonyOS NEXT is still in development.

Huawei has launched the Scan to Go feature in the HarmonyOS NEXT system
Huawei has launched the Scan to Go feature in the HarmonyOS NEXT system

There’s a limited beta test happening in China right now, but the full release isn’t scheduled until Q4 2024.

That’s quite a wait, but it gives developers time to get their apps ready for the new platform.

What Does This Mean for Users?

AI for Harmony and improved Xiaoyi introduced
AI for Harmony and improved Xiaoyi introduced

It is a huge gamble on the part of Huawei—that an ecosystem would be so compelling that people would want to forget Android apps.

It’ll be really interesting to see how it all plays out.

Will developers jump on board?

Will users be willing to give up their favorite Android apps?

These innovations were showcased at the HDC 2024 Developer Conference
These innovations were showcased at the HDC 2024 Developer Conference

But one thing’s for sure—courage is not something that Huawei is lacking.

All their cards are placed on their vision for the future of mobile operating systems.

Whether this strategy will pan out or not, you got to salute the courage.

WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.23 PM
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.06 PM (2)
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.07 PM
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.06 PM (1)
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.06 PM
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.05 PM (1)
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.05 PM
WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.23 PM WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.06 PM (2) WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.07 PM WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.06 PM (1) WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.06 PM WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.05 PM (1) WhatsApp Image 2024-06-25 at 2.33.05 PM

Source

FAQs

What is HarmonyOS NEXT?

HarmonyOS NEXT is Huawei’s latest operating system, designed to be completely independent from Android, with no support for Android apps.

Why is Huawei removing Android app support in HarmonyOS NEXT?

Huawei aims to create a unique, independent platform that does not rely on Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code, offering its own ecosystem and features.

What new features does HarmonyOS NEXT offer?

HarmonyOS NEXT includes AI for Harmony, improved Xiaoyi virtual assistant, and Star Shield Security, which provides enhanced security measures.

When will HarmonyOS NEXT be available?

HarmonyOS NEXT is currently in limited beta testing in China, with a full release expected in Q4 2024.

Also Read: Huawei Clarifies Global Market Support Amid New HarmonyOS Update

Also Read: Huawei’s HarmonyOS empowering new ecosystem of devices: Easier to use and smarter than ever

Also Read: Huawei rolls out a range of HarmonyOS 2-powered products

AI-Enhanced Digital Zoom: Is it Going to Revolutionize Smartphone Photography?

0

Highlights

  • AI-enhanced digital zoom rivals optical zoom
  • Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers 60x zoom capability
  • AI improves clarity and detail in images
  • Future advancements promise better smartphone cameras

60x zoom on a smartphone certainly does sound exciting.

However, let’s not forget that this is nowhere close to optical zoom as its lens size would be impossibly huge for a handheld device.

Even so, what flagship smartphones are achieving these days is actually pushing the limits of something called digital zoom, technology that has dramatically benefited from extensive enhancement over the past few years.

Let’s dive into a little bit more detail about this rather impressive feat being achieved by smartphones.

Digital Zoom Evolution

AI-enhanced digital zoom rivals optical zoom
AI-enhanced digital zoom rivals optical zoom

Historically, digital zoom was inferior to optical zoom.

This worked by literally cropping and expanding part of the image, reducing its quality and introducing artifacts into the shot.

Cropping high-megapixel images generally gives a better result, but still doesn’t hold a candle to optical zoom in terms of quality.

In contrast, optical zoom relies on actual changes in the lens to enlarge an image.

To zoom optically, the front element of the lens needs to move further away from a sensor that captures the scene and converts light into digital data.

Just as with digital zooming, optical zoom will introduce some degradation in quality, but normally in a very subtle form.

AI-Enhanced Zoom: A Look at Xiaomi 14 Ultra

The leap made in Artificial Intelligence in recent times has transformed the associated capabilities of digital zoom.

One of the most discussed features of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is its capacity for 60x zoom.

One of the tipsters out there, Kartikey Singh, has shared a comparison shot that puts the smartphone’s AI-assisted zooming capabilities to the fore.

AI-enhanced image clearly speaks of artificial enhancement, with the overly sharp contours and computer-generated details.

However, the result itself is remarkably impressive for such extreme magnification.

This quality, though wholly unnatural, is far much better than what conventional digital zoom could do.

It tackles a common need in smartphone photography: capturing distant subjects with acceptable clarity.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers 60x zoom capability
Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers 60x zoom capability

While these results may not be good enough for professional photographic purposes, they do their job: capturing scenes that otherwise would never have been possible to document with a smartphone.

Especially in the case of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, this performance at this point is breathtaking, with the gadget reportedly leaving behind last-generation machines like the Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro Max in a couple of camera tests.

This result speaks to the kind of rapid progress being made in smartphone cameras today, especially with AI-enhanced digital zoom.

The future is likely to see that gap between optical and digital zoom grow further.

Basic digital zoom technology will keep improving to the end, giving incredibly strong photographic tools in compact devices to smartphone users.

FAQs

What is AI-enhanced digital zoom?

AI-enhanced digital zoom uses artificial intelligence algorithms to improve the clarity and detail of zoomed-in images, making them comparable to optical zoom.

How does the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s 60x zoom work?

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra combines high-resolution sensors with AI algorithms to provide a 60x zoom capability, offering impressive clarity for distant subjects.

What are the benefits of AI-enhanced zoom over traditional digital zoom?

AI-enhanced zoom significantly reduces quality loss, sharpens contours, and enhances details, providing better image quality than traditional digital zoom, which merely crops and enlarges parts of the image.

Can AI-enhanced zoom replace optical zoom in smartphones?

While AI-enhanced zoom has made significant strides, it still doesn’t completely replace optical zoom.

However, it offers a viable alternative for capturing distant subjects with acceptable clarity on smartphones.

What futur developments can we expect in smartphone zoom technology?

Future advancements will likely see further improvements in AI algorithms and digital zoom technology, narrowing the gap with optical zoom and providing even better photographic tools in compact devices.

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Available in Refreshing Titanium Yellow Colour

Also Read: Samsung, Google, and Apple: How Each Uses AI to Enhance Smartphone Experience

Also Read: Xiaomi 14 Ultra with 6.73″ 2K 120Hz LTPO AMOLED Display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Quad 50MP Rear Cameras, IP68 Ratings Launched in China: Price, Specifications, Features & More

Also Read: Best Camera Smartphones under 25000 in India 

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite vs OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite: A Detailed Comparison

0

Highlights

  • Nord CE 4 Lite has a 6.67-inch AMOLED with 2100 nits, Nord CE 3 Lite features a 6.72-inch IPS LCD with 680 nits
  • Nord CE 4 Lite offers 5500 mAh and 80W charging, Nord CE 3 Lite has 5000 mAh and 67W charging
  • Nord CE 4 Lite sports a 50 MP main camera, Nord CE 3 Lite has a 108 MP primary camera
  • Nord CE 4 Lite runs on OxygenOS Android 14, Nord CE 3 Lite on Android 13

OnePlus announced its latest budget offering for the Indian market yesterday: the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite.

Going by the specifications, I am sure you would have many doubts.

What is this 3-year-old chipset doing on a 2024-introduced smartphone?

How does it stand against its predecessor?

What changes have been made?

Well then, let’s take two models from the northern family, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G, and the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G, to make this comparison.

The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G has only recently found its way into the market as a previous big-headed player in the 5G mid-range jungle in April 2023.

And what’s the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite to do about that?

Now the price difference of about Rs. 2,000 where the CE 3 Lite comes for Rs. 17,743 and the CE 4 Lite for Rs. 19,999, now one needs to know what does the new model offer so differently from the old one and whether the changes are worth such a price increase.

This comparison will delve into various aspects of both devices, including design, display, camera capabilities, performance, software, battery life, and charging speeds.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how these two smartphones stack up against each other, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite vs OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite: Key Specs

Specification OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite
Price Rs. 19,999 Rs. 17,743
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 Qualcomm Snapdragon 695
Display 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz, 2100 nits 6.72-inch FHD+ IPS LCD, 120Hz, 680 nits
RAM 8 GB LPDDR4X 8 GB LPDDR4X
Storage 128 GB / 256 GB, expandable up to 2 TB 128 GB, expandable up to 1 TB
Rear Camera 50 MP + 2 MP (Dual) 108 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP (Triple)
Battery 5500 mAh, 80W SUPERVOOC charging 5000 mAh, 67W SUPERVOOC charging
Operating System Oxygen OS based on Android 14 Oxygen OS based on Android 13

Design and display

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor and 8GB RAM
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Design and display

The design language of both the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G is pretty much similar: a plastic back and a modern bezel-less display along with the punch-hole camera.

There are, however, some noteworthy differences in their display specifications.

The CE 3 Lite comes with a slightly larger 6.72-inch IPS LCD display whereas the CE 4 Lite had a 6.67-inch AMOLED display.

Both devices support Full HD+ resolution of 1080×2400 pixels to ensure sharp images.

The CE 3 Lite has a 91.4 per cent screen-to-body ratio while the CE 4 Lite was tipped to have a marginally bigger ratio at 92.2 per cent for a better view.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Design and display

Probably the single most significant boost in the CE 4 Lite is its peak brightness, bumped up now to a respectable 2100 nits, as opposed to the CE 3 Lite’s 680 nits.

This change should make a big difference when watching HDR content or using the projector outdoors.

Both models feature a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and animations.

In terms of dimensions, the CE 4 Lite is slightly more compact and lighter, weighing 191 grams compared to the CE 3 Lite’s 195 grams.

Color options differ, with the CE 3 Lite available in Pastel Lime and Chromatic Gray, while the CE 4 Lite comes in Mega Blue, Ultra Orange, and Super Silver.

Cameras

OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G is confirmed to come with a dual rear camera setup that includes a 50MP Sony LYTIA 600 camera with OIS support
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Camera

On the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G, there is a triple camera system led by a high-resolution 108MP main sensor, accompanied by a 2MP depth and a 2MP macro camera.

This layout therefore attempts to bring versatility to those detailed shots and a few creative options with the featured depth effects and close-ups.

On the other hand, the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G has a dual camera setup: a 50 MP primary sensor and a 2 MP depth camera.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G Review
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Camera

While the main camera comes with lesser megapixels, it integrates a bigger sensor size of 1.95″ against 1.67″, which might result in better low-light performance and dynamic range.

Conveniently, both devices have a 16MP front-facing camera for selfies, although the CE 4 Lite has a slight advantage with its wide-angle 24 millimeter focal length.

Video did appear to be similar, though, with both phones capable of recording 1080p video at 30fps.

The CE 3 Lite offers features like 6x digital zoom, while the CE 4 Lite improves this to 10x digital zoom.

Both models include standard features like HDR, continuous shooting, and various shooting modes to enhance the photography experience.

Performance and Features

OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G provides enhanced connectivity to ensure uninterrupted connections
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Performance and Features

While the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and Nord CE 4 Lite 5G will share a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, it also has an octa-core CPU with two high-performance Kryo 660 cores running at 2.2 GHz and six efficiency cores at 1.7 GHz.

This will be the processor that packs 5G and decent performance for everyday tasks along with light gaming.

Both of them have 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, which can smoothly sustain multitasking.

The internal storage is 128GB with UFS 2.2, and it is expandable up to 2TB in the CE 4 Lite; in its predecessor, it was limited to a maximum of 1TB.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Performance and Features

Connectivity options are, however, basically identical; they share 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, and GPS.

Both phones have the USB Type-C port and, surprisingly, still have a 3.5mm headphone jack—something of a rarity these days in smartphones.

One notable difference is the fingerprint sensor placement.

The CE 3 Lite features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, while the CE 4 Lite has an in-display fingerprint sensor, potentially offering a more seamless user experience.

Software

The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite will be available for purchase starting June 27
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Software

OnePlus has maintained its commitment to providing a clean, user-friendly interface across both devices, but with some key differences in the underlying Android version.

The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G launched with OxygenOS based on Android 13, offering a near-stock Android experience with useful customizations and optimizations from OnePlus.

The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G comes with OxygenOS based on the more recent Android 14.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G Review
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Software

This update should bring several improvements in terms of privacy features, system optimizations, and user interface refinements.

Both versions of OxygenOS retain popular features and a range of performance optimization tools.

However, the CE 4 Lite might benefit from additional AI-enhanced features and improvements that come with the newer Android version.

Battery and Charging

It offers a 120Hz AMOLED display with 2100nits peak brightness and an aqua touch feature
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Battery and Charging

Improvements in the new model include better battery life and charging capabilities.

The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G comes fitted with a pretty significant 5000mAh battery that works easily for a full day on heavy to moderate usage.

The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G model packs a slightly larger battery size of 5500mAh, which might further improve the overall endurance.

This increase may amount to noticeably longer battery life for power users or those hammering their devices frequently with resource-intensive tasks like gaming or video streaming.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G Review
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Battery and Charging

Charing speeds find improvements as well.

Where the CE 3 Lite boasts of a 67W Super VOOC charging that fills up its battery to 80% in just 30 minutes, the CE 4 Lite packs an 80W Super VOOC charging solution – it can refill its battery fully in just 52 minutes.

Although it is not much faster than its predecessor for the charge time, the larger battery capacity makes up for this fact.

Both devices utilize USB Type-C ports for charging and data transfer, maintaining compatibility with modern accessories.

Final Verdict

Nord CE 4 Lite runs on OxygenOS Android 14
Nord CE 4 Lite runs on OxygenOS Android 14

While the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and Nord CE 4 Lite 5G are two generations of excellence at an affordable budget, each has different contributions to make.

The CE 3 Lite still holds up well even at this point in time—the same reasons shake out for budget-sensitive buyers: it has a large display, a capable camera system, and decent performance for a more reachable price of Rs. 17,743.

The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G will want to bring in some tangible upgrades to justify that Rs. 19,999 price tag.

This could be a brighter display, possibly improved low-light camera performance, expandable storage, and a larger battery with faster charging.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G Review
Oneplus Nord CE 3 Lite on Android 13

Those who want better display brightness, battery life, and future-proofing through the latest Android versions would rather go for a CE 4 Lite.

Improved software support combined with some other minor feature upgrades only help give it better long-term value.

However, if budget is a primary concern and you’re looking for a reliable smartphone with 5G capabilities and good overall performance, the CE 3 Lite still holds its ground as a competitive option in its price range.

FAQs

What are the main differences between the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite and Nord CE 3 Lite?

The Nord CE 4 Lite offers an AMOLED display with higher peak brightness, a larger battery with faster charging, and runs on the latest OxygenOS based on Android 14.

It also features a dual-camera setup with a 50 MP primary sensor.

Is the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite worth the price increase compared to the Nord CE 3 Lite?

Yes, the Nord CE 4 Lite provides several upgrades, including a brighter AMOLED display, better camera performance in low light, a larger battery, and faster charging, which justify the price increase.

Can I expand the storage on the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite?

Yes, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite supports expandable storage up to 2 TB, compared to the 1 TB expansion limit on the Nord CE 3 Lite.

How does the camera performance compare between the Nord CE 4 Lite and Nord CE 3 Lite?

The Nord CE 4 Lite has a 50 MP main camera with a larger sensor size for improved low-light performance, whereas the Nord CE 3 Lite features a 108 MP primary camera.

The CE 4 Lite also offers up to 10x digital zoom, compared to 6x on the CE 3 Lite.

What are the charging speeds and battery capacities of the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite and Nord CE 3 Lite?

The Nord CE 4 Lite comes with a 5500 mAh battery and supports 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging, while the Nord CE 3 Lite has a 5000 mAh battery with 67W SUPERVOOC charging.

What are the best features of oneplus nord Ce 3 lite ?

  • Impressive display with 120Hz refresh rate
  • The featureful camera setup on the back
  • Wide-Angle camera for the front
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset
  • 6GB RAM
  • 67W Super VOOC Charging
  • Internal memory is expandable
  • Side-wise fingerprint sensor

What are OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G In the Box Accessories?

  • OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G
  • 80W SUPERVOOC Power Adapter
  • Type-C Cable (supports USB 2.0)
  • Phone Case
  • Screen Protector (pre-applied)
  • SIM Tray Ejector
  • Welcome Letter
  • Brand Sticker
  • Quick Guide
  • Red Cable Club Membership Card
  • Safety Guide

Should I buy the OnePlus Nord Ce 3 Lite 5G?

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite too doesn’t fall far from this deduction and is undoubtedly a pretty safe choice.

In our understanding and experience, we would say if display or cameras are your priority, you could look into some other options while upgrading to a new device.

However, if gaming or battery life is at the top of your priority list then the Nord CE 3 Lite is a definitely really smart and understandable choice.

Overall, for a price segment that this phone caters to, Nord CE 3 Lite is definitely a good phone and worthy of a recommendation for anyone looking for a decent budget-friendly smartphone with 5G support, great battery life and overall good smartphone performance.

What are the top 3 reasons to buy OnePlus Nord CE 4 5G?

Vibrant 120Hz AMOLED

  • Display:Enjoy smooth scrolling and vivid visuals on the 6.67-inch screen with 2100 nits peak brightness.
  • Long-lasting Battery with Fast Charging:5,500 mAh capacity keeps you powered all day, while 80W SUPERVOOC charging quickly tops up the battery.
  • Capable Camera System:50MP main camera with OIS captures detailed photos, complemented by various shooting modes for creativity.

Also Read: OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Launched in India

Also Read: OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Launched in India with Snapdragon 695, 50MP Sony LYT-600 Camera: Pricing, Features, Specs

Also Read: OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Set to Launch in India: Budget-Friendly 50MP Dual Camera Smartphone

Also Read: OnePlus Launches Two Powerful New Devices to its Nord Series: OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and OnePlus Nord Buds 2: Check Price , Specifications , Availability & Sale Offers

Also Read: OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G Review – An Affordable Nord Phone With Reliable Snapdragon 695 Chipset, Great Battery Life and Overall Good Performance

Also Read: OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G first sale in India starts today: Price, Specifications, Launch Offers, Extended warranty & more

Swiggy and Zomato Cut Free Delivery Radius to 7km for Premium Members: See How Users Reacted

0
Swiggy and Zomato Cut Free Delivery Radius to 7km for Premium Members: See How Users Reacted

Highlights

  • Swiggy One and Zomato Gold reduce free delivery radius from 10 km to 7 km.
  • Premium memberships still offer discounts on orders and dining out.
  • Users express disappointment and consider canceling subscriptions.
  • Changes affect Swiggy One and Zomato Gold members paying 99 rupees per month.

It looks like Swiggy and Zomato will give their premium members a lot to shake off everyone’sGPS.

These two big food delivery players used to offer free delivery within a radius of 10 km for their premium customers.

Swiggy One and Zomato Gold reduce free delivery radius from 10 km to 7 km
Free delivery range has been reduced from 10km to 7km

Now, it has quietly come down to 7 km.

Now, both these companies have these premium memberships—Swiggy One and Zomato Gold—at 99 rupees a month.

At least that’s a good deal or, at best, it was before this change.

Disappointment Amongst Users

People took to X to sound off about the change.

One user replied that it was “pure nonsense”, as the site wonders why one would even bother with a premium membership now when nearby restaurants often do free delivery anyway.

Another called it “outrageous” and said he was surprised more people weren’t talking about it.

Some folks are even threatening to jump ship.

“My Zomato Gold membership is ending this month, so might just move to Swiggy if they don’t roll back this change,” one user threatened.

Ironically, Swiggy’s made the same change, so that might not work out too well for them.

It’s not just the extra cost; to some, this infers they can’t use their favorite restaurants if they are more than 7km away.

Quite a killjoy of foodie indulgences who have a place that just tipped into the outer limit.

It’s not all bad news, though.

Platform Fees ,On-time guaranteed deliveries already eliminated earlier
Platform Fees ,On-time guaranteed deliveries already eliminated earlier

Other perks of these memberships stay the same.

You still get extra discounts on food orders and dining out from partner restaurants.

But for many, the free delivery was the main draw.

If you’re curious about what you still get with these memberships:

Swiggy One gives you free delivery on restaurant orders over 199 rupees (within that 7km radius now), a 30% extra discount at some restaurants, free Instamart delivery for orders over 99 rupees, and a 10% discount on Genie delivery fees.

Zomato Gold is pretty similar, you get free delivery on orders over 199 rupees (again, within 7km now), and up to 30% off on top of other offers.

They usually charge 999 rupees for three months, but you can sometimes snag it for 99 or 149 rupees with special deals.

It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out.

Premium memberships still offer discounts on orders and dining out
Premium memberships still offer discounts on orders and dining out

Will people stick with these memberships, or will we see a drop in subscribers?

Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – people aren’t shy about voicing their opinions on this one.

FAQs

What changes have Swiggy and Zomato made to their premium memberships?

Swiggy and Zomato have reduced the free delivery radius for their premium members from 10 km to 7 km, affecting users of Swiggy One and Zomato Gold.

What are the costs of Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships?

Both Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships cost 99 rupees per month, though Zomato often has special deals that may lower the price.

What other benefits do Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships offer?

Besides the reduced free delivery radius, Swiggy One and Zomato Gold offer discounts on food orders, dining out, and other perks like free Instamart delivery and discounts on Genie delivery fees.

How have users reacted to the change in free delivery radius?

Users have expressed disappointment and frustration on social media, with some threatening to cancel their memberships due to the reduced delivery radius.

Will the changes to Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships impact the number of subscribers?

It’s uncertain how the changes will impact subscriber numbers, but user reactions suggest there may be a drop if the reduced benefits do not meet customer expectations.

Also Read: New Year’s Order Frenzy: Swiggy, Zomato, and Blinkit See Record-Breaking Surge on Food and Grocery Orders

Also Read: boAt Joins Forces with Swiggy Instamart for Unique Electronics Shopping Experience

Also Read: iQOO, Swiggy partner for a special campaign to find India’s biggest foodie: Details inside

OnePlus Pad Pro Teased in China, Alongside Leaked Images: What to Expect

0

Highlights

  • OnePlus Pad Pro teased with bold claims of being the most powerful Android tablet.
  • Potential hardware includes Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chips.
  • High refresh rate OLED display and big battery expected.
  • Leaked images reveal a sleek green colour design.

One Plus is on the verge of launching a new tablet, and they really aren’t keeping it under their hats.

Just now, a teaser went live in China from the company for something they’re calling the OnePlus Pad Pro.

This is the news that is arriving not long after the original OnePlus Pad hit the streets, which had a pretty good performance along with a very aggressive pricing.

 the official OnePlus Weibo account is hyping it up to be the most powerful Android tablet ever
OnePlus Pad Pro’s First Official Teaser Surfaces Online

OnePlus has got a bold claim with the Pad Pro: The company says that this new tablet is going to be the most powerful Android tablet out there.

That’s quite a statement, making many people wonder what kind of hardware they’re going to pack into this thing.

A new poster on Weibo by OnePlus just went up, hinting that a new tablet is coming soon to the Chinese market.

OnePlus Pad Pro teased with bold claims of being the most powerful Android tablet
OnePlus Pad Pro To Be The “Most Powerful Android Tablet”according to the company

That would be very exciting—it’ll be the first time they’re launching a tablet in China.

Considering that they really nailed the price-to-performance ratio with the original Pad, this might just turn out to be a big hit.

OnePlus teased the upcoming launch of “OnePlus Pad Pro” last week
OnePlus Pad Pro in two colors: light green and gray

Now, for those of us outside China, there’s a chance this might be called the OnePlus Pad 2 when it hits other markets.

It makes sense – keeps things simple for customers.

What’s Under the Hood?

A few days ago the Weibo account called Digital Chat Station shared some hands-on images of the device too
A few days ago the Weibo account called Digital Chat Station shared some hands-on images

What’s it going to take for OnePlus to back up its hype of touting the beefiest Android tablet?

Right now there are at least two top-tier chips that could fit the bill in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300+.

 the tablet has an all-metal body
The tablet has an all-metal body

MediaTek has been quite aggressive in terms of pricing lately, so there’s a possibility it might be the Dimensity 9300+.

But here’s the thing: in the US, Qualcomm chips are more famous.

OnePlus is currently teasing the “OnePlus Pad Pro
OnePlus is currently teasing the “OnePlus Pad Pro

At this moment, it’s really anyone’s guess.

Other than that chip, we’re looking at most likely a high refresh rate screen, perhaps even an OLED panel, to keep up with the other fancy tablets.

A big battery is practically a given, and you can bet different memory and storage options will be available.

Leaked Images

OnePlus Pad Pro launches internationally in the future
DCS says that the new tablet has a thin and light design with an “all metal body.”

Just recently, a Chinese tipster called Digital Chat Station shared some images of what’s supposedly the OnePlus Pad Pro.

It’s rocking a green colour, which looks pretty slick.

All in all, it looks like OnePlus is aiming high with this one.

OnePlus Pad Pro live images
On Weibo, OnePlus teased the upcoming launch of “OnePlus Pad Pro” last week with a confirmed launch date of June 27, this coming Thursday

They’re clearly trying to make a splash in the tablet market, and if they can deliver on their promises, they might just pull it off.

We’ll have to wait and see how it stacks up against the competition when it finally drops.

Source

FAQs

What is the OnePlus Pad Pro?

The OnePlus Pad Pro is a new high-performance Android tablet teased by OnePlus, expected to be the most powerful in its category according to the company’s claims.

When will the OnePlus Pad Pro be available?

The OnePlus Pad Pro has been teased for an imminent launch in China, with the possibility of a global release soon after. Specific dates have not yet been confirmed.

What hardware can we expect in the OnePlus Pad Pro?

The OnePlus Pad Pro is rumoured to feature top-tier chips like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 9300+, a high refresh rate OLED display, and a large battery.

What are the design features of the OnePlus Pad Pro?

Leaked images suggest that the OnePlus Pad Pro will have a sleek design, including a green colour option that has been well-received in early visuals.

Also Read: OnePlus Pad Price in India Announced, Pre-Orders from April 28 with Exchange and Bank Offers: Check Availability & Specifications

Also Read: OnePlus Pad Price in India, RAM and Storage Options Leaked on Flipkart Before April 28 Pre-Order

Also Read: OnePlus Pad price in India leaked via online listing: Competition with Xiaomi & Lenovo Tablets

Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Says his $180 Galaxy A52 Broke in Dubai Heat

0

Highlights

  • Pavel Durov uses a mid-range Galaxy A52 as his primary smartphone.
  • The phone reportedly broke in half due to Dubai’s extreme heat.
  • Durov chose the Galaxy A52 to align with typical Telegram users.
  • Extreme heat can cause significant damage to smartphones, including battery swelling and processor overheating.

Pavel Durov, the billionaire entrepreneur behind VK and Telegram, has just suffered an unexpected fail with his mobile phone.

Dwarfing this, the $15.5 billion net entrepreneur has been rocking a mid-range Galaxy A52 as his daily driver for at least the past two years.

Now, that $180 Samsung phone is apparently broken in half, which Durov attributed to intensive heat in Dubai, where he has lived for several years.

The Surprising Pavel Durov Choice of Smartphone

The Telegram CEO says he's been using this "$180 Samsung" as his daily handset since 2022
Pavel Durov, a man of $15.5 billion net worth, used the Galaxy A52 for the last two years till it broke into two

That mid-range device was no accident; it had to be a proper, carefully taken decision by Durov to use Telegram just like most other users.

Most people use more budget-friendly smartphones, which are in the $200 range, rather than flagship models, so Durov wanted to associate with this base of users.

The Telegram CEO says he's been using this "$180 Samsung" as his phone since 2022 as he wanted to use Telegram
The Telegram CEO says he’s been using this “$180 Samsung” as his phone since 2022 as he wanted to use Telegram

The device he has chosen to do this is the Galaxy A52, released in 2021.

Since 2022, it has been his main smartphone, eschewing high-end devices one might expect a tech billionaire to have a soft spot for.

The Dubai Heat Factor

Avoid exposing your phone to direct sunlight for long periods.
Avoid exposing your phone to direct sunlight for long periods.

Being a city of extreme temperatures, Dubai poses a special kind of challenges to electronic devices.

In summers, the temperatures can go higher than 40°C, and the environment of this UAE-based city is truly hostile to smartphones and their components.

While it’s uncommon for phones to break in half solely due to temperature, heat can cause significant damage to various components:

  • Battery swelling: Extreme heat can cause lithium-ion batteries to expand, potentially damaging the phone’s internal structure.
  • Processor overheating: High temperatures can cause the CPU and other internal components to overheat, leading to reduced performance or permanent damage.
  • Screen damage: Prolonged heat exposure can affect the display, causing discoloration, warping, or cracking.
  • Material weakening: Heat can weaken the phone’s materials, making it more susceptible to physical damage from drops or pressure.
Durov says it’s because of the Dubai heat
Durov says it’s because of the Dubai heat

The case of Durov shows how important it is to protect electronic Devices from extreme environmental conditions.

It also proves that high-quality devices are nothing against strong heat, no matter whose status and bank account is.

Not to allow the heat to kill the phone, it should not be left in direct sunlight or inside a hot car, and besides, people have to use it in a cold place as much as possible and refuse resource-intensive functions at heat.

FAQs

Why does Pavel Durov use a Galaxy A52 as his primary smartphone?

Pavel Durov chose the Galaxy A52 to closely align with the average Telegram user, who typically uses budget-friendly smartphones in the $200 range.

What caused Pavel Durov’s Galaxy A52 to break in half?

The extreme heat in Dubai, which can exceed 40°C, is believed to have caused the phone to break in half, highlighting the impact of high temperatures on electronic devices.

How does extreme heat affect smartphones like the Galaxy A52?

Extreme heat can cause battery swelling, processor overheating, screen damage, and material weakening, leading to potential physical damage and reduced performance.

What measures can be taken to protect smartphones from extreme heat?

To protect smartphones from heat damage, avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or inside hot cars, use them in cooler environments, and refrain from using resource-intensive functions in high temperatures.

Also Read: Telegram Unveils New VisionOS App for Apple Vision Pro with Enhanced Features

Also Read: Telegram Enhances Stories with New Repost and Video Features