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GenAI Could Revolutionise Smartphone Technology in 2024: Unpacking the Implications

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GenAI Could Revolutionise Smartphone Technology in 2024

Highlights

  • 2024 sees GenAI reshaping smartphone interactions with smarter, more personalized app functionalities.
  • Smartphone hardware advancements, like AI chips, cater to the complex needs of GenAI algorithms.
  • The rise of GenAI could lead to subscription models, offering scalable AI features across apps.
  • Apple’s AI evolution aims to balance innovation with user privacy, setting new industry standards.

Generative AI, or GenAI, is stepping out of the shadows of niche applications and academic papers to become a central feature of the smartphone experience.

As we navigate through 2024, the integration of GenAI into smartphones is not just a possibility; it’s becoming a reality.

From Google to Samsung to now even Apple, OEMs are jumping on board the GenAI express.

But what does this shift entail for consumers, developers, and the broader tech ecosystem?

Let’s delve into the nuances of GenAI’s emergence in the smartphone arena.

GenAI is Making Its Mark on Smartphone Software

GenAI is Making Its Mark on Smartphone Software
GenAI is Making Its Mark on Smartphone Software

At the heart of GenAI’s integration into smartphones is its profound impact on software capabilities.

GenAI-driven apps are going to redefinite user interactions, offering personalized and intelligent responses to a wide array of commands.

From virtual assistants that understand context and nuance to photo editing apps that can generate new content based on user prompts, the possibilities are as limitless as they are exciting.

This leap is not just about making our current apps smarter. It’s about reimagining what apps can do.

Imagine language learning tools that adapt to your proficiency and interests in real-time, or wellness apps that tailor mindfulness exercises to your emotional state by interpreting your vocal cues.

GenAI is poised to make these scenarios a reality, enhancing our digital experiences in deeply personal ways.

How GenAI is Impacting Hardware

How GenAI is Impacting Hardware
How GenAI is Impacting Hardware

The influence of GenAI extends beyond software, reaching into the very hardware of smartphones.

To support advanced AI functions, smartphone manufacturers are rethinking device architecture.

This means more powerful processors and dedicated AI chips capable of handling complex machine-learning tasks directly on the device.

Qualcomm has recently been very vocal about the AI capabilities on its Snapdragon chipsets and MediaTek’s been doing the same with its top-of-the-line Dimensity silicone.

Such enhancements promise improvements in speed and efficiency and also bolster privacy, as more data can be processed locally, reducing the need for cloud transfers.

Moreover, GenAI is driving innovation in sensor technology.

Cameras, microphones, and other sensors are becoming more sophisticated to capture the nuanced data GenAI algorithms require to operate.

This collaboration between hardware and software is pushing the boundaries of what smartphones can perceive and understand about their surroundings.

We are truly going to enter into

GenAI Could Be a ‘Subscription’ Service?

GenAI Could Be a ‘Subscription’ Service?
GenAI Could Be a ‘Subscription’ Service?

An intriguing aspect of GenAI’s rise is its potential to become a subscription-based service.

As AI models grow more advanced, they require continuous updates and refinements, often necessitating substantial computational resources that could be cost-prohibitive for individual developers or smaller companies.

By offering GenAI capabilities as a service, tech giants could democratize access to cutting-edge technology, enabling a broader range of apps to benefit from generative AI features.

This model could also introduce a new revenue stream for smartphone manufacturers and app developers, who could offer tiered subscriptions for different levels of AI functionality.

While this raises questions about accessibility and the digital divide, it also opens doors for innovative funding models that could support the ongoing development of AI technologies.

Apple AI: How Can it Catch Up to Google and Samsung?

Apple AI: How Can it Catch Up to Google and Samsung?
Apple AI: How Can it Catch Up to Google and Samsung?

Apple finds itself at a pivotal juncture in the evolution of smartphone technology, navigating the intricacies of AI to maintain its prestigious position in the market.

Historically characterized by a cautious approach to new technologies, Apple is now recognizing the imperative to integrate AI more deeply into its offerings.

This realization comes amid declining iPhone sales and the competitive pressure exerted by rivals such as Samsung and Google, who have been quicker to exploit AI advancements.

Rumours of an App Store overhaul, enhanced third-party integrations, and the development of Siri 2.0, powered by large language models, with the upcoming iOS 18 update show Apple’s efforts to catch up.

Apple has always been committed to privacy and data security and this presents a unique opportunity to differentiate its AI capabilities.

The company’s potential to leverage on-device AI processing aligns with its privacy-centric ethos, offering a pathway to blend AI innovation with user trust.

Apple could, through a combination of strategic partnerships, make significant investments in research and development, to redefine the smartphone experience.

Emphasizing user-centric innovations, such as AI-powered health insights and advanced photography enhancements, Apple might not just catch up with its rivals but establish new benchmarks in the intelligent mobile experience, ensuring its continued relevance and leadership in the tech ecosystem.

FAQs

What does the integration of Generative AI into smartphones signify for users and developers?

The integration of Generative AI (GenAI) into smartphones marks a significant leap in how devices understand and interact with users. For consumers, this means more intuitive and responsive apps that can anticipate needs and offer personalized content, from smarter virtual assistants to more creative photo and video editing tools.

How will GenAI affect the development and functionality of smartphone software?

GenAI is set to transform smartphone software by enabling applications to perform tasks that were previously impossible or required significant human intervention.

This includes generating text, images, or videos based on user prompts, offering real-time language translation that captures nuance and context, and creating adaptive learning platforms that personalize content to the user’s learning style and progress.

Why is there a need for hardware innovation in smartphones for GenAI?

As GenAI applications become more sophisticated, they require significant computational power to process and generate content in real-time.

This demand has spurred the development of more powerful processors and dedicated AI chips in smartphones, designed to handle these complex tasks efficiently without draining battery life.

What are the implications of a subscription-based GenAI service model for smartphones?

A subscription-based model for GenAI services on smartphones could democratize access to advanced AI capabilities, allowing users and developers to tap into powerful AI functionalities without the upfront cost of high-end hardware.

This model could lead to a more equitable distribution of technology, enabling smaller developers to create innovative applications that leverage GenAI.genai-smartphone-revolution-2024.

Also Read: iPhone 16 to Feature Advanced Siri with Generative AI and LLM

Also Read: Apple GPT Breakthrough: Researchers Set to Bring Generative AI to iPhones

Also Read: Apple A18 and M4 Chips to Feature Advanced 3nm Manufacturing For Handling Gen-AI

Also Read: OpenAI Unveils Sora: The Future of AI-Generated Text to Video Content

Also Read: Apple is Boosting Spotlight Search with Generative AI Features

Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch with 1.32-inch display, in-built GPS, AI workout assistant & up to 16 days battery life launched in India: Price, Features, Availability & Specifications

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Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch

HIGHLIGHTS

* The Amazfit Active Edge smartwatch is priced under Rs 13,000.
* It comes in Mint Green, Lava Black, and Midnight Pulse colour options.
* The Amazfit Active Edge is a rugged smartwatch with 10ATM water resistance.
* The smartwatch will be available for purchase starting February 27.
* The Active Edge has 5 satellite positioning systems for GPS tracking.

Amazfit , a global pioneer in smart wearables owned by Zepp Health (NYSE: ZEPP), has launched its latest innovation tailored for the dynamic and diverse Indian market – the Amazfit Active Edge.

This rugged smartwatch is designed to resonate with the spirited and active lifestyles embraced by individuals across the country.

The Amazfit Active Edge, launching on February 27, 2024, introduces a bold and distinctive style, embodying the fusion of rugged durability and urban streetwear fashion.

Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch with 1.32-inch display
Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch with 1.32-inch display

Crafted to endure the challenges of an active life, this smartwatch is the perfect companion for those who seek a balance between style, functionality, and health.

The Active Edge boasts a robust design, providing resistance against bumps and scrapes encountered during an active lifestyle.

The vibrant dual-colour design with a unique translucent strap allows the Amazfit Active Edge to blend with any outfit, mood, or occasion seamlessly.

With a water-resistant grade of 10 ATM, the Active Edge is ideal for various activities, whether it’s a workout at the gym, a skate park session, or a beach getaway.

It comes in Mint Green, Lava Black, and Midnight Pulse colour options
It comes in Mint Green, Lava Black, and Midnight Pulse colour options

The smartwatch offers an impressive battery life of up to 16 days with typical use, ensuring it keeps up with your routine without interruption.

Just like its sibling, the Amazfit Active, the Active Edge supports five satellite systems for accurate GPS tracking, enables custom training templates, and facilitates sharing data with popular fitness communities and apps such as Adidas Running, Strava, and Komoot.

370mAh battery with up to 16 days battery life with typical use, up to 10 days with heavy use and up to 24 days in battery saver mode,Up to 20 hours GPS use

3Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch 70mAh Battery

“The unveiling of the Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch heralds a revolutionary approach to holistic well-being, epitomized by its sleek yet rugged sport and fitness design. With integrated GPS and an AI Health Coach tailored for gym, outdoor, workouts, and exercises, it redefines the essence of a companion for an active lifestyle.

Boasting an impressive 16 days of battery life and 10 ATM water resistance, it empowers users to embark on their wellness journey with unwavering confidence and unparalleled durability.” – CP Khandelwal, CEO of PR Innovations, the Official Brand Empowerment Partner of Amazfit in India.

Amazfit Active Edge: Price in India and Availability

Amazfit Active Edge: Price in India and Availability
Amazfit Active Edge: Price in India and Availability

The Amazfit Active Edge will be available in India starting February 27, 2024, with a competitive launch price of ₹12,999.

The watch can be purchased on Amazon, the official Amazfit website (in.amazfit.com) and through Amazfit’s authorized retail partners across the country.

providing a choice of over 100 watch faces
It oroviding a choice of over 100 watch faces

Amazfit Active Edge Quick Specifications

Amazfit Active Edge Quick Specifications
Amazfit Active Edge Quick Specifications

* 1.32-inch (360 x 360 pixels) TFT LCD screen, tempered glass + anti-fingerprint coating
* Bluetooth 5.0 to connect to Android 7.0 and above, iOS 14.0 and above
* Powered by Zepp OS 2.0
* BioTracker 3 PPG biometric sensor (supports Blood-oxygen, 1 PD + 2 LED), Accelerometer sensor, 3-axis motion sensor, 4 satellite positioning systems (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS)
* Zepp Coach, Zepp Coach running coach with Track Run mode, Smart trajectory correction, Virtual pacer, Race achievement predictions
* 24H Heart Rate, SpO2 & Stress Monitoring
* Calendar Reminder, Call Notification, Sedentary reminders, Smartphone Apps Notifications
* Music Control, camera control
* Dimensions:46.62×46.62x12mm; Weight: 34g (without strap)
* Water-resistant (10ATM)
* 370mAh battery with up to 16 days battery life with typical use, up to 10 days with heavy use and up to 24 days in battery saver mode,Up to 20 hours GPS use


Amazfit Active Edge: Specifications and Features

The Amazfit Active Edge is a rugged smartwatch with 10ATM water resistance
The Amazfit Active Edge is a rugged smartwatch with 10ATM water resistance

The Active Edge smartwatch has a rugged design with 10 ATM water resistance, suitable for swimming and diving up to 100 meters.

It features a 1.32-inch LCD display, providing a choice of over 100 watch faces in three colors: Lava Black, Midnight Pulse, and Mint Green.

Running on Zepp OS 2.1, the Active Edge includes the Zepp Coact AI workout assistant and supports navigation through five satellite positioning systems.

The smartwatch will be available for purchase starting February 27
The smartwatch will be available for purchase starting February 27

It’s tailored for fitness enthusiasts, offering more than 130 sports modes with automatic detection for seven activities, including outdoor and indoor running, walking, outdoor cycling, and elliptical training, plus auto-detection for 25 strength exercises.

The smartwatch ensures up to 16 days of battery life with regular use and incorporates health monitoring features like heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and stress detection, catering to users seeking a durable, feature-rich fitness tracker.

Active Edge includes the Zepp Coact AI workout assistant
Active Edge includes the Zepp Coact AI workout assistant

Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch Key Specs

Weight Body + Strap: 54g Body: 34g
Waterproof grade 10 ATM
Screen 1.32″ TFT, 360 *360, PPI 277
Touch screen Single Point Capacitive, Waterproof Reinforced Touch IC
Cover material 2.5D tempered glass + AF coating
Strap width 22mm
Strap Type TPU + Spray Sports Strap
Processor Apollo 4 blue lite
Memory Built-in 2MB Nor Flash
External storage 32MB PSRAM + 128MB Nand Flash
Sensor Self-developed low-power and high-precision PPG heart rate sensor (double lamp and double PD) Acceleration Sensors Gyroscope
GNSS Synopsys GPS; BCM47762
MIC Does not support MIC
Speaker Not supported
Button 4 buttons
Connection BLE 5.2
NFC Does not support NFC
Battery 370mAh lithium polymer battery
Charging method Use Normalized Mini Magnetic Charging Dock
Charging time 2 hours
Battery life Heavy use: 7 days, typical scenario: 14 days
Vibration motor Rotor motor
Surface material Two-color plastic
Accessories Strap (assembled), special magnetic USB charging dock, standard version packaging box, instruction manual and three-pack certificate

Faqs

What are the Color’s available in Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch ?

Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch retails in Mint Green, Lava Black, and Midnight Pulse colour options.

What is the battery life of Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch ?

The Amazfit Active Edge sports a 370mAh battery, which promises 16 days of battery life with typical usage. The company says that the smartwatch can last up to 24 days in battery-saving mode and up to 10 days with heavy usage.

What is the price of Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch ?

The Amazfit Active Edge price in India is Rs 12,999.

Where can I buy the Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch?

It will be available for purchase exclusively via Amazon, Amazfit Store, and offline retail stores starting February 27.

How is the design & display of Amazfit Active Edge Smartwatch?

The Amazfit Active Edge flaunts a 1.32-inch circular TFT LCD screen with 360 × 360p resolution, tempered glass, and anti-fingerprint coating.

The smartwatch comes pre-loaded with 100+ watch faces and supports portrait watch faces as well. It features 10ATM water resistance.

Also Read: Amazfit Cheetah Series Launched In India: Smartwatches Designed for Runners featuring GPS Technology & AI Coaching

Also Read: Amazfit Launches the Amazfit Active Smartwatch: Price, Specifications & Availability

Also Read: Amazfit Active Edge Set to Launch in India Soon; Amazon Microsite Goes Live

Huawei Pocket 2 Launched in China with Kirin 9000S Chipset: Pricing, Features, Specs, and, More

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Highlights

  • Huawei Pocket 2 debuts with aerospace-grade hinge and LTPO OLED display.
  • Features Kirin 9000S processor, up to 1TB storage, and HarmonyOS 4.0.
  • Offers XMAGE quad-camera setup and two-way satellite communication.
  • Priced from 7,499 CNY, pre-orders start February 22nd, sales on March 1st.

In an era where the foldable smartphone market is rapidly expanding, Huawei is expanding the segment with the launch of the Huawei Pocket 2 in China.

This device not only refines the concept of foldable technology but also integrates advanced features, marking a notable evolution from its predecessor, the Pocket S.

Huawei Pocket 2 debuts with aerospace-grade hinge
Huawei Pocket 2 debuts with aerospace-grade hinge

With its sleek design, cutting-edge specs, and the promise of enhanced durability, the Pocket 2 could set a new benchmark for what consumers can expect from a foldable smartphone.

Sadlu Huawei is keeping the phone’s availability limited to the Chinese market.

Battery: 4,520mAh, 66W wired, 40W wireless fast charging
Device Battery: 4,520mAh, 66W wired, 40W wireless fast charging

Huawei Pocket 2: Pricing and Availability

Huawei Pocket 2: Pricing and Availability
Huawei Pocket 2: Pricing and Availability

The Huawei Pocket 2 is available in several attractive colour options including Tahitian Gray, Rococo White, Taro Purple, and Elegant Black, with the latter two featuring a sophisticated leather back.

Pricing starts at 7,499 CNY (approximately Rs 87,555) for the base model with 256GB storage.

Huawei Pocket 2 debuts with aerospace-grade hinge and LTPO OLED display
Huawei Pocket 2 debuts with LTPO OLED display

The 512GB and 1TB models are priced at 7,999 CNY (approximately Rs 93,470) and 8,999 CNY (approximately Rs 1,05,302) respectively.

The special Art Custom Edition, boasting a 3D texture design and enhanced memory, is set at 10,999 CNY (approximately Rs 1,28,460).

Pre-orders begin on February 22nd, 2024, with sales starting on March 1st, 2024.

Huawei Pocket 2: Key Specs

Huawei Pocket 2: Key Specs
Huawei Pocket 2: Key Specs
  • Display: 6.94-inch LTPO OLED, 2690 x 1136 resolution, 1-120Hz refresh rate.
  • Processor: Kirin 9000S.
  • Memory: Up to 1TB storage, 12GB RAM, expandable via NM card.
  • Battery: 4,520mAh, 66W wired, 40W wireless fast charging.
  • Camera: XMAGE quad-camera setup, 50MP primary sensor, 10.7MP front camera.
  • Software: Runs HarmonyOS 4.0.
  • Connectivity: Dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C, NFC.
  • Extras: Two-way satellite communication, UV Sunscreen test mode.
Connectivity: Dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C, NFC
Device Connectivity: Dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C, NFC

Huawei Pocket 2: Features

Huawei Pocket 2: Features
Huawei Pocket 2: Features

The Huawei Pocket 2 uses a clamshell folding design, supported by a newly developed hinge made from aerospace-grade “rocket steel” and 2nd generation Kulun glass technology.

This innovation not only offers a slim profile at just 7.25mm when unfolded but also ensures an IPX8 water resistance rating, showing that the entire handset is quite durable.

Huawei Pocket 2 uses a clamshell folding design
Huawei Pocket 2 uses a clamshell folding design

At the heart of its design is a 6.94-inch primary LTPO OLED screen, boasting a high resolution and an adaptive refresh rate for smooth visuals, complemented by a convenient 1.15-inch cover display for at-a-glance notifications.

Huawei Pocket 2 Launched in China with Kirin 9000S Chipset
Huawei Pocket 2 Launched in China with Kirin 9000S Chipset

Powering these displays, the Kirin 9000S processor ensures top-tier performance across all tasks, from gaming to multitasking.

phone packs in an XMAGE quad camera setup
Phone packs in an XMAGE quad camera setup

The phone packs in an XMAGE quad camera setup, which brings together a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 2MP hyperspectral camera for diverse shooting scenarios.

Huawei's commitment to innovation despite being shackled by the US trade sanctions till this very date
Huawei’s commitment to innovation despite being shackled by the US trade sanctions till this very date

Moreover, the device’s support for two-way satellite communication and a unique UV Sunscreen test mode can be considered a testament to Huawei’s commitment to innovation despite being shackled by the US trade sanctions till this very date.

Display: 6.94-inch LTPO OLED, 2690 x 1136 resolution, 1-120Hz refresh rate
Device Display: 6.94-inch LTPO OLED, 2690 x 1136 resolution, 1-120Hz refresh rate

Huawei Pocket 2 is the first ever clamshell foldable smartphone to launch with four rear camera units.

Huawei Pocket 2 is the first ever clamshell foldable smartphone
Huawei Pocket 2 is the first ever clamshell foldable smartphone

Huawei Pocket 2 is Offered in Elegant Black, Rococo White, Tahitian Grey, and Taro Purple colourways.

Memory: Up to 1TB storage, 12GB RAM, expandable via NM card
Device Memory: Up to 1TB storage, 12GB RAM, expandable via NM card

There is also an Art version of the Huawei Pocket 2 available.

This is the first Huawei of this type to implement a waterdrop hinge for zero gap.

Huawei of this type to implement a waterdrop hinge for zero gap
Huawei Priced from 7,499 CNY, pre-orders start February 22nd, sales on March 1st

Huawei put a 6.94” foldable LPTO OLED on the inside.

According to Huawei, the hyperspectral camera can detect UV intensity, suggesting you to apply sunscreen protection on your face, and even detect deep sunspots.

Features Kirin 9000S processor, up to 1TB storage, and HarmonyOS 4.0
Features Kirin 9000S processor, up to 1TB storage, and HarmonyOS 4.0

The phone supports two-way satellite messaging through Beidou, the Chinese satellite navigation system.

Features Kirin 9000S processor, up to 1TB storage, and HarmonyOS 4.0
Phone supports two-way satellite messaging through Beidou

Huawei Pocket 2 Specs

GENERAL

Country of Origin China
Sim Type Dual Sim, GSM+GSM (Hybrid Slot)
Dual Sim Yes
Sim Size Nano SIM
Device Type Smartphone
Release Date March 02, 2024 (Expected)

DESIGN

Dimensions 75.5 x 170 x 7.25 mm
Weight 199 g
Colors Tahitian Grey, Rococo White, Taro Purple, Elegant Black

DISPLAY

Type Color OLED Screen (1.07B)
Touch Yes, 300 Hz Touch Sampling Rate
Size 6.94 inches, 1136 x 2690 pixels, 120 Hz
Aspect Ratio 22:9
PPI ~ 420 PPI
Screen to Body Ratio ~ 85.1%
Glass Type Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Features 1440 Hz High-Frequency Pwm Dimming
Notch Yes, Punch Hole
Foldable Display Yes
Dual Display Yes, OLED, 1.15 inches, 340 x 340 pixels, 296 ppi, Supports 1-60 Hz Ltpo Adaptive Refresh Rate, 120 Hz Touch Sampling Rate

MEMORY

RAM 12 GB
Storage 256 GB
Card Slot Yes, (Hybrid Slot), upto 512 GB

CONNECTIVITY

GPRS Yes
EDGE Yes
3G Yes
4G Yes
5G No
VoLTE Yes, Dual Stand-By
Wifi Yes, with wifi-hotspot
Wifi Version 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax, 2 × 2 MIMO
Bluetooth Yes, v5.2, A2DP, LE
USB Yes, USB-C v2.0
USB Features USB Tethering, USB on-the-go, USB Charging

EXTRA

GPS yes with A-GPS, Galileo, Glonass, BeiDou, QZSS, NavIC
Fingerprint Sensor Yes, Side
Face Unlock Yes
Sensors Gyro, Accelerometer, Proximity, Compass, Barometer, Color Spectrum
3.5mm Headphone Jack No
NFC Yes
Water Resistance Yes
IP Rating IPX8
Dust Resistant Yes

CAMERA

Rear Camera 50 MP f/1.6 (Wide Angle)
12 MP f/2.2 (Ultra Wide)
8 MP f/2.4 (Telephoto)
2 MP f/2 (Hyperspectral) with autofocus
Features Fluorescent Photography, Mirror Smart Shooting, Treasure Chest, Macro Video, Video Hdr Vivid, Macro Picture-In-Picture, Telephoto Picture-In-Picture, Micro Movie, High Pixel Mode, Time-Lapse Photography, Super Wide Angle, Large Aperture Blur, Double Scene Video Recording, Super Night Scene, Super Macro, Portrait Mode, Professional Mode, Slow Motion, Panorama Mode, Smart Filter, Watermark, Document Correction, AI Photography Master, Dynamic Photo, 4D Predictive Focus Tracking, Smiley Face Capture, Voice-Activated Photo, Timed Photo , Continuous Shooting, Snapshot, Streamer Shutter, Multi-Camera
Video Recording 4K, 1080p
Flash Yes, LED
Front Camera Punch Hole 10.7 MP f/2.2 (Ultra Wide)
Front Video Recording 4K, 1080p

TECHNICAL

OS HarmonyOS v4.0
Chipset Kirin 9000S
CPU Octa Core Processor
Core Details 4×2.4 GHz Kryo 670 & 4×1.8 GHz Kryo 670
GPU Adreno 642L
Java No
Browser Yes

MULTIMEDIA

Email Yes
Music *.mp3, *.mp4, *.3gp, *.ogg, *.amr, *.aac, *.flac, *.wav, *.midi
Video *.3gp, *.mp4
FM Radio No
Document Reader Yes

BATTERY

Type Non-Removable Battery
Size 4520 mAh
Fast Charging Yes, 66W Fast Charging
Wireless Charging Yes, 40W
Reverse Charging Yes
Reverse Wireless Charging Yes, 7.5W

FAQs

What is the price of Huawei Pocket 2?

The starting price of Huawei Pocket 2 is 7,499 CNY, which approximately converts to Rs 87,555 for the base model with 256GB storage in India.

Can the Huawei Pocket 2’s storage be expanded?

Yes, the Huawei Pocket 2 supports storage expansion up to 512GB via an NM memory card, alongside its up to 1TB onboard storage options.

What makes the Huawei Pocket 2’s camera system unique?

The Huawei Pocket 2 features an XMAGE quad camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor, offering advanced photography capabilities including OIS, ultra-wide, telephoto zoom, and a hyperspectral camera.

How does the Huawei Pocket 2’s display stand out?

The device boasts a 6.94-inch LTPO OLED primary display with a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate and a secondary 1.15-inch cover screen, providing high-resolution, vibrant visuals and convenience.

What advanced features does the Huawei Pocket 2 offer?

Huawei Pocket 2 introduces two-way satellite communication and a UV Sunscreen test mode, highlighting the brand’s innovation in foldable smartphone technology.

Also Read: Huawei’s Kirin 9000S Drives Comeback in Global Chipset Market: Report

Also Read: Huawei Pocket 2 Set for Launch on 22nd February; Leaked Specs Paint a Partial Picture

Effective Android 15 Notification Management Tips for a Cleaner Interface

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Effective Android 15 Notification Management Tips for a Cleaner Interface

Highlights

  • Prioritize notifications with Android 15’s customizable settings for focused attention.
  • Utilize Notification Channels for granular control over app alerts.
  • Turn off non-essential notifications to declutter your interface.
  • Embrace Do Not Disturb mode for uninterrupted focus and privacy.

The sheer volume of notifications from various apps and services in today’s smartphone landscape can easily become a source of distraction and overwhelm the user.

Luckily Google’s recent Android 15 developer preview offers several features and strategies to help users effectively manage their notification influx.

Here are some streamlined tips to keep your notification bar clean and relevant.

Streamline Notification Importance

Streamline Notification Importance
Android 15 Streamline Notification Importance

Android 15 introduces a system where notifications can be categorized based on their priority levels – high, medium, or low.

This categorization helps in focusing on what’s urgent while keeping less critical alerts at bay.

Tailor your notification preferences for individual apps to ensure that only the most pertinent notifications grab your attention.

Features like muting specific apps or employing the notification cooldown option are pivotal in achieving this.

Leverage Notification Channels

Leverage Notification Channels
Android 15 Leverage Notification Channels

Apart from that Android 15 also enhances notification management through the use of Notification Channels.

This feature segments notifications from a single app into various categories, allowing for granular control over different types of alerts.

It also helps you in distinguishing between email alerts, social media updates, or news notifications.

Disable Non-Essential Alerts

Disable Non-Essential Alerts
Android 15 Disable Non-Essential Alerts

A straightforward strategy to maintain notification sanity is to disable alerts that don’t serve your immediate needs.

Non-essential notifications, often from gaming or retail apps, can clutter your notification space and distract you from important alerts.

Android 15 provides the flexibility to disable notifications from specific apps or to universally silence them.

Opting for silent notifications or completely turning off notification sounds are additional measures to ensure a less intrusive notification experience.

Embrace Do Not Disturb Mode

Embrace Do Not Disturb Mode
Android 15 Embrace Do Not Disturb Mode

To minimize distractions, Android 15’s Do Not Disturb (DND) mode offers a sanctuary from the constant barrage of notifications and calls.

This feature can be activated manually for immediate peace or scheduled to align with your daily routines, ensuring uninterrupted focus or rest periods.

DND mode isn’t an all-or-nothing tool; it allows for customization to permit vital notifications and calls from selected contacts or apps, ensuring you’re reachable when it truly matters.

Fine-tune Lock Screen Notifications

Fine-tune Lock Screen Notifications
Android 15 Fine-tune Lock Screen Notifications

For those concerned with privacy, managing what appears on your lock screen is crucial.

Android 15 grants you control over lock screen notifications, allowing you to conceal the content of notifications or disable them entirely on the lock screen.

This ensures sensitive information remains private.

Additionally, settings can be adjusted to display notifications only upon device unlocking, balancing convenience and privacy.

Leverage Notification Snooze

Leverage Notification Snooze
Android 15 Leverage Notification Snooze

The Notification Snooze feature, first seen in Android 8.0, introduces a way to manage notifications proactively.

This function allows you to temporarily dismiss notifications, which will reappear at a later time of your choosing.

Ideal for when you’re momentarily busy but want to ensure you address the notification later, snoozing is as simple as swiping the notification aside and selecting the snooze duration.

FAQs

How can I effectively prioritize notifications on my Android 15 device?

On Android 15, you can effectively prioritize notifications by customizing the importance level for each app’s notifications.

This system allows you to categorize alerts into high, medium, or low priority, ensuring that critical notifications catch your eye immediately, while less urgent ones can be dealt with later.

What benefits do Notification Channels offer for managing notifications on Android 15?

Notification Channels on Android 15 provide a sophisticated method for managing notifications by categorizing them into distinct channels within the same app.

This feature is especially beneficial for apps that send a variety of notifications, such as different types of messages or updates.

Is it possible to disable notifications that aren’t necessary on Android 15, and how does it improve user experience?

Yes, Android 15 enables users to disable notifications that they deem non-essential, directly from the notification settings of each app or globally through the system settings.

This capability is crucial for minimizing distractions, as it allows you to silence alerts from apps that frequently send notifications of low personal relevance, such as games or shopping apps.

Can you explain how Do Not Disturb mode on Android 15 can be customized for different scenarios?

Do Not Disturb (DND) mode on Android 15 is highly customizable, making it a powerful tool for managing your digital well-being. You can activate DND manually for immediate silence or schedule it to automatically engage during specific times, such as meetings or bedtime.

Furthermore, DND mode allows for exceptions, where you can permit notifications from selected contacts or apps to bypass the silence.

What new security features does Android 15 offer?

Android 15 is set to improve security with a feature aimed at protecting one-time passwords (OTPs) for two-factor authentication, using a new permission called “RECEIVE_SENSITIVE_NOTIFICATIONS”.

How does Android 15 plan to address notification overload?

The operating system introduces a “Notification Cooldown” feature, which reduces the volume of successive notifications from the same source, helping manage the barrage of alerts users often face.

Will the Pixel 5a receive the Android 15 update?

No, the Pixel 5a will not be eligible for the Android 15 update, as Google’s Developer Preview is limited to the Pixel 6 series and later devices.

How can I test the Android 15 Developer Preview?

The Developer Preview for Android 15 is currently available for a range of Pixel devices including the Pixel 6, 7, 8 series, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet. Users must manually download and flash their devices to access the preview.

What are the benefits of the “Notification Cooldown” feature in Android 15?

This feature aims to reduce the disturbance caused by repeated notifications without completely silencing them, providing a quieter and less disruptive experience.

What is the Android 15 Developer Preview?

The Android 15 Developer Preview is the latest release by Google, designed to offer developers an early look at the new features and capabilities of Android 15. It aims to enhance developer productivity, app performance, and user privacy.

How can developers participate in the Android 15 Developer Preview?

Developers can participate by flashing a system image onto a compatible Pixel device or using the 64-bit system images with the Android Emulator in Android Studio. Feedback and testing are encouraged to improve Android 15.

What is the timeline & update of android 15?

Google outlines a timeline for Android 15’s development, including Developer Previews, Beta releases, and the final release to the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) and ecosystem.

February: Developer Preview 1 (Early version for developer feedback, with new features, APIs, and behavior changes).

March: Developer Preview 2 (Update with more features, APIs, and behavior changes).

April: Beta 1 (First beta-quality release, available via over-the-air update to early adopters in Android Beta).

May: Beta 2 (Incremental beta-quality release).

June: Beta 3 (Marks Platform Stability milestone with final APIs and behaviors, and opens Play publishing).

July, August: Beta 4, … (Near-final builds for final testing).

Final release: Android 15 released to AOSP and ecosystem.

How to get started with Android 15?

Getting Started with Android 15 – Developer Preview 1

The First Developer Preview of Android 15 is currently available for the following Pixel devices, exclusively catering to developers for testing purposes and not intended for daily consumer use:

Pixel 8 and 8 Pro
Pixel 7, 7 Pro and 7a
Pixel 6, 6 Pro and 6a
Pixel Fold
Pixel Tablet

Google encourages developers to engage with the Developer Preview to provide feedback and prepare for the upcoming Android 15 release.

What are the privacy & security features of Android 15?

Privacy and Security Measures

Android 15 introduces features to safeguard user privacy and security:

Privacy Sandbox: Upgrades Android AD Services to extension level 10, incorporating the latest Privacy Sandbox for personalized advertising experiences while prioritizing user privacy.

Health Connect: Integrates Android 14 extensions 10, offering a secure platform to manage and share health data collected by apps.

File Integrity: Introduces FileIntegrityManager with enhanced security features utilizing fs-verity to prevent unauthorized file modifications or malware attacks.

Partial Screen Sharing: Supports sharing or recording specific app windows for improved user consent and privacy.

What Pixel devices are compatible with Android 15?

While Google now has an industry-leading software commitment on the Pixel 8 series, older Pixel devices still only get three years of major Android updates.

As such, the Android 15 Developer Preview marks a preview of the end of life for a few Pixel devices. Specifically, Pixels released in 2020 and early 2021 are dropping off including the Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a.

As for what Pixel devices are compatible with Android 15, the list is as follows:

Pixel 6
Pixel 6 Pro
Pixel 6a
Pixel 7
Pixel 7 Pro
Pixel 7a
Pixel Tablet
Pixel Fold
Pixel 8
Pixel 8 Pro

By the time Android 15 formally debuts later this year, Google will likely have also added Pixel 8a, a Pixel Fold sequel, and the Pixel 9 series to that list, but that’s all a long way off.

When does the Android 15 Beta start?

Yearly Android releases typically begin with a couple of developer preview releases. This year, Google says there will be two previews released in February and March. Then, in April, the Android 15 Beta program will officially begin.

Google estimates there will be five Android 15 Beta releases in April, May, June, and July leading up to a final release soon after. Android 14 launched unexpectedly late in October 2023, so it remains to be seen if Android 15 will follow suit or move back to its September slot.

How to install the Android 15 Developer Preview on Pixel?

During the developer preview stage, you can only sideload Android 15 builds on Pixel devices. The update is not available through over-the-air updates.

That functionality is reserved for the later beta releases. If you are not familiar with sideloading updates manually, we strongly encourage you to wait for the final release. But if you just can’t wait to get your hands on the latest and greatest, here’s how to install it.

Download the needed files
Boot into Recovery mode
Navigate to ADB sideload
Connect the handset to a computer with ADB tools installed
Enter the sideload command
Reboot your phone
The following process explains how to install the OTA update, not a factory image.

How does Android 15 Support for Creators ?

Android 15 provides tools and hardware support for creators, including:

In-app Camera Controls: Offers more control over camera hardware and algorithms, facilitating low light enhancements and flash adjustments.

Virtual MIDI 2.0 Devices: Extends support to virtual MIDI apps, enabling composition apps to control synthesizers effectively.

Performance and Quality Enhancements

Android 15 focuses on enhancing app quality and performance:

Dynamic Performance: Expands the Android Dynamic Performance Framework (ADPF) with power-efficiency modes and thermal management capabilities.

Developer Productivity

Android 15 continues to enhance developer productivity by adding OpenJDK APIs and quality-of-life improvements, ensuring compatibility with over a billion devices running Android 12+.

What is the fastest method to Download Android 15?

For the faster method with an OTA, here’s how to do it.

You can download the OTA file from Google’s Full OTA Image hosting site. That site contains OTA downloads for sideloading different updates, including Android 14, on every Pixel and Nexus device ever made, so you’ll need to scroll down to ensure you are downloading the file that associates with your device. OTA downloads are available here.

For the Android 15 Developer Preview, only Pixel 6/Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7/Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel 8/Pro are available. Basically, you won’t be able to install it on any Pixels not running a Tensor processor, including the original Pixel/XL, Pixel 2/XL, Pixel 3/XL, Pixel 3a/XL, Pixel 4/XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, or Pixel 5a.

How to install the Android 15 Developer Preview on your Pixel ?

First, you can install a Factory Image, which wipes your phone and starts everything from scratch. Alternatively, there’s an OTA file, which installs over your current version of Android without wiping your phone.

When installing a developer preview, it’s actually good practice to install a factory image rather than an OTA, as you’ll see fewer issues with that. Google even directly says it could cause issues this year.

However, the process there is a bit more complicated, including unlocking your bootloader, resetting you device, and more. If you want to go down that route, Google has instructions available.

What You Should Know Before Installing Android 15 Preview 1?

This is a preview, and features may change, or Google may remove them before the final release. Stability and bug-free operation can’t be guaranteed in this early stage. So, if you’re planning to install the Android 15 Preview 1, be ready to face many issues.

Enabling/Disabling “Notification Cooldown” on Android 15?

Google’s enabled this feature automatically in the developer preview, but if you’re using it, here’s how to customize it:

Open your device’s “Settings” app.
Tap on “Notifications”.
Scroll down and choose “Notification Cooldown”.
Your options:
“Apply cooldown to all notifications” for comprehensive quiet.
“Apply cooldown to conversations” to target chattiness.
“Don’t use notification cooldown” to turn the feature off entirely.

Also Read: Google Launches Android 15 Developer Preview with Enhanced Features: What You Need to Know

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Devices Set for Android 15 Update Unveiled

Also Read: Android 15 Beta Brings Key Security Update, Notification Features; Pixel 5a Excluded From Early Access

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition Launching in India Next Week: Price, Features, and More

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OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition

Highlights

  • Special “electro violet” design with Genshin Impact’s Keqing animation.
  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC powers the themed smartphone.
  • 5,500mAh battery supports 100W SUPERVOOC charging.
  • Exclusive lucky draw contest offers free phone and 1,000 Primogems.

OnePlus is gearing up to enthrall its fans in India with the much-anticipated launch of the OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition, a special edition smartphone that marries the cutting-edge technology of OnePlus with the fantastical world of Genshin Impact.

This collaboration is set to bring the beloved character Keqing from the action-packed RPG game into the palms of OnePlus enthusiasts.

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition, a special edition smartphone
Special “electro violet” design with Genshin Impact’s Keqing animation

Mark your calendars for February 28th, as OnePlus unveils this special edition in India, coinciding with its global debut.

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: How to Get it

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: How to Get it
OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: How to Get it

The OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition has now got a dedicated microsite by OnePlus India.

Fans are invited to hit the ‘Notify me’ button for a chance to participate in a lucky draw contest, where the grand prize is none other than the Genshin OnePlus 12R itself.

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition Launching in India Next Week
OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition Launch Survey

Additionally, 40 lucky participants will walk away with 1,000 Primogems, the in-game currency of Genshin Impact, and everyone else will snag a Rs 1,000 discount coupon towards the purchase of this exciting new smartphone.

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: What’s New

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: How to Get it
OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: What’s New

As for the OnePlus 12R Edition itself, the handset is dressed in an eye-catching “electro violet” hue, and boasts an animation electro-etched on its back, bringing a piece of the Genshin Impact universe to life.

The customization doesn’t stop there; expect to find a violet-colored wallpaper, special packaging, and exclusive merchandise, making it a collector’s dream.

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: Specs

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: Specs
OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition: Specs

Under the hood, the OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition is rumoured to have the same internals as the regular OnePlus 12R.

This would include the formidable Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, ensuring that it keeps up with the fast-paced action of Genshin Impact without breaking a sweat.

The triple rear camera setup features a 50MP primary sensor complemented by 8MP and 2MP sensors, and a 16MP front camera.

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition Launching in India Next Week
OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition Launching in India Next Week

Battery life won’t be a concern, thanks to a robust 5,500mAh battery equipped with 100W SUPERVOOC wired charging.

The device is also expected to run on Android 14-based OxygenOS 14, offering a smooth and intuitive user experience.

OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition
OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition Launching on Februrary 28

The OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition will also have the same 6.78-inch LTPO 4.0 AMOLED display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and a 4500 nits peak brightness.

Finally, the panel will be protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2,  making the panel stunning and durable.

ONEPLUS 12R SPECIFICATIONS

Key Specs

RAM 12 GB
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
Rear Camera 50 MP + 8 MP + 32 MP
Front Camera 16 MP
Battery 5500 mAh
Display 6.7 inches (17.02 cm)

General

Launch Date January 24, 2024 (Unofficial)
Operating System Android v14
Custom UI Oxygen OS

Performance

Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
CPU Octa core (3.2 GHz, Single core, Cortex X3 + 2.8 GHz, Quad core, Cortex A715 + 2 GHz, Tri core, Cortex A510)
Architecture 64 bit
Fabrication 4 nm
Graphics Adreno 740
RAM 12 GB
RAM Type LPDDR5

Display

Display Type AMOLED
Screen Size 6.7 inches (17.02 cm)
Resolution 1200 x 2712 pixels
Pixel Density 443 ppi
Bezel-less display Yes with punch-hole display
Touch Screen Yes, Capacitive Touchscreen, Multi-touch
Refresh Rate 120 Hz

Camera

MAIN CAMERA
Camera Setup Triple
Resolution 50 MP, Primary Camera
8 MP, Ultra-Wide Angle Camera
32 MP , Telephoto Camera
Autofocus Yes
OIS Yes
Flash Yes, LED Flash
Image Resolution 8150 x 6150 Pixels
Settings Exposure compensation, ISO control
Shooting Modes Continuous Shooting
High Dynamic Range mode (HDR)
Camera Features Digital Zoom
Auto Flash
Face detection
Touch to focus
FRONT CAMERA
Camera Setup Single
Resolution 16 MP, Primary Camera
Video Recording 1920×1080 @ 30 fps

Battery

Capacity 5500 mAh
Type Li-Polymer
Removable No
Quick Charging Yes, Super VOOC, 100W
USB Type-C Yes

Storage

Internal Memory 256 GB
Expandable Memory No

Network & Connectivity

SIM Slot(s) Dual SIM, GSM+GSM
SIM Size SIM1: Nano, SIM2: Nano
Network Support 5G Supported in India, 4G Supported in India, 3G, 2G
VoLTE Yes
SIM 1
5G Bands:
FDD N3
TDD N40
4G Bands:
TD-LTE 2300(band 40)
FD-LTE 1800(band 3)
3G Bands:
UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz
2G Bands:
GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz
GPRS:
Available
EDGE:
Available
SIM 2
5G Bands:
FDD N3
TDD N40
4G Bands:
TD-LTE 2300(band 40)
FD-LTE 1800(band 3)
3G Bands:
UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz
2G Bands:
GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz
GPRS:
Available
EDGE:
Available
Wi-Fi Yes, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) 5GHz
Wi-Fi Features Mobile Hotspot
Bluetooth Yes, v5.2
GPS Yes with A-GPS, Glonass
NFC Yes
USB Connectivity Mass storage device, USB charging

Multimedia

Loudspeaker Yes
Audio Jack USB Type-C

Sensors

Fingerprint Sensor Yes
Fingerprint Sensor Position On-screen
Fingerprint Sensor Type Optical
Other Sensors Light sensor, Proximity sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope

FAQs

What is the OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition?

The OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition is a special version of the OnePlus smartphone, themed around the popular RPG game Genshin Impact, featuring exclusive design elements and in-game rewards.

When will the OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition be available in India?

The OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition will be launched in India on February 28th, coinciding with its global release.

How can I participate in the OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition lucky draw?

Visit the OnePlus India microsite, click on ‘Notify me’, and enter the contest for a chance to win the Genshin OnePlus 12R or other in-game rewards.

What are the key specifications of the OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition?

Key specs include a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP primary sensor, a 5,500mAh battery with 100W charging, and a 6.78-inch LTPO 4.0 AMOLED display.

Are there any special offers with the OnePlus 12R Genshin Impact Edition launch?

Yes, besides the chance to win the phone itself, participants can win 1,000 Primogems or a Rs 1,000 discount coupon for purchasing the smartphone.

Also Read: OnePlus 12R First Impressions and Unboxing: The New Flagship Contender?

Also Read: OnePlus 12R Review: A High-Performance Smartphone at a Mid-Range Price

Also Read: OnePlus 12R and OnePlus Buds 3 Open Sale Starting Today: Price, Offers, Specs, and All You Need to Know

Also Read: OnePlus 12 vs OnePlus 12R Camera Showdown: Which Delivers Better Photos?

Also Read: OnePlus 12R Offers Full Refund Over UFS Storage Mix-Up: Here’s How You Can Avail it

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

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Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Pricing, Colours and Availability

HIGHLIGHTS

* Xiaomi 14 Ultra is official in China and will be globally introduced at MWC on Sunday.
* The phone features a 1-inch image sensor, quad camera system co-engineered with Leica, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, AISP neural chip, Surge T1 communication chip, Dragon Armor design, IP68 rating, satellite connectivity, and a 6.73″ AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate.
* 14 Ultra’s price in China starts at RMB 6,499 (approx Rs 74,900).
* New to the mix is Xiaomi’s custom AISP neural chip, which promises enhanced zoom and image processing through four proprietary AI models.

Xiaomi’s latest addition to its flagship lineup, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, has officially been introduced to the market, making waves with its cutting-edge technology and collaboration with Leica.

The new Xiaomi phone comes as a successor to the Xiaomi 13 Ultra.

Designed to meet the demands of tech enthusiasts and photography aficionados alike, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra can be considered a standout device, boasting an impressive array of features wrapped in a sleek design.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra is official in China and will be globally introduced at MWC on Sunday
Xiaomi 14 Ultra is official in China and will be globally introduced at MWC on Sunday

Launched initially in China, this smartphone will be unveiled to the global audience as well at MWC 2024 in about three days.

Here’s all you need to know about the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Pricing, Colours and Availability

Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Pricing, Colours and Availability
Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Pricing, Colours and Availability

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is offered in various configurations, starting at CNY 6,499 for the base model with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, scaling up to CNY 7,799 for the premium 16GB + 1TB variant.

For those seeking something even more exclusive, the Titanium model, priced at CNY 8,799, offers unparalleled style and storage capacity.

Available in an array of colours including Black, White, and Blue, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is set to go on sale on February 27th, with the Titanium model following on March 3rd.

Alongside the smartphone, Xiaomi has also introduced an 80W wireless charger and a professional photography package, enhancing the user experience with complimentary charging solutions and photography enhancements.

Smartphone Configuration Price
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
12GB + 256GB CNY 6,499
(approx Rs 75,000)
16GB + 512GB CNY 6,999
(approx Rs 80,500)
16GB + 1TB CNY 7,799
(approx Rs 88,900)
16GB + 1TB
Titanium Version
CNY 8,799
(approx Rs 1,03,250)

Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Top Features at a Glance

Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Top Features at a Glance
Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Top Features at a Glance

* Display: 6.73-inch QHD+ LTPO OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, Dolby Vision.
* Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for top-tier performance.
* Storage Options: Up to 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage.
* Operating System: Android 14-based HyperOS.
* Camera Excellence: Leica optics, 50MP main camera, dual 50MP telephoto and ultrawide lenses.
* Selfie Camera: 32MP front shooter.
* Battery Life: 5,300mAh capacity with 90W wired and 80W wireless charging.
* Connectivity Suite: 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, USB-C

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with the flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor paired with an Adreno 750 GPU for exceptional performance and efficiency.

With up to 16GB of LPDDR5× RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, users can expect seamless multitasking b ample storage space for their media and apps.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with the flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor
Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with the flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 silicon is boosted by Xiaomi’s new Surge T1 communication chip.

The Surge T1 allegedly unlocks up to 37% faster cellular speeds in addition to gains in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Cooling the advanced internals is a dual vapour chamber design that also draws heat away from the quad camera setup.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra has Leica-tuned camera system aimed at delivering stunning photograpAPP results.

The phone features a 1-inch image sensor, quad camera system co-engineered with Leica
The phone features a 1-inch image sensor, quad camera system co-engineered with Leica

The device features a 50MP Sony LYT900 main camera, complemented by two 50MP Sony IMX858 telephoto zoom lenses and a 50MP ultra-wide shooter.

This setup gives rich colours and exceptional detail in every shot.

For selfies and video calls, there’s a 32MP front camera housed within the punch-hole cutout.

New to the mix is Xiaomi’s custom AISP neural chip, which promises enhanced zoom and image processing through four proprietary AI models.

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a sleek design with a leather back panel, maintaining the premium aesthetic of its predecessor, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra.

14 Ultra’s price in China starts at RMB 6,499 (approx Rs 74,900)
14 Ultra’s price in China starts at RMB 6,499 (approx Rs 74,900)

It features a 6.73-inch QHD+ LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

Under this “Dragon Crystal” display lies an ultrasonic fingerprint reader for biometric authentication

The display has HDR10+ support, Dolby Vision, and a peak brightness of 3000 nits, ensuring an immersive viewing experience for users.

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra packs a big 5,300mAh battery that supports 90W wired fast charging and 80W wireless charging.

The battery features Xiaomi’s new silicon-carbon technology that allows 17% more capacity in 8% less space compared to last year’s model.

90W wired and 80W wireless charging support lightning-quick top-ups – a 50% charge takes just 12.5 minutes plugged in.

New to the mix is Xiaomi's custom AISP neural chip
New to the mix is Xiaomi’s custom AISP neural chip

Xiaomi 14 ultra has announced new features like satellite communication, enabling emergency communication via satellite in areas with no mobile network coverage.

Xiaomi claims 60% faster satellite locks and 29% faster connections compared to competing implementations.

The device also comes with a photography suit attachment that connects to the phone’s USB Type-C port.

This attachment packs a 1,500mAh battery and offers additional control over camera settings, including a wave wheel for adjusting modes and brightness, and a dedicated video recording shortcut button.

Xiaomi's latest addition to its flagship lineup, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra
Xiaomi’s latest addition to its flagship lineup, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra

It’s “Year of the Dragon” at XiaomiThe 14 Ultra sports a bold new “Dragon Armor” design centred around an aluminium alloy frame dubbed “6M42” – supposedly 8% stronger than even the iPhone 15 Pro’s titanium chassis.

The back and front are covered in what Xiaomi calls “Dragon Crystal” glass, which boasts 10x improved drop resistance compared to the 13 Ultra.

An IP68 rating protects from dust and liquids.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Accessories

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Accessories
Xiaomi 14 Ultra Accessories

Xiaomi has introduced the Xiaomi 14 Ultra camera grip, which features a dedicated camera button and connects to the Type-C port of the device.

It allows users to adjust the focus and aperture manually.

It packs a 1,500mAh battery with support for a USB Type-C port and 90W fast charging.

The camera grip is priced at CNY 999 (approx Rs 11,700).

Xiaomi has launched a satellite signal amplifier which also doubles a camera module cover and mobile phone holder.

It amplifies satellite signal by up to 129% to provide improved call quality and is priced at CNY 199 (approx Rs 2,300).

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Key Specs

GENERAL

Sim Type Dual Sim, GSM+GSM
Dual Sim Yes
Sim Size Nano+Nano SIM
Device Type Smartphone
Release Date December 22, 2023 (Expected)

DISPLAY

Type Color AMOLED Dot Display (1B Colors)
Touch Yes
Size 6.67 inches, 1440 x 3200 pixels, 144 Hz
Aspect Ratio 20:9
PPI ~ 515 PPI
Screen to Body Ratio ~ 91.4%
Glass Type Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2
Features HDR10+, AI display Supports, Sunlight Display 3.0, Display Mate A+, Reading Mmode 3.0, 360° Ambient Light Sensors 2.0, Curved Display
Notch Yes, Punch Hole

MEMORY

RAM 12 GB
Storage 256 GB
Storage Type UFS 4.0
Card Slot No

CONNECTIVITY

GPRS Yes
EDGE Yes
3G Yes
4G Yes
5G Yes
VoLTE Yes, Dual Stand-By
Vo5G Yes
Wifi Yes, with wifi-hotspot
Bluetooth Yes, v5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD
USB Yes, USB-C v2.0
USB Features USB Tethering, USB on-the-go, USB Charging
IR Blaster Yes

EXTRA

GPS Yes, with tri-band A-GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, NavIC Support
Fingerprint Sensor Yes, In Display
Face Unlock Yes
Sensors Proximity, Ambient Light Sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Electric Compass, Hall Sensor, X-axis Linear Motor, Grip Sensor, Barometer, Rear Light Sensor, Flicker Sensor, Multi-dot Laser Focus Sensor
3.5mm Headphone Jack No
Extra NFC
Water Resistance Yes, 1.5 m upto 30 min
IP Rating IP68
Dust Resistant Yes

CAMERA

Rear Camera 50 MP
50 MP
50 MP (periscope)
50 MP with autofocus
Features HDR, Night Mode 2.0, Ultra Night Photos, Portrait, AI Beauty, AI Smart Slimming, Custom Watermark,
Video Recording 8K, 4K, 1080p, 720p
Flash Yes, Dual LED
Front Camera Punch Hole 32 MP f/2.2 (Wide Angle) with Autofocus and Screen Flash
Front Video Recording 1080p, 720p

TECHNICAL

OS Android v14
Custom UI MIUI 14
Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen3
CPU Octa Core Processor
GPU Adreno GPU
IP Rating IP68
Java No
Browser Yes

MULTIMEDIA

Email Yes
Music MP3, FLAC, APE, AAC, OGG, WAV, WMA, AMR, AWB
Video MP4, MKV, AVI, WMV, WEBM, 3GP, ASF playback
FM Radio No
Document Reader Yes

BATTERY

Type Non-Removable Battery
Size 5000 mAh, Li-Po Battery
Fast Charging Yes, 120W Fast Charging
Wireless Charging Yes, 55W
Reverse Charging Yes, 15W

Faqs

What is Xiaomi 14 Ultra price ?

Available in black, blue, and white colourways, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra starts at CNY 6,499 (roughly Rs. 74,800) for the 12GB + 256GB option, while the 16GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB variants are priced at CNY 6,999 (roughly Rs. 80,600) and CNY 7,799 (roughly Rs. 89,800), respectively.

What is the price of Titanium Special Edition ?

There’s also a Titanium Special Edition ?variant of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra listed at CNY 8,799 (roughly Rs. 1,01,300) for the 16GB + 1TB configuration.

How is the camera of Xiaomi 14 Ultra ?

Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with a quad rear camera unit placed within a centred, large, slightly raised, circular module. It is led by a 1-inch 50-megapixel Sony LYT900 primary sensor with optical image stabilisation (OIS), alongside two 50-megapixel Sony IMX858 sensors – one with 3.2x optical and another with 5x optical zoom, with 75mm and 120mm focal length, respectively.

Meanwhile, the fourth 50-megapixel sensor is paired with an ultra-wide-angle lens. The front camera houses a 32-megapixel sensor.

How is the battery & charging of Xiaomi 14 Ultra ?

A 5,300mAh battery with support for 90W, 80W wireless and 10W reverse wireless charging backs the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.

What is the weight & dimension of Xiaomi 14 Ultra ?

Weighing about 224.4g, the black and white Xiaomi 14 Ultra measures 161.4mm x 75.3mm x 9.2mm in size.

The blue and titanium options of the model share similar dimensions but weigh 229.5g and 229.6g, respectively.

Also Read: Xiaomi 14 Ultra Set for Debut in China on 22nd February; Globally Launch to Take Place at MWC 2024

Also Read: Xiaomi 14 Ultra Set for Global Debut: Here’s How Its Expected Camera Specs Fare Against the Find X7 Ultra

Threads Latest App Update To Introduce Direct Camera Access and Draft Saving

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Threads Latest App Update To Introduce Direct Camera Access and Draft Saving

Highlights

  • Instant camera access for seamless photo sharing within Threads.
  • New draft saving feature enhances post-planning and editing.
  • Gradual rollout ensures a smooth introduction of new functionalities.
  • Meta’s commitment to innovation is reflected in continuous app enhancements.

Meta’s Threads app is rolling out exciting updates that promise to elevate the microblogging experience for its users.

With the introduction of direct camera access and the ability to save drafts, Threads is streamlining content creation and offering more flexibility in how users interact with the platform.

Direct Camera Access for Instant Sharing

Threads getting drafts and quick access to the camera
Threads getting drafts and quick access to the camera

As per 9to5Mac, the latest update introduces a camera button directly in the Threads composer, allowing users to quickly capture and share moments without leaving the app.

This feature aims to make photo sharing more immediate and integrated, enhancing the spontaneity of posts.

Draft Saving for Thoughtful Posting

Users have noticed a new “Drafts” option appearing in-stream, which enables them to save their unposted Threads
Users have noticed a new “Drafts” option appearing in-stream, which enables them to save their unposted Threads

Threads now enable users to save their posts as drafts, providing the convenience of revisiting and refining content before publishing.

This feature is designed for users who prefer to curate their posts or wish to post at a later time, adding a layer of flexibility to the content creation process.

Gradual Rollout and Future Prospects

Change Your Threads Username
New camera integration, will enable users to take photos in-stream (not video as yet).

Meta has announced that these features will be progressively made available to Threads users, indicating a phased approach to the rollout.

This deployment makes it clear that Meta’s commitment to refining user experience and adapting to feedback is taking place.

It ensures that the platform remains at the forefront of social media innovation.

Threads Rising in Popularity

Instagram-Threads-explained-9-640x853
Threads Rising in Popularity

In more recent news, according to data from Appfigures, Threads achieved an impressive 28 million downloads across both platforms last month, with 12 million on iOS and 16 million on Android.

Threads’ growing appeal is becoming quite evident as it outperformed well-established apps like Telegram, Snapchat, Spotify, and X/Twitter.

There is a reason for this suddent resurgence of Threads, which hadn’t featured in the top 10 most-downloaded apps list since August.

The app has started to incorporate enhanced sharing and discovery features and Instagram, the top-downloaded app in December, has been actively promoting Threads, further boosting its visibility and user base.

FAQs

What new features does the latest Threads app update include?

The latest update for Meta’s Threads app introduces two main features: direct camera access for instant photo sharing and the ability to save drafts for later editing or posting.

How does the new camera access feature work in Threads?

With the new update, Threads users can now quickly access their phone’s camera directly from the app’s composer, enabling them to capture and share photos more seamlessly than before.

Can I save a post as a draft in Threads?

Yes, the latest Threads update allows users to save their posts as drafts. This feature is designed for those who wish to revisit and refine their content before making it public.

When will the new Threads app features be available to all users?

Meta has announced a gradual rollout of the new features in Threads, indicating that they will become available to all users over time. Keep your app updated to access these updates as soon as they’re released.

What does the surge in Threads downloads indicate for Meta?

The increase in Threads downloads reflects Meta’s successful strategy in enhancing the app’s features and leveraging Instagram’s user base for promotion, signaling a shift in the social media landscape.

How does Threads’ popularity compare with other social media apps?

Threads has become the fourth most downloaded app on iOS and the eighth on Google Play, surpassing apps like X, suggesting a change in user preferences towards Meta’s offering.

Also Read: Instagram Threads Introduces New Edit and Voice Features to Boost User Engagement

Also Read: Threads Rolls Out New Feature for Separate Account Deletion from Instagram

Also Read: Threads Introduces New Tag Feature Amidst User Engagement Challenges

Foldable Phones Market Sees Notable Growth Amid Challenges; Samsung Still Leading the Pack

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Highlights

  • Foldable phone shipments hit 15.9 million units in 2023, marking a 25% year-on-year increase.
  • Despite advancements, foldable phones only represent 1.4% of the global smartphone market.
  • Samsung leads the market, though its share dips as Huawei and other brands make gains.
  • Cost optimization and technological advancements poised to drive future market growth.

The foldable phone market has carved out a niche for itself, registering a 25 percent year-on-year increase with shipments reaching 15.9 million units in 2023.

Despite these gains, foldable phones account for only about 1.4 percent of the overall smartphone market, a figure that mirrors projections for 2024.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Foldable Phones Market Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

The journey of foldable phones has not been without its hurdles.

Two significant challenges have emerged as central to the conversation around their adoption.

The first is consumer retention, which has been notably low.

Many first-time users of foldable phones report maintenance issues that erode confidence in the durability and reliability of these devices.

This dissatisfaction often leads them to revert to conventional high-end smartphones when seeking replacements.

Secondly, the pricing strategy for foldable phones has been a stumbling block.

Current price points have not hit the sweet spot with consumers, making it challenging for these innovative devices to compete on cost alone.

However, there’s a silver lining.

Experts from TrendForce highlight the potential for cost optimization, particularly through the standardization and mass production of critical components like Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) and hinges.

Additionally, an increase in foldable panel shipments from Chinese manufacturers, who offer a cost advantage over their Korean counterparts, could lead to more affordable foldable phone prices and, subsequently, higher market penetration rates.

Samsung Leads Amid Growing Competition

Samsung Leads Amid Growing Competition
Foldable Phones Market Samsung Leads Amid Growing Competition

Samsung continues to lead the pack, albeit with a slightly diminished market share, dropping from 80 percent in 2022 to under 70 percent in 2023.

Huawei, on the other hand, has made significant inroads, boosting its shipments to capture 12 percent of the market.

Other major players like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo maintain shares below 10 percent, each navigating the market with strategic caution and innovation.

As we look towards 2024, Samsung is aiming to stabilize its market share at around 60 percent.

Meanwhile, Huawei is not just content with its current success; it’s ambitiously eyeing a market share that exceeds 20 percent.

Oppo and Vivo are adjusting their strategies, shifting focus from smaller, vertically folding devices to larger, horizontally folding models due to cost-related profitability concerns.

In contrast, Huawei is set to unveil a 5G-enabled small vertical folding device, and Honor is gearing up to enter the compact foldable sector, heating the competition further.

FAQs

What was the growth rate of foldable phone shipments in 2023?

In 2023, the foldable phone market experienced a 25% increase in shipments, reaching 15.9 million units.

How do foldable phones compare to the overall smartphone market share?

Foldable phones accounted for about 1.4% of the total smartphone market in 2023, a figure that’s expected to remain consistent in 2024.

Why are consumers hesitant to adopt foldable phones?

Many users have reported maintenance issues with their foldable devices, leading to low consumer retention as people opt for more traditional high-end smartphones.

What are the major challenges facing the foldable phone market?

The foldable phone market is currently grappling with issues related to consumer retention due to device durability and high price points that have yet to appeal broadly to consumers.

How is Samsung performing in the foldable phone market?

Despite a slight decrease in market share, Samsung continues to lead the foldable phone market, with plans to maintain a significant presence moving forward.

Also Read: Samsung Clarifies No Plans for Mid-Range Foldable Smartphones in Future Lineup

Also Read: Samsung Display Set To Revamp To Meet Demand for Potential Apple Foldable

Also Read: Samsung Expands Self-Repair Program to Include Foldable Smartphones

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Fold5’s Foldable Screen Gets Military-Grade Durability; Rollable Display On the Horizon

 

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Professional Headphones Launched in India: Price, Features & Offers

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HIGHLIGHTS

* The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro headphones are designed to meet the demands of modern music production.
* The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO reference studio headphones are the perfect mix of clarity, comfort and reliability.
* Sennheiser HD 490 Pro is built to handle the complexities of today’s music production.
* It is company’s top-tier professional model.
* The design emphasises comfort, with a lightweight build and ergonomic design.
* The HD 490 PRO studio headphones deliver a wide, spatial sound stage with excellent localisation, enabling producers to create refined masters.

Sennheiser, the first choice for advanced audio technology that makes collaboration and learning easier, launched its brand-new open-back HD 490 PRO reference studio headphones, purpose-built for producing, mixing and mastering.

The circumaural, dynamic headphones feature highly precise sound reproduction and a very wide and realistic sound stage.

This superior accuracy and range give producers, mixing and mastering engineers, as well as musicians, the transparency they need for critical mixing decisions and for confidently resolving any panning placement issues.

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Professional Headphones
HD 490 PRO reference studio headphones, purpose-built for producing, mixing and mastering

“If you compare today’s music productions with that of ten, 20 years ago, you will notice how the massively increased computing power and complex parameter automation have changed the way in which music is made,” shares Vipin Pungalia, Country Manager & Director- Sales Pro Audio at Sennheiser. “In every genre, engineers and music creators are continuously pushing boundaries, creating extremely complex mixes that can be prone to so-called ‘audio blind spots’.

Mixes can be crowded and muddy, with too many instruments sitting at the same position and their frequencies competing. For the engineer or musician, it becomes difficult to hear each individual instrument or voice distinctly. This goes to show the importance of a good pair of studio headphones.”

 “When you’re creating music, the last thing you want is to be focusing on the fit of your headphones. The HD 490 PRO let you feel the music and forget about the headphones,” says Vipin Pungalia.

“All these features combine to enable music professionals to identify and resolve any panning placement issues and troublesome low-end frequencies – ensuring clear mixes and superbly refined masters,” explains Gunnar Dirks, Sennheiser Product Manager. “The HD 490 PRO studio headphones put you in full control of every detail.”

“The development of the HD 490 PRO was preceded by the biggest professional headphone survey we ever did, where users voted neutral and flat reference audio as the most important feature,” explains Gunnar Dirks. “However, when we took a look at market figures, we discovered that a slightly warmer sound was preferred over a 100% neutral response.

Therefore, we decided to give our customers two headphones in one – by providing two different sets of ear pads that were carefully designed to shape the sound differently.”

“If you are looking for studio headphones that give you the transparency and excellent localisation needed for crafting outstanding mixes, the HD 490 PRO are your choice,” says Gunnar Dirks.

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro quick Specifications
HD 490 PRO is delivered complete with two different sets of ear pads (mixing and producing) plus a 1.8 m headphone cable and a dearVR MIX-SE licence

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO is Sennheiser’s top-of-the range professional model for mixing, mastering and producing.

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Features & Specifications

Full-Spectrum Audio Accuracy

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Features & Specifications
Sennheiser HD 490 PRO is Sennheiser’s top-of-the range professional model for mixing, mastering and producing.

To tackle this complexity, the Sennheiser engineers have given the HD 490 PRO an extremely wide, dimensional sound stage for precisely localising the components of a mix.
Ultralight voice coils ensure a fast and authentic sound reproduction.

The frequency response is uncoloured and honest across the entire audio spectrum, with the low end being full, accurate, and clearly defined thanks to a special low-frequency cylinder.

The open-mesh ear cup covers reveal Sennheiser’s Open-frame Architecture, which minimises resonances and distortion.

For an optimal listening experience, the transducers sit at a slight angle, thereby emulating a typical monitor loudspeaker set-up.

The HD 490 PRO studio headphones deliver a wide, spatial sound stage with excellent localisation, enabling producers to create refined masters

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO studio headphones put users in full control of every detail of the mix.

A Pleasure to Wear

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Full-spectrum audio accuracy
HD 490 PRO studio headphones deliver a wide, spatial sound stage with excellent localisation, enabling producers to create refined masters

An excellent pair of studio headphones would only be half as good if it were uncomfortable.

Therefore, the Sennheiser engineers have put decades of experience from professional headset design into the HD 490 PRO.

Their lightweight, ergonomic design eliminates any pressure points, as the headband does not press on the sensitive parts of the head.

Also, the circumaural ear pads feature a Sennheiser-patented soft comfort zone for the temples of glasses while maintaining good sealing.

A patent has also been applied for regarding the special axes geometry of the HD 490 PRO.

This design makes sure that the headphones optimally adapt to the head when they are put on, and maintain an equal contact pressure no matter what the shape of the user’s head.

Two types of ear pads to perfectly adapt to the task at hand


The producing ear pads (velour) of the HD 490 PRO have a slightly warmer response to create perspective and help users make a holistic judgement of the sound.

The mixing ear pads (fabric), on the other hand, allow for a very flat, neutral sound that helps dive into detail when a sound reference is needed in finishing off a mix.

Both ear pads are washable – a solution that is both hygienic and sustainable.

The type of ear pad has a massive impact on sound reproductionwith the HD 490 PRO, users get two headphones in one.

With the producing ear pads reproduction is slightly warmer, while the mixing ear pads help to drill down on the individual frequencies.

A licence to dearVR MIX-SE
The HD 490 PRO includes a free licence for the innovative dearVR MIX-SE plugin from Dear Reality.

The plugin turns a DAW into an ultimate virtual mixing environment, simulating the carefully designed acoustics of ideal mixing studios.

Not only is the engineer or musician placed in the sweet spot, dear VR MIX-SE also helps them ensure a balanced and consistent translation of their mixes on different systems.

Attention to Detail

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro A Pleasure to Wear
Sennheiser engineers have put decades of experience from professional headset design into the HD 490 PR

The meticulous design of this top-of-the-range studio model does not stop with the accessories.

For example, the headphone cable can be plugged into the right or left ear piece of the HD 490 PRO to cater to different studio set-ups and preferences.

A patented cable coil structure ensures that the headphone cable does not transmit any noise when it hits the desk or rubs against the clothing.

The left/right designation is clearly visible on the inside dust covers of the transducers, while for the visually impaired, the headband fork carries braille information.

Each HD 490 PRO is delivered complete with two different sets of ear pads (mixing and producing) plus a 1.8 m headphone cable and a dearVR MIX-SE licence.

The HD 490 PRO Plus (pictured) includes a case, additional 3 m headphone cable and an extra fabric headband pad.

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Price India and Availability

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro Price India and Availability
HD 490 PRO includes a free licence for the innovative dearVR MIX-SE plugin from Dear Reality

The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro will retail at INR 34,500, and the HD 490 Pro Plus will be priced at INR 41,300, which is the maximum retail price (MRP).

However, customers can purchase the HD 490 Pro for INR 27,590 and the HD 490 Pro Plus for INR 32,990 exclusively on Amazon.

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro quick Specifications

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro quick Specifications
HD 490 PRO to cater to different studio set-ups and preferences

* Accoustic principle: Open
* Transducer principle: Dynamic; 38mm transducer
* Max. sound pressure level: 128dB
* Impedance: 130 Ω (1 kHz)
* Weight: 260 g (without cable)
* Dear Reality dearVR MIX-SE plugin included
* Two unique sets of washable, replaceable ear pads
* Box Contents (HD 490 PRO): 3.5 mm jack plug to 6.3 mm adapter,
1.8 m cable, mixing ear pads, producing ear pads, Quick Guide,
Safety Guide
* Box Contents (HD 490 PRO Plus): 3.5 mm jack plug to 6.3 mm adapter, 1.8 m cable, and 3 m cable, mixing ear pads, producing ear pads, extra headband pad, case, Quick Guide, Safety Guide
* Power rating: 300 mW

Faqs

What is the price of Sennheiser 490 Pro headphones ?

The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro and HD 490 Pro Plus retail for an MRP of Rs. 34,500 and Rs. 41,300, respectively.

What is the discounted price of Sennheiser 490 Pro headphones?

These are available via Amazon.in at discounted prices of Rs. 27,590 and Rs. 32,990, respectively.

What are the features of Sennheiser HD 490 Pro ?

Sennheiser HD 490 Pro headphones come with an extremely wide, dimensional sound staging for premium driver performance and a more authentic sound reproduction. Users can choose to plug the headphone cable into either the right or left earpiece, keeping in mind different studio setups and preferences.

Sennheiser has also eliminated the pressure points to ensure comfort during long hours of usage. They flaunt a unique, open-back design for natural ventilation, which the brand claims is to make hours of work ‘feel like minutes’.

Sennheiser has even provided two sets of ear pads- Velour for a warmer response and Fabric for a flat, more neutral sound output. Additionally, producers get a free license for the Dear Reality dearVR MIX-SE plugin with the headphones to transform a user’s digital audio workstation into a virtual mixing environment with the inclusion of spatial audio.

Lastly, Sennheiser HD 490 Pro also comes in a Plus variant that offers a trendy box, an additional 3m cable and an extra fabric headband pad.

What is the color available in Sennheiser HD 490 Pro ?

The newly announced studio headphones come in the Black colour variant.

Is there a Pro + version & Pro Pro + Version of the Sennheiser 490 HD Pro ?

Additionally, there is a Pro+ version of the headphones available for Rs 32,990.
The original price of the HD 490 Pro Pro+ version is mentioned as Rs 41,300.

Also Read: Sennheiser Profile USB Microphone: A Game-Changer in Audio Recording?

Also Read: Sennheiser at CES 2024: Momentum True Wireless 4, Momentum Sport, and Accentum Plus Revealed

Also Read: Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus Headphones Launched in India: Pricing, Features, Specs

WhatsApp Enhances Messaging with New Formatting Shortcuts: Here’s How to Use Them

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Highlights

  • Introduces four new text formatting shortcuts: Bulleted Lists, Numbered Lists, Block Quotes, Inline Code.
  • Available on iOS, Android, Web, and Mac desktop apps, including Channels for admins.
  • New chat lock feature for web users enhances privacy with pin-protected conversations.
  • Markdown-style syntax for easy integration and improved communication.

WhatsApp has rolled out an exciting update, introducing four new text formatting shortcuts to enhance your messaging experience.

Whether you’re using WhatsApp for official communication or just enjoy adding a touch of flair to your conversations, these new features might come in handy.

These additions complement the existing options for bold, strikethrough, italic, and monospace text, providing users with even more ways to organize and emphasize their messages.

Inline Code formatting
Inline Code formatting

Available across iOS, Android, Web, and Mac desktop apps, these formatting options are also accessible to admins in Channels, mirroring the convenience found in Slack’s formatting capabilities.

“This feature will mark a significant step forward in enhancing the user experience, as it eliminates the need of manually adjusting settings for each media upload individually. With this new option, users will be able ensure that their images and videos are always shared in high quality, maintaining clarity and preserving important details,” mentions the report.

How to Use the New Formatting Features

How to Use the New Formatting Features
How to Use the New Formatting Features

Here’s a quick guide on how to utilize these new formatting shortcuts to make your messages more dynamic:

  • Bulleted Lists: Ideal for breaking down information into easy-to-read points or jotting down a shopping list. Simply start your line with a “-” symbol followed by a space. For subsequent bullet points, press Shift+Enter after each entry to automatically insert the next bullet.
  • Numbered Lists: Perfect for instructions or any content that needs a specific order. Begin your line with a number followed by a period and a space.
  • Block Quotes: Make certain text stand out in longer messages by using block quotes. Type a “>” symbol followed by a space before the text you want to highlight.
  • Inline Code: This format is not only useful for coders but also for highlighting specific parts of your message. Enclose your text with”” symbols.

Seamless Integration for Enhanced Communication

Seamless Integration for Enhanced Communication
Seamless Integration for Enhanced Communication

These formatting shortcuts are designed to be intuitive, allowing users to effortlessly incorporate them into their messages for clearer and more structured communication.

By adopting markdown-style syntax, WhatsApp enhances text messaging, is making itself more versatile for both personal and professional use.

WhatsApp Chat Lock for Web Coming Soon

WhatsApp Enhances Messaging with New Formatting Shortcuts: Here’s How to Use Them
WhatsApp Enhances Messaging with New Formatting Shortcuts: Here’s How to Use Them

In more news related to the world’s biggest messaging platform, WhatsApp is enhancing user privacy with a new chat lock feature specifically designed for web users, as reported by WABetaInfo.

Previously, WhatsApp web users faced the limitation of not being able to secure individual chats; all conversations remained accessible to anyone who opened WhatsApp on a desktop or laptop.

Introduces four new text formatting shortcuts: Bulleted Lists, Numbered Lists, Block Quotes, Inline Code
Introduces four new text formatting shortcuts: Bulleted Lists, Numbered Lists, Block Quotes, Inline Code

With the introduction of this feature, users will gain the ability to lock specific chats, making them accessible only through a unique pin.

This development offers an added layer of security, providing users with a secure environment to store their WhatsApp conversations.

This update marks a significant improvement in privacy controls for WhatsApp web, addressing a long-standing user concern.

Block Quote formatting
Block Quote formatting

FAQs

What new text formatting features has WhatsApp introduced?

WhatsApp has rolled out four new formatting shortcuts to enrich your messaging: Bulleted Lists, Numbered Lists, Block Quotes, and Inline Code. These additions make organizing and emphasizing your messages easier across all platforms.

How can I use the new WhatsApp formatting shortcuts?

To utilize the new formatting shortcuts, start a bulleted list with a “-“, a numbered list with a number followed by a period and space, block quotes with a “>”, and inline code by enclosing text in ““” symbols. These intuitive shortcuts improve message clarity and structure.

What is WhatsApp’s new chat lock feature?

The chat lock feature is a new privacy tool for web users, allowing specific chats to be secured with a pin. This ensures that sensitive conversations can only be accessed by the user, enhancing the security of WhatsApp on desktop and laptop devices.

Are the new WhatsApp features available on all devices?

Yes, the new text formatting shortcuts and the chat lock feature are available across iOS, Android, Web, and Mac desktop applications. This update ensures a uniform messaging experience for all WhatsApp users.

How does the chat lock feature work on WhatsApp?

To secure a chat, users will soon be able to apply a unique pin to specific conversations. This pin will be required to access the locked chat, providing an extra layer of security for sensitive information shared on WhatsApp Web.

What are the old formatting options ?

Bold can be used to highlight a certain part or full message. To use the option, users can type * symbol at the front and the end of the message.

Italic can be used to italicise a part or full message by using typing _ (underscore) in front and end of the message.

Strikethrough is a presentation of words with a horizontal line through their centre. Users can type ~ in front and end of the message.

Monospace is a font that has letters and characters each occupy the same amount of horizontal space. To use the option, users can type “` symbol at the front and the end of the message.

How to use the new formatting features on WhatsApp ?

Want to try the new styles out? Here’s how to use them on your WhatsApp chats or Channels:

Numbered lists: Great for when you want to have neat, organised grocery lists, numbered lists can be used by adding a full stop next to a number. Once you hit the enter key, the numbered list will follow until you backspace.

Bulleted lists: Bulleted lists are useful in multiple situations, but most of all, they ensure your texts stay neat. To begin using, add a “-” symbol before your sentence with a space. Like the numbered lists, once you hit enter, you will be able to use these for listing multiple options within the message.

Block quotes: WhatsApp introduced block quotes to highlight a standout sentence within a message. To use this, press the”>” key with a space and add it before the text you wish to format.

Inline code: This formatting feature was added to make sharing and reading code easier for programmers. However, apart from that, users can also utilise it to highlight specific information in text. All you need to do is use the “” symbol in your message `like this.

Also Read: WhatsApp Reportedly Set to Enable Cross-Platform Messaging: What You Need to Know

Also Read: WhatsApp to Launch Synchronized Chat Locks for Enhanced Privacy Across Devices

Also Read: WhatsApp’s Username Feature Nears Launch After Being Spotted on Beta