However, another subtle yet impactful update went under the radar—Apple’s 10th-generation basic iPad now features eSIM support in mainland China.
A first for the region, this strategic move is bound to affect the tablet market, yet Apple chose to downplay its significance, not even highlighting it in the headline of their Chinese press release.
Let’s break it down
Apple: 10th-Gen iPads in China
eSIM Comes to China: The 10th-gen basic iPad with Wi-Fi + Cellular in China now includes eSIM functionality. This upgrade provides users a seamless, secure, and smooth cellular data connection, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.
Old News in the US: For those following the tech scene in the U.S., this might seem like stale news. The US version of the 10th-gen iPad has been eSIM-compatible for a while now. But for China’s market, this is a fresh development.
Apple’s Hush-Hush Approach: The update didn’t get the spotlight it perhaps deserved. The eSIM feature was not mentioned in the headlines of Apple’s press release in China and was entirely absent in other countries’ press releases which focused solely on the new Apple Pencil.
Anticipation and Speculation: Prior to this muted announcement, chatter had intensified around the release of three new iPad models on October 17th. These included an 11th-gen basic iPad, a new iPad Air featuring an M2 chip, and an iPad Mini powered by a 4nm A16 Bionic chip.
Reality Check: Contrary to rumours, Apple, on October 17th, did not unveil any new iPads. The only hardware introduced was the third-gen Apple Pencil with USB-C charging support.
So, what’s the takeaway here?
On the one hand, Apple’s focus on its new Rs 7,900 Apple Pencil overshadows a substantial technological shift in one of its cornerstone products in a key market.
On the other hand, the downplay might signal Apple’s strategic approach to test waters in China before making grand announcements.
FAQs
What’s new in the 10th-Gen iPads in China?
Apple has added eSIM support to the 10th-Gen iPads in mainland China, allowing for a secure and smooth cellular connection.
Was the eSIM feature highlighted in Apple’s press releases?
No, Apple chose to focus on the third-gen Apple Pencil in their press releases, keeping the eSIM update low-key.
Were any new iPad models released on October 17th?
Contrary to rumours, Apple did not introduce any new iPad models. Only the third-gen Apple Pencil was announced.
How much does the new Apple Pencil cost?
The third-generation Apple Pencil is priced at Rs 7,900 and comes with USB-C charging support.
• OnePlus Pad Go will go on sale starting 12 noon with a starting price of INR 19,999. • It will be will be available in 8+128GB Wi-Fi & LTE, and 8+256 LTE variants.
OnePlus, announced that the OnePlus Pad Go will go on open sale starting 12 noon on 20 October, 2023.
Both the Wi-Fi and the LTE variants of the OnePlus Pad Go will go on sale in the Indian market.
Customers can purchase OnePlus Pad Go at the starting price of INR 19,999.
OnePlus Pad Go brings a large 28.85cm (11.35”) 2.4K display which is the best in its price range, with super-narrow bezels measuring just 7.5mm across.
Like the OnePlus Pad, the Pad Go adopts a 7:5 display ratio, a fast refresh rate of 90Hz, and a peak brightness of 400 nits.
The Pad Go gets a quad speakers setup that supports Dolby Atmos.
The OnePlus Pad Go is equipped with a huge 8GB RAM and upto 256GB ROM with support up to 1TB of additional external memory via microSD card.
It packs an impressive 8,000mAh battery and 33W SUPERVOOC charging.
New for the OnePlus Pad Go is the option for LTE connectivity, which is available on both the 128GB and 256GB ROM models.
The back panel of the OnePlus Pad Go gets a highly distinct Twin Mint colorway, blending two unique green tones with two collaged textures of matte and mirrored metal.
Availability, Price & Offers
OnePlus Pad Go Price
The OnePlus Pad Go will be available for open sale starting 20th October on both online and offline channels.
Further details are available below
Product
Variant
Price
Availability
OnePlus Pad Go
8GB+128GB WIFI
INR 19,999
Amazon, Flipkart, Oneplus.in, OnePlus Store App, OnePlus Experience Stores, Reliance, Croma and other key offline partner outlets
OnePlus Pad Go
8GB+128GB LTE
INR 21,999
OnePlus Pad Go
8GB+256GB LTE
INR 23,999
Offers
OnePlus Pad Go Offers
* Customers purchasing the OnePlus Pad Go in OnePlus Experience Stores, OnePlus.in & offline partner stores can avail an upto INR 2,000 off using ICICI Bank & OneCard cards
* Customers can avail additional INR 1000 special price coupon discount on Oneplus.in. on 8 + 128GB WIFI variant.
* Customers purchasing the OnePlus Pad Go in Amazon.in can avail an up to INR 2,000 Instant Bank Discount using SBI cards
* Customers purchasing the OnePlus Pad Go in Flipkart can avail an upto INR 2,000 Instant Bank Discount using ICICI Bank cards
* Students can avail the following discounts on the OnePlus Pad Go on Amazon.in and Flipkart :
* RCC members gain benefits up to INR 1500 on the purchase of OnePlus Pad Go on OnePlus.in
* The OnePlus Pad Go Folio Case will be available for purchase at INR 999 starting October 20th.
OnePlus Pad Go Design with A Purpose
OnePlus Pad Go Design
Like the original OnePlus Pad, the Pad Go features the centered camera design first introduced on its older sibling.
This symmetrical design resolves issues associated with non-centered camera designs, particularly when capturing close-ups, so it’s even easier than before to take stunning photo and video content.
The back panel of the tablet also breaks the norms with its highly distinct Twin Mint Color .
Blending two unique green tones with two collaged textures of matte and mirrored metal, Twin Mint represents the distinct personalities of the younger generation, combining effortless cool with energetic enthusiasm.
OnePlus Pad Go Connectivity
OnePlus Pad Go Connectivity
Users of OnePlus phonesbenefit from being able to seamlessly connect with the Pad Go when the two devices are near each other and logged into the same OnePlus account.
When Screen Mirroringis enabled on the Pad Go, the interface of the connected phone can be directly manipulated in a floating window on the tablet, allowing you to control your phone on a larger screen.
Photos and other files can also be seamlessly dragged and dropped between the two devices and calls and notifications can be received directly on the connected Pad Go.
The Pad Go can share clipboard content and the photo gallery with OnePlus and OPPO phones, allowing you to view them on a bigger screen and edit them directly.
OnePlus Pad Go Specs & Dependable Quality
OnePlus Pad Go Specs
OnePlus Pad Go is equipped with a huge 8GB RAM which means you can keep multiple apps running in the background at one time and effortlessly switch between different apps, picking up exactly where you left off.
In terms of storage, the OnePlus Pad Go is available in 128GB and 256GB ROM options, both of which support up to 1TB of additional external memory via microSD card.
OnePlus has fitted the Pad Go with a 8,000mAh battery and 33W SUPERVOOC charging.
The large battery provides up to 514 hours of standby time and 40 hours of music playback, while the 33W SUPERVOOC delivers rapid charging so you can easily top up before leaving the house or office without needing to carry your charger with you everywhere you go.
New for the OnePlus Pad Go is the option for LTE connectivity, which is available on both the 128GB and 256GB ROM models.
With smooth 4G connectivity, the LTE models give you access to movies, online games, or connectivity with friends without having to rely on Wi-Fi.
The OnePlus Pad Go is also available in an 8GB RAM, 128GB version with Wi-Fi connectivity, which supports cellular data sharing via a mobile phone.
This method of data sharing is 30% more energy efficient compared with standard personal hotspot connections.
OnePlus Pad Go – All-round Audio Experience
OnePlus Pad Go: Sound Experience
Leveling up the audio experience on the OnePlus Pad Go is a suite of exclusive sound technologies designed to provide exceptional audio immersion.
Omnibearing Sound Fieldis OnePlus’s proprietary technology developed for enhanced sound quality and listening experiences.
It enables the quad speakers to intelligently identify the screen direction and automatically switch left and right audio channels to provide accurate stereo sound.
The Pad Go also supports Dolby Atmos.
OnePlus Pad Go – Built for Entertainment
OnePlus Pad Go: Built for Entertainment
OnePlus Pad Go is going to elevate all your experiences of watching movies & listening to music on your tablet with its 2.4K display which is a good deal in its price range and features a phenomenal resolution.
The screen is clear & bigger than many other devices , it is offering a large 28.85cm (11.35”) viewing area surrounded by super-narrow bezels measuring just 7.5mm across.
Like the OnePlus Pad, the Pad Go adopts a 7:5 display ratio, allowing more content to be displayed on the screen at any one time.
A 90Hz refresh rate significantly reduces motion blur in videos or games while also improving the level of smoothness when switching between apps or other windows.
The OnePlus Pad Go’s screen helps to combat eye strain by offering up to 400 nits of adaptive brightness and an Intelligent Brightness feature that automatically adjusts the display brightness based on ambient light levels so that text and other onscreen content can be seen naturally regardless of what environment you’re in.
The screen features Low Blue Light Technology that can filter out harmful blue light emitted by electronic screens to help further prevent eye strain with two modes – Eye Comfort mode and Nature Tone Display mode.
As some users can be sensitive to screen flicker caused by PWM brightness control, the Pad Go instead utilizes DC dimming technology to completely eliminate screen flicker.
With Bedtime Mode, the Pad Go can reduce the quantity of brain-stimulating light emitted by the device in the hours before bedtime to help you fall asleep more comfortably.
Ans) The OnePlus Pad Go price in India starts at Rs 19,999 for the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage option. This pricing is applicable for the Wi-Fi model. The LTE variant which comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage is priced at Rs 21,999, while the Wi-Fi model with the same RAM and 256GB of internal storage costs Rs 23,999.
2) Where is the tablet OnePlus Pad Go available for purchase?
Ans) The tablet will be available for purchase via the OnePlus India website, the OnePlus Store app, Flipkart, Amazon, Reliance, Croma and other key offline outlets.
3) Which is the color available in OnePlus pad go ?
Ans) The tablet comes in Twin Mint colour options.
4) What are the battery specs of OnePlus Pad Go ?
Ans) The device packs an 8,000mAh battery which supports 33W fast charging.
5) What is the bank discount available on OnePlus Pad go ?
Ans) Customers purchasing the tablet will receive Rs 2,000 instant bank discount. Additionally, customers will get a folio cover worth Rs 1,399 at no extra cost.
iPhone 15 Pro Max records nearly double 5G download speeds compared to its predecessor.
Snapdragon X70 and A17 Pro chipset both contribute to speed enhancement.
Ookla’s top 5 list for median 5G speeds doesn’t feature iPhone 15, highlighting the chipset’s role.
Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro Max has reportedly been causing a lot of stir with its purported 5G performance.
Now in a very recent test conducted byPhoneArena, its been concluded that not only does the device impress but also confounds with its remarkable 5G download speeds.
The crux of the matter lies in the 5G download data speed, which has nearly doubled to an astonishing 251.37 Mbps from last year’s iPhone 14 Pro Max, which clocked in at a median speed of 127.83 Mbps during Q2 2023, according to the report.
This drastic improvement defies expectations, particularly when Qualcomm—the supplier of the iPhone’s 5G modem chip—had promised a comparatively modest 24 percent speedbump with its new Snapdragon X70 5G modem.
So, what gives?
Interestingly, the Snapdragon X70 is not the only new technology inside the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
The device also incorporates Apple’s proprietary 3nm A17 Pro chipset, not found in the standardiPhone 15 models.
PhoneArena claims that Ookla’s top five median 5G download data speeds in the US for Q3 2023 did not feature either the iPhone 15 or 15 Plus.
This despite both devices utilising the Snapdragon X70 so it seems entirely plausible that Apple’s A17 Pro chipset plays a significant role in this speed surge.
iPhone 15 Pro Max Remarkable 5G Speeds
However the US cell phone carriers also have to shoulder some of the credit as the report claims that they have been working in the background, optimising networks to take full advantage of the evolving 5G technology.
However, given the facts in hand, it’s hard to deny that the intrinsic advancements within the iPhone 15 Pro Max are chiefly responsible for its robust 5G performance.
Apple renews contract with Qualcomm for 5G Modems
In another noteworthy development, Apple’s difficulties in producing its proprietary 5G modem has led to the company renewing its contract with Qualcomm for Snapdragon 5G modem chips through 2026, according to Haitong Securities analyst Jeff Pu.
Looking ahead, the next generation of Pro iPhones are slated to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 5G modem chip, which uses carrier aggregation for even faster data speeds and promises a 25 percent reduction in circuit board footprint, as per reports.
It’s not just about a new chip but an ensemble of technological enhancements that make the iPhone 15 Pro Max a force to reckon with in the 5G landscape.
FAQs
What’s the 5G download speed of the iPhone 15 Pro Max?
The iPhone 15 Pro Max has recorded a 5G download speed of 251.37 Mbps.
Does the A17 Pro chipset affect 5G speed?
Yes, the 3nm A17 Pro chipset in the iPhone 15 Pro Max likely contributes to its increased 5G speeds.
Why did Apple renew its contract with Qualcomm?
Apple has had difficulties in developing its own 5G modem, leading to a renewed contract with Qualcomm through 2026.
Will future iPhones feature the Snapdragon X75 modem chip?
Yes, next-gen Pro iPhones are expected to incorporate the Snapdragon X75 modem for even faster data speeds.
Leaked renders showcase OPPO Find N3 in four colour variants with textured back panels.
Find N3 and OnePlus Open set to launch on the same day, sharing many features.
Both phones expected to offer high-refresh rate LTPO AMOLED displays.
Hasselblad-tuned triple rear camera and substantial battery life round out the package.
OPPO’s 3rd-gen book-style foldable, the Find N3, is about to be unveiled tomorrow in China.
Tipster Evan Blass recently provideda closer look at the device’s design renders and some key specs.
Tech enthusiasts will know that the Find N3 is actually going to be revealed for global markets such as India via OnePlus as the OnePlus Open foldable.
Leaks and renders have provided a very clear parallel between the two devices which is too striking to ignore.
An Array of Aesthetic Choices
OPPO Find N3’s
The leaked renders shed some important light on the OPPO Find N3’s design and colour options.
As per Blass, the device will be available in four colour variants: Champagne Gold, Green, Red, and Black.
The renders reveal that at least the Black and Red versions will flaunt a faux leather back which will give a tactile texture to the device.
Erstwhile the other two shades are to sport a matte glass finish.
This design diversity can also be expected in the OnePlus Open, offering consumers a variety of options to suit their tastes.
Find N3 Design
OPPO Find N3’s Design
An alert slider, a feature that can also be found in the OnePlus Open, is visible on the Find N3.
The right side of the phone houses what seems to be a power button that could also serve as a fingerprint scanner.
The device is expected to boast a Hasselblad-tuned triple rear camera setup, which also includes a periscope lens.
Performance and Storage
OPPO Find N3’s Storage
The OPPO Find N3 is slated to feature a substantial 4805mAh battery, supported by 67W SuperVOOC fast charging via a Type-C port.
Additionally, the Champagne Gold variant is expected to weigh around 245 grams and measure 5.8mm in thickness.
Storage capacity is also impressive, with a leaked promo image pointing to a 512GB internal storage option.
However, additional storage variants could be in the pipeline.
Camera: Hasselblad-tuned triple rear camera setup, including a periscope lens
Drawing Parallels with OnePlus Open
It is essential to note that the Find N3 and OnePlus Open are expected to launch on the same day in their respective markets.
The OnePlus Open, which has a speculated price tag of Rs 1,39,999 in India, could likely share more than a few features with the Find N3, from chipset choices to camera arrays.
Both phones are also expected to boast compelling features such as dual displays with high refresh rates and substantial battery capacities.
Given their shared heritage, it would not be surprising if the devices exhibit similarities in performance and user experience.
The Find N3’s impending release in China is drawing considerable attention, and with the OnePlus Open also gearing up for its global unveiling, the two devices are set to become the new talking points in the foldable smartphone arena.
FAQs
When are the OPPO Find N3 and OnePlus Open launching?
They are both set to be officially unveiled tomorrow, with the Find N3 launching in China and the OnePlus Open in global markets including India.
What are the colour options for the OPPO Find N3?
The device is expected to come in four colour variants: Champagne Gold, Green, Red, and Black.
What’s notable about the camera setup on the Find N3?
The phone features a Hasselblad-tuned triple rear camera setup, including a periscope lens, offering versatility in photography.
How does the Find N3 charge?
The phone is expected to support 67W SuperVOOC fast charging through a Type-C port.
OnePlus Open set to launch on October 19 in Mumbai at 7:30 PM, stirring up the foldable phone market.
Expected to feature dual displays with 120Hz refresh rates and a high-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.
Speculated price reaches new heights for OnePlus, possibly costing up to Rs 1,39,999.
Strong camera lineup expected, with up to 64MP telephoto lens and advanced 67W fast charging.
OnePlus’s groundbreaking event is close at hand and the company is set to metaphorically and literally unfold its upcoming OnePlus Open.
It is the company’s foray into the foldable smartphone world and its launch is set for October 19 in Mumbai at 7:30 PM.
Before the grand unveiling, here’s a comprehensive rundown of everything that’s been leaked, speculated, or confirmed about the device.
When and Where To Watch
OnePlus Open Launch
OnePlus Open is the talk of the tech town after the company officially tweeted about the event.
As mentioned the launch event is tomorrow at 7:30PM and you can catch it live on OnePlus India’s official YouTube channel here.
Price Expectations
OnePlus Open: Price
The official pricing remains a secret, but tipster Abhishek Yadav has stirred the pot with a speculated price tag of Rs 1,39,999.
As such, even this speculative figure has generated discussion about the device’s potential market positioning and comparisons to Samsung’s Galaxy Fold5.
This is certainly a new territory for OnePlus as no phone from the company has ever breached the Rs 1,00,000 mark in India.
Front Cameras: 32MP on cover screen, 20MP on internal display
Display and Design
OnePlus Open: Design
In the lead-up to the OnePlus Open’s promotion, Michael Fisher, a prominent YouTuber known as Mr Mobile, got exclusive access to the device, visiting OnePlus headquarters in China.
His video tour of the manufacturing facility gives consumers a behind-the-scenes look at the product.
As such, one of the OnePlus Open’s most intriguing features is its dual-display setup:
Inner Display: The centerpiece is expected to be a 7.8-inch display, offering 2K resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz, which suggests smooth animations and high-quality visuals.
Outer Display: Not to be outdone, the outer display is speculated to be 6.31 inches and also likely to have a 120Hz refresh rate, making it equally appealing.
Design leaks reveal a vertically-hinged design, echoing the form factor of industry standards like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold5.
But OnePlus is injecting its own flair, possibly incorporating elements from sister-company Oppo’s foldable designs.
The device incorporates a breakthrough “water-drop”-shaped, pressure-relieving Flexion hinge that simplifies the architecture to just 69 components, compared to the typical 100 components for standard foldable hinges.
The use of aerospace-grade materials such as titanium alloy and reinforced carbon fiber has considerably reduced the weight of the hinge and consequently, the overall device weight
Despite its lightweight construction, the device promises high durability with the hinge’s single-spine architecture that improves component integration and offers a sturdier structure compared to conventional three-part spines.
The Alert Slider, a unique OnePlus feature, has been re-engineered for this new foldable form factor, maintaining its functionality while becoming more compact.
Coupled with this are the rumored LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage options, all of which is suggestive of super quick and rapid app loading and file transfers.
Preliminary results from Geekbench 6 benchmarks are promising.
The device’s single-core score stands at 1,557, and its multi-core score is 4,462, potentially outclassing competitors like the Google Pixel Fold.
Battery and Charging
OnePlus Open: Battery
Powering the device is a rumoured 4,800mAh battery.
What adds to the allure is the potential for 67W fast charging, which would considerably shorten the time needed to fully charge the device.
Camera Setup
OnePlus Open: Camera
The device is rumoured to sport a comprehensive camera array that includes a 48MP wide-angle lens, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens.
Front cameras might include a 32MP unit on the cover and a 20MP unit on the internal display, offering a versatile shooting experience.
OnePlus will also be using a Sony image sensor, LYTIA-T808, which is a first for a foldable smartphone.
It will feature a “Dual-layer Transistor Pixel” technology that doubles the light captured and stored.
Potential Colour Options
A series of leaks hint at color options, including ‘Voyage Black’ and ‘Emerald Eclipse.’
Another leak throws ‘Emerald Dusk’ into the mix, and there are even murmurs about a gold-shade variant, which definitely adds an extra layer of intrigue to the phone’s aesthetics.
Additional Specs
OnePlus Open: Features
Display Details: Further display specifications suggest pixel densities of 2440 x 2268 and 1116 x 2484 for the inner and outer screens, respectively.
Crease: The device is said to feature an almost imperceptible screen crease, achieved through a series of technological advance
Brightness: The device might come with an exceptional 2,800 nits of brightness, which would make it one of the brightest foldables on the market.
So there you have it—a detailed roundup of what to expect from the OnePlus Open launch. Be sure to tune in to the official event for all the confirmed details.
FAQs
When is the OnePlus Open launching?
The OnePlus Open is scheduled to launch on October 19 at 7:30 PM in Mumbai, India.
What are the expected key features of OnePlus Open?
The phone is anticipated to have a dual-display setup, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, up to 67W fast charging, and a versatile camera array.
What is the rumored price for OnePlus Open?
The speculated price tag is Rs 1,39,999, though the official pricing will be revealed at the launch event.
How does the OnePlus Open compare to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold5?
While official specs are yet to be confirmed, it’s expected to compete strongly against Samsung’s foldable offering, particularly in display quality and processing power.
Google Clock app updates to version 7.6, bringing much-anticipated alarm sync with Pixel Watch.
The new “Local Weather on Clock” feature helps users choose between Fahrenheit and Celsius.
“Weather forecast” option in the “Alarm” tab prepares you for the day upon dismissing the alarm.
Lots of Google Apps are getting new upgrades in terms of features and UI changes. Yesterday it was the Google Wallets app which got a new QR code scanning feature and a changed interface.
Now the Google Clock app on Android has announced its intentions to bring a host of new features and improvements.
This functionality,confirmed by @AssembleDebug/X and Mishaal Rahman, was quite in demand by Pixel users.
The update of the Google Clock app to version 7.6 surprisingly introduces some features expected to arrive with Pixel’s December feature drop.
Pixel Alarm Sync
Google Pixel Alarm Sync
As mentioned above, Alarm Sync will allow the Google Clock app to synchronise alarms between Pixel phones and the Pixel Watch.
Some would say that the feature should have been present by default.
Rahman reports that this functionality is expected to be compatible with both the Pixel Watch 2 running on Wear OS 4and the Pixel Watch 1 running on Wear OS 3.
However, it’s important to note that the feature requires an updated Google Clock app on the watch itself.
As per other reports, there are supposedly users who have claimed that they are getting a “Can’t pair with a watch” error, suggesting that further updates might be pending, either to the watch app or through a server-side push.
Personalising the Clock App
Google Pixel: Personalising the Clock App
Another feature in this update is the “Local Weather on clock” service.
Once activated, the app presents a new “Change temperature units” setting within the app which redirects the user to the “Regional preferences” page on their device.
This ensures that other applications can access the user’s preferences, such as their choice between Fahrenheit and Celsius or their preferred first day of the week.
Weather Forecast Right at Your Alarm
“Weather forecast” option in the “Alarm” tab has also been added in the new update. When enabled for a specific alarm, this feature displays the day’s weather forecast upon dismissing the alarm.
This seems like an intuitive way to help users prepare for the day right from their morning or bedtime alarms.
Other UI changes
Lastly, subtle visual adjustments have also taken place within the “Clock” tab.
The current home time display is now cantered, as opposed to the previous left-justified position.
This change appears to be purely cosmetic and doesn’t offer any additional functionality.
FAQs
What is the new Alarm Sync feature?
The Alarm Sync feature allows synchronization of alarms between Google Pixel phones and the Pixel Watch, improving the cohesion between devices.
How does the “Local Weather on Clock” work?
Upon activation, this feature allows you to choose your temperature units and redirects you to the “Regional preferences” page for further customization.
What is the “Weather Forecast” in Alarm Tab?
This feature shows the weather forecast for the day when you dismiss the alarm, helping you prepare for the day ahead.
Are there any UI changes in this update?
A subtle change has been made in the “Clock” tab where the current home time display is now cantered, although it doesn’t offer any added functionality.
• iQOO 12 series slated for launch around China’s Double Eleven shopping festival. • The iQOO 12 Pro expected to feature a periscope lens and IP68 rating. • Vivo X100 series anticipated to debut shortly after iQOO 12 series. • Vivo X100 Pro+ to feature Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, expected in Q1 2024.
This release is strategically timed to align with China’s major shopping event, Double Eleven, on November 11th.
However, the iQOO 12 series isn’t just making noise in China; there are rumours that the standard iQOO 12 modelmay also debut in India within the same timeframe.
This information comes courtesy of DigitalChatStation, who has been right on most occasions about leaks coming from China.
In terms of specifications, the iQOO 12 could flaunt a 6.7-inch E7 AMOLED display, offering a 1.5K resolution coupled with a 144Hz refresh rate.
Adding to its impressive features is a robust triple-camera setup, a 5,200mAh batterysupporting up to 120W fast charging, and an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance.
iQOO 12 Pro: More Than Just a Sibling
iQOO 12 Series Anticipated for November Debut
The iQOO 12 Prois expected to be quite like the iQOO 12 in many aspects but with some notable differences.
The Pro model may come equipped with a periscope lens instead of a telephoto lens, offering advanced zoom capabilities.
While it may support a slightly lower 100W fast charging, it aims to compensate with an upgraded IP68 rating for enhanced resistance against water and dust.
Furthermore, both the standard and Pro models could offer up to 24GB of RAM and a whopping 1TB of internal storage, making them some of the most robust devices in terms of memory and storage.
According to the speculation by DigitalChatStation, the X100 series is likely to make its appearance shortly after the iQOO 12 series launch.
The Vivo lineup is expected to consist of three models: the Vivo X100, the X100 Pro, and the X100 Pro+.
Each device seems poised to cater to different market segments, with the basic and Pro models potentially featuring Dimensity 9200 SoCs, and the premium Pro+ expected to be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.
Notably, the Pro+ model’s launch is anticipated in the first quarter of 2024, diverging significantly from the immediate launch timelines of its siblings.
• X initiates “Not a Bot” test program, requiring new users in New Zealand and the Philippines to pay a $1 annual fee for posting and interaction. • Existing users and premium subscribers exempt from the new fee; limited access for non-subscribers. • Initiative aims to counter spam, platform manipulation, and bot activity, aligning with Musk’s prior suggestions.
The company has been steadily finding ways to diversify its revenue possibilities and not just rely on the ad model.
This new program could potentially be the stepping stone for this.
Aimed initially at new users in New Zealand and the Philippines, this program will require a $1 annual subscription for the privilege to post and interact with content.
Who Will Have to Pay a Subscription?
Twitter Subscription
The subscription test is only for new web accounts and does not affect existing users. New users can escape this fee by signing up for X’s $3.99 per month premium service.
Those who do not subscribe will be limited to a ‘read-only’ mode—able to see posts and follow accounts but not interact.
X has stated that the annual fee aims to reduce spam, platform manipulation, and bot activity.
In addition, the test resonates with Elon Musk’s earlier suggestions of reducing spam by making credit card payments a requirement for new accounts.
Besides dodging the $1 fee, Premium subscribers also receive incentives like a blue checkmark, algorithmic boosting of posts, and even eligibility for an ad revenue share program.
Reaction to X’s Payment Plans
X is Testing A New “Not a Bot” Program
There has been a lot of turmoil in terms of the court of public opinion ever since Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter.
There has been some positive feedback with things like the edit button and the use of paid verified badges.
However, people have been quick to criticize the fundamental shift in information being disseminated on the platform.
One can argue that requiring a minimal fee creates a barrier that could effectively reduce spam and bot accounts.
It also represents another revenue stream for X, which has been pushing its Blue subscription services in various creative ways.
On the flip side, such a fee might discourage genuine new users, particularly those from lower-income demographics or countries.
For a platform that thrives on user engagement and growth, putting up a financial barrier, however small, might just backfire.
The extent to which this will deter bots and spammers is unknown.
Sophisticated spamming operations can easily overcome such minor financial hurdles.
Moreover, it raises ethical questions about internet accessibility and freedom of information.
FAQs
What is the “Not a Bot” program by X?
The “Not a Bot” program is a test initiative by X requiring new users in New Zealand and the Philippines to pay a $1 annual fee to post and interact on the platform.
Who is exempt from this subscription fee?
Existing users and those who opt for the $3.99 monthly premium service are not required to pay the $1 annual fee.
What is the main aim behind this program?
X claims that the program aims to reduce spam and bot activities on the platform by imposing a nominal financial barrier for new accounts.
How has the public reacted to this initiative?
The announcement has garnered mixed reviews. Some appreciate the move as a step toward a cleaner platform, while others criticize it for potentially limiting access and engagement.
The series comes in two variants:Pavilion Plus 14 and Pavilion Plus 16 both of which have distinct features that can be considered tailored for a variety of consumer needs.
Pricing Details
For those considering a purchase, the Pavilion Plus 14 is available in two configurations.
The AMD Ryzen 7-7840U model is priced at Rs 91,999, whereas the Intel Core i7-1355U version comes with a tag of Rs 114,999.
On the other hand, the Pavilion Plus 16 comes in two Intel-powered versions priced at Rs 1,24,999 and Rs 1,36,999, respectively.
HP Pavilion Plus 14 and 16 Launched in India
In-Depth Specifications
Display
Pavilion Plus 14: It features a 14-inch OLED screen with a 2.8K resolution and an 88% screen-to-body ratio. The display is IMAX-certified and comes with an aspect ratio of 16:10.
Pavilion Plus 16: The 16-inch model also bears an OLED panel but with a 2.5K resolution and a high refresh rate of 120Hz.
Processor
Pavilion Plus 14: Powered by the 13th gen Intel Core i7-13700H, this model also offers an AMD Ryzen 7 7840H option.
Pavilion Plus 16: It runs solely on the Intel Core i7-13700H processor.
Graphics
Pavilion Plus 14: Offers a choice between AMD Radeon 780M or Intel Iris Xe graphics.
Pavilion Plus 16: Comes equipped with Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics.
Memory and Storage: Both models provide up to 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB of NVMe SSD storage.
Battery and Charging
Pavilion Plus 14: Features a 51Wh battery with up to 13 hours of battery life and supports 90W PD charging.
Pavilion Plus 16: There is a large 68Wh battery on board that packs in 90W USB-C charging support.
Connectivity
Pavilion Plus 14: Includes 2 USB Type-C ports, 1 USB Type-A, HDMI-out 2.1, and supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Pavilion Plus 16: Adds a Thunderbolt 4 port and an AC smart pin to the connectivity options.
Focus on Sustainability
Both laptops are made from recycled metals, underscoring HP’s commitmentto environmental sustainability.
They are available in Moonlight Blue and Natural Silver colors for the 14-inch variant, and Warm Gold and Natural Silver for the 16-inch model.
HP Pavilion Plus Features
Additional Features
Enhancing the video conferencing experience, both Pavilion Plus models include HP Presence 2.0, an AI-powered system that corrects lighting, blurs backgrounds, and ensures the user remains centrally framed during video calls.
The laptops are available for purchase on HP’s official website, reflecting a blend of cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices that make them a noteworthy addition to the Indian market.
FAQs
What processors are available for the HP Pavilion Plus series?
The Pavilion Plus 14 offers both 13th-gen Intel Core and AMD Ryzen 7 options, while the Pavilion Plus 16 runs on the 13th-gen Intel Core i7-13700H.
Are the new HP Pavilion laptops eco-friendly?
Yes, both the Pavilion Plus 14 and 16 are made from recycled metals, reflecting HP’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Where can I buy the new HP Pavilion Plus laptops?
The laptops are available for purchase on HP’s official website, HP.com.
What are the colour options for the new Pavilion Plus series?
The Pavilion Plus 14 is available in Moonlight Blue and Natural Silver, whereas the Pavilion Plus 16 comes in Warm Gold and Natural Silver.
MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC powers the Honor Play 8T for robust performance.
Features a 6.8-inch FHD+ LCD screen with a 90Hz refresh rate.
Equipped with a 50MP primary camera and a 6,000mAh battery supporting 35W fast charging.
Available in three colour variants: Streaming Silver, Ink Jade Green, and Fantasy Night Black.
In a recent move to fortify its stance in the budget smartphone arena, Honor has rolled out its latest addition, the Honor Play 8T, exclusive to the Chinese market for now.
Designed to offer a balanced blend of performance, design, and innovative features, the phone exhibits significant improvements over its predecessors in the Honor Play series.
With a focus on delivering a high-end user experience at an affordable price point, the Play 8T is loaded with a plethora of features, some of which are usually reserved for more expensive devices.
Honor Play 8T: Pricing and Availability
Honor Play 8T: Pricing
The Honor Play 8T starts at a price of CNY 1,099 (approximately Rs 12,600) for the model featuring 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
A slightly elevated model with 12GB of RAM is available for CNY 1,299 (roughly Rs 14,900).
The device flaunts three colour variants: Streaming Silver, Ink Jade Green, and Fantasy Night Black.
Consumers in China can already pre-order the smartphone, with sales officially commencing on October 23rd.
Key Specs in a Nutshell
Display: 6.8-inch FHD+ LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC
RAM: Up to 12GB, with an additional 8GB of virtual RAM
Storage: 256GB internal storage
Operating System: Android 13 with MagicOS 7.2 skin
At the heart of the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC, augmented by a Mali-G57 GPU, giving the Play 8T a robust performance profile.
This comes paired with a substantial 12GB of RAM and an additional 8GB of virtual RAM which is likely to ensure smooth multitasking and rapid application loading.
The smartphone showcases a 6.8-inch Full HD+ LCD display, featuring a 90Hz refresh rate for a smoother visual experience.
The display incorporates a punch-hole cutout, housing an 8MP front-facing camera, and offers a 20:9 aspect ratio, lending to its cinematic quality.
The camera specifications are equally compelling, with a 50MP primary camera supported by a 2MP depth sensor at the back.
The 8MP front camera features an f/2.0 aperture, ideal for selfies and video calls.
The device’s 256GB of internal storage provides ample room for all your multimedia files and applications.
The battery life won’t disappoint either; the device is fuelled by a 6,000mAh battery that supports 35W fast charging, meaning less time tethered to the charger and more time on the go.
