As part of the upcoming festive season, this new shade of Yellow will be part of the existing lineup of Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender colour options already on the table.
With this new variant, Samsung is likely aiming to add several more choices to consumers seeking a pocketable, foldable device that aligns with their personal style.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5: Pricing and Availability
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5: Pricing
The Galaxy Z Flip5 is available in two configurations: 8+256 GB and 8+512 GB, which are priced at Rs 99,999 and Rs 1,09,999 respectively.
As for purchasing the Galaxy Flip5 will be available on Samsung’s official website alongside select retail outlets.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5: Offers
As part of its festive campaign, Samsung is rolling out a series of limited-period offers on all variants of the Galaxy Z Flip5.
Customers can avail themselves of a bank cashback and an upgrade bonus, each amounting to Rs 7,000, thereby gaining total benefits of Rs 14,000.
Alternatively, the device can be acquired on a 30-month low-cost EMI of Rs 3,379, facilitated by major financiers like Bajaj Finance Ltd. and HDFC.
For those who opt out of the EMI plans, an upfront upgrade benefit of Rs 14,000 is available on new purchases.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5: Features
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5: Features
The Galaxy Z Flip5 is engineered for a unique foldable experience.
There is an enlarged outer screen, which is 3.78 times larger than before, extending the device’s functionality, while the inner folding screen remains the same as last year
The smartphone comes with a versatile camera setup, featuring FlexCam that allows for hands-free photography from creative angles.
Dual Preview allows both the subject and the photographer to view the frame in real-time through the Flex Window, facilitating better shots.
Another significant update is in the camera’s AI solutions.
The Nightography feature has been improved for low-light conditions, using an AI-powered image signal processing (ISP) algorithmthat enhances details and colour tones while minimizing visual noise.
The digital zoom now offers up to 10X clarity.
The Galaxy Z Flip5 incorporates a range of durability features, including IPX8 support, Armor Aluminum frames, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the Flex Window and back cover.
Additionally, a newly integrated hinge module has been incorporated with a dual rail structure to diffuse external impacts.
FAQs
What is the new colour variant for the Galaxy Z Flip5?
Samsung has introduced a new Yellow variant of the Galaxy Z Flip5 in India.
What are the festive offers on the Galaxy Z Flip5?
Customers can get a bank cashback and an upgrade bonus of Rs 7,000 each, totaling INR 14,000 in benefits.
What are the camera features of the Galaxy Z Flip5?
The phone features AI-powered Nightography and FlexCam that allows for hands-free creative photography.
How much does the Galaxy Z Flip5 cost in India?
The device is available in two configurations priced at Rs 99,999 and Rs 109,999.
However, as a brand OnePlusseems to have mostly abandoned its enthusiast roots by diversifying into many market segments.
Although it does reserve its best for its signature number series, over the past year the company has hiked the price of its flagship offerings which has cut down some of OnePlus’ competitive edge.
OnePlus 12: Upgraded Features, Higher Price
OnePlus 12: Higher Price
Compounding on this,recent leaksand reports have pointed out a potential increase in the pricing of the OnePlus 12.
This shouldn’t come entirely as a surprise since the device is believed to be housing much-improved internals that will most certainly come at a cost that the consumer will have to bear.
Manufacturers like Samsung and Google have also hiked the prices of their recent flagship offerings, so OnePlus doing the same is understandable.
However, this extra premium on the price might dissuade potential OnePlus loyalists from considering the device.
The OnePlus 11 is priced currently at Rs 56,999 for the entry-level 8GB RAM and 128GB storage version.
There is also the 16GB + 256GB variant which will cost you Rs 5,000 more.
The OnePlus 12 is touted to sport a BOE pane, a bigger battery, and upgraded cameras compared to its predecessor.
And of course, there will be the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoCrunning things, which might add a few more bucks to the phone’s cost of goods.
OnePlus 12: Upgraded Features
Based on previous speculation, the upcoming OnePlus 12 is expected to feature a 6.82-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate using LTPO technology, a slight increase over the OnePlus 11’s 6.7-inch display.
The new model will likely contain a battery with a capacity of 6.7 inches. 5,400mAh,400mAh more than the previous version.
Additionally, the smartphone is rumoured to have upgraded camera capabilities, including a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom.
All-in-all, users who have set their minds to getting the upcoming OnePlus 12, must be prepared for a slightly extra dig on their wallets.
In other OnePlus news, the company is all set to announce its entry into the foldable segment with the launch of the OnePlus Open set for 20th October.
Initial estimates put the device’s potential price at above Rs 1,20,000, further underscoring the company’s move towards capturing the burgeoning premium foldable price bracket.
FAQs
Ques) What are the new features in OnePlus 12?
The OnePlus 12 is rumoured to have a 6.82-inch LTPO screen, an improved camera setup, and a 5,400mAh battery.
Ques) Why is OnePlus 12 expected to be more expensive?
Improved internals and features, as well as following the industry trend, are likely contributing to a price increase.
Ques) What is OnePlus Open?
OnePlus Open is the company’s first entry into the foldable smartphone market, targeting the premium price bracket.
Ques) What changes can we expect in OnePlus software?
OnePlus’ UI OxygenOS is expected to be replaced by ColorOS due to the collaboration with OPPO.
Pretty soon people realised the company’s ingenious contraption could be used for a more nefarious purposes like tracking people and stalking their movements.
Random iPhone users started getting pop-ups of unknown AirTags in their vicinity.
Trust humanity to exploit any technological innovations for their own unlawful endeavours.
However, Apple immediately put a stop to that with an update to the Find My network, alerting users immediately if an AirTag, unbeknownst to them, is around.
Apple Sued Over AirTags Misuse
Apple Sued Over AirTags Misuse
Even so, many users falling prey to stalking via AirTags have decided to take action against Apple.
This month, 38 individuals who allege they were tracked via AirTags have joined an existing class-action lawsuit against Apple.
The suit was initially filed in a California court last December.
The claim is that AirTags are “dangerous” and a useful tool for people who wish to stalk or follow a potential victim.
As per a Business Insider report,Lauren Hughes, a woman from Texas and one of the initial litigants, claims her former partner utilized an AirTag to monitor her movements.
He reportedly concealed the device in her car’s wheel, using it to pinpoint her whereabouts such as her current residence and the hotel where she was staying.
The $29 pricepoint for the device makes it easy for people with bad intentions to purchase them.
The AirTag’s tracking capabilities have also led to some heinous crimes like LaPrecia Sanders, whose son was mauled down and killed by his ex-girlfriend after she tracked him by planting an AirTag on him.
In 2021, York Regional Police reported that auto thieves were employing AirTags to orchestrate car heists.
The criminals were planting these tracking devices in luxury cars to monitor their positions and subsequently make off with them.
Apple is slated to submit a request for dismissal of the class-action lawsuit by October 27th.
On the same date, the tech giant is also expected to provide the court with a reply to the amended allegations brought forth by the plaintiff.
FAQs
Ques) What is the class-action lawsuit against Apple’s AirTag about?
The lawsuit involves 38 individuals who claim they were stalked using Apple’s AirTag technology.
Ques) How did criminals misuse AirTags?
Instances have been reported of AirTags being used for stalking and for planning car thefts by tracking high-end vehicles.
Ques) What was Apple’s response?
Apple updated its Find My network to alert users if an unknown AirTag is nearby, but they are also slated to respond to the lawsuit by October 27th.
Ques) What technology does AirTag use?
Apple’s AirTag uses UWB (ultra-wide band) technology to provide real-time location tracking.
The company almost always debuts the latest generation of flagship Android processing capabilities along with other improvements in the overall smartphone experience.
This time around fans may just get a glimpse of Samsung’s offerings a bit earlier.
As per reports flowing out of South Korea, the Galaxy S24 lineupwill likely see the day of light in January 2024.
This aligns with recent news that Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is going to start shipping to other OEMs by the start of November this year and Samsung does not want to be too far off the curb given that it will be the one making the said chipset.
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Event in January 2024
The Samsung Unpacked event, where the company usually displays its flagship smartphone and consumer electronic offerings.
It has been reported as well that Samsung is switching back to its region-specific chipset policy wherein some areas of the world will get the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 while others will get the in-house Exynos 2400.
Of course, the company is set to announce three devices, as per usual.
The Galaxy S24 Ultrawill be the top-tier offering and the S24 and S24 Plus will take up the rear.
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Event in January 2024
Galaxy S24 Series: Expected Features
As per some other rumours, Samsung might also make strides to incorporate Titanium build on its flagship phone, something that Apple has already done.
However, as reported by many people, the iPhone 15 Pro’s structural integrity has not been the best due to Titanium’s high tensile strength as compared to Stainless Steel on the previous monikers, which has led the Ceramic Shield glass to break more easily.
It will be interesting to see if Samsung brings forward the kind of structural rigidity that negates any durability-related issues.
Another feature jumping ship from iPhones to Galaxy S series will be two-way satellite communication for users stranded in the wilderness with no cellular reception.
Finally, some other expected features on the devices include a QHD+ AMOLED display with a 1440p resolution for the S24 Plus and S24 Ultra devices.
The base Galaxy S24 is basically going to retain the FHD+ screen although the 120Hz refresh rate will be present as always
Rumours also suggest that all devices in the Galaxy S24 series could offer a peak screen brightness of 2400 nits, a notable jump from the 1750 nits in the preceding Galaxy S23 lineup.
As for the camera specifications, both the Galaxy S24 and S24+ could be equipped with a 50MP primary shooter, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom capabilities.
The selfie camera for these models is rumoured to be 12MP.
FAQs
When is the Samsung Galaxy S24 series expected to launch?
The Galaxy S24 series is expected to launch in January 2024, ahead of Samsung’s traditional February unveiling.
What chipsets will the Galaxy S24 series feature?
Samsung is reportedly resuming its region-specific chipset policy, with some areas getting the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and others getting the in-house Exynos 2400.
Will the new Galaxy S24 models include advanced camera features?
Yes, the S24 and S24+ are rumoured to feature a 50MP primary camera, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.
What other notable features are expected?
Rumours suggest a Titanium build, two-way satellite communication, and a peak screen brightness of 2400 nits.
Google’s Pixel 8 series to offer lossless audio, setting a new standard in the smartphone industry.
Android 14 update adds support for lossless audio formats, widening accessibility.
Streaming services like Spotify and Amazon Music will need to adopt Android 14’s new API for lossless audio compatibility.
Rejoice, audiophiles, for thy saviour has reportedly cometh.
Or at least that’s what Dave Burke, Google’s vice president of engineeringwill have you believe.
Lossless audio has mostly been privy to Apple Musicin the streaming industry but very few phones have the capability to transmit it wirelessly, let alone in a wired setup.
Google is taking steps that will ensure that the Pixel 8 series becomes one of these devices that can bring music to your ears in a way that it is meant to be.
But it won’t just be them, although both handsets in the lineup will be getting it first.
It would appear that the Android 14 update has added support for lossless audio formats over USB-wired headsets.
The inner workings of the feature are quite simple and should be implemented without any additional caveats.
Rather than having your tunes modified and squeezed, they are transmitted in their original, unaltered quality from your mobile device straight to your earphones.
This allows you to experience the full richness of each instrument, the nuances in the vocals, and even the most delicate details with unmatched sharpness.
New API For Lossless Audio
App developers like Spotify, Amazon Music, and more will have to adopt the new API onAndroid 14 for making lossless audio work.
Little by little, we are sure to see streaming giants adopt this new format so that the rare breed of audiophiles might find some joy when listening to their favourite music.
In the realm of wireless transmission, the fundamentals don’t change.
Provided you have high-quality audio equipment compatible with platforms offering lossless audio, you can experience this elevated sound quality seamlessly.
Lossless has had its fair share of hurdles, mainly with issues pertaining to pricing and the lack of availability across most platforms.
The Android 14 API should look to at least alleviate some of these issues.
While the Pixel 8 series will most certainly be the first to adopt this new change, other OEMs are likely to follow suit.
However, it would be wise to wait and see how the change goes before running over to purchase a pair of highly expensive USB-C headphones.
FAQs
What is lossless audio and why is it important?
Lossless audio offers sound in its purest form, without any compression or alteration, leading to a high-quality auditory experience.
Which devices will support lossless audio first?
Google’s Pixel 8 series will be the first smartphones to offer lossless audio, followed by other Android devices compatible with Android 14.
Do streaming services support this feature?
Streaming services will need to adopt Android 14’s new API to offer lossless audio. This adaptation is anticipated to happen gradually.
Are wireless headphones compatible with lossless audio on Android 14?
Wireless transmission remains fundamentally the same; however, users need high-quality audio equipment compatible with platforms offering lossless audio to experience the elevated sound quality.
Apple to refresh baseline iPad with new Apple Silicone M1 chipset.
iPad Air set for a speed boost with M2 chipset, surpassing its 6th-gen models.
Speculated iPad Mini 7 to eliminate jelly-scrolling issue and upgrade to A16 Bionic chipset.
Next-generation OLED iPad Pro models delayed until latter half of 2024.
iPads have become an integral part of the Apple ecosystem in recent times with the company now pushing out yearly upgrades to its tablet series.
The Pro moniker is the very high end of products offered by Apple and is consequently priced at the higher end as well.
There are also other lineups in Apple’s stable like the basic iPad, iPad Air, and the iPad Mini.
Nowreports are surfacing about a refresh to at least three of the existing iPad lineups onOctober 17.
New iPads To Get A Spec Bump
Of course, all these reports should of course be taken with a grain of salt and that being said, it appears that the baseline iPad, which was the most recent refresh from Apple, will now be modified again, perhaps getting the new Apple silicone M1 chipset that has already permeated the iPad Pro and Air lineups.
The iPad Air will likely get a faster M2 chipset, which should make it marginally faster than the current 6th-gen lineup.
And finally, it is also being speculated that the iPad Mini might also get a spec boost to the Apple A16 Bionic chipset.
Design-wise all the iPads are reported to be the same for the time being.
The iPad Mini had been plagued with a kind of jelly-scrolling effect that made one part of the screen scroll a bit slower than the rest.
It is likely going to be fixed with the rumoured iPad Mini 7.
iPad Lineup
Also if you’re looking forward to a new iPad Pro release, you’ll have to wait a bit longer.
The next-generation iPad Pro models, featuring OLED screens, are anticipated to be launched in the latter half of 2024.
This timeline aligns well with Apple’s schedule, as the first half of the year is expected to be focused on the rollout of Apple’s Vision Pro spatial computer.
No Special Event For the Launch?
With such minor improvements being speculated it will be unlikely that Apple will hold a full-scale event for their unveiling.
Apple has done this previously with its mid-season iPad refresh so there is no reason to believe the company won’t do it again.
There are also reports of a new Apple Pencil in the making with USB-C charging, a further shift by the company to integrate this universal port across all its consumer electronics offerings.
While tablet sales are not doing so well in the world as of now, the iPad still remains the number one choice for consumers foraying into the segment.
The reported refresh and spec bumps to at least three models in the iPad lineup will surely help the company’s sales projections in the immediate future.
Digital zoom up to 5x, Five-element lens, Smart HDR 3, Panorama, Photo Geotagging, Burst mode
Video Recording
4K @ 24/30/60 fps UHD, 1080p @ 30 fps FHD
Front Camera
12 MP f/2.4 (Main)
Front Video Recording
1080p @ 25/30/60 fps FHD
TECHNICAL
OS
iOS v15
Chipset
Apple M1
CPU
Octa Core Processor
GPU
Apple GPU (8-core graphics)
Java
No
Browser
Yes
MULTIMEDIA
Email
Yes
Music
Yes
Video
Yes
FM Radio
No
Document Reader
Yes
BATTERY
Type
Non-Removable Battery
Size
Li-Po Battery
Fast Charging
Yes, 20W USB‑C Power Adapter
Talk Time
10 hours
FAQs
What new chipsets are expected in the iPad lineup?
Apple is planning to integrate the M1 chipset into the baseline iPad and the faster M2 chipset into the iPad Air. The iPad Mini is rumored to get the A16 Bionic chipset.
When is the OLED iPad Pro expected?
The next-generation OLED iPad Pro models are likely to launch in the latter half of 2024.
Will there be design changes?
Current reports indicate that the design will remain the same, though the jelly-scrolling issue in the iPad Mini is expected to be fixed.
Is Apple planning a special event for the launch?
Given the minor updates, a full-scale event is unlikely. Apple has previously refreshed iPads without special events.
Pixel 8 Pro withstands fire and bend tests, showing strong structural integrity.
Fingerprint scanner on Pixel 8 Pro remains functional even after fire test.
Pixel 8 Pro promises 7 years of software updates, surpassing Apple’s offerings.
Despite no Titanium build, Pixel 8 Pro’s durability exceeds that of iPhone 15 Pro Max.
The Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro series launched earlier this month are the latest in the line for flagships from the Mountain View-based tech giant’s stable of products.
The devices are known for their flashy photography capabilities and nuanced AI-based optimisations to enhance said images captured.
But what about the durability? Historically Pixel devices have not been, what you call, highly durable.
YouTuber JerryRigEverythingdoes a full test of the physical prowess of each smartphone unfortunate enough to be placed on his desk.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max interestingly, built from Grade 5 Titanium, shattered very easily under his fingers, or at least the back glass did.
iphone 15 Pro Shattered
So how does the Pixel 8 Pro, a premium flagship that does not have Titanium used in its building process, fare?
Well, Google has said that it will be offering nearly 7 years of software updates on the Pixel 8 deviceswhich is quite unprecedented in terms of smartphones.
Apple, with its robust software and hardware integration, has historically been at the forefront of software offerings but it seems that Google is looking to outdo the company.
As such if you are to buy the Pixel 8 today, Google has said that the phone will get updates till 2030.
But the question is whether the device is durable enough to last for that long.
Zack Nelson, on his channel JerryRigEverything, went through his usual tests of screen and durability tests.
The highlight of which is this, during the fire test, the Pixel 8 Pro sustained a permanent burn mark after 17 seconds of exposure to flame.
Nevertheless, its fingerprint scanner remained fully functional despite the screen damage.
Pixel 8 Pro Bend Test
In contrast to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which failed the bend test, the Pixel 8 Pro demonstrated strong structural integrity and showed no signs of cracks or fractures.
So it can be said that among the high-end flagships that were announced this year, the Pixel 8 Pro durability at least one-ups the iPhone 15 Pro Max, even though the latter splashed a lot of marketing material regarding its Titanium build.
The long-term durability of both phones is anyone’s guess, but it is good to see Google maintaining its position this year as a smartphone that will last your regular wear and tear.
FAQs
How did Pixel 8 Pro perform in the fire test?
The Pixel 8 Pro sustained a permanent burn mark after 17 seconds but its fingerprint scanner remained functional.
What about the bend test results?
Unlike the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the Pixel 8 Pro passed the bend test with no cracks or fractures.
How long will the Pixel 8 Pro receive updates?
Google has promised nearly 7 years of software updates for the Pixel 8 Pro, until 2030.
Is the Pixel 8 Pro made of Titanium like the iPhone 15 Pro Max?
No, the Pixel 8 Pro does not feature a Titanium build, yet it performed better in durability tests.
How Payoda overcomes data obstacles for AI implementation.
The role of human expertise in an AI-augmented environment.
Payoda’s ongoing effort to ensure ethical and unbiased AI usage.
Payoda’s plans to adapt and expand in the evolving AI landscape.
In a landscape increasingly driven by technology, Payoda Technologies stands as a leader in leveraging Artificial Intelligence to enhance software delivery.
We interviewed Karunya Sampath, the Co-Founder & CEO of Payoda, to delve deep into how the company is employing cutting-edge AI technologies across various facets of their software delivery pipeline.
From confronting challenges in data quality to pioneering ethical AI usage, Sampath provides an enlightening look into the dynamic world of AI-powered software delivery.
Don’t miss this exclusive interview to discover how Payoda Technologies is setting new standards and what it means for the industry at large.
Can you elaborate on the specific AI technologies and algorithms that Payoda Technologies has integrated into its software delivery process?
Payoda Technologies has integrated a range of AI technologies and algorithms into its software delivery process to enhance efficiency and quality.
These include Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms for text analysis, Machine Learning (ML) models for predictive analytics,Computer Vision for image recognition, and Reinforcement Learning for process optimization.
These technologies enable us to automate tasks, extract insights from data, and improve decision-making throughout the software development lifecycle.
What challenges have you faced when implementing AI into your delivery pipeline, and how did you overcome them?
Implementing AI into our software delivery pipeline has been transformative but not without its challenges.
One significant challenge was obtaining high-quality and diverse training data.
To overcome this, we established data partnerships and invested in data augmentation techniques to improve model accuracy.
Additionally, ensuring data privacy and security was a priority, leading us to adopt robust encryption and access control measures.
How does AI integration affect the role of human experts in your delivery process? Does it supplement their efforts or replace certain tasks?
AI integration complements the role of human experts rather than replacing them.
The benefits of AI-powered assistants are undeniable, as they streamline routine tasks and allow experts to focus on more complex and creative aspects of their work.
Additionally, AI enables experts to make data-driven decisions, thus enhancing their expertise.
However, we firmly believe that human judgment remains crucial in areas like ethics, strategy, and interpreting AI-generated insights.
At the end of the day, there is no substitute for the unique perspective and experience that human experts bring to the table.
How does Payoda Technologies ensure that the AI used in software delivery is ethical and unbiased?
Ensuring ethical and unbiased AI is a top priority.
We implement fairness-aware machine learning techniques to identify and mitigate biases in our algorithms.
Regular audits and continuous monitoring of AI systems help us maintain ethical standards.
We also adhere to industry guidelines and seek external ethical reviews when necessary.
Could you discuss any partnerships or collaborations that have been pivotal in improving your software delivery process?
Collaborations have been pivotal in our journey.
We have an Centre of Excellence (CoE) that conducts cutting-edge research, and strategic partnerships with Databricks, Microsoft and Google Cloud that have helped us leverage their expertise and resources.
Collaborations also enable us to stay updated with the latest AI developments.
Has the integration of AI affected client expectations, and if so, how do you manage these new expectations?
The integration of AI at Payoda Technologies has significantly impacted client expectations.
For instance, let’s consider a case study with a leading US retailer.
This retailer faced higher return rates due to misfits, primarily because the fashion industry lacked standardized metrics.
To address this challenge and meet their objectives of reducing return rates and enhancing the customer buying experience, Payoda developed an AI-based mobile application.
This application provided personalized fashion advice and recommendations, enabling customers to select the right size and fit effortlessly.
The result was a transformation in the shopping experience.
Customers could now easily choose appropriate sizes and receive exclusive fashion advice through the mobile app.
As a result, the retailer not only reduced return rates significantly but also improved overall customer satisfaction.
This case illustrates how AI can exceed client expectations by solving real-world problems and enhancing user experiences.
We believe that similar innovative applications of AI will continue to shape client expectations in the software delivery process, with a growing demand for personalized and data-driven solutions.
We are committed to meeting these expectations by staying at the forefront of AI advancements and delivering practical, impactful solutions like the one mentioned in this case study.
As AI continues to evolve, how do you plan to adapt or expand your current AI-enabled processes in the future?
As AI continues to evolve, we plan to adapt and expand our AI-enabled processes.
We are exploring AI in DevOps for continuous improvement and predictive maintenance, and we aim to expand our use of AI in cybersecurity to enhance threat detection and response.
We also intend to invest in AI explainability and transparency to ensure that clients and stakeholders can understand and trust our AI-driven solutions.
FAQs
What challenges has Payoda faced when incorporating AI and how were they addressed?
The company faced challenges in obtaining high-quality and diverse training data. This was mitigated by establishing data partnerships and using data augmentation techniques. Ensuring data privacy and security was also a priority, and robust encryption and access control measures were adopted.
How does AI impact the role of human experts at Payoda?
AI complements human expertise by automating routine tasks, enabling data-driven decision-making, and allowing experts to focus on complex and creative work. However, human judgment remains vital in areas like ethics and strategy.
How does Payoda ensure the ethical use of AI?
Fairness-aware machine learning techniques are employed to identify and mitigate biases. The company performs regular audits and continuous monitoring to maintain ethical standards, in addition to adhering to industry guidelines.
The Vivo V29 Pro, a successor in the V series, boasts a design that exemplifies Vivo’s hallmark classy style.
This model feels comfortable and premium in the hand, thanks in part to its tastefully chosen color combinations.
Its slightly glossy finish, while lending an air of elegance, does have a propensity to attract fingerprints, which could be a slight deterrent for some users.
Dimension-wise, the V29 Pro mirrors its predecessor, sporting a slim and lightweight build.
The camera module, featuring a triple-lens setup, looks sophisticated and is complemented by the signature Aura light flash.
Design elements like the slender volume rockers and the USB-C port at the bottom have been thoughtfully incorporated.
However, the absence of stereo speakers at this price point might be felt by audiophiles. Thesmartphonealso features an in-display fingerprint sensor, further enhancing its sleek profile.
In summary, the Vivo V29 Pro offers a well-executed design and solid build quality, albeit with a few areas for improvement.
Vivo V29 Pro: Display
Vivo V29 Pro: Display
The Vivo V29 Pro’s display is a direct mirror of the standard Vivo V29.
It showcases a curved AMOLED panel, spanning 6.78 inches with an FHD+ resolution of 2800 × 1260, and supports a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
The panel incorporates a punch-hole design for the selfie camera, allowing for minimalistic bezels which provide a more immersive viewing experience.
Brightness levels are commendable, making the display easily readable in outdoor scenarios.
Additionally, with its HDR10+ certification, users can expect vibrantly rich content while streaming on OTT platforms.
For its price point, casual viewing on the Vivo V29 Pro feels not just adequate but leans towards the premium side.
Vivo has certainly excelled in delivering an impressive viewing experience with this model.
Vivo V29 Pro: Cameras
Vivo V29 Pro: Cameras
The camera configuration of the Vivo V29 Pro mirrors its predecessor, the Vivo V29.
Boasting the same 50 MP OIS primary and an 8 MP ultra wide-angle lens, our review of the Vivo V29 revealed commendable camera capabilities, which hold true for the Pro version as well.
The incorporation of the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC grants the device an enhanced ISP, evident in its improved imaging.
In daylight settings, the camera produces images that are rich in HDR, exhibiting satisfactory contrast levels.
The details captured are consistently sharp across various conditions, showcasing an impressive dynamic range.
The camera’s autofocus and shutter speeds also met our expectations.
While the ultra-wide lens delivers decent results, it doesn’t particularly stand out.
A noticeable discrepancy in color temperature between the two main sensors was evident. Additionally, some distortion or warping at the edges was also observable.
Vivo V29 Pro Rear Cameras
However, the 12MP portrait telephoto lenswas a notable performer, producing quality portrait shots and offering the advantage of capturing detailed close-ups, especially compared to phones without a dedicatedtelephoto lens.
Vivo’s software enhancements, especially for human portraits, consistently yielded pleasing results in our tests.
The Vivo V29 Pro’s low-light performance is admirable.
The images retain adequate detail relative to the lighting conditions, and noise handling seems improved compared to older models in the V series.
The Aura Light flash is a valuable addition for flash photography enthusiasts.
While the dedicated night mode often produces naturally lit images in dim conditions, there are instances where some graininess persists.
The 50 MP selfie camera is tailored for selfie aficionados, delivering portraits with accurate skin details and tones.
Vivo V29 Pro Day Shots
Vivo V29 Pro Night Shots
Vivo V29 Pro Daylight Video
Vivo V29 Pro Night Video
Vivo V29 Pro: Performance and Features
Vivo V29 Pro: Performance and Features
The Vivo V29 Pro boasts performance metrics that set it apart from the standard V29.
At its core lies the MediaTek Dimensity 8200, a reliable SoC that performs competently across various tasks.
Benchmark results are impressive, with Antutu scores reaching 908,661 and Geekbench 6 displaying a multicore score of 3,949.
A notable observation, however, is the CPU’s tendency to throttle to 75% of its peak performance, possibly a consequence of the phone’s sleek design.
Despite this, for the average user, the phone delivers a robust performance.
Routine activities run seamlessly without any discernible lags or stutters.
When it comes to gaming, titles like BGMIcan be enjoyed at 60fps with HDR graphics, and CoD Mobile mirrors this performance, operating smoothly at the highest graphics settings.
A minor drawback is the phone’s tendency to warm up slightly after about half an hour of gaming.
Storage and memory are abundant, with options going up to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage, ensuring users won’t find themselves wanting for more space.
The phone is already equipped with the Android 13-based FuntouchOS 13. Additionally, it will receive security patches for three years.
Battery-wise, the Vivo V29 Pro comes with a 4,600mAh unit.
When compared to the 5,000mAh batteries that are common in its price range, this might seem underwhelming.
But the device compensates with its 80W fast charging feature, which ensures rapid refills.
In practical daily usage, the device clocked a tad over 5 hours of screen-on time, usually requiring a recharge by the day’s end.
While the rapid charging is indeed commendable, the inclusion of a heftier battery would have undoubtedly elevated the overall experience.
Vivo V29 Pro Review: Verdict
Verdict
The Vivo V29 Pro offers a blend of elegance, power, and affordability.
While it shines in display quality, camera prowess, and rapid charging capabilities, it slightly misses the mark in terms of battery capacity and software refinement.
Microsoft completes $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard after overcoming regulatory hurdles.
UK’s CMA approves the deal after Microsoft agrees to exclude Activision’s cloud gaming rights.
FTC lawsuit against the acquisition gets rejected by a U.S. district court, clearing the way for the merger.
After overcoming multiple hurdles and regulatory challenges, Microsofthas successfully completed its acquisition of video game behemoth Activision Blizzard.
The deal, valued at a staggering $68.7 billion, brings together two giants of the gaming industry under a single umbrella.
This acquisition has been the subject of much speculation and concern, primarily regarding its impact on market competition and game availability across different platforms.
Market Concerns and Regulations
Microsoft first announced its intention to acquire Activision Blizzard in January 2022, offering a 30 percent premium over the market value, making it hard for Activision to decline.
This raised alarm bells in the gaming community, with critics questioning the implications for game exclusivity, particularly for popular titles like Call of Duty.
Microsoft Activision Blizzard
The acquisition faced considerable resistance from regulatory bodies.
In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a lawsuit against Microsoft in December 2022, suggesting that the deal would give Microsoft an undue edge in the console gaming market.
Meanwhile, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK expressed similar reservations, citing potential monopoly issues in the cloud gaming sector.
Breakthrough in Legal Struggles and CMA Approval
A breakthrough came in July 2023 when a US district court rejected the FTC’s lawsuit to restrain the deal, giving Microsoft a breath of fresh air.
However, concerns from the UK’s CMA remained a major stumbling block.
In a strategic pivot, Microsoft offered to exclude Activision’s cloud gaming rights from the acquisition to appease the CMA while keeping the deal’s valuation unchanged at $68.7 billion.
This move led to the CMA giving its long-awaited nod to the merger.
Microsoft Gaming Rights
Relief for PlayStation Users
Amid concerns that the acquisition would mean Activision titles becoming Xbox exclusives, an agreement was signed with Sony to keep all current and future versions of Activision games, including Call of Duty, on the PlayStation platform until December 31, 2027.
FAQs
What is the value of Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard?
The acquisition is valued at $68.7 billion, making it one of the largest in the tech industry.
Who are the regulatory bodies involved?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the U.S. and the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK were the main regulatory bodies scrutinizing the deal.
Is Activision Blizzard’s cloud gaming part of the deal?
No, Microsoft has excluded Activision’s cloud gaming rights to get approval from the CMA.
Will Activision games still be available on PlayStation?
Yes, an agreement with Sony ensures that Activision games will stay on the PlayStation platform until the end of 2027.
