YouTube saw significant growth in TV screen viewership in 2024.
The platform recorded a 30% increase in creator earnings and a 35% rise in 4K video uploads.
Sports-related videos, kids’ content and long-form video podcasts are thriving on YouTube’s TV app.
YouTube is testing new features like Multiview and Watch With to enhance sports viewing.
Creators are also optimising content for TV screens.
YouTube is all about the living room experience now. (Image credit – Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash)
YouTube has seen a significant rise in viewership on TV screens with creators adapting to meet the demand for a more living room experience.
YouTube’s Senior Product Management Director Kurt Wilms shared insights into this trend highlighting 2024 as a breakthrough year for YouTube on TV with Business Insider.
“2024 was the year of the living room. Creators across the board, no matter what content they’re making, are leaning into optimizing their content for the biggest screen,” Wilms said.
The shift has been remarkable as creator earnings from TV viewership grew by over 30% year-over-year and the number of videos uploaded in4K resolution increased by more than 35%.
Top Content Thriving on TV Screens
Watch Along Sports Content
Sports videos including live commentary, pre-game analysis, real-time reactions and post-game discussions have become a hit on the YouTube TV app.
To enhance the sports viewing experience, YouTube is testing features like:
Multiview: Watch multiple streams simultaneously.
Watch With: Combine live event streams with a creator’s commentary.
Kids’ Content
Family-friendly and kids’ content has proven to be strong drivers of co-viewing on TV screens. YouTube’s features like Parent Code give parents more control over what kids watch making the platform a trusted choice for shared family viewing.
Long-Form Video Podcasts
Long-form video podcasts, which resemble traditional talk shows, are growing in popularity on YouTube TV. Their passive viewing format makes them perfect for hands-free consumption.
“With video podcasts in the living room, you can put it on your TV and watch or listen to it while you do something else hands-free,” Wilms explained.
YouTube creators recognise this shift in viewing habits and are optimising their content for TV screens. Creators are producing high-quality, episodic content and organising videos into playlists for seamless viewing on large displays.
FAQs
Q1. What was notable about YouTube’s viewership trend in 2024?
Answer. 2024 was a breakthrough year for YouTube on TV, with creator earnings from TV viewership growing by over 30% year-over-year and a 35% increase in videos uploaded in 4K resolution.
Q2. What types of content are thriving on YouTube’s TV app?
Answer. Sports-related videos, kids’ content, and long-form video podcasts are thriving on YouTube’s TV app offering an immersive living room experience.
Q3. What new features is YouTube testing to enhance the sports viewing experience?
Answer. YouTube is testing features like Multiview, which allows watching multiple streams simultaneously and Watch With, which combines live event streams with a creator’s commentary.
• The Noise Air Buds 6 will be available in three stunning colours – Pebble Grey, Sage Blue, and Charcoal Black.
• Customers can experience a new era of listening with a 50-hours playtime and unmatched personalization via Noise BudsLink App.
• It will be up for sale starting 07th January 2025 at an introductory price of INR 2,999 on gonoise.com, Amazon, and Flipkart.
Noise has announced the launch of its flagship TWS – Noise Air Buds 6, marking a significant milestone in audio innovation.
In collaboration with Bragi, the Noise Air Buds 6 herald a new era of personalized listening experiences and ‘app-solute innovation’ via the Noise BudsLink App.
The Noise Air Buds 6 sport an ANC of up to 32dB and a playtime of up to 50 hours.
The TWS is designed to meet the needs of tech-savvy and lifestyle-focused consumers, and this launch sets a new benchmark in premium hearables.
The new app enables users to customize EQ levels, personalize touch controls, and fine-tune every detail for a bespoke listening experience.
Commenting on the launch, Amit Khatri, Co-Founder, Noise, said, “The launch of Noise Air Buds 6 represents a defining moment in our journey to bring world-class audio innovations to our customers. It reflects our vision of crafting technology that not only performs exceptionally but also enriches lives. Our collaboration with Bragi has helped us to push boundaries and deliver a truly transformative product. The new launch is a statement of unlocking new possibilities in smart audio solutions that serves as a lifestyle upgrade in meaningful ways.”
Customers who pre-book the Noise Air Buds 6 can pay Rs. 399 to get a coupon worth Rs. 899 on launch day, along with additional perks valued at Rs. 2,500.
Noise Air Buds 6 Features & Specs
Instacharge™ technology guarantees 150 minutes of playtime with a quick 10-minute.
The Noise Air Buds 6 sport an ANC of up to 32dB and a playtime of up to 50 hours, ensuring clear and extended immersive audio experiences.
It stands apart with its integration of Voice and Context features.
The former enables fast and secure access to favourite services, recognizing users’ voices to deliver personalized interactions.
Meanwhile, the latter ensures anti-occlusion during calls by reducing muffled sounds and automatically adjusting volume.
One can effortlessly manage playlists, adjust volume, and handle calls hands-free with the Voice Control feature without any internet connection.
Simply speak, and your commands are instantly executed, even when your phone is out of reach.
Powered by 12.4mm drivers, these earbuds deliver crystal-clear sound with deep bass for an elevated experience.
Noise Air Buds 6 is powered by 12.4mm drivers.
Gamers and multitaskers will appreciate the ultra-low latency of 50ms and Multipoint Connectivity, enabling seamless switching between devices.
The TWS further takes functionality to the next level with Google Fast Pairing, in-ear detection, and customizable shortcuts action buttons for quick access to preferred settings.
Reduces muffled sounds during calls .
The collaboration with Bragi brings innovation to the forefront with features such as Fast Mute and Sidetones to empower users to manage calls with ease.
On the other hand, the Instacharge™ technology guarantees 150 minutes of playtime with a quick 10-minute charge to keep pace with dynamic, on-the-go lifestyles.
These earbuds truly integrate smart technology into every aspect of the listening journey.
The Noise Air Buds 6 is a perfect blend of style and practicality.
Lets users to manage playlists, adjust the volume, and handle calls hands-free without needing an internet connection.
Its ergonomic design ensures all-day comfort, while advanced feature integrations enhance usability, making it the ultimate audio companion for work, play, and everything in between.
Through its latest innovation, Noise continues to lead the way in redefining the hearables market, meeting the evolving demands of India’s tech-savvy consumers.
Noise Air Buds 6 Price and Availability
The Noise Air Buds 6 will be available in three colours – Pebble Grey, Sage Blue, and Charcoal Black.
The Noise Air Buds 6 will be available in three stunning colours – Pebble Grey, Sage Blue, and Charcoal Black.
It will be up for sale starting tomorrow, 07th January 2025 at an introductory price of INR 2,999 on gonoise.com, Amazon, and Flipkart.
Product Specifications Noise Air Buds 6
Noise Air Buds 6 Provide fast, secure access to favorite services through voice recognition, enabling personalized interactions
Playtime
50 Hours
Charging Port
Type C
Instacharge
10 min charge = 150 minute playtime
Waterproofing
IPX5
Driver’s Size
12.4mm
Key Features
Control Features Through Noise BudsLink App
ANC of up to 32dB
Ultra Low Latency of 50 ms
Google Fast Pairing
In-ear Detection
FAQs
Q1.What are the top features of Noise Air Buds 6?
Answer. The Noise Air Buds 6 sport an ANC of up to 32dB and a playtime of up to 50 hours, ensuring clear and extended immersive audio experiences.
Gamers and multitaskers will appreciate the ultra-low latency of 50ms and Multipoint Connectivity, enabling seamless switching between devices.
The Instacharge™ technology guarantees 150 minutes of playtime with a quick 10-minute.
Q2.What are the highlights of noise air buds 6 collaboration with bragi?
Answer. In collaboration with Bragi, the Noise Air Buds 6 herald a new era of personalized listening experiences and ‘app-solute innovation’ via the Noise BudsLink App. Designed to meet the needs of tech-savvy and lifestyle-focused consumers, this launch sets a new benchmark in premium hearables. The new app enables users to customize EQ levels, personalize touch controls, and fine-tune every detail for a bespoke listening experience.
The collaboration with Bragi brings innovation to the forefront with features such as Fast Mute and Sidetones empower users to manage calls with ease.
Q3.How well are the Noise Air Buds 6 priced ?
Answer.The introductory price of Noise Air Buds 6 is INR 2999.
Q4.What are the Color options of Noise Air Buds 6?
Answer.The Noise Air Buds 6 will be available in three stunning colours – Pebble Grey, Sage Blue, and Charcoal Black.
Q5.What are the pre order offers on Noise Air Buds 6?
Answer .Customers who pre-book the Noise Air Buds 6 can pay Rs. 399 to get a coupon worth Rs. 899 on launch day, along with additional perks valued at Rs. 2,500:
Rs. 2000 off on the Soundmaster.
Rs. 500 off on the Noise Colorfit Pro 5.
The effective price for pre-booked customers will be Rs. 2,100.
Priority shipping and product reservation for 14 days from launch.
Q6.What are the specs of Noise Buds Air 6?
Answer.12.4mm drivers
ANC up to 32dB; Super Hearing with Transparency mode
Quad mic ENC
Up to 50 hours of playtime
Instacharge: 10 minutes offers 150 minutes of playtime
Low latency up to 50ms
In-ear detection
Google Fast Pairing
Voice and touch controls
Fast mute, Multipoint connectivity, Battery prediction, Small Calls, and customizable EQ
Noise BudsLink App, powered by Bragi
IPX5 water resistance
The new Smartphone offers a 50 MP Super HDR camera, and a 6.67-inch punch hole display.
The phone is equipped with 8 GB RAM, 128 GB storage providing 3 Year Lag Free experience.
itel, is poised to lead India’s budget smartphone segment, making a bold leap in 2025.
The A80 smartphone stands out in the sub 7K segment, offering a 120 Hz refresh rate and IP 54 water-resistant rating, ensuring smooth visuals, clear display quality, and unmatched durability.
This move signifies a strategic enhancement to its Awesome Series lineup.
The itel A80 comes equipped with a big 6.67-inch Punch Hole Display featuring a Dynamic bar offering a simplified and seamless user interface.
With an advanced processor, 8 GB RAM (4GB + 4GB*), and 128 GB ROM, the device supports multitasking and ample storage while maintaining a lag-free Fluency experience for up to three years.
The A80 smartphone stands out in the sub 7K segment.
Power-packed with these incredible features, the A80 smartphone is available at just Rs. 6999.
With a strikingly appealing design, the itel A80 smartphone is built to impress.
The A80 has a 50 MP Super HDR camera.
The A80’s 50 MP Super HDR camera is going to turn heads with its awe-inspiring photography – capturing vivid details even in low light.
It also features a ring light notification that acts as the icing on the cake.
The 6.67-inch punch-hole display enhances entertainment and visual storytelling, and the device’s dynamic bar adds a stylish, modern touch – all tremendously enhancing the user experience, making the A80 smartphone a delight to use.
The A80 is built for durability, with an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.
The A80 is built for durability, with an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. This smartphone comes with Android 14 Go OS and a Unisoc T603 Octa-core processor, delivering smooth and efficient performance for all your daily tasks.
To further ensure reliability, itel offers a free screen replacement within 100 days of purchase.
It is available in attractive colours of Sandstone Black, Glacier White, and Wave Blue.
It is available in attractive colors of Sandstone Black, Glacier White, and Wave Blue, combining elegance with practicality.
The itel A80 smartphone is now available at retail stores across India, offering consumers a powerful and stylish device designed to enhance their everyday digital experiences.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of itel India, stated, “As we enter 2025, we renew our steadfast commitment to our consumers by delivering innovations that blend cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and exceptional features—all at unbeatable prices. The launch of the A80 smartphone is a step in that direction and reaffirms our commitment to bridging the technology gap for today’s young India. With its stunning 120 Hz Refresh rate and exceptional durability, the A80 smartphone is perfectly placed to cater to the growing demand for durability and user experience without compromising on style.”
This smartphone comes with Android 14 Go OS and a Unisoc T603 Octa-core processor.
Product Specs –
Brand
itel A80
Price
Rs. 6999
Screen Size
6.67 HD+ IPS
Refresh rate
120Hz
Display Type
Punch Hole with Dynamic Bar
Ring Notification
Yes
Processor
Unisoc T603
Processor Core
Octa Core
RAM
4GB+4GB*
ROM
128GB
Front Camera
8MP
Rear Camera
50MP Super HDR Camera
Battery
5000 mAh
Charger
10W
IP Rating
IP54
(Dust & Splash Proof)
Fingerprint
Side
Face Unlock
Yes
OS
Android 14 Go
FAQs
Q1.Is Itel A80 a budget smartphone?
Answer.The A80 smartphone stands out in the sub 7K segment.
Power packed with these incredible features, the A80 smartphone is available at just Rs. 6999.
Q2.What Color options are available in the newly launched Itel A80?
Answer.It is available in attractive colours of Sandstone Black, Glacier White, and Wave Blue, combining elegance with practicality.
Q3.Where can I buy the Itel A80 from
?
Answer.The itel A80 smartphone is now available at retail stores across India, offering consumers a powerful and stylish device designed to enhance their everyday digital experiences.
Q4.What are the top 5 features of the Itel A80?
Answer .The top 5 features of Itel A80 are-
•The itel A80 comes equipped with a big 6.67- inch Punch Hole Display featuring a Dynamic bar offering a simplified and seamless user interface.
•With an advanced processor, 8 GB RAM (4GB + 4GB*), and 128 GB ROM, the device supports multitasking and ample storage while maintaining a lag-free Fluency experience for up to three years.
* The A80’s 50 MP Super HDR camera is going to turn heads with its awe-inspiring photography – capturing vivid details even in low light.
* It also features a ring light notification that acts as the icing on the cake.
* . To further ensure reliability, itel offers a free screen replacement within 100 days of purchase.
The update introduces several new features including lock screen customisations, AI enhancements and improved multitasking tools.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new update.
What’s New in Nothing OS 3.0?
Here’s a breakdown of the major changes and improvements in this update:
Shared Widgets
Stay connected with friends and family through shared widgets.
View and interact with other people’s widgets directly from your home screen using reactions.
Lock Screen Enhancements
A new lock screen customization page is accessible by long-pressing the lock screen or via the Customisation menu.
Fresh Clock face styles to choose from.
Expanded widget space allowing more widgets to be placed on the lock screen.
AI-Powered Smart Drawer
Automatically organize your apps into folders for easy access.
Pin your favourite apps to the top of the app drawer for quicker navigation.
Improved Pop-Up View
Drag and reposition the pop-up view anywhere on the screen.
Resize it easily by dragging the bottom corners.
Pin it to the screen edge for faster access.
Swipe down on notifications to enter the pop-up view for quick interactions without leaving your current app. (Enable via Settings > Special features > Pop-up view.)
Redesigned User Interface
Overhauled Quick Settings for easier customization of shortcuts.
A refreshed widget library with support for Nothing Widgets and third-party widgets.
Updated Settings visuals, with current connections displayed for Network & Internet and Bluetooth.
New dot animations for fingerprint unlocking and charging.
Other Notable Improvements
AI now learns your usage habits keeping frequently used apps active longer for a smoother experience.
Enhanced lock screen charging status to display charging speed at a glance.
Support for auto-archive to free up storage space without removing app data.
Partial screen sharing lets you record an app window instead of the whole screen.
Updated setup wizard (version 3.0) for a smoother onboarding experience.
Enabled predictive back animations for supported apps.
December security patch included.
Android 15-Based Nothing OS 3.0 Update – Rolling Out Gradually
Android 15-Based Nothing OS 3.0 Update – Rolling Out Gradually
The update is being released in phases, so it might take some time to reach all users.
Nothing advises that during the upgrade process, the system will optimise in the background, which may temporarily cause overheating or higher power consumption. These issues are expected to be resolved quickly after the update is complete.
Update for Nothing Phone (1) Coming Soon
Meanwhile, Nothing Phone (1) users who received the Open Beta 1 update of Nothing OS 3.0 last month can expect a stable release in the near future.
FAQs
Q1. What new features and improvements does the Nothing OS 3.0 update introduce?
Answer. The update includes lock screen customisations, AI enhancements, improved multitasking tools, shared widgets and an AI-powered smart drawer.
Q2. What interface changes come with the Nothing OS 3.0 update?
Answer. The update features overhauled Quick Settings, a refreshed widget library, updated Settings visuals, partial screen sharing, auto-archive support and new dot animations.
Q3. How is the Android 15-based Nothing OS 3.0 update being released for the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus?
Answer. The update is being released in phases, which may temporarily cause overheating or higher power consumption. Nothing Phone (1) users can expect a stable release soon.
Unmarried couples must provide valid proof of their relationship for bookings at OYO partner hotels in Meerut.
Couples without documentation may be denied a stay.
The decision was influenced by feedback from civil society groups and petitions from residents.
This policy is part of OYO’s efforts to rebrand as a family-friendly and safety-first.
Oyo new policy in Meerut bans unmarried couples from checking in without proof of their relationship. (Image credit – Unknown)
OYO, one of India’s leading hospitality chains, has introduced a new check-in policy for its partner hotels in Meerut, requiring unmarried couples to provide valid proof of their relationship.
This policy applies to both online and walk-in bookings effective this year. Couples without the necessary documentation may be denied a stay.
OYO has directed its partner hotels in Meerut to strictly follow these updated rules. Hotels are also allowed some flexibility to decline bookings for unmarried couples based on their own judgment keeping local social norms in mind. The decision comes in response to feedback from civil society groups in Meerut and petitions from residents in other cities.
A company spokesperson shared with PTI, “OYO has received feedback in the past from civil society groups, especially in Meerut urging action to address this issue. Additionally, residents from a few other cities have petitioned for disallowing unmarried couples to check-in at OYO hotels.”
The Region Head of OYO North India Pawas Sharma emphasised the company’s dedication to customer safety. He explained, “OYO is committed to maintaining safe and responsible hospitality practices. While we respect individual freedoms and personal liberty, we also recognise our responsibility to collaborate with law enforcement and civil society groups in the specific regions where we operate. We will continue to periodically review this policy and its impact.”
This policy highlights OYO’sefforts to balance individual rights with regional cultural sensitivities while cooperating with local authorities to ensure a secure environment.
The new guidelines are part of OYO’s broader initiative to rebrand itself as a family-friendly and safety-first hospitality chain. The company aims to cater to families, students, solo travellers and religious groups, promoting longer stays and enhanced trust among its customers.
To support this goal, OYO has been conducting awareness seminars with police and hotel partners on safe hospitality practices. It has also blacklisted hotels involved in immoral activities and taken action against unauthorized properties using the OYO name.
The Meerut check-in policy could be a blueprint for other cities in India. Depending on its success in ensuring a safe hospitality experience, OYO may consider implementing similar rules in other regions.
This initiative reflects OYO’s strategy to rebuild trust and maintain relevance in the competitive hospitality industry.
FAQs
Q1. What new check-in policy has OYO introduced for its partner hotels in Meerut?
Answer. OYO’s new check-in policy in Meerut requires unmarried couples to provide valid proof of their relationship. Couples without documentation may be denied a stay.
Q2. Why has OYO implemented this new check-in policy in Meerut?
Answer. The decision was influenced by feedback from civil society groups and petitions from residents in Meerut and other cities urging action to address this issue.
Q3. What broader initiative is OYO’s new check-in policy part of?
Answer. This policy is part of OYO’s broader initiative to rebrand itself as a family-friendly and safety-first hospitality chain aiming to balance individual rights with regional cultural sensitivities.
The first images of Galaxy S25 Plus and Ultra show new Icy Blue and Titanium Blue colours, slim bezels and sleek designs.
The S25 series may feature a MagSafe-style magnetic ring for wireless charging via an external Magnet Case accessory.
Confirmed use of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset globally with no Exynos models.
Pricing is likely to start at €1,079 for the 512 GB variant with 12 GB of RAM.
Galaxy S25’s new images emerged in a media report. (Image credit – Gizmochina)
Samsung’s much-anticipated Galaxy S25 series is set to debut at the Unpacked event on January 22. As the launch approaches, leaks are revealing more details about the lineup offering a glimpse of new features and designs. Here’s what we have heard in the last few days.
Galaxy S25 Plus and Ultra in Icy Blue and Titanium Blue – First Look
Gizmochina in one of its recent reports on the Galaxy S25 Series revealed the first-hand look at the Galaxy S25 Plus and Galaxy S25 Ultra in striking new blue shades. These colours will most likely be named Icy Blue and Titanium Blue, according to the report.
Galaxy S25’s new image emerged in a media report. (Image credit – Gizmochina)Galaxy S25 Ultra’s new image emerged in a media report. (Image credit – Gizmochina)Galaxy S25 Ultra’s new image emerged in a media report. (Image credit – Gizmochina)
The images show the devices encased in Spigen Crystal Flex cases and reveal sleek designs with impressively thin bezels that seem slimmer than even the iPhone 16 Pro Max. This detail aligns with predictions from leaker Ice Universe, who claimed the S25 series would feature the slimmest bezels in the market.
Another notable feature is a MagSafe-style magnetic ring on the back, hinting at Samsung’s foray into magnetic wireless charging.
The magnetic wireless charging feature will reportedly rely on an external accessory rather than being built into the phones. To enable Qi2 wireless charging or MagSafe accessory compatibility, users must purchase a dedicated “Magnet Case.”
Samsung previously avoided magnetic cases due to interference with the S Pen. The S25 series seems to have resolved this issue and now positioning Samsung to compete with brands like OnePlus and Oppo that already offer similar solutions.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – Possible Real Device Image Reveal Bezel Size
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra real phone images reveal thin bezels. (Image credit – @Jukanlosreve on X)
In a separate leak, the previous rumours of Galaxy S25 Ultra featuring ultra-thin symmetrical bezels on all four sides are confirmed in real-life images. The leak originally came from Ice Universe and was posted on X (formerly Twitter) by popular tipster @Jukanlosreve.
S25 Ultra
Source: Ice Universe pic.twitter.com/cIAbJuoTlu
— Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) January 4, 2025
Recently, the Galaxy S25 was also in the news for its appearance on the Geekbench database. The Geekbench score reveals higher performance in both single-core and multi-core with 2986 points and 9355 points respectively. The score is of the 12GB RAM variant of the smartphone sporting Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip with a primary clock speed of 4.47 GHz, Android 15 operating system and most likely the One UI 7 custom skin.
Samsung Galaxy S25 with the model number SM-S931B appeared on the Geekbench.
Leake Confirms Colours, SoC and Global Pricing
Meanwhile, tipster Ishan Agarwal on X recently confirmed that the S25 series will exclusively use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset globally with no Exynos models this year. According to the post, the information comes directly from retail sources.
It seems like Samsung Galaxy S25 series is indeed getting Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy in Europe too. (Retail sources)
So that means all 3 devices could be Snapdragon-powered in most regions.
There will be S24 in 512GB: €1,079. Other prices revealed were right.
Standard…
— Ishan Agarwal (@ishanagarwal24) January 4, 2025
Agarwal in their post also confirmed the colour options for the lineup, which include the following –
Galaxy S25 and S25+: Navy, Mint, Icy Blue and Silver Shadow.
Galaxy S25 Ultra: Titanium Black, Titanium Silver Blue, Titanium Grey and Titanium White Silver.
In terms of pricing, the Galaxy S25 starts at €1,079 for the 512 GB variant with 12 GB of RAM as standard across all models. The devices are also reportedly lighter and more compact than their predecessors, except for the S25 Ultra, which is taller than the S24 Ultra.
FAQs
Q1. When is the Samsung Galaxy S25 series set to debut?
Answer. The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is set to debut at the Unpacked event on January 22.
Q2. What new colours will be available for the Galaxy S25 Plus and Ultra models?
Answer. The Galaxy S25 Plus and Ultra models will be available in new colours named Icy Blue and Titanium Blue.
Q3. What chipset will the Samsung Galaxy S25 series exclusively use?
Answer. The S25 series will exclusively use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset globally with no Exynos models this year.
Q4. What is the starting price for the Samsung Galaxy S25 with 512 GB of storage?
Answer. The starting price for the Galaxy S25 with 512 GB of storage is €1,079, with 12 GB of RAM as standard across all models.
TECNO has introduced an 8GB + 128GB variant of the POP 9 5G in India priced at ₹10,999.
It will be available on Amazon starting January 8th 2025.
Key Features – MediaTek Dimensity SoC, a 120Hz LCD display, Memory Fusion technology for up to 8GB additional RAM, a 48MP Sony IMX 882 primary camera with AI, dual stereo speakers and a 5,000mAh battery with 18W fast charging.
The phone is available in Midnight Shadow, Azure Sky and Aurora Cloud colours with two interchangeable skins for personalisation.
Tecno POP 9 5G launched in India at ₹10,999. (Image credit – Tecno)
TECNO has introduced a new variant of the POP 9 5G in India expanding its lineup that originally launched in September 2024. The latest 8GB + 128GB version is aimed at users looking for more RAM and storage while keeping the price budget-friendly. Here’s everything we know about the new variant.
TECNO POP 9 5G – Pricing and Availability
Here’s how the different variants of the TECNO POP 9 5G are priced –
Model
Price
4GB + 64GB
₹9,499
4GB + 128GB
₹9,999
8GB + 128GB
₹10,999* with bank offers
The new 8GB + 128GB variant will be available on Amazon India starting January 8, 2025. The existing 4GB variants are available on Amazon with instant bank discounts for EMI transactions.
The smartphone is available in three attractive colours – Midnight Shadow, Azure Sky and Aurora Cloud. TECNO also includes two interchangeable skins in the box for added personalisation.
TECNO POP 9 5G – Key Features
The phone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity SoCensuring smooth performance. It supports 10 5G bands and includes Memory Fusion (Virtual RAM) technology for up to 8GB of additional RAM. The POP 9 5G features a 120Hz LCD display with a punch-hole design with dual stereo speaker setup.
On the rear, the phone boasts a 48MP Sony IMX 882 primary camera with AI functionalities. It also comes with a ring LED flashlight for enhanced low-light photography.
A 5,000mAh battery keeps the device powered all day and it supports 18W fast charging via a USB Type-C port. The box includes the charging adaptor. The POP 9 5G stands out with infrared sensor support and all-direction NFC connectivity making it a versatile device in its segment.
The TECNO POP 9 5G’s latest 8GB + 128GB variant adds more power and storage to an already impressive budget smartphone. With a starting price of ₹9,499 and unique features like a 120Hz display, Sony AI camera and NFC, it’s a compelling choice for those seeking value for money.
The new variant will be available on Amazon starting January 8.
FAQs
Q1. What is the price of the new 8GB + 128GB variant of the TECNO POP 9 5G?
Answer. The new 8GB + 128GB variant is priced at ₹10,999 with bank offers.
Q2. When will the new variant of the TECNO POP 9 5G be available in India?
Answer. The new variant will be available on Amazon India starting January 8, 2025.
Q3. What are the key features of the TECNO POP 9 5G?
Answer. The phone features a MediaTek Dimensity SoC, a 120Hz LCD display, Memory Fusion technology for up to 8GB additional RAM, a 48MP Sony IMX 882 primary camera with AI, dual stereo speakers and a 5,000mAh battery with 18W fast charging.
Q4. What colours are available for the TECNO POP 9 5G?
Answer. The TECNO POP 9 5G is available in Midnight Shadow, Azure Sky, and Aurora Cloud colours.
Q5. Does the TECNO POP 9 5G include any extras in the box?
Answer. Yes, the box includes two interchangeable skins for added personalisation as well as the charging adaptor.
OnePlus has confirmed that all models of the OnePlus 13 will have IP68/IP69 certification.
OnePlus 13 will bring a 24GB RAM and 1TB storage variant exclusively in India.
The global launch event for the OnePlus 13 is scheduled for January 7.
OnePlus 13 is all set to launch internationally on January 7th. (Image credit – OnePlus)
Fans around the world have been waiting for the OnePlus 13 more early since it debuted in China months ago. Finally, we have the global launch event scheduled for January 7 and OnePlus seems to be all geared up. Since the China launch most of the details about the phones have already been out in the open but the brand has finally confirmed an important detail. It is about the OnePlus 13 and IP68/IP69 water resistance ratings. Here’s what we know.
OnePlus 13 – Water Resistance Confirmation
OnePlus 13 – Water Resistance Confirmation
OnePlus has always built phones with strong water resistance but didn’t always have formal IP certification in the past. This has made things confusing for many over the years. Moreover, the company sold some phones without an IP rating in certain markets but had one when sold through carriers elsewhere.
The company is finally changing its approach with the OnePlus 13.
The company has confirmed to Android Authority that every model of the OnePlus 13 will come with IP68/IP69 certification regardless of the market or sales channel.
OnePlus 13 Special Edition with 24GB RAM and 1TB Storage (Only In India)
OnePlus 13 Special Edition with 24GB RAM and 1TB Storage (Only In India)
Apart from the official confirmation of water resistance specs, recent rumours now also suggest that the company is bringing a special India edition of the OnePlus 13.
Earlier reports indicated that the phone would be available in two configurations:
12GB RAM + 256GB storage
16GB RAM + 512GB storage
Now, reliable tipster Yogesh Brar on X (formerly Twitter) has revealed that OnePlus plans to launch a 24GB RAM + 1TB storage variant exclusively for India.
Breaking
Special Edition OnePlus 13 variant with 24GB RAM & 1TB storage is coming soon
(Exclusive to India)
Thoughts? And pricing expectations?
— Yogesh Brar (@heyitsyogesh) January 3, 2025
However, this version has already been released in China but the Indian model could feature special branding reflecting OnePlus’s strong connection with Indian buyers.
FAQs
Q1. Will all models of the OnePlus 13 have water resistance certification?
Answer. Yes, every model of the OnePlus 13 will come with IP68/IP69 certification regardless of the market or sales channel.
Q2. Is there a special edition of the OnePlus 13 available exclusively in India?
Answer. Yes, OnePlus plans to launch a 24GB RAM + 1TB storage variant exclusively for India featuring special branding reflecting OnePlus’s strong connection with Indian buyers.
Q3. When is the global launch event for the OnePlus 13 scheduled?
Answer. The global launch event for the OnePlus 13 is scheduled for January 7.
iPhone 17 Air will sport a super-slim design with 6.25mm thickness, a 6.6-inch display with slim bezels, Dynamic Island and a 120Hz refresh rate.
Galaxy S25 Slim will be an ultra-thin flagship with 6.5mm thickness targeting a launch in mid-2025.
It is expected to be priced lower than the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Neither Apple nor Samsung have officially confirmed these devices.
It was widely reported last year that Apple and Samsung are gearing up to release thinner versions of their flagship smartphones in 2025.
Now a report in South Korea’s Sisa Journal has confirmed the report once again and has also shared some key insights on what to expect.
Rumoured to be the iPhone 17 Air and the Galaxy S25 Slim, these thinner smartphones will reportedly have a similar price range as their predecessors. Here’s all we know after the recent Korean media report.
iPhone 17 Air To Replace the iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16 Plus. (Image credit – Apple)
Apple is reportedly planning to replace the underperforming iPhone 16 Plus with a new variant called the iPhone 17 Air. This change comes as buyers increasingly prefer the Pro models over the Plus variants.
The iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to be just 6.25mm in thickness, which will make it one of the thinnest iPhones yet.
According to the report, the phone could sport a 6.6-inch display with slim bezels and Dynamic Island alongside a 120Hz refresh rate. Certain reports have already suggested that a higher refresh rate this time may extend across the entire iPhone 17 lineup.
iPhone 17 Air replaces the Plus model
The iPhone 17 Air might eliminate physical SIM card support and rely entirely on eSIM technology to manage the slim size. This design could also lead to a smaller battery capacity compared to the iPhone 16’s 3561mAh.
Moreover, the phone is expected to debut Apple’s in-house modem replacing Qualcomm’s components.
According to the Sisa Journal report, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be priced similarly to the iPhone 16 Plus. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 Slim could be more affordable than the top variant of the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim – A Slim Model In The Lineup
Samsung is rumoured to be working on an ultra-thin flagship the Galaxy S25 Slim with a targeted thickness of 6.5mm, which is a significant reduction from the Galaxy S24 base model’s 7.6mm.
While the Galaxy S25 Series is expected to launch globally in Q1 2025, the Galaxy S25 Slim could arrive later possibly in mid-2025. This model is expected to carry a price tag lower than the premium Galaxy S25 Ultra, making it a competitive addition to Samsung’s flagship lineup.
Neither Apple nor Samsung have officially confirmed these devices, so the information should be treated as speculative for now. However, if these reports are true, 2025 could see the introduction of some of the slimmest smartphones ever made.
FAQs
Q1. What is the iPhone 17 Air and what features are expected?
Answer. The iPhone 17 Air is reportedly going to replace the iPhone 16 Plus. It is expected to have a super-slim design with a thickness of just 6.25mm, a 6.6-inch display with slim bezels, Dynamic Island, and a 120Hz refresh rate. It may rely entirely on eSIM technology.
Q2. When is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim expected to be released?
Answer. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim is rumoured to be released in mid-2025.
Q3. Have Apple and Samsung confirmed the release of the new thin smartphones?
Answer. No, Neither Apple nor Samsung have officially confirmed the iPhone 17 Air or the Galaxy S25 Slim. Thus, the information should be treated as speculative for now.
The Red Magic 10 Pro+ with Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset topped the December 2024 AnTuTu Android flagship rankings.
The iPad Pro 11 (2024) tops the iPad ranking with an M4 chip scored 2,549,548.
The iPhone 16 Pro led the smartphone rankings with a score of 1,725,101.
Other top-performing Android phones included the OnePlus Ace 5 Pro and Oppo Find X8 Pro Satellite Communication Edition.
The iPad Pro 13 (2024) and iPhone 16 Pro Max also featured prominently in Apple’s rankings.
It’s time for the latest smartphone rankings purely based on performance. Benchmarking platform AnTuTu has released its performance rankings for December 2024 highlighting the top-performing Android smartphones and Apple devices.
AnTuTu every month assigns an average score based on multiple benchmark runs that test aspects like CPU, GPU, RAM, storage and user experience. Here’s a detailed look at the results.
Vivo X200 Pro Mini (Dimensity 9400, 16GB + 1TB) – 2,769,693
The gaming-centric flagship Red Magic 10 Pro+ powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset claimed the top spot in the Android rankings with an impressive score of 2,924,229. This dethroned last month’s leader the ROG Phone 9 Pro, which scored 2,932,124 but is absent from this month’s list.
In second place is the performance-focused OnePlus Ace 5 Pro narrowly trailing with a score of 2,918,301. The device positions itself as a powerful yet sleek flagship alternative.
Taking third and fourth places are the Oppo Find X8 Pro Satellite Communication Edition and Vivo X200 Pro Satellite Communication Edition, both equipped with MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 processors.
An interesting entry is the iQOO Neo 10 Pro, ranking sixth with an average score of 2,832,907. Notably, it is the most affordable smartphone on the list, priced at 3,199 yuan (~$437) in China. For international buyers, it is available for approximately $549, making it a top choice for those seeking high performance on a budget.
AnTuTu Performance Rankings for Apple Devices
AnTuTu also unveiled its rankings for Apple’s fastest devices showcasing the impressive capabilities of the brand’s latest tablets and smartphones.
The iPad Pro 11 (2024) emerged as Apple’s top-performing device with a score of 2,549,548, closely followed by the iPad Pro 13 (2024) at 2,521,855. Both tablets feature the M4 chip, paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage making them ideal for professionals and power users.
Apple Smartphones
Among Apple’s smartphones, the iPhone 16 Pro took the lead, scoring 1,725,101 followed by the iPhone 16 Pro Max at 1,715,431.
Both models are powered by the A18 Pro chip setting new standards for mobile performance. Interestingly, no other iPhone models made it to this month’s top 10 list underlining the dominance of the iPhone 16 Pro series.
iPad Pro 2024 (11″) – Apple M4 – 8GB/256GB – AnTuTu score 2,549,548
iPad Pro 2024 (13″) – Apple M4 – 8GB/256GB – AnTuTu score 2,521,855
iPad Pro 4 (11″) 2 – Apple M2 – 8GB/128GB – AnTuTu score 1,967,588
iPad Air 2024 (13″) – Apple M2 – 8GB/128GB – AnTuTu score 1,952,146
iPhone 16 Pro – Apple A18 Pro – 8GB/256GB – AnTuTu score 1,725,101
iPhone 16 Pro Max – Apple A18 Pro – 8GB/256GB – AnTuTu score 1,715,431
Key Takeaways
The Red Magic 10 Pro+ continues to dominate Android gaming
Apple’s M4 chip pushes the iPad Pro lineup to new heights.
The iPhone 16 Pro leads Apple’s smartphone performance rankings emphasising its cutting-edge hardware.
These rankings provide a clear picture of the most powerful devices across Android and Apple ecosystems, catering to gamers, professionals and tech enthusiasts alike.
FAQS
Q1. Which Android smartphone topped the AnTuTu December 2024 rankings?
Answer. The Red Magic 10 Pro+ with Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset topped the December 2024 AnTuTu Android flagship rankings with a score of 2,924,229.
Q2. What were the top-scoring Apple devices in the AnTuTu performance rankings?
Answer. Among Apple devices, the iPad Pro 11 (2024) with an M4 chip scored 2,549,548, while the iPhone 16 Pro led the smartphone rankings with a score of 1,725,101.
Q3. What AnTuTu’s affordable best performing Android smartphone?
Answer. The iQOO Neo 10 Pro, ranking sixth with an average score of 2,832,907, is the most affordable smartphone on the list priced at 3,199 yuan (~$437) in China. For international buyers, it is available for approximately $549.
