Huawei aims for a “completely independent” platform
AI for Harmony and improved Xiaoyi introduced
HarmonyOS NEXT promises a 30% performance boost
Huawei has now revealed that it will turn all of its chips toward HarmonyOS NEXT.
That makes this platform a lot interesting since there will be no support for Android apps on this operating system.
Huawei’s Harmony OS Next is not compatible with Android APK files.
Finally, a worthy contender to both Android and iOS.
Source – Whylab (Weibo) pic.twitter.com/TSBAf4QaHs
— Nithin Prasad (@_the_tech_guy) June 22, 2024
Now, that is quite a bold strategy, given the fact that it now totally decouples Huawei from the entire Android ecosystem.
A little background
Huawei To Ditch All Android Apps for its Upcoming New UI HarmonyOS NEXT
Since those were banned in 2020 and it all went topsy-turvy into what Huawei did business with, they have been on a mission to make HarmonyOS work.
It started out as just an Android clone, but it’s evolved since then.
With HarmonyOS NEXT, they’re taking the biggest leap yet.
Users can directly enter the designated service interface of the application after scanning the code
What the update is lacking and what can therefore be called its biggest shocker is the Android app support.
Yes, that’s correct; Huawei is completely divorcing Android apps.
It supports voice, touch, and other interaction modalities
They’ve been making claims that this new platform is “completely independent” and doesn’t use any Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code.
But it’s not just about what they’ve taken away.
The accuracy of code scanning in other complex scenes is 92%; the code scanning delay is 550ms
Huawei’s added some pretty interesting features:
AI for Harmony: Huawei’s version of artificial intelligence that, through them, can generate images, repair sound—apparently useful in some cases for people who have speech disorders—and can even describe images to visually impaired people.
Improved Xiaoyi: Fans of Huawei’s virtual assistant, Xiaoyi, meet an improvement – a smarter one. You may even ditch the wake word; drag and drop using the content and navigation bar – it will figure what to do with it.
Star Shield Security: Huawei is not joking around with security: stringent app vetting, multi-device data encryption, and even hardware-level encryption for single files.
This function also integrates the code scanning function and camera zoom
Huawei’s claiming some impressive numbers as well- a 30% improvement in performance with a 20% drop in power consumption.
If that holds up in real-world use, it could be a game-changer.
When Can We Get Our Hands on It?
Huawei aims for a “completely independent” platform
Well, not just yet.
HarmonyOS NEXT is still in development.
Huawei has launched the Scan to Go feature in the HarmonyOS NEXT system
There’s a limited beta test happening in China right now, but the full release isn’t scheduled until Q4 2024.
That’s quite a wait, but it gives developers time to get their apps ready for the new platform.
What Does This Mean for Users?
AI for Harmony and improved Xiaoyi introduced
It is a huge gamble on the part of Huawei—that an ecosystem would be so compelling that people would want to forget Android apps.
It’ll be really interesting to see how it all plays out.
Will developers jump on board?
Will users be willing to give up their favorite Android apps?
These innovations were showcased at the HDC 2024 Developer Conference
But one thing’s for sure—courage is not something that Huawei is lacking.
HarmonyOS NEXT is Huawei’s latest operating system, designed to be completely independent from Android, with no support for Android apps.
Why is Huawei removing Android app support in HarmonyOS NEXT?
Huawei aims to create a unique, independent platform that does not rely on Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code, offering its own ecosystem and features.
What new features does HarmonyOS NEXT offer?
HarmonyOS NEXT includes AI for Harmony, improved Xiaoyi virtual assistant, and Star Shield Security, which provides enhanced security measures.
When will HarmonyOS NEXT be available?
HarmonyOS NEXT is currently in limited beta testing in China, with a full release expected in Q4 2024.
60x zoom on a smartphone certainly does sound exciting.
However, let’s not forget that this is nowhere close to optical zoom as its lens size would be impossibly huge for a handheld device.
Even so, what flagship smartphones are achieving these days is actually pushing the limits of something called digital zoom, technology that has dramatically benefited from extensive enhancement over the past few years.
Let’s dive into a little bit more detail about this rather impressive feat being achieved by smartphones.
Digital Zoom Evolution
AI-enhanced digital zoom rivals optical zoom
Historically, digital zoom was inferior to optical zoom.
This worked by literally cropping and expanding part of the image, reducing its quality and introducing artifacts into the shot.
Cropping high-megapixel images generally gives a better result, but still doesn’t hold a candle to optical zoom in terms of quality.
In contrast, optical zoom relies on actual changes in the lens to enlarge an image.
To zoom optically, the front element of the lens needs to move further away from a sensor that captures the scene and converts light into digital data.
Just as with digital zooming, optical zoom will introduce some degradation in quality, but normally in a very subtle form.
AI-Enhanced Zoom: A Look at Xiaomi 14 Ultra
Xiaomi 14 Ultra AI Ultra Zoom continues to blow me away!!
1′ AI Zoom OFF
2′ AI Zoom On
🔭60X zoom pic.twitter.com/GjMwYOjdSW
— Kartikey Singh (@That_Kartikey) June 23, 2024
The leap made in Artificial Intelligencein recent times has transformed the associated capabilities of digital zoom.
One of the most discussed features of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is its capacity for 60x zoom.
One of the tipsters out there, Kartikey Singh, has shared a comparison shot that puts the smartphone’s AI-assisted zooming capabilities to the fore.
AI-enhanced image clearly speaks of artificial enhancement, with the overly sharp contours and computer-generated details.
However, the result itself is remarkably impressive for such extreme magnification.
This quality, though wholly unnatural, is far much better than what conventional digital zoom could do.
It tackles a common need in smartphone photography: capturing distant subjects with acceptable clarity.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers 60x zoom capability
While these results may not be good enough for professional photographic purposes, they do their job: capturing scenes that otherwise would never have been possible to document with a smartphone.
Especially in the case of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, this performance at this point is breathtaking, with the gadget reportedly leaving behind last-generation machines like the Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro Max in a couple of camera tests.
This result speaks to the kind of rapid progress being made in smartphone cameras today, especially with AI-enhanced digital zoom.
The future is likely to see that gap between optical and digital zoom grow further.
Basic digital zoom technology will keep improving to the end, giving incredibly strong photographic tools incompact devices to smartphone users.
FAQs
What is AI-enhanced digital zoom?
AI-enhanced digital zoom uses artificial intelligence algorithms to improve the clarity and detail of zoomed-in images, making them comparable to optical zoom.
How does the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s 60x zoom work?
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra combines high-resolution sensors with AI algorithms to provide a 60x zoom capability, offering impressive clarity for distant subjects.
What are the benefits of AI-enhanced zoom over traditional digital zoom?
AI-enhanced zoom significantly reduces quality loss, sharpens contours, and enhances details, providing better image quality than traditional digital zoom, which merely crops and enlarges parts of the image.
Can AI-enhanced zoom replace optical zoom in smartphones?
While AI-enhanced zoom has made significant strides, it still doesn’t completely replace optical zoom.
However, it offers a viable alternative for capturing distant subjects with acceptable clarity on smartphones.
What futur developments can we expect in smartphone zoom technology?
Future advancements will likely see further improvements in AI algorithms and digital zoom technology, narrowing the gap with optical zoom and providing even better photographic tools in compact devices.
Nord CE 4 Lite has a 6.67-inch AMOLED with 2100 nits, Nord CE 3 Lite features a 6.72-inch IPS LCD with 680 nits
Nord CE 4 Lite offers 5500 mAh and 80W charging, Nord CE 3 Lite has 5000 mAh and 67W charging
Nord CE 4 Lite sports a 50 MP main camera, Nord CE 3 Lite has a 108 MP primary camera
Nord CE 4 Lite runs on OxygenOS Android 14, Nord CE 3 Lite on Android 13
OnePlus announced its latest budget offering for the Indian market yesterday: the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite.
Going by the specifications, I am sure you would have many doubts.
What is this 3-year-old chipset doing on a 2024-introduced smartphone?
How does it stand against its predecessor?
What changes have been made?
Well then, let’s take two models from the northern family, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G, and the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G, to make this comparison.
The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G has only recently found its way into the market as a previous big-headed player in the 5G mid-range jungle in April 2023.
And what’s the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite to do about that?
Now the price difference of about Rs. 2,000 where the CE 3 Lite comes for Rs. 17,743 and the CE 4 Lite for Rs. 19,999, now one needs to know what does the new model offer so differently from the old one and whether the changes are worth such a price increase.
This comparison will delve into various aspects of both devices, including design, display, camera capabilities, performance, software, battery life, and charging speeds.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how these two smartphones stack up against each other, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite vs OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite: Key Specs
Specification
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite
Price
Rs. 19,999
Rs. 17,743
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695
Display
6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz, 2100 nits
6.72-inch FHD+ IPS LCD, 120Hz, 680 nits
RAM
8 GB LPDDR4X
8 GB LPDDR4X
Storage
128 GB / 256 GB, expandable up to 2 TB
128 GB, expandable up to 1 TB
Rear Camera
50 MP + 2 MP (Dual)
108 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP (Triple)
Battery
5500 mAh, 80W SUPERVOOC charging
5000 mAh, 67W SUPERVOOC charging
Operating System
Oxygen OS based on Android 14
Oxygen OS based on Android 13
Design and display
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Design and display
The design language of both the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G is pretty much similar: a plastic back and a modern bezel-less display along with the punch-hole camera.
There are, however, some noteworthy differences in their display specifications.
The CE 3 Lite comes with a slightly larger 6.72-inch IPS LCD display whereas the CE 4 Lite had a 6.67-inch AMOLED display.
The CE 3 Lite has a 91.4 per cent screen-to-body ratio while the CE 4 Lite was tipped to have a marginally bigger ratio at 92.2 per cent for a better view.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Design and display
Probably the single most significant boost in the CE 4 Lite is its peak brightness, bumped up now to a respectable 2100 nits, as opposed to the CE 3 Lite’s 680 nits.
This change should make a big difference when watching HDR contentor using the projector outdoors.
Both models feature a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and animations.
In terms of dimensions, the CE 4 Lite is slightly more compact and lighter, weighing 191 grams compared to the CE 3 Lite’s 195 grams.
Color options differ, with the CE 3 Lite available in Pastel Lime and Chromatic Gray, while the CE 4 Lite comes in Mega Blue, Ultra Orange, and Super Silver.
Cameras
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Camera
On the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G, there is a triple camera system led by a high-resolution 108MP main sensor, accompanied by a 2MP depth and a 2MP macro camera.
This layout therefore attempts to bring versatility to those detailed shots and a few creative options with the featured depth effects and close-ups.
On the other hand, the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G has a dual camera setup: a 50 MP primary sensor and a 2 MP depth camera.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Camera
While the main camera comes with lesser megapixels, it integrates a bigger sensor size of 1.95″ against 1.67″, which might result in better low-light performance and dynamic range.
Conveniently, both devices have a 16MP front-facing camera for selfies, although the CE 4 Lite has a slight advantage with its wide-angle 24 millimeter focal length.
Video did appear to be similar, though, with both phones capable of recording 1080p video at 30fps.
The CE 3 Lite offers features like 6x digital zoom, while the CE 4 Lite improves this to 10x digital zoom.
Both models include standard features like HDR, continuous shooting, and various shooting modes to enhance the photography experience.
Performance and Features
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Performance and Features
While the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and Nord CE 4 Lite 5G will share a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, it also has an octa-core CPU with two high-performance Kryo 660 cores running at 2.2 GHz and six efficiency cores at 1.7 GHz.
This will be the processor that packs 5G and decent performance for everyday tasks along with light gaming.
Both of them have 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, which can smoothly sustain multitasking.
The internal storage is 128GB with UFS 2.2, and it is expandable up to 2TB in the CE 4 Lite; in its predecessor, it was limited to a maximum of 1TB.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Performance and Features
Connectivity options are, however, basically identical; they share 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, and GPS.
Both phones have the USB Type-C port and, surprisingly, still have a 3.5mm headphone jack—something of a rarity these days in smartphones.
One notable difference is the fingerprint sensor placement.
The CE 3 Lite features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, while the CE 4 Lite has an in-display fingerprint sensor, potentially offering a more seamless user experience.
Software
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Software
OnePlus has maintained its commitment to providing a clean, user-friendly interface across both devices, but with some key differences in the underlying Android version.
The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G launched with OxygenOS based on Android 13, offering a near-stock Android experience with useful customizations and optimizations from OnePlus.
The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G comes with OxygenOS based on the more recent Android 14.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Software
This update should bring several improvements in terms of privacy features, system optimizations, and user interface refinements.
Both versions of OxygenOS retain popular features and a range of performance optimization tools.
However, the CE 4 Lite might benefit from additional AI-enhanced features and improvements that come with the newer Android version.
Battery and Charging
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite Battery and Charging
Improvements in the new model include better battery life and charging capabilities.
The Nord CE 3 Lite 5G comes fitted with a pretty significant 5000mAh battery that works easily for a full day on heavy to moderate usage.
The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G model packs a slightly larger battery size of 5500mAh, which might further improve the overall endurance.
This increase may amount to noticeably longer battery life for power users or those hammering their devices frequently with resource-intensive tasks like gaming or video streaming.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Battery and Charging
Charing speeds find improvements as well.
Where the CE 3 Lite boasts of a 67W Super VOOC charging that fills up its battery to 80% in just 30 minutes, the CE 4 Lite packs an 80W Super VOOC charging solution – it can refill its battery fully in just 52 minutes.
Although it is not much faster than its predecessor for the charge time, the larger battery capacity makes up for this fact.
Both devices utilize USB Type-C ports for charging and data transfer, maintaining compatibility with modern accessories.
Final Verdict
Nord CE 4 Lite runs on OxygenOS Android 14
While the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and Nord CE 4 Lite 5G are two generations of excellence at an affordable budget, each has different contributions to make.
The CE 3 Lite still holds up well even at this point in time—the same reasons shake out for budget-sensitive buyers: it has a large display, a capable camera system, and decent performance for a more reachable price of Rs. 17,743.
The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G will want to bring in some tangible upgrades to justify that Rs. 19,999 price tag.
This could be a brighter display, possibly improved low-light camera performance, expandable storage, and a larger battery with faster charging.
Oneplus Nord CE 3 Lite on Android 13
Those who want better display brightness, battery life, and future-proofing through the latest Android versions would rather go for a CE 4 Lite.
Improved software support combined with some other minor feature upgrades only help give it better long-term value.
However, if budget is a primary concern and you’re looking for a reliable smartphone with 5G capabilities and good overall performance, the CE 3 Lite still holds its ground as a competitive option in its price range.
FAQs
What are the main differences between the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite and Nord CE 3 Lite?
The Nord CE 4 Lite offers an AMOLED display with higher peak brightness, a larger battery with faster charging, and runs on the latest OxygenOS based on Android 14.
It also features a dual-camera setup with a 50 MP primary sensor.
Is the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite worth the price increase compared to the Nord CE 3 Lite?
Yes, the Nord CE 4 Lite provides several upgrades, including a brighter AMOLED display, better camera performance in low light, a larger battery, and faster charging, which justify the price increase.
Can I expand the storage on the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite?
Yes, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite supports expandable storage up to 2 TB, compared to the 1 TB expansion limit on the Nord CE 3 Lite.
How does the camera performance compare between the Nord CE 4 Lite and Nord CE 3 Lite?
The Nord CE 4 Lite has a 50 MP main camera with a larger sensor size for improved low-light performance, whereas the Nord CE 3 Lite features a 108 MP primary camera.
The CE 4 Lite also offers up to 10x digital zoom, compared to 6x on the CE 3 Lite.
What are the charging speeds and battery capacities of the OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite and Nord CE 3 Lite?
The Nord CE 4 Lite comes with a 5500 mAh battery and supports 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging, while the Nord CE 3 Lite has a 5000 mAh battery with 67W SUPERVOOC charging.
What are the best features of oneplus nord Ce 3 lite ?
Impressive display with 120Hz refresh rate
The featureful camera setup on the back
Wide-Angle camera for the front
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset
6GB RAM
67W Super VOOC Charging
Internal memory is expandable
Side-wise fingerprint sensor
What are OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G In the Box Accessories?
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G
80W SUPERVOOC Power Adapter
Type-C Cable (supports USB 2.0)
Phone Case
Screen Protector (pre-applied)
SIM Tray Ejector
Welcome Letter
Brand Sticker
Quick Guide
Red Cable Club Membership Card
Safety Guide
Should I buy the OnePlus Nord Ce 3 Lite 5G?
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite too doesn’t fall far from this deduction and is undoubtedly a pretty safe choice.
In our understanding and experience, we would say if display or cameras are your priority, you could look into some other options while upgrading to a new device.
However, if gaming or battery life is at the top of your priority list then the Nord CE 3 Lite is a definitely really smart and understandable choice.
Overall, for a price segment that this phone caters to, Nord CE 3 Lite is definitely a good phone and worthy of a recommendation for anyone looking for a decent budget-friendly smartphone with 5G support, great battery life and overall good smartphone performance.
What are the top 3 reasons to buy OnePlus Nord CE 4 5G?
Vibrant 120Hz AMOLED
Display:Enjoy smooth scrolling and vivid visuals on the 6.67-inch screen with 2100 nits peak brightness.
Long-lasting Battery with Fast Charging:5,500 mAh capacity keeps you powered all day, while 80W SUPERVOOC charging quickly tops up the battery.
Capable Camera System:50MP main camera with OIS captures detailed photos, complemented by various shooting modes for creativity.
Swiggy One and Zomato Gold reduce free delivery radius from 10 km to 7 km.
Premium memberships still offer discounts on orders and dining out.
Users express disappointment and consider canceling subscriptions.
Changes affect Swiggy One and Zomato Gold members paying 99 rupees per month.
It looks like Swiggy and Zomato will give their premium members a lot to shake off everyone’sGPS.
These two big food delivery players used tooffer free delivery within a radius of 10 km for their premium customers.
Free delivery range has been reduced from 10km to 7km
Now, it has quietly come down to 7 km.
Now, both these companies have these premium memberships—Swiggy Oneand Zomato Gold—at 99 rupees a month.
At least that’s a good deal or, at best, it was before this change.
Disappointment Amongst Users
Zomato has reduced its Gold free delivery range up to just 7 kms???
This is pure nonsense.
Nearby restaurants themselves do a free delivery why would I pay for gold then?
I hope Swiggy doesn’t copy this and reduce their 10km mark to 7km now. pic.twitter.com/miBan28yjy
— Ripudaman (@mrtechsense) June 23, 2024
People took to X to sound off about the change.
One user replied that it was “pure nonsense”, as the site wonders why one would even bother with a premium membership now when nearby restaurants often do free delivery anyway.
#Swiggy is quick to tweak its membership benefits after #Zomato’s move.
Now free delivery above 199 (₹149 earlier) on all restaurants within 7km (10 km earlier) same as Zomato. pic.twitter.com/siCIf38pX1
— sahIl/c (@sahil5joshi) June 15, 2024
Another called it “outrageous” and said he was surprised more people weren’t talking about it.
Some folks are even threatening to jump ship.
“My Zomato Gold membership is ending this month, so might just move to Swiggy if they don’t roll back this change,” one user threatened.
@zomatocare My Zomato Gold is about to expire. The new offer is very lucrative but deceiving. The distance has been reduced from 10km to 7km. Why can’t i have the same gold offer as last time. You’ll lose a customer to Swiggy if this isn’t reverted. pic.twitter.com/oXwjxw5lxI
— Umang Gupta (@Umanggpt3) May 18, 2024
Ironically, Swiggy’s made the same change, so that might not work out too well for them.
It’s not just the extra cost; to some, this infers they can’t use their favorite restaurants if they are more than 7km away.
I used to order from my favourite restaurants with membership offered free delivery. Had Purchased The Membership In Agreement Of Free Delivery Upto 10Kms, Following that.
Zomato & Swiggy Both Have reduced it to 7km.isn’t enough to upset your customers? @SwiggyCares @zomatocare pic.twitter.com/AInA0DxOZO
— Amir Hasan (@its_amirhasan) June 23, 2024
Quite a killjoy of foodie indulgences who have a place that just tipped into the outer limit.
You still get extra discounts on food orders and dining out from partner restaurants.
Zomato and Swiggy have reduced free delivery radius from 10km to 7km! That’s outrageous. Why is no one talking about this?
— Sushant Bansal (@sushantbnsl) June 22, 2024
But for many, the free delivery was the main draw.
If you’re curious about what you still get with these memberships:
Swiggy One gives you free delivery on restaurant orders over 199 rupees (within that 7km radius now), a 30% extra discount at some restaurants, free Instamart delivery for orders over 99 rupees, and a 10% discount on Genie delivery fees.
Zomato Gold is pretty similar,you get free delivery on orders over 199 rupees (again, within 7km now), and up to 30% off on top of other offers.
They usually charge 999 rupees for three months, but you can sometimes snag it for 99 or 149 rupees with special deals.
It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out.
Premium memberships still offer discounts on orders and dining out
Will people stick with these memberships, or will we see a drop in subscribers?
Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – people aren’t shy about voicing their opinions on this one.
FAQs
What changes have Swiggy and Zomato made to their premium memberships?
Swiggy and Zomato have reduced the free delivery radius for their premium members from 10 km to 7 km, affecting users of Swiggy One and Zomato Gold.
What are the costs of Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships?
Both Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships cost 99 rupees per month, though Zomato often has special deals that may lower the price.
What other benefits do Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships offer?
Besides the reduced free delivery radius, Swiggy One and Zomato Gold offer discounts on food orders, dining out, and other perks like free Instamart delivery and discounts on Genie delivery fees.
How have users reacted to the change in free delivery radius?
Users have expressed disappointment and frustration on social media, with some threatening to cancel their memberships due to the reduced delivery radius.
Will the changes to Swiggy One and Zomato Gold memberships impact the number of subscribers?
It’s uncertain how the changes will impact subscriber numbers, but user reactions suggest there may be a drop if the reduced benefits do not meet customer expectations.
OnePlus Pad Pro teased with bold claims of being the most powerful Android tablet.
Potential hardware includes Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chips.
High refresh rate OLED display and big battery expected.
Leaked images reveal a sleek green colour design.
One Plus is on the verge of launching a new tablet, and they really aren’t keeping it under their hats.
Just now, a teaser went live in China from the company for something they’re calling the OnePlus Pad Pro.
This is the news that is arriving not long after the original OnePlus Pad hit the streets, which had a pretty good performance along with a very aggressive pricing.
OnePlus Pad Pro’s First Official Teaser Surfaces Online
OnePlus has got a bold claim with the Pad Pro: The company says that this new tablet is going to be the most powerful Android tablet out there.
That’s quite a statement, making many people wonder what kind of hardware they’re going to pack into this thing.
A new poster on Weibo by OnePlus just went up, hinting that a new tablet is coming soon to the Chinese market.
OnePlus Pad Pro To Be The “Most Powerful Android Tablet”according to the company
That would be very exciting—it’ll be the first time they’re launching a tablet in China.
Considering that they really nailed the price-to-performance ratio with the original Pad, this might just turn out to be a big hit.
OnePlus Pad Pro in two colors: light green and gray
Now, for those of us outside China, there’s a chance this might be called the OnePlus Pad 2 when it hits other markets.
It makes sense – keeps things simple for customers.
What’s Under the Hood?
A few days ago the Weibo account called Digital Chat Station shared some hands-on images
What’s it going to take for OnePlus to back up its hype of touting the beefiest Android tablet?
Right now there are at least two top-tier chips that could fit the bill in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300+.
The tablet has an all-metal body
MediaTekhas been quite aggressive in terms of pricing lately, so there’s a possibilityit might be the Dimensity 9300+.
But here’s the thing: in the US, Qualcomm chips are more famous.
OnePlus is currently teasing the “OnePlus Pad Pro
At this moment, it’s really anyone’s guess.
Other than that chip, we’re looking at most likely a high refresh rate screen,perhaps even an OLED panel, to keep up with the other fancy tablets.
A big battery is practically a given, and you can bet different memory and storage options will be available.
Leaked Images
DCS says that the new tablet has a thin and light design with an “all metal body.”
Just recently, a Chinese tipster called Digital Chat Station shared some images of what’s supposedly the OnePlus Pad Pro.
It’s rocking a green colour, which looks pretty slick.
All in all, it looks like OnePlus is aiming high with this one.
On Weibo, OnePlus teased the upcoming launch of “OnePlus Pad Pro” last week with a confirmed launch date of June 27, this coming Thursday
They’re clearly trying to make a splash in the tablet market, and if they can deliver on their promises, they might just pull it off.
We’ll have to wait and see how it stacks up against the competition when it finally drops.
The OnePlus Pad Pro is a new high-performance Android tablet teased by OnePlus, expected to be the most powerful in its category according to the company’s claims.
When will the OnePlus Pad Pro be available?
The OnePlus Pad Pro has been teased for an imminent launch in China, with the possibility of a global release soon after. Specific dates have not yet been confirmed.
What hardware can we expect in the OnePlus Pad Pro?
The OnePlus Pad Pro is rumoured to feature top-tier chips like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 9300+, a high refresh rate OLED display, and a large battery.
What are the design features of the OnePlus Pad Pro?
Leaked images suggest that the OnePlus Pad Pro will have a sleek design, including a green colour option that has been well-received in early visuals.
Pavel Durov uses a mid-range Galaxy A52 as his primary smartphone.
The phone reportedly broke in half due to Dubai’s extreme heat.
Durov chose the Galaxy A52 to align with typical Telegram users.
Extreme heat can cause significant damage to smartphones, including battery swelling and processor overheating.
Pavel Durov, the billionaire entrepreneur behind VK and Telegram, has just suffered an unexpected fail with his mobile phone.
Dwarfing this, the $15.5 billion net entrepreneur has been rocking a mid-range Galaxy A52 as his daily driver for at least the past two years.
Now, that $180 Samsung phone is apparently broken in half, which Durov attributed to intensive heat in Dubai, where he has lived for several years.
The Surprising Pavel Durov Choice of Smartphone
Pavel Durov, a man of $15.5 billion net worth, used the Galaxy A52 for the last two years till it broke into two
That mid-range device was no accident; it had to be a proper, carefully taken decision by Durov to use Telegram just like most other users.
Most people use more budget-friendly smartphones, which are in the $200 range, rather than flagship models, so Durov wanted to associate with this base of users.
The Telegram CEO says he’s been using this “$180 Samsung” as his phone since 2022 as he wanted to use Telegram
The device he has chosen to do this is the Galaxy A52, released in 2021.
Since 2022, it has been his main smartphone, eschewing high-end devices one might expect a tech billionaire to have a soft spot for.
The Dubai Heat Factor
Avoid exposing your phone to direct sunlight for long periods.
Being a city of extreme temperatures, Dubai poses a special kind of challenges to electronic devices.
In summers, the temperatures can go higher than 40°C, and the environment of this UAE-based city is truly hostile to smartphones and their components.
While it’s uncommon for phones to break in half solely due to temperature, heat can cause significant damage to various components:
Battery swelling: Extreme heat can cause lithium-ion batteries to expand, potentially damaging the phone’s internal structure.
Processor overheating: High temperatures can cause the CPU and other internal components to overheat, leading to reduced performance or permanent damage.
Screen damage: Prolonged heat exposure can affect the display, causing discoloration, warping, or cracking.
Material weakening: Heat can weaken the phone’s materials, making it more susceptible to physical damage from drops or pressure.
Durov says it’s because of the Dubai heat
The case of Durov shows how important it is to protect electronic Devices from extreme environmental conditions.
It also proves that high-quality devices are nothing against strong heat, no matter whose status and bank account is.
Not to allow the heat to kill the phone, it should not be left in direct sunlight or inside a hot car, and besides, people have to use it in a cold place as much as possible and refuse resource-intensive functions at heat.
FAQs
Why does Pavel Durov use a Galaxy A52 as his primary smartphone?
Pavel Durov chose the Galaxy A52 to closely align with the average Telegram user, who typically uses budget-friendly smartphones in the $200 range.
What caused Pavel Durov’s Galaxy A52 to break in half?
The extreme heat in Dubai, which can exceed 40°C, is believed to have caused the phone to break in half, highlighting the impact of high temperatures on electronic devices.
How does extreme heat affect smartphones like the Galaxy A52?
Extreme heat can cause battery swelling, processor overheating, screen damage, and material weakening, leading to potential physical damage and reduced performance.
What measures can be taken to protect smartphones from extreme heat?
To protect smartphones from heat damage, avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or inside hot cars, use them in cooler environments, and refrain from using resource-intensive functions in high temperatures.
All new smartphones and tablets in India must use USB-C ports starting June 2024.
Laptops to comply with USB-C standardization by 2026.
Basic phones, headphones, and smartwatches are currently exempt from the mandate.
The move aims to reduce electronic waste and simplify charging for consumers.
India is in the process of enforcing a new regulation: from June 2024, all new smartphones and tablets will have to use a USB-C charging port.
The move—targeted at making life easier for consumers and reducing electronic waste—has been partly among the reasons Apple was forced to change to USB-C on most devices from its proprietary Lighting connector.
“This is a customer-centric and environmentally conscious move that reduces e-waste. With a single charger and cable, consumers can conveniently power multiple devices, reducing the hassle of carrying separate chargers. This uniform standard also streamlines service and repair processes for companies, eliminating complications arising from diverse charging interfaces,” said Muralikrishnan B, president, Xiaomi India.
“This step was long overdue. It was being discussed at the highest level internationally for more than a decade. It is a matter of relief that all mobile manufacturers have agreed to have a uniform mobile charger,” said Ashim Sanyal, CEO of Consumer VOICE, a non-government organization.
“Currently, devices use various charging ports, requiring separate chargers for each, making management and maintenance problematic. The government’s move will reduce the need to produce excessive chargers and cables, addressing environmental concerns about recycling,” said Dr. Suneel Pandey, director of circular economy and waste management at The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).
What’s About to Change
The government won’t make USB-C compulsory on devices like wearables or wireless audio speakers
It has ordered the Union IT ministry to direct device manufacturers for standardisation of charging ports.
Use of a common charger will be mandatorily applicable on laptops from 2026.
Basic phones, headphones, smartwatchesare not part of the mandate as of now.
The step is in line with a similar regulation that was imposed by the European Union last year in 2022.
Users won’t have to carry different chargers and cables
India is giving the manufacturers six more months than the timeline set by the European Union.
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has made the use of Type-C ports for all devices mandatory.
Non-compliance will attract penalties.
Though the base phones are out of the ambit of this transition, the manufacturers have the choice of introducing USB-C ports if they so desire.
Why USB-C?
Indian government will issue an advisory to include a USB-C port on all smartphones by June 2025
USB-C is reversible, hence much more user-friendly.
The consumer would stand to gain from standardization in that multiple chargers are eliminated and electronic clutter would be significantly reduced.
This could also help manufacturers in reducing the number of version variations in their products required for various regions and thus streamline their supply chains.
This would work well for the environment and likely eliminate many of the chargers that end up as e-waste.
Of course, this isn’t new in terms of standardization and has already got approval from big companies like Apple, which moved to USB Type-C ports for its recently launched iPhone 15 series, leaving the firm’s proprietary lightning port.
USB-C cables charge and transfer data faster than lightning cables.
However, some manufacturers, like Apple, have limited this high speed only to their premium models.
So is this a dawn of a new era for electronics in India?
The implementation of this regulation does represent a shift towards a more unified approach to device charging in India, aligning with global efforts to enhance consumer convenience and address environmental concerns.
FAQs
What devices are affected by the new USB-C regulation in India?
The new regulation applies to all new smartphones and tablets, requiring them to use USB-C charging ports starting from June 2024.
Laptops will need to comply by 2026, but basic phones, headphones, and smartwatches are exempt.
Why is India implementing USB-C standardization for charging ports?
The regulation aims to simplify charging for consumers, reduce the need for multiple chargers, decrease electronic waste, and align with global standards like those introduced by the European Union.
How will this regulation impact Apple products in India?
Apple has already begun transitioning to USB-C ports for its products, such as the iPhone 15 series, moving away from its proprietary lightning connector to comply with global and now Indian regulations.
Are manufacturers penalized for not complying with the USB-C mandate?
Yes, non-compliance with the USB-C charging port regulation may result in penalties, as recommended by the Consumer Affairs Ministry.
Features a 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with 2100 nits peak brightness.
Equipped with a Snapdragon 695 5G processor and 8GB RAM.
50MP Sony LYT-600 main camera with OIS and 5,500 mAh battery.
Runs on OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14.
OnePlus has introduced the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G in India, marking the latest addition to its mid-range smartphone lineup.
While the device maintains the Snapdragon 695 chipsetfrom its predecessor, it brings several enhancements in other areas.
“We are thrilled to introduce the new OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G — a value phone that incorporates our flagship specifications and technologies to redefine the benchmark for its price range,” said by Kinder Liu, President and COO of OnePlus. “OnePlus is dedicated to solving user pain points to deliver real improvements in the smartphone user experiences. With long-lasting battery life, exceptional fast charging, a captivating display, and outstanding photography capabilities, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G brings users OnePlus’ iconic flagship-level fast and long-lasting experience all at an unbeatable price.”
Pricing and Availability
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite price in India starts at Rs 19,999
The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite is going to launch in two variants of 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB which are priced at Rs 19,999 and 22,999 respectively .
OnePlus is offering a flat Rs 1,000 discount as well on selected bank credit cards.
OnePlus is offering a flat Rs 1,000 discount with ICICI and OneCard transactions as a launch offer
Customers can avail INR 1000 discount with ICICI Bank & OneCard Credit Cards & EMI and 3 months No Cost EMI on select bank cards.
Students can avail an additional discount of INR 250 when purchased from oneplus.in, and OnePlus Store App.
All new Jio postpaid customers can avail of benefits of up to INR 2250 on the purchase of the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G
Customers can also avail 6 months no cost EMI with Bajaj Finserv, ICICI Bank Consumer Finance & HDBFS Consumer Loans
Smartphone
Configuration
Price
Nord CE 4 Lite
8GB + 128GB
Rs 19,999
8GB + 256GB
Rs 22,999
Key Specifications
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor and 8GB RAM
6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with 2100 nits peak brightness
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G processor with Adreno 619 GPU
8GB LPDDR4X RAM, 128GB/256GB UFS 2.2 storage
50MP main camera with OIS, 2MP depth sensor, 16MP front camera
5,500 mAh battery with 80W SUPERVOOC charging
OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14
IP54 dust and water resistance
Dual stereo speakers with 300% Ultra Volume Mode
Features
The handset has a 5500mAh battery and 80W SuperVOOC fast charging support
The Nord CE 4 Lite 5G boasts a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080×2400 pixels.
The screen offers a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2100 nits, supporting HDR content.
It covers both sRGB and Display P3 colour gamuts, providing vibrant visuals.
OnePlus has equipped the device with a 50MP main camera featuring the Sony LYT-600 sensor.
This 1/1.95″ sensor includes optical image stabilisation and phase detection autofocus for improved image quality.
A 2MP depth sensor aids in portrait shots, while the 16MP front camera handles selfies.
The camera system supports various modes including Night, Pro, Panoramic, and Dual-view Video.
The phone runs on OxygenOS 14, based on Android 14, offering a clean user interface.
Security features include an in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock.
It offers a 120Hz AMOLED display with 2100nits peak brightness and an aqua touch feature
The device comes with dual stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and supports noise cancellation for clear audio during calls.
Storage options include 128GB or 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage, expandable up to 2TB via the hybrid SIM slot’s microSD support.
Connectivity features are comprehensive, with Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, and support for GPS, BDS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and QZSS navigation systems.
Powering the Nord CE 4 Lite 5G is a large 5,500 mAh battery.
It supports 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging, promising quick top-ups.
The phone measures 16.29 x 7.56 x 0.81 cm and weighs 191g, striking a balance between screen size and portability.
It’s available in three colour options: Super Silver, Mega Blue, and Ultra Orange, catering to different style preferences.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Simple, Durable Design
The OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite will be available for purchase starting June 27
The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is available in three colorways —Super Silver, Mega Blue and Ultra Orange.
Super Silver is crafted with mirror-like metallic gradient transitions on the sides, creating fluid angles and captivating diffuse reflections that evoke a sense of elegance and power.
In addition to being highly resistant to fingerprints, the distinct and eye-catching Mega Blue meanwhile is the most vivid shade of blue to ever grace a OnePlus phone.
The Ultra Orange is a fiery burnt orange colourway which gives off strong autumn sunset vibes but looks fantastic all year around.
All three finishes are brought to life with tough, solid, and bold designs featuring the familiar OnePlus style and build quality.
Pre-installed with OxygenOS 14, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is faster and smoother than ever before thanks to new updates including refreshed animations when opening and closing applications, a new notification bar, new screen unlock animations, and screen-off gestures.
OxygenOS 14 also includes a system-level Smart Cutout feature that can be used to quickly edit photos, customize cutout content, and share them with a simple tap.
Smart Cutout also supports multi-subject recognition, enabling each individual subject to be accurately recognized and extracted even in group photos.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Flagship-level Battery Performance
Equipped with a Snapdragon 695 5G processor and 8GB RAM
Designed to go all day and night, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is equipped with a high-capacity battery and one of the best flash charging configurations in its price range.
Thanks to a large 5,500mAh battery, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G can provide up to 20.1 hours of YouTube video playback, 47.62 hours of video calls, or two days of regular use on a full charge, allowing users to enjoy a long-lasting, smooth smartphone experience without any anxiety about battery life.
Upgrades in flash charging and battery technology also mean that the Nord CE4 Lite 5G can provide a day’s power in ~20 minutes with 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging, ensuring longer periods of use with less charging time required.
With the OnePlus Battery Health Engine, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5Galso helps to preserve battery longevity and prevent premature battery ageing by optimizing charging speeds according to each user’s individual charging and phone usage habits.
Aided by deep-thinking AI, the battery has been designed to retain optimal capacity for up to 1,600 charging cycles, meaning users can continue to enjoy their OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G for longer without worrying about the need to replace the battery.
The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G also features handy 5W reverse charging, which can be used to charge other devices such as audio devices directly from the phone’s battery.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G All-round Brighter and Smoother Experiences
OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G provides enhanced connectivity to ensure uninterrupted connections
The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G comes with a 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display that boasts a peak brightness of 2,100 nits thanks to the use of the same illumination material featured on the OnePlus 11.
The 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display delivers improvements in illumination, color uniformity, viewing angle, and lifespan compared with the previous generation LCD technology, while a 60/120Hz refresh rate provides smoother viewing experiences at all times.
For the first time on a smartphone in its price range, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G introduces the innovative Aqua Touch to its screen.
By improving touch accuracy and precision when the screen is wet, Aqua Touch ensures users can continue to operate the phone as normal when outside in the rain, or with sweat on their hands while in the middle of an intense gaming session.
Featuring the Snapdragon® 695 5G Mobile Platform powered by OnePlus’ proprietary Trinity Engine, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G provides enhanced connectivity to ensure uninterrupted connections, faster file sharing, stable gaming, and wicked-fast download speeds of up to 2.0 Gbps.
With 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 256GB of UFS2.2 Storage, plus support for up to 2TB of expandable storage via the MicroSD slot, the phone offers a speedy experience with enhanced stability that reduces the likelihood of apps freezing or crashing when processing ramps up.
With the help of the server-level RAM-Vitalization technology, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G can keep up to 26 applications alive in the background while providing smooth transitions when switching between multiple apps.
With ROM-Vitalization, the phone also guarantees the same iconic OnePlus fast and smooth experience for as long as 48 months.
To provide a more immersive audio experience when playing games, watching videos, or listening to music, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G features impressive Dual Stereo Speakers.
With just a press of the volume key, the volume can be increased by up to 300%.
Using the 3.5mm headphone jack, users can also enjoy high-quality audio with a good pair of wired headphones.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Shoot Better with an Outstanding Camera System
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G is confirmed to come with a dual rear camera setup that includes a 50MP Sony LYTIA 600 camera with OIS support
One of the biggest pain points for value smartphone users is the lack of a high-quality main camera capable of capturing exciting everyday moments.
With its 50MP LYTIA 600 main camera sensor with OIS,plus a 2MP Depth-assist Camera and 16MP Front Camera, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G provides photography enthusiasts with an entirely upgraded photography experience to capture the best moments in life.
The phone also supports 2x In-sensor zoom by cropping the 50MP LYT-600 main camerasensor to capture details in natural landscapes with enhanced clarity and precision.
With the help of the 2MP Depth-assist Camera, the LYT-600’s 2X In-sensor zoom, and more intelligent edge detection, it’s never been easier to take portrait-style photos with the kind of realistic bokeh effects and sharp subject isolation that are guaranteed to make images stand out.
5 Reasons to Buy
5 Reasons to Buy
Vibrant 120Hz AMOLED Display:Enjoy smooth scrolling and vivid visuals on the 6.67-inch screen with 2100 nits peak brightness.
Long-lasting Battery with Fast Charging:5,500 mAh capacity keeps you powered all day, while 80W SUPERVOOC charging quickly tops up the battery.
Capable Camera System:50MP main camera with OIS captures detailed photos, complemented by various shooting modes for creativity.
Clean Software Experience:OxygenOS 14 based on Android 14 offers a user-friendly interface with minimal bloatware.
Durable Design with Ample Storage:IP54 rating protects against dust and splashes, while up to 256GB storage (expandable to 2TB) holds your files.
New feature consolidates all user reviews and Search notes into searchable profiles.
Profiles are public by default but can be made private by some users.
Google Maps reviews are not included in these new profile pages.
Update aims to make reviews more accessible and useful for other users.
Google has introduced a new feature that creates public profile pages for users’ reviews.
This change affects reviews for various media types, including films, television programmes, books, music albums and games.
The update, which went live on 24 June, consolidates all of a user’s reviews and Search notes into a single, searchable profile.
Users should have received a notification about this change.
By default, these profiles are set to public visibility.
By default, Google has set all profiles to public
This means that when a user’s name appears in a public review or Search note, others can click on it to view all their reviews in one place.
The concept of user reviews on Google isn’t new.
It began in India in 2017 with film reviews and has since expanded globally to include various types of media.
For those who prefer privacy, there is an option to make the profile private.
However, this control is currently available to only some users.
How To Adjust Google Privacy Settings
Google is rolling out public, searchable profiles in Search
To adjust privacy settings, users can visit profile.google.com, click the three-dot menu next to their profile name, select ‘Profile options’, and toggle on the ‘Profile privacy’ setting.
It’s important to note that even with a private profile, individual reviews will still be visible under specific titles.
However, they won’t be linked to a page showing all of the user’s reviews.
Google is starting to put all your reviews in one place
This update aims to make reviews more accessible and useful for other users.
However, it also raises questions about user categorisation and identification based on personal preferences and opinions.
The change represents a shift in how Google handles user-generated content, centralising it in a more organised and publicly accessible manner.
FAQs
What is the new feature introduced by Google?
Google has launched public profile pages that consolidate all user reviews and Search notes into a single, searchable profile, affecting reviews for various media types including films, TV programmes, books, music albums, and games.
How can I adjust the privacy settings for my Google review profile?
To make your profile private, visit profile.google.com, click the three-dot menu next to your profile name, select ‘Profile options’, and toggle on the ‘Profile privacy’ setting.
Are all user reviews included in the public profiles?
While reviews for various media types are included, Google Maps reviews are currently not part of these new public profile pages.
Will my individual reviews still be visible if I set my profile to private?
Yes, individual reviews will still be visible under specific titles, but they won’t be linked to a page showing all of your reviews if your profile is set to private.