Tech News
Gurman: Apple Watch Redesigned ‘Apple Watch X’
According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple will completely redesign the Apple Watch for its tenth anniversary.
In the most recent issue of his “Power On” newsletter, Gurman refers to the updated gadget as the “Apple Watch X,” much like the 2017 iPhone X, which commemorated ten years of the iPhone. Gurman doesn’t know if the Apple Watch X will be available in 2024 or 2025 because the first Apple Watch was announced in 2014 and went on sale in 2015.
Apple is reportedly developing a smaller case for the Apple Watch X as well as various methods for band attachment. Since the Apple Watch’s debut, the method for attaching bands to the device’s case has not changed, allowing bands to be compatible with the Apple Watch’s various models.
Gurman was informed by those working on forthcoming Apple Watch models that the area currently occupied by the band system could be better used to house larger batteries or other internal components.
Apple is presently thinking of a magnetic band attachment system as a result, although it’s not certain if it will be available in time or feature on the Apple Watch X. The launch of Apple’s microLED display technology, which outperforms the color and clarity of current OLED screens, may also coincide with the release of the Apple Watch X. Additionally, it might be the first Apple Watch with blood pressure monitoring technology.
According to Gurman, the Apple Watch Series 9 will just be a “minor refresh,” much like the incremental upgrades the device has received in prior years. The only significant differences between the new gadgets and the current models are anticipated to be speedier processors and different color options. According to Gurman, it is “probably the smallest upgrade in the history of the product.” As a result, Gurman claims that Apple has recently been thinking about moving the Apple Watch away from an annual upgrade cycle in order to provide more significant updates less frequently. He pointed out that while the iPad initially saw annual upgrades, this cycle has since dropped to around every 18 months.
As Vivo gears up for the launch of its highly anticipated Vivo V40e, leaks and rumors have surfaced, giving tech enthusiasts a glimpse into what to expect. Scheduled for release by the end of September 2024, the Vivo V40e promises to offer a blend of premium features at a more affordable price point. Here’s a detailed look at the leaked specifications and design highlights of this upcoming device.
Design and Display
One of the standout features of the Vivo V40e is its ultra-slim 3D curved design. The device will reportedly be available in a striking “Royal Bronze” color option, giving it a premium look. Its sleek design doesn’t compromise on the display either; the phone is expected to sport an OLED screen with a peak brightness of 4,500 nits. This makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, delivering vibrant colors and sharp details.
Performance
Under the hood, the Vivo V40e is rumored to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, paired with at least 8GB of RAM. This setup promises smooth performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. The device will run on FunTouch OS 14, based on Android 14, ensuring users get the latest software experience right out of the box.
Battery and Fast Charging
Despite its slim profile, the Vivo V40e is expected to pack a large 5,500mAh battery, supported by 80W flash charging. This should offer users extended battery life while significantly reducing charging time, making it a reliable companion for those on the go.
Positioning and Price
The Vivo V40e is designed to cater to the mid-range market, with pricing expected to be lower than its predecessors, such as the Vivo V40 and V40 Pro. While the exact price remains under wraps, analysts predict it will fall within the sub-Rs 30,000 range, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking high-end features at a more affordable price.
The Vivo V40e appears to be a well-rounded smartphone, with its combination of sleek design, powerful performance, and fast charging capabilities. As more details emerge closer to the official launch, it will be interesting to see how the device fares in an increasingly competitive market.
Xiaomi has just launched the Redmi 14R, offering premium features at an affordable price. Following the success of the Redmi 14C, the Redmi 14R targets consumers seeking 5G connectivity, a large screen, and a robust processor, making it a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market.
Specifications and Features
Display and Design
The Redmi 14R comes with a 6.88-inch display that features a resolution of 1640×720 pixels. What makes this device stand out is its 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth and responsive performance for browsing, gaming, and streaming. The display also offers a peak brightness of 600 nits, ensuring visibility even in bright outdoor settings. The teardrop notch design adds a modern touch to the front panel, where the front-facing camera is housed.
Performance and Processor
Under the hood, the Redmi 14R is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, which ensures stable and efficient performance for day-to-day tasks and multitasking. The phone comes with LPDDR4X RAM in various configurations:
- 4GB
- 6GB
- 8GB
Storage options include 128GB and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage, with expandable options up to 1TB via a microSD card. The combination of this powerful processor and ample RAM makes the Redmi 14R a capable device for both productivity and entertainment.
Camera Setup
For photography, the Redmi 14R features a 13MP primary rear camera placed in a circular module along with an LED flash. The front-facing 5MP camera is perfect for selfies and video calls. Though not the most advanced camera setup, it is suitable for casual photography and everyday use.
Battery and Charging
One of the key selling points of the Redmi 14R is its 5160mAh battery, which offers long-lasting battery life. The device also supports 18W fast charging, ensuring that users can quickly top up their battery during the day. This large battery ensures the phone can last through a full day of moderate usage.
Software and Additional Features
The Redmi 14R runs HyperOS, based on Android 14, providing a clean and user-friendly experience with additional customization options. It also includes modern features like a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for quick unlocking and a 3.5mm headphone jack—a feature often omitted in many modern smartphones.
Connectivity and Build
Supporting 5G connectivity, the Redmi 14R ensures faster download speeds and improved network performance. In terms of build, the phone measures 171.9 x 77.8 x 8.2 mm, making it relatively compact despite its large screen. It is available in four color variants: Black, Blue, Violet, and Green.
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi Redmi 14R is available in multiple configurations, each catering to different user needs:
- 4GB RAM + 128GB storage: CNY 1099 (~$154)
- 6GB RAM + 128GB storage: CNY 1499 (~$210)
- 8GB RAM + 128GB storage: CNY 1699 (~$238)
- 8GB RAM + 256GB storage: CNY 1899 (~$266)
Currently, the device is sold in China through Xiaomi’s official channels. There is no official word yet on its global availability.
The Redmi 14R positions itself as an attractive option for users looking for a balance between performance, affordability, and future-proof 5G connectivity. Its Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor, 120Hz display, and substantial battery life make it a versatile choice for both everyday users and tech enthusiasts. While it remains to be seen whether the Redmi 14R will be available in markets outside of China, it is certainly a strong competitor in the budget smartphone category.
Huawei has launched the Mate XT, the world’s first mass-produced triple-fold smartphone. Launched just hours after Apple’s iPhone 16, the Mate XT has taken the spotlight with its innovative design, advanced specifications, and versatility. This article dives into the full range of specifications that define Huawei’s latest flagship foldable.
Design and Display
The Mate XT features a 10.2-inch LTPO OLED display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth and dynamic user experience. When fully unfolded, the device is remarkably thin at 3.6mm, making it the thinnest foldable smartphone on the market. The Mate XT can be configured in three different screen modes:
- 10.2-inch full screen (tablet mode)
- 7.9-inch dual screen
- 6.4-inch single screen (bar phone mode)
The aspect ratio of 16:11 enhances content consumption by reducing letterboxing, providing a more immersive experience when viewing widescreen videos.
Performance and Battery
At the heart of the Mate XT is a 5,600mAh silicon anode battery, one of the thinnest and most powerful batteries ever developed for a smartphone. This innovation allows the phone to maintain a slim profile without sacrificing battery capacity. The phone includes three separate batteries, ensuring long-lasting power for intensive use.
The silicon anode battery technology is crucial to the device’s slim design, as it measures just 1.9mm thick. Despite the large display, users can expect impressive battery life. Huawei has yet to reveal the exact chipset that powers the Mate XT, though the company hinted at future process improvements to reduce costs and improve performance.
Camera System
The Mate XT sports a triple-camera setup, including:
- 50MP main sensor for high-resolution shots
- 12MP ultra-wide lens for expansive photos
- 12MP telephoto lens for zoomed-in shots without compromising image quality
These cameras are supported by AI enhancements, making them ideal for both professional-grade photography and casual shooting. Huawei’s AI assistant also brings advanced editing features like image trimming and text summarization.
Build and Flexibility
The Mate XT’s signature feature is its triple-fold design, which allows it to switch between multiple modes for different use cases. The innovative hinge, developed by Huawei over a five-year period, enables both inward and outward folding, offering users maximum flexibility. This advanced hinge system forms the backbone of the Mate XT’s design, allowing it to fold like an accordion without damaging the display.
The device also includes a foldable touch keyboard for enhanced productivity, which can be paired with the Mate XT to provide a PC-like experience on the go.
Software and AI
Huawei has incorporated AI throughout the Mate XT, enhancing everyday tasks with features like:
- Text summarization and translation
- AI-assisted image editing
- Voice-controlled interactions
These features help users multitask more efficiently, making the Mate XT ideal for both work and entertainment. Huawei’s HarmonyOS powers the Mate XT, ensuring seamless integration with other Huawei devices and services.
Pricing and Availability
The Mate XT is set to go on sale in China on September 20, 2024, with prices starting at 19,999 RMB (approximately $2,800). Higher-end configurations, such as the 512GB and 1TB models, will cost up to 23,999 RMB ($3,372). Despite its high price point, the device has already attracted over 4 million pre-orders, showing strong consumer interest.
The Huawei Mate XT is not just a smartphone; it’s a statement of technological innovation. With its triple-fold design, advanced battery technology, and cutting-edge camera system, the Mate XT is redefining what’s possible in the mobile industry. As foldable phones continue to evolve, Huawei’s Mate XT sets the bar for what a foldable smartphone can be, making it one of the most exciting releases of 2024.
Huawei’s bold step into the future of mobile technology signals its determination to maintain its place as a leader in the global smartphone market, despite ongoing challenges.
