Welcome to the Tech News of the Week, where we bring you everything from exciting new smartphone launches and software updates to leaks, rumors, and advancements in AI. Whether you’re interested in the latest gadgets or major updates from the biggest tech players, we’ve gathered the top stories so you don’t miss a thing.
In this week’s Tech News of the Week (8th-14th September 2024), we’ve got some major announcements from top tech giants. Apple has unveiled its much-anticipated iPhone 16 lineup, featuring the powerful A18 chip, enhanced camera controls, and more. Huawei has introduced the Mate XT Ultimate, the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, pushing the boundaries of foldable design. OpenAI revealed its o1 AI model, marking a significant step toward human-like reasoning. Meanwhile, OnePlus is set to launch its OnePlus 13 with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset next month. Samsung took a jab at Apple’s iPhone 16 with a witty foldable phone comparison, and Sony made headlines with the announcement of its PlayStation 5 Pro, featuring an upgraded GPU. Let’s dive into each story one after another!
Table of Contents
Samsung Expands One UI 6.1.1 Update to More Galaxy S24 Series Devices Worldwide
Samsung started rolling out the One UI 6.1.1 update last week for the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold5, and Galaxy Z Flip5 in Korea. Now, the update has expanded to more regions, including the US, UK, continental Europe, and India, with reports confirming that the Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra are receiving the update.
The update introduces several Galaxy AI features, such as Sketch to Image, which transforms simple drawings into artwork, and AI-generated portrait enhancements. Additionally, users can utilize AI for writing tasks. The quick panel can now be accessed with a single tap, and there’s more control over physical buttons.
The update is around 3GB, so a fast network is recommended for downloading. Interestingly, it still appears as One UI 6.1, even though it includes features that debuted in One UI 6.1.1 with the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Flip6. After installation, devices will be on the August security patch, with another update expected this month to bring the September security patch. This confirms earlier rumors of a delayed release, as the update was initially scheduled for last month.
OpenAI Unveils o1 AI Model: A Step Toward Human-Like Reasoning
On September 12, OpenAI officially introduced its highly anticipated AI model, OpenAI o1, previously known by its codename Strawberry. This new model represents a significant leap forward, specifically designed to handle complex reasoning tasks, outperforming previous models in areas like science, coding, and mathematics. The standout feature of o1 is its ability to “think” before responding, similar to how humans tackle problems, allowing it to deliver more accurate and thoughtful answers.
According to OpenAI, the o1 model has been trained to approach tasks step-by-step, improving its ability to reason through problems and correct mistakes along the way. While it excels in areas such as math, coding, and tackling PhD-level challenges in physics, chemistry, and biology, the model is not without its limitations. For instance, it does not yet have the ability to browse the web, process images or files, or handle factual knowledge as well as GPT-4o, the current leading model.
Additionally, OpenAI launched o1-mini, a more affordable and faster version tailored primarily for developers working on complex coding tasks. While o1-mini is less powerful than its larger counterpart, it still offers enhanced reasoning capabilities at a lower price.
OpenAI acknowledges that while o1 shows reduced instances of hallucination compared to older models, the problem still exists. Moreover, the new model is slower than GPT-4o, as it spends more time “thinking” to generate responses. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has referred to o1 as “flawed and limited,” emphasizing that it is still in its early stages. Despite these drawbacks, o1 represents a significant step toward OpenAI’s ultimate goal of creating human-like artificial intelligence.
Starting today, ChatGPT Plus and Team users have access to o1-preview and o1-mini, with broader access planned for the future. However, the increased reasoning power comes at a cost, with o1 API pricing significantly higher than GPT-4o. In the API, o1-preview is $15 per 1 million input tokens and $60 per 1 million output tokens. For comparison, GPT 4o price is set at $5 for 1 million input tokens and $2.50 for 1 million output token.
Despite its early-stage limitations, OpenAI views o1 as foundational for the future development of autonomous AI agents capable of making independent decisions.
OnePlus 13 to Launch with Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Chipset Next Month
OnePlus is gearing up to launch its next flagship, the OnePlus 13, which will be powered by the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset. Louis Lee, President of OnePlus China, confirmed that the new device will be unveiled next month, shortly after Qualcomm’s launch of its latest chipset, expected in mid- to late October.
Lee highlighted that the OnePlus 13 achieved an impressive 120 Hz performance while playing Genshin Impact, signaling significant gaming performance improvements. This will mark the first time a OnePlus flagship will debut just days after Qualcomm’s release of a new top-tier chipset.
The OnePlus 13 is expected to launch first in China, likely coinciding with the popular shopping holiday Singles Day on November 11 (11.11). A global release is anticipated in early 2025.
Truecaller to Finally Work Seamlessly on iPhones with iOS 18 Update
Truecaller, the popular caller identification app, has long worked more efficiently on Android devices than on iPhones, due to Apple’s strict privacy policies. These restrictions limited the app’s ‘Caller ID’ feature on iPhones, but that’s set to change with the upcoming iOS 18 update.
Alan Mamedi, Truecaller’s co-founder and CEO, announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the app will function as intended on iPhones once iOS 18 is released. He expressed optimism that users would soon say, “Truecaller finally works on iPhone.” The update will introduce new APIs, allowing apps like Truecaller to fetch caller ID information in real time while maintaining Apple’s privacy standards. This means iPhone users will be able to identify unknown callers without having to interact with Siri or take extra steps.
This news comes after a previous 2022 update, which improved Truecaller’s performance on iPhones but still required users to interact with Siri, adding an inconvenient step to identify callers. The iOS 18 update will now offer iPhone users Truecaller’s Live Caller ID feature without such hassles.
Privacy concerns have long surrounded Truecaller, especially following a 2022 investigation alleging unauthorized data collection. Truecaller has denied these allegations, reaffirming its commitment to privacy and data security.
Samsung Mocks Apple’s iPhone 16 with Foldable Phone Jibe
Samsung has once again taken a playful jab at its rival, Apple, following the launch of the iPhone 16 series. At Apple’s event, where they unveiled four new iPhone models—iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max—alongside new Apple Watch models and updated AirPods, Samsung saw an opportunity to poke fun.
On their official X account (formerly Twitter), Samsung reposted a 2022 tweet that read, “Let us know when it folds.” The tweet was aimed at Apple’s lack of a foldable phone, a market where Samsung has already established itself with devices like the Galaxy Z Fold5. The updated post humorously added, “Still waiting……”
Samsung didn’t stop there, taking another shot at Apple’s new ‘Apple Intelligence’ AI feature by tweeting, “You know… we may have set your AI expectations too high.”
This isn’t Samsung’s first playful attack on Apple. They previously mocked an iPad Pro ad that metaphorically portrayed creativity being crushed by technology.
In response, Samsung released a ‘Creativity Cannot Be Crushed’ ad, showcasing its Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra as a symbol of fostering creativity.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Leak Reveals Design, Specs, and Pricing Details
A new leak has provided exclusive details and images of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, showcasing the phone in four color options: Graphite, Blue, Green, and Yellow. These colors may not be the official names from Samsung, but they offer a glimpse of the vibrant choices. Notably, the previously leaked Silver/White color is absent from this batch.
In terms of design, the Galaxy S24 FE retains a familiar look but with some significant changes from its predecessor, the Galaxy S23 FE. The most noticeable difference is the frame, which is now flat, compared to the slightly rounded edges of the previous model. The bezels around the display will be thin, measuring 1.99mm, with a centered camera cutout at the top.
The phone will feature a 6.7-inch fullHD+ flat display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,900 nits, offering smooth scrolling and bright visuals. The back of the device will house three vertically aligned cameras: a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and an 8MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.
The build of the Galaxy S24 FE includes aluminum for the frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the display. The phone will support 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, ensuring fast and flexible charging options. Samsung’s Galaxy AI will also enhance the phone’s performance and camera capabilities.
Pricing rumors suggest that the Galaxy S24 FE will see a slight increase compared to its predecessor, but not as significant as initially reported. The 8GB RAM/128GB storage model is expected to be priced at €749, which is €50 more than the launch price of the S23 FE. The 8GB RAM/256GB variant is rumored to cost €809. While this price increase has raised some concerns, it’s expected that prices for the S24 FE will drop over time, potentially making it a better deal in the coming months.
With a launch expected around early October, the Galaxy S24 FE is poised to offer a solid mix of performance, design, and camera upgrades for consumers.
Google Introduces Google One Lite Plan in India, Offering 30GB of Storage for Rs. 59 per Month
Google has quietly begun rolling out a new, more affordable Google One plan in India called Google One Lite. This plan is designed for users who need more than the free 15GB of storage but don’t want to pay Rs. 130 per month for the 100GB plan. The existence of the Lite plan was first noticed in the Google Photos app in July.
The Google One Lite plan costs Rs. 59 per month and provides 30GB of storage that can be used across Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Drive. However, unlike the 100GB plan, which allows sharing with up to 5 others, the Lite plan cannot be shared with additional users.
As with other Google One plans, there is a 1-month free trial available. However, it’s unclear if an annual subscription option, which typically saves up to 26%, will be available for the Lite plan.
According to The Indian Express, which got early access to the plan, it is still in the testing phase and is not available to all users yet. Google has not officially confirmed when the plan will be widely rolled out.
Intel Launches AI-Enabled Core Ultra 200V Lunar Lake Series CPUs in India
Intel launched its second-generation AI-enabled processors, the Intel Core Ultra 200V series, in India on Thursday, following their global debut eight days earlier. Dubbed “Lunar Lake,” these processors deliver 67 trillion operations per second (TOPS) and feature AI-accelerated functions. This series is the first from Intel to carry the Microsoft Copilot+ label.
Availability in India
Laptops powered by the Intel Core Ultra 200V Lunar Lake processors will be available for preorder on Amazon, Croma, Flipkart, Reliance Digital, and Vijay Sales starting September 12. These devices will go on sale from September 24, with models available from brands like Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, MSI, and Samsung.
Features and Performance
The new CPUs feature Intel’s Xe2 graphics architecture, which promises 30% better mobile graphics performance. The processors come with eight CPU cores (four performance and four efficiency cores) and up to eight GPU cores. Intel’s Arc GPU includes eight Xe-cores, enhanced ray tracing units, and AI engines, supporting up to three 4K monitors. Lunar Lake CPUs deliver 68% better graphics performance than Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chipset.
Additionally, the processors support Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 with LE Audio, Gigabit Ethernet, and up to three Thunderbolt 4 ports. With optimized AI models and support for up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM, the series offers 120 TOPS across CPU, GPU, and NPU.
Tech Launches Of The Week
Apple Unveils iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus with New A18 Chip, Camera Control, and Enhanced Features
Apple has officially launched the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, the successors to the iPhone 15 series. These new models feature Apple’s latest A18 SoC, introducing Apple Intelligence support, improved performance, and new features like Camera Control, which was previously exclusive to Pro models. Both devices retain their 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR displays, respectively. However, this year too, both models only feature a 60Hz display, with no ProMotion display included.
Apple’s new A18 chip is built on second-generation 3nm technology and offers a 16-core neural engine optimized for generative models, providing 2x faster machine learning performance compared to the A16 Bionic. The chip has 17% more system memory bandwidth, uses 30% less power, and includes a 5-core GPU that delivers 40% faster graphics performance than the iPhone 15.
This chip will also support Apple Intelligence on these models. The A18’s CPU is up to 30% faster than the one found in the iPhone 15. Apple Intelligence features are set to roll out in the U.S. in English starting in October, with expansion to other countries in December and support for additional languages in 2025.
A notable addition to the iPhone 16 models is two new buttons. First, the Action button, which debuted on last year’s Pro models, is now available on the non-Pro models. This customizable button replaces the mute switch and can be set up to activate the flashlight, start a Voice Memos recording, trigger Shortcuts, or adjust Control Center settings starting in iOS 18.
The second new feature is the Camera Control button, dedicated to capturing photos and videos. This button allows users to quickly launch the camera app, record videos with a press, and access camera functions like zoom and exposure using intuitive touch gestures. The touch-sensitive button operates similarly to a DSLR camera’s capture button — lightly pressing focuses on a subject, and fully pressing takes a photo.
Additionally, the Camera Control button will support a new Google Lens-style visual intelligence feature, launching later this year. For example, users can point their phone at a restaurant, click the Camera Control button, and get details like the menu and opening hours.
The iPhone 16 models feature a 48MP main camera with a larger aperture and a new 2x telephoto option, along with a 12MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture, offering macro mode even for the baseline models. Users can also capture Spatial Video and Spatial Photos for the Apple Vision Pro.
Designed with gaming in mind, the iPhone 16 models boast 30% higher sustained performance and ray tracing support for AAA games. Some games, previously exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro, like Assassin’s Creed Mirage and several Resident Evil titles, will now be available on the iPhone 16.
The devices support Wi-Fi 7 and 25W MagSafe charging. With the addition of Wi-Fi 7 and a larger battery, Apple promises a significant boost in battery life. The iPhone 16 offers up to 22 hours of local video playback, 18 hours of streaming video, and 80 hours of audio playback on a single charge.
Specifications
| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch OLED, 2556×1179 pixels, 460 ppi | 6.7-inch OLED, 2796×1290 pixels, 460 ppi |
| Processor | Six-Core A18, 3nm chip with 5-core GPU | Six-Core A18, 3nm chip with 5-core GPU |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Main Camera | 48MP f/1.6, 2x Telephoto, OIS | 48MP f/1.6, 2x Telephoto, OIS |
| Ultra Wide Camera | 12MP f/2.2 | 12MP f/2.2 |
| Front Camera | 12MP f/1.9 with autofocus | 12MP f/1.9 with autofocus |
| Operating System | iOS 18 | iOS 18 |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Battery | Up to 22 hours video playback | Up to 27 hours video playback |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3 | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Dimensions | 147.6×71.6×7.8mm, 170g | 160.9×77.8×7.8mm, 199g |
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are available in black, white, pink, teal, and ultramarine colors. Pricing is as follows:
- iPhone 16 128GB – Rs. 79,900
- iPhone 16 256GB – Rs. 89,900
- iPhone 16 512GB – Rs. 1,09,900
- iPhone 16 Plus 128GB – Rs. 89,900
- iPhone 16 Plus 256GB – Rs. 99,900
- iPhone 16 Plus 512GB – Rs. 1,19,900
Pre-orders start on Friday, September 13th at 5:30 PM IST, with availability in stores beginning Friday, September 20th.
Apple Unveils iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max with Larger Displays, A18 Pro Chip, and Advanced Camera Features
Apple has officially announced the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, alongside the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, as expected. These new models succeed the iPhone 15 Pro series, featuring a premium titanium design, larger displays, the more powerful A18 Pro chip, and advanced camera capabilities.
Both devices have increased display sizes. The iPhone 16 Pro now features a 6.3-inch display, up from 6.1 inches, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts the largest display ever in an iPhone at 6.9 inches, up from 6.7 inches. Both models support 120Hz ProMotion technology for smoother performance.
The A18 Pro chip, built on a second-generation 3nm process, includes 2 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, offering up to 15% faster performance than the A17 Pro. With a 16-core neural engine optimized for machine learning and generative models, the chip promises double the speed for machine learning tasks. Apple also states that Apple Intelligence features run 15% faster on the A18 Pro than on the A17 Pro.
The 6-core GPU is 20% faster than its predecessor, enabling enhanced gaming and media experiences, including ProRes video recording. The key difference between the A18 and A18 Pro is that the A18 Pro has an additional GPU core, totaling 6 compared to the 5-core GPU in the standard A18.
Both models are equipped with a 48MP Fusion camera featuring a second-generation quad-pixel sensor, delivering zero shutter lag for ProRAW and HEIF photos. The Pro Max now includes a 5x telephoto lens with a 120mm focal length, a feature previously exclusive to the Pro Max models. Users can now record in 4K at 120fps for high-quality slow-motion videos, and audio capture during video recording has been improved with Spatial Audio and AI-powered background noise reduction.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max offers the best battery life in an iPhone, thanks to larger batteries and optimized power management. Both models include USB-C fast charging, Wi-Fi 7, and support for up to 25W MagSafe charging.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max Specifications
| Feature | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, HDR | 6.9-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion, HDR |
| Resolution | 2622×1206 pixels | 2868×1320 pixels |
| Chipset | A18 Pro (6-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine) | A18 Pro (6-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine) |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Camera | 48MP Fusion Camera, 5x Telephoto | 48MP Fusion Camera, 5x Telephoto |
| Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth | 12MP TrueDepth |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Battery | Up to 29 hours video playback | Up to 33 hours video playback |
| Dimensions | 149.6×71.5×8.25mm; 199g | 163×77.6×8.25mm; 227g |
Pricing and Availability
iPhone 16 Pro Pricing:
- 128GB: Rs. 1,19,900
- 256GB: Rs. 1,29,900
- 512GB: Rs. 1,49,900
- 1TB: Rs. 1,69,900
iPhone 16 Pro Max Pricing:
- 256GB: Rs. 1,44,900
- 512GB: Rs. 1,64,900
- 1TB: Rs. 1,84,900
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max come in Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Desert Titanium. Pricing starts at Rs. 1,19,900 for the iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) and Rs. 1,44,900 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB). Pre-orders begin on September 13 at 5:30 PM IST, with availability in stores starting September 20.
Apple Unveils AirPods 4 and Watch Series 10 at ‘Its Glowtime’ Event
At its “It’s Glowtime” event, alongside the iPhone 16 lineup, Apple also introduced the AirPods 4 and the Apple Watch Series 10, showcasing significant upgrades in both products. The AirPods 4 now feature active noise cancellation (ANC), a capability previously limited to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max.
Powered by Apple’s H2 chip, the AirPods 4 offer an upgraded acoustic architecture that enhances sound quality, along with new machine learning capabilities that enable gesture control. Users can now nod to accept calls and enjoy features such as personalized spatial audio and conversational awareness. Additionally, Apple has transitioned the AirPods Max to USB Type-C, replacing the Lightning port, and introduced new colorways: Blue, Midnight, and Starlight.
The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) received new health-centric features, including an in-built hearing test and hearing aid support via a personalized Noise app, allowing users to test their hearing directly through the device.
The Apple Watch Series 10 was also unveiled, available in 42mm and 46mm sizes. It features a sleeker, lighter design with slimmer bezels. Powered by the new S10 SiP and a 4-core Neural Engine, it supports on-device Siri and introduces new health-tracking features, such as sleep apnea detection. The watch’s LTPO3 wide-angle AMOLED display offers up to 2,000 nits of brightness, while the battery provides up to 18 hours of regular use. Fast charging allows 8 hours of use with just 15 minutes of charging.
The AirPods 4 are priced at Rs. 12,900 for the non-ANC model and Rs. 17,900 for the ANC variant. The Apple Watch Series 10 starts at Rs. 46,900 for the GPS model and Rs. 56,900 for the GPS + Cellular variant. Both products are available for pre-order now, with sales starting on September 20.
Huawei Unveils Mate XT Ultimate Design: World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone with 10.2-Inch Display and Advanced Camera Setup
Following Tecno’s unveiling of its triple-fold concept, Huawei has now introduced the Mate XT Ultimate Design, the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, just hours after Apple launched the iPhone 16 series. The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design features a large 10.2-inch LTPO OLED display when fully unfolded, capable of bending in multiple directions thanks to its flexible materials.
According to Huawei, the inner fold resists compression, while the outer fold resists tension. The device also boasts a composite ultra-tough laminated structure, using non-Newtonian fluid and the industry’s largest UTG glass for double impact resistance and reliable protection. When folded once, the display transforms into a 7.9-inch screen, and when folded twice, it becomes a 6.4-inch display.
The phone is equipped with a triple rear camera setup, featuring a 50-megapixel primary sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 12-megapixel periscope telephoto camera offering 5.5x optical zoom.
Powered by HarmonyOS 4.2, the device includes 16GB of RAM and comes with storage options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. The Mate XT Ultimate Design packs the world’s thinnest 1.9mm, 5,600mAh battery, supporting 66W wired fast charging and 50W wireless charging. While Huawei has not yet disclosed the exact chipset powering the device, it is expected to feature the Kirin 9000 chip.
Specification At A Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 10.2-inch (3184×2232 pixels) LTPO OLED, folds into 7.9-inch or 6.4-inch |
| Processor | Yet to be revealed (expected Kirin 9000 chip) |
| Operating System | HarmonyOS 4.2 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP (OIS, f/1.4-f/4.0), 12MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2), 12MP Periscope (OIS, 5.5x optical zoom, f/3.4) |
| Front Camera | 8MP (f/2.2) |
| Battery | 5,600mAh, 66W wired fast charging, 50W wireless charging |
| Connectivity | 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, NFC, USB 3.1 Type-C |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted |
| Dimensions | 156.7x73x12.8mm (single), 156.7x143x7.45mm (dual), 156.7x219x3.6mm (triple) |
| Weight | 298g |
| Other Features | Foldable touch keyboard compatibility, 1440Hz PWM dimming, 240Hz touch sampling rate |
| Colors | Dark Black, Rui Red |
Pricing and Availability
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design starts at CNY 19,999 (approximately Rs. 2,35,900) for the 16GB RAM and 256GB storage model. The 512GB variant is priced at CNY 21,999 (approximately Rs. 2,59,500), while the 1TB version costs CNY 23,999 (approximately Rs. 2,83,100). It is available for pre-order via Huawei Vmall, with sales starting in China on September 20.
In addition, Huawei has introduced a foldable touch keyboard designed to pair with the Mate XT Ultimate Design, allowing users to experience a desktop PC-like setup.
Samsung Galaxy M05 Launched in India with 50MP Camera, 5000mAh Battery, and Android 14
Samsung has introduced the Galaxy M05 in India, the latest addition to its M series, almost a year after launching the Galaxy A05 with similar specifications. The smartphone features a 6.7-inch HD+ display with an 8MP front camera housed in a notch. It runs Android 14 with One UI Core 6.0 and is set to receive two OS updates and four years of security updates.
The Galaxy M05 sports a 50MP rear camera accompanied by a 2MP depth sensor. It includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and packs a 5000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging, although no charger is included in the box.
Samsung Galaxy M05 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch HD+ LCD (720 x 1600 pixels), 60Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G85 (Octa-core: 2x Cortex-A75, 6x Cortex-A55), ARM Mali-G52 GPU |
| RAM and Storage | 4GB LPDDR4X RAM, 64GB storage (expandable up to 1TB via microSD) |
| Operating System | Android 14 with One UI Core 6.0 |
| Rear Camera | 50MP (f/1.8) + 2MP depth sensor (f/2.4), LED Flash |
| Front Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 25W fast charging support |
| Fingerprint Scanner | Side-mounted |
| Connectivity | Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, USB Type-C |
| Audio | 3.5mm audio jack |
| Dimensions | 168.8 x 78.2 x 8.8mm, 195g |
Pricing and Availability
The Samsung Galaxy M05, available in Mint Green, is priced at ₹7,999 for the 4GB + 64GB variant. It can be purchased from Amazon, Samsung’s official website, and select retail stores.
Vivo T3 Ultra Launched in India with Curved AMOLED Display, Dimensity 9200+ Chipset
Vivo has unveiled the T3 Ultra in India, the latest addition to its T series lineup. The smartphone features a curved 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset, coupled with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The Vivo T3 Ultra’s camera setup includes a 50-megapixel Sony IMX921 primary sensor with OIS and an 8-megapixel wide-angle lens, while the front has a 50-megapixel autofocus selfie shooter. A 5,500mAh battery with 80W fast charging ensures long-lasting performance.
The Vivo T3 Ultra offers an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance and comes with features like an in-display fingerprint scanner, 5G, Bluetooth 5.3, and a 4,200mm² VC cooling system.
Specifications of Vivo T3 Ultra
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.78-inch curved AMOLED, 1.5K (1,260×2,800 pixels), 120Hz, 4,500nits brightness |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ (4nm) |
| RAM | Up to 12GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | Up to 256GB UFS 3.1 |
| Rear Camera | 50MP Sony IMX921 (OIS), 8MP wide-angle |
| Front Camera | 50MP with autofocus |
| Battery | 5,500mAh with 80W fast charging |
| OS | Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14 |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3, 5G, Wi-Fi, GPS, USB Type-C |
| Other Features | In-display fingerprint, IP68 rating, Aura Light flash, 4,200mm² VC cooling |
| Dimensions | 164.6×74.93×7.58mm |
| Weight | 192 grams |
Pricing and Availability:
The Vivo T3 Ultra is priced at Rs. 31,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant, Rs. 33,999 for the 8GB + 256GB model, and Rs. 35,999 for the 12GB + 256GB version. Available in Frost Green and Lunar Gray, the smartphone will go on sale from September 19 at 7:00 PM via Flipkart, Vivo’s online store, and retail outlets. A flat discount of Rs. 3,000 is available on HDFC bank cards, bringing the base variant’s effective price to Rs. 28,999.
boAt Storm Call 3 Plus Launched with 1.96-Inch Display, Bluetooth Calling, and 700+ Activity Tracking Modes
boAt has officially launched the Storm Call 3 Plus, its latest smartwatch, following the recent release of the boAt Wanderer Smart 4G calling smartwatch for kids in August. The Storm Call 3 Plus comes with a 1.96-inch display featuring a resolution of 240×288 pixels, providing clear visuals and smooth navigation. It also includes a functional crown and wake gesture for easy control.
Users can customize their watch faces through the DIY Watch Face Studio via the Crest App and enjoy precise turn-by-turn navigation powered by MapMyIndia, making it ideal for seamless route guidance. The smartwatch also supports Bluetooth calling with a built-in dial pad and contact-saving features.
The Storm Call 3 Plus offers health and fitness tracking through the Crest App Health Ecosystem, which includes heart rate monitoring, SpO2 levels, sleep analysis, and energy scores. It can track over 700 activities, such as running, cycling, swimming, and yoga, while providing a 7-day battery life (2 days with Bluetooth calling and Always On Display).
Other features include Emergency SOS, music and camera control, weather updates, stopwatches, and more. The device is IP67-rated, making it resistant to sweat, dust, and water.
Specifications at a Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 1.96-inch (240 x 288 pixels), Always-On |
| Control | Functional Crown, Wake Gesture |
| Straps | Silicone and Metal |
| Customization | DIY Watch Faces via Crest App |
| Bluetooth Version | v5.2 |
| Calling Features | Bluetooth Calling, Dial Pad, Contact Saving |
| Navigation | Turn-by-Turn (via Crest App) |
| Sports Modes | 700+ |
| Battery | 300mAh, 7 days (2 days with calling and AOD) |
| Health Tracking | Heart Rate, SpO2, Sleep Analysis, Energy Scores |
| Other Features | Camera Control, Games, Music, Weather, Alarms, SOS |
| Protection | IP67 (Sweat, Dust, Water Resistant) |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Pricing and Availability
The boAt Storm Call 3 Plus is available at an introductory price of Rs. 1,149. It comes in various colors, including Active Black, Olive Green, Dark Blue, Cherry Blossom, Mint Green, Salmon Peach, and Black Metal Mesh. The smartwatch can be purchased from boAt-lifestyle.com and Flipkart.com.
Reliance Jio Launches JioPhone Prima 2 with Curved Design, 4G Support, and UPI Payments
Reliance Jio has introduced the JioPhone Prima 2, the latest addition to its 4G feature phone lineup, following the success of last year’s JioPhone Prima. The device features a refreshed curved design with a leather-like finish on the back, making it more ergonomic and stylish.
Powered by a Qualcomm SoC, the JioPhone Prima 2 runs on the KaiOS platform, giving users access to popular apps like YouTube, Facebook, and Google Voice Assistant. Jio’s native apps, such as JioTV, JioCinema, and JioSaavn, are pre-installed, ensuring a rich entertainment experience. The phone supports video calling, UPI payments via JioPay, and comes with a new Sound Alert feature. Additionally, it boasts a larger 2000mAh battery for extended usage.
JioPhone Prima 2 Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.4-inch (320 x 240 pixels) QVGA curved |
| Processor | Qualcomm SoC |
| RAM | 512 MB |
| Storage | 4GB internal, expandable up to 128GB |
| Operating System | KaiOS 2.5.3 |
| Rear Camera | Yes |
| Front Camera | 0.3MP (VGA) |
| Audio | 3.5mm jack, FM Radio |
| Connectivity | 4G VoLTE, Bluetooth 5.0, USB 2.0 |
| Battery | 2000mAh |
| Additional Features | JioPay UPI, LED Torch, JioChat |
| Languages Supported | 23 languages |
Pricing and Availability
The JioPhone Prima 2 is available in Luxe Blue and is priced at Rs. 2,799. It can be purchased from Amazon, with availability expected soon on JioMart, Reliance Digital, and other retailers.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G Launched in India with 108MP Camera, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC
Tecno has launched the Pova 6 Neo 5G in India as an affordable 5G smartphone. Available in three color options—Aurora Cloud, Azure Sky, and Midnight Shadow—the device offers two configurations: 6GB RAM + 128GB storage and 8GB RAM + 256GB storage. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC and includes a Virtual RAM feature for enhanced performance.
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G boasts a 108-megapixel AI-powered rear camera with 3x in-sensor zoom, while an 8-megapixel front camera with flash is available for selfies and video calls. The device supports several photography modes, including Super Night Mode, Time-Lapse, Vlog, and Dual Video. It also features a 5,000mAh battery with 18W fast charging support and an IP54-rated build for splash and sweat resistance.
Running on Android 14-based HiOS 14.5, the handset features a 6.67-inch HD+ IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It also includes dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support.
Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.67-inch HD+ IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC |
| RAM | Up to 8GB (expandable to 16GB with Virtual RAM) |
| Storage | Up to 256GB (expandable up to 1TB) |
| Rear Camera | 108MP AI-powered with 3x in-sensor zoom |
| Front Camera | 8MP with flash |
| Battery | 5,000mAh with 18W charging support |
| Operating System | Android 14-based HiOS 14.5 |
| Water Resistance | IP54-rated |
| Audio | Dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support |
| Launch Date | September 14, 2024 |
Pricing and Availability:
The Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G starts at Rs. 13,999 for the 6GB + 128GB model and Rs. 14,999 for the 8GB + 256GB variant. Customers can avail a Rs. 1,000 instant discount and a Rs. 1,000 exchange offer. The phone will be available on Amazon and at retail stores starting September 14, 2024.
Sony Announces PlayStation 5 Pro with Upgraded GPU, AI Image Upscaling, and 2TB Storage
Sony has officially unveiled the PlayStation 5 Pro, its most powerful gaming console yet, aimed at delivering enhanced graphical performance. As an updated model of the PlayStation 5, the PS5 Pro focuses on three significant improvements: an upgraded GPU, hardware-accelerated ray tracing, and a new AI-driven image upscaling technology.
The upgraded GPU features 67% more compute units and 28% faster memory, providing 45% faster rendering performance compared to the PS5. This improvement also boosts ray tracing performance, with Sony claiming the PS5 Pro GPU can cast rays at double or even triple the rate of the standard PS5.
Additionally, Sony introduced the PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based image upscaling solution developed in-house. This hardware-accelerated technology is expected to rival Nvidia’s DLSS and Intel’s XeSS, offering superior results to previous software-based upscaling techniques used on the PS5.
The PS5 Pro aims to eliminate the need for users to toggle between performance and quality modes in games by delivering 60FPS with the same image quality as the PS5’s quality mode. Games optimized for the new hardware will feature a “PS5 Pro Enhanced” label, and the console also includes the new Game Boost feature, which will enhance over 8,500 PS4 titles in terms of resolution and frame rate.
Visually, the PS5 Pro is slightly taller than the PS5 slim but shares the same thickness as the PS5 model without a Blu-ray disc drive. The PS5 Pro doesn’t come with an optical drive but includes 2TB of internal storage compared to the standard PS5’s 1TB. The console also supports Wi-Fi 7, VRR, and 8K displays.
Pricing and Availability:
The PlayStation 5 Pro is priced at $700, a 56% increase over the digital PS5’s price of $450. Pre-orders will start on September 26, with the console officially going on sale on November 7, 2024.
HMD 105 4G and HMD 110 4G Launched in India With YouTube Support and UPI Integration
HMD Global has launched the HMD 105 4G and HMD 110 4G feature phones in India, offering affordable devices with support for streaming videos on YouTube and digital transactions via UPI. These new models come with multiple color options and include features such as wireless FM radio, a 1,450mAh battery, and support for 23 languages, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
Both models are equipped with a preloaded UPI application, allowing users to make digital transactions without internet access. Additionally, the phones support multimedia options, including access to YouTube, YouTube Music, and YouTube Shorts via the Cloud Phone app. Users can also enjoy the convenience of an MP3 player and expand storage up to 32GB with a dedicated microSD card slot.
HMD Global is providing a one-year replacement guarantee for both models, offering extra assurance for users. The phones come with several color options and are priced affordably.
Specifications:
| Feature | HMD 105 4G | HMD 110 4G |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Feature phone display | Feature phone display |
| Battery | 1,450mAh | 1,450mAh |
| Connectivity | 4G | 4G |
| Multimedia | MP3 player, Wireless FM Radio | MP3 player, Wireless FM Radio |
| YouTube Support | Yes, via Cloud Phone app | Yes, via Cloud Phone app |
| UPI App | Preloaded, works offline | Preloaded, works offline |
| Languages Supported | 23 languages, 13 input options | 23 languages, 13 input options |
| Expandable Storage | Up to 32GB via microSD card | Up to 32GB via microSD card |
| Replacement Guarantee | 1-year replacement | 1-year replacement |
Pricing and Availability:
The HMD 105 4G is priced at Rs. 2,199 and is available in Black, Cyan, and Pink color options. The HMD 110 4G costs Rs. 2,399 and comes in Blue and Titanium shades. Both models can be purchased via retail stores, e-commerce platforms, and HMD.com.
Sonos Enters Headphone Market with Sonos Ace: Premium Over-Ear Headphones Launched in India
Sonos has officially launched its first-ever headphones, the Sonos Ace, in India, marking the company’s entry into the personal listening space. These premium over-the-ear Bluetooth headphones, first revealed globally earlier this year, are designed to deliver a home theater-like experience, thanks to TrueCinema technology.
The Sonos Ace features a lightweight design, memory foam padding wrapped in vegan leather, and a custom headband for comfort and secure fit. With user-friendly features such as contrasting ear cup colors, tactile buttons, and a fold-flat design for easy storage, the headphones are also eco-conscious. They incorporate replaceable ear cushions, use 17% less virgin plastic, and come with a 75% recycled felt travel case.
Equipped with two custom drivers, the Sonos Ace offers an immersive sound experience with Dolby Atmos support and dynamic head tracking, which adjusts the sound based on your movement. The headphones also include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and an Aware mode, providing customizable listening options based on the environment.
The Sonos Ace supports lossless audio streaming via Bluetooth or USB-C and provides up to 30 hours of battery life, with ultra-fast charging that offers 3 hours of playback with just a 3-minute charge. Additional features include beamforming microphones for clear calls, wear detection for automatic playback pausing, and seamless Bluetooth multipoint pairing. The headphones also support a range of connectivity options with USB-C and a 3.5mm analog cable for wired listening.
Sonos users can further enhance their listening experience through the Sonos app, which allows for EQ customization, dynamic head tracking, and firmware updates.
Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Finish | Matte |
| Controls and Indicators | Tactile buttons, LED for connection status |
| Driver | Custom-designed 40 mm dynamic driver |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, 3.5mm jack |
| Audio Features | Spatial audio, Lossless audio, ANC, Dolby Atmos, Dynamic Head Tracking |
| Microphones | Eight microphones for noise control and voice targeting |
| Battery Life | 30 hours, 3 hours playback from 3-minute charge |
| Additional Features | Wear Detection, Aware Mode, TV Audio Swap |
| Sonos App Support | EQ customization, dynamic head tracking |
| Dimensions | 191 x 160 x 85 mm |
| Weight | 312 g |
Pricing and Availability
The Sonos Ace is priced at Rs. 39,999 and is available in Black and Soft White. It can be purchased directly from Sonos’ official website, sonos.com.
realme Launches P2 Pro 5G in India with 120Hz Curved AMOLED Display and Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC
realme has officially launched the P2 Pro 5G, the latest addition to its P series, in India. The smartphone boasts a 6.7-inch FHD+ curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ultra-narrow bezels, and up to 2000 nits peak brightness for vibrant visuals.
Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC, the P2 Pro 5G supports up to 12GB of RAM, along with an additional 12GB of RAM expansion, and includes GT gaming features for enhanced performance. It features a 9-layer cooling system, including a 4500mm² VC cooling and 9953mm² graphite system to prevent overheating.
The phone sports a triple-camera setup on the back, with a 50MP LYT-600 sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 32MP front camera. The camera system offers several AI features, including AI Ultra Clarity, AI Smart Removal, AI Group Photo Enhance, and AI Audio Zoom.
Running on Android 14 with realme UI 5.0, the P2 Pro 5G will receive two Android OS updates and three years of security updates. It is backed by a 5200mAh battery with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging, capable of charging the phone up to 50% in 19 minutes and fully charging in 49 minutes.
realme P2 Pro 5G Specifications
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch FHD+ curved AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 2000 nits peak brightness |
| Processor | Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC, 2.4GHz Octa-Core, Adreno 710 GPU |
| RAM & Storage | 8GB / 12GB RAM, 128GB / 256GB / 512GB UFS 3.1 storage |
| Operating System | Android 14 with realme UI 5.0 |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP LYT-600 with OIS, 8MP ultra-wide |
| Front Camera | 32MP Sony sensor |
| Battery | 5200mAh with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging |
| Connectivity | 5G, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C |
| Dimensions & Weight | 161.34×73.91×8.21mm; 180g |
| Additional Features | In-display fingerprint sensor, IP65 dust and splash resistance, Dolby Atmos stereo speakers |
Pricing and Availability
The realme P2 Pro 5G is available in Parrot Green and Eagle Grey colors. Pricing starts at Rs. 21,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant, Rs. 24,999 for the 12GB + 256GB variant, and Rs. 27,999 for the 12GB + 512GB variant. The phone will be available from realme.com, Flipkart, and offline stores, with an early bird sale starting on September 17th at 6 PM.
Launch offers include a flat Rs. 2,000 coupon discount and Rs. 1,000 bank discount on the 12GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB models.
That wraps up this week’s Tech News of the Week! From Apple’s latest iPhone 16 lineup to new openAI AI advancements and the unveiling of upgraded ps5 gaming console, it’s been an exciting week in the tech world. Stay tuned for next week’s updates and launches. Until then, stay tech savvy!
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