This week’s tech news roundup features “Meta is moving forward with its AI-powered search engine to reduce reliance on Google and Microsoft, while Instagram’s Adam Mosseri explains how video quality may decrease over time to enhance app performance. Apple has upped its security game, offering a $1 million bug bounty to test the security of its new AI server, and Google has revealed its roadmap for 2025 Android updates. Meanwhile, Apple has launched the new M4 iMac in vibrant colors and the MacBook Pro (2024) with M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. Xiaomi debuts its 15 Series smartphones powered by Snapdragon’s latest processor, and iQOO has launched the iQOO 13 in China. Lastly, OnePlus has also introduced the OnePlus 13 in China, featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. Let’s dive into each story.
Table of Contents
Meta to Develop AI-Powered Search Engine to Reduce Reliance on Google and Microsoft
Meta is developing an AI-driven search engine to reduce its reliance on Google and Microsoft. Although still in development, this AI is expected to offer AI-based summaries of current news and events within Meta’s AI chatbot, which currently depends on Google and Microsoft for such updates.
The project, led by senior engineering manager Xueyuan Su, began eight months ago. Meta’s web crawler, spotted online several months ago, suggests the company is making progress on the search engine. Earlier, Meta publicly acknowledged using its web crawler technology for “training AI models or improving products”; however, it did not explicitly state it was creating a search engine.
In August, CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed on Threads that Meta AI has over 185 million weekly active users and more than 400 million monthly active users globally. Despite this rapid growth, Meta AI is still unavailable in the UK, Brazil, and the EU.
Instagram Lowers Video Quality Over Time to Optimize Performance, Says Adam Mosseri
During an AMA this weekend, Instagram head Adam Mosseri addressed why some older videos on Instagram appear to drop in quality. The shift primarily aims to optimize platform performance. In response to a question about “blurry” highlights, Mosseri explained that Instagram initially displays videos in high quality, but if a video sees low engagement over time, it may be downgraded to a lower resolution. If the video later regains popularity, Instagram re-renders it in higher quality, he noted, according to a Threads post spotted by The Verge.
Mosseri also revealed that Instagram allocates more resources for high-quality video processing to creators with larger followings who drive more views, sparking concerns from smaller creators who feel disadvantaged by this approach. He emphasized that the system operates on an aggregate level, based on overall viewership patterns, rather than individual viewers’ preferences.
In response to concerns about fairness, Mosseri suggested that video quality doesn’t significantly impact viewership, as audiences generally focus more on content rather than quality. However, many small creators remain skeptical, voicing that video quality is critical to their audience’s experience.
Apple Challenges Hackers with $1 Million Bug Bounty to Test New AI Server Security
Apple has launched a “security research challenge,” offering up to $1 million for hackers able to find vulnerabilities in its new Private Cloud Compute (PCC) server, which powers its AI-based Apple Intelligence features in iOS 18.1. This initiative aims to fortify Apple’s server security against potential cyberattacks as the tech giant rolls out more AI-powered services.
The bug bounty rewards vary by the severity of the security breach. Hackers who detect accidental data disclosures due to configuration issues could receive $50,000, while those who manage to execute unauthorized code can earn $100,000. The stakes increase further for breaches involving user request data, offering up to $250,000, and the top prize of $1 million awaits anyone able to perform “arbitrary execution of code” without user consent.
Apple has also made available a PCC security guide, along with select server source codes on GitHub, to aid researchers in identifying security gaps. The company described PCC as the “most advanced security architecture” for cloud AI computing and encouraged security experts to help enhance its defenses.
Microsoft to End Windows 10 Support in 2025: $30 Fee for Extended Security Updates
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 Home and Pro on October 14, 2025, halting all updates, including security patches. Users who wish to extend security updates for an additional year can do so through a $30 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides only security fixes and no new features.
This $30 consumer ESU program is a first from Microsoft, following a similar business program. The option aims to help users transition to Windows 11 without leaving their systems vulnerable. After 2026, however, Microsoft will no longer offer paid updates for consumer devices.
Enterprise users have a different ESU plan, with fees starting at $61 per device in the first year, escalating to $244 by year three. Educational institutions also have access to ESUs, priced at $1 per device in the first year, rising to $4 by the third year. Microsoft is expected to release further details on the purchase and activation process for ESUs as the 2025 deadline nears.
With 60.97% market share, Windows 10 remains the most widely used operating system as of October 2024. In comparison, Windows 11 holds 35.55% of the market, with older versions like Windows 7 and Windows 8.x having minimal usage.
Google’s “Project Jarvis” to Let AI Control Your Browser, Potentially Launching by December
Google is reportedly developing “Project Jarvis,” an AI-powered tool that would enable its large language models (LLMs) to control web browsers, allowing users to perform tasks like researching, shopping, and booking flights through automated actions. According to The Information, this project could be available in preview as early as December and will initially be limited to Chrome. Leveraging Google’s Gemini model, Jarvis would be able to interpret both visual and textual data, using this information to interact with web pages on users’ behalf.
While Project Jarvis focuses on web navigation, it marks a more constrained approach than AI startup Anthropic’s recent developments. Anthropic’s Claude 3.5 Sonnet model, for example, has been shown to perform tasks across multiple applications on computers, aiming to handle complex workflows and leverage existing software like a human would.
This move by Google follows recent advancements where AI models can manipulate software via tools such as Puppeteer and LangChain. However, while Gemini’s visual capabilities offer new possibilities, experts warn of potential risks. Concerns have been raised over prompt injection schemes, where hidden commands within a webpage could prompt the model to perform harmful actions, such as downloading malware.
Despite these risks, if effective guardrails are implemented, Project Jarvis could unlock a new era of automated digital assistance. Google has not yet provided an official comment on Project Jarvis’s development or expected release date.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT Desktop Apps Get Advanced Voice Mode on MacOS and Windows
On October 30, OpenAI launched Advanced Voice Mode for its ChatGPT desktop apps on MacOS and Windows, enhancing user interaction with voice capabilities that are highly responsive to natural conversation. The new voice assistant can handle interruptions, maintain multi-turn dialogues, and respond empathetically, making conversations with ChatGPT more intuitive.
This update provides seamless desktop access to Advanced Voice, but certain features, like using the phone camera or screen assistance, remain unavailable on the desktop app. Users can still enjoy easier accessibility through shortcuts, allowing them to quickly initiate and contextualize conversations. The app can be downloaded from the official ChatGPT website for Mac and Windows users.
Google Expands “Help Me Write” to Gmail Web with New AI-Powered Drafting and Polishing Tools
Google has introduced its “Help me write” feature to Gmail on the web, powered by the Gemini AI. This tool, previously available on mobile, lets users create and modify email drafts effortlessly. When opening a blank draft in Gmail, users will be prompted to use “Help me write,” which is accessible to those subscribed to Google One AI Premium or using the Gemini add-on for Workspace.
Beyond generating drafts, the tool can help formalize, elaborate, or shorten messages. A new shortcut for the “polish” function allows users to refine emails with over 12 words by clicking a button or using Ctrl + H. On mobile, the “polish” shortcut replaces the “Refine my draft” option, and swiping now automatically refines the message, allowing further edits with AI tools.
Google has started the gradual rollout of “Help me write” on the web, including the “polish” shortcut, making email drafting even easier.
Google Announces Major and Minor Android Releases for 2025
Following the release of Android 15, Google confirmed its next major Android update will arrive in Q2 2025. Android 16 is expected to bring key changes, especially for developers, and will be rolled out earlier in the year to align with new device launches across the ecosystem, like the Pixel 10 series. This schedule shift means Android 16 may be available by June 2025, with the developer preview likely beginning as early as December 2024.
Additionally, a minor Android release is scheduled for Q4 2025. This update will include new APIs but will avoid changes that affect app behavior, minimizing compatibility testing for developers. Minor releases won’t increment the main API level, but will introduce a new “minor API level” to simplify app development and maintain consistency.
Google emphasized that these new release cycles aim to drive faster innovation and improve app quality across Android while maintaining developer-friendly processes.
Tech Launches Of The Week
Apple Launches New M4 iMac with Enhanced Performance, Vibrant Colors, and Advanced Features
Apple has officially launched its upgraded iMac, powered by the new M4 chip, as the successor to last year’s model. Promising a significant performance boost, the M4 iMac offers up to 1.7 times faster performance for everyday productivity tasks and up to 2.1 times faster speeds for demanding workflows, including photo editing and gaming, compared to the iMac with M1.
The new iMac retains its 24-inch 4.5K Retina display but now includes an optional nano-texture glass that greatly reduces glare without compromising image quality. Users also benefit from a 12MP Center Stage camera, Desk View, and up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports, which support accessories like external storage and two 6K displays. Additionally, it comes with 16GB of faster unified memory, configurable up to 32GB, and color-matched accessories now featuring USB-C.
iMac (2024) Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 24-inch 4.5K Retina XDR (4480×2520), 218 PPI, up to 500 nits brightness, Wide color (P3), True Tone |
| Processor | Apple M4 chip: 8-core or 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, hardware-accelerated ray tracing |
| Neural Engine | 16-core |
| Memory | 16GB / 24GB unified memory, configurable up to 32GB |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB, configurable up to 1TB or 2TB |
| Operating System | macOS Sequoia |
| Camera | 12MP Center Stage with Desk View, 1080p FaceTime HD |
| Audio | Six-speaker system, Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, three-mic array, high signal-to-noise ratio |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Ports | Thunderbolt 4 / USB 4, USB 3.1 Gen 2, DisplayPort, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| Accessories | Magic Keyboard (optional Touch ID), Magic Trackpad |
| Color Options | Green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue, and silver |
Pricing and Availability
- iMac M4 (8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 256GB storage, 16GB unified memory, Two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports, Magic Keyboard) – Rs. 1,34,900 (USD 1,299)
- iMac M4 (10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 256GB storage, 16GB unified memory, Four Thunderbolt 4 ports, Gigabit Ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID) – Rs. 1,54,900 (USD 1,499)
- iMac M4 (10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 512GB storage, 16GB unified memory, Four Thunderbolt 4 ports, Gigabit Ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID) – Rs. 1,74,900 (USD 1,699)
- iMac M4 (10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 512GB storage, 24GB unified memory, Four Thunderbolt 4 ports, Gigabit Ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID) – Rs. 1,94,900 (USD 1,899)
The new iMac is available for pre-order starting October 28 on Apple’s website and Apple Store app in 28 countries and regions. It will begin arriving to customers and will be available in Apple Stores and with authorized resellers on Friday, November 8.
Apple MacBook Pro (2024) with M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max Chips Launched
Apple has introduced its latest MacBook Pro lineup powered by the new M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max processors. The 14-inch MacBook Pro, equipped with the M4 chip, is claimed to deliver up to 3.4 times faster performance in intensive tasks like rendering in Blender compared to the M1 model. The M4 Max, featuring up to a 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU, and over 500GB/s unified memory bandwidth, boasts a significant performance upgrade, up to 2.5 times faster than the Intel Core Ultra 7, and a 1.2x speed boost over the M3 Max.
The new models retain the Liquid Retina XDR display and offer a nano-texture glass option for reduced glare. All models include a 12MP Center Stage camera, three Thunderbolt ports, and support Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, with the M4 Pro and M4 Max models upgraded to Thunderbolt 5 for double transfer speeds up to 120 Gb/s. HDMI now supports up to 8K resolution, and the MacBook Pro also includes a MagSafe 3 port, SDXC card slot, and high-fidelity six-speaker sound system.
Apple MacBook Pro (2024) Specifications
| Feature | MacBook Pro 14″ | MacBook Pro 16″ |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 14.2″ (3024×1964), 120Hz ProMotion | 16.2″ (3456×2234), 120Hz ProMotion |
| Brightness | Up to 1,000 nits (full screen), 1,600 nits peak | Up to 1,000 nits (full screen), 1,600 nits peak |
| Contrast Ratio | 1,000,000:1 | 1,000,000:1 |
| Processor (M4, M4 Pro, M4 Max) | Up to 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU | Up to 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU |
| Unified Memory | 24GB to 48GB (config. to 128GB on M4 Max) | 24GB to 48GB (config. to 128GB on M4 Max) |
| Storage Options | 512GB, 1TB (config. up to 8TB) | 512GB, 1TB (config. up to 8TB) |
| Camera | 12MP Center Stage with Desk View | 12MP Center Stage with Desk View |
| Audio | Three-mic array, Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos | Three-mic array, Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos |
| Ports | Thunderbolt 4 / 5, SDXC, HDMI 2.1, MagSafe 3 | Thunderbolt 4 / 5, SDXC, HDMI 2.1, MagSafe 3 |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours video playback, 70W or 96W charger | Up to 24 hours video playback, 140W charger |
| OS | macOS Sonoma | macOS Sonoma |
Pricing and Availability
- 14″ M4: Starts at Rs. 1,69,900 (USD 1,599)
- 14″ M4 Pro: Starts at Rs. 1,99,900 (USD 1,999)
- 14″ M4 Max: Starts at Rs. 3,19,900 (USD 3,199)
- 16″ M4 Pro: Starts at Rs. 2,49,900 (USD 2,499)
- 16″ M4 Max: Starts at Rs. 3,49,900 (USD 3,499)
The nano-texture glass display option is available for an additional Rs. 15,000. Pre-orders start on October 30, with availability beginning on November 8 through Apple’s online and retail stores in 28 regions.
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Apple Mac mini 2024: M4 and M4 Pro Models Introduced
Apple has launched its new Mac mini models powered by M4 and M4 Pro chips, bringing next-generation CPU and GPU performance, higher memory bandwidth, and an enhanced Neural Engine. The updated design is more compact, with dimensions reduced to just 5×5 inches, less than half the size of its predecessor. Featuring an innovative thermal architecture, the new Mac mini manages airflow through a unique vent system at its base.
Key Features and Improvements
- Powerful Performance: The M4 Pro chip includes up to 14 cores (10 performance and 4 efficiency cores) with up to a 20-core GPU, achieving up to 3x faster Neural Engine performance compared to the M1 Mac mini.
- Enhanced Memory and Storage: Both models come standard with 16GB of faster unified memory, configurable up to 32GB for M4 and 64GB for M4 Pro, while storage can be upgraded up to 2TB on M4 or 8TB on M4 Pro.
- Impressive Speed for Creative Workflows: Apple states the M4 Pro allows up to 1.8x more audio effect plugins in Logic Pro, 2x faster motion graphics rendering in Motion, and up to 2.9x faster 3D rendering in Blender, compared to the previous M2 Pro model.
- Connectivity Upgrades: The M4 Pro supports Thunderbolt 5 with transfer speeds up to 120 Gb/s. Other ports include HDMI, a Gigabit Ethernet port with a 10GB option, two USB-C ports with USB 3 support (10 Gbps), Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and a headphone jack. USB-A ports have been removed.
- Eco-Friendly Design: The new Mac mini is Apple’s first carbon-neutral Mac, and the packaging is now fully fiber-based.
Pricing and Availability
- M4 Mac mini:
- 10-Core CPU, 10-Core GPU, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD – ₹59,900 ($599 US)
- 10-Core CPU, 10-Core GPU, 16GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD – ₹79,900 ($799 US)
- 10-Core CPU, 10-Core GPU, 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD – ₹99,900 ($999 US)
- M4 Pro Mac mini:
- 12-Core CPU, 16-Core GPU, 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD – ₹1,49,900 ($1,399 US)
The new Mac mini models are available to order as of October 29 on Apple’s website, with shipping starting November 8.
Apple Boosts MacBook Air Memory with M2 and M3 Models
Alongside the new M4 MacBook Pro release, Apple has announced upgrades to the MacBook Air lineup with M2 and M3 chips, doubling the starting memory to 16GB. The 16GB option now comes with 24GB memory at no extra charge. This update is solely for memory, as the M3 model was just launched in March 2024, with rumors of an M4 chip MacBook Air expected in Q1 2025.
MacBook Air Configurations and Pricing
MacBook Air 13″ (M2 Chip):
- 16GB + 256GB – ₹99,900 ($999 US)
MacBook Air 13″ (M3 Chip):
- 16GB + 256GB – ₹1,14,900 ($1,099 US)
- 16GB + 512GB – ₹1,34,900 ($1,299 US)
- 24GB + 512GB – ₹1,54,900 ($1,499 US)
MacBook Air 15″ (M3 Chip):
- 16GB + 256GB – ₹1,34,900 ($1,299 US)
- 16GB + 512GB – ₹1,54,900 ($1,499 US)
- 24GB + 512GB – ₹1,74,900 ($1,699 US)
The upgraded MacBook Air models are available now on Apple’s website, Apple Store app, and Apple retail and authorized reseller locations.
Xiaomi Unveils Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro with Impressive Specs and Features
During a launch event in China, Xiaomi introduced its latest tablets, the Xiaomi Pad 7 and Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro. Both devices are powered by Snapdragon chipsets and feature 11.2-inch screens with an impressive 144Hz refresh rate and a stunning 3.2K resolution. The standard Xiaomi Pad 7 is equipped with the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC, while the Pro variant boasts the more powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC. They run on Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2 interface and include side-mounted fingerprint sensors for enhanced security.
Both tablets are equipped with an 8,850mAh battery, supporting fast charging with up to 67W for the Pad 7 Pro and 45W for the standard Pad 7.
Specifications
| Feature | Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro | Xiaomi Pad 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 11.2-inch, 3.2K (2136×3200) LCD | 11.2-inch, 3.2K (2136×3200) LCD |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 | Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 |
| RAM | Up to 12GB | Up to 12GB |
| Storage | Up to 512GB | Up to 256GB |
| Rear Camera | 50 MP | 13 MP |
| Front Camera | 32 MP | 8 MP |
| Battery | 8,850mAh, 67W charging | 8,850mAh, 45W charging |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, USB Type-C | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, USB Type-C |
| Weight | 500 grams | 500 grams |
| Dimensions | 251.22 x 173.42 x 6.18 mm | 251.22 x 173.42 x 6.18 mm |
| Audio | Quad speakers with Dolby Atmos | Quad speakers with Dolby Atmos |
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro starts at CNY 2,499 (approximately ₹28,500) for the 8GB + 128GB variant, while the 8GB + 256GB model is priced at CNY 2,799 (approximately ₹32,000). The 12GB + 256GB variant costs CNY 3,099 (approximately ₹36,700), and the top-tier 12GB + 512GB variant is available for CNY 3,499 (approximately ₹39,000).
On the other hand, the Xiaomi Pad 7 starts at CNY 1,999 (approximately ₹23,500) for the 8GB + 128GB model, while the 8GB + 256GB variant is priced at CNY 2,299 (approximately ₹27,700), and the 12GB + 256GB option costs CNY 2,599 (approximately ₹30,600).
Both models are currently available for purchase in China in Black and Sky Blue colors, as well as a special Soft Light Edition.
Xiaomi Launches 15 Series Flagship Smartphones with Snapdragon 8 Elite Processor
Xiaomi has officially unveiled its latest flagship lineup, the Xiaomi 15 series, featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. This series includes two models: the Xiaomi 15 and the Xiaomi 15 Pro. Accompanying the launch is Xiaomi’s new user interface, HyperOS 2, which is based on Android 15.
The Xiaomi 15 is available in five color options: Asakusa Green, Bright Silver Edition, Black, Lilac, and White, while the Xiaomi 15 Pro offers four color choices: Bright Silver Edition, Rock Ash, Spruce Green, and White. The initial launch is limited to China, with expectations for a wider release in India soon. The starting price for the Xiaomi 15 is CNY 4,499 (approximately ₹50,000), while the Xiaomi 15 Pro is priced at CNY 5,299 (around ₹62,000) for the base variant.
Specifications
| Feature | Xiaomi 15 | Xiaomi 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.36-inch 8T LTPO, 1.5K resolution, up to 120Hz | 6.73-inch 2K OLED, up to 120Hz |
| Brightness | Peak brightness of 3,200 nits | Peak brightness of 3,200 nits |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Snapdragon 8 Elite |
| RAM | Up to 16GB LPDDR5X | Up to 16GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | Up to 1TB UFS 4.0 | Up to 1TB UFS 4.0 |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP (OIS) + 50MP (3x zoom) + 50MP (ultra-wide) | 50MP + 5x periscope + ultra-wide |
| Front Camera | 32MP | 32MP |
| Battery | 5,400mAh, 90W wired and 50W wireless fast charging | 6,100mAh, 90W wired and 50W wireless fast charging |
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi 15 starts at CNY 4,499 (approximately ₹50,000), while the Xiaomi 15 Pro is priced at CNY 5,299 (around ₹62,000) for the base variant. Both models are currently available for purchase in China, and further details regarding their release in India are expected soon.
iQOO Unveils iQOO 13 Smartphone in China
iQOO has officially launched the iQOO 13, as promised, bringing a host of impressive features and specifications. The smartphone boasts a 6.82-inch 2K+ flat display with a 144Hz refresh rate, utilizing BOE’s Q10 luminous material and offering 2592Hz full high-frequency dimming.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, the iQOO 13 achieves an impressive 3.15 million points on AnTuTu. Gamers will appreciate the support for 60fps action in Naraka: Bladepoint and 90fps with ray tracing in Dark Zone Breakout. Additionally, it features a Q2 self-developed chip that promises PC-level 2K texture super-resolution and VAA anti-flicker technology, with a native 144FPS frame rate.
The iQOO 13 supports up to 16GB LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and offers storage options up to 1TB UFS 4.0. The device is equipped with an aviation-grade aluminum middle frame and the largest 7K ultra-large VC vapor chamber in iQOO’s history, designed for efficient heat dissipation.
A unique feature of the iQOO 13 is the halo light around the camera module, which can be customized to match various game scenes and offers a variety of color and effect options.
Camera and Battery Features
The iQOO 13 is equipped with a 50MP main camera featuring a Sony IMX921 sensor, complemented by a 50MP ultra-wide camera and a 50MP 3x periscope telephoto camera. The front-facing camera is a 32MP unit. Powering the device is a 6150mAh third-generation silicon carbon battery with 120W fast charging, capable of fully charging in just 30 minutes. It also supports 44W UFCS and 100W PPS but lacks wireless charging.
iQOO 13 Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.78-inch Quad HD+ AMOLED, 144Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite 3nm SoC |
| RAM/Storage Options | 12GB/16GB LPDDR5X, up to 1TB UFS 4.0 |
| Camera | 50MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 50MP telephoto; 32MP front |
| Battery | 6150mAh, 120W fast charging |
| Operating System | Android 15 with OriginOS 5.0 |
| Dimensions/Weight | 163.37×76.71×7.99mm, 207g (Track Edition) |
| Water Resistance | IP68/IP69 |
Pricing and Availability
The iQOO 13 is available in Legend, Track, Nado Grey, and Green colors, with the following pricing:
- 12GB + 256GB: 3999 yuan (USD 561 / approx. ₹47,190)
- 16GB + 256GB: 4299 yuan (USD 604 / approx. ₹50,730)
- 12GB + 512GB: 4499 yuan (USD 631 / approx. ₹53,090)
- 16GB + 512GB: 4699 yuan (USD 659 / approx. ₹55,450)
- 16GB + 1TB: 5199 yuan (USD 730 / approx. ₹61,350)
The iQOO 13 is now available for purchase in China, with the Green version set to be released on November 11th.
OnePlus 13 Launched in China with Snapdragon 8 Elite Chip
OnePlus has officially launched its highly anticipated OnePlus 13 smartphone in China, following similar announcements from Xiaomi and iQOO. This next-gen flagship device, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, is expected to arrive in India and other markets soon. The OnePlus 13 boasts several upgrades over its predecessor, the OnePlus 12.
In terms of design, the OnePlus 13 retains a familiar aesthetic, featuring a lifted circular camera ring on the back. However, it adopts a boxier frame and a flat display, moving away from the curved screen of the OnePlus 12.
The OnePlus 13 comes equipped with a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display offering 2K resolution. This display supports a 120Hz refresh rate, 10-bit color, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+. An ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is integrated into the display for secure access.
Under the hood, the device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, featuring two prime cores clocked at 4.32 GHz and six performance cores at 3.53 GHz. Users can opt for configurations with up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, running on Android 15-based OxygenOS 15.
For photography, the OnePlus 13 features a triple camera setup consisting of a 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), a 50MP periscope telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide lens.
Additionally, the smartphone is powered by a robust 6000mAh battery, supporting 100W fast charging, 50W wireless fast charging, and magnetic wireless charging similar to Apple’s MagSafe.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED, 2K resolution, 120Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite, 2x 4.32 GHz & 6x 3.53 GHz |
| RAM | Up to 24GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | Up to 1TB UFS |
| Operating System | Android 15 with OxygenOS 15 |
| Main Camera | 50MP (OIS) |
| Telephoto Camera | 50MP with 3x optical zoom |
| Ultrawide Camera | 50MP |
| Front Camera | 32MP |
| Battery | 6000mAh |
| Fast Charging | 100W wired, 50W wireless, magnetic charging |
Pricing and Availability
The OnePlus 13 is priced higher than its predecessor. While the OnePlus 12 was launched at CNY 4,299 (approximately ₹50,000), the OnePlus 13 starts at CNY 4,499 (approximately ₹53,000) in China. The device is expected to be available in India and other markets in the coming weeks.
Nothing Launches Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition with Unique Glow-in-the-Dark Design
Nothing has unveiled the Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition, a limited-edition smartphone developed in collaboration with its community. This unique device features a glow-in-the-dark design, setting it apart from conventional smartphones. The idea for the design stemmed from community contributions, marking Nothing’s first-ever co-created product after months of collaboration with selected fans.
The Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition will be available for purchase on Flipkart. A priority purchasing system has been established, giving early registrants from the Community Edition Project the first chance to buy the phone. Beginning November 12, select community members will receive exclusive links to purchase the device, with priority given to those who actively participated in the project. On November 23, Nothing will also host a drop event in Delhi, India, where 50 units will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis without the need for an invite code. However, only one device per customer will be permitted.
Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | LTPO AMOLED, 6.7-inch, 120Hz |
| Processor | Dimensity 7350 Pro |
| RAM | 12GB |
| Storage | 256GB |
| Camera (Rear) | Dual-camera setup: 50MP main + 50MP ultra-wide |
| Battery | 5000mAh, supports fast charging |
| Operating System | Android 14 with Nothing OS |
Price and Availability
The Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition is priced at ₹29,999 for the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant. This special edition signifies a new chapter for Nothing, combining user collaboration with innovative design to create a smartphone that is both functional and visually appealing.
