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  • Gamescom 2019 Roundup Of The Best Upcoming Games

    Gamescom 2019 Roundup Of The Best Upcoming Games

    Gamescom is one of the largest gaming expos that is held annually in Germany. The events in 2018 had the highest numbers of visitors so far in any gaming convention with over 370,000 people attending. It is known for major reveals and insight into upcoming projects from some of the biggest publishers and gaming studios in the industry. They include Bethesda, Electronic Arts, Konami, Namco Bandai Games and a lot more. The event has just kicked off and lasts from 20th to 24th August 2019.

    Here is a short roundup of all the exciting new games that are arriving by year-end or the following year.

    Gamescom 2019

    The largest gaming expo has led to a lot of hype garnering for loyal fans within the gaming industry. Expectations are at an all-time high with the upcoming release of timely AAA titles that are the most awaited within the list. Gamescom 2019 all but confirms Cyberpunk 2077 being available of Google Stadia, PUBG getting cross-play support between consoles and who can forget, the beloved indie titles which are now arriving on Nintendo Switch as well. 

    Gamescom 2019 has just kicked off and we already have certain news regarding a few of the most anticipated games. The list includes Cyberpunk 2077, Need For Speed Heat, Gears 5 and the most hyped game of 2019, Death Stranding.

    Death Stranding

    The game is probably one of the most sought after the game at the moment. It is being developed by the legendary video game creator Hideo Kojima and will mark his first game since his departure from Kojima Studios. So far, we have received numerous teasers and trailers that have led to more questions than answers regarding its beautifully twisted plot and settings. However, this time the studio introduced two more characters to us. One of them is a baby called BB while the other is called Mama, aptly named as she can pluck babies from the sky. Yes, we get how confusing it must sound, so watch the video linked down below for some clarity.

    Cyberpunk 2077

    Cyberpunk 2077 is about the only game which is close to Death Stranding in terms of hype or anticipation. The game is a take of the future from the beloved game studio, CD Projekt Red which is also known for the Witcher Series. It is now also confirmed to be available on Google’s game streaming platform stadia and Gamescom 2019 saw its official reveal trailer being given out. The short trailer had shown hacking and a motorcycle ride in the first person and least to say, we are waiting for this one in particular.

    https://youtu.be/CcsZHPdMr1M

    Gears 5

    Gears 5 is the fifth entry in the Gears of War franchise which is one of the most popular titles in the Xbox console exclusive lineups. Furthermore, the entry is different from its previous iterations as it is considered to be a soft reboot with the main cast of the game is changed. A past side character is now the protagonist and it seems to heavily rely on its single player campaign narration. The game is also set to reveal its much-anticipated Horde mode which lets 4 players team up to survive increasingly difficult waves of unrelenting enemies. 

    Blair Witch

    Yes, the game is exactly what you think it is. For those unaware, Blair Witch is game revloving around a movie based on the same name and setting. The game takes place in the same universe as the legendary horror movie alongside whilst providing more insight into its lore and history. It is also based in the iconic Blair Witch forest and will have gamers on the edge of their seats. Gamescom 2019 has revealed its arrival on August 30th so be on the look out.

    NBA 2K20

    The gaming world is incomplete without the virtual sports titles. NBA 2K series is one of these and has been a staple within the industry. Now, its latest iteration NBA 2K20 has chosen a star studded roster to showcase its new career mode. The game is being co-produced by LeBron James production company and also features a performance from Idris Elba, Rosario Dawson, Thomas Middleditch, Ernie Hudson and LeBron James himself. 

    Need For Speed: Heat

     One of the most iconic racing game franchise has finally receive a new entry. Need for Speed will be the latest installment within the franchsie and features intense street races and cops as well. The game was announced a month prior to Gamescom 2019 but we were finally offered a first look at the gameplay. The game will have to carry out the legacy of the popular series and is one game to definitely try out.

    Also ReadUseful Smartphone Accessories You Might Not Know Exist

    Ori and The Blind Forest

    Moving on to Indie titles, Ori and The Blind Forest isn’t a new game but its arrival on Switch is perfect. The game will fit right in with its award winning environment set in a side scrolling fashion. The hand drawn game will be a much appreciated entry into Nintendo’s library. 

  • Useful Smartphone Accessories You Might Not Know Exist

    Useful Smartphone Accessories You Might Not Know Exist

    The internet and e-commerce sites are filled with boatloads of mobile accessories which range from selfie sticks to tripods to power banks. However, we have scoured the web to find those accessories which are actually useful and you might not even know that they exist. 

    Neck Smartphone Holder
    mobile accessories

    As the name suggests, this accessory allows the user to hang a smartphone around their neck. It features an extendable mobile holder that can stretch upto 7.5 inch. The legs aka the stand of the accessory are made out of flexible tubing, therefore, the users can adjust them according to their comfort and viewing angle. 

    Funnily enough, the key purpose of this smartphone holder is to replace human hands which would feel tired when staying steady in a given position for an extended period. Besides being used around the neck, users can also encompass it around their back and consume digital content in a leaned back position.

    In additon to the two previously mentioned formats, it can also be used as a dock or a selfie stick.

    Wall Mounted Phone Holder
    mobile accessories

    A large majority of people charge their smartphones overnight and chuck it under their pillow which is bad both for the human body and the smartphone. Due to improper heat dissipation, the device may get hot and has a possibility of catching flames which clearly is hazardous.  

    Besides, reports have proven that keeping a mobile as less as 10 cm away from the body can eliminate 98% of the radiation emitted by them. Therefore, the next product on the list, which is a wall-mounted phone holder is a really good option that one must consider. 

    In addition, it also has a cable management system with whose help the user can hide the extra cable. This allows maintaining a tidy and nice aesthetic in a living or workspace. An alternative to this is the ‘flybase’ that hangs on the charger and allows a smartphone to rest on its lap while charging. However, this is ideal for situation when the charging cable is not long enough to reach the ground or a flat surface. 

    Waterproof Pouch For Mobile
    mobile accessories

    The next accessory in the list is the waterproof mobile pouch. It is made out of leather and has a see-through TPU layer on the front and back. The top of the pouch has a triple seal which ensures water cannot come in contact with the smartphone that is placed inside. 

    Due to this feature, it can also be used for underwater photography. However, we recommend checking seals on the unit you receive before submerging your smartphone entirely underwater. Besides it also has a built-in lanyard which allows for easily carrying the smartphone while you are enjoying your beach holiday. 

    Although there are several choices online that start for as cheap as Rs 100, we suggest buying a quality product whether the one listed below or any other. 

    Mobile Cleaning Kitmobile accessories

    Smartphones have become an integral part of a modern man’s life and they accompany us wherever we go. Throughout our day we come across several surfaces, out of which, many have a possibility of being contaminated with microbes or pathogens which are invisible to the human eye. Consequently, we can easily pass on these unicellular organisms to our smartphones as well.

    Besides, smartphones have a high possibility of catching dust and lint from the pocket which can accumulate in grooves or slits like the earpiece grill or the charging port. After we take a bath or wash our hands we are able to get rid of most of the dirt or unicellular organisms but that never happens with our mobile phones. 

    The next product on the list is an anti-microbial cleaning gel kit. Not only does it remove any surface dirt, but it can also kill the microbes from the surface of a mobile phone which can spread communicable diseases. 

    Travel Organiser Bag

    If you are somebody like us who owns a lot of gadgets and their accompanying accessories. This organiser bag can be a nifty addition to your setup. It has several zip secured pouches which can be used to store different miscellaneous items that can range from a sim ejector pin to chargers and whatnot.

    It also has a dedicated section with elastic straps which can be used to neatly store different cords and cables. For easily carrying it around, the whole pouch wraps into a compact form factor which can be secured with a push buckle. 

    Hi-Speed USB C Pendrive

    Although there are plenty of applications available for mobile devices that allow to wirelessly transfer or share data, they might not be the best option for moving large size files. A USB C Pendrive could prove beneficial if you often transfer files larger than 5 GB like us too and from your smartphone.

    Besides sharing data from mobile to mobile, it can also be used to transfer data from smartphone to computer as it also has a conventional USB A port. Although the company claims a transfer speed of 150 Mbps, users can get speeds of upto 50 Mbps which is much faster than wireless sharing.

    Also, mobile devices like the iPad Pro and OnePlus smartphones, don’t support memory expandability via a microSD card, the Dual USB Drive 3.0 could be used to boost the internal memory. Interested users can buy Pendrive of upto 256 GB which will be more than sufficient for most scenarios. 

    Also Read: Xiaomi Plans To Disrupt The Budget Segment With This Smartphone

    Which accessory do you think is the best on this list? Let us know in the comments below.

  • Xiaomi Plans To Disrupt The Budget Segment With This Smartphone

    Xiaomi Plans To Disrupt The Budget Segment With This Smartphone

    Last week, we detailed the TENAA listing of an unreleased Xiaomi Smartphone which was believed to be the Redmi 8. According to freshly leaked images, it is instead the Redmi 8A which will be targeted towards the budget segment. As the name suggests, it will succeed the Redmi 7A which debuted in the month of May in China and was later launched in India.

    Although the strategy seems counterproductive to launch a successor in less than 6 months, we assume this could be due to rising competition from companies like Realme. Readers who do not know, the latter has already launched a multitude of handsets in over a year of its existence. Moreover, its latest lineup which consists of the Realme 5 and Realme 5 Pro will be unveiled on the 20th of August.

    Xioami Redmi 8A
    Xioami Redmi 8A Front and Back

    As per the leaked images, the Redmi 8A features a waterdrop notch display on the front that has a high screen to body ratio. The rear of the device is made out of plastic and it accommodates the company branding and dual camera setup which is arranged vertically in a capsule-shaped ridge. Besides it also features a fingerprint sensor which is a welcoming addition. 

    While we have already talked about the detailed specifications of the Redmi 8a in this post. We will reiterate upon the features which according to us will make this budget smartphone stand out of the crowd.

    Before we begin, it must be noted that these features will only stay relevant if Xiaomi manages to price the upcoming handset similar to the Redmi 7A. According to us, the pricing of the device should be around the Rs 6,500 mark for the base variant which is about Rs 500 expensive than the corresponding variant its preceding device.  

    Best Features of The Upcoming Redmi 8A
    Xioami Redmi 8A Rear
    Xioami Redmi 8A Dual Camera & Fingerprint Sensor
    • Display: The Redmi 8A features a 6.3-inch HD+ display which is a significant upgrade over its predecessor that has a 5.45 inch panel. Moreover, it has a high screen to body ratio which is achieved due to the waterdrop notch present on top of the display. 
    • Battery: A lot of customers that buy entry-level Android smartphones are migrating from feature phones while some buy them to use as a secondary handset. For both the scenarios, a large battery is important and 5,000 mAh battery found on the Redmi 8a can easily allow day-long backup. In fact, for most users, the battery will last for 2 days or even more. 
    • Storage: Due to affordable internet plans, the consumption of digital media has also seen multi-fold growth all around the world. Although the maximum number of Android smartphones support memory expansion via microSD card, most users never bother to buy and install one. Therefore, storage as much as 64 GB on an entry-level smartphone is a great feature. 
    • Fingerprint Sensor: In order to keep costs down whilst still providing a form of biometric verification, companies have opted to go with the face unlock feature which was even observed with the Redmi 7A. However, all of us know, the kind of reliability they offer. Therefore, the fingerprint sensor on the Redmi 8A is a great addition. As it is more reliable and at times easier to the use in situations like under-lit environments. 
    Xioami Redmi 8A
    Xioami Redmi 8A UI In Spanish

    The leaked images of the Redmi 8A exhibit the menus in the Spanish language. Consequently, it is expected to debut in Europe and later on make its way to India. 

    Also Read: Oppo Reno 2, Reno 2F And Reno 2Z Specs and Indian Pricing Leaked

    Even though Xiaomi has not officially revealed its launch date, the device is assumed to be unveiled at the upcoming event on 29th of August which will see the launch of Redmi Note 8 and a 70-inch Redmi branded TV

    To sum things up, the upcoming Redmi 8a holds the potential to become of the best selling smartphone in the budget segment. However, as previously mentioned, Xiaomi needs to retain an aggressive price to give it an edge over its competition. 

    What are your thoughts on the upcoming Redmi 8A, Which feature do you think is its biggest USP (Unique Selling Point)? Let us know in the comments below. 

  • Oppo Reno 2, Reno 2F And Reno 2Z Specs and Indian Pricing Leaked

    Oppo Reno 2, Reno 2F And Reno 2Z Specs and Indian Pricing Leaked

    Oppo, in a surprising move, has planned on launching its second generation of Reno smartphones mere months after the original’s release. Previously, we had covered the initial announcement made by the company on Twitter. Unfortunately, apart from the launch date of 28th August 2019, Oppo was yet to reveal any details including specs or features of the devices. A new report claims to leak the Indian pricing and specs of three upcoming Reno series smartphones.

    Oppo Reno

    Oppo Reno 2 Series

    The Reno2 series arrives barely 4 months after the launch of the original Reno series in India. The latest generation will debut in India prior to its global launch. Reportedly, all three Reno2 series smartphone will feature a quad-camera setup alongside 20x Zoom. Interestingly, it is also reported that the new series will still sit right below Oppo’s Reno 10x Zoom.

     

    According to the report, Oppo Reno 2 will feature a 6.5 inch AMOLED display with a 20:9 aspect ratio. The device will have a 93.1 percent screen to body ratio with an in-display fingerprint scanner and Gorilla Glass 6. Notably, The Reno2 could potentially be the first smartphone in India to sport Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 730G SoC. In terms of storage, the device will feature a 256GB ROM alongside 8GB of RAM. The RAM and ROM configurations may probably launch in multiple variants. Additionally, Reno2 will run the Android 9 Pie-based ColorOS 6.0.1 but the company has promised availability of Android Q. The smartphone will replace the original Reno and will be priced around INR 35,000.

    Oppo Reno

    The smartphone will feature a quad-camera setup on the rear with a 48MP Sony IMX586 primary sensor with f/1.7 aperture. It will also include an 8MP ultra-wide lens, 13MP 5x hybrid zoom camera alongside a 2MP depth sensor. The camera will feature special portrait modes such as “Ultra Dark Mode”, Portrait Mode 2.0, Ultra Steady Videos, 3D audio zoom, real-time portrait videos, and hybrid image stabilization. Oppo Reno 2’s selfie shooter is a 16MP camera with the similar sharkfin popup mechanism accompanied by “soft light flash.”  The device will be powered by a 4,000mAh battery that supports VOOC 3.0 fast charging and also has Gorilla Glass 5 on the back.

    Oppo Reno

    Reno 2Z

    Oppo Reno 2Z is a toned-down iteration in the Reno2 series. It will also feature a large 6.53 inch AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution. Oppo will add Corning’s Gorilla Glass 5 to the smartphone which will also house an in-display fingerprint scanner. Reno 2Z features MediaTek Helio P90 SoC with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The device is expected to be released with a price tag around INR 25,000.

    The camera on Oppo Reno 2Z also houses a 48MP primary shooter alongside 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens and 2MP depth sensor. Features such as the OS, front-facing camera and battery are said to be similar to the above-mentioned Reno2.

    Reno 2F

    The third smartphone in the series is still shrouded in mystery. Oppo Reno 2F is likely to also feature much of the features regarding camera module but will run on a slightly weaker chipset. The exact display size is currently unknown but going by its INR 20,000 price bracket it can be assumed to be smaller than the former two devices.

    Oppo Reno

    Also Read: Realme 5 Pro Will Have The Snapdragon 710 Claims Geekbench Listing

    The report is yet to be confirmed by the company. However, the specs do seem highly likely as replacing the Reno flagship in just a short amount of time seems like a counterproductive move on their part. More information is expected to be available soon. stay tuned for updates.

  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Launch Date Revealed

    Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Launch Date Revealed

    On the 19th of August, Xiaomi’s co-founder Lei Jun shared the teaser of the upcoming Redmi TV on the Chinese social media site, Weibo. The teaser states that the upcoming TV from the company will have a 70-inch display and will be launched on the 29th of August. 

    Noteworthy, a Chinese netizen commented on the post asking ‘note8 the same day?’. The official instantly replied to the comment with a ‘thumbs up’ emoji which makes it clear that the highly anticipated 8th generation Redmi Note is launching before the month-end. 

    Although the current teaser does not reveal any features or specifications of the upcoming handset, they can be derived from previous teasers.

    Redmi Note 8 Render
    Leaked Redmi Note 8 Render

    In the past, the official claimed that the camera setup on the Redmi Note 8 lineup will be a significant improvement, in comparison to its predecessor. The Note 7 smartphones including the Redmi Note 7s and Note 7 Pro have a 48 MP primary rear camera. Therefore, smartphones in the Redmi Note 8 lineup are expected to have a relatively higher resolution sensor. 

    Besides, it has already been revealed that the company is working on a photography centric smartphone that will boast of a 64 Main sensor. Although it has not been confirmed, we believe the smartphone with a 64 MP Samsung made GW1 sensor will be a member of the Redmi Note 8 lineup. 

    Moreover, it was previously confirmed that the Redmi Note 8 will pack a bigger battery than its preceding devices. Additionally, the alleged Redmi 8 was spotted on Chinese regulatory website TENAA and it is powered by a massive 5,000 mAh battery. Likewise, the Note 8 is also expected to feature a similar capacity battery.

    In terms of chipset, the upcoming Redmi Note 8 smartphones are assumed to be kitted with the MediaTek Helio G90 which was announced last month. To strengthen the claim, at the time of the launch, Manu Kumar Jain from Xiaomi India confirmed that the company will soon launch a device with the newly released MediaTek SoC. 

    Although the details about its display size are currently unknown, the company is believed to pack a display as big or larger than the one found on Note 7 smartphones that accommodate a 6.3-inch panel. 

    In order to make it easier to understand, we have combined the confirmed and expected features of Redmi Note 8 lineup in a linear manner. 

    • Battery: 5,000 mAh, Fast Charging
    • Chipset: MediaTek Helio G90
    • Screen: 6.3 inch or larger
    • RAM: 4 GB, 6 GB, 8 GB
    • Storage: 64 GB, 128 GB
    • Front Camera: 13 MP or higher
    • Rear Camera: Quad Camera Setup, 64 MP Main Camera
    • Biometric Security: In-Display Fingerprint Sensor

    Also Read: Realme 5 Pro Will Have The Snapdragon 710 Claims Geekbench Listing

    Taking all the upgrades into account, the Redmi Note 8 is expected to carry a price tag higher than its predecessor and is assumed to start from Rs 15,000.

    In order to confirm all the leaks and claims, we will have to wait for its official launch. As previously mentioned, the lineup will be revealed on the 29th of August.

     

  • Realme 5 Pro Will Have The Snapdragon 710 Claims Geekbench Listing

    Realme 5 Pro Will Have The Snapdragon 710 Claims Geekbench Listing

    BBK electronic’s sub-brand and OnePlus’ sister company, Realme is bracing for the launch of its latest smartphone lineup which will carry the Realme 5 branding. The lineup will consist of two handsets which include the ‘standard’ variant and the  ‘Pro’ variant. 

    Earlier this month, the Realme 5 was listed on the popular benchmarking website, Geekbench which revealed its key specs. Similarly, another Realme smartphone has been spotted on the website which allegedly is the beefed up Realme 5 Pro.

    According to the listing, the smartphone packs the Snapdragon 710 SoC which is dissimilar to what was previously claimed. Another unverified report in the past claimed that the device will pack the Snapdragon 712 SoC which may turn out false. Nevertheless, talking about SD710, it consists of an Octa-Core CPU and Adreno 616 GPU.

    The listing also revealed that the alleged Realme 5 Pro has 8 GB of RAM which is usually found in high-end flagship smartphones.  In terms of Geekbench result, the device secures a single-core score of 1143 points and a multi-core score of 4618 points. 

    Shockingly, both the single-core and a multi-core score of this Realme smartphone is much less in comparison to other devices featuring the same chipset including the Realme X. However, benchmarks can be improved by tweaking the software ahead of official announcement.

    Although the listing does not reveal any other aspects of the Realme 5 Pro, key details can be derived from prior reports. The key highlighting feature of the smartphone will be its quad-camera rear setup out of which the main sensor will either have a resolution of 48 MP or 64 MP. 

    Also Read: The Upcoming Xiaomi Redmi 8 Packs A Massive 5,000 mAh Battery

    Additionally, it has already been confirmed that the Realme 5 will be priced under Rs 10,000. Accordingly, we believe the Pro variant will cost between the Rs 12,000 and Rs 18,000 which will vary depending on the storage variant.

    In order to confirm all the rumours and leaks, we won’t have to wait for long as the launch date of the smartphone is set for the 20th of August. 

     

     

  • The Upcoming Xiaomi Redmi 8 Packs A Massive 5,000 mAh Battery

    The Upcoming Xiaomi Redmi 8 Packs A Massive 5,000 mAh Battery

    Not long ago, we reported about the upcoming Redmi 8 whose images were revealed on TENAA. Freshly, the listing has been updated and detailed specifications of the smartphone have been revealed ahead of its official announcement. The key highlighting feature of the handset will be its mammoth 5,000 mAh lithium cell which will provide for a long battery backup. 

    Redmi 8 Design and Features


    According to the TENAA listing, the Redmi 8 measures 156.3 × 75.4 × 9.4 mm and its tips the scale at 190 g. The handset features a 6.2-inch display that has an HD+ resolution of 1520 x 720 px. Besides, the display has a waterdrop notch up top that houses an 8 MP selfie camera.

    Under the hood, the Redmi 8 features an Octa-Core CPU which has a clock speed of 2.0 GHz. In several other similar listings, we have been able to predict the chipset by matching it with the CPU frequency. However, the 2.0 GHz matches at least three budget chipsets that we are aware of which include the Helio P22, Helio P60 and Snapdragon 625. Therefore, the exact chipset cannot be confirmed, as of now.

    Redmi 8
    Redmi 8 Official Image (From TENAA)

    In terms of storage, the Redmi 8 will be offered in three variants which are listed below:

    • 2 GB + 16 GB
    • 3 GB + 32 GB
    • 4 GB + 64 GB

    In addition to the inbuilt storage, it will also support memory expansion upto 512 GB via a microSD card. As previously mentioned, the handset will be powered by a gigantic 5,000 mAh battery. We hope that smartphone supports some sort of fast charging and Xiaomi is generous enough to bundle a fast charger along with the device itself. 

    The rear of the Redmi 8 features a dual-camera setup, fingerprint sensor and the company branding. The rear camera setup consists of a 12 MP sensor, 8 MP sensor and an LED flash which is placed above the capsule shaped module. It runs on latest Android 9 Pie which is destined to be skinned with MIUI.

    Redmi 8 Quick Specs

    Redmi 8

    Redmi 8 Official Image (From TENAA)

    • Display: 6.2 inch TFT, HD+ 1520 × 720 pixels
    • Operating System: MIUI 10 based on Android 9 Pie 
    • Processor: Octa Core, 2.0 GHz  
    • RAM: 2GB/3GB/4GB   
    • Storage: 16GB/32GB/64GB 
    • Rear Cameras: 12MP + 8 MP, LED Flash 
    • Selfie Camera: 8 MP  
    • Security: Rear Mounted fingerprint scanner 
    • Connectivity: Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac 2.4G + 5G, Bluetooth  
    • Battery: 5000mAh 
    • Dimensions: 156.3 × 75.4 × 9.4 mm
    • Weight: 190 g 

    Also Read: Flipkart Launches Its Video Streaming Service To Take On Amazon Prime Video

    All in all, the Redmi 8 seems like a worthy entry-level smartphone. If Xiaomi is able to carry forward the aggressive pricing to the Redmi 7’s successor, it is likely to rake in considerable sales figures for the company. 

  • Flipkart Launches Its Video Streaming Service To Take On Amazon Prime Video

    Flipkart Launches Its Video Streaming Service To Take On Amazon Prime Video

    The video streaming service market in India has risen substantially in the last few years. What used to be dominated by YouTube has split into various applications featuring TV shows and movies spanning different genres. The latest addition in the space is one of the biggest e-commerce players in the country, Flipkart. The company has launched its own video service in the Indian market via its mobile shopping app. While it has not explicitly said so, the company aims at giving Amazon’s Prime Video service a run for its money with the latest service.

    Flipkart Video

    Flipkart Video

    The latest video streaming service from Flipkart is visible in the Android application for the shopping website. With the current version 6.17, two new options have been added to the hamburger menu on the top left of the home screen. While the former is an Ideas section meant to help the users in terms of their shopping needs, the latter is the Video section; which is comprised of various movies and TV shows from key media players in the streaming segment such as Arre, Dice Media, TVF and Voot. Flipkart has said in the past that it will not focus on creating original video content initially, but may get into the idea if more people are interested in the platform.

    Also read: YouTube Original Series Will Be Free To Watch From 24th September

    The video streaming service offered by Flipkart will be free to watch for any registered user of the application. The platform is ad-supported, which means even later, users will not have to pay anything to consume the content offered. While the service is only available for Android users as of now, it is expected that an iOS update pertaining to the Ideas and Video service will be released soon. With the entry of a major enterprise like Flipkart in the video streaming market of India, we expect the competition to heat up in the following months.

  • Huawei To Introduce Its Own Mapping System To Compete With Google Maps

    Huawei To Introduce Its Own Mapping System To Compete With Google Maps

    With the advent of newer technology, lives have become easier. For example, unlike in the past where you had to ask for directions or use an unyieldingly large map, online mapping services have existed to make lives easier. Currently, Google dominates such a service with its extremely popular Google Maps. Many companies have tried to obtain a footing in the market like Apple and Blackberry, the latter miserably failing in this regard. According to a new report, Huawei is now also seeking to develop its own mapping service which will compete with Google Maps. 

    Huawei

    Who Is It For?

    A fresh report originating from Huawei’s home country, China, has stated that the tech giant is seeking to challenge Google. However, the company is developing a mapping service which differs from its competitors. Unlike Google Maps, it is reportedly being made for developers which implies that it may be used by navigation or taxi-hailing services. It would also allow third-party developers to create utilize this service without creating their own.

    Huawei
    Google Maps
    Map Kit

    A top executive at Huawei has revealed Map Kit as the name of the upcoming service. It will offer developers a street-level navigation system that they can use in their respective apps. Map Kit will also convey real-time traffic conditions and other related data. It could also imply an AR walking navigational system which is used by Google. Furthermore, the Map Kit will be connected to local mapping services and will have to rely on telecom base stations that offer positioning data via satellites.

    Huawei
    Google Maps AR Navigational Feature
    Will It Succeed?

    The report also states that Huawei is partnering up with Booking Holdings. Notably, Booking is currently reliant on Google Maps. Hence Map Kit might just be a customer and not actually a data provider. Huawei will have to invest heavily to compete in the mapping service market which has been notoriously difficult to crack. As mentioned earlier, Google is the only company to see success in the business while even Apple is lagging behind the search giant. Nokia too had tried and failed with its Here Maps as did Blackberry in the past.

    Huawei
    iOS 13 Maps

    Also ReadYouTube Original Series Will Be Free To Watch From 24th September

    Why Is Huawei Making Map Kit?

    Huawei’s new mapping service is probably in response to the trade ban imposed on it by the US Government. The trade ban it had received has since been temporarily revoked but its implications still stand evident. US and western-based companies can cut ties from the company at any given moment. Thus, the move arrives with a more self-sufficient motive rather than just a revenue-generating one.

  • This Is Huawei’s Answer To The Budget Oriented Redmi 7A

    This Is Huawei’s Answer To The Budget Oriented Redmi 7A

    Despite the US ban, Huawei’s product launches have remained unaffected. An upcoming budget-oriented smartphone from the company has been listed on the Chinese regulatory website, TENAA which states its launch will happen soon. Noteworthy, the arrangement of the rear camera sensor, company branding and the front fascia of this device is highly reminiscent to the previously launched Redmi 7A.

    According to the listing, the Huawei smartphone carries the AMN-AL10 model number. Although the name of the device is currently unavailable it is believed to be placed below the Enjoy 9e which was launched earlier this year.

    The front of the smartphone accommodates a 5.71-inch display that features a waterdrop notch up top. The top, left and right bezels around the display are negligible while the chin below it is comparatively thicker. It also features the company branding below the display which is once again identical to the Redmi 7A.

    In terms of memory and storage, the Huawei smartphone will be offered in two variants which are as follows:

    • 2 GB + 32 GB (expandable upto 512 GB)
    • 3 GB + 64 GB (expandable upto 512 GB)

    As previously mentioned, the rear of the handset features a single 13 MP camera which is accompanied by an LED flash.  Under the hood, the Huawei smartphone features an Octa-Core CPU which is clocked at 2 GHz.

    The device is powered by a 3,000 mAh battery that supports 10 W fast charging. Connectivity options on the smartphone include Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS and 3.5 mm headphone jack. It will be offered in three colour variants which include Vermiculite Black, Amber Brown and Turquoise Green.

    Huawei AMN-AL10 specifications
    • 5.71-inch (1520 × 720 pixels) HD+ 19:5:9 2.5D curved glass display
    • 2GHz Octa-Core processor
    • 3000mAh battery
    • 13MP rear camera with LED flash
    • 5MP front-facing camera
    • Dimensions: 147.13×70.78×8.45mm; Weight: 146g
    • Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS + GLONASS
    • 2GB RAM with 32GB storage / 3GB RAM with 64GB storage, expandable memory up to 512GB with microSD
    • Android 9.0 (Pie) with EMUI 9.1
    • Dual SIM (nano + nano + microSD)

    Also Read: Mysterious Xiaomi Smartphone Hits TENAA, Could Be The Redmi 8

    Although the price of the smartphone currently unavailable, going by its specs, it will be targeted towards the Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,000 price bracket. In order to gain the availability details and official price, we will have to wait until its launch which is expected to happen soon. 

    Users who are interested in checking out the official listing can do so by clicking here

     

  • YouTube Original Series Will Be Free To Watch From 24th September

    YouTube Original Series Will Be Free To Watch From 24th September

    YouTube is an app that is found in almost every smartphone and is enjoyed by most users. The website or app allows people to consume video content alongside music for free. Its business model is centred around ad revenue with ads people watch in between videos and such. For the most part, the app is a free service but does offer some paid services like Youtube Premium. Freshly, Google, its parent company has announced that is making the paid service free for all to watch.

    YouTube

    YouTube Originals

    The company had previously announced YouTube Originals which was introduced to make the platform similar to Netflix and other paid streaming platforms. In other words, users are offered a wide variety of movies and episodic series to choose from. However, the difference between the other services and YouTube Originals has now broadened. While Netflix employs a monthly subscription fee, Youtube is offering its Originals service for free. The service, until now, has been exclusive to Youtube’s Premium users but is now set to change. 

    YouTube Originals
    Weird City
    YouTube Premium

    YouTube has also added new features for Premium subscribers of its service to enjoy. It includes:

    • A new “Recommended Downloads” section in its app library.
    • It is now possible to switch between songs and music videos with a single tap.
    • The ability to download up to 500 songs from their Liked Songs list and other playlists

    YouTube Originals

    So How Do They Still Make Money?

    How does a free service earn like Google, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube earn money? The answer is ads; most popular service out there run an ad-based revenue and YouTube Originals will also be loaded with them now. Previously, to the premium subscription, users had to shell out INR 129 a month which include:

    • An ad-free experience while watching videos.
    • The ability to run the app in the background.
    • Download videos at a higher quality.
    • Lastly, a subscription to YouTube Music Premium.

    YouTube Originals

    Also ReadMotorola One Action Launched, Features A 6.3 Inch Punch Hole Display

    According to Google, every YouTuve Originals series released after 24th September will be available to everyone regardless of paid or unpaid status. However, premium users still receive a lot of benefits over the free users including:

    • The premium users are not bothered by ads.
    • Paid users get immediate access to every episode while paid users must wait for timed releases.
    • Get to enjoy the director’s cut and bonus scenes.
  • Mysterious Xiaomi Smartphone Hits TENAA, Could Be The Redmi 8

    Mysterious Xiaomi Smartphone Hits TENAA, Could Be The Redmi 8

    On the 16th of August, an upcoming Redmi branded smartphone with model number ‘M1908C3IC’ was listed on the Chinese regulatory website TENAA. While some new agencies claim that this is the Redmi Note 8, which was previously announced to launch soon, we feel that is not the case. 

    Instead, this could be the Redmi 8, the successor of the Redmi 7 which was launched in the month of March. In the past, Redmi smartphones have been upgraded once a year however this may change with the upcoming device. As it has just been six months since the current gen Redmi smartphone was launched.

    We believe this could be a new strategy that Xiaomi has to adopt due to stiff competition from companies like Realme. For users who do not know, in just over 1.5 years of its existence, Realme has launched three generations (1,2,3) and the 4th generation, the Realme 5 will be announced on the 20th of August. 

    In terms of design, the alleged Redmi 8 features a water drop notch display on the front along with a plastic back. The front of the smartphone features a considerable chin which houses the Redmi branding. Overall the front of this smartphone is reminiscent of Redmi 7A which is a budget offering. 

    The rear panel of the alleged Redmi 8 has a glossy finish which houses a fingerprint sensor, dual camera setup along with an LED flash, and the company branding which is inscribed vertically. The left side of the smartphone is occupied by what seems to be the power button and the volume rocker.

    Unfortunately, the TENAA listing does not contain any specifications of the device, therefore, we will have to wait until the listing is updated or the handset is officially launched. Speaking of which, its launch date is currently unannounced, nonetheless, the mandatory certification suggests that smartphone will launch soon. 

    Also Read: Motorola One Action Launched, Features A 6.3 Inch Punch Hole Display

    What are your thoughts on this Redmi handset, Do you think that this is the Redmi 8 or some other smartphone? Let us know in the comments below.

    Readers who are interested in checking out the official listing can do so by clicking here.

  • Motorola One Action Launched, Features A 6.3 Inch Punch Hole Display

    Motorola One Action Launched, Features A 6.3 Inch Punch Hole Display

    After much anticipation and numerous leaks, Motorola has finally launched the Moto One Action in Brazil, Mexico and several European countries. The key highlighting feature of the smartphone includes a punch-hole display and a triple rear camera setup. 

    Motorola One Action

    The Motorola One Action features glass on the front and plastic on the back which is held together with a polycarbonate chassis. It measures 160.1 x 71.2 x 9.2 mm and it tips the scale at 181g. It features a 6.3 inch LTPS IPS display with a resolution of 2520 x 1080 px. 

    Like the previously launched Moto One Vision, it also has an unconventionally tall display that has a 21:9 aspect ratio. The display of the smartphone has punch hole cutout on the top left corner which houses a 12 MP selfie camera. For biometric security and rapidly logging into the UI, it also has a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. Additionally, it also supports face unlock technology.

    The Motorola One Action runs on the latest Android 9 Pie and is Android One certified; which means it will receive two major software updates and security updates for three years. Under the hood, it is kitted with Exynos 9609 SoC which is manufactured by Samsung. The chipset is comprised of an octa-core CPU and the Mali G72 MP3 GPU.

    For photography, the Motorola One Action has a triple rear camera setup which consists of an f/1.8 aperture equipped 12 MP sensor, 5 MP depth sensor and an ultrawide sensor that has a 117-degree field of view. As previously mentioned, it also has a 12 MP front-facing camera.

    The Motorola One Action is powered by a 3,500 mAh battery which support 10 W fast charging. Connectivity options on the smartphone include 802.11 ac Wi-Fi, 4G VoLTE, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC,  USB Type C port and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. 

    Motorola One Action Price, Storage Variants and Colours

    The Motorola One Action is offered in three colour options which include Denim Blue, Pearl White and Aqua Teal. The device is available in just one storage variants for which the price is as follows:

    • 4 GB + 128 GB: £219 (around Rs 18,964)

    All in all, the device has an elegant design which is backed with modest innards. However, we feel the price of the device is a bit steep in comparison to its competitors. 

     

  • Reliance Jio Fiber Broadband Plans Include Free Calls And A 4K LED TV

    Reliance Jio Fiber Broadband Plans Include Free Calls And A 4K LED TV

    Reliance Jio is one of India’s leading telecom service provider. The Mukesh Ambani owned company has seen massive success in its short time since it was introduced. Currently, its high speed internet service, Jio Fiber, which was announced last week has some varying prices and special offerings. It includes plan in-between anywhere from Rs. 700 to Rs. 10,000 which is offered alongside the fixed-line connection and set-top box.

    Reliance Jio

    Now, let’s take a look at what’s in store for Jio customers:    

    Fixed Line Connection

    Jio Fiber broadband offerings are bundled with a landline connection. Users have a choice between HD to 4K quality set-top box and have access to Jio’s Internet of Things (IoT). The company is also promising free calls for life from the fixed-line connection. Notably, the cost for international calls is being brought down by offering unlimited ISD calling to US, Canada at INR 500/month. 

    Reliance Jio

    Set-Top Box

    Reliance Jio announced a set-top box that allows users to access the largest possible collection of TV Channels. It arrives after the company acquired multiple system operators like DEN, Hathway and GTPL. These operators have direct relations with over 30,000 LCOs (Local Cable Operators). The set-top box, landline and broadband connections are all routed via fibre-optics cables.  

    Reliance

    First Day First Show

    Jio is introducing a revolutionary concept which will affect the way people watch new movies in India. The service will be available in mid-2020 and will be available for Premium Jio Fiber users to watch a movie as soon as they are released in the theatres.

    Reliance Jio

    Free 4K LED TV

    Jio Forever plans bring some exciting news for prospective customers. The annual plan can be opted and offer users a free HD or 4K LED TV and a 4K set-top box for free. It is yet to be announced which brand or make of TV will be provided and if or not a security deposit is required.

    Jio

    Gaming

    One of the more surprising news is definitely the companies entry into gaming. The Reliance Jio set-top box will arrive with a built-in graphics card. Notably, the company is also in collaboration with Tencent Games and Microsoft to make more games compatible. Zero-Latency gaming experience is being claimed right now but we have yet to see of its legitimacy.

    Jio
    Microsoft’s Halo
    Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality

    Jio’s set-top box will also have native support for VR and MR functionality. It means that such content in different categories like shopping, education and movies can be experienced. A special Holoboard MR headset is expected to arrive soon after as well. 

    Jio

    Jio IoT

    Jio is developing an innovative service on its Indian 4G network called Narrowband Internet of Things or NBIoT. The company is looking to connect the whole of India. It is expected that two years after its launch an estimate of two billion IoT devices in India. The service will commercially be available from 1st January 2020. 

    Also ReadOppo Reno2 With 20x Zoom Quad Camera To Launch On 28th August

    Prices

    The subscription for the Jio Fiber will start from INR 700 a month and has speeds start from 100 Mbps. Even the US, a developed country only averages around 90 Mbps. The power users are also being targetted with an INR 10,000 plan which seems like a more robust offering. 

  • Oppo Reno2 With 20x Zoom Quad Camera To Launch On 28th August

    Oppo Reno2 With 20x Zoom Quad Camera To Launch On 28th August

    Earlier this year, Oppo launched its flagship device named Reno 10x Zoom. It featured a hybrid 10x Zoom capabilities as the name suggests and features Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 855 SoC. It was released in April alongside a more affordable variant that has watered down specs. After a short run, it is being reported that its successor by the name Reno2 with 20x Zoom will soon make its debut in India.

    Reno2 Series

    The Oppo Reno2 will make its debut in India, unlike last time before its eventual launch in other markets. The device was confirmed today (16th August 2019) by the company by a post shared on Twitter. According to the image shared, the Reno2 will feature a quad-camera setup on the rear alongside the signature shark-fin popup selfie shooter. The camera setup is stacked vertically with one on top of the other. Unfortunately, Oppo hasn’t given out any finer details regarding the device in question. 

    Furthermore, it is also confirmed that the event will see the launch of multiple iterations of the Reno2. Which means, Oppo is likely to introduce a mid-range variant alongside the flagship. It may be possible that the series will feature a 64MP camera similar to its competitor, Redmi and Realme. The latter was previously an Oppo subsidiary so it’s not far fetched that a similar sensor could be introduced between the companies. The flagship in the series might also feature Snapdragon 855+ which is expected to soon be seen in smartphones of competing brands.

     

    Oppo Reno2

    Price & Availability

    The Oppo Reno2 series will be unveiled on 28th August 2019. It is likely that its pricing will be close to its predecessors due to such a short interval between the generations. The Reno 10x Zoom variant was priced at INR 39,999 while the base variant retailed for INR 32,990. Hence, the price bracket for the series could also revolve around the 30-50k range.

    Oppo Reno2
    Oppo Reno & Reno 10x Zoom

    Also ReadRealme 5 Is The Worlds First Quad Camera Smartphone Under INR 10K

    The news is surprising considering the smartphone launched barely 3 months ago in India. In other words, Oppo already is making the previous iteration obsolete in such a short lifespan. However, the news probably arrives after many factors such as new Qualcomm SoC and innovations in the photography department being introduced by its competitors.

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