In 2023, many gaming laptops hit the market, and guess what?
These gaming laptops bring premium features from stunning graphics to fast processors. If you’re into top-notch gaming laptops and have around Rs. 1 Lakh to spare, we’ve got you covered. Let’s look into the top 5 gaming laptops under Rs. 1 Lakh.
January 2024 brings the anticipation of four top-notch smartphones making their debut. These upcoming devices promise cutting-edge features, from powerful cameras to advanced processors. Stay tuned for the latest in smartphone technology as these gadgets take centre stage, offering a glimpse into the future.
The Asus ROG Phone 8 is set to launch on January 9, 2024, according to Times of India.
The phone features a 6.0-inch AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, HDR support, and a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels. The screen-to-body ratio is approximately 76.8%, and it is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6. The device also supports an always-on display.
It runs on Android 8.1 (Oreo), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie), with the ROG Gaming X UI.
Powered by Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) chipset.
The phone does not support external storage but comes with internal options of 128GB/8GB RAM and 512GB/8GB RAM, utilizing UFS 2.1 technology.
The dual main camera setup includes a 12 MP wide lens and an 8 MP ultrawide lens. The selfie camera is 8 MP.
Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery, the Asus ROG Phone 8 supports 30W wired charging with QC4 technology.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 is set to launch on January 17, 2024.
Camera Setup:
Anticipated 200-megapixel quad rear camera with AI-supported object-aware engine.
Configuration includes a 12-megapixel ultra-wide angle sensor, 50-megapixel sensor with 5x telephoto lens, and 10-megapixel sensor with 10x telephoto lens.
Supports 8K video recording with optical image stabilization (OIS).
Processor:
Expected to run on Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.
Features overclocked GPU and CPU cores.
Build and Battery:
Tipped to feature Titanium frames for enhanced durability.
OnePlus is releasing two new phones, the OnePlus 12 5G and OnePlus 12R 5G, in India on 23rd January 2024. The launch event “OnePlus Smooth Beyond Belief Launch Event” will start at 7:30 pm IST.
OnePlus 12 features Android v14, with a 9.2 mm thickness and 220 g weight.
The device sports a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED screen with 1440 x 3168 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
The camera setup includes a powerful 64 MP + 50 MP + 48 MP configuration for the rear and a 32 MP front camera, supporting 8K UHD video recording.
Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen3 Chipset, with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB inbuilt memory.
Comes with a 5400 mAh battery supporting 100W fast charging, 50W wireless charging, and 10W reverse charging.
In 2023, the demand for affordable yet feature-rich smartwatches with Bluetooth calling capability continues to rise. This article explores the top 5 Bluetooth calling smartwatches priced under Rs.3000, offering an insightful overview of each device’s specifications, features, and value for money.
Lenovo launched ThinkPad And IdeaPad Laptops with Intel processors and AI support.
The new laptops comes with tactile keyboard, larger trackpad, and improved thermals.
Lenovo claims to use sustainable materials, recycled carbon fiber with a responsible packaging.
Lenovo has introduced a range of AI-enabled new business and consumer laptops. Unveiled ahead of CES 2024, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12, ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9, and IdeaPad Pro 5i feature Intel Evo technology powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, promising optimal power efficiency and enhanced user experiences.
Ports: 2 x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), 2 x USB-A (5Gbps), 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack
Wireless: WLAN Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 802.11be (2×2), Bluetooth 5.3, 5G sub-6 (CAT20), 4G LTE (CAT16), 4G LTE (CAT4) for China market, eSIM and Nano SIM ready
Design: Dimensions – 312.8mm x 214.75mm x 14.96mm, Weight – Starting at 1.09kg / 2.42lbs to 1.32kg / 2.92lbs
IdeaPad Pro 5i (16”, 9) and IdeaPad Pro 5i (14”, 9)
Performance
Processors: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9
OS: Windows 11
Memory: Up to 32GB LPDDR5X
Storage: Up to 1TB Gen 4 PCIe NVMe SSD
Graphics Options: Integrated – Up to Intel Arc Graphics, Discrete – Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU
Display: Various options, including 16″ 2K OLED and 14″ 2.8K OLED
Audio: 2 x 2W Speakers, Dolby Atmos Audio
Camera: IR FHD Camera with ToF sensor, Privacy Shutter, Dual Microphone Array
Battery: 84WHr Polymer
Connectivity
Ports: 1 x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C (Power Delivery + DisplayPort™), 1 x HDMI 2.1 (4K @60Hz), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, 1 x SD Card Reader, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack
Wireless: WLAN Wi-Fi 6E, Up to Bluetooth 5.2
Design: Dimensions – Vary by model, Weight – Starting at 1.46kg (3.22lbs) to 1.95kg (4.30lbs)
ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 and ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 will be available in limited configurations from December 2023, starting at $2,989(approx. Rs.2,49,000). The complete portfolio, including the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9, will be available starting March 2024, with an expected starting price of $2,639(approx. 2,20,000).
IdeaPad Pro 5i (16”, 9)
The Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5i (16”, 9), the world’s first consumer Intel Evo Edition laptop powered by Intel Core Ultra processors, is available now, starting at $1,149.99(approx. Rs.95,499). This laptop offers AI-powered features for faster photo and video editing, multitasking, and an immersive 16:10 OLED display.
Lenovo ThinkVision 27 3D Monitor, USB-C Dual Display Travel Dock, and Wireless VoIP Headset
ThinkVision 27 3D Monitor: Available from February 2024, starting at $2,999 (approx. Rs. 2,49,000).
USB-C Dual Display Travel Dock: Available from March 2024, starting at $109.99(approx. Rs.9,000).
Wireless VoIP Headset: Available from April 2024, starting at $99.99(approx. Rs.8,399).
Discover incredible savings this holiday season with Amazon’s Christmas Sale, offering up to a 45% discount on 50MP camera smartphones, all under Rs.15,000. I’ve personally selected 5 budget-friendly smartphones for you – let’s dive in and discover the perfect device
iQOO after all the hype has moved a step ahead in the Android flagship game with its latest gaming handset iQOO 12. With fresh hardware improvements, the iQOO 12 is all set to redefine premium mobile user experience. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 mobile chipset, 50MP triple lens camera setup are some of the key differentials this new-gen gaming phone has over its predecessor. This list has all the noteworthy upgrades the iQOO 12 gets that helps it grab the top spot in its league.
Enhanced Bright Display
iQOO 12
Display Specs
Size
6.78-inch
Panel
AMOLED
Resolution
1260 x 2800 pixels
Refresh rate
144Hz
iQOO 12 brings along an upgraded screen for best-in-class gaming visuals. It is equipped with a 6.78-inch AMOLED display supporting 1260 x 2800 pixels screen resolution which allows crisp and clear visibility with video playback as well as gaming. The panel offers a 144Hz refresh rate and has a 3000 nits peak brightness levels that will allow gamers to continue with their gameplay outdoors under harsh sunlight.
Fast And Efficient Qualcomm Processor With Supercomputing Chip Q1
iQOO 12
Performance
Chipset
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
GPU
Adreno 750
In-house Chip
iQOO Supercomputing Q1
iQOO 12 is amongst the first handsets in the Indian market that runs on the Qualcomm’s latest flagship processor, i.e., the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Combined with Adreno 750 GPU and iQOO Supercomputing Chip Q1, the performance delivery gets a boost and one can experience smooth 144 FPS gaming.
The iQOO 12 ships with up to 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and also has virtual RAM feature that further adds 16GB RAM sourced via the onboard storage. iQOO claims that the latest flagship will offer a premium gameplay experience with ESports games.
Furthermore, the handset integrates a 6K VC four-zone cooling system that keeps the device temperature in check during extensive gaming. iQOO 12 offers up to 512GB UFS 4.0 flash storage configuration.
Camera hardware is also upgraded on the iQOO 12 smartphone. It packs three cameras at the back panel inside a newly designed island. The sensors included are a 50MP Omnivison main lens combined with a 50MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 64MP telephoto lens offering a 3x optical zoom.
Vivo has also added a custom Imaging V3 chip for enhanced image quality with different backgrounds. A 16MP snapper tucked inside the punch-hole camera cutout upfront handles the selfies.
A powerful 5,000 mAh battery pack powers the iQOO 12. iQOO now ships a 120W fast charger with the new flagship phone which can boot the phone within 3 seconds of a plug-in.
The aforementioned hardware should give you a clear perspective how powerful the iQOO 12 will be with daily tasks and even extensive gaming. It has all the required hardware that currently pits as one of the strongest contenders in the flagship Android smartphone race in India.
In this comparison, we take a close look at two flagship Android smartphones – the newly launched iQOO 12 and the OnePlus 11. Let’s dive into the details to see how these devices stack up against each other.
Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus), glass back (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame
IP Rating
IP64 dustproof and water splashproof
IP64
The iQOO 12 boasts a sleek design with dimensions of 163.2 x 75.9 x 8.1 mm or 8.4 mm and a weight of 198.5 g or 203.7 g, depending on the variant. It features a glass front and back with a metal frame, exuding a premium feel. Additionally, it is IP64 dustproof and water splashproof, adding durability to the mix.
On the other hand, the OnePlus 11 follows a similar design with dimensions of 163.1 x 74.1 x 8.5 mm and a weight of 205 g. The device sports a glass front and back, along with an aluminum frame for structural integrity. It also comes with an IP64 rating for added protection.
Verdict: Both smartphones offer a premium build, but the choice between them may depend on personal aesthetic preferences.
The iQOO 12 features a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and a peak brightness of 3000 nits. The 1400 nits high brightness mode (HBM) enhances outdoor visibility, providing an immersive visual experience.
Meanwhile, the OnePlus 11 sports a slightly smaller 6.7-inch LTPO3 Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+. The device achieves a peak brightness of 1300 nits, ensuring vibrant and detailed visuals.
Verdict: The iQOO 12 edges ahead with a larger display and a higher refresh rate, offering a potentially superior viewing experience.
Under the hood, the iQOO 12 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, featuring an octa-core CPU configuration. The device comes with storage options ranging from 256GB 12GB RAM to 1TB 16GB RAM, utilizing UFS 4.0 technology.
The OnePlus 11, on the other hand, houses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset with an octa-core CPU. Storage configurations include 128GB 8GB RAM up to 512GB 16GB RAM, supporting both UFS 3.1 and UFS 4.0.
Verdict: Both smartphones offer powerful performance, with the iQOO 12 potentially having an edge with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.
The iQOO 12 boasts a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50 MP wide lens, 64 MP periscope telephoto lens, and a 50 MP ultrawide lens. The device supports impressive video recording capabilities, including 8K at 30fps and 4K at 60fps.
The OnePlus 11 features a triple-camera arrangement, comprising a 50 MP wide lens, 32 MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 48 MP ultrawide lens. It also supports 8K video recording at 24fps and 4K at 60fps.
Verdict: The choice between the two cameras may come down to personal preferences, as both smartphones offer competitive camera setups.
The newly launched iQOO 12 excels with a lighter build, a slightly superior display with a higher refresh rate, and the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. On the other hand, the OnePlus 11 impresses with a durable build, outstanding camera specifications, and fast wired charging.
OnePlus 12 series to launch globally on January 23, 2024.
Impressive features include 2K display, 120Hz refresh, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
OnePlus introduces OnePlus 12R 5G, broadening its global offerings.
OnePlus officially confirmed the global launch date of its highly anticipated OnePlus 12 series. Following its debut in the Chinese market on December 5, the company is set to introduce the OnePlus 12R 5G and the flagship OnePlus 12 to the global audience on January 23, 2024.
The global launch date was disclosed during the Never Settle community event by Alexander Vanderhaeghe, OnePlus Country Manager for the region. This confirmation aligns with earlier teasers on X and predictions from reliable tipsters like Max Jambor, who pointed to a January 23 launch. The Netherlands-based Hardware Info publication further substantiates this, reporting that the OnePlus 12 series will indeed make its international debut on the aforementioned date.
77% of parents report that their children express dissatisfaction with their excessive smartphone use
The study encompasses over 1500 respondents across major Indian cities
Join Vivo on December 20 to switch off digital screens for an hour
In this digital age, smartphones have integrated into our daily lives, becoming essential companions. However, the widespread and excessive use of these devices has raised concerns about the impact on our most cherished relationships. The fifth edition of the Vivo Switch Off Research study, conducted in collaboration with Cybermedia Research (CMR), delves into the repercussions of excessive smartphone use on parent-child relationships. Let’s have a look. Also Read | Vivo T2 Pro Review: A Feature-Rich Smartphone On A Budget
Survey Findings
Smartphone As An Enabler In Daily Lives
Smartphones serve as crucial tools for information acquisition and social connections among parents. Approximately 70% acknowledge their role in enhancing knowledge, while over 60% value them for connecting with family and friends. Similarly, nearly 60% of children see smartphones as instrumental for acquiring information and connecting with distant loved ones.
Child Mental Health Impact
The study exposes concerning patterns in children’s smartphone usage, revealing that they initiate smartphone use at the age of 12, spending an average of 6.5 hours daily. This extensive engagement raises alarms about emotional reliance, with 91% experiencing anxiety when separated from their devices.
Parents’ Concerns Over Children’s Smartphone Usage
Parents express deep concerns about their children’s mental well-being, social skills, and overall development. A staggering 94% worry about their children’s mental health, with 91% advocating for restrictions on smartphone access. The study emphasizes widespread concerns regarding the potential negative impact on children’s social skills.
Strain On Parent-Child Relationships
The study illuminates a significant challenge in parent-child relationships due to excessive smartphone use. A notable 90% of parents admit to occasional irritation when interrupted by their children engrossed in smartphone activities. Another 90% confess to spending less quality time with their children, potentially straining familial bonds.
Despite the challenges, the study unveils a silver lining, with 93% of parents and children expressing feelings of guilt about the quality of their relationships. Notably, 94% of parents prioritize meaningful in-person interactions over smartphone scrolling during leisure time. An encouraging 96% of parents and 93% of children express a strong mutual desire to deepen family connections.
Additional Key Findings
Parents spend an average of 7.7 hours per day with smartphones, 1.2 hours more than children.
87% and 73% of parents check their phones as the first and last thing in the morning and before bedtime.
On average, children and parents spend about two hours together, but approximately 75% use their phones during this shared time.
90% of children feel lonelier due to their parents’ smartphone usage, even with a significant social media presence.
Raising Awareness: ‘Switch Off’ Day
Recognizing the need to sensitize people about responsible technology use, Vivo has declared December 20 as ‘Switch Off’ day. This initiative encourages Indian consumers to power down their digital screens and allocate quality time to their families. Renowned health and science writer Catherine Price, author of ‘How to Break Up with Your Phone,’ has joined hands with Vivo to guide efforts in promoting healthier smartphone habits.
Will be coming with Dynamic Port Software for smart notifications
To be available on Amazon from Dec 7
Tecno has introduced the latest phone in its Spark series – the Tecno Spark Go (2024). With a 90Hz display, Dynamic Port software feature, and Unisoc T606 chipset, the Spark Go (2024) is available just under Rs.7000. Let’s delve into the key specifications that make this budget-friendly device stand out.
6.56-inch HD+ IPS with 90Hz Refresh Rate, Panda Protection
Software
Android 13 (Go Edition) based HiOS 13
Processor
Octa-core Unisoc T606
Memory
3GB RAM, 64GB Storage (Expandable)
Innovative Feature
Dynamic Port for Smart Notifications
Camera
Dual Rear: 13MP + AI Lens with Dual Flash
Front Camera
8MP Selfie Camera
Memory Fusion Technology
Efficient Utilization of Storage as Virtual RAM
Battery
5,000mAh for Extended Usage
Durability
Panda Screen Protection
The Tecno Spark Go 2024 has a 6.56-inch HD+ IPS display with a 90Hz refresh rate. The display is protected with Panda Screen Protection which claims to be durable against everyday wear and tear.
Under the hood, the Tecno Spark Go (2024) runs on Android 13 (Go Edition) based HiOS 13. The device is powered by an octa-core Unisoc T606 chipset. This Tecno phone allows users to maximize efficiency by utilizing unused storage as virtual RAM. This ensures optimal multitasking capabilities, even on the base model with 3GB RAM and 64GB storage.
The Tecno Spark Go (2024) features a dual rear camera setup, including a 13-megapixel primary sensor and an AI lens, accompanied by dual flash for enhanced low-light photography. Upfront, it comes with an 8-megapixel selfie camera. This phone has a unique feature called Dynamic Port, which has been integrated into the Tecno Spark Go (2024). This software innovation strategically utilizes the front screen camera cutout to display alerts and notifications. The smartphone is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery.
The Tecno Spark Go (2024) is priced at Rs. 6,699 for the base variant with 3GB RAM and 64GB storage. Tecno has hinted at additional models with 8GB RAM and different storage configurations, the pricing of which will be unveiled later. This phone will be available in Gravity Black and Mystery White from December 7 onwards on Amazon and various retail outlets across India.
