Showing posts with label Android Authority. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Android Authority. Show all posts

Friday 13 November 2020

This upcoming Redmi phone could be an endurance champion

Redmi Note 9 Pro close up of logo

  • A new leak has detailed a budget 4G Redmi phone with a 6,000mAh battery.
  • This would be a record-equaling size for a Xiaomi phone in 2020.

We already know Xiaomi’s Redmi sub-brand is preparing a clutch of new phones, apparently coming as new additions to the Redmi Note 9 series. Now, it looks like the firm is readying at least one more budget phone, and it stands out by virtue of its battery.

Leaker Digital Chat Station revealed on Weibo that Redmi is working on a budget 4G phone with a 6,000mAh battery. This would be tied with the Indian Poco X3 as the biggest battery in a Xiaomi phone in 2020, and should theoretically deliver two full days of usage (if not more).

Digital Chat Station Redmi 6000mah battery

Credit:
Digital Chat Station/Weibo

Other specs shared by the tipster include a 6.53-inch FHD+ LCD screen, an 8MP selfie camera, a triple rear camera setup with a 48MP main sensor, and 22.5W fast charging. The battery capacity and display size seem to be corroborated by a filing on China’s TENAA regulatory body (h/t: MySmartPrice) too.

Digital Chat Station also notes that the Redmi phone likely packs a Snapdragon 665 or 662 processor as it offers a 2Ghz octacore CPU (four Cortex-A73 and four Cortex-A53) and an Adreno 610 GPU. The CPU clock speed likely rules out the Snapdragon 460, which offers the same key specs but otherwise tops out at 1.8Ghz.

The phone’s apparent specs point to a device positioned below the recently rumored Redmi Note 5G series. Presumably this new phone would be akin to a Redmi 10 of sorts.

Either way, it looks like we should expect a stream of cheap Xiaomi devices coming before the end of the year. In the market for a Xiaomi phone right now? Then you can check out our list of the best Xiaomi phones.



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Thursday 12 November 2020

Google Camera 8.1 starts rolling out to older Pixels, Cinematic Pan in tow

google pixel 4 xl oh so orange camera module

  • Google is apparently pushing out the Google Camera 8.1 update to older Pixels.
  • The update includes a new UI and Cinematic Pan functionality.

The Pixel 5 features an overhauled Google Camera experience, including a new user interface and a few extra features. Now, it looks like the update is finally being pushed out to older Pixels via the Play Store.

Twitter user Kelvin Peralta confirmed receiving Google Camera 8.1 on their Pixel 4 XL via the Play Store, posting a screenshot of the updated camera app as well. You can check out the screen below.

Google Camera Pixel 4 XL Kelvin Peralta

Credit:
Twitter user Kevin Peralta

The update brings the Cinematic Pan feature and aforementioned new UI to the Pixel 4 XL, but there’s no word if Night Sight Portrait is available too. Nevertheless, Cinematic Pan is one of the more notable Pixel 5 camera features, enabling smooth, panning video.

We haven’t received the Google Camera 8.1 update on our standard Pixel 4, so presumably Google is doing a small rollout before making it available to more users. Furthermore, Android Police reports that sideloading the APK doesn’t seem to work without jumping through a few hoops. So you might just have sit tight and wait for Google to push that button.

Are you seeing the Google Camera 8.1 update on your older Pixel? Let us know in the comments section!

Next: Google Pixel 5 tested versus the best Android camera phones



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Save $110 on a Lenovo 27-inch QHD monitor and more of the best monitor deals

Lenovo 27 inch IPS LED QHD FreeSync Monitor Press Image 2

Credit:
Best Buy

Laptops offer plenty of portability, but it can be difficult to work on a small screen all day long. That’s where a big, bright monitor can be a lifesaver.  We’ve gone ahead and put together some of the best monitor deals we could find to help you out. Better yet, Prime Day is here and the deals are in full swing.

We’ve split the best monitor deals into two sections: Gaming monitors and standard monitors. Gaming monitors are often a bit wider and more powerful with higher refresh rates. You won’t find curved monitors on this list though, as they’re about as popular as curved TVs have turned out to be.

Featured deal: $110 off a Lenovo 27-inch IPS LED QHD FreeSync monitor

Lenovo 27 inch IPS LED QHD FreeSync Monitor Press Image 2

Credit:
Best Buy

It’s tricky for us to choose our favorite bargain on this list, but the combination of quality, style, and savings probably make this Lenovo 27-inch QHD FreeSync monitor the pick of the bunch.

See also: The best monitors for work and play you can get

What’s ideal about this monitor is that it’s well suited to both work and play. The size and style of the monitor allows it to fit nicely on a desk, plus it offers 178-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angles. But if you’re a gamer on a budget, it also features a QHD display, 4ms response time, and FreeSync Technology: Adaptive synchronization technology that matches the frame rate of the monitor to any compatible AMD graphics card.

Usually retailing for $299.99, right now you can pick up this Lenovo monitor for just $189.99 ($110 off). It also adds a touch of class to your workspace. Hit the button below to check out the offer.

$189 .99
Lenovo 27-inch IPS LED QHD FreeSync Monitor
Save $110 .00
Buy it Now
Lenovo 27-inch IPS LED QHD FreeSync Monitor Buy it Now
Save $110 .00 $189 .99

Best monitor deals:

All of these deals were live at the time of writing but we’ll do our best to keep the list updated as we find new savings.


Standard monitor deals

dell 24 inch led monitor

There are standard monitors to suit all budgets, and screen size is the most defining factor for most people. If you’re investing in a new monitor then you might want to consider a 24-inch model as a minimum, although if you’re shifting up to 27 inches or more you should take a few basic measurements to ensure you have the desk space.

See also: Best desktop computer deals

Size isn’t everything, and the better monitors will offer high resolution such as Full HD or 4K, wide viewing angles, and a rich color range. Aesthetically you may also be keen on a screen with very thin bezels, and don’t forget to ensure your choice has the requisite ports for your work or entertainment needs. The flicker-free ComfortView settings on the likes of the Dell P-Series 27-inch LED monitor help to cut down on the harmful blue light while you’re working long hours too.

Here are some of the best standard monitor deals around right now.

LG 24M47VQ 24-Inch LED Monitor
$99 .99 Save $30 .00
Buy it Now
Dell P2719H 27-Inch LED Monitor
$231 .90 Save $68 .09
Buy it Now
Dell P2419H 24-Inch LED Monitor
$169 .73 Save $80 .26
Buy it Now
ThinkVision 27-inch QHD Monitor
$205 .16 Save $113 .84
Buy it Now
ThinkVision 31.5-inch UHD Monitor with USB Type-C
$599 .00 Save $400 .00
Buy it Now
MSI Prestige 34-Inch 5K IPS Monitor
$952 .94 Save $200 .00
Buy it Now

See also: How to set up your home office


Gaming monitor deals

LG 31 Inch G Sync LCD Gaming Monitor on Desk

Credit:
LG

Gaming monitors are more specialized than standard models, and often command higher prices as a result. If you’re a casual gamer then a good standard monitor will suffice for everything, but the more committed players with sufficient budgets can look to splash out a bit more to get a more complete gaming experience.

See also: The best PC gaming desktops

On top of a large screen with great resolution, gamers should be looking out for high refresh rates and low response times. These factors ensure the smoothest and most immersive sessions, while also maximizing your advantage when taking on opponents. Typically you should be looking for at least a 120Hz refresh rate for gaming, and a response time of 5ms or lower is about right. A 1ms response time is ideal.

Here are some of the top deals online. We’ve even thrown in a really high-end option for the pros.

BenQ 24-inch IPS Monitor
$119 .99 Save $30 .00
Buy it Now
Legion Y27gq-20 27-Inch Monitor
$413 .99 Save $216 .00
Buy it Now
Alienware 25 Monitor
$384 .99 Save $125 .00
Buy it Now
LG 31.5-Inch G-Sync LCD Gaming Monitor
$599 .00 Save $100 .99
Buy it Now
LG 34-Inch UltraWide FreeSync IPS Monitor
$330 .98 Save $269 .01
Buy it Now
Alienware 55-Inch OLED Gaming Monitor
$3039 .99 Save $1010 .00
Buy it Now

See also: Here are the best gaming mice you can buy


Those are our picks for the best monitor deals you can get right now. Whether you’re working or gaming, these options should give your PC a boost!



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Wednesday 11 November 2020

Oppo announces Inno Day 2020 event: What should we expect this time?

The Oppo AR Glass.

  • Oppo has announced that it will be holding its Inno Day 2020 event next week.
  • The company showed off in-display selfie camera tech and AR glasses at its 2019 event.

Oppo hosted its first Inno Day in December last year, and it used the event to demonstrate some cutting edge technologies it’s working on. We saw and got to play with technologies like in-display selfie cameras and AR headsets at the 2019 event.

Now, the company has announced that it will be holding its Inno Day 2020 event on November 17 in Shenzhen, China (at 4PM local time). Check out the event image below.

Oppo Inno Day 2020 twitter

Credit:
Twitter/Oppo

So what could Oppo have up its sleeve next week, then? Well, frequent tipster Digital Chat Station notes that it’ll show off three concept products at Inno Day 2020. Furthermore, the leaker claims that Oppo is currently working on in-folding foldables, a new generation of in-display selfie cameras, 125W wired/65W wireless charging tech, and various optical zoom technologies. So we’d guess that at least one or two of these technologies will show up next week.

Oppo actually announced a hybrid zoom periscope lens system earlier this year, offering variable zoom between 3.3x and 5.4x and up to 11x hybrid zoom. It therefore stands to reason that we might see this tech in action at the event.

Hopefully some of these technologies demonstrated next week make their way into commercially available smartphones in 2021. What tech would you like to see from Oppo next year? Take our poll below!

Please wait.. Loading poll


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Moto E7 renders leak: Motorola could be stepping up its low-end game

Motorola Moto E6 hands on close up of camera

  • Moto E7 renders have apparently leaked online.
  • Apparent upgrades include a bigger battery, fingerprint scanner, and dual rear cameras.

Motorola’s E series has generally been the cheapest smartphone line in its portfolio, bringing the basics at a reasonable price. The Moto E7 Plus was already launched earlier this year, but we haven’t really heard anything about the standard model.

Fortunately, Twitter tipster Abhishek Yadav has now posted renders of the vanilla Moto E7. The images show a phone with a dual rear camera setup, what seems to be a rear fingerprint scanner, and a waterdrop notch upfront. The images also show turquoise and gray colorways. Check them out below.

Moto E7 Abhishek Yadav 3 Moto E7 Abhishek Yadav 2 Moto E7 Abhishek Yadav 1

Yadav also claims that the phone will be equipped with a 6.5-inch HD+ panel, a 48MP+2MP rear camera setup, a 5MP selfie camera, a 4,000mAh battery, and Android 10.

There’s no word on the processor, but this would still make for a significant upgrade over the Moto E6 in a few ways. The E6 offers a single 13MP rear camera and 3,000mAh battery, so we’re expecting better image quality and longer endurance with the new phone. The older phone also lacks a fingerprint scanner, so we could be set for an upgrade here too. The only major downside otherwise is that the E7 apparently isn’t shipping with the latest version of Android.

The Moto E6 retailed for ~$150 in the US, so we’re expecting a similar price for this device if it comes to the US. But hopefully the firm goes with more attractive pricing in Europe and India, given the increased competition from the likes of Xiaomi and Realme. Looking for more budget goodness? Then check out our list of the best cheap phones you can buy.



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Tuesday 10 November 2020

Why haven’t we seen Windows on Arm laptops with MediaTek chips?

Microsoft Edge Chromium Surface Pro X

 

  • MediaTek has revealed that it’s looking at the Windows on Arm segment.
  • Qualcomm is the only chipmaker offering processors for the platform right now.

 

Apple announced its first Mac computers with Arm silicon yesterday, but the Cupertino company isn’t the first major computing platform to embrace Arm. In fact, we’ve seen Windows on Arm laptops being released for over two years now.

These Windows on Arm devices are largely powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets though, with rival chipmaker MediaTek being conspicuously absent in this space. Now, the Taiwanese firm has revealed that it is considering this segment.

“Windows on Arm is a developing new opportunity. We are studying this space on the back of MediaTek’s Chromebook success in COVID-19 times (sic),” a company representative told journalists during the firm’s executive summit.

Two hurdles in the way?

The firm also launched two new Chromebook chips in the MT8192 and MT8195, and MediaTek claims that these chips are more than adequate for running Windows on Arm. “However, (we) need DirectX drivers for the Mali GPU from Arm,” a representative explained.

The firm’s new Chromebook processors both use Arm’s Mali-G57 graphics, while Qualcomm’s laptop processors use in-house Adreno GPUs. This would theoretically give the US chipmaker greater control over things like driver support, rather than having to rely on partner companies.

MediaTek also cited x86 app compatibility with Windows on Arm as a “primary challenge” for the platform. Right now, x86 apps either have to be ported to Windows on Arm or they need to be emulated to run on the new platform. However, the latter approach tends to incur a performance penalty, while the former route requires work from the developer.

Nevertheless, between Microsoft and Qualcomm rolling out 64-bit app emulation support this month, and Apple launching its first Arm-powered Mac computers, it’s clear that the Arm computing space is making progress. Hopefully we see cheaper laptops from both platforms in 2021.

Next: Apple’s biggest challenge with Arm Macs, according to Qualcomm



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This affordable 5G Realme phone could hit Europe, other global markets soon

Realme 7 in hand

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority
  • Realme is set to launch a 5G variant of the Realme 7.
  • Judging by a Thai certification listing, the phone could be a reskinned Realme V5.

Realme stretched its legs to Europe earlier this year with the 4G Realme 7 duo. Now it seems the Chinese brand could add a third member to this family with faster networking.

Judging by Thai certification site NBTC (via MySmartPrice), a 5G variant of the Realme 7 could soon make its debut in global markets. The device wears model number RMX2111, suggesting it will be a reskinned Realme V5 series. The company previously announced in September that the Realme V3 and V5 would hit Europe in Q4.

If this is the case, we can posit the two phones will share similar specs. To that end, expect a 6.5-inch 2,400 x 1,080 LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate on the Realme 7 5G – the same cocktail used on the Realme 7 global variant. Internally, that cheap 5G goodness stems from the Mediatek Dimensity 720 chipset. A choice of 6GB or 8GB of RAM is met by 128GB of internal storage. Finally, a quad-camera array should also make an appearance at the rear, but it’s unclear if the Realme 7 5G will wear a new 64MP shooter or borrow the 48MP sensor from the Realme V5.

It’s likely that Realme won’t adjust the international price of the Realme 7 5G far beyond its Chinese sibling. The Realme V5 debuted at ~$215 in the firm’s home nation, which would likely make it one of the cheapest 5G phones in Europe if the EU price isn’t much higher.

There’s no word on the phone’s official launch date from Realme, but judging by the listing, we could expect to see it in the likes of Europe, India, and Thailand fairly soon.

Next: Realme 7 hands-on: A small step forward



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Samsung expanding One UI 3.0 beta to recent foldables, 2019 flagships

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 display open

Credit: David Imel / Android Authority

  • Samsung is expanding the One UI 3.0 beta to recent foldables.
  • The Galaxy S10 series and Note 20 line are also getting in on the action.

Samsung has been running the One UI 3.0 beta for a while now, but it’s largely been restricted to the Galaxy S20 series and Note 20 duo. Fortunately, it looks like the firm is expanding the beta program to plenty more devices.

XDA-Developers spotted several recent posts on the Samsung Korea community forum, revealing that the One UI 3.0 beta will soon land on the Galaxy Z Flip 5G and Galaxy Z Fold 2. We’re glad to see the new foldables on the list, but what if you’ve got a 2019 flagship?

Fortunately, the posts also confirm that the One UI 3.0 beta is coming to the Galaxy S10 series (S10e, S10, S10 Plus, S10 5G) and the Galaxy Note 10 series (Note 10, Note 10 Plus). Check out the announcement images below, via the forum.

Galaxy S10 series One UI 3 Korea Galaxy Note 10 series One UI 3 korea Galaxy Z Flip 5G One UI 3 korea Galaxy Z Fold 2 One UI 3 korea

There’s no word on a beta release date for these phones and the company hasn’t confirmed availability outside Korea just yet. You’ll nevertheless want to keep checking the Samsung Members app for an option to sign up for the One UI 3.0 beta.

Fortunately, you might not have to wait too long for a full-fledged One UI 3.0 stable release. Samsung has previously confirmed that the stable version will be available from this month onwards. Again, the firm didn’t reveal specific devices, but it does suggest a smaller gap between beta and stable releases.

Next: Samsung Galaxy S30 series — Everything we know so far



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Monday 9 November 2020

Three updates in, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE still has touchscreen problems

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE front and center

Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority
  • The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE is getting a third firmware update to fix touchscreen issues.
  • Users still report problems with scrolling and zooming in/out on the screen.

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE has been plagued by touchscreen issues for some users ever since it launched. After two failed attempts at fully fixing the problems, Samsung has now released a third software update for the phone, once again aimed at correcting touchscreen problems.

According to SamMobile, Samsung is now rolling out firmware version G781BXXU1ATK1 to the Snapdragon 865 variants of the Galaxy S20 FE. The update brings the November security patch to the phones and also carries stability improvements for the touchscreen. However, users with affected handsets are still experiencing problems with the screen even after the update.

Also read: The best Samsung phones you can buy

One user writes on Reddit that the latest Galaxy S20 FE update fixes jittery scrolling to some extent, but not completely. Another reports that the touchscreen experience has improved but is still not up to the mark. The main issue that remains to be addressed is zooming in and out on the screen. The action apparently results in strong stuttering and erratic behavior.

It looks like Samsung is most of the way there in terms of fixing the S20 FE’s screen issues. Another update or so should do the trick if there’s not something wrong with the hardware. That said, it would have been great if Samsung ironed out these problems before bringing the phone to the market. No one likes to buy a new device and have the basics not functioning as they should.

Please wait.. Loading poll


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HMD built a modern, sliding Nokia N95 concept: Would you buy it?

hmd global nokia n95 concept 1

  • HMD Global built a modern Nokia N95-inspired concept that was never released to market.
  • The phone sports a sliding display with a large loud speaker and dual selfie cameras.
  • The concept also has a built-in kickstand fitted around the rear camera array.

HMD Global has remade several Nokia devices over the years, including the legendary 3310 and the 8110 from The Matrix film series. Now, it turns out that the company was planning to remake another classic: the Nokia N95.

According to a tweet by HMD’s Juho Sarvikas, the N-Series flagship inspired a modern sliding concept that was ultimately abandoned. And the company did actually make a reference device, as detailed in the Mr. Mobile video below (skip to 6:10).

Unlike the N95 which slid upward to reveal a T9 keyboard or downward for playback controls, the modern N95 concept slides from left to right revealing a selfie camera duo and full-length speaker grille. Aesthetically, it retains Nokia’s current design language of a circular rear camera array and smooth lines. Smartly though, a flip-ring around the cameras acts as a built-in stand.

A vertical sliding system was also considered. Sliding the screen up reveals a “very loud speaker,” while sliding down uncovers dual front cameras and LEDs. Sarvikas notes that the problem with this design is that users can’t “access cameras and the speaker at the same time.”

Read more: Throwback: Mobile camera tech was amazing even before iPhone and Android

In the age of wacky smartphone form factors that have bred foldables, T-screens, and modern flip phones, the Nokia concept doesn’t seem that far-fetched. If anything, the concept would arguably be the most practical non-traditional form factor available, especially while watching content. According to Sarvikas, the “objective was to secure usability in both landscape and portrait as well as comfortable single hand use.” They arguably nailed that with the sideways slide.

hmd global nokia n95 concept 2

Unlike the more adventurous form factors currently available, a simple sideways slider would likely be cheaper to build than a foldable or flip phone. Dare we say, if it’s anything like the N95, it should be pretty hardy, too.

While there’s seemingly no plan to bring this concept to market at present, we see no reason why HMD wouldn’t consider sliding phones in the future. Whether that device can capture the N95 magic and bring something truly useful to the market remains to be seen.

Please wait.. Loading poll

Would you purchase a Nokia N95-inspired sliding phone if HMD made one? Let us know your thoughts in the comment below, or vote in the poll above.



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Sunday 8 November 2020

Leak: The OnePlus Watch could also get a Cyberpunk special edition

OnePlus 8T Cyberpunk 2077 Limited Edition Official Image

  • The OnePlus Watch will reportedly get a Cyberpunk 2077 special edition.
  • There’s still no word on when the wearable will make its debut.

When the OnePlus Watch eventually makes its long-awaited debut it’ll also receive the Cyberpunk 2077 special edition treatment, according to tipster Digital Chat Station.

Following the OnePlus 8T Cyberpunk 2077 Edition‘s launch earlier this month, the Chinese smartphone maker is reportedly partnering with Polish game developer CD Projekt Red on its forthcoming wearable. Although little information is known about the collab, Digital Chat Station shared a shot of the wearable’s custom straps.

The chunky straps pack bright yellow inserts with Cyberpunk and OnePlus insignia. If the special edition Watch follows the OnePlus 8T, we can also expect custom themes, animations, and watch faces to feature.

oneplus watch cyberpunk 2077 strap 1

We’ve yet to see a real-world shot of the OnePlus Watch itself, but rumors and OnePlus’ own designs suggest that it’ll have a circular face. Even less is known about the Watch’s internals, specifications, and pricing ambitions.

So when can we expect the OnePlus Watch? After rumors of a delay circulated in October, OnePlus has yet to announce a launch date for the wearable. There’s no indication that it’ll arrive in 2020, either. That said, it’s unlikely that the company has completely canceled the project.

In the meantime, if you can’t wait for the watch to appear and are on the hunt for a smartwatch, be sure to peruse our best picks below.

Read more: The best smartwatches you can buy right now



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