iPhone 14: what to expect?

By: Rohit Yadav

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Updated on: 23-Jun-2022

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Therefore it is highly unlikely that Apple will launch another Mini iPhone this year.

Non-Pro iPhone 14 Max

Apple is expected to replace the iPhone Mini with a new 6.7” iPhone 14 Max, making it the first non-Pro large form factor phone from Apple.

Design changes

iPhone 14 series will follow the general design language of the previous iPhone models without any major change. According to the leaked renders, Apple iPhone 14 Pro will have more rounded corners compared to the iPhone 13 Pro, to make the radius of the phone’s corner match the radius of the camera bump.

According to the CADs, the corner of the non-Pro iPhones will not be changed iPhone 14 Pro on the left compared to iPhone 13 Pro on the right (renders by artist Ian Zelbo)

Display, Notch

According to Ross Young (CEO at DSCC), all the iPhone models will have a slight increase in screen size, from 6.02” to 6.12” and from 6.68” to 6.69” for the Pro models. This is expected because of the increase in the corner radius of the Pro devices.

Both the non-Pro iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max will not be supporting a 120 Hz refresh rate, the device will feature a similar notch at the top of the screen to house the front camera and various sensors for Face-ID. On the other hand, both the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max models are expected to part ways with the notch to bring a pill-shaped cutout for the front camera and the sensors.

The Pro models are also expected to come with Always on Display functionality, similar to the Apple Watch, which will be a first for any iPhone model.

Specifications

According to Ming-Chi Quo (an analyst at TF International Securities), the low-end iPhone models will be powered by the Apple A15 processors which can be seen in last year’s iPhone 13 series, whereas the high-end iPhone 14 Pro models will be launched with the new Apple A16 chips. It seems that Apple is slowly trying to differentiate their Pro line of phones from their vanilla counterparts. Last year Apple gave their Pro models an extra GPU core and now the Pro models will exclusively feature the newer processors. Unlike the iPhone 13 series where 6 GB of RAM was used only in Pro models, Apple is expected to give all the models 6 GB of RAM but the type of RAM will not be the same across the lineup. The base iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max will feature 6 GB of LPDDR4X RAM whereas the Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max will feature the faster and more efficient LPDDR5 RAM.

Camera

Since the launch of the iPhone 6s in 2015, Apple has been using the same 12 MP resolution for its camera while improving the sensor and image processing each year. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, this year we could see an increase in the resolution of the primary camera of the iPhone from 12 MP to 48 MP, though only the Pro models will be coming with the upgraded sensor. It should be noted that the telephoto and the ultrawide camera will remain at 12 MP resolution, so Apple might use pixel binning technology for the primary camera (combining multiple small pixels to create a large pixel with more information) to output 12 MP images with more details compared to using a 12 MP sensor.

Apple will probably use the primary and ultrawide camera from the iPhone 13 Pro for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max.

The flash module is also expected to see a little change, compared to the previous dual circular flash the new one is expected to be in a concentric alignment.

The front camera will also be improved, by using a larger f/1.9 aperture for better low light capabilities and adding auto-focus for an enhanced Facetime/ video calling experience.

Satellite Communication features

Apple has also been working on a communication feature for the iPhones, via the use of low-orbit satellites.

“There have been signs lately that Apple and its apparent satellite partner Globalstar Inc. might be getting closer to launching such a feature. In February, Globalstar said it reached an agreement to buy 17 new satellites to help power “continuous satellite services” for a “potential”—and unnamed—customer that had paid it hundreds of millions of dollars. Is that customer Apple? We’re probably less than six months from finding out, ” Gurman says.

This feature is expected to be primarily used for emergencies at first, however, with time, it could allow iPhone users to communicate with each other even if their devices are in no coverage area. There are some rumours that this will be the year Apple will bring this feature to the iPhone.

New colours

Though there have been no concrete leaks regarding the different colours iPhone 14 series will be available, according to the rumours iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will be available in, white graphite, gold, silver and an all-new purple, and the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max will be available in black, white, blue, red and all-new purple.

Availability

Many rumours suggest that due to the supply-chain issues worldwide, there might be a delay in the launch of some of the iPhone models, similar to the delay in availability of the iPhone 13 Mini and the iPhone 13 Pro Max last year. But according to the leading analysts' Apple has things under control with their suppliers, so it is unlikely we would see a delay. Apple iPhone 14 release date is expected to be 13 September 2022.

My take

Considering all the leaks, Apple is hard on differentiating their Pro models from their cheaper phones by bringing faster internals and limiting certain features to Pro phones. This could be the year when shelling out more for the Pro variants of the iPhone will make better sense. It is also sad to see that there will not be any new Mini variants for the iPhones.

Itel Zeno 10 to Launch in India This January 2025

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 30-Dec-2024

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Itel is gearing up to expand its budget smartphone lineup with the launch of the Itel Zeno 10 in India this January 2025. Aimed at Gen-Z customers, the phone promises to deliver modern features at an affordable price, starting under ₹6,000. With an emphasis on style and functionality, the Zeno 10 is expected to be a game-changer in the entry-level smartphone market.

Launch and Pricing

The Itel Zeno 10 may be introduced in the Indian market in January 2025, with sales exclusively through Amazon. The teaser poster on the Amazon microsite hints at the starting price, showcasing the tagline "₹5XXX," which confirms the handset will cost less than ₹6,000. While this price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers, higher RAM and storage variants may come at slightly higher costs.

Design and Display

The Zeno 10 features a youthful and stylish design with a square rear camera module housing dual sensors and an LED flash. It comes in black with eye-catching red and white patterns. The phone has a centered waterdrop notch for the front camera, slim bezels, and a thicker chin, giving it a modern look. Volume and power buttons are conveniently placed on the right for easy access.

Performance and Software

The Itel Zeno 10 will run on Android 14, offering a smooth and updated user experience. It includes unique features like a Dynamic Island-like collapsible bar for multitasking. Powered by a 5,000mAh battery, the phone ensures long-lasting usage, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and everyday tasks.

Key Specification

Conclusion

With its dual rear cameras, modern design, robust battery, and the latest Android 14, the Itel Zeno 10 offers an excellent value proposition for budget smartphone buyers. The affordable pricing under ₹6,000 ensures accessibility to a wide range of customers, particularly Gen-Z users looking for a stylish and feature-rich handset.

As Itel continues to strengthen its presence in the Indian smartphone market, the Zeno 10’s launch could further establish the brand as a go-to choice for budget-conscious buyers. Stay tuned for the official launch details and a closer look at what this promising handset has to offer.

Lava Yuva 2 5G Launched for ₹9,499 with 50MP Camera and Notification Light

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 27-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights

• Lava Yuva 2 5G launched in India for ₹9,499.
• Features a 50MP main camera, a 5000mAh battery, and a notification light.
• Comes in Marble Black and Marble White color options.

Lava has launched the Lava Yuva 2 5G, their newest low-cost 5G smartphone, in India. This phone, which costs ₹9,499, is unique because it has a notification light built into the back camera module. This light is distinct in its category since it blinks in response to incoming calls and app notifications.

The phone can be bought at physical retail outlets and comes in Marble Black and Marble White color options. For extra convenience, Lava also provides free at-home service and a one-year warranty.

Specifications and Features

Pricing and Availability

The Lava Yuva 2 5G is priced at ₹9,499 and is currently available at retail stores across India. The company has not yet confirmed its online availability. The introductory price makes it an excellent choice for users looking for an affordable 5G phone with standout features.

With its budget-friendly price, unique notification light, and solid performance, the Lava Yuva 2 5G is a promising option for buyers seeking value-for-money smartphones.

Google Partners with Anthropic to Improve Gemini AI, Using Claude

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 27-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights

• Google is using Anthropic’s Claude AI to compare and refine responses from its own Gemini AI.
• Contractors hired by Google analyze the outputs for quality, focusing on factors like truthfulness and clarity.
• Claude has stricter safety measures, while Gemini offers detailed but less rigid responses to unsafe prompts.

Google’s Collaboration with Anthropic’s Claude

Google is enhancing the functionality of its own AI system, Gemini, by collaborating with Anthropic's Claude AI model. Google has engaged contractors to assess the responses produced by Gemini and Claude. These contractors evaluate both models' responses to the same prompts and offer comments based on important criteria like:

• Truthfulness
• Clarity
• Verbosity

This feedback helps Google identify areas where Gemini needs improvement, ensuring it becomes more accurate and user-friendly.

How the Evaluation Process Works

Contractors follow a structured approach to assess the AI models:

1. They are given responses from Gemini and Claude for the same prompt.
2. Each response is carefully evaluated based on predefined criteria.
3. Contractors have up to 30 minutes to rate each answer.

This process enables Google to refine Gemini’s output quality and identify where it may fall short compared to Claude.

Claude vs Gemini: Key Differences

Unusual Patterns and Speculations

During the evaluations, the contractors observed some odd trends. Gemini's answers occasionally contained analogies such as "I am Claude, created by Anthropic," which raised questions regarding the connection between the two systems. Given that Google finances Anthropic, this initiated discussion about the possible proximity of Gemini and Claude.

Ethical and Competitive Concerns

To make these comparisons easier, Google provides an internal platform that lets contractors compare various AI models side by side. However, utilizing Claude to develop or train other AI systems is forbidden by Anthropic's terms of service. Given that Google is an investor in Anthropic, it is unclear if this restriction applies to Google.

In response, Shira McNamara, a spokesperson for Google DeepMind, clarified that comparing AI models is a standard practice in the industry. She firmly denied any claims that Google used Claude to train Gemini, calling these allegations inaccurate.

Competition in the AI Industry

This partnership shows the intense competition the AI market is becoming. Big companies like Google are improving their AI models by utilizing both external collaborations and internal innovation. However, it also calls into question how businesses strike a balance between cooperation and rivalry while navigating moral boundaries.

As the AI sector develops, collaborations such as these show how businesses are continuously pushing the boundaries of technology while coming under scrutiny for their moral behavior. Google and Anthropic's partnership serves as a reminder of the prospects and difficulties in the competition to create the most cutting-edge AI systems.

iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance Edition Set to Launch in January 2025

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 27-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights

• iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance Edition launches in January 2025 in China.
• Features a 6,400mAh ultra-thin blue ocean battery with advanced tech.
• Powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC for top-tier performance.
• Available in blue, black, and white color options.

iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance

In January 2025, the iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance Edition, a long battery-life version of the Z9 Turbo, is expected to make its formal debut in China. Although the precise release date is still unknown, tech fans are buzzing about the phone because iQOO has been teasing its interesting features on social media.

The original iQOO Z9 Turbo, which debuted in April 2024 with a 6,000mAh battery, was a hit, and this new version expands on that. By adding a 6,400mAh battery, the Endurance Edition goes one step further and promises better performance and longer usage.

Innovative Battery Technology

The notable characteristic of the iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance Edition is its ultra-thin blue ocean battery technology. Reports indicate that it might employ silicon-carbon anode technology, which is comparable to OnePlus' Glacier battery technology, though specifics are few. Benefits of this cutting-edge battery technology include:

• Longer battery life for extended usage.
• Stable voltage supply for consistent performance.
• Faster charging speeds to minimize downtime.

With these enhancements, the 6,400mAh battery positions the Endurance Edition as a powerhouse for users needing dependable, long-lasting performance.

High-Performance Hardware

The phone is equipped with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC, a 4nm processor featuring:

• A Cortex X4 prime core clocked at 3.0 GHz.
• Four Cortex A720 performance cores running at 2.8 GHz.
• Three Cortex A520 efficiency cores tuned at 2.0 GHz.

This combination ensures smooth multitasking, high-speed gaming, and efficient power usage.

Shared Features with iQOO Z9 Turbo

The Endurance Edition is expected to retain many features from the standard iQOO Z9 Turbo, including:

• A 6.78-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 4,500 nits peak brightness.
• A 50MP + 8MP dual rear camera setup for versatile photography.
• Connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4.
• Support for 80W fast wired charging, ensuring quick power-ups despite the large battery size.

Availability and Colors

In China, the phone will be pre-ordered via shop.vivo.com. It will be available in three attractive colors—white, black, and blue—to suit all kinds of style preferences. It is yet unknown, though, if the iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance Edition will be released in markets other than China, such as India.

Anticipation for January Launch

The iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance Edition is positioned to be an important release because of its large battery capacity, cutting-edge technology, and high-end specifications. More information is anticipated to become available as the January launch draws near, heightening interest in this potentially powerful smartphone.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Expected to Launch on January 22: New Blue-Grey Colour Revealed

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 27-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights

• Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event is rumored for January 22, 2024.
• Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to feature a new blue-grey color.
• Four smartphones are expected: Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, S25 Ultra, and S25 Slim.
• High-end specs include up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage for the Ultra.

Samsung’s Upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra

Samsung is preparing for its yearly Galaxy Unpacked, which may be scheduled for January 22. According to leaks, four new smartphones—the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the brand-new Galaxy S25 Slim—are going to be unveiled at this event. In addition to these, Samsung is anticipated to release the Galaxy Ring, a wearable of the future.

New Blue-Grey Color Variant Leaked

A new blue-grey color variation of the Galaxy S25 Ultra has been leaked ahead of its official launch. The phone's color is described as a delicate blend of grey and blue, which might appeal to consumers looking for a high-end, modern design. Space grey, deep blue, and light blue are among the other colors that have been talked about in earlier leaks.

Specs for Galaxy S25 Ultra

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to offer top-tier specifications:

• 16GB RAM will be exclusive to the 512GB and 1TB storage models.
• The base model with 256GB storage will come with 12GB RAM.

This sets the Ultra apart as the flagship model in the S25 lineup, focusing on performance for demanding users.

Pre-Order and Sales Timeline

In South Korea, pre-orders are anticipated to start on January 24 and may end on February 3, 2025. Similar timelines are anticipated for other markets, including the US, where devices will be available for sale by February 7, 2025.

Samsung's launch approach has been constant, as shown with the January 2024 release of the Galaxy S24 series.

Galaxy Unpacked Event

Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked events have always been a highlight for tech enthusiasts. With the unveiling of smartphones and the innovative Galaxy Ring, the January 22 launch promises to set the tone for 2025’s tech landscape.