Musk's xAI Launches Beta Grok Chatbot App for iOS, Secures $6 Billion in Funding

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 24-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights:

• Elon Musk's xAI launches a beta version of its Grok chatbot app for iOS, expanding accessibility.
• The company has secured $6 billion in Series C funding with participation from major investors like NVIDIA, AMD, and Sequoia Capital.
• Grok offers AI features like real-time web browsing, image generation, and text summarization, now free for users on X and via the app.

Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, is making significant strides with the launch of its standalone iOS app for the Grok chatbot. Previously available exclusively on the Musk-owned app, the app brings Grok’s AI capabilities to iPhone users in Australia and select other countries, while offering the service free of charge.

The launch coincides with xAI’s announcement of a successful $6 billion Series C funding round, positioning the company as a major competitor in the AI space alongside OpenAI and Anthropic.

Grok Chatbot Goes Mobile

The Grok chatbot app, now listed on the Apple App Store, allows users to access xAI’s advanced AI model, Grok 2. The app offers features such as real-time web browsing, text summarization, image generation, and Q&A capabilities. Users can also upload pictures to receive detailed insights.

Promotional materials for the app showcase how Grok enables learning, productivity, and creativity, with capabilities such as:

• Generating text and images.
• Summarizing long articles.
• Accessing real-time information through X.

Grok remains free for users, offering 10 prompts and 10 image generations every two hours.

Massive Funding Secured

On December 23, xAI announced the completion of its $6 billion Series C funding round. Investors in this round include prominent firms such as Andreessen Horowitz, BlackRock, Fidelity, NVIDIA, AMD, and Sequoia Capital.

In total, 97 investors participated, with a minimum contribution of $77,593 each. The funding brings xAI’s total capital raised to $12 billion, which the company plans to use to develop a cutting-edge supercomputer in Memphis and scale its AI infrastructure rapidly.

Growing AI

Musk’s xAI aims to challenge established players like OpenAI, which Musk co-founded before leaving in 2018. OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model has sparked legal disputes and public criticism between Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.

Meanwhile, xAI continues to innovate. Recent developments include:

• Grok 2 Update (Dec 14, 2024): An upgraded version of the chatbot, three times faster than before.
• Free Access (Dec 7, 2024): Grok was made free, increasing user engagement.

OnePlus Ace 5 and Ace 5 Pro Launched in China with Snapdragon 8 Elite

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 26-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights:

• The OnePlus Ace 5 series launched starting at 2,299 yuan (approx ₹26,900).
• Ace 5 Pro features Snapdragon 8 Elite and scores 3.3M on AnTuTu.
• Ace 5 has a 6,400mAh battery, the largest ever in a OnePlus phone.
• The expected global release of the OnePlus 13R is on January 7, 2025.

OnePlus Ace 5 Series Launched

The OnePlus Ace 5 series has officially launched in China, featuring two powerful models: the Ace 5 and the Ace 5 Pro. The lineup combines cutting-edge hardware with advanced gaming and battery technologies.

Color Options:

• Ace 5: Cyan, Black, Titanium.
• Ace 5 Pro: Purple, Black, White.

The pre-sale is open, with official sales starting on December 31, 2024.

Key Specifications:

OnePlus Ace 5:

• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm).
• Display: 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED, 1-120Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming.
• Cameras: 50MP (OIS) + 8MP ultrawide + 2MP macro, 16MP front.
• Battery: 6,400mAh with 80W wired charging.

OnePlus Ace 5 Pro:

• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm).
• Display: 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED, 1-120Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming.
• Cameras: 50MP (OIS) + 8MP ultrawide + 2MP macro, 16MP front.
• Battery: 6,100mAh with 100W wired charging.

Gaming and Performance Features:

• Ace 5 Pro debuts “Fengchi Gaming Core,” enabling smooth 120 FPS at 1080p.
• Both models feature advanced cooling systems with large VC heat sinks for extended gaming.
• Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi G1 chip ensure seamless connectivity.

Expected Global Release:

The OnePlus Ace 5 series may launch globally as the OnePlus 13R, with minor adjustments, including a smaller battery and an enhanced camera setup. The global release is expected on January 7, 2025.

Oppo Find X8 Mini Rumored to Launch Alongside Find X8 Ultra

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 26-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights:

• Oppo Find X8 Mini might launch alongside the Find X8 Ultra in March 2025.
• The Find X8 Ultra is expected to feature a 6.82-inch 2K micro-quad-curved BOE X2 display.
• Oppo is also rumored to release another model in the series, the Find X8s.

The Oppo Find X8 series, already creating waves with its November 2024 launch of the Find X8 and Find X8 Pro, is set to expand further. Leaks suggest that Oppo may introduce a Find X8 Mini and Find X8 Ultra early next year, alongside a rumored Find X8s.

Find X8 Ultra: Leaked Features

According to a tipster, the Oppo Find X8 Ultra could sport a 6.82-inch BOE X2 display with 2K resolution and a stunning micro-quad-curved design. It is also expected to feature:

• Build: Metal frame with a slim profile.
• Camera: A large circular rear module, possibly with a 1-inch sensor and dual periscope lenses.
• Design Similarity: The Ultra’s design and camera layout are said to resemble the Find X8 Pro.

Find X8 Mini and Find X8s

The tipster also hinted at the Find X8 Mini, which is expected to debut alongside the Ultra. While details about its specifications remain scarce, it promises to cater to users seeking a compact smartphone experience. Additionally, Oppo is reportedly developing a Find X8s, though its launch timeline and features remain unclear.

Existing Find X8 Series

The Oppo Find X8 and Find X8 Pro, launched in November 2024, come with MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipsets. They run Android 15-based ColorOS 15 and offer up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB UFS 4.0 storage. Their starting prices are ₹69,999 and ₹99,999, respectively.

With these anticipated launches, Oppo is set to strengthen its flagship lineup. The Find X8 Mini, Ultra, and X8s could provide diverse options for users, catering to premium and compact preferences alike. Stay tuned for updates as Oppo prepares to take its series to the next level.

Poco F7 Series: Expected Features Ahead of Launch

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 26-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights:

• The Poco F7 series, which may have been renamed from Redmi smartphones, could include three models: the Poco F7, F7 Pro, and F7 Ultra.
• The Poco F7 may have a 7,000mAh battery with 90W fast charging, a 1.5K LTPS AMOLED display, and a Snapdragon 8s Elite CPU.
• It is anticipated to come to India in April 2025 and cost ₹29,999, which is comparable to the Poco F6.

With reports suggesting amazing specifications and features, the Poco F7 series creates excitement. The Poco F7, Poco F7 Pro, and Poco F7 Ultra are the three models that are anticipated to be part of the series; they may be rebranded versions of Redmi's well-known gadgets.

Expected Specifications and Features

According to leaks, the Poco F7 might be equipped with:

• Processor: Snapdragon 8s Elite chipset, positioned between Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Gen 3.
• Display: 1.5K LTPS AMOLED display for vivid visuals.
• Battery: A massive 7,000mAh capacity supporting 90W fast charging.
• Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC, as revealed by certifications.

Key Specifications of Poco F7

Launch and Pricing Details

BIS (India) and IMDA (Singapore) have already certified the Poco F7, suggesting a probable launch. It is anticipated to make its Indian debut by April 2025, with a starting price of about ₹29,999, similar to that of the Poco F6, which was introduced earlier this year.

A strong competitor in the market for mid-range smartphones is the Poco F7 series. Stay tuned for formal announcements soon.

iPad 11 Likely to Launch Early 2025: Here's What We Know

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 26-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights

• Apple may launch the iPad 11 early in 2025, possibly in January, alongside iPadOS 18.3.
• The tablet might feature Apple’s custom modem for Wi-Fi and 5G and could use the A17 Pro chipset.
• Earlier reports suggested a March 2025 release, but new information suggests a sooner launch.

Apple is reportedly gearing up to release its entry-level iPad 11 earlier than expected. According to fresh reports, the tablet could hit the market in January 2025, alongside the iPadOS 18.3 update. This marks a shift from earlier predictions of a March 2025 launch.

Expected Features

The iPad 11 may introduce Apple’s in-house modem, supporting Wi-Fi and 5G connectivity. It’s also rumored to be powered by the A17 Pro chipset, offering a performance boost over its predecessor. Here’s a quick comparison:

What’s New in iPadOS 18.3?

The iPadOS 18.3 update is expected to launch alongside the new tablet. Apple has already released the beta version to developers, hinting at upcoming features and improvements. This update is anticipated to bring advanced AI-powered features to enhance the user experience.

iPad Updates

Apple has already updated its other tablet models in 2024:

• iPad Mini (2024): Features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, A17 Pro chipset, and multiple storage options.
• iPad Pro (2024): Introduced earlier in the year with improved performance and design tweaks.
• iPad Air (2024): Received upgrades to stay competitive in the mid-range segment.

Earlier Reports

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously claimed that the iPad 11 would arrive in March 2025. However, the new timeline suggests that Apple could surprise fans with a January release, making it one of the first big tech launches of the year.

Oppo A5 Pro Appears on Geekbench Ahead of its Launch, Revealing Key Features

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 24-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights:

• Oppo A5 Pro has been spotted on Geekbench ahead of its official launch.
• Expected features include a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, 12GB RAM, and Android 15-based ColorOS 15.
• The phone may offer a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen, a 50MP main camera, and a 6,000mAh battery.
• It will likely come in Quartz White, Rock Black, and Sandstone Purple colors.

The upcoming Oppo A5 Pro has surfaced on Geekbench, offering a glimpse into its potential specifications ahead of its anticipated launch in China. Oppo has already unveiled some details about the phone’s design, color variants, and operating system, with the Geekbench listing now shedding light on its performance and hardware.

Geekbench Performance

The Oppo A5 Pro, identified by the model number PKP110, scored 1,053 points in single-core and 3,052 points in multi-core tests on Geekbench. The listing reveals an octa-core chipset with four cores clocked at 2.50GHz and four at 2.00GHz, suggesting it could feature the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 or Dimensity 7300 Energy SoC.

The phone is confirmed to run Android 15-based ColorOS 15 and will support up to 12GB of RAM. It will also offer virtual RAM expansion of an additional 12GB and onboard storage options of up to 512 GB.

Oppo A5 Pro: Expected Specifications at a Glance

Design and Colors

Oppo has confirmed that the A5 Pro will be available in three color variants: Quartz White, Rock Black, and Sandstone Purple. The phone is expected to feature a patterned, glossy back panel and may come with an IP68 or IP69 rating for dust and water resistance.

Expected Features

Leaked details suggest the Oppo A5 Pro will sport a 6.7-inch full-HD+ AMOLED display. It is likely to be offered in two RAM configurations, 8GB and 12GB, paired with 256GB or 512GB storage options.

The phone is rumored to include a dual-camera setup with a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 5-megapixel secondary sensor. A 16-megapixel front camera is expected for selfies and video calls. Other features may include an in-display fingerprint sensor for added security and a large 6,000mAh battery.

The device is said to measure 161.5 x 74.85 x 7.67mm and weigh approximately 186g.