Oppo has officially launched the Oppo Watch X2 in China and global markets, introducing a feature-packed smartwatch that brings a premium design, powerful performance, and cutting-edge health-tracking capabilities. The smartwatch was unveiled alongside the Oppo Find N5 smartphone and is expected to make waves in the wearable technology segment.

Oppo Watch X2 Price and Availability

The Oppo Watch X2 is priced at SGD 499 (approximately Rs. 30,000) in Singapore. The smartwatch is currently available for pre-orders and comes in two stylish color options: Lava Black and Summit Blue.

Oppo Watch X2 Specifications and Features

Stunning AMOLED Display and Premium Build

The Oppo Watch X2 sports a 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 460x460 pixels, delivering sharp visuals and an ultra-smooth user experience. It boasts a peak brightness of 2,200 nits and 310ppi pixel density for enhanced clarity even under direct sunlight. The screen is protected by a 2D Sapphire crystal cover, ensuring durability, while the titanium alloy bezels add a premium touch.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Oppo Watch X2 is powered by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chipset, accompanied by a BES2800BP MCU for efficient power management. The smartwatch includes 32GB of internal storage and runs on Wear OS 5.0, offering a seamless and intuitive user experience. It also incorporates a proprietary Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) to enhance battery efficiency.

Advanced Health and Fitness Tracking

The Oppo Watch X2 is equipped with an array of advanced health monitoring features:

• Optical heart rate sensor for continuous heart rate tracking.

• Blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring to measure oxygen saturation levels.

• 60-Second Health Check-In for instant assessment of heart rate, blood oxygen, and wrist temperature via the OHealth app.

• EKG Electrode for ECG Readings to detect arterial stiffness and irregular heart rhythms.

• Sleep apnea detection with irregular breathing monitoring.

• Heart Rate Variability (HRV) analysis to measure stress levels.

• Wrist temperature sensor for continuous body temperature tracking.

• Snore and sleep quality monitoring for improved sleep insights.

Fitness and Smart Features

For fitness enthusiasts, the Oppo Watch X2 supports over 100 sports modes, catering to various activities like running, cycling, swimming, and more. It features dual-frequency GPS (L1 and L5 bands) for precise location tracking, making it a great companion for outdoor workouts.

Additional smart features include:

• Remote camera control to take pictures directly from the paired smartphone.

• Music playback controls from the wrist.

• Google Maps navigation for on-the-go guidance.

• Google Wallet support for seamless contactless payments.

• Google Fast Pair for instant connectivity with Android devices.

• Text and email response capabilities directly from the smartwatch.

Battery Life and Durability

The Oppo Watch X2 houses a 648mAh battery, offering an impressive 120 hours of battery life under standard usage in smart mode. For users seeking extended longevity, the power saver mode provides up to 16 days of battery life.

The smartwatch is built to last, featuring MIL-STD-810H durability certification and an IP68-rated water and dust-resistant design.

Final Thoughts

With its premium AMOLED display, powerful Snapdragon W5 chipset, advanced health-tracking features, and extensive smart functionalities, the Oppo Watch X2 emerges as a top-tier smartwatch in the market. Its long battery life, durable build, and seamless Wear OS integration make it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Apple is gearing up for the rollout of its latest iPhone software update, iOS 18.4, scheduled for release in April 2025. The update promises to bring significant enhancements to Apple Intelligence, expanding AI-driven features while introducing support for additional languages and regions.

iOS 18.4 Release Timeline

Apple has officially updated its iOS 18 roadmap, confirming that iOS 18.4 will launch in early April. This update follows the recent introduction of the iPhone 16e, reinforcing Apple's push towards AI-driven personalization and user experience improvements.

Expanded Apple Intelligence Features

With iOS 18.4, Apple is set to enhance its Apple Intelligence suite, integrating deeper AI functionalities across apps and services. New capabilities aim to improve Siri’s contextual awareness, boost automation, and refine on-device intelligence.

Some of the expected enhancements include:

• Improved Siri: The voice assistant will leverage AI to offer context-aware responses, scan on-screen content, and provide personalized recommendations based on user activity.

• Advanced Writing Assistance: AI-driven tools will enhance text composition, offering grammar corrections, tone adjustments, and auto-suggestions across Mail, Messages, and Notes.

• Smarter Search Functionality: Spotlight Search and Safari will integrate AI-powered suggestions for better query predictions and contextual browsing.

New Language and Locale Support

One of the key highlights of iOS 18.4 is the expansion of Apple Intelligence to additional languages and regions. Apple has confirmed support for the following languages:

• Chinese (Simplified)

• English (India, Singapore)

• French

• German

• Italian

• Japanese

• Korean

• Portuguese (Brazil)

• Spanish

• Vietnamese (Coming Soon)

This expansion aims to make Apple Intelligence accessible to a wider global audience, catering to regional dialects and user preferences.

Challenges and Potential Delays

Despite the highly anticipated release, reports suggest that Apple has encountered software bugs and engineering issues, particularly in the development of the next-gen Siri AI. Due to these setbacks:

• Some AI functionalities may be disabled at launch, with a gradual rollout through future updates.

• The full AI-powered Siri experience may be postponed to May or later, as Apple works on fine-tuning the system.

What’s Next for iOS 18?

Following iOS 18.4, Apple is expected to continue refining its AI strategy with iOS 18.5 and beyond. Future updates may introduce additional personalization tools, productivity enhancements, and deeper integration with Apple’s ecosystem.

Introduction

Nothing is set to unveil its latest smartphone lineup, the Nothing Phone 3a series, on March 4. The series is expected to include two models: the Nothing Phone 3a and the Nothing Phone 3a Pro. Ahead of the official launch, alleged renders of these devices have surfaced, offering a glimpse into their design and features. Staying true to Nothing's signature aesthetic, both smartphones feature a transparent back and Glyph lights, with notable design changes in their rear camera modules.

Design and Display

Transparent Back and Glyph Lights

The Nothing Phone 3a series continues the company’s tradition of unique design, featuring a transparent back panel and LED-based Glyph lighting. The renders suggest the devices will be available in two classic colors: black and white.

Distinct Camera Arrangements

• Nothing Phone 3a: Features a horizontally arranged, pill-shaped triple-camera setup with sensors placed side by side. The LED flash module is positioned next to the sensors within a circular housing surrounded by Glyph lights.

• Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Sports a distinctive circular camera module. The LED flash and three rear-facing cameras, including a periscope telephoto sensor, are placed at different points within the module.

Both models feature a hole-punch display, maintaining a sleek, modern appearance.

Specifications and Features (Leaked)

Performance

Both Nothing Phone 3a and 3a Pro are expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, promising improved efficiency and AI-powered capabilities.

• Nothing Phone 3a: Expected to come in two configurations - 8GB/128GB and 12GB/256GB.

• Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Likely to feature 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.

Display

• Size: 6.77-inch AMOLED display

• Refresh Rate: 120Hz

• Touch Sampling Rate: Expected to be ultra-responsive for gaming and multitasking

• Resolution: Yet to be confirmed, but likely Full HD+ or higher

Camera Setup

• Rear Cameras: Both models are confirmed to feature 50-megapixel triple rear cameras, including a periscope Sony sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS).

• Optical Zoom:

  • Phone 3a: 2x optical zoom, 30x digital zoom

  • Phone 3a Pro: 3x optical zoom, 60x digital zoom

• Front Camera:

  • Phone 3a: 32-megapixel sensor

  • Phone 3a Pro: 50-megapixel sensor

Battery and Charging

Both devices are expected to be powered by a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring all-day usage. Fast charging support is anticipated, though specific wattage details remain undisclosed.

Connectivity and Features

• Wireless Standards: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4

• 5G Support: Confirmed

• USB Type-C Port: Expected for fast data transfer and charging

• Software: Likely to run on Nothing OS based on the latest Android version

Availability and Pricing

The Nothing Phone 3a series will be launched globally, including India, on March 4. The devices will be available for purchase via Flipkart and other retail channels. While pricing details remain speculative, considering past launches, the Nothing Phone 3a is expected to be competitively priced for its segment, while the Phone 3a Pro will command a premium due to its enhanced features.

Conclusion

The Nothing Phone 3a and Phone 3a Pro continue Nothing’s unique design philosophy while bringing notable camera and performance upgrades. With their transparent backs, Glyph lighting, and powerful specifications, these smartphones are set to make an impact in the mid-premium segment. More details, including confirmed pricing and availability, will be revealed at the official launch on March 4.

Oppo has officially launched the Oppo Find N5, its latest book-style foldable smartphone, globally. This cutting-edge device comes as the successor to the 2023 Oppo Find N3 and boasts impressive specifications, including the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The smartphone introduces on-device and cloud-based AI capabilities while improving durability with its Flexion Hinge design, now 36% more rigid due to the use of Grade 5 titanium alloy.

Oppo Find N5: World’s Thinnest Foldable Smartphone

Oppo claims the Find N5 to be the thinnest foldable phone in the world, measuring just 8.93mm when folded and weighing 229g.

Oppo Find N5 Price & Availability

The Oppo Find N5 is priced at SGD 2,499 for its sole variant with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. It is available in two elegant color options: Misty White and Cosmic Black. Sales begin in Singapore on February 28.

Oppo Find N5 Specifications

Display & Design

• Inner Screen: 8.12-inch 2K (2480 x 2248 pixels) LTPO AMOLED

• Refresh Rate: 120Hz dynamic

• Pixel Density: 412ppi

• Brightness: 2,100 nits peak brightness

• Touch Sampling Rate: 240Hz

• Certification: TÜV Rheinland’s Minimized Crease Certification

• Protection: Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG)

• Cover Screen: 6.62-inch 2K (2616 x 1140 pixels) AMOLED

• Refresh Rate: 120Hz

• Pixel Density: 431ppi

Performance & Hardware

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite

• Architecture: Second-generation 3nm

• GPU: Adreno 830

• RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X

• Storage: 512GB UFS 4.0

The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset enhances AI performance by 45%, thanks to its Hexagon NPU.

AI Features

• AI Search: Swipe down on the home screen for quick searches.

• AI Call Summary: Transcribes, summarizes, and highlights key points from calls.

• Dual-Screen Translation & Interpretation: AI-powered real-time language translation.

• Oppo AI Toolbox: Includes AI Summary, AI Speak, and AI Writer for improved productivity.

• Photo Editing AI Tools: AI Clarity Enhance, AI Erase, AI Unblur, and more.

Camera System

• Primary Sensor: 50MP f/1.8 with OIS & EIS

• Periscope Telephoto Sensor: 50MP f/2.7, 3x optical zoom, OIS

• Ultra-Wide Sensor: 50MP, 116-degree FoV, OIS

• Selfie Cameras: 8MP (inner screen), 8MP (outer screen)

Connectivity & Security

• Networks: 5G, 4G LTE

• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 7

• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3

• Navigation: GPS, A-GPS, Beidou, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS

• Ports: USB Type-C

• Security: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor

Battery & Charging

• Battery Capacity: 5,600mAh dual-cell battery

• Wired Charging: 80W SUPERVOOC

• Wireless Charging: 50W AIRVOOC

Final Thoughts

The Oppo Find N5 stands out with its industry-leading design, powerful AI-driven features, and an improved camera system co-engineered with Hasselblad. As the world’s thinnest foldable phone, it sets a benchmark in the foldable smartphone market, combining sleek aesthetics with top-tier hardware.

Google Pixel 9a Leaked Renders: A New Chapter in Google’s Mid-Range Flagship

Google’s upcoming mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 9a, is generating significant buzz following the leak of its design renders. Expected to be the successor to the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 9a is rumored to arrive next month, featuring several key upgrades and a refreshed aesthetic that could set a new benchmark in its segment.

New Rear Camera Design and Colour Options

The leaked renders highlight a noticeable change in the rear camera design. Unlike the visor-like camera island seen on the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 9a features a flat rear camera module that is flush with the back panel, giving the device a cleaner and more integrated look.

The device is expected to come in four attractive colour options:

• Iris
• Obsidian
• Peony
• Porcelain

These new colour variants are designed to cater to a wide range of consumer tastes, enhancing the overall appeal of the smartphone.

Advanced Hardware Upgrades

The Pixel 9a is anticipated to be powered by the Tensor G4 SoC, which is expected to deliver improved performance and energy efficiency compared to its predecessor. In addition, the integration of the Titan M2 security chip will enhance the phone’s security features, ensuring that user data remains well-protected.

Key hardware details include:

• Processor: Tensor G4 SoC
• Security: Titan M2 chip for advanced data protection
• Battery: Upgraded capacity to support longer usage; expected to house a 5,100mAh battery – the largest ever in a Pixel phone.
• Charging: Maintains support for 23W wired and 7.5W wireless charging as seen in the Pixel 8a.

Design, Display, and Dimensions

According to the leaked renders, the Pixel 9a measures approximately 154 x 73 x 8.9 mm. The increase in size compared to the Pixel 8a is likely due to the incorporation of a larger battery, ensuring that users get extended usage on a single charge. The design remains modern and minimalist, with a focus on a streamlined look that enhances usability and comfort.

Camera Capabilities

The Pixel 9a is expected to be equipped with a dual rear camera setup:

• Primary Sensor: 48-megapixel main sensor, likely offering improved low-light performance and detail retention.
• Ultra-Wide Sensor: A 13-megapixel ultra-wide sensor, possibly utilizing the Sony IMX712 technology.
• Front Camera: A 13-megapixel sensor designed for high-quality selfies and video calls.

This camera setup aims to deliver professional-grade photography experiences, making the Pixel 9a a strong contender in its segment.

Software and Features

Running on the latest version of Android 16 based on FuntouchOS 15, the Pixel 9a is expected to offer a refined user interface with smooth performance enhancements. The new features in Android 16, combined with the powerful hardware, will likely contribute to a more responsive and intuitive user experience.

Release Timeline and Pricing

• Pre-Orders: Expected to start on March 19, 2025.
• Official Launch: Anticipated to hit the market on March 26, 2025.
• Price: The starting price is rumored to be around $499 (approximately Rs. 42,000) for the 128GB variant.

Final Thoughts

The Google Pixel 9a is poised to be a compelling update in the mid-range smartphone market. With its new flat rear camera design, four fresh colour options, and powerful internal upgrades such as the Tensor G4 SoC and Titan M2 security chip, it looks set to deliver a superior user experience. While the device retains many elements from the Pixel 8a, the enhancements in battery capacity, camera technology, and overall performance could make it a significant upgrade for users.

As the launch approaches, all eyes will be on how these new features translate into everyday usability and whether the Pixel 9a can continue Google’s legacy of delivering high-quality, secure, and efficient smartphones.

Vivo has officially announced the launch date of its much-anticipated Vivo V50 smartphone in India. Set to debut on February 17 at 12 PM IST, the device is expected to bring a host of AI-driven features, a sleek design, and powerful specifications. Ahead of its launch, multiple leaks and teasers have surfaced, hinting at an impressive blend of performance, design, and innovation.

Vivo V50 India Launch Date and Availability

The Vivo V50 will officially go on sale in India via Flipkart, Amazon, and Vivo’s official e-store. The smartphone will be available in three stunning color variants: Rose Red, Starry Blue, and Titanium Grey.

AI-Powered Features in Vivo V50

One of the standout aspects of the Vivo V50 is its integration of AI-powered functionalities, including:

• Circle to Search – Enhanced search functionality with AI assistance.

• Transcript Assist – AI-driven voice-to-text transcription.

• Live Call Translation – Real-time language translation during calls.

• AI Imaging & Editing Tools – Features like Erase 2.0 and Light Portrait 2.0 for superior photography enhancements.

Vivo V50 Specifications & Features

Display & Design

• Quad-Curved Display – A sleek, immersive viewing experience.

• Ultra-Slim Profile – Just 7.39mm in thickness, making it the slimmest smartphone with a 6,000mAh battery in its segment.

• Durability – Certified with IP68 and IP69 ratings for superior water and dust resistance.

Performance & Hardware

• Processor – Expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC, ensuring high performance and energy efficiency.

• RAM & Storage – Likely to be available in a 12GB RAM + 512GB storage variant with an additional 12GB virtual RAM expansion.

Battery & Charging

• Battery Capacity – Packs a massive 6,000mAh battery for extended usage.

• Fast Charging – Supports 90W wired fast charging for rapid power replenishment.

Camera Capabilities

• Dual Rear Camera Setup

  • 50MP Primary Sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for sharp, high-quality images.

  • 50MP Ultra-Wide Sensor for capturing expansive shots.

  • Aura Light Feature for enhanced low-light photography.

• Front Camera

  • 50MP Selfie Camera with advanced imaging algorithms for high-resolution selfies and video calls.

Software & UI

• Operating System – Ships with Android 15-based FuntouchOS 15, ensuring the latest software features and security updates.

Vivo V50 Expected Price in India

While Vivo has not officially disclosed the pricing details, industry experts anticipate that the Vivo V50 will launch at a slightly higher price than its predecessor. The previous model was introduced at ₹43,900, so this variant is expected to start around the ₹45,000-₹50,000 range, considering its upgraded features and AI enhancements.

Final Thoughts

With its premium design, AI-driven features, high-performance specifications, and robust battery life, the Vivo V50 is shaping up to be a formidable competitor in the mid-premium smartphone market. The upcoming launch on February 17 will reveal more details about its pricing and availability, making it an exciting event for tech enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Vivo V50 and its official pricing in India.

Apple is gearing up to introduce the much-anticipated iPhone SE 4, and reports suggest that the launch is imminent. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the smartphone could be officially unveiled as early as next week without a dedicated launch event. Apple may announce the new iPhone SE model through its website, with sales expected to begin later in February.

Expected iPhone SE 4 Launch Timeline

According to sources familiar with Apple's plans, the iPhone SE 4 could be revealed within the next few days. Unlike its predecessor, which debuted at the 'Peak Performance' event in March 2022, the upcoming iPhone SE model might be introduced without an official launch event. Apple is reportedly facing stock shortages for some configurations of the iPhone SE (2022) in the US, indicating an impending refresh.

iPhone SE 4 Expected Design and Display

The iPhone SE 4 is expected to undergo a significant design overhaul. Reports indicate that the smartphone will closely resemble the iPhone 14, featuring a larger 6.1-inch OLED display, a departure from the 4.7-inch LCD screen on the previous model. The device is also likely to eliminate the physical home button and Touch ID, replacing them with gesture-based navigation and Face ID authentication.

Performance Upgrades: A18 Chip and Apple Intelligence

Apple is rumored to equip the iPhone SE 4 with a chipset comparable in power to the upcoming A18 processor, which will also be used in the iPhone 16 series. This enhancement will significantly boost the phone's processing capabilities and introduce compatibility with Apple Intelligence features. Additionally, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to come with 8GB of RAM, enhancing multitasking and overall performance.

Apple’s First-Gen Modem and Connectivity Enhancements

One of the most significant upgrades expected in the iPhone SE 4 is Apple's first-generation in-house modem, replacing the Qualcomm modem used in previous iPhone SE models. This move aligns with Apple's strategy to reduce reliance on third-party suppliers and improve network performance. Furthermore, the smartphone is set to feature a USB Type-C port, bidding farewell to the traditional Lightning connector.

Expected Pricing of the iPhone SE 4

The iPhone SE 4 is anticipated to be priced slightly higher than the iPhone SE (2022), which launched at Rs. 43,900 for the base 64GB variant. Given the upgraded design, enhanced performance, and improved hardware, a marginal price increase is expected.

Conclusion: A Major Upgrade for Budget iPhone Users

Apple's iPhone SE 4 is shaping up to be a game-changer in the budget smartphone segment, offering flagship-level performance with a modern design. With an imminent launch and expected sales later this month, Apple enthusiasts eagerly await this new addition to the iPhone SE lineup. Stay tuned for more updates as Apple prepares to introduce its latest affordable smartphone.

Google Pixel smartphones are known for their AI-driven features, but performance issues, especially random stuttering or micro-stuttering, have been a persistent problem since the Pixel 6 series. Despite the introduction of new hardware, such as the Pixel 9 series, the underlying software performance challenges remain unresolved. The issue is believed to be related to the kernel, and a recent thread on Google's official Issue Tracker has highlighted the problem since April 2024.

Developer's Solution to the Pixel Stuttering Problem

In a surprising turn of events, developer Sultan Alsawaf has stepped forward with a custom kernel fix aimed at addressing the Pixel's micro-stuttering issue. Alsawaf identifies the problem as stemming from poor bandwidth management caused by improper handling of the "lock" mechanism, which governs the OS queries along a specific path. According to the developer, Google has been using the term "lock" incorrectly, allowing an excess of OS queries to share the same system path, causing a bottleneck similar to a traffic jam.

The Impact of Incorrect Lock Mechanism

The mismanagement of the "lock" system creates an overload of items on a specific path at once, thereby choking the operating system and triggering stuttering at random intervals. This issue is especially noticeable in day-to-day use, and it's something we've observed in past Pixel reviews. The lack of an official resolution from Google has left users frustrated, but this custom kernel fix provides a glimmer of hope.

Alsawaf’s Custom Kernel Fix

The custom kernel, which implements the correct "lock" mechanism, aims to solve the problem by limiting the number of OS items on the same path. The kernel works by providing more precise bandwidth calculations for the CPU, which, in turn, improves overall system stability and reduces stuttering. Alsawaf has already shared this fix with Google, hoping that it will be integrated into official Pixel software updates in the future.

Risks and Warnings for Users

While users who are technically savvy can flash Alsawaf's custom kernel on their Pixel devices, it's important to note that this process comes with risks, including the potential for data loss or even "bricking" the device. Flashing a custom kernel is not recommended for the average user, as it can lead to unwanted side effects. For most users, the safest course of action is to wait for an official fix from Google, which may incorporate Alsawaf’s kernel improvements into future software updates.

Future of Pixel's Performance: Will Google Address the Stuttering Issue?

As the custom kernel fix makes its rounds in the community, many are optimistic that Google will address the stuttering issue in an upcoming update. The company's involvement in the solution would not only resolve the problem for users but also ensure that Google’s Pixel devices maintain their reputation for performance and reliability.