Category Archives: Mobile

You Can Soon Text People Not on WhatsApp Via WhatsApp in the Future

The digital age of smartphones and apps gave birth to plenty of alternatives for communication methods. We are not really talking about the evolution of 3G to 4G to the current 5G, or whatever that it will evolve into the future. We are talking about going back to messenger apps that sort of lost their appeal when mobile phones became a thing in the Windows XP era. Thanks to the large uptake of an app ecosystem like Apple’s App Store, WhatsApp became a big phenomenon, even bigger than the BlackBerry Messenger. Even with BlackBerry bringing their Messenger app, the rise of apps like Signal, and even Telegram, WhatsApp remains the most popular alternative messenger app you use on your smartphone. There is a good reason for that.

WhatApp, while starting out as a rather simple messenger app for the masses and bridging the gap between Apple iOS and Google Android users, has progressed to become something beyond a simple messenger. The look has not changed all that much to be fair, but the number of features that is packed into the app makes it one of the most complete messenger apps you have out there. One of biggest or most significant updates, at least in our opinions, is the introduction of Communities into the platform. They are not stopping there though.

WA THIRD PARTY CHATS SUPPORT EU REGULATION DMA ANDROID scaled
Source: WA Beta Info

According to the most reliable WhatsApp leak sources, WA Beta Info, WhatsApp is now working on bringing third-party messaging into the platform. This will be in accordance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations that obligate tech companies to offer a more global communication tool that allows users from different platforms to communicate with each other. That also means that you might be able to start texting your friend on Telegram or WeChat without having to download those apps or have any account on the apps and vice versa.

While it has appeared as a Beta feature on WhatsApp Beta version 2.23.19.8 for Android, it does not mean that we will see the feature coming as a fully developed feature anytime soon. There are plenty of things to work on when it comes to third-party app messaging abilities. For one, end-to-end encryption between different apps works rather differently from one another. While a previous interview tells us that the encryption protocol between Signal and WhatsApp is rather similar, there are no guarantees that both apps can communicate with each other without hiccups. There is also a problem of the different programming languages and architecture on the platforms for seamless transition and communication between each of the programs. You also want to keep in mind that not all the features that come out in the Beta version of WhatsApp will be released as a full feature for WhatsApp in the future.

This Beta feature is a little different though. It is developed in compliance with a sanctioned regulation. That also means that we will most likely see the feature being baked into WhatsApp and other messenger apps like Telegram and even Signal. It is just a matter of time.

PayPal Cards Now Compatible with Apple Pay

PayPal debit and credit cardholders can now integrate their cards into the Apple Wallet app, making them accessible for use with Apple Pay. The process is straightforward and can be accomplished in two ways.

Firstly, you can open the iOS PayPal app and find the conspicuous “Pay with your iPhone” banner on the homepage. By tapping this banner, you will be redirected to the Apple Wallet app, where you can conveniently add your PayPal debit or credit cards.

blue and white logo guessing game
Photo by Brett Jordan on Pexels.com

Alternatively, you can add your PayPal cards to your Apple Wallet by opening the app and selecting the plus icon in the display’s upper right corner. Follow the step-by-step instructions to integrate either your PayPal credit card, PayPal debit card, or both into your Wallet app. Once added, you can choose which PayPal card to use for transactions when using Apple Pay.

It’s important to note that Apple retains a small fee of 0.15% of the transaction value, equating to 15 cents for every $100 spent using Apple Pay.

Interestingly, Venmo, a subsidiary of PayPal, is also expected to introduce Apple Pay support for its Venmo credit and debit cards, although this feature has yet to be implemented.

naipo de k24rOBJ2D 0 unsplash

This development coincides with Apple’s recent promotion of its Apple Pay service by releasing several promotional videos. According to analysts, Apple Pay could generate up to $4 billion in revenue this year, solidifying its position as the fifth most widely used payment method globally, trailing only behind PayPal, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.

Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G Officially Available in Malaysia From CelcomDigi for As Low As MYR49

Xiaomi has officially launched the Redmi 12 5G in Malaysia, bringing an exceptional entry-level 5G smartphone into the market. This device offers blazing-fast 5G connectivity, an elegant design, and a range of impressive features, making it a formidable addition to the Redmi series. What’s more, the Redmi 12 5G is now available in Malaysia through Celcom and Digi’s postpaid bundle plans.

At the heart of this powerhouse is the Snapdragon® 4 Gen 2 Mobile Platform. This 4nm processor is a beast, boasting two high-performance cores and six efficiency cores that reach clock speeds of up to 2.2GHz and 2.0GHz, respectively. With 8GB of RAM and expandable storage of up to 1TB, this device delivers flagship-level performance without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect companion for experiencing the lightning-fast speeds of 5G technology.

But that’s not all; the Redmi 12 5G makes a statement with its design. It’s available in three captivating colours: Midnight Black, Sky Blue, and Polar Silver. The device features a premium glass back and an eye-catching infinite camera deco design. Despite its impressive features, it maintains a svelte 8.17mm profile, providing both aesthetics and a comfortable grip.

When it comes to the display, the Redmi 12 5G doesn’t disappoint. It boasts a sizable 6.79-inch FHD+ DotDisplay screen with a 2460×1080 resolution. This means you get an immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for gaming and binge-watching your favourite shows. Plus, with SGS Low Blue Light certification and Reading Mode 3.0, you can enjoy content for extended periods without straining your eyes. Additionally, its IP53 rating ensures it can handle everyday dust and splashes with ease.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the dual-camera system on the Redmi 12 5G. It features a powerful 50-megapixel main camera and a 2-megapixel depth camera that produces stunning bokeh effects, adding authenticity to your photos. The device offers various modes, including HDR, night mode, portrait mode, and even movie frame and time-lapse mode for capturing creative videos. With seven popular film camera filters, you can elevate your photography game with real-time previews and pixel-level calculations.

  • Redmi 12 5G 03
  • Redmi 12 5G 04
  • Redmi 12 5G 05
  • Redmi 12 5G 06
  • Redmi 12 5G 07
  • Redmi 12 5G 08
  • Redmi 12 5G 09
  • Redmi 12 5G 10
  • Redmi 12 5G 01
  • Redmi 12 5G 02

Keeping you connected and powered up is a priority for the Redmi 12 5G. It features an 18W Type-C fast charging port and a robust 5,000mAh battery that ensures you stay productive throughout the day. In fact, it supports up to 23 days of standby, 179 hours of music, 32 hours of reading, or 27 hours of video playback, making it an excellent choice for both work and play. Plus, it retains convenient features like a 3.5mm headphone jack and NFC. It can even serve as an IR remote control for your other home devices.

Pricing and Availability

The Redmi 12 5G (8GB+256GB) is now available in Malaysia through Celcom and Digi‘s postpaid bundle plans.

PlanMonthly PlanContract termUpfront payment
Celcom MEGA™ 98RM 98/month24-monthsRM 49
Digi Postpaid 90RM 90/month24-monthsRM 49

Samsung & Thom Browne Elevate Fashion-Tech Fusion with Galaxy Z Fold5 &Watch6 Limited Editions

Samsung has once again partnered with renowned designer Thom Browne to create an exquisite fusion of technology and fashion. The result? The limited-edition Galaxy Z Fold5 Thom Browne Edition and the Galaxy Watch6 Thom Browne Edition.

Z Fold5 Thom Browne PR dl5
Source: Samsung

This collaboration isn’t new; it’s the latest instalment in a longstanding partnership that began with the Galaxy Z Fold 2. What sets this year’s limited edition apart is its inspiration – the elegance of black-tie events. The Galaxy Z Fold5 Thom Browne Edition is not just a device; it’s a masterpiece. Crafted with black pebble leather and intricate detailing, it proudly showcases Thom Browne’s signature style. The iconic red, white, and blue stripes are prominently displayed on the device’s exterior, while the back glass boasts a tactile fabric texture. A black frame with gold accents and gold rings encircling the camera lenses adds an extra touch of luxury.

But the attention to detail doesn’t end with the device itself. The packaging is designed to provide an exceptional unboxing experience, reminiscent of a Thom Browne high-end briefcase. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s also a collector’s item.

The Galaxy Z Fold5 Thom Browne Edition doesn’t come alone; it includes two exclusive leather pouch cases and a specially crafted S Pen. These accessories not only enhance the style but also the functionality of the device.

Z Fold5 Thom Browne PR dl5
Source: Samsung

And that’s not all. The Galaxy Watch6 also gets the Thom Browne treatment. With its gold-tone body, unique watch face, and Thom Browne logo, it oozes sophistication. The red, white, and blue theme extends to the buckle and two leather straps, creating a seamless and elegant look. Even accessories like the 25W travel adapter, coin-style watch charger, and USB-C to USB-C cable carry Thom Browne’s signature touch.

Pricing & Availability

These exclusive editions will be available in limited quantities starting September 12, 2023, in select markets, including Korea. While the price remains undisclosed, tech and fashion enthusiasts alike can look forward to making their purchases through Samsung’s website.

Xiaomi 13T & Xiaomi 13T Pro Set for Debut on 26 September 2023

Xiaomi has officially announced that the Xiaomi 13T series will launch on September 26 2023. The event will be held in Berlin, Germany, and will be live-streamed on Mi.com. This lineup is co-engineered with Leica, promising Leica filters and other camera enhancements in the default camera app. However, Xiaomi has not revealed how many smartphones will be included in this series.

https://twitter.com/Xiaomi/status/1698999412280754610

What We Expect

Both the Xiaomi 13T and 13T Pro will boast a 6.67-inch OLED display with a 144 Hz refresh rate and a remarkable maximum brightness of 2,600 nits. These phones will be powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9200 and Dimensity 9200 Plus processors, supported by up to 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of internal storage. Battery capacity is set at 5,000 mAh, and the main camera on the Xiaomi 13T Pro will feature a 50 MP sensor with OIS and an f/1.9 aperture, offering impressive photography capabilities. Other notable specs include a 13 MP ultra-wide camera and a 50 MP telephoto zoom camera, both equipped with OmniVision sensors. Lastly, the front-facing 20 MP camera will sport a Sony IMX596 sensor.

Xiaomi 13T Series Comes with Extended Software Support

Both the Xiaomi 13T and 13T Pro models are promised to receive five years of security updates. This commitment to software support exceeds Google’s three-generation update policy for Pixel phones. The Xiaomi 13T series is expected to ship with Android 13-based MIUI 14 out of the box, with the potential for updates up to Android 17.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Astro Edition reaches for the stars

Samsung is back with a mesmerizing blend of tradition and technology in their latest release: the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Astro Edition. Drawing inspiration from ancient astrolabes, this timepiece is more than just a smartwatch; it’s a work of art.

Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Astro

Inspired by ancient astronomy

The Galaxy Watch6 Classic Astro Edition’s standout feature is its astrolabe-inspired bezel. But what exactly is an astrolabe? Think of it as an ancient astronomical calculator used for navigation. Samsung’s innovation lies in reimagining this ancient tool as a functional, rotating bezel on a modern smartwatch.

Galaxy Watch6 Astro Edition dl7

This bezel not only adds a touch of sophistication but also serves as an intuitive navigation tool. It retains it standard function of effortlessly scroll through apps and menus with a satisfying click. The highlight are the depictions of constellations, stars, and other lunar bodies, along the top of the bezel.

Honoring the legacy of astronomy in the MENA region

Samsung has chosen to launch their wearable masterpiece exclusively in the MENA region, adding an element of exclusivity to the Galaxy Watch6 Classic Astro Edition. The countries in the region include UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Türkiye and Morocco.

Samsung stated that the astrolabe was chosen as it “symbolises the (MENA) region’s legacy of scientific and innovative contributions, particularly in time, astronomy and mathematics”. It’s a testament to Samsung’s commitment to tailoring their products to specific markets.

Exclusive astronomy-inspired features

Galaxy Watch6 Astro Edition Main2 FF

Beyond its stunning design, this smartwatch packs a punch when it comes to technology. It is only available in the 47mm variant and features all the essential functions you’d expect from a premium smartwatch, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and fitness tracking.

On top of that, you get exclusive, astrolabe-inspired complications. These include a compass complication on the dial and solar/lunar phase tracker that lets users track the movement of the sun and moon.

Bridging the past and future on your wrist

Galaxy Watch6 Astro Edition Main1 F

The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic Astro Edition is a celebration of craftsmanship and innovation. It will be available starting 2nd August 2023, with no official pricing available as of yet. There will be an exclusive purchase offer that includes an additional fabric strap, Astro Edition collectibles, and access to Samsung’s VIP exclusive promotion store.

By integrating traditional design elements with modern innovation, Samsung has created a wearable that bridges the past and the future.

Sources: Samsung, GSMArena, SamMobile

Apple Vision Pro Will Seamlessly Integrate iPhone & iPad Apps

Apple‘s upcoming mixed-reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro. The upcoming headset is set to blur the lines between the virtual and real worlds, and Apple is taking steps to ensure that users have a multitude of apps at their fingertips from day one.

Apple WWCD23 Vision Pro VisionOS 230605

The Vision Pro is set to launch with its own OS dubbed visionOS and it’s set to face an uphill climb when it comes to apps. It looks like Apple is looking to tackle this challenge head-on. The company has announced that iPhone and iPad apps will seamlessly integrate into the visionOS App Store. This means that users will have access to their favourite apps and games, creating a more connected, productive, and entertaining experience.

Developers, in particular, will appreciate Apple’s approach. The company is streamlining the process by ensuring that most iPad and iPhone apps can run on visionOS without any modifications. This decision eliminates the need for developers to rework their existing apps for the new platform.

According to Apple, “By default, your iPad and/or iPhone apps will be published automatically on the App Store on Apple Vision Pro. Most frameworks available in iPadOS and iOS are also included in visionOS, which means nearly all iPad and iPhone apps can run on visionOS, unmodified.”

Apple WWCD23 Vision Pro lifestyle working 230605

While the automatic integration of existing apps is a significant advantage, Apple is also empowering developers to take things further. The visionOS Software Development Toolkit (SDK) provides developers with the tools they need to optimize their apps for the Vision Pro headset. This includes adding elements such as 3D content designed for eye and hand input, creating a more natural and immersive user experience.

The company plans to release a developer beta version of visionOS in the fall. This beta will include the App Store, ensuring that developers can test their apps on the platform well in advance of its official launch.

Users can expect to explore their favourite iPad and iPhone apps side by side with new visionOS apps on the expansive canvas of the Apple Vision Pro. The headset is slated for release early next year, making it a highly anticipated addition to Apple’s product lineup.

Apple’s decision to seamlessly integrate iPhone and iPad apps into the Apple Vision Pro ecosystem is a strategic move that potentially simplifies the user experience and streamlines development. It’s a step towards ensuring that the new platform has a rich library of apps from the get-go which ultimately benefits users and developers alike. As we await the Vision Pro’s official launch, it’s clear that Apple is committed to ensuring that it leaves a mark while trying to redefine the mixed reality experience.

Realme GT 5 available now in China

In the ever-competitive scene of high-performance smartphones, Realme is stamping its mark with the GT 5 series, promising to redefine the limits of mobile performance.

Realme GT 5 placeholder

Power-packed performance

The heart of the Realme GT 5 series is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, the powerhouse behind the lightning-fast operations. You can expect snappy app launches, seamless multitasking, and smoother gaming experiences. With a jaw-dropping 24GB of RAM on the highest-end model, the Realme GT 5 series ensures you have room to spare for all your multitasking needs.

realme gt 5 snapdragon

Realme has raised the bar when it comes to charging speed. Their top-tier model boasts a staggering 240W wired charging capability with a 4600 mAh. There is also a 150W wired charging variant which promises impressive charging speeds while having a higher battery capacity of 5240 mAh. Regardless of the variant you choose, battery anxiety will be a thing of the past.

Audio and Visual Brilliance

The Realme GT 5 doesn’t just excel under the hood. Its 6.7-inch AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, making your content pop. The 1,240 x 2,772 pixel resolution ensures crisp visuals, while a 144Hz refresh rate provides a silky-smooth experience, perfect for gaming and scrolling through social media. Game visuals are juiced up further with the Adreno GPU and X7 display chip that can boost framerates while gaming.

realme gt 5 display

Sound quality is often an overlooked aspect of smartphones, but not for Realme. The GT 5 series features stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, that are both Hi-Res Audio and Dolby certified. While it does not have a 3.5mm audio jack, it does have support for aptX HD, LHDC, LDAC and LC3 audio codecs over its Bluetooth 5.3 connection. This means that you can enjoy the highest quality of audio over wireless connection.

Get snapping and….burning?

The camera setup is equally impressive. Realme knows the importance of a good shot, and they’ve equipped the GT 5 series with top-notch cameras. It consists of a 50MP main camera with Sony’s IMX890 sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro camera. To help with lighting, there is LED light with 26 customizable colors and 5 levels of brightness. For selfies, it sports a 16MP front camera.

An interesting feature that will be available is the Burning mode. This mode allows the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset to run at a sustained, full-frequency speed when paired with a clip-on fan. There is no word yet if this mode works with any clip-on fan or a specific one.

Realme GT 5 specs

Pricing and Availability

The Realme GT 5 series is now available in China through Realme’s official Chinese website. The 150W charging variant is available in two configurations; 12 GB RAM and 256 GB of storage retailing at 2999 Yuan (~RM 1915) and 16 GB RAM and 512 GB of storage for 3299 Yuan (~RM 2106). The top-shelf 240W charging variant is available with 24GB RAM and 1TB of storage retailing at 3799 Yuan (~RM 2425). Two colors are available; silver with a mirror finish and matte Green finish.

The Realme GT 5 is shaping up to be a great option for a tech enthusiast, a gaming aficionado, or even a multitasking pro!

vivo V29e announced in India

vivo announces its latest mid-range entry, the vivo V29e to be available in India starting 7th September 2023.

V29E colours 2

A decent mid-range entry for vivo

The device comes with all the expected features of a modern mid-range device. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, which is becoming a mainstay for mid-range devices. It offers decent performance and power efficiency despite being an older chipset. The chipset is supplemented with 8GB of RAM and the either128GB or 256GB storage, expandable with a microSD card. To keep things powered, there is a 5000 mAh battery which supports 44W wired fast charging. The device will also run Funtouch OS 13 on top of Android 13 out of the box.

V29E colours 3

Cameras are a 64MP main shooter with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide module that are housed in the camera rings. It does come with an impressive front camera, a 50MP module with eye autofocus. There is also an exclusive Wedding Style Portrait feature, which allows snapping of bridal pictures with exclusive color palettes from top Indian photographers.

Color-changing glasses and 120Hz AMOLED display

vivo V29E color change
The Artistic Red glass panel changes from red to black when exposed to UV light. Image source: GSMArena

Another highlight feature is the color options for the vivo V29e. It features vivo’s Artistic Design finish, which are color-changing glass backs. The Artistic Red variant can change from a vibrant ruby red to black when exposed to UV light. There is an Artistic Blue option that does not seem to have a color change feature. The color-changing glasses are also accentuated with prism-like designs, making the device aesthetically pleasing. The vivo V29e is rounded out with a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and a 120Hz refresh rate. The display is also curved further feeding into the aesthetics of the device.

Pricing and availability

The vivo V29e will be available in India starting 7th September 2023, with pre-bookings open on the vivo India official website and local retail partners. Pricing is INR 26,999 (~RM 1518) for the 128GB storage version and INR 26,999 (~RM 1630) for the 256GB storage version. At the moment, there is no official announcement of availability in other regions.

Source: GSMArena

Huawei Silently Reveals the HUAWEI Mate60 Series Complete with HarmonyOS and 5G

Huawei silently launched its Mate60 series, featuring Harmony OS, a whole new set of XMAGE cameras and even 5G

Huawei Mate 60 Series 1
Source: HUAWEI VMALL

In a rather uncharacteristic move, Huawei has quietly rolled out its latest additions to the smartphone arena – the Huawei Mate60 Pro and the Mate60. Let’s dive into what makes these devices worth the buzz.

HUAWEI Mate60 Pro

The Mate60 Pro comes with a 6.82-inch 10-bit LTPO OLED screen boasting a resolution of 2720 x 1260 pixels complete with an adaptive 120 Hz refresh rate. Huawei has also integrated a second-generation Kunlun Glass for added durability.

  • Huawei Mate 60 Series 1
  • Huawei Mate 60 Series 2
  • Huawei Mate 60 Series 5
  • Huawei Mate 60 Series 6

However, it’s the triple punch holes at the top of the display that steal the spotlight. Here, Huawei houses the selfie camera and a 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor. This clever setup enables facial recognition and Face ID-like features. The 13 MP ultrawide selfie camera, paired with sensors and lasers, ensures sharp and secure face mapping.

Flipping the phone reveals a circular camera module housing three more cameras. The headliner is a 50-megapixel main camera with Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) and Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF). The camera setup was previously featured in the Mate50 Pro and P60 Pro. The 50-megapixel sensor features a variable aperture ranging from f/1.4-f/4.0 variable aperture. This is complemented by a 12-megapixel, ultrawide-angle camera with an f/2.2 lens and a third 48-megapixel sensor with an f/3.0 telephoto lens with OIS and AF.

Huawei Mate 60 Series 2
Source: HUAWEI VMALL

The Mate60 Pro even features satellite messaging capabilities. However, this feature is only available in China.l The Pro also sports a 5,000 mAh battery that supports rapid 88W wired and 50W wireless charging, as well as 20W reverse wireless charging.

Huawei’s Mate60 series is launching with HarmonyOS 4. making it the first device to showcase this UI out of the box. While the phone’s chipset remains undisclosed, it is rumoured to feature an in-house Kirin 9000S processor with eight CPU cores, including a Cortex-A78, three more Cortex-A78 performance cores, and four efficiency Cortex-A510 cores, all powered by a Maleoon 910 GPU.

Huawei Mate 60

The Mate60 shares many features with its Pro sibling. However, there are a few differences that set it apart.

The display on the Mate60 is a 6.69-inch LTPO OLED with a resolution of 1216 x 2688 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Like the Mate 60 Pro, it also features second-gen Kunlun Glass for added protection.

Huawei Mate 60 Series 3
Source: HUAWEI VMALL

The camera setup is slightly different, with a 12-megapixel periscope offering 5x optical zoom replacing the 48-megapixel telephoto lens found on the Mate 60 Pro. The main 50-megapixel camera with a variable f/1.4-f/4.0 aperture and the 12-megapixel ultrawide modules are the same.

The Mate60 is likely powered by the same in-house Kirin 9000S SoC as its Pro counterpart and features 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. Its 4,750 mAh battery supports 66W wired charging, offering a slightly reduced charging speed compared to the Pro model.

Like the Mate60 Pro, it supports satellite messaging in China and comes in four colour options.

Pricing & Availability

The HUAWEI Mate60 Pro comes in an array of striking colours including White, Green, Purple, and Black, with glass or faux leather materials. Prices for the Mate60 Pro start at CNY 6,999 (USD$960/MYR4,468.68) for the 512GB version. The regular Mate60 comes in at CNY 5,999 ($824/MYR3,830.21).

Huawei has not divulged any plans for an international launch.