Tag Archives: tablet

Android, Lifestyle, Mobile, News

Android 12L is Here for Pixel Devices! But isn’t it for Tablets?

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Google introduced their 12th generation of Android in 2021 and it looked promising. It was not a major change to how Android worked, as we have covered, but more of small improvements that added up to affect the total experience of what the system is and what it can do for you. We’ve updated our smartphones to Android 12, whichever ones that can be updated, and so far, we like them.

Google, not too long after their 2021 I/O announcement and showcase of Android 12, also introduced something they call Android 12L. You can see it as Android 12.1 in the current scheme of things. For smartphones, the improvements on Android 12L are relatively minor. You might not even notice any changes if you have updated your devices to Android 12L, which might come later if you are not on a Pixel device. But as Google puts it back then, Android 12L is not for smartphones.

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Source: Google

The whole point of Google introducing an entirely new minor update for Android in the Android 12L is mostly for the big screens, the Android tablets. It is supposed to improve the interface and make the larger display more natural and more intuitive to use. The settings menu is also supposed to take advantage of the larger display factor for more information and more natural interaction. There is also a more intuitive and better-looking multitasking experience with dual window mode that is more prominent.

Android 12L update should also bring the tablet experience closer to that of a Chrome OS and Windows. There is a consensus out there that if you want to get an Android tablet, you might as well think of getting a Chromebook with Chrome OS instead. Chrome OS, while flawed, is still one of the best ways to even experience the Android experience on a larger display. It is also a much better PC replacement than an Android ever could be. That is what Android 12L is supposed to tackle anyway, to make tablets more relevant.

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Source: Google

All these sounds promising. There is a problem, however. The only Android tablet today that supports Android 12 is Samsung’s brand-new Galaxy Tab S8 series. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 series will be getting Android 12, but that also means that Android 12L will have to wait, since its replacement will not be getting Android 12L update this soon.

Google did mention, in their blog post, that 12L will roll out to tablets and foldables later in the year. They listed Samsung, Lenovo and Microsoft, so that is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Z Fold3 covered, at least. We can only assume that from Microsoft’s end, it would be the Microsoft Surface Duo 2 that gets the update.

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For Google’s Pixel devices though, the update, while minor, introduces some new useful features. For one, they added Night Sight for Snapchat users. It allows Snapchat to capture more vibrant and detailed snaps even in low-light conditions. There is also Live Caption mode in phone calls now where you can pick up a call, and simply converse by just typing your words out on the phone, or just clicking pre-set responses. You do not even have to listen to the phone call, just treat it like an instant messenger.

Live Translate is also getting an update from the new Android update. In Interpreter mode, you can now converse in Spanish, Italian, and French all through your smartphone. It will also be able to identify and translate Spanish in videos and photos when it is available on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.

Of course, Google wants to ensure that you do not have to scroll through hoops of apps and screens to find the most basic information from your device. Google have added a few widgets to help you cut down precious time for your battery information for your smartphone and its connected devices. There is also an improved At a Glance widget that will also help you keep track of the battery, if you want an “everything in one” widget.

The new Android 12L or 12.1 update is now available for Google Pixel 3a series, Pixel 4 series, Pixel 4a series, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a. Google’s latest Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will also be getting the update, but at a slightly later date. More information on Android 12L and its smartphone features can be found on Google’s Blog.

Advertorial, Android, Mobile

5 Reasons Why the Nokia T20 is a Tablet Made for Anyone

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The Tablet has had a tumultuous start in the tech industry. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the last time you had a tablet was more than 5 years ago. However, times have indeed changed especially when it comes to the embattled tablet. We’ve entered an era where tablets are becoming more than just screens; they’ve become the cornerstone of our entertainment systems and, in some cases, our productivity. However, with that being the reality, we’ve also been forced to pay even more for them – until the Nokia T20.

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The new Nokia T20 is a unique combination of affordability, versatility and security. It brings together the cornerstone features of a tablet and ensures that your data is safe while you work and play. Not only does it bring some of the immersive technologies we’re so accustomed to when it comes to Nokia smartphones, but it also packs a versatile package that can adapt for any use. In fact, we’ve got 5 reasons that make it one of the most versatile tablets on the market.

1. Specced Out To Meet Your Every Need

The Nokia T20 isn’t like other tablets that force you to choose between having a flagship experience or long-lasting specifications. Instead, the tablet is specced to be able to meet your needs. It comes with a quad-core processor with 2 large performance cores and 6 power efficiency cores allowing it to seamlessly switch between performance and power-efficient modes when in use. You won’t be hungry for a wall socket on the go nor will you be edging to throw the T20 against the wall when you’re gaming. 

In addition, it comes with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of onboard storage which can handle almost anything you can throw at it. If that isn’t enough, you’ll be able to get up to 512GB of additional storage through the microSD card slot. Combine this with a crisp 10.4-inch display with 2K resolution and you’re set to seamlessly glide between work and Genshin Impact. If you’re looking to make the experience THAT much better, you’ll just need to pair a Bluetooth Keyboard or Controller depending on whether you want to complete that document or defeat that final boss.

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Oh! Did we forget to mention? It’s also built for work (or play) on the go with support for 4G LTE connectivity. Of course, it supports WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth 5.0. In addition to that, the 4G LTE version comes with GPS support.

2. Immersive Entertainment with Hardware that Makes a Difference

If you’re looking for a tablet built for entertainment, you might have just found it with the Nokia T20. It comes equipped with a 10.4-inch in-cell display with 2K resolution. That resolution is higher than most other tablets in its price range! It has a typical brightness of 400 nits so you can even see what you’re doing under the sunlight and with a 5:3 aspect ratio, you’ve got even more visibility when you’re in that game of Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile.

Nokia T20 IMG 6

The visual experience is complemented by Nokia’s OZO Audio technology which creates an immersive soundscape with the stereo speakers that come with the T20. In fact, HMD global debuted this technology with the Nokia 6 in 2017 and have been improving it with every generation. You’ll be able to hear every note in the concerto you’re listening to while working and every footstep in that battle royale game you’re playing online.

3. Create A Curated Experience For Your Kids

It’s always a challenge looking for a tablet that will cater to your child while allowing you to keep the experience safe for them. With the Nokia T20, you’ll be able to create a walled-off garden for your child to play in. They will get to enjoy every experience available without you needing to worry about untoward content or security risks.

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Setting up the experience is as simple as A-B-C thanks to Google Kids Space. You can set up a Google account for your child and create the experience you want for them. In fact, you can do this remotely using the Family Link app. In fact, you can set up and change limits without disrupting their experience. They will get an uninterrupted experience on the Nokia T20 including in the Play Store and on YouTube. However, certain content will be filtered out according to your settings to keep you at ease. You’ll even be able to set time limits to screen time and app usage!

4. Quality with A Proven Legacy

Nokia devices have a proven legacy of quality. In fact, their devices were so hardy that Malaysians always say that their devices can be used in self-defence! With a legacy like that, where else can you go but up when it comes to quality. The Nokia T20 is made of quality materials that are built to last. The body of the tablet is made of Sandblasted aluminium which is not only a sight to behold but also sturdy with enough rigidity to leave unattended with your kids. Even the glass on the screen is made of toughened glass to withstand the rigours of child use. It also comes with an IP52 rating for dust and water resistance.

Nokia T20 IMG 5

Pair this with the bundled rugged case which comes together with your brand-new Nokia T20 and you have a truly ruggedized tablet. Not only does it have the built quality but also the additional protection that it needs when you or your child use it.

5. Guaranteed Security with Timely Updates

HMD Global isn’t just releasing devices without thinking about software support and security. They’ve actually guaranteed updates for all their devices! The Nokia suite of devices will come with 2 years of major OS updates. So, if in those 2 years, there are 5 major updates, you can rest assured you’re Nokia T20 will get them. In addition, HMD Global is guaranteeing security updates for an additional year after that. That’s 3 years of security updates!

Nokia T20 IMG 2

In addition to this, the Nokia T20 also comes with Android 11 out of the box. It’s also set to receive the Android 12 update very soon! So you’ll be up to date with the latest software experience and security patches in no time.

Could you be asking for more when it comes to the tablet that is available for only MYR1,099? You’d be hard-pressed to find many other options which come with the thought and experience that comes with the Nokia T20. You don’t even have to leave your home to get your tablet, it’s available online on Shopee and Lazada.

DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE IS AN ADVERTORIAL COMMISSIONED BY HMD GLOBAL. IT MAY NOT REPRESENT THE OPINIONS OF THE TECHENT EDITORIAL BOARD.

Android, News

Android is FINALLY Optimizing for Larger Screens with Android 12L

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Android tablets have long been a sore spot for the ecosystem. In fact, Android as an ecosystem has hardly made any progress to make the operating system more usable on tablets and larger displays. Currently, these devices use a supersized version of regular Android. Some manufacturers such as Samsung have added some software features to their tablets to further optimise the experience.

Android 12L 2
Source: Google

You may be wondering, “Didn’t Google introduce optimisations with Android Honeycomb?”. The short answer – yes they did. That said, since then, many of these changes have been rolled back. Years after the fact, it looks like Google is finally addressing the issue at a root OS level.

Mid-life Update for Android 12

Android 12L is an upcoming update that will introduce changes that will optimise the operating system for tablets and foldable devices. Android 12L will be rolled out as a mid-life update for Android 12. L, of course, stands for Large. That said, the update to Android 12L is also bringing an update when it comes to SDK. The current Android 12 SDK is known to developers as API Level 32. The new API level brings significant changes in how Android deals with and recognises large screens and foldables.

Android 12L 2

The new API level brings a focus on multitasking and maximising the additional forms and display space that comes with larger devices. The biggest change in the SDK is apps defaulting to multitasking mode for apps to help with compatibility and scalability. Google is also streamlining scalability. “WindowMetics” and “WindowSizeClasses” APIs will address developers’ woes in developing for the wide variety of different sizes present on Android devices. The new APIs will provide information and guides or “opinionated layout breakpoints” which will allow devs to better optimise and adapt.

Visually Improved and Geared for Productivity

With the introduction of better app adaptability with “WindowsSizeClasses”, it comes as no surprise that Android 12L will come with graphical changes that help with multitasking. The biggest change comes in the system menus and UI elements. These have been updated to support two columns graphically. We’ve seen this layout previously in devices like the iPad and also Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S7 series. The two columns allow more actionable content to be shown at a glance making it easier to get to options. The new layout defaults also make their way to the notification shade allowing users to see and access more on larger screens.

Android 12L 4

12L is also bringing along a new taskbar. The taskbar is akin to the one Android had in Honeycomb but brings a sharper focus on multitasking. The new taskbar will allow users to drag apps into split-screen and multiwindow mode seamlessly. Apps across the board will be able to do this regardless of optimisations. Devs will need to optimise for the best compatibility. However, if the app isn’t updated, it will be forced into compatibility mode. In addition to behaving more like Windows and macOS taskbar, the navigation on larger screens will be relegated to the corner of the taskbar for more ergonomic accessibility.

Better App Visibility on the Google Play Store

In addition to the visual changes and software optimisation, Google is also finally addressing the app situation on the Google Play Store. Using some of the optimisation and new APIs available in Android 12L, Google will be surfacing apps better optimised for tablets and larger screens more efficiently. The Google Play Store itself is getting a visual update to better utilise large screens. Users will be able to have better access to different pages and options at a glance.

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  • Android 12L 1

Google will also be introducing new checks to assess large-screen apps. These checks will allow Google to better surface properly optimised apps. In addition, they are introducing large-screen specific app ratings. Larger screen devices will also be prompted when apps are ill-optimised.

Release & Development

With the announcement of Android 12L, it comes as no surprise that we are eager to see these optimisations make their way to larger devices soon. According to the announcement, there will be a developer preview with three betas before the final release in Q1 2022. The developer preview is currently available for the Lenovo Tab P2 and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold3.

Android, Mobile, News

HMD Enters Tablet Market with the Affordable Nokia T20

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HMD Global seems to be pushing more Nokia devices this year and even entering new spaces. The latest device to enter the Nokia portfolio is an Android-powered tablet – the Nokia T120. The tablet also marks the brand’s first entry into the tablet space since it was first relaunched. It’s also part of a resurgence in the Android tablet space which has been spearheaded by the likes of Lenovo, Samsung and Xiaomi.

nokia t20 hero

The Nokia T20 is a unique tablet. It comes with a UNISOC system on a chip. Never heard of them? Well, UNISOC is a Chinese semiconductor company. The specific SoC used is the UNISOC Tiger T610 which is an octa-core processor. It’s a 12nm chip with two high-performance Cortex A75 cores and six high-efficiency Cortex A55 cores clocked. The caveat, if you haven’t picked up on it just yet, is that the cores are relatively dated. The A75s were last used in Qualcomm’s 2017 flagship Snapdragon 845. However, that may be a boon to Nokia’s new tablet as it’s definitely a factor in keeping the price down.

The processor is complemented with either 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage or 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. If you need extra memory, there’s support for a microSD card. On the display side of things, the Nokia T20 comes with a 10.4-inch LCD with 2000×1200 pixel resolution and a 5:3 aspect ratio. It has “toughened glass” for protection. It supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11b/g/n/ac) and Bluetooth 5.0. There is also a 4G LTE variant that supports 4G connectivity. On the camera front, it has a 5-megapixel selfie camera and an 8-megapixel main sensor. The Nokia T20 is powered by an 8,200mAh battery capable of 15W fast charging through a USB-C cable. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack.

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The tablet itself will have an aluminium back which should give it some added durability. HMD is claiming that the battery will be able to last up to 15 hours on a single charge. The company has also committed to three years of security updates and 2 years of major Android updates for the tablet. The Nokia T20 will launch with Android 11.

Pricing & Availability

The Nokia T20 will be making its way to select markets starting on October 6, 2021. It will be priced at €UR199 (MYR961.49) for the Wi-Fi only version. The 4G LTE version will be priced at €UR239 (MYR1,154.78).

It will only be available in Nokia’s signature Ocean Blue colour.

Android, Lifestyle, Mobile, News

The Xiaomi Pad 5 – The Android Tablet That We Want?

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Xiaomi launched something we thought we might never see from any other Android manufacturer in their launch event two days ago. They launched a tablet, and not just any tablet. They launched an 11-inch tablet that is set to take on Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S7 series and even HUAWEI’s MatePad series. If you consider its size, it competes directly with the Apple iPad Pro too.

Xiaomi is not a new player in the Android space. They have overtaken Apple to be the second largest brand globally in terms of shipped smartphones. All this while not having a major presence in the United States market. At one point, they were third globally without even hitting most of the European market. This is also a testament that Xiaomi really knows what they are doing in the smartphone space.

The tablet space is a little different though. The Android tablet market space is a sparse one. The only viable player in the Android tablet space is Samsung with their Galaxy Tab S7 series. HUAWEI is out of the picture, since their devices do not and cannot support Google Play Store and Google’s mobile framework. Even we would admit that Apple’s iPad has offered the best tablet experience so far.

The Xiaomi Pad 5 then is a peculiar product. While we liked the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 very much, we still think that the Android tablet experience has a lot to be left desired if compared to the Apple iPad devices. While the Apple iPad goes all the way to the pro version with M1 chipset and endless potential in its applications, the same cannot be said for Android tablets, even the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7. So, what then can the Xiaomi Pad 5 offer that Samsung cannot, and what does it have that might sway you away from just buying the shiny new iPad?

The Power of Xiaomi Pad 5

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Source: Xiaomi

Firstly, we have to look at its internals to understand what this tablet can offer. It is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 (Snapdragon 870 for Pro variant) that keeps the Android 11 with MIUI 12.5 tablet trundling along. It is no Qualcomm Snapdragon 888, which is a slight disappointment. While it makes little to no practical difference, its direct competitor is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 System on a Chip (SoC). It also packs less RAM at 6GB compared to its Android competitor.

Within the aluminium and glass constructed body though is a large 8,720mAh battery with 33W charging speeds. Most tablets have batteries that can go on for days on a single charge though, so that would not be all that special anyway. Like its competitor also it packs four speakers with Dolby Atmos tuning.

Stunning Display

XMPad5 5
Source: Xiaomi

Where it holds a slight lead though is on the panel that lies under the glass protection out-front. It is an 11-inch IPS display instead of the regular TFT LCD display from the Samsung. It offers the same WQHD+ (1,60 x 2,560 pixels) resolution as well, meaning the display should look just a tad better in terms of colour reproduction and contrast, especially with HDR contents. Dolby Vision is also built-into this display for the best entertainment experience possible on a tablet device. Of course, it refreshes at 120Hz, that is quite mandatory in devices today.

Productivity Suite

Xiaomi Pad 5 Pen2
Source: Xiaomi

Like most Android tablets (we say most because we still regard the HUAWEI MatePad Pro to be a variant of an Android tablet), the Xiaomi Pad 5 comes with a stylus. They call it the Xiaomi Smart Pen (seriously, can anyone come up with better names for styli?) and it is a good pen, on paper anyway. It offers 4,096 pressure points which also means that it is as sensitive as it gets when it comes to stylus technology. With 240Hz of sampling rate, the Smart Pen is also as responsive as it can get today. It is an active pen with smart programmable buttons on its side. That also means that you need to keep it charged by attaching the Smart Pen to the side of the device. It charges from flat to full in 18 minutes and should be able to keep you writing, drawing, and scribbling for as long as 8 hours non-stop.

No Other Accessories So Far

XMPad5 2
Source: Xiaomi

Everything that has been stated above and in the launch points to a very capable tablet device. It is a highly compelling device that could even be just a little better than the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7. On paper, these two offer practically the same things at different price points. The Xiaomi Pad 5 starts at MYR 1,499 or approximately while the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 starts at MYR 3,299.

There is a problem here though. The Xiaomi Pad 5 does not come with the accessory support that the Samsung tablet has. There is a keyboard case and another magnetic case that is made for the tablet. Along with the Smart Pen, there is no other accessory for it. Then again, this is the same problem that Samsung has with their tablet line-up compared to the Apple iPad.

The basic Apple iPad starts at MYR 1,499 though, the same price as the base model of the Xiaomi tablet. The same priced Apple iPad does not come with an Apple Pencil, or a keyboard case too, which makes the Apple iPad a more expensive device compared to the Xiaomi Pad 5.

The Android Tablet That Makes A lot of Sense

XMPad5 4
Source: Xiaomi

Here is the thing, the Apple iPad Pro with M1 wins the tablet market hands down. There are two things that holds it back though despite its processing prowess. The iPad Pro is held back by its price and the limitations of iPadOS itself. The iPadOS experience is something that is constantly evolving though, which also means that the next iteration of iPadOS might start taking advantage of the M1 chips.

The Xiaomi Pad 5 is never really designed to compete with the Apple iPad Pro line-up though. It is meant to compete with the humbler regular iPad, and in that we think it excels. At MYR 1,499, the Xiaomi Pad 5 comes in with a reasonable price tag that plenty can swallow. It is a perfect Android device that is targeted squarely at users who are thinking of buying an iPad and not willing to spend much more for a tablet. More information on the Xiaomi Pad 5 is available on their website.

Android, Mobile, News

[MWC2021] Lenovo Announces New Slate of Tablets

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Lenovo has been one of the only manufacturers actively releasing tablets in the Android space. This year, the company is updating and diversifying their offerings with a slew of new tablets. Each line up addresses a unique niche with features that not not only address the need but also up their design ante.

Entertain, Create and Be Productive with the New Lenovo Yoga Tab Lineup

The Lenovo Yoga Tab series has always been Lenovo’s go to when it comes to pushing the boundaries of entertainment. The new lineup of the Yoga Tab series continues to inherit the sleek design and curves of the Yoga Tabs of the past. However, this year, the new entries: the Yoga Tab 11 and Yoga Tab 13 come with the lineup’s signature design which resembles a folded magazine or book. This year it’s paired with a large display and specifications which gear the tablets to be one of the most versatile tablets in the Yoga Tab lineup.

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The Lenovo Yoga Tab 13 comes packed with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 mobile platform paired with 8GB of RAM. The Octa-core processor is able to process data at up to 3.2GHz of speed. It also has 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. It comes with a Dolby Vision certified 13-inch LTPS display with a WQHD resolution of 2160×1350 pixels. The display has a 60Hz refresh rate with 400 nits peak brightness. The screen is complemented with Quad JBL speakers with a 5cc audio chamber and Dolby Atmos certification and Lenovo’s Premium Audio Solution. It has 3 microphones for video calling and recording audio. The Tab is powered with a 10,000mAh battery with up to 12 hours of video playback at 1080p. Topping up charge shouldn’t be a problem with 30W quick charge.

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The smaller Yoga Tab 11 comes with a smaller 11-inch LCD display with a WUXGA resolution of 2000×1200 pixels. It comes in two memory configurations: 8GB RAM and 256GB onboard memory and 4GB of RAM and 128GB of onboard memory. Both run on the MediaTek Helio G90T processor. Similar to its larger sibling, the Yoga Tab 11 comes with Quad JBL speakers and all the extras. However, it comes with a dual-mic configuration. It also comes with a 7,500mAh battery with up to 15 hours of video playback and support for 20W quick charge. Both support the Lenovo Precision Pen 2. You’ll be able to use the built-in kickstand to get the tablets in the best orientation for your artistic endeavours.

Versatility with the New Lenovo Tab P11 Plus & 3rd Generation Tab M series

Lenovo Tab P11 Plus Modernist Teal Front Back
Lenovo Tab P11 Plus Modernist Teal Front Facing Forward
Lenovo Tab P11 Plus Modernist Teal Rear Facing Forward
Lenovo Tab P11 Plus Modernist Teal Overall View
Lenovo Tab P11 Plus Modernist Teal Left Profile

Lenovo is buffing up its Tab portfolio with the new Lenovo Tab P11 which is powered by the same MediaTek Helio G90T which powered the smaller Yoga Tab 11. It comes paired with up to 6GB of RAM and up to 128GB of internal memory. The front is emblazoned by an 11-inch IPS LCD display with a 2K resolution and 60Hz refresh rate. It has a dual microphone array with Smart Voice DSP with Dolby Atmos optimised speakers. It also comes with up to 12 hours of video playback powered by a 7,500mAh battery with 20W quick charge support.

Lenovo Tabs M8 004

Together with the Pad 11 Plus, Lenovo is introducing the third generation of the Lenovo Tab M7 and Tab M8. The two new entries into Lenovo’s mainstream tablet lineup bring a new, empowered approach to their tablets. They make one of the best entertainment experience on a tablet available at a more affordable price. They come with a 7- and 8-inch IPS screen respectively. The smaller M7 comes with an resolution of 1024×600 pixels while the M8 HD resolution of 1280×800 pixels. Both are powered by MediaTek processors.

Pricing & Availability

Malaysia AvailabilityMalaysia Price starting fromGlobal AvailabilityGlobal Price from (VAT included)
Yoga Tab 13TBCTBCJune 2021€799
Yoga Tab 11TBCTBCJuly 2021€349
Lenovo Tab P11 PlusSept 2021RM1,799July 2021€299
Lenovo Smart Clock 2 with Google AssistantTBCTBCAugust 2021€89.99 
Lenovo Tab M7 (3rd Gen)July 2021RM549June 2021€119
Lenovo Tab M8 (3rd Gen)January 2022TBCJanuary 2022TBC

Official Specifications

Lenovo Yoga Tab 13

Lenovo Yoga Tab 13 012
ProcessorSnapdragon 870 Mobile Platform, Octa-Core, up to 3.2GHz
OSAndroid 11
Audio + MicsQuad JBL Speakers, Lenovo Premium Audio Solution, Dolby Atmos, 3 Microphones, 5cc audio chamber
RAM + ROM8GB (LPDDR5) + 128GB / 256GB
Battery (ROW)Minimum capacity 10,000 mAh+; Up to 12 hours playback (1080p), 30W quick charge  
Display13-inch (2160 x 1350) LTPS with Dolby Vision, 60Hz refresh, 400 nits
Weight830 g (1.83 lbs)
ColorShadow Black
SoftwareGoogle Kids Space, Google Entertainment Space, Netflix, and much more

Lenovo Yoga Tab 11

Lenovo Yoga Tab 11 001
Processor: Wi-Fi/LTEWi-Fi: MediaTek Helio G90T (MT8185) / LTE: MediaTek Helio G90T (MT8789) Octa-Core Processor
OSAndroid 11
Audio + SpeakersQuad JBL Speakers, Lenovo Premium Audio Solution with Dolby Atmos, dual mics, 5cc audio chamber
RAM / ROM8GB + 256GB LPDDR4 RAM / 4GB + 128GB ROM
Battery (ROW)Minimum capacity 7,500 mAh; Up to 15 hours video playback, 20W quick charge
Display11-inch (2000 x 1200) TDDI LCD, 60Hz refresh, 400 nits, and Dolby Vision
Weight655 g (1.44 lbs)
ColorStorm Grey
SoftwareGoogle Kids Space, Google Entertainment Space, Netflix, and much more

Lenovo Tab P11 Plus

Lenovo Tab P11 Plus Modernist Teal Front Back
ProcessorMediaTek Helio G90T, Octa-Core
OSAndroid 11
Audio + SpeakersDual Microphone Array + Smart Voice DSP, quad speakers optimized for Dolby Atmos
Memory (ROW)LPDDR4 – 4GB + 64GB / 4GB + 128GB / 6GB +128GB
BatteryMinimum capacity 7,500 mAh; Up to 12 hours video playback, 20W quick charge
Display11-inch IPS LCD 2K (2000 x 1200), 60Hz, NTSC 70 percent color gamut, 400 nits
Weight490 g (1.1 lbs) tablet only
ColorsSlate Grey, Platinum Grey, Modernist Teal
SoftwareGoogle Kids Space, Google Entertainment Space, Netflix, and much more

Lenovo Tab M7 (3rd Gen)

Lenovo Tabs M7 008
ProcessorWi-Fi: MediaTek MT8166 / LTE: MediaTek MT8766 (with 2.0GHz clock speed)
Audio1 speaker x 1 mic + Dolby Audio™
Memory2GB LPDDR4 + 32GB EMCP
BatteryUp to 10 hours video playback
Display7-inch IPS (1024 X 600) TDDI LCD screen, up to 350 nits
ColorIron Grey
CameraRear and Front: 2MP fixed-focus
SoftwareComes with Google Kids Space and Google Entertainment Space

Lenovo Tab M8 (3rd Gen)

Lenovo Tabs M8 001
ProcessorMediaTek Helio P22T (4 x 2.3GHz + 4 x 1.8GHz)
Speakers + AudioModel with the Smart Charging Station: dual mics, Dolby Atmos + dual front-facing speakers Model without: one mic, Dolby Atmos + front-facing speaker
Display8-inch IPS HD (1280 x 800) TDDI LCD screen, 350 nits of brightness
Nano SIM CardFor LTE model only
CameraRear 5MP auto-focus; Front 2MP fixed-focus
ColorsTablet only: Iron Grey and Platinum; Tablet with Smart Charging Station: Iron Grey
SoftwareComes with Google Kids Space and Google Entertainment Space
iOS, Lifestyle, Mobile, News

[WWDC 2021] Apple Launches iPadOS 15 – Not Just an Enlarged iPhone Anymore

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Apple’s iPadOS has always been very closely related to the iOS. After all, when iPad first launched it was running the regular iOS that was enlarged and optimised for larger displays at 9.7-inch. Over the years though, the iPad had its own development team, and the platform grew very quickly into something rather special on its own. In 2021 then we have the iPadOS 15 for the modern Apple iPad.

The iPadOS 15 really shows the maturity of the iPad tablet platform. It still shares some features with the iOS, especially iOS 15 that was also launched in the same WWDC 2021 conference. It shares the privacy and security features, for example. It shares the same Siri and on-device intelligence as well with iOS 15. But iPadOS 15 is a lot more than that too.

The Widget Life

  • Apple iPadPro iPadOS15 springboard widgets 060721
    Source: Apple
  • Apple iPadPro iPadOS15 springboard focus 060721
    Source: Apple

For one, widgets has been improved on iPadOS 15. While widgets has been a thing on Apple’s mobile devices, it really comes to its own on iPadOS 15. You can now move and place your widgets anywhere on your home screens to really place the things that matter to you most on your front page.

App Library

When you place widgets though, there might be less room for app icons to be on your home screen. That means you end up with more home screens than you need. That has always been an issue with Apple’s interface. With iPadOS 15 though there is now an App Library. You can now delete apps from your home pages and store these apps for later use in the App Library, kind of like the App Drawer from Android. Actually, it works exactly like that.

Better Multitasking, More Productivty

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Multitasking on the iPadOS is also improved in iPadOS 15. It is plenty more intuitive with a dedicated multitasking button that allows you to launch apps or put apps in split screen mode or in Picture-in-Picture mode. Plus, the multitasking bar allows you to monitor and access all the apps you currently have open. You can close apps from the same page too.

Taking notes on the iPad has always been the natural ground of iPad, especially when Apple introduced their Apple Pencil.  Notes on iPadOS 15 is a lot more intuitive than before though with the addition of Mentions. While Mentions is not something you use when you do not share Notes with others, it helps a lot when the Notes is meant to be shared with other people or your working team. You can create the notes while tagging another person to either assign the work to the person, or to point out the person in-charge of the notes. To make things easier to find, you can add tags too. Just a simple hashtagging of keywords basically to make the notes easier to navigate and to surface important notes.

With Apple Pencil too, iPadOS 15 becomes an essential work tool especially when you are on the move. With the Pencil, you simply swipe up from a corner to bring up quick notes to jot down things like phone numbers, or any other important information quickly and seamlessly. When you browse through the web on Safari, and you find something that would catch your interest, you simply swipe up to bring up quick notes and the option to copy down the website URL will appear. You can even copy sentences or segments of the website with links on notes.

Language Barrier? Not Anymore

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Source: Apple

The Translate app also comes to its own in iPadOS 15. You can now have a natural flowing conversation with other people even if you are speaking different languages now with iPadOS 15. Your iPad automatically translates conversations for you in real-time. Translate also now works with every other thing within the iPadOS ecosystem. It does not stop there though; your iPad is now also your language coach to practice handwritings.

Swift Playgrounds

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    Source: Apple
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To really fulfil the potential that the iPad platform has to offer now though is something Apple calls the Swift Playgrounds. The Swift Playgrounds is Apple’s coding platform the Apple’s own coding language. With the iPad’s Swift Playgrounds, you can either learn to code, or develop a new app from the ground up with the built-in SDK. You can even simulate apps for different platforms with Swift Playgrounds, which also adds a layer of productivity and function for the iPad. If you have Apple’s iPad Pro with M1 chip, this is one of the most sensible additions to the iPadOS.

Availability

Apple’s iPadOS 15 is now available as preview on iPads equipped with Apple A12 Bionic chips or later. The full OS update will be available later in Fall 2021. For more information on Apple’s iPadOS 15, you can visit Apple’s Website.

Android, Mobile, News

HUAWEI Freebuds Pro, Watch GT 2 Pro & MatePad T 10s is now Available in Malaysia

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Huawei is rolling out new products aimed to enhance the quality of your lifestyle with the new Huawei Freebuds Pro, Watch GT 2 Pro and MatePad T. They are currently retailing nationwide, with Huawei is giving out amazing deals for Malaysian fans.

The Huawei FreeBuds Pro has turned some heads due to its stunning design and the world’s first intelligent Dynamic Noise cancellation with hybrid active noise-cancellation to avoid in-ear noise environments. To ensure an immersive audio experience, it identifies the nature of the environmental noise and automatically switches to the appropriate noise-cancellation mode.

The new Huawei Watch GT 2 Pro is designed with a premium titanium body enhanced by a sapphire glass surface. It is created for users to experience a perfect blend of aesthetics and performance in a smartwatch. It also features fitness-based sensors enabling heart rate, speed and slope measurements while giving alerts if you have exceedingly high values of those data to keep you safe. What is astonishing about this smartwatch is that it provides up to 2 weeks of usage on a single charge.

Last but not least is the Huawei MatePad T10s. The tablet is powered by the Kirin 710a octa-core processor and runs Huawei’s EMUI 10.1. The MatePad T10s packs a 10.1 inch FHD display with vivid colors thanks to the HUAWEI ClariVu™ technology. The display has Eye Comfort certification for its low blue light emission. The display is coupled with cinematic surround sound tuned by Harman Kardon, perfect tablet for your next Netflix binge.

Pricing & Availability

The Huawei FreeBuds Pro is priced at RM699 and comes with a free cover and mini Bluetooth speaker.

The Huawei Watch GT 2 Pro is priced at RM1,199 and comes witha free dark green strap.

It is RM999 for the Huawei MatePad T 10s and it comes with a free flip cover, 15GB Huawei Cloud Storage, Huawei Video and Huawei Books.

You can grab these incredible products via the Huawei Store online, Lazada or Shopee.

iOS, Mobile, News

The 8th Generation iPad and Apple iPad Air for 2020 Are the Most Powerful Tablets in Their Classes

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This year marks 10 years of Apple’s iconic iPad. The Apple iPad was introduced back in 2010 as an alternative Apple experience. To most, it is just an enlarged iPhone. The iPad has evolved to plenty more than just a glorified tablet sized iPhone though. It has become an essential productivity, entertainment, and multitasking tool.

The 7th Generation Apple iPad is also made to be more affordable than ever. This year, the 8th Generation Apple iPad is just as affordable and even more powerful than before. The 8th Generation Apple iPad can now be your full-time work and play partner. The new Apple iPad Air is even more powerful, a powerhouse that you can use as an essential production tool.

The New 8th Generation Apple iPad (2020)

Source: Apple

The new iPad now comes packing a powerhouse in the form of the Apple A12 Bionic 6-core System on a Chip (SoC). While that is not a new SoC, it is still a powerful enough SoC to work with even the latest games from Apple’s App Store.

The A12 Bionic SoC though comes with a Neural Engine, which also means that the Apple iPad comes with a dedicated Machine Learning core for the first time. That also means a clever and instant smart photo editor on the new Apple iPad. The A12 Bionic is also capable of clever motion tracking and analysis that you can use in various settings.

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That is not all power that the new A12 Bionic boasts though. The A12 Bionic is even more efficient that before too. That also means that the Apple iPad can remain as slim and retain its all-day battery life even with its large 10.2-inch Retina display.

iPadOS 14 on The New Apple iPad

With the latest iPadOS on the new Apple iPad, the Apple Pencil is even more powerful and better than before. Hand-written notes can be converted to typed texts in an instant, as long as your handwriting is clear enough to read. This is especially helpful when you are out in the field and have no surfaces to type on.

The All-New Apple iPad Air

Source: Apple

The Apple ipad Air for 2020 is the most powerful Apple iPad ever with Apple’s brand new SoC. Before we get there though, the Apple iPad Air is even more colourful too at the same time. The Apple iPad Air now comes in 5 different colours now. For the first time ever too, the Apple ipad Air is charged via a USB Type-C port instead of an Apple proprietary Lightning port.

It is also compatible with Apple’s Pencil. In fact, you can attach the Apple pencil to the side of the iPad Air magnetically. The size is also perfect for Apple’s existing magic keyboard attachment. Narrower bezel allows the iPad Air to have an expansive 10.9-inch Retina display though.

The retina display is a beautiful display though. It is a full laminated display with True Tone colours and DCI P3 certification. That also means that the display is perfect for those working in the creative industry. Even if you need it for photo editing on the go, the display will take care of you.

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The Apple iPad Air for 2020 is also the first Apple device to integrate Apple’s Touch ID with its power button. It also boasts 12-Megapixel main camera out the back and a 7-Megapixel front-facing camera. The main camera is capable of 4K resolution video recording too, just in case you need it. For entertainment purposes, you get stereo speakers that is enabled in landscape mode.

The A14 Bionic Processor

The Apple iPad Air packs Apple’s latest A14 Bionic SoC. It is Apple’s latest, most powerful, and most advanced processor to ever come out of Cupertino. But it is not just Apple’s most advanced SoC to date, it is probably the world’s most advanced mobile processor to date.

The A14 Bionic SoC is the first ever production 5nm consumer grade SoC in the world with 11.8 billion transistors. It is supposed to be more powerful than a modern entry-level notebook. It is 40% more powerful than the A13 Bionic that is currently powering the Apple iPhone XS. It packs 30% more graphical performance compared to the A13 bionic too for what Apple claims to be console level gaming experience. That and 4K video editing capability.

The A14 Bionic SoC also packs a dedicated 16-core neural processor. The more powerful neural processor also allows the new iPad Air to process 11 trillion operations within a second. Thanks to that, machine learning on the iPad Air is even more powerful.

Availability and Pricing

The 8th Generation Apple iPad will be available in the usual Space Grey, Silver, and Gold colour options. There are only two storage variants for the Apple iPad though, 32GB and 128GB variants. The Apple iPad will be available soon in the United States this Friday onward for US$ 329 (WiFi only) and US$ 459 (WiFi + Cellular) onward. There are no official word on Malaysia’s availability though there is already Malaysian pricing. The Apple iPad will be available in Malaysia for MYR 1,449 (WiFi only) and MYR 1,999 (WiFi + Cellular) onward.

The Apple iPad Air, as mentioned comes in 5 different colours. You can choose between Space Grey, Silver, Rose Gold, Green, and Sky Blue Colour options. The Apple iPad Air will be available in the United States market next month onward for US$ 599 (WiFi only) onward and US$ 729 (WiFi + Cellular) onward. There is no official word on Malaysia’s availability. The iPad Air will be available starting from MYR 2,599 (WiFi only) and MYR 3,149 (WiFi + Cellular) onward.

Android, Mobile, News

HONOR ViewPad 6 is the Modern 5G Capable Tablet for the Youths

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HONOR had a big global launch just now. They launched a lot of things. One of the big things they launched is their very own high-end tablet, the HONOR ViewPad 6. It looks very much like the HUAWEI MatePad Pro save for certain details. For one, the back of the tablet has a slightly different finish. The camera layout and design is more reminiscent of the OPPO Find X2 as well, from the looks of it.

The insides are slightly different too. The HONOR ViewPad 6 packs the HiSilicon Kirin 985 instead of the newer HiSilicon 990 you find on the HUAWEI MatePad Pro. You still get 5G connectivity with the HONOR ViewPad 6 though. You still get WiFi 6+ in connectivity. You also get 2K in resolution from the 10.4 FullView display. They also tout powerful speakers that boasts great audio. If they are anything like the HUAWEI MatePad Pro, we can believe that.

We know that the HONOR ViewPad 6 will come with HONOR’s proprietary User Interface (UI) based on Android 10. While it comes with Android 10, it does not come with Google’s Play Store. Rather, you are getting their AppGallery ecosystem. From the teasers we see in the launch, there is also the HUAWEI equivalent to the M-Pen, the Magic Pen for the tablet.

  • Source: HONOR
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However, they did not announce the price of the HONOR ViewPad 6. They say that the price will be revealed on the 13th of June 2020. It should be available in certain markets from June 2020 onward. There is no mention of whether Malaysia gets the device that same time with other markets. We are expecting the tablet to come to Malaysia at the same time or before other countries outside of China though.