Apple Inc. Reveals iPhone 15

The iPhone 15 has been officially unveiled at Apple's recent showcase, which had a "Wonderlust" theme. This latest iPhone lineup includes four distinct models: the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, all of which introduce a range of enhanced features and capabilities.

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are designed with a focus on "industry-leading durability features." Featuring a groundbreaking color-infused back glass, available in five vibrant color options (pink, yellow, green, blue, and black), these models boast a sleek new design with contoured edges around the aluminum enclosure. Powering these devices is the A16 Bionic chip, enhancing efficiency and introducing the Dynamic Island feature for seamless access to various apps and functions from the home screen. The impressive photography capabilities include a 48MP main camera, a new 24MP default, and a 2x Telephoto lens for super-high-resolution and close-up photography (with up to three optical zoom levels). Both models also feature a USB‑C connector, enabling users to charge their AirPods or Apple Watch directly from the iPhone.

Available in 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch display sizes, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are priced at $799 USD and $899 USD, respectively. Storage options include 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB capacities. Pre-orders for these models begin on Friday, September 15, with general availability starting on Friday, September 22.

Moving on to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, these models feature a lightweight Titanium display with highly durable back glass and introduce a new "Action" button on the side. Similar to the iPhone 15, they also sport contoured edges. The Action button allows users to personalize their iPhone experience, providing quick access to the camera, flashlight, Voice Memos app, and various other shortcuts. Available in four color options, the Pro models further enhance photography with a new 5x Telephoto camera, improvements to Focus and Depth Control, and enhancements in Night mode and Smart HDR. The A17 Pro chip, a groundbreaking 3-nanometer chip, ensures peak performance for gaming, delivering smoother graphics and exceptional streaming efficiency.

The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are available in 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch display sizes, with prices starting at $999 USD and $1,199 USD, respectively. Storage options for the iPhone 15 Pro range from 128GB to 1TB, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max starts at 256GB and offers 512GB and 1TB variants. Pre-orders for these models commence on Friday, September 15, followed by general availability on Friday, September 22.

Both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models introduce several new safety features, including Roadside Assistance, precision finding for Find My Friends, and the Secure Enclave for enhanced user privacy. For a closer look at these new features, please refer to the gallery above, and stay tuned for the latest updates from Apple's event.

Apple’s M3 Ultra Mac Studio Specs And Release Dates

According to the latest update from MS, Apple is said to be in the testing phase of an M3 Ultra chip. This new chip is anticipated to exhibit a significant CPU upgrade, moving from 24 cores in the M2 Ultra to 32 cores in the subsequent generation of the chip. Additionally, developer logs suggest that the base configuration of the M3 Ultra chip might include 64 GPU cores, with a higher-end variant boasting 80 GPU cores.

These developments pertain to Apple's upcoming high-performance desktop chip. Currently, you can already acquire an M2 Ultra Mac featuring GPUs with 60 or 76 cores. Consequently, the forthcoming chip's advancements, particularly in graphics processing, are expected to be more moderate in contrast to the substantial leap made last year. The previous progression saw the top-tier configuration of the M2 Ultra with a 64-core GPU, marking a 12-core increase from the maxed-out 64-core GPU of the M1 Ultra Mac Studio. However, this doesn't imply that computers equipped with the new chip will be sluggish by any means. The M2 Ultra Mac Studio already delivers impressive performance, and even laptops equipped with the M2 Max, such as the MacBook Pro, exhibit remarkable capabilities. This prowess is so pronounced that the high-priced 2023 Mac Pro is encountering challenges in finding its niche in the market. Once more, as mentioned in the latest Mangaspurs report, it is indicated that Apple is set to launch M3 Macs in October, which will encompass a fresh addition to the iMac lineup. However, the report also reinforces the notion that computers featuring the M3 Pro or M3 Max won't make their debut until the following year. In line with historical release patterns of Apple, MangaSpurs forecasts that an M3 Ultra chip might potentially arrive no earlier than late 2024.

G-shock Introduces Full Metal GMB-2100 Watch

G-SHOCK has launched the Full Metal GMB-2100, marking the brand's first watch in the series to feature a sleek, fully metallic design. The watch comes in three unique variations, including classic silver, rose gold, and an all-black IP finish. As a full-metal upgrade from 2021’s GM-2100, the GMB-2100 is put together with a screw-back case, bezel, and brand in stainless steel.

Its design, including the octagonal bezel and dimpled band, serves as a homage to the first-ever G-SHOCK that debuted back in 1983, which was recognized for its streamlined and minimalist appearance. On a technical note, the GMB-2100 is incredibly shock-resistant with a depth rating of 200 meters in water. It’s also adapted and tailored for the modern digital age with features such as Smartphone Link, and the high-brightness LED-driven Tough Solar. The silver version (GMB-2100D-1A) is priced at $550 USD, while both the rose gold IP (GMB-2100GB-5A) and the all-black IP (GMB-2100BD-1A) retail at $600 USD. The Full Metal GMB-2100 watch is now available for purchase online and in-store via G-SHOCK’s official website.

Apple Stops Iphone 14 Plus Production Reports

According to The Information, the tech giant informed at least one of its manufacturers in China to “immediately halt production” of the smartphone’s components while it assesses the demand for the iPhone 14 Plus. Meanwhile, the two downstream Apple suppliers in China that assemble the parts into larger modules are also supposedly scaling back production by 70% and 90%. Demand for the iPhone 14 Plus is supposedly quite low as consumers prefer to spend the extra $100 USD for the iPhone 14 Pro and its extra features. The iPhone 14 line was unveiled during Apple’s Far Out even in September and has only been available to the public for a little over two weeks.

The saving grace for Apple so far has been sales of the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Bloomberg describes sales of both models as “robust,” and Kuo reports that Apple has switched “production lines of the iPhone 14 to the iPhone 14 Pro models, which will help improve Apple's product mix/iPhone ASP in 4Q22.” The problem is this is unsustainable. Expanding on his iPhone 14 Plus sales article, The Information reporter Wayne Ma explained that “while at least one supplier also has been told to boost iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max parts production, it's insignificant when compared with the same amount of parts for units they are cutting for the iPhone 14 Plus.” Things are unlikely to get better in the short term. Especially with Apple recently increasing iPhone prices in most countries — something that wasn’t covered widely due to price freezes in the US and China. But even these markets look set to pay more in 2023. There is also a value problem here. In conjunction with rising prices, iPhone 14 trade-in prices are falling twice as fast as iPhone 13 models, which risks undermining the so-called ‘Apple Tax’ as a price worth paying. Throw in worldwide hyperinflation, spiraling energy prices, and a cost of living crisis in several key markets and relying on Pro models is a gamble. Despite this, Apple still has plenty of time on its side. In a contracting market, Apple remains the only smartphone manufacturer with positive growth at least for now. But iPhones are not alone. Questions are also being asked about the pricing and positioning of MacBook Air models and the entire iPad line-up. Apple fans are notoriously loyal, but there are signs this loyalty is now being tested to breaking point. How Apple reacts will be telling.

Sony’s DualSense Edge PS5 Wireless Controller Launch

Sony will be releasing its first-ever ultra-customizable controller early next year. Developed by PlayStation, the DualSense Edge wireless controller will launch worldwide on January 26. Featuring a variety of hardware and software-based personalization options, the controller is designed to allow players to tailor controls to their playstyle for a specific gaming experience. Users can remap buttons, adjust stick sensitivity and triggers and swap between multiple control profiles.

The DualSense Edge also packs in haptic feedback and adaptive triggers for comfortable and immersive gameplay. In addition to the controller itself, the bundle arrives with three changeable sets of stick caps and two changeable sets of back buttons, as well as connector housing and a USB cable. Everything comes packaged in a convenient and organized carrying case. Sony’s DualSense Edge PS5 controller is priced at $199.99 USD and available for pre-order in the US, UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. The controller will be available in the aforementioned countries on January 26 and at other participating retailers beginning February 23.

Here’s a breakdown of everything included as well as a closer look at the carrying case:

    DualSense Edge wireless controller
    USB braided cable
    2 Standard caps
    2 High dome caps
    2 Low dome caps
    2 Half dome back buttons
    2 Lever back buttons
    Connector housing
    Carrying case 

Get it directly from PlayStation

Starting Tuesday, October 25, 2022 (while supplies last), in the US, UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, the DualSense Edge wireless controller and replaceable stick modules will be available for pre-order only through direct.playstation.com.

The DualSense Edge wireless controller and replaceable stick modules will be available for direct.playstation.com customers in these countries starting January 26, 2023, and will be offered at other participating retailers starting February 23, 2023.

Stay tuned to direct.playstation.com for more information.

Where To Buy Nvidia’s Geforce RTX 4090

The RTX 4090 is the best graphics card you can buy right now just read our RTX 4090 review. And unfortunately, that means it’s very popular. Across retailers, most (if not all at this point) RTX 4090 models are sold out. Although the RTX 4090 is easily the best graphics card you can buy right now, it carries a hefty premium. We checked the prices at all of the brands above, and you’re looking at around a $1,600 premium over the base model at most of them. The only exceptions are Origin PC and Falcon Northwest, both of which are charging around $1,400 above the base price.

If you don’t need a full system, however, the best option is to wait. The RTX 4090 is in high demand, certainly, but there’s no reason to believe it will cause another GPU shortage. In addition, Nvidia is releasing two RTX 4080 models in November and AMD is set to launch its next-gen RX 7000 GPUs on November 3. If you just can’t wait, though, there are ways to buy the RTX 4090 you just might need to pick up a system around it.

It’s launch day for Nvidia’s latest, greatest, and absolutely girthiest graphics cards. If you’re at all interested in the GeForce RTX 4090, you should check out our exhaustive RTX 4090 review. “Nvidia’s monstrous GeForce RTX 4090 delivers luxuriously fast frame rates and futuristic features, but DLSS 3’s AI speed boost may be the real star,” we said. “It’s a behemoth of a GPU that draws a lot of power, but Nvidia’s sublime Founders Edition design remains cool, quiet, and eye-catching.” And if you’ve sold a member or two of your family and you’re ready to buy this luxurious $1,599+ graphics card, you probably want to know where you can actually get your hands on an RTX 4090 when it hits the street on October 12.  At launch day, it’s often hard to find both Nvidia’s standard “Founders Edition” cards and the various flavors of the GPU offered by third-party manufacturers in stock, so click fast if you’re interested. Generally, we find that it’s best to start with Nvidia’s online store, then walk your way through the usual suspects of electronics retailers. While we reviewed Nvidia’s own Founders Edition (it’s great!) you’ll also find custom RTX 4090 graphics cards from Nvidia partners available.

Here are all the listings we’ve found so far:

Nvidia

• Nvidia RTX 4090 Founders Edition

Amazon

• PNY RTX 4090

Best Buy

• Founders Edition
• PNY RTX 4090

Newegg

• Asus ROG RTX 4090
• Asus TUF RTX 4090
• Gigabyte RTX 4090
• MSI RTX 4090
• Zotac RTX 4090 Trinity
• Zotac RTX 4090 Extreme AIRO

B&H Photo Video

• Asus RTX 4090 ROG Strix OC
• Gigabyte RTX 4090
• Gigabyte Windforce RTX 4090
• PNY RTX 4090
• Zotac RTX 4090
• Zotac RTX 4090 OC
• MSI RTX 4090
• MSI RTX 4090 Suprim Liquid X

MicroCenter

• Asus RTX 4090
• MSI RTX 4090
• Gigabyte RTX 4090
• Zotac RTX 4090

Note that a lot of retailers are using dummy pages until they get verified stock of the GPUs in. And retailers that allow third-party sellers, like Newegg, are seeing some rather egregious increases over the basic $1600-1900 prices for the card and its custom upgrades. Expect to see similar price hikes once the cards hit Amazon and initial stock sells out.

NVIDIA Unveils RTX 4090 and RTX 4080 Graphics Cards

NVIDIA and its graphics cards continue to push the world of technology forward with power that is climbing exponentially. Amidst the crypto mining craze, graphics cards grew increasingly difficult to find at reasonable prices. Fortunately for consumers, prices have since stabilized and NVIDIA is expanding its offerings with the introduction of its 40 Series, beginning with the RTX 4090 and RTX 4080.

Introducing the NVIDIA Ada Lovelace architecture powering GeForce RTX 40 Series GPUs:

✔️ New SMs provide up to 2x perf and power efficiency
✔️ 4th Gen Tensor Cores with up to 2x AI performance
✔️ 3rd Gen RT Cores with up to 2x ray tracing performance

Welcome to #BeyondFast

Featuring new NVIDIA Ada Lovelace architecture, the cards carry new fourth-gen tensor cores, third-gen ray tracing cores, shader execution reordering and NVIDIA DLSS 3 which boosts performance by using AI to output higher resolution frames. Results of these breakthroughs include an expected doubling of the performance from the RTX 4090 when compared to its predecessor, the RTX 3090 Ti. The RTX 4080 16GB should double the power of the RTX 3080 Ti while the RTX 4080 12 GB is comparable to the RTX 3090. Release for the NVIDIA RTX 4090 begins October 12 at a price of $1,599 USD with the RTX 4080 16GB and 12GB arriving in November priced at $1,199 USD and $899 USD respectively.

Google Reveals Pixel Smartwatch

Smartwatches have become an important part of the wearables market over the past few years. Thanks to the likes of Apple, the appeal for these devices has grown significantly in recent times. While Android also had its fair share of smartwatch offerings, Google never had one in its lineup. Now, it appears that Google is finally entering the market as it announced its own smartwatch at Google IO 2022. While this is the first time the tech giant is officially releasing a Pixel-branded smartwatch, it's not Google's first attempt. Back in 2016, when Google first unveiled its Pixel phone, the company almost launched a Pixel smartwatch along with it.

But the idea was scrapped owing to Google's uncertainty around the product. Fast-forward a few years later, Google has added the Pixel 6 to its lineup and is now getting ready to expand the company's gadget portfolio with the Pixel Watch. In the latest edition of its annual developer conference, Google IO 2022, the tech giant finally debuted the Pixel Watch. The design features a familiar circular look along with a tactile crown and side button. The Pixel Watch will run an updated Wear OS 3 where it will house a relatively new UI, smart notifications as well as offer better navigation. Additionally, users can expect the watch to include Google's native apps such as Google Maps, Assistant, Wallet, and Home among others. Though it may not be a high-priced special edition like the Tag Heuer Super Mario smartwatch, Google says the Pixel Watch will be a "premium-priced product" and that it will launch in the coming fall. Another notable part of the Pixel Watch announcement was its integration with Fitbit. Though it was likely always on the cards after Google acquired the company for $2.1 billion back in 2019. Rick Osterloh, Google’s Senior Vice President of devices and services has stated this will go beyond customizations and that the integration will be instilled across the Pixel Watch experience. However, Osterloh has also mentioned that Google data and Fitbit data will remain private and separate owing to a promise the Stadia owner made to regulators when it bought Fitbit. In terms of compatibility, the Pixel Watch will need a Google account and a phone running Android 8.0 or later. This means the upcoming smartwatch will be incompatible with iPhones. Apart from this, Google has yet to share more specific details about the Pixel Watch. Regardless, it will be interesting to see what the reception will be like for Google's own smartwatch, especially amid the immense popularity of the Apple Watch.

OPPO Unveils Its Flagship Find X5 Pro

OPPO has now unveiled its latest flagship smartphone: the Find X5 Pro. A successor to the tech company’s Find X3 Pro from last year, the new X5 carries a very similar design aesthetic, utilizing a thin, lightweight body with a raised camera cluster on the top rear left of the device. On the front sits a 6.7-inch WQHD+ curved AMOLED screen that covers 100% of the P3 color gamut, displaying more than one billion colors and a peak brightness of 1,300 nits, all protected by a Gorilla Glass Victus layer.

 

The processor comes in the form of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, heralded as one of the most powerful Android chips currently available on the market, and its battery pack also gets an increased capacity of 5,000mAh. Much like its predecessor, however, the new model also places its focus on its cameras. Retaining a three-lens setup on the back, the X5 carries a 50-megapixel ultrawide with a maximum aperture of f/2.2 and a 110-degree FOV, a second 50-megapixel wide camera supporting f/1.7, a 77% color accuracy, five-axis image stabilization, and a 13-megapixel telephoto lens opening up to f/2.4. For those who fancy a selfie for social media, there’s also a front-facing camera with a 32-megapixel sensor. For those interested, OPPO’s new flagship Find X5 Pro will be available from March 14 for €1,300 EUR (approximately $1,422 USD).

Apple Rumored to Launch iPhone SE 3 Released Dates

New rumors are now suggesting that Apple will be launching the third generation of its iPhone SE model in early 2022. According to a new report from MacRumors, the Californian tech giant is now in the trial production phase of the iPhone SE 3, with its supply chain gearing up in preparation for mass production by early next year.

 

The entry-level smartphone is expected to release within the first quarter of 2022 and retains much of its predecessor’s design, keeping a physical home button along with the same 4.7-inch display size. Unlike previous models, however, it’ll carry the faster A15 chip as well as an improved camera. The news also comes on top of other rumors suggesting that Apple could be abandoning the 5.4-inch model from its regular iPhone lineup, so those looking for something more compact might be restricted to the iPhone SE 3 from here on out. As usual, Apple hasn’t confirmed any of the news, and there’s also no price tag yet for the upcoming device, although the current SE model starts at $400 USD and insiders expect the tech company to keep the same price point. For those looking forward to the new iPhone SE 3, definitely stay tuned for more updates to come. Elsewhere in tech, LG’s DualUp Monitor is rethinking the optimal aspect ratio for maximum productivity.

Apple's iPhone 14 Pro Specs

Though we’re still (potentially) nine months away from Apple‘s next iPhone release, new rumors have surfaced once again about the upcoming models, which now suggest that there’ll be a big camera and memory upgrade. As per MacRumors, tech analyst Jeff Pu has now revealed in a research note with Haitong International Securities that both models of the upcoming iPhone 14 Pro will boast a triple-lens rear camera configuration with its wide-angle lens working in tandem with a 48-megapixel sensor, while its ultra-wide and telephoto lenses will pair with 12-megapixel sensors.

 

The suggestion also matches those from TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who said back in April that the device will also be able to record videos in 8K. On top of revamped cameras, Pu says that the iPhone 14 Pro will carry 8GB of RAM instead of the standard 6GB for the current iPhone 13 Pro options, as well as new 120Hz displays. While the former could very possibly be true, the latter claim has been called into question, with Ross Young an analyst specializing in the display market saying Apple will retain its 60Hz screens instead. While the iPhone 13 starts at 128GB of storage, Pu also claims that the lowest-tiered model for the iPhone 14 will come in at 64GB. As usual, Apple has yet to confirm any of these rumors or release any information regarding the upcoming iPhone 14, so those interested should be on the lookout for more updates to come from the tech giant.

Huawei Is Finally Rolling Out Its Own "Harmony" Operating System

After U.S. sanctions forced Google to withdraw access to Android last year, Huawei has now finally officially released its own operating system: the HarmonyOS 2. According to the Chinese firm, the new HarmonyOS 2 is said to offer upgraded connectivity, with drag-and-drop interfaces for pairing devices, and a cinch function when you’re watching movies or videos on your phone that’ll send it to a TV and audio to your earbuds.

 

As for which devices are getting the new operating system, Huawei will first begin updating existing devices such as the Mate 40, P40, Mate 30, and MatePad Pro, followed by the nova 6, nova 7, nova 8, Mate 20 and other MatePad products by the third quarter of 2021. Near the end of the year, the V and S series smart screens will also receive the update, along with the Mate 20 X smartphones and M6 tablets. Lastly, the Mate 9, Mate 10, P20, P10 and nova 5 will get the update in the first six months of 2022. Elsewhere in tech, Google’s high-speed QUIC technology has become an official Internet standard.

Microsoft Looks Ready To Launch Windows 11

After teasing the next generation of Windows during Build last week, Microsoft announced that it'll officially unveil the new version of its operating system on June 24th at 11AM Eastern. The company has begun sending out invites to media, and it's revealed that CEO Satya Nadella and chief product officer Panos Panay will be headlining the event. At Build, Nadella said he's been testing the new OS for the past few months. He added, "We will create more opportunity for every Windows developer today and welcome every creator who is looking for the most innovative, new, open platform to build and distribute and monetize applications." That's likely referring to rumors of an update Windows Store, which could make it easier for developers to push their apps out to consumers. The event announcement follows news that Microsoft killed development of Windows 10X, an OS variant that was initially meant for dual-screen devices.

Last year, the company shifted 10X focus to single screen devices to potentially create a stronger competitor to Chrome OS. Now, Microsoft plans to bring some 10X features into Windows 10 proper. So where can Microsoft go next after Windows 10? When it launched in 2015, I noted that it was a great combination of the best features from Windows 7 and 8. It had the clean desktop of the former, with additional touchscreen smarts from the latter (thankfully, the Start Menu also made a return). Windows 10 was also the first major sign of how different Microsoft was under Nadella, who took up the CEO mantle from Steve Ballmer in 2014. Notably, he announced that Windows 10 would be free for a year (and even longer for some users), a massive turnabout from Microsoft's previous strategy of charging for every new release. By doing so, Nadella encouraged users to move on from Windows 7 and 8, making Windows 10 a more viable platform for developers who wanted to build modern apps. I'd wager Microsoft would put much of Windows 10X's dual-screen features into its next OS. We've yet to see many truly dual-screen PCs, aside from Lenovo's clunky Yoga Books, so the door is wide open for Microsoft to encourage more PC makers to make that leap. The company also clearly needs to work on Windows support for ARM devices, as its current OS holds back flagship hardware like the Surface Pro X. Now that Apple has successfully moved its computers to ARM-based M1 chips, the ball is in Microsoft's court to help PC makers do the same.

Nvidia confirms it accidentally unlocked RTX 3060 Ethereum mining

A software update released by Nvidia inadvertently bypassed the Ether (ETH) mining block the firm placed on its own GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card. A spokesperson for Nvidia confirmed on Tuesday that the latest 470.05 driver update was mistakenly released with code intended for use only by Nvidia developers, which allowed for the removal of the hash rate limiter. “A developer driver inadvertently included code used for internal development which removes the hash rate limiter on RTX 3060 in some configurations,” said an Nvidia spokesperson, as reported by The Verge. In February, Nvidia decided to intentionally hamper the Ether-mining effectiveness of its RTX 3060 series graphics cards to prevent a demand-induced shortage caused by crypto miners.

 

A three-way handshake between the hardware, the software and the computer firmware was supposed to ensure that the card recognized when it was being used to mine Ether and cut its computational power in half, from 50 megahertz per second to 25 MH/s. But the back door that allowed the card’s hash rate limiter to be bypassed came from the software side, and it was released by Nvidia itself. The offending beta update has since been pulled by the software company, but versions of it have already made it out onto the internet. Elsewhere on Tuesday, Andreas Schilling of tech website HardwareLuxx tested reports that custom edits to a computer’s BIOS were required to bypass the hash rate limiter. After testing driver 470.05 with a custom and standard BIOS, Schilling confirmed that no special modifications were required and that Nvidia’s driver removed the hash rate limiter itself. While the news only compounds the misery of gamers waiting to upgrade their graphics cards, the gaffe by Nvidia might not necessarily result in Ether miners eating up the next supply of GPU shipments. According to Hexus, the latest reports suggest that the affected driver can only unlock one RTX 3060 at a time, rendering it unsuitable for use in large mining-farms, for the time being at least. Initial rumors suggested a custom modification had bypassed the RTX 3060’s hash rate limiter last Wednesday, allowing it to mine Ether at full capacity. It was later revealed that the mod had not enabled the card to mine Ether specifically but had been rigged to enable the mining of another GPU-mineable cryptocurrency, Ravencoin (RVN).

Microsoft Surface Pro X Reportedly Getting New Processor, Colour Option

 Microsoft Surface Pro X, the company's ARM-powered tablet, is reportedly getting a refresh with an upgraded Microsoft SQ2 processor, a new platinum colour option, and new Type Cover colours. The updated version is expected to launch in October this year, and Microsoft reportedly aims at pushing the Surface Pro X to the mainstream market with the new processor, hue variant, and accessories. The original Surface Pro X debuted last year and the upgraded version seems to be coming right on time.

In a report, Windows Central cited sources that the Microsoft Surface Pro X will soon start shipping with the company's latest SQ2 processor. This is a significant upgrade from the SQ1 chip that powered the earlier Surface Pro X model. It is being speculated that the new SQ2 chip is based on Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen2 SoC that promises to offer a notable boost in performance.

The report also suggests that Microsoft is planning to announce x86 64-bit app-emulation. As of now, the ARM version of Windows 10 can only emulate 32-bit apps. Given the improved performance of the SQ2 chip, the 64-bit app-emulation could boost demand for the Surface Pro X.

Apart from the new chip, the Surface Pro X could also be getting a platinum colour option, similar to the one already available on the regular Surface Pro offerings. Currently, the Surface Pro X is only available in a black colour option. The Surface Pro X Type Covers are also reportedly getting colour variants similar to the regular Surface Pro Type Covers. With the new colours and accessories, the report suggests that the tech giant plans to promote the Surface Pro X as “ready for mainstream.”

The report also points out that there are no significant design changes in the refreshed Surface Pro X variant.

Microsoft Surface Pro X price in India

The Surface Pro X is currently available in two storage variants in India. The 8GB + 128GB storage option is priced at Rs. 98,990. On the other hand, the 8GB + 256GB storage variant carries a price tag of Rs. 1,43,950.

Microsoft Surface Pro X specifications

The Surface Pro X is touted as the company's thinnest and lightest 2-in-1 device to date. With a thickness of 7.3mm, it weighs only 774 grams. It features a 13-inch display with a resolution of 2,880x1,920 pixels and an aspect ratio of 3:2. It boasts of a battery life of up to 13 hours, with support for fast charging. The compatible Surface Pro X Signature Keyboard and Surface Slim Pen are sold separately.

OnePlus Buds Z May Launch as Affordable TWS Earphones Alongside OnePlus 8T

 OnePlus Buds Z will reportedly be the affordable variant of the OnePlus Buds true wireless stereo (TWS) earphones. Without giving any details, a known tipster has shared a cryptic message on Twitter that apparently tips the name of the alleged unannounced earphones. The moniker seems to be correct because OnePlus generally uses ‘Z' for the cheaper version of a device, for example, OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z earphones are priced quite low as compared to the OnePlus Bullets Wireless and OnePlus Bullets Wireless 2.

Noted tipster Max J shared an image on Twitter that reads Bud Z. This is reportedly the name that OnePlus will use to call its more affordable true wireless stereo earphones. The tipster hasn't shared any details about the alleged earphones, but the moniker itself suggests that these are likely to be the cheaper version of the OnePlus Buds. Apparently called the OnePlus Buds Z, these wireless earbuds could be launched alongside the OnePlus 8T smartphones.

If we see the nomenclature used by OnePlus for its audio products, the Chinese company uses ‘Z' for the cheaper version of a device. For example, OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z earphones are an affordable variant of the OnePlus Bullets Wireless 2 earphones. In fact, they are cheaper than the first generation of OnePlus Bullets Wireless earphones.

The first mention of the OnePlus Buds Z was spotted in a code of OxygenOS 11 Open Beta 1 update that was released for the OnePlus 8 Pro and OnePlus 8 users. The public update mentioned the unannounced earphones, hinting at the launch. It also mentioned that the company is working on 8K 960fps video recording. However, the open beta code does not say much about the unannounced audio device.

OnePlus 7T Getting a Commemorative White Colour Variant

 OnePlus 7T is getting a new white colour option. As the flagship phone completes a year in October, OnePlus 7T has been launched in a fresh colour variant in order to commemorate it. The OnePlus 7T white edition has only been released in China so far, but it can be speculated that the company will soon launch it in other markets as well. There are no other notable changes on the phone apart from the new hue.

OnePlus announced in a community post that the new colour variant was its way of saying farewell to OnePlus 7T. The company shared posters of the white variant of the OnePlus 7T that showed the phone with a white back panel and a silver frame. OnePlus also hinted that this special white edition of the OnePlus 7T will be getting delivered to customers in a “unique way,” although no details were revealed around the same. Releasing a special edition of the OnePlus 7T appears to be a way for the company to mark the curtain call for the smartphone, as it concentrates on the recently released OnePlus 8 series and the affordable OnePlus Nord.

Apart from the white colour and smooth finish on the back panel, similar to the OnePlus 6 Silk White Limited Edition, the phone appears to have the same specifications and features as the other colour variants of the OnePlus 7T. It is currently available in India in Frosted Silver and Glacier Blue.

OnePlus 7T specifications

OnePlus 7T features a 6.55-inch full-HD+ (1080x2400 pixels) Fluid AMOLED display with a 20:9 aspect ratio and 90Hz refresh rate. It is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 855+ SoC, coupled with the Adreno 640 GPU and up to 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM. It is offered in 128GB and 256GB storage variants.

Speaking of optics, OnePlus 7T has a triple rear camera setup with a 48-megapixel primary sensor, a 12-megapixel secondary sensor, and a 16-megapixel ultra-wide angle lens. It packs a 3,800mAh battery with support for 30W fast charging.

iOS 14 Bug Resets Default Mail and Browser Settings With Every Reboot

 iOS 14 has been released for all iPhone and iPad users earlier this week, and one of the new features includes the ability to change the default browser and mail app settings. However, a new bug has now been seen that resets Mail and Safari as default mail and browsers apps after reboot. This is affecting both iPad and iPhone users and we can confirm that two iOS 14 handsets owned by Gadgets 360 team members are also experiencing the same issue.

The new Apple software released ahead of the anticipated iPhone 12 line-up this year brings a lot of changes, including the ability to change the default browser to Google Chrome from the default Safari browser that comes bundled in. This can be done by going into Settings > Chrome > Default Browser App. Once this change is made, all links will automatically open on Google Chrome instead of Safari. This is a welcome change for all Chrome fans. However a new bug reportedly resets this default setting every time a user reboots their iPhone or iPad. After the reboot, links again start opening on Safari browser on iPhone and iPads, a change that shouldn't happen in an ideal scenario. This bug was first spotted by 9to5Mac.

Several users on Twitter have also reported of facing the same issue, and two iPhone users on the Gadgets 360 team are also facing this problem. The same thing happens when you switch the default mail app from Mail to Outlook. The default setting works fine till the iPhone or iPad battery dies or an intentional reboot is done. That's when all of those manually tweaked settings are erased, and the device is reset to its default settings. After the reboot, all new mails are redirected to the first-party Mail app once again.

Moto E7 Plus Set to Launch in India on September 23 via Flipkart

 Moto E7 Plus will be launched in India on September 23 at 12pm (noon). The phone was originally unveiled in Brazil last week through an official listing on the company website. Now, it has got a dedicated Flipkart page with the date and time for the unveiling. While the Flipkart page does not reveal the specifications for the phone, the listing in the official website tell us what to expect from the Moto E7 Plus. It will come in two colour options and a single RAM and storage configuration.
Moto E7 Plus price in India (expected)

Motorola has not shared pricing for the Moto E7 Plus in India but Motorola had revealed earlier this week that the phone will retail at EUR 149 (roughly Rs. 13,000) in Europe. India pricing is likely to be on the same line. The phone will be offered in two colour options namely, Navy Blue and Bronze Amber that can also be seen on Flipkart. The Indian sale date for the phone will be revealed on September 23, when the phone is unveiled at 12pm (noon).
Moto E7 Plus specifications

The dual-SIM (Nano) Moto E7 Plus runs on Android 10. It features a 6.5-inch HD+ display with waterdrop-style notch and is powered by the octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 460 SoC, paired with Adreno 610 GPU and 4GB of RAM.

In terms of optics, the Moto E7 Plus packs a dual rear camera setup that includes a 48-megapixel primary sensor with an f/1.7 lens and a secondary 2-megapixel depth sensor with an f/2.4 lens. Up front, the Moto E7 Plus features an 8-megapixel selfie shooter with f/2.2 aperture.

The phone comes with 64GB of onboard storage that is expandable via a microSD card. There is a 5,000mAh battery on board the Moto E7 Plus with support for 10W charging. Connectivity options include 4G, Bluetooth v5, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Micro-USB port, GPS, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It has a rear fingerprint scanner as well. The phone measures 165.2x75.7x9.2mm and weighs 200 grams.

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G Briefly Listed on Company Website Ahead of Launch

 Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G has been briefly spotted on the company's website in Germany. A support page for the smartphone that is now removed revealed the name and an image of the phone. The phone also surfaced on US telecom operator Verizon's website that has further shared the specifications of the phone. Same as Samsung Germany listing, the Verizon listing has also now disappeared, but can still be spotted via Google cache. The handset has already been spotted on the Samsung official site in Philippines.

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G has been spotted on the South Korean company's German website. The page that is now removed was first spotted by WinFuture's Roland Quandt and accessed by by CNET. The webpage showed the smartphone from the front, and confirmed the name of the handset. The phone bears the model number SM-G7818/DS and features a hole-punch display with the cutout in the centre like we have already seen in various Samsung flagship smartphones.

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G phone was also spotted on the Samsung Philippines site in Cloud Navy and Cloud Lavendar colour options 128GB of storage. It was later seen on TENAA as well as NBTC suggesting the phone features a 6.5-inch display, 4,500mAh battery with 15W wired charging support and a 4G variant.

As per the renders of the handset, the smartphone has a flat display and a triple camera setup at the back.

In another Samsung Galaxy S20 FE-related development, Quandt also spotted the phone on Verizon's website. The phone listing has now been removed but is still visible via cache.

As per the cached information, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE will sport a 6.5-inch full-HD+ Super AMOLED display and feature a 4,500mAh battery. It shows the phone with water and dust resistance certification. The listing also shows the presence of 32-megapixel front shooter, Snapdragon 865 SoC, and Android 10 in the phone.

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE is likely to launch on September 23

Past reports have suggested that the handset will come with an in-display fingerprint scanner and 6GB of RAM. It is also claimed that the phone will pack a triple camera setup with two 12-megapixel sensors and an 8-megapixel snapper.

Samsung Galaxy S20 FE is likely to launch on September 23 at a virtual event called “Galaxy Unpacked for Every Fan”.