LightBlog

lundi 7 juin 2021

Wondering how to watch WWDC 2021 virtual keynote on iOS 15, macOS 12, and other Apple stuff? Here’s how!

Apple is hosting its annual WWDC developers conference virtually for the second year in a row. While the giant hosts many events throughout the year, WWDC is where we see most of the announcements about software improvements coming to different operating systems by Apple. At this year’s event, Apple will be announcing key changes coming with iOS 15 and the next versions of macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. Besides these, we might even get to see some exciting hardware announcements like the 14-inch MacBook Pro. The WWDC 21 keynote starts later today i.e. on June 7th at 10 AM Pacific Time. If you would like to catch all the action live, we are listing all the ways you can watch the announcements.

First up, you can head over to the Apple Events webpage to watch the event or check out for any update from Apple until the WWDC 2021 keynote starts at 10 AM PT. Gladly, Apple no longer restricts this webpage to its Safari browser, and you can watch the event irrespective of your browser and device.

You can also watch the WWDC 2021 keynote live via YouTube. The video is linked below and even though it won’t start playing until 10PM PT, you should go to the link and set a reminder to make sure you get a notification as soon as the keynote starts streaming.

Despite opening the event to other platforms, Apple is still preferential towards those using its devices. Therefore, you can expect the YouTube livestream to be of a lower quality or lagging behind by a few seconds. To avoid that, you can either use Safari on any of the Apple devices or tune in to the event using the Apple TV app, which can be found for Apple TV hardware, Mac, iPad, and iPhone. The Apple TV app is also available on Windows, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and other smart TVs from Samsung, Sony, and LG.

Lastly, if you have Apple developers’ account, you can watch the livestream using the Apple Developer app.

Besides announcements on iOS and macOS, what are looking forward to the most for WWDC 2021? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Wondering how to watch WWDC 2021 virtual keynote on iOS 15, macOS 12, and other Apple stuff? Here’s how! appeared first on xda-developers.



from xda-developers https://ift.tt/3cG8hWf
via IFTTT

Google One now lets you pick which apps can bypass its VPN

Last week, we found evidence for a new VPN bypass functionality in an APK teardown of the Google One app for Android. It seems this feature is now starting to roll out to users. The feature will make it easier for users to bypass certain apps from the VPN without having to completely disable the VPN service altogether — which is what users had to do up until now.

Users who have received the VPN whitelisting feature are seeing a new “Allow app to bypass VPN” option appear under the VPN settings. When users click on this option, they will see a full list of installed apps. To add an app to the whitelist, users can click on the “+” button and tap “Save” at the top. Apps added to the whitelist will bypass the VPN and route their traffic over your phone’s regular internet connection.

VPN settings in Google One app VPN by Google One Bypass VPN screen in Google One app

Google has also updated the support page for Google’s One’s VPN feature with a section on how to allow apps to ignore the VPN. The page notes that allowing apps to route over your regular internet connection instead of the encrypted VPN can be useful when an app or website doesn’t play nicely with a VPN or if you can’t use your local network while VPN is connected.

Google One offers several benefits to its paying subscribers, including cashback on Google Play purchases, advanced photo editing tools in Google Photos, and more. In October last year, Google added the VPN feature as a complimentary perk for users subscribed to the 2TB or higher Google One plans.

The new VPN bypass option is currently rolling out to eligible Google One subscribers. Google One’s built-in VPN feature is limited to Android users in the US. We don’t know if and when Google plans to extend this to more markets.

Google One (Free+, Google Play) →


Thanks for the tip and screenshots @daniel__hurley!

The post Google One now lets you pick which apps can bypass its VPN appeared first on xda-developers.



from xda-developers https://ift.tt/3pqBdqj
via IFTTT

HarmonyOS on the Huawei MatePad Pro brings the look of iPadOS to Android

Huawei finally released its new operating system for mobile devices last week. HarmonyOS was first announced nearly two years ago and was speculated to be Huawei’s in-house replacement for Android and the Linux kernel. The way Huawei pitched HarmonyOS made it seem like an incredible feat of engineering as new operating systems and kernels can take many years of development to spring up, but they not only seemingly did just that in a few years but also managed to make it compatible with Android binaries. Therein lies the catch: As far as we can tell, HarmonyOS 2.0 for smartphones and tablets isn’t a drop-in replacement for Android, it is Android. Even so, I still like HarmonyOS for what it is on the new Huawei MatePad Pro, and its introduction has put Huawei in its best place since the U.S. imposed crippling trade restrictions.

If you’re wondering why there’s confusion about HarmonyOS 2.0, here’s a passage from ArsTechnica that sums up the situation:

“For instance, TechCrunch spoke to Huawei and reported ‘Huawei denied speculations that HarmonyOS is a derivative of Android and said no single line of code is identical to that of Android. A spokesperson for Huawei declined to say whether the operating system is based on Linux, the kernel that powers Android.’ This statement is true of the IoT version but untrue of the phone version.

Meanwhile, the company said the complete opposite thing to the German site ComputerBase, which quotes Huawei’s software president as saying ‘To make sure our existing users can still enjoy the experiences that they are familiar with in our phones and tablets, Huawei uses the open source code from AOSP in HarmonyOS on the condition of complying with open source license rules and fulfilling related responsibilities and obligations.'”

Yeah, it’s still not clear what exactly HarmonyOS is — and we’ve asked Huawei for more details on numerous occasions, but all signs point to it being a fork of Android, just like EMUI was. An Android fork with the potential to be drastically different than other forks now that Google’s influence is out of the picture, but a fork nonetheless. Even if it’s another Android fork and not something entirely new, I don’t think there’s a problem with that. Making an OS from scratch is no small feat, and given the open-source nature of Android and the years of work put into EMUI, it makes sense that Huawei would want to build on that.

And build they have, as the new MatePad Pro is the best Huawei device I’ve used since the trade ban. The company has finally found its footing with HMS Core and the AppGallery, too. Is this an opportune time for rebranding? Potentially, but it’s important that Huawei is more transparent to customers about what HarmonyOS 2.0 is and what it isn’t.

Huwaei MatePad Pro with keyboard peripheral

Specification Huawei MatePad Pro (2021, 12.6″ model)
Dimensions & Weight
  • 286.5 x 184.7 x 6.7mm
  • 609g
Display
  • 12.6-inch OLED FHD+
  • 60Hz refresh rate
  • 90% screen-to-body ratio
  • 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio
  • 100% DCI-P3
SoC
  • Kirin 9000E SoC
    • 1x Cortex-A77 @ 3.13GHz
    • 3x Cortex-A77 @ 2.54GHz
    • 4x Cortex-A55 @ 2.05GHz
RAM & Storage
  • 8GB RAM
  • 256GB storage
Battery & Charging
  • 10,050mAh battery
  • 40W wired fast charging
  • 27W fast wireless charging
Security Face unlock, side-mounted fingerprint scanner
Rear Camera(s)
  • Primary: 13MP, f/1.8 (wide)
  • Secondary: 8MP, f/2.4 (ultrawide)
  • Tertiary: TOF 3D
Front Camera(s) 8MP, f/2.0
Port(s)
  • USB Type-C
Connectivity
  • Wi-Fi 6
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac dual-band WiFi
  • GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo
Software HarmonyOS 2.0 (based on Android?)
Audio
  • 8 speakers
  • 4 microphones
Accessories
  • Huawei M-Pencil support
  • Full-size keyboard (optional)
  • Mouse and trackpad support

The Huawei MatePad Pro is ready for business, though with some flaws

The front camera on the Huawei MatePad Pro

The design of the new Huawei MatePad Pro positions it as a laptop replacement, with its design geared towards a more productivity-based usage. Not only is the display massive (and much bigger than last year’s MatePad Pro), but also the camera has been moved into the top bezel when the device is oriented in landscape mode. It’s perfect for Zoom calls and other online meetings, particularly thanks to the four microphones in tow which Huawei says can avoid echoing even when the call is playing over the tablet’s speakers.

It’s the first time I’ve ever found myself properly multitasking on a tablet as well, something I generally don’t do as I find the displays too small for it to be viable. On the original MatePad Pro, despite multitasking being a rather big feature, I never enjoyed it.

Huawei MatePad Pro watching professional CSGO on Twitch

The eight speakers get loud and produce decent bass, making the tablet perfect for watching content, especially with its lighter form factor. The optional M-Pencil and magnetic keyboard add to the overall business experience, making it comfortable and easy to both write on and draw on. There are no pre-installed apps that can make use of the pencil (aside from the Notes app for little scribbles and other bits), though there are apps such as Canva on the AppGallery that can make use of the M-Pencil natively.

The new MatePad Pro can also link up to a Huawei laptop to be used as a secondary display wirelessly, though I found it too laggy and cumbersome to use. It’s not the most fluid experience, though I can see it being useful in a pinch for consuming static content while working on the laptop’s display. The 10,050 mAh battery should easily get you through tasks during the day, and I’ve been using it for hours without it even breaking a sweat.

The YouTube app works when installed (though you can’t sign in, as it relies on Google Play Services), and Twitch works by bringing you to the mobile website. There’s a drawback when using mobile websites like Twitch, as often they lack features that their native apps have. With Twitch on the web, you can only use automatic resolution adjustment. Oddly, Twitter just….didn’t work. Petal Search found a web wrapper for Twitter, and the AppGallery itself pointed me to the mobile site which didn’t work either.

If I’m honest, there are some apps that are a complete mess to try and install on the MatePad Pro, and Twitter is one of them. I also wish that AppGallery gave the option to install the app rather than pointing you to the website, as the Twitter mobile website — while not the worst — isn’t as full-fledged as the actual app itself. Huawei generally has the right idea with the AppGallery, but it’s still in desperate need of some tweaks and improvements in some areas. Sadly, any apps you’ve purchased on the Google Play Store will not be usable on a device without Google Play Services if it uses any kind of copy protection.

The back of the Huawei MatePad Pro on a marble table

It’s not all bad though, because the Huawei MatePad Pro packs some impressive performance. Citra for Android runs near perfectly in Pokémon X, with only a few hitches. Kirin chipsets have generally been behind in emulation performance in the past, so it’s nice to see this device perform really well in Citra.

HarmonyOS 2.0 is (almost certainly) Android, but there’s nothing wrong with that

Huawei has done little to disprove allegations that HarmonyOS 2.0 for mobile devices is a fork of Android. On the other hand, HarmonyOS 2.0 for the Huawei Watch 3 series is clearly not based on Android but rather LiteOS, but Huawei’s smartwatches haven’t run Android in years anyway. That Huawei is playing coy when asked about HarmonyOS is disappointing, but being a fork of Android doesn’t make the OS itself a disappointment.

The "about tablet" section in the settings of the Huawei MatePad Pro, showing the HarmonyOS logo.

HarmonyOS 2.0 introduces a number of UI improvements across the board, particularly in the quick settings menu on the far right. I won’t lie — there are some very clear iPadOS influences here, and it’s pretty hard to miss them at times. Even the system icons look very Apple-inspired.

The launcher of the Huawei MatePad Pro Huawei MatePad Pro quick settings

The AppGallery’s own design leaves a lot to be desired, with large icons that take up much of the display on the home page. It’s not that it’s cluttered, it’s that it feels like wasted space. The multitasking menu is also rather unimaginative, and apps are swiped away by swiping upwards. There’s not a whole lot actually different here from EMUI, which either means Huawei did a good job at porting a familiar UI or — more likely — this is just the next version of EMUI.

The Huawei AppGallery Multitasking menu on HarmonyOS

Conclusion

The new MatePad Pro is an interesting device for Huawei because we can see the beginnings of a new software identity here. The current state of HarmonyOS and the Huawei AppGallery is a culmination of the company’s efforts to overcome the U.S. trade ban. While HarmonyOS 2.0 doesn’t match what we were promised, it’s a necessary release for Huawei to rejuvenate its software identity.

Stepping away from the Android brand helps it to identify as something else, as “Android” is perceived in the wider world to need Google. If it’s not Android, then why would it need Google? HarmonyOS can be perceived to be a different or unique operating system that supports all your favorite apps, even if it’s Android under the hood. Anybody who knows and loves technology like you or I can see through the illusion, but that’s not Huawei’s main market here. It’s entirely possible that a new public perception is exactly what Huawei needs to succeed, away from the stigma of being “banned” from Google. Now it’s a choice to not use Google. This is Huawei going their own way. It’s “Android” on a technical level, but it’s not “Android” in the sense that it’s expected to have Google.

The Huawei MatePad Pro has no information on pricing or availability yet, though.

The post HarmonyOS on the Huawei MatePad Pro brings the look of iPadOS to Android appeared first on xda-developers.



from xda-developers https://ift.tt/3z7jDfl
via IFTTT

dimanche 6 juin 2021

Does the Apple iMac with M1 chip support Continuity and Handoff?

One of the major advantages of using multiple Apple devices is the way they all function together in the ecosystem. Let’s say you have an iPhone 12 and you just bought the new iPad Pro 2021 with the M1 chip. You can seamlessly transfer files, complete a task from the iPhone on the iPad, answer phone calls directly from the iPad, and a lot more. These features are a part of what Apple refers to as continuity and handoff.

iMac with M1 Continuity and Handoff

Now, let’s add a Mac to the mix. All three devices now — the iPhone, iPad, and Mac — will work in tandem to help you do things like scan documents using the continuity camera feature, access a universal clipboard across devices, and more. If you just bought yourself a brand new 24-inch iMac with the M1 chip or are planning to get one soon, you must be wondering if these continuity and handoff features work with the device.

Does the 24-inch iMac with M1 support Continuity and Handoff?

The simple answer is yes, the 24-inch iMac with M1 that Apple recently launched does support both Continuity as well as Handoff features. It’s important to understand that both Continuity and Handoff are features that are baked into macOS and hence are a part of the software package that you get when you buy a Mac. Both these features use common technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to communicate with multiple devices on your network and provide seamless integration between them. No matter which new Mac you buy, these features are going to be available to you by default regardless of whether it has an Intel chip or Apple’s own Silicon.

So if you get the new M1 24-inch iMac and already have an iPhone or iPad, you’ll easily be able to use Continuity and Handoff to make your workflow more convenient. If you don’t have an iPhone, you might want to wait for the upcoming iPhone 13 which is just a few months away and is expected to bring in much-needed improvements like a smaller notch and high refresh rate displays.

    Apple iMac 24-inch 2021
    The new 24-inch iMac comes with the M1 chip and an updated design language. Being an Apple product, it integrates well into the Apple ecosystem as it supports Continuity and Handoff.

The post Does the Apple iMac with M1 chip support Continuity and Handoff? appeared first on xda-developers.



from xda-developers https://ift.tt/3ppLMtJ
via IFTTT

What do you want to see from Apple at WWDC 2021?

Apple’s annual developer conference is scheduled to take place tomorrow. Like last year’s event, WWDC 2021 will also be held virtually due to the challenges of holding an in-person event amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite these challenges, Apple is expected to announce exciting changes to its entire suite of operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS. In addition, Apple may even surprise us with some hardware launches, including a more powerful Mac Mini, new MacBooks, or even an iPod Touch. Based on these rumors, which of these announcements at WWDC 2021 are you most looking forward to?

Software announcements at WWDC 2021: iOS 15, iPadOS 15, macOS 12, tvOS, and watchOS

The announcements that would interest most users are those regarding iOS 15 and the next version of macOS. iOS 15 is likely to bring changes to the user interface and the experience on iPhones and other devices. These changes include significant overhauls to notifications management and the lockscreen in iOS. Additionally, iOS 15 could bring a better dark mode and more ways to alert users about the data collected by apps. It is also likely to bring significant improvements to iMessage, including new Memojis. Furthermore, we also expect better widget support for iPadOS.

Unlike iOS, there’s next to no information about the upcoming macOS version, except for rumors about its tentative naming. 9to5Mac author Parker Ortolani suggests that “macOS 12” could be called either “Mammoth” or “Monterey” based on the trademarks filed by Apple. We can also expect to see improvements to x86-64 emulation on Apple’s ARM-based M1 chip and see more collaborations to make more apps run natively on the company’s hardware.

There are hardly any rumors or leaks around tvOS and watchOS, so we will wait to see what Apple has in store.

Hardware announcements at WWDC 2021: M1X, Mac Mini, MacBook Pro, and (maybe) iPod Touch?

When it comes to hardware, several reports point towards an upgraded version of Apple’s custom M1 chip. The successor is likely to be called the M1X and could power a new and upgraded version of the Mac Mini. Some rumors also point to the much-awaited MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch models being announced at WWDC 2021. Besides being powered by the M1X chip, the rumored MacBook Pro models are also likely to get better Mini LED displays, just like the latest iPad Pro 12.9-inch. Lastly, Apple might revive the iPod lineup with a new, colorful iPod Touch or leave that to the iPhone 13 launch later this year.

Do you expect any other announcement from Apple to be made at WWDC 2021? What are you most looking forward to from the event? Let us know in the comments!

The post What do you want to see from Apple at WWDC 2021? appeared first on xda-developers.



from xda-developers https://ift.tt/34VHtg6
via IFTTT

These are the Best Android Phones in India right now: OnePlus, Xiaomi, iQOO, Realme, and more!

If you’re in the Indian market for a new Android smartphone and are wondering what the best Android phones are across different categories, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of the best Android phones in India that you can buy right from the affordable budget segment to the premium flagships with top-of-the-line features and specifications. We have categorized the smartphones based on specific user requirements like gaming, cameras, etc., so there’s something for everyone.

Our attempt has been to try and keep this list as mainstream as possible and to make sure that all the phones we mention are easily accessible. If you want something unique, we suggest you check out the best foldable phones as they offer a completely new experience. For the Indian market,

Here are some of the best Android phones to buy in India:

Best Android Phone Overall: OnePlus 9 Pro

Best Android Phone in India - OnePlus 9 Pro

OnePlus in its initial few years as a brand was known to produce flagship killers which were essentially phones with flagship specs but at a much lower price. In the last few years though, OnePlus has moved up several tiers and is now competing directly against other flagship smartphones not just in terms of specs but also the price. With the OnePlus 8 Pro last year, the brand included some vital features from other flagships like IP68 rating and wireless charging. This year with the OnePlus 9 Pro, they’ve gone all-in with the cameras.

Performance has never been an issue with OnePlus smartphones. In fact, they’re among the snappiest phones in the market. The OnePlus 9 Pro doesn’t disappoint in that regard either. The Snapdragon 888 is the best chip Qualcomm has to offer and when coupled with a smooth 120Hz QHD+ AMOLED display, the overall experience of using the phone is as premium as it can get.

Cameras have usually been the Achilles’ heel on OnePlus smartphones but by partnering with Hasselblad, they seem to have done a pretty good job this around with the OnePlus 9 Pro. While the cameras weren’t extraordinary at launch, regular software updates have improved them considerably to a point where they’re now comparable with other flagship phones. The battery life is decent too and you get OnePlus’ 65W Warp charging which is super-fast, alongside compatibility with other fast charging standards too. Overall, the OnePlus 9 Pro offers a complete package and a no-frills experience for anyone who wants the best Android experience. This makes it our pick for one of the best Android phones in India.

    OnePlus 9 Pro
    The OnePlus 9 Pro offers one of the best Android experiences with OxygenOS and when coupled with top-of-the-line hardware, it is an easy recommendation.

Some honorable mentions include the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra which misses out on the top spot due to the fact that it comes with an Exynos 2100 SoC in India which is inferior compared to the Snapdragon 888 in the US. The Mi 11 Ultra is another option that provides an all-around package but is unfortunately not on sale yet in the country. This is why the OnePlus 9 Pro manages to clinch the spot even though the other smartphones can arguably be viewed as better picks.

Best Gaming Phone: iQOO 7 Legend

iQOO 7 Legend

iQOO made its debut in India in early 2020 with the iQOO 3 but after that, we hadn’t heard from the brand in a while. Fast forward more than a year later, iQOO is back from its hiatus with the BMW-themed iQOO 7 Legend. Just like the carmaker, iQOO is emphasizing speed with this smartphone and it surely delivers on that front. The Snapdragon 888 makes gaming a breeze on this smartphone and the 120Hz OLED display ensures the viewing experience is great too.

Not just performance, but the iQOO 7 Legend doesn’t disappoint with its 48MP triple camera setup and a 4000mAh battery that can charge at up to 66W. It’s also one of the most affordable flagship smartphones which is a cherry on top. For gaming, this is surely one of the best Android phones in India.

    iQOO 7 Legend
    If you're looking for a smartphone primarily for gaming, you just cannot go wrong with the iQOO 7 Legend. The Snapdragon 888 and the dedicated display chip take the gaming experience on this device to the next level.

Best Affordable Flagship Phone: iQOO 7

iQOO 7 in Blue

Just like its elder sibling, the iQOO 7 provides excellent value for money which is why it’s the best affordable flagship smartphone to buy in India. The iQOO 7 carries over all the goodness from the Legend to a more affordable price-point with some minor changes that don’t really affect the overall usability a lot. The Snapdragon 870 comes in place of the Snapdragon 888 on the Legend which by the way is no slouch. The iQOO 7 can also handle extended gaming sessions with ease.

What makes the iQOO 7 stand out from the crowd is a dedicated chip that drives the 120Hz AMOLED display. The primary camera is also the same 48MP shooter, so you can expect some good shots. The battery is slightly higher than the Legend at 4400mAh with support for the same 66W fast charging. If you’re looking to buy a flagship smartphone without spending a bomb, the iQOO 7 is among the best Android phones in India in the budget flagship category.

    iQOO 7
    The iQOO 7 is an affordable flagship smartphone that gets most things right. If you want a flagship smartphone especially for gaming without breaking the bank, the iQOO 7 is for you.

Best Android Phone for Most People: Mi 11X

Mi 11X

The Mi 11X was recently launched in India alongside the Mi 11X Pro and Mi 11 Ultra. Out of the three, the Mi 11X is the most affordable smartphone and is the one most of you should get. In terms of value for money and price to performance ratio, the Mi 11X offers a solid package that should suffice the needs of almost every smartphone user. The Snapdragon 870 is a flagship chip, there’s a 120Hz AMOLED display, 5G, and a 48MP primary camera.

For the price that the Mi 11X sells for, it offers an experience that most users will enjoy and most average users will not have anything to complain about. The glass back adds a premium touch and the powerful SoC means that mobile gamers will be happy too. MIUI on the Mi 11X offers a slightly cleaner experience compared to what you get on an affordable phone from Xiaomi, so that’s a plus. If you want a reliable phone that offers good performance, this is the one to consider.

    Xiaomi Mi 11X
    The Mi 11X has a flagship chip, an AMOLED display, a 48MP camera setup, and a 4520mAh battery that lasts all day. This is more like a one size fits all kind of a device.

Best Camera Phone: Vivo X60 Pro+

Vivo X60 Pro Plus in tanned leather

 

Vivo introduced its gimbal camera technology with the Vivo X50 Pro last year which was one of the best camera phones of its time. This time around, Vivo has taken it up a notch by launching the Vivo X60 Pro+ which has even better optics and a partnership with Zeiss that brings back old Nokia memories. The Vivo X60 Pro+ has a 50MP primary camera accompanied by an array of 48MP+32MP+8MP sensors making it one of the most versatile camera setups on a smartphone.

Not just cameras, but the rest of the package that Vivo has provided with the X60 Pro+ is also top-notch. The Snapdragon 888 resides under the hood so performance is right up there with the best smartphones. The curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate adds to the premium design which is complemented well by the leather panel on the back. There’s a 4200mAh cell fueling everything with support for 55W fast charging. If cameras are your topmost priority, this is one of the best Android phones in India.

    Vivo X60 Pro+
    If cameras are at the top of your priority list, the Vivo X60 Pro+ will not disappoint, Be it low-light photography or shooting videos, the X60 Pro+ holds its own and is one of the best Android phones in terms of camera performance.

Best Mid-range Phone: Redmi Note 10 Pro Max

Redmi Note 10 Pro with a plastic back

 

It’s no surprise that Xiaomi generally offers some of the most value-for-money smartphones, especially in the mid-range category. This time though, they took it to a whole other level with the Redmi Note 10 series. The Redmi Note 10 Pro Max has everything you would need from a mid-range smartphone, plus more. The display is a gorgeous 120Hz AMOLED panel with a tiny hole punch. The primary camera on the rear is a 108MP sensor that shoots some of the best pictures in this price range.

In terms of performance, the Redmi Note 10 Pro Max gets the Snapdragon 732G which should be good for most people. However, this phone skimps out on 5G which, to be honest, is not a big deal at least at this point of time in India. There’s a large 5020mAh battery with 33W fast charging which will get you through a full day’s worth of use. The Redmi Note 10 Pro Max offers a complete package for the price and you just cannot go wrong with this one.

    Redmi Note 10 Pro Max
    The Redmi Note 10 Pro Max is an all-round smartphone that does almost everything right especially considering the price. If you want a great display and solid cameras, the Note 10 Pro Max is a great option.

Best Affordable 5G Phone: Realme 8 5G

Realme 8 5G front and back

Realme initially launched the Realme 8 and Realme 8 Pro that were compatible only with 4G networks. However, they followed it up with the Realme 8 5G. Since 5G is all the rage currently across the globe (if only for the marketing hype), brands are cashing in by launching 5G phones that are slightly pricier than 4G phones and are pitching them as future-proof. In India, 5G is still a long way off so if you’re going to change your phone in the next two years, getting a 4G-enabled phone, for now, seems like a smarter option.

Even then, if you still want a 5G smartphone and are going to use your phone for more than three to four years, the Realme 8 5G is a good option. It has the Dimensity 700 chip from MediaTek that’s quite powerful, a 90Hz IPS LCD display, a 5000mAh battery, and a 48MP triple camera setup. As you can probably tell, apart from the SoC, the rest of the specifications aren’t that impressive which is a compromise you make to get 5G at an affordable price. If you really want 5G and a chipset that performs the best at this price range, go for it.

    Realme 8 5G
    The Realme 8 5G is only for someone who specifically wants 5G on their smartphone. The performance is solid too so if you want a good smartphone for gaming on a budget, the Realme 8 5G is an option you can consider.

Best Budget Android Phone: Redmi Note 10

Redmi Note 10

As we mentioned earlier, Xiaomi hit it out of the park with the Redmi Note 10 series launch in India this year. Even the base Redmi Note 10 offers solid value for money especially in terms of display and cameras. You can get a Full HD+ AMOLED display which is quite rare in this segment along with a 48MP camera quad-camera setup that can shoot some good pictures. The build quality is also solid on the Redmi Note 10 thanks to a glass back.

One area where the Redmi Note 10 slightly falls short is in terms of performance. You get a Snapdragon 678 chip which is fine for day-to-day activities and social media apps but starts to struggle a bit when pushed with some heavy games. The 5000mAh battery ensures good all-day battery life and you get a 33W fast charger in the box which is a bonus. If you consume a lot of content, you are going to love the Redmi Note 10, especially for its display. This is easily one of the best Android phones in India in this price bracket.

    Redmi Note 10
    The Redmi Note 10 is the best budget smartphone you can get thanks to a beautiful AMOLED display and a capable set of cameras. Good build quality and design are positives and if you watch a lot of videos and movies online, you are going to enjoy using this phone.

Best Entry-level Android Phone: Realme Narzo 30A

Realme Narzo 30A Blue

As we go down the price ladder, there aren’t a lot of smartphones that offer compelling specifications at a competitive price. However, the Narzo 30A from Realme offers a fairly good package for the price and can be a nice option for someone looking to get their first smartphone, or a secondary phone to go along with another phone that you already have. The processor under the hood is a strong point in favor of the Narzo 30A. The Helio G85 performs well and can even play some heavy games albeit at low graphics settings.

It has a 6.55-inch HD+ display and a 13MP + 2MP camera setup on the rear with a fingerprint scanner beneath it. A major highlight of the Narzo 30A is its 6000mAh battery which, when coupled with a 720p display, means you can expect really good battery life from the smartphone. At this price, the Realme Narzo 30A is a good option that offers lag-free performance and great endurance.

    Realme Narzo 30A
    The Realme Narzo 30A is an entry-level smartphone that offers good performance and a large display to view content on. You also get the benefit of a large battery that can power through even two days with moderate usage.

These were our picks for the best Android phones in India across various categories and price brackets. The OnePlus 9 Pro remains a strong pick for the Indian market for a flagship, while the iQOO 7 is a good pick if you’re a bit cash-constrained but still want a flagship. If you have a mixed usage style and do a little bit of everything on your phone and are also looking for great value, the Xiaomi Mi 11X is what should go into your pocket. And of course, the Redmi Note 10 Pro Max is a no-brainer when it comes to mid-range smartphones and offers the best overall experience thanks to the 120Hz AMOLED display and the 108MP camera.

The post These are the Best Android Phones in India right now: OnePlus, Xiaomi, iQOO, Realme, and more! appeared first on xda-developers.



from xda-developers https://ift.tt/3pozRMy
via IFTTT

samedi 5 juin 2021

BLUETTI Is Having a Huge Summer Sale – Save Up to $947

It’s time to get ready for summer by making sure you have the right gear. When planning your next beach visit, camping trip, or off-grid adventure, make sure you have the proper equipment before you go. BLUETTI is kicking off the Summer season with a huge sale on some of their best products. The company specializes in portable power stations, with different models to fit every type of situation.

BLUETTI also offers portable solar generators that are quiet, green, and will be perfect for off-grid activities. With all of their solutions aimed at improving your getaways, BLUETTI is a pioneer of solar and battery solutions. This is your chance to get some great discounts on these types of products.


BLUETTI EB70 Portable Power Station [Use Code: EB70 for $100 off]

One of the highlights of the summer sale is the EB70. This portable power station has a massive 716Wh capacity and 700W rated wattage. This is ideal for powering things like mini-fridges, air pumps, laptops, and more. The premium battery is an ultra-stable LiFePO4, which makes the EB70 able to hit 2500+ life cycles before reaching 80% capacity.

This power station has the ability to charge 12 different devices at the same time, thanks to its large selection of ports.

  • 4x 100-120V AC
  • 2x USB-c 100W
  • 2x USB-A 5V/3A
  • 1x Wireless Charger 15W
  • 1x CarPort 12V/10A
  • 2x DC 12V/10A

There are also several ways to charge your EB70, depending on what you have available. You can use your car outlet, a generator, a wall outlet, or the BLUETTI SP200 solar panel. By using the solar panel, you can charge the EB70 wherever you have sunlight. If you get the EB70 power station along with the SP200 solar panel, you can save $210 during the summer sale.


BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station [Use Code: SUMMER200 for $200 off]

BLUETTI’s portable power stations come in multiple different sizes, and for those of you that need a bit more juice, the AC200P is prepared to deliver. This large-capacity Power Station is for bigger equipment that you need to keep running indoors and outdoors. With a 2000W output and 17 different ports, this is ideal for high-powered equipment. A small interactive smart-touch display makes using this power station easy. This display will show you the current, voltage, power, temperature, and charging status.

  • 6x AC 2000W
  • 1x DC12V/10A
  • 2x DC 12V/3A
  • 1x DC12V/25A
  • 1x PD 60W USB-C
  • 2x Wireless Charger 15W
  • 4x 5V/3A USB-A

The AC200P has five different ways to charge. The included AC adapter can charge your battery at 500W. Use the car charger with a 12V/24V charging capacity for when you’re away from a power outlet. This can also be charged with a generator powered by gasoline, propane, or diesel. A lead-acid battery will charge the AC200 at 8.2A. Then, of course, you can charge it with solar panels for off-grid situations.

If you pair your purchase of the AC200 with three of the SP200 solar panels, you can save a massive $947 at your checkout.


BLUETTI EB150 [Code: CODE: SUMMER200 for $200 off] &
BLUETTI EBEB240 [Code: SUMMER200 for $200 off]

BLUETTI EB150/EB240 are all-in-one solar generators that offer two different battery capacities. For more than two years, these products have been a favorite among BLUETTI customers. Their solid aluminum case makes this a super durable and reliable portable power station. With a 1000Watt pure sine wave inverter, they are capable of powering most of your appliances outdoors and indoor. BLUETTI EB150 and EB240 both support up to 500watt MPPT solar input. On days with ideal sunshine, the EB150 can be charged up in as little as 4.5 hours, and 7.2 hours for the EB240.

The EB150/EB240 can power energy-hungry appliances and devices, with a battery life that can extend throughout the day.

  • CPAP(60w)  22+Hrs
  • Fan(12w)   106Hrs
  • Laptop(60w)  22+ Recharges
  • Smartphone  128+ Recharges
  • Led lantern light(10w)  128Hrs
  • LCD TV(100w)  12.8+Hrs

BLUETTI Summer Sale
We thank BLUETTI for sponsoring this post. Our sponsors help us pay for the many costs associated with running XDA, including server costs, full time developers, news writers, and much more. XDA will never compromise its journalistic integrity by accepting money to write favorably about a company, or alter our opinions or views in any way. Our opinion cannot be bought.

The post BLUETTI Is Having a Huge Summer Sale – Save Up to $947 appeared first on xda-developers.



from xda-developers https://ift.tt/3vVAq2R
via IFTTT