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Category: Smartphones & Gadgets

  • Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, S10+, S9, S9 FE: Which is right for your business?

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    Advancements in performance, network connectivity and sheer versatility would be more than enough to explain the growing popularity of tablets among businesses. When you consider how everyday work is changing, though, it’s no longer a question of whether companies will want to equip their teams with these connected, multipurpose devices. It’s a question of giving employees the best model to meet their specific business needs.

    People want the portability of tablets but also a PC-like experience, with superior battery life and extra functionality — like the ability to take notes. Simultaneously, companies are considering the myriad scenarios in which their employees will have to stay connected on the go and use essential business applications.

    Meet the Galaxy Tab S lineup

    Samsung designed the latest Galaxy Tab S devices with all these business uses in mind, starting with key features that are common across all three devices.

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    The Galaxy Tab S9 includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and two-in-one functionality with a keyboard. It also offers enterprise-ready connectivity with options like Wi-Fi 6E, which can provide access to business apps and data wherever there’s a wireless network.

    Meanwhile, using 5G, employees carrying a Galaxy Tab S10+ can continue working without interruption wherever they are, including remote sites or while they’re in their vehicle. Galaxy Tab S10+ and Tab S10 Ultra feature the MediaTek MT6989 processor, giving you the power and speed to multitask. With Wi-Fi 6E and 5G connectivity for Galaxy Tab S10+ and Wi-Fi 7 for Tab S10 Ultra, you can eliminate the need for separate desktop or laptop PCs.

    All the devices in the Galaxy Tab S Series include Samsung DeX and enterprise-grade security and management through Samsung Knox.

    Galaxy AI for greater productivity, communication and creativity

    While Galaxy Tab devices have a long history of innovation, the latest models — Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S10+ and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra — introduce AI capabilities that transform everyday work.

    These features include Circle to Search with Google, which allows employees to draw around words and objects on their tablet’s screen and instantly look up more details without having to toggle in and out of a search engine. Browsing Assist, meanwhile, can save time by summarizing the information on a particular web page. Staff can also use Note Assist to summarize and organize all their work notes.

    Galaxy AI* doesn’t just drive greater productivity on Galaxy Tab devices, though. It can also streamline communication through Chat Assist, which tailors messages to adopt the right tone while cleaning up any typos. When talking to those who speak a different language, Live Translate with Galaxy AI can enable real-time borderless communication in both voice and text.

    Of course, tablets are also ideal for creating and reviewing content such as photos and videos. Galaxy AI assists in these areas, too. Generative Edit suggests the best way to make a post-worthy masterpiece and can remove unwanted objects or adjust colors. For videos, Instant Slo-Mo turns demo clips or event highlights from ordinary to engaging.

    All these Galaxy AI capabilities come with strong data control and architecture and compliance with Google’s Secure AI Framework, which ensures strong security and appropriate data use to address privacy concerns.

    Although Galaxy AI is available across the Galaxy Tab Series, each model has many different specs to consider. Decide which Galaxy Tab S family of devices your company needs by thinking through the everyday tasks an employee or team tends to focus on and how they collaborate. Galaxy Tab S10+ can work well for those whose jobs require extreme portability, while those focused on content creation might need the larger screen of Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra.

    Another way to make the right choice is by aligning your Galaxy device with the specific use cases of the industry or vertical market in which you operate. Read on to explore a few examples based on some common business segments.

    Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra

    • A larger screen compared to Galaxy Tab S9 and Tab S10+, ideal for employees who need room for note-taking and multitasking
    • From 256GB up to 1TB storage and 16GB RAM
    • Up to an 11,200mAh long-life battery to keep employees productive
    • S Pen included

    Boasting a 14.6-inch display that rivals many laptops, Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra offers the space necessary to communicate or visualize complex ideas and collaborate with co-workers and customers. It also delivers 16 hours of video playback time compared with 14 hours on the S8 Ultra.** In addition, it has a fast charging time of only 98 minutes.***

    This extra screen real estate is valuable for any multitasker. Like all devices in the Galaxy Tab S lineup, Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra offers diverse multiview layouts, which you can adjust based on the experience you need. Finance professionals, for example, can display product and service options to a client or internal team while simultaneously displaying customer feedback to offer social proof or identify areas to improve the customer experience.

    Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display offers the color and quality to see products as though customers were standing in front of them in real life. All that screen real estate gives users plenty of room to use Circle to Search with Google when they need more details. A new optional Vision Booster automatically detects high illumination and maximizes vivid colors on the screen, while low blue light and dark modes offer enhanced eye comfort.

    Samsung DeX provides the ability to display presentations on an even larger screen. Each new Galaxy Tab also includes the responsive S Pen, which supports writing or drawing tips you can use at a 50 to 60-degree tilt. Illustrate a concept for your team or bring an abstract idea to life for your client. Sketch out your next masterpiece. Write a note longhand and automatically convert it to text. Use Note Assist to summarize and organize everything you’ve jotted down.

    Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is also an example of where the power of a Galaxy-connected experience streamlines workflows. With the new Multi-Control feature, for example, you can control your mobile device with a tablet keyboard and trackpad to reply to messages.

    Finally, Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra allows employees to work at home, on-site and anywhere else via Wi-Fi 7. That kind of connectivity ensures support for high-bandwidth apps, including the entire Microsoft Suite. A retailer could offer a purchasing app through the tablet, for example, to assist customers throughout their entire shopping journey.

    Galaxy Tab S10+

    • Flexible connectivity with 5G for employees working in remote sites or while on the move
    • A 12.4-inch screen offers enough space to tap into productivity features such as multiple windows
    • Pro-level app-ready with Good Notes and ArcSite
    • S Pen included

    Portability matters, particularly with many organizations offering some degree of hybrid work options for employees. Galaxy Tab S10+, like others in the latest series, allows you to activate your device on the go with a new dual SIM feature — a physical SIM and an eSIM. This can prove valuable for organizations operating private networks.

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    With a 12.4-inch screen, Galaxy Tab S10+ gives mobile workers both the real estate and the performance they need to be productive, including a long-life battery and up to 1TB of expandable memory.

    Continuity with the rest of the Galaxy ecosystem means it’s easy to transfer information from one Galaxy device to another. A retail manager could connect to desktop systems in the back office, for example, to set up staff schedules, using Chat Assist to help them strike a more casual tone with coworkers and a more professional one when they’re answering questions from customers or suppliers. Then, they can return to the floor to engage directly with customers and assist associates by suggesting accessories and complementary products.

    You can also connect Galaxy Tab Series to a keyboard and use DeX in a vehicle. A government employee, for instance, could leave an off-site meeting, use Live Translate to speak professionally in another language if necessary, and then go to their car and add more detailed notes, enjoying flawless connectivity to their applications over 5G.

    Support for pro-level apps like Good Notes and ArcSite, meanwhile, can enhance the freedom of handwriting or doing quick and easy CAD/CAM designs.

    Galaxy Tab S9

    • The most lightweight Galaxy Tab S9 device with an 11-inch screen
    • Wi-Fi 6E connectivity allows the team to work at the office, at home or wherever there’s a wireless network
    • The same next-generation processors as Galaxy Tab S10+ and S10 Ultra drive premium performance for anyone on the team
    • An ideal device for digitizing business and replacing backend paper-based processes
    • S Pen included

    There are hardly any jobs left where mobile devices like tablets aren’t offering a compelling alternative to traditional business processes.

    Especially in an age of remote and hybrid work, devices that enable effective work from wherever employees may be based — and connectivity among your team — are more important than ever before.

    Financial institutions, for example, are reimagining the branch experience by arming employees with devices like Galaxy Tab S9 to offer enhanced customer service and account management.

    In all these cases, Galaxy Tab S9’s 11-inch screen and lightweight body provide the portability they need and an 8,000mAh battery to power them through their workday. If their job involves taking videos, employees can use the new Auto Share feature to take the footage they shot on their mobile device and edit it conveniently on their tablet, perhaps using Instant Slo-Mo to enhance the final results.

    Galaxy Tab S9 FE Series: Galaxy Tab S9 FE (Wi-Fi only, or Wi-Fi & 5G), Tab S9 FE+ (Wi-Fi only)

    • S Pen included in the box — perfect for sketching out ideas, taking notes or marking up documents on the go
    • Secured by Samsung Knox
    • Two large display options, with a full 10.9-inch display for Galaxy Tab S9 FE (Wi-Fi and 5G models), and an impressive 12.4-inch screen featured on Galaxy Tab S9 FE+, Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi

    Galaxy Tab S9 FE 5G

    Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 FE 5G is perfect for team members who need to stay productive and connected while on the go. This tablet boasts a powerful processor, a long-lasting battery and reliable 5G connectivity, making it ideal for mobile business needs. No more working from a hotspot or asking a client for their Wi-Fi password — no matter where the workday takes you.

    Galaxy Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi

    Conversely, across industries like retail, manufacturing, warehousing and more, employees need to stay connected and complete various tasks while away from their desks. But their work is taking place all in a centralized location. Boasting water and dust resistance and all the benefits of the Galaxy Connected Ecosystem — which streamlines file-sharing and even adds phone call capability to the device — your team can be more productive and more connected than ever before with Galaxy Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi. All without a pricey service plan.

    Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Wi-Fi

    No matter where a client presentation occurs, the 12.4-inch display of Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ can keep them engaged from start to end. Everything looks professional on a big, bright 12.4-inch Galaxy screen. There’s plenty of room to tackle your day with a large, dynamic viewing experience, whether you’re multitasking projects, designing a presentation or videoconferencing. Plus, dual speakers make everything sound amazing.

    Enhance business productivity with Galaxy AI-powered tablets

    As organizations across verticals continue to accelerate their digital transformation journeys, the Galaxy Tab portfolio can allow businesses to augment the effectiveness of their PCs and related systems with Galaxy AI-powered devices purpose-built for multitaskers on the go. And instead of just one option, they can choose from three different versions to ensure everyone has the best device for their job.

    Unleash new ways to stay productive, collaborate and more with Samsung for business. Find the right solutions and exclusive benefits to match your business needs. And see how you can get the most out of Samsung DeX on your Galaxy tablet.

    *Galaxy AI features by Samsung will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices.

    **Based on local, 720p resolution video playback, default video player (full screen), 162 nit brightness, earbud volume 7, Wi-Fi and mobile network off. Results vary with settings, usage and other factors.

    ***1Wall charger sold separately; use only Samsung approved chargers and cables. To avoid injury or damage to your device, do not use incompatible, worn or damaged batteries, chargers or cables. Supports up to 45W charging.

  • ASUS expands its South presence, opens its new store in Bengaluru

    ASUS, the Taiwanese PC maker is ramping up its expansion in South India with the opening of its new store in Bengaluru. The company currently operates 12 exclusive brand stores (EBO) and one Republic of Gamers (ROG) store, which showcases all ASUS products including an experiential store for gamers in the city.

    “South is a critical market for ASUS, and we have a substantial presence in the region. We are planning to open 50 more stores across India by the end of 2024 and will continue to expand our retail chain in the Southern region with our exclusive store expansion,” said Arnold Su, Vice President, of Consumer & Gaming PC, System Business Group, ASUS India.

    Retail footprint

    ASUS is also looking to strengthen its retail footprint in India by focusing on aggressively expanding into taluks. “We are entering each district systematically, followed by plans for each taluk. While this will take time and effort, it is a crucial part of our expansion strategy,” he told businessline.

    “By 2027- 28, we plan to be present in every taluk. However, due to the smaller business volume in taluks, we will be working with our dealers rather than opening exclusive stores. Currently, 50 per cent of our dealers are from tier 4 to tier 6 cities,” he added.

    Additionally, Arnold highlighted the importance of tier 2, tier 3, tier 4, and tier 6 cities for the brand. “30 per cent of our stores are located in tier 1 cities, and another 45 per cent are located in tier 2, tier 3 cities. The remaining 25 per cent is tier 4 to tier 6.”

    At present, ASUS has its stores located in 423 districts, and intends to expand and be present in approximately 500 districts by partnering with its local dealers in each district. Furthermore, by the end of 2025, it looks to extend this presence to 600 districts.

    The PC maker has increased its market share from 6 to 18 per cent and plans to capture 25-30 per cent of the consumer PC segment in the country.

    ASUS manufactures its products globally through its electronics manufacturing services (EMS) partners. In India, Flextronics and recently onboarded Dixon Technology are its key EMS partners. “We will continue to work with our EMS partners to increase manufacturing in India,” affirmed Arnold.

  • Thomson invests ₹50 crore in Noida plant for audio speakers manufacturing

    French consumer electronic brand Thomson has invested ₹50 crore in a manufacturing plant for audio speakers in Noida.

    The companyentering the category will launch two audio speakers and introduce 30 speaker models in the next six months. It is eyeing a market share of 10 per cent by 2028.

    The manufacturing plant has a capacity of 5,00,000 speaker units annually. 

    “Thomson is getting into a new category of audio segment. We wanted to start it two years back but now I think it is the correct time as there is a correct demand in India. The demand for soundbars and large speakers is growing. There is a trend of shifting from small personal speakers to party speakers. We are setting up a new factory for the speakers and in the next three years we are targeting more than 80 models, creating a complete portfolio,” said Avneet Singh Marwah, CEO of Super Plastronics Pvt. Ltd (SPPL) is an exclusive brand licensee of Thomson in India for the businessline.

    Initially, the speakers will be available across the country through the company’s partnership with Flipkart. In phase 2, the speakers will be available through offline mode.

    “We also plan to expand the new facility in future and will invest further. There is a lot of competition in the online space with speakers but we have done a lot of homework and backward integration on our products. This has helped the company to grow,” he said. 

    The company is targeting a growth of 35 per cent during the festive season.

    “We are targeting an overall growth of 35 per cent year-on-year. In H1 the markets were flattish apart from the seasonal uptick in air-conditioners and air-coolers. However, the sentiments are improving during the festive season,” added Avneet.

    Last year, the company invested ₹200 crore in setting up a manufacturing plant for washing machines in Noida. 

  • Huawei unveils $2,800 trifold phone hours after iPhone 16 debut

    Huawei Technologies Co. announced the world’s first commercial device with two folds, claiming leadership in mobile design just after Apple Inc. unveiled its latest iPhones.

    The so-called trifold phone from Huawei, dubbed the Mate XT and starting at 19,999 yuan ($2,800), took over five years of development and promises to fit a 10-inch tablet in a pocket. Introduced in a livestreamed event from Shenzhen, the new device is jostling for attention at the top of the premium market in China, where Huawei has reclaimed share from Apple over the past year.

    Riding a yearlong high after the debut of a breakthrough, made-in-China mobile processor last August, Huawei returns with a first-of-its-kind innovation. But questions abound as to how much of an impact the pricey new phone will have on the overall market. And, at a time that every other phone vendor is pushing artificial intelligence features and additions, Huawei’s focus on hardware engineering stands out.

    • Also read: Tata Power-DDL and Nissin Electric to launch India’s first micro substation project

    “It’ll be hard for trifold products to become a major growth engine for the foldable market given the high technical requirements, low yields, high prices and limited participants,” IDC analyst Arthur Guo said ahead of Huawei’s event. Other phone makers are starting to decelerate investment in foldables, waiting for Apple to enter the fray and use its “strong appeal” to attract consumers to the category, he added.

    For Huawei, the prize may be bigger than just sales. Huawei has become a de facto symbol of national pride, after developing homemade chips that US trade sanctions were meant to prevent, and that patriotism has shown up in some of its bumper sales over the past year. 

    The Mate XT measures just 3.6mm in thickness when open — camera bump excluded — and was designed to allow three modes of operation. One is like a regular smartphone, another is an almost square foldable device, and the third is the full 10.2-inch tablet experience. The device runs Huawei’s in-house Harmony OS.

    The company’s decision to set its trifold debut mere hours after Apple’s worldwide introduction of the iPhone 16 signals the company wants to own the innovation crown — at home in China, at least — and not allow Apple its usual honeymoon period after a new launch.

    Huawei and Apple are likely to once again dominate the Chinese premium smartphone tier this holiday shopping season, with the Shenzhen company expected to introduce a new Mate series of flagship handsets later in the year.

    More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com

  • Apple Glowtime Event 2024: iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, AirPods 4 launched

    Tech enthusiasts across the world tuned in last night to see what Apple unveiled in its annual launch event at Cupertino. The cups of coffee to stay awake (in this time zone) have paid off with the tech giant launching a slew of interesting software additions and a few hardware upgrades across the iPhone 16 line-up, the Apple Watch Series 10 and the AirPods.  

    Apple Intelligence, the tech giant’s proprietary AI interface finally arrives on the iPhone 16 series. The Watch Series 10 debuts detection of sleep apnea, and introduces a tonne of new trackers for underwater sports. The new AirPods 4 are redesigned to deliver better audio and now understand head nods! While a future upgrade on the AirPods Pro 2 can turn it into a hearing aid. Here’s a quick glance at the new launches, and what they bring in in terms of hardware and meaningful software!

    iPhone 16 Pro & iPhone 16 Pro Max

    Apple late last night introduced the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, featuring Apple Intelligence and new pro camera features powered by the A18 Pro chip. With Apple Intelligence, powerful Apple-built generative models come to the iPhone in the easy-to-use personal intelligence system that understands personal context to deliver intelligence that is helpful and relevant, while protecting user privacy. Camera Control unlocks a fast, intuitive way to tap into visual intelligence and easily interact with the advanced camera system. Featuring a new 48 MP Fusion camera with a faster quad-pixel sensor that enables 4K 120 fps video recording in Dolby Vision, these new Pro models achieve the highest resolution and frame-rate combination ever available on iPhone. 

    iPhone 16 Pro, with a 6.3-inch display and the iPhone 16 Pro Max with a 6.9-inch display will be available in black titanium, natural titanium, white titanium, and desert titanium, in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage capacities. iPhone 16 Pro starts at ₹1,19,900 and iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at ₹1,44,900.

    iPhone 16 & iPhone 16 Plus

    The brand-new iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus also feature Apple Intelligence, the company’s own intelligence system that understands personal context. The iPhone 16 line-up also includes Camera Control, a result of thoughtful hardware and software integration that elevates the camera experience on the iPhone 16 line-up. It allows the user to tweak camera settings with gentle slides and clicks. The camera system on the devices includes a 48 MP Fusion camera with a 2x Telephoto lens, giving users two cameras in one, while a new ultra-wide camera enables macro photography. Next-generation Photographic Styles help users personalise their images, and spatial photo and video capture allows users to rewatch moments captured on Apple Vision Pro. The new A18 chip is said to deliver a huge leap in performance and efficiency, along with longer battery life compared to last year’s models as well.

    Pre-orders begin Friday, September 13, with availability beginning Friday, September 20. iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will be available in ultramarine, teal, pink, white, and black in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage capacities. iPhone 16 with a 6.1-inch display starts at ₹79,900 and iPhone 16 Plus with a 6.7-inch display starts at ₹89,900.

    Apple Watch Series 10

    The new Apple Watch Series 10 now features a wide OLED display, in two sizes – 46 mm (height) and 42 mm (height). Audio can now be played back through the built-in speaker on the Apple Watch Series 10. Just like with phone calls, users can listen to music, podcasts, books and more right from the device. 

    The most meaningful health update on the new series is the ability to detect sleep apnea. The Apple Watch uses the accelerometer to monitor small movements at the wrist associated with interruptions in normal respiratory patterns, tracked by a new metric called Breathing Disturbances. While some of these disturbances are normal, they are important to track as they can be used to help understand restfulness of sleep and, when occurring frequently over multiple nights, may be associated with sleep apnea. Users can view their nightly Breathing Disturbances in the Health app, where they are classified as elevated or not elevated, and can be viewed over a one-month, six-month, or one-year period. It can also be exported as a PDF so you can take it along to your next medical checkup.

    A lot of the new features are designed for users who love spending time underwater. The smartwatch has a new depth gauge and water temperature sensor. The depth gauge can measure down to 6 meters beneath the water’s surface, perfect for snorkelling and shallow diving, or playing in the pool, lake, or ocean. The built-in Depth app is highly legible for easy underwater visibility, displaying the time, current depth, water temperature, duration underwater, and maximum depth — with the option to automatically activate as soon as one dives in.

    There’s also a new Tides app which shows you seven rolling days of forecasted tidal information for coastlines and surf spots around the globe. The Oceanic+ app is now available for Apple Watch Series 10, with new features for snorkelling. 

    Apple Watch Series 10 runs on watchOS 11, which includes a Smart Stack that lets users glance at important information easily, a redesigned Photos face, the Translate app and the ability to scroll through any app with the double tap gesture. 

    For the first time, Apple Watch is available in a polished aluminium jet-black finish, along with rose gold and brushed silver. Priced at ₹46,900 onwards, the Apple Watch Series 10 is now available for pre-order and will be available in stores starting September 20, 2024. 

    AirPods 4

    The new AirPods 4 features an open-ear design and a new acoustic architecture, a low-distortion driver, and a high-dynamic range amplifier. There’s also Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for an immersive audio experience. The H2 chip enables Voice Isolation, leading to possibly clearer call quality no matter how much background noise there is. New Siri Interactions lets users nod their head yes or gently shake their head indicating “no” to interact with their iPhones through the AirPods.

    The charging case now offers USB-C, while promising up to 30 hours of battery life. 

    Apple has launched two versions – AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. Customers can now pre-order AirPods 4 for ₹12,900, and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation for ₹17,900. 

    AirPods Pro 2

    Later this year, a suite of hearing health features will be rolled out for the AirPods Pro 2. This includes Loud Sound Reduction, wherein the ear tips help provide passive noise reduction, while the H2 chip helps to actively reduce louder noises. On by default across all listening modes, Loud Sound Reduction is designed not to get in the way of enjoying live concerts.

    Users will also be able to take a hearing test right from this device, while paired with a compatible iPhone or iPad, The test provides an easy-to-understand summary of their results in a personalised hearing profile for AirPods Pro, stored securely in the Health app.

    AirPods Pro 2 can also turn into a Hearing Aid for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. After set-up, the feature enables personalised dynamic adjustments so users have the sounds around them boosted in real time. New hearing health features will be available this winter for AirPods Pro 2 customers in a free software update when paired with iPhone or iPad running iOS 18 or iPadOS 18. AirPods Pro 2 are currently available at ₹24,900. 

    AirPods Max

    These headphones are now available in five new colours, including midnight, starlight, blue, orange, and purple, and offer complementary finishes alongside other Apple products such as the Mac or the iPad. Additionally, AirPods Max now features USB-C charging capabilities so you don’t have to carry multiple chargers with you on the go. Customers can now pre-order AirPods Max with USB-C charging for ₹59,900.

  • Apple ‘Glowtime’ event 2024: Apple unveils iPhone 16, watch 10, Airpods 4 and more AI features

    Apple Inc. introduced the latest version of its flagship product, the iPhone 16, with Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook saying it was designed to take advantage of artificial intelligence from the “ground up.” 

    The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will be available in new colors and get a customizable Action button that had only been available on higher-end models, Apple said during a presentation streamed from its headquarters Monday in Cupertino, California. And there’s a Camera Control button that lets you snap pictures and access camera capabilities.

    Apple also unveiled a version of its smartwatch with a bigger screen and the ability to detect sleep apnea, as well as new software that can turn AirPods into hearing aids.

    Product Price in India (₹)
    iPhone 16 79,900
    iPhone 16 Plus 89,900
    iPhone 16 Pro 1,19,900
    iPhone 16 Pro Max 1,44,900
    Apple Watch Series 10 46,900
    Apple Watch Ultra 2 89,900
    Airpods 4 (without ANC) 12,900
    Airpods 4 (with ANC) 17,900
    Airpods Max( with USB-C) 59,900

    Most available from September 20(Source: Apple India website)

    Apple Watch Series 10

    Artificial intelligence has been a major theme of the event, which kicked off at 10 a.m. local time. The company has been readying a suite of AI tools called Apple Intelligence that it hopes will entice consumers to buy upgraded devices. Customers will need a recent iPhone — Apple’s flagship product — to handle the capabilities. 

    Apple Intelligence will include an upgraded Siri digital assistant and the ability to create custom emoji with text prompts. The event’s “Glowtime” theme is a reference to the look of Siri’s new interface. But much of the technology won’t arrive until the coming months, potentially limiting its impact on iPhone sales.

    Apple Watch series 10
    Apple Watch series 10

    Apple Watch series 10

    The Series 10 version of the watch has 30% more screen area, even with a thinner design, Apple said. The sleep apnea feature will be available in more than 150 regions, the company said.

    The new watch is about 10% thinner than the Series 9 version. It also comes in a new titanium model that’s lighter than aluminum models. The device starts at $399 and will be released Sept. 20. A new version of the higher-end Ultra version also was announced, and it goes on sale that day for $799.

    Apple Watch Ultra

    Apple Watch Ultra

    Airpods 4
     $549 AirPods Max headphones and Airpods 4

     $549 AirPods Max headphones and Airpods 4

    The company introduced a new line of $549 AirPods Max headphones in new colors, also with USB-C charging. Like the other new products, the new devices will debut on Sept. 20. Apple didn’t debut a new version of its AirPods Pro, but introduced new features such as a hearing test and the ability to act as a hearing aid. Those capabilities will be offered as a software update this fall.

    The event included an updated version of the standard $129 AirPods, which shrinks the size of the case and adds a USB-C charger. A $179 version also will be available — a midrange product — with noise cancellation. That used to only be available on the higher-end AirPods Pro. 

    The iPhone market

    The iPhone debut is usually Apple’s most important announcement of the year. The device accounts for roughly half of the company’s annual revenue, and it helps fuel additional sales in the form of accessories and services. 

    Apple doesn’t typically hold its iPhone event on a Monday, but the earlier timing lets the company get out ahead of an eventful Tuesday: A US presidential debate is scheduled for that day, and the European Commission is set to announce whether Apple has to pay $14 billion in taxes. 

    Apple is playing catch-up in the world of generative artificial intelligence, where tech peers like Alphabet Inc.’s Google and Microsoft Corp. have made strides. Monday’s presentation is partly a pitch to consumers — and Wall Street — that Apple should be taken seriously in AI. 

    But the company’s AI technology is still in early stages. Apple Intelligence has faced numerous delays, and many key features won’t arrive until next year. For now, the technology is focused on summarizing messages and notifications, rather than matching the gee-whiz capabilities of rival systems.

    More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com

    ©2024 Bloomberg L.P.

  • Indkal Technologies licenses Acer brand to manufacture and sell mobile phones 

    Bengaluru-based Indkal Technologies, the official licensing partner of US-based power tools and home appliances BLACK+DECKER and Acer, announced its foray into the smartphone through a trademark licensing agreement with Acer Incorporated. Under the agreement, the consumer electronics company will design, manufacture, and distribute smartphones under the Acer brand in India. 

    “Acer smartphones are something we have been working on for a couple of years and we are ecstatic to announce the foray finally. Our customers will experience exceptionally well-designed smartphones with high-end processors, top-notch camera technology, and a host of premium features across the range, said Anand Dubey, CEO of Indkal Technologies. 

    • Read: Indkal Technologies to expand into personal audio space with own brand

    The entry of Acer into the Indian smartphone market highlights the sector’s significant growth potential.  The company claims to concentrate on smartphones priced between ₹15,000 and ₹50,000, aiming to heighten competition within this price segment.

    Jade Zhou, VP of Global Strategic Alliances at Acer Incorporated, commented on the agreement, “Since its establishment in 1987, the Acer brand mission has always been to break barriers between people and technology. We are excited that Indkal Technologies will further this mission in India”. Indkal owns the Acer trademark license in TVs, smartphones, and large appliances exclusively in India. 

    The Acer-branded smartphones will be available for purchase through both e-commerce platforms and offline retail stores. 

    Indkal Technologies, which specialises in developing, distributing, and supporting  consumer electronics, large and small home appliances, and smart devices, was launched in 2021.

  • Xiaomi to ship 70 crore devices in India over next ten years

    Smartphone giant Xiaomi aims to ship around 70 crore devices in the country in the next decade, said Muralikrishnan B, President at Xiaomi India.

    “We aim to be the largest telecom ecosystem not just globally, but also in India. When I look ahead at the next 10 years of India and Xiaomi India, it is a decade of opportunity and impact,” said Murali.

    Currently, the company says it has shipped 35 crore devices in India, which includes 25 crore smartphones. Globally, the smartphone major spends five percent of its total revenue on R&D.

    The company is looking to add more products to its current portfolio that are manufactured in India. In terms of the non-semiconductor BoM (bill of materials) of the phone, which currently stands at 35 per cent, will become 55 per cent by the end of 2025.

    “Over the next two years, with our strategy to broaden and deepen the company localisation ecosystem, we expect that number to go up,” he said.

    Muralikrishnan also explained that the trend of premiumisation has impacted the downstream price segments, including entry-level and mid-range smartphones, elevating the average selling price of smartphones from ₹8,800 in 2014 to ₹20,800 in 2024.

    “The domestic valuation at the end of 2023 for smartphones was about 18 per cent. We want to focus on broadening and deepening this component ecosystem and expect to take that number to 22 per cent in domestic value addition by 2025,” he added.

    Market leaders

    As of the quarter ending March 2024, Samsung remained the top smartphone brand in India, shipping 6.7 million units and capturing 19 per cent market share, followed by Xiaomi and Vivo with 18 per cent share each. Oppo and Realme completed the top five with 13 per cent and 9 per cent market share respectively.

    Muralikrishnan spoke about how a single-product brand is no longer a viable option as consumers are looking for a better and all-rounded experience.

    “They want a connected ecosystem experience and we are looking to invest in our core tech across various segments,” he added.

    “Product is our passion, but efficiency is in our DNA. And this has enabled us to succeed not just in the smartphone category, but across television, tablets, EV cars, home appliances, and more power in this connected ecosystem. Having a great product is good, but unless you can get that message across to the audience in a captivating way, it’s not enough,” said the President.

  • Bass-boost that leaves you breathless! Sony Ult Wear review

    The Sony WH-1OOOXM5 has been my favorite headphone lately. So I used to be naturally curious when the brand new Ult vary launched final month. Sony’s newest experiment with delivering bass-boosted sound profiles throughout this product vary bought my consideration. I attempted out the Ult Wear over-the-ear headphones, and right here’s my expertise as an audiophile.

    Design

    The Sony Ult Wear marries the Sony WH-1OOOXM-4 and XM-5 design language. With the portability of the XM-4 and the construct of the XM-5, it sports activities a semi-foldable design, making it straightforward to hold. The design varies with an open speaker grille across the prime of the ear cups, which has a extra useful function whereas the bass-boost mode is on.

    The fake leather-based padding on the earcups was fairly comfy regardless of donning it throughout Chennai summers.

    The Ult button and Sony branding towards the facet have a silver hologram end with good rainbow hues from totally different angles—a catchy visible component on an in any other case easy but sensible design. The color variant I reviewed was Forest Grey with a greenish-grey hue.

    Performance

    The 40 mm driver unit and Integrated Processor V1 assist refine the product on the {hardware} and digital sign processing degree and ship the most effective music listening expertise that I’ve had just lately.

    Out of the field, the default sound signature is wealthy sufficient for many who need hassle-free listening. This mode delivers a balanced, nuanced sound signature with a transparent separation between the highs and lows of a track like Jyoti Nooran’s Paon Ki Jutti.

    The Ult button has two modes, Ult1 and Ult2, which could be switched utilizing the devoted Ult button on the left earcup.

    Each mode has totally different settings within the equaliser, and Ult-2 mode options ClearBass, which helps with the separation of bass at (+10)out of the field. This mode was the most effective for having fun with  bass-heavy EDM.

    Ult1 is my second favorite mode. It delivers simply the correct amount of bass enhance and likewise catches the decrease frequencies of devices and vocals in tracks reminiscent of Coldplay’s Something Like This with out distorting the audio on the larger quantity ranges.

    I like to recommend steering away from the Ult2 mode except you’re a bass aficionado. Across all genres of music, this mode delivers sharp thumps that generally have a tendency to scrub out each the highs and lows of a track’s acoustic texture. It was like becoming a mini boombox on my ear, which left me disoriented after some time.

    Noise Cancellation

    The headphones’ lively noise cancellation is nice. It digitally cancels out most exterior sounds, and the seal across the ear cups works effectively to chop out the remaining ambient sound. The pass-through appeared a bit artificial to my liking, and I wasn’t capable of scale back whirring or buzzing sounds from older electrical home equipment reminiscent of followers and air conditioners. The name high quality on the Ult Wear was spectacular, with folks on the opposite finish listening to my voice clearly with out an excessive amount of ambient noise.

    App Experience

    The Sony Headphones Connect app is one of the simplest ways to get the most effective out of Ult Wear, and it’s fairly useful with three totally different home windows – Headphones, Activity and Menu. It provides settings underneath Status, Sound, System and Services. Under Status, I might tweak the Adaptive Sound ranges, and examine linked gadgets and the tracks at present enjoying. The Sound lets you customise the soundstage and set a customized equaliser. Under System, I might additionally flip multipoint connectivity on or off and activate the faucet gestures on the proper earcup as effectively.

    Battery

    The Sony Ult Wear simply bought via per week of utilization with over 40 per cent left, with each ANC and Ult mode on. I listened to music and edited some movies for about 28-30 hours earlier than I needed to plug it in for charging. It simply lives as much as the declare of delivering near 30 hours of playback with ANC on.

    While the Ult Wear takes about three hours to cost, it’s comforting to know that the headphone has a fast cost mode, which permits as much as 90 minutes of playback with a 3-minute cost via the USB-C port. Additionally, a 10-minute cost can ship shut to three hours of battery backup when you want it most.

    Verdict

    The Sony Ult Wear is a well-rounded possibility for bass-heavy headphones. With a well-tuned audio profile, sturdy construct, nice sound high quality, and ample customisation, it carves an area for itself at an inexpensive value level.

    Price: ₹24,990

    Pro: Good sound signature, sound customisations, good ANC and nice battery life.

    Cons: Over-the-top bass in Ult2 mode, common ambient mode.

  • Bass-boost that leaves you breathless! Sony Ult Wear review

    The Sony WH-1OOOXM5 has been my favorite headphone lately. So I used to be naturally curious when the brand new Ult vary launched final month. Sony’s newest experiment with delivering bass-boosted sound profiles throughout this product vary bought my consideration. I attempted out the Ult Wear over-the-ear headphones, and right here’s my expertise as an audiophile.

    Design

    The Sony Ult Wear marries the Sony WH-1OOOXM-4 and XM-5 design language. With the portability of the XM-4 and the construct of the XM-5, it sports activities a semi-foldable design, making it straightforward to hold. The design varies with an open speaker grille across the prime of the ear cups, which has a extra useful function whereas the bass-boost mode is on.

    The fake leather-based padding on the earcups was fairly snug regardless of donning it throughout Chennai summers.

    The Ult button and Sony branding towards the aspect have a silver hologram end with good rainbow hues from totally different angles—a catchy visible component on an in any other case easy but sensible design. The color variant I reviewed was Forest Grey with a greenish-grey hue.

    Performance

    The 40 mm driver unit and Integrated Processor V1 assist refine the product on the {hardware} and digital sign processing degree and ship one of the best music listening expertise that I’ve had not too long ago.

    Out of the field, the default sound signature is wealthy sufficient for individuals who need hassle-free listening. This mode delivers a balanced, nuanced sound signature with a transparent separation between the highs and lows of a track like Jyoti Nooran’s Paon Ki Jutti.

    The Ult button has two modes, Ult1 and Ult2, which will be switched utilizing the devoted Ult button on the left earcup.

    Each mode has totally different settings within the equaliser, and Ult-2 mode options ClearBass, which helps with the separation of bass at (+10)out of the field. This mode was one of the best for having fun with  bass-heavy EDM.

    Ult1 is my second favorite mode. It delivers simply the correct quantity of bass enhance and likewise catches the decrease frequencies of devices and vocals in tracks equivalent to Coldplay’s Something Like This with out distorting the audio on the greater quantity ranges.

    I like to recommend steering away from the Ult2 mode except you’re a bass aficionado. Across all genres of music, this mode delivers sharp thumps that typically have a tendency to scrub out each the highs and lows of a track’s acoustic texture. It was like becoming a mini boombox on my ear, which left me disoriented after some time.

    Noise Cancellation

    The headphones’ energetic noise cancellation is nice. It digitally cancels out most exterior sounds, and the seal across the ear cups works nicely to chop out the remaining ambient sound. The pass-through appeared somewhat artificial to my liking, and I wasn’t in a position to cut back whirring or buzzing sounds from older electrical home equipment equivalent to followers and air conditioners. The name high quality on the Ult Wear was spectacular, with folks on the opposite finish listening to my voice clearly with out an excessive amount of ambient noise.

    App Experience

    The Sony Headphones Connect app is the easiest way to get one of the best out of Ult Wear, and it’s fairly useful with three totally different home windows – Headphones, Activity and Menu. It affords settings beneath Status, Sound, System and Services. Under Status, I might tweak the Adaptive Sound ranges, and verify linked units and the tracks presently enjoying. The Sound lets you customise the soundstage and set a customized equaliser. Under System, I might additionally flip multipoint connectivity on or off and activate the faucet gestures on the correct earcup as nicely.

    Battery

    The Sony Ult Wear simply bought by per week of utilization with over 40 per cent left, with each ANC and Ult mode on. I listened to music and edited some movies for about 28-30 hours earlier than I needed to plug it in for charging. It simply lives as much as the declare of delivering near 30 hours of playback with ANC on.

    While the Ult Wear takes about three hours to cost, it’s comforting to know that the headphone has a fast cost mode, which permits as much as 90 minutes of playback with a 3-minute cost by the USB-C port. Additionally, a 10-minute cost can ship shut to three hours of battery backup when you want it most.

    Verdict

    The Sony Ult Wear is a well-rounded possibility for bass-heavy headphones. With a well-tuned audio profile, sturdy construct, nice sound high quality, and ample customisation, it carves an area for itself at an affordable worth level.

    Price: ₹24,990

    Pro: Good sound signature, sound customisations, good ANC and nice battery life.

    Cons: Over-the-top bass in Ult2 mode, common ambient mode.