Oppo Reno 13 and the Reno 13 Pro handsets have been unveiled globally after being launched in China in November 2024. The global launch of the series is accompanied by two new devices, Oppo Reno 13F 5G and Reno 13F 4G. The Oppo Reno 13F variants are equipped with 50-megapixel triple rear camera units and 5,800mAh batteries with support for 45W wired SuperVOOC charging. They are claimed to meet IP66, IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance.
The Oppo Reno 13F 5G is listed in 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB, 12GB + 256GB, and 12GB + 512GB variants. Meanwhile, the Oppo Reno 13F 4G listing reveals that the phone will be available in 8GB + 256GB and 8GB + 512GB options.
Oppo has yet to announce the price details of the Oppo Reno 13 series handsets in global markets. However, it confirmed that the phones will gradually start rolling out in the APAC (Asia-Pacific) region.
Both Oppo Reno 13F models are offered in Graphite Grey and Plume Purple colourways. The 5G variant comes in a third Luminous Blue shade, while the 4G version is offered in a Skyline Blue option.
Oppo Reno 13F 4G comes in Graphite Grey, Plume Purple and Skyline Blue shades Photo Credit: Oppo
Notably, the Oppo Reno 13 and Reno 13 Pro are scheduled to launch in India on January 9. There is no word yet from the company about the India availability of the Reno 13F handsets.
Oppo Reno 13F 5G, Reno 13F 4G Specifications, Features
The Oppo Reno 13F 5G and Reno 13F 4G sport 6.67-inch full-HD+ (1,080 x 2,400 pixels) OLED displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1,200 nits of peak brightness level, and AGC DT Star2 protection. The 5G variant is powered by a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 512GB of UFS 3.1 onboard storage. The 4G version comes with a MediaTek Helio G100 chipset alongside 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 512GB of UFS 2.2 storage. Both phones ship with Android 15-based ColorOS 15.
In the camera department, the Oppo Reno 13F 5G and Reno 13F 4G get a 50-megapixel primary rear sensor alongside an 8-megapixel ultrawide and 2-megapixel macro unit. The phones are equipped with a 32-megapixel front camera for selfies and video calls. Both smartphones are claimed to meet IP66, IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance.
The Oppo Reno 13F 5G and Reno 13F 4G house a 5,800mAh battery each with 45W wired SuperVOOC charging support. For security, they have in-display fingerprint sensors. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, and a USB Type-C port.
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 will be held later this month in San Jose, California, the company announced on Tuesday. The annual event will witness the launch of the new generation Galaxy S series ubiquitously known as the Galaxy S25 series. As per the South Korean technology conglomerate, it will deliver a “big leap” in mobile artificial intelligence (AI) experiences. Samsung has also started pre-reservations for the phones in India. Those who pre-reserve will enjoy special benefits.
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 Date
In a newsroom post, Samsung shared the details of its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked 2025. It will be held on January 22 at 10 am PT/1 pm ET (10:30 pm IST) in San Jose, California. The event will be live-streamed on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and its official YouTube channel.
The company says customers can pre-reserve their spot by paying Rs. 1,999 to get their hands on the Galaxy Pre-reserve VIP Pass and enjoy benefits worth Rs. 5,000 via an e-Store voucher when purchasing the upcoming Galaxy phones. Further, this will automatically confirm their entry in a giveaway worth Rs. 50,000.
Samsung has already confirmed that it will debut its new Galaxy S series at the Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event. Following previous trends, three models are likely to be announced — the Galaxy S25, a Galaxy S25+, and the top-of-the-line Galaxy S25 Ultra. All variants are expected to be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC with 12GB of RAM as standard.
The standard Galaxy S25 model is speculated to be equipped with a 4,000mAh battery, while the Plus and Ultra variants could get 4,900mAh and 5,000mAh cells, respectively.
Leaked renders suggest that the purported Galaxy S25 Ultra may come with rounded corners, potentially ditching the boxy design that has become synonymous with Samsung's ‘Ultra' models in recent years. Meanwhile, the other two models are said to have an unaltered design.
Alongside the Galaxy S25 series, the South Korean company may also debut its extended reality (XR) headset dubbed Project Moohan which was announced in December 2024. It runs on Google's new Android XR platform which is designed to support features that rely on augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI). There's also a possibility that Samsung could tease a new Galaxy S25 Slim.
Other reports suggest that the purported Galaxy Ring 2 could also see the light of day at the event, adding two new sizes to compete with rival Oura Ring. The wearable is speculated to come with more accurate health data sensors, improved AI functionalities, and a longer battery life compared to the first-generation Galaxy Ring.
Huawei Enjoy 70X was launched in China last week as a successor to the Huawei Enjoy 60X, which debuted in April 2023. The new Enjoy series phone is offered in four different colour options and runs on HarmonyOS 4.2. Huawei offers a 6.78-inch screen with up to 120Hz on the Enjoy 70X. It supports satellite messaging in China and has a water-resistant IP64 build. The Huawei Enjoy 70X has a 6,100 mAh battery that supports 40W wired charging.
Huawei Enjoy 70X Price
Price of Huawei Enjoy 70X is set at CNY 1,799 (roughly Rs. 21,000) for the 8GB + 128GB variant. The 8GB + 256GB model is priced at CNY 1,999 (roughly Rs. 23,000), while the high-end 8GB + 512GB variant costs CNY 2,299 (roughly Rs. 27,000). The smartphone is currently available for purchase in China via Vmall. It is offered in Gold Black, Lake Blue, Snow White, and Spruce colour options.
Huawei Enjoy 70X Specifications
The dual-SIM (Nano) Huawei Enjoy 70X runs on HarmonyOS 4.2 and features a 6.78-inch full-HD+ (1,224x2,700 pixels) AMOLED display with 437ppi pixel density and up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The screen has Aluminosilicate glass protection as well. As usual, Huawei hasn't officially revealed the processor of the Huawei Enjoy 70X. It is expected to have a Kirin 8000A 5G chipset under the hood.
For photos and videos, the Huawei Enjoy 70X flaunts a dual rear camera setup that includes a 50-megapixel primary sensor with an f/1.9 aperture and a 2-megapixel depth of field sensor with f/2.4 aperture. For selfies and video chats, there is a single 8-megapixel sensor on the front with an f/2.0 lens.
The Huawei Enjoy 70X comes in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, onboard storage options. The handset offers Beidou satellite messaging functionality in China that allows users to send and receive text messages and images through satellite connectivity.
Other connectivity options on the Huawei Mate 70X include Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.1, OTG, Skyline, BeiDou, Galileo, GPS, AGPS, QZSS, Glonass, NFC, and a USB Type-C port for charging. Sensors onboard include an ambient light sensor, colour temperature sensor, compass, gyroscope, gravity sensor, and proximity light sensor. There is also an in-display fingerprint scanner for authentication.
Huawei has packed a 6,100mAh battery in the Huawei Mate 70X that supports 40W fast charging. It is IP64-rated for dust and water resistance. The phone measures 164x74.88x7.98mm and weighs around 189 grams.
Gone are the days when air purifiers were considered a luxury product and something that was connected to home decor. We live in times when an air purifier is necessary for your family. Especially if you're living in north India, air purifiers are a must-have product in winter months as AQI spikes to over 500 and, at times, even 1,000 on the measuring charts. Unfortunately, in 2024, even the suburbs of Mumbai reported higher AQI levels based on multiple reports, so the problem is bigger. Thankfully, we have brands like Qubo that offer air purifiers of all sizes. Whether you need them to cover a small area (200 square feet) or up to 1,000 square feet, there's an option.
The Q600 Smart Air Purifier from Qubo is an ideal option for a two-room setup and costs Rs. 14,990. But is it the air purifier to choose this winter, or should you look at other options? Let me answer that in this review.
Qubo Q600 Smart Air Purifier Design: Simple but Efficient
Weight - 5.2 kg
Max noise - 55db
Dust sensor - Yes
Coverage area - 600 sq feet
The Q600 Smart Air Purifier is a great example of how to keep things simple. It features a basic design that houses the HEPA filter in the lower half of the purifier and the upper half housing the fan. The air outlet is towards the top, while the rear panel can be opened to clean or change the filter. In fact, the Qubo Q600 is one of the purifiers with a plug-and-play type HEPA filter setup. Convenience over complication is always preferred.
The Q600 packs a 4-in-1 filter featuring pre-filter, HEPA 13, carbon filter, and silver nanoparticle coating
The air purifier packs a bunch of touch-sensitive buttons on the top, which feature power, fan speed, auto mode, timer, and QSensAI. A small colour LED screen on the front panel displays the surrounding AQI with colour coding where red is higher pollution levels and green is under control.
Qubo has smartly fitted multiple indicators in this small screen, including filter life, child lock, and Wi-Fi indicators. For someone unfamiliar with the app ecosystem, the Q600 Smart Air Purifier can function without a proper app setup. Just plug the device after unboxing. However, one important thing to note is that Qubo air purifiers have a polybag around the HEPA filter. Users have to remove this polybag before they start using the air purifier.
The LED screen on the purifier shows the real-time AQI level in the room
Qubo Q600 Smart Air Purifier App, Features and Performance: Decent, Overall
App Compatibility - Qubo App
Works with Alexa
Hepa Filter - H13
Number of Filters - 4
For Q600 Smart Air Purifier, the Qubo app is the primary key. You get additional features alongside some functionality-related features that are not physically available on the purifier. The one-time setup is quick, and Qubo has added a nice touch by sending users a proper Quick Start guide on WhatsApp when signing in.
Qubo's proprietary AI tech, QSensAI, is part of the package, and it automatically analyses ambient air quality in real-time
The app interface is user-friendly and has most features a few taps away. The Qubo app's home screen will show you PM2.5 current levels in the room, and you can enable QSensAI, which automatically senses PM2.5 levels in the room and springs into action when needed. In the app, users can set it when they want the device to turn off, like once PM2.5 levels drop below 25 and turn it on when the level goes above 50. You also get Silent Mode in the app, which basically mutes the air purifier's fan sound. The app also lets you adjust the light intensity of the LEDs on the buttons on the Q600, which is a neat touch.
Additional features like child lock can be enabled using the app alongside a scheduling option where users can choose a routine for the air purifier to start and shut automatically. Moreover, users also get a countdown option that lets them set the time when the air purifier should shut down, for example, in an hour, two hours, four hours, and more. Users can manually adjust this. Of course, the app also offers filter life in terms of the total number of hours remaining. It's worth noting that Qubo claims up to 15,000 hours of filter life on its Q600 Smart Air Purifier, which may slightly differ depending on fan speed.
The Qubo app is feature-rich, and you can control the purifier efficiently through the mobile app
The best thing is that the Qubo app offers deep insights into PM2.5 levels in the last 24 hours or the last seven days or more. Thanks to Alexa integration, I could start the Q600 Smart Air Purifier with voice commands to my smart speaker at home.
Coming to raw performance, the Qubo Q600 Smart Air Purifier is an efficient and silent (comparatively) operator for everyday use. From a situation of over 200 AQI levels in the room to bringing it below 80, the Q600 took about 1.5 hours in auto mode. Compared to similarly priced air purifiers, the Q600 fares well. I set a schedule for the Q600 air purifier, which worked from 7am to 10pm with QSensAI enabled. Every time PM2.5 levels go below 25, the purifier automatically shuts and restarts when it goes over 30. Without anyone noticing, the purifier worked flawlessly.
Qubo claims that the HEPA filter has a life span of up to 15,000 hours
Qubo Q600 Smart Air Purifier Review: Verdict
The Q600 air purifier from Qubo is ideal for a flat with two rooms and can efficiently keep air quality at home in check. However, apart from being a silent operator, this is also a slow operator, so do not expect this to do some magic in a jiffy. At Rs. 14,990, the Q600 Smart Air Purifier is slightly expensive, especially considering that similar models are available at lesser price points. One such example is the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite, launched recently and is available at Rs. 10,999.
Price: Rs. 14,990
Pros
Silent and efficient operator
Decent purification performance
Qubo app offers plenty of customisations
Cons
Only the basic buttons on the purifier
Overall, the package is slightly expensive
Ratings (out of 10):
Design: 7
Performance: 7
Value for money: 7
Overall: 7
Nothing Phone 2a Plus users can now download the latest Nothing OS 3.0 stable version, the company has announced. The update is based on Android 15 and has been released nearly a month after the first open beta was rolled out for the aforementioned smartphone. Nothing OS 3.0 introduces visual changes across the user interface (UI) including new home and lock screen customisation options. Further, it also bundles several artificial intelligence (AI) features related to productivity.
Nothing OS 3.0 Update Features
Nothing detailed the features of the latest Nothing OS 3.0 update in a post on its community forum. As per the British smartphone maker, the Nothing Phone 2a Plus gets an AI-powered smart drawer feature which can automatically categorise apps by analysing usage patterns. Users can also pin their most-used apps at the top of the app drawer. The update enables more direct editing of the lock screen by long-pressing on it which opens the customisation page. Additionally, there are new clock faces, expanded widget space, redesigned quick settings, and updated visuals across the user interface (UI) for a refreshed look.
Following the update, the Nothing Phone 2a Plus gets auto-archive functionality which is claimed to free up storage space without deleting apps or data from the device. The update also improves multi-tasking by introducing an enhanced pop-up view. Users can now drag pop-up windows anywhere across the screen, resize and pin them, and quickly open a pop-up view by swiping down on incoming notifications.
With Nothing OS 3.0, users can take advantage of the new Shared Widgets feature which displays the widgets of friends and family on the home screen of the user's device. They can link up and interact with others through reactions.
Meanwhile, the company has already confirmed that Google'sCircle to Search will now be available on Nothing Phone 2a Plus and other models post the update. It leverages AI to enable users to search for something on the web by highlighting it on the screen and enabling its visual lookup. The feature supports actions such as scribbling, circling or drawing over an object and text on the screen, and can be used to translate and copy text too.
Other features of the Android 15-based update include an updated setup wizard, improved lock screen charging status display, partial screen sharing, and predictive back animations. Nothing OS 3.0 also bundles the December 2024 security patch.
A novel crystal-based technology has been identified as a potential solution for sustainable cooling systems. Current refrigeration and air conditioning devices rely on liquid-based systems to absorb heat through evaporation and condensation. While effective, these fluids contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions when leaked, intensifying global warming. Efforts to counteract this environmental impact have led to the development of an alternative cooling mechanism based on plastic crystals, which possess a unique molecular structure capable of transforming under pressure.
How the Technology Works
According to researchers at Deakin University, plastic crystals exhibit a transformative ability when subjected to extreme pressure. Their molecular orientation shifts from a disordered state to a structured grid, absorbing heat as the pressure is released. This heat absorption process facilitates cooling, providing a climate-friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants.
Unlike earlier materials, which required high ambient temperatures for similar transitions, the newly developed crystals operate effectively between -37 degree Celsius and 10 degree Celsius. This range aligns with typical household refrigeration and freezing needs, presenting a significant step forward in sustainable cooling technologies.
Challenges in Implementation
According to a New Scientist report, high-pressure requirements, equivalent to conditions thousands of metres underwater, remain a major hurdle for practical application. Dr. Jenny Pringle, a lead researcher in the study, acknowledged this limitation and emphasised the need for further development to address these constraints.
Concerns have also been raised by experts about the long-term performance of these crystals. Bing Li, affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, pointed out the potential reduction in heat absorption capacity over time due to molecular strain, while expressing optimism about future advancements.
Potential Impact
David Boldrin from the University of Glasgow told the publication about the significant potential of this innovation, suggesting that it could help decarbonise the cooling industry. While the technology remains confined to laboratory settings, its success could herald a substantial reduction in the environmental footprint of refrigeration systems.
Experts remain hopeful that continued research will overcome current obstacles, bringing this promising solution closer to widespread adoption.
The study of the Sun and its influence on the solar system is expected to make significant strides in 2025. The year will bring new developments driven by an active solar cycle, upcoming spacecraft missions, and a strategic roadmap for the next decade. Researchers are focused on unlocking key mysteries of the sun, whose activity impacts life on Earth and extends far beyond Pluto. These efforts aim to provide critical insights into solar processes and their effects across the solar system.
Solar Cycle 25 and Ongoing Activity
According to NASA, the Sun is currently in the maximum phase of its 11-year activity cycle. This period has produced numerous solar flares and outbursts that are being closely monitored. Instruments such as the largest solar telescope and spacecraft that have made record-setting approaches to the sun have played a key role in collecting data. Despite not breaking records, Solar Cycle 25 has generated valuable observations that have propelled research forward.
Upcoming Spacecraft Missions
As per NASA, six new missions are scheduled for launch in 2025. These include the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP), designed to chart the sun's outer sphere of influence, and the Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers (ESCAPADE), which will study space weather around Mars. The Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere (PUNCH) mission, involving four small satellites, will examine the sun's outer atmosphere.
A Decadal Blueprint for Research
The recently released heliophysics decadal report outlines research priorities for the next ten years. Among the proposals are two large-scale projects, including a mission deploying over 26 spacecraft to study Earth's magnetic field and auroras. Another mission aims to explore the sun's poles over a full solar cycle, a region considered pivotal to understanding the sun's magnetic field dynamics.
Efforts will also be supported by the Next Generation Global Oscillations Network Group (ngGONG), enhancing the capability to study the solar interior. With these initiatives, heliophysics is positioned to address long-standing questions and open new research avenues in 2025.
Organic carbon preservation in ocean sediments, a phenomenon critical to the Earth's carbon cycle, has been illuminated by new research. The study explores mechanisms that prevent organic carbon from breaking down, a process vital for climate regulation. Preserved carbon, over time, can transform into fossil fuels, locking away carbon dioxide—a leading contributor to climate change. These findings offer insights into the Earth's natural systems that regulate carbon levels and influence the formation of oil and gas reserves.
Study Identifies Key Carbon Preservation Mechanisms
According to a study led by scientists from The University of Manchester and the University of Leeds and published in the journal Nature Geoscience, two primary processes—sorption and molecular transformation—are crucial for carbon storage in ocean sediments.
Sorption involves the uptake of carbon by mineral surfaces, while molecular transformation converts small, reactive molecules into larger, stable forms. The study used a comprehensive model, integrating real-world sediment data, to identify these processes as dominant contributors to carbon preservation.
AI Provides Deeper Insights into Carbon Storage
Artificial intelligence (AI) was utilised to enhance the study's model, enabling accurate predictions of carbon storage efficiency. Dr. Peyman Babakhani, a lead researcher, highlighted that AI helped clarify complex environmental processes. The research revealed that carbon preservation in sediments is nearly three times higher than earlier estimates, aligning closely with observed data.
Implications for Climate Change Mitigation
The findings underline the importance of sorption and molecular transformation in protecting organic matter from degradation and facilitating its burial in deeper sediment layers. This preserved carbon can eventually become fossil fuels, effectively keeping carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. These insights could influence climate change strategies, such as ocean fertilisation, aimed at enhancing natural carbon storage mechanisms.
By shedding light on these processes, the study opens pathways for managing carbon emissions and leveraging the ocean's role in the global carbon cycle.
Seasonal variations in Lake Mendota in Wisconsin, US, appear to drive rapid evolutionary changes in bacterial species, as revealed through a long-term genetic study. Bacteria within the lake adapt to changing environmental conditions, with species undergoing significant genetic shifts over time. Despite these changes, many bacteria return to nearly identical genetic states each year, creating a cyclical pattern of evolution. The findings shed light on how microbial life responds to seasonal pressures, offering insights into broader ecological and evolutionary processes.
Bacterial Evolution Observed Over Decades
According to a study published in the Nature Microbiology journal, bacterial populations in Lake Mendota adapt to environmental shifts caused by the lake's seasonal changes. Researchers examined genetic material from a unique archive of 471 water samples collected over 20 years.
Each year, bacteria responded to varying conditions, such as algae blooms in summer and ice cover in winter. Strains within species competed based on their adaptability to specific conditions, leading to a repeated cycle of genetic change.
Impact of Extreme Weather Events
Unusual weather in 2012 provided additional insights into bacterial evolution. During that year, early ice melt, hotter temperatures, and reduced algae levels resulted in significant genetic changes in bacterial communities. Research revealed a notable shift in genes related to nitrogen metabolism among several species, indicating long-term genetic adaptations to these atypical conditions.
Implications for Climate Change
Robin Rohwer, a researcher at the University of Texas at Austin, told Phys.org that climate change may intensify such evolutionary responses, as extreme weather events become more frequent. These findings highlight the adaptability of microbial ecosystems to both gradual and abrupt environmental changes.
Advanced Techniques Unlock New Discoveries
The study, led by Rohwer and supported by computational resources at the Texas Advanced Computing Center, reconstructed bacterial genomes from fragmented DNA samples. With over 30,000 genomes analysed, this research represents one of the most extensive investigations into microbial evolution in a natural setting, offering valuable data for future studies.
Supermassive black holes are believed to exist at the centre of most galaxies, including our Milky Way. However, in certain cases, two such black holes are thought to orbit one another, forming binary systems. These gravitationally bound pairs could provide significant insights into the dynamics of galaxy formation and the behaviour of space-time. Detecting them, however, presents challenges due to their nature, as they cannot be observed directly using traditional telescopes.
Gravitational Waves and Galactic Collisions
According to research, as reported by The Conversation, binary black holes can form when galaxies merge. During such collisions, the black holes from the merging galaxies are brought closer by gravitational forces. Eventually, they may create a binary system before combining into one larger black hole over millions of years.
These systems emit gravitational waves, ripples in space-time predicted by Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity. Observatories like the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) detect these waves, though pinpointing individual binaries remains elusive.
Evidence from Active Galactic Nuclei
Researchers have identified a potential binary black hole system in an active galaxy, PG 1553+153, as reported by The Conversation. Observations have revealed periodic light variations approximately every 2.2 years, which could indicate the presence of two orbiting black holes.
Active galactic nuclei, which emit immense energy due to gas accretion, often display such cyclical patterns. These patterns, however, might also result from other phenomena like jet wobbles, requiring further investigation.
Historical Data and Findings
As reported by The Conversation, they used archival data spanning over a century, a secondary 20-year light variation pattern was identified in PG 1553+153. This additional evidence supports the binary black hole hypothesis, suggesting the system includes two black holes with masses in a 2.5:1 ratio. Final confirmation, however, may depend on advancements in pulsar timing arrays to detect specific gravitational waves.
The study highlights how historical data and modern simulations contribute to understanding complex cosmic events. The findings advance knowledge of galactic evolution and black hole behaviour, with future technological improvements expected to refine these discoveries.
The flight dynamics of birds have inspired researchers to explore innovative enhancements for aeroplane wings. Featherlike flaps, designed to resemble the covert feathers seen on bird wings, have demonstrated the potential to improve lift, reduce drag, and prevent stalls. These advancements, inspired by avian flight mechanisms, aim to enhance the efficiency and safety of aircraft, particularly during challenging manoeuvres such as landings or flights through turbulent conditions. The findings suggest promising applications for both commercial and specialised aviation.
Findings from Recent Research
According to a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, lightweight flaps mimicking covert feathers were tested on model airplane wings in a wind tunnel. It was observed that these flaps improved airflow around the wings, resulting in a significant increase in lift by up to 45 percent and a reduction in drag by 31 percent.
Unlike conventional wing flaps operated manually by pilots, these bird-inspired components automatically adjust when the wings encounter a high angle of attack, a situation often associated with sudden loss of lift.
Insights from Experts
Aimy Wissa, an engineer at Princeton University, told Science News Explores that the design of these flaps does not rely on mechanical controls but rather responds naturally to aerodynamic conditions. Multiple rows of flaps positioned across the wing, not limited to its front or rear, contributed to enhanced lift by maintaining a steady airflow and blocking high-pressure air from disrupting lift production at critical points.
Applications for Aircraft Stability
Testing on remote-controlled aircraft revealed improved flight stability, particularly under gusty weather or during operations on short runways. Researchers have highlighted the potential of this design to address challenges in aviation, where precise control and efficiency are critical as per the publication.
By adapting concepts from bird flight, engineers aim to develop planes capable of smoother, more reliable performance in demanding scenarios. These developments underscore the potential for bio-inspired innovations in advancing aviation technology.
iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition was launched in China as an upgraded variant of the iQoo Z9 Turbo. The latest Turbo series handset has a 6,400mAh battery and it runs on the OriginOS 5 skin based on Android 14. The iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition features a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset under the hood and it boasts a 50-megapixel dual rear camera unit. The standard variant was unveiled in April last year with a 6,000mAh battery.
iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition Price
Price of iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition starts at CNY 1,899 (roughly Rs. 21,000) for the 12GB+ 256GB model. The 12GB+ 512GB, 16GB+256GB, and 16GB+512GB variants are priced at CNY 2,199 (roughly Rs. 25,000), CNY 2,099 (roughly Rs. 24,000), and CNY 2,399 (roughly Rs. 30,000), respectively.
The brand launched the vanilla iQoo Z9 Turbo in April last year with an initial price tag of CNY 1,999 (roughly Rs. 23,000).
iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition
The dual-SIM (Nano) iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition runs on OriginOS 5 based on Android 14 and features a 6.78-inch full-HD+ (1,080x2,400 pixels) AMOLED display with up to 144Hz refresh rate. It has a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset under the hood paired with up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, and up to 512GB UFS 4.0 storage.
For optics, the iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition has a dual camera setup at the rear including a 50-megapixel new Sony LYT-600 sensor and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens. On the front, it has a 16-megapixel selfie shooter.
Connectivity options on the iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition include 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, Beidou, GPS/AGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, NFC, and a USB Type-C port. Sensors on board include an e-compass, gravity sensor, light sensor, gyroscope, IR remote control, X-axis linear motor, and proximity sensor. The phones pack an in-display fingerprint sensor and offer facial recognition feature. It has IP64-rated protection against dust.
The iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Edition is backed by a 6,400mAh battery with 80W fast charging and reverse charging (via OTG). It measures 163.72×75.88×7.98mm and weighs 196 grams.
HMD Key was launched in select global markets on Thursday. The new phone comes as a budget offering with 4G connectivity. It is powered by a Unisoc 9832E chipset and runs on Android 14 Go edition out-of-the-box. The phone is equipped with an 8-megapixel rear camera sensor with support for autofocus alongside an LED flash unit and a 5-megapixel selfie shooter. The handset has an IP52 rating for dust and splash resistance. The company has yet to confirm if the phone will launch in India.
HMD Key Price, Availability, Colour Options
HMD Key price is set at GBP 59 (roughly Rs. 6,300) in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. The company has not yet detailed the handset's availability in other regions. The phone is available in two colourways — Icy Blue and Midnight Black.
HMD Key Specifications
The HMD Key sports a 6.52-inch display with a resolution of 576 x 1,280 pixels, a refresh rate of 60Hz, 460 nits peak brightness level, and a 20:9 aspect ratio. The phone is powered by a Unisoc 9832E chipset paired with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of onboard storage. It supports up to 2GB of additional virtual RAM and up to 128GB storage extension via a microSD card. The handset ships with the Android 14 Go edition. Users are confirmed to get two years of quarterly security updates.
For optics, the HMD Key carries an 8-megapixel autofocus-supported rear camera sensor alongside an LED flash unit. The front camera, placed within a centred waterdrop notch, has a 5-megapixel sensor. The main camera supports several imaging modes including Portrait, Night, Slow Motion, Time Lapse, and Panorama.
The HMD Key houses a 4,000mAh battery with 10W wired charging support via a USB Type-C port. Connectivity options include 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4, FM, GPS, AGPS, Galileo and a 3.5mm audio jack. The handset has an IP52-rated build for dust and splash resistance. It measures 166.4 x 76.9 x 8.95mm in size and weighs 185.4g.
Telegram is rolling out several new features with its first update of 2025, the company announced on Wednesday. As part of the changes, the instant messaging app gives users the ability to convert received gifts into collectibles which come with special attributes and can be transferred to others. Additionally, the update brings an in-app QR code scanner, service message reactions, emojis in folder names, extra message search filters, and more features.
The company says that this was meant to be the 17th major update of 2024 but could not meet the deadline due to a “lack of attention from Apple's review team”.
New Features on Telegram
Telegram detailed its new features in a blog post. As per the company, the gifts received on Telegram can now be upgraded to collectibles. They can be transferred to other users or auctioned on NFT marketplaces. Upgrading a gift into a collectible unlocks a new appearance with custom variations designed by Telegram artists. The instant messaging platform says collectibles also get background colour, icon and number as secondary traits, making sure each collectible is unique and some are rarer.
Following the update, service messages, such as someone joining a group or sending a gift, now support emoji reactions. Telegram also makes it easier to find messages from specific chats, courtesy of new extra filters for refining searches in private and group chats and channels.
Official third-party services can assign extra verification icons to user accounts and chats as a measure of improving transparency. A small logo appears next to the name if a user receives third-party verification. However, the company emphasises that third-party verification marks are completely separate from the verified checkmarks that Telegram provides for public figures and organisations.
Telegram's in-app camera on both Android and iOS now supports QR code scanning by default. With this, users can directly open links in their preferred browser without switching apps. Further, folders now support custom emojis, enabling Premium users to make their folders more expressive.
Apple TV+ will be available for free streaming from January 4 to January 5, 2025, giving viewers a chance to explore its critically acclaimed library of movies and series at no cost. Known for its emphasis on high-quality, original content, Apple TV+ has gained recognition for its limited but excellent catalog. This weekend provides a perfect opportunity for new viewers to experience the platform's standout films and shows. Here are the top five movies and series you should binge-watch, with details about their release dates, genres, casts, and compelling plots.
Ted Lasso
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Sports
Cast: Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple
Ted Lasso follows the story of an optimistic American football coach, played by Jason Sudeikis, who is hired to manage a struggling English soccer team despite having no experience with the sport. What begins as a cynical ploy by the team's owner soon transforms into a heartwarming tale of perseverance, friendship, and personal growth. The show is celebrated for its sharp humor, heartfelt moments, and lovable characters. Over three seasons, Ted Lasso explores themes of mental health, teamwork, and resilience, making it a must-watch feel-good series for viewers of all ages.
Severance
Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Cast: Adam Scott, Patricia Clarkson, John Turturro, Christopher Walken
Severance is a mind-bending thriller that imagines a world where employees at Lumon Industries undergo a procedure to separate their work and personal memories. Adam Scott plays Mark, a team leader who begins to question the ethics of the procedure as strange events unfold. The show masterfully blends corporate satire with psychological suspense, creating an unsettling yet captivating atmosphere. With its high production value and stellar cast, Severance has been hailed as one of the most innovative shows of recent years.
Greyhound
Genre: War, Action, Drama
Cast: Tom Hanks, Stephen Graham, Rob Morgan, Elisabeth Shue
Greyhound is an intense World War II drama following U.S. Navy Captain Ernest Krause (Tom Hanks) as he leads a convoy of Allied ships across the Atlantic, facing relentless attacks by German U-boats. The film offers a gripping portrayal of naval warfare, emphasizing strategy, courage, and leadership under pressure. With tight pacing and breathtaking visuals, Greyhound immerses viewers in the harrowing realities of wartime decision-making. Based on true events, the movie has been praised for its authenticity and Hanks' compelling performance.
For All Mankind
Genre: Sci-Fi, Alternate History
Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Michael Dorman, Sarah Jones, Shantel VanSanten
What if the Soviet Union had landed on the moon before the United States? This alternate history series explores a world where the space race never ended. For All Mankind reimagines key historical moments, focusing on the astronauts, engineers, and their families as they navigate personal and professional challenges. The series delves into themes of ambition, sacrifice, and technological innovation, offering a fascinating blend of drama and speculative fiction. With four seasons available, this epic tale provides plenty of material for a weekend binge.
Shrinking
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Cast: Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, Jessica Williams
Shrinking is a heartfelt comedy-drama about a grieving therapist, Jimmy (Jason Segel), who starts breaking professional boundaries by giving brutally honest advice to his patients. Harrison Ford co-stars as his mentor, bringing humor and wisdom to the narrative. The series explores themes of loss, healing, and human connection, offering both laughs and poignant moments. Its relatable characters and witty dialogue make it a standout series.
This free weekend on Apple TV+ offers a unique opportunity to dive into the platform's top-tier content. With a mix of heartwarming dramas, thrilling series, and action-packed movies, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to explore these cinematic and storytelling gems!
