After the recent announcement of Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors, many retailers refreshed their offerings with Intel’s newest innovation and Samsung is no different. The South Korean Tech giant has announced its Galaxy Book5 Pro with the Intel Core Ultra 7 256V to be available soon so in this piece, let’s take a quick glance at the features, specifications, and expected price in Nepal of the Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360.
Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 Overview:
Design and Display
The Galaxy Book Pro is a laptop-tablet hybrid with a large 16” touch screen. Samsung calls it a ‘Dynamic AMOLED 2X’ screen, but that basically just means a high refresh rate (120Hz) OLED panel. It’s high res, has thin side and top bezels, and supports stylus input from the S pen included in the retail box. The device is quite sleek measuring below 13mm thick and weighing just 1.69 kg.
Outstanding Efficiency
As mentioned earlier, one of the major highlights of this device is the new Lunar Lake Core Ultra Series 2 chipset from Intel. With the Core Ultra 7, this Galaxy Book5 Pro boasts up to a ridiculous 25 hours of video playback. That’s thanks to both the chipset as well as a relatively large 76Wh battery.
Although there’s no information on other configurations, the Ultra 7 256V has a total of 8 cores (4 performance and 4 efficiency), 8 threads, and can clock up to 4.8 GHz. It’s based on TSMC’s N6 node and features the GPU and NPU on the same tile as well.
Graphics and AI
With the new Xe2-based Arc 140V graphics, the Galaxy Book5 Pro gets a boost in the graphics department as well. Moreover, the overall system measures over 120 TOPS with 48 of those coming from the Neural Processing Unit (NPU). That crosses the 40 TOPS threshold for a Windows Co Pilot+ PC, so the Book5 Pro is an ‘AI PC’ by all means and you’ll get to enjoy features like Paint Cocreator, Live Captions, Automatic Super Resolution, Studio Effects, and Recall.
That’s not all though, Samsung promises 300+ AI-accelerated features over 100+ creativity, productivity, gaming, and entertainment applications. That includes many of Samsung’s aces like Circle to Search, Chat Assist, Live Transcript, and Transcript which we previously saw in the S24 series of smartphones.
Connectivity and Extras
The Galaxy Book5 Pro ships with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM soldered to the board with up to 1TB of Gen 4 NVME SSD. It features WiFi 7 with Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connectivity. On the port side of things, there are two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB 3.2 Type-A port, an HDMI 2.1, a microSD reader, and an audio jack.
Weight and Dimensions: 1.69kg and 355.4 x 252.2 x 12.8mm
Display: 16-inch AMOLED 3K with anti-glare coating, 120Hz, 120% DCI P3, 10 point multi-touch support, S Pen
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 256V (8C/8T, 6nm)
Graphics: Intel Arc 140V integrated graphics
Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X RAM
Storage: 512GB and 1TB NVME SSD
Camera: FHD webcam with Windows Hello
Microphone and Speaker: 5Wx2 woofers, 3.3W x2 tweeter with Dolby Atmos and built-in microphone
Battery: 76Wh with 65W USB-C fast charging
OS: Windows 11 Home
Connectivity and Ports: Wi-Fi 7, 802.11be, Bluetooth v5.4, Thunderbolt 4 (2), USB 3.2 Type-A (1), Micro SD, Headphone / Microphone, HDMI 2.1
Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 Price in Nepal and Availability
Pre-orders for the new Galaxy Book is now open in the West. When it makes its way here, we expect the Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 Price in Nepal to be around NPR 300,000.
Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro
Price in the UK (Official)
Price in Nepal (Expected)
512GB
GBP 1,700
NPR 300,000
Meanwhile, check our video on the Asus Vivobook S 16 OLED with Core Ultra :
Motorola has introduced a new smartphone, the Motorola Moto S50, in China. This device has been internationally launched as the Motorola Edge 50 Neo. In this article, we’ll explore the Motorola S50 including its expected price in Nepal, features, and specifications.
Motorola S50 Overview
Design and Display
The Motorola Moto S50 closely mirrors the Motorola Edge 50 Pro with a sleek form factor and matte finish. It is available in three colors: Persimmon Orange, Flora Blue, and Latte. For biometrics, there is an in-screen finger sensor for added security.
The Moto S50 boasts a 6.36-inch with 1.5K resolution and LTPO technology. Along with that, it is capable of a 120Hz refresh rate and 3,000 nits’ peak brightness. Moreover, the screen is safeguarded by Gorilla Glass protection and offers IP68-rated dust and water resistance.
Performance and Camera
Under the hood, the Moto S50 packs the latest MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, featuring an 8-core configuration built on a 4nm process technology. Additionally, it includes four Cortex-A78 cores and four Cortex-A55 cores, with a peak clock speed of 2.5 GHz. The device comes preloaded with Android 14, enhanced by the Hello UI for a smooth and intuitive user experience.
The Motorola S50 boasts a 50-megapixel Sony IMX896 main sensor with OIS, a 13-megapixel GalaxyCore GC13A2 ultra-wide camera that functions as a macro lens, and a 10-megapixel Samsung S5K3K1 telephoto lens offering 3X optical zoom. For selfies, there’s a 32-megapixel at the front.
Battery and Storage
Regarding the battery, the Moto S50 is equipped with a 4,310mAh battery that supports 68W fast charging. In just 13 minutes, the phone can go from 0 to 50 percent. Additionally, the S50 supports 15W wireless charging.
Other than that, this phone is available in two storage configurations. Both models featured LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, with the lower one offering 12GB RAM and 256GB ROM while the higher configuration comes with 12 gigs of memory and 512 gigs of internal storage.
Battery: 4,310mAh with 68W charging and 15W wireless charging
Motorola S50 Price in Nepal and Availability
The smartphone was launched in China at a starting price of 2,199 Yuan for 12GB+512GB and 2,499 Yuan for 12GB+512GB. If and when it makes its way here, we expect the Motorola S50 price in Nepal to start at NPR 50,000.
The Bluetooth 5 specifications were released in 2016 with updates followed in 2019, 2021, and 2023. Now, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has unveiled Bluetooth Core Specification 6.0, introducing significant new features and enhancements. The standout addition is Bluetooth Channel Sounding, which promises to transform distance measurement in Bluetooth devices. This article will discuss major upgrades to the latest Bluetooth 6.0, including its core specifications.
Bluetooth 6.0 Overview
Advanced Distance Measurement
Bluetooth 6.0 introduces Bluetooth Channel Sounding, providing ‘true’ distance awareness for Bluetooth-compatible devices. This feature uses Phase-Based Ranging (PBR) and Round-Trip Timing (RTT) to measure distance with high precision. For example, it can improve keyless entry systems for cars. Channel Sounding achieves centimeter-level precision and supports solid security, such that only authorized users can access secure areas.
Improved Scanning Efficiency
Another key feature is Decision-Based Advertising Filtering (DBAF). This improvement increases scanning efficiency by reducing the time spent scanning secondary channels. For instance, in a crowded tech conference, your smartphone will use DBAF to filter out unnecessary signals more quickly. This results in faster connection times and better battery life.
Better Audio Streaming
The updated Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISOAL) in Bluetooth 6.0 addresses latency and reliability issues. This enhancement benefits real-time audio streaming, such as with wireless headphones or speakers. The new framing mode reduces delays, providing clearer and more synchronized audio, which is especially useful for gaming or video calls.
Expanded Device Features
The extended link layer (LL) feature set allows devices to support a broader range of functions. For example, smart home devices like locks or thermostats can now communicate more effectively. This makes smart home systems more versatile and responsive.
Flexible Frame Spacing
Bluetooth 6.0 introduces negotiable frame spacing for packet transmissions, replacing the fixed 150 µs value. This flexibility improves connection efficiency, which benefits devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers.
Acer the pioneer name in the laptop world, also makes handheld consoles, if it was not obvious. The Acer Nitro Blaze 7 has gone official with AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor and Radeon 780M graphics. Without further ado, let’s get straight into the specs, features, and expected price of Acer Nitro Blaze 7 in Nepal.
Acer Nitro Blaze 7 Overview
Design and Display
The Nitro Blaze 7, like any other handheld console, bears a gaming vibe with a red and black accent theme. You get the ABXY buttons, D-Pad, LB/RB Bumpers, LS/RS Sticks, LT/RT Hall effect triggers, view button, menu button, Acer Game Space button, Pop-up keyboard button, Acer quick menu button and Mode switch button. On the back side, there are air vents to keep the thermals in check.
In terms of display, there is a 7-inch IPS display with 144Hz refresh rate and Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. As a gaming device, there is AMD FreeSync Premium and 7ms response time alongside 100% sRGB.
Processor
Running the chores from the core is an AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS chipset. It is an octa-core processor with 16 threads and 24MB cache. The turbo boost frequency here is 5.1GHz while the total AI TOPS is 39 for Ryzen AI. Meanwhile, the graphics here is AMD Radeon 780M with 2.7GHz and AMD RDNA 312 CUs.
Acer has paired the chip with 16GB LPDDR5x SDRAM with 7500MT/s and up to 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.04 x 4 Gen 4 SSD storage.
The company provides the Acer Game Space app on the device, which combines popular gaming platforms and offers several extra features. In addition, the device includes a free 3-month subscription to PC Game Pass, giving access to premium games.
Ports and Battery
In terms of ports, you get 2x USB 4 Type-C 40Gbps and a MicroSD card (SD 4.0). Connectivity-wise, it supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Furthermore, fueling the handheld console is a 50.04Wh battery with 65W Type-C charging.
PICO is one of the brands under the wings of ByteDance. Established in 2015, they have launched a handful of VR offerings. Recently, they announced a new headset with similar looks and functionality to the Apple Vision Pro. Let’s delve into the PICO 4 Ultra and discuss its expected price in Nepal as well while we’re at it.
PICO 4 Ultra Overview
Design and Display
As you may have figured, the PICO 4 Ultra looks like the Vision Pro — sort of. To be brutally honest, it looks like a cheap knock-off of the Apple headset. That is likely because the cameras and sensors are not well hidden like Apple’s. But due to that very reason, it gives EVE from WALL-E kinda vibe. It weighs 580 grams including the battery, which is considerably lighter than Vision Pro. Talking of the battery, PICO has integrated it into the back of the headset itself. This means the power source acts as a counterweight to the headset and there are no dangling wires! Nice!
Inside it packs a 2.56-inch screen for each eye with a a pixel density of 1,200 PPI. Though the screen resolution is 2,160 x 2,160 pixels, the headset renders and displays the content at 1,920 x 1,920 pixels. Other than that, it offers a 90Hz refresh rate, is equipped with Pancake lenses, and has a 105° field-of-view. The PICO 4 Ultra seamlessly adjusts the distance with pupils between 58mm to 72mm as well. Furthermore, the headset has dual stereo speakers as well as four microphones that support spatial audio recording.
The Hardware
Under the helm, the PICO 4 Ultra has the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 doing all the processing duties. It is obviously a chipset from Qualcomm targeted at VR and MR headsets. This chipset has 4 + 2 performance cores clocking in at up to 2.4GHz and 2.0 GHz. It is also capable of on-device AI. The processor is coupled with 12GB LPDDR5 memory and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. It boots on PICO OS featuring a 360° screen. A 5,770 mAh rated battery powers all this and supports QC 4.0 and PD 3.0 charging protocols. Given that, it can charge at speeds of up to 45W.
Let’s talk about sensors, the first of which are four environment tracking cameras, that scan the environment and also recognise hand gestures. Yes, you can use the PICO 4 Ultra without any remotes too! Next, there are two 32MP colour see-through cameras, which help project real-life scenarios onto the screen and capture spatial videos/photos. Lastly, there is an iToF depth-sensing camera that hides underneath the front panel.
Firstly, the PICO 4 Ultra can be used as an extension of your computer. This feature is dubbed as “PanoScreen Workspace”. It can connect and mirror all major platforms, which includes Mac, Windows, iOS, as well as Android. You can display up to three desktops or home screens at the same time. Additionally, it supports interaction through external keyboards, controllers, and hands as well. You can easily switch between the interaction methods and resize the window you are working on up to 280 inches.
I have already mentioned that the PICO 4 Ultra is capable of snapping spatial photos and videos. Not only that, it can play such media shot through an iPhone or a Vision Pro as well — thanks to MV-HEVC decoding. The headset is also capable of real-time environment and object mapping with its proprietary environment perception algorithm. If you are not a fan of projecting your windows on top of the real environment, you can opt for AI-generated backgrounds as well. It also comes with WiFi 7 and Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity.
Gaming
Gaming is obviously one of, if not, the major attraction of VR headsets. There are over 40 MR apps and games including Puzzling Places, Demeo, Spatial Ops, and Angry Birds. Here, the game/app will be projected onto real-life settings and you can control the game with your bare hands.
On the other hand, the catalogue of virtual reality games is very extensive spanning over 650 items. You can pair the PICO 4 Ultra with the controllers and motion trackers to play such games. You have to wear the motion trackers worn on your ankles and it has an IMU sensor that works in tandem with 12 infrared sensors to provide 6DoF tracking with a frequency of up to 200Hz. As per the company, these motion trackers automatically pair to the headset and are ready to go in just 5 seconds!
PICO 4 Ultra Specifications
Design: Wearable headset with displays and battery integrated into the back
Audio: Dual stereo speakers + four microphones with spatial audio recording support
Features: PanoScreen Workspace, Multi-method interaction, Real-time environment and object mapping, MR and VR games, Taking and playing spatial photos and videos
The Chinese mixed-reality headset maker released this headset on 20 August 2024 in its home country. Then the company announced it was expanding its supply to other countries on 2 September. The nations that will be getting this headset are Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Norway, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, The Netherlands, and the UK.
Unsurprisingly, no Nepal. These headsets carry a price tag of EUR 599. For UK dwellers, it is GBP 529. The conversion lands somewhere around USD 679, which is wayyy cheaper — over five times cheaper — than the Apple Vision Pro. Given that, if somehow this MR headset landed here, we expect the PICO 4 Ultra price in Nepal to be NPR 106,999.
MR Headset
Price in Europe (Official)
Price in Nepal (Expected)
PICO 4 Ultra
EUR 599
NPR 106,999
Meanwhile, check out our Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3 comparison video:
Ulefone is celebrating its tenth anniversary and eight years of excellence in the rugged device industry. To commemorate this milestone, they announced the Armor 28 series with the Ultra offering being the main highlight. In this article, we’ll look further at the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra and also discuss its potential price in Nepal.
Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra Overview
Design and Display
Like any other Ulefone offering, the Armor 28 Ultra looks like a tank. It has a sizable heft to it along with cushioning around the phone. It appears as if it already has a protective case on. There is a chequered pattern on the back panel and looks as if it means business. Not only does it look that way, but it’s built as such too. It boasts an IP68 as well as an IP69K rating, meaning it can survive being submerged at depths of 2 metres for 30 minutes and take a hot water jet right at its face. Furthermore, it can operate in extreme temperatures of -30°C to 55°C without acting up.
The display has normally been Ulefone’s Achilles heel, however, the same cannot be said about Armor 28 Ultra. The company has taken an extra step with this phone and equipped it with two displays! Yes, you heard that right! The main screen is a 6.67-inch AMOLED panel with FHD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 2,200 nits of peak brightness. This is the first-ever phone from the brand with an AMOLED panel. Meanwhile, on the back, it has a circular screen alongside the cameras which displays time and other basic things.
Performance
Ulefone’s main concern has always been providing a tough exterior. Given that, the performance side of things has been mediocre at best. But not on this one! The company has fully embraced the idea of providing a flagship phone and equipped the Armor 28 Ultra with the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset. Yes, the processor that sits atop all else in terms of performance. This silicone clocks in at 3.4 GHz and scores 2,125,715 in AnTuTu 10, which is over 2% more than the closest challenger i.e. the regular Dimesnity 9300. For reference, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 hits 2,052,774 in the same benchmarking platform.
The additional hardware on the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra is no slouch either. It packs 16GB LPDDR4X RAM and supports a virtual RAM extension of another 16GB. Similarly, this device has 512GB UFS 3.1 internal storage which obviously can be expanded via a MicroSD card. Talking of the software, it boots on Android 14 out of the box.
In true Ulefone fashion, the company has a whole imaging system including a night vision camera and a thermal sensor. Let’s talk about the regular cameras, of which there are two on the back and one on the front. The primary shooter is a 50MP unit with a 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor. The auxiliary lens is another 50MP shooter, which is an ultrawide lens with a Samsung JN1 sensor. On the front, it has the same thing as the ultrawide i.e. 50MP Samsung JN1.
Now moving on to the novelty cameras on the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra. It has a 64MP module coupled with the OV64B1B sensor, which is a night vision camera. It can take clear photos during dark time, which other phones cannot replicate even with Night mode turned on. Likewise, the other one is a thermal sensor that with the ThermoVue Pro app can deliver thermal videos at 256 x 192 pixels. This is the highest resolution of thermal imaging from the brand so far! As if that was not enough, one can hook the uSmart Expansion connector — which is basically an endoscopy camera — to the phone and reach spaces that you couldn’t look at normally or with a regular camera.
Battery and the rest
As I mentioned earlier, the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra has a decent heft to it which can be attributed mostly to its massive 10,600 mAh battery. This is over twice as large as the current industry standard of 5,000 mAh. Having such a large unit, and not having fast charging would not make any sense. Hence, the phone supports 120W wired and 50W wireless charging.
Other than that, it has dual SIM, 5G cellular, WiFi 6, Bluetooth v5.4, and NFC support for wireless connectivity. On top of that, it has an IR blaster too so that you can control other appliances. It has a 1.5W speaker, which should be plenty loud. One must understand that the phone’s speakers aren’t generally rated in watts, it’s done for laptops and speakers. And laptops usually pack 2 to 2.5W speakers. Lastly, you get a 3.5mm headphone jack on the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra, which you need not utilise to listen to FM Radio, as it also has an antenna of its own as well.
Secondary: Circular, display basic things like time
Chipset: Octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (4nm)
RAM: 16GB LPDDR4X + 16GB extendable
ROM: 512GB UFS 3.1 + expandable with MicroSD card
OS: Android 14
Rear Camera: Triple Camera + Thermal Imaging
Primary: 50MP, 1” Sony IMX989 sensor
Ultrawide: 50MP, Samsung JN1 sensor
Night Vision: 64MP, OV64B1B CMOS sensor
Thermal: ThermoVue sensor, 256 x 192 resolution
Front Camera: 50MP, Samsung JN1 sensor (Centre-aligned hole-punch cutout)
Battery: 10,600 mAh with 120W wired and 50W wireless charging
Connectivity: Dual SIM, 5G, WiFi 6, Hotspot, Bluetooth v5.4, NFC, USB Type-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, IR blaster
Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra Price in Nepal and Availability
This absolute unit of a phone was announced on 28 August 2024 and will be displayed at IFA 2024 being held from 6 to 10 September in Berlin, Germany. The company has not revealed its pricing just yet. Their catalogue has mostly hovered under the USD 600 mark so far. However, with the inclusion of a flagship chip under its helm, we wouldn’t be surprised if it was priced at around USD 800. Based on that, if the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra phone ever makes its way to Nepal we expect its price to be NPR 129,999.
Ulefone Smartphone
Price in the International Market (Expected)
Price in Nepal (Expected)
Armor 28 Ultra
~ USD 800
NPR 129,999
Meanwhile, check out our Honor X9b durability test video:
Intel just announced their new Lunar Lake Core Ultra Series 2 chipsets with big gains in efficiency and graphics. So, let’s quickly look at the specs, and improvements in Intel’s new innovation, and what Intel Lunar Lake means for you and me.
Intel Lunar Lake Overview
It’s all about efficiency
It seems like the laptop market is all about efficiency with power to boot at this point. What started with Apple’s M series, has now carried over to all major chip makers with AMD and Qualcomm offering their own efficient Phoenix Point and Snapdragon X processors. Intel’s Meteor Lake Core Ultra Series 1 had a similar focus on minimizing power consumption and boosting battery life, but truth be told the competition was just ahead of the race.
So, Intel recently unveiled their Series 2 Core Ultra SoCs code-named Lunar Lake in Berlin. With these new chips, Intel claims its spot as the one to pick for best endurance among the Windows choices. The company claims up to 50% less power consumption than its predecessors with up to a ridiculous 20 hours of battery life on office tasks. Besides that though, there are upgrades throughout with an improved CPU, better graphics, and a stronger AI engine.
Cutting corners on the cores?
Intel’s new Series 2 of Core Ultra chips all ship with just 8 cores and no hyperthreading. That sounds like a downgrade from last-gen’s 16 Cores (max) but Intel reasons that this has led to improved efficiency without sacrificing (single core) power. All 9 SKUs feature 8 Cores and 8 Threads with differing clock frequencies, TDP, AI cores, and memory specifications. This new re-design boasts an improved CPU single core with a big boost to efficiency.
Decoding ‘Core Ultra 9 288V’
Since Intel has decided to change the naming scheme once more, let me catch you up to speed. There are a total of 9 Lunar Lake laptop chips with 4 Core Ultra 5s, 4 Core Ultra 7s, and a Core Ultra 9. The name follows a ‘Core Ultra (5/7/9) 2 (X)(X)V’ pattern where the first digit after 2 indicates the tier (less/more clock speed) and the second hints at memory capacity (higher/lower).
For instance, Core Ultra 5 228V and Ultra 5 236V have equal number of cores across the board, but while the 2’3’6V clocks at a maximum of 4.7GHz, the 2’2’8 only reaches 4.5 GHz. But on the flip side, the 22’8’ supports up to 32GB of memory while the 23’6’ only supports up to 16GB.
So, Core Ultra 9 288V has the highest clock speed (5.1GHz) while supporting 32GB of LPDDR5X memory at 8533 MT/s.
Best iGPU on the market
Another big improvement is the new Xe 2 integrated graphics that promises the best gaming performance in the market. It’s up to 30% faster than the Arc graphics on the Core Ultra 7, about 16% better than AMD’s offering, and blows Snapdragon out of the water. For context, your next Intel laptop will be able to render Night City in CyberPunk at a playable 40-ish FPS, crank some gears in Forza at over 60 FPS, or snatch victory royals in Fortnite at nearly 90 FPS all without any kind of upscaling. So, with Intel’s XeSS, you can pretty much run any modern game at 1080p medium settings on the new Lunar Lake-powered notebooks.
AI and Extras
Last but not least, these Intel Lunar Lake chipsets also seem to have the best AI engine for laptops with improved workflow across software like Blender, Lightroom, After Effects, and Filmora. The NPU can push up to 48 TOPS on a Core Ultra 9 and up to 40 TOPS on the base Ultra 5 226V. Connectivity options include integrated WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and support for up to 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Intel Core Ultra 200V Lunar Lake Availability
Intel Lunar Lake laptops with Core Ultra 200V processors will be available starting September 22nd. All of the major vendors are refreshing one or more of their models with the new chipsets so you can expect your favorite thin and light notebook to be available with a Core Ultra 200V soon. That includes Dell’s XPS 13, Asus’ Zenbook S 14, LG Gram Pro, MSI’s Prestige 13 + Evo, and many more. We’ll be sure to cover them when they make it to Nepal in the future.
Meanwhile, check out our take on what an AI laptop is in 2024:
The iPhone is like the king of smartphones, right? It’s got that fancy iOS, and killer camera, and it just feels top-notch. But let’s be real, it’s not exactly cheap. Plus, have you seen the price tag on those new iPhones? Over 2 lakhs! But hey, when there’s a will, there’s a way: you can always get yourself a secondhand iPhone in Nepal.
I know I know, it’s fun to unbox the new phone but our budget might not work the same way, right? That’s where buying a used or pre-owned iPhone comes into play. It’s a savvy way to get your hands on a premium phone without breaking the bank. Even Apple itself supports buying secondhand iPhones. According to the brand, “the Apple products are designed to be durable and have a longer lifespan than other smartphones so making a pre-owned iPhone a smart choice for anyone looking to own one”.
But how much does a second-hand iPhone cost? Beyond the price, you should also consider factors like the phone’s condition, its usage period, and more. In this article, we’ll share tips and tricks to help you navigate the second-hand market with confidence. But, before diving into the tips for buying an iPhone, let’s explore where we can buy the secondhand iPhones from.
Where can we buy the secondhand iPhones?
There are many platforms, both online and offline, where you can buy secondhand iPhones. If you’re purchasing from friends, random sellers, or local sources, it’s recommended to visit and inspect the device before buying. Ensure that the seller is reliable and trustworthy to avoid any issues.
If not offline or at local stores, you can also purchase secondhand iPhones from online markets like Facebook Marketplace and Hamrobazar. However, be cautious when using Facebook Marketplace, as scams can occur. It’s important to thoroughly vet the seller and the product before making a purchase. Personally, I recommend using Hamrobazar instead, as it tends to have more reliable listings and a safer buying environment.
At Hamrobazar, you can find second-hand iPhones ranging from as low as NPR 15,000 for older models like the iPhone 7 Plus to around NPR 180,000 for more recent models like the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Secondhand iPhone Market in Hamrobazar
On Hamrobazar, prices can vary based on the phone’s physical condition, battery health, storage capacity, and included accessories. Some sellers disclose all the details, including any parts they’ve changed and the battery’s health, while others do not. Therefore, prices depend on the seller.
Price of Secondhand Old iPhone Models
Model Name
Price Range
iPhone 7 Plus (128GB)
Rs. 15,000
iPhone 8 Plus (64GB/256GB)
Rs. 20,000 to Rs.25,000
iPhone X (256GB)
Rs. 30,000
iPhone Xs Max (256GB)
Rs. 35,000
Price of Secondhand iPhone 11 Series
Model Name
Price Range
iPhone 11 (64GB)
Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 35,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 11 (128GB)
Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 40,000
iPhone 11 (256GB)
Rs. 48,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 11 Pro (64GB)
Rs. 42,000 to Rs. 60,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 11 Pro (128GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 11 Pro (256GB)
Rs. 42,000 to Rs. 56,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 11 Pro (512GB)
Rs. 42,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 11 Pro Max (64GB)
Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 65,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 11 Pro Max (128GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 11 Pro Max (256GB)
Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 66,000
Price of Secondhand iPhone 12 Series
Model Name
Price Range
iPhone 12 (128GB)
Rs. 45,000 to Rs. 50,000
iPhone 12 (256GB)
Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 62,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 12 (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 12 Pro (128GB)
Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 65,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 12 Pro (256GB)
Rs. 60,000
iPhone 12 Pro (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 12 Pro Max (128 GB)
Rs. 65,000 to Rs. 77,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB)
Rs. 70,000
iPhone 12 Pro Max (512GB)
Rs. 77,500 to 80,000 (Not easily available)
Price of Secondhand iPhone 13 Series
Model Name
Price Range
iPhone 13 (128GB)
Rs. 60,000
iPhone 13 (256GB)
Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 85,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 13 (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 13 Pro (256GB)
Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 85,000
iPhone 13 Pro Max (128GB)
Rs. 95,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 13 Pro Max (256GB)
Rs. 100,000
iPhone 13 Pro Max (1TB)
Rs. 1,20,000 (Not easily available)
Price of Secondhand iPhone 14 Series in Hamrobazar
Model Name
Price Range
iPhone 14 (128GB)
Rs. 70,000
iPhone 14 (256GB)
Rs. 107,000 to Rs. 120,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 14 (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 14 Plus (128GB)
Rs. 76,000 to Rs. 90,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 14 Plus (256GB)
Rs. 85,500 (Not easily available)
iPhone 14 Plus (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 14 Pro (128GB)
Rs. 103,000
iPhone 14 Pro (256GB)
Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 110,000
iPhone 14 Pro (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 14 Pro Max (128 GB)
Rs. 112,000 (Not easily available)
iPhone 14 Pro Max (256GB)
Rs. 120,000
iPhone 14 Pro Max (512GB)
Rs.142,000 (Not easily available)
Price of Secondhand of iPhone 15 Series
Model Name
Price Range
iPhone 15 (128GB)
Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 85,000
iPhone 15 (256GB)
Rs. 125,000 to Rs. 130,000
iPhone 15 (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 15 Plus (128GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 15 Plus (256GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 15 Plus (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 15 Pro (128GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 15 Pro (256GB)
Rs. 125,000 to Rs. 130,000
iPhone 15 Pro (512GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 15 Pro Max (128 GB)
Unavailable (until publication of this article)
iPhone 15 Pro Max (256GB)
Rs. 140,000 to 145,000
iPhone 15 Pro Max (512GB)
Rs. 195,000 (Not easily available)
Note: Please understand that the price may vary when you look at listings on Hamrobazar. Prices can change based on the seller’s reliability, the phone’s condition, and your negotiations with the seller. Also, many products on Hamrobazar are listed as new. Therefore, it’s important to communicate with the seller and verify all details before making a purchase.
Secondhand iPhones listing at hamrobazar
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Also, most of the sellers offer a testing period ranging from one week to 15 days. Take advantage of this opportunity to thoroughly check the phone. Now, let’s talk about how to test these second-hand iPhones.
Things to consider before buying a secondhand iPhone
When buying a second-hand iPhone offline or online, first check the physical condition. If it doesn’t look good at first glance, it’s not worth buying. If it passes this initial inspection, you can move on to the next step.
1. Proof of Purchase:
Before buying, it’s super important to be careful. Sadly, there are people out there who might try to sell you a stolen phone, often brought in from India. To stay safe, always ask for a hard or soft copy of the original receipt from the seller. This helps confirm the prior ownership and warranty status. Check that the seller’s name or ID matches the details on the receipt. Verify the purchase date to ensure the device is still under warranty.
2. IMEI Number
Ask the seller to provide the IMEI number by going to Settings > General > About or by dialing *#06#. Use websites like IMEI.info to check the device’s details, including the network, country, warranty status, and system version, against the proof of purchase.
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3. Serial Number
Obtain the iPhone’s serial number from Settings > General > About. Use Apple’s website to verify the service and support coverage. The serial number also provides information about when and where the iPhone was manufactured and its specifications.
4. Battery Health
Check the iPhone’s battery health by navigating to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. Apple suggests that an iPhone should retain up to 80% of its capacity after 500 full charge cycles. Ensure the battery status is acceptable, especially when buying from a second-hand seller.
5. Part Authenticity
Ask the seller if the iPhone has undergone any repairs and whether they were performed by Apple-authorized service providers. Refurbished iPhones with parts from unauthorized providers might have lower-quality components, affecting performance and durability.
Ask for documentation of any repairs, particularly for the screen or battery. Verify that repairs were done by Apple-authorized service providers to avoid issues with unauthorized parts that can affect functionality.
Apple says we can find if any parts have been replaced:
For this, go to Settings > General > About, and check the iOS version. If it’s iOS 15.2 or later, you may see a “Parts and Service History” section after the serial number, depending on the iPhone model and if a part has been replaced.
A part labeled “Genuine Apple Part” means it has been replaced with an authentic Apple part using genuine processes. If a part is labeled “Unknown Part,” it indicates the installation is incomplete, the part is non-genuine, was previously used in another iPhone, or isn’t functioning properly.
6. Physical Condition and screen quality
Examine the iPhone for physical damage such as scratches, dents, and discoloration. Check the camera lenses for scratches and the Lightning connector for damage or debris. Verify that the iPhone charges properly by plugging in a cable. Check the charging port for obstructions or damage. Test with wired headphones to ensure the port works. Verify the microphone by recording voice memos and making calls to ensure clear audio capture.
You could also look for screen burn-in by playing videos with solid color backgrounds. For older models, check for LCD backlighting issues using a solid white slide. This helps ensure the display is in good condition.
7. Activation and Lock Status
Turn on the iPhone to check if it’s locked to a previous owner. If it shows a lock screen or “iPhone Locked to Owner,” have the seller unlock it in your presence to prove ownership and ensure it’s not stolen.
8. Software and Functionality
After the lock status, one needs to check the physical buttons, touch gestures, and basic iPhone functions (swiping, tapping, zooming). Ensure the iPhone operates smoothly with no lags or issues.
9. Additional Tests
Use diagnostic apps like GPS and NFC to check sensors. Ensure that features like Face ID or Touch ID are functioning correctly. For newer models, check the Action button and other specific hardware functionalities.
In my experience, iPhone hardware is very dependable when not exposed to excessive physical or water damage. Additionally, Apple’s iOS generally supports older models for many years after they have been discontinued. However, it is better to avoid models that are too old; I suggest starting with the iPhone 11 series and newer.
It’s becoming increasingly common to come across fake electronic devices that appear very authentic. One reason many second-hand electronics are sold at low prices is that some parts may have been replaced with non-original components. While these “iPhones” may work well at first, they often won’t perform optimally or last as long as genuine ones.
The obvious damage like a cracked screen can be spotted quickly, but other issues might not be immediately apparent. To ensure you’re making a safe purchase, take the time to purchase the phone. If done so, buying a secondhand iPhone is totally worth it.
If you still don’t feel like buying a secondhand iPhone, you also have the option to buy refurbished iPhones from authentic sellers in Nepal.
Refurbished iPhones in Nepal
Refurbished iPhones are pre-owned devices that have been returned to the manufacturer or a certified refurbisher for various reasons, such as defects or trade-ins. These phones undergo a thorough inspection, repair, and testing process to ensure they meet quality standards before being resold. Refurbished iPhones often come with a warranty and may include new parts like batteries or screens, making them a cost-effective alternative to buying a brand-new iPhone.
In Nepal, we have sites like Daraz and SabKo Phone from where you can buy these refurbished iPhones. According to SabKo Phone, their locally purchased phones pass through a proper test system. They also provide up to 6 months full warranty on both software and hardware.
FAQs
Are second-hand iPhones reliable?
Yes, iPhones have a longer lifespan with dependable hardware and software performance which makes second-hand iPhones reliable depending on the condition and seller.
Where is the best place to buy a second-hand iPhone?
It depends; if you have a trustworthy seller, you can buy from them or from online platforms like Hamrobazar. You can also buy refurbished phones from SabKo phone and Daraz Nepal.
Which second-hand iPhone model should I buy?
Consider buying an iPhone from the 11 series or later. Older models may not support new software updates.
What should I check when buying a second-hand iPhone?
When buying a second-hand iPhone, check for stolen or carrier-locked status, verify the IMEI/serial number, inspect the physical condition, and confirm proof of purchase. Also, assess battery health, component authenticity, functional tests, performance, storage size, Touch ID/Face ID functionality, and avoid devices with cracked screens or backs.
Meanwhile, check out our opinion on which iPhone to buy in 2024.
boAt Lifestyle is a popular brand of smartphone accessories hailing from India. It recently introduced new earbuds to the Nepali market that are compact and offer a decent set of features. Let’s delve further into the details of the boAt Airdopes 71 along with its price in Nepal.
boAt Airdopes 71 Overview
Design and Audio
As I mentioned earlier, the boAt Airdopes 71 is compact and as such it is very pocketable and can easily fit inside pockets, handbags, and such. The buds themselves come in an in-ear fit with a stemmed design. They also boast an IPX4 rating, able to withstand splashes of water and sweat exposure without much issue. Likewise, the charging case is ovular with curved edges. It is available in Active Black, Starry Blue, and Frost White colour options.
Moving on to the audio side of things, these earbuds only pack a 6mm driver on each side due to their pocketable form factor. Though the driver size is quite small compared to many offerings in the market, it is not the only contributing factor to audio quality. Hence, you can still get a decent audio experience from it. Additionally, the boAt Airdopes 71 packs two microphones to offer environmental noise cancellation and a clear calling experience.
Despite its small stature, these earbuds offer a handful of features. Starting with Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity. They can connect to both smartphone platforms and access their respective voice assistants as well. Similarly, they have IWP technology, instantly pairing with the latest connected device. The boAt Airdopes 71 comes with touch controls and can be used in mono as well as stereo modes. Furthermore, there is a BEAST Mode dedicated to gamers, wherein the earbuds’ latency drops as low as 50ms.
All the features and the accessory itself are powered by 40mAh batteries baked inside it. For added usability, it has a 300mAh cell inside the charging case. Combined, it translates to 40 hours worth of usage when the volume is set at 60 per cent. Talking of charging, it has a USB-C interface and generally takes about two hours to charge both the earbuds and case. However, plugging it in for a quick 10-minute charge can still offer you two hours of playtime.
boAt Airdopes 71 Specifications
Design: Compact size, In-ear fit, Stemmed design, IPX4-rated, Monotone finish (buds as well as case)
Sound Driver: 6mm
Noise Cancellation: ENx (Environmental Noise Cancellation) during calls with dual ENC mics
Connectivity: Bluetooth v5.3
Codecs: SBC, AAC
Battery: 40 mAh (Buds), 300 mAh (Case)
Playback (60% Volume): Up to 40 hours (Combined)
Charging: Via USB Type-C, 30 minutes (Buds), Up to 90 minutes (Case), 10 minutes charge = 120 minutes playtime
Features: Touch controls, Voice Assistant, IWP (Insta Wake N’ Pair), Mono/Stereo mode use, BEAST Mode with latency as low as 50ms
Colour Options: Active Black, Starry Blue, Frost White
These buds went live sometime in late 2023 in its home country. However, in the case of Nepal, it is up for sale starting on 5 September 2024 for a discounted price of NPR 2,099. During regular times, the price of boAt Airdopes 71 in Nepal will be NPR 2,799. Customers can get these earbuds through authorised channels online as well as offline.
boAt Earbuds
Price in Nepal (Official)
Airdopes 71
NPR 2,799 NPR 2,099
Meanwhile, check out our video analysis on the challenges of Nepali accessories brands:
We don’t get a lot of new MSI machines in Nepal and it seems like the market for MSI laptops has quieted down a lot in the last few years. But we do get a launch or two every so often like with today’s Stealth 16 AI Studio A1V. In this short piece, let’s quickly explore the features, specifications, and price in Nepal of the MSI Stealth 16 AI Studio.
MSI Stealth 16 AI Studio Overview
Design and Display
As the name suggests, the MSI Stealth features a sleek build measuring just 19.95mm thick and weighing less than 2kg. It’s made out of durable Magnesium – Aluminum Alloy and is available in the ‘Star Blue’ colorway.
Talking of the display, the Stealth is available in a number of display configurations with either an IPS or mini-LED screen. The variant currently available in Nepal features a QHD+ (2560 x 1600) IPS panel running at 240Hz. Alternatively, there are also 4k mini-LED panels at 120Hz. Regardless, both are high resolution, high refresh rate 16:10 screens with accurate colors and thin bezels.
Performance
Under the hood, you can hook up your Stealth 16 with up to a powerful Core Ultra 9 185H CPU with 16 Cores (6P+8E+2LPE) and 22 Threads running at up to 5.1 GHz. This Meteor Lake chipset houses the upgraded Intel Arcs graphics and boasts improved efficiency based on the Intel 4 process and new low-power cores.
As for the GPU, the MSI Stealth 16 runs up to an NVIDIA RTX 4090 with 16GB of GDDR6 RAM but right now, the Core Ultra 7, RTX 4060 combo is available in Nepal. That’s all cooled by MSI’s Cooler Booster 5 tech with 2 fans, and 7 heat pipes.
Battery and Extras
Fueling the MSI Stealth 16 is a large 99.99 Wh battery powered by a 240W AC adapter. There’s 6 unit sound system with 2 speakers and 4 woofers, an FHD IR webcam, a MUX switch, a Thunderbolt 4, another Type-C, a Type-A, an HDMI, an RJ45, an Audio jack, and a microSD card reader. Furthermore, there’s support for tri-band WiFi 7.
