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Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 with Helio G99 chip is now available in Nepal

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Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab A9 and Tab A9+ a little over a month ago. And now, the cheaper Tab A9 has officially made its way to Nepal as well. So let’s take a look at the new Samsung Galaxy Tab A9, alongside its specifications, price in Nepal, availability, and more.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 and A9+ Overview:

Design and Display

Starting with the design, the Galaxy Tab A9 and A9 Plus boast a metallic back. The vanilla version is 8mm thick, while the latter is slimmer, measuring around 6.9mm. As for the color options, both of them offer Graphite, Silver, and Navy shades.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 and A9+ Design

On the front, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ has an 11-inch panel with a 1200 x 1920 px resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. However, the A9 has a much smaller screen (8.7 inches), refreshes at 60Hz, and has an 800 x 1320 px resolution.

Performance

For a budget tablet, the Galaxy Tab A9 features a Helio G99 SoC. This 6nm fabbed midrange chip from Mediatek has two Cortex-A76 (@2.2 GHz) and six Cortex-A55 (@2 GHz) CPU cores. Whereas the A9+ houses a more powerful Snapdragon 695 chip (6nm) instead. This one has a more powerful CPU cluster with Cortex-A78 (@2.2 GHz) and six Cortex-A55 (@1.8 GHz) cores.

Additionally, these two come in 4/64GB as well as 8/128GB configurations for storage. You can also expand the storage by up to 1TB via a micro SD card. In terms of software, these two run on Android 13-based One UI 5.1.

Tab A9+ exclusives

And while the regular Tab A9 supports LTE connectivity, the A9+ also has 5G support. Furthermore, the Tab A9 has two speakers compared to a quad-speaker setup on the A9+. Both support Dolby Atmos audio though. Plus, the vanilla version is limited to displaying two apps at a time, while Samsung lets you multitask with three apps at a time on Tab A9+.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 and A9+ Exclusives

Battery and others

Here, the Galaxy Tab A9 has a 5,100mAh battery while its “Plus” sibling enjoys a larger 7,040mAh unit. They support 15W charging and as expected, Samsung doesn’t ship a compatible power brick inside the box either.

Other than this, Samsung’s latest budget tablets bring an 8MP camera at the back. Whereas the standard Tab A9 has a 2MP selfie unit over a 5MP front-facing camera on the Tab A9+.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 and A9+ Specifications:

Galaxy Tab A9 Galaxy Tab A9+
Dimensions 124 x 211 x 8mm 168.7 x 257.1 x 6.9mm
Weight 332 gm (WiFi) 480 gm (WiFi)
333 gm (LTE) 491 gm (5G)
Display 8.7-inch, TFT LCD, 60Hz 11-inch, TFT LCD, 90Hz
Processor MediaTek Helio G99 (6nm) Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Memory 4/8GB RAM, 64/128GB storage (expandable up to 1TB)
Software Android 13 with Samsung’s One UI 5.1 on top
Camera 8MP rear, 2MP front 8MP rear, 5MP front
Audio Dual speakers Quad speakers
Battery 5,100mAh (15W charging) 7,040mAh (15W charging)

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 and A9+ Price in Nepal

As of now, the Tab A9+ is yet to arrive in Nepal. And the official Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 price in Nepal is NPR 21,499 and NPR 27,499 for the 4/64GB model with WiFi and LTE connection, respectively. You can buy this tablet from Samsung Nepal’s authorized stores like Hukut.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Price in Nepal Availability
4/64GB WiFi NPR 21,499 Hukut
WiFi + LTE NPR 27,499

Honor 100 will support 100W fast charging and more!

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After its split with Huwaei, Honor had its major comeback with various mid-range and flagship smartphones. Hoping to continue the same trend, Honor is preparing itself for the release of the Honor 100 series. In this article, let’s dive into the rumors surrounding the Honor 100 Series including their specifications, pricing, and availability. 

Honor 100 Series Rumors Roundup

Recent developments strongly suggest the imminent launch of the Honor 100 series, speculated to introduce both the standard 100 and the enhanced Pro model. Certifying a duo of unreleased Honor phones, thought to belong to the Honor 100 series, China’s 3C agency revealed that both the Honor MAA-AN10 and MA-AN00 will support 100W charging. This marks a notable advancement from the Honor 90, which featured up to 66W charging, and the China-exclusive Honor 90 Pro, which boasted 90W.

By the way, what is 3C certification?

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The China Compulsory Certificate (3C) is a mandatory certification system enforced by China for electronic and information technology equipment, ensuring compliance with specified safety and quality standards before introducing products to the Chinese market. This certification is crucial for products to obtain legal access, prioritizing consumer safety and product quality.

100W Charging and 5G

Key information emerges from the 3C certification, linking model numbers MAA-AN10 and MAA-AN00 to the upcoming Honor 100 series. Certification assures users of these devices enjoy 100W fast charging capabilities and seamless 5G network support. However, the certification falls short of unveiling additional hardware specifications, leaving enthusiasts eager for more details.

Speculations on other Specifications:

Leaks and speculations fuel anticipation, hinting at a cutting-edge 1.5K resolution display with high-frequency dimming for enhanced eye protection within the Honor 100 series. Further rumors suggest a robust Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC might power one of the models, promising a performance leap. Additional features may include dual front-facing cameras and a distinctive circular rear camera module, enhancing the series’ photography capabilities.

Both upcoming Honor 100 series devices receive certification with the HN-200500C05 charger, offering 10W, 66W, and 100W speeds. The listing also confirms 5G connectivity for both devices.

Honor 100 Series Specifications (Rumored):

  • Display: AMOLED, 1.5K, 120Hz refresh rate
  • Chipset:  Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC (4nm)
  • Memory: Up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage
  • Camera: Dual front-facing cameras, Rear cameras in a circular module.
  • Software & UI: Honor MagicOS 8.0 (upcoming) on top of Android 14
  • Security: Fingerprint sensor (in-display, optical)
  • Battery: 5000mAh with 100W fast charging

Honor 100 Series: Availability and Price

As the official launch date remains shrouded in secrecy, the Honor 100 Series is rumored to be released within November. As for the pricing of the upcoming series, it is expected to be in the range of CNY 2,600 – CNY 4,000 for the standard Honor 100, GT variant, and the Pro model (converts to ~NPR 48,000 – NPR 74,000).

  • Also, watch our review of Apple Watch 2 Vs Series 9:

Valve upgrades the Steam Deck with an OLED screen and more!

Valve Corporation, an American video game developer company, announced Steam Deck back in 2021. It was a Nintendo Switch-like hybrid handheld gaming console that supports Steam games. Now, the company has given their original consoles a few upgrades. In this article, we will delve into what’s new on the Valve Steam Deck OLED, its expected price in Nepal, and so on.

Valve Steam Deck OLED Overview:

Design and Display

The Valve Steam Deck OLED has not deviated from its original design. The design and controls are the same down to the teeth. It comes in a dimension of 298 x 117 x 49 mm and weighs 640 grams. Furthermore, it also features HD haptics with a 6-axis IMU gyroscope.

Valve Steam Deck OLED Design

This new iteration gets its most significant upgrade in terms of the display. As the name implies, it has an OLED touchscreen that measures 7.4” diagonally. This HDR-ready screen has 1,000 nits of peak brightness, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 110% P3 color gamut.

Performance

The Valve Steam Deck OLED also receives upgrades under the hood. It comes with the AMD APU with the same Zen 2 CPU and 8 RDNA 2 CUs GPU. The CPU and GPU’s maximum clock speed remains the same at 3.5 GHz and 1.6 GHz respectively. However, the new variant is based on a power-efficient 6nm process instead of 7nm.

AMD APU in Valve Steam Deck OLED

Similarly, this handheld also comes with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM on board. This memory is capable of 6400 MT/s, which is an upgrade over the previous 5500 MT/s. Furthermore, the Valve Steam Deck OLED comes with either 512 GB or 1 TB NVMe SSD for storage. It also has a high-speed microSD card slot for further memory expansion. Lastly, it runs on Arch-based SteamOS 3 on the software side of things.

Battery and the rest

Powering the handheld is a bigger 50Wh battery that provides 12 hours of gameplay at most. It is then complemented by PD 3.0 charging up to 45W via a USB Type-C port. This also doubles down as a DisplayPort with up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz output. The Valve Steam Deck OLED also comes with a 3.5mm earphone jack.

In terms of wireless connectivity, this upgraded variant supports tri-band WiFi 6E and Bluetooth v5.3 with a dedicated Bluetooth antenna. Furthermore, it comes with stereo speakers with embedded DSP and a dual microphone array.

Valve Steam Deck OLED Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 298.00 mm x 117.00 mm x 49.00 mm
  • Weight: 640 grams
  • Display: 7.4” HDR OLED Panel, Touch, 1000 nits peak brightness, >1 million:1 contrast ratio, 110% P3 Colour Gamut, 90Hz refresh rate, <0.1ms response time
  • Resolution: 1,280 x 800
  • Controls: A B X Y buttons, D-pad, L and R analog triggers, L and R bumpers, View and Menu buttons, 4x assignable grip buttons, 2x full-size analog stocks with capacitive touch, 2x 32.50 mm square trackpads
  • Chipset: AMD APU (6nm)
    • CPU: Zen 2 4c/8t, 2.4–3.5GHz (up to 448 GFlops FP32)
    • GPU: 8 RDNA 2 CUs, 1.6GHz (1.6TFlops FP32)
  • RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5 (6400 MT/s quad 32-bit channels)
  • Storage: 512 GB / 1 TB NVMe SSD + Expandable with high-speed MicroSD card
  • OS: SteamOS 3 (Arch-based)
  • Audio: Stereo speakers with embedded DSP + Dual microphone array
  • Sensor: Dual ambient light sensor
  • Battery: 50Wh with 45W PD3.0 charging via Type-C
  • Connectivity: Tri-band WiFi 6E, Bluetooth v5.3, 3.5mm headphone jack

Valve Steam Deck OLED Price in Nepal and Availability

In the US, it is set to ship on 16 November 2023 at USD 549 and USD 649 for the 512 GB and 1 TB variants, respectively. But Valve says this is a limited edition offering and will only be available in the USA and Canada. However, if it ever makes its way here, we expect the Valve Stem Deck OLED price in Nepal to be NPR 87,949 for the base variant.

Valve Steam Deck OLED Price in USA (Official) Price in Nepal (Expected)
512 GB USD 549 NPR 87,949
1 TB USD 649 NPR 103,949
  • Meanwhile, check out our AYANEO Pocket Air review

Microsoft Xbox Gaming Console Price in Nepal [Updated 2023]

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Console vs PC is a war that the gaming community will probably argue until the end of time. Both of them have their pros and cons. And it is really difficult to say which one is actually the better of the two. I prefer gaming on consoles rather than PCs. That’s mostly because it allows me to slouch on my couch and enjoy my favorite game. So, if you are like me, I mean if you love to play games on a console then here is a great opportunity for you.  We’ve compiled a list elaborating on the specifications, and the price of Microsoft Xbox currently available in Nepal, so be sure to go through them.

Microsoft Xbox S

The Xbox One S is one of the smallest gaming consoles out there. It is lightweight at just 1.92kg. Despite its size, it is capable of providing some impressive gaming power such as 120fps, 3D sound, DirectX ray tracing, and HDR with AMD FreeSync. Running the things on the core are Custom Zen 2 CPU and Custom RDNA 2 GPU. It is accompanied by 10GB GDRR6 RAM and 512GB Custom NVME SSD storage.

Xbox Series S Design

Specifications:

  • CPU: 8-core Custom Zen 2 CPU @ 3.4GHz
  • GPU: AMD custom GPU @ 1.565GHz, 4 TFLOPS
  • Weight: 1.92 kg
  • Memory: 10GB GDDR6
  • Memory bandwidth: 224GB/s
  • Storage: 512GB NVME SSD
  • I/O: USB 3.1 Gen 1 x 3, HDMI 2.1 x 1
  • Communication: Ethernet 802.3 10/100/1000, WiFi 802.11ac dual-band

Currently, the price of the Microsoft Xbox Series S is NPR 45,000 in Nepal.

Microsoft Xbox Series X

The Xbox Series X is the most powerful console from Microsoft. Powered by a Custom Zen 2 CPU and 12 TeraFlops GPU, this console bears serious gaming capabilities like hardware-accelerated DirectX Raytracing, 120fps, 8K HDR, and true 4K resolution gaming. Keeping the thermals in check is Xbox Parallel Cooling Architecture with three airflow channels and a Vapor Chamber.

xbox series X price availability

Specifications:

  • CPU: 8-core AMD Zen 2 custom CPU @3.8GHz
  • GPU: AMD custom GPU @1.825 GHz, 52 CUs, 12 TFLOPS
  • Weight: 4.4Kg
  • Memory: 16GB GDDR6
  • Memory bandwidth: 560GB/s, 336GB/s
  • Storage: 1TB Custom NVME SSD
  • I/O: USB 3.1 Gen 1 x 3, HDMI 2.1 x 1
  • Communication: Ethernet 802.3 10/100/1000, WiFi 802.11ac dual-band

Talking about the price, the Microsoft Xbox Series X costs NPR 74,000 in Nepal.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

A pro gamer needs a worthy controller to complement their skills and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is exactly that. This is the same device that bagged the Best of E3 2019 – Hardware/Peripheral award and it offers up to 40 hours of battery life. The best part about this controller is the abundant customization options that it offers.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Besides the standard Xbox controller buttons, this one contains exchangeable analog sticks and D-pad buttons. Moreover, those buttons can be simply popped out and replaced with those that come along with the controller.

Specifications and Features:

  • System Requirements: Xbox One system or PCs running Windows 7 or later
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Weight: 345g
  • Battery: 40hrs (approx.) with a full charge
  • Features:  Haptic feedback, adjustable thumbstick tension, assignable buttons

The best Xbox controller does not come cheap. It is priced at around $179 and its price in Nepal is Rs. 25,000. The premium cost for a premium controller.

Which one to buy – Series X or Series S? 

Going by the specs, the Xbox Series X is certainly better than the Xbox Series S. With more power, the Series X will provide you with a better gaming experience.  While the latter one is also a preferable option if your budget is tight. Unless you’re concerned about the full-fledged 4K experience, I would suggest you go for the Xbox Series S. But hey if you have the required money and are not willing to compromise on the graphic settings, then who am I to complain?

Microsoft Xbox Gaming Console Price in Nepal [2023] 

To be clear, these Xbox devices are not yet officially available in Nepal. As a result, they are only available in selected retail stores and online stores like Allure International for now.

Microsoft Gaming Console Models Price in Nepal
Xbox Series S (512GB) NPR 45,000
Xbox Series X (1TB) NPR 74,000

  • Meanwhile, you can check our Apple Watch Ultra 2 Vs Series 9 Review.

Google’s AI revolution in ad creation: Performance Max AI features

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In a strategic move to change the dynamics of ad creation. Google introduces AI tools to its Performance Max campaign, integrating advertisers with exceptional capabilities to create engaging advertisements. This transformative offering allows advertisers, whether from agencies or businesses, to iteratively craft dynamic and engaging content by leveraging text prompts. In this article, we will learn more about the latest AI features in Google’s Ads

Google Ads Performance Max: AI Features

What is Performance Max?

Firstly, let’s understand what Google Ads Performance Max is. Google Performance Max is like a one-stop shop for advertising. You pay Google to show your ads on all their platforms, not just one. It uses Google’s algorithms and AI to show your ads to the right people at the right time, helping you get the most from your advertising budget.

Integrated into Google’s Performance Max ad campaign product, the AI “ad creator” unfolds its prowess across various Google platforms like YouTube, Maps, Search, Discover, etc. From enhancing search results to optimizing shopping experiences, the tool promises a comprehensive and integrated advertising solution. 

A highlight of this innovation is the upcoming ‘Image Editing Solution’ drawing inspiration from the renowned Pixel 8’s Magic Editor. This AI feature promises to elevate visual creativity to unprecedented levels, providing those using Google Ads with a myriad of options for captivating content.

Google AI in ad creation

 A notable addition is the beta feature empowering advertisers with the swift creation and scaling of text and image assets. Additionally, it is positioned within Performance Max, this feature streamlines the typically complex process of building cross-channel campaigns, promising efficiency and agility.

Also Read:

Google AI: Tailored Creative Control for Retailers

For retailers utilizing Merchant Center Next, these AI generative tools usher in a new era of creative control. Offering a custom approach to content creation, this feature allows businesses to align their advertising strategy with their unique brand identity. 

SynthID: Marking Authenticity in AI-Generated Content

SynthID, a watermark introduced by Google, plays a pivotal role in preserving the authenticity of AI-generated content. This feature ensures transparency, assuring both advertisers and consumers of the genuine nature of the creative assets. 

Asset Variety

In the realm of Performance Max campaigns, asset variety is paramount. To add to that,  Google’s AI simplifies and accelerates the creation of diverse assets, amplifying the potential for campaign success across a spectrum of platforms and advertising channels. 

User-Friendly Google AI Interaction

This innovative suite ensures a user-friendly experience for advertisers. Additionally, users feed prompts to AI and review assets effortlessly before final publication, thus streamlining the creative process with efficiency and ease.

Google Ads and AI: Conclusion

Currently, in beta in the United States, users eagerly anticipate the global rollout of these revolutionary AI tools. Meanwhile, these tools are expected to redefine the ad creation landscape globally by the close of 2023. Moreover,  the integration of these features signifies a significant leap forward in the realm of digital advertising, marking a new era of creativity and efficiency for advertisers worldwide.

Meanwhile, watch our review of Apple Watch Ultra 2 Vs Series 9:

Xbox Series S Price in Nepal [Updated]

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The Xbox Series S is the smallest and sleekest Xbox Console. Despite being small, it packs the power of an Octa-core custom Zen 2 CPU from AMD’s power. Let’s check out all the specs, features, availability, and price in Nepal of the Xbox Series S.

Microsoft Xbox Series S Overview:

Design

The Xbox Series S boasts an all-white body with a circular black grill, kinda resembling a vintage speaker. One can also notice tiny openings covering the top of the Xbox. On the side, there is a Type-A USB Port alongside a circular port/opening. There is no optical drive on this console, so the Series S is an all-digital console. It is 60% smaller than the Xbox Series X.

Xbox Series S Design

Features

Xbox Series S features a custom 512GB NVMe SSD powered by Xbox Velocity Architecture. It is powered by a Custom Zen 2 CPU from AMD with 8X cores at 3.6GHz. On the GPU side, the Custom RDNA 2 GPU features 4 TFLOPS and 20 CUs at 1.565GHz.

One of the most riveting features of the Xbox Series X was Microsoft’s new “DirectStorage” API which utilized the operating speeds of the NVMe drive for massively reduced latency in loading up new games or resuming the old save states; therefore giving birth to feature like “Quick Resume”. And to see that come with a $299 console is exciting, to say the least.

Microsoft Xbox Series S features key

Users can play over 100 different high-end games. Microsoft claims their smallest Xbox can achieve up to 120fps at 1440p. Other features include variable refresh rate, variable rate shading, 4K streaming media playback, and 4K upscaling.

Microsoft Xbox Series S Price in Nepal and Availability

The official Microsoft Xbox Series S price in Nepal is NPR 45,000. You can buy it from Allure International.

Microsoft Console  Price in Nepal
Xbox Series S NPR 45,000
  • Meanwhile, you can check our iPhone 15 review.

Xbox Series X Price in Nepal [Updated]

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The Xbox Series X is the most powerful console from Microsoft in the market. Powered by a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, this guy is ready for 120fps gaming. Without further ado, let’s get into the specs, features, and official price of the Xbox Series X in Nepal.

Xbox Series X Overview:

Most Powerful in the Line

The Xbox Series X is a beast console from Microsoft, thanks to the custom-designed processor. The processor in the console is based on the Zen 2 and RDNA 2 architecture. AMD’s architecture has made the console four times as powerful as the Xbox One. Developers can even leverage 12 TeraFlops of GPU performance which makes it twice as powerful as Xbox One X and eight times as powerful as the Xbox One.

Memory-wise, you get 16GB GDDR6 RAM accompanied by a 1TB SSD.

Hardware-accelerated DirectX Raytracing

Microsoft the Series X is the first console to come with hardware-accelerated DirectX Raytracing. It contributes to rich dynamics and true-to-life game environments.

Xbox Series X features

More Playing and Less waiting

Series X is faster as Microsoft doesn’t want you to wait to play. It comes with Microsoft’s latest SSD technology. That’s not all – the Series X comes with optimized Quick Response, Dynamic Latency Input (DLI), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Variable Refresh Rate up to 120fps.

Design and Ports

As for the design, the Xbox Series X sports a monolithic design alongside a parallel cooling architecture. To keep the thermals in check, you get a vapor chamber cooling with a vertical airflow system. Likewise, the I/O options include 1x HDMI 2.1 port, 3x USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, dual-band WiFi 5, ethernet port, and dual-band Xbox Wireless radio.

Xbox Series X Price in Nepal and Availability

The Xbox Series X price in Nepal is set at NPR 74,000. You can purchase the console from Allure International.

Console  Price in Nepal
Xbox Series X NPR 74,000

  • Meanwhile, you can check our Pixel 8 review.

Tecno Pova 5 launched in Nepal with Helio G99, 6000mAh battery

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Tecno is a brand that is popular for its affordable midrange phones, especially in Africa and South Asia. And the Chinese brand has launched the Pova 5 smartphone in Nepal with a gaming vibe design and Helio G99 chipset. So, let’s get into the specs, features, and official price of the Tecno Pova 5 in Nepal.

Tecno Pova 5 Overview:

Performance

Tecno Pova 5 is powered by MediaTek’s 6nm Helio G99 processor and 8GB of RAM. The most interesting feature is its large heat dissipation area, including a vapor chamber and graphene heat sink. Such features keep the phone cool during extended usage. Thus, it is sure to deliver impressive performance for multitasking and gaming at a pretty budget price.

Tecno Pova 5 Cooling

Design and Display

The Pova 5 surprisingly comes with a futuristic design called Turbo Mecha, inspired by the giant robot mecha seen in sci-fi movies.

Tecno Pova 5 Design and Display

In terms of display, the Pova 5 has a 6.78-inch IPS LCD display with a high 120Hz refresh rate and a 240Hz touch sampling rate. The device includes a Z-axis linear vibration motor, offering enhanced haptic feedback. Moreover, it also offers dual speakers with DTS Sound, providing an immersive audio experience.

  • Meanwhile, check all the prices and specs of Tecno smartphones here

Camera

In terms of camera, it has a 50MP primary camera along with a depth sensor on the back. On the front, there is an 8MP selfie camera for self-portraits.

Battery

One of the key highlights of Pova 5 is its 6,000mAh battery that supports 45W fast charging. The phone can reach 50% battery capacity in just 21 minutes and be fully charged within 60 minutes. Additionally, the Pova 5 can even be used to charge other devices through reverse charging via cable, providing up to 10W of power.

Tecno Pova 5 Specifications:

  • Display: 6.78-inches FHD+ IPS LCD, 120Hz refresh rate
  • Resolution: FHD+ (1080 x 2460 pixels)
  • Chipset: MediaTek Helio G99 (6nm mobile platform)
  • Memory: 8/128GB
  • Software & UIHiOS on top of Android 13
  • Rear Camera: 50MP primary, AI camera
  • Front Camera: 8MP with dual-flash
  • Security: Fingerprint sensor (side-mounted)
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Battery: 6000mAh with 45W charging
  • Read our full review of the Tecno Pova 5 here.

Tecno Pova 5 Price in Nepal and Availability

The official Tecno Pova 5 price in Nepal is NPR 20,990 for the 8/128GB version. You can purchase the smartphone from Hukut and other authorized stores in Nepal.

Tecno Pova 5 Price in Nepal (Official)
8/128GB NPR 20,990

Now iPhones will be assembled by Tata Group in India

The text reading “Designed by Apple in California  Assembled in China” on the back of an iPhone is pretty common knowledge at this point. But, did you know that India has been assembling iPhones as well since the iPhone SE? And, did you know that a Tata Group subsidiary will now be doing the iPhone assembly? Let’s discuss more!

Tata Electronics to make iPhones in India:

iPhone Assembly Shenanigans

In the recent decade, China has been a manufacturing hub of the world. They manufacture a wide range of products from the cheap stuff that you regret buying on the Internet. To the high-quality goodies such as the iPhone itself. So, why China? Well, because they have raw materials and labour in abundance at a very low cost. Thus, manufacturing goods in China has been the way to go for many companies. And Apple was no different. Therefore, Apple outsourced companies such as Foxconn, Pegatron, and Wistron for its manufacturing duties.

China Labour

These companies were based in China, however, with the rise of India on the global scene, these companies established their plants in India as well. The “Made in India” campaign of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped further propel this growth. All this resulted in the beloved iPhones being assembled in India as well, albeit by foreign companies. As of now, Apple plans to shift 25% of its iPhone production to India by 2025. This is because they want to diversify their supply chain, especially, after the hindrances it faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tata enters the chat

As mentioned earlier, iPhones were assembled in India, but not through an Indian-born company. However, all that has changed now!

Tata Group has finally acquired the Indian division of Wistron’s iPhone assembly line for a whopping $125 million with a $550 million inter-corporate loan to parent company Wistron India.

iPhone made in India

Yes! That’s quite a hefty sum, but no big deal for Tata Group — India’s largest business conglomerate. To put things into perspective, Tata Group made USD 150 billion in revenue in the fiscal year 2022–23 alone! Moreover, they employ over a million individuals and have 29 publicly listed enterprises with USD 300 billion market capitalisation.

The assembly of iPhones will fall under the Tata Electronics wing of Tata Group. The $125 million deal includes a 44-acre Wistron facility with eight production lines in Kolar district near Bengaluru that handled assembly of iPhone 12 and iPhone 14 devices.

Ming-Chi Kuo, an APPLE analyst, also suggests that Tata Electronics, along with Foxconn and Pegatron will start the manufacturing process of the iPhone 17 (due a 2025 launch) as soon as in the second half of 2024.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this marks a historical moment for India altogether. It is an instance where an iPhone is fully assembled in India BY an Indian company. Furthermore, this could also turn out to be free marketing for the fifth-largest economy in the world. Since, the trendsetter Apple entrusts an Indian company with the assembly of its best-selling device, other big companies may also turn their heads to India.

Given the gravitas of the whole situation, Mr Rajeev Chandrasekhar — India’s Union Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, Skill Development, Electronics & Technology — took some time to express his excitement on X.

  • Meanwhile, check out our full review of the iPhone 15

Samsung is launching an “affordable” foldable next year

As Samsung gears up for the debut of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, rumors of a more wallet-friendly foldable phone are making waves. Potentially launching next year, this mid-range phone aims to redefine accessibility in the world of foldable technology. This article will discuss rumors surrounding Samsung’s upcoming cheap foldable including pricing, and availability.

Samsung’s Cheap Foldable: Rumors Roundup

In a world where premium features often come at a premium cost, rumors suggest that Samsung is gearing up for a significant change. The company is reportedly considering a more affordable version of its foldable phone, possibly under the Galaxy Z Fold/Flip line. However, some online reports have even  Meanwhile, speculators consider this move strategic as it allows Samsung to tap into the mid-range market with a foldable smartphone.

Foldables are getting cheaper to make…

Historically, foldable phones have carried high production costs, as seen in the hefty price tags of current models like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5. However, a shift might be on the horizon, a recent interview with a Samsung executive suggests that the company is decreasing the cost of making foldable devices. Moreover, this could pave the way for a new era where foldable smartphones become more commonplace.Samsung foldable

What to Expect in 2024

The details surrounding the mid-range foldable Galaxy phone remain a mystery. However,  Samsung enthusiasts have more than one reason to be excited about 2024. Beyond the budget-friendly foldable, there are rumors of the return of the Exynos SoC for the Galaxy S series. In addition, a possible late 2024 release for the XR headset. Moreover, the integration of the new Samsung Gauss in the upcoming Galaxy S24 is also exciting. As these speculations gain momentum, 2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for Samsung. Only time will reveal the extent to which these rumors will shape the future of Samsung’s coming lineup.

Samsung’s Cheap Foldable: Availability and Pricing

According to industry analysts, this budget-friendly Samsung foldable could hit the market in 2024. While the exact specifications are yet to be unveiled, speculators suggest that the price tag could hover around $400 to $500. This pricing strategy aims to make this technology accessible to a broader audience. However, rumor has it that the budget phone in the works might just be the Samsung Galaxy Z FE. Keep an eye out for more leaks

  • Meanwhile, watch our review of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 Vs Series 9: