Khalti and IME Pay, two of Nepal’s leading digital wallets, have reportedly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for their merger. While official confirmation is yet to be made, multiple sources suggest that the agreement was formalized yesterday. If true, this would mark a significant shift in Nepal’s fintech sector. In this article we will discuss more about the Khalti and IME Pay merger
Khalti and IME Pay Merger Rumors
New Entity Name and Leadership
The merged platform is expected to be named either IME Khalti or Khalti Pay, though no final decision has been announced. While reports indicate that the Board of Directors (BOD) and CEO have been finalized, financial structuring and share distribution details remain unclear.
Market Competition and Financial Standing
Nepal’s digital payment industry is currently dominated by eSewa, which holds an 80% market share. Khalti, with 4 million subscribers, primarily focuses on mobile payments, while IME Pay specializes in remittance services.
Despite IME Pay having a higher paid-up capital of Rs 300 million compared to Khalti’s Rs 50 million, Khalti is believed to have a larger market share. If the merger proceeds, it could strengthen their competitive position against eSewa.
The rumored merger aligns with Nepal Rastra Bank’s (NRB) revised Transaction and Settlement Bylaw, 2077, which allows digital wallet consolidations. If confirmed, this would be the first merger under the new regulation.
Ownership and Stakeholders
Khalti was founded by Amit Agarwal, Dhruv Adhikari, Arvind Shah, and Manish Modi. In 2078 BS, Worldlink acquired a 40% stake in Khalti, boosting its market position. Until an official announcement is made, it remains uncertain whether Khalti and IME Pay will merge.
Oppo has expanded its A-series lineup with the announcement of the Oppo A3i Plus. This model appears to be a rebranded version of the Chinese Oppo A3. Let’s dive into the key specifications and features of the Oppo A3i Plus, along with its expected price in Nepal.
Oppo A3i Plus Overview
Looks like the company has copy-pasted the features of the Chinese Oppo A3 and given this phone a new name tag. The design, chipset, memory, camera, battery, and literally every other important specification on the phone is the same.
Design & Display
The Oppo A3i Plus offers a sleek and premium look with a monotone finish. The back of the phone features a circular camera module housing a quad-camera system. Furthermore, it comes in three color variants: Ink Black, Crystal Purple, and Pine Green.
On the front, the A3i Plus boasts a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels with a screen-to-body ratio of 93.7%. Additionally, the display supports a 120Hz refresh rate and its peak brightness reaches up to 1200 units. Furthermore, it maintains touch responsiveness even with wet or oily hands. In terms of durability, it comes with IP68/IP69 dust and water-resistant. The phone also features an In-display fingerprint sensor for security.
Performance & Battery
Under the hood, the Oppo A3i Plus is powered by the octa-core Snapdragon 695 (6nm) chipset, with two performance cores running at 2.2 GHz and six efficiency cores clocked at 1.7 GHz. Likewise, on the graphic side we get Adreno 619.
In terms of memory, the A3i Plus offers a substantial 12GB of RAM, which can be virtually expanded by an additional 12GB along with a storage option of 256GB and 512GB. Additionally, the phone runs on Android 14, paired with ColorOS 14.
As for the battery, the Oppo A3i Plus houses a 5000mAh cell, which supports 45W Super Flash Charging. With this fast-charging feature, the device can be charged up to 50% in just 30 minutes. Oppo claims that the battery is designed to maintain its efficiency for over four years of use, even in extreme temperatures. Additionally, the phone features real-time temperature control during charging to maintain optimal performance.
Camera and Rest
The camera system on the Oppo A3i Plus is centered around a dual-camera setup. The main sensor is a 50MP primary camera, accompanied by a 2MP portrait lens. Moreover, the camera supports AI-enhanced portrait mode, night photography, and fast-capture technology, delivering high-quality images in various lighting conditions.
On the front, the phone houses an 8MP selfie camera, which is also optimized by Oppo’s AI-based software. The device leverages advanced software to enhance images, ensuring users capture clear and vibrant shots every time.
The Oppo A3i Plus brings several software improvements for a smoother user experience. It comes with a refined cloud-based UI that offers better fluidity and performance optimization. Additionally, the device includes advanced power management features that extend battery life and ensure efficient functioning.
Oppo A3i Plus Specifications
Design: Sleek, premium finish, circular camera module
Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED
Resolution: 2412 x 1080 pixels
Brightness: 1200 nits peak brightness
Protection: IP68/IP69 dust and water resistant
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 (6nm)
GPU: Adreno 619
RAM: 12GB (expandable virtually by 12GB)
ROM: 256GB / 512GB
Rear Camera: 50MP primary + 2MP portrait lens
Front Camera: 8MP
Battery: 5000mAh, 45W Super Flash Charging (50% in 30 minutes)
Security: In-display fingerprint sensor
Software: Android 14 with ColorOS 14
Colors: Ink Black, Crystal Purple, Pine Green
Oppo A3i Plus Price in Nepal & Availability
The Oppo A3i Plus is currently available in China at a starting price of CYN 1,299. So, when it arrives in Nepal, we can expect the price of the phone to be around NPR 27,000.
Lava has expanded its wearable collection with the launch of Lava Prowatch X, in collaboration with Techarc. This new smartwatch comes with features like an AMOLED screen and a 300 mAh battery. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifications of the Lava Prowatch X, along with its price in Nepal.
Lava Prowatch X Overview
Design and Build
The Lava Prowatch X delivers a premium look featuring a sleek aluminum alloy frame with a sandblasted and oxidized finish. The straps come in three different options: a stylish metal strap, a sleek silicone strap, or a rugged nylon one. But the dial color is limited to just one: a smoking Cosmic Grey!
Moving on, the display of Prowatch X offers a 1.43-inch always-on AMOLED screen with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and a brightness of 500 nits. For durability, it features Gorilla Glass 3 alongside an IP68 rating against dust and water.
Performance and Features
Under the hood, the Lava Prowatch X runs on the 128 MHz dual-core architecture ATS3085C chipset. The processor uses A MSTAR core as an application processor and a CEVA TL420 DSP core for audio handling.
Moreover, the watch features a 300 mAh battery capacity which can last between 8-10 days, with up to 17 hours of usage when GPS is enabled. For connectivity, it supports Bluetooth 5.3 and includes built-in GPS, making it compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Additionally, the Bluetooth calling functionality available in this watch allows you to make and receive calls directly from your watch, and it stores up to 10 contacts.
The Prowatch X comes packed with health-monitoring features like SpO2 tracking, heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring, VO2 Max measurement, and Body Energy Monitoring. It is also the first smartwatch from India with the FIT 360° feature. Along with that, it offers over 110 sports modes and six structured running courses.
Additional features include an Air Quality Index tracker, device tracking, over 110 customizable watch faces, women’s health tracking, event reminders, and a Pomodoro timer.
Battery: 300 mAh, 8-10 days of usage, up to 17 hours with GPS
Buttons: Physical buttons for navigation
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, Built-in GPS, Bluetooth calling (stores 10 contacts)
Health Features: SpO2 tracking, Heart rate variability (HRV), VO2 Max, Sleep monitoring, Women’s health tracking
Sport Modes: Over 110 sport modes, Intelligent exercise recognition, 6 structured running courses
Other Features: Air Quality Index, Device tracking, Customizable watch faces, Pomodoro Timer, Event reminders
Color Options: Cosmic Grey
Lava Prowatch X Price in Nepal and Availability
The Lava Prowatch was launched in India for INR 4,499 with a two-year warranty. When it makes its way here, we can expect the price of Lava Prowatch X to be priced around NPR 7,500.
HP Victus 15 has been a staple offering of budget gaming laptops. Now, the 2024 update of the laptop with a Ryzen 5 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card has made its way here. In this article, we will be discussing the HP Victus 15 (2024) in further detail including its price in Nepal.
HP Victus 15 (2024) Overview
Design and Display
In terms of design, the HP Victus 15 (2024) carries over the design from the previous years. It comes with a long central hinge with little gaps near the edges. It has a large “V” branding on the lid and is available in Mica Silver colouring. In the global market, you also get Ceramic White and Performance Blue colour options.
For display, this laptop comes with a 15.6-inch unit that has an anti-glare finish. The panel on the HP Victus 15 (2024) is an IPS LCD with FHD resolution. You also get a smooth refresh rate of 144Hz and a peak brightness of 250 nits.
Like any other laptop, the HP Victus 15 (2024) is available in various configurations. However, the model that arrived in Nepal comes with AMD Ryzen 5 8645HS with six cores, 12 threads, and a clock speed of up to 5.0 GHz. In the meantime, the graphics are handled by NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 with 6GB GDDR6 VRAM.
In addition to the CPU and GPU combo, this machine packs 16GB DDR5-5600 RAM coupled with 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD. The HP Victus 15 (2024) is also available in higher memory and storage combinations in other markets. It can go up to 64GB RAM and 2TB SSD, hence, this model is likely upgradable to the same numbers.
The power on this thing is delivered by a 70Wh battery and comes with a 200W AC charger in the box. It comes with a handful of ports including two USB Type-A, one USB Type-C, an SD Card reader, an HDMI, and a combo audio jack. Meanwhile, for wireless connectivity, you get WiFi 6 and Bluetooth v5.3 support.
HP Victus 15 (2024) Specifications
Design and Build: Monotone design with a long central hinge
HP Victus 15 (2024) Price in Nepal and Availability
The HP Victus 15 (2024) is available in Nepal at a price tag of NPR 112,000 for the Ryzen 5, RTX 4050 variant with 16GB of memory and a 512GB SSD. We are hoping other models also arrive soon enough!
Although ZTE is the world’s fourth-largest mobile phone manufacturer, we do not hear its name very frequently. Maybe it’s because the company does not advertise its devices like any other smartphone company. Well, the company recently introduced its new smartphone: the Blade V70 Max. In this article, we will discuss the ZTE Blade V70 Max, including its specifications and expected price in Nepal.
ZTE Blade V70 Max Overview
The V70 Max serves as the successor to the previous variants, Blade V70 and Blade V70 Design, which debuted in November.
Design and Display
ZTE has not been consistent with the design of its smartphones, and this model follows a similar trend. The Blade V70 Max features a circular camera island with four cameras, a design that differs from the square camera island seen on the Blade V70 and Blade V70 Design. The top of the phone includes an LED light, and the bottom displays the company’s name. Moreover, the phone has three color options: purple, green, and pink.
On the front, the Blade V70 Max features a 6.9-inch display with noticeable bezels, offering a 120Hz refresh rate. Furthermore, the phone also has an IP54 rating, indicating it is somewhat resistant to dust and water splashes and can withstand drops from up to 1.5 meters. Additionally, it includes a waterdrop notch at the top of the display.
It looks like the company is somewhat inspired by the way Apple designs its phone. Last time Blade V70 came looking like an iPhone on its back and this time the company integrated ZTE’s “Live Island 2.0” feature similar to Apple’s Dynamic Island that offers quick access to notifications and control. For security, the phone supports both face and fingerprint unlock.
Performance and Camera
This is a bit uncommon that even after the announcement of the phone already, the ZTE has not revealed the entire specifications. This includes the chipset as well. Having said that, we are expecting the phone to pack the Unisoc T606 chipset (12nm), featuring an octa-core CPU with two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.6 GHz. Moreover, on the graphic side, we might get the Mali-G57 MP1. In terms of memory, the Blade V70 Max offers two configurations: 6GB/8GB RAM with 128GB of storage.
The camera details have not been fully revealed either, but it is known that the phone features a 50MP main camera along with two additional lenses.
Battery and Rest
The ZTE Blade V70 Max includes a 6,000mAh battery with 22.5W wired charging support. ZTE claims that the battery should retain 80% of its original capacity after 800 charge cycles. The company has also made a bold claim in terms of the software stating that the user experience will remain as smooth as it was on day one for four years. Likewise, the Blade V70 Max runs on ZTE’s MyOS on top of Android.
ZTE Blade V70 Max Specifications
Design: Circular camera island with 4 cameras, LED light
Camera: 50MP main camera + 2 additional lenses (exact specs TBD)
Battery: 6,000mAh, 22.5W wired charging
Color Options: Purple, Green, Pink
ZTE Blade V70 Max Price and Availability
ZTE has listed the Blade V70 Max on its website but has not yet revealed the official price and availability. Based on the “Max” moniker, we can expect this phone to be a relatively premium offering in terms of pricing. We will update this article once the full details on pricing and availability are confirmed. Stay tuned for further updates!
MediaTek has made the Dimensity 6400 official as the successor to last year’s Dimensity 6300 but it only sports a slightly boosted main core. In this short piece, let us take a look at the MediaTek Dimensity 6400, its specs and features, comparisons, and availability details.
MediaTek Dimensity 6400
CPU Architecture
Just like its predecessor, the Dimensity 6400 is fabbed on a 6nm node from TSMC. It has a 2+6 configuration with two ARM Cortex A76 cores running at (up to) 2.5 GHz complemented by six ARM Cortex A55 efficiency cores at 2 GHz. If you look at the spec sheet, it’s only a modest 100MHz jump in prime clock speed over the 6300 so performance is likely going to be very similar. The faster main core might result in slightly improved single-threaded performance but full load capabilities are going to be pretty much the same.
It’s the same as before
Things look even more boring on the GPU end with the exact same Mali-G57 MC2 unit as before with support for up to a 2520 x 1080 120Hz output. This CPU+ GPU combo is not exclusive to the Dimensity 6400 (or even the 6300) though as we have been seeing the same thing since the days of Helio G99 and Dimensity 6100+. It’s somewhat disappointing to see yet another rebrand without any noticeable innovation or improvement.
Other Features
The Image Signal Processor (ISP) also seems pretty much the same with support for up to a 108MP camera, or dual camera setup at 16+16 MP. The chip also includes support for color management but we don’t know much detail in that regard.
In terms of memory, the Dimensity 6400 can be equipped with up to LPDDR4X RAM (2133MHz) and UFS 2.2 storage.
For connectivity, the 6400 is a 5G capable chipset with support for carrier aggregation and Voice over New Radio (VoNR) (basically a 5G version of VoLTE) for improved call quality on 5G networks. There’s support for both NSA and SA 5G with download speeds of up to 3.3 Gbps alongside WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, and various GNSS services (GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, Glonass, QZSS, and NavIC).
We can expect to see the Dimensity 6400 powering lower-end midrange devices in 2025. One of the first phones to launch with this chipset will be the Realme P3x 5G that will be available from the 18th of February.
Meanwhile, check out our video comparing the various flagship mobile chipsets:
CG has launched Nepal’s first ever 100” Mega Screen TV in the market. This new product brings a combination of advanced display technology and powerful sound features. This article will discuss everything about the latest CG 100” Mega Screen TV, including its expected price in Nepal.
CG 100” Mega Screen TV Overview
Display and Performance
The CG 100” Mega Screen TV features 4K QLED+ technology with HDR10+ support. The display offers 600 nits of peak brightness for HDR content. It also includes 90% DCI-P3 color gamut and 112 local dimming zones.
Sound Quality
For audio, the TV comes with a 60W 2.1.2 channel sound system. It supports Dolby Atmos and includes two 5W top-firing speakers, a 20W subwoofer, and two 15W down-firing speakers.
Other Features
The TV includes Chromecast built-in for easy streaming from mobile devices. It also features Hands-Free Voice Control, allowing users to control the TV without the need for a remote. The anti-glare screen helps reduce reflections by up to 50%.
CG 100” Mega Screen TV Specifications
Display: 100” 4K QLED+
Brightness: 600 nits HDR peak brightness
Sound: 60W 2.1.2 channel sound system
Speakers: Two 5W top-firing speakers, one 20W subwoofer, two 15W down-firing speakers
CG 100” Mega Screen TV Price in Nepal and Availability
The CG 100” Mega Screen TV is priced at NPR 6,37,490 in Nepal. It will be available for purchase online through cgdigital.com.np. The product comes with a 2-year comprehensive warranty, along with an additional 1-year service warranty.
Earbuds
Price in Nepal (Official)
Availability
CG 100-inch Mega Screen
NPR 637,490
CG
Meanwhile, check out our review of the Galaxy S25 Ultra
Garmin has announced the Tactix 8, a rugged smartwatch designed for land, air, and sea use. It comes in three variants, offering AMOLED and solar charging options along with tactical and aviation-focused features. This article will discuss everything about the latest Garmin Tactix 8, including its expected price in Nepal.
Garmin Tactix 8 Overview
Durability and Design
The Tactix 8 is built to handle extreme conditions, featuring MIL-STD-810 certification for heat, shock, and water resistance. Additionally, it has a 40-meter dive rating with leakproof buttons for underwater use. The watch comes in two sizes: 47mm with an AMOLED display and 51mm with both AMOLED and solar charging options.
Battery Life
Battery life varies depending on the model. The 47mm AMOLED version lasts up to 16 days in smartwatch mode, while the 51mm Solar version extends up to 48 days with solar charging.
New Activity Profiles
Garmin has introduced two new activity profiles. The rucking activity profile tracks exertion based on pack weight, providing insights for users carrying heavy loads. The diving profile supports both scuba and apnea diving, making it suitable for underwater activities.
Meanwhile, the smartwatch includes preloaded TopoActive maps, allowing users to navigate diverse terrains. It also supports customizable map layers and round-trip routing for better route planning. Furthermore, SatIQ and multi-band GPS improve location accuracy, and users can opt for an Outdoor Maps+ subscription for additional map data.
Tactical Features
The Tactix 8 includes several tactical tools. Stealth Mode disables wireless communication while still tracking data, which makes it suitable for operations requiring minimal electronic traceability. Night Vision Mode dims the display to remain compatible with night vision goggles. Additionally, the built-in multi-LED flashlight offers both white and green light options.
Health and Training
Garmin has integrated multiple health and training features into the Tactix 8. Strength training plans and real-time stamina tracking help users manage workouts more effectively. The smartwatch also includes Pulse Ox, Body Battery monitoring, sleep tracking, and ECG app support for heart health insights.
The Tactix 8 includes the Applied Ballistics Ultralight Solver for ballistic calculations, while the Tactix 8 Elite features the more advanced Applied Ballistics Elite Solver. For aviation enthusiasts, the smartwatch supports direct-to-navigation, aviation weather updates, and Jumpmaster mode for skydivers.
The Tactix 8 launches on February 21, 2025, via Garmin.com. Pricing starts at USD 1,299.99. If released in Nepal, prices would start at no less than NPR 190,000.
Earbuds
Price in USA (Official)
Price in Nepal (Expected)
47mm AMOLED
USD 1,299.99
NPR 190,000
51mm AMOLED & Solar
USD 1,399
NPR 205,000
51mm Solar SB Elite (AB Elite Solver)
USD 1,599
NPR 240,000
Meanwhile, check out our review of the Galaxy S25 Ultra
Audio-Technica has introduced the ATH-CC500BT2, the second-generation cartilage conduction headphones. These headphones send sound through ear cartilage instead of blocking the ear canal, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings. In this article, we will discuss everything about the latest Audio Technica ATH-CC500BT2, including its price in Nepal.
Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 Overview
Design and Comfort
The ATH-CC500BT2 features a lighter and more flexible design than its predecessor. It comes with a titanium neckband and silicone ear hooks to improve comfort during use. The ATH-CC500BT2 has an IPX4 rating, providing resistance against water splashes and sweat.
Features and Sound Modes
The open-ear design ensures situational awareness while listening. Additionally, the Audio-Technica Connect app offers multiple sound modes including Clear Voice Mode, BGM Mode, Limit Sound Leakage Mode, and Soundscape Mode. Furthermore, AI-powered noise reduction filters background noise during calls.
The headphones offer up to 20 hours of battery life on a single charge. Additionally, they support multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to switch between devices.
Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 Specifications
Type: Cartilage conduction headphones (2nd gen)
Design: Open-ear with titanium neckband and silicone ear hooks
Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 Price in Nepal and Availability
The ATH-CC500BT2 is priced at £119 in the UK and €139 in Europe. There are no details on a North American release. If launched in Nepal, it would start at no less than NPR 22,000
Earbuds
Price in Europe (Official)
Price in Nepal (Expected)
Audio Technica ATH-CC500BT2
Eur 139
NPR 22,000
.
Meanwhile, check out our review of the Galaxy S25 Ultra
With the previous release of the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro, Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s launch has build a lot of excitement. Previously we had the official date reveal of the Xiaomi flagship, particularly in China on Feb 26. We have also received the global launch date of the upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra. This article will delve into the leaked specifications, speculation, and the latest rumors surrounding the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, including its expected pricing and launch date.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Roundup
Design and Display
Thanks to an exclusive leak from Smartprix, we now have a general picture of what the upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra will look like. On the back, it features a large circular camera module on the back with a Leica-branded quad-camera setup. At the top, the two flash LEDs are arranged horizontally, while the Xiaomi logo is positioned vertically at the bottom left. The phone comes in at least two color options- black and silver/white-with what appears to be a textured back panel finish.
On the front, it sports a modern centre-aligned punch-hole display with minimal bezels and a subtle curve at the edges. The leaked information suggests this phone comes with a 6.7-inch, 120 Hz, 2K LTPO micro quad-curved display.
Performance
For internals, we expect the 15 Ultra to have a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, fabbed on a 3nm process. This boasts two Oryon (Phoenix L) cores clocking at 4.32 GHz and six Oryon (Phonenix M) cores clocking at 3.53 GHz alongside an Adreno 830 GPU.
Xiaomi might pair it with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage.
Samsung ISOCELL HP9
In terms of camera, Xiaomi Ultra has been pretty good at meeting expectations. The 15 Ultra will likely sport a Samsung ISOCELL HP9 1/1.4” image sensor. The upper right section of the circle features the periscope module. This upgraded periscope zoom lens offers impressive specifications, including a 200 MP resolution, a 4.3x optical zoom, and an f/2.6 aperture with up to 100x AI-driven hybrid zoom.
Furthermore, the main lens will feature a 50 MP Sony LYT-900 sensor, positioned alongside two additional lenses that are arranged horizontally at the bottom of the circular camera module. The other two lenses will consist of a 50MP Samsung JN5 ultra-wide camera and a 50MP Sony IMX858 telephoto zoom lens. We can also anticipate a 32 MP selfie camera on the front.
The battery capacity is set to be 6,000 mAh, which is an impressive jump compared to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra (5,300 mAh). While wired charging speed is expected to max out at 90W, wireless charging is likely to be upgraded to 80W. Additionally, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra will operate on HyperOS 2, which is based on Android 15.
Battery and Charging : 6000mAh with 90W wired, 80W wireless
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Price in Nepal and Availability
According to the leaked poster, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to arrive in China at 7 PM (CST) on February 26th, 2025. While the global release is scheduled for March 2. The starting price of Xiaomi 14 Ultra in China is CNY 6,499 so we can expect the 15 Ultra to arrive at CNY 8,799 and NRP 195,999 if it ever makes its way here.