Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is said to be prepping for the launch of the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro, the successor of the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro, launched at MWC 2024. the new fitness tracker is tipped to come alongside the Xiaomi Smart Band 9, which was launched in China in July.

Although the company has yet to make an official announcement, leaks of the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro have appeared, giving a sneak peek into its design and color options. A report for YTechB shared renders of the upcoming wearable, revealing a slightly curved rectangular display, a departure from the design of its precursor.

Also Read: Xiaomi Unveils Redmi Watch 5 Active, Pocket Power Bank Pro

Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro Expected Features

If the leaks are to be believed, the Smart Band 9 Pro will be available in at least three color options: black, silver, and pink. The case and matching straps appear in corresponding hues, with the case featuring a matte finish. Moreover, the clasp design seems to have been revised.

Its predecessor came with a 1.74-inch AMOLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection. The new smart wearable is expected to come packed with a range of health and fitness tracking features, such as heart rate, blood oxygen level, sleep monitoring, and menstrual cycle tracking. It is said to support over 150 sports modes and offers more than 200 watch faces.

Battery life on the current gen Smart Band 8 Pro is claimed to last up to 14 days, with connectivity options including GPS and Bluetooth 5.3. It is water-resistant up to 5ATM and has been priced in some global markets at EUR 69 (around ₹6,200).

Also Read: Xiaomi 15 Ultra Smartphone Design Leaks Hint At 200MP Camera

Xiaomi To Join AI Race In India With Google’s Help

Smartphone maker Xiaomi is said to introduce a slew of generative AI user applications to its smartphones in India by the end of this fiscal year, people close to the matter suggested.

The move, which could kickstart with the company’s upper mid-range smartphones priced at around Rs 40,000, may help democratize generative AI features, which have so far largely remained reserved for premium smartphones.

The move is said to follow the recent launch of the Xiaomi 14T smartphone in global markets in Europe. The flagship-grade smartphone was introduced with Google’s Gemini suite of gen-AI features, including Google’s ‘Circle to Search’ and AI photo editor- which can be found in the latter’s own Pixel line of smartphones.

The launch will put Xiaomi at par with other smartphone makers, including Apple, Samsung, Google, and Oppo in terms of generative AI features. While an exact timeline for the rollout isn’t certain yet, two of the three people cited above said that an India rollout of generative AI features across the company’s lineup could align with 2025’s Mobile World Congress event in Barcelona.

Sony has confirmed that 18 games will be departing from the PlayStation Plus Games Catalog on November 18. The list includes some popular titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, and the entire Kingdom Hearts collection.

The Games Catalog additions for October 2024 are now available, but alongside their rollout, Sony has also revealed which games will be leaving the subscription service in the coming days.

Rockstar Games’ open-world Western adventure Red Dead Redemption 2 headlines the changes as it leaves the Games Catalog for the second time. It was among the biggest titles available when Sony first announced the revised PlayStation Plus system but left the service after a year before eventually being added back in May.

Also Read: PS5 Pro Announced: Launch Date, Price, Specs, Games, and More

Which Games Are Leaving PS Plus Games Catalog

Final Fantasy and Disney fanatics will be sad to know that the entire Kingdom Hearts series leaves the Games in November as well. Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 Remix, Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, Kingdom Hearts 3, and Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory are all being pulled next month. Following is the list of games leaving in November 2024.

·GTA: San Andreas - Definitive Edition | PS4 + PS5
·Red Dead Redemption 2 | PS4
·The Sims 4 City Living | PS4
·Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen | PS4
·Mobile Suit Gundam Extreme VS. Maxiboost ON | PS4
·Superliminal | PS4 + PS5
·Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising | PS4 + PS5
·Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series | PS4 + PS5
·Teardown (PS5) Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 Remix | PS4
·Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue | PS4
·Kingdom Hearts 3 | PS4
·Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory | PS4
·Chorus | PS4 + PS5
·What Remains of Edith Finch | PS4 + PS5
·Overcooked 2 | PS4
·Blasphemous | PS4
·Moving Out | PS4

Also Read: PlayStation Portal Gets Wi-Fi Support With New Update

PlayStation Indian Unveils New Audio Accessories For PS5

PlayStation India has unveiled two new audio accessories designed to upgrade the gaming experience for PlayStation 5 users. The new devices include the PULSE Explore wireless earbuds and the PULSE Elite wireless headset. Both products are set to hit major retailers across the country starting October 11, 2024, offering gamers advanced audio technology tailored for immersive gameplay.

The PULSE Explore wireless earbuds are designed to provide an exceptional audio experience whether at home or on the go. Packing planar magnetic drivers, these earbuds promise lifelike sound quality that enables players to hear every detail in their favorite games.

The inclusion of the PlayStation Link wireless connection offers a swift, lossless audio experience, eliminating any delays that could disrupt gameplay. Moreover, the earbuds are equipped with two hidden microphones that leverage AI-backed noise rejection tech, making sure that voice communications remain crystal clear, even in noisy environments.

Chinese smartphone brand Realme has announced the launch of the Realme P1 Speed in India. The company also introduced its first headphone model dubbed Techlife Studio H1. These wireless headphones come with Hi-Res Certification. Speaking of the smartphone, it comes packed with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Energy 5G chipset and sports a 6050 square stainless steel VC cooling area for heat management.

The Realme P1 Speed is available in 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage: Rs 17,999 and 12GB RAM + 256GB Storage: Rs 20,999. The company is initially offering a Rs 2,000 discount on both versions. Meanwhile, the Realme Techlife Studio H1 headphones are priced at Rs. 4,999. It will be available at Rs 4,599 as an introductory offer. The Realme P1 Speed 5G will be available on Realme’s website and Flipkart, starting October 20. The headphones will go on sale on October 21.

Also Read: Realme Pad 2 Lite Tablet Launched At Rs 14,999 In India

Realme P1 Speed Under The Hood

The Realme P1 Speed 5G runs Android 14, wrapped under Realme UI 5.0. It features a 6.67-inch Full-HD+ Samsung E4 OLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate. The smartphone comes with a 5,000mAh battery with 45W charging support. Speaking of the optics, the device comes with a dual-camera system with a 50MP AI camera and a 2MP camera. Upfront, there is a 16MP lens for selfies.

The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Energy chipset, and it supports GT Mode and GT Gaming features, offering 90fps playback in select games. Connectivity options include 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.4, GPS, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and a USB Type-C port.

Speaking of the Techlife Studio H1 headphones it comes with 40mm dynamic bass drivers and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity. It offers Hi-res certification and supports LDAC, AAC, and SBC audio codecs. The headphones will come in Red, White, and Black color options.

Besides, it features a 600mAh that the company claims can offer up to 70 hours on a single charge. The Studio H1 offers 43dB Hybrid Noise Cancellation, 3-Level Smart ANC (active noise cancellation), and Spatial Audio Effect technology.

Also Read: Realme Pad 2 Lite To Launch On September 13 In India

Realme Pad 2 Lite Tablet Launched At Rs 14,999 In India

The tablet comes in Nebula Purple and Space Grey color options. However, the company hasn’t announced any official sale date for the Realme Pad 2 Lite tablet in India. Notably, it runs on Realme UI 5.0.

The latest tablet comes at a price of Rs 14,999 for the 4GB+128GB base model. Meanwhile, the 8GB+128GB variant carries a price tag of Rs 16,999. For consumers, the Realme tablet will soon be available via the company’s official website, Flipkart.

Samsung’s Galaxy Ring will soon be available in the Indian market. The Samsung Galaxy Ring debuted globally in July at the Paris Galaxy Unpacked show. There are three types of rings and nine sizes to pick from. 

Soon, the rings will be sold in the country. Also, consumers in India can also pre-order the Galaxy Smart Ring. Users who wish to pre-order can also get deals and benefits as part of the pre-reservation perks.

The Samsung Galaxy Ring will come in India in sizes ranging from 5 to 13, consistent with the global variation, according to the company’s release. Samsung will offer users the opportunity to acquire a size kit to ascertain the optimal fit for the ring.

Also Read: Samsung Could Start Charging For Certain Galaxy AI Features

Samsung Galaxy Ring Features

The Samsung Galaxy Ring comes with a titanium build, a 10ATM certification, and an IP68 rating. The smallest size 5 variant weighs 2.3 grams and has a width of 7 millimeters. The smart ring claims to offer a battery life of up to seven days on a single charge.

Samsung announced that, similar to its global version, the Indian variant of the Samsung Galaxy Ring will pack health AI functionalities to monitor users’ energy levels, sleep stages, activity, heart rate, stress levels, and additional metrics. Moreover, it will facilitate gesture controls and Samsung’s SmartThings Find functionality.

The Samsung Galaxy Ring is available for pre-reservation in India and buyers can secure their device with a refundable token payment of Rs 1,999.

Also Read: Samsung Starts Pre-Reserve For Its Next-Gen Galaxy Tabs In India

Pre-Order Deals On Samsung Galaxy Ring

People interested in pre-ordering the smart ring can visit the Samsung India website or use prominent e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart. Customers who pre-book the smart wearable in India can enjoy several incentives, including a complimentary Wireless Charger Duo worth Rs 4,999 and a waiver of membership fees.

Moreover, people who pre-book will get the ring with a charging case and data connection. Besides, buyers can acquire a welcome voucher valued at up to Rs 5,000 through the Samsung Shop app.

The final price of the Samsung Galaxy Ring in India is still under wraps, but it is currently selling at USD 399 (roughly Rs. 34,000) in several international countries. The device is available in Titanium Black, Titanium Silver, and Titanium Gold finishes.

Reliance Jio has launched two new models in its JioBharat Series, the JioBharat V3 and V4, at the India Mobile Congress 2024. These feature phones start at a price of Rs 1,099 and are designed to bring affordable 4G connectivity to millions of 2G users in the country.

Sticking to JioBharat V2’s winning formula, these new models aim to bridge the digital divide, offering access to a range of digital services at a budget-friendly price, continuing the company’s mission to make technology accessible to every Indian.

The JioBharat V3 is a style-centric device that blends functionality with a sleek design. The JioBharat V4, on the other hand, comes with a minimalistic design and quality, providing an elevated user experience. Both models are designed to offer a premium feel at an affordable price point, making sure users don’t have to compromise on style or performance.

Also Read: JioPhone Prima 2 Feature Phone Launched At Rs 2,799

JioBharat V3, V4 Under The Hood

Both feature phones come packed with Jio’s suite of digital services. JioTV provides users with over 455 live TV channels, ensuring they stay connected to their favorite shows, news, and sports. JioCinema comes with a vast selection of movies, and sports content, delivering entertainment to users.

Besides, JioPay comes with UPI integration and a built-in sound box, making digital payments seamless and contributing to financial inclusion for all users. JioChat enables users to stay connected to their loved ones through messaging, photo sharing, and group chat options.

Also Read: JioBharat J1 With JioTV, JioPlay, 2.8-inch Display Launched

JioBharat V3, V4 Features To Check Out

Speaking of the hardware, the JioBharat V3 and V4 offer a 1000mAh battery, making sure the lights keep running for a long time. With expandable storage up to 128GB, users will have enough space to store their photos, videos, and apps. The phones also come with support for 23 Indian languages, making them accessible to a wide range of users across the country.

But the biggest highlight of these phones is their budget-friendly cost. The devices come with a monthly recharge plan priced at Rs 123, which includes unlimited voice calls and 14GB of data.

This makes the JioBharat models not only budget-friendly but also a great value, providing 40% savings compared to competitors. The JioBharat V3 and V4 will be available soon across physical stores and online on JioMart and Amazon, boosting the company’s aim to make the country a digitally advanced society.

YouTube has announced the launch of some new features, alongside visual and product upgrades, to its mobile, web, and TV apps. With these new features, the company aims to improve the user experience. These features are said to be rolled out to all users in the coming weeks.

The Google-owned video-sharing platform will offer more granular playback speed controls, enabling users to boost or decrease speeds in increments of 0.05x, instead of the earlier 0.25x.

Besides, the platform is also making it easier for users to create collaborative playlists with their friends and family. Users will be able to share a QR code with others to allow them to make additions to playlists.

Also Read: YouTube Shorts Update Increases Video Length To 3 Minutes

YouTube To Allow AI Use For Creating Thumbnails

"A really good use case might be: I'm having a party, I want to invite my friends over, I want to watch some comedy together, I put on my favorite comedy videos, and then I ask them, and they could just add theirs to it; we can pop it on the TV and sit and watch together," YouTube chief product officer Johanna Voolich said in a video clip.

Users will be able to design custom thumbnails for playlists using their own photos or create new ones with the generative AI feature "Create with AI," wherein people can pick a theme and choose from the AI-powered creations. Later this year, users will be able to vote on videos in playlists. Creators can use this feature to get feedback on their videos, the company said.

Moreover, the Sleep Timer feature allows users to set a timer to automatically pause videos after a specific duration. This feature will be rolled out for all YouTube users across mobile devices. It was previously tested with premium users in August.

Also Read: YouTube Boosts Premium Service Subscription Prices In India

YouTube Mobile Gets New Handy Features

The platform is also enhancing the mini-player experience in its mobile app, enabling users to resize and move it around while browsing videos. In landscape mode, the app will display larger thumbnails and text on Android, with support for iOS coming later this year.

Other features include badges on YouTube and YouTube Music mobile apps that celebrate key milestones within the YouTube community. YouTube Shorts is also getting a new UI on the TV app that will offer continued interaction with the content without interrupting the viewing experience. YouTube’s TV app will also offer immersive video previews on channel pages, a feature that was introduced recently.