Nokia C21 and C21 Plus with Android 11 (Go edition) are official!

HMD Global's latest offerings for 2022 are finally here. The Nokia C21 and Nokia C21 Plus smartphones have made it to the market as the new budget models. Let's check out the new handsets in detail!

Must see: List of Nokia devices to get Android 12 update

Nokia C21 Specifications

The Nokia C21 features a 6.517-inch HD+ display with a resolution of 720 x 1,600 of pixels. For software, it boosts Android 11 (Go edition) out of the box. FYI, this version is said to be 20% faster than its predecessor, the Android 10 Go Edition.

Under the hood, it runs an octa-core processor based on Unisoc SC9863A SoC paired with 2GB and 3GB RAM options. The device arrives in a 32 GB storage configuration. Also, it packs a 3,000 mAh battery that keeps the system working.



In optics, Nokia C21 equips an 8 MP rear camera alongside a fixed focus lens. On the other side, there's a 5 MP selfie camera sensor at the front. Both the units offer an LED flash as well. In addition, it holds a fingerprint sensor on the backside.

The connectivity options include 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth v4.2, GPS/ A-GPS, Micro-USB (with OTG), and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Sensors on board include an accelerometer, ambient light, and a proximity sensor.

Nokia C21 Plus Specifications

Needless to say, the Plus variant has more to offer than the standard model. Although the device is similar in terms of display, processor, operating system, and front camera. However, Nokia C21 Plus has an upper hand with a 4GB RAM option paired with 64 GB of storage.



For shooting, the smartphone houses a dual rear camera consisting of a 2 MP depth sensor alongside a 13 MP primary unit with an autofocus lens. Furthermore, the device draws its juices from a 4,000mAh battery. Also, it is IP52-certified, making it splash-resistant.

Availability and Price

The Nokia C21 will go on sale from April for €99 (~₹8,400). Whereas the Nokia C21 Plus will cost €119 (~₹10,100) and will be up for purchase by the end of March. However, the pricing and availability of smartphones in India are yet to be announced.

Related: Nokia G21 launched with Unisoc T606 SoC in Europe for €170

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Asus 8z with Snapdragon 888 SoC launched in India for ₹42,999

Asus Zenfone 8 is finally official in India today in Obsidian Black and Horizon Silver colorways. The compact flagship phone will go on sale from March 7 through Flipkart. It will cost you ₹42,999 for the sole 8 GB RAM + 128 GB storage variant. Here's everything about the new smartphone!

Make sure to visit: Guide to install Android 12 Emojis on any Rooted Android Smartphone

The ASUS 8z is built around a 5.9-inch S-AMOLED Display which is protected with a layer of Gorilla Glass Victus. The panel offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 20:9 aspect ratio, HDR10, HDR10+, and 1,100 nits of brightness. In addition, it comes equipped with an IP68 rated dustproof and water-resistant chassis.

Under the hood, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 powers the Asus 8z paired with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB of storage. unfortunately, there's no way you can expand the default storage. For software, the phone boosts Android 11 OS out of the box along with Zen UI on top.



In the optics section, Asus 8z houses a 12 MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. On the other side, there's a dual rear camera setup that offers a 12 MP ultrawide unit alongside a 64 MP primary lens.

In terms of battery, the Asus 8z ships draw its juices from a 4,000mAh battery that supports 30W fast charging over a USB-C port. The connectivity features include dual SIM support, 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, Dirac tuned dual stereo speakers, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Read more: Asus ROG Phone 5s series launched in India starting at ₹49,999

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OnePlus spotted working on a new device with Dimensity 8100 SoC

As per the latest leaks, OnePlus is preparing a new smartphone that will power the upcoming Dimensity 8100 chipset under the hood. In addition, the key specifications of the approaching smartphone have managed to leak online. The reports suggest that it could be the global variant of the OnePlus 10 Pro.

[caption id="attachment_122399" align="aligncenter" width="696"] OnePlus 10 Pro[/caption]

 Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus System Launcher Latest Version [Old version archived]

The OnePlus 10 Pro was unveiled in China earlier this month, while the global variant seems to be in preparation. The leaks divulge some key specs related to the design, display, camera, battery, and charging capacity.

The new OnePlus phone will flaunt a 6.7-inch OLED display with a punch-hole notch at the top center. A 4,500mAh battery is tipped to keep the screen lightened up with a 120W fast charging support. For optics, the smartphone is likely to equip a 50 MP Sony IMX766 primary camera on the rear side.

Unfortunately, this is all we have in our hands right now regarding the OnePlus 10 Pro global variant (if it is)! The rest of the details are still under the wraps. Also, there is no word on the final moniker of the device. To mention, the phone may debut in China as another OnePlus 10 series device.

Furthermore, the upcoming handset seems to be identical to the Realme GT Neo 3, which is also rumored to equip the Dimensity 8100 chipset underneath a 6.7-inch OLED FHD+ punch-hole display.

Read more: OnePlus 9RT gets OxygenOS 11.3 A.05 update with February 2022 Security Patch

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OnePlus 9RT gets OxygenOS 11.3 A.05 update with February 2022 Security Patch

OnePlus 9RT comes pre-installed with OxygenOS 11 based on Android 11. Now, the company is releasing a new update that bumps the software version to OxygenOS 11.3 A.05. To mention, the device is in line to get the Android 12 based OxygenOS 12 update soon!

Must see: Specs Comparison: OnePlus Nord 2 5g v/s OnePlus 9R

Concerning changes, the package addresses numerous problems related to the system, camera, Bluetooth, gallery, and some other third-party apps. Moreover, it enhances privacy by integrating the February 2022 security patch.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • Optimized the button color of Data saving
  
  
  • Fixed abnormal display of permission box when accessing File Manager for the first time
  
  
  • Fixed abnormal display issue when checking software update in Administrator mode
  
  
  • Fixed low probability issue that setting the auto screen off time not working and the screen becomes always on 
  
  
  • Fixed the issue that Clock not responding after switching to dark mode on the World clock page 
  
  
  • Fixed the issue that alarm is incorrectly restored in specific scenarios
  
  
  • Improved system stability
  
  
  • Updated Android Security Patch to 2022.02
  
  
  
  


• Camera
  
  
  
  • Optimized the video quality when taking 60 fps video with ultra-wide in dark scenes 
  
  
  • Fixed the issue that may lose photos when using ultra-wide in night mode with night tripod mode on
  
  
  • Fixed slight distortion and blurring issue of photos when taking pictures under 50 MP 
  
  
  • Fixed abnormal issue of the Flash when taking videos with Flash and Ultra steady on 
  
  
  
  


• Bluetooth
  
  
  
  • Optimized the stability of connecting phone to car with Bluetooth
  
  
  • Optimized audio playback stability while connecting phone to the car via Bluetooth
  
  
  
  


• Gallery
  
  
  
  • Optimized response time for “sync photos” in Cloud Service
  
  
  • Fixed the freezing issue while sharing pictures in Gallery
  
  
  
  


• Others
  
  
  
  • Fixed the freezing issue when making video call on Instagram
  
  
  
  

As always, the update is rolling out incrementally. Therefore, it will reach a limited number of users initially, later followed by a broader rollout. To track the build manually, navigate to Settings > System updates > Download & Install.

Related: OnePlus 9R bumps to OxygenOS 11.2.8.8 update

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Redmi K30 Pro & K30S Ultra gets MIUI 13 update based on Android 12

Xiaomi is deliberately upgrading its eligible flagships with Android 12 based MIUI 13. After a handful of devices, the next set to get the new version is Redmi K30 Pro and Redmi K30S Ultra.

Must see: Specs Comparison: Redmi Note 11 vs Realme 9i

The latest software for the Redmi K30 Pro and Redmi K30S Ultra is bundled with the firmware version V13.0.1.0.SJKCNXM and V13.0.1.0.SJDCNXM respectively. For now, the update is rolling out in China, while other regions will also get the package soon.

For changes, Android 12 tossed with MIUI 13 brings along a bundle of features along with a new UI. Moreover, the build optimizes some features for a seamless experience. In addition, Redmi has issued an impressive changelog that you can see below:

Changelog

(MIUI 13)

• Where all things connect

(Highlights)

• New: Privacy camera for face recognition and protective watermarks for images


• New: Introducing comprehensive anti-fraud protection mechanisms


• New: All-new Mi Sans system font with better readability


• New: “Crystallization” super wallpapers


• New: A new widget ecosystem with app support and personalization options


• New: New features for performing tasks seamlessly on multiple connected devices


• New: Mi AI can be fully customized now


• Optimization: Improved overall stability

(Basic improvements)

• Optimization: Responsiveness for all systems and most popular third-party apps


• Optimization: Home screen is now much more fluid and responsive

(System)

• Stable MIUI based on Android 12

(Mi Smart Hub)

• New: Tablets can connect to the portable hotspot in one tap


• New: Phones and tablets have a shared clipboard now. Copy items on one device – and paste on the other.


• New: An option for taking a photo with the phone’s camera is now available


• New: Handoff is now seamless between Xiaomi phones and tablets where the same Mi Account is used


• New: Apps can be seamlessly handed off between phones and tablets


• New: Verification codes that are received on a phone can be now pasted on a tablet


• New: Photos taken with a phone can be instantly viewed on a tablet


• To be able to use handoff functionality with photos, update MIUI+ to 3.5.11 or later


• Handoff functionality will be upgraded in the upcoming versions. Stay tuned for our further updates!

(Privacy protection)

• New: Protective watermarks can be added as a pattern that is displayed over the whole image protecting it from unauthorized use


• New: Introducing comprehensive anti-fraud protection mechanisms that include warnings, official labels, and transaction shields


• New: Incognito mode restricts camera, microphone, and location permissions


• New: Secure input protects all the text you enter


• New: Privacy camera only shows your face and masks the rest of the picture when face recognition is required


• To be able to use all MIUI 13 privacy protection features, update Gallery, Security, Contacts, and Messaging to their latest versions

(System font)

• New: All-new Mi Sans system font with better readability

(Wallpaper)

• New: “Crystallization” super wallpapers

(Widgets)

• New: A new widget ecosystem offers lots of items that can make your Home screen more informative


• New: New gorgeous widgets for system and third-party apps


• New: Lots of customizable widgets, including different clocks, signatures, and stickers

(Mi AI voice assistant)

• New: Mi AI’s avatar, timbre, and controls can be fully customized


• To be able to use this feature, update Mi AI to its latest version

(More features and improvements)

• New: Apps can be opened as floating windows directly from the sidebar


• New: Ambient sound recognition in Mi Ditto


• Optimization: Voice controls are better recognized in Accessibility mode now


• Optimization: Enhanced accessibility support for Phone, Clock, Weather, and Themes


• Optimization: Privacy protection, secure web browsing, and better feed


• Optimization: Mind map nodes are more convenient and intuitive now


• Optimization: Wallet looks much better now

In case the OTA update doesn't reach out to you automatically in a few days, you can also track it manually. To do so, head to Settings > Software update.

Related: Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G joins Android 12 based MIUI 13 update party

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OnePlus 9R bumps to OxygenOS 11.2.8.8 update

Launched in March last year, the OnePlus 9R is one of the best value for money devices. It offers decent specifications at the most affordable price if compared to other OnePlus 9 series devices. In the latest news, the company is releasing a new update to the OnePlus 9R. Though it does not carry any noticeable changes, there are under the hood changes, ensuring a smooth experience.

Make sure to visit: Download OnePlus 9 Live wallpapers for any Android Phone

After flashing the latest update, the OnePlus 9R will run on the version number OxygenOS 11.2.8.8. Regarding the changes, as mentioned, you will not see any changes in the system or the UI. But minor updates are also imperative to ensure the seamless functioning of the device.  

The latest update is bundled with the firmware version 11.2.8.8.LE28DA​. The build addresses some issues, including the screen flickering problem while sharing pictures in the gallery. Also, it might bring some device stability improvements. Below is the official changelog issued by the company.

Changelog

• System
  
  
  
  • [Fixed] freezing issue when sharing pictures in Gallery
  
  
  
  

OnePlus has pushed the incremental rollout for the OnePlus 9R. Initially, the build will be available for a limited number of users. A border rollout will follow in a few days after ensuring the absence of any critical bugs.

In other news, the OnePlus 9R units in China have upgraded to the stable Android 12 based on ColorOS 12. However, the international variants recently received the beta program for the latest operating system.

Read more: OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G launched in India with Dimensity 900 SoC for ₹23,999

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Galaxy A03 launched in India with UNISOC Tiger T606 SoC for ₹10,499

Samsung Galaxy A03 was launched in Vietnam in November last year. After months, the smartphone is now official in India with an affordable price tag. It offers everything we expect from a starting range device. Here's a detailed look at the new device.

Must see: Specs Comparison: Honor Magic V vs Galaxy Z Fold 3

Samsung Galaxy A03 is built around a 6.5-inch Infinity-V TFT display. The panel offers an HD+ resolution of 720x1,600 pixels, a 20:9 aspect ratio. A 5,000 mAh battery keeps the screen lightened up and is claimed to last for a day on a single charge.

Under the hood, the device powers an octa-core processor based on Unisoc T606 SoC paired with 4GB of RAM. For software, the Galaxy A03 boosts Android 11 OS out of the box with One UI Core 3.1 on top. FYI, Core One UI 3.1 is the lighter version of One UI 3.1. As Samsung says, it “focus on what matters.”

In the shooting section, the Galaxy A03 houses a dual rear camera set up along with an LED flash. There's a 2 MP depth sensor accompanying the 48 MP primary unit. On the other side, a 5 MP snapper serves selfies and video calls. In addition, it offers a Smart Selfie Angle feature that automatically switches to a wide-angle when there are multiple faces in the frame.



Further, the connectivity options include a microSD card slot, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS/ A-GPS, Micro-USB, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Sensors on board include an accelerometer, ambient light, and proximity sensor.

Availability and Price

Samsung Galaxy A03 is available in two storage configurations of 3GB RAM + 32GB and 4GB + 64GB. Depending upon the model, the device costs ₹10,499 and ₹11,999, respectively. You can purchase the phone from next week via leading online and offline stores in Black, Blue, and Red colorways.

Related:  Galaxy A73 5G arrives on FCC with 25W fast charging support

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Moto Edge 30 Pro & Edge+ (2022) with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC launched In India and USA, respectively

The Lenovo-owned company has launched two smartphones recently in different countries. The company has unveiled the Moto Edge 30 Pro and Moto Edge+ (2022) in India and USA, respectively. Though they share some common specifications, let's check out the devices in detail.

Must see: Specs Comparison: iQOO Neo 5S vs Motorola Edge S30

Moto Edge 30 Pro Specifications

The Motorola Edge 30 Pro is built around a 6.7-inch pOLED display with a Full-HD+ resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The device is protected with a layer of 2.5D curved Corning Gorilla Glass 3 with an anti-fingerprint coating. It measures 163.06 x 75.95 x 8.79mm in dimensions and weighs 196 grams.

Underneath, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset powers the Edge 30 Pro paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB of unexpandable storage. For software, the handset boosts Android 12 OS pre-installed. Also, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor serves the security of the device.

In the optics department, a 50 MP primary sensor leads the rear triple camera setup of Moto Edge 30 Pro. The other lenses include a 50 MP ultra-wide shooter and a 2 MP depth sensor. On the other side, there's a 60 MP unit for selfies and video calls.



The Motorola Edge 30 Pro ships with a 4,800mAh battery that supports 68W TurboPower fast wired charging. In addition, it includes 15W wireless charging and 5W wireless power-sharing. The other specifications include a 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v5.2, GPS/ A-GPS, NFC, and a USB Type-C port.

Price and Availability

Motorola Edge 30 Pro will go on sale via Flipkart and leading retail stores from March 4 in Cosmos Blue and Stardust White colorways. The device will cost ₹49,999 for the sole 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant.

Moto Edge+ (2022) Specifications

The Edge+ (2022) shares most of its specifications with the Edge 30 Pro, besides battery and a few other features. Starting with, the device packs a 4,800 mAh battery that supports 30W fast charging. Moreover, it offers Motorola's MyUX interface along with Android 12OS.

Price and Availability

Motorola Edge+ (2022) is up for pre-order in the US for $899. Originally, the price is set at $999. In addition, the company will also sell a stylus for the smartphone separately along with a folio case

Read more: Moto G Pro receives Android 12 update in the UK

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ColorOS 12 beta update goes live for Oppo Reno 4 & Reno 4 Pro

Oppo has started releasing the Android 12-based ColorOS 12 beta program for several smartphones in different regions. Joining these devices, there are a couple more Oppo Reno 4 and Oppo Reno 4 Pro.

Make sure to visit: Download Oppo/ Realme Quick Glance Latest Version [Old Versions Archive]

The announcement was made through an official post on the Oppo community. According to the statement, the Android 12 based ColorOS 12 beta is live in Indonesia for the Oppo Reno 4. Whereas, for the Oppo Reno 4 Pro, the program is rolling out in India as well as Indonesia.

Interested users can register themselves from February 23 to March 2. Although, apply soon to be an early applicant as the company is recruiting only 5,000 testers for the handsets in each region.

However, before registering, make sure that your respective smartphone operates the basic version. For Reno 4, it is C.23 and C.24, while for Reno 4 Pro users, it's C.42 and C.43. Follow the below step for registration:

• Head to Settings > Software Update


• Click on the Gear Icon at the top right corner


• Tap on Apply for Beta Version > Update Beta Version


• Follow the on-screen instructions and submit to enroll in the Android 12 beta initiative.

The beta software will reach out to the selected applicants within 3 working days. In case the OTA does not arrive on your device, wait for the next round of recruitment (if there's any). In addition, the stable version is expected to roll out in a couple of months.

Read more: Oppo A76 Specifications & Price Tipped in India Ahead of Launch

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