Mi A1 : Android One Reviver or Killer of 'Flagship Killer' or both

Hey Guys, remember Android One? If not then let us remind you, it was Google's initiative to make Android phones more accessible to Indian consumers with a promise of pure Android on the device and certified by Google the branding was licensed to Indian manufacturers Micromax and Karbonn. These phones from respective companies were priced below 7000 INR and packed in 1 GB RAM, 8 GB ROM with Quad Core processors something which was generally available at price greater than 8000 in market at that time. A great initiative with massive advertisements, however the results were not up to the mark.

Highlights:

• Xiaomi Mi A1 is priced in India for Rs 14,999
• The phone comes with a guarantee of 2 years update from Google.
• Mi A1 Comes with Dual 12 MP rear Camera and2X optical zoom
• The device comes with 4 GB RAM, 64 GB ROM.
• Available on Flipkart, Mi.com and Mi Home Stores from 12 PM IST, 12th September

Today Google and Xiaomi announced the Android One launch with Xiaomi Mi A1 in India. The phone is a great example of what Android One represents: a collaboration between Google and its partners to deliver a software experience designed by Google.

Xiaomi Mi A1

3 years later Google is back with program albeit this time partner is changed and a lot have changed on the device profile. Though its very obvious you had to upgrade the device configuration to cope up with the market equations of today, however Mi A1 is a device which exceeds expectations by a great margin, at least on the paper. This is the device which priced at INR 14999/- can eat away the market share of present 'Flagship Killer', if you know what I mean. Thus this time there is expected to be huge hype around the device and it is expected that Android One will get a revival as Budget Flagship brand from Google . 

As you might have guessed , Mi A1 is optimized for Google's best products such as Duo, Personal Assistant and comes with security features such as Google Play Protect out of the box. The phone will receive latest Android Updates from Google for 2 years. As of now the device will come running on Android 7.1.2 Nougat. It comes with 5.5 inch full HD display with Corning Gorilla Glass protection and is powered by Snapdragon 625 octa core processor paired with 4GB of RAM. For storage you get 64 GB ROM onboard and can be further expanded upto 128 Gb via micro SD card on hybrid slot. The phone comes with connectivity options as 4G VoLTE , dual band WiFi 802.11ac, GPS, USB Type-C port and 3.5 mm headphone jack. 

For sensors the phone has accelerometer, ALS, gyroscope, IR, Magnetometer and proximity sensor. The device is fueled by 3080 mAh strong battery. 

Xiaomi Mi A1 enables the users to capture moments in stunning detail on Xiaomi’s dual camera with 2X optical zoom along with an unlimited storage space at high quality with Google Photos. The new phone will be available in dozens of countries, including India, Indonesia, Russia, Vietnam and Taiwan.

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Hyundai Launches 2017 Verna with starting price of Rs 7.99 lakhs

In grand event held in National Capital Delhi, Hyundai India announced launched of its much anticipated Next Gen Verna i.e. 2017 Verna with starting price of Rs 7.99 lakh for Petrol variant and 9.19 Lakhs for Diesel one. The pricing however ex showroom Delhi Price and reserved for first 20,000 buyers. Which implies that we can expect a hike in price after that threshold.

Hyundai Verna 2017

The fifth generation of Verna comes with several firsts in segment as well as from Hyundai as well. The 2017 Verna is based on K2 Platform as opposed to K1 on its predecessor. FYI, K2 platform is used in Hyundai Elantra. The other changes includes cascading front grill, projector and cornering head lights, projector fog lamp, LED tail lamps, day time LED lamps, length  and wheelbase is increased. 

Inside the car, you will get ventilated front seats, seven inch infotainment system with IPS touch display which also supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink. Other than that you will find rear AC vents and an Electric Sun roof. Other unique features of the car are handsfree opening of trunk when you stand behind the car and Hyundai's Patented Eco-Coating which is said to kill odor creating microorganisms in car AC.

Under the hood the car comes in two power variants. 1.6 Dual VTVT petrol and 1.6 VGT Diesel engines with Power output of 123 PS, Torque 15.4 KGM and 128 Ps , 26.5 KGM respectively. The company claims the fuel efficiency as 15.92 kmpl for Petrol automatic and 17.70 for Petrol Manual, while for the Diesel the figures are 21.02 kmpl for automatic and 24.75 for Diesel. 

@HyundaiIndia #NextGenVerna 360 view. pic.twitter.com/AukiVWSr7Q

— Rahul Kasana (@RahulKasanaTech) August 22, 2017

Along with that the car will also be available in 7 color variants in each power terrain. Refer below for pricing of different variants.

Ex showroom Del prices for @HyundaiIndia #NextGenVerna for different variants. pic.twitter.com/gATItEWWvJ

— Rahul Kasana (@RahulKasanaTech) August 22, 2017

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Sony introduces Home entertainment audio systems MHC-V11 and SHAKE-X30D

 Sony India today further transformed its home entertainment audio system line-up, with the launch of MHC-V11 and SHAKE-X30D. Exclusively designed for music enthusiasts these powerful audio speakers offer clear, dynamic sound, coupled with wireless Bluetooth capabilities enabling users to enjoy music at the touch of a button. The advanced speakers are an extension of the previously introduced MHC-V77D and MHC-V50D. These newly launched home entertainment audio systems stand out for their dynamic audio output, distinctive design and premium technology. 

Product	Availability	MRP
MHC-V11	20th August, 2017	Rs. 19,990
SHAKE-X30D	24th August, 2017	Rs. 50,990

Addressing to the growing demand for entertainment focused products, the new series additions are packed with unique features like karaoke and DJ effects and Sony’s indigenous offering of music center smartphone app. The speakers are embedded with an option for built in USB port, audio input and also comes with a built in FM radio tuner.

Sony Shake X30D

Karaoke and DJ Effects

MHC-V11 and SHAKE- X30D are enabled with Karaoke and DJ effects and has the ability to enliven any atmosphere. One can just pop in a CD, USB, and sing along to songs from YouTube via Bluetooth. Two mic inputs offers an option to team up with friends for the ultimate sing-off. A built-in vocal fader function even turns down the voice on CDs so one can sing favourite songs.

SHAKE- X30D offers four different effects to set the stage for any party: Flanger creates a deep roaring effect; WAH distorts the audio; Isolator singles out a specific frequency band; and PAN sweeps the sound across speakers. One can use DJ effects with the Fiestable app and gesture control, so getting creative with party playlists has never been easier.

Browse music with Music Center App

Adding to the seamless experience, the Sony Music Center App (previously called SongPal) for smartphone or tablet allows to take control of the music collection. Simply connect over Bluetooth /USB and have access to all favourite tracks. The app can also be used to customise sound settings to ensure great, balanced audio.

NFC and Bluetooth Technology

Ensuring impressively deep lows, MHC-V11 and SHAKE-X30D produce audio output capability that allows one to enjoy the highest quality wireless audio via Bluetooth technology and NFC. Both speakers are enabled with the new audio technology from Sony, LDAC that allows users to enjoy the highest quality wireless audio via Bluetooth technology. With up to 3x the data transmitted, LDAC provides an enhanced wireless listening experience for all music needs.

LED Speaker lights

With LED speaker lights, the user can pump the atmosphere with club-like LED speaker illumination. MHC-V11 delivers blue speaker illumination to create the ambience which perfectly attracts party enthusiast.

In SHAKE-X30D, the LED light speakers come with various colour patterns, ranging from pure white to rainbow. One can control the lights on the system, and watch them sync to the beat of the music for a club-style dance floor at home. Synchronising with the rhythm of the beat, the power and speed of the light display matches the musical mood and atmosphere.

Party Chain Effect

The party chain feature lets one expand the speaker system. The speaker can be connected with other Sony one box audio system to add extra power to the sound system. The user can connect multiple systems in a chain to enhance acoustic experience and produce powerful sound.

Portable one-box design: MHC-V11

MHC-V11 is a compact, light weight speaker and comes with a portable design which is convenient to be carried everywhere. This unique feature makes the one-box speaker a perfect addition to any party. An apt combination of style and sound quality, it comprises of inbuilt carry handles which facilitate ease in movement and makes it the perfect addition to any party.

Guitar Input: SHAKE-X30D

The speaker lets one easily organize mini concerts with the available guitar input. Just plug in and press the guitar key to enjoy powerful sound of the instrument. One can also play solo style, or connect a microphone to sing along.

High Power Audio Quality: SHAKE-X30D

The perfect combination of style and sound quality, SHAKE-X30D delivers impressive shaking bass audio quality with the Sound Pressure Horn. An internal folded horn design efficiently increases acoustic pressure by pushing energy through an amplifying duct.

MHC-V11 and SHAKE-X30D will be available in all Sony Center and major electronic stores across India.

Note: This article is auto generated from a Press Release

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Online Travel Portal Yatra.com launches 'Smart Watch Wear' app for Android devices

India's one of leading online travel portal, Yatra.com today announced launch of its 'Smart Watch Wear' app, a first for the Indian travel industry. The app will give users access to the booking flow of flights, hotels, trains, buses, homestays, activities and cabs. The on the go app will also let users to browse ongoing offers on Yatra.

Yatra Wear App

Following a few easy steps, users need to create their profiles and the app will let them view their upcoming trips along with flight details, cab bookings and itinerary. The application is said to be extremely user friendly and will allow travellers to do web check in as well as check real time flight status. Adding to the functionality, it will direct travellers to their hotel/accommodation location via maps.

Commenting on the development, Sharat Dhall, COO (B2C), Yatra.com says, “With the ever evolving landscape of technology, the Android smart watch wear app will be an easy to use solution for all travellers. Catering to the needs of the modern day traveller, the app is built to literally help them wear their travel schedule on their sleeves. We believe that this app will help Yatra in reaching out to a wider and more diversified audience, and are confident that it will be well received by all.”

With the goal to be ‘India ka travel planner’, Yatra.com has been providing a ‘best in class’ customer experience. The smart watch wear app has been exclusively designed to make one’s travel experience seamless.

In another allied development, Yatra is also the first OTA in India to have adopted Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP) to offer an engaging and faster mobile web experience.

The move showcases Yatra's focus on technology and willingness to invest in the future. However, it will be interesting to see how many users does the app find for itself as the platform's own AI , Google Now offers similar features, however its only when you have already made a booking. But when you start planning your vacation and you are using Android wear it will be of much more use.

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With launch of Note 4 and Hot Pro 4, Infinix becomes the youngest brand in Indian smartphone market

How many times you have thought that the smartphone market is saturated now and how many times your belief is shattered with the entry of yet another vendor in market. Today is one such day, when you thought there are plenty of smartphone companies in market and no space left for any new brand, just then Transsion Holdings thinks otherwise and launches its smartphone brand Infinix in fully glory with launch of two budget smartphones.

(L-R): Benjamin Jiang, Global Head – Infinix; Anish Kapoor, CEO Infinix India; Ajay Veer Yadav, VP -  Smartphones, Flipkart and Marco Ma Chief, MD, Transsion India at the launch of Infinix mobiles in India.

Infinix begins its journey in India by introducing Note 4 and Hot 4 Pro from its global range of smartphones priced at INR 8,999/- and INR 7,499/- respectively to be available exclusively on Flipkart, India’s largest online retailer. To boost the consumer confidence Infinix is supported by an extensive service network of over 850 plus touch points across the country. All the launch products come with a free one-time screen replacement within the first 100 days of purchase (T&C apply).

 

“India is an extremely significant market for us” said Benjamin Jiang, Global Head Infinix. “The Indian smartphone industry is ever changing. It is interesting to note how millennials understand technology and become the conduit for driving online adoption. Our vision for Indian market is to become a preferred choice for young consumers by designing products that complement their lifestyle and make technology innovation affordable. We aim to expand our product portfolio by launching “Made for India” products soon” he further added.

 

Mr. Anish Kapoor, CEO Infinix India while speaking about India plans said, “Being a new player in the Indian competitive online smartphone market, consumer and product is at the centre of our “Go Beyond” philosophy. Our dedicated R&D team has evaluated the digital consumer needs and introduced unique features such as a big battery with Xcharge technology, big screens with stunning display and smartphones beyond ordinary colours that will enhance the young consumer’s smart lifestyle. Our partnership with Flipkart will be instrumental in making Infinix range of smartphones available pan India. We are targeting an online market share of 8-10% by 2018.”

 

To celebrate the launch of Infinix on Flipkart, Mr. Ajay Veer Yadav, VP Smartphones, Flipkart said, "Flipkart has a wide array of budget friendly smartphones that are not only easy on the pocket but are also equipped with best in class technology. A significant chunk of our large and growing customer base opt for affordable smartphones that are characterized by a sleek design, powerful battery life and high performance. Our exclusive association with Infinix checks all these boxes as we look forward to expanding shoppers’ choice of phones in this segment. We are determined to bring customers more innovation, superlative choices and a richer experience to constantly keep them excited and maintain our market leadership in this segment”. 

Flipkart is also providing a host of launch offers on purchase of Note 4 and Hot 4 Pro buyers (T&C apply). Consumers will get a free 2 months’ subscription for Hotstar Premium, up to Rs. 8,500 off on Exchange for Note 4 and Rs. 7,000 off on Hot 4 Pro. There is an extra 15% off on Flipkart Fashion and Lifestyle category on August 5th - 6th only.  In addition, consumer can also avail 84 GB data for 84 days at just Rs.443 from IDEA Cellular with the purchase of Infinix smartphones.

 

Note 4

In terms of specifications, Infinix Note 4 gets a 5.7-inch Full HD IPS Display with 500nits to provide unbelievably clear and colourful screen. The 2.5D curved glass on the front and metal print back body creates a sleek exterior and great style. It comes with latest Android Nougat operating system and further has a customized XOS UI layer for enhanced user experience. It has 32GB of internal storage and is powered by an Octa-Core processor with 3GB RAM for superior performance. It supports a big battery of 4300mAh with a 18W unique Xcharge technology which charges 75% of battery in just 60 minutes. The 13MP Rear camera comes with ‘Pro’ mode that enables users to adjust the manual settings as per their requirement. The 8MP front facing camera with large 1.14 µm pixel size comes with customizable LED flash to deliver optimum light while clicking selfies.

 

Note 4 priced at INR 8,999 will be available in exciting colours of Ice Blue, Champagne Gold and Milan Black.

 

Hot 4 Pro

Hot 4 Pro provides a delightful viewing experience with a vivid 5.5” HD IPS screen. The powerful 4000mAh battery extends beyond two days providing uninterrupted usage and the smartphone is packed with 3GB RAM and 16GB of internal storage. Music enthusiast are set to be captivated by dual speakers powered by Dirac Stereo Widening™ technology which produces more immersive, clearer, louder sound with powerful bass. The 80db+ Ultra loud receiver and Noise Reduction Technology in the smartphone allows users to listen conveniently even in the noisiest of surroundings. The 13MP rear camera comes handy to capture quality images while the 5MP front facing camera is supported by a soft light flash to avoid washed out selfies.

 

Hot4 Pro priced at INR 7,499 will be available in exciting colours of Bordeaux Red and Quartz Black, Magic Gold.

 

All Infinix range of smartphone supports 4G LTE bands with VoLTE support for HD calls and faster call connection. It also comes with 2-SIM card slots and one dedicated expandable slot, which can support upto 128GB of memory card. The stylish smartphones have a fast fingerprint sensor for secure phone unlocking and can also can be used for taking pictures, accepting calls and browsing pictures with ease.

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