tech
Xiaomi 13T Pro Review: The flagship killer is back
Xiaomi produces a diverse smartphone lineup ranging from basic to flagship devices. These various models are introduced at different times throughout the year. In this legacy, Xiaomi’s 13T Pro was released on September 26, 2023, in the United States and Europe. With its impressive specifications and top-notch performance, 13T Pro has garnered significant attention from tech enthusiasts and consumers. Is this flagship killer smartphone worth buying? Let’s take a look into the specs, pros, cons and price of Xiaomi 13T Pro.
Full Specifications and Features of Xiaomi 13T Pro
Design
The Xiaomi 13T Pro boasts a design that looks premium, making it a standout choice in the smartphone market.
The device features a durable yet lightweight 162.2 mm by 75.7 mm by 8.5 mm build, thanks to the use of ceramic and Gorilla Glass 5. It has earned an IP68 rating, making it dust and water-resistant, capable of withstanding submersion in up to 1.5 metres of fresh water for 30 minutes.
Read more: Xiaomi Pad 6 Review: Can It be a True iPad Alternative?
Weighing in at a respectable 206g, except for the even lighter Alpine Blue model at 200g, the Xiaomi 13T Pro combines a 6.67-inch display with a premium aesthetic, despite the polarising reflective back.
Additionally, the transition from a plastic frame to aluminium adds a touch of sophistication to the phone's design, and the tactile power and volume buttons are conveniently placed on the side. While it omits a 3.5mm audio jack, it offers a slim and durable profile, catering to the desires of the modern smartphone user.
Display
The Xiaomi 13T Pro features a top-tier 6.67-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display, boasting the hallmark vibrant colours and deep blacks of OLED technology, delivering a resolution of 2712 by 1220 pixels for excellent clarity. The 20:9 aspect ratio aligns with contemporary standards, although single-handed use might be less convenient.
A significant upgrade from its precursor, the 12T Pro, is the dynamic 144Hz refresh rate, second only to gaming-specific phones like the Xiaomi 13 Ultra. Just like the 12T series, 13T also provides Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. The LTPO technology enables seamless transitions between 30Hz, 60Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz, optimising both visuals and conserving battery life.
Read more: 10 Best GPS Trackers for Cars in Bangladesh
The screen achieves an impressive maximum brightness of 500 nits, ensuring clear outdoor visibility. While the optical fingerprint sensor offers secure unlocking, its small target area can be a tad finicky. Dual stereo speakers at the top and bottom deliver clear vocals and punchy music, offering an impressive audio experience, though it may fall short in bass performance compared to dedicated gaming phones.
Cameras
The Xiaomi 13T Pro's camera specifications are impressive, showcasing the importance of more than just megapixels. Despite the transition from a 200MP sensor in its predecessor Xiaomi 12T Pro, the 50MP main sensor excels in various lighting conditions, delivering vibrant, detailed, and well-balanced images with effective HDR.
Leica's partnership introduces the Leica Vibrant and Leica Authentic modes, providing options for vibrant or true-to-life colour rendering. The camera performs well in low-light settings, although the absence of laser autofocus may lead to occasional focusing challenges.
The camera setup also includes a 50MP telephoto lens and a 12MP ultrawide camera, offering versatility.
Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Review: What are the key upgrades?
Video recording options include 4K@60fps and 8K@24fps, with 4K recommended for better image stabilisation.
Additionally, a 20MP front-facing camera with HDR and Night mode. It supports only 1080p video recording which is quite disappointing.
Performance and Software
The Xiaomi 13T Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset, a departure from the more commonly seen Qualcomm chipsets in Android smartphones. Despite this shift, it's not a downgrade by any means. The Dimensity 9200+ 4nm ranks among MediaTek's most potent chips and is comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
Coupled with 12GB of RAM (also available in a 16GB variant), the device delivers excellent performance. In everyday use, ranging from web browsing and messaging to social media, it exhibits swift and seamless operation, easily capable of handling more demanding tasks.
Read more: Symphony Helio 80 Review: Is the hype justified?
Moreover, by virtue of its high refresh rate display along with the G715 MC11 GPU, the 13T Pro can handle graphically intensive games smoothly, such as Asphalt 9: Legends and Call of Duty: Mobile, etc. The device might get slightly warm during prolonged gaming, but for photo/video editing and split-screen multitasking, it proves highly capable.
Battery and Charger
The Xiaomi 13T Pro is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, offering decent capacity. While it typically provides a day's usage on a full charge for most users, it tends to show low battery warnings after heavy duty use.
Nonetheless, the 13T Pro stands out with its exceptional 120W wired charging support, delivering a 59% charge in just 15 minutes and a full charge within half an hour, making it one of the fastest charging phones in its class.
However, it lacks wireless charging which may dishearten some users.
Read more: vivo V29 5G Review: Is it a balanced camera phone?
Pros and Cons of The Xiaomi 13T
Pros
- Capable hardware- High refresh rate- Standard gaming performance- Stylish design
Cons
MIUI 14 is cluttered and frustrating to useLacks wireless and reverse charging capabilityIts selfie camera has a low video recording capacity.
Read more: Honor Pad X9 Review: Is it worth buying?
Price of Xiaomi 13T Pro
The Xiaomi 13T Pro variant with 512GB and 12GB of RAM is priced at $645.00 or BDT 70,953 and the 1TB model with 16GB of RAM is $738.00 or BDT 81,183. The conversion rate is USD 1 equals BDT 110.01.
Bottom Line
The Xiaomi 13T Pro offers a nice package of smart look, robust hardware, high refresh rate, standard display, fast charging technology, etc. In this price range, consumers will expect handy features like better photo quality in front camera, wireless charging, reverse charging, bloatware free operating system, etc. On the whole, Xiaomi offers a balanced package in 13T Pro; but the price is a bit high.
Read more: Best Tablets under Tk 25000 in Bangladesh
UNB Editor-in-Chief, Director discuss use of tech to improve media performance at AsiaNet event in Singapore
United News of Bangladesh (UNB) Editor-in-Chief Enayetullah Khan and Director Nahar Khan have participated in discussions that delved into the use of technology to enhance business performance in media.
The two-day-long AsiaNet Board Meeting and Forum started at 9 am at Carlton City Hotel in Singapore on Monday (October 23, 2023).
Also read: UNB Editor-in-Chief, Director attend AsiaNet's board meeting in Singapore
The biannual board meeting included representatives from member organisations.
At the event, Director Nahar Khan made a presentation on UNB’s technology-driven strategies, highlighting the use of technology for data insights, customer experience enhancement, process automation, social media engagement, and the exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) applications.
During her presentation, Nahar Khan highlighted how UNB, as a leading news agency in Bangladesh, is embracing technology — particularly use of AI — while remaining cautiously aware of the challenges like misinformation it brings along.
“With the widespread use of AI, there has been a surge in misinformation that needs proactive gatekeeping. Innovations such as deepfakes and chatbots also pose a credibility challenge. At UNB, constant focus is given to fact-checking and news verification to combat these challenges,” she said.
Also read: Enayetullah Khan opens data science training programme
The overarching theme of the event was “Embracing Technology and Innovation.”
UNB Editor-in-Chief Enayetullah Khan took part in a panel discussion along with Bruce Davidson of Medianet, Pannee Yongpiyakul of dataxet, and Cao Yang of Xinhua – focusing on how each organisation uses technology to improve business performance. The discussion was moderated by Amrita Sidhu.
AsiaNet delivers far-reaching digital and social media exposure coupled with premium email and news wire services across 27,000 combined media outlets, 198 distribution options in Asia under 18 news categories, and in 12 translated languages.
Also read: Ambassador Farooq Sobhan joins Cosmos Foundation as Honorary Advisor Emeritus
Vivo launches V29 and V29e in Bangladesh
Vivo's V29 and V29e smartphones have been launched in Bangladesh bringing cutting-edge technology that promises professional photography experiences on mobile devices.
The challenge of capturing images with minimal light and colour temperature discrepancies during photography will be addressed by the smartphones’ Smart Aura Light technology, according to a press release.
Measuring just 7.46 millimetres in thickness and weighing a mere 186 grams, the smartphones can be availed in two colours: Saint Martin Blue and Nobel Black with premium glass finish on the back, it said.
Read: Xiaomi Pad 6 Review: Can It be a True iPad Alternative?
In the real world, lighting conditions can be complex and dynamic. Therefore, the Aura Light system is designed to adapt to any lighting condition, whether it's daytime or nighttime. The device's camera configuration includes a 50-megapixel rear camera, a 50-megapixel selfie camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 2-megapixel monochrome camera.
The new Vivo smartphones feature a 6.78-inch 3D curved amoled display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering a vivid viewing experience. It comes with a resolution of 2800 x 1260 pixels and a pixel density of 452 PPI. With support for around 1.07 billion colours, said the release.
In addition, the smartphones are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G processor and runs on FunTouch OS 13. Gamers will particularly appreciate the device's 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Its 4,600mAh battery, coupled with an 80W Type-C fast charger, can be fully charged in just 30 minutes, it also said.
Read: 10 Best GPS Trackers for Cars in Bangladesh
Vivo's Country Brand Manager Tanzib Ahmed affirmed Vivo's commitment to providing the highest level of service to customers. He emphasised that the smart Aura Light technology, the result of extensive research, will bring a professional photography experience to smartphone users. He expressed hope that Vivo's V29 series smartphones will become an indispensable companion for those interested in professional photography, there lease also said.
Pre-booking for the vivo V29 will begin alongside the opening of Vivo's authorised showrooms and e-store, starting from October 24. The price of the vivo V29 is set at Tk 56,999. On the other hand, the Vivo V29e is set at Tk 36,999. The brand will also present gifts to new buyers.
Names of 'Bangabandhu International Cyber Security Awareness Award' recipients announced
The names of the recipients of "Bangabandhu International Cyber Security Awareness Award 2023" were announced on Thursday.State Minister for Information and Communication Technology Junaid Ahmed Palak announced the names of the recipients at the prize distribution ceremony held at the Grand Ballroom of Hotel Radisson Blue Water Garden.
Also read: Bangabandhu global cyber security awareness award to be introduced: PalakContestants from different countries around the world won the award in five categories.
Bangladeshi Teenager Tamjid Rahman received the Cyber Security Awareness and Education award for students in the competition. He is working to create safe online awareness under the slogan 'Janle Ain, Safe Online'.
Also read: UNDP, ICT Division sign deal to launch cybersecurity awareness campaign
Two organizations received the Cyber Security Innovation Award for Entrepreneurship. One is the `End Now Foundation’ from India and the other is the ‘Bite Capsule’ from Bangladesh.Two initiatives also received Cyber Security Leadership Awards for government officials, public service providers, and professionals. One is the ‘Digital Security Cell’ of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), and the other is the ' Bangladesh Police Women Network'.
Also read: Bangladesh wants to work as knowledge partner with Tripura: Palak‘Pathchala Foundation’ received the Bangabandhu International Cyber Security Awareness Special Recognition Award. It is an initiative of the third-gender community.Junaid Ahmed in his speech at the event said,”Four things are important to ensure cyber security. First, awareness; to ensure cyber security, it is important to ensure awareness at all levels, second, technology development. Thirdly, Development Policy Framework and fourthly, International Cross border Collaboration.”He also said that more private sector initiatives are needed. “Without government and private sectors’ initiatives we cannot succeed.”Bangladesh has launched the "Bangabandhu International Cyber Security Awareness Award" for the first time, with the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority and the Digital Security Agency of the ICT Division spearheading the effort, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bangladesh.
This award, named after Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of the nation, aims to recognize individuals and organizations worldwide, with a particular focus on the least developed countries, encouraging them to undertake innovative initiatives in cybersecurity awareness.Winners in each category received a cash prize of $10,000. The funding was raised through the 'Golden Jubilee Bangladesh Concert' held in New York's Madison Square Garden in 2022.Md. Shamsul Arefin, Secretary, ICT Division ,Stefan Liller, Resident Representative, UNDP; GSM Zafrullah, Managing Director, Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority; Abu Saeed Md Kamruzzaman, Director General, Digital Security Agency were, among others, present at the event.
Xiaomi Pad 6 Review: Can It be a True iPad Alternative?
Released in April and initially available in China, the Xiaomi Pad 6 has gradually made its way to international markets. Now this device is available in Bangladesh. Xiaomi is renowned for its reputation in two key areas: delivering robust devices at affordable prices and occasionally burdening users with intrusive software. However, with the Pad 6, Xiaomi takes a departure from its typical approach. Not only does this tablet promise performance at a budget-friendly price point, but it also presents users with a refreshing experience of unobtrusive and user-friendly software.
Key Specifications of Xiaomi Pad 6
Design
The Xiaomi Pad 6 boasts a sleek design with dimensions of 254 mm by 165.2 mm by 6.5mm and a weight of 490g, making it a lightweight and portable option. It offers three attractive color choices - Gold, Gravity Grey, and Misty Blue, providing a level of versatility not seen in some competitors.
Constructed with an aluminum frame and corning Gorilla Glass 3 protecting the front display, the Pad 6 exudes a premium feel. While it resembles the iPad Air to some extent, it still makes a strong first impression with its minimal bezels and modern aesthetics. The device includes a folio case, with optional stylus and keyboard cases available separately.
Notably, it lacks biometric security features, relying on a PIN for sensitive app authentication. Additionally, it can connect to a Xiaomi Smart Pen (2nd gen), offering a useful tool for note-taking and drawing with minimal lag.
Read more: Honor Pad 8 Review: A budget-friendly capable Tablet
Display
The Xiaomi Pad 6's display is an 11-inch IPS LCD panel with a commendable 2880 x 1800 resolution and a high 144Hz refresh rate, supporting Dolby Vision HDR and reaching up to 550 nits of brightness. This impressive spec sheet translates well into real-world performance. The screen lives up to its marketing promises, delivering a fast and fluid user experience.
HDR content appears vibrant, enhancing highlights, and the 2880 by 1800 pixel resolution ensures content remains sharp and detailed. While it falls slightly short in resolution compared to the OnePlus Pad, it outperforms competitors like the realme Pad and Oppo Pad Air.
It's worth noting that the Pad 6 employs IPS technology rather than OLED, which may impact factors like brightness and contrast, but it still offers strong, accurate colors and sufficient brightness for most tasks. With an 11-inch size, it strikes a perfect balance between productivity and comfort, making it a versatile choice for various use cases.
Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Pad Review: Budget Tablet Worth Consideration
Cameras
The camera setup on the Xiaomi Pad 6 is rather intriguing, as tablets typically don't prioritize camera quality as much as smartphones. However, the Pad 6 stands out in this regard.
It features a single 13MP f/2.2 rear camera and an 8MP f/2.2 front-facing camera, lacking some advanced features like optical image stabilization but delivering surprisingly good image quality.
While it's important to consider this in the context of tablet photography, the Pad 6 impresses with its saturated and vibrant colors, decent detail in most shots, and an effective HDR mode that handles challenging lighting situations well. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect is its night mode, which significantly enhances low-light photos, a feat that is genuinely surprising for a tablet.
While it may not surpass premium smartphone camera results, the Pad 6 offers enough photographic capability to suffice in various situations, making it a standout among tablets in this aspect.
Read more: Symphony SYMTAB 80 Review: Budget Tablet for Regular Use
Performance and Hardware
The Xiaomi Pad 6 impresses with its robust performance capabilities, aligning with the company's reputation for offering affordability without sacrificing power. It comes equipped with either 6GB to 8GB of RAM and 128GB to 256 GB of storage, running on a Snapdragon 870 processor 5G 7nm. Though this chipset is from the previous year, still it delivers excellent performance in day-to-day usage.
Basic tasks like navigating the interface, browsing, and emailing are swift and smooth, as expected, but the Pad 6 also delivers solid gaming performance, even at high graphics settings, maintaining a playable frame rate.
10 Best GPS Trackers for Cars in Bangladesh
In a world where cars serve as essential parts for both personal commutes and services like Uber, their safety and security have never been more critical. Car theft remains a pervasive concern, leaving owners and drivers vulnerable to substantial losses. However, in 2023, the solution to this problem lies in advanced technology – GPS trackers for cars. These devices not only enhance the security of the vehicle but also provide a myriad of benefits, from optimizing routes for businesses to lowering insurance premiums.
Necessity of GPS Trackers for Cars
Enhanced Security: GPS trackers provide real-time location data, facilitating theft recovery and ensuring the safety of the vehicle and its occupants.
Fleet Management: Businesses can optimize routes, monitor fuel efficiency, and enhance employee productivity by tracking their vehicles.
Lower Insurance Premiums: Improved risk management and driver behavior tracking can lead to reduced insurance costs for car owners and commercial fleets.
Peace of Mind: GPS trackers offer peace of mind to vehicle owners and loved ones, knowing that they can locate the vehicle at any time.
Efficiency: Real-time data enables more efficient travel, whether for personal or business use, reducing wasted time and resources.
Valuable Information: GPS trackers generate valuable data on vehicle usage and performance, aiding in decision-making and maintenance.
Compliance: Certain industries and regulations may require the use of GPS trackers to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
Read more: Top Super Luxury Cars for 2023
Top 10 GPS Trackers for Cars in Bangladesh in 2023
Autonemo GPS Tracking Service
Autonemo GPS Tracking Service, launched in 2022 by Autonemo Limited in Bangladesh, offers a range of cutting-edge features and technical specifications to enhance the vehicle tracking experience. With real-time fuel monitoring, users can save up to 30% on fuel costs and closely track their vehicle's mileage and fuel efficiency. The Route Replay feature allows the users to review past routes, providing valuable insights into the vehicle's history. Detailed records of daily mileage and fuel usage are kept with high accuracy.
The users can pinpoint their car's exact parking spot and monitor the duration of parking, while also configuring automated alerts for added security. Geofence alerts notify the users when their vehicle enters or exits specific areas. Autonemo doesn't stop at tracking alone; they offer a 100% genuine supply of automotive parts, accessories, and lubricants through their online shop.
As for pricing, Autonemo offers various options, including the Autonemo Premium GPS Tracker at BDT 8000, the Autonemo Standard GPS Tracker for Car-Microbus-SUV at BDT 6000, and the Autonemo GPS OBD Plug and Play GPS Tracker for Hybrid-Brand New Cars at BDT 5500.
Pros
- Real-time fuel monitoring can lead to significant fuel savings.- Detailed route replay helps track vehicle movements and verify routes.- Accurate daily mileage and fuel tracking for better cost control.- Parking times feature aids in vehicle security and monitoring.- Geofence alerts enhance safety and security.
Cons
The availability of certain features might depend on the subscription plan chosen.
Read more: How to Reduce Oil Consumption in Cars
Grameenphone Smart Vehicle Tracker
Grameenphone's Smart Tracker is a comprehensive GPS solution for both individual vehicles and fleets. This telematics system offers precise vehicle location tracking, driver behavior monitoring, engine diagnostics, and real-time notifications. It employs satellite GPS and GSM communication, supporting various vehicle types.
With BTRC approval, it ensures high accuracy, nationwide installation, and 24/7 support. The platform is stable with 99.9% uptime, and it comes with a generous extended device replacement warranty of up to 5 years. Notable features include smart geo-fencing, remote engine diagnosis, and audio listening. For pricing details, it's advisable to contact Grameenphone directly.
There are two types of GPS trackers offered by Grameenphone. One is a wireless system called eVTS that charges BDT 3,599 and a monthly subscription fee of BDT 299. The other one is a wired system that charges BDT 3,999 for the device and a monthly subscription fee of BDT 399.
Pros
- High accuracy and strong M2M connectivity.- Nationwide installation and robust aftersales support.- Comprehensive features for fleet management and security.- Compatibility with a wide range of vehicles.- Dedicated hotline support and extended warranty.
Cons
The availability of certain features might depend on the subscription plan chosen.Users may need to inquire about specific technical details and compatibility for their vehicles.
Read more: Autonemo awarded vehicle tracking service license by BTRC
Easytrax GPS Tracking Service
Easytrax GPS Tracking Service, introduced in 2016, stands out as a top contender in the GPS tracking service arena with a wealth of impressive features. Users can harness the power of real-time fuel monitoring, precise daily mileage tracking, and the ability to replay historical routes. The service also offers geofence alerts, essential maintenance scheduling, and the unique capability to monitor multiple vehicles within a single platform.
With access to six distinct map views, including street and satellite perspectives, Easytrax provides unmatched flexibility. Users can remotely control their vehicle's engine, receive movement updates through email, SMS, or notifications, and even get alerted to idle vehicles or excessive speeds. Furthermore, advanced features like tamper alerts, location marking, fleet vehicle tracking, real-time fuel management, and intelligent GPS electronic locks elevate the level of asset security.
Driver monitoring and reporting tools keep businesses well-informed, while Google Live Traffic updates ensure real-time access to critical traffic information. Easytrax offers a wide range of pricing options, starting at just 2,999 BDT, making these advanced features accessible to a broad spectrum of customers.
Pros
- A comprehensive set of features for both individual users and businesses.- Robust fleet management tools, including route monitoring and real-time fuel management.- Advanced features like intelligent GPS electronic lock for asset protection.- Easy online sign-up process and a network of nationwide distributors.- Affordable pricing options and potential cost savings for clients.
Cons
- Performance may be affected in areas with poor network coverage- Limited international availability
Read more: How to Get BRTA Smart Card Driving License
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Review: What are the key upgrades?
The Xiaomi Redmi "Note" series is renowned for its exceptional balance of performance, affordability, and innovative features. Redmi Note 13 debuted in China on September 21, 2023. The phone has come with some strong features within an affordable price range. Let’s dive into the key specs, advantages and disadvantages of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 5G.
Key Features of Redmi Note 13 5G
Design
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 boasts an impressive blend of design, build quality, and robust features that make it a standout smartphone in its class. Measuring at 161.1 mm by 75 mm by 7.6 mm and weighing just 173.5 grams, it strikes a perfect balance between portability and usability. The device offers dual SIM card slots (Nano-SIM), allowing for versatile connectivity options.
One of its standout features is its IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance, assuring users that it can withstand the challenges of daily life, such as accidental spills or exposure to light rain. The ceramic back not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances durability, protecting the phone from potential damage and corrosion due to liquid contact. Complementing this is the sleek glass-and-aluminum frame, which not only adds an extra layer of sturdiness but also elevates its visual appeal.
Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Review: Is it a value-for-money midrange phone?
Display
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 excels in the display department, as it doesn’t fall behind the expectation. Its 6.67-inch Full HD+ AMOLED panel with a 395 ppi pixel density. It provides sharp and detailed visuals and standard experience while watching videos, gaming, and web browsing. For maintaining the brightness level, it offers ultra-bright 1000 nit peak brightness. The display also includes of HDR10+ support that enhances contrast and dynamic range which surely adds to its colors and clarity.
Comparing it to its predecessor, the Xiaomi Note 12, the Redmi Note 13 offers a similar AMOLED technology and 120Hz refresh rate. However, the Note 13 slightly lowers the peak brightness to 1000 nits from the Note 12's 1200 nits, but both models share the same pixel density of 395 ppi.
Hardware and Software
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 impresses with its hardware capabilities, driven by the powerful Mediatek Dimensity 6080 chipset built on a 6nm architecture. This chipset handles everyday multitasking to demanding applications and games well enough compared to the processor of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 processor SM4375 Snapdragon 4 Gen 1. The octa-core CPU configuration, featuring 2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 cores and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, provides a good balance of power and efficiency.
Read more: vivo Y17s Review with Price in Bangladesh
Furthermore, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 supports fast charging, a valuable feature for users constantly on the move. This ensures that your device can quickly regain its charge, minimizing downtime.
The phone runs on Android 13 with Xiaomi's MIUI 14 overlay. MIUI 14 brings several unique features to the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13. Users can customize their home screen with "Super Icons," adjusting icon sizes and layouts. New folder options enhance app organization, and "Fast Connect (Bluetooth)" keeps Bluetooth on but not searching for devices when turned off, allowing for quicker reconnections. The update also includes fresh wallpapers and reduces pre-installed apps to streamline the user experience. New widgets offer improved customization. Xiaomi may have tailored additional features for the Redmi Note 13, making it worth checking official documentation and software updates for a comprehensive overview.
Cameras
The camera setup on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 is somewhat average considering the budget range. At the forefront is the primary 100 MP camera, featuring an f/1.7 aperture and PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus). Whereas its predecessor Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 featured a 48MP primary lens.
Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus Review: Know the Pros and Cons
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Review: Is it a value-for-money midrange phone?
Xiaomi’s Redmi Note series is easily characterized by a sleek design, compact form factor, and an attractive price-performance ratio. This year, Xiaomi launched the Redmi Note 13 Pro on September 21 in China. With all the hype and buzz surrounding the device, here’s a detailed take on what the users are getting in this year’s Note 13 Pro.
Key Specifications of Redmi Note 13 Pro
Design and Build Quality
The design of the Redmi series has always been something out of the ordinary. The distinct design elements are especially visible on the back of the device. Last year, there was the stardust-like sparkle with the Purple variant. This year too, the users will be getting a marble-like finish with the White variant.
The device holds a 161.2 mm by 74.3 mm by 8 mm dimension with a weight of 187 g. The plastic frame and back aid in an overall lightweight build quality. Speaking of the build, the device is flat on all sides with slightly rounded edges.
Read more: vivo Y17s Review with Price in Bangladesh
The camera housing on the back has gotten significantly larger than last year. The design somehow reminded me of the Infinix Note 30. However, the design highlight of the Note 13 Pro has to be its display. The Note 13 Pro is marketed as a mid-range smartphone. At this price point, Redmi has been able to fit in a symmetric punch-hole display with minimal bezel.
Coming to ports and buttons, everything is as expected on the Note 13 Pro. The volume rocker and the power button are placed on the side. This year, users will be getting an in-display fingerprint scanner compared to last year’s side-mounted one. The headphone is placed on top of the device with the speaker and Type-C making up the bottom.
The Display
As mentioned earlier, the display is one of the highlights of the Note 13 Pro. There’s a 6.67-inch OLED display on the Note 13 Pro with 68B color, 120 Hz refresh rate, and Dolby Vision. The display boasts an unusual 1.5K resolution with 1220 x 2712 pixels with 446 ppi density.
Read more: 10 Best GPS Trackers for Motorcycles in Bangladesh
The uniform bezel design allows for about 89.7% screen-to-body ratio which is one of the highest in this price range. The performance of the display also lives up to its specs. The content on the display looks crisp and sharp with a cooler tone. It also has 1800 nits of peak brightness which makes the display perfectly legible under direct sunlight.
A surprising addition to the panel is the use of the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. It's unusual to see a top-of-the-line display protection tech being used in a mid-range smartphone.
Overall, the display is a strong suit of the Note 13 Pro in terms of both performance and value proposition.
Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus Review: Know the Pros and Cons
The Camera
There’s a triple camera setup on the Note 13 Pro. The main sensor is a 200 MP one with an f/1.7 wide angle aperture and a 1/1.4” sensor. It also has multidirectional PDAF and OIS. The main sensor is supported by an 8 MP f/2.2 120˚ ultrawide sensor. And a 2 MP f/2.4 macro shooter.
Not to mention, the configuration of the 13 Pro’s primary sensor is a huge improvement from the ancestor Note 12 Pro’s 50 MP camera. However, the Note 13 Pro’s performance of the main camera is quite average. Though the sensor has a 200 MP count, its resolution is significantly lowered while using the pixel binning technology. Now, a question stands whether the 200 MP sensor is a marketing gimmick.
The dual LED flash is positioned in such a way that the dial of the flash is the same size as that of the macro sensor.
Read more: Symphony Helio 80 Review: Is the hype justified?
In daylight, pictures came out great with decent dynamic range. The subject and the background had good distinctions in each shot with sharp focus and details in place. The pictures in bright conditions had a cooler tone to them. The ultrawide sensor also did a better job than the previous generation. However, there is still that slight fish-eye effect around the edges. Other than that, no complaints about daylight photography.
However, things aren’t the same in low-light conditions. Pictures taken in artificial lights suffer from exposure issues at times. There are also noticeable grains and noises in pictures taken with auto mode. Using the night helps to reduce them a bit but depending on the lighting conditions, some shots might come out overexposed.
The videography can go up to 4K at 30 fps and 1080P at 30, 60, and 120 fps. The outputs are decent thanks to the multidirectional PDAF and the OIS onboard. There’s also a generic 16 MP front shooter which is good enough for casual videos and selfies.
Read more: vivo V29 5G Review: Is it a balanced camera phone?
Processor and Performance
The processor on the Redmi Note 13 Pro is a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 based on the 4 Nm architecture. This is a slightly toned-down version of the premium midrange 7 Gen chipsets from Snapdragon. The closest comparable chipset to the 7s Gen 2 is the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 6nm which was provided in the ancestor Redmi Note 12 Pro. But even then, the 7s Gen 2 slightly outperforms the Dimensity 1080.
The octa-core processor has a chip design of 4x2.40 GHz & 4x1.95 GHz with Adreno 710 GPU. In the test, the processor was able to run day-to-day tasks smoothly. The gaming results were also pretty good with the Note 13 Pro. PUBG could be run at HDR Extreme which asserts the processor’s capability. Titles like Asphalt 9, Genshin Impact, and COD also ran smoothly initially. It's “initially” because the device tends to heat up after about 30-odd minutes of gaming. Once the thermal throttling kicks in, there are occasional frame drops here and there.
The processor is supported by Android 13 with Redmi’s custom MIUI 14. The global variant would come with Google support but the test unit at hand had the Chinese ROM. There were usual bloatware and ads which hopefully won’t be present at the global variant.
Read more: Best Tablets under Tk 25000 in Bangladesh
Battery and Charge Time
The Redmi Note 13 Pro has a 5100 mAh battery onboard with 67W fast charging support. A typical use of the device would last an entire day of use or about 6 to 7 hours of SoT. The fast charging can take the device from 0 to 100% in 44 minutes.
Pros and Cons of Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro
Pros:
· Interesting design
· Good build quality
· Excellent display
· Gorilla Glass Victus protection
· Great battery
Cons:
· An average front camera
· Heating issues.
Read more: OPPO A58 Review: Is this budget-friendly phone good for photos?
Official Price of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro comes in 5 different storage and RAM configurations in China. They are the 8/128 GB, 8/256 GB, 12/256 GB, 12/512 GB and 16/512 GB. The price of each of the variants is 1499 RMB, 1599 RMB, 1699 RMB, 1899 RMB, and 1999 RMB respectively.
The price amounts to 22790 BDT, 24311 BDT, 25831 BDT, 28872 BDT, and 30392 BDT respectively (1 RMB = 15.20 BDT). These are unofficial prices in Bangladesh. The official prices are expected to differ from the converted price.
Verdict
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro is a worthy incremental update to the highly popular Redmi Note 12 Pro. The updated display, camera, and processor are its strongest selling points. The 7s Gen 2 perfectly complements everyday use as well as the gaming capability of the Note 13 Pro. On the contrary, the front camera could have been updated for a better performance. There’s also the heating issue with intensive use which might be another concern for gaming enthusiasts.
So who is the Note 13 Pro for? It is geared toward those looking for a mid-range smartphone with a good camera, display, and occasional gaming use. It can be a great buy considering all the storage options it brings to the table.
Read more: Top 9 Most Anticipated Smartphones Coming to Bangladesh in October 2023
vivo Y17s Review with Price in Bangladesh
The Y series from vivo are targeted as entry-level smartphones with a great value proposition. vivo recently launched the Y17s globally on 2nd October 2023. This year there are new colorways, a new camera, and a whole lot of other features. Let’s take a look into the key features, pros, cons, and price of vivo Y17s in Bangladesh.
Key Specifications of vivo Y17s
Design and Build Quality
The Y17s is the direct successor of the Y16 from last year. Like almost all of their Y series iterations, the design on the Y17s has been slightly tweaked to bring a sense of distinction to the new generation. However, the waterdrop notch display remains the same from the last generation. There’s a sizeable bottom chin on the Y17s which doesn’t align with the 2023 design standards. But considering it’s a budget-friendly smartphone, this was probably one of the cost cut corners. There are two color variants with the Y17s – Glitter Purple and Forest Green.
The device holds a dimension of 163.74 mm by 75.43 mm by 8.09 mm with 186 g weight. The plastic frame and back help to keep the weight under 200 g. What’s interesting is that the Y17s now have an IP54 dust and splash resistance rating.
Read more: 10 Best GPS Trackers for Motorcycles in Bangladesh
The ports and buttons on the Y17s are all as usual. The power and volume buttons are located on the right with the SIM slot on the top and the Type-C port on the bottom. The power button also doubles as the fingerprint scanner of the device. The headphone jack has been retained in the Y17s which is good news for wired headphone enthusiasts. The device comes with 6GB RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. The storage can be expanded by another 128 GB thanks to the micro SDXC support.
The Display
The display on the vivo Y17s is a 6.56-inch IPS LCD panel with 720 x 1612 pixels. The 720P display has an aspect ratio of 20:9 and a pixel density of 269 ppi. By all means, this is an entry-level display and features. The large chin on the bottom of the panel accounts for a lower 83.8% screen-to-body ratio. The saving grace here would be the waterdrop notch camera cutout.
The display showed good color calibration with 83% NTSC color saturation. There were no weird color shifts in the test from different angles. Being an LCD panel, the blacks aren’t all that deep and may seem a bit washed out.
Read more: Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus Review: Know the Pros and Cons
The display has 700 nits of peak brightness which makes it fairly legible under direct sunlight. For the price, the display on the Y17s produces a passable result.
The Camera
There’s a dual camera setup on the back of the Y17s. The main camera is a 50 MP f/1.8 wide-angle sensor with PDAF. The secondary camera is a 2 MP f/2.4 depth sensor. The Y17s lack several features like autofocus, EIS, and OIS. These are again, the cut corners for an aggressive budget pricing.
The main camera performed well for an entry-level smartphone in our test. Pictures taken under direct sunlight had good details in them. The depth sensor assists in the portrait shots which saw significant improvement in edge detection and realistic background blur. The dynamic range is also satisfactory.
Read more: Symphony Helio 80 Review: Is the hype justified?
However, the same performance isn’t translated into indoor or artificial lighting conditions. There are noticeable noises and grains whenever there is less-than-ideal lighting. There’s also the issue of exposure which is a hit or miss at times.
10 Best GPS Trackers for Motorcycles in Bangladesh
In overcrowded cities, where public transports are inadequate, many opt for motorbikes. Asmotorcycle theft is a concern, a GPS tracker can be a good solution. These compact yet powerfuldevices can give motorcycle owners peace of mind by providing real-time location tracking,security features, and even video recording capabilities. Different types of GPS trackers featureunique advantages to ensure the safety and security of both riders and vehicles. Whether it's for monitoring, theft prevention, or simply staying on the right track, this list of popular GPS trackers for motorcycles has you covered.
Why Use a GPS Tracker on a Motorbike?
Investing in a reliable, feature-rich tracker offers multiple benefits for motorcycle owners.GPS trackers for motorcycles offer continuous surveillance of the vehicle. Equipped with diverseadvanced safety features like motion sensors and geofencing, GPS trackers can locate thevehicles in various locations and deter theft. GPS trackers also aid in group journeys andnavigation.
Key factors for selection include real-time updates, long battery life, durability, weatherresistance, software support, and compatibility with network devices.
Read more: Read Motorbike Buyer Guide: Some popular models with price in Bangladesh
Top 10 Motorcycle GPS Trackers in Bangladesh in 2023
Autonemo GPS Tracking Service
In 2022, Autonemo Limited, a Bangladesh-based company, unveiled the Autonemo GPS Tracking Service, ushering in a new era of vehicle tracking with a robust set of features. Real-time fuel monitoring is a standout offering, promising substantial fuel cost savings and meticulous mileage and fuel efficiency tracking.
The Route Replay function empowers users to delve into historical routes for invaluable insights into their vehicle's past. High-precision recording of daily mileage and fuel usage ensures meticulous trip details. Monitoring exact parking locations and durations and configuring automated alerts further bolster vehicle security.
Geofence alerts keep users informed about their vehicle's entries and exits from specific zones. Autonemo goes beyond tracking by offering a fully stocked online shop for genuine automotive parts, accessories, and lubricants.
Pricing options include the Autonemo Premium GPS Tracker at BDT 8000, the Autonemo Standard GPS Tracker for Car-Microbus-SUV at BDT 6000, and the Autonemo GPS OBD Plug and Play GPS Tracker for Hybrid-Brand New Cars at BDT 5500.
Pros
- Real-time fuel monitoring for significant savings.- Detailed route replay to track vehicle movements and validate routes.- Precise daily mileage and fuel tracking for cost control.- Parking times feature for enhanced security and monitoring.- Geofence alerts for added safety.- Online shop for automotive parts and accessories for customer convenience.
Cons
- Availability of certain features may be contingent on the selected subscription plan.
Read more: Safety Gears for Motorcycle Riders: Necessity and Types
Bondstein Track My Vehicle
The Bondstein Track My Vehicle, a cutting-edge GPS tracker developed by Bondstein, offers a comprehensive set of features and technical specifications aimed at optimizing vehicle tracking and management. This advanced telematics solution enables real-time vehicle tracking through a user-friendly web dashboard and mobile app. It includes a remote engine disarm feature for added security in case of theft or unauthorized use.
With access to over 24 analytical reports, users can gain insights into mileage, location, and alerts, facilitating efficient fleet management. The platform supports cost savings in logistics and seamless integration with ERP systems through an API. It also allows for expense tracking and provides predictive maintenance alerts based on vehicle usage. Bondstein ensures continuous customer support with a 24/7 call center and a team of experienced technicians available nationwide, making it a versatile solution for both individuals and businesses.
Pros
- Real-time tracking for enhanced security and monitoring.- Remote engine disarm feature adds an extra layer of protection.- Robust analytics and reporting tools for efficient fleet management.- Cost-saving benefits in logistics transportation.- Seamless integration with ERP systems.- Expense tracking and predictive maintenance alerts.- Reliable 24/7 customer support.
Cons
- Requires a stable internet connection for real-time tracking.
Read more: Read The Most Popular Motorbike Models in Bangladesh
Finder GPS Tracking
Finder GPS Tracking, a service provided by Monico Technologies Ltd, a sister concern of Monico Ltd, has firmly established itself as a leading GPS tracking service provider in Bangladesh since its launch in 2011. With recognition as the 'First Vehicle Tracking Service' operator by BTRC and enlistment by the Survey of Bangladesh for local map development, Finder offers a reliable and fully licensed service.
It delivers fundamental features like real-time location monitoring, ignition alerts, geofencing, and speed alerts, addressing standard tracking needs. What distinguishes Finder are its unique features, which include the 'SOS Button' for emergencies and the 'PUSH-PULL SERVICE,' enabling offline tracking when internet connectivity is unavailable.
The registration process is straightforward, offering five distinct packages with prices ranging from 4,500 BDT to 12,000 BDT, along with monthly service charges ranging from 300 BDT to 500 BDT.
Pros
- Established and licensed GPS tracking service.- Unique features like the 'SOS Button' for emergency assistance.- 'PUSH-PULL SERVICE' for offline tracking.- Multiple package options to accommodate various budgets and needs.
Cons
- Certain packages may appear relatively costly.
Read more: Uber Driver Account in Bangladesh: How to Activate, Delete, and Reactivate